Lovar Davis Kidd (who goes by L.D.) is a poet, author, dance educator, musician and CEO of 100% OVER RACISM., which started as a protest sign combating racism and is now an apparel company that encourages people to #wearyourtruth. A portion of proceeds from 100% OVER RACISM. support Black-owned businesses in Eastern Iowa. Learn about L.D. Kidd…
Hometown: Cedar Rapids, IA
First job: I was a concession stand worker and then a lifeguard for the Cedar Rapids community pools.
Favorite ways to spend your free time in IA: I have two wonderful boys; Myles is 6 and Kohen is 4. I love taking them creek stomping and exploring when it’s warm and sledding in the winter.
Your biggest accomplishment and why: Apart from my boys, I’d have to say that creating 100% OVER RACISM. has been a huge accomplishment. It’s allowed me to take a stand against systemic racism in our country while also giving back to my local community. I’ve also been selected as an MFA candidate in Dance which will begin this fall at the University of Iowa.
The biggest obstacle you overcame: Growing up as a biracial kid in Cedar Rapids was tough. I oftentimes felt as though I didn’t really fit in being too Black to date a white father’s daughter but too white to hang with my Black friend’s other Black friends. To top of those struggles, my dad passed away when I was in sixth grade. I lost my one Black male role model in life. My mother did an amazing job of raising my brothers and me, but there are things that I missed out on not having a father.
Someone who inspires you and why: My girlfriend, Tisha. She is brilliant, witty, supportive and community-focused. She gives back, supports great organizations and loves big. She pushes me to be a better human every single day.
Advice to someone pursuing a career path in what you do: Don’t think that you have to do everything yourself. Ask for help when it’s needed. There are more people in this world that are for you than against you.
Favorite quote: Ancora Imparo (“Yet, I am learning”) –Michelangelo
Something someone would be surprised to learn about you: I lived in California for almost four years and never went surfing.
What makes someone fabulous: I believe that fabulous is first and foremost a mindset. From there, being fabulous to me is all about what you bring to the table and how you support and care for others!