Maps shape everything about your life and your future.
We’re here to make sure maps don’t harm you while being used to help.
Since 2018, we’ve connected hundreds of people in a global Melanated & Mapping community
A Movement
We were born out of movements started by Black educators, entrepreneurs, and professionals who’ve been building toward a NorthStar for over two decades. Along the way, we’ve collaborated with organizations like African Women in GIS, National Geographic Society, American Geographical Society, Black Tech Link, WGIC, Geospatial World Forum, GPN, and multiple HBCUs.
We’ve Shifted Geo Thinking
We’ve helped shift how the GIS community and beyond talk about social equity and racial justice, often while risking our own careers. And we’ve built spaces where Black people are centered—yet everyone feels seen, embraced, and included. That’s why we’re credible.
Why It Matters
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Getting Started
For Students & Early Career Professionals
Mapping is becoming as essential as Microsoft Office. Learning it unlocks opportunity.
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Setting Policy
For Policymakers
Every policy decision—transportation, health, housing—depends on maps that must serve all constituents.
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Educating
For Teachers, Professors, and Mentors
Bringing maps into classrooms can engage every student and reflect every community represented.
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Leading
For Organizational Leaders
Leading with communities at the center builds stronger organizations and serves stakeholders more fully.
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Living LIfe
For Communities & Families
For many communities, maps often explain why resources are uneven, why some neighborhoods flourish while others are underserved.
Maps are not neutral
From the transatlantic slave trade, to colonialism, to redlining, to colorblind COVID maps, history proves that maps have always been policy tools. Furthermore, when we don’t intervene, they will continue to harm.
“Maps, on the other hand, maps have been racist and maps can be racist… In the past, mapmakers acted boldly to use maps to help establish racism. So today, people who use and make maps have to be as bold to use all the technology we have available to help eliminate racism.” - Clinton G Johnson
Take Action
Maps matter. And so does what we do with them. Here’s how you can take action with us:
Learn More about Us
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Join Our Community
Connect with geo thinkers, builders, and learners. Be part of a space where your voice and vision matter.
Partner with Us
Work with NorthStar to drive change in your organization and beyond. Together we can expand impact and equity.
Volunteer Your time
Share your skills and passion to support programs, events, and outreach. Every effort helps move the mission forward.
Donate to support us
Your gift fuels events, mentorship, and advocacy. Invest in a future where maps serve everyone, everywhere.
Participate in Our Events
Join gatherings that spark collaboration, learning, and belonging. Your presence makes the community stronger.
Subscribe to Our Newsletter
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