Chatiera “Cookie” Ray is a Cleveland, Ohio native and multidisciplinary arts leader, educator, choreographer, and performing artist dedicated to advancing opportunities for Black artists and expanding access to the arts. With a love for style and dance, she graduated from Kent State University and later relocated to Long Beach, California, in 2013 to further explore her career.
Now, as an arts administrator and development professional, Chatiera brings her experience as an artist, educator, producer, and community advocate to strengthening the art of dance. Encompassing collective fundraising, community cultivation, and artist support, with a particular commitment to creating sustainable and equitable opportunities for Black artists and arts organizations.
Recipient of the Freedom Fighter: Sojourner Truth Award for Women’s Rights & Justice from the Community Peace and Wellness Collective of Long Beach, recognizing her advocacy and commitment to uplifting marginalized voices, Chatiera's creative practice further explores vulnerability, divine femininity, the unapologetic Black experience.
Whether working as an artist, administrator, educator, or community advocate, Chatiera is committed to building pathways for Black artists to be seen, supported, COMPENSATED, and empowered. She believes sustaining Black dance requires not only honoring its legacy, but also investing in the people and communities carrying it forward.