Meet Antoine Hunter

We had the good fortune of connecting with Antoine Hunter and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Antoine, what was your thought process behind starting your own business?
As a Black, Native American, and Deaf artist, I was tired of access, representation, and respect for our cultures being treated as an afterthought. I didn’t want to keep asking for a seat at the table — I wanted to build the table.

That’s why I founded Urban Jazz Dance Company, the Bay Area International Deaf Dance Festival, and #DeafWoke. Each of these was born from the same vision: to center Deaf voices, celebrate our Black and Native heritage, honor our stories, and create platforms for artists who are too often overlooked. My work is about building a legacy that empowers others to lead, unapologetically, and to show the world that Deaf artistry belongs everywhere.

Can you open up a bit about your work and career? We’re big fans and we’d love for our community to learn more about your work.
My work is rooted in storytelling through movement, sign language, and cultural pride. I am the founder of Urban Jazz Dance Company, the Bay Area International Deaf Dance Festival, and #DeafWoke — platforms that unapologetically center Deaf artistry and bridge communities through dance, performance, and conversation.

What sets me apart is my commitment to making art that is not just seen and heard, but felt — blending African American, Native, and Deaf cultural traditions with contemporary dance and ASL. I’ve traveled the world to perform and teach, but my proudest moments are when audiences leave feeling more connected to each other and to the stories we share.

It hasn’t been easy. Accessibility is still an afterthought in many spaces, and I’ve had to fight for my place at the table — or build my own when none existed. I’ve faced discrimination as a Deaf, Black, Native person, but I’ve learned that persistence, cultural pride, and community are my strongest tools.

What I want the world to know is this: Deaf artists are not here to be your inspiration — we are innovators, leaders, and culture-makers. My art is a declaration that our stories matter, our culture thrives, and our voices — whether signed, spoken, or danced — belong on every stage.

Shoutout is all about shouting out others who you feel deserve additional recognition and exposure. Who would you like to shoutout?
My shoutout goes to my Deaf, Disabled, Black, Native, BIPOC communities who have always lifted me, even in the hardest times. I carry the teachings of my ancestors, the love of my family, and the mentorship of those who believed in me when doors were shut. I also want to recognize Patty from Deaf Spotlight and Zahna Simon, who have been steady supporters, collaborators, and friends in this journey. I’m grateful for the incredible artists and cultural workers I’ve partnered with through Urban Jazz Dance Company, the Bay Area International Deaf Dance Festival, and #DeafWoke. They challenge me, inspire me, and remind me that our art is a form of resistance and healing. Every success I’ve had is rooted in the collective strength and wisdom of the people who walk this journey with me.

Website: https://Www.realurbanjazzdance.com

Instagram: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/realurbanjazzdance https://www.instagram.com/antoinehunter

Linkedin: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/antoinehunter

Facebook: Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/realurbanjazzdance

Youtube: YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@realurbanjazzdance

Image Credits
Antoine Hunter