THE JOINER FAMILY - ATLANTA, GA

ATLANTA INFLUENCES EVERYTHING | www.aie.life | @bemjoiner @atlantainfluenceseverything

 

 

ABOUT THE JOINER FAMILY

Doug Joiner (Dad): “The Joiner family started with my mom who was a school social worker and my dad as a hospital administrator for  30 years before he worked as a public health consultant to the CDC and  the state of Georgia. Both my parents grew up in public housing and were the first in their families to attend college. I have two younger siblings, Jahi and Mesi. Growing up, our parents were involved in community services like serving various non-profits and mental health boards, neighborhood festivals, and other development activities. I recall stories of my paternal granddad, Chuck. Back in the '50s, he was one of the first Black union representatives for ironworkers. His wife Ethel, provided laundry and food services to the sick from family funds and shut-in on the public housing projects my dad grew up in. My parents and their parents emphasized the value of education, speaking and standing up for what you believe is right and just, honoring all with respect.

 

Growing up, who in your family influenced you, and what impact did they have on you?

 

Bem: “Both my mother and father influenced me, but I didn’t realize this until I got older and became an adult and parent myself. With both of them being social workers (mom/public sector, dad/private sector), it laid the groundwork for me. Being a part of the “Hip Hop” generation, I was able to easily combine community engagement with creative culture.”

 

What is one thing you're incredibly proud of at this very moment?

 

Bem: “I’m incredibly proud of being able to build a brand (Atlanta Influences Everything) that is unapologetically all things that I represent in my family, relevant to the growth and progression of the city I love and represent!”

 

What's the most important factor when you consider building upon your family legacy?

 

Bem: “One of the most important factors I consider when building the Joiner family legacy is to give as much of myself whenever and however I can so that the universe keeps that same energy when the Joiner family is in need.” 

 

What would you most like to be remembered for?

 

Bem: “I would like to be remembered as someone who continued to push the “culture” of my people and city forward by actually living the meaning of my name (Bem - “Peace”, Ali - “Warrior”, Joiner - “Connect”) as a “Peaceful Warrior who Connected People for the greater good of the Community and Society.”

 

What word of advice would you give to generations of your family who are looking to continue the legacy?

 

Bem: “Starting with my daughter, Rayne Ali Joiner and my son, Crew Ali Joiner, I would want them to know and live the words of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr., “There is always time to do the right thing.”, as starting with this advice will continue to guide the “Joiner” Family in the right direction.”

 

Are there any words of wisdom you’d like to give for other Black families who are carrying out generational legacies? 

 

Bem: “One thing I learned that sustained Bob Marley’s family and legacy all these years after his death, was his “why” of bringing people together for the greater good, which at times cost him “family” time. This energy coupled with doing his part in seeing this mission through, not only made him but the whole Marley family “Honorary Citizens” on most of the seven continents in the world! Now, who wouldn’t want that ability as a family legacy?!”