Disney Donates Money to Build a STEM Center in Oakland

This story contains mild spoilers for Black Panther. Read at your own discretion.

Black Panther just raked in $700 million worldwide, and it's using its success to give back.

In a nod to the ending of Black Panther where T'Challa assigns Shuri to lead up a technology center he's founded in Oakland, Disney is making a $1 million donation to the Boys & Girls Clubs of America to extend its youth STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering and Math) programs. Part of their initiative will include a STEM Center of Innovation to be launched in Oakland, California. The STEM Centers introduce young students to cutting edge technology, including robotics, high-definition video production, and biomechanics, while implementing real-world applications.

Bob Iger, chairman and chief executive officer of The Walt Disney Company, toldComingSoonthat “Marvel Studios’ Black Panther is a masterpiece of movie making and has become an instant cultural phenomenon, sparking discussion, inspiring people young and old, and breaking down age-old industry myths." Furthermore, he sees the upcoming donation as a perfect match with the film's message. “It is thrilling to see how inspired young audiences were by the spectacular technology in the film, so it’s fitting that we show our appreciation by helping advance STEM programs for youth, especially in underserved areas of the country, to give them the knowledge and tools to build the future they want.”

Over the years, the Boys & Girls Club will aim to establish STEM Centers Of Innovation in Atlanta, Baltimore, Chicago, Harlem, New Orleans, and other major cities.