I’ve been asked a question for as long as I can remember. “So, where are you from?” People of all colours, backgrounds, and ages have always been curious about a thing I was bound to disappoint on. “Here,” or “Ohio,” were my confused answers. All the while, I tried to figure out why I was …
I have a gentle soul and somehow I’ve ended up with a livelihood centered around that gentleness and educating. I see so many people expecting and feeling entitiled to that kindness. As though compassion ends when a person isn’t nice to you. That every Black person you know should be able to give you that. …
For the first time in my life, my words have left me without my permission. They fly away like dandelion seeds in a gentle breeze and I worry they will never come back. My thoughts, a rolling royal blue- Black ocean in a storm that won’t seem to end. I’m lost, without a paddle and …
What do I have to do for you to acknowledge my humanity? Read More »
To encourage social distancing we created a list of blues documentaries (and a James Baldwin collection) you can watch right now for free! I’ll be creating more lists as I find more. I have not watched majority of these in full and plan to over the next weeks. If folks are interested we can have …
Living with roommates from different cultures is sometimes great, sometimes challenging and sometimes, you accidentally use horse shampoo… “That’s horse shampoo” she laughed as I told her I’d borrowed some shampoo that was in the shower. She… had horses. I was shocked and laughed it off. Life happens. An unusual happenstance that makes a good …
“Happy, Kwanzaa!” says a well meaning Susan, the cashier, as I leave the store. Why do they always do this? I can feel my cheeks burn, (thank GOD I’m Black) and I shuffle out the door. Just slow enough that she doesn’t think I’m running from this awkwardness and the ever present worry of being …
Kwanzaa: it’s not Black Christmas? Then what is it? Read More »
I want to take some time to highlight ways to support the community if you, or your work is unsure of where to donate your money. Many people have mentioned that they (or their jobs) have funds but are lacking in time. This week I want you to consider any of these organization to donate …
A complicated topic few in America causally talk about is what to call the Americans that descended from Slaves. Over the years what is considered disrespectful has changed and currently the American Culture seems to be split between if using the term African American or Black is better. With this complicated topic I think it’s …
Perhaps I’m too soft but I really feel for the allies of Black culture. The current climate can be confusing and doing the right thing isn’t as straightforward as it seems. Today’s question is for you! How to reconcile that Black culture doesn’t always agree and how to be supportive when that happens? An easy …
As I prepare to do my first international travel I have to admit, I’m a little nervous. My deepest fear is living up to the stereotype of Americans when they travel. Stories show up often about the Rude American who expected everyone to speak English, is rude, and trashed the place only to leave.I think …
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