Lately, I’ve been doing a lot of work for the Lindy Hop community. I’ve dove deep into the history of the dance, and the scene and considering what could be improved moving forward. Now I’m turning to look at the blues community. I know the blues scene has taken a long time to return to …
It’s middle school. It was long past my first year in a PWI and it was time for a dance. At the time, I refused to dance, so I walked around with friends. I was in the hall when I was startled by my white friends getting excited and flooding toward the gym. Leaving the …
This piece is going to be a bit off the cuff for Obsidian Tea. Remarking on an observation of a trend I think as a culture we need to look at and be careful of: Fetishization and social commodification of oppression and adversity. That’s the fancy way of saying there is a lot of social …
And why colourblindness is an issue I went to bed early and noted there was some drama at the Oscars. Never one to care much about award shows, I wasn’t interested enough to learn more. At 3 am, I groggily checked my phone and found what I assumed to be minor drama was blowing up …
What the context of “the slap” can teach outsiders about Black culture Read More »
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 didn’t want too much of the Obsidian Tea content to turn into just pandemic or politics. I ain’t an expert and I don’t want to take too much focus away from the culture work. But this article, and an upcoming one on hope, are too important in general to not speak on. If you …
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. …
Welcome to the fight for our lives! So, you want to help out? To do something?! Great! If you are a Black American reading this, please send it to your non Black friends and go take a break if you need it and take care of you and ours. If you are not, again welcome. …
Feeling Helpless Around Police Brutality? Here Are Some Things You Can Do. Read More »
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 …
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 …
Wanna see the latest posts?
Submit your email and get an exclusive article!