I cannot use this platform to engage in putting black bodies in dance classes and onstage without being engaged when they are displayed lying dead on the street. For me, personally, this has been a weekend of mourning. Mourning for the black bodies that continue to be slain and then paraded for various agendas. Mourning over the continued protests, continued arrests, continued anger and what seems to be no solutions or justice. Mourning for George Floyd, Ahmed Aubrey, Breonna Taylor, Tamir Rice, Sandra Bland, Trayvon Martin, My Cousin Jamaine, My Step-brother Archie, Lil Ray Ray, Lil Shaniqua next door, etc, etc, etc. As a Black woman in America, knowing that my history includes being a Queen in Africa to being property on the bottom of a slave ship, the layers run deep.
However, what I can say is that silence will not heal. I will not remain silent and I encourage the same for you all. Whether this looks like addressing politicians/lawmakers, protesting, commenting on social media, praying, talking with friends or engaging in extreme self care, use your voice. I will continue to heal, to look for solutions, to speak, to address, to share my truths and transparencies with you all and to live in my God-centeredness. Let's keep these Cultured Conversations going, no matter how difficult. Any feedback/suggestions are welcome.
In Solidarity and AbunDANCE,
Sherema
