GWSS 241
I felt very honored and
privileged to be given the opportunity to contribute to the archive by creating
my own altar and then to be invited to join today’s Womxn Who Rock’s UnConference.
The past several months has proven to be mentally trying for humans around the
globe learning how to navigate what appears to be our new norm amid the
pandemic we are facing. However, ongoing police brutality against our Black
communities are making tough times, unbearable. When I signed on to attend the
virtual event, I was expecting an insightful conversation around altars and ofrendas
and a glimpse at the work of Ofelia Esparza in addition to the work that other
students submitted offerings. What I actually experienced was a really heart-wrenching
and healing conversation through art and love that was centered around
community and culture.
Watching Giovanna White invite us
into their space to dance on-screen with their “Black Healing Matters” t-shirt
and stunning head wrap, was beautiful and moving in a way that I had not anticipated.
It is several hours after the event and I am still thinking about how lovely
the performances were. Further, getting a closer look at the work of Ofelia and
her children felt so intimate and special. I remember how inspired I felt when
I first watched the initial video about the altar making prior to creating mine
but seeing more of Ofelia’s amazing work made me feel even more connected to
the altar I created. Today’s conversation made me want to engage in this healing
practice more frequently.
In honor of the lives that have
been taken far too soon I would like to conclude by saying the names of those who
are gone but never forgotten: RIP Breonna Taylor, George Floyd, Ahmaud Arbery,
and Tony McDade. #BlackLivesMatter #SayTheirNames
No comments:
Post a Comment