Roots of the Spirit Podcast
Roots of the Spirit bridges the past to the present by having honest conversations about history, identity, race, racism, and other social justice issues that intersect.
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Authenticity Unveiled: Journeying Through 'All Things Possible'
05/08/2024
Authenticity Unveiled: Journeying Through 'All Things Possible'
Welcome to a captivating episode of our podcast as we journey alongside Prudence Kalloo through the transformative landscape of "All Things Possible", a vibrant Facebook community that she created—a space that transcends mere memes and quotes to become a sanctuary for shared dreams, profound connections, and personal growth. Delve into the heart of Prudence's journey and community, led by her unwavering commitment to authenticity, as we discover the power of our interconnectedness. Prepare to be inspired as we uncover the essence of "All Things Possible" and emerge with newfound wisdom to foster growth, resilience, and solidarity in our own lives. Prudence Kalloo Facebook: All Things Possible Facebook group: All Things Possible Instagram: Roots of the Spirit Podcast Trigger warning: this podcast contains conversations that include discrimination, racism + themes of mental health. Don't be afraid to seek help: The 988 Lifeline provides 24/7, free and confidential support for people in distress, prevention and crisis resources for you or your loved ones, and best practices for professionals in the United States.
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Radical Compassion: Personal + Community Healing
04/11/2024
Radical Compassion: Personal + Community Healing
Join us for a profound exploration as we journey with Deena Ismail, a Palestinian American storyteller and visionary, into the depths of ancestral wisdom, intergenerational trauma, and healing. In this episode, we uncover how understanding the power of our lineage can guide us toward excavating our authentic selves, and reclaiming what oppression has diminished. Deena's narrative illuminates the transformative potential of harnessing radical compassion and innovation to ignite personal and collective healing and how we must confront oppression, particularly the ongoing genocide in Palestine, and play our part as agents of change. Join us as we learn how to show up as allies, embodying the principles of radical compassion and solidarity to create a future defined by healing, power, justice and liberation. IG: Connect with Deena: [email protected] Roots of the Spirit Podcast Trigger warning: this podcast contains conversation about oppression, genocide, racism + themes of mental health, and self-harm. Don't be afraid to seek help: The 988 Lifeline provides 24/7, free and confidential support for people in distress, prevention and crisis resources for you or your loved ones, and best practices for professionals in the United States.
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Embrace Your Power: Identity, Connection, and Safety with Eve Alston
03/25/2024
Embrace Your Power: Identity, Connection, and Safety with Eve Alston
Welcome to a transformative episode of the Roots of the Spirit podcast featuring Eve Alston, a Certified Executive & Transformation Coach and DEI Specialist. Eve's mission is clear: to guide individuals and teams toward embracing the power of identity, connection and safety in their lives and within organizations. In our conversation, Eve describes their journey of self-discovery and the profound impact of storytelling on our identities and aspirations. As the founder of Rootwork, grounded in the wisdom of ancestral knowledge, Eve's approach to coaching empowers individuals to unlock their true potential and manifest their destinies with authenticity and courage. Join us as we explore the profound connections between self-discovery, equity, and the power of narrative with Eve Alston. Connect with Eve! Website: . Instagram:
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A season of Authenticity, Courage and Truth.
03/22/2024
A season of Authenticity, Courage and Truth.
Dive into Season 3 of the Roots of the Spirit podcast with host, Spirit Tawfiq, kicking it off! Take a moment to tune in as she reintroduces herself and offers some raw reflections on this moment in time. This season, we're delving deep into the journeys of some truly powerful individuals who are boldly stepping into their purpose, even in the face of adversity. You'll witness them navigating through oppressive systems and challenges to their identities, all while holding onto hope and striving towards their passions and dreams. Throughout the episodes, we'll be exploring themes of authenticity, courage, and truth. So, get ready for some inspiring conversations that'll leave you feeling empowered and uplifted. Let's embark on this journey together!
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The Botanical Bus with Jocelyn Boreta
08/23/2022
The Botanical Bus with Jocelyn Boreta
Host Spirit Tawfiq talks with Jocelyn Boreta, the co-founder of a bilingual mobile herb clinic by and for Latinx and Indigenous people. The is helping people in her community through the power of plants and a connection to ancestors, helping cultivate health equity and the feeling of belonging. Community health workers called promotoras are providing culturally-centered health services. The promotoras meet people where they are, literally and figuratively, by taking the bus out to worksites and family service center hubs.
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The Legacy of White Supremacy with Connor Towne O’Neill
07/13/2022
The Legacy of White Supremacy with Connor Towne O’Neill
Author Connor Towne O’Neill explores the history of white supremacy in his book Down Along with That Devil’s Bones. On a special bonus episode of Roots of the Spirit, we’ll hear about his journey to fight against racism by examining the uncomfortable truths of our nation’s past. Buy the Book:
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Counseling Black Women with Dr. Kimber Shelton
06/13/2022
Counseling Black Women with Dr. Kimber Shelton
Host Spirit Tawfiq talks with Dr. Kimber Shelton about the recent release of her Handbook on Counseling African American Women, which details the mental health needs and treatment interventions for black women. Handbook on Counseling African American Women: Dr. Kimber Shelton: Facebook: Instagram:
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Benefits of Meditation with Shamair Courage
05/21/2022
Benefits of Meditation with Shamair Courage
Host Spirit Tawfiq talks to noted meditation practitioner Shamair Courage of LoveWorks365, who will be leading a meditation session at a fundraiser on May 22, 2022 at to provide scholarships for women to attend the Roots of the Spirit Healing and Joy Retreat. GoFundMe donations: Sign up for Roots of the Spirit Healing and Joy Retreat:
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Reclaiming Your Authentic Self with Dr. Thema Bryant
05/17/2022
Reclaiming Your Authentic Self with Dr. Thema Bryant
Host Spirit Tawfiq kicks off Season 2 with Dr. Thema Bryant, who will become President of the American Psychological Association in 2023. Roots of the Spirit is launching the And Wellness For All initiative, which promotes honest discussion about the wellness of people of color in the U.S. 4:20 Announcing the inaugural Roots of the Spirit Healing & Joy Retreat for black, indiginous, and women of color 6:00 Sign up for retreat and retreat details 6:15 Retreat will feature fresh farm foods, yoga, meditation, herbal farm, cacao ceremony 7:50 Scholarship fundraiser for access to retreat 10:55 Welcome Dr. Thema Bryant 13:30 Dr. Thema’s interest in psychology 19:00 Psychological homelessness 25:00 Racism lies 26:40 Psychological damage of oppression 33:30 Empowering ourselves to influence policy and promote change 36:20 Resistance strategies 41:30 Being the descendents of the oppressor 51:10 American Psychological Association’s apology for promoting systemic rascism Sign up for Roots of the Spirit Healing and Joy Retreat: Healing and Joy Retreat Fundraiser: Dr. Thema Bryant’s website: Buy Dr. Thema Bryant’s book, Homecoming: Overcome Fear and Trauma to Reclaim Your Whole, Authentic Self.
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Civil Rights ICON, Ruby Bridges.
04/12/2021
Civil Rights ICON, Ruby Bridges.
Treat yourself to a conversation with Civil Rights Icon, New York Times Bestselling Author, and Speaker Ruby Bridges who at the age of six was the first Black student to integrate an all-white elementary school in New Orleans in 1960. Her walk through the front doors of William Frantz Elementary School on Nov. 14, 1960, was immortalized in Norman Rockwell’s painting The Problem We All Live With in Robert Coles’ book The Story of Ruby Bridges, and in the Disney movie Ruby Bridges. Published in November 2020, This is Your Time is her first book in over twenty years following the publication of her award-winning autobiography, Through My Eyes. She established the Ruby Bridges Foundation to provide leadership training programs that inspire youth and community leaders to embrace and value the richness of diversity. Bridges is the recipient of numerous awards, including the NAACP Martin Luther King Award, the Presidential Citizens Medal, and honorary doctorate degrees from Connecticut College, College of New Rochelle, Columbia University Teachers College, and Tulane University. She recently named one of 100 iconic Women of the Century by USA Today. **Please note that the N-word is used once in this episode in a historical context** Ruby Bridges Foundation: Purchase Ruby Bridges’ New York Times bestselling book This Is Your Time: Disney's Ruby Bridges (movie): Instagram: rubybridgesofficial
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Disrupting Racism at Majority White Schools with Dr. Todd Mealy
12/22/2020
Disrupting Racism at Majority White Schools with Dr. Todd Mealy
Join special guest, Dr. Todd Mealy for a powerful conversation about his new book Race Conscious Pedagogy: Disrupting Racism at Majority White Schools, and how to be a powerful antiracism co-conspirator. Dr. Mealy is a 20-year educator at both the secondary level and in higher education. For two decades, Mealy has advocated for race consciousness in schools. He has written extensively on the topic, including the publication of seven books. He also works as the Director of Equity and Instruction at The Bond Educational Group, and serves as a Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion trainer. Connect with Dr. Mealy: Website: Twitter + Facebook: @ToddMealy Equity Institute for Race Conscious Pedagogy: Buy the book Race Conscious Pedagogy: Disrupting Racism at Majority White Schools
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Podcast host, Spirit responds to listener questions!
11/01/2020
Podcast host, Spirit responds to listener questions!
Join Roots of the Spirit podcast host, Spirit Tawfiq as she answers a few questions from listeners - topics such as Trump banning antiracism work across the federal government, strategies to maintain sanity in these tumultuous times, and how to speak to students about the election. Links I mention in the podcast: Roots of the Spirit website: Roots of the Spirit Facebook: Roots of the Spirit Facebook Community: WomensActivism.NYC: Outdoor Afro: Sojourn to the Past: Smithsonian National Museum of American History "Girlhood: It's Complicated" exhibition featuring Minnijean Brown Trickey's (Little Rock Nine) personal collection, including her high custom-designed school graduation dress.
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Mental health, truth & how to rope-a-dope racism.
10/11/2020
Mental health, truth & how to rope-a-dope racism.
Spirit and Hisham Tawfiq talk the raw truth about the mental health impacts of racism + the rage, sadness, and frustrations of everyday racism. Hisham introduces a fresh new concept, "how to rope-a-dope racism" ...and they discuss the power of resistance, radical self-care, and love as liberation.
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The Power of Women's Stories & Activism
08/26/2020
The Power of Women's Stories & Activism
In today's episode, we hear from Dr. Christiana Best-Giacomini, a remarkable woman who captivates us with her mother's story infused with unwavering courage, strength, and sacrifice as she left Grenada at the tender age of 28 to immigrate to the U.S. Here's a link to Dr. Best's moving story about her mother, Pearl Mavis Munro. Dr. Christiana Best-Giacomini is an Assistant Professor in the Department of Social Work and Equitable Community Practice at the University of Saint Joseph. She holds a Ph.D. in Social Welfare and is a licensed social worker. Dr. Best is the host and creator of the podcast Inside Out/Outside In, which engages in conversations between academia and its communities and is framed by the themes of diversity, inclusion and equity.
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Reform Revolution Project - Young people making Change!
06/19/2020
Reform Revolution Project - Young people making Change!
Roots of the Spirit podcast is proud to introduce you to the powerful young people of Reform Revolution Project! Founded by antiracism and social justice education activist, Julia Mariano, Reform Revolution project believes that through the power of accessible education, everyone has the potential to face the realities of racism, learn about social justice, and dismantle white supremacy from the ground up. They believe that there is no longer an excuse or room for ignorance in our society. They affirm that adopting a growth mindset is for everyone and hope to provide resources and practical tools to help you educate yourself, educate others, learn how to be actively anti-racist, and understand the importance of participation through activism and engaging in civic duties. Reform Revolution Project is created for lifelong learners by lifelong learners. Reform Revolution Project website: http://reformrevolutionpr.wixsite.com/reformrevolutionproj/blog Reform Revolution Project Instagram: @reformrevolutionproject
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Little Rock Nine, Minnijean Brown Trickey on Black Lives Matter Movement.
06/14/2020
Little Rock Nine, Minnijean Brown Trickey on Black Lives Matter Movement.
Minnijean Brown Trickey (Little Rock Nine) speaks truth to power about the reality of racism, police violence and the power of the Black Lives Matter Movement. This episode was originally recorded on a live podcast interview on facebook.
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In a Minnijean Minute! Kids Can Make Presidents Act.
05/25/2020
In a Minnijean Minute! Kids Can Make Presidents Act.
Little Rock Nine member, Minnijean Brown Trickey wants children to know that they have the power to shift policy and make president's act.
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Cost of speaking truth about racism.
05/18/2020
Cost of speaking truth about racism.
Why is it so scary to speak the truth? What's at stake and what are the repercussions? In a super raw conversation, Spirit and Hisham Tawfiq discuss racism, courage, fears and consequences of speaking truth in the "present-racial" U.S. Some explicit language used. Head first we go!
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A leap of faith, landing on purpose with Stacey Jordan.
04/20/2020
A leap of faith, landing on purpose with Stacey Jordan.
"I'm very big on addressing the inside and dressing the outside. I think in today's society, everyone is so busy wanting to impress people with what they have and how they look...and then inside we're torn, we're broken, we're hurting...a lot of us are going through the same things...we put up these facades. I kind of like to try to break through the facade." In 2007, Wardrobe Stylist & Costume Designer Stacey Jordan took a leap of faith and left her full time job of 7 years as a Visual Stylist for H&M to start her own company Divine Styling International: humility, humanity, fashion. Over the past 13 years Stacey has worked with companies such as Nike, Ford, Disney, Nickelodeon, Emirates Airlines, Sotheby's International and more. She's also worked on projects with some of todays greatest talents in film, tv and music. OH, and she even styled Roots of the Spirit founder, Spirit Tawfiq and her husband on their wedding day!!!!!!!!!! FEROCIOUS stylez that will last a lifetime. When asked about her future plans, Stacey will tell you although she's been styling for the past two decades - stay tuned, she's only getting started! Divine Styling: IMDb: Roots of the Spirit video version of interview: Instagram:
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The Soul Violinist, Lee England Jr.
04/03/2020
The Soul Violinist, Lee England Jr.
Endorsed by Michael Jordan, signed by Quincy Jones, and supported by the likes of Sean “Diddy” Combs, Lee England Jr. has without a doubt paved a unique path as a violinist. Although he is classically trained, he is claimed as “The Soul Violinist,” due to his stylistic blend of R&B, hip-hop, and soul. In addition to his mastery of this instrument, he adds viola, cello, bass, guitar, drums, piano, and voice to his arsenal of sound, allowing him to transcend artistic boundaries of traditional violinists. In 2009, England cut his elementary school teaching career short to pursue his passion for music by auditioning for MTV’s “Making His Band.” Captivated by his extraordinary talent, the judges quickly changed the policy of the show to allow “non-traditional” instrumentalists to be considered; as a result, he landed a spot on the show as the sole violinist. Diddy named him the band’s “secret weapon,” and after gaining recognition from the show, he appeared as a guest performer on Jimmy Kimmel Live and The Mo’Nique Show, performed in concert with Stevie Wonder and Babyface, in addition to opening for rappers Ludacris, Trey Songz, Jermaine Dupri, and Akon. During this time, he was also recruited to produce, compose and star in several BET commercials. Shortly afterwards, England was invited to tour with R&B singer K’Jon. During a performance at the 2010 All-Star Weekend for Michael Jordan, Spike Lee, Russell Simmons, Dwayne Wade, and Gabrielle Union, K’Jon allowed England to take a five minute solo. England impressed the audience to such an extent that Michael Jordan immediately offered him an endorsement deal with his shoe brand, making England one of the first non-athletes to be sponsored by Jordan. Following the endorsement, England has become a well-known entertainer for a variety of events for athletes such as Chris Paul and Dwayne Wade, camps for LeBron James, and halftime shows in 26 NBA arenas. Most notably, he was commissioned to compose music for, and star in an NFL commercial for Super Bowl XLVII. In early 2016, England performed at the Geffen Playhouse in Los Angeles of greats such as George Lucas, Elton John, Lady Gaga, and Quincy Jones. Jones was enthralled with his performance and offered to produce a showcase with him at the Geffen’s Gil Cates Theatre; subsequently, Jones signed England to his management company, Quincy Jones Productions. England continues to perform at an impressive list of events worldwide and most recently played the intro song for Shinsuke Nakamura’s WWE NXT Takeover entrance. Furthermore, throughout his time as a street performer, he met and gathered a group of talented musicians to create what is now called, The Soul Orchestra. Emphasizing his belief in the power of the collective, he regularly performs with his orchestra and continues to educate children through his non-profit “Love Notes, LLC.” England is currently writing for his debut album, which reflects his addition of vocals, creating a completely new sound. Website: Instagram: leeenglandjr twitter: @LeeEnglandJr The Jam Show: Youtube:
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Photographer | Photography based Artist, Tawny Chatmon
03/16/2020
Photographer | Photography based Artist, Tawny Chatmon
Tawny is a self taught artist who has been working in the field of photography for the past 16+ years. Born in Tokyo, growing up an ‘army brat’, she had the unique opportunity to take in the cultures of three different continents all before the age of 12. By then she was in the United States and elbow-deep in her aunt’s theatre company. She studied theatrical arts from the age 12 to early adulthood. After briefly attending a dramatic arts conservatory after high school, she switched paths and focused her interests on being behind the camera. Her work and life have gone through many phases that led her to create the work she does today. She attributes this evolution to three major shifts: The decision to no longer pursue a career in dramatic arts, the birth of her first child and the death of her father. Tawny says, "I look to photography as the first layer of communication. My work is ever-changing and constantly evolving as am I. The portraits I create today are almost always inspired by my children and my desire to contribute something important to a world I want them to thrive in. Each portrait usually begins as someone that I am close to in some way (my children, Goddaughter, a relative, or a model that I’ve worked with in the past) which then transforms into a new compositional expression by experimenting with multiple art practices. I choose to frame my work in gold vintage, antique and contemporary baroque style frames that I collect from estate sales, consignment and second hand shops, galleries, auctions and private sellers; the majority that previously held artwork of subjects that looked nothing like mine. Every layer is intentional and meaningful." Website: Instagram: tawnychatmon twitter: @tawnychatmon Stunning video featuring Tawny's vision: Fotografiska: Forbes: Boston Globe: Just google Tawny Chatmon!
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Actor, Hisham Tawfiq advocates wellness for Black Men
02/17/2020
Actor, Hisham Tawfiq advocates wellness for Black Men
Retired FDNY firefighter and actor, Hisham Tawfiq joins the Roots of the Spirit Community as a regular contributor -- sharing his own path to healing and shining a light on the importance of health and wellness for Black men. Roots of the Spirit interview w/ Hisham from 2015: Roots of the Spirit website profile of Hisham: Instagram & twitter: hishamtawfiq Resources: Therapy for Black Men: The Homecoming Podcast with Dr. Thema: Therapy for Black Girls The Association of Black Psychologists HealHaus (Brooklyn)
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Little Rock Nine, Minnijean expelled, moves to New York!
02/06/2020
Little Rock Nine, Minnijean expelled, moves to New York!
Little Rock Nine member, Minnijean Brown was expelled from Central High School in February, 1958 for "verbal retaliation" after 6 months of daily terrorism inside the school. Famed social psychologists, Dr. Kenneth and Mamie Clark invited Minnijean to live with them to finish school in New York at New Lincoln School, a progressive integrated school. She lived with the Clarks in their home in Hastings on Hudson until she graduated from high school. Roots of the Spirit founder, Spirit Tawfiq contacted the current owner of the historic house where they Clarks lived and embarked on a tour led by Minnijean and sat down for an interview to learn about her experience leaving her family in Little Rock to live in New York. The original interview is available via video at: .
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In a Minnijean Minute! - "It has always been urgent..."
01/28/2020
In a Minnijean Minute! - "It has always been urgent..."
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Spirit Reflects on Roots in 2019 & turning 40!
01/12/2020
Spirit Reflects on Roots in 2019 & turning 40!
Join Roots of the Spirit podcast host, Spirit Tawfiq as she reflects on her experience creating and building Roots of the Spirit - a platform to uproot racism through storytelling, education and the arts. She also also touches on lessons learned and wisdom gained as she crosses into her 40th decade on the planet!
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In a Minnijean Minute! #ProfoundIntentionalIgnorance
12/22/2019
In a Minnijean Minute! #ProfoundIntentionalIgnorance
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Golf Curator & Founder of IN-18, LaToya Finney
12/21/2019
Golf Curator & Founder of IN-18, LaToya Finney
Roots of the Spirit Podcast welcomes Golf Curator & Founder of IN-18, LaToya Finney! LaToya Finney is the founder of IN-18, an experiential golf platform created to increase young professionals’ participation in golf and teach inclusion through structured workshops paired with course activities. LaToya was exposed to golf in college and realized early on that the game was not easily accessible to everyone - that women and people of color were missing. This experience led LaToya to co-found the Black Jewels Ladies Golf Association in New York. As a former Technology Project Manager and Senior Business Analyst with companies like Goldman Sachs, Barclays and Apollo Global Management, LaToya brings a wealth of experience to the golf course by providing corporate training, group workshops, panels and on-course seminars. LaToya volunteers with America Needs You, Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Incorporated and travels the world playing and writing about golf. She’s received several awards, including being inducted into the Network Journal’s 2017’s “40 under 40” class. A passion for golf led LaToya to play on amazing courses in Malaysia, Scotland, Ireland, Barbados, Zihuatanejo, Spain and Dubai. These experiences left a real impression on her and after 20-years of building a career, she decided that is was time for a change. Website: IG:
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In a Minnijean Minute!
11/27/2019
In a Minnijean Minute!
Listen to Minnijean Brown Trickey (Little Rock Nine), truth connoisseur drop gems on the topic of "race," racism and social justice.
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“Blue-Eyes/Brown-Eyes" Exercise Creator / Educator, Jane Elliott
11/25/2019
“Blue-Eyes/Brown-Eyes" Exercise Creator / Educator, Jane Elliott
Jane Elliott is an internationally known teacher who became famous after creating the "Blue-Eyes/Brown-Eyes Exercise" in her 3rd grade classroom in the late sixties. She is a lecturer, diversity trainer, antiracism advocate and recipient of the National Mental Health Association Award for Excellence in Education. She exposes prejudice and bigotry as an irrational class system based upon purely arbitrary factors. Her mission… ONE RACE. “I created a microcosm of society in my third-grade classroom on April 5, 1968,” Jane said, speaking of the iconic day, the day after the civil rights leader Martin Luther King Jr.’s assassination, when she was inspired to create what would become known as her famed “Blue-Eyes/Brown-Eyes Exercise.” Her life’s work landed her on Oprah five times, inspired more than a handful of documentaries and has been credited as the impetus for the “diversity training” that many corporations and educational institutions still host for their employees today. Derived from Chandra Thomas Whitfield for NBCNews.com website: Where can I buy her fabulous shirt!? National Geographic "The Race Issue" Spirit and Jane refer to in the show:
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Founder of Euphony Equity & Inclusion Works, Naomi Gracechild
11/14/2019
Founder of Euphony Equity & Inclusion Works, Naomi Gracechild
Naomi Gracechild is a multi-disciplinary artist, musician, educator, entrepreneur, social justice activist and worshipper of nature! As the founder of Euphony Works, Naomi brings her cross-sector experience in both urban and rural communities to help clients gain a deeper understanding of socio-political dynamics in order to effectively address issues of inequity. Throughout her professional career she has had the honour of developing and leading creative initiatives with organizations such as The National Music Centre, BC Alliance for Arts & Culture, Selkirk College and BC Touring Council. Naomi is a working musician and music educator and continues to be an active advocate for community building and empowerment through the arts. She is currently working on a collaborative art and music show that will exhibit during Black History Month 2020 and performs regularly singing with her band, Naomi Grace. Her emerging side-side-side-side-hustle-in-progress, Melanin Rising, is a line of apparel and an online community supporting racialized musicians and arousing allyship/accompliceship. These shirts and website will be a platform to unite people of colour and allies through fashion and art. The shirts are printed in partnership with Trapline Designs, an Indigenous-run community print shop in Vancouver's downtown east side. The models profiled on website and social media will be Canadian musicians of colour who embody personal philosophies of anti-racism and collective liberation. Facebook:
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