By Imani Williams
Voices from an Urban Bush Sista
Hey beautiful Nubian folk. It's that time of year again already. This is where we come together for our annual slg family reunion. Whether you're brand spanking new to HTJ! or a long term veteran. Welcome home.
I'd like to share some HTJ! facts, so that you get a full understanding of how wonderful this event is.
We are the oldest black pride in the Mid-West. However, pride events don't only take place in July. Planning goes on all year for this weeklong event. In addition to bringing HTJ! annually, forums and programs both of an educational and entertainment nature are produced year round by Black Pride Society. These events allow sgl people of color to access resources and information that keep us informed and on top of the ever-changing news in our community both locally and across the nation.
None of this happens through osmosis. A lot of hard work, thought and time goes into making these community based events something we can all be proud of. Your input, advice and thoughts are always welcome. Community planning meetings where you can come and listen as well as give input on what you'd like to see happen begin early in the year. Volunteers are needed to pull off the massive weeklong festivities. If you've been to one of the largest attended HTJ! events then you know that Palmer Park is full from one end to the other on our special Saturday, with people coming in from area community based organizations to help out, and out of town family comes in to share in the fun.
Black Pride Society puts out a call for volunteers and board members on a regular basis on Detroit's Hotter than July! List serve; go to www.hotterthanjuly website anytime to see what's going on and how to get involved. You can also stop by the BPS table at the picnic to get more information.
My point is to make sure that everyone knows that they are welcome to make this event bigger and better each and every year. There are many places around the country that don't have a black pride and to be able to come together and see all the lovely hues of who we are in our many manners of expressions is a beautiful thing and a privilege not to be taken lightly.
So have fun, remember to pace yourself accordingly throughout the week as there is a wonderful line up of events offering a lil something, something for everyone.
If you do nothing else please take time to remember those who are no longer with us by participating in the candle light vigil, and to walk for someone who can't by showing your pride in the Ruth Ellis March honoring the legacy and memory of Mother Ruth Ellis and what she shared with the world as the oldest living lesbian. I know she's watching us and looking down with that smile that always said, "I love you'.
That being said get your outfits and hair together and come on out and see folks you haven't seen in a minute and meet some for the first time. It's a beautiful thing and so are you.
