By Imani Williams
Sistas Providing Intelligence Creativity and Empowerment, will host this year's Women's Institute as part of Detroit Black Gay Pride's Genesis Summit V.
The interactive workshop titled, 'The Joys and Woes of being out' will be geared toward women of color particularly African-American lesbians of all ages.
The group will discuss the pros and cons of being out as it relates to mental, physical, spiritual, and emotional well being. The reasons why people stay closeted or are out only in certain areas will be explored.
Sharing with the group that night will be Ebony Haith, African American model from 'American Top Models.' Haith will share her experiences as a proud out lesbian model and how the experience to come out affected her career.
SPICE intends to attract more LGBT youth to HTJ activities by featuring Haith at the Friday rap session. Terri Leverette, SPICE Co-Board Chair, said, "The confidence that Ms. Haith exudes should be refreshing to young people struggling with the issue of homophobia and decisions related to coming out."
As part of its mission, SPICE has committed to mentoring young lesbians and working with the community to ensure that there are role models and avenues for young women to explore career options, and positive interpersonal and relationship building skills.
