Yo sis! You look familiar… Team Doppelganger Improv Ingenuity

Doppelganger

What would happen if three talented women of color got together to create improv?  You would get Doppelganger, an NYC based long- form improv group playing at the Upright Citizens Brigade.  The ladies of Doppelganger recently formed in March 2010, and have since provided mind- blowing shows for a variety of audiences. Drawing inspiration from a sisterhood of comedy genius including Whoppie Goldberg, Lucille Ball, and Carol Burnette, these ladies will surely continue to define their dynamic, organic, and unique works of artistic humor!

Check the rhyme for more

Video: Doppelganger, \”Time Traveling Parents\”

Website: www.doppelgangercomedy.com

 

 

 

 

 

Samantha Crain, an Oklahoma gem

Samantha Crain is a beautiful, soul singer/songwriter from Shawnee, OK.  There is no denying her talent, and I am super stoked to hear more from this fabulous woman!  Check the rhyme on her site: Samantha Crain

Gun Hill Road: A Film That Goes Above & Beyond

I recently read an article in the August edition of Essence magazine about the 2011 Sundance favorite Gun Hill Road, written and directed by Rashaad Ernesto Green.  The article about the film included an interview with the lead actress, Judy Reyes, best known for her role as nurse Carla in Scrubs.  Reyes plays the mother of Michael, a trans/two- spirit teen who struggles with intolerance in their narrow- minded Bronx neighborhood.  The homecoming of Michael’s father from prison, compounded by the divisive secret harbored by Michael’s mother, forces the entire family to face the deep & painful challenge of mending their relationships.  Reyes offers closing insight to the interview with, “The only way to survive is to love, accept, and embrace”.  After I watched the trailer, I visited the website for the film. Not only does the site include the trailer, information about the film, bios for the actors, and press news, it also has a page for ways to get involved and spread the word about the film, such as the unique “Foot Soldiers Street Team” volunteer opportunity, and screenings with discussion/talk back events.  Check the rhyme on the website: http://www.gunhillroad.com/home

Comic Art Indigène

Comic Art Indigène logo

I have loved comics for as long as I can remember, and was beyond stoked to learn about a new exhibit at the Palm Springs Art Museum in Cali currently featuring the amazing graphic art works of native artists, titled Comic Art Indigène.  Holding images and art spanning from the 13th century to contemporary work, “Comic Art Indigène examines how American Indian artists articulate identity, art, worldview, politics and culture through the kinetic expression of sequential art”.  The exhibit is runs from 6.11.11- 9.11.11, if you are in Cali please check it out!

Big love to The African-Native American Genealogy Blog

This blog holds a great deal of fabulous historical information about the blended history of Afro-Native people with a focus on the Freedmen of the Five Civilized Tribes, with a concentration in Oklahoma.  Genealogist, and blogger  Angela Y. Walton- Raji is an author, lecturer and researcher dedicated to expanding her research in order to uncover the true history of all people with Afro-Native ancestors.  In addition to her blog, Walton- Raji has a website containing diverse information related to this history including oral history interviewing questions, podcasts, information on Black Mexico, and a video series she created which provides a detailed examination sampling of Dawes Cards, taken from the Dawes Rolls.  Sending lots of thanks, light and love to Walton-Raji for her work and commitment to our crucial history.   Check out these links below for further information.

 

The African-American Genealogy Blog

The African-Native American Genealogy Homepage

Exploring the Dawes Rolls on You Tube:  Part 1, Part 2, Part 3

Danny Godinez, guitarist/singer/songwriter creates musical dreamscapes

Danny Godinez

Danny Godinez is one of the most profound guitar players I have ever heard.  I first became acquainted with his unique guitar style when he collaborated with Pura Fe for her second solo album, Hold the Rain.   The video below is just a taste of the enriched, soulful, etherial space that Godinez creates with his work.  This guy is the reason why the guitar is my favorite instrument in this wide, beautiful, lyrical world.

Video: http://youtu.be/Nanv3NmhltI

Black Indians face a hidden, stolen heritage

Black Indians

We, as Black Indians/ Natives have a rich history that often goes ignored, unnamed, and abused.  Our history spans the Americas, and our stories are unique to the fabric of multiculturalism.  Our duality is challenging to navigate, but we do it poetically, and proud with profound grace.

NPR Story: Black Indians Explore Challenges of ‘Hidden’ Heritage

bell hooks on cultural criticism, and transformation

bell hooks has been a warrior hero of mine for a number of years.  She speaks truth to power on all things related to mind, body, spirit, and land, and culture.  Her wisdom is astounding, and her energy is genuinely warm.  I had the opportunity to hear her speak in college, and as I sat and listened to her profess the context and content of her then new work, Salvation: Black People and Love, I was profoundly soothed by the rhythm of her words, which seemed to jump right into my ears, embracing my heart of hearts.  I often revisit these clips with as much vigor and excitement as the first time.  I hope they will embrace you too.

bell hooks

Part 1 of 8

Part 2 of 8

Part 3 of 8

Part 4 of 8

Party 5 of 8

Party 6 of 8

Part 7 is not listed

Part 8 of 8

Buffy Sainte Marie: Musical Goddess

Buffy Sainte Marie

 

 

Big love to Buffy Sainte Marie for receiving an Honorary Doctorate of Music from Brandon University in Manitoba, Canada!  Read more here.

heaLing bOOks!

I tried to start reading The Salt Eaters circa fall 2010 when I first purchased it from Open Books here in Chicago. As life would have it, I had to focus my attention on my Massage Therapy program.  Now, I have made it through this hurdle (passing my NCETMB exam), and so ready for my next adventure which consists of travels to Texas, reading, envisioning, and celebrating the high school graduation of my cousin Asia!  Aho to the the summer  sun!