Root.ED introduces: Laurenie

I don`t even have much to write on this one because the video speaks for itself on so many levels. Laurenie, member of Root.ED`s Senegal 7 speaks honestly about her views on the initiative. One of many more to come! Big shout out to MusWa of Innovative Visions! The community is behind this and that is a powerful force! don`t forget y`all the SEND OFF PARTY is coming up real soon..this Friday June 3rd at 3720 du Parc. Come meet the whole team before we embark on this amazing journey! Bless up!

Vaughn

History in the Making

Alfie Roberts and v. Daniels

Back in day to the young generation may seem like lifetimes ago but in fact..it’s really just…back in the day.  It’s so easy to feel removed from a history that is really closer than we let ourselves realize.  My dad was a grown man when Dr. King was assassinated.  That’s how close it is.  And Black Montreal has a strong and rich history if we just look around…and ask.

To check out:  Alfie Roberts Institute. I asked community organizer David Austin for some more insight on who Roberts was..and after a moment of reflection and a few anecdotes as testament to Alfie’s drive, passion and heart..Alfie was described as “A griot”.  It reminded me of the oral tradition of sharing stories and histories that we as Blacks removed from Africa need to hold on to for dear life. This weekend they had their exhibition at the U.N.I.A.  showing a series a photos and presentations on Black Montreal in the 60′s.  What was particularly impressive was the audio clips of testimonies from West Indian students, Black activists, domestic workers and concerned citizens from that decade.  This has really inspired to do a lot of audio recording when the team is in Senegal.  I have this second hand Macbook  and am trying to learn how to properly use the program.   But sometimes..you just gotta press record and let it happen by itself.

check out the doc

Give yourself an hour this week and watch this thought provoking doc by Professor Gates called
“Black in Latin America:  an Island Divided” and discusses how the use of race has had an impact on how the Dominican Republic and Haiti see themselves and each other.  I don’t want to say too much..but definitely worth watching.

Almost a month before we leave my people..to the readers, thank you for taking the time out to accompany us as we add our own chapter to the history of Montreal.  We still need financial support..please donate!!  Yuh’s gunna help deh revolution, or whua?

Stay blessed.

The pressure is on + An Entry from my journal while in Mali

 

Vaughn in small rural village in Mali 2009

Less than three months left.  I feel the team is getting tired. The preparation is demanding..both on the individual level and as a collective.  The stress cloud of raising the money hovers above our head.  The uncertainty of Senegal is creeping in.  We have lost 3 members and gained 2 others and group dynamics since the get go have been a challenge.

 

and I love every second of it.

Senegal 7: If there ain’t no sweat, blood and tears….well something nah right!  The learning curve is steep but enriching and worth it.  Relish in the pressure and enjoy the tension.  Claim your weaknesses and identify your strengths. Let’s do this properly.

 

Anyhow, I was at my mom’s house the other day and found my journal from my trip to Mali in 2009. If our suscribers like it and show us some love (both through comments and through a little financial support !)  I’ll write some more entries..including my memorable stay at the Malian Clinic.  Enjoy!

 

June 16th , 2009

Paris- De Gaule Airport.

 

A young mother swings her baby over onto her back and in an effortless motion wraps the child firmly around her body with a colourful piece of fabric.  She then pics up her two bags and walks towards the boarding line.  I am going to Africa.  A young boy holds his little brother’s hand firlmly and gives him the ‘keep quiet’ frown.  The youngest obeys and they both stand in line wine with their ticket in one hand, carry-on in the next, all dressed up in their Sunday best.  I am going to Africa. A dread hails the I; his skin clean and dark, his hair and eyes a light brown of experience.  I hail him back and he nods. I am going to Africa.  The long line dwindles down and the intercom politely says that it is this is the final boarding call.  I am going to Africa.