DECEMBER 2020
KEZ CHRONICLES The latest news in Zeta Phi Beta Sorority, Inc. "Kaptivating" Kappa Epsilon Zeta Chapter In This Issue A Word From Our President
"Find Your Voice" For Domestic Violence Awareness- An Interview
KEZ Soror Spotlight KEZ VOTES 2020
A Word From Our President Kappa Epsilon Zeta, a chapter of community-conscious and action-oriented women, have
KEZ in The Community
more than doubled our impact, outreach, expansion, and sustainability efforts through service. This was accomplished by increasing the number of transfer and reclaimed Sorors by 125% in the first quarter of the sorority year in comparison to this time last year.
Virtual Events For A Great Cause
This tells us that we are visible in the community through the efforts of our past chapter president and current community service co-chair, Soror Diana Corneilson. Our community service efforts have provided chapter members with varied opportunities to serve our Bronx community throughout the week and weekend. In turn, this enables every
KEZ Inducts New Auxiliary members Zeta Phi Beta Sorority, Incorporated Kappa Epsilon Zeta Chapter facebook.com/zphibkez
@zphibkez
Soror to find a way to follow their passion and give back to the neighborhood. Through service, we have also expanded our network by partnering with Bronx not-forprofit based organizations to meet the needs of our beneficiaries. We are most excited about our national initiative the Zeta Male Network. KEZ has officially established our Zeta Male Network and we are so appreciative of Bronx men who have stepped up to serve alongside us. We Zee You! By establishing our partnerships through service, we are soaring towards meeting our 2021 goals to rebuild our community along with our nation's desire and focus to rebuild our
www.bronxzetas.org
01
nation virtually, physically, figuratively, and literally. Please connect with us and let's serve together! Zee you in 2021! #KEZCares #KEZLoves #KEZServes
cont'd p.7
KEZ CHRONICLES DECEMBER 2020
KEZ VOTES 2020 In a high stakes election year, Kappa Epsilon Zeta chapter members were sure to use their vote to make their voices heard
Voting is not only our right, but our duty. Zeta Phi Beta Sorority, Incorporated believes in the importance of performing our civic duty by way of the ballot. The women of Kappa Epsilon Zeta demonstrated this from October 24th to November 3rd 2020 by heading to the polls to cast their vote. As usual, KEZ looked FINER doing so!
KAPPA EPSILON ZETA'S
virtual events for a great cause KEZ HOLDS A VIRTUAL PAINT & SIP AND ANNUAL WALK/RUN TO RAISE FUNDS FOR THE KEZ SCHOLARSHIP FUND
On November 1st, KEZ hosted a virtual paint & sip event that was a relaxing and fun experience. The sixty registrants received all required materials in advance courtesy of DS Art Studio LLC owned by Zeta Phi Beta's own Dayona Johnson. The participants enjoyed conversation, color, music, and cocktails while creating beautiful art pieces with voting and Black Lives Matter themes. Patrice Shand, Fundraising Committee Chair, felt the event was the perfect platform for creatively raising voting awareness. "We wanted to bring awareness of the importance of voting in a fun way. I enjoyed the fellowship and seeing the finished paintings. Our Sorors and guests were very creative in their designs." The event raised $1200, with a portion of the proceeds going towards the KEZ Scholarship Fund. The weekend of October 30 to November 1st was a perfect time to hold the 2nd annual KEZ Scholarship Fund 5k Walk/Run Fundraiser. Each participant who completed their walk received a certificate of recognition. This year's walk raised over $4,100 which will go towards the 2021 Scholarship Fund recipient. The success of the fundraiser meant a lot to Veronica Farrar, Scholarship Fund Vice-President. "What makes the fund important to me is definitely our history as a people. I look back on our ancestors and how they struggled and sacrificed their lives in the pursuit of knowledge. I think of how educational opportunities, which should be afforded to everyone, are often times made difficult to obtain for people of color. So being given the opportunity to pay it forward and provide assistance and opportunity to the next generation makes our KEZ Scholarship a sweet victory in the uplifting of our community." Cynthia Dunbar, Scholarship Fund President, agrees. "The KEZ Scholarship Fund Walk allows our donors and supporters to invest in human capital, young women from the Bronx pursuing their dream of receiving a baccalaureate degree. Our awards alleviate some of the financial stress they face despite many of them being at the top of their class. I am grateful that so many individuals believe in investing in our young women."
"FIND YOUR VOICE" An Interview with Dara Kalima aka The Community Poet
For Domestic Violence Awareness Month, Kappa Epsilon Zeta hosted the "Find Your Voice" online spoken word and comedy brunch. The event's purpose was to raise awareness through performance. "Find Your Voice" raised $630, with a portion of the proceeds going to the KEZ Scholarship Fund and the Domestic Violence Initiative. The featured performer, Dara Kalima aka "The Community Poet" has numerous accomplishments. She holds a Bachelor of Arts Degree from SUNY Purchase, a Master of Arts Degree in Educational Theater from New York University, co-founded the Black Authors Collaborative, and is the Vice-President of Poetix University.
N.T: Talk a little bit about growing up and coming of age in the Bronx. A lot of people seem to have misconceptions. D.K: I grew up one block from Fordham Road and Bronx Community College. My entire life is between River Park Towers and where I live now. I think I was fortunate because I was in a private school, I had older siblings, and my mother was a teacher so I didn't have a lot of free time to get into trouble. I think it is all about the company you keep because even though we were isolated, we were always at my friends house, or at the Skate Key. We were dropped off and picked up so we were very monitored and sheltered in a sense. That isn't to say we didn't have our bad moments because we did. I had a classmate who was murdered and it turned out that he was actually sleeping in the school at one point. We weren't completely oblivious. Nonetheless, I came from a broken home, but I also had a whole lot of opportunities. The Bronx is who I am and I am still here many years later. N.T: Would you describe your writing as therapeutic in a sense? If so, how? D.K: I would go crazy without it. For many reasons. I mentioned how I came from a broken home. I didn't have the worst family situation, I just didn't have the best. The only way I felt I could survive was through writing. N.T: So it was like an outlet for you. D.K: Yes, it was absolutely my outlet. I received my first diary at seven. I wrote things I was so embarrassed by I actually crossed it out but it was my way of venting. It is my therapeutic point of release. The only reason why I haven't lost my mind during Covid is that I have written over 340 poems in the 280 days we've had of sheltering. N.T: Wow. D.K: Yeah, absolutely needed. N.T: What would you like your audience to learn while reading your work? What should their takeaway be? D.K: That is a great question. I think I just usually want people to consider a different perspective. A lot of my work is around social justice and equality or whatever the buzz word of today is. I want people who are on the oppressive side of the conversation to recognize another opinion or viewpoint and for people on the oppressed side to know they aren't "crazy." It is easy for victims to feel like they have to question themselves and to feel isolated and lonely. For the victims of whatever the conversation we are exploring, I want them to feel as though they can relate to me and my words. N.T: You were the featured performer for Kappa Epsilon Zeta's "Find Your Voice" Spoken Word and Comedy Event. There are some who feel as though it is inappropriate to use performances, specifically comedy, to raise awareness for domestic violence. How do you respond to such criticism? D.K: Being on the spoken word side of things, my performance was very raw, real and on topic. But I think when you are talking about things that are that real and that hard, you have to find a way to lighten the air and find joy despite it all. I knew two of the comedians that performed and I was curious about what they would bring to the table but in the end, they just made us laugh! We just laughed about other things and had a good time and it shifted the mood. If people are gathering for a good cause then in the end, it almost doesn't matter what the program is as long as the focus of why we are there is not lost. I think it was perfectly fine and I had a great time. I have not laughed that hard in a long time. I'm glad you guys added it. N.T: Thank you. Last question. In your estimation, why is it important for abuse survivors to "find their voice?" D.K: The abuser's goal is to remove your voice. Their goal is to have power over you. While my writing was mostly about my sexual assault, I understand what I dealt with in a past relationship. Since I was in therapy, I wrote so many poems about regaining my voice. I don't think I would be nearly as okay with discussing the topic if I didn't do that. In my book, I write more about my past manipulative relationship than my assault! I had to write "I'm over you." I had to write all those things. I had to write "you're never gonna get another poem from me." continued on page 13
KAPPA EPSILON ZETA In the community #KEZCARES #KEZLOVES #KEZSERVES In collaboration with Phi Beta Sigma Fraternity, Incorporated Beta Psi Sigma Graduate Chapter, a beautification cleanup was performed of our Adopt-A-Highway site in Wakefield. In turn, KEZ helped Beta Psi Sigma with their Adopt-A-Highway site, which is at the same location. Kappa Epsilon Zeta's Adopt-A-Highway site can be seen at the northbound 233rd street exit along the Bronx River Parkway.
On October 26th, KEZ once again teamed up with The Bharati Foundation and Mission Helping Hand to host "An Evening of Breast Cancer & Domestic Violence Awareness" at the El Coqui Liberation Garden in the Melrose section of the Bronx. The goal of the event was to remind individuals impacted by domestic violence and breast cancer that they weren't alone. Pink and purple ribbons were used to decorate the garden along with signs and attendees spoke on how these issues have touched them personally. It was an evening of remembrance, reflection, and perhaps most importantly, hope.
KEZ collaborated with Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Incorporated Rho Psi Lambda Bronx Graduate Chapter to distribute snacks to voters at the Bronx Supreme Courthouse in the Concourse Village section of the Bronx on Election Day. Masks were also distributed to those who requested.
KEZ continued the long standing tradition of community service on Thanksgiving Day with Thessalonia Worship Center in Longwood. Traditionally, individuals from around the neighborhood would gather at the church to sit and enjoy a meal. However, due to Covid-19, service was conducted differently. This year, KEZ members helped prepare meals then distributed them to locals at two different locations: Rev. James A. Polite Blvd and 149th Street & St. Ann's Avenue in Mott Haven.
KAPPA EPSILON ZETA In the community (continued)
On November 22nd, KEZ helped spread the message of Prematurity Awareness at the First Baptist Church of Bronxville. Members were welcomed by Phi Beta Sigma Fraternity, Inc.'s Brother Rev. Lamont Granby. KEZ continued to spread the message on November 29th during the virtual service of Carter Community A.M.E Church, led by Phi Beta Sigma Fraternity, Inc's Brother Rev. Kevin D. Miller, husband of KEZ member Myra Miller.
In continued partnership with ThriveNYC, KEZ held a second virtual community service conversation titled "Community ConversationsMental Health, Equity, and Resilience." Once again, the conversation focused on the mental impact of Covid-19, the impact of trauma in the age of Covid, and coping skills. The presentation was led by Theresa McCoy and Surong Li.
KEZ ARCHONETTE CLUB HOLDS 1ST ANNUAL VIRTUAL POETRY SLAM
1st Place
2nd Place
Youth and adults come together for an evening of poignant spoken word performances
Chev Guthrie
The Artist Anubis
On the evening of December 12th, the Kappa Epsilon Zeta Archonette Youth Auxiliary held the "Poetry Out Loud" virtual slam competition. The event was hosted by KEZ member Nicole Oestricher and Archonette Club President Nyla Slater. The evening kicked off with a performance of Ms. Slater's poem titled "2020." The youth performers went first, making way for the adult competition. Before the competition began, attendees had the pleasure of listening to a performance by Phi Beta Sigma Fraternity, Inc's Brother Rashid White. Afterwards five performers: Chev Guthrie, The Artist Anubis, Nia Brown, Lyrical Faith, and Joseph Dandurand battled it out for three rounds, dazzling the audience with amazing wordplay, heavy hitting topics, and the type of finesse and style only a poet can convey. Serving as judges were KEZ members Dana Richards Middleton, Charmaine Jeanmarie Gardner, Cherdonna Epps Gardner, poet/author Kamal Speaks, and Phi Beta Sigma Fraternity, Inc's Brother Hayden Greene of Green Light Photography. All performers did a phenomenal job but, in the end, the judges awarded Chev Guthrie with the highest average scores, making him victorious in the slam. The event raised $820, of which the Archonette Club will use to purchase holiday toys and supplies.
Virtual Holiday Party December 19th was an evening of fellowship, song, and all around holiday cheer as KEZ hosted a virtual holiday party. The family friendly event kicked off with a game of concentration involving the Principles of Kwanzaa. Afterwards was the holiday sweater contest. The judges voted in three separate categories, and three attendees emerged as the winners. Next, attendees remixed the iconic holiday tune "The 12 Days of Christmas." The night came to a close with a toast led by 1st Vice-President, Janay Phillips-Wilson. During a time where the holidays will not be the same for many, KEZ's holiday party was a welcomed event enjoyed by all.
Holiday Sweater Contest Winners "Very Girly" Holiday Sweater- Kalilah Sims "Sporty" Holiday Sweater- Charlene Clarke "Ugly" Holiday Sweater- Jennifer Jackson
KAPPA EPSILON ZETA Soror Spotlight
Soror Jo Cabey Jo Cabey became a member of Zeta in the Spring of 2010 under the "Mighty" Mu Chapter at Claflin University in Orangeburg, SC. She is a first generation native of the Bronx, whose family hails from the lovely Caribbean island of Montserrat. Professionally, Jo is an elementary school administrator and an adjunct professor for graduate students obtaining their masters in elementary education. Jo is a travel blogger, author, and proud cat mom who loves to spend her free time cooking and traveling the world. What made you decide to make the leap from blogger to author? The switch from being a blogger to an author was honestly an afterthought. I initially began writing as a form of therapy and after seeing how beneficial it was mentally for me to express myself through words, I decided to write a book. Tell us about the story behind naming the book Jada's Diary: From Growing Pains to Found Promise. Jada’s Diary comes from the name of the main character. I named it that because it chronicles Jada’s life from childhood to adulthood and is told by her. From Growing Pains to Found Promise speaks to the journey she went through. A lot of trials and tribulations came her way but ultimately, she was able to overcome them and find meaning from those experiences. Was there any particular part of "Jada's Diary" that was uncomfortable to write? What made you push through the discomfort? There were many parts that were uncomfortable to write, being that this book was based on my life. A few areas that were difficult included writing about the abuse I experienced as well as the passing of close family members. Keeping my end goal in mind made me push through the discomfort. One of my main goals with writing this book was to help others not feel isolated in their experiences, so that gave me the motivation to keep going. How have Sorors encouraged you during the course of your writing journey? I didn’t tell many people during the writing process. However, since the announcement of my book there have been a few Sorors that have supported by sharing, buying the book, and giving me encouraging words. What advice do you have for young women who wish to tell stories of trauma and triumph? One key piece of advice would be to be intentional about your healing process before sharing your story. Often times our hearts are in the right place with wanting to help others, but until we’ve helped ourselves, that effort may be a futile one. Sharing your story prematurely could lead to being triggered in a negative way and could potentially put you in a space of anger. In one word, describe what is next for you as an author. #godsplan "Jada's Diary" can be purchased at Barnes & Noble, Apple Books, and other online book stores. A signed copy can be purchased at journeywithjo.com
Reclaimed and Transfer Sorors
Thank you for choosing Kappa Epsilon Zeta as your Centennial chapter home!
! l a i n n e t n e C r u O l l i It's st
Congratulations to our Centennial
Reclaimed and Transferred
Kappa Epsilon Zeta Chapter Sorors!
KEZ Inducts New Auxiliary Members
Zeta Phi Beta Sorority, Incorporated has three youth affiliate groups: the Archonettes, for high school aged young ladies, the Amicettes for young girls aged 9-13, and the Pearlettes for young girls under 9 years old. December 13th was a very special day for Kappa Epsilon Zeta as not only were three young women inducted into our Archonette club, it also marked the creation of our own Amicette and Pearlette groups. All young ladies were inducted via virtual ceremony, and proved to be quite emotional. According to 3rd Vice-President Lynn Wills, it was a day long overdue. "Kappa Epsilon Zeta Chapter already had an Archonette Club, but several chapter members were interested in creating Pearlette and Amicette Clubs to meet the needs of their daughters and their friends. Planning for the additional clubs began in October of 2019 but was interrupted by the pandemic in March of 2020. New ideas were implemented and the search for virtual activities began. It was important to make sure that the new normal for the clubs involved activities that were not only enriching, but fun as well. We will help each other embrace the virtual world to make this a successful endeavor."
2020 KEZ Archonette Club Inductees
Amiinah Middleton
Phoenix Berger
Maci Langley-Furs
2020 KEZ Amicette Club Inductees
Kayla Van Whervin
Jayden Cole
Kadean Mattison
Dominique Thompson
Naomi Gardner
Kyyra Miller
Daniela Travis
Aniyah Henry
Jillian Castro
Shyla Ordonez
Kayla Gomez
Mia Scruggs
2020 KEZ Pearlette Club Inductees
Annalee Cruz
Sydney Grace Stewart
Makyyla Miller
Leia Johnson
Kalilah Sims
Noelle Bernardin
Nyeleya Slater
Bria Smith
Recognizing KEZ Excellence
Congratulations, New York State Director Amber D. Koiner, CPA for conducting a successful New York State Leadership Conference. Madam State Director, you have done an incredible job thus far. New York State is lucky to have you at the helm and we are so happy that KEZ is your Zeta home.
Sorors Yolanda Calderon, Jennifer Jackson, Juliet Duggins and Janay Philips-Wilson exemplified sisterhood by traveling HUNDREDS of miles (and as far as the city of Philadelphia) to hand deliver packages to Sorors ahead of the 2020 KEZ chapter retreat. Your dedication is noted and greatly appreciated.
Congratulations, Soror Veronica Straws-Malone who was recently elected to serve as New York State's Parliamentarian. Soror Straws-Malone has previously served Zeta on the local, state, regional, as well as national level. Thank you so much for your continued service to our sisterhood.
Congratulations, Soror Joanne Araujo on becoming a member of the Screen Actors Guild-American Federation of Television and Radio Artists (SAG-AFTRA), the most prestigious entertainment and media union in the world. Soror Araujo has long harbored a passion for the performing arts and has evolved from school and other local performances to film and television.
Congratulations, Soror Rena ClarkeWestbury for being the architect behind the simply amazing 2020 KEZ virtual chapter retreat. The retreat was nothing short of spectacular and we thank you immensely for your care, expertise, and sisterly love. We are so happy that KEZ is your Zeta home.
Congratulations, Soror Dr. Suze-Elisha Principal on opening a physical therapy facility, Principal Physical Therapy, LLC, located at 84 Lafayette Avenue in Brooklyn, NY. Soror Principal seeks to provide exceptional patient-centered care resulting in remarkable outcomes. https://principalpt.com/ Facebook- Principal Physical Therapy
Congratulations Sorors and thank you for your excellence! 08
KEZ CHRONICLES DECEMBER 2020
Happy Birthday!
KEZ WOULD LIKE TO ONCE AGAIN WISH OUR DOVE, DR. GLORIA HOBBS A VERY HAPPY AND JOYOUS BIRTHDAY. WE YOU!!!
"FIND YOUR VOICE" An Interview with Dara Kalima aka The Community Poet (con't) I had to put that all there to be able to go "ok, I'm good." An abuser wants to make you dependent. Small. To minimize whatever they saw great about you so they can feel better about themselves. The best and worst thing to do is to regain your voice and go shine. They thought they could break you but they didn't. Finding your voice, reclaiming, and controlling who has access to it is the greatest victory. N.T: Thank you so much. D.K: Thank you.
Dara's book, Black Man, Black Woman, Black Child and other works can be purchased at www.darakm.com
Happy Holidays & A Wonderful New Year! Sincerely, Kappa Epsilon Zeta Bronx Graduate Chapter
About the Editor Nyahalay Tucker was initiated into Zeta Phi Beta Sorority, Incorporated in December 2009 via Kappa Epsilon Zeta. She currently serves as editor of KEZ Chronicles and chapter journalist. Please send all inquires to ntucker@kezsf.org