Melanistic Magazine - Vol 16

MELANISTIC LIF E I N B L A C K

TIME TO TH.I.N.K. FOR US

BY US

WINTER SURVIVAL TIPS

YOUR GUIDE TO

EDUCATION WITH CICELY BELLE BLAIN

VOL.XVI · 2023

ANTI-RACISM

MELANISTIC TABLE OF CONTENTS

E D I TO R'S W ELC O ME

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6

I N T HE KNOW

14-15

FO R U S BY U S : TH.I .N.K. M EETU P

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TOP 5 W I NT ER T HRI F T I NG T I P S

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HEALTH & WELLNESS: S U RV I V I NG YO U R FI R ST CANADI AN WI NTER

18-25

A GU I DE TO A NTI R ACI S M WI TH CECI LY BELLE BLA I N

26-31

M ELA NI STI C DI NI NG GU I DE

32-34

AR TI S TS PRO FI LE: KAR EEM ANTHO NY FER R EI R A

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10-11

W I NT ER F E S T IVA L S I N EDM O NTON & C ALGARY

DAT ING WHI LE BLACK

ME LAN IST IC M A GA Z I N E VOL.16 Publisher Greg Davis Editor Taneya Rogers Media/Sales Director Nigel Williams Artistic Director JoAnne Pearce Graphic Design Tinu Olabimtan Marketing Director NiLo

C ON TRI BU T O RS

Nigel Williams, NiLo, Kyle Smith, Merlin Uwalaka, Sandrine Camminga, Kelise Williams, Karima Leslie, Levar Saul Cover photo: Joy Gyamfi melanisticmagazine@gmail.com www.melanisticmagazine.com

Lands occupied, travelled, and cared for by many Indigenous peoples.

This place, amiskwacîwâskahikan, is a traditional meeting ground, gathering place, and travelling route of the Nêhiyawak (Cree), Anishinaabe (Saulteaux), Niitsitapi (Blackfoot), Métis, Dene, and Nakota Sioux.

We thank the creator for providing to us this place upon which to share our experiences, languages, culture, heritage and stories.

-All my relations.

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ED IT O R ’S W E L C O ME

Taneya Rogers Melanistic is wrapping up yet another year and we are eternally grateful that you continue to journey with us.

Another change in seasons. Another chance to reflect, refocus and reset. Another chance to set new intentions and to find inventive ways to build the communities that best serve our interest and the generations to come.

In this issue it’s been our honour to engage Cicely Belle Blain, prepping you on the foundations of Antiracism education. And prepping you for winter, are our Winter Survival and In the Know.

Happy Reading and see you in 2024.

The Emcee

A dynamic host for all of your events, Live & Digital N.J. Williams Nigeljosephwilliams@gmail.com Nigeltheemc

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In the Know 2k23

BE IN THE KNOW

Here we go! It’s the final episode of ‘In the Know’ for 2023. It’s been a great year for many of us, so join as we celebrate the good news that you’ve simply got to know as we say farewell to another year.

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Director Ava Duvernay becomes the first Black woman to have a film in the Sicily Film Festival, and received a 9 minute standing ovation after being urged not to apply.

4 3 2

Chioma Nnadi, the first Black female Head Fashion Editor, will be replacing Edward Enninful at British vogue.

1

South Sudan, the youngest country on the earth, qualified to play basketball in the Olympics.

Baltimore Ravens become the first team in NFL history to have an all-Black Quarterback lineup.

Shima Robinson becomes Edmonton’s newest poet laureate.

Shima Robinson Image courtesy of: Colé Richards

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5tips

top

winter thrifting

Thrifting is a great way to get great winter gear without the high cost, and help the environment by ensuring less clothing goes into landfills worldwide.

Here’s a list of things you can check for to ensure you get a great deal:

by NiLo

for natural fibers like leather, wool, suede, and 5 Shop fur (if you’re into that kind of thing). These get better with time and can be restored.

seams for signs of unraveling and tearing, make 4 Check sure buttons are on there, and that zippers zip without bursting open.

3 you plan to wear it with. Leave space for layering and

Try it on with thick clothing and hoodies or whatever bundling up.

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Many thrift stores have sales based on color tags that align with different days of the week. If you pay attention you could get gear for half of the price.

big brand names carry big prices but also 1 Some big quality. Keep an eye for brands that are known for longevity.

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BCW in Action

ABOUT BCW IN ACTION Bilingual, registered charity organization committed to making a difference in the lives of Black Canadian Women, Girls & Families in Western Canada.

SUPPORT | ADVOCATE | PROMOTE | EMPOWER

@BCWINACTION 780 - 217 - 5185

Explore our programs, workshops, networking events and more at bcwinaction.ca

Community Programs

Our community programs are designed to promote and empower Black Canadian women and young girls by building self-esteem, leadership, confidence, and fostering a rich cultural heritage in Western Canada.

www.bcwinaction.ca

info@bcwinaction.ca

Business Services

Through advocacy, education, leadership, networking, skill building and economic empowerment programs and events, BCB in Action aims to build a strong Black business community in Western Canada.

Edmonton I Calgary I Regina

Winter Festivals in Ed

By Merlin Uwalaka Queens of the Blues: Shemekia Copeland and Dawn Tyler Watson Shemeika Copeland and Watson, “one of Canada’s true blues treasures” bring their showstopping performance, to celebrate a genre pioneered by the Black community, during Black History Month.

February 9, 2024 7:30PM | Jack Singer Concert Hall, Calgary

A Link with Nature: Art exhibition

This exhibition brings together photographs of plants and flowers from botanical study, to the symbolism of flowers in portraits, to modernist experiments with light and shadow.

Runs until December 31, 2023 | Art Gallery of Alberta, Edmonton

Skirtsafire Festival 2024

This festival features performances, exhibits, and workshops in Theatre, Poetry, Design, Art, Dance, Cabaret, Music, Comedy, Yoga, and more from women.

February 29- March 10, 2023 | Multiple venues across Edmonton

Flying Canoe Volant 2024 Festival

Discover the legend of La Chasse-Galerie, a combination of French-Canadian and First Nations folklore at this creative and interactive cultural celebration.

January 31 - February 3, 2024 | Multiple venues across Edmonton

5Artist 1Love - All Black Wear Gallery Affair

Black excellence, Black creativity, and Black fellowship, speaking through Black art. This event is marked by live performances, refreshments and the introduction of the year’s featured artists.

January 27, 2024 | Art Gallery of Alberta, Edmonton

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dmonton and Calgary Calgary Philharmonic Orchestra On Stage with Alex Cuba Groove with the Cuban-Canadian singer-songwriter Alex Cuba. Alex merges his signature melodies, soultinged hooks, and powerful guitar riffs, with the colours of an orchestra to create a jazz-funk-pop infusion.

Feb 10, 2024, 7:30 PM | Jack Singer Concert Hall, Calgary

Wakefield Brewster Presents, Pt. 2

Part 2 of this Amplify season centres the artistic riches of four undeniable Black artists (ballet and tap dancers, musicians, writers, poets, rappers) in Calgary.

February 9 - February 10, 2024 | M’Kayla Kongnetiman, A.N., Okechukwu Nnamchi, and Dizzy Walka

Winterruption Festival

Enjoy live music, drag, comedy, outdoor events, craftbeer and community. The festival rolls out in multiple venues in downtown Edmonton.

January 24- January 28, 2024 | Edmonton, Winnipeg, Saskatoon and Calgary

“THE MOUNTAINTOP” Play

This play is a gripping reimagination of events the night before the assassination of the civil rights leader Dr. Martin Luther King.

March 30- April 21, 2024 | Citadel, Edmonton

Second Skin Art Exhibition

How does how we dress inform our identity? It features works from Elsa Robinson, a local artist of Caribbean descent.

Runs until December 31, 2023 | Art Gallery of Alberta, Edmonton

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…

es! m o h y d a e r y a d i l ho Enjoy your favourite holiday drink as you cozy up around the fireplace in your favourite pajamas! Visit Manning Town Centre and discover everything you need to transform your home into a magical holiday space to enjoy as you celebrate this festive season.

yourmanningTC

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ManningTownCentre.com

DATING WHILE BLACK ‘A SIDE’

S�O�Y: Ni�e� Wi�i�m� A�T: K�L� S��T�

@Me�a�i��i�m�g��i�e @�n�f�bl�

Girrrl how di dating ting a go?How di man dem stay?

Nah girl.

They can’t all be bad.

Listen, dem running down anything with thick thighs an’ pretty eyes. They unreliable bad.

A bare foofool man round Ah one ting ‘ere! dem want, an di whole set a momma bwoi!

What I want?

What kind ah man you What do looking? you want?

Mi ah look a man who can carry him own weight.

Watch yah!

nued… iin To be cont

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I

n the heart of every thriving community lies the strength of its connections, collaborations, and shared resources. TH.I.N.K Meetup, a registered non-profit initiative spearheaded by Michelle Davis, Shantelle Smith, Soraya, and Levar Saul, embodies this essence. The acronym "TH.I.N.K" encapsulates its mission—'Things I Now Know.' Through monthly gatherings at various Back-owned venues every third Friday, this non-profit focuses on building a strong community.

The group’s core goals revolve around fostering community ties, facilitating networking opportunities, and sharing resources to enhance collaboration. While their physical meetups take place once a month, their connectivity knows no bounds. Utilizing platforms like WhatsApp, members engage, refer, and uplift one another, creating a constant flow of support and knowledge.

The spirit of TH.I.N.K Meetup encapsulates the ageold adage: together, everyone achieves more. It's a powerful testament to the impact of collective knowledge and support. By creating a space where knowledge sharing, mutual empowerment, and collaboration thrive, TH.I.N.K Meetup acts as a beacon for community enrichment.

To be part of this transformative movement, scan the code below or visit https://linktr. ee/blackprofessionalmeetups, and join the collaborative force driving change and unity within our communities.

For more information:

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Surviving Your First Canadian

Winter by kelsie williams

Winter in Canada offers snow angels and great Christmas pictures but hold on, it also demands readiness for this biting cold. After witnessing the settlement of hundreds of newcomers to Canada, here’s how to not only survive but thrive in a Canadian winter.

1. Wardrobe: This isn’t a drill!. Get a REAL winter coat, pair with good winter boots, and learn the art of layering. You’re Gold! [see pages 8 for some extra wardrobe tips] 2. Your New Home is Zen: It’s more than a warm corner; it’s your zen to escape from the cold, make it as comfy as possible, and remember to close your windows!

3. Drive Right: Keep an emergency kit: blankets, clothes, snacks in your car and consider winter tires. Most importantly, slow down!

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4. Don’t Miss Winter Fun: Turn the cold into a fete! Ice skating, tobogganing, snow-walks – when in Rome? Immerse to appreciate.

5. Slap Winter Blues: Seasonal Affective Disorder hits newcomers hard. Solutions: Light Therapy, Stay Active, Strengthen Community Connection and Seek Help: Talking to professionals is strength, not weakness.

6. Lean into Your New Community: Winter is just one of the many transitions when moving to Canada. Make an effort to connect with your community, whether it’s through networking events, platforms like UpRow, or back home via video calls. This connection is a natural mood lifter.

In the end, remember, there’s no winter without a spring to follow.

Stay warm, blessings, and remember— the journey is the prize.

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A Practical Guide To

ANTI-RACISM

EDUCATION With Cicely Belle Blain Anti-racism work can seem daunting but find reassurance that you can start small. From taking due diligence to educate yourself, to educating hundreds on international stages, we were honored to receive practical tips for anti-racism education from Cicely Belle Blain, co-founder of the BLM Vancouver chapter and a Think in Color by Thinkific, 2023 presenter.

BY: KARIMA LESLIE

Image courtesy of: Jamie Gonzales

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ADVOCACY CAN TAKE A

MULTITUDE OF FORMS

Image courtesy of: Joy Gyamfi

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#1) DISCOVER THE LANE YOU THRIVE IN Advocacy can take a multitude of forms, and chances are there’s a role that works best for you: researcher, causal educator among friends, writer, protestor, concerned family member, policy lobbyist, entrepreneur, government employee, the list goes on.

Within these roles there’s many different approaches we can take from stern and unwavering to nurturing and empathic. Lean into your natural strengths and find the right place where they fit, whether you thrive in heated debates, collecting petitions, behind-the-scenes research, or corrective conversations with family members, every part of our community plays a crucial role, and your words and actions wield more power than you think.

Cicely Belle Blain’s anti-racism roles have included: workshop facilitator, corporate consultant, program coordinator, public speaker, writer, DEI trainer, small business owner, and more.

Keynote speeches have a special place in her heart with Blain stating: “I like doing keynote talks because I can infuse my personal experience with educational pieces… galvanize people to get excited about doing this work and get motivated to do it.”

Discovering what role you thrive in may take some time, trial, and error but can be incredibly rewarding, knowing you’re making a positive difference. The passion you’ll feel from it will help keep you going when things get tough.

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#2) BE PREPARED AND WELL RESEARCHED A lot of anti-racism work can involve walking a tightrope between bringing people out of their comfort zone in order to educate, without pushing them to the point of shutting down. Blain gives insight into how they tow this balance and best practices for keeping others open to difficult truths. “A lot of the time, especially for leaders who are more likely to be white, more likely to be men… when a new perspective is introduced, it confronts their perception of reality, their perception of the world.”

Blain went on to say, “I know there’s a lot of people who probably face a lot of imposter syndrome in this work, especially when you’re going into a corporate environment or any kind of unfamiliar environment as an outsider”. They emphasized the importance of being not just well researched, but also well prepared: Utilize digital tools to your advantage. Ensure that the information you deliver is clear, concise, and easy to understand.

Blend facts and statistics with personal stories.

Prepare yourself for both positive reactions as well as negative ones. Practice with peers or trusted friends as your sounding board, refining your responses and enhancing your preparedness, embracing questions as stepping stones, not stumbling blocks.

Sharing our stories can help to open people up to new perspectives and transform what they may have previously thought of in the hypothetical, into understanding real life experiences. That being said, it can be triggering when others don’t understand where we’re coming from and invalidate those experiences. If you don’t feel comfortable sharing your own experiences, start out by sharing others’ who have made theirs public.

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BLEND FACTS AND STATISTICS WITH

PERSONAL STORIES

Image courtesy of: Joy Gyamfi

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Image courtesy of: K. Ho

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#3) BE CONFIDENT AND SET BOUNDARIES After all that preparation you can be confident that you know your stuff. Next comes inner work. Knowing your limit, capacity, and boundaries are key. Remember that you are worthy of respect, your voice deserves to be heard, and if people aren’t being respectful, decide what you’ll do ahead of time so that you have a plan of what to do if/when the time comes. Pushing yourself past your boundaries leads to burnout, and while you’re down for the count, recovering, you can’t help anyone.

“To convince myself that it’s okay to take those breaks can be challenging… but setting boundaries is really powerful”, shared Blain.

BLACK-LEAD RESOURCES So many diversity, equity, and inclusion professionals, and BIPOC individuals get stuck in a cycle of overworking and burnout. If that sounds like you, scan the QR code below to visit Arise and Thrive Co, a Black-led organization dedicated to mental, spiritual, and emotional health care for Black and chronically ill entrepreneurs and creatives.

They offer online zoom sessions to help with burnout, anxiety recovery, goal setting, emotional wellness, chronic illness management, and much more. To be notified for article release on practical steps on setting boundaries and how to disengage from triggering conversations consider subscribing to their newsletter.

Feeling alone in your journey? Looking for community support? Cicely’s group program- affectionately titled “Living Room”- provides DEI professionals a virtual space for mutual support through biweekly discussion groups, processing sessions, virtual co-working days, and monthly workshops. Scan below to explore and register for an upcoming cohort.

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Special Advertorial

MELANISTIC

DINING GUIDE There’s nothing like good food to bring a community together. Our delicacies keep us tied to our culture and are constant reminders of home.

We are celebrating some of our Black owned eateries that bring wonderful experiences to our bellies. To honour their impact on our communities, we have invited some of our local movers and shakers to share their favourite spots and go-to dishes.

Nneka Otogbolu Director, Strategic Initiatives and Equity Advancement, Edmonton Community Foundation

Restaurant: Tiramisu Bistro Recommendation: Lobster Mac and Cheese This dish is a pure definition of ‘comfort food’, and when paired with the baked sourdough, your taste buds and belly are in heaven.

Special Advertorial

Sam Juru Executive Director Africa Centre

Restaurant: Mumbai Dakar Recommendation: Beef stew Flavour filled and exceeded the diners’ expectations.

Rhiannon Hoyle Member of Alberta Legislative Assembly

Restaurant: Graham’s Jerk House Recommendation: Jamaican Beef Patty Graham’s jerk house makes a rich delicious and juicy filling with a tasty tender melt in your mouth pastry for their patties.

Special Advertorial

AJ Louden Artist

Restaurant: Caribbean Latino Finger Licking Recommendation: Tuesday Haitian Rice special Small family run restaurant serving tasty plates with good portion size. Reminds me of my dad’s cooking style growing up.

PUBLISHER’S

MUST-TRY’S NEW ON THE BLOCK Restaurant: PhatBar Bakery and Cafe Recommendation: Chocolate Chip Cookie Dough Cake Not going to deny it, they gave me a chocolate chip cookie dough buttercream which is one of the keys to making this PhatBars’ number one selling dessert. This is what happens when you add dark chocolate, vanilla cake and dark chocolate ganache to the mix as well, giving you either a great start or end to your night along whyte avenue.

GRAB N GO Restaurant: Zuhur Recommendation: Samosa When you get the right texture on the dough, pack it with meat and spiced just right, you get this tasty grab n go snack. These are super affordable, and it is recommended you order at least six, otherwise you might find yourself heading back to the restaurant to order more.

Artist Profile

KareemAnthony Ferreira

Visual Storytelling at Its Best by sandrine

A

rt has always been a part of Kareem-Anthony Ferreira’s life. “I’ve always felt the need to create and the need to express myself that way,” explains Kareem.

A first-generation Canadian who’s strongly connected to his Trinidadian heritage, Kareem shares his experiences and memories through paintings. His painting subjects wear island print as an ironic critique of commercialized stereotypes of the Caribbean. Some viewers won’t realize the pattern doesn’t belong in the image, notes Kareem.

“It’s … kind of pointing the finger back, like ‘You’re the one who’s not really understanding where this is and what it is,’” says Kareem.

“That isn’t how my family dresses all of the time.”

Kareem edits family photos and his own photos to draft what he will eventually paint. He also shapes the paintings’ texture by

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Kareem- Kareem Anthony Anthony Ferreira Ferreira Kareem- Kareem Anthony Anthony Ferreira Ferreira Kareem- Kareem Anthony Anthony Ferreira Ferreira Kareem- Kareem 33

“It’s … kind of pointing the finger back, like ‘You’re the one who’s not really understanding where this is and what it is...” collaging material onto the canvas. Diverse art pieces he saw growing up inspired his unique art style.

“Seeing the possibilities of combining different media and different material into one kind of creative, collective piece—at a young age, I experienced that and saw that,” says Kareem.

At McMaster University, he put this creative experience into practice, completing a Bachelor of Fine Arts. However, he didn’t immediately leap into the field after graduation. Instead, he obtained a teaching degree and worked in education for several years.

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As time went on, he realized it was important to trust he could make a living through art. His hard work paid off; both Lizzo and Lebron James have collected his work, and multiple galleries display his art. Moving forward, Kareem is looking at comparing his family’s past and present through his work.

Summing up his upcoming plans, Kareem says: “Just keep making work and keep evolving with the work.”

Kareem-Anthony Ferreira’s work is on his website at www.kareem-anthonyferreira. com and on his Instagram, @kareemanthony.artist.

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atb.com/entrepreneur 39