Vocalise Bristol - winter edition 2023!

VOCALISE

YOUR FREE COMMUNITY MAGAZINE FOR: ST. PAULS, ST. WERBURGHS, ST. AGNES, MONTPELIER

Welcome!

Hola a todos y Bienvenidos!! Welcome to the winter edition of Vocalise, the community magazine for St. Pauls, St. Werburghs, St. Agnes and Montpelier.

My name is Laila, I am Argentinian and I am the new project assistant for Vocalise. I came to Bristol in July 2019 and fell in love instantly with this wonderful City. I am a TV and Radio producer, a feminist and an activist. I also love to work as a community organiser and events, I love culture and learning from diversity! I worked in different charities during the pandemic, so I have learned a lot! But there is always room for more!

As an immigrant woman life can be very challenging sometimes; adapting to a different culture. That is why I love to be part of Vocalise and I am very proud of the work put into every edition. Helping the community to grow and connect!

I love people, arts, music, dance and food! So I feel very happy and welcome in Bristol. St. Pauls, St. Werburghs, St. Agnes and Montpellier are my favourite places in the city and I feel so honoured to be part of even more now!

You can be part of the magazine too! Please get in touch with us if you want to write something or give us feedback: info@vocalisemagazine. org Vocalise shares stories about local people, about you and me, so don’t be afraid to use your voice, this is the right place! Thank you for your time, and a big thanks to all the great people, artists, supporters and the community for their contribution to this edition.

Very exciting 2023 coming forward!

I wish you all the best,

Laila

This is YOUR community magazine if you’d like to be involved get in touch!

info@vocalisemagazine.org

vocalisemagazine.org

@vocaliseBristol

@vocaliseBristol

Published by:

Vocalise Bristol CIC Backfields House

Upper York Street

Bristol BS2 8QJ

Vocalise Bristol CIC

Co-ordinated and designed by: Julia Widz

Thanks to all our volunteers and directors.

Vandna Mehta (Founder)

Judit Davis (Director)

Julia Widz (Project Manager)

Laila (Project Assistant)

Lucille Smith

Hilary Finch

Aidan Bristow

George Dunn

Bob Lawson

Also special Thanks to all our contributors.

Front cover: Thank to HazardOne and Bright Places for the mural. More info on page 10.

Vectors and photos from: Vecteezy.com. Photo on page 8 from Unsplash.

Introducing...

Introducing Jess "JPEG"

Palmer, a young and talented DJ on the rise. With roots deeply planted in the music industry, Jess was inspired by her parents who were avid ravers, heavily influenced by jungle, ska, and reggae music during her childhood. Always dreaming of being a part of the music industry, Jess made her way to Montpelier, Bristol to pursue her passion.

a common goal. By creating opportunities and providing support, Jess is helping to empower the next generation of female artists and producers.

Jess "JPEG" Palmer

Not only is JPEG an up-and-coming DJ, but she is a passionate advocate for gender equality in the music industry. Recognising the need for more representation of women, Jess has taken it upon herself to offer DJ and production lessons aimed solely at women looking to make their mark in the industry. Breaking down the barriers of the male-dominated industry.

Jess’s dedication to helping women in the industry is a shining example of what can be achieved when we work together towards

To be included in the next issue send your photos to info@vocalisemagazine.org

Deadline is the 17th of March. The best submission will be used for our front cover!

JPEG draws her inspiration from a diverse range of musical genres, including drum and bass, breaks, garage and jungle. Looking up to artists like Stones Taro, Bristol producer Bakey, and the Cuban jazz sounds of Buena Vista Social Club. With these influences, Jess creates a unique sound that sets her apart from others in the industry.

One of the things Jess loves about Montpelier is its diversity and embracing of all cultures, especially in the St Pauls area where the sound system culture thrives. The art and architecture of the city also inspire Jess in her musical endeavours.

Catch JPEG headlining and featuring at some great events in Bristol this month, and get ready to experience a fusion of sounds and be inspired by this young and rising star in the music industry.

12th February – The Crown

18th February – Cosies

Do you want to promote your business or event? Vocalise reaches over 6,000 residents per issue online and in person. Do you want to support your local area? Vocalise has the community at its heart. Get in touch...

info@vocalisemagazine.org

Prices start at just £35

Discount available for multiple issue ads!

Photo by Eddy Hubble

Photo by Otis Walsh

Picton Street Fayre

The annual Picton Street Fayre was back in December 2022 after a twoyear break due to the COVID-19 pandemic. The Lord Mayor officially opened the 11th edition of the Fayre at 12pm on Saturday 10th December. The street was bursting with stalls selling locally-made goodies for Christmas shopping. A real benefit of the Fayre being the promotion of local crafts people, giving them an opportunity to display and sell their produce. Reports were that stalls did a roaring trade.

The music stage hosted a lovely and eclectic selection of live music for the public to enjoy and dance to. Highlights for me included the Ambling Band and the She Choir. All the local musicians and all volunteers gave their services for free.

Its hard but rewarding work which starts in May when all the applications for the event licence have to be submitted. Then there is the insurance, the stall booking, arranging toilets and first aid, getting the bands to play….

The list goes on!

A small group of local residents co-ordinates this but the event just wouldn’t happen without loads of people contributing something: from the people who can just do an hour’s stewarding to people who volunteer to do all the clearing up after the event (especially noteworthy as we missed the England France game!)

This year the Fayre raised a record breaking £4000 for local charities BOSH and Trauma Southwest through the sales of mulled drinks at the bar: “Drink for charity!” As the Lord Mayor commanded us.

“Trauma Foundation South West (TFSW) are hugely grateful for the donation of £2,000 raised at Picton Street Christmas Fayre. This money will make it possible for specialised TFSW psychotherapists and counsellors to provide 48 life-changing one-to-one weekly therapy sessions for traumatised refugees or asylum seekers, with interpreters.”

Bristol Outreach Services for The Homeless provides vital independent and bespoke service providing practical help and advice to homeless people. Their hub is based in Bond Street provides a warm, friendly space with an inviting café. BOSH Director Julie Dempster said “we are a small charity and don’t receive mainstream funding so donations like this are really important for us to deliver and develop our work” We always look to bring in new people with new ideas so if you are interested to get involved in next year’s event please get in touch. We particularly want to continue to develop the diversity of the event and really keen to hear from stall holders and performers from all our local communities. Contact pictonstreetfayre@gmail.com

Thanks to everyone that came down and supported us and all the amazing volunteers that organized and participated in the event. Special mention to local businesses who

SHORT COURSES

at St. Paul's Learning Centre:

Black History: Revisited

25 January to 24 May 2023

Wednesdays 6 pm to 8:45 pm

Funding support available.

Imagining the World through Storytelling: An Introduction to World Literature

Free taster course

30 January to 27 March 2023

Mondays, 6 pm to 7:30 pm.

Visit our website to find out more:

English Literature and Community Engagement

Tel +44 (0)117 928 8924

Email English-Lifelong@bristol.ac.uk bristol.ac.uk/study/part-time

made generous donations: Montpelier Local, Roam Wild Coffee and Bianchi restaurant. And to all those who got involved in any way to help make this such a wonderful, memorable success. It really shows what a community can achieve when we work together.

Roll on Next year.

Tim Wye, Kate Phat Feathers

St Werburghs

Celebrating 10 years of Easy PC!

The Easy PC project has been running at St Werburghs Community Centre since July 2013. In the run up to the project’s 10th anniversary we are thrilled to announce that thanks to generous support from St Monica Trust we have expanded our Digital Inclusion services. Due to high demand, we have added additional Easy PC sessions to give more members of the community access to the service. Following feedback and requests for a women-only provision, Helen has joined the team as a new IT tutor. We now offer one-to-one sessions on Mondays with Steve and Fridays with Helen.

Clients can book multiple sessions to build their skills and confidence. Topics covered include an introduction to computers, e-mail, social media, video calls, online news, shopping and internet security. We also deliver themed group sessions that are tailored to the needs of the participants.

In addition to tackling digital exclusion Easy PC provides participants with the opportunity for social interaction, peer learning and making new friendships. It also improves people’s wellbeing by connecting them with friends and family online.

Here’s what some of our Easy PC attendees have said about the sessions:

“It is the highlight of my week. I feel so privileged to be a part of this group. I feel happier, healthier, more confident, more hopeful and more connected to my community.”

”I feel more confident about getting out and mixing with people again, also coming to terms with the fact that I have retired!”

“I look after my husband with Alzheimer’s, so I enjoy the friendship as well as learning.

Community Centre

When I can no longer get out, I will hopefully be able to shop online, do banking and lots more.”

In addition to Easy PC sessions, we have five Open Access Public Computers with free WiFi available every day from 9am to 9pm. We also offer Employability Services at Reception, providing support to people who are looking for work but who might not have the skills to apply for jobs online and write CVs or cover letters.

For more information visit www.stwerburghs. org.uk/services/digital-inclusion. If you are interested in booking an Easy PC session email office@stwerburghs.org.uk or call 0117 955 1351.

Crowdfunding for your Community Centre! St Werburghs Community Centre will be launching a crowdfunding campaign on the 3rd March to raise dedicated funds to support the services we provide for our community. With cost-of-living pressures and more demand for our services we’ve responded with our largest campaign to date to keep the lights on and be a warm and welcoming space for those who need us. We want to be there for the people in our community – you are at the heart of everything we do!

Go to our website to find out more and see a whole host of rewards to choose from if you’re able to donate!

I’ll leave you with the words of one of our mottos; “Together we can create a future in which all can say: I am seen.”

One Love!

Easy PC Digital support for over 50s

This free one-to-one digital skills support service helps older people to push past their technology fears and feel more confident using the internet and digital devices.

These weekly classes are open to anyone over 50, regardless of experience and ability.

Topics covered include:

● An introduction to computers, laptops, tablets or phones

● Learn to use email

● Explore social media

● Keep in touch with friends and family using Zoom, WhatsApp and FaceTime

● Learn to shop online

● Online safety and device security

Celebrate Spring! Creative printing day on 19 th March at St Werbergs City Farm with artist Cathy Mills. £70 includes all art matériels and tea and coffee. Beginners welcome. To book, and more info go to www.catherinegraymills.co.uk or email Cathy, at. art@catherinegraymills.co.uk

If you want to improve your digital skills or just go over the basics, then this is the place for you. Learn at your own pace and sessions can be focused on the topics you want!

Easy PC with Steve One hour sessions every Monday, 10:30am–4:30pm

Easy PC with Helen 45 minute sessions every Friday, 10:30am–12:45pm

To book your space

Email: office@stwerburghs.org.uk

Call: 0117 955 1351

Sessions are held at: St Werburghs Community Centre

St Werburghs Community Centre Horley Road, St Werburghs, Bristol BS2 9TJ

T: 0117 955 1351

E: office@stwerburghs.org.uk

www.stwerburghs.org.uk

Group Relaxation Course

Are you looking to find time to totally relax and focus on you?

Are you interested in finding out more about the power of hypnosis?

Then this course is perfect for you!

A 6 week course of guided relaxation sessions, to help you completely switch off and find your peace

Starting in February and running from 6.00pm-7.00pm

Dates: 23rd Feb, 2th March, 9th March, 16th March, 23rd March, 30th March

At: St Werburgh’s Community Centre, Horley Rd, St Werburgh's, BS2 9TJ, Bristol

Visit my website to find out more and contact me!

Website: groundedchoicehypnotherapy.com

Contact Email: lucy.collins@groundedchoicehypnotherapy.com

Hello! I’m Lucy, a Bristol based Hypnotherapist, currently working at BS2 Therapy Rooms in St. Pauls, The Clifton Practice, Clifton and online.

I offer a free Initial Consultation so you can see how hypnotherapy could help support you. Book yours today!

Using a powerful combination of psychotherapy and hypnosis, Solution Focused Hypnotherapy is a process of envisioning and working towards a more enjoyable and positive future, free from the focus of problems and of lack. The latest neuroscience underpins SFHT and supports you in achieving great results, helping you to create new ways of thinking, and subsequently enabling you to change your behaviour, to help you achieve your goals and aspirations.

Do you need help with:

Anxiety, depression, low mood, confidence, stopping smoking, insomnia, stress, OCD, fears and phobias, disordered eating, weight loss, IBS, sports performance, motivation, anger, relationships, chronic pain, PTSD?

I offer 1-to-1 sessions and also run Group Relaxation Courses.

Website: www.groundedchoicehypnotherapy.com

Email Address: lucy.collins@groundedchoicehypnotherapy.com

Registered Charity No: 1074495 Company Limited by Guarantee No: 3713212

Brief History of Drum & Bass

written by Aidan Bristow

Bristol, UK has a rich history in the development and evolution of drum and bass music. The city is often referred to as the birthplace of the genre and has been a hub for its development since the early 1990s.

The genre emerged from the city's thriving rave and jungle scenes, with influential local DJs and producers such as Roni Size, Smith & Mighty, and DJ Krust experimenting with the sounds and styles of early hardcore and jungle. In the mid-90s, drum and bass became established as its own genre, with a distinctive sound and culture that drew inspiration from a range of musical and cultural influences, including reggae, hiphop, and jazz.

Bristol's drum and bass scene continued to evolve and thrive, with a number of influential labels, clubs, and events establishing themselves in the city. In the early 2000s, the genre experienced a surge in popularity, and many of Bristol's drum and bass DJs and producers gained recognition and success on a global scale. The torch has been passed from legends like Roni Size, Massive Attack, and Bryan Gee to trailblazing artists like My Nu Leng, Clipz, and many more Bristolbased DJs who are pushing the boundaries of the genre.

Today, Bristol remains a thriving hub for drum and bass culture, with a vibrant and diverse community of musicians, producers, and fans. Established venues like Lakota,

the Black Swan, and Thekla have been putting on fantastic events for years, attracting fans from near and far. These venues have become synonymous with the drum and bass scene in Bristol and are widely recognized as some of the best places to experience the genre in all its forms.

Alongside these established venues, there are also a number of exciting new spaces that are contributing to the continued growth of the drum and bass culture in Bristol. Venues like PropYard, The Clock Factory, and Lost Horizon are bringing fresh perspectives and exciting new experiences to the scene, showcasing the best in local and international talent, and keeping the drum and bass culture in Bristol at the forefront of the genre. The city continues to host a range of events that showcase the genre and its many sub-genres, and its influence on the development of drum and bass continues to be felt worldwide.

New female community and community magazine!

written by Mercedes Polo Portillo

WMN is a female community that connects people from different creative backgrounds. The story began when Mercedes Polo Portillo and Mica Ramírez, wanted to pay homage to International Women’s Day back in 2021, creating an artwork compilation made by female artists who were true inspirations and part of the Bristol creative scene.

As a result of a crowdfunding campaign, the first issue raised enough funds to be printed and it was shared for free at venues such as Hamilton House, Strangebrew and Arnolfini.

Due to its positive reception, the project has been growing and, in addition to the annual magazine, is now established as a female network that holds meetings in different countries. "WMN meets..." is an initiative that started interviewing creatives based in studios in St Werburghs and Hamilton House. In two years, these conversations have been expanded, curating artists in cities such as Madrid, Barcelona, Seville and Buenos Aires.

After the second issue's publication, WMN hosted an event at PRSC (Peoples Republic of Stokes Croft) as the first real contact with its community, curating an exhibition of local artists and talks by women who got involved in the magazine.

If you've got a story or a project that might fit its ideals and aesthetics, please do get in touch - wmnmagazine21@ gmail.com.

To know a bit more, go and check @ wmn_magazine on Instagram and the online magazines on issuu.com.

Putting Down Roots

written by Flossie Palmer

Collaborative mural lands in St Pauls: Brighter Places, Upfest and Hazard0ne join forces to bring new street art to local community

An eye-catching, large-scale street artwork inspired by the words and memories of local people has been created on Lower Ashley Road in St Pauls on the side of a new affordable housing development. Brighter Places consulted with residents in St Pauls and St Agnes earlier this year who told them the artwork should tell an authentic story of the area using the theme of ‘Putting Down Roots.’

Upfest, Bristol’s world-renowned street art festival, worked with Brighter Places to commission the artist. Recognised as one of the Top 5 graffiti artists in the UK by The Guardian, HazardOne, combines rich colour palettes modern-age glitch effects to create striking portraits using traditional free-hand graffiti techniques. The artist lives locally and was selected and workshopped ideas with residents from the new development to explore and develop the design.

In the workshops, residents talked about how they enjoyed hearing music as you walk down the street, the smell of jerk chicken on a Friday, the urban parks and how people from different backgrounds and cultures come together and enjoy the lively local atmosphere. Inspired by these memories and experiences HazardOne developed the pixelated face design to convey a sense of local diversity, inclusion and community.

The commission by Brighter Places, Bristol’s largest independent housing association, and Prelon Housing, is part of their development of a former petrol station site to deliver 31 much-needed affordable homes in the area.

Stephen Hayles, co-founder of Upfest said: “Being able to give local people and residents the opportunity to put their own ideas and creativity into this brand new piece of street art was something that we were really looking forward to. Engaging with communities and collaborating with them on this mural is what’s really made this a stand out piece of art for the entire neighbourhood to enjoy.”

Anna Klimczak, CEO of Brighter Places said: “Working with Upfest on this project was an incredible experience and we are blown away by the result. Hazard0ne’s vibrant mural on our new affordable homes is the perfect way to make the homes integrate with their surroundings. As a Bristol housing association committed to delivering affordable homes and supporting local communities, engaging with local people was key to making sure the piece was created by the neighbourhood and for the neighbourhood.”

The new development will include a mix of one and two bed flats including affordable units that will provide much needed homes to support the local area’s growing population. Currently under construction, the new homes will be completed in 2023.

Latin American Women

Living in Bristol Project

written by Laila Garzon

How do we live, and what do we need to improve our quality of life as migrants?

If you identify as a Latin American woman living in Bristol, please get in touch!

We seek to start a project to make ourselves visible, meet and work to solve the daily needs of living in a different culture and improve the quality of life of migrant women.

Get in contact to find out more about the activities and to be part of the community!

bristol.latinas@gmail.com

Proyecto Mujeres Latinoamericanas en Bristol:

¿Cómo vivimos? ¿Qué necesitamos para mejorar nuestra calidad de vida como migrantes?

Si te identificas como mujer latinoamericana residiendo en Bristol ponte en contacto con Nosotras!

Buscamos empezar un proyecto para visibilizarnos, encontrarnos y trabajar para resolver las necesidades diarias de vivir en una cultura diferente y mejorar la calidad de vida de las mujeres migrantes.

Contacta con nosotros para enterarte de las actividades y ser parte de la comunidad!!

bristol.latinas@gmail.com

Vocalise is always looking for members of the community to get involved with the magazine.

We are always on the look out for: Writers/Poets

Artists Editors Distributors

Advertisers

Photographers

Front cover submissions are also welcome! And don't forget to send in your local photos!

Fundraisers Get in touch...

info@vocalisemagazine.org

Spring issue deadline 11th March!of

Motherhood

written by Karen Varela

As women, finding our place in modern society has been a battle over history. Women need to do more, they have more pressure to succeed and are always judged by every action, choice and even by the way they age. The pressure increases when a woman becomes a mother, translating to every aspect of our life. The social standard of being successful and accomplished in work, in motherhood and in personal life adds even more difficulties to that battle.

Women have the power to create life, the woman's body is an incredible machine that knows intrinsically how to create and give birth to a little human. Culture is also a very important factor in motherhood’s path. In some cultures the women are supported and empowered by their communities during pregnancy, birth and postpartum, but in western society there is a lot of fear around the birth, since early ages we are exposed to the horror and painful histories about birth.

This has deeply affected how women perceive birth and has filled them with deep fear, pushing mothers to go through “comfort C-sections'' to ease the birth,

Matrescence and the Mother’s place in Modern Society

especially in Latin America (52%) and US (22.4%) where women are offered to perform a c-section to avoid the “awful experience” of giving birth naturally. A C-section is a major surgery that carries out a number of significant risks and complications. C-sections should be performed only if it’s the safest option for the mother and the baby.

Information is the key to women overcoming fear, regaining confidence and empowering their bodies.

Once the baby arrives, the whole life of the mother and the family is going to be transformed. I often compare it to a Tsunami that impacts all aspects in your life and in women as a whole. A woman will never be the same, all the changes have started during pregnancy, she is changing physically and psychologically.

The woman's body is changing to create a life, to nourish it, to keep it warm and to be prepared for the new skills that she will need to keep her offspring alive. Psychological changes are directly linked to the mommy brain phenomenon,

and to the hormonal changes too, famous Oxytocin will be the one responsible to create this Mom-Baby love and attachment.

These changes will continue once the baby is born, the uterus will reach its “normal” size, the breast will produce milk (if the mother breastfeeds), the chest will be warmer to keep the baby warm and comfy, the oxytocin will make your baby the only one priority, and this is real! Mothers are not deciding on focusing only on their babies because they want, their bodies are configured to do so. The brain will continue to create new connections to store all these new skills, and they will be unique for each mom-baby pair(Neuroplasticity is the ability of our nervous system to create new connections or reorganize the existing ones in order to be able to store all the new skills).

And now we can introduce the term MATRESCENCE, defined as the process of becoming a mother. This term was first used in 1973 by the anthropologist Dana Rapahel.This covers all the changes physiological and physical that a woman goes through when she becomes a mom. That goes from pregnancy till the postnatal period and beyond. A woman will not be the same after she gives birth, during this transition she will become a new one, when a baby is born a mother is born too.

“Birth produces two people: the first a flailing soul, struggling to take in a new world, a new way of being. The second: a baby” Bummi Laditan

A woman who becomes a mother needs to adapt to her new self, her new life, and sadly this is not very easy in modern and western society, where everything is more individualist and mothers don’t get the support from a community to count on and to raise her child.

“It takes a village to raise a child” Proverb

And going back to the fact that womens are constantly fighting to find their place in society, now we can understand better what happens during Matrescence.

It is easy to understand that this battle is becoming harder for them, as they are discovering their new self, and how their body functions. All these factors add extra pressure to this fight, especially the definition of motherhood in our culture that will brings GUILT to mothers, always questioning their decisions, and adding extra pressure by asking to be the same partner, the same daughter, the same friend, the same employee, the same manager that she used to be…

If we understand what Matrescence is and how this deeply affects women/mothers, we will be able to help cope with this transition. Don’t forget that they are accomplishing wonderful work to bring life to our world, bringing a new generation to this planet.

Matrescence needs to be digested and integrated into our collective culture. This will help to change the world. We need to love, cherish, nourish, protect, respect and value mothers, so they will continue to do so for their babies, but this time supported by her collective. And by this I don't refer only to the fact of being full time with their babies, let’s respect mothers choices and let them create their own definition of Motherhood, as they feel it, as they want, as they need. Only at this moment will they be guilt-free as they will be accomplishing motherhood as they want. Let's support them and be the village that they need to raise their child.

Karen Varela @karen_varelagonzalez

Bridge Farm Bristol

Bridge Farm Bristol is a community project bringing together sustainable agriculture, animal husbandry, community-led housing, and preservation of the historic site.

We grow food and flowers on the farm, care for chickens and pigs, and celebrate the Earth, Nature and its circles, Tradition, and Art. The Cohousing group is working on establishing a modest Cohousing development, the Old Buildings group are transforming some of the old barns into living spaces. The volunteer-run canteen group makes food for events.

The forest garden group is making and tending the food forest. And more...

Come along and get involved! Together is better.

Follow us:

Website: https://bridgefarmbristol.co.uk/

Email: info@bridgefarmbristol.org.uk

IG: @bridgefarm_bristol

FB: bridgefarmbristol

Bridge Farm Bristol, Glenfrome Rd, Bristol, BS16 1BQ

Julie Boston

It is with great sadness that we acknowledge the passing of one of FOSPL’s founder members, Julie Boston. Julie left us on 28 October 2022.

How to describe Julie’s energy and vision? Her community spirit glowed – Julie did not want to live in a world where individualism and selfishness prevail. For her, it made absolute sense to share and improve our society for everyone. As well as our group, Julie campaigned tirelessly for public railways and public toilets. She was someone who had a wicked sense of humour, could see the irony in most things, and pledged her life to the common good. A great strategist, borne out of her decades of active

campaigning, she was a taker of direct action. Julie was very keen to acquire better quality chairs for St Paul’s Library. For whatever reasons, those chairs never materialized. But we hope that she iscomfortably seated now, resting on her considerable laurels. The toilet campaign postcards will stillbe within reach and she is probably sporting her various railway campaigns badges as well as a jaunty hat. Thank you, Julie, for your generosity of spirit and your vitality. May you rest in peace.

Saif Qamar

Tears of Blood

I cry tears of blood

Yet No voice, no shrieks like a heart in an abandoned hut

Tears are dried up, or the heart is in severe pain

Which is it that could explain?

Is this phenomenon pure in itself or a result of the influences?

Alas! pondering, I have knitted a castle of the experiences

Friends of St Paul’s Luxuriance pays tribute to Julie Boston

POETRY

Did I rile up those tears? As I swam through the ocean of fears

May Drowning the cracked moon in that ocean be May the sky bloody and the stars dazzling be

While I search for the answers May the wisdom be my light and the questions my pathway be

I long for those tears to merge into a flower to keep

Before the enormous morning and the sleep

written by Julian Davis

#Race for power

Earlier this year, on Martin Luther King's birthday, Curiosity UnLtd launched #RaceForPower. At its heart, #RaceForPower is inspired by the 60th anniversary of King's iconic "I Have A Dream" speech on August 28th, 1963. On the same day, the Bristol Bus Boycott won its fight for jobs and equality against the 'Colour bar.' This official Trade Union policy discriminated against Black & Brown people from working as Bus drivers. With echoes of Rosa Parkes, this peaceful protest led to the creation of the landmark Race Relations Act. It outlawed workplace discrimination, and today, it forms the backbone of the Equalities Act 2010.

Curiosity Unltd Founder and Disruptor-In-Chief, Julz Davis, said, "As one of the UK's wealthiest cities, Bristol is 650 years old this year. While it has an uneasy relationship with its legacy of slavery, it also has a profound history of being powered by radical racial changemakers. This includes the Bristol Bus Boycott helping to shape the Race Relations Act. As a city, Bristol elected Europe's first Black City Mayor; it also toppled Colston's statue. Yet despite these contributions to racial justice,

as revealed by a report from the Runnymede Trust, Bristol is the 7th worse place for people of colour to live in the UK*. So, if you're Black or Brown in Bristol, whether recruitment, employment, business, education, housing, policing, health, or wealth – systemic racism and inequality are an everyday reality." Julz added, "Inspired by these and other influential anniversaries* in racial justice on Martin Luther King Jr Day, Curiosity Unltd launched #RaceForPower. This year long citywide campaign will challenge civic, cultural, corporate, and community organisations to co-create a radical grassroots blueprint. The dream is to elevate and purposefully accelerate Bristol to be the most equal place in the UK for people of colour to live."Given the global spotlight of BLM toppling the statue in 2020, #RaceForPower launched under the shadow of the Colston plinth.

Honouring the 500,000 enslaved Africans who sailed in ships that came from Bristol, #RaceForPower opened up with a potent drumming libation by cultural activist Kabbo, Hue Ferdinand. This was followed by a stunning urban balletic piece to Sam Cook's Change is Gonna Come by Anna Demming Davis of Southwest Dance Theatre. And as the sun shone, Dionne Draper gave a stirring unplugged rendition of Summertime by Sarah Vaughan. The public was invited to sign a life-size card featuring Martin Luther King Jr to capture their thoughts on three pressing themes; The state of King's Dream today and if it still matters, How best to celebrate the Bristol Bus Boycott's contribution to racial equity in the UK, Ideas to elevate Bristol to the No. 1 best place for people of colour to live in the UK. On the day, here's what some people said about progress 60 years on from King's Dream:

Mose-Issie said, "Dreaming is lovely, but now is the time to wake up for meaningful action."

Clare said, "We must protect and encourage the dreamers, nurturing their imaginative capacity to dream a better world."

Naomi asked, "Who are the dreamers today, and how can we amplify their voices? It wasn't just a dream. It was an action plan.' And Victoria, the Deputy Director of SARI, said, "His dream is as relevant today as it was 60 years ago. And although we have made progress, the issues of racism, inequality and discrimination are interwoven into all systems in society."

Contributions to #RaceForPower include comments from influential civic and community figures like City Mayor Marvin Rees, Deputy Mayor Asher Craig, High Sheriff of Bristol Alex Raikes, and Lord Lieutenant Peaches Golding. Also, Bristol Bus Boycott leaders Guy Reid-Bailey OBE and Barbara Dettering, both of whom recently received the Freedom of the City of Bristol.

Regarding what he hopes to come out of #RaceForPower, Julz Davis said,

"Everyone's responses will help co-create a radical grassroots blueprint to unlock activism and diversity in Bristol as its untapped super-power." People's answers will also help to shape a large-scale celebration for the Bristol Bus Boycott, an outdoor art gallery at 60 sites across the city; grassroots communities will deliver podcasts, debates, poems, and other creative interventions. And there are also plans to send a replica of the card to the King Centre in America.

To join the #RaceForPower movement to speak truth to power, scan the QR code and tell us about what’s your dream for diversity in the following three ways:

1. You can download, print, and complete one or all of the three question cards.

2. If you don't have a printer, don't worry; you can complete a digital question card or pick up one from various locations across the city.

3. Drop in to one of the #RaceForPower pop-up events and sign the giant card. They're justfinalizing sites, so to stay in the loop, you can sign up for their newsletter.

Whichever way works for you, please take a selfie. Get creative. Write it. Draw it. Voice note it. Share it. Like it. Tag it. Follow the, @ Curiosity_UnLtd and #RaceForPower. Otherwise, every Monday from 2-4 pm, tune into Diverse Perspectives with Mistri on Ujima Radio on 98fm or www.ujimara

ST PAULS CARNIVAL makes legendary 2023 come back!

Bristol’s annual celebration of African and Caribbean culture, St Pauls Carnival, returns this summer to the city’s streets under the theme of Learning from Legends.

The 2023 celebration will commence with a series of fringe events from 22 June, marking the Windrush 75th Anniversary, and will culminate in the iconic day-long traditional Caribbean street carnival. This year will mark the first full carnival day since 2019, which will see over 100,000 people celebrate in the heart of Bristol’s St Pauls community on Saturday, 1 July.

The Learning from Legends theme will be particularly poignant to Bristol’s African Caribbean community following the passing on 3 August last year of Bristol Bus Boycott activist and Carnival forefather, Roy Hackett MBE.

Learning from Legends was presented to Carnival’s cultural reference group in January, the event was attended by people from all generations across St Pauls.

written by Jonathan Adams

The theme was felt to be an important way to pay homage to Roy and to many other local legends who have been lost through the pandemic years.

2023 marks 60 years since Bristol’s Bus Boycott when Roy spearheaded a months’ long boycott of the Bristol Omnibus Company challenging its systemic racial discrimination in recruitment. His actions and those of other fellow Bristolians paved the way for the Race Relations Act 1965. The University of Bristol University awarded Roy a doctorate in science at his funeral.

This year also sees the 75th anniversary of HMT Empire Windrush arriving in Britain on 22 June 1948. This important historic event will be marked in the traditional fringe events in the run up to the 1 July and on the day itself.

Commenting on the Carnival 2023, executive director of St Pauls Carnival, LaToyah McAllister-Jones said:

“We’re well underway with our planning for the return of Carnival after a three-year hiatus due to the pandemic. This year was always going to be a big one but is all the more important as we celebrate the lives and contributions so many people have made to carnival.

“Since it began Carnival has played a central and active role in challenging the status quo and this year’s celebration will be an important one for us all to acknowledge the challenges those who have gone before us have faced in blazing a trail to ensure African Caribbean culture is preserved and celebrated.

“Although for many they will see this year’s event as a return, as an organisation we have maintained community celebrations, albeit on a smaller scale over, the last three years. Our education programme has continued as well as our traditional elder’s brunch as part of last year’s Back A Yard programme and before that Spirit Up.”

This year will be the first full St Pauls Carnival for chair Levi Roots, who was appointed in 2021.Commenting on the plans for this year he said:

“I am really excited about seeing Carnival back in full technicolour on the streets of Bristol. While we have continued our work in the last few years through smaller scale events I am looking forward to seeing Carnival come to life under the Learning from Legends theme to mark such an historic year in some many ways.

“As a fundraising organisation our focus remains on securing support from sponsors and the public. We were delighted to have secured the Arts Council funding for the next three years but there is still much work to do in meeting the cost of delivering the full celebration that people know and love. Thank you to all our sponsors and supporters who have already pledged support.”

Look out for more updates in lead up to the event across

Thoughts from an Oldie

It's 2023 and so far pretty wet and windy! Difficult times ahead given the state of the world. Putin still making war on the Ukraine bringing difficulties to everyone. People are stressed, feeling poor, finding it hard to get about due to all the different strikes. Businesses are suffering. The NHS and patients are suffering. Difficult to see when anything might get better, but life goes on. I for one, am so glad I have good health, a home, a decent landlord and enough money to feel secure for the time being.

Written by Hilary Finch

My family gave me a trail camera for Christmas to see what critters come in and out of my garden. Hopefully I will get to understand how it works and see the foxes and possibly even some bats. It is ridiculous to think that in the late 1980's I was a technical author but these days am easily flummoxed by gadgets! So far I know it works but have not managed to connect it to my laptop to download the results. And the state of my garden at the moment? Sad. My echiums were killed off by the cold snap and look horrible and covered in some kind of slime. Yuk. However there are good signs too as the daffodils are growing and some plants, my hebe for instance, is even trying to flower! Crazy weather patterns these days - which of course turns my mind to the climate. I have done what I can in my little corner of the world not to make things worse and help the birds and bees with plants and food.

Good fortune, health and happiness to you all for the year ahead.....

I'm not one for new year resolutions and am finding it hard to concentrate on my ideas or make any headway with them. I have been painting, but lately my resolve is weak. Perhaps it just the January blues - I hope so. I moved my furniture in the front room round again to make my work spaces and sitting areas better so I can take on small sewing jobs and keep my paints out of the way. It feels much more cosey. It's surprising how doing a small thing like that can cheer one up! Making good use of the space one has is good. Now I'm just waiting for the present to myself, new blinds. Once they come I can have more control over the sunlight that glares into my front room blinding me!

St. Werburghs City Farm

Put Your Best Hoof Forwards

We are looking for runners to take part in the Great Bristol Run 2023 and support St Werburghs City Farm along the way. The Great Bristol Run is an action-packed day that takes in the best of Bristol’s scenery. Its flat-and-fast route starts and finishes in the heart of the city, running along the vibrant waterfront and peaceful Avon Gorge, and under the iconic Clifton Suspension Bridge. With the 10k and Half Marathon events taking place on the same day with a friendly, supportive atmosphere, there’s an option for everyone – plus you will be helping an amazing local charity to keep supporting our community.

For over 40 years, our small team has worked tirelessly to strengthen connections between land, animals, and people in the centre of the city. The costs of our programmes and the upkeep of our sites have skyrocketed with the cost-of-living crisis and we need your help to continue providing our vital work. The money you raise will enable us to maintain and increase our community support services in the coming year.

By running the Great Bristol run for the Farm you are:

- Keeping 18 acres of accessible green space in the centre of Bristol open to the public and those that need it most.

- Gifting inner-city children struggling in mainstream education the opportunity to access outdoor education opportunities.

- Supporting the Bristol local food movement and local wildlife conservation.

- Giving adults with learning difficulties the chance to learn practical skills.

- Enabling someone suffering from mental ill health the regular opportunity to connect with land, nature, and community. For more information, scan the QR code or drop an email to: communications@swcityfarm.co.uk Welcome to the Great Farm Run!

#GreatFarmRun

Find

Since the beginning of civilization, senior citizens have played an essential role in society. "Wrinkles should merely indicate where smiles have been.” – Mark Twain.

Loneliness and Social Isolation is no joke for Elders in our community and wider. Elders Food Club - a remarkable initiatvie at Docklands Community Centre. Hilary, our team member has recently attended the dinner and had an absolutely lovely time (photos above!)

If you are interested or know anyone who could be intrested, please, spread the word and come!

What’s on...

Running an event? Let us know and we'll help promote it!

Migrateful at Family style at St Werburghs Community Centre Until 28 Feb Migrant-led Somali Cookery Class with Migrateful at Family style at St Werburghs Community Centre. Migrateful is an award-winning charity & social enterprise supporting asylum seekers, refugees & migrants in their journey to integration & independence through preparing them to lead cookery classes in their native cuisine.

MY FAIR LADY AT BRISTOL HIPPODROME

15 Feb to 25 Feb

The Lincoln Center Theater's critically acclaimed, multi-award-winning production of My Fair Lady is on tour after a triumphant West End run.

Silent comedy gala at slapstick festival

16 Feb

Step inside the former Bristol Imax Cinema for a very special double bill of silent comedy classics on the big screen, accompanied by live music.

Highrise at trinity centre

17 Feb

The legendary Exit Records is celebrating 20 years of cutting edge sonics this year and Trinity Centre are proud to be hosting their Bristol show.

The Bristol Graffiti Workshop at St. Werburghs Community Centre From 11 Feb Bristol is world-famous for its graffiti, so let the endless eye-catching murals and striking art that covers our streets inspire the budding street artist within you.

Emilia at Circomedia

Morgan Lloyd Malcom's triple Olivier Award-winning comedy storms into Bristol this February.

Girls Lost at Watershed

17 Feb to 25 Feb

Nectar from a magic flower allows three girls to temporarily live as boys in this coming-of-age fantasy thriller from Alexandra-Therese Keining.

A Midsummer Night's Dream at Malcolm X Community Centre

26 Feb

1 Mar to 3 Mar

Set beneath a glittering, ethereal surface you will find Shakespeare's dazzling play transformed into a macabre Edwardian fable from Bristol Old Vic Theatre School. As night falls our slumbering players are swept up in an otherworldly experience, left to navigate fairy enchantments, lovers' quarrels and patriarchal norms.

Aid Box Cook-along: Bringing Hope & Love Through Food

1 Mar to 19 April

Aid Box Community, a Bristol charity offering support to refugees and asylum seekers, is launching its Aid Box Cook-along classes in the New Year.

Irish Ceilidh Night at Bristol Folk House

10 Mar

To set the flavour for the Bristol Irish Culture Festival in March, come to this Irish Ceilidh Night for an energetic evening of dance. It will be suitable for everyone even if you have never done any Irish dancing before - this is not Riverdance but social dancing that generations of Irish people have enjoyed for centuries because it is such fun! .

LGBTQIA+ Meet Up & Move at Elevate

18 Mar

his is your opportunity to come together to celebrate who you are! LGBTQIA+ Meet Up & Move is for ANYONE who identifies with the LGBTQIA+ community, whether you're loud and proud or you're exploring a new identity. Wherever you are at, this is for you.

Keep Calm at Bristol Aquarium: Sensory Awareness Mornings

Bristol Aquarium will be turning off their music and children's rides and their increasing lighting levels.

ALL THINGS DANCE

16 Mar

29 March

Networking Event in partnership with Diverse Artist network. Various speakers and representatives from Bristol Music Scene.Tickets are limited, flexibly priced and open to all dance artists and practioners in Bristol - book your space today!

PUZZLES

This year its the Chinese year of the rabbit! Happy New Year!

How many can you find in this edition?

SUDOKU

Difficulty level: EASY

Difficulty level: MEDIUM

Difficulty level: HARD

Your Councillors say...

Your councillors continue to be busy and work hard for residents in Ashley. We thought we would give you a bit of an update on some of the things we have been working on

Firstly, drop ins to talk to councillors have lapsed a bit which started during Covid. Amirah has set up for us to have a drop in on Wednesdays at 12-2 on first Wednesday of the month at Malcom X centre starting April. We may move these around but its good to get them started. You can follow us all on Facebook where we publish these dates and other useful local information

Drains: The councillor’s bread and butter!

With unusually high leaf fall, we have had lts of calls about drains. Tim managed to co-ordinate some drain clearance in Montpelier where the council came and unblocked a few. Not all because often a car is parked over the drain. Tim will be looking to repeat but we will also be looking at whether there are ways we can improve the access to drains that need un-blocking

Overton Road: Finally!

Right at the edge of Ashely, Amirah has been leading for us and keeping up the pressure to close this turn off from Gloucester Road. Its finally got approval to go out to consultation. It has been years and we mention it partly as whilst things can take a long time to happen they do eventually so don’t give up campaigning. Lots of resident want to see traffic controls some in parts of Ashley

Kernow; a partial success

Residents raised this with Jude ages ago. The council took the owner to court, mandating that he cleared up the mess and graffiti on this Mina Rd Building.

The landlords solution was to put advertising hoardings up. Not exactly what we envisaged. Jude is back on the case.

CAZ : knock on effects?

Whilst something clearly had to be done about Bristol’s appalling air quality, we are concerned about ‘dirty’ traffic avoiding the CAZ zone by driving through areas of Ashley, notably St Pauls. We want to keep this monitored. Tim is also concerned about impact of disabled people and has got officers to monitor effects and has set up a meeting to look at data with disability groups in February How long does a planning application take?

All of us have people from big developers to individuals come to us about thee delays. Its mainly due to staff shortages. In a couple of cases where there is exceptional circumstances, we have been able to speed up but it is worrying how long this is taking.

Buses

We have seen bus cuts in Ashley and continue to campaign to address this.

The no 47/5 is again at risk with the end of Covid support funding. You can write to WECA Mayor Dan Norris about this(mayor@westofengland-ca.gov.uk) One thing Green Party cllrs are calling for is for WECA to consider bus franchising which whilst would not solve all the problems like staffing would at least allow WECA to take back some control.

You can sign the open letter here https://actionnetwork.org/forms/ Franchise-WECA-Bus-Services-Now

www.fairfield.excalibur.org.uk

Part-timestudy

Apply now to start in September 2023 on our BA in English Literature and Community Engagement. Gain a University of Bristol degree as an adult learner alongside work or other life commitments.

Study one night a week for a unique lower tuition fee. No prior qualifications needed. Learn with students from a wide range of ages and backgrounds. Study literatures in English from across the globe and throughout history. Explore the role of literature in society through a community-engagement project.

Applicants with no prior educational experience or returning to education encouraged. Student Finance available if eligible.

English Literature and Community Engagement

Tel +44 (0)117 428 3747

Email elce-ptp-director@bristol.ac.ukbristol.ac.uk/elce

I have been so impressed with the transition into Year 7. My child is speaking incredibly positively about the teachers and is motivated to learn

EXPAND YOUR IMAGINATION

BOOK TICKETS NOW – OPEN YEAR ROUND