
As Ms. Marion called the after school meeting to order the young women began by grabbing an affirmation from the jar and then reading them outloud, “I don’t give up.” And the group answered, “Ashay.” “I stand strong.” And the group answered, “Ashay.” “I’m a boss.” And the group answered, “Ashay.” “I love myself.” And the […]

When I first spoke with Rita Romero, the founder of Cardenas Institute her passion and knowledge spilled forth from her. Her gifts and passion connect with deep needs in our world and it is clear she is exactly where she needs to be. She shared some of personal story including her life in Peru informing her deep […]

“What are your hobbies, interests, passions, fears, & hopes?” “What do you love about yourself?” “What is a part of your story others may not know?” “What do others say you are great at?” “What do you hope to add to the world?” These are just a few of the self-reflective questions the 5th graders were […]

I met the lovely & gifted Monika a few years ago at a Ramadhan celebration. I was immediately drawn to her warmth and bright smile and as we talked, I learned about her creative spirit & her amazing art work at Canvas by Monika. She invited me to capture her original and beautiful abstract art at […]

“The most egregious acts of racism occur within a context of compromise.” -Jemar Tisby Jemar Tibsy just dropped his first book The Color of Compromise and stopped in Chicago for a book launch party & live Pass the Mic recording. He opened his remarks by reading the introduction of his book and stating the reason […]