Tea Parties Don’t Stop At A Certain Age; Here’s How Not Your Mama’s Tea Keeps Sisterhood On The Right Page
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Have you ever noticed just how closely our kids’ toys and games mimic real-life experiences and elements that are a part of their elders’ lives? Each year, millions of dollars are poured into the sales of fake kitchenette sets, baby dolls, and medical supplies that allow children to pretend to be the most prestigious doctor in their homes. They not only fill excitement inside the kiddos from head to toe but it opens a glimpse of what adulthood will look like. It’s no secret that us grown folk have access to a whole ‘nother world as well as a right of passage to do as we please and make all decisions on our own; whereas children coming behind us have restriction after restriction. Ironically, one of the few things children get to enjoy that takes up the majority of adult’s leisure time is partying. Think about it /CW fam kids have a party for any and everything. I know you remember those Valentine’s day parties at the end of the day. Although there are hundreds of different types of parties such as birthdays, engagements, housewarmings, and even pizza parties, we used to collect a mountain hill of box tops for each party, which mirrored the same purpose. No matter how star-studded or lowkey the party is, the goal of letting loose, enjoying one another, and living in the moment remains the same. Surprisingly, there’s one kind of party that kids have on lock over their parents. (Drum roll please……….) Tea Parties!
The representation and lifestyle element of tea has always held high importance and demand in select counties including prestigious kingdoms and well respected cultures. However; the country labeled as innovative, spontaneous, and welcoming (The United States) did not gift tea the well deserved representation and education as others. Within the past five years, that narrative has done a complete 180-degree turn and it has now caused an international frenzy. Primetime showrunners and writers, including one of the industry's fairy godmothers, Shonda Rimes, have become heavyweight champs in creating stories and yellow brick roads to the doors where tea parties and the drink's social impact are the main setting and primary gears that heighten the story. The roles have reversed, and now children are educating their teachers, parents, and grandparents on how the theme is supposed to be carried out in an authentic yet organic light.
Although it would be easy and smooth to give all the credit to those behind the scenes of your favorite shows like award-winning Bridgerton, the real impact comes from everyday people hosting themed events and centering tea into their daily routine like founder of Not Your Mama’s Tea, Rhonda Hill.
An intergenerational tea social club that strengthens both personal and professional relationships amongst the black community is what can describe Not Your Mama’s Tea. I view this phenomenon as the medium between “The Pit” and Khadijah James magazine Flavor in ‘90s hit sitcoms Living single & A Different World. A seed was planted inside founder Rhonda Hill back in 2018 when the unicorn launched in Milwaukee, WI.
“The inspiration is about honoring the rich history and influence of tea in communities worldwide while incorporating it with hip-hop culture. Tea has always been a connector, much like music. It’s about providing a space where people can engage with tea culture and Black culture. Often afternoon tea time comes with thoughts of English tea time, with hats and gloves like Queen Elizabeth. As an avid tea drinker, I wanted to make sure I reflected my own Black culture when hosting an afternoon tea, thus tea for the culture.”- Rhonda Hill
She made an interesting observation that struck me. Now I want you to be honest with yourself; when you think of tea what spaces and faces pop up in your head? For most people, they think of the UK, royalty and early 1600s interactions. On the other hand what comes to mind when you think of hip-hop culture? The scoreboard becomes filled with vocabulary such as energetic, loud, wild, colorful wardrobe and minority faces. Hill and her team found this to be unfair and mind-blowing how African-Americans; especially women, are not illustrated and represented in spaces that have tea at the forefront. This harsh reality lit a fire in her to create her business and start carving out an identity for black culture in the polished light of the beloved beverage. A simple idea to make tea and hip hop culture the hot new combo on the block quickly grabbed the eyes and ears of our city’s bold yet underground community of black women who are hardly recognized.
The cultural innovation held its latest event on February 16th, 2025 at Milwaukee's Hip Hop Museum at 2222 N 19th St Milwaukee, WI. Soulful music served with a platter of intentional yet entertaining conversations regarding career development, self-identity, wearing a million hats as a black woman and true love for hip hop was carefully curated by Not Your Mama’s Tea during the afternoon. A light was shed on the newfound trend surrounding Valentine’s Day which is Galentines. Many mistake this day for only recognizing and praising romantic love but Galentines has rebirthed the structure of the national holiday. Thousands of friend groups are celebrating each other by having cozy girls’ night ins, a night on the town or intimate spaces to highlight their friendships. Hill and her team incorporate this type of atmosphere and sense of belonging all year round; not just for Galentines. Sisterhood shouldn't be celebrated during only one month out of the year when we are all sisters 365 days a year.
“The culture of our events is all about inclusivity, relaxation, and celebration of ‘girlfriend’ culture. We create a space where women can unwind, enjoy quality tea, and vibe to great music, especially hip-hop. It’s about blending different aspects of life—culture, music, and community—into a warm welcome. We have been hosting parties at the Milwaukee Hip Hop Museum, making for a great blend of hip hop and tea.” - RH
Tea parties shouldn't end once of our little girls becomes a teenager or reach womanhood. They mirror a safe space for women to let their guard down and tune in their inner Angela Bassett in What’s Love Got To Do With It, where she played Tina Turner finding peace as she chanted “Nam-myoho-renge-kyo” and drunk tea. Since 2014, it's become one of the highest in demand beverages of the African-American household; acting as a bridge between social and health perspectives. Hill has made it a point to throw a variety of events using this framework such as birthday parties, community events and action plan workshops. You ever notice how when women are in union with one another there's always time for a good drink and plate of food made with love. No matter if it was Joan, Lynn, Maya and Toni in Girlfriends or Kim, Niecey, and Moesha in Moesha; drinks and food always served as comfort and connection.
“Tea is a universal symbol of comfort and conversation. We chose tea because it is one of my favorites, making it a great way to blend my enjoyment of tea with my desire to connect and serves women. It’s not just about sipping great tea—it’s about creating a moment of connection. Tea encourages slow, intentional interactions, and that’s the kind of energy we want to cultivate in our events.”- RH
Do you feel that nobody can relate, understand or connect with you both socially and emotionally? Maybe you want space as a black woman to just be yourself without all the expectations and just looking for a good time to let your hair down and not be required to be superwoman all day. Become a member of the social club by booking your next event with them or purchasing a ticket for the company's next event on their website: https://www.notyourmamastea.com/.
Join the circle by following their Instagram @Tea4TheCulture as well to get access to the next sip of tea curated specifically for you. Comment down below what type of event you want to see next from them. In the meantime ladies I challenge you to drink your favorite blend of tea while bopping a hip hop song you can't live without.
Desriana Gilbert | Entertainment & Social Journalist for /CW
MKE BLACK | Pitch Black Marketing Series
/*Info provided by MKE Black
Unlock the Power of Marketing at this Pitch Black Marketing Series
Are you a business owner looking to grow your brand, attract more customers, and master the latest marketing strategies? MKE Black invites you to the Pitch Black Marketing Series, an exclusive 9-week conference designed to equip you with the tools and knowledge needed to elevate your business in today’s competitive market.
Why You Should Attend:
Learn from Experts – Gain insights on everything from Marketing 101 to AI-driven marketing techniques and media training.
Hands-On Support – Get personalized coaching every Friday at the BizStarts Community Café to apply what you’ve learned.
Exclusive Freebies – 15 business owners will receive free Canva Pro, Hootsuite, and ChatGPT Plus subscriptions to level up their marketing game.
Exciting Giveaways – Attend for a chance to win iPads, radio ad campaigns, and Visa gift cards – but you must be present to qualify!
It’s FREE! – Thanks to the generous support of WEDC and the Greater Milwaukee Foundation, this transformational conference is completely free with registration.
Event Details:
When: Every Thursday, March 6 – May 1, 2025 | 5 PM – 8 PM
Where: The Best Place at the Historic Pabst Brewery, 917 W. Juneau Ave, Milwaukee, WI 53233
Don’t miss out on this game-changing opportunity to take your marketing to the next level. Seats are limited—register now!
Nō Studios’s Dance Fest 2025 Brings World-Class Talent to Milwaukee for a Day of Celebration and Performance
/*info provided by Allison Bartella | NO Studios
The fourth annual celebration will be headlined by Alvin Ailey II and bring together dance companies throughout the midwest to celebrate the region’s rich contribution to the arts
Nō Studios, a center for the creative arts and activism in downtown Milwaukee, is proud to announce the return of Dance Fest on Saturday, August 2, 2025. Now in its fourth year, Dance Fest continues to grow, bringing together a curated lineup of performances from Water Street Dance Milwaukee, Madison Ballet, and more. Alvin Ailey’s Ailey II will headline the festival, marking a significant milestone in Dance Fest’s evolution. This year’s annual festival will showcase a variety of genres, including ballet, salsa, African-inspired, Irish stepdance, and contemporary.
Nō Studios was founded by Milwaukee native and Oscar winning screenwriter John Ridley, whose family has long been a part of the fabric of Milwaukee arts and politics, working to amplify underrepresented voices, and elevate the city as a vibrant arts destination. Built as a collaborative, social community for artists and activists, Nō Studios hosts screenings and panel discussions, invests in local artists through gallery showings and live performances, and produces original television programs, including Creating Milwaukee, mini-documentary series focusing on Milwaukee creatives across various disciplines.
“We’re thrilled to return for another year of Dance Fest,” said John Ridley, the founder of Nō Studios who has worked to elevate Milwaukee’s profile as a vibrant arts destination. “Bringing these exceptional companies together in Milwaukee—a city that thrives on creativity and collaboration—perfectly reflects the values of this festival. We are excited to gather these visionary dance groups and celebrate the diverse cultures and talents that define dance.”
This year’s Dance Fest will feature the return of Morgan Williams, founder of Water Street Dance Milwaukee, as curator of the event. “This festival is a powerful platform for showcasing the immense talent of the Midwest’s dance community,” said Williams. “Each year, Dance Fest fosters meaningful connection between dancers and audiences, and I’m thrilled to play a part in shaping this celebration of artistry and culture.”
Danni Gee, Director of Programming for New York City’s The Joyce Theater, one of the few theaters in the world created specifically for dance, will emcee the evening performance. “It’s an honor to return to Dance Fest,” said Gee. “The festival continues to grow in scope and impact, showcasing an extraordinary range of talent from Milwaukee and beyond. Nō Studios’ commitment to celebrating dance is truly inspiring.”
Dance Fest 2025 will feature performances by:
Ailey II: The next generation of dance, Alvin Ailey’s junior company is renowned for merging the spirit and energy of the next generation with the creative vision of emerging choreographers.
Water Street Dance Milwaukee: Dedicated to exploring diversity within their art, artists, and audiences, the company is renowned for their athletic, innovative, and entertaining performances. They were named to Dance Magazine's “25 to Watch” list in 2024.
Madison Ballet: Wisconsin’s second-largest dance organization is under the direction of Ja’ Malik and is focused on building a better community through art.
Nō Studios looks forward to welcoming more participating companies throughout the Midwest as their program continues to grow.
Dance Fest will take place at the Marcus Performing Arts Center’s outdoor Peck Pavilion, along the Milwaukee River. The family-friendly festival will also include youth dance performances, a community centric daytime program, live music, local food vendors, and a chance to get a behind-the-scenes look at the technical rehearsal.
“We are delighted to host Dance Fest for the second year in a row,” said Kevin Giglinto, President & CEO of the Marcus Performing Arts Center. “Like Nō Studios, we’re dedicated to sharing high-quality arts and cultural programming with our community, and are honored to provide a stage for these extraordinary dance companies.”
Performances and programming will take place Saturday, August 2, with tickets priced at $20-$30. Tickets will go on sale [INSERT DATE] at nostudios.com/dance-fest-2025.
Dance Fest is sponsored by the Marcus Performing Arts Center, The Joyce Theater, and media partner WISN 12 News.
Snap Shot Press Release: To The Unseen Black Queen, Your Reflection Is My Protection| Destinny Fletcher Gives You, "Day 12 and Still No Wi-Fi"
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Lying, thinking last night
How to find my soul a home/Where water is not thirsty
And bread loaf is not stone/I came up with one thing
And I don’t believe I’m wrong
That nobody/ But nobody
Can make it out here alone
Alone/All Alone
Nobody but nobody can make it out here alone
-Alone By: MAYA ANGELOU
Why is the word alone the name tag for all African-American women throughout reality and the big screen? Why is their loaded baggage involuntarily assigned to us with no boarding number and vacation villa to follow? Whether you’re a woman living in a 1st, 2nd or 3rd world country, no vast landscape can terminate the unspoken rule given to any black woman at birth:
You have no chance to make mistakes, be vulnerable or lean on others;
you can only be superwoman!
Every struggle each of us face are not duplicated but our responses are often replicated. It’s a natural reaction to create solutions and make sweet lemonade out of every lemon thrown at you. Millions pay the cost of internal self-medicating, silencing themselves and bearing the weight of others’ problems to distract from their personal turmoil. There are only a handful who trade in those costs for unknown feedback, reliving emotional rollercoasters, and one H-E-double hockey sticks of a journey. Author and poet, Destinny Fletcher is the face of that handful.
Bold and inspirational author, Destinny Fletcher also known as “Deolinda Abstrac” has constructed such a captivating voice through artistic expression for over a decade. From the time she could walk, Fletcher was charismatic, strong and an active community member. Her mother enrolled her into over seven Milwaukee recreational programs such as ballet, african-dancing, culinary and poetry. Destinny was not intimidated; rather she consistently embraced new experiences with her extroverted and energetic personality. Unfortunately, having a supportive and art-centered family as well as a dynamic social life did not exempt her from the inevitable and traumatic aftermath of being an African-American woman. In exchange for walking into unknown responses, marking her life from ink to paper, and going through all the motions, she has amplified her voice to a new level.
December 17th, 2024, the latest self-published, unfeigned and raw Deolinda Abstrac release of Day 12 and Still No Wi-Fi raised the ears and heartstrings of many readers. It is an eight year vulnerable recollection of trauma, observations, and monumental snapshots. The candid and resilient read emphasizes the contradicting relationship between social media and mental health. The unapologetic memes, polished lifestyles, and creative aesthetics play the role of distracting the narrator from the emotional, mental and physical challenges she describes throughout the adventurous read. Day 12 and Still No Wi-Fi bravely invites those who wear masks they never take off, disguising the melancholy frenzy and corridor of unexplainable emotions only to discover they are not an outlier.
Clawed walls, piercing cells, and electronic lockdown systems are not the only forms of imprisonment. Fletcher carves a raw perspective by vividly placing a single mother living in Milwaukee, WI while being a healthcare worker and studying public speaking at the forefront of the contemporary read. The headstrong and courageous mother admits feeling stripped of freedom. Imprisonment is the center of her life and has always been; as it consistently creates a web affecting her emotional, physical, and mental capacities. The second chapter, The Beckoning, cultivates such an eerie yet liberating framework of how harsh and careless the world views and treats the physical bodies of black people; specifically black women. It’s often exploited and oversexualized but our bodies function as a place of nurture, legacy, and art even though many black women use none of these functions to uplift and care for themselves. The powerful author shares the past and present behavior that devalues and harms our lives on the daily but quickly follows with words of encouragement to celebrate, emphasize and embody the royal temple, also known as a black woman’s body. She’s essentially challenging all African-American women to end the routine of loading all unrealistic expectations, increased work quantity, and unaddressed violations before we step into the world and begin playing our role.
Accessorizing ourselves with additional job titles whether in career fields or personal relationships has never filled the enormous void every black woman has felt for at least a year of their life; unseen. No matter how many hats we wear or how different they are from one another; Destinny graphically illustrated not only the feeling but perseverance of not being seen.
Page 61 of the text reads:
No one asked me if I am okay
Or if I remember what day it is
Or am I going through a crisis
Or have I eaten today
Or if my mental state is kosher
Or is my soul safe
No one has asked me and I am starting to think that the world does
not care for such little insight.
The internal war within ourselves to ger out of that queen sized bed, one of the few places where Black Queen feels in reach. For others, your family and friends makes you feel seen but it’s questioned once you enter the elevator at work; which is why overachiever, problem-solver, and team player has become your middle names. The bold inspirationalist not only releases this weight in her book but sat down with me to explain a brilliant revelation:
“We are the performers. The family that’s heavily involved in the arts and rescues everyone else from their downfalls; but in the midst of that we are creating our own without even realizing it”.
-Community Health Advocate/Author/Art Educator Destinny Fletcher
It’s why striving to be perfect in our adolescence and adulthood is the goal because it’ll mask the pain, insecurities, and disappointment with the feeling of finally being seen. But what does being seen mean if you’re fading away on the other side of the mirror?
The conclusion that experiencing freedom and sense of belonging can be apart of our life stories clicks when a black woman does what she already knows; take matters into her own hands. Throughout Day 12 and Still No Wi-Fi, writing gave Destinny power and surge. From her admirable public speaking homework to tackling every health issue for her community, flashes of confidence, acceptance and strength exuded through the pages of the book. It was as if Deolinda Abstrac was staring at you asking, “Do you feel this way too?”.
The devastation of sexual harassment, suppressing sexuality, and becoming a creative working on fumes planted the seed of Chapter 29: Day 12. For example, the text reads:
I forgot who I was
Correction: Who I am?
Maybe they haven’t asked because I haven’t left my room in four days
Disconnecting from the world is one of the top defense mechanisms used by African-American women but why? The jaw-dropping read delicately explains how the art of disconnection is subconsciously taught by our families. By age twelve to fourteen, laundry, knowing our way around the kitchen, working for dollars, and nurturing others has become second nature. While our parents and grandparents assume they’re teaching independence, isolation and disconnection are hiding in plain sight, finding easier pathways into the minds of children. This is why failures are often hidden from family members because it seems since childhood; there was rarely positive reinforcement and feedback. As young girls, it’s easy to mimic what fills your eyes. Some parents utilized extended time in the restroom for breaks away from the world, while others gained dependence on substance abuse or dating frequently. Required to stand on your own and execute your life plan to a tee, weakens a black woman’s ability to admit she’s not okay and to ask for help. However; this is the conversation replacing in our minds:
I’m not crazy.
I swear I cannot ask my parents for help.
I’m an adult in my 20s, so I can control myself and I can take care of SELF.
Being independent shouldn’t erase the natural law; we all fall at least once in our lives and should be guided by those who love and support us the most. Too much pride is carried inside blocking anybody from knowing and helping black women when the feeling of being lost and hitting their lowest point takes a turn. As a result, the conversation about faith and good people comes into play. “Why do bad things happen to good people? Does God love me?” are the first two questions asked.
Day 12 and Still No Wi-Fi is more than a shocking page-turner. In my opinion, it was a statement to all African-American women from Destinny saying, “Girl, me too! I see you and have the same struggles as you”. I’m not the only one that was mesmerized and captivated by this new read. Reporter, journalist, and photographer Princess Safiyah Byars described Fletcher’s latest masterpiece as such: “In a time where everything seems polished to perfection, Day 12 and Still No Wi-Fi stands out as a raw, and unfiltered masterpiece. A heartfelt sharing of personal and communal emotional trauma that is as moving as it is relatable. With the rhythm of a journal and the grace of poetry, Destinny invites us through scenes, each one stepped in vulnerability, truth, and unyielding resolve to confront life’s shadows. This work delves into the depths of depression, the dangers of overworking, and the nuanced struggles of sexual freedom– offering a lens into the intricate, and often overlooked mental health battles of black women. Destinny’s voice is both intimate and universal capturing pain, triumph, and humanity. This book is more than a compilation of stories; it is a testament to resilience, a tribute to the courage it takes to own one’s narrative, and a call to embrace vulnerability as a source of strength. There is an unflinching honesty here, inviting readers to sit with the discomfort and beauty of it all. For anyone who has ever felt the weight of societal expectations, the loneliness of mental health struggles or the complexities of self-discovery, this book will resonate deeply”. -Princess Safiyah Byars
To every black woman gracing the earth, you are not crazy, overly aggressive, or weak. We all experience a rollercoaster of unexplainable emotions but rarely speak about them until our breaking points. There’s a stigma that mental health issues only looks one way or experienced only if someone’s life is in shambles. What about the honor roll straight A student who just got a full-ride to college? Or the woman whose packing poetry clubs every week giving her peers hope and laughter? Destinny wrote such a compelling yet authentic story that every black women can identify with by the first five minutes of reading. I appreciate how she added the element of individuality into the book as she inserted pictures from early life to now, loose-leaf poetry clippings, and her own story throughout the read. She shared the honest journey of her sexuality with both men and women, being a survivor of sexual harassment, and the impact the Coronavirus pandemic had on her own mental health as motivating puzzle pieces to Day 12 and Still No Wi-Fi. An S.O.S letter to all black women with no sugarcoating involved, educating them that they are not alone. It’s a moment where no competition or judgement should be near, rather a state of sisterhood and opportunity for the difficult conversations we don’t even have with ourselves. This highly anticipated, surreal and strong reawakening to the name Destinny Fletcher was well worth the wait.
Grab this read so that mental health is no longer taboo to you and to strengthen your journey of finding yourself. Purchase the exciting adventure on Destinny Fletcher’s website at http://dabstrac.com/ Follow Destinny on instagram and facebook @dabstrainc
She sees you!
Desriana Gilbert/ Entertainment & Social Journalist for CW
Mental Health Meets Hip Hop Musical Showcase 2025: Where The Most & Least Discussed Topics Become The Conversation
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After a night of being celebrated and uplifted, I pulled five hip-hop artists to the side and asked “What does Hip-Hop mean to you?”. The following were their responses:
“I’m seen.”
“I’m not alone.”
“It’s my escape from the world.”
“The justification to ignite the fire inside me”
“Being different is completely fine”
“Hip-hop is an exhibit of who I am and where I come from.”
Misconceptions about this safe haven have been deeply rooted in the world’s mind (A.K.A Media, TV, and School Curriculum). Throughout the 80s Hip-hop became the scapegoat for the crack epidemic, and in the 90s it was to blame for the dark era of the L.A. riots. Around the early 2000s, the genre was put yet under another microscope. The origin story and cultural autopsy became classified as innovative and positive. A transformation was occurring where Hip-hop went from being known as the sister of violence, gang affiliation, and segregation to becoming the poster child for black joy and artistic expression. It became widely recognized as more than late-night TV with Arsenio Hall but also a lifestyle and form of communication to the masses.
Photography Accredited to Mikala Woodfork
Time not only changed how parents, children, and politicians perceived Hip-hop but also the lyricism and visual graphics that artists were creating. From the time Bow Wow was rocking his two pigtails up until he became an adult, the topics glorified and pushed in songs remained stagnant. Money, women, drugs, and the fast life were constantly being rapped about like a broken record player. As new Hip-hop artists emerged into the industry, the game began to change slowly but surely. Relatability and life struggles were becoming trending topics thanks to artists such as DMX, Eminem, Mac Miller, Rod Wave, and NBA Youngboy; making Hip-hop become the face for the least discussed topic in America: Mental Health. What better way to educate and entertain by using the most sought-after music to strengthen the identity and awareness of resources and intellectual knowledge regarding mental health?
Saturday, January 25th, 2025 a musical showcase from 6 pm to 9 pm was presented by the Mental Health Meets Hip-Hop organization at the Harold Washington Cultural Center located in Chicago, IL. Heavy hitters such as Dlow Bop King, Big Mouf Bo, and Korporate rocked the crowd with their performances while informational and vital panels were also in the spotlight. The selection of speakers was not only inclusive by showing all ages, backgrounds, and missions of individuals apart of the black community. Sixth grader, Kylee Paul brought the city of Chicago into her world as she dove into the severity of communication between parents and youngins; and the struggles happening to our future leaders (the kiddos). Some of the problems she spoke about were bullying, comparison to social media, and peer pressure. The conversation did not stop there. The relationship between diet, a surplus of fast food restaurants, lack of food markets, and mental health was emphasized by mental health professional Zacharyiah Austin. Everyone from the front of the stage to the back of the theatre was glued to the panels. Uncomfortable and hard testimonies as well as knowledge was being served on a plate and ready to be presented to over 200 attendees. Hosts, Big Twon and 2Can added a unique element to the show as they asked the audience questions and created dialogue between the artists, panelists, and community.
The night provided the city with the perfect balance of a family-friendly turn-up with intentional, tough, and essential conversations surrounding mental health. The, what, who, why, where, and how were clearly explained to the crowd as some of the Chi’s favorite artists shared their connection to the topic at hand. The message of the night was that mental health should not be taboo to anyone, especially in the minority communities where it's prominent. Much research, access to resources, and common knowledge based on mental health should be shared ten times more than is currently.
Before the doors opened to the star-studded and jumpin’ performances, the lobby had its own party going on. Over ten vendors filled the building, reeling in much-needed attention to the merchandise, resources, and organizations. The entire first level was filled with a variety of vendors from domestic violence help organizations, activities such as journaling and group therapy, and also cupcakes that will make you feel like every day is your birthday. Access to free therapy sessions open to 8 years old and up, job openings for teens and young adults who feel lost, and music programs were also plastered throughout the lobby for the city to soak in and want to learn more about mental health in their free time. It should be a part of their lifestyle and not just a discussion introduced to them every few months through the news, after-school programs, and conferences.
The showcase was far from your average mental health seminar. I applaud Mental Health Meets Hip Hop for presenting a platform to over twenty educated and experienced artists, activists, and professionals to grace the stage with life lessons, laughs, and silent moments that made the crowd think. Hence why it was more than only one panel; specifically three panels, where advice, testimonies, and community was given from Dr.Amanda Long, Sam Sparks, Dr. Ozell Adams, and Reginald Carter. Speech after speech there were many tokens of advice and conversation that resonated with me, a young twenty-two-year-old black woman.
“Stop waiting for the world to tell you who you are and sit down with your thoughts.”
“Social media is smoke and mirrors; stop letting it control your brain.”
“Know who you are as a woman and be authentically you.”
“Take capture of your thoughts.”
“There’s life and death inside your tongue. Be intentional with your words always!
Chicago artists and their footwork weren’t the only focus throughout the night. The Mental Health Meets Hip Hop organization enhanced another theme during the night; giving people their flowers while they can still smell them. There were countless awards given out throughout the night making the audience feel as if we were at the NAACP awards, but two awards stood out to me the most. Rapper, actress, and community activist, Big Mouf Bo was presented an award of acknowledgment by her students. Global director of the Harold Washington Cultural Center, Jemelia Tillman was also gifted an award of leadership for helping MHMHH make their showcases and other events come to life. The city of Chicago has an army of intellects, entertainers, and institutions whose making it their mission to not only inspire others but bring real change to the world; starting with Chicago.
Mental Health Meets Hip Hop is not the new kid on the block. This relationship between local artists and mental health professionals has had over six years of understanding, growing, and valuing one another. Founder, Tatiana Lane, brought both of her worlds together from being a hip-hop artist and MH professional herself, together to curate a unique space. Her vision has turned into reality as the MHMHH values innovation, inclusivity, culture, community, and empowerment. They are constantly reconstructing the vision of mental illness by integrating talented artists and clinical awareness as well as resources into the community. For over five years, curricular development, consultation services, emotional and life coaching, as well as mindfulness workshops has been provided and utilized in maximum effect by both the organization and community members. Are you someone who wants to understand better their mental health? Do you want to be able to understand both the beginning and end of mental illness? Click here to see what Mental Health Meets Hip Hop can offer you: https://mentalhealthmeetshiphop.com/.
Want a closer look into the jam-packed musical showcase?
Follow MHMHH @mentalhealthmeetshiphop
Desriana Gilbert | Entertainment & Social Journalist for /CW
43RD+VLIET EVENT SERIES LAUNCHES ACROSS FROM HISTORIC PARK
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Denizen MKE, Washington Park Media Center, JazzyRae’ Jewels and Accessories, and Artists Working in Education (AWE) are thrilled to present 43rd+Vliet, a free neighborhood event series in our creative small businesses near Milwaukee’s Washington Park on the Near West Side. Starting this
Friday, January 31 from 5:00 p.m. to 9:00 p.m. and continuing monthly on select Fridays from February to June 2025, our indoor and outdoor spaces will transform into lively artistic hubs showcasing performances, installations, media-making, refreshments and activities with local creatives. These events celebrate the neighborhood’s cultural diversity while fostering vibrant street life along Vliet Street.
To honor Lunar New Year this Friday night:
Live music nights are back at Denizen MKE with Adekola and Neal Davis performing from 6:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. followed by a Live Jam Session inviting any and all artists to join the stage from 7:30 p.m. to 8:30 p.m. Drinks specials available at the Denizen MKE bar with charcuterie and cheese flights by Dom Sera Grazing Co.
Powering the livestream component of the event series on our YouTube Channel, Washington Park Media Center will also host a live marble dye makeshop c/o Invisual Group, where participants can decorate their own Washington Park Media Center accessory. Canni Cafe and Infusion Bar will be popping up with refreshing botanical infusions alongside Sauce MKE, a nonprofit organization dedicated to bringing fresh, delicious food to communities across Milwaukee via bicycle.
JazzyRae' Jewels & Accessories offers a variety of trendy styles for women understanding fashion is ever-changing while DJ NettaRee performs from 6:00 p.m. to 9:00 p.m.
Meet local teaching artist and AWE program coordinator Marco Romantini whose work will be on display in AWE’s studio space. Supplies and an activity will be available for those who are looking to get creative.
Bringing the Neighborhood to Life
Inside and outside our buildings—and online—you’ll find an artistic assortment of experiences led by local creatives, many of whom live and work in the Washington Park area. This initiative, inspired by the 2 success of pilot events hosted in 2024, aims to support vibrant street life on Vliet Street, celebrating thearea’s rich diversity and creative talent.
At the heart of the series is a neighbor-focused streetscaping project, designed by us in collaboration with our neighbor Quorum Architects. Our sustainable landscape design on adjoining public and private properties will create welcoming and accessible gathering spaces with art, gardens, seating, bike racks and other nourishing features. We invite neighbors and visitors to share feedback on these designs, helping shape a local place that reflects our needs and dreams. By responding to ideas generated by neighbors, 43rd+Vliet aims to cultivate a joyful, inclusive beacon where any neighbor can create, connect and celebrate.
Rooted in Collaboration and Growth
43rd+Vliet isn’t just about events; it’s about realizing a long-term vision for a welcoming, safe, and joyful neighborhood beacon. Our collaboration seeks to bridge generations and cultural perspectives, building and strengthening relationships through art, conversation and shared experiences. By offering opportunities neighbors to participate and paying local creatives for their contributions, we aim to amplify culturally diverse voices often unheard and highlight the talents within our neighborhoods.
A Vision for Welcoming Spaces
This culturally rich area of Milwaukee is home to a wide range of neighbors, representing diverse races, ethnicities, genders and generations. An authentic experience of belonging is at the core of our mission.
Whether through ADA-compliant green spaces, playful intergenerational elements or working to remove barriers like food insecurity and street safety concerns, 43rd+Vliet ensures that everyone feels valued, celebrated and welcomed.
Lighting Up Our Corner with Possibility
From food to art, music to markets, 43rd+Vliet is growing a space where creativity thrives and neighbors and visitors alike feel at home. Together, we’re cultivating a community that’s brimming with opportunity, connection and joy. Join us in building a vibrant, sustainable model for neighborhood development that enriches lives and strengthens Milwaukee’s historic Washington Park and our surrounding streets and neighborhoods..
Additional Events every Month
43rd+Vliet free neighborhood event series will continue on select Fridays from 5:00 - 9:00 p.m.:
February 28: Winter Game Night
March 21: Spring Equinox
April 25: Art Walk and Spring Clean Up
May 30: Park and Vliet Street Fundraiser
June 27: Night Market
https://www.washingtonparkmediacenter.com/live for more details.
So Why Aren’t All Aspects of Black Culture Adored? | By Desriana Gilbert
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The Gallery of Black Essentials, All Photos Accredited to RobRanMKE featured in copywrite magazine issue 21
/CW fam picture this: It’s as quiet as a church mouse on a Sunday morning. You’re blasting Erykah Badu’s Mama’s Gun album in one airpod while your other ear is filled with the humming and churning from the washers and dryers in the laundromat. Then walks in an older woman who exudes energy and could pass as a body double for Cecily Tyson. She’s wearing a cherry red fur coat as long as your kid’s Christmas list. Golden hair pins decorate her sleek ponytail as she walks with sparkly black thigh-high boots. She’s asked by a bold young man, “Why are you so dolled up? Aren’t you about to do laundry?”. She calmly replied, “Honey don’t be mad at my swag” A question immediately popped into my head; Why does the black community seem unphased with our lifestyle, habits, and physical appearance; while everyone who has all eyes on us is continuously in awe and such admiration?
The answer: black culture is not an accessory to us; it’s essentially embedded into our everyday lives both internally and externally without us even realizing it. In the words of Andre’ 3000,
“It’s in us not on us”.
There’s no secret that the world so easily assumes, judges, and misinterprets who and what exactly black culture is. However; the fashion that has been birthed such as hoop earrings, bold and bright colors, and intricately braided hair seems to have a separate identity from the beautiful black and brown people who are walking billboards of it. The style and appearance are so widely appreciated that many attempts to emulate and replicate how refreshing and beautiful black culture is. A door opens with an opportunity for African Americans to be seen in positive silhouettes as the complexities, different perspectives, and hidden gems they have both as a people and individuals are showcased to the world. But why aren’t several other aspects that create the ecosystem of culture and African-American people celebrated, let alone acknowledged?
Well, CW fam our creative director, Vato (Carlos) Vergara took it into his own hands with the help of many other talented creatives to strengthen awareness that there’s more than one aspect of black people that is beautiful and multifaceted while bringing the shoot to life. The Gallery of Black Essentials can be described as a digital museum of black people's love, authenticity, connection, and vulnerability. The shoot’s photographer, RobranMKE, stated, “It was a homage to the power, pride, and stories woven into our style.” The dynamic of black fatherhood, sisterhood, friendships, beauty, and romantic love was executed in such an ethereal and crystal-clear lens of exactly who we are.
One of the main themes of the eccentric and modern photoshoot was intentionality. From the photographer, creative directors, stylists and artwork being chosen as moving pieces to lead The Gallery of Black Essentials, everyone had one common goal: intentionality! Co-stylist, Sydney Beason confidently states, “The title of the shoot brought me back home. Visualizing the childhood memories of colors, textures, and even the fragrant whispers of the past. The pieces I chose to be brought to life gave a sense of nostalgia to the black community. Each creation is a testament to our history and a vision of our future, celebrating the diversity and dynamism that define us.” Her response brought an answer to my opening question. As a people we are not unphased or unknowledgeable about the swag, beauty and uniqueness black culture gifts to society; rather it’s an everyday lifestyle black and brown people live in realtime and is not a decoration.
Although each image presented in the gallery is breathtaking and speaks for itself; aspects of the black community that keep the wheel running yet don’t get enough of the conversations nor the attention they deserve were given a spotlight. Intentional fatherhood, wrongful incarceration, freedom being restricted, and the long process of black beauty were each captured in such a vulnerable and confident way. Now let’s keep it a hundred, these are not glamorous and accomplished discussions that should be the face of black culture, but it’s reality and the things that instill perseverance, creativity, hard work, and unity into our community. Everyone who participated in bringing the team’s vision to life felt proud, overwhelmed with emotion, and excited to showcase that there are different types of black culture. We are all not the same and deserve an equal amount of attention. So what are the things that keep a sense of comfort, identity, and protection in a community that is so misunderstood, judged, and restricted? It’s simple: our essentials. Some of the creatives apart of the shoot such as the models shared a list of their essentials. Hence the following:
-White Air Force 1s (Dookies)
-Beauty Supply Store Trips
-Music
-Hustler’s Mindset
-Resilience
-Sunday Soul Food Dinner
-Humility
Check out the vibrant and fun images that tell the story of who we truly are and where our future is going on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/copywritemag/. Comment down below what your internal or external essentials are. Also, don’t forget to rent our space for your next photoshoot. See what we can offer you at https://copywritemag.com/creative-media-services
Desriana Gilbert | Entertainment & Social Journalist for /CW
