The new WOMANISH exhibit wants women everywhere to know they are the “ish” and to repeat this mantra to themselves, daily. The new, interactive art experience made its debut in the Wynwood Arts District on June 30, after its 2020 launch in Chicago amidst the COVID-19 pandemic. The 5,000-square-foot traveling exhibit, is the mastermind of Chicago natives and Black female founders and sisters Dionna and Danyelle Gray.
The immersive exhibit is made up of 15 photo-friendly, very Instagrammable installation rooms that explore the meaning of womanhood from different perspectives and features the work of women artists from all over the world, highlighting an “ish.”
Some messages are provocative, CENSOREDISH, many will educate you, CONSUMERISH, i.e., the Pink Tax, motivate you, or bring out your inner child, CHILDISH. While visiting the different rooms, you will notice how inclusive the art is and see the term womxn used throughout. That’s part of the WOMANISH goal, to include everyone, as the spelling of womxn avoids the suggestion of sexism perceived in the sequences m-a-n and m-e-n and is inclusive of trans and nonbinary women.
I was captivated by each room I entered, and it would be hard to pinpoint my favorite ISH. SELFISH stood out because I love the way word is interpreted. Not to give too much away, because if you plan to be in the Miami area, it’s a must visit, but taking care of oneself does not make you SELFISH, many women feel guilty when they put themselves first, in fact, it makes you selfless of yourself.
The SELFISH room gives new meaning to the phrase “Do You.” The PAIDISH room also stood out, it highlights the gender pay equity gap and includes a special ode to Harriet Tubman, because, hey, we’re still waiting to see her on the $20 bill.
“This experience is a culturally-inclusive safe space that provokes imagination, conversation and change around breaking single-definition stereotypes,” stated co-founder Dionna Gray. “Womanish is more than an exhibit, it’s a pro-womxn empowerment movement. No matter how you identify, you will be able to encounter, contemplate, and connect with some components of the unique installations and curated programming we have.”
WOMANISH is currently running in Miami at 317 NW 28th Street in Winwood and in Chicago through October 31 at 114 S. State Street. Tickets start at $35. Visitors can snap their own pictures or for an additional fee rent a Polaroid camera which comes with 10 complimentary prints; to learn more, visit wearewomanish.com.
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October 16, 2023, HOUSTON, TX – Congressional Candidate Amanda Edwards has raised over $1 million in less than 4 months, a substantial sum that helps bolster the frontrunner status of the former At-Large Houston City Council Member in her bid for U.S. Congress. Edwards raised over $433,000 in Q3 of 2023. This strong Q3 report expands on a successful Q2 where Edwards announced just 11 days after declaring her candidacy that she had raised over $600,000. With over $829,000 in cash-on-hand at the end of the September 30th financial reporting period, Edwards proves again that she is the clear frontrunner in the race. “I am beyond grateful for the strong outpouring of support that will help me to win this race and serve the incredible people of the 18th Congressional District,” said Edwards. “We are at a critical juncture in our nation’s trajectory, and we need to send servant leaders to Congress who can deliver the results the community deserves. The strong support from our supporters will help us to cultivate an 18th Congressional District where everyone in it can thrive.” Edwards said. “Amanda understands the challenges that the hard-working folks of the 18th Congressional District face because she has never lost sight of who she is or where she comes from; she was born and raised right here in the 18th Congressional District of Houston,” said Kathryn McNiel, spokesperson for Edwards’ campaign. Edwards has been endorsed by Higher Heights PAC, Collective PAC, Krimson PAC, and the Brady PAC. She has also been supported by Beto O’Rourke, among many others. About Amanda: Amanda is a native Houstonian, attorney and former At-Large Houston City Council Member. Amanda is a graduate of Eisenhower High School in Aldine ISD. Edwards earned a B.A. from Emory University and a J.D. from Harvard Law School. Edwards practiced law at Vinson & Elkins LLP and Bracewell LLP before entering public service. Edwards is a life-long member of St. Monica Catholic Church in Acres Homes. For more information, please visit www.edwardsforhouston.com
As September 13th rolls around, we extend our warmest birthday wishes to the creative powerhouse, Tyler Perry, a man whose indomitable spirit and groundbreaking work have left an indelible mark on the world of entertainment. With his multifaceted talents as an actor, playwright, screenwriter, producer, and director, Tyler Perry has not only entertained but also inspired audiences worldwide, particularly within the African-American community, where his influence and role have been nothing short of powerful. Born in New Orleans, Louisiana, in 1969, Tyler Perry’s journey to stardom was a path riddled with adversity. Raised in a turbulent household, he found refuge in writing, using it as a therapeutic outlet. This period of introspection gave rise to one of his most iconic creations, Madea, a vivacious, no-nonsense grandmother who would later become a beloved figure in Perry’s works, offering a unique blend of humor and profound life lessons. Despite facing numerous challenges, including rejection and financial struggles, Perry’s determination and unwavering belief in his abilities propelled him forward. In 1992, he staged his first play, “I Know I’ve Been Changed,” which, although met with limited success, was a pivotal moment in his career. Unfazed by initial setbacks, Perry continued to hone his craft, and by 1998, he had successfully produced a string of stage plays that showcased his storytelling prowess.
Calling all teenage student-athletes! If you have dreams of playing college soccer and wish to represent an HBCU, the HBCU ID Camp is your golden opportunity. From 8 am to 5 pm on November 11-12, Houston Sports Park will transform into a hub for aspiring male and female soccer players. Coaches from HBCUs across the nation will be present to evaluate, scout, and offer valuable feedback. Moreover, they might even spot the next soccer prodigy to join their collegiate soccer programs. This camp is not just about honing your soccer skills but also a chance to connect with the HBCU soccer community. You’ll learn the ins and outs of what it takes to excel on the field and in the classroom, which is crucial for a college athlete. The HBCU ID Camp is an excellent platform to network with coaches, learn from experienced athletes, and take the first steps toward your college soccer journey. To secure your spot at this incredible event, don’t forget to register [here](insert registration link). Space is limited to 120 participants, so make sure to reserve your place before it’s too late. It’s time to turn your dreams of playing college soccer into a reality.
