The T.R.U.T.H. Project at Houston Pride Festival: A Merging of Communities, Art and Pride

June is the celebratory month for a plethora of celebrations. The most celebrated aside from Father`s Day is Pride for all things LGBTQ. I've been compelled over the course of my very Queer lifetime to wonder why `pride' for anything requires a grand scale celebration. So I begin my quest for answers with dictionary definitions of Pride...Webster provided several definitions of pride, but for the sake of this article I`ve chosen two in particular. The first defines pride as a high or inordinate opinion of one's own dignity, importance, merit, or superiority, whether as cherished in the mind or as displayed in bearing,conduct, etc. When considering this meaning...I begin to think, `hells yes who wouldn't want to celebrate their own importance, dignity and merit especially with or without the opinions of others?` But then thought, well shouldn't pride, if it is in fact to be celebrated be done so with close friends and family? I still hadn't found the answer as to why should pride, specifically LGBTQ pride be celebrated city wide across the nation. Ohhh but an epiphany hit me upon reading this next definition of pride. Webster also defines pride asa becoming or dignified sense of what is due to oneself or one's position or character; self-respect; self-esteem. Now Im getting somewhere. To celebrate the freedom to be yourself, amongst your peers and allies in love when surrounded by a world of hate, makes total sense to celebrate Pride OUTLOUD.

This past weekend, June 25-28, 2015, Houston, TX celebrated pride. This like any other year during the last weekend in June many of Houston`s LGBTQ community came together to celebrate pride. Though this year was monumental. Here's why! On June 26, 2015 the United States of America became the 23rd country to legalize same sex marriage. Now I can get on my soap box about the separation of church and state as well as the disdaining notion that choosing to marry who I love was once considered illegal and subjective to beliefs that aren't mine in this alleged land of the free, but this isn't the time. Now what was I saying...Oh...this date fell right in line with Pride Houston`s yearly celebration. As if that isn't reason enough to celebrate, Houston`s Pride celebration relocated after 33 years from the historic and known LGBTQ hub of Montrose to downtown Houston. This bold and expansive move brought out over 700,000 attendees for one great umbrella of causes: Pride. Here I describe my experience.

Now everyone knows that Houston can be unbearingly hot and not just in terms of its fine women and cajun-latin cuisines. I had made plans to only attend the festivities after the sun begin to set, until I was made aware that not only was Houston Pride occurring during a historical time all while T.R.U.T.H. Project, was a part of history while making history too. The T.R.U.T.H. (Telling Real Unapologetic Truths thru Healing) Project targets the GLBT community and Allies, focusing on creating self awareness and healing through the use of performance arts and social engagement. Addressing issues important to our community and society, this project highlights national and local artist creating original works presented to the community in an Out Of the Box healing experience. Healing through the ARTS...I have a great love for this organization as I have shared many truths on its platform. This time was no different. I came together with talented artists in a vast variety. The T.R.U.T.H. Project for the first time in history was a part of Houston Pride Celebration as it was one of the 200 plus exhibitors that attracted more than 75,000 people. That day was a good day.

Standing in Tranquility Park lined with tent-booths ranging from mental health information to wine samples, I couldnt help but feel a bit of Nostalgia.It reminded me of a hot summer day with your family enjoying each other, nature, and any other gloriousness the park background had to offer. In addition to that, I felt totally comfortable and at ease, like I belonged much like I did when Sweet Tooth Media sponsored and attended Eden`s San Francisco Pride. The grandfather of Prides across the nation shuts the entire city down. News coverage is extensive and pride is celebrated by many of its natives, visitors and transplants. Though Houston, didn't mimic this in its entirety, because I was there...as an active participant and artist for the T.R.U.T.H. Project, I felt right at home. The day was so full of energy and love. Yes, it was scorching hot, but the T.R.U.T.H. Project found its home on the Barefoot Wine Stage with plenty of seating and shade.  Shared with the likes of Big Freedia, the T.R.U.T.H. Project's artist brought an ascending healing energy with it. Spoken word artists such as Tiffany Wordmatician Scales, Jordan Sneed, James Just and MsNightLyfe gave voices to those without one, speaking life and sharing healing experience to every ear that heard. Vonetta of ABC BodyArt brought to life the Houston Pride`s HERO theme painting human bodies with armored paint. Damion and Nick afforded every eye that could see dance in its most purest and expressive form. Their performance attracted passer-bys with their high energy interaction with the audience. Concluding the T.R.U.T.H. Project's time for the evening included its founder, K. Dapree, thanking everyone, encouraging audience attendance, and inviting us all back to continue in the celebration of pride for Women of Color, the 2nd installment of the 3-part Black Lives Matter Series.

Prideful Intersectionality is a more appropriate term for what I experienced that day. I saw and interacted with people that looked like me and those that didn't. We all gathered for the greater good of each other to celebrate our journey, our independence, our victory, our stride in freedom, our selves, our Pride. The T.R.U.T.H. Project`s participation, inclusion in Houston Pride Celebrations, was the ultimate merging of the arts and communities.





"Buzzworthy Cravings, Creatively Satisfied!"

The W.A.V.E. 2014: An Evening Stroll presented by Toiletries for Families

For Immediate Release:

Toiletries For Families is a charitable, not for profit organization that fosters social awareness through creative expressions, dialogue, activist efforts and the provision of small essentials that have great impact in communities across the U.S. The vision of Toiletries For Families is to infiltrate a global impact invoking a common sense of self worth and appreciation for emotional, financial, and spiritual diversity. 

The founder of Toiletries for Families, Tiffany Scales, works tirelessly as an advocate connecting corporations with communities and their needs. She has organized a plethora of events to bring awareness to various issues such as domestic violence, suicide, bullying and homelessness. Through music and poetry she has entertained and educated hundreds of people while encouraging them to support organizations serving as conduits to the betterment of society. 

On October 11, 2014 Toiletries for Families presents the W.A.V.E. 2014: An Evening Stroll. The W.A.V.E. which stands for Walking Away from Violence Event is a wonderful FREE event for those affected by the effects of bullying, abuse, violence, and suicide. Held at Miller Outdoor Theater located at 6000 Hermann Park Dr., The W. A.V. E. begins at 5pm. Children, elders, pets (on leashes)....EVERYONE is invited! 

"Buzzworthy Cravings, Creatively Satisfied!"

Healthy Fabulous: The No Limit Health & Fashion Expo, No Bars Held!!!

Health and the Black woman have become synonymous terms. The health risks and issues that plague the black woman are plentiful, severe and often untreated. Lack of health care plays a large part in some of these problems. African-American women are less likely to receive health care. When they do get care, they are more likely to get it late. This means, for instance, problems like breast and cervical cancers aren't found early, when they are most treatable. Or, the chance to prevent or delay diabetes is lost. Generations of racism and poverty also play a part. So do lack of trust in the medical system, cultural differences, problems accessing care, and a lack of knowledge about the importance of tests to screen for major health problems. For some diseases, genetics also may contribute to risk. Whatever the reasons for this health gap, African-American women can take charge of their personal health and seek the health care they need. Thanks to awareness campaigns and events black women can become informed about their health. One such event was the NO LIMIT Health and Fashion Expo, presented by Events by NEVI! Lisa Love, the creator extraordinaire of this fabulous event, feels that it's important for womenof color to be educated, supported and inspired, which was the reason for masterminding this event!

The Lovely Lisa Love

Ms. Rae Crosby, of Sh'E!

The NO Limit Health and Fashion Expo, was held at THEO'S Restaurant 812 Westheimer on Saturday, March 17, 2012, and featured Fashions by Thedies the Style Master, Sh'E-She Has Evolved, Sumptuous Sulay-plus size apparel, Shoes by ADDitudes Boutique, Make Up by SDM Make Up Artistry, Gifts by Kandles by Design, and Live Performance by Hamone' tha black pearl. Vendors included YWCA Health Transitional Living, Houston Health: It's to D.I.E. For (Do It Everyday), Domestic Violence Prevention, Toiletry for Families, and LHI, Lesbian Health Initiative. Presented by events by NEVI, who is committed to creating memorable experiences for everyone with entertainment that crosses a broad spectrum of interests, also, offers a host of community engagement initiatives throughout the Greater Houston area and neighboring communities.

Fashion trends presented included Formal attire, Fantasy (Over The Top) Apparel, prints, neon colors , edgy lines and more! The models were strutting their stuff in fabulous stilettos and wedged heels. Each lady brought with them their unprecedented, unique flair and personality, complementing the fabulous pieces they were wearing. The models who graced the runway were Crystal Maxwell, Leah Vasquez, April, And Ka'Lynn.

If you missed this event, you missed a wealth of information and great entertainment! To have your face in the place of the next event, stay tuned to http://www.eventsbynevi.com/

For more information about the health vendors and specific services they provide, please see the list below. To get a glimpse of the total awesomeness that you did NOT experience, Stay Tuned for the video presented by Sweet Tooth Media, recorded by K5 Productions, Created by Mirrored Impressions Photography!
       

1. Houston YWCA- http://www.ywca.org/site/c.cuIRJ7NTKrLaG/b.7515807/k.BE84/Home.htm

2. Houston Health...it's 2 D. I. E. 4™ (Do It Everyday)- http://www.meetup.com/HH2DIE4/

3. Domestic Violence Prevention- www.harriscountyhealth.com/dv/dvresources.

4. Toiletry for Families- http://m.toiletriesforfamilies.org/

5. LHI- http://www.lhihouston.org/

"Buzzworthy Cravings, Creatively Satisfied!"

4th Quarter of Change U.N.I.T.Y. Event: Poverty In America Awareness Press Release

U.N.I.T.Y. events inspire through the arts including music and poetry. These events are structured to creatively address socioeconomic hardships including but not limited to domestic violence, self esteem, homelessness, hunger, and poverty. The arts have proven to bring about a sense of healing to those affected by the effects of calmative hardships and adversity. The Arts Advocate is a triple threat to adversity as an advocate, artist, and activist. Artists showcased in these events have evoked an incalculable impact through various art forms.

The purpose of Xquizit Xperiencez is to provide a platform for talent to function while inducing the visualization of creativity evoking Xquizit Xhalations.  Art In Mo$h*n is far from ordinary! From leaping dancers covered in paint to eclectic venues you are guaranteed a mesmerizing experience.  If you have yet to witness art in motion, dare not miss the opportunity this weekend! 

The Arts Advocate and Xquizit Xperiencez invite you to the 4th Quarter of Change U.N.I.T.Y. Event: Poverty in America Awareness and Toiletries For Families Anniversary Celebration with a special expo by ART IN MO$H*N on Saturday, January 21, 2012 6pm-10pm at Isis Houston. The 4th Quarter of Change U.N.I.T.Y. (Uplifting Nonprofits In The communitY) Event is benefiting The Bread of Life and The Art Project Houston. Please support them by making tax deductible donations and/or contributing toiletry and art supply donations! 

This event is SPONSORED by Sweet Tooth Media , Xquizit*Xperiencez & Xhalationz,   The Arts Advocate, The Spice Project, Nathaleen Ree, Congresswoman Sheila Jackson Lee, Tattoos by MU!, Toiletries for Families, Urban Houston Network, POM TV on UTN, Madd Poets, The Tré Magazine, Infinite Deep Galaxy  Kategory Five Productions, , Houston Press, Allhouston Artgenres, I.C.O.N. Lifestyle Monthly, Digital Phyah Photography, www.a1hh.com, www.SwaggaKings.com. ROCK DAT Beat Radio, and Dodge Us Car Club (D.U.C.C.) If you are interested in a personal or professional sponsorship, please contact The ARTS Advocate at 713-396-2787 

"Buzzworthy Cravings, Creatively Satisfied!"

3rd Quarter of Change U.N.I.T.Y. Event: Press Release

For Immediate Release:

Toiletries For Families is a charitable, not for profit organization that provides items for hygiene upkeep to families experiencing financial difficulties. The conviction and mission of Toiletries For Families is to eliminate various socio-economic challenges by providing essentials needed to build and maintain proper hygiene and improve self esteem.


The vision of Toiletries For Families is to infiltrate a global impact invoking a common sense of self worth and appreciation through the provision of hygiene products to the under served. To date, over 1,000 families have received toiletries to improve their self esteem and hygiene.

Tiffany Scales is the founder of Toiletries For Families and has been planning and hosting BIG events every quarter ( Jan. 4, Apr. 23, July 23) to raise awareness not only for Toiletries For Families, but other Uplifting Nonprofits In The CommunitY (U.N.I.T.Y.). Through music and poetry she has entertained and educated hundreds of people while encouraging them to support organizations serving as conduits to the betterment of society.
Toiletries For Families http://www.toiletriesforfamilies.org/

Toiletries For Families is celebrating the 3rd Quarter of Change on Sunday October 2, 2011 at Gallery M Squared in the Heights in celebration of Domestic Violence Awareness Month. As we celebrate the 3rd Quarter of Change and recognize U.N.I.T.Y. (Uplifting Nonprofits In The communitY), we feature various artists who grasp their audience through poetry/music and empower, educate, and entertain them with their talent(s). In honor of Domestic Violence Awareness, Toiletries For Families request donations of hygiene items and make up including but not limited to concealer and creams to hide/heal scars. Most families that are considered socioeconomically disadvantaged, at risk, or receive government assistance often don't have the resources to cover toiletries or household items. Tiffany Scales states "It is humiliating to not be able to look or feel beautiful due to financial hardships. I cannot imagine the stress of parents who cannot afford essentials like toilet tissue, soap, lotion, or shampoo/conditioner..." So Please Join us, Sunday,
October 2nd at Gallery M Squared.

This event is SPONSORED by Ms Night Lyfe of  SweetToothMedia, D.U.C.C. (DODGE US CAR CLUB), Kategory Five Productions, and The Arts Advocate. There will be several poets/artists including COLIN Sturdevant, Kayenne da HOTTEST, SOLO DEEP, Kharma, and more! Featuring Chris Crawford and a SPECIAL GUEST APPEARANCE BY Taalam Acey! Refreshments by Chef Bersalle.
If you are interested in personal/professional sponsorship, please contact Tiffany Scales at 713-396-2787 http://www.toiletriesforfamiles.org/ 
To make donations contact Dodge Us CarClub (D.U.C.C.) at dodge_us_carclub@yahoo.com or Visit http://www.sweettoothmedia.com/ for Drop off locations. 


."Buzzworthy Cravings, Creatively Satisfied!"