The Ujamaa FLD Report - February '22

The Ujamaa FLD Report DOUBLE ISSUE FEBRUARY 2022

CELEBRATING

ISSUE III

BLACK

e c n e l l e c x E Black NAPaissance

"IT'S BEEN A LONG TIME/WE SHOULDN'T HAVE LEFT YOU/WITHOUT A DOPE BEAT TO STEP TO" (TIMBERLAND)

IN THIS ISSUE: - EVENTS, ACTIVITIES, ORGANIZATIONS TO KNOW AND BE AWARE OF - SUGGESTIONS FOR MOVIES, MUSIC + SPECIAL CURATED PLAYLIST

Happy New Year Ujamaa Family, friends, and loved ones!

After taking January off, welcome back to the FLD Report. We hope that you have all enjoyed a fresh, welcoming start to the new year. In light of this month being Black History Month, this issue is a special double issue that highlights Black Excellence in abundance. Take a look around you; have you noticed that Indianapolis is experiencing a surge and surplus of Black artists whose works, which cross various genres, are being showcased around the city? There are pockets and collectives, groups and meetups that touch everything from community wealth building to creating safe artistic spaces for other Black artists.

An undercurrent of solidarity is pushing us forward in such a way that I believe Indy is having its own renaissance. The Black NAPaissance. This month's FLD Report will highlight some of the ways our locals are pushing boundaries and envelopes while contributing to the ever-growing and glowing Indy Black Arts scene. As you will see, art has no limits. Don't forget to submit your poems/short stories for March's FLD Report. The deadline is February 20th.

May this special month see your Blackness thrive a little bit harder!

"Artists associated with the movement asserted pride in black life and identity, a rising consciousness of inequality and discrimination, and interest in the rapidly changing modern world—many experiencing a freedom of expression through the arts for the first time."

- Uncovering America (The National Gallery of Art): Harlem Renaisssance

What is Black NAPaissance?

Indianapolis, Indiana is home to some of THE dopest

Even when no one was paying attention except the

artists in the country. While every major city and

ones in "the know", our artists have never stopped

even the smaller ones have adopted this same

creating and growing. The scene here is thriving with

mentality and rightfully so, it just seems that middle-

musicians, playwrights, actors, singers, dancers, and

of-America-Indiana's borders happen to hold some

writers. Poets were creating small hubs inside of their

exceedingly gifted people who don't always get their

homes reminiscent of Ft Greene, Brooklyn in the 90s,

just due. The Black arts scene in Indianapolis has

gathering writers and artists for jam sessions and

gone through the ups and downs, highs and lows that

workshops that would last well into the night. Singers

every scene experiences at some point. There have

freestyle with hip hop artists, who double as

been times when support was lacking and the empty

professional tattoo artists and sketch masters. Bands

shells of open mics and music venues whispered

are created from a love of Blackness, authenticity, and

ghost stories when you drove by their closed doors.

the collection of bridging genres together. It's

Black art has seen its fair share of struggle in our

beautiful outside; please go take a look.

beloved Naptown. But not for a second did our city lack talent.

This is a historical time in Indianapolis for Black arts.

While the city has always been thick with gifts flowing from as far back as the first days of Indiana Avenue, right now we are in the season of total abundance. Our Indianapolis Black Renaissance is taking place right before our eyes and it's booming with success, Black dollars, and art. Here, in our city of circular motion, Black artists are reclaiming and dominating their space in history. Collectively, they are pushing back against any atrocious concepts that threaten Black well-being.

The canvas' have grown larger and the concepts more in-depth. The call for truth, light, and freedom for the Black community is ever-present and unapologetic.

Knowledge is not only being sought but shared. As are

Hold your hats, we are currently experiencing an explosion of local Black Excellence!

Some of the similar traits possessed by the renaissance movers and shakers as they dominated the streets of Harlem are being inadvertently replicated here. Maybe it's the current state of society or maybe we finally grew tired of being talked about as if Indiana hasn't been poppin' since The Avenue fell into gentrification's belly; whatever the case, the city can no longer overlook the presence of Black artists. As much as they

stages and arenas, platforms, and podcasts.

may hide or turn their faces away, the artists are still

Through workshops, shared spaces, meetups, and

showcased. The dancers are leaping and the buildings

collectives, the Black artists in Indianapolis help keep art exciting and refreshingly honest. A strong example would be The 18 Art Collective. Made up of the 18 artists that participated in the Black Lives Matter mural that was painted on Indiana Avenue for over a year, rather than dismantle after a day's work (figuratively speaking), they 'collectively' decided to stick together, incorporate, and become partners. They've since been showcasing their collective work, facilitating workshops, and teaching art, including a 3-month mentorship program they offered for young artists.

They've had several ongoing exhibits and are currently one of the featured artists at the 34th Annual Meet the Artist showcase.

creating. Murals are going up. Poems are being are shaking in applause. Artists are becoming masters at one craft while learning and trying new ways to freely express themselves. It's not that we've arrived; we've always been here. We never left. We never begged for attention. We just stood tall and began to see the value in connecting with each other, reintroducing the bartering system, and exercising our right to create the environments we want to see (See Butter: A Black Fine Arts Fair).

We owe the history being made right in front of us to document what we are seeing, experiencing, and contributing to. After all, if we leave it to others to be told, it will either go unheard or misrepresented.

There is freedom in expression and that IS a double entendre. Black Nappaisance has arrived for the culture - but not to introduce ourselves. We're here to claim our due. The ages range. The faces change. The hue of Black is never the same. The chosen mediums are all different, but memory will remember our names.

BLACK NAPPAISANCE

A Few Essentials Every Black person needs to already have or make a point to obtain the following as soon as they can. What might seem like an extra, unnecessary expense in some cases, might actually go a long way in the future. As we continue to prepare for the uncertainty that lies ahead of us, try to hold yourself and your loved ones accountable to have the following on hand:

Passport While there are a few places outside of the mainland that you can visit without a passport (or hop on a cruise), it's still an essential part of travel and in the case of wild emergency, it might be necessary. Passports fees for first-timers are $165, and $130 to renew. For more info, visit https://travel.state.gov/content/tr avel.html.

Voting ID Go to https://indianavoters.in.gov/ to register to vote online. You can also register at your neighborhood library. As elections near, you may find people all over the city assisting with registering new voters. As politicians continue to try to crack down on voter's rights in effort to target People of Color, it is imperative that we get registered to vote (and participate in local primary elections).

Gun Permit

Although there is a bill that is hoping to eliminate gun permits altogether, they are still necessary in the State of Indiana. The application fee for new permits is $12.95. Aside from that, gun permits are 100% FREE to obtain. You must make an appointment for fingerprints, which might be the most grueling part of the process, but all Black households should be safely and legally protected.

*Note: Ujamaa offers basic firearm safety & training classes with Black professional, Stanley Gilbert. See calendar or inquire in person for more.

LOCAL AUTHOR SPOTLIGHT

STAR SWEEPER

Maurice Broaddus - King of Afro-Futurism Maurice writes, ok? He's got 9 novels, including several youth-focused books. He's been featured in the Black Panther: Tales of Wakanda anthology. His list of short and nonfiction published stories is too extensive for a short write up such as this.

And he is honestly one of the kindest people you will meet. He has a heart dedicated to helping advance his peers as much as he can and his soul hosts a creative whose stories imagine a future that thrives in Black abundance. He uses his friends and colleagues as muses and critics, proving that our stories are worthy of telling, even if fictionalized in some ways. And his dedication to his growth as a father, husband, Black man, and creative affords him the ability to land high-powered writing deals with some of the country's top publishers, such as his deal with Tor. Oh, and if that's not enough, he's friends with Wayne Brady.

You see, Maurice understands what all the best writers (creatives) come to know: talent is only a small part of the journey. Success is built from the inside out. It comes from who you are as a person - your gifts will make room for you, but you have to be willing to let YOU in the room.

A proud but not pretentious Christian who walks by faith, familial love, and community support, Maurice pours everything he receives right back into the atmosphere from where it came. Not only is he a full-time teacher, but he's actively involved in his community, working with Kheprw Institute on a variety of projects, including their entrepreneur-mentorship program ALCHEMY. MO-CON

PIMP MY AIRSHIP MARVEL

BLACK PANTHER

USUAL SUSPECTS

Local Author Spotlight

STARSHIPS & ROCKETS Starting in the spring and going until the winter's chill becomes too obnoxious, The Broaddus Porch is a known artist safe space and hangout spot for brainstorming, planning, relaxing, sharing a drink, writing a grant, and even some inadvertent networking. If you ever "IMAGINE A CONVENTION THAT’S visit the porch, make sure you stay long NOTHING BUT A BARCON. WRITERS, ARTISTS, PUBLISHING enough for a special visit from Mother PROFESSIONALS, Broaddus, who will undoubtedly offer to make AND FANS HAVING GREAT tea (the answer is always, ALWAYS yes btw).

CONVERSATIONS Her presentation comes in fine Chinaware, WHILE ENJOYING GREAT MEALS." served on a platter with various sides of crumpets and cookies. Mothers often provide a That's the message that greets you on the website cool glimpse into who someone is; it becomes of one of Broaddus' brainchildren, MO-CON. And easy to see why his heart beats the way it does. that's why he's a gemstone; he understands how to Maurice is at the top of his writing genre with use his blessings to create avenues and lanes for no signs of pumping his brakes. With his others. A vividly, imaginative writer of exquisite newest book, Sweep of the Stars, set to release flavor, he doesn't just thrive in success; he helps this Spring, Broaddus is on the cusp of his create success stories for other people. next greatest venture. The book is already A true writing genius. receiving immaculate pre-reviews and of course, he's already writing his next piece.

Circulation: Black Business Spotlight All of the following businesses can be found on sale at ujamaa bookstore.

THINK Soft. Feminine. Delicate. Relaxation.

These are just some of the feelings The Snooty Teacup hopes to invoke with their beautiful selection of vintage collector's item teacups. While they are for show and not sipping, these precious cups bring a harmonious color wheel to every table they sit on. They make wonderful gifts, enhance table decor for tea parties and high tea events, or they can simply serve as a friendly reminder to relax, take a deep breath, and be. Because the real tea is, sometimes stillness is worth staring at.

Indianapolis Natives have helped make and keep Nap or Nothing one of the best and well-known brands in the city.

Known for dope hoodies and shirts and jogging sets, often centered around a bigger message, they have something for everyone (kids too) to represent their love of Indianapolis.

Stop in and check out their Ujamaa display for your choice of hats, sweaters, and more. And don't forget to grab your NAP OR NOTHING stickers.

Represent in all ways.

NAP OR NOTHING, or bust!

The luxe packaging with its signature gold and scripted look provides elegance in its presentation. Plant-based with vegan and organic options, there is peace in every purchase. It's easy to see why it's an award-winning line of skincare.

Black, woman-owned (LaVonndra Johnson) brand Elle Johnson Skincare wants to contribute to making women, especially women of color, feel increasingly beautiful while helping them achieve luxurious skin through a simple 3-step routine. There are two main formulas that cover all skin types and their gentle products were created with botanicals extracted from plants and seeds. Ujamaa is now proudly offering a large selection of EJ products ranging from cleansers to toners and essential oils. You deserve luxury skin.

Come get it.

Transplant Indy: Indy Natives on the Move

IS ONLY AS GOOD AS IT GROWS.

A

Renaissance

These Indy natives have taken their lives, gifts, and talents outside the Indiana State borders and made the hard work a success story. It's been said that's it's difficult to live outside of Indy because there's so much out there that we don't understand (and it's more expensive). These Black NAPaissance pushers understood the value in getting the assignment done. They are proof and inspiration for those who are considering making a similar leap of faith.

THE GOLDEN BIRD

BRITNEY TIPTON

Carl Jung says you're about 40/41 years old when you hit your "2nd half of life." This is when you start to live by the rules of yourself less those of society. You own who you are and what your personal passions, choices, and desires of and begin to live accordingly, in an effort to make the best of your downsizing life.

How does this relate to Britney Tipton? Because just a couple of years ago, she awoke in the hospital after blacking out. She was given a pacemaker and instructions for living with her new artificial lifesaver. Not quite 40 yet, but definitely in her 2nd half of life, Britney is steadily thriving in abundance. She sold what she didn't need, packed what she wanted, and took her lash business, "LASHED By GOLD BIRD" and entrepreneurial skills (including bartending and DJ'ing) to Atlanta, GA. While she still does lash work when visiting home, she's amassing success as a vintage shopper and running "The Vintage Vibe", her online store. She also offers curated clothing boxes and personal styling sessions. All while living her life, like it is indeed a Golden ticket. Check out her website https://www.shopthevintagevibe.com/

NAZ KHALID

SHADOW SLINGER

Naz knows shadows. And when you connect with her healing experience offerings, you too will better understand shadows - their importance, how to manage them, and how to use them for your good.

Once the lead singer for Kools Bazaar, Naz branched out on her own and her staircase became an unending ascent to a level of personal peace and selfawareness that created an avenue to help others. Residing in Las Vegas for over 8 years and recently acquiring studio space, she is trained, certified, and actively administering several holistic forms of mental (and physical) health work including reiki, sound healing, and shadow work. She now uses her melodious voice in the red rock mountains of Nevada for her meditation offerings.

Additionally, she teaches shadow work workshops (which has its own at-yourown-pace workbook) and a weekly Metaphysical (Mondays) experience online and in-person. Dare to promote your own self-healing by shadowboxing with Naz. Learn more about what she offers at https://www.innerghealing.com/home

Formerly known on the Indianapolis poetry scene as "Allen Imagery", published author & poet, freelance photographer, graphic design artist, and host Joseph 'Allen' Woods left Indy nearly ten years ago and watched his tree of multi-passions harvest a full picture worthy of savoring. Now residing in Cincinnati, OH, he helped co-found the company MORTAR, which helps budding entrepreneurs of all creative backgrounds get off to the type of start that is rooted in success. After an extended hiatus, he returned to his love of photography and has already begun traveling and showcasing his work in exhibits. And as if the bar wasn't high enough, he recently accepted a position

JOSEPH WOODS

BRICK BY BRICK

as "Entrepreneur in Residence" at UC in Cincinnati. Mr. Woods is building a legacy and it is a "Poet Tree" worth reading about.

Read more and find out if MORTAR is for you at https://wearemortar.com/staff/.

Ethridge Knight Famously married to Sonia Sanchez and part of the booming Black Arts Movement, some of Knight's recurring poetry themes were love, imprisonment, Black American life, and racism. He released his first collection of poetry while imprisoned at Indiana State Prison. He received his Bachelor's in Criminal Justice from Martin University, where he would go on to lecture at several universities including the University of Pittsburgh and Lincoln University up until his illness rendered him unable. He passed in 1991 of lung cancer in Indianapolis, IN.

For Malcolm, A Year After Compose for Red a proper verse; Adhere to foot and strict iamb; Control the burst of angry words Or they might boil and break the dam.

Or they might boil and overflow And drench me, drown me, drive me mad.

So swear no oath, so shed no tear, And sing no song blue Baptist sad.

Evoke no image, stir no flame, And spin no yarn across the air.

Make empty anglo tea lace words— Make them dead white and dry bone bare.

Compose a verse for Malcolm man, And make it rime and make it prim.

The verse will die—as all men do— but not the memory of him!

Death might come singing sweet like C, Or knocking like the old folk say, The moon and stars may pass away, But not the anger of that day.

Mari Evans ]

Another pioneer of the Black Arts Movement, further proving that Black Napaissance never stopped once it got started, Mari Evans' poetry "Speaks Truth to the People", as the title of one of her poems suggests. Often written from personal experiences and perspectives, Evans provided a lyrical canvas for the Black woman's experiences. Still, she made a point to write "for her people", speaking out in poetry, essay, and activism against prison conditions and the treatment of Black lives.

Her intentions were heartfelt in their reception and she would go on to be heavily decorated in awards, including the Lifetime Achievement Award from the Indianapolis Public Library. Artist Michael "Alkemi" Jordan painted a mural of her on the exterior end building at 448 Massachusets Avenue in Downtown, Indianapolis. She passed in 2017 in Indianapolis.

I AM A BLACK WOMAN

I am a black woman the music of my song some sweet arpeggio of tears is written in a minor key and I can be heard humming in the night Can be heard humming in the night I saw my mate leap screaming to the sea and I/with these hands/cupped the lifebreath from my issue in the canebrake I lost Nat’s swinging body in a rain of tears and heard my son scream all the way from Anzio for Peace he never knew….I learned Da Nang and Pork Chop Hill in anguish Now my nostrils know the gas and these trigger tire/d fingers seek the softness in my warrior’s beard I am a black woman tall as a cypress strong beyond all definition still defying place and time and circumstance assailed impervious indestructible Look on me and be renewed

Adulting While Black It takes a village to raise a child and a community to keep an adult. Adulting is easily one of the hardest things you might embark upon. Creating ease is a matter of prioritizing your needs vs. your wants. Below you will find a shortlist of Black-owned businesses and entrepreneurs that are here to help us keep our adulting lives together through the smooth services they provide.

Mental Health

Mental Health

Here's a list of a few local Black therapists, healers, or ways to find one: Therapyforblackgirls.com psychologytoday.com http://www.onesensiblesolution.com/therapists.html (*several Black therapists/counselors are featured here)

The Wells Counseling & Consulting Group - Pyramids https://thewellcounselinggroup.com/contact-me/ Emerging Soul Counseling https://www.emergingsoulcounseling.com/ Hope Moreland, MSW, LSW D.S. Mason - Mental Health Services (Facebook) Januarie York - Well Being Workshops (januarieyork.net) Devon Ginn - Sound Healing (Facebook)

Finances & Healthcare

Credit Repair Services Sound Mind Credit Repair Nicole Dianndrea (317) 457-3506 Legacy10, LLC Legacy10.agency/

Pediatric Care

Taxes

A Total Solution CPA & Consulting Services, Inc Children's Express Care Clinic (317) 225-4378 (317) 362-0293

Global Tax Service 4 U https://www.globaltaxservice4u.com/

Events Centers

Events

Simply Elegant Events by Kim (317) 281-0879 Huge Impact Event Center (317) 360-1596

Sip & Share Wine

DJiSM (317) 281-0879

http://Sipandsharewines.com/

DJ Mary Jane (317) 490-0375 (Heather Savage)

Paint Services Household

DJ's

Misc/Contracting SB Group LLC (463) 266-0496

Coleman's Custom Creations (317) 822-1093 Paint Junky (317) 523-8737

Turner Electric (317) 213-9325 Magic Hands Do It All, LLC (317) 366-2441

Arts & Fashion

Arts &Fashion

Piercing & Tattoos by Amber Michelle Harper Animation Studios (317) 514-4125 Adornments by Shelle (Piercing) https://bookedin.com/book/adornmentsbyshelle Graphic Arts Graphic World, LLC https://www.facebook.com/graphicsworldllc/

Remitha Lynn & Co., Seamstress & Sewing Classes http://www.remithalynn.com/ The Selfish Den Custom Apparel https://theselfishden.square.site/

Childcare

Daycare Services

Divine Minds for Childcare (317) 636-0636 Mary's Little Lambs Daycare, LLC (317) 435-4791 Our Little World of Learning & Growing *Christian-based (317) 868-6120

Miscellaneous Services

Automobile Services Every Dolla Kounts Mobile Services https://www.facebook.com/everydollakountsmobileservice/ On the Spot Automotive Repair & Maintenance (317) 531-5126

Cleaning Services Indy Executive Cleaning Services (317) 397-4073 Sister2Sister Domestic Service https://sister2sister317.com/ Trusted Hands Cleaning Services http://www.trustedhandscleaningservices.com/

NOW & LATER: BLACK JOY IN THE PRESENT AND COMING MONTHS

BLACK WORLD SCHOOLERS BOOKSTORE

MEET THE ARTIST APRIL EVENT

Congratulations are in order for Natalie Pipkin, who

and on display until April 2, 2022. Each year, the

recently opened her online Black bookstore, Black

free-to-the-public exhibit showcasing Black creatives

World Schoolers, which will also feature a Mobile

of various mediums is preceded by the opening event

Bookstore (coming 2022). Her fully stocked selection

featuring vendors, performances, music, and the

of books is curated with the help of her two sons, avid

highly anticipated fashion show. Due to a rise in

readers, and future schoolers, and together, this family

COVID numbers, the event was postponed until

hopes to provide a "mirror" into our communities by

April. Stay tuned for more information about the

helping share and tell our stories while creating a

concluding event and in the meantime, be sure to visit

passion and love for reading and learning within our

the Central Library (downtown) to check out the

own.

collection of Black art on display.

MELANIN IN MAY

The 34th annual Meet the Artist Exhibit is underway

Melanin in May, happening May 28, 2022, promises to

JUNETEENTH DOUBLE DUTCH COMPETITION

be "a spring festival celebrating every shade of

There's no better time than today to begin outlining your

excellence, for those who flaunt their melanin with no apology." It's safe to expect some great performances from some of the dopest artists in the city, amazing Black businesses to circulate your Black dollar with, events for kids and youth, and much more. Mark your calendars now and we'll see you on May 28th.

Juneteenth map. Tons of events and opportunities to be Black and Proud will happen throughout the city, such as this FREE Double Dutch competition at the Indy Juneteenth Festival on June 18 at 3 pm. It's free to register online via FB & IG. Awards for most creative, best jump, best outfit and much more. . .

NOW & LATER: BLACK JOY IN THE PRESENT AND COMING MONTHS

NOW & LATER: BLACK JOY IN THE PRESENT AND COMING MONTHS

We ask that you join us in an evening of stories, music, and dance celebrating the mosaic of Blackness. A Jubilee! reflects on history, examines today, and looks forward to the essence of uplifting and joyous traditions in Black art. This program contains Spirituals, Jazz, Opera, R&B, Rock, Poetry and more!

Black, Woman-Owned Imagination Fruit is be reopening March 2, 2022. Salad bar, smoothies, fruit bowls, Build-Your-OwnBowls, and more.

foodtoloveg.com

Smokey Baked Mac & Cheese Food content creator, chef, spice slayer, and podcaster Candace Boyd shares one of her recipes with our newsletter. Because it wouldn't be a full Black History Month without some baked, gooey, mac & cheese.

For more recipes from Candace, visit her website www.FOODLOVETOG.com

Ingredients List 3 Cups Elbow Macaroni Pasta 4 & 1/2 Cups Shredded Cheese ( 1 cup each Monterrey Jack, Queso, Sharp Cheddar, Mild Cheddar) 5 Tablespoons Butter, diced 4 Tablespoons Flour 1/4 Cup Sour Cream 3 Cups Half & Half (warmed) 2 Tablespoons of Hickory Smoked BBQ Sauce Black Pepper (several cracks) Salt (pinch) Paprika (heavy pinch)

foodtoloveg.com

Instructions: 1.

2.

3.

4.

5.

6.

7.

8.

Preheat Oven to 350 degrees.

Prepare an oven safe dish by coating in with 1 tablespoon of butter.

Boil Pasta for 8 minutes, drain and set aside.

In a heavy bottomed pot, melt 4 Tablespoons of butter.

Stir in flour, pinch of salt and black pepper stir well to combine.

Cook flour and butter mixture until golden blonde in color.

Whisk in warmed half and half.

Continually stirring, add Shredded cheese 1/2 cup at a time, until well blended and the cheese has melted. Reserve 1/2 cup of cheese for garnish.

9.

Turn off flame.

10.

Stir in Paprika, Sour Cream and BBQ Sauce, stir to combine.

11.

Add pasta to cheese sauce.

12.

Mix well and pour into prepared oven safe dish.

13.

Top with 1/2 cup of shredded cheese 14.

Bake at 350 degrees for 30 minutes until golden and bubbly.

15.

Serve and Enjoy!

NOTE: Be sure to check Candace out with her cohost Tanorria Askew on their podcast "Black Girls Eating" (Spotify & Apple) every other week.

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ack Pla l B y

Being Black has a sound. It rocks a heavy bassline at times. Other times our Blackness is affirmed in the strum of an electric guitar string. Piano keys tell the stories of how we flutter through life with America on our shoulders while sampled violin rifts gift us a special chord we can see. The FLD Report has curated a special playlist to remind us that our beautiful Black skin is powerful, worthy, precious, and in need of a soundtrack.

Play these songs anytime whether you are cleaning up on Sundays or getting dressed for one of the many Black events going on. May these songs send jolts of Black joy and love through your body, household or car, and leave you in the mood to walk in your own Black Excellence!

Head up, Fam! *Note: Playlist is available on Spotify & Tidal (Apple coming soon).

Say It Loud/Black & Proud - James Brown BLACK - Buddy ft A$AP FERG Black Habits - DSmoke Brotha Angie Stone Brown Skin Lady - Black Star Freedom - Panther (1990) Brown Skin - India Arie Black Gold - Esperanza Spalding Optimistic - Sounds of Blackness Victory Lap - Nipsey Hussle All Black Everything - Lupe Fiasco Be Real Black For Me - Donny Hathaway Black Butterfly - Deniece Williams Brown Skin Girl - Beyonce+ I'm Every Woman - Whiteney Houston U Will Know - Jason's Lyric/Various Best Man I Can Be - Best Man/Various To Be Young, Gifted, & Black - Donny Hathaway Black Man - Stevie Wonder VRY BLK - Jamila Woods ft Noname The Black Effect - The Carters Ultra Black - Nas

Black Parade - Beyonce Black Superman - Above the Law Fight the Power - Public Enemy Blk Girl Soldier - Jamila Woods Revolution - Arrested Development Hella Black - Tobe Nwigwe FYE FYE - Tobe Nwigwe Soul Sista - Bilal Black Woman - Danielle Brooks BLACK - Dave Sue Me - Wale (ft Kelly Price) Dreams & Nightmares - Meek Mill What We Do - Freeway We Gonna Be Alright - Kendrick Lamar Feeling Good - Nina Simone A Rose is Still a Rose - Aretha Franklin Black Is - SAULT Black Woman - Nottz+ Black Skinned Angel - Nur-D ft Lt Sunnie Magic - Suff Daddy+ Keep Ya Head Up - Tupac Mona Lisa - Jazmine Sullivan

WOULD YOU LIKE TO SEE YOUR SHORT STORY OR POETRY PUBLISHED IN OUR NEWSLETTER?

We are now taking submissions for the March issue of our newsletter. March is International Women's Month, so submissions are encouraged (but not required) to have Women-led themes.

Submission Guidelines: *250 Words or less *Family/Public friendly (no vulgar language, topics) *Submissions must be received by 5pm December 20th. *Must be edited

Submit Content to:

"There's no greater agony than bearing an untold story inside of you."

parkermarlinmgmt@gmail.com

~Maya Angelou

RE: NEWSLETTER SUBMISSION

Welcome. Thank You. See You Next Time!

Letter from Editor & Content Creator

Well, family,

that concludes this month's FLD Report. I hope you enjoyed what you read and were able to get some information you needed. This is by far anything but an exhaustive list of all the Black businesses, events, and opportunities in Indianapolis. If you would like to see your business highlighted in the FLD Report,

Janurie York

please send me an email with "ADVERTISING" in the subject line.

Website

As some of you may know, there have been a few changes at the bookstore. We are

Writer in Residence januarieyork.net

bidding farewell and best of life to our beloved store manager, Ro Townsend, who is moving on to pursue her life's callings and desires. We thank Ro for all she has

Email parkermarlinmgmt@gmail.com

done for the bookstore and the community in general. She set this place off to an amazing start and we hope she will hold space for us in North Carolina!!! Assistant store manager Emmi has also left us and will be transitioning to the state of Texas for a climate change and a fresh new start to her young adult life. Emmi, we thank you as well and send you nothing but best wishes! Ladies, we love you and can't wait to see you blossom from afar!

On that note, we would like to welcome our new staff members, store managers Stanley Gilbert and Maya Simone, as well as assistant manager Angelita Hampton!

We are excited for our Ujamaa Family to grow and to see what the future has in store for all of us. Thank you for your desire in joining this part of our community.

Let's make Black Excellence all year long!

Finally, be sure to join us on February 25th from the hours of 4pm-8pm, for our Black History Month Vendor Day. Performances, vendors, and much more. Free to attend but come ready to spend!!! Also, be sure to follow us on Instagram @ujamaacommunitybookstore and check out our calendar for events, workshops, and performances all month long.

See you all in March!

Love.

Januarie Y.