Melanistic Magazine - Vol 7 by OE Media

melanistic L IFE I N B LA C K

OUR COMMUNITY OUR VOICE

5 trips

Y OU C AN’ T M ISS GLOB AL TRAVEL GUIDE

ADVENTURES

VOL.VII · SUMMER 2021

melanistic

Intuitive Invested Exceptional

Practicing In:

Family Law Criminal Defense Law Civil Law Immigration Law Wills and Estates Real Estate Business Law Monthly Legal Subscriptions 780-784-8866 assistant@astutelawyer.com Monday - Friday: 8:30 AM - 4:30 PM Saturday - Sunday: By Appointment

10259 105 Street NW Edmonton Alberta T5J 1E3 www.astutelawyer.com

melanistic T A BL E O F C O NT E N T S

E D I TOR'S W E L C OM E

MELANISTIC F I TNES S

IN T H E K N OW 2 K 2 1

P IÈ CE D E R E S IS T A N CE

J U N E TEENT H

HEALTH & WELLNESS

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T OP 5 D E AD OR A L IV E

ARTS & CUL T UR E

AC T I VI T I E S

P U B L ISH IN G P A RT N E R S

GL OB A L T R A VE L G UI DE

MELANISTIC ADVENTURES

D A T IN G W H IL E B L ACK

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M ELANI STI C TECH

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O U R CO M M U NI TY, O U R V O I CE

FO R U S, BY U S

R ES OURC E GUI D E

M E LAN I S T I C MAG AZINE VOL .7 Publisher Greg Davis Editor Taneya Rogers Creative Director Nigel Williams Artistic Director JoAnne Pearce Marketing Director NiLo Public Relations Robert Tyndale Sales Manager: Rod Charles

C O N T R I B U T OR S T H I S I S S U E M A DE P O S S I BLE BY

Rochelle Ignacio, Thalia Edwards, Shauna McFarland, Bria George, Adrian Bruff, Adora Nwofor Cover Photo: NiLo Special thanks to: Mount Robson Inn, Pursuit Collection, Jasper Skytram

CO NT ACT : melanisticmagazine@gmail.com www.melanisticmagazine.com

Need help dealing with

Covid? Contact ECRRC for:

Support available in 33 languages to help with: Connecting you to medical professionals to answer your vaccination questions. Connecting you to FREE Uber rides to and from your vaccination appointment. Connecting you to vaccination appointments at neighbourhood PopUp Clinics. Connecting you to food and income supports for those dealing with Covid. Connecting you to mental health supports and community connections.

Call our Call Centre at 1-833-738-7727, Mon-Fri 9am-5pm.

www.ecrrc.ca

ED ITO R ’S W E LC O ME

Taneya Rogers There is a shift in the air, a tinge of hope that access to travel, communal events and life as we know it is returning to a version of normal. This issue will get you prepared to explore again. If you’d prefer to lay low then Melanistic Adventures has you covered, with local attractions. If you’re ready to book that flight, our Melanistic Travel Guide offers inspiring new destinations with complimentary topics on insurance and tech. Even as we deliver another informative and entertaining installment, it would be remiss of us to not acknowledge the deep hurt that currently rips through our Indigenous communities across Canada upon the ‘discovery’ of mass graves in multiple provinces.

We see you, and we stand in solidarity, in reverence and in mourning with you.

In the Know 2k21 Normally, BITK highlights Black Excellence all over the world and this entry will not disappoint with even more excellence and truly mind-blowing achievements.

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Ugandan researcher Dr. Stella Kabiri pioneers a method of making fertilizer using air as a raw material. Rwanda opens 2 factories one to process tin, and the other to process gold. The factory has the capacity to process gold from all over the continent. Several Black woman owned businesses in the United States and Uganda are making braiding hair out of banana fiber. They say that it is lighter, organic, biodegradable, and hypoallergenic - and helps to ease the stress that polymer hair extensions have on the body and environment. Simone Biles remains the most decorated gymnast in history as she claims her seventh U.S. Title. Howard University names its College of Fine Arts after late actor Chadwick Boseman.

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BE IN THE KNOW

“Fellowship with us and you will never be the samE”

Bethel Apostolic Church of Stony Plain

5012 51 Ave, Stony Plain, AB T7Z 1C2, (780) 265-1200 connect@buctodaysp.com www.buctodaysp.com

Join us for service on Sundays @12:45pm ZOOM meeting id: 354 598 9435 - PW: BETHEL

top by: Nilo

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road trip albums

If you’re sitting in the passenger seat for road trips this summer, your main duties are navigation, and music. While your digital playlist might be bumping, this list of Top 5 Road Trip Albums should get you through the areas with no wi-fi signal. Here are your Top 5 Road Trip Albums:

THE MISEDUCATION OF L AURYN HILL: From beginning to end, this is an album that will take you through hip hop verses, as well as ballads.

THE BEST OF AL GREEN: Heck yah, we’re all about the classics! This album is pure musicality all the way though with horns, percussion and soulful vocals.

TRANSPARENT S OUL: Willow Smith’s groundbreaking fifth album which features our faves like Travis Barker and Avril Lavigne is a solid punk rock vibe so you can rock out unabashedly.

UPRISING LIVE!: This compilation album has the best of Bob Marley and the Wailers as they sound best, LIVE!

CINC ORIGINALS: High energy, syncopated beats, positive Hip Hop - Tobe Ngwiwe will keep you up, give you goosebumps, and maybe get you too hype to remain contained in a car.

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WHEN WE EACH DO A LITTLE, A LOT GETS DONE.

Health& Wellness

LET’S TALK TRAVEL INSURANCE BY: THALIA EDWARDS While our drive for adventure may make us feel invincible, travel insurance provides a safety net. With pesky viruses running amuck, travel insurance is needed now more than ever. Here are some options to consider: TRIP CANCELLATION & INTERRUPTION:

Before you go, for reasons beyond your control. Death in the family, sickness, or legal obligations are only some of the possible incidents covered in standard policies. INTERRUPTION: While travelling, for reasons beyond your control. Sickness, terrorism, or weather are a few of the reasons to interrupt your travel. MEDICAL: This covers you only while

you are travelling. Many companies offer senior and youth rates however, seniors normally must complete a medical questionnaire.

ALL-INCLUSIVE: This popular option

offers coverage for trip cancellation and interruption, flight accidents,

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emergency medical and loss of baggage and personal effects. NON-MEDICAL: If you have a great

medical plan, this option gives similar coverage to an all-inclusive, but without emergency medical. Insurance provides peace of mind when you travel.

T ravel Safe, T ravel Wise

MELANISTIC FITNESS: WOMEN’S WEIGHTLIFTING BY SHAUNA MCFARLAND There is an array of fitness options available to women, but one often overlooked is conventional weight-training. Lifting weights carries a multitude of benefits yet the fear of looking manly or like a hardened body builder has many women avoiding the weight room. Additionally, feeling unsure of where to start in contrast to the seasoned gym-goers can generate insecurities. It may look difficult but, women have the capacity to lift, improve their strength and muscle mass, and transform their bodies. Weight-training is super-efficient in redefining your body composition. You will simultaneously drop unwanted fat, increase metabolism, and add lean muscle to those

newly de-fluffed areas. There are also immeasurable health benefits. Weighttraining decreases the risk of osteoporosis by strengthening bones and joints, and increases bone density and muscle mass, all exceptionally important to women as we grow older. It can also reduce and stabilize problems with cholesterol and lower blood sugar levels. Sleep quality will improve, reducing stress and anxiety and allowing greater opportunity for rest, recovery, and growth from training. Find YOUR starting point, trust the process, and push yourself, one rep at a time. You’ll feel stronger, more confident and empowered.

Image Courtesy of dMc Images

DE piÈcanece

resist

By ADORA NWOFOR

aving led the most people in protest in Calgary’s history, I’ve been labelled an activist and I’m well known for leading protests. Many do not know that I do more than protest and so can you. Resistance is the first step in changing your life, community, society, or the world. The theory is, Interrupt (irritate, resist), Educate, Organize. This has always modified society, whether negatively or positively. When protesting, have a message, goal, and actionable items. Messaging

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connects folx that may be likeminded, hopefully in large numbers. This is necessary for protection while assembling as sometimes messaging is unpopular. A goal gives folx a reason to think about the impact of this message if widely accepted. Actionable items give people hope that they can make a difference now, rather than far into the future when the passion has faltered. I often interrupt the norm. Its Pride Month and unfortunately QTBIPOC are still living in the margins. I interrupt by adding my pronouns on emails, zooms or requesting that we use gender neutral language in meeting actions to normalize inclusivity.

Education, depending on goals and audience, is vast. I often disguise learning with experience. It can be done in a classroom, through mentoring, while online, the tactics are endless. The importance of Education is to ensure the goal is understood. Opposition to change is rooted in comfort and ignorance. Change is hard and there must be motivation. Sharing information is a great way to show what achieving a new goal can create or why being stagnant has been harmful. Making information accessible establishes trust. Do not forget to educate yourself on the issue; learn how to navigate that system and examine what has been done in the past. It sets teams up to Organize. Organizing, takes the most time and energy. There is no one way to do it,

however the outcome knowledge will directly impact organizing. It may also take time to build a dedicated team. Yes, that’s right, organizing happens through protest and education; and then more organizing, for long term planning and goals. Whether it’s running for office, starting an organization, or creating community support, applying these strategies will impact systems after continued dedication and action. Anyone can start a movement, and everyone can be involved. This is your beginning, get involved, now is the time to make your mark!

e c n a t s in i

Res

p e t s t s , r e f fi i l e h t ur o s y i , y g t n e i i g c chan unity, so m . d l r com o w e h or t

Advertorial

HOME

OWNERSHIP

With Errol Scott

101

HOME STAGING: You only get one chance at a first impression, and nothing could be truer in the real estate market. With a consistent stream of new properties, professional home staging has become an excellent tool for the home selling process. It helps to reveal the true potential of your home, may help to achieve a higher sales price, and shorten your listing time! It does, however, come at a cost, which leaves many people wondering if home staging is worth the investment.

What Is Home Staging? Although some facets of the real estate industry are out of your control,

ensuring that your listed property presents well is crucial to a successful sale. It is possible to do this yourself, however, most people lack the ‘eye for design’ that counts here. Instead, many sellers opt for the skills of professional home staging companies; in some cases, your agent may also offer these services. Utilising your agent in this process will also ensure that the property is staged correctly to appeal to your target market. For example, a condo or townhome that is typically viewed by millennials will be staged differently from a single-family home. Follow me on IG @Hardbodyrealtor Connect with me 780 -271-1114 www.errolscott.com

WHAT DOES HOME STAGING INVOLVE: •

Updating the interior paint and colour scheme

•

Removing clutter, and personal photos and possessions

•

Restyling artworks, shelves, and furniture

•

Making the best use of, or redefining rooms and spaces. This may include rearranging furniture, adding lighting and mirrors, accentuating views etc.

•

Typically, home staging will also remove any evidence of pets (including their potential smells), professionally cleaned floors and carpets,

•

Ensuring there is enough lighting to make the home feel large, open and clean.

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Creating a neutral canvas so that prospective buyers can easily visualise themselves living there.

Connect with me for more tools to enhance your home selling experience

MELANISTIC

G L OBAL

TRAVEL GUIDE There is a common thought that we sometimes fail to appreciate something until we lose it. Over the last 12 months, the sentiment became quite applicable to our ability to travel and explore; we have missed the opportunities to escape. As we work toward some version of normalcy, we have put together some trip ideas to stir your adventure appetite. This Melanistic Adventure Travel Guide features experiences either managed by Black operators or focused on Melanistic destinations and aims to build our community through the world of adventure travel.

BY: GREG DAVIS 16 MELANISTIC

EXPERIENCE GHANA Join us on the ultimate immersion journey to the Motherland to experience Africa’s vibrancy. Indulge in a mix of roots, culture, paradise, and nightlife; experience transformation and healing. Beginning in Accra, we travel to West Africa’s highest waterfall before reaching the Ashanti Region and Kumasi, the heart of the Ashanti Kingdom. Our tour then follows the Slave Trail back to Accra. OPERATOR: Oluchi Nayaa Global Lifestyles DESTINATION: Ghana, Accra COST: $2,200 NO. OF DAYS: 10 ACCOMMODATION: Hotel, Eco Lodge ACTIVITIES: Hiking / Trek, Road Trip, Culture, Nature / Wildlife LEVEL: Easy www.nayaa.ca • info@nayaa.ca (780) 222-5482

CASABLANCA TO MARRAKECH Your G for ‘Good Moment’, this package includes a Mhaya Village Community Lunch, Volubilis guided tour at the Roman ruins, the Fès medina excursion which includes artisans’ quarter and Fès tannery. Enjoy a sunset camel ride in the desert and the Marrakech medina guided walk to see the Saadian Tombs, Bahia Palace, souks and Jemaa el-Fnaa square. All transport between destinations and to/from included activities. 18 MELANISTIC

OPERATOR: Real Canadian Travel Inc DESTINATION: Casablanca, Morocco COST: $892 NO. OF DAYS: 8 ACCOMMODATION: Hotel ACTIVITIES: Hiking / Trek, Culture LEVEL: Easy www.realcanadiantravel.com info@realcanadiantravel.com (780) 801-0126

WEDDING GETAWAY Looking to start a new chapter in your life, while shaking off the lockdown lifestyle? Our package takes you and your guest on a seven-day Jamaica experience. Our team will take care of your unique needs for the entirety of your stay and assist in arranging various tours and excursions to make your special trip even more memorable.

OPERATOR: Passion and Paradise Travel DESTINATION: Jamaica COST: $2,999 NO. OF DAYS: 7 ACCOMMODATION: Hotel ACTIVITIES: Culture LEVEL: Easy www.passionparadisetravel.com info@passionandparadisetravel.com (780) 801-0126

NEW YEARS EVE IN DUBAI!

Join us on our annual New Years Eve event in Dubai, UAE! This is an excellent opportunity to connect and network with like-minded travelers. This six-day trip includes a visit to the Red Dunes and The Blue Mosque, sandboarding, a falcon experience, camel rides, and a yacht party. Also included are luxury accommodations, meals, event access and more. Let’s go.

OPERATOR: Urban Events Global DESTINATION: Dubai, UAE COST: $2,566 USD NO. OF DAYS: 6 ACCOMMODATION: Hotel ACTIVITIES: Culture LEVEL: Easy to Moderate https://urbaneventsglobal.com/ tours/dubai/ info@urbaneventsglobal.com 1-844-79-URBAN

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BED, BREAKFAST & BEYOND ON JASPER’S MAIN STREET

SUPER COMFY BEDS · FREE WIFI · FREE BREAKFAST · AIR CONDITIONED · MICROWAVES & FRIDGES

icefieldsparkway.com

ON T

Mountaineer Lodge in Lake Louise. A journey of a lifetime!

Start your tour here, drive the Parkway and end at the

ED TO AT

0 P1

Traveling the Icefields Parkway?

P A D V IS

1.855.5.JASPER · 780.852.3327 · mountrobsoninn.com

TANZANIA ADVENTURE This trip takes you through some of the best wildlife areas that East Africa has to offer. Wildlife safaris are the star attraction of this tour; your chance to see herds of elephants, zebras, giraffes, wildebeest and buffaloes, along with those everlurking big cats. Also included are opportunities to connect with local Masai and Hadza tribes.

OPERATOR: Civilized Adventures DESTINATION: Tanzania COST: $10,450 NO. OF DAYS: 11 ACCOMMODATION: Hotel, Glamping ACTIVITIES: Safari / Culture / Nature / Wildlife LEVEL: Easy www.civilizedadv.com kylan@civilizedadv.com (403) 205 - 4120

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TECH TALK WITH TIMOTHY M. NOEL

5 REASONS WHY YOU SHOULD TRAVEL WITH TWO PHONES: Our mobile devices have become such an integral part of our lives that certainly, when vacationing, our digital lockboxes come along for the ride. But have you ever considered the practical value added of two mobile devices? Let’s discuss.

1. CAN THEY DO THAT?

2. TRAVEL SECURITY SYSTEM

Under the banner of security,

Having a second phone allows you

certain countries will request your

to monitor your room after leaving.

phone, plug it in via USB and peruse

New security apps can use your

all your personal information. Keep

phone’s camera and sensors for

your main phone powered off and

motion/sound/vibration detection.

tucked away in your carry-on. Give

Set up one of the phones with the

them your “travel phone” to search,

app and you’ll be notified via text

if requested. Maintain your privacy

or email if it senses any uninvited

as best you can.

guests in your absence.

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3. ENTERTAINMENT DEVICE

To be a proper DJ, you can’t have notifications ‘pinging-pinging’ during your favorite jam. Use your travel phone as your ‘DJ phone’ and don’t ruin the vibes.

4. REDUNDANCY IS SMART

If your only phone gets lost, solen or damaged how confident are you with navigating the balance of your trip? Use the ‘travel phone’ when going zip-lining or venturing off into parts unknown. This way you’ll have a backup if Murphy’s Law kicks in.

5. A PARTING GIFT

Technologies are more accessible in regions once considered rural and untouched. Since your travel phone should be one of lesser value (a marketplace purchase), consider gifting the device to your favorite concierge, tour guide or young family member when your vacation is over.

GET INVOLVED AT SOHI.CA @AMARJEETSOHIYEG

It is 1863, and Abraham Lincoln has made the Emancipation Proclamation, impacting the lives of some three million slaves living in confederate States. Before discovering the history of Juneteeth, I had not given much thought to the time it would take to get the news of this proclamation across the region, much less during a Civil War. June 19th, 1865, some 26 MELANISTIC

two years after the declaration, and a month after the end of the Civil War, Union soldiers finally made their way into Galveston, Texas bringing word to enslaved African Americans that their freedom was now a reality.

The day was commemorated the following year with prayer, spiritual songs, and new garments indicative of their new lives. Each year thereafter, the recognition and celebration of Juneteenth expanded across the United States and was first officially recognized in Texas in 1980 and on June 15th, 2021 the US Senate unanimously passed a bill making it a federal holiday. Juneteenth today is still marked by prayer, religious proceedings, educational events, cookouts, music, and dancing. Commonly associated with the celebration are the colors red, black and green of the pan-African flag designed in 1920 by the legendary Jamaican activist, Marcus Garvey.

In honor of our enslaved ancestors who endured, in solidarity with those of the African diaspora who continue to fight against injustice, and in celebration of our freedom, we recognize the significance of Juneteeth. By: Taneya Rogers

I give to my community. With Vancouver Foundation, my giving lasts forever. Get started at vancouverfoundation.ca/give.

BY: TANEYA ROGERS 29

MELANISTIC

ADVENTURES BY: TANEYA ROGERS

Images Courtesy of NiLo

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Exploration can be educational, recreational, and even spiritual. Our Melanistic Adventure Team claimed spaces in the skies, lakes, and glaciers for this installment. While we continue breaking preconceived notions around what activities ‘Life in Black’ should access, this adventure held a deeper meaning. As we experienced various attractions in Jasper, the stories of the Stoney-Nakoda peoples were told by tour guides. The absence of Indigenous representation among the guides or general staff did

not go unnoticed. It resonated that the rich history of a civilization that dates to 8,000 years old, has been condensed and commercialized for our enjoyment, while those that first called these gems, ‘home’, continue to face unspeakable injustices. Still, standing on lands travelled and preserved by the Stoney-Nakoda Nation is humbling; contemplating the sheer endurance and innovation it took to master this unforgiving terrain and marveling at the spiritual connections with the land, made this Melanistic Adventure an unforgettable experience.

MALIGNE CRUISE COST: $76/adult • $38/child (5+ years) • Free/child (under 5 years) WHAT’S INVOLVED: This 90-minute tour spans the length of Maligne Lake, known to the Stoney-Nakoda as the Lake of Healing Waters. Docking on Spirit Island, provides a magnificent view of the Hall of the Gods, said to embody the Spirits of Indigenous Ancestors. TIPS: Consider researching the Indigenous history of this beautiful stop point before your visit. Bug repellant is handy. WEBSITE: http://banffjaspercollection.com

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JASPER SKYTRAM

COST: $54.60/adult (16+ years) $28.90/child (6-15 years) • Free/child (under 6 years) WHAT’S INVOLVED: A short seven-minute ride on Canada’s longest and highest aerial tramway takes you to altitudes of 2,263 meters for spectacular views of the mountains. Feeling adventurous? Take on the 2-kilometer uphill hike to the summit. TIPS: A camera is a necessity and sturdy nerves as you look down and across the incredible mountainside. WEBSITE: http://jasperskytram.com

Ready for a breakthrough? Empowering others! Accessing their potential! Impacting on the world! Reach out to us! E-mail

denise@denledi.com Website

www.denledi.com

MALIGNE CANYON

COST: FREE WHAT’S INVOLVED: Take a gentle two-hour hike on paved and railed paths that follow Jasper Park’s deepest canyon. Six bridges connect along the walk, however bridges one to three offer the most spectacular views of the canyon. TIPS: Water to stay hydrated. Proper footwear is recommended as some spots can be slippery on a wet day. WEBSITE: www.pc.gc.ca

COLUMBIA ICEFIELDS AND SKYWALK COST: $103/adult • $51.50/child (5+ years) *rates are lower during the week* WHAT’S INVOLVED: The giant Ice Explorer will shuttle you to the ancient Athabasca Glacier; one of six glaciers fed by the Columbia Icefields. Following the informative tour, transfer to the Skywalk – hover 240 meters over the cliffs on a glass walkway. TIPS: Take basic winter gear for the glacier – even in summer, the winds and altitude make for frosty conditions. At the skywalk, be sure to look down. WEBSITE:

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https://www.banffjaspercollection.com

HOT AIR BALLOON COST: $300/person • $290/4 or more people • $250/groupon or weekday trips WHAT’S INVOLVED: Imagine floating on a cloud. Step into a 10-person balloon basket and glide softly around the city’s beautiful skyline. This is a great experience for a romantic getaway, a family trip or a team building exercise. Lift off is so peaceful that you barely know that you left the ground. TIPS: Bring a camera, wear a windbreaker, and brace yourself for landing. This is a super fun relaxing adventure. WEBSITE: www.sundanceballoons.com 36 MELANISTIC

Expertise for Afro-textured Hair and Melanated Skin

Afrodisiacnaturals.com

OUR COMMUNITY,

OUR VOICE by: ADRIAN BRUFF

Images Courtesy of Ben Turner

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www.adrianbruff.ca - Insta: @bruffodaymin

his is an election year, and on October 18th 2021, voters will elect a new Mayor and twelve Councillors to govern our city. Council is responsible for developing and evaluating policies and programs for our city, which includes enacting laws, and managing the city’s budget.

This year’s election will see a few changes. Most notable is the Council’s approval to change the 12 previously numbered wards to Indigenous names, upon request from our Indigenous community. This takes effect on Election Day.

Council’s decisions affect everyone. With a three-billion-dollar annual budget, paid in part by you, Council decides which programs and services to invest in, which includes transit, emergency services, garbage collection, snow removal, parks, festivals, and infrastructure maintenance. Council sets property taxes, transit fares, and approves new developments. It is responsible for working with city stakeholders to help shape the quality of our communities, ensuring they are safe, healthy, and thriving.

AIRINIQ: A NIRK NIK DENE: DEH-NEH IPIIHKOOHKANIPIAOHTSI:

Also included on your ballot is your choice of Trustees for both Public and Catholic Schools. Their roles impact the core of our community, the education of our children. Trustees have a hand in planning, establishing policies, advocating on behalf of their constituents, and even lobbying those who make decisions around funding. When selecting your candidates, here’s my advice; Identify leaders with strong ties to your community. Identify those who understand the issues of your constituency and who are also able to present ambitious and achievable policies to address them.

Here is a list of the new wards and their pronunciation:

E-PEE-KO-KA-NEE PIU-TSI-YA

KARHIIO: GAR-EE-HE-O MÉTIS: MAY-TEA NAKOTA ISGA: NA-KOH-TAH EE-SKA O-DAY’MIN: OH-DAY-MIN SIPIWIYINIWAK: SEE-PEE-WIN-EE-WOK SSPOMITAPI: SS-POH-ME-TAH-PEE TASTAWIYINIWAK: TASS-TAW-WIN-EE-WOK

PAPASTEW: PAH-PAH-STAY-OH PIHÊSIWIN: PEE-HAY-SOO-WIN

To learn more about the new ward names and to find out your ward, go to edmonton.ca/elections and use their online interactive tool.

Mark your calendar, make a plan and get out and vote! 39

Advertorial

SUMMER

READS FOR CHILDREN

Summer is rolling in on the heels of a school year that kept children rotating learning environments - home and in-class; parents and teachers are likely eager for the break. Keeping children engaged in reading over summer vacation can be a challenge. Expanding the diversity of their reading options with literature from African and Caribbean authors is an even greater feat. Looking beyond the summer break, a partnership between the Sickle Cell Foundation and Edmonton Public Library (EPL) was created to develop a K-12 curriculum of Black Literature. EPL will create a list to be vetted by Dr. Jean Walrond and a team of post secondary students. The initiative primarily aims to deliver an African and Caribbean Canadian Literature Guide for Edmonton’s school boards and educators It will

be used as a resource for discussions around African and Caribbean Canadian experiences and culture. With $61,000 in funding through Edmonton Community Foundation’s, Anti-Racism Fund, this initiative reflects the type of grassroots, transformative efforts that help build greater equity and tolerance within our city.

Inspired by this project, our team took a trip down memory lane and picked the minds of some of our readers. Here are some Afro-Heritage Summer Reads for children:

YOUNGER READERS: • • • •

Anansi the Spider by Gerald McDermott Harriet’s Humongous Hair & Harriet’s Tremendous Day by NiLo A Likkle Miss Lou by Nadia L. Hohn Hey Black Child by Useni Eugene Perkins

TEENS • • • • • •

A House for Mr. Biswas by V.S. Naipaul Children of Blood and Bone & Children of Virtue and Vengeance, by Tomi Adeyemi Brown Girl Dreaming by Jacqueline Woodson The Hate you Give by Angie Thomas The River Between & A Grain of Wheat by Ngũgĩ wa Thiong’o All our Names by Dinaw Mengestu

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“Doors aren’t locked it’s about preparedness between opportunities” shares, Dr. Walrond, President of Research and Education at the Sickle Cell Foundation of Alberta. She’s long advocated for this curriculum initiative and is eager to execute. As a parent, she found herself at the crosssection of the education system and the medical system that initially missed her daughter’s sickle cell diagnosis. “Our education system fails to fully incorporate students of different cultural identities in support of self actualization”, she asserts, speaking to the need for a more diverse and inclusive K-12 curriculum.

-Dr. Jean Walrond

Here are some other initiatives supported by ECF’s Anti-Racism Fund Family Advancement Association (Africa Centre): $23,700 to support subsidized summer programs focusing on digital literacy, education and wellness for Black and racialized children ages 4-13.

Centre for Race and Culture: $58,300 supports the Challenging Discrimination through Community Conversation Project. Engaging in discourse around different forms of discrimination and sharing the lived experiences of different communities.

Indigenous Jour nalism Fund: $15,000 in matching funding to support an awards program to amplify Indigenous voices in media. Learn more about the work of Edmonton Community Foundation and the Anti Racism Fund at https://www.ecfoundation.org info@ecfoundation.org

what is the truth about

the Covid Vaccine? Tune into

The Black Multiverse Theory Podcast &

Lets’ Be Real to learn more!

The Black Multiverse August 3, 2021

Lets Be Real Aug 4, 2021

Special guest: Dr. Rena LaFrance

Bring your questions, Bring your concerns and LET’S GET AFTER IT!

Melanistic

Sips SHANDY BY: BRIA GEORGE

Ingredients 4-5 Tbsp ginger simple syrup: 3/4 Cup Water 2 Cups Sugar 1 Cup Chopped Ginger 1 Lemon Soda Water Lemon Wheel for garnish (optional) 1 Bottle of non-alcoholic beer (Our Shandy uses Alkoholfrei from Fahr, an Alberta brewery in Turner Valley)

This Shandy is a classic but comes with a kick of ginger, ideal for those hot summer backyard gatherings. Sweet, spicy, and refreshing!

method

GINGER Simple Syrup

Squeeze the lemon juice and add simple

Dissolve sugar in water in a saucepan

syrup into a pint glass. Fill your glass just

over medium heat. Add ginger and boil

over half with soda water. Top off with

gently for 15 minutes. Remove from heat.

your favourite light non- alcoholic beer.

Steep for 45- 60 minutes, or longer for a

Garnish with a lemon wheel.

stronger flavour.

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H H A A

Don’t worry babes. It’s not getting passed me!

A A A

A RAT!

CRUNCH! I gotchu’ my girl!

Wow... Good to

know, good to know...

<WOIII!!!> Squeeeaak!!!

teafannie

Artist Spotlight

Tea Fannie is a lyricist and rapper born in British Columbia, but has lived in Edmonton, Toronto and Saskatoon, and is currently based in Calgary. Her music is a mash-up of trap, hip-hop, and R&B. She credits Jhené Aiko, Jazmine Sullivan, Missy Elliott, and Nicki Minaj as creative influences. While living in Edmonton, she began as a poet before starting a musical career when a friend encouraged her to play at their album release party; it was just the push she needed.

“I would like to be a part of, and contribute to, putting Calgary on the map, with my music” she says of her community impact. “I want to be able to help people.” The EP Most Hated, a collaborative production with female rapper Miss Benzo, evolved spontaneously over a week and is now available. There will be more collaborative projects with new artists and a project with a completely different tone, more comparable to neo-soul, next year.

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BY: LEBENE MAWUU

FOR BY

BLACK OWNED MARKET - YEG BY: ROCHELLE IGNACIO Black Owned Market Edmonton (BOM YEG) is a volunteer collective whose aim is to uplift, build and support Black entrepreneurs and creatives by providing physical spaces and virtual platforms to showcase their products and services. On the surface, BOM YEG is a way to celebrate local vendors, but on a deeper level BOM YEG finds innovative ways to address

the inequality gaps and systemic racism Black owners face when launching and sustaining their businesses. The initiatives the community sees are only a small part of what BOM YEG accomplishes in addition to community development, advocacy, marketing, stakeholder relations, business coaching and micro funding initiatives. Founded in July 2020, BOM YEG has attracted 70+ vendors and 5,000+ community supporters. BOM YEG is passionate about supporting Black-owned businesses and provides safe and inclusive spaces for customers across Canada.

MEL ANIS TIC

X-WORD

GLOBETROTTERS TRIVIA

ACROSS 2. This country is the world’s largest cocoa producer 6. This country houses CARICOM headquarters 8. The Habesha are those people who are from the North part of this country, specifically, the Tigre, the Agew, the Beta Israel and the Amhara. 9. The tallest building in the world, Burj Khalifa, finds its home in this country 11. Lake Lolowe, commonly called Lake Victoria is located in this Country 12. Berber Whiskey is the national drink of this country 15. After Bollywood in India, this country has the largest movie industry in the world

48 MELANISTIC

DOWN 1. The world’s largest deposit of asphalt is located in this twin island nation 3. This country was the first country in the world with a majority female parliament 4. This Country has more pyramids than Egypt 5. This country produces the world’s oldest rum 7. Ackee and Salt Fish is the national dish of this country 10. This country has the largest population of African Diaspora 13. This Country has the only jaguar reserve in the world 14. This country was created for free enslaved Americans

By: NiLo

resource guide

edmonton DINING

Blue Nile Authentic Ethiopian Restaurant 11019 107 Ave NW Edmonton, AB T5H 3G2 (780) 428-5139 www.bluenileedmonton.com Irie Foods 2807 Millwoods Rd NW Edmonton, AB T6K 4A9 (780) 414-1341 www.iriefoods.ca Islands Best Kitchen 11817 105 Ave NW Edmonton AB T5H 0L9 (780) 862-7984 Island Grill 15203 Stony Plain R Edmonton, AB T5P 3Y4 www.islandgrillalberta.com Spice N Rice 20020 Lessard Rd NW Edmonton, AB T6M 0T9 (780) 616-3364 The Saint Lucian Squeeze 10140 117 St. NW Edmonton, AB T5K 1X3 780-619-0091 A fresh new take on the Caribbean cuisine experience in Edmonton offering tasty affordable meals full of the flavors of St. Lucia. Curry chicken, fried fish and tambourine juice and just of few of the home cooked dishes waiting for your plate. The Tantalizers 2976 Ellwood Dr SW Edmonton, AB T6X 0W6 (587) 498-1028 www.thetantalizersca.com Zuhur Restaurant 10728 107 Ave NW Edmonton, AB T5H 0W6 www.zuhuredmonton.com

RETAIL

A Yah Mi Deh Caribbean Groceries 4433 118 Ave NW Edmonton, AB T5W 1A8 Azury’s Jewellers 10072 Jasper Ave Edmonton AB T5J 1V8 (780) 271-7272 www.azurys.ca Kasoa Tropical Food Market Ltd. 9340 118 Ave Edmonton AB T5G 0N6 (780) 328-1751 www.kasoatropicalfood.com Mama Afro Beauty Supply 9323 118 Ave NW Edmonton, AB T5G 0N3 (780) 477-8511 Oulchi Nayya West African made Apparel, Skin Care and Accessories www.nayaa.ca Spice Island 10058 163 St NW Edmonton, AB T5P 3N4 (780) 489-2738 Token Bitters Edmonton, AB info@TokenBitters.com www.tokenbitters.com An Edmonton original brand, with organically sourced ingredients from local farmers and businesses and bottled without chemicals or preservatives. Token Bitters handcrafted artisanal aromatic bitters, add a layer of flavour complexity to cocktails, mocktails and coffee.

SERVICES Africa Centre 6770 129 Ave NW #106 Edmonton, AB T5C 1V7 (780) 455-5423 www.africacentre.ca

Allstate Insurance - Richard Griffith - Agent 780-460-7546 ext. 5012 rgriffith@allstate.ca www.allstate.ca Dog Boarding Paradise @dogboardingparadise Errol Scott Realty Group (780) 271-1114 info@errolscott.com www.errolscott.com Full time & full-service real estate professional delivering world-class service and doing whatever it takes to make my clients real estate goals and dreams become a reality!

Socafit - Caribbean dance and Fitness Class info@socafit.ca - www. socafit.ca If you want to learn some new moves, get a great workout in, or you just want to have a fun night out, Socafit is here to bring you a real authentic experience. Classes are open level and catered to all ages. Private and group sessions are available. Currently offering online only sessions. Smooth by Sugar (587) 783-9816 www.smoothbysugar.com @smoothbysugar Edmonton based hair removal studio Yves Salon 10340 134 St NW Edmonton, AB T5N 2B1 (780) 604-0301 www.yvessalon.com Year Wood Studios Videography and Photography services (780) 660-0449 www.yearwoodstudios.com yearwoodstudios@gmail.com

CALGARY DINING

Krazy Jerk 1715 52 St SE Calgary, AB T2A 1V1 (403) 691-1040 www.krazyjerk.com Llyods Patty Plus 255 28 St SE Calgary, AB T2A 5K4 (403) 207-4455 Safari Grill 100, 255 28 St SE Calgary, AB T2A 5K4 (403) 235-6655 www.safarigrillcalgary.com Simply Irie Caribbean Cuisine 1510 6 St SW Calgary, AB T2R 0N2 (403) 454-7400 www.simplyirie.ca

RETAIL

Caribbean Choice Food 2235 Centre St N Calgary, AB T2E 2T4 (403) 230-1880 Costal Market 1711 52 St SE Calgary, AB T2A 1V1 (403) 454-6279 Island Beat 2316 27 Ave NE #8 Calgary, AB T2E 7A7 (403) 291-2440 www.islandbeat.ca Nyla Beauty Supply Inc 1000 9 Ave SW #102 Calgary, AB T2P 2Y6 (403) 229-2294 www.nylabeautysupply.com Sareya Beauty Supply 3745 Memorial Dr SE #12 Calgary AB T2A 6V4 (403) 273-5683 www.sareyabeauty.com

SERVICES Calgary Home Boys 100, 707 10 Ave SW Calgary, AB T3A 6H4 (403) 400-2700 www.walej.calgaryhomeboys.com Franklin Health Clinic 3149 5 Ave NE Calgary, AB T2A 5N1 (403) 453-8483 www.franklinhealthclinic.ca Horton Park Dental Clinic Dr. Damola Baiyere Dentist 9705 Horton Rd SW, Suite B Calgary, AB T2V 2X5, (587) 391-7661 www.hortonparkdental.ca Julzz Creations Premium Hair Salon 2010 30 Ave NE #8, Calgary, AB T2E 7K9 www.julzzcreations.ca

winnipeg DINING

RETAIL

SERVICES

Bindy’s Caribbean Delights 1 Forks Market Rd Winnipeg, MB R3C 4L9 (204) 942-8409 www.bindyscaribbean.com

Nancy Boutique Winnipeg, MB www.nancykboutique.com

HairyCary Salon 353 2-212 Henderson Hwy Winnipeg MB R2L 1L8 204-816-9156 www.hairycarysalon.ca

K&S Island Grill 2069 Portage Ave Winnipeg, MB R3J 0K6 (204) 415-5550 www.kandsislandgrill.com AKIN’S West African Restaurant 570-a Sargent Winnipeg, MB R3S 1A9 (204) 786-8400 www.akinsrestaurant.com

50 MELANISTIC

ANEWOW Winnipeg, MB www.anewow.com

Lola’s Beauty Gallery & Supplies 567 Portage Ave Winnipeg, MB R3B 2G2 (204) 772-3506 www.lolasbeautygallery.ca Roots Salon 259 Vaughan Street Winnipeg MB, R3C 1T8 (204) 415-3112 www.rootssalon.ca

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