melanistic L IF E I N B LA C K
VOL.2 · SPRING 2020
i am woman
The
BLACK
WOMAN (an excerpt)
…She’s the closest to God Her skin absorbs the Sun as if that’s where it has resided since creation Her hair defies gravity because as Mother Nature she determines what can rise Her bosom has supplied nutrition of life to all of humankind Her full lips have spoken entire kingdoms into existence
Deirdra Williams
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Spring into
Style
melanistic 6
IN T H E KNO W 2 K2 0
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HEA L T H & WELLN E SS
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DA T I N G WHILE B L AC K
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TO P 5 B L AC K FEMAL E A THLE T E S
T A B LE O F C O NTEN TS
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E D I T O R 'S WELCOME
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S A VE T H E DATE
14-19
I N C O NVE R S A T I O N: BL A C K W O M E N I N B U S I NE SS
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#GIRLDAD
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BLACK CA NA D I A N WOMEN I N A CT I O N
P U B LI SH IN G P A RT NE R S
TH I S I SS U E M A DE P O S S IBLE BY
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MELANI S T I C FI T NES S
20-21 ART S & C ULT URE
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M O T H E R ’ S DAY GI F T GU I DE
MELANI S T I C X- W ORD
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M E L A NI S TI C T R A VE L ER
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OUR W OMEN I N H I S T ORY
RES OURC E GUI D E
M E L AN I S T IC MAG AZINE VOL .2 Publisher Greg Davis Editor Taneya Rogers Creative Director JoAnne Pearce Marketing Director NiLo Community Engagement Nigel Williams Public Relations Robert Tyndale C O N T R I B UT OR S AnMarie Bailey, Catherine T, Kyle Smith Cover Artwork Anna by Adanna Onuekwusi (@adxnnart) CO NT ACT : melanisticmagazine@gmail.com www.melanisticmagazine.com
In the Know 2k20
BE IN THE KNOW
Say It Loud Canada officially launched its Edmonton Chapter in February. The platform celebrates and encourages Black youth innovation. Farley Flex - Say It Loud Canada
Okkkkaaayyy 2020 is not taking it easy on us! Right out the gates it is proving to be a memorable year for all. Here are your notable uplifting events of the first quarter of 2020:
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Black News Channel was launched in Tallahassee, Florida by Bob Brillante and Former congressman J.C. Watts. With Republican ownership, this is the first 24/7 Black News Network. Jamaican Recording artist Koffee becomes the first woman to win a Grammy for Best Reggae AlbumŠ, the same day as she graduates from High School. Local Celebrity Chef, Bee Zhou advances to the finals and finishes as the Runner Up on Food Network Canada’s new show Wall of Chefs. Barry Simpson honored for his 30 years of contribution in Music to the Black Community in Edmonton. International Pop Star Rihanna donates $5 Million through the Clara Lionel Foundation to Covid-19 relief efforts. Rhianna - Image Source: JStone - Shutterstock
ED ITO R ’S W E LC O ME
Taneya Rogers
“I am magic… I know it… own it… I walk it” The sentiment expressed by Malebo Sephodi is my wish for every woman. An unabashed claiming of your feminine ‘magic’ in its entirety. This issue is dedicated to US and celebrates those who have come before; recognizes the work that is progressing today; explores layered issues in navigating essential systems as a woman of colour; and offers tools to empower our readers to share their stories and walk boldly in their truth.
save the date WHAT' S O N T HI S Q UARTER?
DISCOVER Le a r n a n e w s k i l l o r di sc ov er a n e w p as s i o n .
CARIBBE ANPOT.C OM
Learn about your Caribbean roots or simply learn how to co o k . T h i s w e b s i t e a n d Yo u t u b e ch a n n e l w i l l have you whipping some n i ce n e s s i n n o t i m e . caribbeanpot.com
nikonevents.com/us/live/ nikon-school-online
TELUS WORLD OF S CIENCE: S CIENCE AT HOME K i d s ca n st i l l d i s co v e r t h e j o y o f s ci e n ce v i a t h e s ci e n ce a t h o m e experience. Find loads o f fu n t o k e e p t h e l i t t l e o n e s a ct i v e a n d l e a r n i n g a l l t he s a m e t i m e .
telusworldofscienceedmonton.ca/explore/experiences/ science-home
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try.fender.com/play/playthrough
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DJ S O CA SWEETNESS Live Online 8pm SOCASETS
watch/ listen
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Free m o n th - l on g acces s t o Nik o n o nl i n e cour s es will g e t you r ead y t o capt u re t ho s e m om ent s we a ll l i v e f or .
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Saturday Night Mixes live on Instagram We e k e n d s a t 9 p m “ C l u b M A IS O N ”
MOVE S O CAFIT WEEKLY ONLINE DANCE AND FITNESS CL ASSES
Ge t m o v i n g , g e t fi t a n d take a jump. socafit.ca
KANOPY KIDS: EDMONTON PUBLIC LIBRARY
Large Streaming r e s o u r ce f o r d o cu m e n t a r i e s , m o v i e s , music and books. Do w n l o a d t h e a p p f o r a cce s s.
L AVAR BURTON RE ADS: On Twitter Live Stream
THE BL ACK MULTIVERSE THEORY POD CAST
Every Sunday Live o n F a ce b o o k 7 p m i s h. L e t ’ s t a l k a b o u t the fun, uplifting, e n l i g ht e n i n g s t o r i e s n o t f o u n d i n t he news that impact our co m m u n i t y.
MELANISTIC FITNESS BY: CATHERINE T
(IG: @insecure_fitness)
Given how much social media has blown up in the past decade, it is easy to feel like you have to live up to an ideal. Am I too out of shape to go to the gym, will people be watching me, is my workout outfit cute enough? You don’t have to be perfect to start taking care of your health and body. Having dealt with insecurities myself, I understand that they are personal. The goal is to work through your insecurities in a way that makes you feel confident. It may seem daunting at first, so start by making small changes that will have an impact over time.
Here are 3 things to remember when it comes to fitness:
Diet is key: Whether the goal is
weight loss or gain, diet is a major component. If you don’t know where to start, I challenge you to omit products that contain processed sugars from your diet. You will see that stubborn fat slowly disappear.
Accountability partners:
Surround yourself with people who have similar goals and are motivating. Technology has made it easy to connect with others using apps. Consider a daily step challenge using your watch or phone.
Consistency: This is not a short-
term goal, it’s a lifestyle change and you need to be consistent. Even when you reach your goal, work is required to maintain. Find an exercise routine you enjoy and an eating pattern that leaves you satisfied.
Progress over Perfection
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Advertorial
HOME
OWNERSHIP
101
With Errol Scott
BUDGETING In the last installment, we discussed the importance of speaking with a Lender as soon as possible. Let us now discuss an additional critical step in the home buying process! Far too often in the Real Estate Industry, I have unfortunately witnessed buyers who stretch their budgets and pay more for a home than they initially intended; I want to be sure that this does not happen to you.
I know nobody likes the word “Budget� but it is an important element. You must have a solid grasp on your true cost of living. I recommend you make a list of all your current expenses and leave nothing out (sample list provided below).
When considering the monthly payments, you may easily qualify for an amount that is more than you are truly comfortable paying. The home buying process can become very emotional, which is why I always have open discussions with my clients about this.
Start with the amount you bring home after taxes each paycheck and then deduct your personal expenses. This will be your guide and help you determine what a sustainable mortgage payment should be for your budget.
NAL O S R E PE ST L P M SA NSE LI EXPE t aymen s e Car P Vehicl r o f Gas ) rance u s le, etc n t b I n a e C m , Car ter Pay hone r, Wa e P w l l o e P C s, es (Ga i t i l i t U ent ries tainm r e t Groce n E g Out/ Eatin ns nt Loa Expense e d u s t S tivitie hing c t o A l / C s ort Yearly ng/Sp i l o o h c Kids S ance Insur
The list can go on and on and can be tailored to your needs. What’s important is knowing these numbers so that we can budget accurately. The added benefit to completing this exercise is that you sometimes discover areas where you are wasting money and can make cuts or changes to use your income more effectively. I hope you find this helpful and please let me know if you have any questions. We are always here to help.
Follow me on IG @ Hardbodyrealtor www.errolscott.com
Image Source: ZoĂŤ Medical Clinic
Health & Wellness WITH DR. JANE KACHOPE zoemedical.ca
At times, it is a delay, a denial, a misdiagnosis or a missed diagnosis; other times, it is not feeling respected, feeling belittled or dismissed. The high rate at which Black women experience negative interactions and outcomes when dealing with the healthcare system, as compared to their white counterparts, is well documented and unsettling. Not even celebrities are immune. In an interview with Vogue magazine in 2017, Serena Williams shared her experience following an emergency C-section. After recognizing something was wrong, she asked for a CT scan and blood thinner but wasn’t taken seriously by medical staff. Her situation turned out to be life threatening requiring follow-up surgery. Given this dismal underbelly, how can a woman of color arm herself for the next time her intuition tells her something is not right and she heads off to the doctor or ER? Are there any steps that can be taken? Edmonton family physician Dr. Jane Kachope of Zoe Medical Centre shared some tips on ways women can empower and advocate for themselves when dealing with the healthcare system. 12 MELANISTIC
1) KNOW THAT YOU ARE THE LEADER OF THE DOCTOR-PATIENT RELATIONSHIP
3) BE WARY OF THE “QUICK” DIAGNOSIS
Dr. Jane advises women that they should be in control of the relationship and have the right to be assertive; to ask for what they need and to have things explained in language that is easy to understand. Simply, women have the right to be heard. While doctors are the experts, they owe you the information that is necessary to make informed decisions.
If you know that flutter in your stomach is not “just nerves” then do not settle for a diagnosis of “stress”. Dr. Jane says that while some issues can be attributed to stress, often doctors offer this as an initial diagnosis rather than doing in-depth investigations. She urges Black women to press for tests and answers rather than taking “No” for an answer. Just remember, even Serena Williams had to press for medical intervention too.
2) EDUCATE YOURSELF
4) DON’T BE AFRAID TO SWITCH DOCTORS
As Dr. Jane puts it, “knowledge is power”. She suggests patients utilize the power at their fingertips (the internet) to learn about their diagnosis. While she doesn’t advocate that patients self-diagnose, she encourages patients to do their own research and to educate themselves about their conditions and their medications. She also recommends patients read any literature provided by their doctors, review and understand their test results and become active in their treatment plan.
If you do not feel assured that you are being heard by your doctor or that your voice is not respected; if you just aren’t confident that you have been accurately diagnosed, it is your right to get a second, third, fourth or even a fifth opinion or to change your healthcare provider completely. Every patient deserves to feel comfortable with her physician and it is okay to switch until you find the right fit.
BY: ANMARIE BAILEY
Image Source: Zoë Medical Clinic
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IN CONVERSATION
BLACK WOMEN IN BUSINESS BY: TANEYA ROGERS 14 MELANISTIC
Clockwise, from left to right: Sandra Muchekeza Seble Isaac Samantha Alexander Adnerys Armstrong Taneya Rogers All image credits: NiLo
I
take pride in being a woman; being a woman of colour adds texture to my experiences particularly as I have navigated my career. I was fortunate to engage four spectacular Black women to hear their stories as professionals in fields that are resistant to making spaces for women and even less for Black women. Our host is the multilingual, Seble. She is originally from Ethiopia and the founder and owner of Tiramisu Bistro. Adnerys, born in Aruba but partially raised in Columbia is a mortgage broker and realtor. Samantha has always called Edmonton home but shares both Trinidadian and Grenadian roots and is a marketing lead for a top accounting firm; Sandra, a publisher and director of The Council for Canadians of African and Caribbean Heritage (CCACH) boasts of her Kenyan upbringing. The perspectives and learnings that I share are thanks to them.
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CHOOSING MY PATH
The consensus amongst the quartet is that taking the time to find your passion is the catalyst for any successful career. That passion must be fueled by a solid education, which proves to be more critical for young women of colour. To grow personally and professionally in an environment that is systematically designed to stifle your progress, Black women are expected to ‘prove themselves’ time and time again. Education becomes a powerful tool in amplifying our voices and asserting ourselves in respective workplaces. An effective mentor can also have an impact that extends throughout a lifetime. In a perfect world, a mentor would share both your professional and cultural background, allowing for an even stronger connection. However, the mentor that fits you best ought to be one that you can learn from and can inspire growth and development on multiple levels even without a shared cultural background.
STAYING TRUE TO YOURSELF As a visible minority, our culture often affects our interactions in professional spaces. It is not uncommon to make a concerted effort to ‘tame’ our musical accents in hopes of being genuinely heard by an audience that does not share our cultural background. We may become conscious about hairstyles; keeping it conservative to avoid attracting misguided attention. How and when does a woman of colour find the balance between being professional and remaining fully connected to her ‘Blackness’? There is no singular answer: For Sandra, owning the richness of her accent and the vibrancy of her
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Kenyan-inspired clothing was a deliberate decision that came with personal growth. Adnerys on the other hand is classically defiant and self-assured. You had to accept her the way she is or move along; she never felt pressured to moderate any of her cultural traits.
How we show up as Black women is both personal and fluid. As our self-confidence builds, as we educate ourselves and as we become defter at deflecting anti-Black behaviours or comments, the awakening takes place organically.
How and when does a woman of colour find the balance between being professional and remaining fully connected to her ‘Blackness’?
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WHERE PERCEPTIONS CLASH WITH REALITY
Where Blackness intersects with femininity can unfortunately be a chasm of stereotypes and hurtful interactions with a shifting balance. Our intimate discussion stirred a range of emotions. Here is a snippet of some of the stories shared:
my setback rather than being Black. It is felt by myself and by other female workers of different races. I worked briefly as a model I found out that the booking agent had blocked a number of my bookings. She didn’t want to send out the ‘Brown Girl’.
My name precedes me – being Black and being an immigrant is coded into my name. It has definitely been a hindrance to my progress - long before I am given the opportunity to demonstrate my skill. I work in a male-dominated field. Being a woman has more often been 18 MELANISTIC
A regular patron who lauded the quality of service and the product enquired as to who owned the establishment. When I was identified as the owner he then followed up with the question, “Who did she buy the business from?” The idea that a Black woman could own and create a successful enterprise was almost offensive. He has not visited since.
While I can only wish these stories became outdated, I also count them as successes. They speak to our resilience as Black women. Our ability to build and forge forward in places that are less welcoming; our bility to do so with excellence and grace is even more phenomenal. Counteracting these negative perceptions takes place on multiple levels: Personal Work – your self-esteem and self-confidence as a Black woman is your first line of defence. Sisterhoods – a core circle of women that uplift you and keep you focused can go a long way in pushing past the tough interactions
Engage Allies – a perpetrator’s sexist or racist sentiments may be quelled more effectively by someone who they directly identify with. Identify individuals in your workspace who will be willing to speak up on your behalf, when you momentarily feel voice-less.
Arts & adanna @ADXNNA
Adanna Onuekwusi is a burgeoning Edmontonian talent with Nigerian roots. Her education began with traditional visual arts, transitioning to digital arts 7 years ago in tandem with her fresh exploration of social media. This newer art form had its skeptics, nevertheless, as she continued to immerse herself in her craft, she became more confident in the longevity of her career in this field. Eternally open to growth, Adanna credits continued learning as her greatest success. While her vibrant Nigerian heritage inspires her work, Adanna also finds that the city’s melting pot of cultures informs the arts as a whole. What’s more rousing is the shifts she unearths in the way she sees her own culture as she interacts with others – finding traditions and practices from across the globe that seem eerily familiar and even interwoven with her own. To her fellow artists Adanna offers simply, “Keep creating, we need all of it in this space”.
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Red Wedding
Culture By: Taneya rogers
alison
clarke
Alison Clarke is a gift to Edmonton and to the writing community. Her breadth of work triggered reflections that date back to her childhood. Her affinity for fantasy threads through her collection but also lead to the realization that Black female protagonists are lacking as much as Black female fantasy authors. Filling this gap propelled ‘The Sisterhood´ trilogy. The lessons in teamwork however are anything but illusory and speak closely to Alison’s core values; her belief that a communal mindset strengthens us and can alleviate many of society’s ills. Her greatest accomplishment? Being a two-time cancer survivor, overcoming the dreadful impact of chemotherapy on the brain and preserving her creativity. She accedes that writing continues to give her purpose. Imparting wisdom to the young Black writer Alison offers, “You have to define what your Blackness means to you and tell your own story. Do not let others dictate what your vision should be or how to attain it.”
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DATING WHILE BLACK
Story: Nigel Williams Art: Kyle Smith
@melanisticmagazine @inkfable
Hmmm... I want a person who is smart, gorgeous, fit, good upbringing, respectful and most importantly BLACK.
CHOOSE YOUR MATCH.
I heard this dating site algorithm is 99.5% accurate.
Searching.....
100% ABSOLUTE
MATCH FOUND
BEN JERRY UGH.
NOOO. NOOO.
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- Caucasian - Loves Spicy Food - Only dates Black women - Listens Rap and Soca - Been to the islands x2
Fin.
#Girldad
I am a Daddy’s Girl - I say this as an absolute. While we honour women throughout this issue, in light of the recent loss of basketball superstar, Kobe Bryant and his beautiful daughter and noting that Father’s Day crosses this period, it’s fitting to lend a voice to the men that play an influential role in building strong women. Here are my top 5 Lessons that ‘Girl Dads’ hope to impart to their daughters, as told by them: fiercely independent: it 1. Be allows more opportunity to choose a partner for love rather than ‘need’
no one with your 2. Trust happiness, it’s your duty to yourself
toxic or abusive 3. Avoid relationships in any form those who love you; 4. Protect appreciate them for who they are and not what you want them to be
unapologetic about your 5. Be passions; pursue them with fervor
BY: taneya rogers
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“It is true I was created in you. It is also true That you were created for me. I owned your voice. It was shaped and tuned to soothe me. Your arms were molded Into a cradle to hold me, to rock me. The scent of your body was the air Perfumed for me to breathe.” “MOTHER, A CRADLE TO HOLD ME” by MAYA ANGELOU
Mother’s Day
GIFT GUIDE BY: GREG DAVIS
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Mothers Day 2020 will be one of the most memorable for many of us. Yet limiting the celebration of mothers to a single day is never sufficient. This year we have chosen to present options for making the mom in your life feel special at any time during the year. Whether you are seeking ideas for the new mom, fashionista mom, a DIY mom, the mom who has it all, or the mom in search of a little adventure, we have curated a list of ideas that covers all the bases.
Laws Of Nature Cosmetics
The new Laws of Nature Cosmetics® FOXY FINISH™ MINERAL CRÈME CONTOUR PALETTE is an all-in-one product that includes one foundation, highlight, and contour shade to seamlessly sculpt 2523 and define the face. Perfect for travel! It contains Pro-vitamin B5 which helps hydrate, soothe and encourage self-healing of the skin over time. Great for sensitive skin. Vegan and cruelty-free. Laws of Nature Cosmetics Order Online: www.lawsofnaturecosmetics.com (202) 670 - 2701 support@lawsofnaturecosmetics.com Instagram @lawsofnaturecosmetics
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Harley Wrap Power Band
Looking for that ultimate, eye popping, wow moment, surprise gift? The Harley Wrap Power Band could be what you need. A member of the Hearts On Fire collection available at Azurys Jewellers, this ring features two rows of diamonds and one row of pink sapphires, criss-crossing to form an amazing sparkle effect. Azurys Jewellers www.azurys.ca Location: 10072 Jasper Ave, Edmonton, AB T5J 1V8 (780) 271 - 7272 info@azurys.ca
Samakaka Fold Over Clutch
Uniquely designed with that edge that shows you know what it is all about. The beautiful and bold fabric patterns allow you to pair the bag easily with your day or night outfit. Dress it up, dress it down at your will. It is large enough to carry your laptop when unfolded. Comes in various patterns and colours for you to choose from. KYN Apparel www.kynapparel.com @kynapparel
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The Teal Peplum Top Get ready for Spring and Summer wear with local Edmonton brand Samu_Couture. This top is a soft, breathable, lightweight spandex suitable for any occasion. Pairs well with jeans or leggings and is available in a variety of limitededition sizes and colors. Designed by Samu_Couture samucouture@gmail.com @samu_couture (438) 275 - 8557
Urban Exploration – Edmonton Gallery District / Tiramisu Bistro For the mom who is difficult to shop for, the gift of an experience can go a long way. Consider the gems that lay along Edmonton’s 124th Street in the Edmonton Gallery District. Spend a few hours exploring our local galleries including the Tim Okamura collection at the Peter Robertson Gallery and wrap up the day with a bottle of wine and tasty deserts at Tiramisu Bistro. Edmonton Gallery District Location: 124th Street, Edmonton www.edmontongallerydistrict.com Tiramisu Bistro www.tiramisubistro.ca 10750 124 St, Edmonton, AB T5M 0H1 (780) 452 - 3393
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Spa Day The Melanin Studio
The gift of self care is one that every mom can appreciate and Melanin Studio offers a unique experience with the underline philosophy that everyone is naturally beautiful. The spa offers a safe space for mom to get a facial, body treatment and body contouring, giving mom the confidence, she deserves. The Melanin Studio www.themelaninstudio.com (780) 707 - 0205 themelaninstudio@gmail.com @the.melanin.studio
Anoint Oil
Afrodisiac Natural Products are formulated with whole ingredients for the repair and care of Loose and Loc’d Afro Textured Hair, and Melanated skin. Their Anoint Oil product line, made from Rose- Lavender and Calendula infused Rice Bran oil and Black Seed Oil and perfect for hair and body, is formulated to even-out skin tone and fade blemishes, marks and scars over time. Afrodisiac Natural Shop www.afrodisiacnaturals.com @afrodisiacnaturals
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EMBEDDED IN OUR PAST.
INTEGRAL TO OUR FUTURE.
YOU ARE ALBERTA.
DAVID SHEPHERD
MLA Edmonton - City Centre 780-414-0743 Edmonton.CityCentre@assembly.ab.ca @DShepYeg
LATE
6ft
SELF-ISO
STAY HOME
SOCIAL DISTANCING
WASH HANDS
We’re in this together. ALBERTA.CA/COVID-19
X-WORD
MEL ANIS TIC Melanistic Magazine X-Words 1
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Down ACROSS savage, classy, bougie ______", used to tighten nutsDOWN 1. Any of the family of large cats including Lions, Leopards, and Jaguar 3. CFL “I’mrecords, a savage,Don't classy, family Superhero of large cats including Lions, Leopards, and Jaguars, over 20 feedbougie him after midnight1. Any of theMarvel ern Canada's largest Caribbean 2. You need 50% of the populous for democratic change but only 3.5% ______”, used to tighten festival nuts Marvel Superhero m New Brunswick, first20 Black player in the NHL for this 8. Holds over CFLhockey records, Don’t 2. You need 50% of the populous for democratic change but only 3.5% Africanfeed American Self-Made Millionaire, movementfor assisting 4. One of Canada's top exports, 25 times more expensive than a barrel him after midnight this of crude mainly used my seniors 10. Western Canada’s largest Caribbe- 4. One of Canada’s topoilexports, 25 times more expensive than a barrel h that an thefestival Haitian Revolution ended of crude oil 5. the plastic end of a shoe lace, often metal on Jordan's of Canada's Longest Organizations for Afro-Canadians First to win Bestmetal Reggae at the Grammy's, hot mornin 12. From Newrunning Brunswick, first Black 5. the plastic 6. end of awoman shoe lace, often on album Jordan’s ong byhockey Ari Lennox, Major Canadian drink player in the NHL Bank 6. First woman to win Best Reggae album at the Grammy’s, hot morning ean on Me, Lovely Day, and what happens to flowers in the fall 7. The presence of melanin or dark pigment in skin, Edmonton's Premie 14. First African American Self-Made drink Urban Lifestyle Magazine Millionaire, movement assisting 7. The presence of melanin or dark pigment in skin, Edmonton’s Premier 9. First Black Quarterback, Celestial Body in the sky at night device mainly used my seniors Urban Lifestyle Magazine 11. A type of hairstyle; a type of Samurai 17. Month that the Haitian Revolution 9. First Black Quarterback, Celestial Body in the sky at night 13. Record setting Team Canada Women's Hockey Player, snubbed for ended 11. A type of hairstyle; a type of Samurai Women's Olympic Team 18. One of Canada’s Longest running 13. Record setting Team Canada Women’s Hockey Player, snubbed for 15. Monarch had and executed many wives, Canada's first Black Femal Organizations for Afro-Canadians Women’s Olympic Team Lawyer from Edmonton Alberta 19. Hit song by Ari Lennox, Major 15. Monarch16. had"Pick and Me executed many firstAlberta Black Female Up" Bistro onwives, 124 st Canada’s in Edmonton,
Canadian Bank 20. RIP Lean on Me, Lovely Day, and what happens to flowers in the fall
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Lawyer from Edmonton Alberta 16. “Pick Me Up” Bistro on 124 st in Edmonton, Alberta
Top 5 dead or alive
by: nilo
by: nilo Here, in no particular order -
Your TOP 5 Black Female Athletes of All Time :
5 4
SHELLY-ANN FRASER-PRYCE
Jamaican born Shelly-Ann became the world’s fastest woman running the 100 meter in 10.71s at the World Championships.
SIMONE BILES
The most decorated gymnast, male or female, in history with 25 Medals.
Photo credit: Leonard Zhukovsky - Shutterstock
3 2
JACKIE JOYNER-KERSEE
Won 3 gold, 1 silver and 2 bronze medals over 4 different Olympic Games making her one of the best Heptathletes of all time.
SERENA WILLIAMS
Won more titles than any other human in tennis, 23, winning the most prize money in tennis.
Photo credit: Yann Caradec
1
ANGELA JAMES
Set the record for goals in 1990 with 11 - and led the Canadian Women’s Hockey Team to IIHF Gold in ‘90, ‘92, ’94,’97. Somehow left off the Canadian team for the first Women’s Olympic tournament in 1998.
Check the Runner-Ups at Melanisticmagazine.com
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US
BY FOR
BLACK CANADIAN WOMEN IN ACTION Jeanne Lehman founded Black Canadian Women (BCW) in Action in 2017.
Officially launched in March 2019, the bilingual (English and French) organization with over 400 members is “meant to be a hub for women across Western Canada”. Lehman stresses that while Black women are often well educated and skilled, it is not reflected in the workforce, particularly in business. This observation gave birth to the organization.
BCW’S GOALS INCLUDE: Enabling Black women to use innate tools by mitigating barriers to growth and goalachievement. Helping Black women to gain access to leadership and decisions-making positions. Empowering Black women to take responsibility for their own destinies. Creating solutions that respond to the unique challenges faced by Black women. Fostering investment among Black women. Inclusion of Black women in all areas and levels of society. For more information visit their website: https://www.bcwinaction.ca/ 32 MELANISTIC
MELANISTIC TRAVELER ANGEL FALLS Trinidad &Tobago
I’ve executed some harrowing hikes with the threat of bears or falling off a cliff, so what could be different about hiking Angel Falls, Trinidad? Right? That confidence diminished when I saw the mammoth first aid kit equipped with anti-venom for snakebites! I could possibly encounter one of my worse fears! The spectacular scenery, the lush rainforest, crossing five rivers, the wide variety of flora, the gorgeous yet delicate butterflies and other fauna, quickly dampened my anxieties as I mastered the art of hiking this terrain. Our destination greeted us with a plunge pool for frolicking, fed by the cascading 50-foot falls. Even the onset of a thunderstorm added to the experience: we drank rainwater filtered through the leaves and bark of palm trees. The rains also transformed the forest floor into a slip n’ slide, forcing us to crawl on our backs for our return trek. Thankfully, we finished our journey only with minor bruises, an amazing story and without the use of antivenom. The word breathtaking does not do this hike justice; Angel Falls is a must-do experience when visiting Trinidad and Tobago.
BY: anmarie bailey 33
Our
WOMEN in HISTORY By: Greg Davis
Violet King, Couresy of Archives and Special Collections, University of Calgary 34 MELANISTIC
“I would like to be known as an intelligent woman, a courageous woman, a loving woman, a woman who teaches by being” - Maya Angelou It is commonly said that it’s hard to know where one is going, if one doesn’t know where they are from. The struggle of Black women in our society is real and often we forget or are unaware of those that came before, easing the burden. That void in knowledge is a manifestation of institutionalized marginalization that has hindered many. As a man, I cannot fully comprehend the depths of it however, I am a student of history and thus I thought to apply my love for peering into the past, to learn about some of Canada’s female torchbearers. Women who moved mountains and forged the tools for those of today to continue building with, shattering ceilings and stereotypes, while demonstrating that intelligence, courage, love and knowledge-of-self that makes you the unique queens of this world.
VIOLET KING A descendant of the African American migration to Amber Valley in the early 1900’s, Violet King was the first Black female lawyer in Canada, the first Black person to graduate with a law degree from the University of Alberta and the first Black person to be admitted to the Alberta Bar. Her career traversed from practising law in Calgary to becoming the first woman named to a senior management role within the American national YMCA, holding the title of Executive Director of the national council. 35
LULU ANDERSON In May 1922 Lulu Anderson went to Edmonton’s Metropolitan Theater to buy a ticket for the show “The Lion and the Mouse”; she was denied entry base on her race. She decided to bring a lawsuit before the Canadian courts but ultimately lost the case as the judge in his ruling Metropolitan Theatre, Couresy of Archives and Special Collections, University of Calgary stated, “management could refuse admission to anyone upon refunding the price of the ticket”. Her case files were destroyed in 1971, however it represents one of the pioneer moments in the Canadian fight for civil rights for the Black community.
SHIRLEY ROMANY Shirley Romany is recognized as one of matriarchs of the hair care industry in Edmonton. For over 40 years she has been one of the city’s top stylist for women in the Black community and founder of the iconic Ebony & Ivory Hair Salon. Her influence in the industry is felt across Alberta, with many top stylists emanating from under her tutelage.
HATTI MELTON Getting a job was a herculean task for a woman of colour during the 1940’s. Minorities in Canada, faced similar forms of discrimination as those in the States. Along came Hatti Melton and the birth of the local institution: Hatti’s Harlem Chicken Inn. From the mid 1940’s to the late 1960’s this restaurant served as a gathering point of people of colour who both lived in and visited Edmonton. However, Hatti’s also served as a place where Black women could find work and develop the skills needed for economic growth and independence. 36 MELANISTIC
resource guide
RETAIL
dining
Azurys Jewellers 10072 Jasper Ave Edmonton, AB T5J 1V8 (780) 271 - 7272 www.azurys.ca
Blue Nile Authentic Ethiopian Restaurant 11019 107 Ave NW Edmonton, AB T5H 3G2 (780) 428-5139
Bamboo Ballroom 8206 104 St NW Edmonton, AB, T6E 2A2 (780) 439 - 1363 bambooballroom.ca
Irie Foods 2807 Mill Woods Rd NW Edmonton, AB T6K 4A9 (780) 414-1341 iriefoods.ca
Kasoa Tropical Food Market Ltd 9340 118 Avenue Edmonton, AB, T5G 0N6 (780) 328 - 1751 kasoatropicalfood.com
Island Grill 15203 Stony Plain Rd Edmonton, AB, T5P 3Y4 islandgrillalberta.com
Londonderry Mall 1-Londonderry Mall NW Edmonton, AB, T5C 3C8 londonderrymall.com Mama Afro Beauty Supply 9323 118 Ave NW Edmonton, AB, T5G 0N3 (780) 477 - 8511 Token Bitters An Edmonton original brand, with organically sourced ingredients from our local farmers and businesses and bottled without chemicals or preservatives. Token Bitters’ handcrafted artisanal aromatic bitters, adds a layer of flavour complexity to cocktails, mocktails and coffee. A couple of drops are guaranteed to elevate your bartending game to a whole new level. www.tokenbitters.com info@TokenBitters.com
Koultures AfroContinental Restaurant 8803 118 Ave NW Edmonton, AB T5B 0T3 (780) 244 - 3500 Langano Skies Ethiopian Restaurant 9920 82 Ave NW Edmonton, AB, T6E 1Y9 (780) 432 - 3334 langanoskies.com Mumbai Dakar Restaurant 4322 118 Ave NW Edmonton, AB T5W 1A6 (780) 474 - 0833 Sunset Reggae Kitchen 15608 103 Ave NW Edmonton, AB, T5P 0P3 (780) 540 - 1200 sunset-reggae-kitchen.com Tiramisu Bistro 10750 124 St, Edmonton, AB T5M 0H1 (780) 452 - 3393 www.tiramisubistro.ca
services
A1 Freight Forwarding 1 (800) 280 - 0277 a1freightforwarding.com Africa Centre 6770 129 Ave NW #106 Edmonton, AB T5C 1V7 (780) 455 - 5423 africacentre.ca Afrodisiac Natural Shop 11445 124 St Unit 211 Edmonton, AB, T5M 0K4 (780) 964 - 7117 afrodisiacnaturals.com Audrey French Photography audreynfrench@gmail.com Errol Scott Realty Group Full Time & Full-Service Real Estate Professional delivering world-class service and doing whatever it takes to make my Clients Real Estate Goals & Dreams become a reality! Contact: Errol Scott (780) 271 - 1114 info@errolscott.com Hidden Continent Travel 10508 107 Ave NW Edmonton, AB T5H 0W2 (403) 594 - 1112 Insecure Fitness Insta: @insecure_fitness insecurefitness@gmail.com Legacy Barbershop & Salon 8930 Jasper Ave Edmonton, AB, T5H 4E9 (587) 928 - 2840
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resource guide services
community groups
MP Cubed Media Photography/ Cinematography/Certified Drone Pilot Insta: @mp_cubed_media (647) 471 - 7637
Cameroon Association of Edmonton (780) 394 - 0412 cae-ace.ca
N.T.P. Mechanical (780) 903 - 9905 SP Events jasmine@spevents.ca spevents.ca Socafit – Caribbean Dance and Fitness Classes 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. info@socafit.ca socafit.ca SMRT Health Center 14256 23 Ave NW Edmonton, AB T6R 3B9 (780) 705 - 0450 smrthealth.com The Bar 6009 86 Street Edmonton, AB T6E-2X4 (780) 468 - 6560 thebarfitness.ca Yves Salon 10340 134 St NW Edmonton, AB T5N 2B1 (780) 604 - 0301 yvessalon.com
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ZoĂŤ Medical Clinic 6572 170 Ave NW Edmonton, AB T5Y 3X6 (780) 475 - 9635 zoemedical.ca
Cariwest - Western Carnival Development Association (780) 394 - 0412 cae-ace.ca Congo Association of Edmonton (587) 987 - 0363 Ethiopian Community Association in Edmonton (780) 405 - 3782 ethio-edmonton.org Friends of Barbados friendsofbarbadosedm@ gmail.com GFAE (Ghana Friendship Association of Edmonton) ghanaalberta.com Jamaica Association of Northern Alberta (JANA) (780) 423 - 5262 National Black Coalition of Canada www.nbccedmonton.ca
Nigerian Association of Alberta (780) 437 - 9769 Rwandese Canadian Community of Edmonton (RCCE) (780) 686 - 2016 Senegalese Association of Edmonton (780) 932 - 6097 Somali-Canadian Cultural Society of Edmonton (780) 267 - 7992 somaliedmonton.com Trinidad & Tobago Cultural Association Of Edmonton 16712 113 Ave NW Edmonton, AB T5M 3P9 (780) 455 - 5310 Zimbabwe Cultural Society of Alberta (780) 902 - 1270 zimaa2004@yahoo.com
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THANK YOU,
EDMONTON
