Not Asking For It.
Currently, there are roughly 18 Caribbean Carnivals held across the United States (pre-covid, of course) and I have found on many occasions the cultural experience to clash with American values and perceptions.
American Wines Matter (AWM) is a platform offering a fresh perspective on Caribbean Carnival culture. Through comprehensive guides, tips, and personal experiences, AWM assists both new and seasoned masqueraders in planning and enhancing their Carnival journeys. The blog covers topics such as Carnival planning, wellness for participants, and financial strategies to support the Carnival lifestyle. AWM also emphasizes inclusivity and cultural appreciation, encouraging individuals from all backgrounds to participate in and enjoy the rich traditions of Caribbean Carnival.
More than bikinis, beads, and feathers.
To a lot of people not familiar to the culture we may automatically gravitate to Carnival as being a definition. But the culture is so much more than that.
AWM Spotlight: Tash Elzie
Next up in the AWM spotlight is Tash Elzie, co-host of the @preezeedoesit podcast, photographer, stand-up comedienne AND super-mom. Read all about her carnival love story, how she enjoys carnival despite her challenges with sensory sensitivity, and her perspectives on battling the mental health stigma in the black community.
African without memory.
As soon as the Joshua Butler scandal came to light, people started to look left and right and ask: How do we keep another White Chocolate from happening again? Below depicts my lens and experiences in light of the four8 Interview.
AWM Spotlight: Crystal Wallace
Curvy carnival queens, we honor you! Next up in the AWM spotlight is Crystal Walace, founder of The Curve Experience. Read about how she was inspired to create this platform, her thought s on curvy-girl inclusion and how TCE is not just for plus-sized women.
The Evolution of AWM
September 18 marked the 2nd year anniversary of AWM. In light of current events, its important to reflect on AWM has been and where it is going.
AWM Spotlight: Shujaa Smith
Today we catch up with Shujaa (pronounced shoe-jah) Smith, the co-founder of RBG Carnival. Read about his journey and intersection of culture and cause.
Chadwick Boseman: A Clinical Reflection.
Black people are diagnosed with colorectal cancer (CRC) at an earlier age with a later presentation of symptoms, higher overall mortality rate and a worse overall 5-year survival rate than Whites (American Journal of Preventative Medicine, 2018). And yet, when I look around I see very few initiatives to...
Carnival and Healing Trauma.
I honestly think that I can count on one hand how many black women I know that have NOT been a victim of child or adult sexual abuse/assault. This entry is a recount of my experiences with child sexual abuse and how Carnival has worked on healing fragmented pieces...
AWM Spotlight: Erica Dixon
Today we will catch up with Erica Dixon, the founder of Unity Mas Band. Read all about how she came to love Carnival and started her own mas band.
Enjoy the Culture Responsibly.
Looking back at an experience that made me realize that I was not consuming the carnival culture responsibly, and what I did to change it.