Steven by Larry on the train to Princeton.
Looking forward to this week of exercising, writing, loving and being open to all the changes that are taking place in my life right now thanks to Cheryl, Heru, Carla, Marvin, Donald and Larry.
Cheryl and I just about to launch her third book of poetry, the beautiful Convincing the Body, in mid-September. Stay tuned for details.
Heru just successfully defended his dissertation yesterday, and I was on hand for this joyous event. I am so pleased with you, Heru. You are truly lighting the way to healing, and for that I am truly grateful for our friendship. Do I have to call you Dr. Heru?
Carla knitted me a hat and scarf combo. It is fly and all of that and no, you cannot have it! Get your own!
Marvin, as usual, is beacon and provides me with enough love to do better, be better and strive to be my own best thing. And the muthafucka can cook.
Donald and I met last week and shared our thoughts about a number of things including being artists and how to live, as opposed to simply survive. We didn't agree on a few points (muah!) but I am learning that friends don't have to; I am down for dissent and being uncomfortable just so as long as we strive together. Donald, I love you. Let's keep this conversation going. I am here.
And what can I say about Larry? I love him, the end. Go read his latest.
Finally, I am blogging because I want you to come to join me tonight as we celebrate the life and legacy of our brother and friend Rashawn Brazell. Between 6pm and midnight Luke and Leroy's, 21 7th Avenue South (at Leroy St.), 1/9 to Houston, New York City, New York. Luke and Leroy's was one of Rashawn's favorite places to party, will proudly host "Brighter Days," the official launch party for the Rashawn Brazell Memorial Scholarship. The requested donation is a mere ten dollars, every cent of which will be used to support the college education of a New York City student committed to the fight against racism, sexism and homophobia.
About the Scholarship
The Rashawn Brazell Memorial Scholarship was established in the wake of the brutal murder of 19-year-old Rashawn Brazell, whose February 2005 murder touched many in the black gay community and beyond. The scholarship aims to provide a sustainable tribute to the slain teen by encouraging New York City high schoolers to think critically about the impact of intolerance and violence on our communities. Selection for this need-sensitive scholarship will be based on the student’s investment in the struggle against racism, sexism, homophobia and other forms of oppression, as well as their commitment to creating peace in the community by affirming diversity.
About the Scholarship
The scholarship will be hosted at The North Star Fund. Founded in 1979, North Star is a unique partnership of donors and community activists dedicated to building a permanent institutional and financial base for progressive social change. Each year North Star funds cutting-edge groups who are dynamic and daring in their approach. The RBMS is proud to be one such group
For more information or to make a tax-deductible donation, contact:
The Rashawn Brazell Memorial Scholarship Fund
P.O. Box 211
New York, New York 10037-9998
E-mail: RBScholars@aol.com
Fax/E-mail: 206-339-5449