April 8, 2015 | By Noël Gordon
This past Sunday marked the end of the Color of Change Community Summit 2013. And let me tell you - I felt all the emotions! What once started out an awesome idea soon became a full-scale conference - with over 100 attendees, 30 facilitators, 20 presenters, 12 workshops, 2 keynotes, and 1 Catwalk Extravaganza!
The Summit began Friday afternoon with the Art Expo! Thankfully we were able to feature the work of five queer people of color, including the Coalition's own Ramiro Alvarez Cabriales and Brian Garcia. Ramiro's Yo Soy exhibit explored the complexities of 'queer latinidad' through a series of photographs and heartfelt testimonials. Brian offered up himself as art, choosing to perform a live piece about the challenges queer people of color often face navigating predominantly white spaces and relationships. All of the exhibits were beautiful in their own right and truly set the tone for many of the conversations to come.
Saturday was jam-packed with conference groups, caucus groups, and break out sessions. But make no mistake about it: Kim Crosby brought down the house with her rousing talk. A multi-issue organizer from Toronto, Kim talked about the importance of building communities, "cheating capitalism," and pursuing collective liberation. She also encouraged us to support and love on one another since we often forget that hurt people, hurt people.
Two-hours and a few power naps later, the conference was back on! Only this time, we were out of the School of Social Work and inside the Michigan Union. For what, you may ask? The 3rd Annual Catwalk Extravaganza! From Naomi Campbell walks to knockout dance performances, the show was a huge hit! Well over 200 people joined us for a fun-filled night of diversity, uniqueness, fabulosity, and style!
The final day of the conference brought with it critical conversations and engaged self-reflection. And with a sense of community firmly in tact, conference attendees soon began looking for ways to turn their knowledge into praxis. Fortunately we were able to put them in touch with five local activists here in the state of Michigan. Each panelist brought a wealth of wisdom and experience to the room - whether in the form of research, capacity-building, direct service, advocacy, or community organizing.
With most of the conference behind us, the only thing left to do was hear from the man, the myth, the legend: Kit Yan. Kit's performance was the perfect way to end the Summit given the power of his words and authenticity of his voice. His poems spoke truth to power while still giving people the space to feel, cry, laugh, and love. And for that, I am eternally grateful.