11 Comments
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VersAnnette (Verse) Blackman's avatar

Sis. You’re speaking my whole life right now. Grew up in Chinatown and the chi, but planning to relocate to Atlanta in the fall. I’m ready. 🩷 Thanks for the encouragement.

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Aajah Sauter's avatar

Thank you for reading my piece 🩷🩷 i definitely recommend relocating. It’ll change your life

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d.Simone's avatar

I live in Atlanta. Been here since early 90s. I think you'll love it here.

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Aajah Sauter's avatar

I’ll definitely have to visit. It’s been on my bucket list for a while

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VersAnnette (Verse) Blackman's avatar

Awww thanks for saying so. I’m literally looking for ways to connect with the Artist community there, for writing and painting. And applying for jobs now too. I’m a Youth Educator for Mental Health so if you know of any jobs, tips, ideas etc. Please drop me a line! 🙏🏾🩷

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Deymadamvicky's avatar

What a fantastic story. I understand how it feels to live among people with whom you must always be conscious of your hair, clothing, and other aspects of your appearance. I'm glad you found yourself and are enjoying your Blackness.

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Aajah Sauter's avatar

Thank you for reading my piece! 🥺🩷 exactly! You get it

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Cierra Turks's avatar

I relate to this so much! Growing up in the suburbs of Illinois and then moving to the south side of chicago was literally whiplash. I felt so behind on everything within our culture and felt isolated my first year there. Being part of the african american club in high school gave me an introduction to history i never learned, but i lacked the social aspects and still do. Luckily i can play spades but even at almost 30, it’s a huge game of catch up but i just learn what i can when i can.

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Aajah Sauter's avatar

Thank you for reading my piece 🩷 those clubs and social groups can be huge game changers for us!

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d.Simone's avatar

I'm sure this story is relatable to many of us. At least, for me and I started much later. I wasn't in my 20s, 30s or even mid 40s. It was only a few years ago, I realized I was missing something. I was fortunate enough to meet a friend who introduced many of these amazing artists, activist, and now close friends to my soul. And that's what they are, friends. I just posted a new story where I added a photo of Angela Davis taking a stroll with Toni Morrison. I just love that photo and what it represents about us. This is a lovely story. Thanks for sharing.

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Anayo's avatar

Thanks for reading D! When you realize how much art, stories, history there is to absorb after your awakening - it's overwhelming but so so rewarding. And the more you learn, the more about yourself is revealed.

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