Suggested by Minakshi Arora for International day for the remembrance of the slave trade some good reads that discuss the transatlantic slave trade and its abolition.
Murphy, Sharon Ann.Banking on Slavery: Financing Southern Expansion in the Antebellum United States
Jean, Martine.Policing Freedom: Illegal Enslavement, Labor, and Citizenship in Nineteenth-Century Brazil
Bernstein, Robin.Freeman’s Challenge: The Murder that Shook America’s Original Prison for Profit
Cutter, Martha. The Many Resurrections of Henry Box Brown: The Man Who Mailed Himself to Freedom
Kretz, Dale.Administrating Freedom: The State of Emancipation after the Freedmen’s Bureau
Rarey, Matthew.Insignificant Things: Amulets and the Art of Survival in the Early Black Atlantic
Emberton, Carole.An Intimate History of Freedom: The Biography of Emancipated Slave Priscilla Joyner
Kenny, Kevin. The Problem of Immigration in a Slaveholding Republic: Policing Mobility in the Nineteenth-Century United States
LaCroix, Alison L.The Interbellum Constitution: Union, Commerce, and Slavery in the Age of Federalisms
In celebration of Caribbean Heritage Month, we invite you on a journey to explore the rich and diverse tapestry of Caribbean culture. From the rhythmic beats of music to the tantalizing flavors of cuisine. Due to its history in colonialism, slavery and indentureship, the mixture of struggle and celebrations in the Caribbean region results in an evolving melting pot of traditions, history, and vibrant culture. Join us as we dive into various aspects of Caribbean culture and gain a deeper appreciation for the incredible contributions of the Caribbean community.
Caribbean Music:
Caribbean music is a vibrant and influential force that has captivated listeners around the world. From the infectious beats of reggae to the energetic soca, the Caribbean region has given birth to a kaleidoscope of musical genres that celebrate its rich cultural heritage. Join us as we embark on a rhythmic journey through the diverse sounds and rhythms of Caribbean music.
Reggae: The Soul of Jamaica.
Soca: The Rhythm of the Caribbean Carnival- originating in African, Indigenous and Indian beats
Caribbean music is a testament to the region’s rich cultural heritage and the creativity of its people. From reggae’s soul-stirring melodies to soca’s infectious rhythms, the Caribbean offers a diverse range of musical genres that have left an indelible mark on the global music scene.
Culinary Delights: A Taste of the Caribbean
A Taste of the Caribbean is a culinary experience that celebrates the rich and diverse flavors of the Caribbean region. It showcases the vibrant and delicious cuisine found in countries such as Jamaica, Trinidad and Tobago, Cuba, Puerto Rico, Barbados, and many others. The Caribbean region is known for its tropical climate, which allows for the cultivation of a wide variety of fruits, vegetables, and spices. The cuisine reflects this abundance, with dishes that incorporate fresh ingredients and bold flavors. The combination of African, European, and Indigenous influences has created a unique culinary identity that is both familiar and exotic.
Some of the signature dishes you might find at Culinary Delights: A Taste of the Caribbean include:
Jerk Chicken: This is a spicy and flavorful grilled chicken dish marinated in a blend of spices such as scotch bonnet peppers, allspice, thyme, and garlic. It is often served with rice and peas (rice cooked with kidney beans) and plantains.
Roti: A popular dish in Trinidad and Tobago, roti is a type of flatbread filled with various savory fillings such as curried goat, chicken, or vegetables. It is typically eaten by tearing off pieces of the bread and using it to scoop up the filling.
Rice and Beans: A staple dish in many Caribbean countries, rice and beans is a flavorful combination of rice cooked with kidney beans, coconut milk, and spices such as thyme and garlic. It is often served as a side dish with meats or seafood.
Conch Fritters: Conch is a type of shellfish commonly found in the Caribbean. Conch fritters are made by mixing chopped conch with a batter made from flour, eggs, and seasonings, then deep-frying the mixture until golden brown. They are often served as an appetizer or snack.
Callaloo: Callaloo is a popular Caribbean dish made with leafy greens such as taro leaves or amaranth, cooked with coconut milk, spices, and sometimes seafood or meat. It has a rich and creamy texture and is often served with rice.
Rum Punch: No Caribbean culinary experience would be complete without a taste of the region’s famous rum punch. Made with rum, fruit juices (such as pineapple and orange), lime juice, and a touch of grenadine, it is a refreshing and tropical cocktail.
Carnival: The Spirit of Celebration
Carnival is a cultural celebration that originated in Trinidad and Tobago but has since spread to various Caribbean countries and beyond. It is a time of joy, music, dance, and elaborate costumes, where people come together to revel in the rich cultural heritage of the region.
At “Carnival: The Spirit of Celebration Caribbean,” participants can expect an immersive experience that showcases the various elements of Caribbean carnival culture. Here are some key features you might encounter:
Parade of Bands: One of the highlights of Caribbean carnival is the parade of bands. These bands consist of revelers dressed in vibrant and intricate costumes, often adorned with feathers, sequins, and beads. The bands move through the streets, accompanied by lively music, dancing, and exuberant celebrations.
Soca and Calypso Music: Soca and calypso are the dominant music genres during carnival. Soca is a lively and rhythmic genre that fuses elements of calypso, reggae, and other Caribbean musical styles. Calypso, on the other hand, is a traditional genre characterized by witty and often politically charged lyrics. At the event, you can expect live performances by popular soca and calypso artists, as well as DJs spinning energetic carnival tunes.
Traditional Caribbean Cuisine: Caribbean cuisine is an integral part of the carnival experience. Food stalls and vendors will offer a variety of delectable dishes representing the diverse culinary traditions of the Caribbean. You can sample mouthwatering specialties like jerk chicken, roti, fried plantains, seafood delicacies, and refreshing tropical drinks.
Art and Craft Exhibitions: Caribbean carnival is not just about music and dance—it is also an opportunity to showcase the region’s vibrant art and craft scene. The event may feature exhibitions and displays of traditional Caribbean crafts, such as handmade masks, costumes, sculptures, and paintings. Visitors can appreciate the creativity and skill that goes into these artistic expressions.
Workshops and Cultural Activities: “Carnival: The Spirit of Celebration Caribbean” may also offer workshops and interactive activities where attendees can learn traditional dance moves, try on carnival costumes, or participate in drumming and steel pan sessions. These activities allow participants to engage with the cultural traditions firsthand and deepen their understanding of Caribbean carnival.
Family-Friendly Atmosphere: Caribbean carnival is known for its inclusive and family-friendly nature. The event is likely to have designated areas or activities catering to children, ensuring that everyone can enjoy the festive atmosphere together.
“Carnival” provides a platform to experience the colorful costumes, lively music, mouth watering food, and overall sense of celebration that make Caribbean carnivals truly special.
The Caribbean region is a treasure trove of culture, art, and traditions waiting to be discovered. By exploring the vibrant music, tantalizing cuisine, joyous celebrations, captivating arts, and timeless folklore, we can gain a deeper appreciation for the richness and diversity of Caribbean culture.
Let us celebrate Caribbean Heritage Month by embracing the spirit and contributions of the Caribbean community within our organization and beyond.
Earth day is celebrated every year on April 22nd to demonstrate support for environmental protection and highlighting initiatives and ideas for conservation of our planet. Earth is like a mother nurturing and giving us in abundance and it’s our turn to give back. We can all be making small efforts at individual level to help conserve our planet. This year for Earth day 2022, Corran’s came together to share some of the ideas which they have incorporated in their day to day lives along with the some pictures and hope this gives you all inspiration on changes you can bring about.
Use reusable bags for grocery shopping. Always bring a backpack/bag when you step out for shopping or any small purchases.
Use reusable products like cloth pads instead of cotton, silicon ear buds, handkerchiefs, reusable straws.
Purchase sustainable products as much as possible.
Recycle your cardboard (especially if you are a frequent online shopper).
Separating recyclable waste and non-recyclable waste. Follow this strictly by using designated bins in your house.
Use reusable bottles when you travel.
Reduce single use plastic consumption by opting for bar soap instead of pump bottles. You could even opt for bar shampoo and bar dish soaps.
Carpooling as much as possible when traveling places
Use the cycle or walk when it is possible or use public transport for travelling.
Use energy efficient vehicles.
Buy/sell/trade secondhand furniture and home decor within community.
Grow some of your own produce in your backyard or a small plot if possible.
Planting indoor Plants
Replace all lightbulbs with LED equivalent.
Buy smart appliances (lights) and set a routine for them to be automatically shut off.
Turn off lights and monitor when not in use.
Promote safe areas for pollinators.
Check local Facebook “Freecycle” or “Buy Nothing” groups for lightly used items including children’s toys.
Don’t use plastic wrap unless necessary.
Beach cleanup as a group
Don’t google everything searches consume Pc power + server power.
Buy shelf products like pasta, sauces etc. in cardboard or glass containers vs plastic if possible.
March is celebrated globally as Women’s History Month, which means it is time to recognize and celebrate women in your life. Corra values diversity, innovation, and equal opportunity for anybody with a great idea.
Here at Corra, we have a diverse employee base with women from all over the world whom we are grateful to call colleagues. Corra wouldn’t be the amazing organization it is without the people who work here, and that is true of the women you’re about to hear from.
We’ve organized a celebration and show of gratitude for Women’s History Month by asking women who work at Corra to share their experience with technology, and their experience working in the tech industry.
Read on to learn about your colleagues dreams, struggles, and aspirations when it comes to the tech world and their careers.
Thank you for celebrating Women’s History Month with us.
Cali Shadonix, Senior Manager of Business Development and Operations
How did your interest in technology begin?
Funny enough, my parents both worked full time and would push both my sister and I to join any cheap or free after school program so they wouldn’t have to make us walk 2 miles home from school each day. One of the programs I got ushered into when I was in 4th grade was a Lego robotics club hosted by one of my classmates’ fathers. The program was me, four boys, and one other girl. All the boys cliqued together and wanted to build the robot, while the other girl and I were ushered to the computers. We were in charge of coding the robot to be able to navigate itself through an obstacle course. Her and I were both bummed we didn’t get to build the robot, but we did program it well enough we got invited to Legoland to put the robot through a competition. We ended up winning as our code was more sophisticated and the robot didn’t have any “bugs”. While I obviously didn’t stick with the coding side of technology (and sometimes I wish I did!), this did spark my interest in what was possible to do with code.
What has your experience been like as a woman working in technology?
I got my start in tech working at a startup company. I was in charge of designing a customer service department from scratch and putting processes into place. Whenever I would bring up functionality changes that would improve customers quality of life, I was told that it was none of my concern as I didn’t know anything about the development side of things. To be honest, it was almost a repeat of what happened with my first tech experience; guys on one side and girls pushed to the corner. Myself and a coworker helped that start up go from $0 in revenue to $2m in revenue in the first 8 months post launch just from a customer service and brand building standpoint. Only when we both threatened to quit did they take our improvements seriously. When I started working at Corra, it was a whole other experience. I started working underneath Rachel Weir, who has mentored me to the ecommerce pro I am today. This has been the first company I’ve worked for that I feel men and women are on the same equal playing field when it comes to new ideas and leadership opportunities.
Rebecca Thomas, Sr. Strategic Alliances Manager
How did your interest in technology begin?
My career interests were never directly technology related. I stumbled into this field somewhat by accident. I originally wanted to be an architect so I started my journey by going to school for interior design. Unfortunately for me, I graduated with a design degree around the same time the housing market crashed. I decided the best thing for me to do would be to pivot into a business degree. That led me to content marketing/creation, branding, simple web design, etc. which began to really pique my interest in the world of technology. After years of freelancing, I landed a sales role at a fashion/beauty/lifestyle tech startup with a focus on eCommerce. My goal was marketing, but sales was where nearly everyone started, so I made the best of it.
What I didn’t know was that I would be really good at it. I became the highest ranking eComm seller year over year and moved into a content creation + marketing hybrid role where I eventually lead a small team of designers to build content for our org. I also worked alongside our director of partnerships to help sell us to brands we were looking to work with, all while still taking design and graphics clients on the side as a freelancer.
Once the pandemic hit, and my org went under, I pivoted into Telecommunications, where I ran a marketing team to help with the entire redesign, development, and launch of several brands. While my industry was different, I was still heavily eCommerce based. After working in an extremely cross functional environment, this is where I realized I wanted to make tech my career.
So I set out to find an opportunity that would lead me back into this industry. I was scouted for a potential marketing position, which led to me finding a role in Strategic Alliances with Corra. I have always been a people person. I love people, connections, and strategy. The design and creation part of my career will always have a place in my heart, but building connections and relationships in this industry is truly where I am meant to be. Now, I get to be a strategic thinker, a seller, a marketer, a friend, an ally.. you name it. in a field that I believe is the best place to be for our futures.
What has your experience been like as a woman working in technology?
I never want to add a negative perspective to my career path, as I have worked extremely hard to get to where I am today, and I am very proud of my accomplishments. However, let’s face it, working in any industry as a woman can be daunting. Especially, in a field that is dominated by the opposite sex (usually). If you want the honest truth, I have encountered endless amounts of setbacks as a woman in my field. There have been times where my input has been made to be “less valuable” simply because I am the only woman speaking in a room full of men. I have dealt with lewd comments, derogatory statements, and have not always been taken seriously solely based on my gender, regardless of the value I bring to the table.
It has not been the easiest of paths and I have fought with myself on numerous occasions not to give up… and I am so glad that I didn’t. We have made significant strides in this industry to support women, especially over the last few years. Companies, like Corra, have made it their mission to have more female leaders, a more evenly gendered employee base, DEI councils, and so on. There have been huge waves of progress, even through some of the setbacks, and this makes me incredibly hopeful for our future. That said, my experience in tech has made me stronger, more determined, and more prepared than ever. I have learned to understand my worth and value, and to not let anyone discount that simply because I am a woman.
I know that by continuing to grow and develop as part of this industry, I am adding to the advancements we are making as women. I refuse to give up at this point because I want to be part of the progress, not part of the problem. In conclusion, while it hasn’t been perfect, it has definitely been worth it and I encourage women of all ages to explore this world, because the juice is definitely worth the squeeze.
Remya C R, Director of Quality Assurance
How did your interest in technology begin?
I thank my professor who inspired me with their experience in technology. Their story inspired me to explore and gain knowledge in technology and make an impact in it. I love to follow inspirational stories and knew I could make an impact in the technology field. During my studies, I was very curious to do programming and when I got my code to run with 0 errors, it would make me smile, especially during my exams. I was also very curious to solve errors in the program and guide my friends which made me their second teacher, a teacher who explained the programming language in simple terms they could understand. Though I was not trained and placed in the technical side of the IT industry, From the beginning of my career, I have tried to bring my own impact in all the work I do and relate technology to daily life activities. I still continue to explore.
What has your experience been like as a woman working in technology?
Working in technology requires a lot of dedication, and this can be challenging for women sometimes, but it’s not different from any other field, it’s just a matter of choice. I always believe in “if there is a will there’s a way”. It’s true, if you have passion and are ready to work hard there is nothing that you cannot achieve. From my personal experience and co-workers, I can say that if you have determination you can crack it easily and have leadership qualities.
This industry is constantly changing – ensuring you keep your skills fresh will help you stay ahead. Also sometimes to get recognized, you have to take the initiative and maybe get outside of your comfort zone. Doing self-homework and extra work you put in might be unfair sometimes, but it will make you a genius in your field, an outlier, and that ends up being more than worth it, because the ones that are passionate and dedicated, regardless of gender, are the ones who end up in leading positions.
Taking a forum where you can express the knowledge you gain with personal experience opened up leadership opportunities for me. If you allow yourself to be quiet in the background, no one will know who you are.
Setting priorities in your professional life and personal life and performing the task in a time-bound and organized way will help to bring balance in life and manage your personal and professional life smoothly.
Bismita Hazarika, Software Developer
How did your interest in technology begin?
My first interaction with the internet was running to the cybercafé to check out exam results, download assignments, and stuff. It always made me curious to know who were those people who set up the website and how on earth it displayed my scorecard and not someone else’s. Later, I got acquainted with the term “web developer,” and I knew this is what I wanted to do.
What has your experience been like as a woman working in technology?
Coming from a small town tucked in a corner of North-East India where technology hasn’t bloomed much, getting into the tech industry was quite a task. With zero experience and no references that I started with, no one was willing to give me a chance. Struggling for almost a year with multiple interview attempts, I somehow carved my way into the industry only to be piled with the lamest of tasks that had got nothing to do with the skill set I had. Most of the time, being the only female developer, it was quite difficult to gain trust when it came to taking on responsibilities, not to mention about leadership or recognition; the first preference is always “he” and not “She”. People were more used to having women as “showpieces,” but this mindset is changing now and women are actually leading, marching shoulder to shoulder with men.
For Black History Month, we would like to take the time to recognize prominent Black figures and locations throughout American history.
Barney Ford escaped slavery to become a prominent entrepreneur and civic leader in Colorado. Ford owned restaurants, barbershops, hotels and was the first Black man to be nominated to the Colorado Territorial legislature.
Bessie Colman’s legacy lives on as the very first woman of African American and Native American descent to earn her pilot’s license in the US.
Eatonville, Florida is not only the home of Zora Neale Hurston, author of Their Eyes Were Watching God, but is also the first all-Black city to become incorporated in the state of Florida. It was established in 1887 after being settled by former slaves after the civil war.
Benjamin Banneker was an African American intellectual who constructed a wooden clock – considered the first in America; predicted the solar eclipse of 1789; was an almanac author – a rare achievement for his time; and possessed advanced knowledge of astronomy and mathematics. Additionally, Banneker was selected in 1791 to survey the land which became Washington, D.C.
In the past we also had 2 sessions with Wayne Winborne, who spoke with the council on various topics surrounding the African American community & helped council members learn how to be an ally. Wayne also eloquently discussed the history of Diversity, Equality, and Inclusion and how this topic has changed in society’s view from civil rights legislation through the Black Lives Matter movement.
Some books suggested by our council volunteer’s:
How to Be an Antiracist- Ibram X, Kendi
Four Hundred Souls, A Community History of African America 1619-2019- Ibram X. Kendi and Keisha N. Blain
India is a diverse country with a rich cultural heritage. There are tons to learn about the culture of India,On the occasion of India’s republic day our india team participated and shared some fascinating facts that you probably didn’t know:
India Holds a Festival That Is Visible From Space
Kumbh Mela is a national festival held about once every 12 years. The festival is a pilgrimage taking place over four river-bank sites: the Allahabad, Haridwar, Nashik, and Ujjain. At each location, participants take a ritual dip in the waters. In Indian culture, people believe that the religious ritual of taking a swim will “wash their sins away.”
The festival itself is massive, with some years seeing as many as 100 million participants making the pilgrimage. Satellites in space captured the festival.
Home to the Most Post Offices in the World
India is currently home to 154,965 post offices. The postal service in India has been running for over 150 years. It is considered the most widely distributed postal network worldwide.
India even has a “floating post office.” The floating post office stands on a houseboat located in Srinagar in beautiful Dal Lake.
The Hindu Calendar Recognizes 6 Seasons
Unlike most calendars which recognize four seasons (spring, summer, fall, winter), the Hindu calendar has six seasons. The spring season is called Vasant Ritu. The summer season is called Grishma Ritu, and the monsoon is Varsha Ritu. Then there is autumn, which is Sharad Ritu, and pre-winter, which is called Hermant Ritu. Winter is known as Shita Ritu or Shishir.
The National Beverage of India Is Tea
Tea is so beloved in India that it’s often considered the first beverage many people consider, even before water. India is nearly unmatched in tea production, single-handedly providing the world with around 30% of its tea. India is the second-largest tea producer in the world. Much of the tea produced is consumed within the country.
India Was the First to Mine Diamonds
During ancient times, India was the only place one could find diamonds. India was the first and only country to find and mine diamonds until the 1720s when Brazil discovered diamonds. Since the 1900s, diamond mining in India died down as other countries hit upon rich veins of diamonds. India still has existing industrial mines that make up a small part of the worldwide diamond industry.
India Invented Yoga
India is the birthplace of Yoga, the physical and spiritual discipline focused on bringing harmony to mind and body. Today, many people view yoga as purely physical exercise, but its origins are much more spiritual. It was considered a discipline that encompassed mind, body, culture, and religion. Traditional yoga focuses on meditation and the release of earthly attachments.
The ABCs Are India’s Most Popular Entertainment
India’s most popular entertainment is crucial to its culture and is pretty different from the fare of other countries. India’s entertainment is sometimes cited as the “ABCs:” Astrology, Bollywood, and Cricket. Astrology is a beloved hobby of many in the country.
Around 70% of the world’s spices come from India
India is by far the largest producer of spices, which are shipped across continents to restaurants and kitchens worldwide. Some of the best-known spices are turmeric, cumin, saffron, and chili powders.
The Amritsar Golden Temple serves free meals….for thousands
The Amritsar Golden Temple is one of the most dazzling architectural monuments in India, but it is also a site of generosity and compassion. This Sikh temple is open to people of all religions. Every day, it serves a simple vegetarian meal, often to over fifty thousand people. What’s even more impressive is that almost all the ingredients are donated.
India was the first country to refine and consume sugar
If you have a sweet tooth, you have India to thank for it. India was the first place were sugar was extracted, refined, and used in cooking – although once people got a taste of the delicious stuff, sugar production quickly spread around the world.
The steel wires in the Bandra Worli Sealink could stretch around the world
Completed in 2010, the incredible Bandra Worli Sealink bridge required 90,000 tons of cement to build. To hold that all up, enormous steel cables – each with the ability to hold up 900 tons of weight – were put in place along the bridge.If they were laid out end to end, the cables could reach around the circumference of the globe.
People Relate Fasting with Religious Practice
This is a part of Indian culture. Whether you are celebrating Navratri or it is the holy Ramzaan month, people keep fast to acquire salvation. It is a belief in restraining yourself from attaining your desire and worshipping the almighty with all your devotion.
Not only the common people, but legends like Mahatma Gandhi used to consider fasting as one of the major methods to release oneself from bodily constraints. Fasting is not always about skipping food completely, but there are certain recipes in every religion that are cooked in homes during any fasting and people enjoy it together.
One of the Oldest City Is Located in India
We are talking about Varanasi. It is believed that the city was created by Lord Shiva long ago before Lord Brahma created the universe. As per history, this city dates back to 11BC and is considered the home of Lord Shiva. The Kashi Vishwanath Temple has seen changes in the world and it has also gone through several changes.
With more than 2000 temples and numerous ghats, Varanasi is also considered one of the holiest cities in India where you can get salvation. Millions of people all over the world visit the city to get a touch of ancient Indian culture.
India Is the Country of Sages
We belong to a country where the two epics were created by two great sages of all time. While the Ramayana was written by Rishi Valmiki, it was Rishi Ved Vyas who created the Mahabharata. Apart from that, India has seen several sages and saints throughout its civilization, and till now, we have regard for the holy men. The simple clothes, deadlocks, and the peaceful eyes of the sages can revive you and show you the right path in life.
A village with no locks and doors may be the safest on Earth
The village of Shani Shingnapur is famous for not having a door or lock on a single house. Beyond that, there has not been a recording of a criminal act for almost 400 years. Many people think that the shared vulnerability has created a neighborly trust between the residents, which has formed a protection stronger than a deadbolt or heavy gate.
In observance of Native American Heritage Month, Lyla June Johnston an Indigenous public speaker, artist, scholar and community organizer of Diné (Navajo), Tsétsêhéstâhese (Cheyenne) and European lineages from Taos, New Mexico. lead in a DEI conversation. Sharing some of her youtube videos here.
Our council volunteers Vineeta Kumari, Aditi Beohar and Minakshi Arora celebrated this heritage month by sharing some of the artwork of Hispanic artists through a Virtual exhibition. This virtual exhibition spotlights some Latin American artists in the Butler Collection. The works by Hispanic American artists permanently on display physically throughout the museum are also highlighted throughout the month of October. The influence of these artists on American art and artists worldwide is both evident and undeniable.
August is the International Day of Remembrance of the Slave Trade and its Abolotion is an international day celebrated August 23 of each year, the day designated by UNESCO to memorialize the transatlantic slave trade.
That date was chosen by the adoption of resolution 29 C/40 by the Organization’s General Conference at its 29th session. Circular CL/3494 of July 29, 1998, from the Director-General invited Ministers of Culture to promote the day. The date is significant because, during the night of August 22 to August 23, 1791, on the island of Saint Domingue (now known as Haiti), an uprising began which set forth events which were a major factor in the abolition of the transatlantic slave trade.
Corra DEI council is thus sharing a documentary movie link (KUMINA QUEEN- https://vimeo.com/614792383) and will organize a chat over coffee session with the Maker of this documentary – NYASHA LAING. Nyasha is a documentarian who works to transform our understanding of diverse social and cultural movements and practices. Her independent storytelling – which has appeared in and on the Los Angeles Pan-African Film Festival, BBC World Service, YES Magazine, The Art Museum of the Americas, IMZ International Festival & European Traveling Showcase – explores loss, regeneration, identity, and freedom.
In the wake of the loss of her mother, the filmmaker travels into the heart of Jamaican countryside to research kumina, an ancestral ritual. The ancient practice, she learns, is a driving force in Jamaica’s culture and identity, yet its leaders have historically been discarded as witches and criminalized. Jamaica’s post-colonial renaissance enabled Queenie to share her practice with the world. Today, artists and followers are reimagining kumina, even as the mysterious world of spirit possession reveals divergent pathways to freedom, healing, and transformation- for those who choose it.
In the words of Nyasha” Ancestral folk practices and the art forms they have spawned reveal people resisting in the most expansive sense of the word. They serve as vehicles to freedom and healing. They represent the absence of fear and shame, something we need more than ever today.”
The DEI Council member Vineeta Kumari and Minakshi Arora share with the biography of Louis Chevrolet.
In the United States, July is designated as National French-American Heritage Month and was established to honor the significant contributions made to the country by people of French descent. Currently, approximately 11.8 million Americans of French or French Canadian descent live and work in the United States, with about 2 million of those speaking French at home. As of the 2011 census, an additional 750,000 French-American citizens were added to those numbers due to the large creole community, whose language is based on French.
Today we would like to acknowledge the significant contribution of one such person who followed his passion and left a mark in history. On Christmas Day 1878, a boy was born in the Swiss town of La Chaux-de-Fonds in the Jura mountains who was destined to change the world of the automobile forever. His name was Louis Chevrolet.
At the end of 1887, when Louis was just nine years old, the Chevrolets moved to Beaune in France with their five children (Alfred, Louis, Fanny, Berthe and Arthur), where the family continued to grow. After Marthe – the third daughter – Gaston appeared on the scene in 1892, the last of seven children.
While father Joseph earned his living in the clock making trade, Louis decided to become a mechanic. He found a job with the Roblin haulage contracting company that also repaired carriages and bicycles in the spring of 1896 or 1897, Louis Chevrolet was fetched from the workshop to fix the car of a guest who was staying at the “Hôtel de la Poste”. The vehicle, which created enormous excitement at the time, belonged to the American multi-millionaire, Vanderbilt. That must have been the moment that Louis Chevrolet “fell in love” twice: once with the car and once with the idea of emigrating to America.
In Beaune, Louis Chevrolet discovered another passion – racing. Around that time, the teenager competed in his first cycle races in the hills behind Beaune, winning many of them.
It was actually his “Gladiator” cycle that induced him to go to Paris at the beginning of 1899. He was given a job in the workshop of the car manufacturer Darracq (who also built the Gladiator bicycles at that time), where he learned everything there is to know about the combustion engine. It is also said that he worked with De Dion-Bouton, Hotchkiss or Mors. But one thing is certain: Louis had fallen victim to the “automobile virus”.
With the money he earned in Paris, he financed the crossing to the American continent, starting off in Canada. In Montreal, he worked as a driver and mechanic (which at that time was the same thing), only to move on a few months later to New York, again with some money in his pocket. Where his journey begins… Watch the video to know more about Louis Chevrolet and how the Chevrolet Motor Car Company was formed.
Corra's DEI Blog 