Creative Cravings Vol. 3: Roundup of BLK Creativity to Whet Your Appetite
Sonya Massey, Sonya Massey, Sonya Massey, Sonya Massey, Sonya Massey,
Welcome to Creative Cravings on THE BLK PRSPCTV, your bi-weekly destination for creative things to whet your appetite. Twice a month on Thursdays, I bring you a roundup of the latest happenings, notable exhibitions, cultural reflections, and more, shaping the cultural landscape.
On a more personal note, I'm excited to announce the launch of a new series called "Insomnia Hours." Starting next week, I'll share a once-a-month post highlighting my late-night thoughts and reflections (y’all know I don’t sleep).
Today in BLK History: The Tuskegee Syphilis Study Disclosure
Tuskegee Syphilis Study: A Dark Chapter
On July 25, 1972, the U.S. government apologized for the Tuskegee Syphilis Study after a media leak exposed the unethical research that began in 1932 with 600 African American men: 399 suffering from syphilis and 201 free from these very diseases. They were never treated for their respective diseases. This exposure caused a national outcry because many men died due to syphilis, their wives contracted the disease, and children were born with congenital syphilis. This great scandal compelled federal laws and regulations to mandate Institutional Review Boards (IRBs) to protect human subjects in research.1
Exhibition Worth Checking Out
Elizabeth Catlett: A Black Revolutionary Artist and All That It Implies
Open Date: September 13, 2024
Location: Brooklyn, New York
Artists: Elizabeth Catlett
Experience the powerful legacy of Elizabeth Catlett in her retrospective at the Brooklyn Museum, Elizabeth Catlett: A Black Revolutionary Artist and All That It Implies. This exhibition features more than 150 works—sculptures, prints, and rare paintings—all in homage to Catlett's deep conviction as an artist and activist. Catlett's work is dynamic in its exploration of race and gender; it speaks to social justice well, further uplifting and challenging modern visitors. This exhibition is something that cannot be missed for those who are interested in the ways art and activism intersect.
Cultural Gems: July 9th - July 23rd
This article on the Jamaica's Ice Hockey Team Making History
Having a dance party at Granny’s house is the new wave
A new Ol’ Dirty Bastard (ODB) documentary is coming to screens next month, August 25th
Y’all know the guy from the Everest College Commercials never went to college? Mind blown!
Who asked for this? Netflix is set to bring back Pimp My Ride, with host, SNL alum Chris Redd.
Sha'Carri Covers vogue, IT’S US (BLUE COLLAR), 2024 SERIES: Imagine a World; Brown Like Me Olympic bound, Sha’Carri Richardson graces the September issues of Vogue!
Beside every Bad Boy was a Bad gyal! Misa Hylton tells her truth!
This dope-ass Lil’ Kim Sweater features her signature legs open pose!
Missy Elliot made history by having the first Hip Hop song sent to space.
Pioneering fashion model Bethann Hardison shares her tips for aging gracefully.
New Mural in Bushwick Brooklyn, Promo for Issa Rae's wine, Serayah channeling Aaliyah for an Essence Fest tribute to the late singer
Sonya Massey's tragic shooting saddens, infuriates, and enrages me all at once. As I'm trying to process this senseless act of violence, here I go again—the overwhelming reminder of the systemic issues that plague our society. Sonya Massey's death is not one to be added just as another statistic; it is instead one of the heart-wrenching instances testifying to the strong need for change and justice.
The incident is emotionally stirring, reminding me how fragile life is and just how monumental the burdens that our community overcomes daily are. We have to continue to fight for these reforming efforts and with those who try to solve the very problems that lead to these tragic events—to ensure that Sonya Massey's memory fuels our commitment to a world that is safe and fair for all.
Until next time,
Stay bold, stay brilliant, and remember, as Jay-Z says, "You could be anywhere in the world, but you're here with me. I appreciate that!"
With love and creativity,
Shadé
For more information on the Tuskegee Syphilis Study and its timeline, visit the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention's detailed overview at CDC - Timeline - Tuskegee Syphilis Study.
Brown Like Me art by https://www.instagram.com/brownlikeme_/
The pic of Lenny Kravitz in the bathtub, makes my damn day!