Meet Alexandrine Benjamin, an up-and-coming film creator who delves into the harrowing realities of inadequate healthcare services for pregnant women and pervasive violence in Haiti through her thought-provoking film, "N'ap Boule." Benjamin delves into the harsh realities faced by expectant mothers, shedding light on the stark disparities in healthcare access and the alarming prevalence of violence in Haitian society. “N'ap Boule” not only serves as a call to action but a testament to the resilience of those fighting against injustice in the face of adversity. Join us as we navigate the complexities of these pressing issues through the powerful storytelling of Alexandrine Benjamin.
This week we are profiling Katrina Fallick-Wang (she/her). No, you did not read that name wrong. According to her website, “My maiden name is pronounced phallic. Yes. Just like that. I married someone with the last name of Wang. We hyphenated our names to make it more funny.” Growing up on a commune, Katrina had her first child at age 15, and today works counseling teen mothers. Katrina is openly queer and polyamorous. In her personal life she is an avid hiker and kayaker, and she fosters kittens. She participates in art and alternative communities, and she mentors young women who are interested and involved in STEM disciplines. She is passionate about neurodiversity and disability activism. Although running as a Democrat, Katrina believes that a multi-party system would better serve the American people than a two-party system.
In her recently published book, Summoned by the Earth, Cynthia Jurs embarks on a journey focused on healing and contemplation, addressing the urgent issue of humanity's impact on the planet. Through her roles as both a dharma teacher and a sharer of her spiritual journey, Cynthia Jurs not only enlightens her readers but also seeks to impart the importance of sacred activism, particularly relevant in our current era. For those interested in delving deeper into Cynthia Jurs' insights and embarking on a spiritual journey, continue reading.
Most queer kids and adults inevitably have to go through being rejected by someone because of religion. This might be a family member, a loved one, or a close friend. The feeling of knowing that no matter your history, this person can no longer be in your life anymore because their religion believes you are a sin is heartbreaking. Emma Jayne’s new song Your Church perfectly captures this situation and the emotions that come with it. We encourage you to listen to it if you are unfamiliar with this experience to help you understand, and to listen to it if you are so that you know you are not alone. Not only does Emma write beautiful music, but she also works with the Future Perfect Project. An amazing organization that helps young queer artists shine! Please read on to learn more about Emma.
This week we are highlighting Lindsay Sabadosa (she/her), an activist who is a current representative in the Massachusetts House of Representatives. Lindsay, a mother of one, has been a protest and community organizer since the age of nine. The issues that she champions are promoting women candidates, reproductive rights, Medicare for All, the rights of immigrants, and increasing the minimum wage. Sabadosa has been active with organizations such as the Women’s March on Washington, Planned Parenthood, the Pioneer Valley Resist Coalition, and is a board member of both the Abortion Rights Fund of Western Massachusetts and the Doula Association for Reproductive Loss and Abortion (DARLA).
The popularity of trendy and cheap clothing has surged over the past few decades, enticing consumers to indulge in frequent wardrobe updates. The constant changes in the fashion industry pressure people to buy into every new trend, rather than wearing what they already own.
If you still haven’t made an effort to switch to sustainable options, here are the environmental dangers that might convince you to stop shopping fast fashion.
From her debut on American Idol to her collaborations with Kelly Clarkson, Daisy Close has made her mark in the music industry with her distinctive voice. Emerging as a rising star, Daisy embodies the true spirit of an artist and she is currently in the works on her debut EP for her loyal fans. Amidst her busy schedule, Daisy also finds time to support St. Jude's, spreading joy to children as an inspiration and spearheading efforts to provide school supplies for underprivileged students. Daisy Close stands out as a fresh voice for the next wave of artists, and her journey promises more exciting ventures in the years to come. Explore further to discover more about Daisy!
This week we are highlighting Emily Kinkead (she/her), a millennial lawyer who is a founding member the Leadership Team of the Pennsylvania Progressive Caucus. Collectively, this Caucus works to push progressive priorities like criminal justice reform, affordable housing, access to healthcare, affordable childcare, expanding access to public transit, and more. She is the House Chair of the Legislative Hunger Caucus and Secretary of the House Agriculture Committee, working to address hunger-related issues as well as advocate for more investment in programs that would address food insecurity. She serves on the Advisory Board for the Capitol All-Stars Softball Game, which is a softball game where legislators raise money for their charitable food network. As a member of the House Judiciary Committee and Chair of the Judiciary Subcommittee on Crime & Corrections, she has been working hard to address criminal justice reform.
From channeling the spirit of Aretha Franklin to articulating the diverse experiences of womanhood, indie-pop meets soul-rock singer-songwriter Casii Stephan has continuously utilized her musical talents to extend support to those in need. Outside the realm of music, Stephan has risen as a guiding light for marginalized communities by orchestrating female-led festivals and engaging in street demonstrations supporting causes like Black Lives Matter and Women’s Marches. For Casii Stephan, advocacy knows no bounds. To discover more about Casii Stephan's journey, read further.
This week we are profiling Jason Morgan (he/him/his), a gay millennial who has had an active career in Michigan politics. Despite being diagnosed with Becker’s Muscular Dystrophy as an adolescent, Jason is an active member of the U.S. Coast Guard Auxiliary. Jason is passionate about issues such as eliminating economic inequality, investing in public transportation, and protecting LGBTQ+ and reproductive rights.
Vintage Fashion Show and Pop Up Sale by Iconic Atomic size-inclusive boutique, voted Best Vintage Clothing Shop by Palm Springs Life Magazine 5 years in a row, on Saturday, April 20th, and Sunday, April 21st. Vintage and thrift is the ultimate in sustainable fashion.
Lights, camera, action! The stage is set for an eagerly anticipated return as April 2nd marks the release of season two of "Lopez v. Lopez.” At the heart of this production stands Mayan Lopez, a multifaceted talent who not only shines as an actress and producer but also serves as the creative force behind the show. Being the daughter of the well-known actor George Lopez, Mayan has embraced acting, particularly by creating a show that, in some aspects, mirrors her relationship with her father and her upbringing. But Mayan Lopez's talents extend beyond the realm of entertainment as she has consistently made space to confront one of society's most pressing issues: mental health. With a commitment to raising awareness and fostering understanding, Mayan uses her platform to initiate crucial conversations and advocate for change. Join us as we delve deeper into the life and work of Mayan Lopez, exploring the intricacies of her creative process, her influences, and her dedication to addressing social issues.
Mandi Remington (she/her) is a queer millennial political activist running for a position on the County Board of Supervisors in Johnson County, Iowa. A single mother of three, including a trans child, Mandi is a lower middle-income wage earner. She is most passionate about advancing platforms that prioritize equity for disadvantaged socioeconomic groups. Mandi recently lost an election in 2023 for a position on the Iowa City Council but is running again on a platform of abortion rights, as well as affordable housing, childcare, food, and transportation.
There is something special in the way a woman looks at the world. There is a different type of sensitivity that is highlighted when a woman looks — really looks. And Janet Sternburg likes to look. Over the decades she has used her camera to document these moments and found unique ways of capturing the world around her. She has always been enamored with reflections and you can see this throughout her work. As a powerful female in the arts she hasn’t taken this job lightly. she has authored nine books, helped create films and worked with the California Institute of the Arts (CalArts) and PEN Center USA. Please read on to learn more about this passionate woman and her latest creation Looking at Mexico / Mexico Looks Back — a photography book of Mexico that isn’t just a gringa’s way of looking at the country.
Many of us are familiar with and fond of the Netflix sensation, Squid Game. However, were you aware that this beloved series has been adapted into a television game competition called Squid Game: The Challenge? If not, you're in for a treat, as Mai Whelan, the victorious contestant from the show, is here to share her winning strategies. Mai Whelan's remarkable journey from conquering challenges like Red Light, Green Light to fearlessly crossing the treacherous Glass Bridge game exemplifies her unwavering persistence and the transformative power of courage, regardless of one's background. Following her triumph in the Squid Game: The Challenge, Mai has continued her inspiring journey by extending a helping hand to those less fortunate through her ongoing philanthropic endeavors. Read on to learn more about Mai Whelan.
Christina Henderson (she/her) is one of four At-large members of the Council of the District of Columbia. The Council comprises a representative from each of DC’s 8 wards, as well as a chairperson and four representatives who represent the whole city, including Christina. A political independent, Christina identifies herself as a “pragmatic progressive,” championing causes such as reproductive and maternal health (she chairs the Health Committee of the Council), early childhood education, transportation equity and safety, and higher education access and student loan forgiveness.
Do you live in the San Francisco area? If so, I have wonderful news for you!! The Vertical Show is returning to the Great Star Theater in Chinatown San Francisco from April 4-21st. There will be shows every Thursday-Sunday for three weekends. You can buy your tickets here (promo code: kira).
The new queer film “This Time” is in many ways the more serious current version of “But I’m a Cheerleader” as a young girl runs away from her family who is trying to send her to a conversion camp, to go on a world wind adventure searching for the secrets of her recently deceased elusive father. You will celebrate and cry with Grace as she comes to understand and accept herself and make real friends a long the way. Please read on to learn more about the film, our star Anwen O’Driscoll (Grace), and Jennifer Gibson (Producer and Anne) as they walk us through the importance of “This Time”.
Today we have the fourth installment in our profiles of our favorite Progressive candidates who are running to represent their communities at the state and federal levels, and move the country forward to ensure that all Americans are equally represented in government. Sabrina Bousbar (she/her) is a Gen Z Colombian Moroccan with a background in political organizing, as well as in emergency management and natural disaster response, which is a particularly useful background in her Florida district, which was devastated in 2022 by Hurricane Ian. Sabrina has a Bachelor’s degree from Florida State University and a Master’s degree from Georgetown University, and is passionate about women’s rights, the climate crisis, social security, and the affordability crisis.
Have you ever opened your water bill and felt you needed to sit down? Seeing today’s prices is jarring, but there’s nothing as surprising as your actual water use. Coupling this with the effects of climate change should spur action.
Catherine Harrison will have you rocking out to her songs about love as she revives the sounds of the 70s with her music in a current new vibe. But there is more to this rock star than meets the eye. Catherine is a passionate advocate for mental health, especially within the music community, working with the Unison Fund. She is even donating all the proceeds of her new song, Love is not a Game, to them! Please read on to learn more about Catherine, her music, and how she gives back to the world.
This week we continue our profiles of progressive candidates running for office in 2024! Today we are featuring Sam Bell, who is a Democratic Socialist Rhode Island State Senator. Sam (he/him) is a geologist with a Masters and PhD both from Brown University in Providence, the city of Sam’s district. He is most passionate about healthcare, housing, and fighting poverty. Sam and his wife Samantha are both openly bisexual and are proud parents to their 2-year-old son Jacob.
With her talents spanning acting, dancing, and singing, Shanti Lowry seems capable of almost anything. Beyond the spotlight, she is also producing the upcoming thriller PERSONA while concurrently collaborating with Amnesty International and Women for Women International to provide educational support to women affected by war. Engaging in numerous endeavors and initiatives, Shanti Lowry actively addresses the challenges faced by war-torn countries and contributes to humanitarian efforts, demonstrating the power of determination and the ability to achieve anything when one sets their mind to it. To learn more about Shanti Lowry, please read on.
Kayden Koshelev might just be 14 years old, but he is wiser than most adults I know. This very smart and fun loving kid is already gracing theaters singing and dancing his way into people’s hearts with drag queens and taking on non-binary character roles on Disney+. If he is our future, I’m here for it! Please read on to learn more about Kayden, his acting, and his advocacy!