Eco-Friendly Fashion Habits
Graphic by: Alejandro Pineda Catalan
How to Be Leader:
Strategies For Activism
Written by: Rashawn Khamari Merchant
What is Leadership?
Leadership is the ability to guide a group of people in an idealistic direction. Frequently, leaders are responsible for making a difference and creating working scenarios for people to engage in. In justice movements, we call this engagement activism, and the goal of a leader is to guide people toward acting.
Mannerisms:
The focus of leadership is to attract people and motivate them to continue in your cause. Your mannerisms are the number 1 strategy for drawing people in. People want a leader who represents the best of themselves, and this means as a leader, you should be the most excellent version of yourself. People are drawn toward prominence, so be confident in your approach. You must believe in your abilities before others can. Push through your mistakes. I, for example, stutter quite often. I continue and push through my speeches because I trust in my ability to overcome my mistakes and improve them later. Be passionate. People often get passion and confidence confused, but passion is how much you care and how far you are willing to dedicate yourself to the cause.
Appearance:
Looks are subjective. Being wrinkled is not. If you have a speaking event or interview forthcoming, do not look sloppy. It’s crucial to maintain yourself through skin regimens, haircuts, and nail care. Treat your body as a temple. You should participate in physical upkeep by exercising and eating healthy regularly.
Audience Identity:
Know your audience. You wouldn’t speak to your parents the way you would your peers. Treat communication opportunities the same. Understand who you are talking to and why, as this will help guide your choice of subject matter. Carry out plenty of research and never be afraid of adding in humor.
Creativity:
Creativity has always separated individuals from the group. Such is necessary when becoming a leader. Be relevant, and when you get a wild idea, go for it.
A Beginner’s Guide to Climate Change Solutions
Written by: Rashawn Khamari Merchant
Rashawn Khamari Merchant/Earth Shiners
The magnitude of climate change can be daunting. It is vital to remember anyone can be a part of the solution, no matter how big or small the impact may be. Here are 10 ways for beginners to make a difference.
1. Recycle
2. Use public transportation- or advocate for it
3. Stop printing paper- ask yourself if that document can be sent via email
4. Go to the park- being in nature builds our connection with it
5. Eat less meat
6. Turn off the lights
7. Unplug your devices
8. Go on a date- being active and social increases wellness
9. Support others- encouragement builds community
10. Learn- improving your knowledge is how you increase your impact
Spike Lee: Creative Sources Exhibit
Written by: Rashawn Khamari Merchant
“When you front row at the Knicks game, those the Spike Lees,” are words spoken by Jay-Z in reference to the relevance that the iconic director has. From one great to another, Brooklyn’s own Spike Lee has certified himself with a world class persona that has always enabled him to be cool.
Rashawn Khamari Merchant/Earth Shiners
During the month of October, Director Lee had an exhibit open at the Brooklyn Museum. The curation titled Spike Lee: Creative Sources showcases over 450 items from his personal collection including movie artifacts, awards, and historical objects. The pieces are amazing and highly worth seeing.
Rashawn Khamari Merchant/Earth Shiners
Born in Atlanta during 1957, Lee and his family moved shortly thereafter to the Cobble Hill neighborhood of New York. His family was the first Black household to move to the Italian area, and his upbringing has served as the backdrop for many of his movies. She’s Gotta Have It, Do The Right Thing, and Crooklyn all feature the lifestyles, culture, and heritage that coincided with Spike Lee’s history.
Rashawn Khamari Merchant/Earth Shiners
The museum does an excellent job at putting a historical narrative on view. Over the years and through Lee’s work, he’s made friends with other creatives and with whom he’s received relics. Prince gave him a guitar, Nelson Mandela signed over a flag from the National African Congress, and tons of New York Knicks Jerseys are there for all to see.
The items are on show until February 4th, 2024.
https://www.brooklynmuseum.org/exhibitions/spike_lee
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