Sistahs boomin' in the streets

Greetings,

I had an amazing and exciting experience this weekend at SF Pride Dyke March. I marched and played tambourine with women drummers of Sistah Boom, expertly guided by master drummer, Carolyn Brandy.

We were the last group to perform on stage before marching. Picture thousands of Lesbians, Gays, Transgender, and straight people gathered at Delores Park. I looked out onto a sea of 50,000 people, dancing, gyrating, and bristling with anticipation for Dykes on Bikes to herald the beginning of the march.

After the performance we were swept along with the crowd to 18^th Street where we took our places behind Dykes on Bikes. The roar of the motorcycles sent chills through my body. Then came the women, all shapes and sizes, clothed and unclothed, some bare-breasted and proud.

I didn’t think I could get any higher but as we marched to the tune, Mozambique, I heard the roar of the crowds from balconies and windows. Dancers and partying revelers joined our entourage and suddenly 25 women became 50. We fed off their energy and spirit and our music soared. We chanted for freedom, justice, peace and change.

It was a time for celebrating and being proud of our uniqueness and diversity. For one moment in time I felt total adoration and acceptance. The healing power of the drum transformed me, and all those who heard the rhythms. With open hearts we re-remembered the village where community sustains and supports.

Thank you Carolyn Brandy for your leadership and willingness to share your musical genius. Thank you to all my sisters of Sistah Boom for sharing a special moment.

In Sisterhood,

Sandy Mills

Rhythm Sistas Monthly Drum Circle

Hey everybody,

Angela here. Just wanted to share about the Rhythm Sistas drum and dance circle this past Saturday (June 20). About 40 women gathered in Mosswood park in Oakland, CA in sisterhood and harmony. We turned the place out!

Mar and Sandy are on the organizing committee. Rosetta came to jam and I came to document through photos (and tap a few beats in between shots). This circle has really taken off. It is serving women of color (and our children) by giving us an opportunity to be in community, learn, participate and/or facilitate drum techniques and rhythms, shake our groove thang or just sit in the circle and soak up the love.

Since the circle was in a public park this last Saturday, many bystanders were treated to wafting rhythmic sound waves. A few sat on the grass for at least an hour or more.

Just another way we are able to touch the community at large through the drum.

Look out for the next circle (every 3rd Saturday from 1-4).