“I live my faith,” 25-year-old Ghana-born Bridget Antwi asserted.

Bridget is a self-described “follower of Christ”, a term she prefers to the “label” Christian. She believes that many call themselves Christian without truly living as Christ prescribed. Bridget’s assessment is true to the times. According to a report by the Institute for the Study of Secularism in Society and Culture (ISSSC), the majority of Canadians still self-identify with a religious group, yet only three out of 10 individuals regularly attend religious services.

The report reads, “few are any longer committed to the church as a total life style…The church is no longer the center of the community, nor is it the sole arbiter of morality or legitimacy.”

The same religious zeal is shared by 26-year-old Nichole Graham, a Jamaican convert to Islam. When she first entered into Islam in December 2003, Nichole fully submerged herself in her newly adopted faith.

“I wanted to enter into Islam completely,” Nichole said.

Bridget and Nichole represent a decreasing number of individuals who continue to faithfully adhere to religious principles as the tides shift from religious institutions towards secularism.

There are a myriad of reasons as to why religious belief remains relevant for some in the face of increasing secular sentiments. For Bridget and Nichole, their individual journeys of faith, though very different, have a similar starting point.

Though having grown up in a household built on a foundation of Christian values, Bridget admitted that she was merely a cultural Christian.

“It was never a real ownership,” Bridget said of her Christian beliefs as a child.

It was only later in her childhood that Bridget could genuinely assert that her beliefs were out of sincerity rather than from inheritance. Her first conscious step towards Christianity came at age 10 when she witnessed her father grow more patient and gentler. She says he experienced a spiritual awakening in accepting Jesus Christ in his heart.

“I could see a marked change in his countenance,” Bridget said.

But it was a difficult breakup from a long-term boyfriend that was the real catalyst for her seeking a deeper relationship with Christ. “There’s something about being alone that requires you to ask questions to yourself,” Bridget said.

After realizing the uncertainty that plagues all human relationships, Bridget engaged in introspection. It was in this period of unhappiness that Bridget began to seek solace in God, which she describes as an act of “selfish desperation”.

“God is the purest form of love,” Bridget said, a conclusion she drew after having recognized the limitations and imperfections of human love.

For Nichole, the tragedy of human relationships also provided the initial impetus for her religious awakening.

In her early high school years, Nichole became more aware of her father’s lack of emotional availability and financial support. She says he placed the responsibility of raising Nichole and her four siblings squarely on her mother.

Nichole’s response was to turn inwardly and towards the only faith she knew, Christianity. She began to read the Bible daily and engaged in extensive self-directed religious study. Soon after, Nichole then became inclined to Islam as it shared many of the same Christian principles and prophetic narratives, yet did not contain the theological aspects of Christianity that Nichole found problematic.

“There’s just no doubt,” Nichole said of her belief in Islam.

Since her conversion, Nichole adopted a more forgiving attitude towards her absentee father.

“We’re all the children of Adam and if God is the most merciful, who am I not to forgive him?” Nichole said.

Society, though, had not been as accepting of Nichole. She believes that there is palpable antagonism towards Islam in the West. Upon conversion, Nichole adopted a conservative application of Islam. She began to wear the face veil and dressing more modestly. Nichole endured a great deal of discrimination which varied from name calling to having objects hurled at her.

“I didn’t feel safe in society to freely express my beliefs,” Nichole revealed. Since then Nichole has removed her face veil in part due to the negative attention she garnered.

Bridget did not experience any of the overt religious intolerance that Nichole had.

“I feel free to proclaim my faith as a result of the fact that our country was built on Judeo-Christian values,” Bridget said.

Though their religious identities may be treated differently by society, both would agree that many people have skewed perceptions of people of faith. Nichole believes that people tend to view religion as anti-intellectual, yet she asserts that Islam has a rich intellectual tradition.

“Islam teaches you to use your intellect, contemplate and reflect,” Nichole maintained.

Bridget believes that society characterizes people of faith as irrational. In certain social settings, Bridget felt as if she was regarded as unintelligent when she revealed that she was a person of faith.

Both Bridget and Nichole do not feel personally threatened by the growing trend towards secularism. In their eyes, everything is in the hands of God.

“The principle of the Christian faith is to love God with all your heart, your soul, your mind and your strength and then to love your neighbour,” Bridget firmly believes.

“Islam teaches me how to be a good wife, a good mother and respect nature,” Nichole said.

Bridget is primarily concerned with beautifying her character and performing good works.

Nichole strives to be a living example for her three young children, who will one day encounter many of the same challenges she currently faces.

Society’s opinion shifts with the blowing of the wind, but in their mind, faith is everlasting.

Toronto Revellers

Designer/ Bandleader: Jamaal Magloire

Theme: Welcome to Oz

Sway: What is the meaning and significance behind the theme for this year’s costume?

[We decided] Welcome to OZ was a creative opportunity to tell the story of Dorothy, Tin Man, Scarecrow and Cowardly Lion but with a twist in the vibrant spirit of Carnival!

Why is this theme important for this year’s carnival?

Welcome to Oz is important for its masqueraders — a cross section of nationalities, races and generations — to highlight what makes us the people’s band.

As a designer, what inspires you when you design a costume?

It’s knowing that you and your section leaders have come together, and your masqueraders are happy to showcase their costumes. Seeing your vision and costumes on Carnival day is a supreme feeling.

Compiled by Shaundra Selvaggi

Monday, June 6

Rihanna: Loud Tour

Pop Diva Rihanna hits the road again for the LOUD Tour. Demand for tickets was so high, the Bahan beauty added a second date to the Toronto stop (June 7).  LOUD, the singer’s fifth studio album, has produced the #1 hits, “Only Girl” “What’s My Name” and most recently, “S&M.”

Special guests B.O.B and J Cole will open.

Air Canada Centre. 7:30pm. $26.75 – $115.50. www.ticketmaster.ca

Open Jam Night

The jam is over 2 years old, busy, and still going strong! Hosted/created by Carolyn T www.carolyntband.com. This is a COMMUNITY EVENT for musicians and spectators that provides an excellent opportunity for full-time & part-time musicians to shed, network, collaborate, promote gigs and show off their talent! Many gigging/working bands have started because of the jam!!!

Harlem Restaurant.  Every Monday (except long weekends) 8pm.

Saturday, June 11

AfroChic Two-Day Festival

AfroChic evolves old school ideologies into new-age motivation through the vehicles of art and open dialogue to provide a transformative and enlightening space for creativity and solidarity within underserved Canadian arts and business groups.

June 11: Twist Gallery hosts the 2ND Annual AfroChic Cultural Arts Exhibit
This year’s exhibit incorporates visual displays by mixed media artists and visual artists Le’vi Lingwabo, Sabrina Moella, Colanthony Humphrey, Adajee Odousanya, Bishara Mohamed, Camille Lauren, Quentin Vercetty, Nana Bediako and more. Vendors include the Toronto Natural Hair & Beauty Show, Alter Ego Clothing, Reflections Clothing, Love Me As I am, Shay Chin Jewelry and Earthstrong Livity.

June 12: Trane Studio hosts the 1st Annual Community Voices Brunch!
AfroChic hosts an interactive afternoon with the essentials: good food, good conversation and exceptional company. Brunch will be enjoyed in the first hour, followed by an engaging discussion by leaders in our community: Amanda Parris, Nation Cheong, Nneka Elliot, Dion Walcott, Dr. Njoki Wane, and Lincoln Anthony Blades. The event will be mediated by the charming and well spoken Akil D.

afrochic.ca

88 Days Of Fortune Presents: Wylin On The Island!

88 Days Of Fortune is a grass roots, queer and straight integrated, youth run, music and multi-media collective. With 21 active members, we are based in Toronto, but have members branching out as far as Seattle and Japan. The group celebrates its 2-year anniversary with a party and performance in collaboration with Artscape Gibraltar Point on the Toronto Island. Music. Live painting. Workshops. Sky Installations. Photo Booth. LLBO. Food. Vendors and more

Toronto Island Park. 12pm – 12am. $12. Chlidren under 10 FREE. www.clubzone.com/events/353750/toronto/toronto-island/wyling-on-the-island

The Toronto Children’s Concert Choir Presents: Music in the Air

Toronto Children’s Concert Choir and Performing Arts Company (TC3) is a program of The HopeWorks Connection, Inc., a not-for-profit organization dedicated to empowering urban youth aged seven to 18 years through the performing arts and relieving poverty.

Over the past decade, TC3 has reached over five hundred Toronto youth. To celebrate the ten-year landmark, the group will be hosting a series of 10th Anniversary Concerts, featuring special guests. The second, will take place at Pickering Pentecostal Church (1920 Bayly Street, Pickering, Ontario). The concert will feature Errol Lee, Keysha Fresh and various TC3 Alumni/Past Members. The Covenant Award-winning choir’s presentation will also feature various genres of dance and Afro-Caribbean drumming.

Admission is $10 in advance, $15 dollars at the door.  Purchase online at http://tc3.eventsbot.com or contact TC3 at 416-939-1702 or [email protected]

Sunday, June 12

Night of Essence 2011

Over 50 performers from the GTA will take to the stage to show off the amazing female talents of the Entertainment Industry as part Night of Essence 2011 “SHE ROCKS”

Night of Essence brings together dance, music, comedy, spoken word and unique specialty performances to the forefront of the entertainment community, by the industries most talented artists. Featured performers/choreographers are: DJ Lissa Monet, Apolonia Velasquez, Shameka Blake, Lindsay Ritter Productions, Carla Catherwood, POSE Dance Troupe, Elisabeth Magalhaes, Jamie Holmes, Crystal Ferrier, Domanique Grant and many more

6 Degrees. 9pm. www.nightofessence.com

BDC

So i’m going into the city to get some passport pictures done. I jump on the bus and head to Wilson subway station. Nature calls and I pop into the restroom.

…and that’s when it started to get really weird.

I’m about to pull out my johnson and relieve my swollen bladder when I hear a man’s voice: “Hey bud,” the voice says, “Hot as hell out there, huh?” Then a chuckle.

???

Some guy speaking to me from the business side of the toilet stall….?

Now, for those of you who don’t know the rules of engagement amongst men whenever we heed the call to pee/ poo in public – referred to as the B Code – it goes a little something like this: “When a man is in a public restroom and has his genitalia exposed, conversation is absolutely off limits. One can only initiate small talk when washing/ drying one’s hands. Eye contact at the urinal that extends beyond the strictly utilitarian (e.g. scanning the floor to ensure that you aren’t about to urinate on the shoes/ bag/ iPod/ young child etc. of the man next to you) is also frowned upon.”

Having been a public, unaccompanied pisser since the age of ten, I was well aware of the B Code…so when this dude initiated contact, I was stunned. Didn’t he know that he was breaking the rules? Eyes straight ahead, empty the tank, wipe till it’s white and get the hell out, right? But here’s this guy chatting with me from one of the stalls as if we were long-lost friends.

I was so thrown that I answered: “Yeah, that’ s…..”

A grunt, barely concealed. And then – PLOP.

“Whew…that’s gonna leave a mark,” the voice said.

What the F*** ?!?!?

The sound echoed around the restroom. Apparently, this cat was new to the game; he didn’t even put in enough paper to mute the sound of the splash. At best, this was an inexcusable rookie error; at worst, I had just borne witness to a demonstration of unadulterated nastiness that simply boggled the mind.

Maybe he was mentally challenged. Or maybe he was wheelchair-bound and was engaging in ill-conceived niceties before requesting my assistance to help him get ‘readjusted’. Either way, I determined that I needed to bounce, QUICK. I didn’t want to be a party to this any longer…and with a hurried two-shake (NOTE: a ‘two-shake’ refers to the rapid shaking of the penis to liberate the last bit of urine from the tip), I hauled tail to the door.

And do you know, as I was leaving, the guy says, “Take it easy, man.”

I didn’t respond.

This is a true story – I had to share this. I dunno – maybe it’s a Toronto/ Canada thing and I’m just being introduced to the way things are sometimes done ‘up nawth’; an uncomfortable slice of ‘Cultural Ed 101′, if you will….

Brothers, I ask y’all: how would you have handled this?

Whether you’re interested in sending your kids to day camp or learning a new musical skill, Drum Artz Canada is “a registered charity committed to making music and arts programming accessible to all people regardless of age, class, race, (dis)ability or gender.”

Founded in 2004, Drum Artz Canada has been uniting members of the Davenforth-Perth area and beyond through a love of music and the arts and currently holds an after-school Samba Youth program at Westview Centennial Secondary School. The Samba Squad also teaches a number of workshops to inner-city youth with interests in drumming to costume design and community outreach.

The Samba Kidz and Youth summer program runs from July to August and has a Leaders in Training component that ensures youth are active in a “curriculum related to critical thinking, communication building, conflict resolution, consensus-based decision-making and reflection of their lived experiences.”

There are also opportunities available for adults who are interested in drumming and steel pan lessons and perks to these workshops is that they allow for students to experience participating in live performances. Another great program is Samba Famz where families can explore their creativity through various outlets.

Drum Artz Canada will be hosting their Annual Community Day & BBQ tomorrow at 27 Primrose Avenue at Dupont and Dufferin from 12:30-4 pm. All community day activities are free and there is a suggested $2 donation for the BBQ.

To learn more about Drum Artz Canada, volunteer, or to register for their programs go to www.drumartz.com.

In the coming weeks, we will be discussing the particular challenges that the African Canadian community faces when dealing with issues surrounding mental health. Some of the questions that we intend to tackle are:

• What are the statistics on mental illness in the African Canadian community?

• Does the possible ostracism around the admission of mental illness reduce the likelihood that the people who are most in need of professional assistance will seek the help that they require?

• Does mental health outreach have to be culturally relevant in order to be effective?

• Why is there such a stigma around mental illness in our community?

• What can be done to facilitate best outcomes for both the sufferers of mental illness and their loved ones?

The attached article chronicles the efforts of the Sheffield African-Caribbean Mental Health Association (SACMHA), based in Sheffield, England, to provide culturally relevant mental health outreach and treatment that takes into account the racial background of those whom they aim to serve. Please take a moment and give it a read…and then look out for our take on the subject here in the GTA.

www.guardian.co.uk/society/2011/jan/19/black-men-combat-mental-health-stigma

Tuesday, May 10

10th Annual Rock.Paper.Sistahz Festival

Theatre production company bcurrent presents its annual rock.paper.sistahz festival showcasing black women through film, theatre, dance, art and storytelling.  This year’s ten-day celebration features artists from the past decade, daily cocktail session studio.Sistahz and Uth, a day full of activities designed for and by youth.

Wednesday, May 11

Foundations of Freedom Tour Fundraising Reception

Participants of the 2010 Foundations of Freedom Tour (a South African tour highlighting the struggles and accomplishments of blacks during apartheid) invite guests to a fundraising reception for Christ the Reconciler Youth Centre and Building Fund in Cape Town, South Africa. Admission includes: refreshments, a special presentation by Tselane Mokuena, Consul-General of South Africa in Toronto, silent auction and door prize.

Ryerson University’s Heaslip House, 7th Floor. 6 – 8 p.m. Tickets: $50

Saturday, May 14

The Westview Project Fundraiser

The Lambda Mu Mu chapter of Omega Psi Phi Fraternity, Inc. has partnered with the Westview Partnership, a collaboration between York University and the Toronto School Board, to uplift the Jane and Finch community.

The formal event will feature keynote speaker Thabiti Boone, an advisor to US President Barack Obama’s Fatherhood Initiative. In addition to dinner and dancing, there will be a silent auction, awards ceremony and door prizes.  Proceeds benefit the Westview Project.

Four Points Sheraton. 6pm. Tickets: $65
Contact: Raymond Tyghter 416-725-2369 | Derrick Dudley 647-780-8702 | [email protected]

Usher OMG Tour

Usher brings his smooth blend of R&B/Pop to Toronto for the second leg of the OMG Tour.  The multi-talented sensation’s latest release Versus is an extension of last year’s Raymond V. Raymond, has produced such club anthems as “DJ Got Us Fallin’ In Love” and “More.” Expect two hours of non-stop choreography, stunts and crooning as only Usher can deliver.

Special guest Akon will open.

Air Canada Centre. 7pm. Tickets: $103 – $143

Sunday, May 15

GoodLife Fitness Toronto Marathon

Run for a cause in the 2011 GoodLife Fitness Toronto Marathon!  The 34th annual race takes place on Sunday, May 15, and offers a pace for everyone.

Participants have choice of a full or half marathon, 5km run or relay starting from Queen’s Park or Mel Lastman Square.

Official charities of the GoodLife Fitness Toronto Marathon include The Princess Margaret Hospital Foundation, Team Diabetes, Sick Kids Hospital, The Heart and Stroke Foundation and many others.

Runners must attend a FREE registration Expo, featuring motivational speakers and training workshops in preparation for the big event.

For registration and more information, visit  www.torontomarathon.com

Celebrating Jay

Under the distinguished patronage of Seth George Ramocan, The Consul General of Jamaica, you are invited to a magical evening of music, tribute and celebration in honour of over 40 years of Jamaican legend Jay Douglas.  Jay Douglas the man. Jay Douglas the music.  Jay Douglas the musical inspiration of  a generation. Jay’s captivating stage presence and limitless vocal ability have garnered him world-wide recognition as one of the pioneers of Jamaica’s early reggae movement.

Rock the Royal with Jay and his friends with a musical marathon, including:

Ernest Ranglin|Jackie Richardson|Joe Sealy|Eddie Bullen|Dubmatix (Jessie King)|Bill King|Archie Alleyne and many more…

Part Proceeds are for the establishment of a JCA Scholarship in Jay’s name.

Royal Theatre. 7pm. $45, $90 (VIP Reception with Artists)

Climax Fundraiser

Proud FM 103.9 and Gib San Pool & Hot Tub Centre present Climax

Starring: Jully Black, Jeffery Straker, Richard Ryder and Miss Conception
Join us for a very intimate afternoon including an art auction from The Laser Eagles Art Guild and live performances by some of Canada’s and Toronto’s best performers.  National Ballet Theatre. 1pm. Tickets: $75 (includes light brunch and host bar)

For tickets and more information: www.proudfm.com/climax

Poet David McLennon

By David McLennon

my vote counts, your vote counts
it’s a right, a privilege, a responsibility
as contributing members of society
selecting a government that will push initiatives,
put in place changes and visions
of a better country that we envision
the party you choose, it’s your decision
my vote counts, your vote counts
we need to cherish our right and civic duty
it’s not “eeny meeny miny moe”
or pick your favourite colour
read up on the parties, analyze their agendas
listen to debates before you make that x
and place the ballot in the box
my vote counts, your vote counts
why would you waste the thing that
so many cried for, so many fought for, so many died for
if you notice
so many are still crying, still fighting, still dying for
embrace your right, privilege, responsibility
let your voice be heard
go out and vote

By Ryan B. Patrick

To get a sense of what Dance Immersion is, you must first grasp what it’s not. And what it’s not is simply a dance company, says organization founder Vivine Scarlett.

A former dancer, Scarlett was driven to do more than just dance. She had a vision of building a foundation for a thriving and sustainable dance community geared around Black culture. “We’re a presentation company specializing in dance, primarily involving rhythms from the African diaspora,” says the choreographer, instructor and dancer.

It’s a distinction that has served the organization well over its 16-year history. With a deeply rooted love of dance and a strong mandate to produce and promote dancers and dances of the African diaspora, the presentation organization has grown into a key force in the Black community and a cultural tour de force.

Dance Immersion’s goal is to introduce the general public to the many styles and aspects of dance, says Scarlett, adding that this includes showcasing emerging talent by way of skill development workshops, youth arts programs, collaborative projects and forums. “We’ve realized that the community needed more,” says Scarlett, referring to the need to provide skills development and networking opportunities. As a result, the organization created a strong arts program, which to date has seen more than 7,000 youth explore the world of dance through its drum and dance classes.

Traditionally for Dance Immersion, each year revolves around a major showcase presentation in a professional theatre. The showcase offers matinee performances designed to introduce school- aged children and general audiences to the world of dance. This spring season featured the popular Toronto urban dance crew Baby Boyz Dance Group in a unique presentation geared towards a younger demographic. The styled “urban dance story” Three Boyz, Three Countries—One Dream is a tale of culture, social issues and anti-violence. It revolves around three young men from disparate backgrounds, Africa, Jamaica and Canada.

It’s important for the organization to be attuned to the latest developments within the dance world in order to grow and stay relevant, says Scarlett, adding that presentations such as the Baby Boyz showcase are part of that. Scarlett is particularly proud that she has seen the Baby Boyz group members grow into artists who are aware of the positive effect they can have in the community.

In 2007, Dance Immersion brought the group to Ghana, to perform and visit local schools and orphanages. In effect, the organization can be credited with not only bringing Black dance to the forefront in Canada, but keeping it there. “Over the years, we’ve watched the community grow and continue the legacy of Blacks in dance within Canada,” says Scarlett.

BBPA President Pauline Christian

The Black Business Professionals Association (BBPA) continues its tradition of strong leadership with the recent reelection of president Pauline Christian.

In addition, BBPA members elected members for the positions of second vice president, communications co-chair, chair of the young professionals, membership chair and three directors-at-large.

Christian’s victory was clear as an overwhelming majority of members voted for her over Floyd Wilson, current first vice president of the BBPA. Christian, who was first elected as BBPA president in 2009 will retain her position for the next two years.

Known for her call-to-action type of vision, Christian has already initiated the first National Black Business and Professional Convention, brought on new sponsors and stakeholders, and much more. She will continue her commitment to seeing the BBPA grow, while making further strides.

Her goals include: wealth creation and economic empowerment, a significant increase in scholarships and higher education; polishing and developing BBPA’s instruments relating to protocol, ethics, governance and engagement; preserving the BBPA legacy and intellectual property; increasing membership and the young entrepreneur arms; and encouraging the BBPA to develop more revenue streams.

With Christian as the reelected leader, the BBPA is destined to continue to move forward and make great strides.