The Harlem Shake: A PR Lesson

Do me a favor, go to YouTube and type in the words "Harlem Shake."  Tell me what you see. I'll wait (there are more than 220,000 results).  *sips smoothie*  

The Harlem Shake.  Get into it.  It goes a lil' something like this... Put something on your head /over your face (a hat, scarf or ______)... *Harlem Shake techno music plays*  Start dancing slow, do whatever you want.  Then, as the music climaxes, just wild out.  Get crazy, wacky, jump up and down....do you for about 30 seconds.  That's it! 

Crazy, right?    

As a PR professional, I'm always fascinated when something goes "viral."  Part of me thinks, hey--this kinda stuff doesn't just happen.  No freakin way!  There has to be someone or something behind this. The other part of me understands and appreciates great PR.  

The "PR me" knows that phenomenons like these are unexpected, totally organic and will eventually fade away.  But for me, great PR is addictive.  And viral PR?  Woo la la.  LOVE it!  And while you can't predict when something will go viral, there are some things you can do to get people interested and excited about your product/company/service, and grab their attention like the Harlem Shake: 

• Create something that quickly entertains/educates your audience, and hits a nerve.
   
• Use the power of the Internet/social media to pass it on to others; make it sharable (If it's a video, make it focused, consistent and short.)
  
  
• Don't duplicate what's already been done - People won't be as engaged if they've seen/done it before.
  
  
• Don't be afraid to add a bit of humor (be careful...it HAS to be funny or it could backfire.)
  
  
• Luck - Even with the best strategy in place, sometimes success involves a little luck.

Remember there's no blueprint to creating something viral.  But if you incorporate the above elements in your PR plan, you'll create something that's impactful and memorable.

My Hope for Trayvon

*Note: I wrote this the day the police made an arrest in the Trayvon Martin shooting. I couldn't bring myself to publish it.  Not sure why.  In honor of the first anniversary of his death, I decided to post this....

Everyone knows the story of Trayvon Martin.  I can barely recount the facts of what happened without getting emotional. And watching Sybrina and Tracy, Trayvon's parents?  So stoic.  My heart aches for them soooo much.  The pain and numbness in their eyes is overwhelming at times.  They'll never see Trayvon get dressed for the prom.  They'll never attend his high school graduation.  They'll never see him go to college.  Gone. Just heartbreaking.

I didn't know Trayvon personally.  But like millions of people around the world, I connected with him.  I have five nephews.  Five!  Any one of them could have been Trayvon.  Every time I see his picture, I see the faces of the young men in my family.  I think to myself, My God...this could have happened to them. It was a harsh reality check for me.

I'm a hyper compassionate person.  I have such a bleeding heart.  I wish I could help everyone who's suffering, and I often pray for people I barely know.  (I'm no Mother Teresa, but I can't help it.)  So, Trayvon's story naturally tugged at my heart.  It woke me up.  And what did I do about it?  I rallied and sent emails. I spoke up, and I hoped and prayed for justice. 

I'm still reading the reports, watching newscasts and listening to legal analysts weigh in.  And THAT my friends, is a different conversation for another time.  But, I've been thinking and wondering more and more about Trayvon...   

More than anything, I hope that he can see and feel what has happened here.  I hope that Trayvon understands that his death wasn't in vain. The last few minutes of his life were filled with confusion and fear. I hope a feeling of love has replaced those last moments. I hope and pray. I hope he's smiling and happy.  I pray that he understands...he will not be forgotten.  People he never knew marched for him, wore hoodies in his honor, cried for him and screamed for justice. I hope somehow, he felt that...

Pic Of The Day: Be Encouraged!

That's one of my BFF's on the horse below.  Isn't that a great picture?  

LJ Holloway is one of the most memorable people you'll ever meet in your life....super smart, fearless and heeeeelarious!  

This picture of her is especially meaningful for me.  Several years ago, LJ was diagnosed with a brain tumor and in 2010, she couldn't walk or talk.  But look at her now!!  Look. At. Her.  She's happy, healthy and living her life to the fullest!  (And quite fashionable if I must say so myself.) :)  

I'm inspired by LJ's courage.  I'm in awe of her strength and motivated by her tenacity. #Blessed      

LJ Holloway

To learn more about LJ Holloway and her book, "What To Do When Life Hands You A Devastating Diagnosis," go to http://ljholloway.info/

Macy's, Eriq LaSalle Celebrate 100 Years of Gordon Parks

As part of their commitment to Black History Month, Macy's honored photographer Gordon Parks in Atlanta recently with a special panel discussion featuring Eriq LaSalle and Arnika Dawkins (Arnika Hawkins Gallery).  The event commemorated the centennial birth of this beloved artist (1912-2006). 

And just when I thought I couldn't love Gordon Parks anymore than I already do... 

I found out that the life and times of this fearless renaissance man were more than just one big happenstance. He had a divine purpose and it all began the day he came into the world.  Did you know that when he was born, he had no heartbeat (he was stillborn) and was pronounced dead?  And if it hadn't been for an attentive doctor bringing him back to life, we may have never known Gordon Parks.  His gifts, his passions, his impact on the world were deliberate. He was meant to be here. 

Eriq LaSalle and Arnika Howard

Eriq LaSalle recalled his personal memories of Parks, "He was a gentle soul. A quiet storm."  LaSalle said Gordon was also a maverick - who rarely asked permission to do things, "he just did it."  The director/writer/actor encouraged the audience to learn more about Parks and reminded the group to share the photographer's story with the youth of today.

Macy' in-store tribute to Gordon Parks

If you live in Atlanta, be sure to visit Arnika Howard's gallery at 4600 Cascade Road.  She'll be showcasing Parks' work during February and March, as well as presenting a screening of The Learning Tree (directed by Gordon Parks) on March 29th.

In addition to the folks at Macy's being rock stars and bringing this event to cities around the country, they're also giving you a chance to win a trip to the American Black FIlm Festival in Miami, a $1,000 gift card (shoes, shoes & more shoes!) and a copy of Gordon Parks': Collected Works, Steidel 2012.  Click here for more details. 

FYI: Everywhere abides by FTC guidelines and has provided me with compensation for attending this event.  However, all thoughts and opinons expressed here are my own. Duh! :)

Pic Of The Day: Sweet Hugs

Happy Valentine's Day!  Do me a favor and hug somebody today....and tomorrow.  

Black History Month: Gordon Parks 101

"I still don't know exactly who I am," Gordon Parks wrote in his 1979 memoir, "To Smile in Autumn." He added, "I've disappeared into myself so many different ways that I don't know who 'me' is."

Wow.  Pretty profound from a man who is so well known and loved throughout the world.

Gordon Parks

Gordon Parks was a celebrated photographer who left behind a body of work that captured some of the most important aspects of American culture.  He was a visionary who also made films, composed music and wrote books.  A true renaissance man.  

He broke barriers in the world of photography; a genius at telling complex (and controversial) stories through pictures.  But you wanna know what I love the most about him?  His compassion and commitment to social justice.  

Unlike most of today's celebrities, Gordon Parks used his influence to bring attention to the ugly realities of racism, poverty and injustice.  In fact, he once called his camera a "weapon against poverty and racism."

He wasn't afraid to give a voice to the world's 'forgotten' people. His work gave people a pulse.  It made them human.  When you look at his collections, you can't turn away. You won't forget.  And for that alone, his memory will always be cemented in American History.

In honor of Black History Month, Macy's, the Gordon Parks Foundation and the American Black Film Festival will be celebrating the works of Gordon Parks in Atlanta on Saturday, February 16th (2:00 pm, Macy's Lenox Mall).  If you've never seen his work, go. You'll be amazed. I promise. 
   

Chef Marcus Samuelsson Says....

I had the pleasure of meeting Marcus Samuelsson recently in Atlanta.  He's a part of the Macy's Culinary Council and they brought him to town - to their Lenox location to give some hands-on cooking techniques, share more about his personal story (An amazing story!) and meet some of his fans.  

Yeah, he's a chef, but he's also an author, a philanthropist, owner of six restaurants and....get this: Vanity Fair magazine named him as one of their "Internationally Best Dressed" men in 2011.  How dope is that?!  

I admit, I'm a fan and I love good food, so this was right up my alley.  I learned a lot too.  Here are some of Marcus' most memorable quotes: 

                "Food is healing.  Ginger, garlic make you feel better and...they prevent illness." 

                "Learn to connect to your family through cooking...create history, memories." 

                "Burning yourself is all a part of becoming a chef!" 

Did You Know?  Marcus planned and executed the Obama Administration's first State dinner. Wanna know what President Obama's favorite food is?  Click here to see what Marcus says.        

Me, Marcus and my friend Tee

 

Black History Month Spotlight...Chef Marcus Samuelsson

It's officially Black History Month!!!  A great time to recognize the contributions and legacy of African Americans.  

If you're anything like me, you don't just celebrate Black history in February. I personally celebrate diversity and my culture every chance I can get.  Whether it's literature and music or the arts and technology, I applaud and appreciate African American history makers. 

Which brings me to my next point.... I love, love, love people who are at the top of their game.  Game changers is what I call 'em.  LOVE.

Chef Marcus Samuelsson

Marcus Samuelsson is a game changer.  He was born in a village in Ethiopia.  When his mother died of tuberculosis, he and his sister were adopted by a family in Sweden. After working in restaurant kitchens for years, he landed in New York.  He went on to earn a three-star rating from the New York Times twice (he was the youngest chef to earn this), and in 2003, he was named the best chef in New York by the James Beard Foundation. 

Fast forward to 2013.  Marcus is still a game changer. He's the owner of six restaurants, including one of my favorites, Red Rooster in Harlem (Sunday brunch is THE best!) You've probably seen him on 'The Next Iron Chef," and "Top Chef Masters."  And he's partnering with the Macy's Culinary Council to share his delicious cooking secrets with people throughout United States. Tomorrow, he's headed to Atlanta, where he'll stop by Macy's at Lenox (2:00 pm) to give tips to customers for Sunday's big game.  Whew! Busy man.  

To learn more about Marcus, be sure to pick up his memoir, "Yes, Chef" or visit www.marcussamuelsson.com/.  

Connect via Twitter: 
@MarcusCooks
@Macys 
@CulinaryCouncil
#SB47

Unwritten Rules of Twitter: What They Don't Tell You When You Sign Up (Volume I)

It's no secret.  I love Twitter.  When I joined the Twitterverse a few years ago, I admit--I was a little naive. So, I jumped right in (Look Ma, no hands!)  There were no instructions, no warnings...I'm still waiting on my "Welcome to Twitter" muffin basket.  Nada.  Nothing.  Zero.

And I realized very quickly there were a lot of things the Twitter Welcoming Committee doesn't tell you.... (Thank me later):

• Typing the word "your" on Twitter when you mean "you are" can be dangerous.  Jesus himself could get on Twitter and say "Fear not, child. I know that your going to heaven," and someone will respond to him and say..."Actually, it's you're."
  

• There's no reason for you to combine your "hahahas" and "lols" in the same tweet.  Way too much.  Nothing is ever THAT funny.
  
  
• Don't ever say ANYTHING bad about Beyonce.  Her fans are ruthless and will come for you with the ETHER.
  
  
• Unfollowing Folks (Part I)
  Listen.  The unfollow struggle is real.  People (including me) always think waaaaaay too much about it. Then...they do it anyway. Just know that this is normal.  Don't beat yourself up about it.
  
  
• Unfollowing Folks (Part II)
  If you unfollow people, don't tell them.  It's like announcing you're leaving a free concert in a room full of people. Awkward and...lame.
  
  
• "Twitter After Dark" is real and in full effect after midnight on weekdays, 11:00 pm (EST) on weekends.  If you can't handle the raunch & ratchetness, log off and come back during daytime hours.  No shame, just go.

• Deleting Your Twitter Account
  There's no need to let the Twitterverse know you're deleting your account.  No one really cares and you'll be back after a week or so.
   
• If you're a Kim Kardashian fan, you might want to keep that to yourself.  People go IN on her (and her fans) on Twitter like you would not believe.

•  If you're not careful, Twitter will harden your heart.  It will darken your soul, if you let it.  Before you know it, you'll be slandering dead celebs and sick kids with the quickness. So....think before you tweet.
  
  
• Non-parents, be careful.  Tweeting about kid topics (potty training, disciplining, homeschooling, etc.) could get ugly.  Tread lightly here or else.... #MommysDontPlay

The Inauguration Pic That Made Me Giggle

The 2013 Presidential inauguration was so dope.  But, did we expect anything less?!?!  I mean, come on.  They're the Obamas!  There are TONS of photos from yesterday's event, but there was only one that made me giggle.  

The Obama girls seem like such well-adjusted, normal girls.  And they're SO friggin' cute!  In the midst of all of the pomp and circumstance, the girls were just being....themselves.  #girlpower
 

     

Happy Birthday Martin Luther King, Jr.! (10 Things That Might Surprise You About Him)

Martin Luther King, Jr...We celebrate his birthday on the third Monday every January, although technically he was born on January 15th.  He's a hero to so many people.  A great man.  An  inspiration to me. 

I wish I could have met him...not sure what I would have said besides "thank you."  I probably would have just listened mostly.  Anyway....today is his birthday.  As we reflect and remember him, here are some interesting facts that might surprise you: 

OK..one more.  His “traveling bible” will be used to swear in President Obama at his second inauguration.

Martin Luther King's traveling bible.

 

Girl! (Pic Of The Day)

If this doesn't make you wanna hit the gym, I don't know what will....

Halle Berry at the Golden Globe Awards. (January 13, 2013)

Happy New Year!!!!!!!!! My 2013 Theme Song Is.....

I KNEW this would be my theme song the minute I heard it.  It made me smile real hard. :)

*singing*  "Hellllloooo.  Hellllloooo.  Hellllloooo!  Wave hello, hello, hello."   *salute*

 

Django Unchained: A Love Story

First things first, I hate westerns.  Always have.  Probably, always will.  Second, I'm a huge Quentin Tarantino fan.  He is my kinda filmmaker.  Yes, he is.  Fearless, smart and an exceptional storyteller.  And finally, I have anxiety about seeing films that feature depictations of slavery.  If the portrayals are authentic, it can be very unsettling and painful to watch. 

Django (Jamie Foxx) and Calvin Candie (Leonardo DiCaprio)

I thought to myself, "How is THIS gonna work?"  Will I be able to give a fair assessment of a film that could very possibly make me want to get up and walk right out of the theater?  Can I do it? Will I do it?  Well, I did my best.... 

With Quentin Tarantino films, you really don't know what to expect.  Typically, there are lots of surprises, countless "Whoa, did that just happen?" moments and some LOL's sprinkled in there for entertainment purposes. 

The guy is unpredictable, so there's never a dull moment with his work.  By the time the credits roll, you're either speechless or you can't stop talking about what you've just experienced.  Either way, he will make an impression on you.  Django (the "D" is silent) Unchained is no exception. 

Listen.  With a name like Django, you gotta expect some bumps in the road.  But these bumps were just...more like boulders the size of New York!  Set in 1858, the movie is an explosive western with brutal shoot 'em up scenes and lots of blood & gore.  Pretty common in westerns, right?  The difference with Django is, it's a combination of different film genres. There are blaxpoitation components, and then you have the whole history angle.  And in the middle of all of THAT....there's a love story in there.

Django (Foxx) and Hildy (Kerry Washington)

Jamie Foxx is Django, a slave who agrees to partner with an abolitionist/bounty hunter to capture criminals (in exchange for his freedom).  The story becomes overly complex when their agreement takes them to the deep racist South to get Django's long-lost wife, a german speaking slave named Broomhilda (Hildy for short).  Django and Hildy.... *clutches my heart*  Did I mention this is a love story?  It is.     

The scenes are tense, long and entertaining. The actors bring their A-game (Leonardo DiCaprio? Whew!)  The movie soundtrack is an eclectic mix that includes everyone from Jim Croce to rapper Rick Ross.  But, be clear - not once did this film make me forget the brutality and horror of slavery.  It was almost too graphic at times.  But I watched closely because it was reality for my ancestors.  And as painful as it was for me, it is the truth.  The history of this country. 

Morally, the movie is a hot mess.  But it's also thought provoking, exciting, heartbreaking, appalling, annoying, violent and....pretty freakin' awesome.  Tarantino always keeps his audience on their toes.  He challenges us go to places that are uncomfortable, different and out of our element.  Yep, he is definitely my kinda filmmaker.  I still hate westerns though.

Awkward Conversation Of The Week....

Homeless Guy:  Hey!  Hey, girl. You got some extra change for me?  Fifty cent, a quarter...anything?

Me:  No, I'm so sorry, I don't.

Homeless Guy:  Come on, I know you got something!

Me:  I'm sorry, I really don't.

Homeless Guy:  Well, can I get your phone number then?

Me:  *blank stare*  No. No, you can't. 

Cold Weather Makes Me Feel Like This (Pic Of The Day)

He's a real life electric blanket.  All warm and cozy.  Boo is what they call him. :)

 

Top 10 Things I Learned At BronzeLens Film Festival

I attended the BronzeLens Film Festival for the first time recently in Atlanta.  'Tis was great!  I met some awesome people, learned lots of stuff and was totally inspired by some amazing films.  Here's a snapshot of my take-aways: 

1. Be nice. (Stephanie Allain, Roger Bobb and Reuben Cannon stressed this.)
   
   
2. Know the who, what and why of your project. (The 'pitch')
   
   
3. Submit your films to International Film Festivals.
   
   
4. Allot 30% (roughly) of your film budget for marketing.
   
   
5. Work with people who see the world the same way you do.  -Pearl Cleage
   
   
6. Know and understand copyright laws and distribution tactics.
   
   
7. Learn how to work around issues that get in your way.
   
   
8. Develop your audience. Develop your content.  Sell it to a network.
   
   
9. Identify your passion and be an expert in that.
   
   
10. Hope is not a strategy.

Me and Pearl Cleage 

Pic Of The Day: It's Friday!!!!!!!!!!

Cheers! :) 

I'm Black & Blonde -- Deal With It

The title of the article read:  "The Implications & Ramifications of Being Black and Blonde."  I re-read it to make sure I wasn't being punk'd.  I read it out loud--just to make surrrre.  Yep--that's what it said, alright.

Here's an excerpt from the piece:

"African-American women should release the hold that blonde hair has had on us.  It's not a natural hair color.  It's not really a good look if you're over 30.  It's not particularly healthy for your hair."

I don't know where to begin with this one.  Release the "hold" on blonde hair?  Not a "natural" hair color?  Not a good look if you're over  *clears my throat*  30???  

Huh?  Woo Jesus.  I had to ask Him to hold my mule, my wig and all of my calls.

Me...as a blonde

So, I'm Black and blonde.  My natural hair color is a dark brown, but I've been an on-and-off again blonde for many years.  I enjoy it.  It fits me - right now, and it's fun.  Honestly, I didn't put a lot of thought into lightening my locks.  I didn't pray about it.  Didn't seek counseling.  I didn't look at a beautiful blue-eyed blonde woman and think, "Man, I wanna look like...her."  Nope.  None of that.  I was bored with my hair one day and the next day - *voilà*, I was a blonde!    

In full disclosure, let me point out that my hair has been every color on the market.  EVERY color, do you hear me?  Why? I get bored quickly and I like to try new things--in all areas of my life.  And as a Black woman, I don't put limitations on my life.  The world already puts us in these weird, inaccurate, silly boxes:

"Black women don't work-out."

"Black women aren't very approachable. They
 communicate differently."

"Black women can't/don't do.....THAT."   

And now, you're telling us we shouldn't rock blonde hair?  Blonde hair is reserved for certain types of "women" only?  Puh-lease.  Dumbest thing I've heard in a long time. Whew--where do people come up with this stuff??

The lesson here is this:  Make sure your self-esteem is in tact.  Especially if you're a Black woman.  I'm no Dr. Phil, but I have common sense.  These kinds of dysfunctional words/messages are designed to make women question their self-worth.  And listen.  It happens. Sometimes we lose sight of our worth.  But, we have to grab it back and hold on tight.

Learn to be comfortable with who you are (blonde, brunette or braids) and commit to living freely in that truth--no matter what others say/think about you.  Know who you are.  Know it.  Own it.  Embrace it.   *pause & repeat*   Know it.  Own it.  Embrace it.   *pause & repeat*   Know it. Own it.  Embrace it.  (Get the picture?)    

BEST Dog Halloween Costumes of 2012 (LOL!)

Know what I love?  Dogs.  Know what I love even more?  Dogs in costumes!  *giggle*


Harry Potter is in the building!



Granny and Little Red Riding Hood  *giggle*  :)

They look....scared. :)

Jedi.  Enough said.



I Dream of Jeannie!  LOL!

"We're definitely not in Kansas anymore." - Lion, Dorothy & Scarecrow



Lola, the Grouch :)

Boooooooooooooo!!!

Love Is Love: The Kappa Wedding Everybody's Talking About

I've said this before, but I'll say it again.  I love love.  Any form it...parent-child, brother-sister, girlfriend-boyfriend, BFF's, life partners, same gender unions....whatever!  I don't care. I love seeing people happy, healthy and full of life. 
    
The video below surfaced a few days ago. It's been the center of some heated dialogue (on & offline.)  It's a beautiful video, I might add.  It features two adorable young people on their wedding day.  It took place about a month ago on what looks like a perfect Fall day (Aren't Fall weddings the best?!).  The couple seems so happy and so in love.  Lots of family members and friends were there to celebrate.  So sweet.  Their wedding colors were red and white. The ambiance was absolutely gorgeous.  Warm, inviting and full of....love. I've watched it several times because it makes me smile.

The groom's name is Robert.  And the other groom's name?  Nathanael.  Oh yeah and get this: Besides the fact that Robert and Nathanael are both men, one of them belongs to one of the most popular African American fraternities in the world, Kappa Alpha Psi. #Nupe  Listen.  Two black gay men--a Kappa, getting married and proudly showcasing the ceremony to the world???  Trust me, that's brave.  Very brave.  I applaud their courage.        



Other than the YouTube video, I don't know much about Robert and Nathanael.  But what I do know is this - Every one of us deserves these kinds of moments.  We do.  We do!  No matter our race, occupation or sexual preferance.  We all deserve to be happy.  And let me get this out of the way - I'm not here to beat anyone over the head about equal rights.  Believe and support who and what you want, and I'll politely do the same.  (I love everybody by the way, and that's just how I roll.  Take it or leave it.)

I just wish more people could celebrate other people's joy.  Be happy that someone has found their life partner. That special person who makes them smile, gives them butterflies, makes their heart skip a beat.  That person who stands with them through life's peaks and valleys.  That person who's not only their soulmate, but their best friend. THAT, my friends is...dope.  Why not celebrate that?  
            
Final Thoughts:  At the end of the day, love who you love.  Everyone has preferences.  Do you to the fullest.  And...be happy.  Xoxo

Pic Of The Day: 50 Years and Counting!

Since we're in the middle of a heated political season, I wanted to shine the spotlight on one of my favorite political figures. Colin Powell and his wife, Alma on their wedding day....50 years ago!  #Yowza 

Top 10 Quotes From Blogalicious 2012

Blogalicious has GOT to be the dopest social media conference on the planet!  I mean, where can you meet cool a** people, perfect your line dancing swag (the Wobble AND Cupid Shuffle), learn gobs of info AND party all night with one of your all-time favorite rappers (Hint: 6 minutes, 6 minutes...)?!  

There's no way I can post everything I learned this year, so I compiled my top quotes from some of the speakers and attendees.  Take a look:  

1.  Before you start doing the WHAT, think about the WHY.  Start with the why.  -@corynnecorbett

2.  Never underestimate the power of an educated consumer.  -@EVPMoguldom 

3.  Be comfortable being uncomfortable.  That's the path to growth.  -@marioarmstrong 

4.  Ugly blogs hurt people.  Design matters.  Make the investment.  -@KatyBuckworth

5.  Be very, very nice to the little bloggers.  They'll be big one day. -@Latism  

6.  Don't let someone else dim your light because they don't know how to illuminate their own.  -@missloritv

7. Put a GPS on your money.  Know where your money is going at all times.  -@WellsFargo

8.  For bloggers - Don't be so focused on monetizing that you forget about storytelling.  Don't lose your      
     voice!

9.  Don't write in beige.  Bring your own flavor and personality to what you do.  -@marioarmstrong

10.  Once you identify who you are, it'll be easy to dream big and make those dreams manifest.  -    
       @harriettecole

Doug E. Fresh at Blogalicious 2012

Pic Of The Day: She's How Old?!?!?!

I kid you not, this woman was born in 1937.  I'm not so great with math, but that means she's *counting on my fingers*  75 years old!  Let me repeat that, so it can marinate and you can really understand what I just said.  She. Is. 75!  Her name is Ernestine Shepherd and she's the world's oldest competitive female bodybuilder.

And get this: She started working out at the tender age of 56.  I'm SO @&h#(&?+d&rf!dg?#er inspired!!! 

Girls Run The World & Rock The Vote!

DISCLAIMER -  I was born and raised in Florida.  Besides the weather, the beaches and Disney World, there's something else we're known for.  Politics.  It's deep rooted in the culture down there.  No matter your age, race, economic status, church affiliation...whatever!  If you reside in the Sunshine State, you're about that political life.  (And not just during a Presidential election season.)
                                       
I'm not an emotional person.  I don't anger easily.  I don't have a combative spirit.  And I'm very, very careful about picking my battles.  Which brings me to my next point...

I checked my Facebook page a few days ago.  It was late at night, but people were still online posting...and venting. Pretty common, right?  Well, something, or should I say someone caught my eye.  I'll call her "Kelly."  Kelly was frustrated and upset about the number of political posts on her timeline.  She was mad and totally "OVER IT." (Yep, she posted it in all caps).  Kelly wanted Facebook to return to that wonderful, blissful utopia that features snapshots of food, obnoxious quotes and sappy relationship updates.  Ahhhh...Facebook.  Gotta love it. :)

Any-who.  I'm always surprised to hear a person say they're not "into" politics.  Completely blown away and disappointed when I hear a woman say it.  The conversation usually goes something like this:

Friend:  I don't like politics.  I don't get it.  I don't follow it.  

Me: * blank stare *

Friend: I hate politics....blah, blah, blah.

Me:  Girl, what?  Do you know that these politicians (mostly men) are out here making decisions about our reproductive rights?  Passing laws about our health care choices...  Hellllloooo - our issues are at stake!

Listen.  Beyonce says "Girls Run The World."  And I believe it.  As women, we've made some amazing strides over the last 20 years, but we have a long way to go.  And to get there, we have to be engaged in the political process.  We shouldn't be comfortable sitting on the sidelines.  We can't afford to "get over it."  We have to get into it.  

There's no question about it, this Presidential election will be a close race.  Will female voters be a key factor? Absolutely.  Our impact is critical and yes, we will play a pivotal role on November 6th.  

To women like Donna Brazile and Maria Shriver....and me, politics isn't some dry, boring, cold place reserved for older men in nice suits.  It's the freeway to empowerment.  It's a place where our thoughts and ideas can help change lives.   
So, the next time you hear a woman diss politics, talk to her about the candidates and the issues.  Help her understand.  And politely remind her of all the women and men who made sacrifices, so that we--women could have a seat at the table.  And then grab a microphone, turn up the video below and...Rock. Out. :)