Preparing for the Black History Month 2022 Pop-Up: An Intern's Perspective

Preparing for the Black History Month 2022 Pop-Up: An Intern's Perspective
Esme Goldstein

My name is Esme and I am a new intern in Multicultural and Gender Studies at the Stonewall Alliance Center of Chico. So far, my experience working as an intern has been awesome. Each week at the meetings, I enjoy catching up with the other interns and our supervisors before we jump into our work for the week. I’ve noticed that there is such a range of different interests and strengths among the interns, that it is no issue finding someone to take on the tasks we are working on. Everyone is willing and excited to contribute their part, and our meetings have quickly become something I look forward to. Finding a community in Chico can seem daunting for many LGBTQIA+ individuals, but the Stonewall Alliance Center works to create a safe and welcoming space for all identities. One of the ways the center cultivates the community in Chico is by working with other organizations in the surrounding areas, to bring people together in appreciation of all our city has to offer. I am excited that entering February, we are preparing for a collaborative event coming up in honor of Black History Month. We have teamed up with the African American Family and Cultural Center of Oroville to present the Black History Month Pop Up: an outdoor event that features some of Chico’s Black creators and vendors, to help raise money for our QT*POC Direct Aid Fund.

Since I am new at Stonewall, I have not been involved in the planning of this event much yet, but after attending meetings to discuss what is in store, I can’t wait to see the outcome. Having gone to school in Chico for the past few years, I am familiar with the art fairs, farmers markets, and public speaking events that are held around town. Walking through colorful booths full of paintings, jewelry, and food, I feel a sense of pride for the talent we are so lucky to come together and appreciate here in Chico. I find it interesting to see the variety of what people in our community are creating and working on. In a similar way, our Black History Month Pop Up aims to showcase the incredible work of our community by specifically focusing on Black artists, creators, and performers.

Having a space that highlights the creative work of the local Black community feels to me like a key way to recognize just how much our town’s vibrance comes from these Black creators. I’m looking forward to discovering new music and poetry from this event, and was amazed by just how much local talent we have in the lineup of performances. I can’t wait to be walking around the booths and appreciating all the incredible creations–from embroidery to illustrations to macrame. Our vendors will be cooking up some delicious dishes to enjoy while we watch the live performers and speakers that include Cory Himp Hunt, Scout the Wise, and the AAFCC’s Dance Diverse.

I am hoping this event will shine a spotlight on the influence of Black business owners, artists, speakers, and creators in our community. When enjoying Sunday brunch at Broadway’s Black Wal Street Cafe, I get to have a taste of what the incredible Black chefs of Chico are capable of cooking up. I’ll often see people walking around on campus wearing clothes made by J.threads. His unique designs have created a recognizable local style, alongside Beads by Rey, whose beautiful beaded bracelets and necklaces add touches of color and balance to any outfit. When reflecting on the impact of these Black artists and business owners, the idea of having their talent all in one space seems like not only a beautiful way to show our appreciation for all they bring to the town of Chico, but also allows us all to come together and support our community. I can’t wait to share this beautiful celebration with you all, and encourage everyone to come by the pop up this Saturday, February 5th!