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Showing posts from December, 2021

Where we go from here

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  Beloved family, This has been a heartbreaking year for us at BoomShake and for so many in our community. We were devastated this June by the passing of Monica Hastings Smith—our mentor, auntie, musical director, and guiding light. And we know this loss comes in the wake of so many losses to our communities, from the interlocking impacts of racism, colonialism, pandemic, and climate injustice. In the wake of Monica’s passing, we weren’t sure how to go on as BoomShake, or even whether we should. We knew there was no replacement for the joy, wisdom, and creativity Monica brought to our workshops, performances, and street actions. We considered shutting our programs down. But as we gathered to celebrate and mourn Monica, we heard from so many of you—and felt for ourselves—the power of the space we have created together. We reflected on how essential drumming, song, and ritual are to our collective healing and liberation. We saw the need for a musical space where we can