After visiting the Trevor Project (which might I add was pretty impressive and heart warming) we were granted the opportunity to complete some service with the Audre Lorde Project (ALP)! This was the moment I've been waiting for. All week I've been counting down the days to which we would be able to the share the same space as the organization that formed their mission and productivity around the ideals of the wondrous Audre G. Lorde. Being a poet and a multi-interested student in university, I've been able to encounter many pieces composed by Ms. Lorde. She's had probably the most influence on my writing style and my values as a woman of color. Before I go into what ALP does, I feel as though it would only be right if I provided a quick background of the phenomenal poet. The beloved feminist, activist, and poet Audre Geraldine Lorde was born on February 18, 1934 in Harlem, New York. Being such a unique individual with a multitude of unique identifiers, through her work she aspired to draw attention to three specific subjects (gender, race, and sexual orientation) whether it may have been directly or metaphorically. Lorde was one to support the recognition of such difference,being educated on the differences, and accepting these differences. She would use herself as a focal point in order to express how tapping into various spectrums of life wasn't harmful. Audre Lorde wanted to see a change in the way society handled these differences. She used her literary pieces as a source of art as social activism in hopes of starting a revolution.
I believe that ALP is the beginning of this revolution. The Audre Lorde Project (ALP) is a Community Organizing Center for Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Two-Spirit, Trans and Gender Non Conforming (LGBTSTGNC) People of Color Communities. ALP was first brought together by Advocates for Gay Men of Color in 1994.The Audre Lorde Project is a Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Two Spirit, Trans and Gender Non Conforming People of Color center for community organizing, focusing on the New York City area. Through mobilization, education and capacity-building, they work for community wellness and progressive social and economic justice. Committed to struggling across differences, they seek to responsibly reflect, represent and serve their various communities. Just being able to partake in organization of the office space/prep work for the event they were hosting later on tonight was wonderful. The staff member we were mainly communicating with (Cleopatra from the Bronx) was delightful. She was willing to answer any questions we had, and was excited to have us there. After introducing ourselves, and her presentation, we were ready to serve! Some of us filled plush toy bags that contained items for those coming to the studio space later for their event that were 18+. Others worked on taking inventory or ALP's branded clothing. Some were organizing/arranging the general space which included the kitchen, the shelves in the back, and a few closets. But most importantly, the majority of us were able to fill transparent packets full of safe sex materials and ALP's information that they will be giving away for free during the PRIDE Parade. I say that this was the most important part of our service simply because HIV/AIDs is a serious issues within the LGTBQ community, and providing free safe sex kits is a great way to decrease its influence within this community.
Personally I enjoy every second of service at the Audre Lorde Project. I felt as though what they were doing truly reflected the attitude and vision held for this community. ALP is all about mobilizing and productive action. Not only being a safe place but being apart of the creation more more safe places. Providing members within their communities with the proper tools and education on how to succeed as advocates in relation to their various identities. Just being able to serve ALP today brought a feeling of fulfillment. Seeing how much they do, and how understaffed they are, but feeling the immense amount of passion made my work that much more valuable. Before I close out this post I'm going to share a quote by Audre Lorde I saw posted on the door just before we left.
"When I dare to be powerful, to use my strength, in the service of my vision, then it becomes less and less important whether I am afraid." Fight past the fear in order to fight for what you are passionate about.
xoxo,
- Stella
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