A Fantastic Weekend at 2019 Black Out Loud

2nd Annual Black Out Loud Conference

August 2-4th, 2019 - Southern University at Baton Rouge

Here are a few shots from Black Out Loud weekend, where Adornleaf Tea was in the building for the kick-off event on Friday and the full conference day on Saturday. My friend Kenroy and I also attended the Criminal Justice Reform Brunch along with JeLisa, John, and a few new acquaintances I met throughout the weekend. The brunch included enlightening videos as well as a segment in which a panel of black and brown lawyers, advocates, and city organizers discussed how blackness and the criminal justice system intersect, often to the detriment of black and brown peoples. Don’t get it twisted, though! While I did engage in some heavy discussions about equity, progress, and discrimination, I also spent a lot of time laughing, dancing, and just being happy to be in the presence of so many engaged attendees.

Also, I had the distinct pleasure of seeing Mumu Fresh live at the kick-off event and she tore the place down from top to bottom. My sister April and I were blown away, and even my mother, Brenda (who graciously kept an eye on the table whenever I disappeared) could tell how awesome her performance was from the adjacent hallway. And I was so excited to share some ice cold Jaguar Boost tea with a few members of her talented crew! Seriously, look Mumu Fresh up. She’s amazing.

In the gallery above you’ll see our vending table set-up, a collection of business cards from the other awesome vendors in the building, the gift we raffled on Saturday, as well as a cameo from Mayor Sharon Weston Broome! I did some golden networking with other tea-makers and vendors, and even got a moment to speak with power figures in the Baton Rouge area like the mayor, councilwomen, and Dr. Raymond Jetson of Metromorphosis of Baton Rouge.

I am so glad to have been a part of this amazing event. Can’t wait for the next one!

Photos courtesy of Leslie D. Rose, Black Out Loud Staff, and my antiquated Samsung.