Can We Talk for REAL

What did you promise yourself you would do different in 2017? For most, 2017 is the year you are going to work out, eat healthy, work on yourself or even participate in a social cause dear to your heart. Let start the conversation about fitness, work outs and personal trainers with Jai Davis, Professional Athlete, Firefighter, Paramedic, Personal Trainer, and Child Advocate. Joining CAN WE TALK FOR REAL on Wednesday, January 25, 2017 will be Jai Davis Professional Athlete, Firefighter, Paramedic, Personal Trainer, and Child Advocate. Join us as Jai talks about achieving a healthier lifestyle with nutritional planning, staying fit, and maintaining a healthy body image and how fitness empowers woman. Jai will also talk about her commitment to juvenile diabetes through the Jai Fit Academy.  The Jai Fit Academy works hard to educate the youth in achieving a healthier lifestyle to include: nutritional planning, staying fit, and maintaining a healthy body image. Join us this Wednesday, January 25, 2017 at 8:30PM EST/7:30PM CST as CAN WE TALK FOR REAL has a candid conversation with Jai Davis, personal trainer, ex- boxer, and advocate about training and empowering your body.   CAN WE TALK FOR REAL – your award winning Blogtalkradio show.

SCHOOL HAS NOW OFFICIALLY OPENED FOR MILLIONS OF CHILDREN. Nearly nine out of 10 LGBT students (86.2 percent) experience harassment at school because of their sexual orientation, and 60.8 percent feel unsafe, according to the Gay, Lesbian and Straight Education Network’s (GLSEN) 2007 National School Climate Survey. The 2015 National School Climate Survey will come out in fall of 2016 as noted on the GLSEN website. These numbers are alarming but what is on the horizon is more alarming in a good way. California and Georgia have open schools that are geared toward the LGBTQ student offering LGBTQ students a safe, supportive environment -- one they can choose or decline -- can save lives and be an important ingredient in an overall recipe for positive change for all youth, including and especially LGBTQ youth and their allies.” More importantly is that in October 2016, the LGBTQ Community Initiative at Teach for America will celebrate two years. The Initiative will be a part of the Summit where it is open to LGBTQ and allied corps members, alumni, staff, partners, and students. They are sponsored by Teach for America’s LGBTQ Community Initiative and participating regions. LGBTQ Summits will drive the work of engaging teachers and leaders in partnership with regional and national organizations that focus on supporting LGBTQ students and educators. Joining Can We Talk for REAL will be Tim’m West, Senior Managing Director, LGBTQ Community Initiative, Strategic Initiatives & Partnerships of Teach America. Tim’m will lead the conversation about LGBTQ students in schools and what they go through once they enter the buildings every day. 

We previously had couples from the Chicago area who agreed to join us and juts talk raw about marriage and their feelings about issues that affect us all no matter who you marry. Tonight on Can WE Talk for REAL we are going to continue that conversation. Joining CAN WE TALK FOR REAL tonight, August17, 2016 is Lisa (Verse) Ware has been married to Romesa Ware since June 10, 2016. Lisa is Sup. Historian,, President of Chicago's Lambda Colony, Alpha Psi Kappa Fraternity, Incorporated, April 2, 2011 to present. Also joining us will be SB Moss, who had been married since June 17, 2008. Sb is a Patient Care Technician (PCT) at DaVita.  She also studied Health Care at South Suburban College. Lastly we have a couple that also are married and are business partners. Interesting combination we have the owners of TnPcleaningprofessionals Are Us joining us tonight. Tonight’s conversation is going to be open and if you are thinking about getting married listen in and ask those questions that will help you. Also, if you got married within the past 10 years or more and you have good advice for our couples to be or newlyweds call in and share the Happiness. Did marriage change you?  If you have to do it again what would you change? What is your secret.

School starts soon and for many it will be a new experience with a group of classmates they have never met and they know nothing about. For those returning to school there is the in crowd, the jocks, the brainy students and the TARGETS, and not just the new kids in schools but “friends”, “neighbors” or just the “outsiders”.  Middle school and High school are supposed to be the best years of your life. Its where you meet those lifelong friends, be popular, play sports, become a good debater, take up politics, find puppy love, go to Prom and graduate- beginning life.  Hundreds of students will begin school and many of those who accept and begin living their truth as LGBTQ, or is diagnosed with bi-polar or a mental disease will become those TARGETS and will commit Suicide. ALERT: There is a NEW BULLY in town and it is called Social Media better known as Face Book. It becomes the hidden fist that strikes you, the vicious words (gay, trans, bi-polar) that degrades you, the gun that shoots you and the knife that stabs you in the heart.  As school, starts back parents need to look, listen and be proactive in conversations with your children. Young people if you stay silent and allow someone else to be bullied you can also carry the label of bully, because you are not part of the solution.  

It’s been a little past the year mark since the landmark Supreme Court in Obergefell v. Hodges, decided the fundamental right to marry is guaranteed to same-sex couples. The actual number of couples that have wed since the decision is unknown.  Joining CAN WE TALK FOR REAL on Wednesday, August 3, 2016 is Imani Baskin. President and CEO of Women Healing Women, Inc. Imani is also Poetess, Empowerment Coach, Artist, Motivator, Feminist, Thought Liberator, Unicorn and Author. This spring she added a new title to her arsenal that of bride/wife.Imani is a dynamic speaker, who captivates her audience with passion, humor and a unique ability to personalize her message to fit anyone listening to her words. As a professional counselor and life coach, Imani inspires her clients to turn painful experiences into purpose-driven missions. She is affectionately known as the Barrier Breaker & Change Maker! Is a wedding in your plans? Want to make a surprise proposal or announce to friends/family your wedding plans? Then tune in to hear what this powerhouse has to say about the experience, get some tips and learn how it has changed her life. If you were recently married join us as we talk.  

Tonight's show

Do you remember what you thought, how you felt or what you were doing when you heard that 49 people who were out enjoying the evening had been shot and killed in an Orlando Nightclub? Now the same question, when it was announced the club was a gay club? Did this horrible event impact you in such a way that you needed to talk to a friend, family, vent on FaceBook, or just join in one of the vigils for the victims no matter what city, town or state you were in? The most important question is going to be now, “How did this change your life”? Believe me it has, whether you want to believe it did or not. We are all changed even if you are not gay. Joining Can We Talk for REAL cohosts Teresa (TerryBoi) Jackson and Michelle E. Brown on Wednesday June 22, 2016 is Claudia Mosier, Psy.D. a licensed clinical psychologist in Chicago. She had been the Director of Mental Health and Youth Services for the Center on Halsted. Once the LGBTQ community woke to the news of the Orlando shooting, Mosier opened her office to the members of the LGBTQ community and anyone who needed to come and join in conversation. CAN WE TALK FOR REAL airs at 8:30PM EST/7:30PM CST. Call (347)215-8985 and press “1” to listen and be a part of the conversation  

Ramadan is the ninth month of the Islamic lunar calendar. Every day during this month, Muslims around the world spend the daylight hours in a complete fast. In 2016 Ramadan begins in the evening of Sunday, June 5th and ends in the evening of Tuesday, July 5th. Muslims currently make up approximately 0.9% of the U.S. adult population. If children are included, the Muslim population in the United States totals 2.75 million Muslims in the country.  Although the exact number of LGBTQ Muslims in the United States or globally is not known, openly gay Imams are emerging to help those struggling to live openly and authentically in harmony with their faith. Joining CAN WE TALK FOR REAL cohosts Teresa (TerryBoi) Jackson and Michelle E. Brown on Wednesday June 8, 2016 is IMAM DAAYIEE ABDULLAH one of the five Imams worldwide who are openly gay. IMAM DAAYIEE ABDULLAH lectures nationally and internationally on progressive Muslim concepts, intra-faith and interfaith networking, and the development of inclusive and progressive revisions of Islamic theological thought and Islamic law. He actively promotes understanding and awareness of issues of racial, gender and sexual equality as understood in the UN Declaration of Human Rights within and beyond Muslim communities.

Each year on Memorial Day we remember members of our community – family, friends, neighbors even strangers – who died while serving in the country’s armed forces. We visit their graves, hold memorials, march in parades and thank them for their service but what about the remaining 364 days of the year.After a successful career as an entrepreneur in Michigan, Tiera Craig moved to New York and joined the US Department of Veterans Affairs in New York. Besides providing management analysis, she provides a welcoming “Out and Proud” face for LGBTQ veterans visiting the facility.Tiera has volunteered at various non-profit organizations across the country. As a member of Kappa Xi Omega Sorority, Inc., she is surrounded by successful professional women, some of whom are active military and veterans themselves.Tiera recently attended the 5th Annual OutServe-SLDN LGBT Military Leadership Conference in Washington DC. OutServe-SLDN brings together actively serving and retired service members, advocates and experts to discuss issues, concerns, and future planning for the LGBT military community. Tiera will share her observations from the OutServe-SLDN Conference. She will also talk about her experiences as a membership in Kappa Xi Omega and how it drives her commitment to serve with the Rainbow Veterans Project. Founded by Tiera Craig, The Rainbow Veterans Project aims to provide resource, advocacy, and training to Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, and Transgender Veterans.

May is Lupus Awareness Month! Lupus is a chronic, autoimmune disease that can damage any part of the body (skin, joints and/or organs inside the body). African-Americans are three times more likely than Caucasians to develop lupus and with greater severity.  Black females disproportionately are burdened by lupus. Joining CAN WE TALK FOR REAL ,May 25, 2016 is Sharon L. Harris, founder and president of Lupus Detroit. Ms. Harris will share her journey from diagnosis to Lupus Warrior raising awareness about the disease and advocating for others stricken with Lupus so they could also not just survive but thrive.A month after graduating from Florida A & M University, she was diagnosed with discoid and systemic lupus. Soon after the diagnosis, she had a “what if tomorrow is never promised” moment. Shortly after the lupus went into remission, she passed two rigorous interviews and six weeks of training and became a flight attendant for Mesaba Airlines. Her reasoning was if lupus was going to attack her, it would have to find her on the beaches of Aruba or high above the Eiffel tower. In late 2008 threatened her health and well-being. Sharon experienced a lupus flare so great that her doctor told her there was nothing left that he could do. He then patted her on her back and told her “good luck”. Within a year, Sharon raised more than one million dollars in pledges, in-kind donations and sponsorships for the organization. In 2009, her Lupus Walk team raised almost $5,000 for lupus research. This led her to be a sought after lupus advocate, participating as a guest on radio and television. She has travelled to Washington D.C to lobby Congress and the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) on behalf of those with lupus. The genetics of lupus in minority populations is starting to get the attention it deserves in part due to the efforts of Warriors like Sharon L. Harris.

The relationship between women is based on a complexity of feelings, thoughts, and behaviors. The mother-daughter bond has a powerful impact on women’s relationships. This relationship of dependence and nurturance, engulfment, power and control, is what gets re-activated in same sex relationships between women. This is where the nature of the mother-daughter bond can show itself in subtle, yet, powerful ways. Difficulties can arise when both parties in the relationship struggle to get their individual needs met. Wednesday Night, May 18th joining CAN WE TALK FOR REAL, co-host Michelle E Brown and Teresa (Terry Boi) Jackson will be Bonnie Harrison well-known and dynamic Licensed Psychotherapist who frames her work around an African, and Indigenous Spiritualities Paradigm. The focus of her work is on healing what’s broken as a result of historical harm, childhood trauma, and ongoing socio-political stressors and wounding. She is known as a developer and facilitator of wellness-centered learning experiences for both women and men, and gender-diverse people of African descent. However, her training and healing models are designed to benefit members of various ethno-cultural groups. Paradoxically, the needs one wants to be satisfied most-nurturance and dependence-become a struggle for power and control, often resulting in the thing most feared, abandonment and loss.Gaining a clearer understanding of same gender loving relationships between women, can be best accomplished by taking a look at our own mothers’ relationships with their mothers, and the portrait of their lives within an ethno-cultural, and bio-psychosocial context. Bonnie will discuss the approaches she uses to better ensure self-healing and wellness in our communities. Her work is informed by her use of the technologies found in African and Indigenous Spiritualities, in combination with some western therapeutic interventions, and the creative arts.

The Strength of My Soul: Stories of Sisterhood, Triumph and Inspiration includes stories that also highlight mothers and their struggles. As noted about the book women are the bearers of life. Women breathe live, live life and love life with all its turns in the roads. This week Can We Talk for REAL will continue to celebrate Mothers in our own unique way. We will have a mother and daughter conversation with Dr. Carole Hysmith and her daughter Lenore about their mother/daughter relationship and how it has formed to be what it is today.Mothers have always been the back bone of the African American Community. So image you have a daughter that identifies as a same gender loving woman.  Joining “Can We Talk for REAL”, Wednesday, May 11th to continue celebrating Mothers will be Dr. Carole Hysmith. Dr.  Hysmith will take us through her journey “ The Union between a Mother and Her Same-Gender Loving Daughter” and how she and her daughter were able to grow in this new relationship once they started the conversation and put in the work. Dr Hysmith talks about how her world was rocked when she discovered her daughter was a lesbian. However, over thirty years later she now realizes that knowing about her daughter has enriched her own character and their relationship. Listen to her own words. http://www.thestrengthofmysoul.com/team_member/dr-carol-hysmith/ Happy Mother’s day to all the Mommies and if you need a way to start that conversation join us and ask your questions of someone who had been there done that. Remember in every situation there can be you are never alone. There is no handbook only a SISTERHOOD that share Best Practices that still has its flaws but it’s with LOVE that it is passed on. Show starts at 8:30 est, 7:30 cst, call in 347-215-8985 and Press 1 to speak.

The Black Trans Advocacy Conference (BTAC) is not just a convention, it's a joyful family reunion. This year the gathering celebrated its 5th anniversary with attendees from across the country and as far away as Jamaica. BTAC is a unique life changing five day program that furthers education, provides linkage to resources, community building and organizing, leadership development and celebration of diverse identities.Winners at this year’s gala awards ceremony included Elle Hearns (Monica Roberts Advocacy Award); Angelica Ross, Bryanna Jenkins, Yusuf James and Wriply Bennet (BTAC Trailblazer Award); Aurora Jonez (Community Ally award), and DeeDee Watters (Advocate of the Year). Each day transgender people are faced with bias that affects all areas of life. According to Injustice at Every Turn: A Look at Black Respondents in the National Transgender Discrimination Survey, Black trans and gender non-conforming people reported experiencing the highest levels of discrimination of all transgender people based on the combination of anti-transgender bias with structural and individual racism. Black Trans Advocacy, through its national advocacy center and affiliate state chapters works daily to advance social equality with specific focus on inequities faced in the black and transgender human experience.Hear about this year’s BTAC celebration = what was learned, what was shared, what was celebrated this Wednesday at 8:30PM EST/7:30PM CST on CAN WE TALK FOR REAL, your award winning blogtalk radio. Call (347)215-8985 then press “1” to listen and join in the conversation.

Earlier this month the North Carolina Legislature passed HB2 a discriminatory law taking aim at the Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual and especially the Transgender communities. There are several things involved in HB2 but the one that has gotten the most attention is the requirement that anyone using a public or school multiuser bathroom must use the bathroom assigned to the gender on that person’s birth certificate.This sweeping law reverses ordinance that Charlotte, NC that extended some rights to people who are gay or transgender and nullified local ordinances around the state that would have expanded protections for the LGBT community.In the wake of the passage of North Carolina’s HB2, nearly 70 clergy from several faith traditions pledged to do whatever they can to overturn North Carolina’s controversial new law. The Rev. Robin Tanner, lead minister at the Piedmont Unitarian Universalist Church chairs the interfaith Charlotte Clergy Coalition for Justice.Joining CAN WE TALK FOR REAL cohosts Teresa (Terry Boi) Jackson and Michelle E. Brown will be representatives from the Coalition to talk about HB2 and their commitment to fight this discriminatory law including Rev. Robin Tanner, Rev. Dawn Flynn and Bishop Tonyia Rawls.The clergy group, which includes two transgender ministers, will organize an anti-HB2 rally on April 24 and have pledged to financially support the lawsuit recently filed by the ACLU to challenge HB2.The Charlotte Clergy Coalition for Justice, called out to North Carolinians from the shared moral grounding of love for neighbor. The Coalition employs the methods of nonviolence and the practices of peace in the pursuit of justice and equity in Charlotte and Mecklenburg County. 

APRIL is SEXUAL ASSAULT AWARENESS MONTH. Around the world activists and survivors of sexual assault are participating in Take Back The Night events, marches, rallies and vigils as a protest and direct action against rape and other forms of sexual, relationship and domestic violence. On WEDNESDAY APRIL 13, 2016, Kalimah Johnson, Founder and CEO of the SASHA CENTER returns to the show and, will join CAN WE TALK FOR REAL cohosts Teresa (Terry Boi) Jackson and Michelle E. Brown to talk about Sexual Assault Awareness, SASHA CENTER’s recent Take Back The Night event and the CENTER’s on going work. The SASHA CENTER is a culturally specific Sexual Assault Peer Educational Support Group that provides services for self-identified survivors of rape. SASHA’s programs focus on the primary prevention of sexual violence, educating the public about rape, raising awareness and providing free and confidential support groups to self-identified survivors of sexual assault. Sexual violence is a major public health, human rights and social justice. At the SASHA CENTER and for survivors of sexual Assault - Healing is possible Join us WEDNESDAY, APRIL 13, 2016 at 8:30PM EST/7:30PM CST as CAN WE TALK FOR REAL as we Take Back the NIGHT with Kalimah and the SASHA CENTER.  

It’s a new look at life from a Black LGBTQ perspective. It’s “THE SIP!” - A weekly two-hour LGBTQ radio talk show that unites four intellectual African-American gay men from diverse occupations and life journeys on a quest to discover and report on everything from world headline news to pop culture. Joining CAN WE TALK FOR REAL cohosts Teresa (Terry Boi) Jackson and Michelle E. Brown are the cohosts of “THE SIP” André Darey, Isaac King, David Dodd and Lenox Magee. They will tell how they came to host the show on Urban Broadcast Media and their vision to develop a show that aspires, according to cohost and executive producer Lenox Magee, to be a “James Baldwin with a pop culture twist.” They hit the ground running with a first show talking about the anti-gay laws in North Carolina and Mississippi.Urban Broadcast Media (UBM) is dedicated to building people, communities and partnerships. How will the cohosts of “THE SIP” shape the vision of UBM with their unique style and perspective? Join us WEDNESDAY, APRIL 6, 2016 at 8:30PM EST/7:30PM CST as CAN WE TALK FOR REAL finds out “what’s the tea?” with the cohosts of “THE SIP” – Chicago’s own Lenox Magee, David Dodd, Isaac King and André Darey. CAN WE TALK FOR REAL – your award winning Blog radio show.

Wednesday March 30, 2016 playwright, curator, visual artist, poet, writer, spoken word artist, performer, and trans activist Andrea Jenkins.Jenkin's work is concerned with the interplay of words, mediums and genres that can be mashed together to create a new narrative. She views her work as collage, working primarily with paper and mixed media as a visual form of curation. Taking various images that have been artfully produced for the purpose of consumerism and mixing them with social justice messages and images brings attention to the issues of inequality. Andrea calls South Minneapolis home. She was awarded the Bush Fellowship in recognition of her extraordinary achievement and potential. In addition to the Many Voices and Bush Leadership Fellowships, she was awarded Naked Stages and Verve Grants in 2010. In 2002 she received the Loft Mentor Series Award for Poetry. Since 2006 she has co-curated the Queer Voices series at Intermedia Arts, which is the longest running GLBT reading series in the country. Her work has been published in several newspapers, journals, and anthologies. She holds a B.A. in Human Services, a M.S. in Community Economic Development, and a MFA in Creative Writing from Hamline University. When she’s not lending her skills to almost every area of the Twin Cities art scene, she is the Minneapolis 8th Ward Senior Policy Aid in the office of Councilwoman Elizabeth Glidden.   

Natasha “T” Miller is African American, lesbian woman, dedicated LGBTQ activist, author and poet, raised on the west side of Detroit. The Artists Inn is located in the historical east village neighborhood of Detroit. The Inn will provide quality yet inexpensive lodging for visiting artists, while providing them an opportunity to give back to their host community. The Artists Inn will provide jobs to local Detroiters, artistic opportunities, knowledge, and healthy food alternatives. The Inn envisions a community with blocks anchored by homeowners, renters, and businesses proactively contributing the stabilization of the neighborhood. “T” Miller will be talking about the Artist Inn, its impact on the community and her dream of establishing similar projects around the country. This project will reflect the current interests and concerns of community members while keeping in-mind the forward thinking that will sustain the area for years to come. Join us on CAN WE TALK FOR REAL to talk with Natasha “T” Miller and learn how you can be a part of The Artist Inn.

The Strength of My Soul, Stories of Sisterhood, Triumph and Inspiration, Presented by SharRon Jamison is an anthology that premiere the trials, tribulations and victories of 27 women from different races, classes and backgrounds. These women share their pains, their moment of despairs and the moment of victories.  They use prose and narratives to tell of their journey as the let you into their lives. They show you their darkest hours and the brightest triumphs. Their works are inspirational and a must read for all women. Joining CAN WE TALK FOR REAL to talk about their contribution to The Strength of My Soul “Seeing” The Forest For The Trees, will be Yvette Bennett, a BFA Graduate, previous Media Society President at American Intercontinental University, Atlanta Georgia and Asset Manager for Universal Pictures. Also joining will be Colleen Pratt who will also share her contribution to The Strength of My Soul, A Perceived Hurdle Is Not a Hurdle At All. Over the past fourteen years, Colleen M. Pratt has practiced law in Southern California with an emphasis on civil litigation. MS. Pratt has handled thousands of cases, and her accomplishments span from the Federal District Court to the California Superior Court, and all the way to the California Court of Appeal. Her watchwords have always been and will continue to be: commitment, dedication, and compassion. Join us for for this inspirational, uplifting and empowering conversation listen to our show and hopefully one of these ladies story will give you that word needed to remind you – You are never alone and YES YOU CAN. Show starts at 8:30est/:7:30cst, call in to 347-215-8985, and Press 1 to speak.

March is NATIONAL READING MONTH. In celebration of National Reading Month CAN WE TALK FOR REAL co-hosts Teresa (Terry Boi) Jackson and Michelle E. Brown welcome LaWayne Childrey to the show to talk about his book “Peeing Back the Layers: A Story of Trauma, Grace and Triumph.” His book was selected as one of the top six autobiographies of 2015 by the Colorado Independent Publishers Association. This book tells Childrey’s story - how a troubled, black, gay youth from the Deep South grew up to become one of the most respected news journalists in the country. Childrey is also a recipient of the national Edward R. Murrow Award for Journalistic Excellence. The award is given by the Radio Television Digital News Association honoring outstanding achievements in electronic journalism. Murrow Award recipients demonstrate the excellence that Edward R. Murrow made a standard for the electronic news profession. Childrey has also won numerous Mississippi Associated Press Broadcasters awards for his reporting with Mississippi Public Broadcasting. In 2014 the Alabama Community College System selected Childrey as its most outstanding alumnus in the institution’s 50-year history. The ACCS awarded a $5,000 scholarship in Childrey’s name to a deserving Alabama high school senior. During the same year, Childrey was named alumnus of the year for Jefferson State Community College in Birmingham. In his compelling autobiography Childrey demonstrates his ability to persevere during times of immense adversity. Join CAN WE TALK FOR REAL Wednesday, March 9, 2016  at 8:30PM EST/7:30PM CST to celebrate NATIONAL READING MONTH and be inspired by this outstanding African American author, Lawayne Childrey. CAN WE TALK FOR REAL – your award winning blog radiocast. Celebrating three years of bringing you issues, education and entertainment.    

It is estimated that over 60 million families are caring for an aging or disabled person at home.  At least 80-90% of caregivers are women.  There is no question that most of the burden falls on women for the physical and financial impacts of caregiving.  As parents live longer, more women are feeling the crunch. What does it cost women caregivers to take care of their aging parents? On a very special CAN WE TALK FOR REAL co-hosts Teresa (Terry Boi) Jackson and Michelle E. Brown share their personal experiences caring for aging loved ones. They will be sharing the joys, challenges, stresses and supports (or lack of support) they have received as well as the unique situations they have encountered being lesbians in their caregiver roles. Joining Terry Boi and Michelle in this important discussion is Jacqueline Boyd is the owner of The Care Plan, the country's first health care management company devoted to LGBTQ individuals and communities. She is passionate about identifying personalized solutions to health and aging challenges. The Care Plan is the brainchild of Jacqueline Boyd, a long time aging specialist and LGBTQI advocate. Jacqueline’s passion for health and aging started when she was a Certified Nursing Assistant in college. Working in nursing homes gave her a deep appreciation for the struggles many face throughout the aging process. The swift physical and cognitive changes, the lack of clear resources and advice left many families in the dark about how to best support their loved ones, and at times guilty for the choices they had made. It was here that seeds for The Care Plan were planted, in empathy for the pain and uncertainty many clients and their families experienced. Show starts at 8:30est/:7:30cst, call in to 347-215-8985, and Press 1 to speak.  

The National Black Trans Advocacy Conference & Awards Gala (BTAC) is a distinct educational and empowerment program event, home to nearly 300 plus trans and gender non-conforming individuals, our family, friends, community allies and corporate partners from across the country who are focused on advancing black trans equality. BTAC is a unique life changing (5) day program that furthers education, provides linkage to resources, community building and organizing, leadership development and celebration of diverse identities. 5th Annual National Black Trans Advocacy Conference & Awards Gala takes place in Dallas, Texas April 25 - May 1, 2016.   Joining CAN WE TALK FOR REAL co-hosts Teresa (Terry Boi) Jackson and Michelle Brown on Wednesday, February 24th is Carter Brown, Executive Director of Black Transmen, Inc. (BTMI). BTMI along with Black Transwomen, Inc. work together to bring the conference and gala to the community each year.   Besides discussing the challenges and threats facing trans women and men in the Black community, Carter will bring us up-to-date on the planning/programming for this year’s conference and awards gala including the featured events of Family & Fun Day, TransManifest Live, Black Trans International Pageants and the Black Diamond Ball.  The goal for attendance at this year’s BTAC is 300 attendees. Registration is now open. Show starts at 8:30est/:7:30cst, call in to 347-215-8985, and Press 1 to speak. CAN WE TALK FOR REAL – your award winning blog radiocast. Celebrating three years of bringing you issues, education and entertainment.

On, Wednesday February 17, 2016 CAN WE TALK FOR REAL cohosts Teresa Jackson and Michelle Brown are joined by Marcus Dargan and Zachary Frater. Both men are participating on a panel for “Shout, Sister, Shout: Seeing and Hearing African American LGBT People in Fine Art and Music” at the Center of the city College of New York on February 25, 2016. The panel complements an exhibition of artifacts, print, fine art and photographs related to the subject matter of African American LGBT writers, musicians, performers and fine artists that has been on view for the entire month of February. Free and open to the public.  Marcus Dargan is an Adjunct Lecturer of the Communication Studies Department at Baruch and Department of Speech, Communications, and Theatre Arts at Borough of Manhattan Community College, where he received an A.S. in Theatre. He also holds a B.A. in Theatre and a M.S.Ed. in Educational Theatre from City College of New York. He is the Artistic Director and Co-Founder of NuAFrikan Theatre, and Editor and Contributor of Down Stage Pass. Performance artist, producer, and CCNY alum Zachary Frater will be presenting on the notorious 2013 webseries "Got 2 B Real: The Diva Variety Show" created by YouTuber @PattiLaHelle. Its all-star cast of contemporary black R&B and Pop icons reading each other down has captivated LGBT viewers since its inception and remains an intriguing work of media appropriation, meme culture, and drag humor. Zachary will be discussing the program's inherent queer sensibility and appeal to the millenial generation.

Joining CAN WE TALK FOR REAL co-hosts Teresa M. Jackson and Michelle E. Brown on Wednesday, February 10th to talk about the Obama Presidency – its place in Black history, its impact on LGBTQ rights and preserving its legacy for equal rights – is Earl Fowlkes. President/CEO of the Center For Black Equity, Inc. (formerly the International Federation of Black Pride (IFBP). Fowlkes founded the IFBP in 1999 ago as a coalition of Black Pride organizers the United States, Canada, United Kingdom and South Africa formed to promote a multinational network of LGBT Pride and community- based organizations. Earl previously served fifteen years as the Executive Director of the DC Comprehensive AIDS Resources and Education Consortium (DC CARE Consortium) and Damien Ministries, organizations that provided services to person living with HIV/AIDS in Washington, DC. Earl attended Rutgers University with degrees in history/business. Earl resides in Washington, DC however remains a devoted to his hometown Philadelphia Phillies, Eagles and Flyers, and all things Pennsylvania.Call in to 347-215-8985 to join the conversation, show starts at 8:30 est/7:30cst,, Press 1 to speak.

Joining “CAN WE TALK FOR REAL”, cohosts Teresa Jackson and Michelle E. Brown on Wednesday, February 3, 2016 to address the Asian/Pacific HIV/AIDS awareness strategy and [Prep] will be Jens Tamang from the Minnesota Aids Project who before joining MAP he provided care coordination for individuals living with HIV in adult foster care and served as a Projects Administrator for several LGBTQ youth programs funded by the Minnesota Regional Arts Council. Joining him will be also be Kayden Hoang Bui he will discuss his vision on how to expand the MAP’s work into hard-to-reach populations to promote HIV/STI education, awareness, and testing through increased outreach and media presence.In recognition of Feb.7th National Black HIV/AIDS Awareness Day, joining CWT4R, will be Pastor Anthony Sullivan Jr. a Pastor-Leader, Preacher, Challenger, Trainer, Teacher, Resource, Initiator, Counselor, Guide and a justice advocate committed to the liberation of persons and groups who suffer from all forms of oppression. He is a graduate of the Samuel DeWitt Proctor School of Theology at Virginia Union University having earned the Master of Divinity degree. He is especially concerned about those impacted and affected by the pandemic of HIV/AIDS.  He will talk about, “What does faith has to do with the mobilization initiative aimed at Blacks to help reduce the HIV/AIDS spread and to bring more awareness”.

Have you been to a workshop or conference lately and been asked what was your “preferred pronoun?” Conveners aren’t just being politically correct but acknowledging the diverse gender identities within our community. As more and more LGBTQ individuals come out and take their place at work, schools and in their communities, society is learning that the old rules simply just don’t apply anymore. Some even suggest a Gender neutrality  -  the idea that policies, language, and other social institutions should avoid distinguishing roles according to people's sex or gender, in order to avoid discrimination arising from the impression that there are social roles for which one gender is more suited than the other. Willy Wilkinson an award-winning Asian American transgender writer, public health consultant, cultural competency trainer, public speaker, and spoken word performer Willy Wilkinson. He is the author of the book Born on the Edge of Race and Gender: A Voice for Cultural Competency. We will talk about Wilkinson’s personal journey, explain cultural competency for those working in and with the LGBTQ community.  

At the top of many New Year's Resolution lists each year is getting control of our finances. It can be expressed in many ways - getting a better job, making/keeping a budget, saving more, etc. Joining CAN WE TALK FOR REAL co-hosts Teresa Jackson and Michelle E. Brown on Wednesday, January 13, 2016 is Karen Green Reynolds a regular contributor to the blog HOLLA IF YOU HEAR ME! Reynolds began her involvement in the financial industry as a quest for personal knowledge. Now she has a securities license and works as an independent representative of an international company. She believes in people being equipped to take control of their lives. Adding in a recent blog post that "Nothing worse exists than feeling defeated, consistently, when it's your finances." 61% of adults do not keep track of their money. The median retirement savings for 55-64 years old is small. 29% of households with members 55 or older don't have retirement or pensions. Is this you? Join us on CAN WE TALK FOR REAL for this important discussion on personally and purposefully changing our financial habits. Join us Wednesday, January 13, 2015 at 8:30est/7:30cst pm, call into 347-215-8985 and Press 1 to speak.

Russell D. Roybal, National LGBTQ Task Force Deputy Executive Director and Mary Morton  President of Morten Group, a consulting firm specializing in social change through skills development, public policy and advocacy, will join CWT4R. This year marks the 28th year that the National LGBTQ Task Force will present Creating Change, the pre-eminent political, leadership and skills-building conference for the LGBTQ social justice movement. The event will be held in Chicago, Illinois, January 20-24, 2016. Taken from the website, “The Task Force is building a future where everyone is free to be themselves in every aspect of their lives. Today, despite all the progress we’ve made to end discrimination, millions of LGBTQ people face barriers in every aspect of their lives: in housing, employment, healthcare, retirement, and basic human rights. These barriers must go. That’s why the Task Force is training and mobilizing millions of activists across our nation to deliver a world where you can be you”. The conference is anticipated to attract around 4,000 people from all over the country this year as it has attracted thousands from previous years. Presenters and participants come from all walks of life and include members of the business community, elected officials, students, faith leaders and staff and volunteers of non-profit organizations”.  Join us Wednesday Night starting at 8:30est/7:30cst call 347-215-8985 to find out what has, what is and what creating change is educating the community on what needs to change in 2016 and beyond. Remember to Press 1 to speak, to get involved. It is not too late to get our tickets and be a part of CREATING CHANGE 2016 in Chicago, Illinois. Remember, Silence has been an Option for way to long. Now it’s time to ask “Can You Hear Us NOW”?

In the early hours of Saturday, Aug. 8, Amber Monroe of Detroit became the 12th transgender woman of color to be killed in 2015 Amber was only 20 years old and a student at Michigan's Wayne State University.  She was also a good friend of Bre Campbell a Detroit and national activists for Transgender rights. She knew Monroe from the Horizons Project, which specializes in HIV/AIDS prevention and care for adolescents at Wayne State University. The loss of Amber and the other transgender woman murdered in 2015 (22 as of October,2015 most under age 37) moved Campbell beyond grief to action with the Trans Sistas of Color Project. Continuing to recognize leaders under 30, CAN WE TALK FOR REAL co-hosts Teresa “TerryBoi” Jackson and Michelle E. Brown welcome on Wednesday, December 16, 2015 Bre Campbell Executive Director and Ahya “Yah-Yah” Nicole and John Campbell founding members of the Trans Sistas of Color Project (TSOCP). TSOCP was established in 2015, in response to the growing numbers of Trans murders. This group of concerned community activists endeavor to uplift, impact and influence the lives of transgender women of color in Detroit.  Executive Director Campbell explained that “TSOCP fills in the gap, creates space and influences Trans women of color through programming, resources, services and engagement in order to improve our quality of life.” TSCOP’s Trans centric programming, services and resources are built around the goal of creating a 24 hour drop in center for Trans women of color in Detroit. Join us Wednesday, December 16, 2015 at 8:30est/7:30cst pm, call into 347-215-8985 and Press 1 to speak. CAN WE TALK FOR REAL – Your award winning blog radiocast. Celebrating three years of bringing you issues, education and entertainment.

It has become the norm that when you turn on the news before the month is over another young black person has been killed at the hands of a police officer somewhere in the country. Recently Chicago has been in the news and something different happened. Out of this a new civil rights movement has emerged and it is organized and its membership is all young people between the ages of 18-35. They have strategically gathered together and collaborated across the country showing support in states where violence has emerged against a community for years. They have been there right under our very noses. The news coming out of major cities have awaken Black Youth Project 100 (BYP 100)  an activist member-based organization of Black 18-35 year olds, dedicated to creating justice and freedom for all Black people. We do this through building a collective focused on transformative leadership development, non-violent direct action organizing, advocacy and education. BYP per their has trained young black activists in direct action grassroots organizing skills, so they can build the power we need to transform our communities. They have mobilized young Black leaders on issues including ending criminalization and dismantling the prison industrial complex, expanding and securing LGBT and women’s rights. They have and are running campaigns using on the ground and digital tactics towards the goal of ending the criminalization of Black youth, racial profiling and police brutality. Joining us will again be Matt Boykin of the Chicago Branch of BYO100. He is  a member of Black Youth Project 100 here in Chicago. Originally from the Suburbs of Atlanta, Maxx has organized for a wide arrange of issue based, political and union organizing over the last few years in Georgia, Virginia and in the last two years in Illinois around the Affordable Care Act, Fight for 15, Movement for Black Lives and fighting for those living with and communities most effected by HIV. 

Every day from 1981 people have lived and died from AIDS. But for the same number of years communities have gone without the proper education to understand the disease and prevent the spread of it. Over the course of the past 30 years, facts have emerged that have put the AIDS myths to bed. Treatments have been developed to allow people to live full lives. It is important to know who can catch it, how it is passed on and what you can do to help stop the spread of AIDS. GET TESTED!!! PROTECT YOURSELF!!! Joining CWT4R co –host Michelle and Terry Boi will be Maximillian Mathis Boykin, Community Organizer for the Chicago Ads Foundation. Maxx a Veteran of the US Navy during his young life has been on the political scene as a volunteer to educate and help people better understand laws and issues that affect them from voting to the importance of testing for HIV/AIDS. Per the Aids Foundation of Chicago’s Facebook page part of their new mission is to mobilize communities to create equity and justice for people living with and vulnerable to HIV and related chronic diseases. This is where Maxx comes in to organize communities in way to help them learn to help themselves with this fight on HIV/AIDS. Listen into the show because the ending will lead you back to join us for next week’s show. Show starts at 8:30est/7:30cst, call into 347-215-8985, and press 1 to speak. CAN WE TALK FOR REAL – your award winning blog radiocast. Celebrating three years of bringing you issues, education and entertainment.

Joining CWT4R co –host Michelle and Terry Boi will be Tracy Baim, Editor of Windy City Times and partner with the newly formed Pride Action Tank, AIDS Foundation of Chicago. Tracy has been pushing Youth Homeless Awareness for over 5 years and now she is working tirelessly with community leaders and organizations to address this issue that is leading the devastation of youth and especially LGBTQ youth. Tracy will give facts about homeless youth, the plight they face, the programs and resources that are available to them. Lastly how we as a country, community, and individual can attack this issue.  Also joining us will be Angeline White (Kasey) who as a teen came out to her mother and was put out of her home. Kasey’s struggles to make it was documented in 2010 as part of a documentary entitled “The Homestretch” a co- production of Kartemquin Films and Spargel Productions. The documentary examines the struggles of three youth face in obtaining a high school level education, and then follows them beyond graduation to focus on the crucial transition when the structure of school vanishes and homeless youth struggle to find the support and community they need to survive and be independent. But for many the only reason for homelessness is because they identify as a LGBTQ youth. 

On Wednesday November 11th we celebrate Veterans Day in the USA. It is a holiday to honor all who have served in the United States Military Services. We would like to thank each and every one of you for your service. Many times we don’t show the appreciation we should for them protecting and defending this country.  We just casually mention it. Call in and let everyone know who you appreciate and what branch they are from. Join CAN WE TALK FOR REAL co-hosts Teresa (Terry Boi) Jackson and Michelle E. Brown and special guests to salute and thank our veterans. Joining us also will be Anna Cogette who works as a clinical social worker in the Substance Use Disorder Treatment Program at the VA Hudson Valley in Montrose, NY. She works with vets who are struggling with substance use and often a co- occurring mental health disorder. Call in to listen and with your special tributes (347)215-8985 then press "1" to talk 7:30PM CST/8:30PM EST

Our very special guest Wednesday, November 4, 2015 on CAN WE TALK FOR REAL is the TransGrio herself - Ms. Monica Roberts. Monica just became the first African-American transperson to be honored with the Virginia Prince Transgender Pioneer Award at the 2015 Fantasia Fair in Provincetown, MA. The award honors those who have sacrificed their careers, their families, their fortunes to change the world so transgendered people could begin to come together in safety and comfort. Wi...thout them, we would not be here; we would be at home, hiding in our closets. Monica has been working tirelessly on Houston's Equal Rights Ordinance (HERO) on the November 3rd ballot while speaking across the country on Transgender and Equal Rights Issues. Monica always inspires and educates. Join us at 8:30PM EST/7:30PM CST. CAN WE TALK FOR REAL - your award winning blog talk radio show with your hosts Teresa (TerryBoi) Jackson and Michelle Elizabeth Brown

So many times a disaster will happen and we watch, we talk, we listen, we mourn then we move on to the next disaster. August 29, 2005, we watched in horror as levees broke and men, women, children, families, the homeless and animals perished one after another leaving a total of close to 2000 dead. Katrina affected many lives and we can only image the hurt, lost and misplaced feelings of the thousands of people affected that day. The African-American Community was really affected by this disaster and to this day are affected with memories, lost and emotions that only they can feel. However, that community has proven to be a strong one with rebuilding, relocating and putting their lives in order. Do not get it wrong this ghost will follow them and will raise its ugly head from time to time but it will not define who they are and what they will become. The stories told are not for you to feel sorry for them but for you to understand the journey they had to take in order to be where they are today. Ten years later and the journey made individuals stronger and more determined than ever, to survive. Levilyn Chriss on October 28th, an independent producer out of Chicago of The Louisiana Project will join CWT4R. The Louisiana Project is a documentary that has given some New Orleanians an opportunity to look back and share their personal experiences surrounded by Hurricane Katrina.  Levilyn and her family were also deeply affected by Katrina. On December 1, 2005, when residents were allowed to go into the Lower Ninth Ward, she went into her father's home and was overwhelmed by the stench and damages. While walking through her dad's neighborhood observing the devastation and hearing the cries of many and talking to some of the residents who had become homeless, jobless, and disconnected from normalcy, she realized they needed a voice.

Now that marriage is the law of the land it's time to get focused on the other challenges facing the LGBTQ community including youth homelessness, economic disparity, discrimination in the workplace, etc. The African-American LGBTQ Community has been affected disproportionately by these and other social and equities.  Joining Can We Talk For Real cohosts Teresa (Terry Boi) Jackson and Michelle Brown on Wednesday October 21 are Rev. Anthony W. Sullivan Jr., Pastor of Community Outreach & Development at God CAN Ministries United Church of Christ in Chicago, IL, Imam Daayiee Abdullah from Washington, DC, Imam of Masjid Nural Islah and Atty. Leslye M. Huff of Cleveland, OH, a practitioner of the Yoruba Faith.  We will be talking about the spiritual/religious diversity in the Black LGBTQ community and how leaders can work across religious boundaries to uplift community and our continued fight for equality. Black lives matter! Trans lives matter! Our lives matter! Together let's talk about how to put action behind the words! Show starts at 8:30est/:7:30cst, call in to 347-215-8985, and Press 1 to speak. CAN WE TALK FOR REAL – your award winning blog radio podcast.  Celebrating  three years of bringing you issues, education and entertainment.  

Joining Can We Talk for REAL, co-host Terry and Michelle, Wednesday Night, October 14, 2015 will be Kim Hunt out- going Executive Director for Affinity in Chicago. Kim held the position for over 6 years and has many memories, good and bad. She has lead groups in celebration and protest never afraid to say what she knew had to be said. We will have that candid conversation about Social Justice, Family, Laws, Youth and the Future. During this conversation we will get to know a little about the woman that had a vision of where the LGBTQ community should be heading on various Social Justice Topics. Join us as she leads us through the many faces of Kim over the past 10 years. Including where she has been and where she is going. Many that know Kim, knows how passionate she is in her work and personal life. So join us so you can hear first -hand what drove her day after day to leave a legacy for a community that is still growing and moving in so many positive directions in part due to Kim’s determination. What is next for Kim? Tune in and find out. Kim L. Hunt is currently the executive director of the Pride Action Tank, a results-driven group that addresses challenges facing individuals and groups within LGBTQ communities through a collaborative process of inquiry, advocacy, and action. She is an activist, urban planner, start- up enthusiast, and lifelong learner. During her 30 year career Kim has focused on building and strengthening thriving communities. She teaches mini-courses at the University of Chicago, is co-host of OUTSpoken! LGBTQ Storytelling, and serves on several boards and advisory councils.

Joining CAN WE TALK FOR REAL co-hosts Terry (Terry Boi) Jackson and Michelle Brown on Wednesday, October 7, 2015 is MARY EATMON author of “NINE HOUSES: Chronicles of One Woman’s Triumph Over Abuse, Shame and Neglect.” Mrs. Eatmon was born in 1931 in Boligee City in Green County, Alabama. At age 15 she was raped and out of fear for her family she ended up marrying her assailant. For 30 years, Mary endured the dysfunctional marriage enduring years of abuse and remaining silent not only out of fear but also due to the shame and stigma many victims of abuse suffer. Mrs. Eatmon will share her story in hopes of letting other women, in similar circumstances; know that they are not alone. She will share resources and insights into how to recognize and break the cycle of abuse. Now 83 years young, Mrs. Eatmon wrote “NINE HOUSES” to reach out to others and let them know how she no longer accepts mistreatments and attacks; how she realized that her being abused was not her fault; and how she mastered the art of forgiveness and moved on. Hers is an inspirational story of strength and triumph. Show starts at 8:30est/:7:30cst, call in to 347-215-8985, and Press 1 to speak. CAN WE TALK FOR REAL – your award winning blog radiocast. Celebrating three years of bringing you issues, education and entertainment

Sometimes the truth in your face is what you need. HERE IS THE TRUTH: More than 20 states are in financial trouble along with the federal government and other countries. Agencies such as the Department of Aging, Department of Children and Family Services, Department of Public Aid, and Department of Human Services are working for the people but are in jeopardy of budget cuts and cuts in services, can we afford that? Joining CWT4R co-host Michelle and Terry will be Michael Holmes who is currently the Executive Director of the Illinois African American Family Commission were he has strategically planned to move the Commission in a new direction which focuses more on developing partnerships with all state agencies throughout the state of Illinois that provide services to African American’s.  Michael’s favorite hobby is coaching.  Michael is married with four wonderful kids.  Regardless of what role he has he believes that the work that we do is mostly important when it is about helping others.  The health of the African American Community is in jeopardy with the strong hold that Governor Rauner has over the budget. We have to be educated and know what is happening and how is it happening as it affects our communities.  Per their website, The Illinois African American Family Commission develops, evaluates and advocates for public policies, plans, research and programs that will strengthen and preserve families, family economics, workforce participation, health status, safety, education and training, and quality of life for African Americans.Believe that Illinois is not alone in this nightmare check your states finances and join us as we talk about Illinois and the financial crisis surrounding the African American Community. The information you obtain could arm you with what and who to search out in your state for assistance.

Jillian’s Peak is a ground breaking web-series based on a true story of a young African American woman from Detroit dealing with her hidden inner conflicts about her sexuality and her life.  Wednesday night, August 19th, joining CAN WE TALK FOR REAL co-hosts Terry and Michelle are series CEO/Creator/Executive Producer and Writer Charzette Torrance and cast members Kelley Young, Candice Meyers and Sherrick White. They will share their experiences on creating, producing and starring in this series that promises to bring in a new era for web series. Are you Jillian?? Do you see your life mirrored in the web-series? Have questions about the business behind developing the web series? Want to talk to the actresses about their experience in the profession and on this project? Then you want to dial (347)215-8985 and press “1” to join in the conversation. (You might be the winner of Jillian’s Peak merchandise with your question)

Each November on Transgender Day of Remembrance, we mourn the loss of our transgender sisters and brothers and pledge to end transphobia but sadly our work is not done. Although Janet Mock, Laverne Cox, and others are opening doors for the transgender community, too many of our brothers and sisters every day must face discrimination, violence and transphobia on the job and in their communities. Joining CAN WE TALK FOR REAL co-hosts Terry and Michelle on Wednesday August 12, 2015 is Carter Brown, founder and director of (BTMI) Black Transmen Inc. With its sister organization Black Transwomen Inc., they are leading the way in Black trans-advocacy. Through the Black Trans Advocacy Program, the Black Transmen Inc. & Black Transwomen Inc. and Black Trans International Ball/Pageantry System organizations have joined together in the only social justice program developed to collectively address inequities faced in the black Trans human experience. Besides sharing the history of BTMI and information about its annual conference in Dallas, TX each April, Carter will discuss the “hot button” items for Trans Advocacy, resources for the Trans Community and how the LGB community can be better allies to their Trans Brothers and Sisters.Carter Brown is also a loving husband, son, and brother. He was a stellar employee BUT HE WAS FIRED FOR BEING TRANSGENDER! He will share his personal account of being fired for being Trans and how his experience is being used to shed light on the continued challenges facing the LGBTQ community in the workplace

Women have at least five stages of health transitions in the life. At each stage different health issues may affect you and without knowing what to ask you may be missing vital information that will help with your future wellness. Have you taken a more comprehensive approach to your health? From the time a girl is born there are the normal wellness checks that both genders should be exposed to. By the teens years adolescence as we know it teen-age girls began to transition, physically and emotionally. Mid-life and women should began a routine to have annual check-ups, mammograms and this is a point where other test become a requirement as you age and you start to really watch what you eat. Finally, when you reach the golden years there are more health issues that could be on the horizon that could affect you, if you are not asking the right questions when speaking to your physician or visiting annually. Women health covers a wide spectrum and hidden issues could cause major problems without proper care, questions and education about your health and the stages you go through. Joining, “Can WE Talk for REAL”, co-host Michelle and Terry will be Dr. Leigh Roberts from HEJIRA HEALTHCARE. Hejira He*ji"ra- a journey: a new beginning; a departure from the past. Taken from Hejira Healthcare’s Website; HeJIRA, meaning “a journey”, was founded by Leigh H. Roberts, MD who has been serving the community's Adult Primary Care Medical needs since 1997.

Africa the motherland and where there are many storytellers passing on traditions to the African and African American Communities. The stories told answer questions of history, tell of lessons passed on and taught to generation after generation. Through oral tradition the storytellers pass on folktales, traditional knowledge, practices and the richness of the people. History is in the word spoken by storytellers. Thuli will join us and talk about South Africa and through her stories about the young generation and the growth of South Africa. She will talk about how Africa has stayed true to nature and it’s cultural. Thuli will also grace us with stories and information about a new generation that is thriving in Africa. Thuli stated all eyes are on Africa and there is a new birth in the continent. Thuli is winner of the Sir Lawrence Olivier Award in London and the Obie in New York for her lead role in Poppie Nongena. She’s the winner of three (3) Audelco Awards in New York for writing, directing and performing her one woman show Buya, Africa, she also won the FNB Vita Award when she performed Buya Africa at the Civic theatre in Johannesburg South Africa.Thuli played Rafiki in the Lion King on Broadway, Poppie Nongena in New York, London, Toronto, Australia and Chicago. She performed Bongi in Bongi’s Journey at Crossroads theatre in New Brunswick, Lost in the Stars, Kamadonsela (Lady Macbeth) in Welcome Msomi’s Umabatha in South Africa, London, Israel and New York City. Halala the musical at The Ariel off broadway, Sheila’s Day at Crossroads Theatre in New Brunswick, Grahamstown Festival and The Market Theatre in Johannesburg, Madre, in Juan Darien, directed by Julie Taymor. She just played the role of grandma in Generations at Soho Rep.Thuli is currently at The Playroom Playroom Theater in NYC performing in Africa My Beautiful. 

"I pledge allegiance to the Flag of the United States of America and to the Republic for which it stands, one nation, indivisible, with liberty and justice for all." In June, 2015 the United States Supreme Justices agreed with the pledged that there would be Liberty and Justice for ALL, when they told all 50 states in the United States of America that everyone was equal and had the right to marry whomever they fall in love with. However in Nigeria the pledge reads I pledge to Nigeria my country. To be faithful, loyal and honest. To serve Nigeria with all my strength, to defend her unity, and uphold her honor and glory. So help me God. However it was published that President Buhari should not listen to President Obama regarding Gay rights and that Nigeria feels that homosexuality is taboo and an abomination. One pledge talks about justice for all and the other talks about defending a countries unity. Let’s talk for REAL. Dj Queen a 43 year old Nigerian decent lesbian. She has resided here in the states since she was very young. Although, she loves her home in Lagos, her personal choice to live as an open lesbian there is illegal and immoral according to laws and cultural practices. She has lived as a lesbian for about 23 years. She has also supported LGBT groups in her country to change the laws and that has yet to be successful. She has relatives that still live there. She currently is working towards putting together several groups to protect those who choose to be LGBT by creating safe houses for youths. 

There's a new HIV prevention method - PrEP! PrEP is short for Pre-Exposure Prophylaxis. PrEP, is a way for people who do not have HIV but who are at substantial risk of getting it to prevent HIV infection by taking a pill every day. The pill (brand name Truvada) contains two medicines that are used in combination with other medicines to treat HIV. When someone is exposed to HIV through sex or injection drug use, these medicines can work to keep the virus from establishing a permanent infection. PrEP is not a guarantee of prevention and some worry that it may lead to an increase in risky behavior including unprotected sex. There are lots of other diseases that can also be acquired through unprotected sex. What are the pros and cons of PrEP and what do you need to know about this new method in HIV prevention. Joining CAN WE TALK FOR REAL co-hosts TerryBoi and Michelle on Wednesday July 15th once more is Hank Milbourne. Hank is a licensed master social worker, a graduate of U-M, Cornell and Union and Theological Seminary. Hank has 30 years of experience in human services and is also an ordained minister. From 1990-2015 he has designed, implemented and managed HIV prevention and care services at AIDS Partnership Michigan. A proud father of two adult sons, Hank is a community activist, serving for eight years as president of the Black Pride Society. Hank is out, open and HIV-positive. Show is Wednesday, July 15, 2015, starting at 8:30est/7:30cst. Call 347-215-8985 and press 1 to speak.

With the Supreme Court decision on June 26th same sex couples won the right to marry nationwide. Joining CAN WE TALK FOR REAL cohosts Terry Boi and Michelle on WEDNESDAY JULY 8 to discuss the decision, backlash and next steps for LGBTQ couples as well as the barriers/fights that lay ahead are James Bennett Midwest Regional Director at LAMBDA LEGAL and Sommer Foster Legislative Director at EQUALITY MICHIGAN. Lambda Legal, founded in 1973, is the oldest and largest national organization whose mission is to achieve full recognition of the civil rights of LGBTQ people and those with HIV through impact litigation, education and public policy work. Equality Michigan is the statewide anti-violence and advocacy organization proudly serving Michigan’s LGBTQ and HIV affected communities for over 20 years. Can you still be denied a marriage license and what should you do if you are? Is your Canadian marriage legal in all 50 states? Does your civil union/domestic partnership convert to marriages automatically? If you have domestic partnership benefits will you lose them if you choose NOT to marry? If we were legally married with children Massachusetts but live in Michigan do we have to do a second parent adoption? If you get married on Saturday can you be fired on Monday? What are your questions? Join us on CAN WE TALK FOR REAL Blog Radio Wednesday July 8 at 8:30PM EST/7:30PM CST. Call (347)215-8985 and press “1” to join the conversation.

welcome back Esteem Awards Founder and Publisher of PrideIndex .com, Phillip Eteem.  Philip started working in the community with Black Pride (Chicago in 2005) he began networking and was being introduced to people that were doing good things in the community and never really recognized as they should have been. After a short time Philip founded the Esteem Awards and some of the pass awardees included organizations such as Craig Johnson, Sanford E. Gaylord, David Bridgeforth of DBQ Magazine, Trisha Lee Holloway of Howard Brown, Simone Koehlinger, Gregg Shapiro of boi Magazine,brklynboihood.com, colorlines.com, The Trevor Project, About Face Theatre, The Bayard Rustin LGBT Coalition (BRC), and Can We Talk For Real, Blog Talk Radio just to name a few. This year’s awardees include: Erik Glenn, Program Manager, Black Gay Men's Caucus, Mona Noriega, Chairman & Commissioner of Chicago's Human Rights Commission; ATL's Love Works with Juan and Gee; Pastor Jamie Frazier; Sharon Zurek Founder of Dykes Delicious Film Series, Youth Empowerment Performance Project (YEPP); writer/activist/social critic Darnell L. Moore; Activists: Mandy Carter, Tiq Milan, Angelica Ross; Jaison Ashley Gardner & Dr. Story of the blog talk show "Strange Fruit;"  The ESTEEM AWARDS is awarding some of the LGBTQ best, Saturday, July 2, 2015 at Sidetrack beginning at 2pm don’t be late. 

Todd ReSean will join Can WE TALK FOR REAL, co-host Terry Boi and Michelle to discuss his journey to adopt his son Taylen. Todd, a single father would like to motivate more men to adopt and give a child a loving home. He is still in the process but would like to share his hopes and dreams for his son and encourage others to do the same. Todd is slated to return to the stage in the starring role of Roommates, a John Ruffin production. He is currently the vocal arranger and lyricist for the Chicago theater group, Theater47 of which RaSean has worked with productions such as DreamGirl and The Color Purple, He is currently an advocate for LGBT men to become fathers. Roland Leggett will also talk about the importance of lifting up Black fathers in our community, celebrating the difference they make and the ups (like attending daddy/daughter dances) and the downs (like being ditched by his daughter at the daddy/daughter dance). A nationally recognized community activist and movement leader with many years of social justice advocacy experience, his resume includes bringing progressive leadership to several organizations including the ACLU of Detroit, Equality Michigan and Working America. He and his partner, the Rev. Matthew Bode were married in 2014 and are very visible in metro-Detroit’s LGBTQ community. Roland is a leader on many levels both locally and nationally but his most important role is that of Dad. Father’s Day is Sunday June 21,2015. We’ll be celebrating all fathers – adopted, biological, and foster as well as others who step up and step in to this important role in the lives of our children.

Tiera Craig a veteran, entrepreneur, activist and community leader. Serving in the United States Army from 1995 to 2004, Tiera navigated through the Veterans Compensation Appeals process and after helping a few soldiers that were having issues with the process and the feeling that they could not openly talk about their issues of being gay to another VSA she began Rainbow Veterans Project.  The Rainbow Veterans Project aims to provide resource, advocacy, and training to Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, and Transgender Veterans. We will ensure that LGBT veterans understand all benefits and entitlements due to them and their families. We will work with VA Medical Centers, Veterans Benefits Administration, Legal Aid organizations, Employment and Training organizations, and all other available resources to serve as the HUB for LGBT veterans and their families. We will also provide social outings and events to maintain and rebuild comradery among Soldiers, Marines, Sailors, and Airmen in a safe and affirming environment.They model ourselves after successful Veterans' Service Organizations except we will cater to the unique needs of LGBT veterans in a Post-DADT society.   The Rainbow Veteran Project seeks to be recognized and utilized as the premier LGBT Veterans' Service Organization in the country. They want to ensure that we are able to provide all necessary services/resources to any veteran seeking assistance.

Trans Sisters are raising the bar on diversity and inclusion. Activists like Janet Mock and Laverne Cox are more than out and proud. They are using their visibility as a platform to educate, break barriers and open doors. From OPRAH to ORANGE IS THE NEW BLACK TO the BOLD & BEAUTIFUL the lives of transgender men and women are being talked about and played out for all to see but what is the real story. Joining CAN WE TALK FOR REAL on June 3, 2015 are two activists living their lives and working for the transgender community as well as equal rights - Bre Campbell and Carmarion D. Anderson. Bre and Carmarion will talk about the challenges trans women still face, the stigma not only trans sisters but the men who love them face and  why despite the success and visibility of Trans sisters like Janet Mock and Laverne Cox trans lives are still targeted for violence even murder at alarming rate. As more of our transgender sisters and brothers take their rightful place in leadership, in media, in religion and politics how do we as a community make sure that TRANS LIVES MATTER. It is shouted from the streets, in bars, in schools, and in homes that LIVES MATTER. In that same loud voice shout so that everyone can hear, TRANS LIVES MATTER ALSO.  

May is Lupus Month and joining Can We Talk for REAL, co-host Michelle and Terry this Wednesday Night May 27th will be Keya Brooks Napper a motivational speaker, who established MEEK LEGACY, LLC which educates and empowers others concerning invisible illnesses such as lupus. Keva has a Bachelor of Arts degree in Elementary Education with a minor in English. She is also the Founder and Executive Director of Beautiful Butterflies, Inc., a nonprofit lupus foundation.  She teaches and facilitates groups as well as serves as an ambassador for Lupus Awareness through personal experience and pragmatic application.  Being an 11 year Lupus thriver, Keva knows the daily challenges that many with an autoimmune disease face. She has overcome two blood clots on the brain, a stroke, hair loss, seizures and many struggles. She teaches that the best way to overcome such obstacles is simply (thriving) one day at a time.  During her spare time, Keva enjoys traveling, singing and acting. Her life is strengthened by spending time with family. “A day is never wasted as long as a memory is created” and she enjoys creating memories with those she loves. She currently resides in North Carolina.