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An Unforgettable Night

A Night to Remember

Words can hardly capture the magic that unfolded on the evening of Thursday, February 6, 2025. The Communities of Color series, hosted by No More Dirty, Inc. (NMD) in collaboration with the Huntsville Museum of Art (HMOA), was more than just an event—it was an experience. It was a powerful fusion of art, music, literature, and community that left attendees inspired, moved, and connected in ways they never expected.

Held in the heart of Huntsville at HMOA, the kickoff was a monumental occasion, nearly reaching full capacity with 100-120 attendees. But beyond the numbers, the true victory lay in the impact: 90% of the African American attendees had never set foot in the Huntsville Museum of Art before. This statistic alone speaks volumes about the necessity of such events, proving that representation, accessibility, and community-driven initiatives make a difference.

From breathtaking artwork to soul-stirring music and insightful literature, the night was a celebration of Black excellence in all its forms.

The Experience: A Fusion of Art, Music, & Literature

The Communities of Color kickoff was designed to be immersive, engaging, and inspiring. Every element was curated with intention, ensuring that attendees not only observed but truly experienced the richness of Black culture.

Art that Speaks Volumes

Attendees had the opportunity to explore two incredible exhibits featuring the works of Alicia Henry and Fahamu Pecou.

  • Alicia Henry’s textile-based artwork explores themes of family, beauty, and identity, offering a deeply personal look into Black womanhood.
  • Fahamu Pecou presents a bold and insightful examination of Black masculinity and identity, challenging perceptions and celebrating resilience.

Guided tours led by the knowledgeable Audrey Creel and the HMOA team provided deeper insight into these exhibits, allowing guests to truly appreciate the artistic and cultural narratives on display.

Music That Moved the Soul

No celebration is complete without music, and this event was no exception. Thanks to DJ Teef and the dynamic neo-soul duo Charles & Tanya Harris, the room pulsed with rhythms that celebrated Black artistry. The music set the tone for the night—uplifting, powerful, and deeply connected to the spirit of the community.

Literature That Inspires

Books have the power to change lives, and our featured authors, Dorian Stewart and Mark Brezzell, are living proof.

  • Dorian Stewart, an accomplished author and church elder, presented Promise Pals and My 2 Sense, offering messages of faith, encouragement, and growth.
  • Mark Brezzell, a health coach and educator, shared insights from A Matter of the Heart, a crucial book on Black health, particularly the connection between diabetes and heart disease.

These authors not only signed books but also engaged in meaningful discussions with attendees, proving the power of storytelling in shaping communities.

Special Guests and Recognition

This night wouldn’t have been possible without the incredible individuals who contributed their talents and expertise.

  • Elise Cannon, a young, award-winning artist, showcased her talent, reminding us all of the bright future ahead.
  • Mia Pile of Pain Unwasted highlighted the importance of mental health awareness, setting the stage for the upcoming Make It Make Sense discussion on February 23.
  • Victor Pile served as the official event photographer, capturing every special moment and preserving the night’s legacy.

A heartfelt thank you to our amazing NMD team, our collaborative partner HMOA, and all our sponsors for making this night possible.

What's Next? Join us for More!

The Communities of Color series isn’t over! Two more transformative events are coming up, and you won’t want to miss them.

📅 Day 2: A Matter of the Heart - Health & Wellness Seminar

📍 Date: Saturday, February 8, 2025
📍 Time: 6:00 - 7:30 PM CST
📍 Venue: The Spot Where Lives Transform (5045 Memorial Pkwy. NW, Suite B, Huntsville, AL 35810)

Health disparities in the Black community are real, but education is key to change. Mark Brezzell will present A Matter of the Heart, a discussion on diabetes and heart disease—two of the most pressing health concerns for African Americans. Attendees will leave with lifesaving knowledge and actionable steps for a healthier future.

🎟️ RSVP at: www.nmdinc.org (Alternate payment methods are accepted at the door.)

📅 Day 3: Make it Make Sense - A Mental Health Discussion

📍 Date: Sunday, February 23, 2025
📍 Time: 5:00 - 7:00 PM CST
📍 Venue: The Spot Where Lives Transform (5045 Memorial Pkwy. NW, Suite B, Huntsville, AL 35810)

Mental health is a critical conversation in the Black community, and we’re tackling it head-on. Mia Pile from Pain Unwasted will lead a powerful discussion on trauma, healing, and self-care in a safe and supportive space.

🔹 Special Performance: Be inspired by the Fully X-treme Danze Company youth dancers, whose powerful movements will bring healing and empowerment to the stage.
🔹 Guest Appearance: Author Dorian Stewart will share the uplifting message behind her Promise Pals collection, emphasizing faith, resilience, and personal growth.
🔹 Q&A Session: Engage in meaningful dialogue and gain practical tools for mental wellness.

🎟️ RSVP at: www.nmdinc.org (Alternate payment methods are accepted at the door.)

Don’t miss this transformative evening of conversation, creativity, and community! 💙 #MentalHealthMatters #CommunitiesOfColor #NoMoreDirtyInc

Final Thoughts: Why You Should Join Us

The kickoff event was more than just a night of celebration—it was a movement. A movement toward visibility, representation, and empowerment within our communities.
Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. once said:
"We must learn to live together as brothers or perish together as fools."
That’s exactly what Communities of Color represents—unity, progress, and the power of coming together through creativity, knowledge, and shared experiences.

If you missed the first night, don’t miss these next opportunities to be part of something truly special.

✔️ Experience thought-provoking discussions
✔️ Connect with inspiring individuals
✔️ Gain knowledge that empowers you and your community

🎟️ Join us! Register now at www.nmdinc.org

We can’t wait to see you there! 🎉 #CommunitiesOfColor #BlackHistoryMonth2025 #NoMoreDirtyInc
2025-02-07 20:00