Knowledge, Empathy, Action

The Donas has always been a safe and inclusive space and will continue to be so and be even better.

This project was started so I could learn more and put a spotlight on issues facing women, LGBTQ, and underrepresented individuals in the food/restaurant community. Over the course of the last year it has taken a beautiful journey of its own with events creating community, celebrating comedy, Int’l Women’s Day, small business, self-care, our spiritual paths to healing, and recognizing our allies. 

I am further committed to expanding this project and continuing to share people’s stories - especially the stories and experiences of Black Women, Women Of Color, and members of the LGBTQ community.

The next round of personal stories was collected over 2019 and will be released over the upcoming weeks. In the meantime, I ask that you continue to educate yourself, have conversations with your friends and family, take action in your lives and community, donate, sign petitions and use your social media accounts for action. In the words of Rachel Cargle: “Knowledge, Empathy, Action”. We must not lose the momentum, this must be a movement, not a moment.

If there are stories you feel I should be sharing, small businesses, events, or other projects please email me or reach out on social media. I have a lot and personal & community work to do. I know I will mess up along the way and I ask that you let me know when I do.  

Below you will find some (not all) of Powerful Black Women who have educated me through their work, art, and words. I hope you will visit their pages, follow them and listen. Please feel free to share more resources below in the comments.

Image by Kylie Knudson from @endodstoryny

COMEDIANS

• Yamaneika Saunders 

• Ayanna Dookie 

• Sydnee Washington 

• Marie Faustin 

• Aminah Imani

• Chloe Hilliard

• Shalewa Sharpe

CHEFS & RESTAURATEURS

• Kia Damon

• Mashama Bailey

• Salimatu Amabebe

• Just Call Me Chef : by Chef Cat

ANTI-RACISM EDUCATORS, WRITERS, SPEAKERS & FILM MAKERS

• Rachel Cargle

• Monique Melton

• Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie

• Issa Rae

• Ava DuVernay

• Dr. Maya Angelou

• Alice Walker

Friend of the project and supporter Jasmine Kingston has also compiled a list of podcast suggestions by Black Women and People of Color - give a listen here