One of many things I can say about attending this year’s Let’s Talk About Sex Conference 2011, is that it motivated me and made me proud of entering RJ! I’ve had some time to reflect, and I have come to realize that this conference was more than just a conference. It was like a family reunion. A reunion of reproductive justice and those whom support it and spend their lives protecting it everyday. Everyone I met- felt. like. family.
This year’s conference in Miami really set the tone for talking about sex. The Eden Roc hotel was more than a nice introduction to Miami Beach and all it had to offer. The decor (inside and out) was very breathtaking! Everyone immediately became alive, motivated, and attentive in each workshop. Plus, there were so many to choose from!
Prior to this trip, I had no idea how connected each organization was. All the names I have heard and read in books, magazines, and on the Internet, now had faces. It was amazing finally meeting Loretta Ross in person. Also, I enjoyed seeing those, previously met, in their full element and feeding off of their energies. All the speakers were on point, came prepared, and made you want to hear them speak more about their key issues.
The RJ family protects its own, for so many women of color are fighting for mutual causes, from all walks of life, and from all over the country. I plan on staying well-connected with those I met on this delightful trip. I’m sure we all can continue to assist one another through each of our own future advocacy, leadership, and outreach of reproductive justice projects. I’m so appreciative for witnessing one of the world’s greatest movements ever
Angie Cain is a queer, black lesbian who attends Georgia State University. She was born and raised in the inner city area of downtown Atlanta. Angie is the youngest, the only girl, and the only child, out of three, to graduate from high school and attend college. Since November of 2008, she has been working with BlackOUT, a black queer advocacy student organization at GSU as chair of promotions and as an e-board member. Angie particiated in the 2010 FYRE Media Camp and helped to produce the film “Ignite: Make It Hot”, a video about struggling with sex addiction that also includes information on intimacy and navigating consent with your partners.
