Styles of Black activism
RELAX: TALK: GROW (RTG) is a networking/policy planning event hosted by the University of Iowa African American Council and the Public Policy Center. RTG combines fellowship, local artists and policy discussions. This month's discussion takes place from 5:30 to 7 p.m., Friday, Feb. 10. The discussion topic is "Styles of Black activism."
Panelists include:
- Royceann Porter
Describing herself, Porter states, “Iowa City is my home. I have a love and compassion for helping others. I have knowledge and understanding of what the community needs based on my experience and the experiences of other community members. I am the wife of Anthony Porter and the proud mother of two daughters, Antonia and Staci, who both graduated from Regina High School. I was born and raised in Saginaw, Michigan and moved to Iowa nearly 27 years ago.” Porter has been a tireless advocate for Iowa City’s marginalized populations. While serving on the Police Citizen's Review Board, the Juvenile Justice Youth Development Policy Board, and The Housing Fellowship Board of Trustees, she has offered invaluable perspective and shown a refreshing generosity. In recognition of her efforts, she has received the 2007 Isabel Turner Humanitarian Award and the 2014 M.L.K. Governor’s Award. - André Wright is responsible for Iowa City Area Development Group’s Entrepreneurial Advancement and Mentor Connections. He is also the creator and owner of the clothing brand BLU Collar which stands for Born Leaders United. The Motto: Be a leader in something you are passionate in. Wright graduated in 2005 from the University of Iowa with a BFA and has more than 12 years of marketing and design experience within the creative industry. Wright uses all of his experience helping fellow entrepreneurs and business owners create distinct brands. In his free time, Wright likes to travel, helps coach his kids' AAU basketball team and loves watching old mob movies.
The event will also include a performance by Mikhayla Hughes-Shaw.
Hughes-Shaw, 19, was classically trained on the violin starting at age 11. She has played with many well-known orchestral artists, including Midori and Mark Woods of the Trans-Siberian Orchestra. Although she is currently studying journalism and mass communication at the University of Iowa, she still performs at various weddings, community events and pageants.