[Via jade(d)]
This was originally published on jade(d) by Jade Abston:
this month I wanted to highlight a woman who continues to inspire me everyday. DJ WhySham is a dj, community activist, consultant and holds many other roles. her passion and commitment to her community and the work is unmatched. When she’s not dj’ing parties for the likes of Elizabeth Warren, she makes the time to sit down and answer some questions about her career.
So what exactly is Bringing Back Boston and what is the mission/goal of this network?
Bringing Back Boston is a network of people, organizations, and businesses that come together to address mental health, public health and trauma in communities of color. The goal is to challenge ourselves to create conversations about things that may be impacting our lives, affecting our mental, spiritual and/or physical being negatively.
Why was it important for you to create this network in your community?
There are so many stereotypes and stigmas around mental health in the black community and what is determined by textbooks to be considered “trauma”. It was time to push back against what white institutions are telling black communities our struggles are without giving a proper voice or face of what is going on.
What has the process been like? I know that taking on such a huge initiative, especially when you are doing most of the work alone can be overwhelming.
The process has been amazing, draining but worthwhile all at once. Maintaining social media and websites has been the biggest challenge and letting people know we are still active but just making moves behind the scenes. We advocate for various individuals, make referrals but sometimes it doesn’t come to the light because our hands are in various projects. During this process, I have met some amazing individuals and groups that have helped me push to see where I can take BBBMA.
How has your community received Bringing Back Boston?
I think the community has received it well. Many people show interest in the topics or the need for a physical space to release, feel safe and hopefully receive some form of support (peer to peer; peer to counselor). Moreso the people who have heard about it through the grapevine always trying to figure out “Why haven’t I created this sooner?”.
What has been the biggest challenge and what has been your greatest success?
The biggest challenge is being consistent, I want to get to the point where a conversation is happening somewhere different in the city each month. I think this will create more conversations amongst people in their social and family environment. The greatest success is connecting with so many organizations and networks to create something for everyone. Meeting people of color in positions who really want to create a change.
From your love of music and dj’ing you started the initiative, Boston Got Next. What exactly is Boston Got Next?
Boston Got Next is a space where local artists can share their music projects, receive feedback or performance and content. We are aiming to promote local artists, producers, shows and venues to connect the dots in the Boston music scene.
What has been your biggest challenge with Boston Got Next and what has been the most rewarding experience?
Biggest challenge is a need for space! We have been grateful to have an amazing partner in this journey. DJ Troy Frost and been able to use their space but we are growing day by day. The most rewarding experience is seeing the artists grow, the connections being made and the word-of-mouth that has been happening about the listening sessions.
As a DJ who is a black woman and LGBTQIA what has your experience been like?
My experience has been mediocre, I get into situations where male DJ’s (who are in attendance) kind of either think I am a girlfriend, photographer, friend of the party until I am like yeah buddy this is my equipment I lugged here. I also have had many amazing conversations with people who are excited to see a female DJ since there are so few.
What advice do you have for women, in particular, black women and LGBTQIA women who want to DJ, produce, and get into the entertainment/music industry?
Do it and take all the risks you can afford! Literally…afford. Take gigs that you think you will find future network opportunities to perform. Sometimes these are unpaid but depending on who network with might lead you to a bigger opportunity. Don’t be afraid to clear the space! If you are on a DJ line up with five other people; or five male DJ’s make sure you own your time slot and shout yourself out.
What advice do you have for black women who are multi-faceted, dynamic, and don’t necessarily want to follow a traditional career path?
If you are scared to think outside the box, you have the right to be. Sometimes our career paths do not go where we may have planned it to go but as a creative individual, you can create your own career paths. I am a DJ, community advocate, farmers market manager, consultant and so many roles I have within organizations and businesses. Create a timeline of personal goals you want to set for yourself, something tangible. Example, By April 2020, I want to have my website launched.
To keep up with DJ WhySham endeavors or to request/inquire her services, or collaborate check out:
Instagram: @djwhysham @bostongotnext
Twitter: @DJWhySham
Website: Bringing Back Boston
Facebook: Bringing Back Boston