#BlackMaternalHealth - Last month, Besa Gordon found herself in Spokane, where one experience stood out: Dear Sista. This poetry night, curated by Stephanie Courtney of The Shades of Motherhood Network, was held at The Rose Garden during Black Maternal Health Week.

For Besa, it was a truly heartfelt experience, a space that felt soft, safe, and full of love, hugs, vulnerability, and power. The night was dedicated to creating a space where Black women could speak their truths and feel seen.

Dear Sista proved to be more than just a poetry night. It was an impactful reminder of how spaces created with love can shift one's spirit. Surrounded by stories, sisterhood, and truth, Besa felt something she didn't realize she needed. She even found herself on the mic, performing her very first poem, something she had always been too shy to try.

The safe and welcoming environment gave her the courage to step out of her comfort zone. Besa acknowledged that she still has much to learn about performing poetry, but trying something new in such a supportive space felt good. She gave a big shoutout to Stephanie Courtney and Jacquelynne Sandoval, owner of The Rose Garden, for creating an environment where everyone felt heard, safe, and empowered.

Learn More: https://www.theshadesofmotherhoodnetwork.org/

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