By & For

Allies Promise

Allies Promise by Caela Collins 

I may not say all the right things.

I won’t always be the first to know or understand. 

I will never feel the true weight of your burdens or carry your individualistic fears. 

But I will not abide by any pride that human nature has allowed to reside within me. 

I won’t use loving words of any faith and disfigure it with incorrect citations of hate. 

I will hear what you say when you speak because listening isn’t quite the same sentiment.

My heart will grab a hold of you as my eternal sibling.

There will always be a teachable moment for me but my intentions shall remain pure.

When you defy the current format of “equality,” I will always be by your side. 

I will challenge any bias that surfaces on the journey of my own evolution. 

I will educate those who need it the most even if we’re bound by blood. 

I will honor you because you breathe the same air as me. 

I will respect you because you put one foot in-front of the other like me. 

I love you simply because you’re human.

I Promise.

I envision a better, sustainable, inclusive, and healthy state of being for current and future generations in a world where environmental justice is achieved. I believe this involves the fullest reparations of access to the environment and natural resources in an equitable and restorative way that all people can benefit from, while abolishing environmental harms. I dream of a world where we have cultivated a global shift in values, where the perspectives of disenfranchised communities are respected in all decision-making that affects the environments especially where they live, work, and play. I see a reality where we recognize the unique place-based relationships that communities have with their environments. #DreamGreen is important to me because an environmentally just future, where the right to a healthy environment is finally recognized and supported, must have women, youth, BIPOC, disabled people, and gender non-conforming people leading the charge to achieve true prosperity and balance.

Nilla Allin

I am making a difference by inspiring others through my music, work ethic, and hustle. Through my music, I hope to promote confidence, pride and independence to other young women.

I’m hoping my music and experiences will encourage them to work hard for what they want while being genuine and secure in who they are.

A Woman

Women have the audacity to birth new worlds

With passion and honey on their tongues.

This world would not move without women,

They hold up half the sky.

Reaching with their arms, they shout

FREEDOM

Into the heavens

Raising unsung heroes

From history’s sullen shadows.

What is a Woman?

Intuitive Connecter

Emotional Protector

Fearless Provider

Warrior Queen.

Give her flowers, today.

Say her name.

Harriet, Ida, Marsha, Dolores, Toni,

The Many Sisters

Who hold us in their unflinching grasp

Steadying our shoulders when we tremble

Guiding our steps when we trip on unpaved roads.

They know

What lies ahead is ours to create.

Women’s work is expected, needed

And will no longer be undervalued.

Give her flowers. Today!

The flower of your love, appreciation,

Dedication, and mindfulness.

Listen as she drips sweet honey.

She will grant you her visions,

Lend you her courage,

And always stand by your side.

Nia Asemota

“The Black woman is art; a perfect expression of pain, struggle, strength and beauty. With this piece I wanted to highlight the epitome of joy and highlight the essence and immense beauty of black women,” says Nia, “The mission behind the By & For project really resonated with me and I’m so grateful to have had the opportunity to be involved! Contributing to this amazing project has definitely helped me grow my portfolio. I’ve been trying to push myself and draw more dynamic group pieces and this was the perfect opportunity for me to do so.”