I Found My Tribe, Now Let’s Build…
Hey Tribe, did y’all observe Black Girls Day Off and World Mental Health Day?
Talking about mental health, let alone connecting to related resources, hasn’t always been met with a warm embrace in our community. Yet, I’m grateful that has changed. I am beaming with pride as I see more melanated folks working to end stigma. With this month’s post, I’m sharing my reflections on the Naptown Narratives Season Four premiere.
“Whatever it is, the way you tell your story online can make all the difference.”
If you’re new here, welcome!
If you’ve been here, how you what?!
If you lurkin, may you receive what you deserve.
Since I’ve met so many beautiful beings, folks, and people since the premiere two weeks ago I figured it was time to (re)introduced myself.
EmpoHER by G4 Unlimited (2024)
Natasha Marie Cheatham is the name given. Tasha (Marie) is the name preferred.
Social media knows me as, Transparently Tasha.
The (neighbor)hood calls me Tasha Mac (from the Southside of Nap).
No matter what you call me, my only request is that you say it with respect. Because disrespect begets disrespect, violence, and even death where I’m from.
Circle City Storytellers @ MELI Showroom (2023)
I am an Earthling who identifies as a queer, Black woman.
I am Indigenous to North America, born in Houston, TX. I was raised in Indianapolis, IN.
I am an artist and advocate who specializes in peer support and storytelling to end the stigma associated with mental health and recovery.
I am on a mission to liberate myself and my loved ones from the oppressed existence we’ve come to know as “normal.”
Sharing myself with the world through storytelling has taken me places I never imagined. It has also brought to fruition one of my childhood dreams: seeing myself on the big screen. Watching the premiere of season four of Naptown Narratives was surreal.
The theater was filled with loved ones and community members who were excited to hear and see my story. I have to express my gratitude to the entities responsible for making this production possible, Circle City Storytellers, Life in Indy, and Loving Life Productions. Much love and God bless y’all. This was beyond what I imagined.
I genuinely felt like a star. From the red carpet to the VIP reception to the panel discussion after the viewing, there was nothing but love and admiration for me. Often, I was told that I was brave for sharing my story. I was showered with hugs and words of encouragement from beginning to end.
Naptown Narratives Season 4 Premiere (2024)
There were also feelings of anxiety, grief, and what’s next for me throughout the night as I thought about what I would say and the fact that my Mommy wasn’t physically in the room. I’ve seen some other milestones this year that have also left me wondering, what’s next? This year marked seven (7) years of recovery and the completion of my Bachelor’s degree.
After the premiere, I pondered how to progress toward my goal of tiny (sustainable) living and running a bed & breakfast. How will that help me get MRCI the funding we need to ensure our members and community are well? While I may not have all the answers, I have more than enough inspiration and resources to take my next step.
Stay tuned to my blog, Patreon, or social channels to see what that step is.
While I am still basking in the glory of it all, I want to take this moment to express my gratitude and give flowers as I reflect on my career and recovery journey thus far.
I give all the honor, glory, and gratitude to The Most High, my ancestors, and those who paved the way for me. Without them, I may have never had the courage and strength to create MRCI.
Second, I want to honor and express gratitude for all who have supported me on my journey of recovery and entrepreneurship so far (list below). There have truly been some amazing folks and souls who have blessed me along the way. You all have made MRCI what it is today. If I miss anyone, please charge it to my head and not my heart.
Last, yet certainly not least, I’d like to extend my gratitude to all who have attended It’s Just Pills, a Sober Social event, Summit UP, participated in UR Pathway, volunteered, and donated to our cause. Your support means the world to our members and their families.
Individuals:
Natavia Andrews
Keith Baker
London Buford
Emminence Campbell
Amanda Duba
Z’Nyah Furlow
Stanley Gilbert
Christian Glascoe
Bianca Harris
Ruth Hayes
Jasmine Hill
Taria Holifield
Shamiah Makori
Yvette Markey
Cyntoria Meadards
Rickey Murff
Rav’n Partee
Olivia Satterfield
Marcus Stovall Jr.
Sabrena Suggs
Selina Tillman
Joshua Thompson
Renetra Turner
Xavier Turner
Janiyah Vaden
Iisha Wesley
Businesses:
BU Wellness Network
Center for African American Recovery Development
Division of Mental Health & Addiction, IN FSSA
Drug Free Marion County
Flanner House
Indiana Addiction Issues Coalition
ICAADA
Indiana Recovery Network
Indianapolis Urban League
Kheprw Institute
Martin University
MLK Center
MORTAR
RCR Technology
VOICES Corp
Like what you’ve read? Leave a comment below and let me know what resonated with you.
I create content and share my life experiences to inspire others to tap into their intrinsic power and turn their pain into purpose. As long as I am blessed to be alive, I will be a blessing to others.
Support the work I do through MRCI.
For more content and conversation join my community on Patreon.
Original time stamp: [ 10:10 PM] THU | 10/10/2024 | Published (I)
Last edited: [11:45 AM] SAT | 12/10/2024
References, Resources, & Inspirations
In order of entry.
World Mental Health Day, 10 October 2024. World Health Organization
Dear Black women, it’s Black Girls Day Off, so find your rest. The Grio.
