d. tafakari

Stop Fishing for Self-Hatred in the Name “Sharkeisha”

About two weeks ago, I heard about an epic beat down of a fight between a girl named Sharkeisha and another one named Shamichael. One day, I will explain thoroughly why I cannot abide World Star Hip-Hop; but suffice it to say that since I refuse to frequent that site, I haven’t seen the SharkeishaContinue reading “Stop Fishing for Self-Hatred in the Name “Sharkeisha””

Praise White Jesus + White Women: Notes on Kanye’s Yeezus Tour

Prelude: Is Kanye a puddle or an ocean? I am a Kanye West fan. I once thought that Kanye West’s classic “Jesus Walks” meant that he would become hip-hop’s savior from all the ills that kept me from loving it in totality. I now understand that hip-hop itself will never be a vehicle for itsContinue reading “Praise White Jesus + White Women: Notes on Kanye’s Yeezus Tour”

On My First Time Being Racially Profiled

This story is alternatively titled, That One Time I Almost Fought a Racist Grandma. She was taller than me, but I think I could’ve taken her. Thanksgiving dinner saw my little family take a drive down I-20 to see relatives in Columbia, South Carolina. There is little to do in Columbia outside of shopping and wearingContinue reading “On My First Time Being Racially Profiled”

Friday Feel-Good Tune: “Olé Olé” by Lakol

A few years ago, when I still lived in Florida, I was at a party where the DJ put this song on and magic happened. Every single man in the room stopped posting on the wall and grabbed the nearest girl. Someone whisked me off the coach and laughter trailed behind me. Our feet floated,Continue reading “Friday Feel-Good Tune: “Olé Olé” by Lakol”

A Woman Ponders Her Fat Rolls on Thanksgiving Eve

Dear Fat Rolls: It seems only right that I would acknowledge you on the day before your holiday. I am conscious of your presence with every rise and fall of my breath. Yours is a landscape I view often, but never admire. Jill Scott once said that there is power in these rolling hills, butContinue reading “A Woman Ponders Her Fat Rolls on Thanksgiving Eve”