The Archives for Black Lesbians to build Community, Educate & Preserve our Culture.
Submit your archives here: blacklesbianarchives@gmail.com
BLA MOBILE HERSTORY BUS PROJECT
PROJECT UPDATES
Hey everyone! I hope y'all have been doing good!
I just wanted to share a few updates since this is the third go for the mobile herstory bus project.
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Since 2020 when we initially were planning to have the tour the first wave of (19) came along early March while we were on the second stop of the tour.
As plans moved forward, we tried for 2021 then yet another wave came along and deferred plans.
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For 2022 we celebrated the 5 year anniversary of the Black Lesbian Archives in Chicago, IL!
I personally have been in the been in the process of healing and revising the overall vision of this project.
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They say the 3rd time is a charm so its time to get this rolling!
I want to thank all who have encouraged, showed love and continue to support along the way!
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- Kru Maekdo, Founder
TYPE OF BUS
Looking for a:
MID SIZED Used School Bus (Year 1998 - 2003 the latest)
Budget for bus: 4,000-5,000 (unless donated)
-(7-9 Window Bus)
- DT466 Engine (For full-time travel)
- Dog Nose Frame
- Techs in city/state for bus inspection
This inspection list can be used when searching for a school bus
MISSION
We are in the between stages of where we have been and where do we go from here?
The BLA Mobile Herstory Project will undergo the conversion of a school bus that will allow us to reimagine the way we build our communities and archives.
Through the arts, community, and culture.
We will be touring across the U.S to connect us through storytelling, media and grassroots organizing.
PROJECTED DATES & LOCATIONS:
SOUTH - EAST - MIDWEST ROUTE
(dates & locations to be announced)
If you are interested in booking or collaborating with this project please email blacklesbianarchives@gmail.com
WHAT IS NEEDED?
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- Finding the bus is first priority (still searching) So if you hear or find or a lead on a school bus please send it through.
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- Looking for a school bus build location(s)
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- Locations for stops! Looking for intimate community gathering spaces (Bars, Gardens, Parking Lots, Community Spaces, Homes, etc)
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- Tools! (See Tool/Wishlist List Below)
(Indoor or outdoor spaces where the bus can be close in proximity) ​
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- Looking for Black Lesbian Women of the African Diaspora Storytellers. Preferably elders that can share stories about the communities in which they reside​
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- Looking for weather friendly, cooler space(s) for archival material storage while on the road​
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- Technicians, Electricians , Solar Panels
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- Performers, artists, activists, therapist, poets, vendors​
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- Collaborations/Partnerships, Sponsors and Grants
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- External hard drives, camera/video equipment, photographers and video editors ​
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- Promotional volunteers (to help spread the word via flyers and through social media)
If there is anything that is not listed that you would like to recommend for the tour, add or suggest, please email: blacklesbianarchives@gmail.com