By Fonda Royster
Special to The Truth
It feels incredible when people from all walks of life—different walks of life – rich/poor, black/white, Christian/Muslim, able-body/disabled, homemaker/politician—can come together to confront a growing issue that touches every community: unaccompanied youth navigating the cruelty of the streets.
I held a book signing on May 9 at The Truth Colours Gallery at 7 E. Bancroft – a free event during which refreshments were provided. My new work, We Do Exist, is an attempt to expose the invisible world of youth homelessness.
I was so deep in my zone, talking about something that fuels my soul—youth who suffer from abuse, violence and exploitation. The room at The Truth Colours Gallery, felt electric.
Thank you, City of Toledo! They tell me over 50 folk (standing room) showed up to hear me, and DA DOPEST… and I meant DA DOPEST emcee TaTiana Keisha Marie and panel Amerah Rihaneh Archer, Sheena Marie Barnes, Celia Williamson shared truths that need to be heard. There wasn’t a boring or timid moment. Each queen (excluding myself) dropped gems.
My second mom, Georgia Daniel, was our honorary panelist— and it’s only right. She gave me a second chance of life. So, my book signing became her book signing
Advocating Opportunity, One Me To Be, Toledo Public Schools Mental Health & Recovery Services Board of Lucas County Cherry Street Mission and all the other influential community leaders and organizations that showed up in solidarity.
Oh—and let’s not forget… Mayor Wade Kapszukiewicz pulled up!
Thank you for listening—not just to me, but to the community’s concerns. He said he heard listened and heard us. Let’s get this work in.
Nikolacolours Art Colours – Nikola Welcome-Bovell, thank you for being a wonderful hostess.
My Sweet Thang Kathy Balbaugh-Gonyea (and her hub) for the poster board did a great job with the poster boar promoting youth homelessness awareness.
For those who came, thank you for understanding me and not judging me. EMPATHY MATTERS
We are here. We do exist. We are exposing the invisible world of unaccompanied youth homelessness.
For those of you who purchased and read my book – THANK YOU THANK YOU THANK
