This conversation will explores how Black feminism informs collective action, radical care, and transformative change. We'll explore the intersection of Trap feminism and Black Feminism of the future! As part of the Freedom Lecture series we’ll learn, dream, and build toward a freer, Blacker future—one rooted in justice, joy, and community.

Location:

ThirdSpace Reading Room - 1464 E. 105th St. Cleveland, OH 44108

Sesali Bowen

Sesali Bowen is an American author, media personality, and cultural commentator known for founding "trap feminism," a framework that explores Black female and queer expression, particularly within rap and trap music. She authored the memoir Bad Fat Black Girl: Notes from a Trap Feminist, which delves into her experiences with body acceptance, sexual liberation, and the complexities of Black womanhood. Bowen is also the creator and co-host of the "Purse First" podcast, the first platform dedicated exclusively to female and queer hip-hop artists. With a Master's in Gender Studies from Georgia State University, she has contributed to various media outlets and previously worked at Planned Parenthood and Oxygen Media. (Black America Web, Politics and Prose Bookstore, InStyle)

Chinenye Nkemere

Chinenye “ChiChi” (she/her) is a strategic thinker with over a decade of experience in community engagement, asset building, and advocacy, holding a BA in Political Science, African Studies, and African American Studies from The Ohio State University. Her advocacy began in education, serving as a Teach for America educator in Houston and later as an Intervention Specialist in Ohio schools. She expanded her impact through public safety consulting and remains committed to advancing progressive, radically inclusive equity. As co-founder of Enlightened Solutions, she leads strategy, outreach, and research to address workplace inequality and support trauma-impacted individuals.

Program Supporters: ThirdSpace Action Lab, Cleveland Freedom Dreams Coalition, The George Gund Foundation