To say CityBeat is a communications pillar in the community would be an understatement. To me, CityBeat is just as much a part of my tribe as the people in this city.
My first experience with CityBeat was reading my mom’s article about her activist-based open mic on UC’s campus. At the time, I already thought she was a superhero. After reading an article about her, I was so sure my mom was famous.
This probably doesn’t seem like much, but at that specific point in time it was EVERYTHING. My mom was a black woman/activist with a strong voice in one of the most racially divided cities we have. Her voice was not always embraced, and there were even attempts to silence the truth she spoke. Having a reliable publication with a strong platform willing to amplify black voices is necessary. CityBeat is necessary. That article definitely added fuel to my adolescent fire.
Now, almost 15 years later, I am still so impressed by CityBeat‘s ability to capture ALL of the city in its finest light. Starting our own movement without any visibility would have been impossible. From the moment I reached out to CityBeat, I knew that wouldn’t be the case. For every release TRIIIBE and I have had, CityBeat has backed us with a supporting article that easily doubles our exposure. This, for us, has proven invaluable.
As artists, we seriously appreciate having the support of media outlets that don’t skew our intentions. Every writer that has taken on our story has done so with respect for our message and image. For this we are grateful, and will always be strong supporters of CityBeat.
Even in uncertain times, it is so necessary to preserve our history holders. Without people committed to telling our stories, and telling them right, we lose significant history like we have many times before. TRIIIBE and I personally believe we must all do our part in keeping CityBeat afloat while we recover as a whole.
All my love and support,
Siri Imani
TRIIIBE Worldwide
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This article appears in May 6 – Jun 14, 2020.