I’m going to say it, the “Barbie” movie was fun. However, just because it made a ton of money does NOT make it a great or Oscar-worthy film. Neither Greta Gerwig, Ryan Gosling, or Margo Robbie achieved that excellence in “Barbie”. The feminist outrage that Greta and Margo were not nominated for work that wasn’t their best —even if if did make lots of money —is greatly misplaced and does not serve us well. Read on for my views on diversity in Hollywood and also my picks for the Oscars this year.
I usually republish the iconic “I Had A Dream Speech” on Martin Luther King Day. However, with the United States’ current foolhardy involvement and the senseless deaths on both sides in the Israel conflict, his “Beyond Vietnam” speech seems more apropos this year.
Delivered at NYC’s Riverside church on April 4th, 1967, exactly one year before he was murdered, Dr. King touches on the issues of America’s constant involvement in foreign wars and the need for all good people of conscience to speak up against them. He speaks of the globalist oppression that leads to these conflicts that can be linked to the ongoing oppression of people here in the United States. It is scary how little progress we have made in our consciousness since Dr King made this speech and that we are still raging these senseless wars. Substitute just a few words and this same speech could be made today.
I wasn’t a major fan of Greta Gerwig’s “Barbie”. For me, it was overhyped and dealt too much with the patriarchal issues that all women face without even a nod at the added racial issues that we, as woman of color, endure. For me, it was typical white feminism that never addresses women of color. However, the ONE highlight was the monologue that America Ferrera delivered, which DID touch me and was the best part of the movie. So, in honor of America’s Critics Choice win, here is the full text:
I wrote this back in 2016. But, Lord knows, I need good fortune in 2024 after having one of the most tumultuous years of my life. In addition, we are going into an election year that will decide whether Americans still live in a democracy or not. So, I am reposting this story with the hopes that we will all — individually and as a nation — have good fortune in 2024.
I first wrote this post in January 2015 as a way to help everyone quit smoking. And in January 2023, I had a cancer diagnosis that made me regret every cigarette I had ever smoked. Since many people make New Year’s resolutions to quit smoking and a couple of my dear friends are trying to quit, I decided to update and run this post again.. Good luck and I am rooting for you!
With the holiday season upon us, it is vital to take the time out of your frantic holiday schedule to keep your skin healthy. Here are some tips and my favorite products to keep your skin hydrated through these colder months.
I discovered Gigi Pip on Instagram during Covid and I have been treating myself to their hats to celebrate key life achievements ever since. I now have about 8 of their hats and am waiting for my latest to arrive. Check out my favs.
I was blessed to be invited to a launch party for the new flavor and the Boxed Water One Tree Planted initiative at SoulCycle Williamsburg. The fun-filled evening featured a SoulCycle class, massages, and aura readings with yummy vegan snacks and of course, Boxed Water Watermelon.