Shades of Beauty Pride Month Special: Celebrating Allyship and Acceptance

In a special Pride Month episode, “Shades of Beauty” kicked off with a powerful discussion on allyship. Host Zashia opened the episode by expressing gratitude to Najah for being a steadfast ally to the LGBTQ+ community. Najah, deeply moved, shared her personal story of supporting her best friend, who is transgender. She recalled a moment when she brought her friend to church, ensuring beforehand that the congregation would welcome her friend with love. “You can not agree with someone and still love them,” Najah stated, a sentiment that resonates deeply with many, this conversation set the tone for the episode of allyship and compassion.

Joining the ladies was dancer Karrissa Love, who opened up about her experiences surviving the challenging environment of Los Angeles and creating a brand centered around love and acceptance. Karissa attended the American Musical and Dramatic Academy (AMDA), where she honed her skills and used the tools and resources she gained to become a more accomplished performer. Her brand, “Love in Motion,” embodies her journey and mission to spread positivity and acceptance.

Karrissa, who is a proud member of the LGBTQ+ community, shared her personal journey towards self-love and acceptance. She discussed the ongoing struggles with her father, who is still trying to come to terms with her relationship with a woman. Despite these challenges, Karrissa remains hopeful and committed to fostering an environment of love and support.

One of Karrissa’s notable contributions is her sensual hip-hop classes, which have become a safe haven for many seeking to express themselves through dance. “I want to showcase what I can do that can be beneficial to others,” she explained, emphasizing her desire to give back to her community. Her classes are not just about learning dance moves; they are about creating a space where people can feel loved, accepted, and uplifted. “I hope they leave on a high of love,” she added, highlighting the transformative power of her work.

The episode concluded with a lively game of “Shades of Beauty,” where the hosts and guests engaged in fun and light-hearted discussions on various topics. They talked about line dancing, the joy of older women dancing, and even debated Beyoncé’s influence on country music. The game brought laughter and joy.

The “Shades of Beauty” Pride Month special was a beautiful reminder of the importance of allyship and acceptance in the LGBTQ+ community. Najah’s heartfelt story of supporting her best friend, coupled with Karrissa Love’s inspiring journey and dedication to spreading love through her dance classes, made for an unforgettable episode. It celebrated the power of love, the strength of community, and the beauty of diversity.