Our Unseen Roots

06/16/2025

Our Unseen Dads - Dino Robinson

This episode of *Our Unseen Dads* features Dino Robinson, who shares his unique journey as a father. Dino discusses his upbringing, the lessons he learned from his own father (including the importance of accountability and self-empowerment), and how he applies those lessons to raising his daughters, including a stepdaughter. He details the challenges and rewards of fatherhood, emphasizing the importance of adapting his parenting style to each daughter's unique personality and needs. The episode also highlights Dino's creation of ShoreFront, a local history project born from his own genealogical research, and connects his personal experiences with his dedication to preserving Black history in his community.

This episode of Our Unseen Dads features Dino Robinson, who shares his unique journey as a father. Dino discusses his upbringing, the lessons he learned fro...

05/18/2025

Our Ep. 27 Kayla Henning

This episode of "Our Unseen Roots" features Kayla Henning, a community school director, discussing her identity and work within the Black community. Kayla describes her unique perspective as a Black q***r woman, highlighting the importance of care as resistance and the need to balance interpersonal support with systemic change. She shares a powerful success story illustrating the impact of genuine relationships, and discusses the critical needs within the Black community, particularly the emotional toll on Black women. The conversation also touches on the role of Black men as allies, the need for community resources, and Kayla’s vision for a future where systemic violence doesn't impede Black women's ability to thrive.

This episode of "Our Unseen Roots" features Kayla Henning, a community school director, discussing her identity and work within the Black community. Kayla d...

05/05/2025

OUR Ep. 26 Lisa Laudé

In this episode of "Our Unseen Roots," Lisa Laude, a corporate trainer and coach, shares her inspiring journey. Laude discusses her unique perspective as a Black woman, emphasizing the importance of faith in her career and life. She highlights the critical need for funding and resources to support Black women in the community, citing examples of impactful initiatives and leaders. Laude shares personal stories of overcoming challenges through prayer and rejects the notion of imposter syndrome, emphasizing the high qualifications often demanded of Black women. The conversation emphasizes community support, celebrating achievements, and the importance of voting and advocating for representation. Laude defines liberation for Black women and shares her hopes for the future of the Black community.

In this episode of "Our Unseen Roots," Lisa Laude, a corporate trainer and coach, shares her inspiring journey. Laude discusses her unique perspective as a ...

04/18/2025

It’s Official — The AUX is OPENING!

After 5 years of dreaming, planning, and building…
The AUX is finally ready to open its doors to the community!

Join us for the Grand Opening Celebration and be among the first to experience this one-of-a-kind wellness hub. Come meet and support the amazing tenants who are bringing healing, creativity, and culture to life right here in our community.

Date: Saturday, May 10, 2025
Time: 11AM - 1PM
Location: 2223 Washington Street, Evanston, IL

There will be music, food, tours, and good vibes all day long. You don’t want to miss this moment!

Help us spread the word by sharing this post. Let’s celebrate what’s possible — together.

Plug into the Heart of Evanston at The AUX!!!

04/16/2025

OUR Ep, 25 Janine Hill

Janine Hill, a mother, business owner, philanthropist, and community leader. Janine discusses the Sandra Denise Hill Memorial Scholarship (which she helped rebrand and expand), her inspirations (including her mother and grandmother), and the unique challenges and contributions of Black women. She addresses critical needs in the Black community, such as health disparities and the need for support for Black female entrepreneurs, and shares strategies for managing emotional labor and overcoming imposter syndrome. Janine's vision for the future includes increased Black entrepreneurship, leadership, and the dismantling of systemic barriers.

This episode of "Our Unseen Roots" features Janine Hill, a mother, business owner, philanthropist, and community leader. Janine discusses the Sandra Denise ...

04/09/2025

OUR Ep. 24 Dr. Felicia Parsons

Dr. Felisha Parsons is a highly accomplished Black woman whose life is a testament to the power of education, community engagement, and unwavering self-belief. A retired educator with over three decades of experience in Evanston and Louisville, Dr. Parsons has dedicated her career to uplifting the lives of young people, particularly Black girls, through her impactful work with the Armor Down Girls program, which fosters confidence and self-esteem. Deeply rooted in her community, Dr. Parsons embodies the values of service and family, drawing inspiration from figures like Muhammad Ali and her own strong mother and grandmother. She identifies self-confidence as her greatest superpower, while acknowledging the importance of self-care and the vital role of Black male allyship in achieving collective liberation. With a profound commitment to education and a hopeful vision for future generations, Dr. Parsons is a powerful force for positive change within the Black community.

Dr. Felisha Parsons is a highly accomplished Black woman whose life is a testament to the power of education, community engagement, and unwavering self-belie...

03/21/2025

OUR Ep. 23 Vanessa Johnson-McCoy

Vanessa Johnson-McCoy is a Black woman born and raised in Evanston, Illinois. She's a third-generation Evanston resident, and currently a write-in candidate for Evanston City Clerk. She's passionate about community service, particularly supporting Black women and promoting unity within the Black community. Her work with reparations initiatives has been particularly impactful. She emphasizes the importance of collaboration, resourcefulness (including securing grants), and spreading joy. Her role models include Rosa Parks and Mother Dolores Holmes. She finds strength in her faith and positive mindset.

Vanessa Johnson-McCoy is a Black woman born and raised in Evanston, Illinois. She's a third-generation Evanston resident, and currently a write-in candidate...

03/06/2025

This is what “Our Unseen Dads”(YouTube.com/) is about. I don’t think we need to hear the conversation, to understand the message. If you know a black dad(single, married, etc.) please nominate him at https://www.ourunseenroots.com/our-nomination-form…it’s time we water & nourish our roots.

02/20/2025

In this episode of Our Unseen Dads, we have a powerful conversation with Jeron Dorsey, a Black father from Evanston, Illinois. Jeron shares his personal journey, lessons learned from his father, and the unique challenges and joys of raising his children in today's world. We discuss the importance of a strong father figure, the impact of social media on parenting, and the vital role Black fathers play in their communities. Jeron also sheds light on his experiences being raised by women, his work with the Evanston CARE program (a critical alternative to police response), and his vision for the future of Black fatherhood. A must-watch for anyone interested in family, community, and the power of positive fatherhood!

In this episode of Our Unseen Dads, we have a powerful conversation with Jeron Dorsey, a Black father from Evanston, Illinois. Jeron shares his personal jour...

02/17/2025

OUR Ep. 22 Linnea Latimer...Now playing.

Linnea Latimer is a highly accomplished professional with diverse experience in management analysis, systems analysis, and community engagement. Her roles s...

01/08/2025

This is my mood for the rest of week…enjoying where I stand.