“I can put all of that energy into speaking up, but first I have to know what I feel. First I have to find a center.” –Erika Rose
Every day of our lives we are exchanging energy. Some days we have the capacity to be intentional about the energy we send out. Other days, we find ourselves so consumed with life that the energy we send out can only be the unfiltered, unadulterated version of ourselves. That to me, is the most beautiful version.
On this week’s episode The SoSu Series we get to bear witness to the infinitely loving energy that is Erika Rose.
‘’I’m thankful for this fire…for those younger than me…and my ancestors and those… who came before me in the DC Theatre community who fought their fights.” –Erika Rose
“This moment is forcing me to address how I exist.” –Erika Rose
A two-time Helen Hayes Award winner, Erika is more than just an actor. She is a mother, an artist, a fighter, a collaborator and an overall powerhouse. More than anything, she is interested in collaborations where the fullness of her experiences and of those around her are honored, respected and given the space to thrive. When speaking on her identity, she often mentions the idea of “being whole”. In a field that doesn’t always leave room for all the pieces of us, she reiterates the undeniable significance of spending time making ourselves whole. In her own words,
“I want to work with people who understand that my identity and my experience as a Black woman/mother/human is not beside the point or inconvenient but a gift. I want to work with people who are aware that they too have an identity and that it is in operation whether they are aware of it or not.”
Every minute of this interview seeps with healing and love which aligns with her mission. In her artistic statement sent to SoSu, she explains,
“My artistic endeavors at this moment are centered around healing and purpose. Wherever I end up in this world I want the strength of my convictions and values to lead me rather than my tendency to please people and to steer clear of conflict. I am curious about what liberated theater looks like, what a liberated ME looks like. What will I create when I am free? What will I create when I honor who I am? What will happen when I am myself every.single.time?”
“You can’t create a system that’s as flawed as it was…as racist as it was without addressing it. …You can’t just wish it away” –Erika Rose
As you watch this interview let her proclamations of love, wholeness and self-reflection settle in your skin. May you bask in her affirmations and send them along the wind with encouragement. As she states, we deserve to be our whole selves. May we join in on this journey of self-exploration, development and liberation.
Erika Rose, may everything you’re manifesting be brought to life in this beautiful new phase of your journey.
“You have to decide for yourself what action looks like.” –Erika Rose
Find Erika Rose at
ErikaRose.com
Erika Rose spoke with Billie from Seattle, WA.
When asked how people can offer support, she mentioned the fire recovery efforts in Southern Oregon. You can learn more by visiting: https://www.UNETEOregon.org
She also mentions “Wa Na Wari”, a Seattle community organization that creates space for Black ownership, possibility, and belonging through art, historic preservation, and connection. Learn more and donate at: https://www.wanawari.org/donate
We hope our series adds to your understanding of the world, and deeply appreciate your support. All proceeds will go to further productions of the series.
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