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Black BDSM conference
A program guide from the first conferenceBlack BEAT, Inc. "Black Expressions, Alternative Tastes" , a non profit organization, hosted a historic event on August 22-24, 2003, in Maryland. The first major BDSM Conference for people of color founded by African Americans was proudly represented by 82 participants covering 18 states (Maryland, California, D.C., Virginia, New York, Illinois, Pennsylvania, Texas, Delaware, New Jersey, Missouri, Michigan, Georgia, Ohio, Wisconsin, North Carolina, Tennessee, and Oregon).
Workshops and lecture at the historic first conference were presented by Viola Johnson, Mistress Mir, Goddess Lakshimi, Jamal G - Mr Georgia Leather 03, Lady Cocoa and lynnA and Dean K. The conference included the presence of the Executive Directors of the NCSF. Within 7 days, Black BEAT Munch Groups were established nationwide to maintain the mission and vision of Black BEAT Inc., including the mission of the NCSF.
Visit www.blackbeatinc.org for more info.
Created as an educational and social forum for sexual minorities, Black BEAT successfully strengthened the collective conscience of each participant and produced a safe, discreet, and welcome environment for not only people of color but all races, ethnicities and their expressions of D/s, B/D, S/M and alternative sexuality.
Attendees from the first Black BEAT in 2003 said the following:
"Attending such a historical event as Black BEAT 2003, was inspiring, spiritual, and a whole lot of fun! The event was all that I imagined it would be and then some. Being in the room with friends, and so many people that were a living history of people of color in the lifestyle was phenomenal." Tywolfe
"The energy of the volunteers and the information from the presenters was impressive. The male dominants present at BB03 presented men of integrity and the basis for a cohesive organization. The socialization offered open dialogue and inquisitive exchanges of attitudes and perspectives. Everyone was so damn nice and respectful it created an atmosphere of joy and pride." Cntrlr
"Black BEAT for me was a culmination of months of hard work, blood tears and sweat. But when the eve of Black BEAT came I was wired, it was like a 'Family Reunion'. I've never felt so comfortable with any group of kinky people before, I've never before had so much fun and growth as I did with Black BEAT." Ivolee"It is a couple of weeks, and I am still fighting tears...I cannot capture into words the feelings I have about creating history." Gulos
"My Mistress, Lady Cocoa, and I attended Black BEAT, and found it to be the best BDSM conference we have ever attended. Everyone was pulling together; there was none of the divisiveness that often occurs at lifestyle conferences, between different sexual orientations or races. Everyone was proud and happy that Black BEAT 2003 had grown from an idea to a reality." lynn
This was by far the most wonderful, loving, and inspiring weekend I have spent in YEARS. It was filled with knowledge, empowerment, but most of all a social environment filled with Respect, Warmth and Love. Whoever said, "It felt like a Homecoming", hit the paddle Square on the behind! I am STILL high from that wonderful weekend and look forward to our "Reunion" next year, and meeting some NEW family members. I love you A/all!" St. Louis Black
"BlackBEAT 2003 was a pivotal moment in my personal history. It was the first opportunity I have had to meet with like minded people in the BDSM community. It was a spirit of unity and affirmation like none I had previously experienced. It has inspired me to a whole new level of personal growth and involvement in the lifestyle community." Lady Cocoa
"We both were thrilled with every moment of the event....To everyone who was there, who participated, who presented, who just showed up - WOW! A million thanks to all, we needed this." Ron's brat
"The awards dinner was special and the food was delicious, and last but not least the dungeon. I had my first public play scene and it was my birthday also so what better way to celebrate! Next year I plan on being there the whole weekend and every year I will be celebrating my birthday at Black Beat" Yoyo
" While i only attended the Dungeon on Saturday Night, i was greeted with warmth and acceptance by all. Being new to the lifestyle, it touched my spirit to see so many gathered together and enjoying their kinks of choice. It was like a homecoming gathering of friends that until this weekend had been sight unseen. In short, the experience blessed me." phats
"My eyes and heart were filled with intense emotion in seeing more Blacks in a dungeon playspace, than ever before! My soul filled with a sense of completeness, and My eyes filled with the beauty of Black BDSM blending with every ethnic hue. It was spellbinding to witness." Lady ~Z~
