Host: Mary Bowman
Mary’s story and work in the community has been featured in many media outlets. Documentary projects, Local and Internet radio stations, newspapers, blog sites, and magazines. Some of which include, Through Positive Eyes (Doc), POZ Magazine, and The NY Times Blog. Mary Bowman is a complete package. Her experience and expertise have been requested for several panel discussions, conference presentations, support groups and more.
The DC Black Pride Poetry Slam has become one of the popular events during DC Black Pride. Men and women of all ages, sexual orientations, sexual identities and races use poetry to express their feelings about oppression, racism, sexism, homophobia, politics, their hope and dreams or anything else that reflects the changing dimensions of culture on our planet. Participation is open to the community but one must sign up in the Hospitality suite by 1 p.m. on Saturday, May 28.
First place winner will receive $200 and perform on the stage at the DC Black Pride Health & Wellness Expo on Sunday, May 29; Second place $100 and third place winner receives $50.
Mary Bowman is an award winning advocate for people living with and affected by HIV/AIDS who uses her gift of poetry and song to spread messages of hope, awareness and education. A native to the Washington, DC area, Mary Bowman is a local household name. Performing for 7 years, she has had the pleasure of sharing her art all over the United States. For her efforts in the fight against HIV/AIDS she has received many prestigious awards, including the 2015 Mayor’s Office of GLBT Affairs, Sheroes of the Movement Award as well as the AIDS Watch 2015 Positive Leadership Award amongst others. Mary has 2 projects available for sale, her 2011 award winning collection of poetry, LOTUS and her 2014 EP entitled LOVE B.O.A.T.S. (Based On A True Story)