The ART of Reparations: Brunch Series

✨ Join Us for an Afternoon of Art, Activism, and Remembrance ✨

This edition of The Art of Reparations: Brunch Series is a truly special one, as we come together to honor the life and legacy of Shamony Makeba Gibson on the very day she tragically passed away from preventable post-childbirth complications. We are deeply honored to welcome two remarkable “artivists” and tireless advocates for reproductive justice, Shawnee Benton Gibson and Omari Maynard, who have transformed their grief into powerful movements for change by forming The ARIAH Foundation (Advancement of Reproductive Innovation Through Artistry and Healing).

The ARIAH Foundation was established in 2019 after the tragic and preventable death of Shamony Makeba Gibson due to a birth related pulmonary embolism. Shamony represents so many powerful women of color whose lives were cut short due to birth inequities and reproductive injustice in the United States. The foundation seeks to support individuals, families and communities who experience the devastating Aftershock associated with maternal/infant morbidity and mortality. ARIAH provides mental, physical, emotional and/or spiritual assistance to support the affected families as they navigate the impact of these traumatic experiences.

Shawnee Benton Gibson, a healer, activist, and mother of Shamony, is the CEO of Spirit of A Woman Leadership Development Institute and Co-Founder of the ARIAH Foundation. She is a powerful voice in the fight against maternal mortality and racial inequities in healthcare, using her extensive experience in clinical counseling, trauma healing, and spiritual guidance to support individuals and communities in need.

Omari Maynard, a visual artist, educator, and reproductive activist, was the life partner of Shamony. Since her passing, Omari has dedicated himself to raising awareness about the crisis of Black maternal mortality, channeling his pain into his art and advocacy work. His journey, chronicled in the Emmy-nominated documentary Aftershock, is a testament to the resilience and strength required to turn personal tragedy into transformative action.

Set in the heart of Bed-Stuy at Ma Lillet, a Trinidadian-owned, Black-owned culinary gem, this brunch will be more than just a meal—it will be a moment of remembrance, connection, and empowerment. Join us as we engage in a heartfelt conversation about the systemic inequities in maternal healthcare, the need for reparations, and the ways in which art can be a tool for healing and advocacy.

🍽️ Your Ticket Includes:

• A delectable appetizer, main meal, and dessert, all crafted with love and care by the incredible chefs at Ma Lillet.
• Bottomless mimosas or refreshing mocktails to accompany your meal.

This is not just a brunch; it's a call to action. As we gather to celebrate Shamony’s life and hear from Shawnee and Omari, we invite the community to participate in this live podcast recording, share your thoughts, and be part of a movement that seeks to transform grief into power and justice.

Let’s honor the legacy of those we’ve lost by advocating for those who are still with us. Reserve your spot and join us for an afternoon of deep conversations, delicious food, and a shared commitment to making our community and our world a better place.

🎟️ Limited seating—reserve your tickets now! Come for the brunch, stay for the movement. Let’s unite in our fight for reparations and justice for Black maternal health.

MENU SELECTION

Please note that onced your registration is complete you will be instructed to order your meal here on eventbrite.

SELECT ONE IN EACH CATEGORY

Bottomless Beverage

• Mimosa
• Mocktail (non-alcoholic)

Appetizer

• Chicken Wonton
• Saltfish Tostones

Main Entree

• Pancake w/2 Eggs (please specify Sunnyside Up, Fried, Scrambled etc.)
• Chicken & Waffle
• Shrimp & Grits

Dessert

• Coconut Lemon Cake
• Nutella Chocolate Mousse

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Host or Publisher The ART of Reparations