AALUSC And Marriott Downtown Brooklyn Team Up To Commemorate Stonewall 50

African Ancestral Lesbians United for Societal Change (AALUSC) will spotlight the LGBTQI African American experience at a one-night exhibit at the Brooklyn Marriott on June 27. The "Just As We Are" display observes Stonewall 50 by recognizing the contributions of African American LGBTQI people.

AALUSC, formerly known as Salsa Soul Sisters, is recognized as the oldest LGBTQI+ organization in the nation since 1974 providing resources and safe spaces to gather for "out" same gender-loving women across the African Diaspora, regardless of Language, Class or Culture. AALUSC is committed to the spiritual, cultural, educational, economic and social empowerment of African Ancestral women and is dedicated to ensuring the voices of lesbian women of color are heard through advocating for rights, policy reform and decision making around issues that affect them. They also provide opportunities for social and cultural interaction with all women, including dance, theater, cultural, poetry readings, conferences, festivals, music, plays, and exhibit events.

Salena Mullen the Board Chair of AALUSC and Charzette Torrence the creator of the "Just as We Are" Photo Exhibition chose the Stonewall 50 as an important time to reflect on African American LGBTQI people, who are too often overlooked in the media. "As African American LGBTQI people, we are a proud and strong part of this community," they said.

The 16x20 Black & White portraits were all photographed at the subjects' favorite locations which makes them unique. Each of their bios is included alongside their portraits.

"Everyone photographed wanted to share who they are and the things they contribute to our society. There is a professor, doctor, lawyer, author, and television commentator, to name a few. The 'Just as We Are' photo exhibit showcases an authentic representation of African American LGBTQI lives," said Mullen and Torrence.

This event is free to the public on Thursday, June 27, 2019 from 6PM to 9PM in the Great Room Bar & Lounge at the Brooklyn Marriott on 333 Adams Street, Brooklyn, New York in the

For more details about the "Just As We Are" Photo exhibit and AALUSC, visit:

https://www.justasweare.com/jawa-gallery-pic

www.aalusc.com