08/01/2023
3 years ago today, Exotic Culture Movement was born.
It was a time of great uncertainty, as the world was just beginning to grapple with the COVID-19 pandemic. But in the midst of this chaos, a group of like -minded individuals from NEOKC and the metro area came together with a vision: to create a space where people could come together to support each other, learn, and grow.
The name "Exotic Culture Movement" was chosen to reflect the diversity of the African American community. It was a place for everyone, regardless of their background or beliefs. The goal was to promote self-sufficiency, education, healthy lifestyles, and economic self-reliance.
The movement was built on the principle of "collaboration over competition." Instead of competing with each other, businesses and individuals were encouraged to work together to create a stronger community. This was evident in the way that the movement operated. The vending fee was donation-only, and most events were free to attend.
We wanted to create a space where we could be as black as we wanted to be, and as African as we knew to be. A place where we could Pray how we wanted to pray, do Libations, honor the orisha, honor the ancestors, the chakras, crystals, etc. We had herbs, sea moss, fragrant body oils, organic cleaning supplies, art, glass blowing, vegan food, soul food, Nigerian food, farm fresh fruits and vegetables, flavored salts, no-salt seasonings, waist beads, grown folks casual wear, dashikis, Hand-made earrings, yoga, meal prep, meditation, healthy lifestyle workshops, kids businesses, voting registrations, Afrobeat music, community resources, fresh juices, and most of all have fun.
We were able to work with different up-and-coming business owners and give them a platform and a place to call home when everything else in the world was shutting down. Most weeks, the vending fee was donation only, whatever you could give.
The Exotic Culture Movement was more than just a marketplace. It was a space where people could come together to experience their culture in their own way. There were also opportunities to learn about urban agriculture, healthy eating, and financial literacy.
Most importantly, Exotic Culture Movement was a place where people could feel safe and accepted. It was a place where they could be themselves, without fear of judgment.
I am so proud of what we accomplished together. We created something truly special, and I know that it will continue to inspire others for years to come.
Thank you to everyone who was a part of Exotic Culture Movement. You made it all possible.
Now, many people are doing or have done similar things. Some are even more popular and greatly successful. But one thing is for sure: they didn't do it "Exotic."
Exotic Culture Movement was about more than just selling goods or providing services. It was about creating a space where people could feel seen, heard, and valued. It was about building a community where everyone could thrive.
I am so grateful for the memories I made at Exotic Culture Movement. It was a time of great growth and learning, and I will never forget it.
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