On this episode of Southern Seep, Rodderick and Jacobi take a dive into the intersection of art, healing, health education, and advocacy with the founder and director of Brave Soul Collective(BSC), Monte J. Wolfe. BSC is a DC-based multi-disciplinary arts, education, and HIV/AIDS outreach organization working to illuminate the lives of LGBTQIA+ people of color through the performing and healing arts. Through BSC, Monte integrates storytelling into advocacy to amplify the voices of the most marginalized communities. During this episode, we discussed artist collaboration, the link between art and advocacy, and the importance of mentorship. Stayed tuned to the end of the episode where Monte graces Southern Seep with a monologue performance titled “Sacrifice”.
Highlighted on this episode's Southern Charm segment is Breaking Ground, a unique program that utilizes the theatre and performing arts to detail the lives, challenges and journeys of LGBTQIA + of color in the DC Metro area. They explore in-depth issues such as HIV/AIDS, sexuality, racism, transphobia, abuse, mental health, and substance abuse. Participants then courageously develop a musical theatre production addressing these topics that directly reflect their experiences.