courtesy of Andrew Snorton
Overcoming challenges is something that all of us on a given day, month, year, or even a lifetime are faced with. Some challenges range from what to cook for breakfast in the morning (or getting something on the way), dealings with a co-worker, or in other instances, where you may lay your head at night.
Sometimes, we forget that regardless of our platform or where we are in life, we are still dealing with people, and as people, there are things that can take their toll on us. For instance, many feel that because of how famous someone is, or how much they are earning, they are far removed from the everyday struggles that many face; however, we are starting to realize that in some instances, the challenges may be even more pronounced.
What is more pronounced than the challenges are the successes that can come from them. And this Friday, October 3rd, at the Jimmy Carter Presidential Library (441 Jimmy Carter Parkway in Atlanta at 7pm), Dr. Yamma Brown is taking time to share her story of the “many rivers” she has to cross in order to get to where she is.
Brown happens to be the daughter of the legendary Godfather of Soul, James Brown. Her reading of her book co-authored with Robin Gabby Fisher (a two-time finalist for the Pulitzer Prize in feature writing), Cold Sweat, delves into a myriad of personal and professional complexities and issues which shed light to numerous areas of social concern.
Brown’s open, honest, and powerful account focuses on issues and disconnects related to domestic violence. While discussion is provided regarding Brown’s superstar aura and the presence of celebrities ranging from Michael Jackson to Al Sharpton, the backdrop of interrelated concerns of the trappings of fame, drug use, jail, social excess, and how it can connect with the larger concern of domestic violence is delivered in a candid manner. Included is taking a look at the cyclical nature of domestic violence, not only from Brown’s recollection of instances experienced by her mother (Ms. Deidre Jenkins), but how such contentions surface in her adult life, including having to work through matters including abuse in her own marriage. Given the juxtaposition of the life lessons provided by her father with the aforementioned instances grounded in celebrity and violence make her ability to rise beyond them even more gripping and powerful.
Brown, who serves as the vice-president of the James Brown Family Children Foundation and the founder of Daughter of Soul Productions, is a leading advocate in the fight against domestic violence and related abuse issues. The producer of the biopic Get On Up (featuring Chadwick Boseman), she serves as the national spokesperson for Break the Cycle, an organization which provides support and empowerment for victims of domestic violence and abuse.
Friday’s reading is free and open to the public. Copies of the book are available for purchase, and Ms. Brown is scheduled to sign copies at the conclusion of the reading.
As we enter the month of October, Domestic Violence Month, there are some higher-profile cases that are bringing attention to the issue. In going beyond the month, this Friday’s reading provides another way to share the stories of struggle, but more importantly, be more in-tune with the resources that are available and the means to overcome and hopefully put such a social problem to an end.
The “intimate and unflinching (as noted by NPR)” look at Brown, through his daughter’s experience, along with the larger story, surely leaves its readers, audience, and larger community with a powerful look at the intricacies of domestic violence.
That in and of itself should leave many in a cold sweat.
