Freedom Lullabies with The Nap Ministry

Oct 22

In honor of Juneteenth, D-Composed collaborated with New York Times Bestselling Author, Tricia Hersey - Founder of The Nap Ministry for a special program entitled “Freedom Lullabies” - a truly revolutionary rest event that placed a premium on community wellness and care.

The sold-out event filled the Gary Comer Youth Center gymnasium with over 100 participants of The African Diaspora for an event that celebrated rest and community care.

While the string quartet performed the works of Black composers, including selections from Jamila Woods, Solange, and Florence Price, The Nap Bishop read revolutionary and affirming text from Black revolutionary leaders such as Audre Lorde, bell hooks, W.E.B. DuBois, and excerpts from her book Rest is Resistance.

Attendees remarked that this was the first time they felt safe, seen, and had the opportunity just to be.

This collaboration marked the first time that both D-Composed & The Nap Ministry had produced a Juneteenth event.

Featured ensemble members included Caitlin Edwards on violin, Khelsey Zarraga on violin, Wilfred Farquharson on viola, and Tahirah Whittington on cello.

Freedom Lullabies was supported by the Chicago Community Trust: Safe & Peaceful Communities Fund.