A Year Of Firsts

Dear Movement Makers,

ìpàdé is a dream of mine that started long before 2020 though I never imagined it would launch in the midst of a global pandemic that is forever changing the way we live, work, and care for each other.

I had just created ìpàdé’s online presence two weeks prior to the DMV area going under a stay home order. I’ll admit, there were a few weeks where I didn’t know what to do. My dream of creating a safe, inclusive space that centers Black, Indigenous, and womxn of color changemakers seemed further and further away as more information emerged and as days at home turned into weeks and then into months.

But I’ve never been easily dissuaded. (If you know me personally, you know I’m persistent!) I knew deep down that my community’s need for safe spaces would grow. We would need to stay connected, to be held and supported, and to feel solidarity. We would need each other more than ever.

So I took a few first steps and you joined me along the way. Thank you!

Thank you for being part of this journey! Thank you for following, signing up, showing up, giving, buying, and growing with us! ìpàdé’s community is its core and I’m so grateful to have you. You have made all the difference.

I hope you’ll continue to walk with us and stay connected for announcements about changes and opportunities that are coming in 2021. Scroll to see the full timeline below.

With gratitude,

Elizabeth