A vibrant celebration honoring the legacy, brilliance, and leadership of Black women during Derby season.

As the city comes alive for Derby 152, SisterSong invites the community to gather in style for an evening rooted in culture, connection, and collective power.

This kickoff event celebrates the deep ties Black communities have to Derby traditions, from fashion and music to the generations of labor, creativity, and cultural influence that have shaped the spirit of Derby in Louisville. Through live music, storytelling, and joyful community, we center the voices and leadership of Black women while uplifting the Trust Black Women movement.

Join us for an unforgettable evening where culture meets purpose. Together we celebrate the beauty of our traditions, honor the work of reproductive justice leaders, and kick off Derby season by affirming a powerful truth: when we trust Black women, our communities thrive.

While there is no monetary fee to attend, we encourage each guest to bring a period product to donate in support of our featured community partner, For Lady’s Sake,LLC. As we prepare to recognize Menstrual Awareness Month in May, this is a simple but powerful way to show up for reproductive justice in our community. Even during a time of celebration like Kentucky Derby, ensuring access to basic menstrual products is part of achieving reproductive freedom and caring for one another. Every product donated helps move us closer to Kentukiana communities where everyone has what they need to live with dignity.

On the next stop of the Road To Essence national tour in Detroit, in partnership with The Global Black Economic Forum, SisterSong welcomes Teedra Moses — and a powerful gathering of voices leading the charge for community, justice, and liberation — to the movement.

At this Road To Essence Detroit stop, we'll be coming together in community around the theme of Rebuilding Our Communities After Harm — a conversation rooted in Economic Justice, Black Liberation, and Reproductive Freedom. Because in this moment, our healing, liberation, and joy are NON-NEGOTIABLE.

Join us for a powerful panel featuring Kenya Parham, Chief Growth Officer at SPILL, and Alphonso David, CEO & President of The Global Black Economic Forum — moderated by Monica Simpson, Executive Director of SisterSong, Dr. Mosley, Founder & CEO of The Playbook, and Tameka Robinson, Executive Producer of The Perfect Neighbor. Plus, a special performance by Teedra Moses.

After powerful conversation and community connection, join us as we gather, organize, and build the future we all deserve — grounded in Joy and Liberation.

May 2–3 | 1–5PM Museum of Contemporary Art Detroit (MOCAD)

REGISTER TODAY: https://posh.vip/e/sistersong-gbef-present-road-to-essence-detroit

On the next stop of the Road To Essence national tour in Detroit, SisterSong and The Global Black Economic Forum invite you to the Road To Essence Faith Brunch — a powerful and intentional gathering rooted in the intersection of faith, reproductive justice, and community care.

At this Road To Essence Detroit stop, we'll be coming together in community anchored in worship, joy, and collective healing. Because in this moment, our healing, liberation, and joy are NON-NEGOTIABLE.

Join us for a soul-stirring live performance by Gospel singer Kierra Sheard, whose presence will anchor the room in worship, joy, and emotional release — reminding us of the power of faith as both refuge and catalyst for change. Through curated conversation, community fellowship, and shared intention, we'll explore how faith communities can play a vital role in advancing reproductive justice, supporting Black maternal health, and reimagining collective liberation.

More than a brunch, this gathering is a call to action — inviting participants to reclaim faith as a space that affirms bodily autonomy, nurtures community, and sustains the movement forward.

Free food & drinks. Must RSVP to attend.

May 3 | 12:30–3:30PM EDT Detroit, MI