Dancing allows us to release and reveal the innermost aspects of our souls. It is a physical means of expressing our innate love of and desire for freedom of the body and spirit. Too, it offers a sense of relief and release from worldly woes, and allows joy to flow forth unencumbered.

As is well known, music in many forms along with dance, has been a longstanding, sustaining, edifying force and source of comfort throughout the history of Black people in America. Denial of personal freedom and all manner of subjugation, causes intense pain of myriad forms to house itself in memories and generational trauma. The ability to move freely in expression of relief from bondage can be so poignantly and beautifully expressed in dance.

I deeply feel that we must be thankful for the glorious contributions of Black creators--visual artists, poets, musicians, and more, for their ongoing, courageous, and remarkable enhancement of life for all.

All human beings respond to rhythm and music in some way. Yes, responding to sounds and beats with movement is indigenous to being human. Babies respond and move to music, even while in their mother's wombs!

My offering of "tree people " dancing with joy, connotes the undeniable unity of human beings and nature, and highlights the truth that it is natural for all humans to move freely with joy and ease.