Viviane Nixon
Like many, I am an Iowa transplant. Shortly after serving in the United States Army, we moved to Iowa for work and school. I am of Haitian- Bahamian descent, and I love experiencing and learning about other cultures.
Juneteenth A Federal Holiday: Three Things to Know About It
Updated June 12, 2023
Two years ago, the United States Senate and House of Representatives passed a bill to make Juneteenth a federal holiday. June 19th will now be a federal holiday for Juneteenth Independence...
Reflecting on Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr.’s “Letter from Birmingham Jail”
Over the past few weeks, I have been pondering the unjustified deaths of 2020 and the protests for equality and justice for Black Indigenous People of Color (BIPOC).
As I looked back, my recollection of...
Just Dance: Finding Balance During A Pandemic
Ah, the art of dancing where one can express themselves in however way they choose.
If you were to ask me what has been one of my more memorable experiences this year; I would have...
Where Do You Stand?
“The ultimate measure of a man is not where he stands in moments of comfort and convenience, but where he stands in times of challenge and controversy.”
-Martin Luther King Jr.
Where do you stand?
If you...
We Can Do Better: Teaching Our Children About Black History
The other day, I picked up my two youngest children from school, and on the way home, my daughter proceeded to tell me that she learned about a preacher’s son named Martin.
When she did...
Where to Buy a Live Christmas Tree Near Iowa City
One of my favorite Christmas songs that I love playing in the background while decorating our Christmas tree is the old time favorite, O Tannenbaum. We play both the German and English version on...
Racism in America: Starting the Conversation (Part 1)
Today, it seems that most people are reluctant to share their opinions on any subject matter involving race in fear of being unfairly labeled a racist or accused of “pulling the race card”.
So how...
Loving My Brown Skin & Teaching My Daughter to Do the Same
Have you ever heard a song that speaks to your very soul, or one that triggers old memories? Just by hearing that song, perhaps, you've felt overwhelmingly taken by a sudden, surprising emotion. Well,...
The Chess World Is About To Have A Party!
Recently, we embarked on a road trip to visit the chess capital of the United States. Unless you are part of the chess community, you and many other folks may be unaware that the...
Shrimp Ceviche Recipe: A Spring and Summer Favorite
The first time that I had shrimp ceviche was a couple years ago during a trip to central Florida. My very first bite of this delicious dish invoked long lost memories of childhood when...