QueensConnected: Why I relaunched and 2025 Plans

For those of you who do not know me, my name is Naika Thomas and I am the founder of QueensConnected.

It is already February and so much has occurred in the world last month. Watching the news and social media has been disheartening. Globally, Black and racialized communities are being displaced, ethnically cleansed, and most recently deported in large numbers.

I feel such a range of emotions, from sadness, grief, rage, hopelessness, and sorrow. I am acutely aware that this period will become more difficult for Black and racialized communities in the next few years given the political climates around the world. How have you been feeling with everything that is going on in the world?

I relaunched QueensConnected at the end of last year knowing that we (Black and racialized women) need creative spaces and ways to support one another to survive these difficult times.

The organization’s mission is to curate spaces for Black and racialized women to gather, celebrate, unpack, and also heal in community from the experiences of racism, discrimination, and erasure we face on a daily basis.

There are four events planned for 2025, which were designed based on the desires shared by Black and racialized women within my network.

We started the year in celebration with the Ladies Dance Night because there is much to celebrate and be grateful for despite present and future difficulties.

What a fantastic and fun night that was! It felt so freeing and safe to dance in a space designed for Black & racialized women, and allies. Thank you to everyone who attended and supported the event. It was so nice to meet and dance with so many of you.

Given the positive feedback and desire for more dance nights, there will be a summer party on June 14, 2025. Save the date and stay tuned for more information. All women and non-binary individuals are welcome!

Next up is Navigating Harmful Workplaces: Black and Racialized Women’s Networking on March 26, 2025 from 5:30pm to 8:00pm at the Hummingbird Hall in Barrhaven.

The cancellation of DEI departments, programs, and policies that were meant to redress the impacts of racism and discrimination is occurring across North America. As a Black woman, it was difficult to witness the racist accusation that Kamala Harris is a DEI hire, supposedly unqualified for the role of president despite her credentials, career path and experience. Like Kamala, most of us have experienced racism and discrimination at work from microaggressions to limited career progression.

This hybrid event (40 in person attendees and unlimited virtual attendees) is intended to foster connection to allow us to network, learn from one another and industry leaders about how to navigate workplaces, deal with challenges (i.e. systemic racism, sexism, and discrimination) so we can leave with some lessons learned.

As a thank you for supporting the business, receive a $5 discount for the Networking event by using the promotional code NETWORKING at the checkout.

I am looking forward to the evening and the discussions that take place. I hope to see you there!