High art. Street art. Critical social discourse. 3 AM IS THE NEW BLACK #3amblack #rezarites #ambitiousblackfeminist #poetry #art #blackownedbusiness #blackbusinesses #blackwomanowned #blackwomanownedbusiness #blackgirlmagic #blackwriters #blackwomenwriters #blackpoets #blackwomanpoets #blackartists #blackartmovement #blackwritersofinstagram #blackpoetsofinstagram #blackartistsoninstagra #blackentrepreneurs #collageart #writingwhileblack #carefreeblackgirl #digitalart #askmeaboutit #pariscollagecollective #pariscollageclub (at Providence, Rhode Island) https://www.instagram.com/p/CqStrHBuljc/?igshid=NGJjMDIxMWI=

***ATTENTION*** We have received word that individual(s) who participated in anti-fascist action today at the RI State House have been arrested. This is a call to gather financial resources to aide in bail for those arrested. Every bit helps. Please consider donating here: http://bit.ly/aid4PVDbail Please share this message with your networks. These folx have used their voices and bodies to hold space against fascists - now we need to get them home! We understand you may have questions about how this money will be used. Here are some principles that may address your concerns: - Requests for bail assistance will be prioritized for BIPOC and LGBTQIA+ folx, and non-cismen.   - Funds will be disbursed with no strings attached. If the person attends all their bail hearings and their bail is refunded, they are free to do with it as they wish. We will encourage folx to pay it forward by making a donation to local prison abolition groups, but they will not be obligated to do so. - After everyone is safely home any remaining funds will be donated to Black & Pink PVD, an open family of LGBTQ prisoners and "free world" allies who support each other in the work towards the abolition of the prison industrial complex. Check out their liberation work here: https://www.facebook.com/pg/blackandpinkpvd/about/ - In the interest of full transparency, the linked Paypal account belongs to Attleboro Area SURJ (Showing Up for Racial Justice) with Cori as contact due to requirements for the creation of a non-business account. The fund was arranged at the request of Ocean State Against Hate coalition leaders. We remain accountable to that leadership for as long as the bail fund exists, and we stand in solidarity with those committed to anti-racist and anti-fascist action worldwide. @riwomxnsaction @fang.life @3amblack @amornetwork @radicalsummits @rachelmillerward13 @_areolagrande @purpleistheoldblack @rosasparks54 @maguire.andrew @aviatordre @latenybeo @davidlhelfer @jewishantifa @antifascistresistance

Take 5 w. Reza Rites The #AmbitiousBlackFeminist And 3 AM IS THE NEW BLACK March 21, 2023 Full article at www.AmbitiousBlackFeminist.com Most of my classrooms are those containing high school students or adults, but over time, as I’ve embraced my silliness and discarded discomfort with my own awkwardness, I’ve gotten better with teaching and supporting middle school-aged youth and adolescents. Below are five approaches that work for me when instructing Middle School youth: 1) I never just look over a kid’s shoulder or at their screen. I ask first. “Do you mind if I look over your shoulder or look on?” 2) I remember what it was like when I found academic subject matter difficult, and I channel that while affirming something a student is finding difficult. “Ohhhhh this one is kind of tricky.” 3) Similarly, I model the struggle. “Maybe it’s this, maybe it’s that. It’s frustrating not knowing, but I won't be harmed if I guess wrong, so maybe I’ll pick this one.” 4) I show a skill or technique that works for me, and explain my rationale or process. I then invite them to show me an approach or skill that was taught to them - or that they developed. 5) I like to put energy into ending a task, and creating a vibe where we as a community work super hard right before reaching a break or dismissal. It's a bit like the sprint at the end of a marathon or long-distance run, and it can be especially helpful for the disengaged kiddo. What works for you as far as working with 11-14 year olds and/or teaching in general? Feel free to share a tip or word of advice in the comments. Sunshine and laughter. - Reza Rites READ ARTICLE IN FULL www.AmbitiousBlackFeminist.com #3amblack #wear3amblack #shop3amblack #rezarites #ambitiousblackfeminist #poetry #art #blackownedbusiness #blackwomanowned #buyfromblackwomen #blackgirlmagic #blackwriters #blackwomenwriters #blackpoets #blackwomanpoets #blackartists #onlineshop #collageart #writingwhileblack #carefreeblackgirl #digitalart #askmeaboutit (at Providence, Rhode Island) https://www.instagram.com/p/CqDVAeNMWyJ/?igshid=NGJjMDIxMWI=

Take 5 w. Reza Rites The #AmbitiousBlackFeminist And 3 AM IS THE NEW BLACK March 11, 2023 Hi friends, how did things go as you finished up the week and slid into the weekend? Here are five of my observations, proclamations, or ramblings for today’s Take 5 note: 1. I smell good. No, really. Think hints of coconut, pineapple, mango, lime, lavender, and “spice.” Throw in turmeric, ginger and cinnamon - given my tea-making and drinking - and you might be close if you’re trying to imagine it. 2. Thank goodness for that tea, too, for it takes a toll on the body, mind, and spirit (at least mine) when writing about an insipid and dangerously cruel character. Oof. 3. I am currently writing at least one grant to support a summer writing program for South County residents, 18 and up. I’m excited. 4. One of the publications that motivates me, and makes me feel seen as a Black woman writer, is “Midnight & Indigo.” I am posting a collage showing screenshots from some of their more recent newsletters and posts. 5. The other accompanying collage and visuals include a picture of me at Raphael's Restaurant in Providence - in front of a piece of art they purchased as part of decorating their eatery. If you’re hungry for “The Taste of the Caribbean” - and want to see the three pieces of #3amblack art they have on display - check them out at 568 Broad St., in Providence Do you have 5 observations or realizations from the week? Feel free to leave them in the comments if you’d like to share. Sunshine and laughter, Reza Rites *opportunities posted are neither endorsements nor markers of affiliation. READ ARTICLE IN FULL www.AmbitiousBlackFeminist.com #3amblack #wear3amblack #shop3amblack #rezarites #ambitiousblackfeminist #poetry #art #blackownedbusiness #blackwomanowned #buyfromblackwomen #blackgirlmagic #blackwriters #blackwomenwriters #blackpoets #blackwomanpoets #blackartists #onlineshop #collageart #writingwhileblack #carefreeblackgirl #digitalart #askmeaboutit (at Providence, Rhode Island) https://www.instagram.com/p/CpqSLBwPuYq/?igshid=NGJjMDIxMWI=

Take 5 w. Reza Rites The #AmbitiousBlackFeminist And 3 AM IS THE NEW BLACK Below are five things on my mind for today’s edition of Take 5 with Reza Rites. What are five things you’re thinking about? My uncle, Jay Clifton, passed away last month; I want to thank everyone who checked in and shared condolences…. I received news that three poems I submitted for consideration were selected by the What Cheer Writer’s Club, for “Solidarity,” their forthcoming anthology... Black American history, and the domestic struggle for freedom, self-determination, and access to opportunity and autonomy has always seen multiple iterations, directions, attempts, and victories, and it has often included a global awareness and intentional integration of Black Freedom Struggles abroad. I keep seeing cool opportunities* for creative writers... My first mentor-instructor meeting went well. During one exercise, he asked me about my poetry and invited me to say anything I wanted about it. Along with a series of now-forgotten utterances, I briefly mentioned being inspired by Rumi and Pablo Neruda… Sunshine and laughter, Reza Rites *opportunities posted are neither endorsements nor markers of affiliation. READ ARTICLE IN FULL www.AmbitiousBlackFeminist.com #3amblack #wear3amblack #shop3amblack #rezarites #ambitiousblackfeminist #poetry #art #blackownedbusiness #blackbusinesses #blackwomanowned #blackwomanownedbusiness #buyfromblackwomen #blackgirlmagic #blackwriters #blackwomenwriters #blackpoets #blackwomanpoets #blackartists #blackartmovement #blackwritersofinstagram #blackpoetsofinstagram #blackartistsoninstagra #blackentrepreneurs #onlineshop #collageart #writingwhileblack #carefreeblackgirl #digitalart #askmeaboutit https://www.instagram.com/p/CpapW1nL90J/?igshid=NGJjMDIxMWI=

POSTED WITH LOVE AND PERMISSION TO SHARE Nothing in this world is ever perfect. But loving you And being loved by you Are probably the closest it gets. Happy Valentine’s Day lovies. #3amblack #3amblackpoetry #rezarites #shop3amblack #ambitiousblackfeminist #poetry #art #blackownedbusiness #blackbusinesses #blackwomanowned #blackwomanownedbusiness #buyfromblackwomen #blackgirlmagic #blackwriters #blackwomenwriters #blackpoets #blackwomanpoets #blackartists #blackartmovement #blackwritersofinstagram #blackpoetsofinstagram #blackartistsoninstagram #reels #blackentrepreneurs #onlineshop #collageart #writingwhileblack #carefreeblackgirl #digitalart #askmeaboutit (at Providence, Rhode Island) https://www.instagram.com/p/CopZHSHr9K2/?igshid=NGJjMDIxMWI=

POSTED WITH LOVE AND PERMISSION TO SHARE To exist is to love you To love you is to exist Happy Valentine’s Day, my love. #3amblack #3amblackpoetry #rezarites #shop3amblack #ambitiousblackfeminist #poetry #art #blackownedbusiness #blackbusinesses #blackwomanowned #blackwomanownedbusiness #buyfromblackwomen #blackgirlmagic #blackwriters #blackwomenwriters #blackpoets #blackwomanpoets #blackartists #blackartmovement #blackwritersofinstagram #blackpoetsofinstagram #blackartistsoninstagram #reels #blackentrepreneurs #onlineshop #collageart #writingwhileblack #carefreeblackgirl #digitalart #askmeaboutit (at Providence, Rhode Island) https://www.instagram.com/p/CokWIZjOTzU/?igshid=NGJjMDIxMWI=

Art. Essays. Poems. 3 AM IS THE NEW BLACK #3amblack #wear3amblack #shop3amblack #rezarites #ambitiousblackfeminist #poetry #art #blackownedbusiness #blackbusinesses #blackwomanowned #blackwomanownedbusiness #buyfromblackwomen #blackgirlmagic #blackwriters #blackwomenwriters #blackpoets #blackwomanpoets #blackartists #blackartmovement #blackwritersofinstagram #blackpoetsofinstagram #blackartistsoninstagram #reels #blackentrepreneurs #onlineshop #collageart #writingwhileblack #carefreeblackgirl #digitalart #askmeaboutit https://www.instagram.com/p/CoP6xAeLvEQ/?igshid=NGJjMDIxMWI=

Cuz Black girls are gonna do Black girl things.* *haircut by me #rezarites #3amblack #ambitiousblackfeminist #naturalhair #blackhairstyles #curls #naturalcurls #curlygirl #natural #naturalhairstyles #selfie #hairstyles #blackgirlmagic #carefreeblackgirl #blackwomen #poetry #art #hoopmobb #southcarolina #bigchop #twa #hair #hairstyles #haircut https://www.instagram.com/p/CnlWsFhsJcS/?igshid=NGJjMDIxMWI=

Did a thing to do some things. More things coming. #3amblack #rezarites #3amblackpoetry #ambitiousblackfeminist #poetry #art #buyfromblackwomen #blackgirlmagic #blackwriters #blackwomenwriters #blackpoets #blackwomanpoets #blackartists #blackartmovement #blackwritersofinstagram #blackpoetsofinstagram #blackartistsoninstagram #writingwhileblack #carefreeblackgirl #askmeaboutit https://www.instagram.com/p/CnQSCFpss6Q/?igshid=NGJjMDIxMWI=

Friends, I’m super excited and giddy to get the word out about my poetry performance comin up on Tue. November. I have some stuff in the vault that might be ready for sunshine (or moonlight), and I’ve got some recently released poetry collections, so I may share some of those pieces as well. I hope you join me! Spoken Word and Poetry Meet featuring Reza “Rites” Clifton, Tuesday, Nov 1 · 7:30–9:30 PM, hosted by Jaybird Walker at R1 Indoor Karting, 100 Higginson Ave, Lincoln, RI. The night will start with an open mic, followed by me sharing poetry and storytelling from 3 AM IS THE NEW BLACK (@3amblack). I can’t wait! #rezarites #3amblack #ambitiousblackfeminist #3amblackpoetry #vanity4themovement #joyisthemovement #blackgirlmagic #carefreeblackgirl #blackwomenwriters #blackwomenpoets #blackpoets #blackpoetsofinstagram #blackwritersofinstagram #poetry #storytelling https://www.instagram.com/p/CkRetQ4vkH-/?igshid=NGJjMDIxMWI=

Take 5 w. Reza Rites The #AmbitiousBlackFeminist And “3 AM IS THE NEW BLACK” I have to write. Yes, this is an existential statement. Yes this is a pledge. Yes this is a mantra. But also, yes, I am in a grad school program that requires 25 pages of new creative works per month. So I, quite literally, must write. In the last “listicle” I wrote and published, I pondered aloud whether there was value and purpose in bringing back projects, templates and formats that I had previously reclassified as archived material in my professional arts and writing library. But when my friend, Dj @ladyruck, recently brought back her show, The Ladies Lounge, I felt inspired. And when I reflected on how easy it was for the words to emerge and intertwine with each other in the most recent listicles I produced, it felt settled: I was going to officially relaunch the “Take 5 with Reza Rites” postings. My next Take 5 post is in the works but accompanying this write-up are screenshots from the two most recent “articles” I wrote. What are five things on your mind? Sunshine and laughter, Reza Rites #3amblack #wear3amblack #shop3amblack #rezarites #ambitiousblackfeminist #poetry #art #blackownedbusiness #blackbusinesses #blackwomanowned #blackwomanownedbusiness #buyfromblackwomen #blackgirlmagic #blackwriters #blackwomenwriters #blackpoets #blackwomanpoets #blackartists #blackartmovement #blackwritersofinstagram #blackpoetsofinstagram #blackartistsoninstagram #reels #blackentrepreneurs #collageart #writingwhileblack #carefreeblackgirl #digitalart #askmeaboutit https://www.instagram.com/p/CpWiAK7spmc/?igshid=NGJjMDIxMWI=

I cannot stress number 1 enough, though number 4 is pretty cool too. #3amblack #wear3amblack #shop3amblack #rezarites #ambitiousblackfeminist #poetry #art #blackownedbusiness #blackbusinesses #blackwomanowned #blackwomanownedbusiness #buyfromblackwomen #blackgirlmagic #blackwriters #blackwomenwriters #blackpoets #blackwomanpoets #blackartists #blackartmovement #blackwritersofinstagram #blackpoetsofinstagram #blackartistsoninstagram #reels #blackentrepreneurs #onlineshop #collageart #writingwhileblack #carefreeblackgirl #digitalart #askmeaboutit (at Providence, Rhode Island) https://www.instagram.com/p/Cn5os7fsEul/?igshid=NGJjMDIxMWI=

Happiest of New Years friends and fam!! Public-facing and private-building super boost ACTIVATED! #3amblack #wear3amblack #shop3amblack #rezarites #ambitiousblackfeminist #poetry #art #blackownedbusiness #blackbusinesses #blackwomanowned #blackwomanownedbusiness #buyfromblackwomen #blackgirlmagic #blackwriters #blackwomenwriters #blackpoets #blackwomanpoets #blackartists #blackartmovement #blackwritersofinstagram #blackpoetsofinstagram #blackartistsoninstagram #reels #blackentrepreneurs #onlineshop #collageart #writingwhileblack #carefreeblackgirl #digitalart #askmeaboutit https://www.instagram.com/p/Cm1lkHQrMVu/?igshid=NGJjMDIxMWI=

Marketplace number 2 today. It’s been a pleasure meeting and supporting the @southsideclt and @anti_robotclub patrons. Don’t forget you can also browse and purchase gifts through our online store: shop.3amblack.com. #3amblack #wear3amblack #shop3amblack #rezarites #ambitiousblackfeminist #poetry #art #blackownedbusiness #blackbusinesses #blackwomanowned #blackwomanownedbusiness #buyfromblackwomen #blackgirlmagic #blackwriters #blackwomenwriters #blackpoets #blackwomanpoets #blackartists #blackartmovement #blackwritersofinstagram #blackpoetsofinstagram #blackartistsoninstagram #reels #blackentrepreneurs #onlineshop #collageart #writingwhileblack #carefreeblackgirl #digitalart #askmeaboutit https://www.instagram.com/p/CmAP8SnvxEb/?igshid=NGJjMDIxMWI=

Who remembers how iconic the Doublemint commercials were? Well today we borrow the vibes with our double market set up. Catch art, poetry and greeting cards from 3 AM IS THE NEW BLACK at @southsideclt and @anti_robotclub holiday market places. See slides 2 and 4 details. Or check out shop.3amblack.com to browse and buy online. #3amblack #wear3amblack #shop3amblack #rezarites #ambitiousblackfeminist #poetry #art #blackownedbusiness #blackbusinesses #blackwomanowned #blackwomanownedbusiness #buyfromblackwomen #blackgirlmagic #blackwriters #blackwomenwriters #blackpoets #blackwomanpoets #blackartists #blackartmovement #blackwritersofinstagram #blackpoetsofinstagram #blackartistsoninstagram #blackentrepreneurs #onlineshop #collageart #writingwhileblack #carefreeblackgirl #digitalart #askmeaboutit (at Providence, Rhode Island) https://www.instagram.com/p/Cl_wNEerpZ7/?igshid=NGJjMDIxMWI=