What did you think about Rumi and Blue, who is just a year younger than you, being a part of the show?
I feel like because they know how amazing their mom is and how much of an inspiration she is to them, that they would want to be in that sphere with her, kind of like playing dress-up in the heels in the dresses. It’s kind of a bonding experience for them, and it’s also a way that Blue can enhance her skills. I can tell that she wants to continue performing. She’s good at it, too,
Is there anything else that you want to add?
I’m excited for Act III!
I replay Umi’s observations in awe of her, and am reminded of how important it is to have conversations with young people. She picked up so much more than the teenage rush of being at the concert. She saw herself, her Mom, and our relationship reflected in a new way. Her pride in being a Black girl was affirmed as natural and powerful, something to hold on to fiercely.
In one of the concert’s many decadent, bold visual installations. Beyoncé wears a pageant sash that reads, “Reclamation of America.” May we all reclaim what’s ours and stay the course, unafraid. Amen.
Thembisa S. Mshaka (@officiallipgame) is an essayist, award-winning creative, screenwriter, and author of the forthcoming second edition of Put Your Dreams First: Handle Your [entertainment] Business.
Umi Mshaka-Morris is an honor roll student, musician, and visual artist. She is the first in her family to be conferred the honor of 8th Grade Valedictorian. Umi graduates from junior high school this month.
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