This article was originally posted on The Spady Cultural Heritage Museum website…
Beating To Her Own Drum
It is not always apparent where the black people are in South Florida. Newcomers arrive in search of where African-Americans eat, dance, gather and share, and are usually left lost and asking for directions. Dr. LaTasha Russell went through the same thing when she was a transplant, so she decided to create what she was looking for…
Spady: Where did you live before transplanting to South Florida and why did you begin creating ways for “us” to come together?
Dr. Tasha: I moved to South Florida from Los Angeles in 2014, after receiving my doctorate in Clinical Psychology. When I moved to Ft. Lauderdale, I wasn’t the biggest fan of this place. And I hate to admit it, but I was actually bored here because I could not find many things to do for Black progressive folks in their thirties and forties. I found myself not enjoying the nightclub scene; however, I still wanted to listen to good music and meet great people. So, I started throwing a party at my house every first Sunday with Chicago Steppers (40 Ballroom dancers). Now, after three years of throwing this party, I invite 1,000 people each month, and 10 percent always show up.
Spady: What are some of the events and programs you offer and in partnership with whom?
Dr. Tasha: I have a Talk Show every first Thursday from 7-10 p.m. named “Drive-By Therapy at Krave Restaurant and Lounge with a Stand-up Comedian Chris Priester. I have a Speed Dating Event and a Couples Date Night each month from with Arri and Broderick Henry, who “Keep A Happy Home.” I have also partnered with the Historic Hampton House (where Muhammad Ali, Nina Simone, Sammy Davis Jr., and Malcolm X used to socialize) in Miami to have a Chicago Stepping Party every third Sunday from 4-8 p.m., where adults can learn to Ballroom Dancing.
Spady: How can people find out more about what you have coming up?
Dr. Tasha: Anyone can go on my website: www.drivebytherapy.org to check the Calendar of Events or just email lrussellpsyd@gmail.com and I will send you a flyer of any event that is coming up.
