Welcome Message

This project has been created out of love, support and guidance from my ancestors. I ask them and the extended ancestors shared in this project to offer their protection and continued teachings.

In 2020, I started my first altar by writing the names of the ancestors I knew on a piece of paper and offering a raw sweet potato. Over the next few weeks, I watched the sweet potato grow leaves and began to sprout. Newer versions of me sprouted with it, leading me on an ancestral path of discovery to connect with family members I never knew, learn land stewardship practices, begin healing fractured relationships important to me and develop deeper intimacy with myself. (And I know I’m only scratching the surface!) It has left me a true believer that remembering, loving and honoring the people, gifts and talents of your lineage will lead you closer to your truest self.

I am an apprentice to my ancestors, a storyteller, truth seeker and connector. Although I am very gregarious, I have often felt alone in my life, afraid to be my fullest self. I have hid parts of myself from people closest to me. This project is born from my ancestors’ love, lifting me up and hugging me through those darkest moments, while continuing to walk each step with me. A collaborative journey I am forever grateful for.

May you find as much joy, love and learning from these stories as I have. My two biggest hopes of this project are one, the ancestors featured remind you that queer and trans people have always been here and we are pure magic. Secondly, I hope it sends you on your own journey to be curious about yourself and the magic you hold from your people.

with lots of love,

q

q pearl

(they/them)

creator of The Ganvié Project