Author, Pocketbook Communications LLC
There are certain taboo subjects that simply aren’t being discussed in the African American community. Unfortunately, those issues that are shrouded in secrecy deserve the most exposure.
“You’ve heard the startling statistics of heterosexual women of color when it comes to HIV/AIDS. We know that it’s a conversation that we should have,” explains Sharon McGhee. “Most of the women that we talk to understand safer sex, but there’s a disconnect between what we know and what we do when it comes time to being intimate.”
Sharon McGhee is news director for WVON Radio in Chicago. About eight years ago while examining statistics from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention regarding the new face of HIV/AIDS, McGhee was astounded and compelled to shine a light on the muted killer.
“I began to talk to women who are CEOs of their own companies, sitting on the boards of Fortune 500 companies. [I spoke] to crackheads. What I found out is that every woman has a story to tell,” reveals McGhee.
McGhee went on to create The Pocketbook Monologues, a theatrical production that helps to facilitate a healthy dialogue between women of color about sexuality, intimacy and responsibility. Having opened to critical acclaim, it recently sold out a performance at the Steppenwolf Theatre in Chicago.
“Some of the monologues are funny, some are sad, but really they’re thought-provoking. For every participant that comes to see us, we give them cute little cardboard pocketbooks that have a condom and a lottery ticket in them,” she says. “I believe there are some things in life that you can take a chance on … and others you just can’t.” –adam jones
For more information, visit www.pocketbookcommunicationsllc.com
