Hey NoiseMakers!
Check out my first article with BHF Magazine on sex-trafficking - its from my blogs and some photos I took while working with TAMPEP last summer. Click here to check it out. I would love to here your feedback in the comments section on this post.

living the noise,
Leslie Oluchi

You CAN!! We know you guys may not all live in DC or have other plans that night, so we set up a "CHIP IN" so you can donate online even though you cant be there! Just click on the yellow "CHIP IN" button or click here and you will be directed to paypal where you can donate quickly and securely to support this incredible event, we really need your help. Remember your donations go to helping us two incredible organizations fighting injustice in our world. You can be the difference, support this powerful event! Live the NOISE!

On April 25th, local artists will be the voice of those who cannot speak for themselves, the neglected, the oppressed, the forgotten. Jason Reynolds will be one of the featured artists using the gift of spoken word to advocate against injustice. Click here to learn more about Jason and his passion for words, art, and music.

I'm really excited about having Sarah Kinas peform at the "Let Them Speak" arts & advocacy night at Jammin Java.  I had a chance to see Sarah perform last summer while we served on a mission trip in Lima, Peru.  All I can say is get ready!  Its awesome to see local artist in the DC Metro area get behind this cause.  Click here to check out Sarah's myspace page with one of her newest songs titled "Come Home."  See you guys on April 25th at Jammin Java!

Many of the social issues today deal with abuses towards women- bush wives in civil wars, trafficked girls, sex slaves, reproductive health issues, etc. All around the world, millions of women are gathering in celebrations and triumph over the past struggles for equality and justice and helping to give voice to other women who cant speak for themselves.

Click to read more ...

Breaking the Silence is the first annual Washington D.C conference created to bring awareness to several issues women in Africa face on a daily basis. The event will take place on March 15th, 2008 at Providence Church in Mclean, Va. The conference will feature three guest speakers focusing on the topics of war, water and sexual injustice. Many local organizations, including Making Noise, will be attending to spread their mission and present opportunities to all who want to get involved. Throughout the day, the culture of Africa will also be celebrated through drama, song and dance.

All who are interested in learning more and getting involved, visit the website to register by March 8th, 2008.

www.breakingthesilencedc.wordpress.com

For more info contact, breakingthesilenceDC@gmail.com

Two weeks ago I was at the Apple Store in Tyson's Corner, Virginia where Andy Zipf put on a show for fans and Mac lovers in the area. This honestly was one of the best shows I have been to in a while. Andy Zipf's music is raw, honest, poetic, and very passionate. His unique voice and lyrics draw you into a world of love, pain, hope, and faith. Right now Andy has two independent releases and over 250 dates under his belt in the last two years, Andy was a PurePick at Purevolume twice and has attracted the attention of PASTE Magazine, Performing Songwriter Magazine, The Today Show, XM Satellite Radio, VH1 and MTV by building a growing and sustainable model that relies on a stunning live performance, amazing music and a close connection to his audience.

Click to read more ...