On this week's episode, Xavier and I sat down with Malik Williams to discuss what it was like for him to be a professional dancer and a Black man while growing up and working in a White dominant profession and environment. We also discussed with Malik what a Black body is supposed to look like to fit into the beauty standards in the dance world, queer communities, and communities in general. We talked about what his experience was like navigating himself as a Black and queer person in his professional field, what it was like for him growing up as queer and coming out, what it was like not having the "ideal" body type in his field, and so much more. Our conversation with Malik was fun and lighthearted at times and at other times, there were more serious moments. Xavier and I are so grateful to Malik for his vulnerability and honesty throughout the episode.

Be present, come listen with an open mind, and don't forget your pencil/pen and piece of paper because you are going to want to write all of this down and remember it.

We cannot wait for you all to listen! See you next week!

During the episode, Malik provided us with a few different resources we should all take to learn more, become better allies and people, and connect with. Here are those resources Malik suggested!

1. MoveNYC - Dance Program

2. Saturday Church - Movie

3. Moonlight - Movie

4. White Fragility - Book

5. POSE - TV Show

If you want to follow Malik. and learn more/connect with him, follow his accounts below!

1. Instagram - @malikizhere

2. TikTok - @malikamaquisha

*As always, make sure you follow The Melanin Sound Wave on Instagram (@themelaninsoundwave) and on all podcasting platforms so you know when episodes come out and you can further educate yourself! Enjoy listening and learning!*