by L. Divine
Finally, the Cultural Awareness Festival is here. To start the special day off there’s an assembly at the end of first period to explain the history behind the day, and that’s where the performances will take place. All of our hard work is finally going to pay off. Chance and I have been rehearsing all week, with Nellie and Jeremy our eager audience. Who knew being in a club could be so much work and fun at the same time?
The most challenging part of starting the African Student Union was the opposition from the administration. Reid being up in arms about anything he didn’t think of is nothing new. But Mrs. Bennett and her allies made it pretty clear that they didn’t trust the motives of the club. Ain’t that some bull? When Mr. Adewale found out about that, I made sure he ate an entire batch of Mama’s cornbread, and I didn’t even have to tell him they were from Mama. He already knew what was up since I was bringing him something to eat from home. And, as usual, it worked.
When Ms. Toni—who sits on several club committees and is the chair of ASB—said she never recalled the administration asking any of the other clubs what their motives were, Mrs. Bennett’s white complexion turned crimson and so did her colleagues’ faces. The only reason they had a problem with ASU is because it is by, about, and for the black students on this campus—a population they don’t want riled up. But we’re here and we’re not going anywhere. And after a subtle threat from Mr. Adewale to take the issue public, they backed down and let us officially have our club.
Between the scene from Fences Chance and I are performing and the great menu at the festival this afternoon, the African Student Union’s first outing should be a success—no thanks to most of the so-called members. At the end of the day, most of the work was done by our advisers, me, Nigel, and Chance. Even Emilio started to slack off after he realized he does not and will never have a chance with me. He’s fine, but not my type, and it has nothing to do with race or culture. We just roll very differently and I can respect that. I hope that eventually Emilio can, too.
“How’s my leading Lady J this morning?” Chance asks, giving me a hug as we exit the main parking lot in the front of the school. It’s an exciting day and everyone’s in a good mood. The overcast weather should burn off in time for the festival. I can’t wait to get my multicultural grub on this afternoon. Last year every table had a spread worth sampling and plates are only three dollars—the maximum the school will allow for clubs to charge for food at campus fundraisers.
“Cute, real cute,” I say, looking over my shoulder at Chance’s Nova. Now that I’ve felt her horsepower I want to get behind the wheel again as soon as possible. I’m with my mom on this one: I’m only young once. Besides, I could’ve found much worse things to become addicted to. Gambling on races and all that ain’t for me. But driving around on a clear night in a sweet hot rod is definitely part of my stylo now. “I’m good. How’s my car?”
“Your car? I know you’re not talking about my wife,” he says, nudging me playfully as we make our way through the main gate. ASB members are running around like chickens with their heads cut off, throwing up red and white streamers everywhere as well as performing other last-minute busy tasks I hope I never have to do as a member of ASU. We’re more of an intellectual club rather than a social butterfly type of network, and I for one hope it stays that way.
“Your wife, my car; same difference.” I need to go to my locker before heading to Spanish class. Mr. Adewale couldn’t care less about Cultural Awareness Day. In his class, Friday quizzes will still go down. “I’ll see you in the auditorium.”
“Alright, later Rose. I mean Jayd,” Chance says, calling me by my character’s name.
“Bye, Troy,” I say, returning the love. How he’s going to go in and out of character as first a Puritan slave owner, then a misunderstood black man, I don’t know. But if anyone can do it, it’s my boy. And it’s a part of his destiny anyway. Chance smiles at me as he attempts to walk to his first class, but he’s abruptly stopped by KJ, Del, and Money.
“We were talking about it and we’ve decided that we can’t let you play a black man,” KJ says, crossing his arms confidently across his Lakers jersey. Tonight must be game night. He always wears the basketball jersey for whatever team he’s rooting for on the day of the game.
“He’s more black than y’all will ever be,” I say, defending my mixed friend, even if he doesn’t know yet that he’s got a little black in his blood. But this has gone far enough.
“What do you mean by that, Jayd? I know I’m white and I’m proud of it,” Chance says. I wish I could tell him the truth, but it’s not my place.
“Exactly. So now you understand our problem. Thank you and good day to you, sir,” Del says, being the smart-ass he usually is.
“No, I don’t understand. It’s a play. No, actually it’s one scene from a play and it’s one of my favorites. I know this part like the back of my hand,” Chance says, holding up his pale fist.
“And not one of you wanted the part. You have no right to harass Chance because he stepped up when you didn’t.” KJ looks down at me, snarling with his toothpick dangling from the side of his mouth. That’s always been one of his most annoying habits, that and his cocky attitude.
“He’s still not black, Jayd. But I don’t think you’d know a black man if he was standing right in front of your face.” KJ thinks he’s funny but he’s not.
“Whatever, KJ. You and I both know the truth about what a real black man is, don’t we?” I say, causing oohs and ahhs to ripple through the audience that has gathered, getting a preview of our show to come. The scene Chance and I are performing is highly emotional and will no doubt captivate the crowd, just like we’re doing now. KJ probably would have made a good Troy, but he’s the one who messed that up, not Chance.
“Really? Aren’t you the same Jayd who’s dating the white boy? Oh no, wait, I think it’s the Spanish dude this week,” KJ says. Money gives him dap as they get a good laugh in.
“I don’t need his shit,” Chance says, giving up and walking back toward the parking lot. Oh no, he’s not running away. The show must go on, and it can’t without Chance.
“Chance, don’t listen to them,” I say, catching up with him and pulling his arm hard, forcing him to look at me. If my eyes can work to get what I want any other time, why not now? I stare into Chance’s light brown eyes and begin to melt away the anger and frustration I can feel in them. “You can do this, Chance. You have every right to play this part. It’s in your blood,” I say, convincing him without admitting all that I know.
“You’re right. I can do this,” he says, now seeing things my way. Mama’s right—if I focus on my own powers, I can master them like my ancestors did with theirs. “Let’s do this.”
“That’s what I’m talking about,” I say, hugging my boy and leading the way to class. I look back at KJ, Del, and Money, feeling for their bruised egos. They should’ve stepped up in the first place. Then they wouldn’t be so hot about losing not only another sistah to a white boy—as they would put it—but also an opportunity to show what our people can do onstage. Most of the brothas I know consider theater acting a gay or white thing, and that’s their bad. Me and Chance are going to honor August Wilson whether they like it or not.
Sometimes it’s a black thing; sometimes it’s a white thing. Then sometimes it’s just about doing the right thing. And I’m convinced that this is the right thing for me and my crew to do. Everyone else will have to worry about dealing with their culture shock on their own time, because we’re about to do our thing.
Epilogue
Friday’s events went off without another kink and because the scene went so well and the food was slamming, we raised enough money for our club so that we now need a bank account. The election of officers and other official club business will take place in the next week or so. This weekend is all about enjoying our victory, and that we did. My celebrating was cut short by my work schedule, as usual, but I still enjoyed hanging with my friends this weekend. Je
remy and I have been in a really good place lately and I’m looking forward to seeing just how far we take this love of ours.
I’m enjoying this Sunday afternoon by myself, eating my favorite food. I love chicken flavored Top Ramen with broccoli. The key is not cooking it too long. The noodles taste better with a little backbone in them. I’m also catching up on my television shows, including the new 90210, even though I do get sick of those white girls complaining about life when they have the choice to chill. I’m saying, these broads have money, a nice crib, and their own rooms. They don’t have to work and when they do, it’s a plush job with hookups. When shit goes wrong in their lives it’s all self-made.
“Jayd, it’s me, Jeremy,” my boo says through my mom’s front door. Here he goes, popping up again, but this time I don’t mind. I’m actually glad he came by.
“I’m coming,” I say, hopping off the couch and opening the door. I’m wearing my boy shorts and a tank top—not too cute, but it’ll do. At least I’ve already showered this morning, unlike the last time he came by.
“I just wanted to say hi before the weekend is completely gone,” he says, kissing me on the cheek and coming in. “Cute shorts.”
“Thank you.” I reach up and kiss Jeremy sweetly on the lips and then fall into his warm embrace. “What’s this?” I say, taking the small bag from his hand and looking inside. It’s a voodoo doll. I look up at Jeremy, who’s smiling. I’m not sure how to react.
“It’s supposed to be a peace offering, Miss Priestess. I just want you to know that I dig you, however you get down. I admit I was shocked when I found out, but I love you for all that you are, voodoo priestess and all.”
“Jeremy, I don’t know what to say.” He treats me like the queen I am all the time, even when I’m not expecting it.
“Jayd, I want you back in my life, only you and only me. Why do you keep fighting us?” Jeremy asks, bending down and nibbling on my right ear. His soft lips send chills down my spine. Instinctively, I return the affection, kissing him on his neck. The faint scent of his cologne only attracts me more to his tender spot. Jeremy shakes at the contact of my tongue on his flesh. This fire between Jeremy and me is what always gets us caught up.
“Jeremy, we’re just not right for each other,” I say, but there’s no use my protesting. He’s got me right where he wants me and I’m enjoying the surrender. I’ll only let him go so far before stopping our session.
“From where I’m standing, we’re perfect for each other,” Jeremy says, kissing me passionately, forcing me to lie back on the couch to support the force. He’s never been this fiery before. I guess seeing me with two guys this week was more than he could take. Men always want what they can’t have. And maybe—just maybe—this time I’ll give in to our mutual desire.
A Reading Group Guide
Drama High, Volume 10:
CULTURE CLASH
L. Divine
ABOUT THIS GUIDE
The following questions are intended to
enhance your group’s reading of
DRAMA HIGH: CULTURE CLASH
by L. Divine.
DISCUSSION QUESTIONS
Should Jayd give up on Rah completely, even as a friend?
Would you date Jeremy even if you knew his parents were not hospitable to people of color? Should Jeremy be judged on his parents’ beliefs or because of who he is?
Was Jayd wrong to cut Emilio completely off after his views of black Americans offended her? Do you think she should have been more understanding, or was Jayd justified in her reaction?
Would you be able to have an open dialogue about your religious beliefs at school? Why or why not?
Do you have a neighbor who seems a bit strange to you? What types of differences make this person stand apart in your neighborhood? Outside of these differences, are you more alike than not?
Were KJ and his boys justified in their response to Chance taking a black role? What do you think should have been done differently, if anything?
Should Jayd resume her relationship with Jeremy and leave Rah alone? Do you think their cultural differences will get in the way of their second chance, or have they both learned enough about each other by now to make it work this time?
Does your school have an African Student Union? If not, would you consider starting one? What would be the purpose of your club?
Was Nigel’s mom right about Mickey having an abortion? Do you think Nigel and Mickey should live together once the baby’s born?
Is Rah handling his baby-mama situation in the most effective manner? What could he do differently to make the situation better for himself, his daughter, and for Jayd?
Jaydism #2
When Ms. Toni wanted to communicate with Jayd but fell short of knowing exactly what she wanted to say, she picked a novel to do the talking for her. The next time you want to share something about yourself or your feelings, use one of your favorite books to get your message across. You might be surprised by how well this works in making your point without arguing.
Stay tuned for the next book in the DRAMA HIGH series, COLD AS ICE
Until then, satisfy your DRAMA HIGH craving with the following excerpt from the next exciting installment
ENJOY!
Prologue
The tickle down the right side of my neck distracts me from keeping up with the steady pace of Jeremy’s lips. He started out kissing my left ear and then moved on to my right. Now Jeremy’s focus has returned to my mouth and I’m glad for it. I love the way his soft lips feel against mine, even though him kissing my neck is definitely my next favorite thing. I could lie on this couch with him forever as long as he keeps making me feel this good.
Jeremy and I have been making out for what seems like hours, but I’m not worried about the time. My phone’s gone off twice since he got here and I could not care less. I know it’s Rah, ready to grill me about seeing Jeremy kiss me on Friday night at the race, but I have nothing to say to him about what we do. I just hope we don’t stop anytime soon. The second time around for Jeremy and me just might be what we both need.
“I’ll give you a thousand dollars for that thought,” Jeremy says, pulling away from my lips and promptly kissing me on my nose. We both need to come up for air, but not for long I hope. It’s been a while since I had a make-out session without having to look over my shoulder for a crazy ex-girlfriend or baby-mama in attack mode.
“And you probably would, too,” I say, kissing Jeremy on his neck—and by the way, he’s shaking. I can tell he likes it. I keep kissing, softly biting his flesh as I smile at every involuntary jump he makes.
“Come on, Jayd. I’m serious,” Jeremy says, kissing me on my right cheek and then again on my ear. If he doesn’t stop we’re going to get into some serious trouble that I know I’m not ready for. I’ll be seventeen next month, and all of my friends are waiting on me to lose my virginity—since I’m the last one in our crew and probably the whole damn school. But I’m not going out like that—not yet. “From now on we need to have full disclosure—no secrets. That’s the only way this can work.”
“Full disclosure? I’m not sure I can do that,” I say, easing my way up from under him and sitting up straight on the small couch that doubles as my weekend bed. The couch was already a mess before Jeremy got here and now it looks like a tornado hit it. The pillows are strewn across the living room floor with my sheets and blanket across the coffee table. If my mom walked in right now she’d be more upset by the mess in her apartment than the boy making out with her daughter.
“Why not?” Jeremy asks in that innocent way of his that makes my heart melt. He’s so adorable when he’s on a mission for information. “Look, Jayd, I’m serious about having a committed relationship with you, and that means we have to be completely honest with each other, even if it means having to hear something we might not want to. So, what’s on your mind?” I look into Jeremy’s blue eyes and see his sincerity. But I still don’t feel comfortable telling him everything about ho
w me, Mama, and my mom get down.
“Because, Jeremy, there are some things I can never tell you or anyone else about my life,” I say as Jeremy sits up next to me. “It’s not that I don’t want to tell you, or that I’m keeping anything from you on purpose. It’s just the way it is. I hope you can understand.” I really, really do. Me being a priestess is a big adjustment for Jeremy, I know. But it’s a nonnegotiable part of my life that all of my friends have learned to deal with in one way or another.
“I can respect that, Lady J. I can’t help but hope that one day you can tell me everything, no holds barred.” Jeremy pulls me into his arms again and I accept his warm embrace. He always smells fresh, like Irish Spring and seawater. It must be from all the surfing he does on a daily basis. “Anyway, I have to get going. I’m meeting the gang at the pier and still need to get my boards from my bro,” he says, kissing me on the back of the neck before letting me go.
“Not yet,” I say, rising with him. “We’ve got all day.” I know I have a ton of things to do before I head back to Compton this evening, but all of that can wait if he’ll stay.
“Ah, baby, I wish I could stay and hang, but we have a surfing competition coming up and we’re in need of some serious practice.” I never knew surfing was more than a hobby to Jeremy. I had no idea he competed outside of his crew, just like I didn’t know about him and Chance drag racing for money. It seems like I have a lot to learn about my elusive friend.
