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    <loc>https://ourblackandbloom.com/blackandbloom</loc>
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    <lastmod>2024-02-09</lastmod>
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      <image:title>Black &amp; Bloom</image:title>
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  <url>
    <loc>https://ourblackandbloom.com/blackandbloom/a-prayer-for-growth</loc>
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    <lastmod>2023-12-29</lastmod>
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      <image:title>Black &amp; Bloom - a prayer for growth - Dear Heavenly Father,</image:title>
      <image:caption>I come to you for guidance as I hope to draw nearer to you. I come before your merciful Hands asking for a transformation of Mind, of Heart, and of Soul. Help me walk on your righteous path and trust in your plan, even if I might not always understand it. Help me carry a light of love and hope wherever I might go so that everyone knows I am a disciple of You. Lord God, Help me grow nearer and dearer to you. I have some layers to shed, Some deep reflection to do, Some negativity to let go of, Some apologies to give, Some bridges to build In order to become more like you. Like a butterfly through its many phases of life, I want to grow into a better lover of others, A better listener, A better teacher, A better friend, A better partner, A better advocate, And a better servant of You. Amen.</image:caption>
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  <url>
    <loc>https://ourblackandbloom.com/blackandbloom/welcome-family</loc>
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    <priority>0.5</priority>
    <lastmod>2023-12-29</lastmod>
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      <image:title>Black &amp; Bloom - welcome to the family. - Dear friend,</image:title>
      <image:caption>Thank you so much for checking out my new blog: Black &amp; Bloom! I am SO excited to get this page up and running and to have you along with me on this journey. In order to minimize procrastination, I will be on a weekly posting schedule, uploading new content each Sunday. Feel free to explore the site, read the ‘About’ page, and I would also love for you to subscribe so that you can be up to date on posts along the way. If you have anything you want to see on the site, or if you would like to be featured on it yourself, just know I am more than down. To get in contact with me, all you have to do is click on my ‘Contact’ page or DM me @blkbloom. Lastly, do not hesitate to check out the prayer request feature, as I will be praying for anyone who needs it. You can do it anonymously or with names/details. Either way, you will be in my heart. No request is too big or small! I would also like to give a special shoutout to the Rome himself who helped design Black &amp; Bloom’s logo without hesitation. I would be up until 4 in the morning (hey insomnia!) sending him designs and ideas, and he was right there with me. Genuinely one of the most supportive, talented, and loving guys I know. Thank you.</image:caption>
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    <loc>https://ourblackandbloom.com/blackandbloom/6-black-students-blossoming-in-their-communities</loc>
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    <lastmod>2023-12-31</lastmod>
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      <image:title>Black &amp; Bloom - 6 Black Students Blossoming in their Communities</image:title>
      <image:caption>Instagram: @_cammycandy / @bamnrevolution</image:caption>
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      <image:title>Black &amp; Bloom - 6 Black Students Blossoming in their Communities</image:title>
      <image:caption>Instagram: @sydneyynicholej / @missdcteenusa</image:caption>
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      <image:title>Black &amp; Bloom - 6 Black Students Blossoming in their Communities</image:title>
      <image:caption>Instagram: @tlnsmith</image:caption>
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      <image:title>Black &amp; Bloom - 6 Black Students Blossoming in their Communities</image:title>
      <image:caption>Instagram: @310rome</image:caption>
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      <image:title>Black &amp; Bloom - 6 Black Students Blossoming in their Communities</image:title>
      <image:caption>Instagram: @goldenshot.photos</image:caption>
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      <image:title>Black &amp; Bloom - 6 Black Students Blossoming in their Communities</image:title>
      <image:caption>Instagram: @jordan.avo</image:caption>
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    <image:image>
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      <image:title>Black &amp; Bloom - 6 Black Students Blossoming in their Communities - “Change will not come if we wait for some other person or some other time. We are the ones we’ve been waiting for. We are the change that we seek.”</image:title>
      <image:caption>-Barack Obama</image:caption>
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  <url>
    <loc>https://ourblackandbloom.com/blackandbloom/my-natural-skin-care-routine-with-black-owned-products</loc>
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    <lastmod>2023-12-31</lastmod>
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      <image:title>Black &amp; Bloom - my skin care routine</image:title>
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      <image:title>Black &amp; Bloom - my skin care routine</image:title>
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      <image:title>Black &amp; Bloom - my skin care routine</image:title>
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      <image:title>Black &amp; Bloom - my skin care routine</image:title>
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    <loc>https://ourblackandbloom.com/blackandbloom/0mf0o4q2ih16olf561038su8lu0bvx</loc>
    <changefreq>monthly</changefreq>
    <priority>0.5</priority>
    <lastmod>2023-12-31</lastmod>
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      <image:title>Black &amp; Bloom - a plant guide for beginners - Prayer Plant</image:title>
      <image:caption>Plant Name: Masego Tip: Pay attention to your leaves, they often tell you about the current health and needs of your plant. If your plant is not getting enough light, the leaves will often turn yellow, dull, or droop. If they are getting too much light, they will often have burned patches, singed tips, and might even fall off prematurely. What it needs: Indirect light, Weekly watering, weekly misting, and love Why I love this plant: Their tricolored unique leaves fold up at night and fold back out in the day! The pattern is almost mesmerizing.</image:caption>
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    <image:image>
      <image:loc>https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5ee43dad6d161b225cf63254/1594927062898-DXUD3HTN58I70QWVI5A4/Screen+Shot+2020-07-16+at+3.16.46+PM.png</image:loc>
      <image:title>Black &amp; Bloom - a plant guide for beginners - Pothos</image:title>
      <image:caption>Plant Name: Soleil Tip: If your pot does not have drainage holes like mine, don’t fear! Just place lava rocks, small pebbles, or even packing styrofoam (just make sure its biodegradable) from a newly delivered package. Having a drainage system will allow for healthy roots which means a healthy plant. What it needs: Low light, Weekly watering, weekly misting, and love Why I love this plant: Perfect for hanging plants and windowsills, this versatile plant will become your favorite and is super easy to care for.</image:caption>
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      <image:title>Black &amp; Bloom - a plant guide for beginners - Areca Palm</image:title>
      <image:caption>Plant Name: Lianne la Havas Tip: Download Planta and insert what plants you have into the app for watering reminders and to find out more information and tips for taking care of them. Tip: People remember to water their soil but often forget that the plant leaves need moisture too. To emulate a humid environment, use a spray bottle to mist the tops and bottoms of each leaf regularly. The Planta app will let you know which plants prefer a high humidity environment versus a low one. What it needs: Medium/Bright Light, Weekly watering, weekly misting, and love Why I love this plant: This gem does not take a great deal of time and energy, yet it definitely adds to the room. It also is an air purifier, so my lungs are happy too.</image:caption>
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      <image:title>Black &amp; Bloom - a plant guide for beginners</image:title>
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      <image:title>Black &amp; Bloom - a plant guide for beginners - Peperomia</image:title>
      <image:caption>Plant Name: Shira Tip: Name one of your plants after you, so that “when you talk to it, when you feed it love, water, light, and affirmations, you’ll be telling and feeding yourself all the things you need.” (@JoelakaMaG) What it needs: Low/Medium Light, Weekly watering, weekly misting, and love Why I love this plant: Its’ leaves are so beautiful and sturdy. It hangs right over my bed so I always know I will wake up with a smile on my face.</image:caption>
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      <image:title>Black &amp; Bloom - a plant guide for beginners</image:title>
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    <loc>https://ourblackandbloom.com/blackandbloom/8-tips-for-online-classes</loc>
    <changefreq>monthly</changefreq>
    <priority>0.5</priority>
    <lastmod>2023-12-31</lastmod>
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      <image:title>Black &amp; Bloom - 8 tips for online classes - 3. Turn your phone off during class and put your computer on do not disturb</image:title>
      <image:caption>This is probably what is hardest for me to do, but it makes a BIG difference. It helps to eliminate distractions and allow you to really focus on the lecture/note material. Your texts can wait.</image:caption>
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      <image:loc>https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5ee43dad6d161b225cf63254/1600620904538-LGT4VXXCHN0AG8C4CQKK/Screen+Shot+2020-09-20+at+12.54.53+PM.png</image:loc>
      <image:title>Black &amp; Bloom - 8 tips for online classes - 7. Have an accountability partner</image:title>
      <image:caption>The campus environment really motivates you to stay on top of your work, but you can still emulate this virtually. Choose an accountability partner (or partners) that you check in with throughout the week. Whether academically or emotionally, these people should be your support system and should push you to be your best self. Jordan and Sari are some of my accountability partners for the fall.</image:caption>
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      <image:title>Black &amp; Bloom - 8 tips for online classes - 6. Google Calendar= your best friend</image:title>
      <image:caption>Google Calendar truly keeps my life together. For me, it was almost impossible to keep track of all the meeting times, discussion groups, lectures, and due dates in my head. As soon as you get a new assignment date or schedule a meeting, put it on your whiteboard and Google Calendar and make sure you put reminders on so that you won’t forget! Thank me later.</image:caption>
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      <image:title>Black &amp; Bloom - 8 tips for online classes - 1. Get out of the bed!</image:title>
      <image:caption>It is very important to separate work from leisure. Although your warm bed 3 feet away can be quite tempting (trust and believe, I know), don’t fall victim to it! Create a work space, whether it's a desk, chair, or even sitting on the floor, where you attend online class sessions.</image:caption>
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    <image:image>
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      <image:title>Black &amp; Bloom - 8 tips for online classes - 4. Purchase a monthly whiteboard calendar</image:title>
      <image:caption>Although I love planners, I found this to be a much more forgiving and environmentally conscious option than writing my schedule/calendar down on paper. Just like a planner, you can write out important dates, deadlines, and notes. I got one for about $15 and will continue to use it for years to come.</image:caption>
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      <image:title>Black &amp; Bloom - 8 tips for online classes - 5. Do a weekly virtual work session with friends</image:title>
      <image:caption>Choose some friends once a week to study or do work with on Zoom or Facetime. It helps you stay on track and stay connected even if you can’t always be together in person.</image:caption>
    </image:image>
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      <image:title>Black &amp; Bloom - 8 tips for online classes - 2. Get dressed for class</image:title>
      <image:caption>Atleast a few days a week, I try to put on an outfit or do my hair. It reminds me of my campus routine and makes me feel a little bit better during my classes for that day.</image:caption>
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      <image:title>Black &amp; Bloom - 8 tips for online classes - 8. Invest in Blue Light Glasses</image:title>
      <image:caption>This summer, I invested in Warby Parker Blue Light glasses due to my heavy screen time between my internship, blog posting, and meetings. I was hesitant to purchase them due to the hefty price tag (still recovering tbh), but I figured: “Well you only have one pair of eyes, might as well protect them.” And I am so glad I did! They are lowkey cute, they help to minimize eye strain and headaches, and they even help to get a better night's sleep. Check out this link to find a pair that best fits your budget and style.</image:caption>
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    <loc>https://ourblackandbloom.com/blackandbloom/cultivating-compassion-learning-to-be-a-better-lover-of-yourself-and-others</loc>
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    <lastmod>2023-12-31</lastmod>
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      <image:title>Black &amp; Bloom - cultivating compassion: learning to be a better lover of yourself and others</image:title>
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    <loc>https://ourblackandbloom.com/blackandbloom/incomingcall</loc>
    <changefreq>monthly</changefreq>
    <priority>0.5</priority>
    <lastmod>2023-12-31</lastmod>
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  <url>
    <loc>https://ourblackandbloom.com/blackandbloom/how-to-be-an-ally-an-interview-with-barbara-beachler</loc>
    <changefreq>monthly</changefreq>
    <priority>0.5</priority>
    <lastmod>2023-12-29</lastmod>
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      <image:title>Black &amp; Bloom - how to be an ally</image:title>
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      <image:title>Black &amp; Bloom - how to be an ally</image:title>
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      <image:title>Black &amp; Bloom - how to be an ally</image:title>
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      <image:title>Black &amp; Bloom - how to be an ally</image:title>
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      <image:title>Black &amp; Bloom - how to be an ally</image:title>
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      <image:title>Black &amp; Bloom - how to be an ally</image:title>
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  <url>
    <loc>https://ourblackandbloom.com/blackandbloom/loving-every-kink-and-curl</loc>
    <changefreq>monthly</changefreq>
    <priority>0.5</priority>
    <lastmod>2023-12-31</lastmod>
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      <image:loc>https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5ee43dad6d161b225cf63254/1594159638212-0S5D1XTLSRFS6H55P60A/jessica.jpg</image:loc>
      <image:title>Black &amp; Bloom - loving every kink and curl - Jessica: 4a/4b</image:title>
      <image:caption>How would you describe your crown in 3 words?: Versatile, beautiful, and a blessing What is your favorite product and why?: The Mielle Pomegranate and Honey Leave-In Conditioner. The leave in is formulated for Type 4 curls and it really moisturizes and helps to define my curls. It also has so much slip to help comb through knots and kinks. The whole Pomegranate and Honey Line is amazing! What is your go-to style?: Twists out because it provides so much versatility. I can wear it as a protective style or as defined curls!</image:caption>
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      <image:title>Black &amp; Bloom - loving every kink and curl - Laila: 4c</image:title>
      <image:caption>How would you describe your crown in 3 words?: Convenient, flatter, and fun What is your favorite product and why?: Kinky Curly’s “Knot Today” leave in conditioner and curling custard! I live by this combo, and I even used it when I had long hair. My hair is often dry from chlorine and nothing hydrates and defines my 4c curls like this stuff forreal. What is your go-to style?: Just my short hair with my curls defined, and maybe my edges laid</image:caption>
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    <image:image>
      <image:loc>https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5ee43dad6d161b225cf63254/1594147648629-993Y54KGTI5LFDSUEADX/shira+kink+and+curl+%281%29.png</image:loc>
      <image:title>Black &amp; Bloom - loving every kink and curl - Shira: 3c/4a</image:title>
      <image:caption>How would you describe your crown in 3 words?: Versatile, powerful, and evolving. What is your favorite product and why?: Mielle Pomegranate and Honey Coil Sculpting Custard. The definition??? Out of this world. Thank me later. What is your go-to style?: Twist out for sure, because I am still trying to repair damage with my hair, and it ensures moisture and definition without fail.</image:caption>
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      <image:loc>https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5ee43dad6d161b225cf63254/1594153215941-FDM2U0F254MA0FYIED9E/camryn.png</image:loc>
      <image:title>Black &amp; Bloom - loving every kink and curl - Camryn: 4c</image:title>
      <image:caption>How would you describe your crown in 3 words?: Versatile, unapologetic, and unpredictable What is your favorite product and why?: love my EZ detangler brush!!! That’s really my baby right there. I cannot stress this enough, this tool is top 5 best things I’ve ever owned. I have 4c hair and I’ve spent my whole life struggling to detangle and when I learned how to, it still took me way too long. I’m very impatient, so me + detangling was the worst combo prior to getting this brush. I can detangle my hair in 5 minutes with this &amp; it even beats my wide tooth comb. What is your go-to style?: Definitely a loose, low puff with edges laid of course. switch up my hairstyles often but if I’m lazy or in a rush, I go for a puff.</image:caption>
    </image:image>
    <image:image>
      <image:loc>https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5ee43dad6d161b225cf63254/1594304470007-JHQX8JPOE96ZJAJ9SYGD/sophia.png</image:loc>
      <image:title>Black &amp; Bloom - loving every kink and curl - Sophia: 4b</image:title>
      <image:caption>How would you describe your crown in 3 words?: Resilient, independent, and versatile. What is your favorite product and why?: When I began my natural hair journey I was definitely a product junkie, so I have come to try and love many products. However, if I were to pick my overall favorite product I would choose whipped shea butter. My hair loves thick products and whenever I run out of my specially formulated products like TGIN, I can always count on shea butter to have my hair’s back—and my skin’s too! What is your go-to style?: Before I cut my hair into the low cut it’s in now, I always wore twist-outs that I would later put into a high-puff—which I’d usually wear until I absolutely couldn’t anymore. But now with my short cut I am always in a wash-and-go.</image:caption>
    </image:image>
    <image:image>
      <image:loc>https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5ee43dad6d161b225cf63254/1594161628645-WIXDXOFLECXNOAYR35NG/fikayo.png</image:loc>
      <image:title>Black &amp; Bloom - loving every kink and curl - Fikayo: 4b/4c</image:title>
      <image:caption>How would you describe your crown in 3 words?": Kinky, resilient, and multi-dimensional What is your favorite product and why?: I love the Mielle Organics Pomegranate and Honey Leave-in Conditioner. It makes my hair feel so soft and it leaves it shiny. Taliah Waajid’s leave-in conditioner is a close second, almost tied at first. What is your go-to style?: I love to wear a braid out when my hair is stretched. It gives me volume, length, AND definition that I can’t achieve usually achieve on my shrunken type 4 hair. I love this style but it’s a lot of manipulation (and hard work) so you’ll almost always see me in a lazy pineapple.</image:caption>
    </image:image>
    <image:image>
      <image:loc>https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5ee43dad6d161b225cf63254/1594307774227-ZAKGVGSWWT4J699SXQ6V/liana.png</image:loc>
      <image:title>Black &amp; Bloom - loving every kink and curl - Liana: 4c</image:title>
      <image:caption>How would you describe your crown in 3 words: Thick, fluffy, and beautiful. What is your favorite product and why?: My favorite product is definitely the African Pride Olive Miracle Oil Moisturizer Lotion. It’s perfect for anyone with 4C hair who wears their hair out in an afro! Since my hair is kinky and not curly, I’m always looking for moisture rather than definition. This hair lotion does just that without accumulating too much buildup like a curl cream or gel would. It also works really well on stretched 4C hair without shrinking it up too much. What is your go-to style?: My go to styles are either box braids or Marley twists. I love box braids because I can experiment with different hair colors without dying my own hair. You can find Kankelon hair in just about any color, so it’s super easy to completely change your look without damaging your hair at all. So far I’ve done black, blonde, blue, pastel pink, black and purple ombre, copper, and burgundy, but the possibilities are endless. My other favorite style is Marley twists. I love how the hair used for this style is coarse and kinky, so it looks just like my own hair. This style gives me a much thicker and natural look, almost like faux locs. They look beautiful on everyone, but especially girls who have naturally thick hair like me!</image:caption>
    </image:image>
    <image:image>
      <image:loc>https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5ee43dad6d161b225cf63254/1594332701939-TXV5BLPEW40YXZV2RBKB/sierra.png</image:loc>
      <image:title>Black &amp; Bloom - loving every kink and curl - Sierra: 3b/3c</image:title>
      <image:caption>How would you describe your crown in 3 words?: Experimental, sensitive, and essential What is your favorite product and why?: It’s A 10 Miracle Deep Conditioner Plus Keratin because it leaves my hair super hydrated and soooo soft. What is your go-to style?: High puff</image:caption>
    </image:image>
  </url>
  <url>
    <loc>https://ourblackandbloom.com/blackandbloom/a-prayer-for-the-school-year</loc>
    <changefreq>monthly</changefreq>
    <priority>0.5</priority>
    <lastmod>2023-12-31</lastmod>
    <image:image>
      <image:loc>https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5ee43dad6d161b225cf63254/1599406320636-K9E294URXW1BVAUUV3YZ/prayer+for+the+school+year.png</image:loc>
      <image:title>Black &amp; Bloom - a prayer for the school year - Dear God,</image:title>
      <image:caption>Our education is an incredible privilege and gift.  Now more than ever, even if learning is not the same as in the past, we must value and be thankful for the ability to have such a profound education.  But our world is struggling, Father God, and we need you to get us through this challenging school year.  Heavenly Father, Help us focus on our studies despite all the distractions and frustrations of today.  Help us hone in on our skills and talents to help us excel in our studies and extracurriculars. Help us and our institutions to lead and learn responsibly and compassionately, especially in a time of difficulty for many students.  Help us to have the courage to ask for help when we need it and to help our fellow classmates without hesitation.  Help to guide us away from the darkness of procrastination and towards the light of You.   You have instilled in your people a sense of resiliency and hope that got them through plagues, wars, and famines.  Let us channel that same resiliency and hope today, trusting in Your ultimate plan even if we might not understand it.  Because whether virtually or in person, We are in your loving arms of protection.  Amen.</image:caption>
    </image:image>
  </url>
  <url>
    <loc>https://ourblackandbloom.com/blackandbloom/a-prayer-for-peace</loc>
    <changefreq>monthly</changefreq>
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    <lastmod>2023-12-31</lastmod>
    <image:image>
      <image:loc>https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5ee43dad6d161b225cf63254/1595730566328-G9YUI1HD31JTDA365KX1/Peace..png</image:loc>
      <image:title>Black &amp; Bloom - a prayer for peace - Father God,</image:title>
      <image:caption>You carefully crafted our world and it was good, But as time goes on, your people stray further and further away from your goodness. Division, strife, pain, and war have ravished your precious lands,  Injustice has no borders, Negativity and anxiety cloud our minds and hearts,  And we no longer love and protect our neighbors like you intended.  But during these troubling and chaotic times, We know that you are always there.  You are the calm after the storm,  You are the crutch when we are wounded and broken,  You are the light when we only see and feel darkness. Help us remember that if we just listen and fully trust in You, Almighty Father,  We will be able to find the peace that has always been there inside of us.  You are always there when we need it,  Even when we don’t deserve it,  Even when we don’t acknowledge your merciful presence,   You never leave our side,  And for that I thank You. You are stronger than any obstacle that might come our way,  So today I leave all of my burdens, whether big or small, with you,  Because they are much safer in Your merciful hands. Thank you God for being our peace and purpose.  Amen.</image:caption>
    </image:image>
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  <url>
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    <lastmod>2023-12-31</lastmod>
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      <image:title>Black &amp; Bloom - a talk with Dr. Angela Davis</image:title>
    </image:image>
    <image:image>
      <image:loc>https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5ee43dad6d161b225cf63254/1606067524036-T886ORWM96GYAUE8GS0Y/1.png</image:loc>
      <image:title>Black &amp; Bloom - a talk with Dr. Angela Davis</image:title>
    </image:image>
    <image:image>
      <image:loc>https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5ee43dad6d161b225cf63254/1606073734425-FFI7H1IPUGZTSTEQK9SR/The+idea+is+not+to+live+forever%2C+but+to+create+something+that+will..png</image:loc>
      <image:title>Black &amp; Bloom - a talk with Dr. Angela Davis</image:title>
    </image:image>
  </url>
  <url>
    <loc>https://ourblackandbloom.com/blackandbloom/faith-based-activism-a-conversation-with-jordan-deveaux</loc>
    <changefreq>monthly</changefreq>
    <priority>0.5</priority>
    <lastmod>2023-12-31</lastmod>
  </url>
  <url>
    <loc>https://ourblackandbloom.com/blackandbloom/fhi9qo78l6j0bjght0n2sszwswm9jy</loc>
    <changefreq>monthly</changefreq>
    <priority>0.5</priority>
    <lastmod>2023-12-31</lastmod>
  </url>
  <url>
    <loc>https://ourblackandbloom.com/blackandbloom/3qgl8uledzm7rfl905yuhsw9nfmla2</loc>
    <changefreq>monthly</changefreq>
    <priority>0.5</priority>
    <lastmod>2021-01-31</lastmod>
    <image:image>
      <image:loc>https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5ee43dad6d161b225cf63254/1611863077874-PERRJFWS9N9O8AWECMKS/BHM+x+Black+%26+Bloom+.png</image:loc>
      <image:title>Black &amp; Bloom - Black History Month x Black and Bloom</image:title>
    </image:image>
  </url>
  <url>
    <loc>https://ourblackandbloom.com/blackandbloom/ea5abmxuqu0840q0e5f12lqqsesel9</loc>
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    <lastmod>2023-12-31</lastmod>
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      <image:loc>https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5ee43dad6d161b225cf63254/1613919954661-IDUPACPK17WDSDG85TJW/Cox001-1-300x237.jpg</image:loc>
      <image:title>Black &amp; Bloom - a letter to my ancestors</image:title>
    </image:image>
    <image:image>
      <image:loc>https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5ee43dad6d161b225cf63254/1613919957048-CA1EMQ1LGLWDGETVZ9R9/download-1.jpg</image:loc>
      <image:title>Black &amp; Bloom - a letter to my ancestors</image:title>
    </image:image>
  </url>
  <url>
    <loc>https://ourblackandbloom.com/blackandbloom/orn9kfc0wodp25hpl4msqywzn4eukd</loc>
    <changefreq>monthly</changefreq>
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    <lastmod>2023-12-31</lastmod>
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      <image:loc>https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5ee43dad6d161b225cf63254/1613064456310-D4RYTNQHXCLKHFMCNWC4/being+your+own+valentine.png</image:loc>
      <image:title>Black &amp; Bloom - being your own valentine: a memoir of self-love</image:title>
    </image:image>
  </url>
  <url>
    <loc>https://ourblackandbloom.com/blackandbloom/faces-of-northwestern</loc>
    <changefreq>monthly</changefreq>
    <priority>0.5</priority>
    <lastmod>2023-12-31</lastmod>
    <image:image>
      <image:loc>https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5ee43dad6d161b225cf63254/1616867323038-4OMGZIU8WFFNTVY1ABUH/Screen+Shot+2021-03-27+at+1.48.06+PM.png</image:loc>
      <image:title>Black &amp; Bloom - faces of Northwestern - Emma Evans, ‘21</image:title>
      <image:caption>In her final quarter at Northwestern, Emma is a Medill student studying Journalism. Wise and welcoming, Emma has left an indelible impact not only on me, but on the entire campus. When thinking about her time at Northwestern, she vulnerably expresses: “I think at this point, what I contribute is encouragement. Like genuinely, I think I am really good at contributing joy, because I really do push my communities and my friends and things to put down some things and go outside and have fun, because that is something that we’re always missing. In general, I am just encouraging people in whatever they’re doing. So the people that are organizing or are in government, I am your cheerleader. I gotchu. I want everyone to win.” She not only says sentiments like these, but her actions certainly align. This positive outlook along with her tight-knit relationship with God have helped her throughout her time at Northwestern, and she truly exemplifies servant leadership and devout Christian discipleship. Impact and Northwestern Community Ensemble, Black spaces for Christians on campus to convene and worship God, have been sources of pure joy and community for her, especially in the darker times that Northwestern has brought. I am truly in awe of her inner and outer beauty, and her future will certainly be full of success. Favorite spot to eat in Evanston: Chicken Shack Favorite study spot on campus: Kresge or the Lakefill How would you describe Northwestern in 3 words?: Challenging, Transformative, Illuminating</image:caption>
    </image:image>
    <image:image>
      <image:loc>https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5ee43dad6d161b225cf63254/1616610393620-Z4LY2ZO95KSJY1EYB9Q5/IMG_4413.jpeg</image:loc>
      <image:title>Black &amp; Bloom - faces of Northwestern - Elisabeth Betts, ‘24</image:title>
      <image:caption>Elisabeth, a first year in Medill studying Journalism and Political Science is a familiar face at Northwestern with an unforgettable and infectious energy. Due to the difficulties of transitioning into college during a pandemic, she has shown a dedication to Black students, particularly Black freshmen, to ensure they have a sense of community. Her identity as a Black female journalist has played an integral role in her experience thus far at Northwestern, especially as she navigates some of the challenges that being a minority in the journalism field brings. She says: “Because I am Black, it is sometimes hard for me to hear the way that professors talk about stories involving Black people. I put special care and emphasis on stories that I take that involve Black students.” That care, along with her profound work ethic and social butterfly personality, have allowed her to already make an undeniable impact, especially through her roles in For Members Only and the Northwestern News Network. Elisabeth is truly the future of journalism (mark my words!), and each day she uses her ambition and passion to make her mark on this campus. Favorite spot to eat in Evanston: Shang Noodle &amp; Chinese Favorite study spot on campus: Norris How would she describe Northwestern in 3 words?: Surprising, Good, Fun</image:caption>
    </image:image>
    <image:image>
      <image:loc>https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5ee43dad6d161b225cf63254/1616867299046-445K5WIW5VZRUHSJJMVV/Screen+Shot+2021-03-27+at+1.47.52+PM.png</image:loc>
      <image:title>Black &amp; Bloom - faces of Northwestern - Ziya Sylvester, ‘22</image:title>
      <image:caption>As soon as one meets Ziya, a third year in SESP studying Social Policy and Global Health along with a minor in Gender and Sexuality Studies, you can instantly notice her authenticity and confidence. Her many identities, particularly being a Black queer low-income first generation person from the South, have changed her perspective on life and navigating Northwestern. She is passionate about finding ways to pull together queer individuals, especially since queer students of color are underrepresented, to ensure there is a sense of family on campus. The Black Mentorship Program is also a way that Ziya has found a sense of familial connection, and she truly treasures Black spaces on campus like the Black House. As she reflects upon the ways she has impacted Northwestern’s campus, she shares: “I just bring my authentic self. I just inspire people to just to live how they want to live and just to be who they want to be, and just to not be held back by societal standards.” These thoughtful words resonate with me so deeply, and I can attest to the fact that she is truly inspiring. Ziya exudes power and grace, and without her presence, a piece of Northwestern would surely be missing. Favorite spot to eat in Evanston: Chipotle Favorite study spot on campus: My Room How would you describe Northwestern in 3 words?: Rigorous, Fun, Memorable</image:caption>
    </image:image>
    <image:image>
      <image:loc>https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5ee43dad6d161b225cf63254/1616614377342-0NMYILWM2QLMA5UX8Y9C/Screen+Shot+2021-03-24+at+3.32.47+PM.png</image:loc>
      <image:title>Black &amp; Bloom - faces of Northwestern - Joelle Moore, ‘24</image:title>
      <image:caption>A first year studying Psychology in Weinberg, Joelle is passionate about mental health, music, and making a difference. As a Black gay female drummer, Joelle offers her unique perspective and various talents to the Northwestern community. Her loving and positive nature truly sets her apart, and she never hesitates to move to the rhythm of her own beat. Her participation in the NU Jazz Club, Black Mentorship Program, and For Members Only have allowed her to engage actively in her community while also pouring into parts of herself. When asked what else she feels she brings to Northwestern, she answers: “I feel like I bring a certain empathy and compassion. I feel like I can make the school more humane and make people care more about each other.” Aspiring to be a therapist, her profound sense of empathy draws her to the psychology field and motivates her to continue working towards a career devoted to helping others heal and thrive. It is easy to say that Joelle holds an incredible presence, energy, and light that warms all the places she enters and all the people she meets. Favorite spot to eat in Evanston: 10Q Favorite study spot on campus: Booths in Norris How would you describe Northwestern in 3 words?: Challenging, Intense, Beautiful</image:caption>
    </image:image>
    <image:image>
      <image:loc>https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5ee43dad6d161b225cf63254/1616867343486-5Q6M6RJSMCRDADEAPSRI/Screen+Shot+2021-03-27+at+1.47.35+PM.png</image:loc>
      <image:title>Black &amp; Bloom - faces of Northwestern - Lawan Alade-Fa, ‘21</image:title>
      <image:caption>Lawan, a shining beam of light and wisdom, is a fifth-year in McCormick studying Civil Engineering with an Architectural Engineering Design minor. Being a cis-Black queer man, especially in McCormick, has forced Lawan to come to terms with the inequities of our campus, but also to feel empowered enough to do something about them. He is actively engaged with the Black Mentorship Program, Black Men Lead, and The Collective on campus, showing his dedication to protecting Black spaces and Black students. He not only encourages vulnerability, but upholds it himself as he shares about the challenges of being Black and queer on campus, especially when representation is low and stigma and microagressions are high. He shares with me that: “One of the main things that I have contributed is being a steady person that people can come to or rely on for different things, whether it's getting connected with resources that are around campus or just giving general advice on how to navigate going through Northwestern. Being someone who has fallen through the cracks of Northwestern’s system, I have gone through a lot of hoops and ladders to get to where I am right now, so I feel like my main thing that I contribute is just providing perspective.” This sense of resilience and determination is incredibly admirable and is a testament to the strong will and spirit of Lawan. As he embarks towards his future, I am confident that he will take that some persevering spirit with him as he continues to lead and grow. Favorite spot to eat in Evanston: Kung Fu Tea Favorite study spot on campus: Architecture Room in Deering Library (but because of COVID-19, my room) How would you describe Northwestern in 3 words?: Brisk, Enlightening, Humbling</image:caption>
    </image:image>
    <image:image>
      <image:loc>https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5ee43dad6d161b225cf63254/1616618703941-V4AGXE86O0H2FZM8ANHH/Screen+Shot+2021-03-24+at+4.44.57+PM.png</image:loc>
      <image:title>Black &amp; Bloom - faces of Northwestern - Samad Acklin, ‘23</image:title>
      <image:caption>Samad is a second year in Weinberg double majoring in Biological Sciences and Global Health. A Posse Scholar on full-tuition scholarship, Samad has an incredible sense of drive that has allowed him to succeed both academically and socially. His friendly personality, bright smile, and memorable laugh make him a friendly and caring face throughout campus. Uplifting and supporting the Black community has been a critical element of his college experience, and he explains: “I like to go to a lot of the events, especially last year when they were on campus, just to try to meet new people and build community with other students that I don’t know or students that I haven’t met.” Especially as a Black man on campus, he experiences some trials and tribulations especially regarding proving his worth within the STEM field, yet he continues to push boundaries and make strides throughout his community. His involvement with the Black Mentorship Program, Mayfest, and greek life as a Kappa have enriched his time at NU thus far, and he will surely continue to blossom. I have always admired Samad, because no matter what comes his way, Samad will conquer every obstacle with pride, poise, and passion. Favorite spot to eat in Evanston: 10Q Favorite study spot on campus: Norris How would you describe Northwestern in 3 words?: Hard, Emotional, Uplifting</image:caption>
    </image:image>
  </url>
  <url>
    <loc>https://ourblackandbloom.com/blackandbloom/jdzou537r6k7ef6si2tm44r572iwb9</loc>
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    <priority>0.5</priority>
    <lastmod>2023-12-31</lastmod>
    <image:image>
      <image:loc>https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5ee43dad6d161b225cf63254/1614471756114-YK0C0TZQ8WUHZLAH5BIP/81OuP8IHPJL.jpg</image:loc>
      <image:title>Black &amp; Bloom - 5 books every activist should read - If you need to hear a testimony of resilience and hope: Solitary by Albert Woodfox</image:title>
    </image:image>
    <image:image>
      <image:loc>https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5ee43dad6d161b225cf63254/1614471847859-WB4ZT9GIUJCXWQGK2W1R/51QOXrQbNBL.jpg</image:loc>
      <image:title>Black &amp; Bloom - 5 books every activist should read - If you need a history lesson on the foundation of racist ideologies in the United States: Stamped from the Beginning by Ibram X. Kendi</image:title>
    </image:image>
    <image:image>
      <image:loc>https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5ee43dad6d161b225cf63254/1614471645770-IMAIS4XV01GSL4JOBQ23/81dFMbxIgBL.jpg</image:loc>
      <image:title>Black &amp; Bloom - 5 books every activist should read - If you are looking to explore the intersections between Blackness and politics: We Were Eight Years in Power by Ta-Nehisi Coates</image:title>
    </image:image>
    <image:image>
      <image:loc>https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5ee43dad6d161b225cf63254/1614471880377-TZRC76EI8T27Q5EPZ99D/91unOMDAxaL.jpg</image:loc>
      <image:title>Black &amp; Bloom - 5 books every activist should read - If you want to read a story about the transformative power of Black feminism: Eloquent Rage by Brittney Cooper</image:title>
    </image:image>
    <image:image>
      <image:loc>https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5ee43dad6d161b225cf63254/1614471813229-V8V6H0ISDDIPRY63IO6H/4eba8327459d0c39cd0bd14d9f962c94.png</image:loc>
      <image:title>Black &amp; Bloom - 5 books every activist should read - If you want to deep-dive into concepts of identity and intersectionality: Sister Outsider by Audre Lorde</image:title>
    </image:image>
  </url>
  <url>
    <loc>https://ourblackandbloom.com/blackandbloom/a-prayer-for-love</loc>
    <changefreq>monthly</changefreq>
    <priority>0.5</priority>
    <lastmod>2023-12-31</lastmod>
  </url>
  <url>
    <loc>https://ourblackandbloom.com/blackandbloom/20-lessons-learned-from-my-20-years-of-life</loc>
    <changefreq>monthly</changefreq>
    <priority>0.5</priority>
    <lastmod>2023-12-31</lastmod>
    <image:image>
      <image:loc>https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5ee43dad6d161b225cf63254/1618709029562-UWHDPY73FB762I5SN8JL/Screen+Shot+2021-04-17+at+8.18.47+PM.png</image:loc>
      <image:title>Black &amp; Bloom - 20 lessons learned from my 20 years of Life</image:title>
      <image:caption>here’s to a new chapter of love and light</image:caption>
    </image:image>
  </url>
  <url>
    <loc>https://ourblackandbloom.com/blackandbloom/juneteenth-a-day-of-history-and-honor</loc>
    <changefreq>monthly</changefreq>
    <priority>0.5</priority>
    <lastmod>2023-12-31</lastmod>
  </url>
  <url>
    <loc>https://ourblackandbloom.com/blackandbloom/3-blooming-black-businesses</loc>
    <changefreq>monthly</changefreq>
    <priority>0.5</priority>
    <lastmod>2023-12-31</lastmod>
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