From Designer to Bookstore Owner: Terresa Moses Merges Art and Activism at St. Paul’s Black Garnet Books
In a world often marred by division and misunderstanding, the power of community-building shines through the inspiring journey of Terresa Moses, a designer and professor at the University of Minnesota. Transcending her roots in graphic design and community-centered abolition work, Moses has taken the helm of Black Garnet Books, an abolitionist bookstore in St. Paul, Minnesota. This unexpected pivot illuminates how personal passions can align with meaningful social change, echoing the biblical principle of service to others.
The story of Black Garnet Books began during a tumultuous year in 2020, as the country was grappling with the profound implications of racial injustice following the murder of George Floyd. Its founder, Dionne Sims, envisioned a haven for Black and brown narratives amidst the chaos. From a single tweet to a bustling pop-up operation supported by a crowdfunding campaign, the bookstore quickly became a critical community hub, highlighting authors of color and providing a much-needed space for representation.
Reflecting on her journey, Moses expressed, “It wasn’t something that I was planning on, but I’m pleasantly surprised. I knew Dionne since I got here to the Twin Cities, and it just felt like a natural next step.” Just as Proverbs 16:9 states, "In their hearts humans plan their course, but the Lord establishes their steps," her transition into bookstore ownership suggests that divine guidance often leads us to unexpected yet purposeful paths.
In light of her background with Blackbird Revolt—a design studio dedicated to racial justice—Moses brings a unique vision to Black Garnet Books. Her goal? To curate an environment that not only prioritizes the literature of authors of color across various genres but also fosters community engagement and dialogue. “Having spaces where Black folks can come and feel comfortable… those are so important to our development,” Moses emphasizes, reflecting the biblical calling to love and serve one another.
With the upcoming launch of a pop-up at her new Blackbird Revolt studio, scheduled for January, Moses aims to merge her art with activism. “The way I see the work here is being able to curate books by Black and brown authors who talk about design, art, and abolition,” she shares, demonstrating her commitment to activism through creative expression—a practice seen throughout scripture, where storytelling plays a pivotal role in sharing truths and inspiring action.
As Moses embarks on this new adventure, her enthusiasm for community-building shines through. She’s already planning events for Black History Month that celebrate Black vendors and foster connections. This proactive approach aligns with the spirit of Matthew 5:14, which states, “You are the light of the world. A town built on a hill cannot be hidden.” In this modern age, spaces like Black Garnet Books serve as beacons of hope, illuminating the importance of representation and education.
In conclusion, the transition of Terresa Moses into the role of bookstore owner exemplifies how our paths can lead us to places of profound impact, often in ways we least expect. As she continues to uplift voices and narratives that are often overlooked, let us heed the call to create our own spaces of welcome and learning.
Whether through the pages of a book or the sharing of stories within a community, may we reflect on the wisdom of Proverbs 18:15: “The heart of the discerning acquires knowledge, for the ears of the wise seek it out.” This journey encourages all of us to be open to new opportunities for growth and change, stepping forward to make a difference in the world around us.
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