We recently connected with Kelsye Adams and have shared our conversation below.

Kelsye, thanks for taking the time to share your stories with us today What’s the kindest thing anyone has ever done for you?

The kindest thing anyone has ever done for me remains a mysterious and heartwarming gesture that unfolded in the luxurious realm of Saks at Tysons Corner. It all began on an ordinary day when I received a call from the store, informing me that they had a special package awaiting my presence.

Curiosity mingled with excitement as I made my way to Saks, a department store that had always held a special place in my heart. Upon reaching the store, I was handed an envelope containing a gift card, and the name on it was left blank – an anonymous act of kindness that would unfold into a memorable experience.

As I wandered through the store, the possibilities seemed endless. Saks at Tysons Corner offered a world of exquisite fashion and accessories, and my mind buzzed with anticipation. Eventually, I found myself standing in front of a display of beautiful purses, each one a symbol of elegance and style.

The act of kindness took on a tangible form as I selected a purse that resonated with my taste and personality. With the mysterious gift card covering the cost, the transaction felt like a dream. The gesture not only allowed me to indulge in a luxury I wouldn’t have otherwise, but it also left me with a sense of gratitude and warmth.

The anonymity of the sender added an extra layer of intrigue to the experience. The realization that someone, somewhere, took the time and effort to brighten my day without seeking recognition or gratitude left me feeling deeply touched. The gesture spoke volumes about the beauty of kindness, emphasizing that it doesn’t always need a face or a name – it can be a selfless act that leaves a lasting impact on the recipient.

To this day, the memory of that anonymous gift card at Saks at Tysons Corner serves as a reminder of the goodness that exists in the world. It taught me the power of thoughtful gestures and the profound impact they can have on someone’s life. The purse itself became more than just a fashionable accessory; it became a symbol of unexpected kindness, a treasure that I carry with me, both in style and in spirit.

Great, appreciate you sharing that with us. Before we ask you to share more of your insights, can you take a moment to introduce yourself and how you got to where you are today to our readers.

I am Kelsye Adams and I have officially coined the term artistic activist. Advocacy is my artistry! I’ve been wearing the organizer hat since my college days back in 2016. Started out as a finance intern while I attended Virginia Commonwealth University, rubbing shoulders with the highest ranks at the Democratic Party of Virginia. Fast forward a bit, and I was shaking as the Finance Director for Virginia Governor Ralph Northam’s The Way Ahead PAC.

Then, in 2019, I landed in the heart of the action as the Executive Director of the oh-so-cultured Long Live GoGo right here in Washington, DC. Picture me, orchestrating Moechella – a magical blend of gogo music, politics, and culture. Talk about mixing beats and ballots!

And the fun didn’t stop there. I’m not just any Joe Schmo; I’m also part of the U ST Neighborhood Association. Oh, and did I mention I’m a Georgetown University Nonprofit Management Certificate Program grad? Yep, I’m bringing the brains to the team.

Fast forward to 2022, I strutted my stuff into DC Vote as the Program Director, and now I’m owning the Organizing Director role. Onwards towards DC Statehood! I’m on a mission to use culture like my secret weapon to whip up some innovative programming – locally and nationally. Because guess what? I firmly believe it’s high time DC claims its spot as the 51st state.

Now, let’s get personal. I’m all about lifting my culture and my people, and I’m not shy about letting God take the wheel in this crazy journey. DC, with its rich culture, has my heart, and I’m here to build on the legacy my ancestors laid down. And between you and me, I’ve got this secret fantasy of shredding it as the lead guitarist in a GoGo band. Don’t tell anyone, though – it’s on the low!

My political science degree paved the way for me to dive into the political whirlwind I’m in today. I’m all about finding creative ways to mash up arts, culture, and politics to shout out to the folks who need their voices heard. Behind the scenes, on the frontlines, and everywhere in between – I’m preserving DC, GoGo music, and waving the flag for DC Statehood. And hey, education is the key, especially when it comes to uplifting DC’s youth. As a proud graduate of Dunbar High School, I’m more than excited to roll up my sleeves and get involved in the public school scene.

From GoGo and Wage Theft School Tours with DC Jobs with Justice to anniversary bashes with the Fair Budget Coalition, from helping keeping the party going at The Alumni Spot – a GoGo-inspired restaurant with a DC native Executive Chef, to remodeling basketball courts with the help of my Ward 1 councilmember Brianne Nadeau, and championing all those GoGo bands – TOB, CCB, UCB, TCB, NIB and alternative GoGo bands like Chill Band and Future Band, and anyone I missed – I am embodying what it means to LOVE DC!

In your view, what can society to do to best support artists, creatives and a thriving creative ecosystem?

A couple of various ways that society can support the local DC advocacy, GoGo and creative community would be to:

Provide financial support and fair compensation for artists and creatives. This includes fair payment for performances, access to grants and funding, and the creation of affordable studio and living spaces.

Acknowledge GoGo as a distinctive and valuable cultural asset of DC. Support initiatives that celebrate and preserve GoGo’s legacy, such as festivals, exhibitions, and educational programs.

Incorporate GoGo and other local artistic expressions into educational curricula. Support initiatives that bring artists into schools for workshops, performances, and mentorship programs.

Advocate for DC Statehood to ensure that the local government has full representation and can make decisions that directly impact the creative community. Support organizations and movements that are actively working towards achieving statehood for DC.

Foster collaboration between artists, creatives, businesses, and the community. Encourage partnerships that promote the integration of GoGo into various aspects of DC life, including tourism, events, and public spaces.

Advocate for the preservation of cultural spaces, including those significant to GoGo and other artistic expressions. Prevent gentrification that might displace artists and threaten the existence of creative hubs.

Provide accessible resources for artists, such as affordable healthcare, legal support, and professional development opportunities. This helps artists focus on their craft without unnecessary financial burdens.

Encourage civic engagement and grassroots movements that address the unique challenges faced by artists and creatives. Support organizations that work towards the betterment of the creative community and the overall welfare of DC residents.

By taking these steps, society can contribute to the growth and sustainability of DC’s creative ecosystem, ensuring that the unique cultural identity, especially rooted in GoGo, is preserved and celebrated while also advocating for the political rights and representation of the local community through DC Statehood.

Is there mission driving your creative journey?

The creative journey described earlier is driven by a mission to amplify the vibrant culture of Washington, DC, particularly centered around the GoGo music scene, while simultaneously advocating for DC Statehood. The overarching goal is to foster a thriving creative ecosystem that not only celebrates the rich artistic heritage of the city but also actively works towards securing political representation for its residents.

The ultimate aim is to create a holistic and sustainable creative environment that not only reflects the essence of Washington, DC, but also actively contributes to its growth, social justice, and the realization of political rights through DC Statehood.

Contact Info:

• Instagram: @misskelsye
• Facebook: Kelsye Adams
• Linkedin: Kelsye Adams
• Twitter: @misskelsye

Image Credits
Avante Davis — main picture Long Live GoGo and NoMuNoMu – Posters