Meet Chief Dr. Gerald Paige | Activist, Artist, Teacher & Culture Purest.

We had the good fortune of connecting with Chief Dr. Gerald Paige and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Chief Dr. Gerald, can you talk to us a bit about the social impact of your business?
The social impact I hope to share with the community is to not be afraid to; Be different, think outside the normal spectrum of your expected existence. We must not be afraid to speak on how we feel and not be afraid to speak on the fact that plantation capitalization still exists.

Can you open up a bit about your work and career? We’re big fans and we’d love for our community to learn more about your work.
My art is a cultural expression that combats oppression. In the city of New Orleans we mask as Natives to celebrate them helping slaves become free way before the Emancipation Proclamation was signed. What sets me apart from others is the fact that I will not water done truth to please others, I refuse to try to fit in, I can’t be bought, and refuse to bossed. It is not easy being this type of individual. It comes with a lot of hate, persecution, and doubt. But you have to push through the B.S. We live in a world were everyone is cool with being mentally enslaved. Especially Black People. The mark I hope to leave on the world with my brand and artistry is to always fight for what you believe in and Never sell your soul to fit in.

Let’s say your best friend was visiting the area and you wanted to show them the best time ever. Where would you take them? Give us a little itinerary – say it was a week long trip, where would you eat, drink, visit, hang out, etc.
If you visit New Orleans you must visit Back Street Cultural Museum, The McKenna Museum, House Of Feather an Dance. Places to eat in New Orleans: Coop’s on Decatur, Neow’s, Mena’s on Chartes ST. Music Venues: Mother In Law Lounge, Maple Leaf on Monday Night When George Porter plays, and Tipitina’s

Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
The people who have truly inspired me are; Jerome Big Duck Smith Founder of Tambourine & Fan and Freedom Fighter, Morris F.X. Jeff Senior, Leroy Paige and Floyd Paige SR. My Father and Uncle that have always challenged me to stand for something. Nina Simone, and Shirley Chisholm. Books that continue to inspire me are; The 1619 Project, Freeing Your Emotional Prisoner By Dr. Myles Monroe, Book Of Keys Part One By Aireial Blonka Mack.