1.23.02
Pittsburgh City Paper, 1/23-30/02, News & Views section
URL: www.pghcitypaper.com/nb12302.html
Onyx Alliance: Trying to be a Rock in a Hard Place
By Brentin Mock
There is a shortage of young professional African Americans in the Pittsburgh area and the need for a fresh way to reach them, says Janine Frazier, one of the creators of the Onyx Alliance.
The new group, which debuts Jan. 31, joins PUMP and Ground Zero in their focus on the city's under-35s while adding a special emphasis, shared by the more networking-focused First Fridays, on attracting and retaining African Americans "and other under-represented ethnic groups to the city of Pittsburgh and its job market," as Onyx Alliance's mission statement puts it. "Our commitment is to provide a venue for talented, forward-thinking persons who want to create positive change within the greater Pittsburgh region," says Jillisa Fuller, co-chair of Onyx's public relations and marketing committee. "We also provide an outlet for individuals who are seeking opportunities for personal growth, social interaction and a greater sense of community."
The founding team contains some familiar local names: Frazier (daughter of Pittsburgh's first African-American woman county councilor Brenda Frazier), Justin Strong (owner of East Liberty's eclectic coffee/tea bar-nightclub, The Shadow Lounge), Marimba Milliones (daughter of the late city councilman Jake Milliones), Fuller, Robert Chambers III, Kimberly Ellis, Warner Macklin, Joi Tindal and Laura Norman -- all local professionals under 35.
Last July, Onyx hosted a networking reception at the Three Rivers Rowing Association and facilitated a young people's political forum on the municipal elections; they've since grown to more than 100 members.
Onyx plans to coordinate events with Ground Zero and PUMP, but the group's solo debut on Jan. 31 includes entertainment from up-and-coming neo-soul artist Eva Octavia Brooks and her band, and vending booths offering jewelry, legal services, ethnic foods, clothing and other items and services. Onyx will inaugurate its new executive committee and board and will unveil their Web site, www.onyxalliance.com.
WQED Studio A, Shadyside, 6-10 p.m. Call 412-618-1148 or email info@onyxalliance.com. The event is free.
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