A Conversation with Deun Ivory: ‘the body: a home for love' Founder

Words by Attia Taylor

Photography by Rikkí Wright

 

 

What is 'the body: a home for love'?

the body: a home for love, is a tax deductible 501(c)3 non-profit organization shifting culture around how Black women heal from sexual trauma. Through restorative programming, art, design and wellness, we curate experiences that impart healing rituals to women in need of self-love, community and safe spaces. God has blessed me with an amazing team of visionaries, servant-leaders, survivors and allies committed to helping Black women heal through joy and reclaim their bodies as homes for love.

we exist to not only restore the necessity of self-love, agency, and wholeness, but to educate Black women on the impacts of patriarchy as it relates to how we’ve been taught to blame ourselves for our abuse. 

this project/vision  is important and urgent because it explores the trauma that so many of us face, yet no one is held accountable for, leaving us to normalize sexual violence, or even blame ourselves. there is a need for Black women, specifically, to have a safe space where we can feel validated by our experiences, to understand ourselves better + even explore the root of why we have trouble with intimacy, vulnerability, self-confidence, and sexual pleasure. 

outside of what we do, the body: a home for love is an affirmation for women, especially Black women. it’s a gentle reminder of the agency and power we have over our bodies and all that has access to it. 

 What’s your favorite self care practice?

my favorite self-care practice is my morning ritual of prayer, meditation and visualization. it’s a reminder to myself that i am important and i matter. 

What is your favorite healthy food or recipe?

favorite healthy food - a bowl of well seasoned sauteed broccoli, chopped up sweet potatoes, black beans, corn and brown rice.

Who has taught you the most in life so far?

hm. i would say my best friend: victoria banjo.

What are your healthy living goals?

my healthy living goals would be to tap into my inner child, always. laugh a lot. workout. be mindful of my sugar intake and drink lots of water.