In the summer of 2021, Torie Anderson-Lloyd longed for connection after the isolation of the pandemic. Hoping to rekindle bonds, she invited her friends to a picnic at Belle Isle. But one by one, everyone declined. Undeterred, Torie turned to Facebook, creating an event and inviting strangers—anyone who might share her yearning for community.

 

To her amazement, 60 strangers showed up on that July day. What began as a heartfelt effort to combat loneliness transformed into something extraordinary—a vibrant gathering that sparked a movement. What started with one woman’s hope for connection has blossomed into a shared vision of belonging, empowerment, and community.

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As a DPSCD educator and community advocate, Torie is deeply committed to fostering spaces that promote wellness, literacy, and cultural affirmation.

 

 

 

The Black Girl Picnic is an annual summer event sponsored by BLK GRL Conglomerate, a 501(c)(3) . The focus of this event is to promote wellness and literacy by providing access to community resources. The purpose of BLK GRL Conglomerate is to empower Black girls and women in Detroit, Michigan, by providing culturally responsive support for the overall wellness by providing culturally affirming and impactful community programming and initiatives.