Adiba Nelson - Writer

I’m at a loss for words so here you go - Baby’s first prom.

The unbreaking of a heart from January to April, from all black and faking it to Godlight and back in my joy. I am so happy to be feeling LIKE MYSELF again. Healing is a continuum, a process. I know. But for these moments I get to celebrate because I wasn’t too sure I’d be back. Here’s to more joy, loving (myself) again, and healing out loud ❤️

Curious as to what “Hazel’s Best Day” is all about? Check it out!

Super excited to announce the launch of my newest children’s book, “Hazel’s Best Day: A Story of Community, Accessibility, and Pride In Being Yourself”!

This book, much like my very first book, Meet ClaraBelle Blue are so very personal, important, and FUN! I hope you’ll meet me at Children’s Clinics for a very special reading and book signing! Tucson’s very own Homeward Books Collective (.books ) will also be on site for book purchase if you have not pre-ordered, as well as an ASL interpreter so our deaf and hard of hearing friends can also enjoy storytime 🩷🩷🩷

If you’re wondering why I chose to do the event at a medical clinic it is because it’s the only space in Tucson that is fully accessible for all children, regardless of how they moved through the world. There is school wheelchair access, fully accessible, restrooms for kiddos of all sizes, and dim, non-harsh lighting for kiddos who might have sensory issues. There are also numerous areas for kids to tuck away and take a minute if they get overstimulated.

This event is truly for everyone so I hope to see you there!

I have gotten everything from “okay Tina! I see you!” As in “Tina Turner” to “Excuse me??? Miss Adiba… what man is comin to see you today” to “Girl where yo man at?”

I guess it’s safe to say Miss .braidsbydeee did it again….

Talk to me nice. I’m tender headed.

There have been many iterations of this Black girl before you; both physical and emotional and mental. And at my big age, I have learned to love all of them. They’re me. The good, the bad, the young and they’re not so young, the big and the small, all me. And I love me. Happy Valentine’s Day to me; aside from my child, the person I have learned to love the most.

When I tell you my students have my heart in a chokehold, this is what I mean. I love these young adults (but my babies) somethin fierce. How are they gonna say “Miss, don’t cry!” When they come in with things like this… ugh. My whole heart man. My whole heart. I’m so blessed.

Happy Valentine’s Day ❤️❤️❤️

Hey loves - just a reminder that THIS incredible event is happening TONIGHT.

Rap Opera: ✊🏾
Dance Performance: ✊🏾✊🏾
Spoken Word to blow your mind: ✊🏾✊🏾✊🏾
Conversation to end all conversations: C’mon now!

Got Friday plans? Ya do now!

Come spend an incredible evening (FOR FREE) listening to six fantastic artists talk about the importance of preserving the legacy of Black storytelling.

You’ll be treated to the Tucson screening of Damon Davis’ ( ) radio opera “Ligia Mare” (this opened at Carnegie Hall to a sold out crowd), a spoken word performance from award winning poet and educator, edwin bodney (), a performance from the U of A Traveling Dance Ensemble, media storytelling wisdom from Kristen Carter ( - Hollywood Film & Telvision Executive Producer and educator) AND visual art storytelling excellence from Tucson’s very own Elizabeth Denneau ( )and Adia Jamille ( )

Do not miss this!

I would say she gets it from her mama, but this girl has a light that I can’t even begin to touch.

Forever in awe of this beauty, that is my child.