By Melani Edelstein
Anticipation and excitement filled the air as the Denims and Pearls brunch electrified the Toberman Neighborhood Center. This vibrant Saturday afternoon event drew women from San Pedro, Los Angeles, and beyond. The Denims and Pearl brunch, spearheaded by the tireless dedication of the San Pedro Committee Network, an organization fervently devoted to amplifying community spirit, took center stage on Saturday, May 4th, creating a day brimming with camaraderie and jubilation.
Organizers put the event together to celebrate and honor community women through guest speakers, vendors, gift bags and other activities and acknowledgments.
Cathy Davenport, Secretary of the San Pedro Committee Network, played a significant role alongside many others, in planning the event, which marked the first time such a brunch had been organized.
Inspired by the annual men’s breakfast tradition in the community, the San Pedro Committee Network felt it was time for women to have a similar gathering. Thus, the Denims and Pearls brunch was born as a way to recognize and pay tribute to the women who have made significant contributions to their communities, particularly those who have paved the way for others.
“We aim to reach one, teach one. That’s our motto,” explained Tiffany Bowen-Rollins, Historian and past president of the San Pedro Committee Network.
The Denims and Pearls brunch was held primarily to honor under-recognized women in the community. It also served other purposes including raising funds for scholarships to support students who grew up or were raised in the San Pedro area.
Davenport, a proud product of the Toberman community, underscored the significance of recognizing and paying tribute to those who have laid the foundation, especially as Mother’s Day approaches.
The event’s purpose was to bring together women from diverse backgrounds, spanning from Harbor City to San Pedro, along with their families, in a gesture of appreciation and celebration. By inviting individuals from various areas, the gathering sought to foster a sense of unity and solidarity among women who share common experiences and aspirations.
“So many women have come before me and countless others, and it’s high time we acknowledge their contributions. This brunch is dedicated to them,” says Davenport. The day was a celebration of resilience and achievement, symbolized by denim and pearls.
As Mother’s Day draws near, the goal is to honor the exceptional women who have journeyed similar paths. The San Pedro Committee Network extended invitations far and wide for the brunch, acknowledging the collective contributions of women. The successful event showcased guest speakers addressing various subjects such as real estate, religion, mental health, community activism, and the history of women in San Pedro and Toberman.
Vendor booths further facilitated networking and learning opportunities. Despite being primarily focused on women, the brunch welcomed men and children, emphasizing its inclusive nature. “We are honoring the women but we love men and children too,” laughs Bowen-Rollins as a young child walks past.
The Denims and Pearls brunch was a collaborative effort organized by The San Pedro Committee Network. The San Pedro Committee Network originated as a social club, initially convening primarily for funeral gatherings. Over time, however, there was a growing desire among members to expand their social interactions beyond solemn occasions. Consequently, the group began organizing various social activities. Fast forward more than four decades, and in the last two years, the San Pedro Committee Network has transitioned into a full-fledged nonprofit organization.
Davenport elaborates, stating, “We engage in activities such as providing gift baskets, hosting backpack giveaways, and coordinating angel trees for children whose parents are incarcerated. Our mission is to enrich community life by fostering unity through the provision of resources. Additionally, we offer scholarships, organize community events, and promote healthy relationships.” The Network achieves this through dedicated officers, active involvement from community members, and generous donations.
The group sponsors a Black college expo and comes together to celebrate community at their popular annual Juneteenth picnic. They support students with an August back-to-school drive, provide resources and activities for Black History Month and gather together in gratitude during Thanksgiving.