Mahjong Rouge: Reviving Community Connections in Baton Rouge

Key Takeaways

• Mahjong Rouge is a new venture by Mauree Brooksher and Stephanie Politz aimed at teaching the game of mahjong to locals in Baton Rouge.
• The initiative seeks to foster community and connection among Southern women through the traditionally Chinese game.
• Beyond the game, Mahjong Rouge focuses on building relationships and creating a sense of belonging among participants.

While browsing the internet for home renovation ideas, Mauree Brooksher stumbled upon an interior designer's account showcasing a mahjong table in a formal living room setting. The description of mahjong as an alternative to traditional games like puzzles or dominoes immediately caught her attention. This discovery led Brooksher and her friend Stephanie Politz, both avid game enthusiasts, to dive into the world of mahjong, sparking the idea for their new venture: Mahjong Rouge.

Mahjong Rouge aims to introduce the game to the Baton Rouge community, connecting local women from Texas to North Carolina through the shared joy of learning and playing together. "Mahjong is a social game that brings friends together," Politz explains. However, it's not just about the game; it's about the connections and community that form around the mahjong table.

To facilitate this, Mahjong Rouge organizes gatherings where players can mingle, enjoy themed refreshments, and learn the game's basics, including vocabulary, rules, and the annual National Mah Jongg League, Inc. card. The focus is on creating a welcoming environment for both seasoned players and novices, with the ultimate goal of fostering new friendships and strengthening the local community.

Brooksher and Politz recognize the importance of real human connection in today's digital age. Through Mahjong Rouge, they aim to reinvigorate a sense of community in Baton Rouge, bringing people together in a meaningful way. As the venture grows, they hope to offer open play sessions, further expanding the opportunities for participants to connect and form lasting relationships.

In summary, Mahjong Rouge is more than just a game teaching initiative; it's a movement towards rebuilding community ties and creating a sense of belonging among Baton Rouge residents. Through the timeless game of mahjong, Brooksher and Politz are laying the foundation for a more connected and cohesive community.