the Bronzevillian

Autumn 2012· Volume 3 Issue 1

“Where there is no vision, the people perish.” -Proverbs 29:18

the Bronzevillian News from the CEC

A Note from the Director

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elcome to the third issue of the Bronzevillian, the African American and African Studies Community Extension Center’s newsletter.

The purpose of this Judson L. Jeffries, PhD newsletter is to inform members of the Ohio State University community as well as the larger Columbus community not only about events that occur at the CEC, but issues that are of interest to local residents.

I am approaching the beginning of my seventh year as director of the CEC and in this capacity I have been fortunate to oversee the creation and growth of a number of exciting and unique programs and activities. As a public land grant institution, OSU recognizes its legal and moral obligation to help improve the quality of life of Ohioans, and to address some of the most pressing issues confronting its citizens through teaching, research and service.

With this purpose in mind, the primary mission of the CEC is to enhance community access to OSU’s resources and cultivate relationships between OSU and Columbus’s various Black communities.

With the help of volunteers, board members, faculty, students and others the CEC has experienced a tremendous amount of success over the years; and I have every reason to believe that bigger things are on the horizon. Please join me and the CEC’s staff in helping empower the residents of this rich and historic neighborhood.

A A newsletter newsletter from from the the Department Department of of African African American American and and African African Studies Studies Community Community Extension Extension Center Center

The Annual Black Veterans Day Salute: Honoring Gulf War Veterans By: Sarah Twitty oday is a day of great celebration and pride, said Councilman Hearcel F. Craig, Sr. in his opening remarks at the sixth annual Black Veterans Day Salute at The Ohio State University’s AAAS Community Extension Center. This annual event recognizes African American servicemen and women whose contributions and sacrifices have enabled Americans to enjoy the rights, freedoms, and securities that are so often taken for granted.

Black Veterans Day Salute honorees pose for photo. (Back Row) Jeffrey Phalo, The Tuskegee Airmen were honAlbert C. Edmondson, David Norman Holland, Leon McDougle, MD, Jerry A. ored in 2006, the Vietnam War veter- Perkins, Danny Thomas, and David Earl Harrison. (Front Row) Philip Nowlin, Melvin Jackson, Jr., Kevin J. Muhammad, Richard Lewis, Jr., Michael Holmes. ans in 2007, the Korean War veterans Not shown Monte Ingram, Posthumous. in 2008, African American women in “Like all military conflicts before the Gulf War, 2009, World War II veterans in 2010, and today we African American servicemen and women served the honor thirteen Gulf War era veterans, one posthucountry with honor and distinction,” said Dr. Robert mously.

Valero, Associate Professor of Security Studies at the Quoting from Dr. Elijah Benjamin Mays, former University of Texas at El Paso, and Keynote Speaker president of Morehouse College and mentor to Dr. for the event. “In 1990-1991, African Americans Martin Luther King, Jr., Craig said “There ought to be were 12 percent of the U.S. population, but made up something in a person’s life greater than their materi20 percent of the total number of U.S. troops. Of the al possessions and wealth, higher than genius, more 48 percent of all army enlisted women, 40 percent enduring than fame. Here lies your greatest chalserved in the Gulf.” lenge and most compelling duty. Whoever uplifts civilization is rich though they die penniless. Future Continued on pages 10-11 generations will erect their monument.”

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Department of African American and African Studies Community Extension Center 905 Mount Vernon Avenue Columbus, Ohio 43203-1413

Phone: (614) 292-3922 Fax: (614) 292-3892 http://aaascec.osu.edu aaascec@osu.edu

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About Bronzeville

of the CEC 12Core Programs 6 T he Ohio State University’s AAAS Community Extension Center is the outreach component of the Department of African American and African Studies. The CEC is one of the few off-campus facilities of its kind in the nation.

Originally housed at two different locations on Ohio Avenue, the CEC moved to its current location in 1986. The CEC plays an integral role in enhancing the life chances of those who live in and around the Mount Vernon Avenue Area.

Toward that end, the CEC offers an array of programs at no or nominal cost to the public. Programs include, but are not limited to, the following: conferences, symposia, computer classes, credit and noncredit courses, summer programs, lecture series, and film series. People from all walks of life have participated in these programs.

Based on evaluations of our programs and personal testimonies, the CEC is having an impact on residents living in and around the Bronzeville Neighborhood.

1 Black Veterans Day Salute During the salute, Black men and women from Ohio who have served in the U.S. Armed Forces are publicly recognized. Since the salute’s inception in 2006, the CEC has honored the Tuskegee Airmen (2006), Vietnam War veterans (2007), Korean War veterans (2008), African-American servicewomen (2009), World War II veterans (2010), and Gulf War Era veterans (2011).

2 Ray Miller Institute for Change & Leadership This 10-week long leadership course trains young Black professionals from the Columbus community in various areas of leadership. The Institute was founded in 2006 by former State Senator and Minority Whip Ray Miller. Miller has built a reputation as a strong advocate for those who have historically not had access to power. Admission to the Institute is highly competitive. The Institute is offered during OSU’s autumn and spring semesters with the support of OSU’s Office of Continuing Education. Participants who complete the course receive three CEU credits.

3 Senior Citizens Movie Matinee The movie matinee is a chance for senior citizens to watch a film that otherwise might be cost prohibitive in an accommodating environment. A discussion, usually led by an OSU professor or administrator, is held at the end of the film.

4 Computer Literacy Program Throughout the academic year, the CEC offers free and reduced-cost computer technology courses. The program is geared toward seniors but open to everyone. Courses include the following: Senior Computer Orientation, Internet, Email, Word, Excel, PowerPoint and Publisher.

5 Lecture Series Presentations given by OSU faculty, students and/or community members about topics pertinent to the Black community.

Math and Science Program

The Math and Science Program was established in partnership with the OSU Medical Center in 2003. The Math and Science Program exposes students in grades 4 through 12 to the wonders of math and science using hands-on activities. The purpose of the program is three-fold: 1) To increase competency in math and science among students of color; 2) To expose students of color to math and science related careers; and 3) To encourage students of color to major in math or science. The program meets on the fourth Monday of each month from October to May.

7 Summer Residential Program The Summer Residential Program (SRP) was established in 1999 and is designed to provide students with both an appreciation for and an understanding of African-American and African culture and history. The SRP also helps students strengthen their computer literacy skills. Past themes include: “The Underground Railroad” (2012), “All Eyez On Me: Deconstructing Images of African-American Women in Hip Hop” (2011), “letz b down: Social Justice Advocacy for Blacks During the American Revolutionary War Era” (2010), “The Low Country: Black Culture, Literacy and History in Charleston, South Carolina” (2009), and “Hip Hop Literacies” (2008). The program is held every June and is for rising 11th and 12th graders. Students live on OSU’s campus.

8 African Affairs Symposium This one-day symposium brings members of the African American and African communities together to discuss issues of particular interest to Africa. The inaugural symposium in 2007 examined the life of South African civil rights activist Steve Biko.

“Africa in the Age of Globalization” was the theme of the 2008 symposium. The 2009 symposium examined the life of Dr. Kwame Nkrumah, the first president of Ghana, West Africa. In 2010, the focus was on Pan-Africanism and the Diaspora. The Democratic Republic of the Congo was the theme of the 2011 symposium.

9 Summer Enrichment Program This week-long, non-residential day program is designed to help rising 9th and 10th graders improve their reading and writing skills. The program, which was founded in 2009, is hosted annually in June and accepts approximately 15 students.

10 History of Black Columbus Conference This one-day conference celebrates the rich history of African Americans in Columbus and increases awareness of the significant contributions African Americans have made in all areas of city life. This annual conference is held in the spring.

11 Black History Month Forum The forum is in its third year and is focused on celebrating African descended peoples from all over the world. This year, documentaries about the following four influential Black historical figures were shown: Toussaint L’ouverture, Julius Nyerere, Ella Baker, and Marcus Garvey.

12 Enemies of the State The annual event features activists from America’s most notorious radical organizations, people who pressured America to live up to its highest ideals. In past years, activists from The Black Panther Party (2011) and the Young Lords Organization (2010) were invited to speak.

During the 1930s, African-American leaders in Columbus named the predominately African-American neighborhood between the boundaries of Woodland Avenue (East), Cleveland Avenue (West), Broad Street (South) and the railroad tracks (North) “Bronzeville.”

The population was approximately 70,000 residents. In 1936, the same African-American leaders elected a mayor of Bronzeville and created an eight member Cabinet to address social, political and economic issues in the neighborhood.

Now, as a result of the establishment of several Neighborhood Civic Associations such as the Woodland Civic Association (East) and the Discovery District (West), Bronzeville was reduced to its current boundaries: Taylor Avenue (East), Jefferson Avenue (West), Broad Street (South), and I-670 (North).

The Bronzevillian is inspired by this rich history.

CEC Advisory Board Paul Cook Wanda Dillard Francisca Figueroa-Jackson Mark S. Froehlich Ray Miller, Former State Senator Lupenga Mphande, Ph.D. William E. Nelson, Jr., Ph.D. *Ike Newsum, Ph.D. and Chair Rick Pfeiffer, City Attorney Thomas Simpson, Ph.D. Reita Smith Charleta Tavares, State Senator Nana Watson

CEC Director *Judson L. Jeffries, Ph.D.

CEC Staff Sarah Twitty Senior Program Coordinator & Fiscal Officer Kevin L. Brooks, Ph.D. Program Coordinator Alecia Shipe Technology Program Coordinator

Address Department of African American and African Studies Community Extension Center 905 Mount Vernon Avenue Columbus, Ohio 43203-1413 *Ex officio members.

Events 25August 6th Annual Marcus Garvey Celebration: This is a time to pay tribute to the Honorable Marcus Mosiah Garvey and the Universal Negro Improvement Association and African Communities League (UNIA-ACL), the organization he helped build. This years theme is “Honor Garvey–Organize, Organize, Organize!” The celebration will have information, entertainment, presentations, food, vendors and fun for the whole family. 2PM to 5PM. Free. Open to the Public.

11September Senior Movie Matinee: Red Tails A crew of African American pilots in the Tuskegee training program, having faced segregation while kept mostly on the ground during World War II, are called into duty under the guidance of Col. A.J. Bullard. 1:30PM Free. Open to adults 55 and older. Refreshments will be served. To RSVP, contact Sarah Twitty, Senior Program Coordinator & Fiscal Officer, by email at twitty.1@osu.edu.

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4October William E. Nelson Community Warrior Award Luncheon: After 40 years of dedicated service, Dr. Nelson retired from The Ohio State University. Among his many accolades, Dr. Nelson served as chair of the Department of Black Studies as well as chaired the Arts and Faculty Senate at The Ohio State University. Dr. Nelson has also left an indelible imprint on the larger community as he has served as President of the Columbus Chapter of the Ohio Black Political Assembly as well in a number of other important capacities. Dr. Nelson’s legacy is the numerous students dispersed throughout the country who have earned college and graduate degrees while under his tutlelage.

This luncheon will not only honor Dr. Nelson, but those whose work is in the scholar– warrior tradition.

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African Affairs Symposium: The one-day symposium brings members of the AfricanAmerican and African communities together to discuss issues of particular interest to Africa. This year’s theme is to be announced.

September 10AM to 4:30PM. Free. Open to the public.

Community Forum: A community forum will Refreshments will be served. be held to discuss the building of a new community extension center. 6pm Free. Open to November the public. Refreshments will be served. To Black Veterans Day Salute: The seventh RSVP, contact Sarah Twitty, Senior Program annual Black Veterans Day Salute will honor Coordinator & Fiscal Officer, by email at twit- African-American men and women who ty.1@osu.edu. served in the U.S. Armed Forces during Operation Enduring Freedom and Operation Iraqi Freedom. Do you know a veteran who should October be honored? If so, please call the CEC at Enemies of the State: The Us Organization (614) 292-3922. 11:30AM to 1:30PM. Free. is a Black cultural nationalist group founded

by Maulana Karenga and Hakim Jamal Tuesday in (cousin of Malcolm X) in 1965. Founded after Malcolm X’s death, the organization’s pur- EVERYFebruary pose was to promote African American cultur- Black History Month Forum: Every Tuesday al unity. Karenga’s ideas later culminated into in February (5, 12, 19, 26) this forum will celethe creation of Kwanzaa. Join us as former brate African descended peoples from all over members of the Us organization Dr. C.R.D. the world. Visit http://aaascec.osu.edu for more Halisi and James Mtume discuss their experi- information. 6PM to 7PM. Free. Open to the ences within the organization. 6PM Free. public.

Open to the public. Refreshments will be Saturday served. To RSVP, contact Sarah Twitty, SenMay ior Program Coordinator & Fiscal Officer, by History of Black Columbus Conference: email at twitty.1@osu.edu.

The purpose of this one-day conference is to celebrate the rich history of African Americans in Columbus and to increase awareness of the significant contributions African Americans have made in all areas of city life. Next year’s theme is to be announced. 9AM to 3:30PM. Open to the public. Refreshments will be served.

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Senior Citizens Enjoy Movie Matinee Series

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he AAAS Community Extension Center’s six-part Senior Citizens Movie Matinee Series has attracted scores of senior citizens from neighborhoods, senior centers, retirement homes and churches across Columbus. Seniors came alone, some seniors brought family members and/or friends, and others came with an entourage. The purpose of the matinee is to provide senior citizens with an exclusive space for fun, fellowship, and constructive dialogue.

The first film, The Help, is a story about very different, extraordinary women in the 1960s South who build an unlikely friendship around a secret writing project. Law Abiding Citizen, the second film, is about a frustrated man who decides to take justice into his own hands after a plea bargain sets one of his family's killers free. The third film, The Adjustment Bureau, is about the affair between a politician and a ballerina being affected by mysterious forces keeping the lovers apart. Ghost Protocol, the fourth film, The IMF is shut down when it's implicated in the bombing of the Kremlin, causing Ethan Hunt and his new team to go rogue to clear their organization's name. In the fifth film, Night Catches Us, a black militant returns to the Philadelphia neighborhood where he came of age in the midst of the Black Power Movement. Red Tails, a film about the famed Tuskegee Airmen, will be showing at the CEC on September 11 at 1:30 PM. After each film, a discussion was led by a staff or faculty member.

For example, after the film The Help, seniors discussed slavery, discrimination and life during the Civil Rights Movement.

If you have movie suggestions, please contact Sarah Twitty, Senior Program Coordinator and Fiscal Officer, by phone at (614) 2923922, or by email at twitty.1@osu.edu.

For more information about each film, go to www.imdb.com.

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A Book for Leaders and Aspiring Leaders By: Judson L. Jeffries, PhD asic Brown is a riveting story of a young man from Mineola, Texas (a dusty small town eighty miles east of Dallas where the dreams of young men like Willie Brown are more often deferred than are actualized) who, after graduating from high school goes to San Francisco to live with an uncle, with the hope that there is more to life than dirt roads, one-room school houses and the segregated environs of rural Texas.

From his uncle, young Willie learned how to navigate the streets of San Francisco. He had a knack for finding employment, be it as a doorman, janitor or handyman. Before long, Brown enrolled in San Francisco State College graduating in 1955 with a degree in political science. After college, Brown was accepted into Hastings College of Law and earned his J.D. three years later.

In the late 1950s and early 1960s, Brown was, not surprisingly, one of the few African Americans practicing law in San Francisco when he opened his own practice. He practiced criminal law, representing pimps, prostitutes, thugs, troublemakers and other unsavory characters that more prominent attorneys would not represent. One of Brown’s early clients was Mario Savio (founder of the Free Speech Movement). Brown quickly became involved in the Civil Rights Movement, leading a wellorchestrated sit-in to protest housing discrimination after a local real estate office refused to work with him because of his race. Brown helped organize the public protest and helped attract media coverage. His role in the protests gave him the exposure he needed to run for office.

In 1962, Brown ran for the assembly, but lost. Undaunted, Brown bounced back two years later winning election to the assembly in 1964.

Brown quickly rose through the ranks, becoming Assembly Whip in 1969. Over the years, Brown would serve on a number of important committees including the powerful Ways and Means Committee. In 1972, Brown delivered a memorable speech at the Democratic National Convention. That same year, Brown experienced disappointment when his bid for Speaker of the House failed. Nine years later, Brown captured the speakership in a dazzling display of bipartisanship, winning the support of twenty eight Republicans and twenty three Democrats. In 1996, Brown stepped down as speaker

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and ran for Mayor of San Francisco where he trounced his opposition. However, it was as Speaker where Brown would make his mark.

One of the most flamboyant and savvy politicians of the Twentieth Century, Brown was

Speaker of the House of the California State Assembly for fifteen years, dating from 1981 to 1995.

Few African Americans have held the post of Speaker, and four of them hailed from the states of California and North Carolina. None of them held the Speakership as long as Brown; this may be due in part to Brown’s political acumen. As learned in the science of human behavior as he is in the art of politics, Brown proved adept at beating back young upstarts, would-be challengers as well as repelling botched coup attempts by political ingrates-some of whom were within his own party.

Brown’s tenure as Speaker serves as a model to those who aspire to a career in politics.

The lessons to be gleaned from this volume include, but are not limited to: 1) how to cultivate and nurture friendships 2) how to work effectively with people you don’t like 3) how to build alliances across party lines and 4) how to secure and deftly use power. By virtue of his position as Speaker and what was accomplished during his tenure, Brown will go down as one of the most important Black elected officials of the Twentieth Century along with

Senator Edward W. Brooke, Mayors Carl Stokes, Tom Bradley and Coleman Young; Governor L. Douglas Wilder and Congresswomen Shirley Chisholm and Barbara Jordan. Given Brown’s mastery of Realpolitik; it is surprising that he did not aspire to national office. Perhaps because he reveled in being the Speaker and later the “Da Mayor”, national office was never a serious consideration.

For readers who enjoy being titillated as much as being enlightened, Browns’ discussion of his personal life will be most welcomed. Brown’s personal life comes across as both exhilarating and, well, a bit unorthodox. Brown’s appetite for life is insatiable. He tells stories of club hopping, meeting heads of state, dining at the city’s finest restaurants, frequenting the most expensive haberdasheries, hobnobbing with former presidents and collecting vintage sports cars. A married man of four children (three of them grown; the youngest by a woman other than his wife) Brown does not attempt to hide the fact that his social calendar includes dating other women. The exact particulars of his marriage are not spelled out in the book, but Brown states that he and his wife haven’t lived together for twenty five years, leaving one to infer that the two separated years ago and for reasons only known to them, chose not to divorce. More amazing is that in this age of the super information highway and over zealous paparazzi, the media chose not to make an issue of Brown’s personal life. Brown’s ability to manage his personal affairs in a way that did not cause irreparable damage to his political career may be a testament to his ability to ingratiate himself with people and win them over. Another explanation could be that the climate of San Francisco is such that people are more tolerant of unconventional lifestyles than those in other cities.

Willie Brown is one of the most important and influential politicians of the Twentieth Century.

His book will appeal to readers of all stripes—from the casual reader to the seasoned politician; even to academics. If one is able to wade through the ostentatious and pretentious references to Brown himself one will come away with not only a rich and nuanced look at Willie Brown the man and politician, but more importantly, a sophisticated understanding of the art of politics. Basic Brown is a primer for both political novices as well as those who consider themselves to be students of politics.

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African Affairs Symposium By: Paul Cook, M.A. reated in 2007 this one day conference brings together members of the Black community to partake in a colloquium organized around a particular theme. The inaugural conference examined the life, death and legacy of South African civil rights activist Steve Biko. Africa in the age of Globalization was the theme in 2008 and Kwame Nkrumah was the focus in 2009.The goal of the African Affairs Symposium is to stimulate and raise consciousness, and foster cooperation between groups and organizations in the growing African Communities, not only in Columbus, but the state of Ohio.

Our strategy is to sponsor a year-long series of enlightened discussions of past and current developments in Africa and the African world generally; culminating in a yearly African Affairs Symposium that takes place in October. Our tactics involve identifying and partnering with various communities, groups, individuals, and organizations that are interested and involved in efforts to build cultural awareness, cooperation, and development within the growing African communities in Columbus, Ohio.

The most recent African Affairs Symposium, was held on October 28, 2011; and focused on the efforts of the people of the Democratic Republic of the Congo to stop the genocide, forced labor, rape, famine, and disease in that war-torn, mineral-rich Central African state. The AAASCEC partnered with the African History in America Collective, OSU Congolese Students, the All-African People’s Revolutionary Party, and the African Heritage Foundation to co-sponsor a day-long series of panels, speeches, video documentaries, and discussions that were led by representatives of local, national and international organizations. The event was hosted by Nadine Luyinda Nzwanga, a Congolese student and an African American and African Studies minor at The Ohio State University. Featured speakers were Mr. Mayiba Kalala representing the leading opposition Union for Democracy and Social Progress party (UDSP), and Maurice Carney, Executive DirecNadine Luyinda Nzwanga, host of the 2011 tor and Co-Founder of the Friends of the Congo. As an added bonus, attendees were treated to a delectable African Affairs Symposium African cuisine as well as an African Market Place that featured books, videos, literature, art, jewelry, and other items of interest.

The October African Affairs Symposium set the stage for a follow-up symposium on December 3rd co-sponsored by the AAASCEC and the African History in America Collective, that featured guest speaker Mr. Abou Ndioum, then President of the Mauritanian Community Association. Mr. Ndioum focused on slavery, land theft, and the deportation of Africans from Mauritania that has resulted in large numbers of Mauritanian born Africans residing not only in Columbus, but the state of Ohio.

Both events were well received; and they linked the global connection between developments in Africa with developments and foreign policies in the United States and other parts of the world.

The 2012 African Affairs Symposium will be preceded by a series of smaller African-focused forums. Interested individuals and organizations should contact the CEC for more information on dates and times. On behalf of the CEC and all co-sponsoring organizations, we wish to extend our gratitude for the heavy turn-out and warm reception by the Columbus greater community. Going into its sixth year, the African Affairs Symposium is one of the CEC’s most anticipated annual events.

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Participants at the 2011 African Affairs Symposium

Maurice Carney, Executive Director and Co-Founder of the Friends of the Congo

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Omega Psi Phi Fraternity, Inc. Commemorating 100 years of Achievement

By: C. Earl Campbell DA III OPENING REMARKS Dr. Judson L. Jeffries Professor of African American & African Studies and Director of the African American & African Studies Community Extension Center, The Ohio State University

expected to carry out consistently. The programs are designed to enhance the life chances of those in need regardless of race, creed, gender and the like. I should point out that these nationally mandated programs do not include those additional

DRUM CALL (Unity circle) Elder Baba Tony West LIBATION Olumola Akinwummi Tawi Family Village PRESENTATION How the men of The Omega Psi Phi Fraternity Inc. changed the course of American history: Marking 100 years of achievement Dr. Judson L. Jeffries QUESTION AND ANSWER SESSION CLOSING REMARKS Dr. Judson L. Jeffries Professor of African American & African Studies and Director of the African American & African Studies Community Extension Center, The Ohio State University UNITY CIRCLE Elder Baba Tony West

activities that local chapters create to address problems that are unique to their particular communities.

Special Thanks to Despite the good work done by the OmeElder Iya Aziza West ga Psi Phi Fraternity, Inc. over the years the organiGuardian Ancestor Table zation is probably the most maligned, stereotyped and misrepresented of the nine I mentioned earlier.

Ques are seen as rowdy, belligerent, confrontational, abrasive, boisterous and thuggish. A year ago, I was listening to The Tom Joyner Morning Show and here are nine historically Black Fra- they were talking about President Obama naming ternities and Sororities that Lawrence General Charles Bolden as Director of NASA. And Ross calls the Divine Nine: Alpha Kappa Alpha, J. Anthony Brown chimed in with, as if he didn’t Delta Sigma Theta, Sigma Gamma Rho, Zeta Phi know, isn’t Bolden a Que; to which Sybil replied Beta, Alpha Phi Alpha, Kappa Alpha Psi, Phi Beta yes, “I just hope the Ques don’t tear up the moon.

Sigma, Iota Phi Theta and of course, Omega Psi Please don’t tear up the moon.”

Phi. Despite the fact that every one of these organiTruth is: there are few areas of American zations is rooted in community service, there is a life that have not been impacted by a man of Omewidespread belief that all fraternities and sororities ga. Ques have stood on the front lines for civil do is have parties and step shows. Although parties rights and have been the vanguard of social are a small part of being in a fraternity and sorority, change. An account of every son of Omega, who service is featured prominently in the values and has made a contribution to human progress, would ideas on which each organization was founded. be impossible. As November 17, 2011 marked the For instance, Omega Psi Phi has 12 na- 100th anniversary of the founding of this illustrious tionally mandated programs that each chapter is organization, it provided Dr. Jeffries with the perfect

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opportunity to offer a more complete portrait of Omega Psi Phi by talking about those members whose work has helped change the course of American History. Several men were featured in his presentation: Dr. Nathan Hare, the first Chairperson of a Black Studies Department in the country; Dr. Benjamin E. Mays, former President of Morehouse College and mentor to Dr. Martin Luther King Jr., Professor Melvin Tolson, debate coach at Wiley College whose team won a championship against USC. Also discussed were Dr. Carter G. Woodson, the founder of the Association for the Study of AfroAmerican Life and History and considered the father of Black History, Bayard Rustin, the founder of the Fellowship of Reconciliation and principal architect of the 1963 March on Washington, Rev. Jesse L. Jackson and civil rights attorneys Wiley Branton, Oliver Hill, Z. Alexander Looby, Grant Reynolds and James Nabrit, who played an integral role in dismantling segregation in America’s public schools as well as the United States military.

According to Dr. Jeffries changing the course of history means to: 1.

2.

3.

4.

Alter the way things have historically been done Impact people’s behavior (large groups) over time Reverse a community’s or society’s culture Enact a law that is far reaching, which could accomplish all three

The evening was conducted in the African tradition. It began with opening remarks; after which, one of Columbus’s most well-respected elders performed a DRUM CALL. Following the DRUM CALL, a Libation was performed by Olumola Akinwummi of the Tawi Family Village that invigorated audience members; some of whom felt compelled to call out the names of those ancestors whose contributions have enabled us to enjoy the opportunities and privileges to which we have become accustomed. Before the presentation began, a video of Pinc Gator performing I’m a Que was shown, setting the stage for the remainder of the evening. The program concluded with a UNITY CIRCLE led by Elder Baba Tony West; after which attendees were treated to a smorgasbord of chicken, pasta, shrimp, cake, cookies, salad and an array of drinks.

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Council of Elders Oppose Wholesale Demolition of Poindexter Village By: Evelyn Luckey, PhD he Council of Elders, a cadre of influential and accomplished African American figures, recently met to discuss the demolition of Poindexter Village. Many at the meeting, of which I was one, agreed that “an injunction should be filed to prevent the destruction of Poindexter Village until all options or alternative plans are thoroughly explored.” One exasperated member offered, “They [meaning PACT] have no appreciation for history.” On that point I could not agree more. In fact, the PACT folk knew virtually nothing about Poindexter Village until they made the acquaintance of community historians like Reita Smith, William Richardson and Sandra Jamison who have spent years collecting, chronicling and cataloging the human condition that is this historic housing complex.

To date, more than 300 hundred families have been moved out of Poindexter Village in preparation for the impending demolition. Several developments prompted the Council of Elders to convene this recent meeting.

First, over the past several months, community residents, OSU students and faculty have held a number of meetings and town hall gatherings about PACT’s plans to redevelop the Near Eastside; and from those meetings, it was clear that residents do not believe that their input about the community in which they live has been taken seriously, if considered at all.

Second, earlier this month, the History of Black Columbus Conference, held annually at the African American and African Studies Community Extension Center at The Ohio State University, examined the life and legacy of Rev. Dr. James Preston Poindexter and discussed the importance of legacy preservation. The conference drew a wide range of people, yet no PACT representative was in attendance in spite of the invitations extended to them.

The keynote speaker, Dr. Derek Hyra, an Associate Professor of Urban Affairs and Planning at Virginia Tech urged the audience to resist PACT’s attempts to overhaul the community if indeed there is an unwillingness to incorporate the concerns and interests of those whose investment in the community is greatest.

Third, the Columbus Dispatch has published news articles that tell of Poindexter Village’s historic import, the man in whose honor Poindexter Village is named and the residents and preservationists who argue that some, or the entire complex merit saving. An editorial published in the June 10 issue of the Dispatch submits that while Poindexter Village’s history is replete with historical nuggets, “Preserving history shouldn’t necessarily mean holding on to nondescript buildings in poor shape.” The writer goes on to say that “a thorough history of Poindexter must include the fact that projects like it generally have ultimately failed miserably at helping poor Americans make their way to better circumstances.” Such an unsubstantiated statement is at best historically negligent, and at worst intentionally disingenuous. Thousands of wartime families owe their start to housing complexes such as Poindexter Village. That the piece was published as an editorial and not an article, which is usually accompanied by an author’s name, is curious.

Fourth, a recent survey of 309 community residents revealed that many Near Eastside residents are dissatisfied with the extent to which PACT has consulted with residents about its redevelopment plans for this historic community. Said one Council of Elder member, “I’m not sure that all of Poindexter Village needs to be saved, but certainly PACT should not demolish everything.” Other members feared that if the complex is demolished, it will

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remain vacant and leave a crater in that community.

There are at least two or three alternative plans floating around that should be given due consideration. One of the plans involves the building of a museum that would capture the history of Poindexter Village in a way that best reflects the person in whose honor it is named as well as the role that the complex has played in the lives of so many people. Until these plans have been examined the demolition of Poindexter Village needs to be put on hold.

Dr. Evelyn Luckey is a member of The Council of Elders and former longtime Assistant Superintendent for the Columbus Public School System.

Rev. James P. Poindexter

Poindexter Village

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Leadership Saturdays By: Kay Shabazz, M.A. o commemorate the fifth anniversary of the founding of the Ray Miller Institute for Change and Leadership, the Alumni Association of the Ray Miller Institute for Change and Leadership offered a number of leadership workshops during the 2011-2012 academic year.

These efforts were designed to provide personal and professional development opportunities not only to those who graduated from the Ray Miller Institute for Change and Leadership, but to anyone interested in being a change agent in his/her respective community. Approaches and topics ranged from the philosophical to the practical and from the personal to the professional.

Leadership is one of the most talked about and written about topics in World history, yet the definition of leadership remains as varied today as it has ever been. Simply put, leadership means different things to different people. A close read of the works by people such as George Fraser, Dr. Peter Drucker, Dr. Johnnetta B. Cole, Dr. Warren Bennis, Colin Powell, Susan Taylor and John C. Maxwell is evidence of that. What is universally agreed upon, however, is that the difference between chaos and a smoothly run operation is leadership; and an impressive title does not make one a leader nor does being the boss, supervisor or president of a Fortune 500 company. Being in charge does not make one an effective leader.

The workshops that were conducted featured a combination of grassroots, corporate, ecumenical, community and academic leaders. As stated in the RMICL brochure, real leaders:

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Dr. Floyd W. Hayes teaches at Johns Hopkins University in the Department of Political Science and the Center of Africana Studies. He earned his doctorate at the University of Maryland, College Park. He is the author of the widely used text A Turbulent Voyage: Readings in African American Studies.

Dr. Barbara Nicholson is Executive Director (emeritus) of the Martin Luther King Jr. Performing and Cultural Arts Complex where she served for seventeen years. She is also chairperson of the Council of Elders.

Nicholson has a doctorate in Art Education from The Ohio State University.

10.Know on whose shoulders they stand.

The afternoon session featured a panel comprised of some of the city’s most wellThe first leadership workshop kicked off respected and widely known leaders in Samuel on Saturday November 19, 2011. The event foGresham Jr., Paul Cook, Diann Beasley-Thomas cused on Black leadership and all that it entails. and Dr. Barbara Nicholson. Each panelist offered Attendees, of which, there were fifty, were treated his/her own thought-provoking viewpoint, but in the to a healthy breakfast, a stimulating morning of main, several elected to focus on a leader’s moral intellectual discourse; culminating with a lively afobligation to serve others, rather than on a leader’s 1.Have an absolute intolerance for injustice and ternoon debate that addressed the question: Is race. Fiery at times, two of the panelists were adainequality. there a philosophical difference between being a mant that the Central Ohio African American Com2.Never allow their greatest accomplishment to Black leader versus a leader who happens to be munity can ill-afford to operate in silos, under-utilize become their highest achievement in life.

Black? its financial and human capital and not move with a 3.Operate from a “YES I CAN” strategy and find a The Reverend Dr. R. Drew Smith, Visiting sense of urgency. way to get it done.

Professor at Emory and Scholar in Residence at Economic development was the theme of 4.Have something to say and are not afraid to say the Leadership Center at Morehouse College was the second workshop; held on February 18, 2012. it.

The four presenters who served on this sorely the keynote speaker. The title of his talk was To 5.Are fueled by results, excellence and positive Whom Much is Given, Much Will Be Required: It’s needed panel, specifically titled Economic Empowchange versus rhetoric, mediocrity, and maintaining Not All About Me. Drawing heavily from Dr. Martin erment: Money Comes, Money Grows, provided the status quo.

Luther King, Jr. and Dr. W.E. B. DuBois, Smith audience members with a fair amount of practical 6.Have real followers. maintained that the current generation of Blacks, and hands-on information about finances, business 7.Mentor the next generation of real leaders. especially those individuals who are the beneficiar- start-up and the importance of networking. Surpris8.Take care of their physical and mental health. ies of the Civil Rights Movement have a moral and ingly, attendance was not as robust as the previous 9.Have a big dream and are not afraid to pursue it. ethical responsibility to move the race forward.

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History of Black Columbus Conference Highlights Rev. Dr. James P. Poindexter and his legacy

By: Cory Farmer, M.A. Candidate n Saturday June 2, the African American and African Studies Community Extension Center at The Ohio State University held its 9th annual History of Black Columbus Conference. Each year the conference takes on a different theme; this year’s focus was Rev. Dr. James Preston Poindexter, Poindexter Village and the importance of Legacy Preservation. In light of PACT’s [a partnership between the city of Columbus, the Columbus Metropolitan Housing Authority and The Ohio State University] plans to redevelop the Near Eastside and in the process demolish Poindexter Village, community residents thought it appropriate to highlight the life, work and legacy of one of the area’s most important historical figures. Rev. Poindexter is not only, perhaps the most important Black figure in the history of Columbus, but one of the most important Blacks in Ohio history, yet few know of his exploits. Poindexter was the city’s first Black city council member and the first Black resident to vote. It is important that Columbus residents familiarize themselves with Poindexter so as to develop a greater appreciation, not only for the man, but his legacy, which includes the housing complex named in his honor.

The forum was not only a great opportunity to showcase Poindexter’s life, but to discuss the role that Poindexter Village played in the lives of area residents and the city generally. Dr. Derek Hyra, an Associate Professor of Urban Affairs and Planning at Virginia Tech, was the keynote speaker. He pointed out that America is experiencing a New Urban Renewal. He compared The Old Urban Renew and the New Urban Renewal arguing that the Old Urban Renewal was characterized by white decision makers moving Black residents out with the expressed purpose of ushering whites in. The New Urban Renewal is different in many ways, including, but not limited to the fact, that some of the decision makers are African American. Blacks are still being moved out, but in many cases higher income Blacks as well as whites are being ushered in. Simply put, race and class figure more prominently in the New Urban Renewal than in the Old Urban Renewal. As Dr. Hyra said, “still the common denominator is that in both cases, low income Blacks are getting screwed.”

The conference included such panels as: Rev. Dr. James P. Poindexter: A look at an extraordinary life; Poindexter Village and its History and Poindexter Village’s role in the Black and Larger Community. The final panel was comprised of several community organizers across races who presented an alternative plan to the one that involves tearing down the twenty seven acre Poindexter Village. The conference got underway at 9:00 am and ended at approximately 3:00 pm. During the lunch hour, attendees, of which they were approximately sixty; were treated to a steel drum ensemble by Eustace Bobb George as members of the audience ate, mingled and caught up with old friends. Reita Smith, a panelist and community historian said afterwards, “I thought the conference was wonderful.” Mike Jones, a community activist exclaimed, “As always the conference was informative . . . the history of Black Columbus Conference is a conference that is not to be missed.”

Over the years the History of Black Columbus Conference has evolved from a symposium where people gather to reminisce, catch up with old friends and learn a thing or two, to a colloquium where people discuss, debate and seek solutions to real world issues; issues that are occurring in real time. However, the opening speaker made clear the importance of study-

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ing history; especially that history which is in close proximity to each of us. He noted that oftentimes scholars and others study faraway people and places with which they have little connection. “They neglect the very people, places, things and events that are closest and germane to them.” In his closing remarks, Dr. Judson L. Jeffries astutely pointed out that “when one neglects to study the history of people, places, things and events, one is predisposed to make judgments and decisions that may not only adversely impact others, but hurt themselves in the process.”

(Top to Bottom) Top– Pictures of Rev. James P. Poindexter and his family Middle– Panelists Yolanda Robinson and William Richardson Bottom– The History of Black Columbus Conference Attendees (L-R) Valerick Watts, Sarah Twitty, Ronald Stevens, PhD, Reita Smith

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Honoring Gulf War Veterans Continued from Page 1 However, “the Gulf War was different for African Americans compared to previous conflicts; it represented the pinnacle of the new American military,” Valero continued.

“The fully integrated, all volunteer force dedicated to equal opportunity was impacted by African American leadership at all levels— strategical, operational and tactical. No war had more African American positions of leadership than the Gulf War.” The history of the Gulf War is well documented, but it is a history largely devoid of personal narratives, especially those that chronicle the African American experience, Valero reported. Valero recounted several stories about the leadership role African Americans played in the Gulf War. “The degree of African American leadership at all levels changed many attitudes and perceptions in American society, especially as Gulf War veterans returned home to re-enter civilian life,” Valero said. “This, in my humble opinion, has made possible the Dr. Robert Valero, Associate Professor of Security Studies at the University of election of the first African American president.”

Texas at El Paso, and Keynote Speaker for the event.

Valero ended his talk by stating that the enduring legacy of the African American soldier during the Gulf War is one of leadership.

The presentation was followed by a panel of six veterans.

From the U. S. Army were Michael A. Holmes, Melvin Jackson, Jr., Kevin J. Muhammad, and Philip Nowlin; from the U.S. Air Force was Danny Thomas; and from the U.S. Naval Reserve was Dr. Leon McDougle. These veterans spoke candidly about their experiences.

Samuel Gresham, Jr., formerly of the U.S. Marine Corps served as moderator for the panel. He asked probing questions such as why panelists entered the military. In response, Holmes replied that he saw it as a way of bettering himself. “It was also a way to give back to society, promote your family, and gain respect in a respectful occupation,” he said. “I got to see the world--it was an education within itself that allowed me to pursue a career path that was rewarding.”

Holmes encouraged some to consider the military, but was quick to say “it is not for everyone.” Muhammad chimed in, “The Buffalo Soldiers and Honoree David Earl Harrison military cannot change you, if you don’t want to be changed. The military is not for everyone--you must make it work for you. Some enter the military with the idea that the military is going to give them something. The military is not going to give you anything—anything you receive from the military, you have to earn it.”

When was the first time you had to deal with racism in the military was another question posed by Gresham. Muhammad said upon returning to the US from the Middle East, he attended an awards ceremony. He could not help but notice that “none of the Black marines were awarded a bronze or silver star—all the recipients were white. You fight for your country, and you can still see the injustice that goes on in this country. To make matters worse, 56 percent of the homeless veterans are African American.”

Surprisingly, McDougle said he did not experience much racism in the military because he was in the medical corp. McDougle served as the family physician member for Fleet Surgical Team Five in the U.S. Naval Reserve. “Being in the medical corps was a little different,” McDougle said. “When someone was shot, I had to put them back together. We became like a family.”

Following the question and answer session, there was a formal presentation of certificates to each honoree. Veterans were given certificates of appreciation from the CEC, the Mayor’s office, and the General Assembly of the State of Ohio. At the end of the program, all veterans were asked to stand and be recognized to which they were greeted with a spirited standing ovation. When attendees were asked what they thought of the event, some appeared moved and emotional by the experience.

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(left to right) Veteran Charles Lindsey, Honorees Phillip Nowlin and Kevin J. Muhummad, Samuel Gresham Jr., formerly of the U.S. Marine Corps and Moderator for the Sixth Annual Black Veterans Day Salute

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Honorees

Mary Rollins said she could not say enough about the event. “The event was fantastic; the program was well planned; the speaker was rich with information; and it gave me an opportunity to see old friends and to make new ones,” she said. Jamia Shepard said, “The Black Veterans Day Salute is very special and personal to all involved—the servicemen and women, their families, and the community. I am happy the event is presented by the OSU Community Extension Center, our ‘grassroots’ center, it shows that we care, acknowledge and respect our people.”

John Fulray, who also served in the Gulf War said, “Being a veteran myself, I felt a sense of honor and pride at the level of respect that is shown to veterans by the Black Veterans Salute. For a group that sometimes may not get the recognition they deserve, this event means a great deal to the veterans and their families.”

“The event captured memories and stories that would otherwise be lost with the passage of time,” said City Attorney Rick C. Pfeiffer. “Knowing history is so important in understanding present situations. For the veterans and families who were recognized, it meant a public appreciation for their service and sacrifice.”

Next year’s Black Veterans Day Salute promises to be even more spectacular. Nominations of honorees are solicited annually by the Community Extension Center’s staff and former members of the military. They are Olas Dunson, U.S. Air Force, VFW and American Legion; James A. Johnson, U.S. Army, U.S. Air Force, Tuskegee Airman, VFW; Charles Lindsay, Retired, U.S. Army Reserve, American Legion; Kimberly Sanders, Graduate Associate, CEC; and Sarah Twitty, Senior Program Coordinator, CEC.

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James Madison, 100 Years Young By: Willis Brown, M.A. n the autumn 2011 issue of The Bronzevillian, readers were introduced to Mr. James Madison, an OSU alum and Bronzeville’s last remaining cabinet member. A graduate of East High School, Madison had the honor of running track with Jesse Owens at The Ohio State University, graduating from OSU in 1934. Shortly thereafter, Mr. Madison assumed a high level position in Mayor Rev. N.L. Scarborough’s seven member cabinet, as head of the department of recreation. Other cabinet positions included president, Dept. of Public Welfare, Dept. of Finance, Dept. of Public Relations, Dept. of Legal Affairs, and Dept. of Better Business Relations.

As a member of this all-black cabinet from 1935-1940, Mr. Madison played an integral role in the affairs of Bronzeville, the historic Black neighborhood of 70,000 residents between the boundaries of Woodland Avenue to the East, Cleveland Avenue to the West, Broad Street to the South and the railroad tracks to the North.

On December 10, 2011, Mr. Madison celebrated his 100th birthday with nearly as many friends, family members and acquaintances. I, along with three other colleagues, made the seven hour drive to the sleepy town in which Mr. Madison resides. In April, I had promised Mr. Madison that I would return for his historic birthday, and it was a promise that I intended to keep.

Guests flew in from across the country, including Mr. Madison’s daughter, a doctor who resides in Las Vegas, Nevada. The atmosphere was both festive and reflective. Mr. Madison’s bash was intended to be a surprise, hence only the guests and those charged with pulling off the event were in the know about the occasion leading up to the big day. Anticipation filled the air as guests filed in one by one. When Mr. Madison was finally escorted into the room; those who were sitting rose, while those who were standing moved closer to get a glimpse of the guest of honor. I was nearly blinded by all the cameras going off. It appeared that everyone in the room was snapping photos of Mr. Madison as he made his way to the front of the room. Members of Kappa Alpha Psi, Mr. Madison’s fraternity, kicked off the event by serenading him. A number of friends and relatives told of their special relationship with Mr. Madison. One family member presented Mr. Madison with a scarlet and gray leather OSU jacket. Others gave cards and other gifts. I spoke of the research project in which I am engaged and how instrumental Mr. Madison is to that endeavor. When the formalities were over an extravagant birthday cake awaited everyone.

As the evening was coming to an end, Mr. Madison motioned for me and my colleagues to sit at his table. We talked as we ate dessert. He seemed happy that we made the trip. When I asked him if he was surprised to see us he replied, “I knew you were coming, I kept the faith.” Over the course of an hour, Mr. Madison entertained our questions about Bronzeville, Jesse Owens and his experience at The Ohio State University. As in the previous three visits, I learned a lot. Before we departed, I promised Mr. Madison that I would do my best to preserve the history of Bronzeville and in the process, share it with as many people and audiences as possible; and that is yet another promise I intend to keep.

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Top: Dana Moessner, Near Eastside Commissioner, helps Mr. Madison celebrate his 100th Birthday. Middle: Mr. Madison looks on as guests take photos. Bottom: Mr. Madison and daughter share a laugh.

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Summer Residential Camp The Underground Railroad: A Road to Freedom

Kerion Sanders and Alexis Franklin pose while making patched quilted pillows.

Members of the African Parish House Quilt Makers

living history presentations and community-based arts and writing projects, enabled students to con“Regaining our strength and demanding our free- ceptualize the intricacies and complexities of the dom was all it took to let our liberation set sail…” Underground Railroad network as well as how -Jaelani Turner-Williamsenslaved Africans were able to survive and perse12th grade student vere, despite insurmountable odds.

It should be noted that the “Underground Railroad” is metaphorical as it refers to the way in By: Tanisha Jackson, PhD which the network operated as a railway. For exThe quote above is taken from a rising ample, people who helped fugitive slaves move senior, Jaelani Turner-Williams. In her poem from one location to the next were referred to as Cinque, she describes the irony of how slave conductors. Individuals who helped fugitives find ships named “Friendship” transported Africans the railroad were agents, the homes and busifrom the coast of the continent to parts of the Car- nesses where fugitives would rest and eat were ibbean, North America and South America. Stu- called stations and depots; stationmasters operatdents participating in this year’s summer enriched them. Finally, those who contributed money ment camp explored the process of enslaving and goods were referred as stockholders. The Africans on the continent of Africa, through the coded language used among participants in the Middle Passage as well as on the shores of the Underground Railroad exemplifies the measures Americas. Their studies focused on deliberate acts by which, free Blacks, White abolitionists, religious of resistance and resilience that manifested into leaders, former slaves (escaped and manumitted) what is known as The Underground Railroad. and Native Americans, took to secure this covert Specifically, the theme of this year’s form of resistance. Students’ discovery of secret summer enrichment camp was, “The Underground routes as well as their visit to safe houses such as Railroad: A Road to Freedom” and it provided the Kelton House in central Ohio and the Rankin students with new interpretations of the African and Parker houses in Cincinnati allowed for new and African American experience within the con- narratives about the “Black” experience in America text of day-to-day resistance, preservation of Afri- to take shape. Conversations about agency also can culture and the development and growth of led way to students understanding the important Black communities. The exploration of historical role that culture and community played in developnarratives, and local Underground Railroad sites, ing the overall Underground Railroad system.

Interestingly, many whites and Blacks were familiar with local efforts to aid fugitives, but unaware of the vast network that operated throughout the country. In fact, it was participants’ limited knowledge that kept the overall network from being compromised. The common misconception is that a single organization or person conducted The Underground Railroad. There are many heroes and heroines whose names are not commonly acknowledged by those who chronicle history, but whose work with the Underground Railroad proved immeasurable.

Perhaps the program’s most unique component is the opportunity to take relevant field trips. Students visited historical sites that illustrated the various ways in which fugitive slaves were kept safe from slave catchers. The Compromise of 1850 and the Fugitive Slave law made it mandatory for the return of fugitive slaves [even in free territories] and illegal for free citizens to harbor fugitives. Escaping to the North did not guarantee one’s safety. For many runaways, the goal was to make it to Canada. Safe houses were secure locations where runaways were hid from authorities until they were able to move to the next location.

The Kelton House, located on East Town Street, in Columbus, Ohio was one such safe house.

When I asked students to describe their visit to the Kelton House many were amazed that such a Continued on page 14

14 the Bronzevillian Autumn 2012 house existed. Da’Jour Cooper (10th grade) explains, “From my visit, I’ve learned about the different roles that people played in the Underground Railroad. I now have a more in-depth understanding of safe houses and how runaway slaves were hidden from the public.” When asked about any previous knowledge of the Kelton House, he confides that, “I didn’t know this place existed. I bet people pass the Kelton House everyday without knowing how important it is. This is not good. People should visit these historical sites.”

Students also investigated the Underground Railroad from a regional perspective when we traveled to Cincinnati and Ripley, Ohio to visit the Freedom Center, John Parker’s House and John Rankin’s House.

John Parker, an escaped slave turned abolitionist, inventor and Underground Railroad conductor, aided fugitive slaves who dared cross the Ohio river from the banks of Kentucky. Standing so close to the riverbank, we saw everyday pedestrians boating, fishing, and leisurely enjoying the noonday sun. But unlike them, we were there for a purpose; to contextualize the course materials and discussions which took place at the OSU Community Extension Center and specifically the autobiography, which read, His Promised Land: The Autobiography of John Parker, Former Slave and Conductor of the Underground Railroad (1998). While in Ripley, we had the privilege of touring Parker’s home as well as the home of known abolitionist, Presbyterian pastor and conductor, John Rankin, who played an integral role in assisting runaways in his community. Accordingly, 11th grade student Robert Ray, believes that, “these sites taught me a lot about resistance and the great lengths that Blacks and Whites took to aid others in escaping such a terrible experience (slavery).”

Our visit to the National Underground Railroad Freedom Center in Cincinnati, Ohio gave students an even deeper understanding of the Underground Railroad. “I’ve never heard about the Middle Passage in that way at my school or anywhere else,” said Ray. The Freedom Center is a site that approaches the topic of the Underground Railroad in such a way. Visitors are introduced to animated videos, and narrated videos (by Oprah Winfrey), interactive exhibits and living history presenters that collectively work to engage patrons in the most authentic characteristics of the Underground Railroad. Civil War artifacts, photographs, and Raganon artworks from the renowned Aminah Brenda Lynn Robinson are just a few of many things that visitors encounter when they visit this museum; and it introduced to the students and myself an element of the Underground Railroad that few people discuss; the important role creativity played in the quest for freedom.

As an art educator, much of my teaching centers on visual culture, material culture and community-based arts. It is for this reason that I integrated a quilt-making workshop in the curriculum. One might ask, “What does quilting have to do with the Underground Railroad? And if you ask Deborah Pinckney, one of the founders of The African Parish House Quilters (meetings take place at the Hebron Baptist Church at 189 N. 20th St, Columbus, Ohio), she explicates this relationship clearly. “Quilting played a significant role in our history as African Americans in this country but also there is significance in how it ties us culturally to the African continent,” she states.

Students worked with members of the African Parish House Top: Summer Residential camp counselor Cory Farmer and camper Robert Quilters to learn both the stitching techniques of quilting as well as the Ray work on assignments. Middle: RagGonNon quilt by Aminah Brenda symbols that enslaved Blacks imbedded in quilts in an effort to steer runaLynn Robinson on display at the National Underground Railroad Freedom Center, Cincinnati, OH. Bottom: Campers Seneca Head and Jaelani Turner– ways toward Underground Railroad stations.

Williams.

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Celebrating the Life and Legacy of Marcus Garvey By: Kimberly Sanders, M.A. Candidate

“The thing to do is to get organized. Keep separated and you will be exploited; you will be robbed; you will be killed. Get organized and you will compel the world to respect you.”

- Marcus Mosiah Garvey Jr.-

dream of African unity die. Ture exclaimed “If we truly love Marcus Garvey, we will do as he did and join or help build an organization that is working to uplift African people worldwide!”

Mansoor Inraam, the emcee for the event, ended the program as powerfully as it began by reminding those in attendance of Garvey’s oftenquoted words, “A people without the knowledge of their past history, origin and culture is like a tree without roots.”

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his quote by the legendary Marcus Mosiah Garvey, Jr. was the central theme of the Sixth Annual Marcus Garvey Celebration.

Garvey is remembered for his unwavering commitment to the uplift of black communities all over the world.

Co-sponsored by the African American and African Studies Community Extension Center (CEC), nearly seventy people gathered at the CEC on Saturday, August 25, 2012 to pay homage to one of the world’s most influential figures of the 20th century. The event attracted a wide range of people, many of whom donned African garb of varying shades and styles.

The room was a spectrum of bright and vibrant colors, the mood was festive and the air was filed with the aroma of various delicacies.

Marcus Garvey was a Jamaican-born publisher, journalist, entrepreneur, and orator as well as a leading proponent of the Black Nationalist and Pan-Africanist movements. Garvey is best known for founding the Universal Negro Improvement Association and African Communities League commonly known as the Universal Negro Improvement Association. Garvey’s unique Pan-African philosophy inspired a global mass movement that called for economic empowerment and a focus on Africa, known as the Back -to-Africa Movement, or simply Garveyism. “Garvey & Garveyism,” a book written by his wife Amy Jacques Garvey, is a must read for anyone interested in Garvey’s politics. The Garvey Movement is widely considered the world’s largest Black mass movement, attracting millions of members worldwide.

In keeping with Garvey’s grassroots philosophy, several community organizations joined forces to bring the Garvey celebration to fruition. Cosponsors included were the All-African People’s Revolutionary Party (AAPRP), African Roots and Heritage Foundation, and the Tawi Family Village. The afternoon kicked off celebration with a drum call by master drummer Tony West, which was immediately followed by the pouring of libations by members of Tawi Family Village. Truth Serum and Sister Freedom, two local poets, recited their creative works, and two youth, Lovie Bailey and Prophet Averette, offered their reflections on Garvey’s legacy. Vendors lined the walls of the multi-purpose room where they were able to showcase their wares—from books to clothing to African artifacts of varying kind.

Maintaining the theme of community organization, representatives of the Sixth Regional Diaspora Caucus, African History in America Collective, the AAPRP, African Roots & Heritage Foundation, and Tawi Family Village each briefly presented information about their respective organizations. Shabaka Ture a member of AAPRP and longtime area activist recited some of his poetry and implored those in attendance not to let Garvey’s

Attendees of the Sixth Annual Marcus Garvey Celebration

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· Kudos to the Brothers, ‘cuz’ too many Sisters don't care

On Mount Vernon Autumn 2010

By: Shayla Montgomery n an age where one is hard-pressed to find a television show, rap CD or music video where Black men are not complicit in Black female sexploitation, it is refreshing to hear of men who are standing up in defense of Black women. Two weeks ago, five Black men and one White, no less, convened to talk about a raunchy flyer that featured sexually explicit photos of young Black women and language that would make some of the hardest rappers wince. The flyer advertised a strip show at the King Arts Complex; that’s right the Martin Luther King Performing and Cultural Arts Complex; Columbus’ crown jewel for arts and entertainment — a place where impressionable young Black girls and their mothers often frequent. Following the event, King Arts Complex officials hurried to send out an email disavowing the event, claiming instead, that a local Mason group was responsible for the event and the marketing that accompanied it. Allegedly, a local Mason group used the King Arts Complex’s moniker without authorization. A group of mainly Black men found the flyer so degrading that they felt compelled to take action. After talking to a number of current and former board members as well as people closely associated with the King Arts Complex, the group unanimously decided to send a letter to every member of the board calling for the resignation of the Board chair and the Executive Director (who, interestingly, happens to be a Black woman) of the King Arts Complex. The group consists of an elected official, a CEO, two well known and longtime community activists, a college professor and a civic association president. Their ages range from early forties to early sixties.

When I asked one of the men why he deemed it necessary to move so aggressively he commented, “Far too often we as Black people are to willing to give people a pass, because they look like us; those days are over.” Another member of the group said, “What would it say about us, as Black men, longtime activists and leaders in this community, if we kept quiet and did nothing.”

When this same gentleman was asked why he and other members of the group didn’t seek to meet with the parties before sending a letter that called for the resignations of both Executive Director Demetries Neely and Board chair Mark Corna, he shot back, “For what? There was no need to talk… the King Arts Complex is in need of strong leadership and this is yet another example of that.”

These men should be applauded. One wonders why there has been little outrage from Black women; after all, they are the objects of this juvenile sexual objectification. They are the mothers of these women, the daughters of these women, the sisters of these women, the grandmothers of these women, and the friends of these women. Sadly, some women, upon being informed of that evening’s shenanigans, expressed disappointment, but were seemingly not moved to make any inquiries of any kind. “That’s terrible” is what one co–worker said before returning to her computer. “This doesn't make any sense,” said another Black female acquaintance and then handed the flyer back to me. A number of my female friends expressed outrage after opening the attachment that I sent, yet none so much as lifted a finger to call the King Arts Complex or to fire off an email or letter expressing their disgust.

For all those Black women who complain about unreliable Black men, there seems to be a group of Black men in town who are not only reliable, but who consider themselves their sister’s keeper. Is there anything sexier than that? I think not.

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Shayla Montgomery is a native of Columbus and a member of Sisters in the Struggle Incorporated

Commentary

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Putting Rodney King in Context

On Mount Vernon · Autumn 2010

By: Judson L. Jeffries, PhD wenty years ago, the city of Los Angeles burned for several days in response to the acquittal of four LAPD officers who participated in the brutal beating of Rodney Glen King. There is a long ignominious history of strained relations between Blacks and the police. For years, the police have shot, killed and manhandled Blacks with impunity. For generations, the formal, officially approved role of the police, both in the Southern “slave” and often in the Northern “free” states, was that of oppressor keeping slaves in their place, capturing and returning runaways to their owners and, later, enforcing Jim Crow segregation laws. In fact, the early role of many Southern police in the “slave patrols” formally included inflicting corporal punishment on offenders (runaways or disobedient slaves) without prior judicial process.

Relations between police and Blacks have changed little over the ensuing years. For example, between 1920 and 1932, police officers were responsible for more than half of all murders of Black citizens in the South.

Police officers were also responsible for sixty eight percent of Blacks killed in other parts of the U.S. By the 1960s, police murder of Blacks showed no sign of abating as fifty one percent of the people killed by police were Black de-

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It put police brutality on the front burner of American politics after a long hiatus; No longer could people [mainly whites] deny or feign ignorance that some police officers [yes, America’s supposed impartial guardians of the law] were capable of engaging in this type of criminal behavior; Opened the door to a higher level of police accountability; as prior to that time police officers were rarely, if ever convicted for excessive force and; Resulted in police reforms in departments throughout the country.

King did more to put a spotlight on police community relations and hasten changes in an agency that was entrenched in racism than any single event or development in recent memory. Yes, he was a small time criminal who had his share of run-ins with the police. When his lawsuit garnered more than three million dollars in damages, things appeared to be looking up, but in an interview, he admitted to blowing the money. In many ways, “his life was a mess” says a professor and colleague of mine, who at one point attempted to mentor King. However, the one thing that King did not do was shy away from seeing his case through, unlike a certain ivy league professor, who rather than pursue a legal course of action after an abrasive encounter with a police officer, chose instead to accept President Barack Obama’s invitation to join him and the officer in question at the White House for a beer summit. If that wasn’t enough, the professor later proclaimed that through his genealogical project he discovered that he and the white police officer may indeed be distant relatives.

Unlike the professor, King was not a widely known academic, did not have a doctorate from the University of Cambridge, did not often mingle with the rich and famous and was not a regular on PBS, at least not for the right reasons. With those credentials [not to mention the fact that the professor is small in stature and as non-threatening a Black man one will ever find] spite the fact that Blacks comprised just ten percent of the U.S. population. By the professor seemed a perfect person around which to rally a mass movethe 1970s Blacks were seven times more likely to be killed by the police than ment on the issue of extra-legal force against Blacks, especially Black men. whites; and in the 1980s, Blacks were nine times more likely than whites to be He chose not to. The fact that the professor is a scholar of African American studies, a discipline born out of struggle, is indeed ironic. killed by police officers.

Say what you will about Rodney King, but his actions helped The frequency with which police officers shot and killed Blacks was so great that many Blacks thought it futile to attempt to register a grievance. In raise the profile on an issue to which white America had long turned a blind those instances when Blacks bothered to lodge a complaint, it was their word eye. By seeing his case through, he displayed a level of testicular fortitude that the professor was either unwilling or incapable of mustering; and it is in against the police. If there were eye witnesses, their version was often disthat context King should be remembered. missed either by the police, the district attorney or the judge, provided the matter got that far.

The beating of Rodney King, however, was unique in that for the first time a beating of this magnitude was captured on video, thus raising false hopes. “Finally we have them doing on tape what we’ve known for years . . . we got them now” said my sixty-two-year-old father. There is no way the police are getting off, I thought. But they did, at least initially. It is well documented that upon seeing the video of the beating President Bush said “it sickened me.” The ensuing verdict prompted the President to direct Attorney General Janet Reno to launch a federal investigation, out of which resulted a trial whereupon three of the four officers involved were convicted and sentenced to jail.

Say what you will about Rodney King, but his willingness to go through with his case accomplished several things:

Commentary

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· We are all witnesses: The Saga that is LeBron James

On Mount Vernon Autumn 2010

By: Judson L. Jeffries, PhD o athlete in the past fifty years, save Muhammad Ali, has been subjected to the level of vitriol that has smothered LeBron James over the past two years. Ali was a highly confident pugilist who backed up his braggadocio ways with jaw-dropping ring performances. He drew the ire of white Americans not only because of his mouth, but because he converted to Islam and refused to be drafted into the U.S. military during the war in Vietnam.

The result: he was vilified by both the American media and many in the white community. He was stripped of his title and banned from boxing for three years.

Ali would regain the title eventually, but not before he encountered a speed bump in the form of Joe Frazier. After speaking to several people who lived through the Ali era, none of them believed that Ali was subjected to the kind of ridicule and venom that James has experienced for nearly two years.

During James’ eight year tenure as a member of the Cleveland Cavaliers, he took the Cavaliers to the NBA finals once where they were swept by the San Antonio Spurs and twice to the Eastern Conference Finals. No player has made a more successful jump from high school to the pros than James; that includes Kobe Bryant, and the numbers support that. Sure, Kobe won a championship in his fourth year, but he did it with a star-studded roster that included Shaquille O’Neal. Conversely, none of the teams on which James played ever included an elite player. Still, in his last season with the Cavs, the team finished with an impressive 66-16 record, but the Cavs faltered against the Boston Celtics in the playoffs, due in large part to James’ erratic play.

Despite the team’s success, most students of the game understood that the Cavaliers, given their personnel, were not likely to win an NBA title.

James understood this, therefore when he became a free agent he elected to take his talents to South Beach. Before “The Decision” James’ popularity was at an all-time high. According to Q Sports, a company that scores likability ratings for sports figures revealed that James’ likability surpassed Peyton Manning’s.

James was as close to a sports deity as one could be. By 2012, James’ popularity had plummeted, as 39% of the general public reported disliking him.

Cleveland fans criticized him for “The Decision.” Some burned his jersey in the streets of Cleveland, while others called him names that do not bear repeating. Most shocking was the behavior and verbal jabs on the part of Dan Gilbert, the Cavalier’s owner. He behaved like a scorned lover, the kind who says things that are intended to hurt, yet at the same time sound silly. For example, Gilbert comically guaranteed his fans that the Cavs would win an NBA championship before the Miami Heat would, a team that also included two of the NBA’s best players in Dwayne Wade and Chris Bosh.

The Rev. Jesse Jackson likened Gilbert to a slave owner who felt betrayed, because in Gilbert’s mind, he had treated James well. He had let James sleep in the big house so to speak, paid him well and treated him well, yet James wanted to leave. Although Gilbert didn’t say it, his behavior suggested that James was an ingrate for leaving. “After all, I’ve done for you . . . I’ve made you what you are you . . . you would be nothing without me” is something one might imagine Gilbert thinking or mumbling under his breath. Many in the media chastised Jackson for injecting race into the discussion. Jackson was offbase many declared; or was he?

James had fulfilled his contractual obligation and even signed an extension at one point. After his contract expired, he exercised his right to sign with another team, a right that availed itself via sacrifices made by Curt Flood, the all-star outfielder for the St. Louis Cardinals whose 1970s court case [which made it all the way to the U.S. Supreme Court] challenged Major League Baseball’s reserve clause and led to the advent of free agency in professional sports. Flood had argued that professional athletes were akin to slaves in that they had no control over their careers as ball players. If an owner wanted to trade a player, he could; if an owner wanted to hold onto a player for eternity he could, regardless as to what the player wanted. When Howard Cosell scoffed at Flood’s argument by saying that no slave ever made $90,000 a year, Flood quickly pointed out that “a well-paid slave was still a slave.”

Unlike the antebellum south where a slave master could, by law, prevent, not only, his slaves to leave the plantation, but, if necessary, use force to preclude said exodus, modern day laws did not permit Gilbert to do what he perhaps wanted to do. However, what he did do was utilize the media to go after James, hoping to sully James’ name, ruin his reputation and mold public opinion about him with the intent to adversely impact his status and perhaps his brand.

When James and the Heat fell to the Dallas Mavericks last year, basketball fans and non-fans alike inexplicably rejoiced. The ridicule of James intensified over time. Former greats like Magic Johnson got in on the act as did several television personalities and others. Mo Williams, James’ former teammate with the Cavs even tweeted, “Dallas just healed my heart.” Like a scorned lover, unable to let go, Gilbert also reveled in James’s failure; not the Heat’s failure to win I might add, but James’ failure.

There were those who questioned James’ heart. Some said he didn’t have Kobe’s killer instinct, while others claimed he lacked the intensity of a champion. As Kevin Arnovitz of espn.com reported, “listening to someone count off the deepest character flaws of a total stranger doesn’t advance any kind of discussion.” Several former players and NBA executives maintained that a real champion would have remained in Cleveland and tried to win a championship there rather than go ride the coattails of another superstar. Interestingly, no one questioned Kevin Garnett’s resolve when he elected to join Paul Pierce and Ray Allen in Boston several years ago, a partnership that paid immediate dividends by way of an NBA championship. James’ situation was somehow different in people’s minds. The general manager of the Orlando Magic opined, “I thought LeBron was more of a competitor than that.” Others argued that Magic, Jordan and Bird never considered joining forces. Jordan himself claimed that he would have never considered teaming up with another superstar.

Perhaps not, but the point is moot, as neither; Bird, Jordan or Magic were ever free agents during their careers.

After last year’s lost to the Dallas Mavericks, James could have wilted, but like Ali, he picked himself up off the canvas and turned in one of the greatest athletic performances in recent memory. In one game against Indiana, we witnessed James score 40 points, grab 18 boards and dish out nine assists. Against Boston, he scored no less than 29 points in each game, but his most impressive performance was a 45 point, fifteen rebound, five assist game that spelled the end for the Celtics. He averaged 30 points, nine rebounds, five assists and a fifty percent field goal percentage during the entire

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We are all witnesses cont.

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On Mount Vernon · Autumn 2010

playoffs. The end result: his first NBA championship, registering a triple double in the fifth and final game of the NBA finals.

In this year’s playoffs, we witnessed James exorcise whatever demons kept him from actualizing his potential in the fourth quarter of games that mattered most. Last year, he scored two points or less in the fourth quarter of four straight games in the NBA finals.

When called out by analysts, James admitted his ineptitude. He did not deflect blame to others. Appearing reflective in a recent interview, James acknowledged that he was immature and perhaps not ready for the moment. Some attributed James’ growth to recent meditation techniques he uses to get psychologically ready for a game. Others say that reading has served to calm James; to relieve the anxiety that accompanies pressure packed games. His reading list includes The Hunger Games Trilogy, Decoded, The Pact, The Fighter’s Mind, Shogun, The Post-American World, West by West and The Tipping Point to name a few. James has revealed that “reading has given me an opportunity to, just for those couple hours of the day or those twenty minutes . . . 25 minutes before the game, an opportunity just to read and think about something else and get a sense of what else is going on besides the game of basketball. It’s made me comfortable. I’m not saying it’s the trick. It’s just something that I decided to do at the beginning of the post season, and it’s worked for me.”

Winning an NBA championship may do little to change some people’s opinion of James, especially some who live in Cleveland. Some are already picking at James’ accomplishment. Minutes after the Heat’s win, some analysts commented on James’ long journey to the mountaintop. What long journey?

Many of the NBA’s greatest players never won a championship. Shaq, Jordan, Drexler and Olajuwon did not win an NBA championship until their eighth, sixth, twelfth and eleventh year respectively and neither Shaq nor Jordan were as young as James at the time.

Some may never forgive James for leaving Cleveland, not that he needs to be forgiven for something that athletes do all the time. James’ growth over the past twelve months has seemingly, not only made him a better person, but a better basketball player as is evidenced by his finals performance. At the end of the day, James is an NBA champ and a finals MVP; and like it or not, we are all witnesses.

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Enemies of the State An Evening with Members of the Black Panther Party By: Alecia Shipe mong scholars, 1960s activists have, over the years, been the subject of many books, journal articles and the like; but relatively few people have ever had the opportunity to see them in person, meet them, or talk to them about their experiences; not to mention discuss the state of activism in the new millennium. Over the next several years, the African American and African Studies Community Extension Center will offer an intimate setting in which members of the OSU community as well as the larger Columbus community will have the opportunity to interact with some of the country’s most notorious activists, people to whom society owes a debt of gratitude as they were men and women who dedicated themselves to making America better. Some of these activists have paid a hefty price for their radicalism. Some have had their lives changed forever, others never saw the realization of their ideals, and still others have been forgotten altogether.

On Wednesday, September 28, 2011, the AAAS Community Extension Center hosted its second installment of “Enemies of the State: An Evening with America’s Most Notorious Radicals.” Black Panthers Aaron Dixon and Leon Valentine Hobbs, members of the Seattle chapter of the BPP

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Members of Seattle’s Black Panther Party stood in formation at a memorial service for one of their members (17 year old Welton Butch Armstead). The speaker, center rear, was Aaron Dixon, leader of the party.

Seattle Times October 13, 1968

were the guest speakers. Dixon and Hobbs spoke passionately about their lives as members of The Black Panther Party. Hobbs said “The most exciting time of my life was when I was serving the people as a member of the party.”

The Seattle chapter boasted as many if not more community survival programs than any other Black Panther branch or chapter in the country. “Being a member of the Black Panther Party required a fulltime commitment” exclaimed Dixon.

The Black Panther Party was arguably the most effective Black revolutionary organization of the latter half of Twentieth century America. Founded in the fall of 1966 by Huey P. Newton and Bobby G. Seale, the organization was dedicated to improving the lives of poor people everywhere. While Oakland, California was the party’s birthplace, by the late 1960s the organization mushroomed into a national organization with branches and chapters spread throughout the United States.

Dixon, a native of Seattle and founder of the chapter there and Hobbs, a native New Yorker, who found himself in Seattle after a stint in the U.S. Military are two of the Black Panther Party’s most accomplished, yet least known members by lay persons and scholars alike.

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Police attempt to arrest Leon Valentine Hobbs

Leon Valentine Hobbs co-founded the Sydney Miller Free Medical Clinic, where he helped develop its sickle cell anemia testing program. Both Hobbs and Dixon participated in community patrols of the police in Seattle, Washington.

Hobbs also served as bodyguard first for Bobby Seale and later for Huey Newton. Aaron Dixon, co-founder and former Captain of the Seattle chapter, led the chapter through its first four years, then moved to national headquarters in Oakland in 1972. While in Oakland, both Hobbs and Dixon worked feverishly on Seale’s campaign for mayor and Elaine Brown’s campaign for city council. While both Seale and Brown lost, the Party registered record numbers of new voters, politically reinvigorated a previously disengaged community and sent a strong message to the establishment- that Black votes would no longer be taken for granted.

Leon Valentine Hobbs

Aaron Dixon

The crowd was captivated as Hobbs and Dixon talked about what it was like being a member of the Black Panther Party. Afterwards, one student from OSU– Newark stated, “their stories were very emotional, the entire evening was moving.”

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Summer Residential Camp cont.

Continued from page 14 Students enjoyed making their own patch quilt pillows and learning about secret symbols such as: The North Star, Wagon Wheel, Nine Patch and bear’s paw.

“I loved working with the quilters, they were sweet and I learned so much about quilting that I never knew. I learned about secret codes and different stitch patterns that helped Blacks escape slavery and go through the Underground Railroad”, stated, Sydney Matthews (12th grade). Like Sydney, Jaelani TurnerWilliams shared similar sentiments, “It was very meaningful, learning what the quilts symbolized and the different messages that were incorporated in the fabric. It’s important to know about the different means by which Blacks were engaged in pursuing freedom.”

Everyone should know about the history of quilting in America and how the strategic making and hanging of this material culture helped influence the political economy of United States, when the property of slaveholders acted as agents of change to sequester personal freedom as well as the freedom of others. When I asked Mrs. Pinckney, “What is the significance of passing down the technique of quilting as well as the knowledge of Underground Railroad symbols to a younger generation?” she responded, “the students developed a skill that they are less likely to learn because public education has removed home economics from the curriculum.” She went on to say, “I observed a lot of young men in the workshop that were meticulous with their piecing and stitching. A lot of individuals are of the opinion that quilting is something that only women do but, that is not the case. Some of our better known quilters in this country today are men.” The quilting workshop operated on multiple levels. Beyond the original goal of teaching students about the use of quilts on The Underground Railroad, much more was accomplished. A merging of communities, generations and an indirect challenge of gender notions as it relates to activities, occurred at this year’s community-based arts project. Furthermore, I agree with Mrs. Pinckney’s statement that, “this quilt making experience provides a greater understanding of how creativity played a significant role in the survival of our ancestors…It’s pretty creative how they took symbols, incorporated them in quilts and displayed them in plain view where even the oppressors of the enslaved could see the codes but they didn’t understand what they were.”

Literacy and the development of narratives was a major theme in the summer camp. I asked students to reflect on the significance of literacy in the quest for freedom. Students were required to write historical fictive narratives that gave a voice to participants in The Underground Railroad. Although there are many stories that we will never have the privilege to know, it is my contention that we can use historical facts to compose creative and authentic narratives that honor the voiceless. “The ability to read both symbols and words is a skill that can be used to gain insight on the world”, explains Jaelani. It is also empowering and enlightening to develop our own counter-narratives. This is the overall goal of Black Studies, to reclaim and recover the history of people of African descent that has otherwise been compromised. College bound student Lawanda Whitaker-Ross stated, “This program helped me to see my culture and heritage from a perspective that is not shown on a daily basis best expresses the consequence of this endeavor. The program definitely opened my eyes and changed my personal perspective of my people.”

As an educator, I consider it a privilege to be part of an experience in which collectivity, creativity and the opportunity to share knowledge is centered on celebrating the Black people’s resolve.

Leadership Saturdays cont.

Continued from page 8 workshop. Given the topic’s importance, the country’s sluggish economy and the circumstances under which many African Americans live one might have expected a full house. Still, comments made by members of the audience suggest that much was taken away from that symposium; and that the viewpoints shared by the presenters were greatly appreciated.

The third and final workshop of the academic year, which occurred on April 28, 2012, addressed the topic Black Leadership in a Time of Moral and Economic Crisis. Dr. Floyd W. Hayes III, a professor at Johns Hopkins University who teaches in the Department of Political Science and the Center for Africana Studies brought his lively oratory skills to the symposium as the keynote speaker. In addition to being a professor, Hayes has a reputation as a longtime scholar-activist dating back to his days as a graduate student at UCLA when he served as the president of the Black Student Union in the late 1960s. Hayes argued that one of the stiffest challenges to leadership is the level of nihilism that one encounters among those most in need of leadership. From Hayes’ point of view there is a population of Americans who have given up hope that America is capable of living up to its ideals as expressed in the Declaration of Independence, Bill of Rights and U.S. Constitution. In this regard, Hayes’ presentation fits squarely within the work of Richard Wright, Soren Kierkegaard and Friedrich Nietzsche. The keynote speaker was followed by a panel that consisted of myself, Jerry Saunders, John B. Williams and Allen Huff. Each panelist was asked to address the following questions: What does morally and ethically sound leadership mean to you? What does it look like? and Why is it important?

Opinions ran the gamut, but all agreed that there is a little leader in everyone; that it is important that we not wait on the proverbial messiah. “If you know there is work to be done, then roll up your sleeves and do the work.” Many of the most significant movements in world history were led by ordinary people who took it upon themselves to do extraordinary things.

What is exciting about Leadership Saturday is its sense of urgency. These colloquia are rare gatherings where some of the most seasoned and brilliant minds convene to share their expertise about global and local concerns with those who are poised to accept the leadership mantel. The Alumni Association strongly encourages people of African descent to work collaboratively across ideological, racial, socioeconomic, and generational lines in order to improve Black people’s lives, not only in Columbus, but wherever they may be in the state, country and indeed the world.

I hope that those who attended our colloquia left empowered, reflective and ready to take on some of the challenges that most tend to shy away from. I trust that all leaders and/or aspiring leaders, no matter their age and station in life will continue to find future lectures/workshops useful, enlightening and thought provoking.

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In Memoriam

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Announcing A New Academic Journal on Black Men

https://aaas.osu.edu/publications/spectrum Co– Editors Judson L. Jeffries, PhD Department of African American and African Studies Terrell Strayhorn, PhD College of Education

Spectrum: A Journal on Black Men is a multidisciplinary research journal whose articles focus on issues related to aspects of Black men’s experiences, including such topics as gender, masculinities, and race/ethnicity. Spectrum examines the social, political, economic, and historical factors that influence the life chances and experiences of Africandescended males using disciplinary and interdisciplinary theoretical perspectives, empirical methods, theoretical analysis, and literary criticism. It is a space where advocacy and imagination meet in order to reveal a global, complex Black manhood from the dawning of modernity through the present time. Spectrum is published semiannually.