(Powered by Eurtopia) ONSLOW COUNTY BLACK HISTORY FESTIVAL SAT. FEB 12, 2022
COUNTY OF ONSLOW PROCLAMATION
CITY OF JACKSONVILLE PROCLAMATION
ONSLOW COUNTY BLACK HISTORY FESTIVAL
Thank you to our awesome planners that assisted in making this event a huge success. *M. Kenyatta Euring Sr. *Dennis Biancuzzo *Don Cohen *Latoya Scott *Joie R Cook *Gloria Goodwin *Takenya LaBriado
PLANNERS
M. Kenyatta Euring Sr. was born and raised in Chicago, ONSLOW COUNTY Illinois, where heBLACK enlisted HISTORY in the U.S. Marine Corps in 1994. FESTIVAL In 2001, he received his Bachelor of Science degree in Math and Science Education from North Carolina State University and was commissioned as an officer in the Marine Corps. During his tenure in the Marine Corps, Mr. Euring deployed to Iraq in support of Operation Iraqi Freedom in 2003 and 2005. In 2008, he would go on to design the first U.S. Marine Corps Advanced Manpower Officer Course to train senior manpower officers and staff noncommissioned officers in the personnel administration field. In 2010 he assumed command of Service Company, Combat Logistics Regiment 37, 3d Marine Logistics Group in Okinawa, Japan. During which time he simultaneously served as for Sexual Assault Response Coordinator (SARC) for the Commanding General, 3d Marine Logistics Group. As the SARC he helped to develop, design and implement training for Marines across the bases on Okinawa, Japan to teach them about sexual harassment/assault to address the high number of sexual harassment/assault cases across the military in Okinawa, Japan.
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ONSLOW In 2012, Mr. Euring designedCOUNTY and implemented the BLACK HISTORY FESTIVAL reorganization of the Marine Corps Marine Online manpower personnel management system information for Marine Corps Base Quantico as the manpower officer for the largest battalion in the Marine Corps, Headquarters and Service Battalion, Marine Corps Base Quantico, home to more than 6,000 military personnel, 10,000 civilians, and 4,000 contractors. In 2014, Mr. Euring received his Master of Education degree from North Carolina State University. In 2016, Mr. Euring received his Master of Military Studies degree from the Marine Corps University. Following his, graduation he served as administrative officer for the Manpower Division of Marine Corps InstallationsPacific/Marine Corps Bases Japan (MCIPAC/MCBJ), where he designed and developed a combat operations section, for the Manpower Division of MCIPAC/MCBJ to support contingency operations in the Southern Pacific. In 2017, Mr. Euring served as the officer-in-charge of the Manpower & Operations Section for the II Marine Expeditionary Force, managing the U.S. Marine Corps manpower on the East Coast of the US. Mr. Euring retired from the Marine Corps in June of 2018.
Upon retirement from ONSLOW the U.S. Marine Corps, Mr. Euring COUNTY established his BLACK organization development consultancy HISTORY FESTIVAL helping to establish several businesses and programs within in Onslow County. He also assumed the role of the Legal Redress Chair for the Onslow County NAACP Branch responsible for overseeing the branches investigations of civil complaints in the county. In 2020, Mr. Euring became the First Vice President of the Onslow County NAACP Branch and President of the Jacksonville-South Rotary Club. In June 2021, Mr. Euring convened the first People’s Coalition meeting to establish a medium where community leaders and citizens can share information and resources to develop innovative solutions to complex problems and needs in the community. In 2021-22, Mr. Euring led the organization of the first inaugural Onslow County Black History Month Festival.
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Dennis is currently the Executive Director of the Onslow County LGBTQ+ Community Center. He, his husband and son moved to Jacksonville in June of 2020 after retiring as the Assistant Director of the Dauphin County Domestic Relations section. Dennis and his husband Gary have been together for 22 years, have 3 adult biological daughters, 25 foster children, and one adoptive son. Dennis has spent the past 40 years volunteering his time to community organizing varies community groups. Dennis is also a 30-year survivor of same gender intimate partner violence.
ONSLOW COUNTY BLACK HISTORY FESTIVAL
ONSLOW COUNTY BLACK HISTORY FESTIVAL Donald “Don” W. Cohen Sr, was born in Pineville, Louisiana on January 16, 1969. After graduating High School in 1987, he enlisted into the United States Marine Corps and served for 25 years. In 1997, Don would join the Masonic organization (Sons of Beaufort, Lodge #36) in Beaufort, SC. It was here that he was taught about Brotherly Love, Relief, and Truth. This endeavor allowed Don to give back to his community by aiding the area widows, to the elderly, the less fortunate and those residing in retirement homes. In June of 2014, Don joined the National Association for the Advancement of Colored People (NAACP). The work in this organization has confirmed what Don has known all along. Someone must be the voice of those who aren’t being heard.
ONSLOW COUNTY BLACK HISTORY FESTIVAL It was through this organization that Don and the Branch would partner with local law enforcement to eliminate police misconduct and to bridge the gap between law enforcement and communities of color. Don and the Branch would investigate countless citizen complaints (ranging from property disputes to unfair practices) and to assist with resolutions. Additionally, Don and the Branch helped provide education to citizens from voter registration, to health care needs, to home safety and more. From 2016 to present, Don has served as the elected Branch President. Don has three adult children; Don Jr of CA, Davonna Marine and Shondarius of NC.
ONSLOW COUNTY BLACK HISTORY FESTIVAL
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A wife of a United States Marine, a mother of three beautiful children and the 2022 AFI Camp Hansen Military Spouse of The Year in OkinawaLATOYA Japan, SCOTT 2020/2021-Armed Forces GUEST SPEAKER Insurance MCB Camp Lejeune Military Spouse of the Year. Sits on the board as the event coordinator and outreach specialist for Life Mediation & Ebony Women of Okinawa Non-Profit. The Founder & Owner of FTM Fashion Week & Final Touch Models, as well as the Editor in Chief of Farbe Magazine. She has over twelve years' experience in event planning, business development, website development, publishing, and graphic designing. Latoya Scott has helped over 500 small businesses and corporations. And she has a passion to help others achieve their goals.
Gloria Goodwin
On January 18th Gloria Goodwin' "Give Back Service" was distributing 2500 masks to homeless shelters, women's shelters, schools and daycares. She thanks the Biden/Harris Pre-Inaugural Faith Based Committee for providing the masks to her. On the same day Gloria spoke to a meeting of the Onslow League of Women Voters. This service is a typical day in the life of this dedicated Democratic lady. She is currently President of the Democratic Women of Onslow County and a Vice Chair of the Third Congressional District Democratic Party. She has been a member of the State Executive Committee of the NCDP since about 2000. During this article a few of her activities will be featured. On October 7, 2008, future First Lady Michelle Obama flew into Albert Ellis Airport near Jacksonville. Gloria was selected by the Secret Service to go to the airport and stand on the tarmac to greet Mrs. Obama. When she asked the Secret Service agent why he picked her, he replied that he liked her smile." She rode with Mrs. Obama from the airport to Northside High School where Mrs. Obama gave a speech which focused mainly on her interest in military families. Gloria was invited to stand on the stage behind Michelle during her speech. Then Mrs. Obama autographed the printed copy of her speech and gave it to Gloria. What a day! Later when Gloria was President of the National Medical Association Auxiliary, she was one of 13 ladies who were invited to have tea with Mrs. Obama at the White House.
ONSLOW COUNTY BLACK HISTORY FESTIVAL
My name is Takenya LaBriado. I am a Registered Nurse. I have a Master of Business Administration Degree from the University of Phoenix. In a few months, I will have a Doctorate Degree in Health Administration. I have over 20 years of leadership experience in the healthcare industry. I was a Director of Nursing for most of my career for long-term care facilities. For the past 4 years, I work at Onslow Memorial Hospital as a Performance Improvement Coordinator. I was an instructor at Coastal Community College 2010-2011 in the Certified Nurse Assistant Program. I also taught at Martin Community College in the Certified Nurse Assistant Program. I serve as the 3rd VP for Onslow County NAACP #5428 District 16 branch, a member of the National Montford Point Marine Association, Inc. Lejeune Chapter, VP of the Woman’s Democratic Party, a member of the National Association of Healthcare Quality, and Onslow County Community Health Assessment Team (CHAT) member. I am active with community activities to be the bridge for unity and equity for Onslow County. Between working in the healthcare industry full-time, being a full-time student, and community liaison, my days are very long. I serve because it is something I am passionate to do especially being a nurse for so many years. Being a servant leader, you are serving others first with integrity and authentic behavior. Being rooted in Onslow County is a blessing. I am eager to be part of positive change in Onslow County that involves inclusion and diversity. Graduating from White Oak High School in 1993 and raising two beautiful girls who graduated from Jacksonville High School provides me with the passion to move Onslow County forward.
ONSLOW COUNTY BLACK HISTORY FESTIVAL
Thank you to our awesome speakers for sharing your expertise and wisdom during this event. We are forever grateful. *Tolulope Omokaiye (Hostess) *Don Cohen *Mack Bedard *Senator Kever Clark *Sgt Major( Ret.) Johnny B. Young *Takenya LaBriado
OUR SPEAKERS
Tolulope O. Omokaiye Our Host Tolulope O. Omokaiye, MBA is a graduate of North Carolina Central University, where she received her Bachelor’s in Business Administration in 2006. After college she worked as a Marketing and Channel Manager for. Newell Rubbermaid. While obtaining her Master’s in Business Administration from Meredith College in 2011 she founded, EVOLVE Mentoring. EVOLVE Mentoring, Inc. teaches youth and young adults life skills like financial management, entrepreneurship, personal health, and social responsibility to assist in their evolution from youth to well-rounded adult. EVOLVE has impacted thousands of youths, young adults and families in the Triangle NC area and now leads President Barack Obama’s My Brother’s & Sister’s Keeper initiative in Wake County through EVOLVE. Tolulope continues to blaze trails by serving as the first woman and Person of Color to Chair the Raleigh Transit Authority. Tolulope is certified in Executive Nonprofit Leadership from Duke University and Community Development from UNC Chapel Hill’s School of Government.
She is a member of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Incorporated, Leadership Triangle and lends her expertise and knowledge to numerous projects in North Carolina that span the scope of youth, education, entrepreneurship, and construction. Tolulope O. Omokaiye, MBA has been honored as 2018’s NCCU 40 Under 40 honoree and Triangle Business Journal’s Women in Business honoree; was awarded Triangle Business Journal’s 40 Under 40 and featured as the News & Observer’s Tarheel of the Week in 2017; in 2016 Spectacular Magazine’s Women of the Year: Emerging Leader, Radio One’s Triangle Trailblazer and the National Financial Literacy Educators Council in 2016 for her work with youth and young adults.
Mack Bedard Guest Speaker A native of Jacksonville, NC, Mack Bedard attended Georgetown High School in his formative years. He graduated from Jacksonville High School after which he Studied Business Administration at Coastal Carolina Community College.
He then transferred to Shaw University where he graduated with a B. A. degree in Theatre Arts. He received a fellowship from Ohio State University to study theatre. Mack has written, directed, designed, acted and produced stage productions in Jacksonville, NC, Raleigh, NC, Wilmington, NC and Houston, TX. He wrote, directed, produced and performed in the stage play, Back In The Day, The Story of Georgetown High School in June of 2009. The play is based on the research that he began in 2005 on the African Americans of Onslow County. Mack continues to research and produce articles of this rich and valuable history.
Johnny B Young Guest Speaker Sergeant Major Johnny B. Young Jr. retired was born November 25th, 1951 in Brookhaven, Mississippi the second child of fifteen. Upon graduating from Alexander High School in 1969, he travelled to New York seeking a job with his uncle. After being there for a few months he joined the United States Marine Corps. On September 14, 1970, he was shipped to Parris Island, South Carolina where he completed his Basic training as a Marine. Once he completed his recruit training, he was sent to Camp Geiger, North Carolina where he completed his Military Occupation Training as a Machine Gunner (0331). He was then sent to Portsmouth, Virginia where he received Sea School Indoctrination. Upon completion of that School, he was ordered aboard Marine Detachment United States Ship America (CVA-66). While onboard the ship he was ordered to train and assist Navy Personnel on the proper employment of the M-60 machine gun. He deployed with Helicopter Combat Support Squadron 2 (HC-2), Detachment 66 into the Gulf of Tonkin.
After reenlisting he was ordered back to Sea School as an Instructor. Sergeant Young’s next assignment was to Marine Corps Combat Development Command, Quantico, Virginia where he assisted in the development of future Officers in the Marine Corps. Gunnery Sergeant Young was Promoted to First Sergeant and became the First Sergeant of Romeo Battery Fifty Battalion 10th Marine Regiment. First Sergeant Young was promoted to the rank of Sergeant Major and assigned to 3rd Battalion 14th Marine’s 4th Marine Division Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. On completion of that assignment, he was ordered to Marine Air Group 29 where he served as Sergeant Major of Marine Observation Squadron 1 Marine Corps Air Station, New River, North Carolina and deployed to Operation Desert Shield/Desert Storm. He was later ordered to 3d Maintenance Battalion ,3d Force Service Support Group, Okinawa, Japan for duty as the Sergeant Major and later became the Sergeant Major of Marine Corps Air Station Futenma, Okinawa Japan. Sergeant Major’s Young final assignment was with Group 26, Marine Corps Air Station New River, North Carolina. Sergeant Major Young retired with 27 years of active federal service. Sergeant Major Young has numerous Personal and Professional awards to include the Meritorious Service Medal with 2 gold stars, Naval Commendation Medal, and Naval Achievement Medal.
He has an Associate of Art Degree and a Bachelor of Science Degree in Psychology from Campbell University. He also has a Master of Arts Degree from Webster University in Human Resources Development. On completion of that tour, Staff Sergeant Young was ordered back to Parris Island, South Carolina and after completing Drill Instructor School, he was assigned to Second Battalion Delta Company as a Drill Instructor and later a Senior Drill Instructor. He was then Meritoriously Promoted to Gunnery Sergeant and was ordered to Company I, 3D Battalion, 9th Marines as its Company Gunnery Sergeant in Okinawa, Japan. After completing that tour of duty. He was ordered to Marine Barracks Hawaii and served as Guard Chief at Lualualei, Hawaii. After 3 years he was ordered to 2nd Marine Division where he served as Weapons Company Gunnery Sergeant 3rd Battalion ,4th Marines and later First Sergeant Headquarters 6th Marines Regiment. Gunnery Sergeant Young was Promoted to First Sergeant and became the First Sergeant of Romeo Battery Fifty Battalion 10th Marine Regiment. First Sergeant Young was promoted to the rank of Sergeant Major and assigned to 3rd Battalion 14th Marine’s 4th Marine Division Philadelphia, Pennsylvania.
On completion of that assignment, he was ordered to Marine Air Group 29 where he served as Sergeant Major of Marine Observation Squadron 1 Marine Corps Air Station, New River, North Carolina and deployed to Operation Desert Shield/Desert Storm. He was later ordered to 3d Maintenance Battalion ,3d Force Service Support Group, Okinawa, Japan for duty as the Sergeant Major and later became the Sergeant Major of Marine Corps Air Station Futenma, Okinawa Japan. Sergeant Major’s Young final assignment was with Group 26, Marine Corps Air Station New River, North Carolina. Sergeant Major Young retired with 27 years of active federal service. Sergeant Major Young has numerous Personal and Professional awards to include the Meritorious Service Medal with 2 gold stars, Naval Commendation Medal, and Naval Achievement Medal. He has an Associate of Art Degree and a Bachelor of Science Degree in Psychology from Campbell University. He also has a Master of Arts Degree from Webster University in Human Resources Development. Sergeant Major Young; United States Marine Corps Retired, is married to the former Lena Idella Mclaughlin and they have three children Latasha, Letechia and Johnnie. He has been a Montford Point Marine Chapter Vice-President for three different Chapter Presidents .He is currently serving as the President of Chapter 10 Montford Point Marine Association.
Kever M. Clark Guest Speaker Senator Kever M. Clark is married to Rev. Dr. Shelton L. Clark. They are the proud parents of two wonderful children. Shelton L. Clark, Jr. and Dr. Sherrie C. Bohler; one son-in-law, Randy Bohler; and two beautiful granddaughters, Randi “Brie” and Ryann Bohler. Sen. Clark(affectionately known to us as Sis. Clark) is member of First Baptist Church (FBC) Broadhurst Road, under the leadership, of Rev. Dr. James E. Brown. Here at FBC, she sings a melodious alto with the “Senior” and “J.T. Kerr Fellowship and James E. Brown Youth” Choirs. She is a graduate of Fayetteville State University and performed her graduate studies at North Carolina Central University, Duke University, East Carolina University and the Royale Canadian University in Kingston, Ontario. Sis Clark taught at the Onslow County Public School System for thirty-three and half years.
It is also highly notable, that she served as a North Carolina Senator in the 7th Senatorial District-Region 7B Legislative Chair, Onslow County Vice Chair of the Retired School Personnel, Member of the State Legislative Chair, Onslow County Vice Chair of the Retired School Personnel, Member of the State Legislative Committee and Member of the Legal Aid Committee. *President-The Association of Classroom Teachers *President-The Onslow County Association of Educators 1981-82 and 1992-93 *President-District 14 NCRSP *Member-The North Carolina Association of Educators Board of Directors *Member-The Onslow County Policy Committee Fighting for Students *Lobbied the United States Congress (House and Senate) for Education *Lobbied the North Carolina General Assembly *Member-The Committee on Character Education *Member-The Onslow County Economic Development Committee Life Member-NAACP *Member of President’s Obama’s Committee for Change *Invited to the Inauguration of President Barack H. Obama and former President William J. Clinton *Member-Tau Gamma Delta Sorority
A few of the many awards bestowed upon her are: *African American Intriguing Woman *The “Oder of the Long Leaf Pine” by Gov. Hunt *Concerned Citizen *Teacher of the Year *Meritorious Awards from Fayetteville State University *NC Retired School Personnel Special Service Award *The Legacy Award *Wall of Tolerance *First Tribute to Minority Women *The Extraordinary Person Award “Most importantly,” Sis. Clark says, “I am the daughter of the late Mr. & Mrs. Roosevelt ____________ and I grew up on the farm with many sister and brothers.”
Joie Cook was born in Savannah, GA at Hunter Army Airfield to Nathaniel S. Cook (deceased, First Lieutenant United States Marine Corps) and Sandra Cook. She joined the North Carolina Army National Guard as a Food Service Specialist and served in units in Charlotte and Raleigh from 1998 to 2003. She then enlisted in the Air Force Reserves and served from 2006 until 2009 at Dobbins Air Force Base. She currently serves in the Air National Guard in Charlotte, NC and has received numerous awards throughout her military career. Joie is the founder of the nonprofit Support Her BOOTS, serving Veterans in the Carolinas. She recently opened The Giving Boutique LLC, a clothing boutique where a portion of the proceeds help support her nonprofit. Joie holds a Bachelor of Science degree in business administration and marketing from St. Augustine’s University in Raleigh, NC. She is mother to Brianna, 19 and Josiah, 13, and is grandmother to NalaLillie, 1. She lives with a passion to serve veterans by providing them customized assistance. She credits her military background, military families and those who have influenced her with keeping this legacy alive and well. She serves as the Communications Director for the Onslow County NAACP Branch, and I AM VETS.
Our Fashion Show Michelle Collins- Wade We would like to give a special thanks to the creator of this year’s black history fashion show. This was a very artistic display of our women, fashion, and culture. The models were very classy and well received. Great job!
ONSLOW COUNTY BLACK HISTORY FESTIVAL
THANKS TO ALL OUR ARTISTS
ONSLOW COUNTY BLACK HISTORY FESTIVAL
WE ARE PROUD TO SUPPORT OUR MILITARY.
www.salvationarmycarolinas.org/jacksonville/
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JOIE R COOK 704.380.7686
ONSLOW COUNTY BLACK HISTORY FESTIVAL
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ONSLOW COUNTY BLACK HISTORY FESTIVAL
Marine Federal Credit Union La’Moore Media Versatility Dis & Dat Party Boutique Gary and Dottie Capers Foundation
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ONSLOW COUNTY BLACK HISTORY FESTIVAL
5xCrazy Beauty by Bee, LLC C4 Collection Crafty Quita’s Tees and Things LLC Eurtopia Services G&C Catering International Association of Minority Veterans (I*AM*VETS)
THANKS TO OUR VENDORS
ONSLOW COUNTY BLACK HISTORY FESTIVAL
Isaiah Ike Johnson Jacksonville Onslow Chamber of Comme rce Business Diversity Council JJ Zamora for Onslow County Sheriff Juneteenth Klassy Creations,LLC
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ONSLOW COUNTY BLACK HISTORY FESTIVAL
LivyLan Fashion League of Women Voters of Onslow Mary Kay Cosmetics Miracle Hands Products and Services Onslow Co Democratic Party Onslow Community Outreach Onslow County LGBTQ+ Community Center
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Onslow County Museum Onslow County Parks and Recreation SLM Designz LLC Southern Charm Expressions SvefaMade The Giving Boutique
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ONSLOW COUNTY BLACK HISTORY FESTIVAL
Trillium Health Resources One Community Tupperware Sparkles with Tara Zoeye Beach Optical
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“WHO WE ARE” PREFORMED BY MARIAH MCCLAIN “ I have a dream”, the speech that made history The speech that later became our vision and his story. A speech we play each year to give ourselves hope I remember being a little girl listening skipping rope. “Free at last!” He said. “Free at last!” my mama scream. Because we were “Free at last” I could be anything I wanted to be. 59 years ago, he spoke these words of power. Yet 59 years later I cower in my melanin. I’ve been kept in the dark for so long I forget how to shine I let others cover my eyes from the mirror with their words and engrained in my head that my melanin is bad, That every misfortune I suffered, was because of what I didn’t have. My eyes weren’t blue but that brown that looks like a spoon dipped in honey when glistened in the sun. My hear wasn’t golden or flowing, but yet mine was soooooooooooo thick, and soft, and it made me happy to hear the sound of my beads as I run, what fun.
I’d say it didn’t matter to me but deep down it did. My heart pumped just as much as theirs My mind thought the very thoughts they were capable of. Why am I a threat because of my genetics or that the sun loved me more. Why is my weakness deemed laziness but my strength disobedience. These can’t only be my grievances. Can you imagine being a child growing up being taught to hate yourself because of things out of your control? It almost felt like my extermination was your goal. Do you think that is what Dr. King dreamt for us? I can’t believe it to be true. Because when I look at my people there’s noting we can get through. I was told I could be anything but when I looked at the world around me, I learned anything meant as long as it was a position of servitude. You’re absolutely right, I’m a black women with an attitude. And a like a Phoenix I will rise again from the ashes of cities you burnt down. I’m screaming it LOUD! Black child you come from a legacy of excellence, do not be convinced otherwise.
You are a blessing to this world in disguise You don’t need acceptance; you are beautiful as you are. You are the morning and evening star Kings, claim your throne. Don’t reduce your worth to criminals and thugs. Queens, claim your throne. You are more than the curves of your body; you are Gods love. It is time for us to all start doing our part. Because we were the Dream in Dr. Kings heart.
“WHO WE ARE” PREFORMED BY BRI ESOTERIC Our black is excellence- Is resilient; even when we don't mean to be. It is greatness undefined. It is universal throughout time. It has always shown up. Our black ain’t just history it is ancient It is now. It is the future. It is a foundation for sure. It has raised up nations and family trees even though some tried to hang us from the branches. Even when fires were set in Tulsa and Wilmington even Georgetown to our skin ,our schools, our churches, our souls We have never burnt out. And still, we stand through all the doubt. This black is bold. Be brilliant. Be unstoppable Even when it got a world on top of it. Even though our backs been broken for production We still had the spine to dream. Just look at all we achieved.
We are more than crops and fields. We are more than crops in fields. Time has revealed even if we take a knee some will not let our peace be still. so we take no breaksBecause this pain is only a part the weapon that has transformed our lives. From kingdoms to betrayal, to ships setting sailResistance has always been in our blood. In our history our story has never ended. It didn’t begin with slave ships either. Our ancestors were architects, were warriors, were villages, and families. Some would like us to forget They took away our names, yet still we have Their spirits in our veins. We taught Greek scholars about astrology and mathematics. So tell me who burned the library of Alexandria? Because those flames burn familiar they smell like Birmingham, Like Elaine Like Rosewood
The fact is our history can’t be containedCan’t be condensed to one monthbecause black history is African history. That history is world history. From Yaa Asantewaa to Mansa Musa To Nat Turner to Malcolm. They all taught us something. all challenged a narrative Teaching us that we are more And we were moors. More than what was thought of us. More than three fifths men.
More than prison cells and mass incarceration. More than broken homes and gentrification. We are powerful men and women. Capable of anything and Madam CJ taught me how to walk in my dreams We been cowboys, Farmers, Millionaires Fishers, Doctors, Leaders and Politicians. We been Scientists ,Poets, Activist ,Warriors Healers and Astronauts. We been Authors, Artist , Musicians, Inventors And Builders . Medicine women and menWe been peace and love and light all throughout the darkest days. We found ways to carry the spirit of our ancestors who jumped into waves just to avoid oppression. We transformed whips and chains into bragging rights because we can always make the best of anything.
We are trend setters and we only get better. Even though we been colonized, raped beaten and sodomized. We’ve been stripped bare of nations, resources, families, and rights. Every time we create something that is liked It is snatched from our hands just like our land and it is sold by the pound. Like our bodies but we have taken back our mindsbecause we are the true mines. We are the gold we've been looking for! No more selling each other out cus they can’t take us from us. So, know that black ain’t just history it’s my story too it’s your story too it’s knowledge and truth. This Black got a rhythm to itKnows how to make it through it. It’s revolutionary. Our evolutions scary because we just won’t stop. All the way to the top of a mountain of dreams from Martin to Langston.
We will not be deferred. We are more than words. We are actions. Marching into our healing and always adapting. This black is creation and creator. It is so universal that we are written into the starsSo no matter how many dark holes they try to bury us in This world will never forget who we are.
“WHO WE ARE” PREFORMED BY BRI ESOTERIC
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ONSLOW COUNTY BLACK HISTORY FESTIVAL
Support these small and large business that contribute to the local economy. www.facebook.com/I-AM-VETS
ONSLOW COUNTY BLACK HISTORY FESTIVAL
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ONSLOW COUNTY BLACK HISTORY FESTIVAL
Support these small and large business that contribute to the local economy.
ONSLOW COUNTY BLACK HISTORY FESTIVAL
ONSLOW COUNTY BLACK HISTORY FESTIVAL
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ONSLOW COUNTY BLACK HISTORY FESTIVAL
WE WOULD LIKE TO THANK ALL OF OUR MEMBERS.
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We would like to thank all of our vendors, exhibitors, sponsors, volunteers, guest speakers, media partners, and performers for making this event a huge success! Please stay tuned to your email for future events!
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