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• Vol. 9 • Mar. 11 - 17, 2021
MY TRUTH By Cheryl Smith PUBLISHER
Let’s hear it for GSU and PVAMU! It was such a joy watching the NBA All-Star Game as the focus was on Historically Black Colleges and Universities, on what was a really busy Black History Day.
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Latest on Pookie the serial rapist, p3
Local author chronicles Black experience
By Ashley Moss Madelyn Modeste breezed into a Lewisville bakery promptly at 3 o’clock on a recent afternoon. The restaurant was quiet. Few visitors aside from Madelyn and her mother, Shauntelle Modeste, had trickled into the café between lunch rush and the coming dinner hour. Madelyn plopped down on a well sanitized armchair. Dressed in a lightweight sweat outfit, the 11-year-old clutched a brightly colored book as if it were a prized possession. In fact, it is. Madelyn - her hair braided back into long cornrows - is the author and publisher of the book, Mariella Can’t Wait.
She ventured into the restaurant to talk about her book. Released in October, Mariella details a familiar experience to youngsters: a pre-teen waits for an important gift that takes way too long to arrive by traditional mail. “It’s about Mariella, the main character, who is waiting on a special package from her grandmother who lives out of state,” says Madelyn, who is African American. Madelyn Modeste is among a flood of young authors who are writing and publishing their own texts and chronicling their unique Black experiences in children’s, teens’ and young adult literature. According to Bowker, a com-
Shauntelle and Madelyn Modeste
pany that has collected data on publishing trends since 2011, self-publishing grew 40 percent to more than 1.6 million texts in 2018. Bowker included the data in
its 2018 “Self-Publishing in the United States” report. “The self-publishing landscape continues to improve, creating more and more opportunities for authors to manage their own path through the process,” said Beat Barblan, vice president of publishing and data services at Bowker and chairman of the board of the International ISBN Agency. “As more authors take advantage of the abundant tools now available to publish, distribute and market their own books, we expect that self-publishing will continue to grow at a steady pace,” Barblan said in a prepared media statement. Publishing industry experts say See LOCAL AUTHOR, page 15
Johnson, Veasey, Allred join in support of masks By Cheryl Smith There was the Selma Jubilee, commemorating Bloody Sunday and the march across the Edmund Pettus Bridge; while also paying homage to the Hon. John Lewis (D-GA) and others who spoke up for voting rights. Then there was the coronation of Mr. and Ms. Florida Agricultural and Mechanical University - albeit late because of COVID-19. Legislators during Fair Park Tour
On Sunday, there was so much love shown for Black people, although I think that the Duke and Duchess of Sussex, Harry and Meghan, would beg to differ with that assessment. No, I didn’t watch Oprah’s interview but the “Street Committee” told me what many have said before, racism is alive and well, and not just in See MY TRUTH, page 15
Despite Gov. Greg Abbott’s issuing an executive order earlier last week, reopening Texas, other elected officials are cautioning against a rush to abandon measures that have “proved to be successful in dealing with COVID.” During a visit to the Fair Park Vaccination Site in Dallas Friday afternoon, U.S. Reps. Eddie Bernice Johnson (TX-30) Marc
Increased calls to continue safety social distancing measures Veasey (TX-33) and Colin Allred (TX-32) discussed the challenges of getting the COVID-19 vaccination to citizens and their opposition to ending statewide COVID-19 restrictions. The lawmakers were adamant that any efforts to lessen restrictions are
premature and could be devastating. They toured the area to observe the process as hundreds of cars lined up to enter the Fair Grounds. There were traffic jams in all directions, but uneventful as the lines moved fairly quickly. With the heavy presence of members of the Military, Coast Guard, police and fire departments, County and City officials, and FEMA staffers on site, there was See VACCINE, page 11
Plano schools bringing in outside investigators after viral claims of racist bullying and abuse By Talia Richman Plano school leaders will hire an outside firm to investigate allegations that a pattern of bullying preceded a recent sleepover during which a Black 13-yearold boy was called racial slurs, beaten and made to drink white classmates’ urine. Superintendent Sara Bonser stood alongside Plano May-
or Harry LaRosiliere and Po- a list of demands that includes: lice Chief Ed Drain Tuesday expelling all students involved in afternoon to address the inci- the abuse as well as committing dent that’s enraged and disgust- that Plano ISD will recognize ed many in the and dismantle This story, originally published in The Dallas Morning News, is reprinted community and as part of a collaborative partnership between The Dallas Morning News ”systemic racMetro News. The partnership seeks to boost coverage of Dallas’ across the coun- and Texascommunities ism within the of color, particularly in southern Dallas. try. school district” Summer Smith, the boy’s and address past and present mother, had met with Bonser bullying incidents. earlier in the day. She, her attorBonser pledged that the disney and local activists presented trict was acting swiftly to ad-
dress the family’s concerns. PISD officials are working with police on an investigation, wrapping up their own probe and hiring a third party to look into the allegations that the boy had been bullied long before the sleepover. “What we saw, what you saw, what we all saw, is inexcusable,” she said, referring to videos and See PLANO SCHOOLS, page 6
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City of Dallas Opens Emergency Home Repair Rebate Program The City of Dallas has opened a home repair rebate program to provide emergency home repair assistance to qualified low-to-moderate-income homeowners within the city limits of Dallas for replacement or repair of systems/fixtures that have been damaged as a result of the 2021 Texas Severe Winter Storm. Applicants that meet eligibility requirements listed below and have already hired a licensed contractor are eligible to have up to $10,000 reimbursed to them. The Emergency Home Repair Program consists of 2 programs: 1. Rebate Program for homeowners in the City of Dallas 2. Non-Profit Program for homeowners served by 501 (c) (3) organizations Applications can also be requested at hipp@dallascityhall.com along with the
following items: • Proof of Household Income (all that apply) • One (1) month of most recent paycheck stubs (all household wage earners) • Current Social Security and/or Supplemental Security Income • Annuity/Pension • Unemployment: Statement of Potential Benefit and Wages • Court-ordered child support statement (if applicable) • Proof of Identity • Government issued ID • Proof of primary homeowner occupancy • Utility Bill • Homestead Exemption • Proof of ownership • DCAD print out showing ownership info • Proof of damages and that the dam-
age(s) occurred as a result of the 2021 Texas Severe Winter Storm • Photos of repair work • Copies of paid itemized invoice and/or
receipts showing what was paid To confirm eligibility, call 214-670-3644 or email HIPP@dallascityhall.com
Fernandez receives award from Texas School Public Relations Association
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Publisher : Cheryl Smith Editor: editor@myimessenger.com Address: 320 S.R.L. Thornton Freeway Suite 100 Dallas, Tx 75203 Website: www.texasmetronews.com Phone: 214-941-0110
Demond Fernandez
Demond Fernandez received the Media Award at the TSPRA Annual Conference. Fernandez is a veteran reporter at WFAA-TV in Dallas, TX that exhibits the very best of broadcast journalism. He seeks out stories that highlight teaching and learning and provide unbiased investigative coverage on school districts’ sensitive subjects. His reporting allows the community to remain up to date on critical issues impacting their community and schools. Most recently, he’s had to cover two
southern sector school districts in the DFW area. He has broken these news stories and reported the facts while providing unbiased coverage with integrity. He’s dedicated to showcasing all sides of stories, so those impacted the most are informed with all information. He does the groundwork to ensure accurate reporting, which showcases why he is an award-winning investigative reporter. An active member of the National Association of Black Journalists and the Dallas-Fort Worth Association of Black
Journalists, Fernandez uses his journalistic skills to inquire about stories and has a dedicated following on social media, allowing him to connect with individuals for story ideas. In a world that is oversaturated with misinformation, Fernandez is passionate about reporting the facts, telling a great story, and being a source of information for the DFW community. When this member of Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc. is not engulfed in investigative reporting, he’s always looking for ways to highlight the best of school districts.
NEW TOWNHOMES 2231 Dorian Place MLS #14379965
CREDO OF THE BLACK PRESS The Black Press believes that America can best lead the world away from racial and national antagonisms when it accords to every person, regardless of race, color or creed, full human and legal rights. Hating no person, fearing no person, the Black Press strives to help every person in the firm belief that all are hurt as long as anyone is held back.
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Suspect in string of sexual assaults now faces charge in 2003 Arlington attack
This story, originally published in The Dallas Morning News, is reprinted as part of a collaborative partnership between The Dallas Morning News and Texas Metro News. The partnership seeks to boost coverage of Dallas’ communities of color, particularly in southern Dallas.
By Tom Steele
The Dallas Morning News
A man already jailed in connection with a pair of decade old sexual assault cases now faces a charge in a 2003 attack in Arlington. Jeffery Lemor Wheat, 49, has been in custody at the Collin County jail since Jan. 15, several days after he was arrested in Crawford County, Ark. He faces two counts of sexual assault and one count of burglary of a habitation with intent to commit a felony, and his total bail is set at $1.1 million. Wheat does not have an attorney listed in court records. Arlington police obtained the burglary warrant Monday after determining that Wheat’s DNA matched evidence from their case, they said. According to an arrest-warrant affidavit, the victim was in her home early Sept. 17, 2003, when a man broke in and tried to assault
Jeffery Wheat (Pookie)
Jeffery Lemor Wheat, 49, faces charges in three cases across North Texas. her. Police took evidence from the home, but the case was later suspended. Years later, the sexual assault kit from the case was retested, and Arlington police learned in 2018
that DNA from their case matched three sexual assault cases from Coppell, Plano and Shady Shores. Those assaults were part of a string of four attacks on women from November 2010 to October 2011, including an attempted sexual assault in Plano, that targeted alumnae of the Delta Sigma Theta sorority. No DNA was collected in the attempted assault, Plano police have said. Plano police identified Wheat as a suspect after DNA from their case was submitted for genealogical research, the affidavit says. Authorities later spoke to his ex-wife, who said that he was the man seen in surveillance footage from a gas station calling one of the victims days after she was attacked. According to the affidavit, Wheat’s ex-wife said he was working for a security company in 2003. That company installed the Arlington victim’s alarm system, police said. At the time of the later attacks,
Surveillance footage from a convenience store in Mesquite showed a man police said was calling a sexual assault victim several days after the attack to ask how she was doing. Credit: dallasnews.com
the ex-wife said, he was working for a financial services company. That company owned a credit card processing company used by a group that the other victims were associated with, the affidavit says. Arlington police Chief Al Jones said in a written statement that he was glad the 2003 victim would have closure. “We will never give up hope to
fight for victims no matter how long it takes,” he said. Tom Steele, Breaking News Producer. Tom has covered breaking news for The Dallas Morning News since 2016. He has worked in a number of other capacities for The News since 2007, and he was previously a copy editor at The Florida Times-Union in Jacksonville, Fla. He has degrees in journalism and economics from Lehigh University. tsteele@dallasnews.com
Center Table feeds families during break Center Table is presented by Mark Cuban, Dirk Nowitzki, and Heroes Foundations and offers free hot meals during spring break. Center Table is providing hot meals for kids and families who live in Cedar Crest, Oak Cliff, South Dallas and Pleasant Grove on the following dates at the Mark Cuban Heroes Basketball Center:
Registration Here: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/centertable-spring-break-meals-mark-cuban-heroes-basketball-centertickets-145405715409?ref=eios
• Friday, March 12, 2021 – 12 Noon – 2 p.m. & 5 p.m. -7 p.m. • Saturday, March 13, 2021 – 12 Noon – 2 p.m. & 5 p.m. – 7 p.m. • Tuesday, March 16, 2021 – 12 Noon – 2 p.m. • Tuesday, March 16, 2021 – 5 p.m. – 7 p.m. • Friday, March 19, 2021 – 3 p.m. – 6 p.m. • Sunday, March 21, 2021 – 11 a.m. – 2 p.m.
Even though the food giveaways are free, open to the public, first come, and first serve basis, everyone is required to register for a free meal through one of the Eventbrite links. At this time, registration is only on March 12 & March 13, 2021 and you will receive an email confirming your time to pick up your meal. You will be required to present your Eventbrite registration receipt upon arrival. If you register and are unable to attend, please cancel your
registration. If you do not show to pick up your meal, you will be placed on a waiting list for one of other upcoming events. Meals will be provided by one of the 3 food trucks: O’Brien’s, Ruthie’s and the Greek Lover Food truck. To keep the team and you safe, masks are required and your meal will be placed in your trunk. Unfortunately, meals can not be held for later pick up.
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Black women’s organizations matter THE LAST WORD
By Dr. Julianne Malveaux March is Women’s History Month, and this month is the perfect time to lift the Black women’s organizations that make such an essential difference in our lives. Last year, both the National Council of Negro Women (NCNW) and the National Association of Negro Business and Professional Women (NANBPW) celebrated their 85th anniversary. Thanks to COVID, neither organization had the opportunity to celebrate in the way they planned; now they are celebrating by Zoom. The differently scaled celebration does not diminish the importance that these organizations have. When I think of NCNW, I think of the late Dr. Dorothy Irene Height, who used to say, “If I tap you with my finger, you may or may not feel it, but if I combine these five fingers into a fist, you will definitely feel it.” Dr. Height was not a pugilistic woman, but she was a fervent believer in the power of the collective. And NCNW, an “organization of organizations,” certainly fits that bill. Too many times, in modern history, NCNW, the collective, has been present. Many of us, for example, attended Labor Secretary Alexis Herman’s confirmation hearings, many wearing the crimson and cream colors of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Ms. Herman’s sorority (and also mine). Deltas were not the only people in the house. Other Divine Nine sisters joined us, Alpha Kappa Alpha, Zeta Phi Beta, and Sigma Gamma Rho. We made an impression, and those senators prepared to grill Herman had to think twice because we were there.
Black women had a tremendous impact on this current election. I think of LaTosha Brown, a Black Votes Matter leader, and the tireless work she did to get voters out. I think of Melanie Campbell and the sisters of the Black Women’s Roundtable. There are so many more Black women and Black Women’s organizations that made a difference in this election. President Biden has acknowledged the Black community and Black women in particular. It is crucial, though, that our coalition continues to stay active and connected. One Black woman, Kristen Clarke, has been nominated to serve as Assistant Attorney General for Civil Rights. Already the right-wing is going after her with their usual smear campaign tactics, taking comments out of context and blowing them up. The same coalition that worked to get the vote out now must work to support this exceptional woman. Similarly, two other women of color are being smeared. Vanita Gupta, President of the Leadership Conference on Civil and Human Rights, has been attacked by rabid right-wingers. Another woman of color, Neera Tanden, who leads the Center for American Progress, has been attacked for her tweets. Really? Her tweets, some say, are vicious. When have tweets adhered to a civility protocol? The coalition of Black women who have always made a difference must step up to support these women, too. Dr. Mary McLeod Bethune, the founder of NCNW, was a firm believer in diversity and inclusion. She reached out to white women who shared our values and worked in coalition with them when she could, given the constraints of the time. She would approve supporting sisters Gupta and
Tanden, women of color just like us. While we might not be on the same page as these sisters on everything, we have enough in common to be passionate in their defense. The smear tactics that the rabid right uses to smear these women are unacceptable. They are the same tactics that these people use against Vice President Kamala Harris. We need to make sure they don’t work. I often wonder what motivated Dr. Bethune to form an organization in the middle of the Great Depression, when overall unemployment rates soared to 25 percent and Black unemployment was two or three times higher. In 1935, food lines snaked around city blocks and down dusty roads in rural communities. Too many Black folks were pushed to the back of the line or denied assistance altogether. The indignities were innumerable, but Bethune shrugged them off to build a powerful organization with unprecedented access to President Roosevelt. She walked into Roosevelt’s office with the collective strength of Black women in her fingers or her fist. Black women’s organizations don’t get the credit they are due, so these organizations must be lifted in this Women’s History Month. What would our nation be without these organizations who get out the vote, raise money for scholarships, provide social and civic services, and do so much more? I don’t want to know the answer. All I know is that Black women’s organizations matter. We must celebrate them!
Dr. Julianne Malveaux is an economist, author, media contributor and educator. Her latest project MALVEAUX! On UDCTV is available on youtube. com. For booking, wholesale inquiries or for more info visit www.juliannemalveaux.com.
Abbott, Neanderthals and Jokes! QUIT PLAYIN’ By Vincent L. Hall In September of 1986, Greg Abbott was jogging on a windy day through Houston’s ritzy River Oaks neighborhood. A large Oak limb snapped as he ran beneath it. The accident cost him the use of his spine and wreaked havoc on his kidneys. Abbott, an attorney, sued the homeowner and a tree care company and has received nearly $10,000,000 in payments since. Author and Attorney Mark Bello mentioned Abbott’s gross hypocrisy in a 2013 “Legal Examiner.” “Mr. Abbott has been outspoken in his support for the tort reforms. He says tort reform is needed to curb “frivolous lawsuits.” What a hypocrite! For example, under Abbott’s policies, if a patient is left paralyzed from the waist down due to a doctor’s negligence, tort reform caps non-economic damages at $250,000 with no built-in increases over time to keep up with the rising cost of living.” Take a re-look at what he did with Obamacare. Abbott has sued the federal government 27 times; (20 since President Obama took office) at taxpayers’ expense. The cost for Texas alone is $2.58 million. Of those 27 cases, he has won five. Were these 22 losses frivolous expenditures of taxpayer money? Greg Abbott will not accept the Obamacare Medicaid expansion in Texas, causing millions to suffer preventive, physical, and psychological treatment. Parkland Hospital of Dallas, one of the leading public health facilities in the world, estimates that it loses more than $100,000,000 per year as a result. Recheck this. Greg has raked in almost $10 million dollars for his injury, but your loss is capped at $250K. The fact that Abbott is ineffective with the electricity grid issues, COVID safety protocols and anything else that does not generate campaign dollars from wealthy
corporate interests, should not be a surprise. Abbott’s leadership is one of the reasons minorities, seniors, and the indigent are being ravaged by the COVID-19 pandemic. Anyone who watches this Neanderthal could have predicted this. He gets his, his friends get theirs, and when it comes to the rest of us; frankly, Scarlett, he don’t give a damn! If you don’t believe me, have him produce a vaccine distribution report that contrasts Red vs. Blue counties on a per capita basis. So this latest move to “open the state 100%” while removing the mask mandate is characteristic of how Abbott has always governed. He appears to be a little kinder and gentler version of Trump. Abbott is a throwback to the Crackerocracy that Dr. Michael Eric Dyson described. The old political guard never sounded like the racist, elitist, and misogynistic animals that they are. After President Joseph R. Biden described Abbott’s feigned naiveté as Neanderthal and ill-timed, Abbott did what Trump learned to do so well. He deflected and outright lied, knowing that no one would take the bait except his base. KHOU11 in Houston reported as much. “The Biden Administration is recklessly releasing hundreds of illegal immigrants who have COVID into Texas communities. The Biden Administration must immediately end this callous act that exposes Texans & Americans to COVID,” the governor tweeted Wednesday. When asked on Thursday, the White House dismissed the claim. What’s even more egregious is that anyone would be stupid enough to swallow the charge he levied against the Biden comments and immigration changes. If what Abbott said was true, he has an even greater responsibility to require masks. Truth is, he has bungled the pandemic, blundered the ERCOT fallout, and now he wants to bamboozle the thoughtless Republicans that vote for him…regardless! Abbott is a joke and makes all Texans look like Neanderthals, but Neanderthals ain’t no joke.
Vincent L. Hall is an author, activist, and an award-winning columnist.
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GETTING WISDOM is WISE FAITHFUL UTTERANCES By Dr. Froswa Booker-Drew I have been working with a holistic practitioner. I am beyond excited because she has been changing my life. I marvel at her ability to look at a person and identify what is wrong. When I saw my physician, he agreed with her diagnosis and wanted to even learn more about what she has used to improve my health. During our visit this week, I asked QC and her team to help me understand how they can look at someone and tell the state of their health. The response was not unfamiliar— “We just know. We’ve been doing this a long time.” What she meant was that her 30-plus years of experience has taught her so much. Despite her continuous quest to learn more, her effectiveness is a result of practice and wisdom. When I was younger, I was on this quest to get so much done. It was as if an invisible force was at work pushing me to achieve. I realized as I have gotten older that there are many invisible voices around us that coax us into believing that we don’t have time or that we must keep up with everyone else. The voices now not only come from those around us, but social media can create a tension of trying to set standards with others that are unrealistic. When I was a child, I remember my grandmother always saying to me “keep living”. If you live long enough, there are some things that you will learn not because of degrees or reading books but because of life experience and it requires having some time in the world to develop skills, habits, and even character. We tend to dismiss age but there is something to be said about living and the experience and wisdom gained from it. It isn’t that as we age, we know everything, but it is recognizing the power in wisdom which can accelerate you much further. I was fortunate to spend time at the feet of individuals who were great but not by the world standards. They were great because of their lived experience. I loved listening to the elders in my family and in my community growing up because so many things I was able to avoid because I listened.
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My mother would say a “hard head makes for a soft behind” meaning that it is easier to listen than to be difficult and allow life to beat you down. I know I was politically correct in my statement, but you understand the value of this cliché that we don’t hear as often. Even in my life today, I surround myself with individuals who are wise, that can guide me and have been places that I seek to go. The word wisdom is mentioned 222 times in the Bible. It along with justice and kindness are important virtues that I think we don’t focus on enough in our lives: • Be very careful, then, how you live— not as unwise but as wise, making the most of every opportunity, because the days are evil. (Ephesians 5:15-16) • How much better to get wisdom than gold, to get insight rather than silver! (Proverbs 16:16) • Where there is strife, there is pride, but wisdom is found in those who take advice. (Proverbs 13:10) • The one who gets wisdom loves life; the one who cherishes understanding will soon prosper. (Proverbs 19:8) • Do not deceive yourselves. If any of you think you are wise by the standards of this age, you should become “fools” so that you may become wise. (1 Corinthians 3:18) It is more than obtaining information on how to become successful in your career. It is identifying those who have lived a good life, that walk with God and know the power of prayer. It is making sure that in your life, there are individuals you are surrounded by who know how to take care of their mind, body, emotions, and spirit. If I surround myself with individuals who are just like me and see the world the same way that I do, I am only rehashing similar information and I’m not stretched. My life reflects the wisdom that has been poured into me and I continue to sit at the feet of those who can guide me and direct me, whose lived experience can add value to my own. “Who is wise and understanding among you? Let them show it by their good life, by deeds done in the humility that comes from wisdom.” (James 3:13) Dr. Froswa’ Booker-Drew is the host of the Tapestry Podcast and the author of three books for women. She is also the Vice President of Community Affairs for the State Fair of Texas. To learn more, visit drfroswa.com.
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Thirty years ago, I watched Rodney King beaten. We thought our fight was finally over OUR VOICES By Rep. Karen Bass March 3, 2021 When I first saw the tape of Rodney King being beaten in the middle of the street on March 3, 1991, I was not horrified or surprised. I was hopeful. I believed that now, finally, the public would believe what Black and Latino activists had been saying: that police brutality is real and continues a long history of treating Black people like their lives do not matter, while simultaneously attempting to hide that reality in plain sight. Activists had fought for years to get elected leaders to see and act on what was happening in Black communities across America. But officers who killed or brutalized Black people could say that they did it because they had been in fear for their life, whether or not the person was armed. But then, 30 years ago as we watched that video, we were convinced that justice would finally be served, and the truth would be exposed to the world. We were right to an extent. VIDEOS AMERICA CAN’T IGNORE People across the country felt outraged at what they saw on the tape, but that anger did not translate into large-scale change. Los Angeles amended its city charter to rein in the largely unchecked chief of police, who around that time suggested that Black people were dying from chokeholds at the hands of police at disproportionate rates because our neck veins were differ-
ent from “normal people’s” neck veins. While these local actions were significant at the time, the reforms pretty much stopped there. There had been a moment of understanding and an opportunity for change, but it passed. In what could now be viewed as a rigged trial (due to changed venue and a jury with no Black people on it), the jury didn’t convict any of the four police officers involved in the assault. After that verdict, I drove through the intersection of Florence and Normandie in South Los Angeles on my way to a meeting with other activists and saw our community begin to burn in anger and despair. Black and Brown people in this country have now endured 30 years of police brutality and violence since Rodney King was beaten. On May 25, 2020, the world witnessed yet another video, this time of the slow killing of George Floyd. Tens of thousands took to the streets demanding change, not only in Minneapolis but in nearly every major U.S. city and in cities around the world. Thirty years later, I stand hopeful yet again. There is a systemic problem with policing in the United States. By enacting transformative reform on a national level, we have a chance to address it. WHAT REAL POLICE REFORM LOOKS LIKE Though named in his honor, Congress must not pass the George Floyd Justice in Policing Act to honor one man — but to honor all the unarmed people who have been brutalized or killed by police since his death and the many more who were brutalized or killed prior. Last year I introduced this
bill to act on these long overdue reforms. I developed it carefully in consultation with many stakeholders, including some police officials. The bill would introduce common sense reforms such as: requiring police officer accreditation; promulgating best practices; maintaining a registry of officers dismissed for excessive use of force; providing grants for communities to reenvision public safety; and banning the chokeholds and no-knock warrants in federal drug cases, which have been at the root of recent high-profile tragedies. The House passed the bill last year, but it never got a vote in the Senate. The 117th Congress will take up the bill again this week with the opportunity to set us on a path towards finally addressing the issue of police brutality in a transformative way. This is a moment of understanding and an opportunity for change yet again and we cannot let it pass. When the police officers were acquitted at their trial for the beating of Rodney King, I felt hopeless and defeated. It felt like his life did not matter. That’s the feeling we will continue to have until we act. We cannot afford to wait another 30 years. Next week, Derek Chauvin will stand trial for second-degree murder and second-degree manslaughter in the death of George Floyd. At some point, our nation needs to make a decision about how many more instances of police brutality do we need to witness before we do something about it. Rep. Karen Bass, D-Calif., represents Culver City and parts of Lost Angeles in the United States House of Representatives and is the former chair of the Congressional Black Caucus. Follow her on Twitter: @RepKarenBass
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90 means No truth, No justice, No peace. WHAT’S ON MILES’ MIND By Miles Jaye I once had the cause and occasion to ask a contractor “How many degrees are in a 90-degree angle?” It was a joke, like what color is a red horse? It was a humorous way to communicate my concern over what I saw as inaccuracies in his work-- or so I thought. He stared at me like the proverbial deer in the headlights. It was then that it occurred to me that not only had he missed the joke, but also the point. God made degrees, angles, frequencies, distances, time and measurements of all kinds for a reason. To be clear, man created the terminology, the words, but God created the reality. Measurements of angles or temperature in degrees,
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screenshots of the alleged abuse. “It’s our job to do something, together, about this.” Smith posted the videos and images on Facebook, and they quickly went viral. She said she made the videos public because she wasn’t getting the help she needed from the district and officials at Haggard Middle School. She said administrators initially told her there was nothing they could do because the incident happened off campus — though students circulated the videos during the school day. The horrific claims — including that the boy was invited to the sleepover solely to be “entertainment” for his white classmates — have received national attention. A petition in support of the 13-year-old boy has reached more than 150,000 people, and many have donated to a GoFundMe page to help the family pay for therapy and, potentially, private school tuition. People have protested outside police headquarters and in front of Haggard, carrying signs
distances in inches, feet, yards, miles or kilometers, frequencies of sound or light in hertz, weight in ounces, pounds or grams satisfy man’s need to communicate. God made each of these things true, consistent and accurate. A mile is measured the same anywhere in the world-- 5,280 feet, a kilometer is 1,000 meters, “middle C” is 262 cycles per second. There’s a reason we call 90-degree angles, right-angles. There’s a reason north is referred to as true north. These measurements and others have been in use throughout the history of mankind. Einstein challenged the viability of time itself. However, did he question whether time, a manmade construct, subject to bending or distortion, or whether or not the sun rises and falls with precision over… time? Calendars are not perfect, but cycles of time are quite reliable. Sixty seconds makes a minute, 60 minutes an hour, 24 hours is the same every
the time you reach the third or fourth level, flaws in either the design or the construction become obvious. A taller structure would run the risk of collapse. The same can be said of companies, organizations and governments. Philosophers have weighed in on the matter of truth for hundreds of years. Plato said, “Man is the measure of all things.” Notice he says the measure of all things, not the creator of all things. He’s speaking of perceptions and observations. The truth is, a yard is a yard, and a meter is a meter, whether it is measured, regardless of man’s observations. Socrates was more of the mind of questioning other’s perceptions of truth, so he would question whether or not a meter was actually a meter or simply the perception of a meter. Aristotle said of the truth, “To say of what is that it is not, or of what is not that it is, is false, while to say of what is that it is,
and of what is not that it is not, is true.” Pythagoras, the great Greek mathematician/philosopher believed that numbers were not only the way to truth but truth itself. Numbers, not beliefs, not opinions, but numbers. 90-degrees is 90-degrees period, that’s the truth, and the truth matters. Truth is the essence of justice, and of true freedom. Jesus told the Jews in John 8:32, “And ye shall know the truth and the truth shall make you free.” Notice He doesn’t say, ye shall know peace and peace shall make you free. It’s been said, no justice no peace, I would add, no truth, no justice, no peace. Anyone denying, resisting or withholding truth has no heart for or interest in justice. A government built on lies and deceit is the equivalent of the building built on inaccuracies and flawed measurements. A measurement is just information. If the information is built on mistruths, there will always
that read, “Black Lives Asked if there had Matter.” A local activbeen personnel changist urged people to rees at Haggard in light member that “racism of the allegations, Bonis taught.” Many called ser said the district was upon Bonser to address “still evaluating all the a culture of bullying information we have that they say extends been presented with.” beyond this one group District officials will of students and this have a better sense of Plano ISD Superintendent Sara Bonser during a news conference what actions to take one school. Bonser said the dis- to address concerns around allegations of bullying in a Plano after the independent ISD school, next to Plano Mayor Harry LaRosiliere and Chief of trict would investigate Police Ed Drain in Plano on Tuesday, March 9, 2021. investigation is comadditional allegations plete, she added. Credit: Lola Gomez/The Dallas Morning News of bullying that people The Police Departciated with the incident and the are now emailing to officials. ment also referred the case to hate crime designation could be “I want our response to the state’s Child Protective Serused to enhance any penalty. demonstrate the degree of care vices because of questions re“We are looking at that in and concern we feel for this sitgarding adult supervision at the regards to this investigation,” uation — and all incidents of sleepover. Drain said. racism or bullying — now, in “The CPS referral is to look at Because the investigation is the past or in the future,” the whether there were some parcontinuing, the police chief said, superintendent said. “If there ents who didn’t do their jobs as he is not prepared to say what are weaknesses in our systems parents,” Drain said. criminal offenses the departor processes, I want to know. I Both the family at the center ment might be considering. Dewant to know because we must of the case and school district tectives must analyze and verify do better when we know.” officials said they were receivdigital evidence and interview The Dallas Morning News is ing violent threats related to the more people. not identifying the boy by name case. Drain said his department Long before the incident, or in photos because he is a miwas vetting calls and emails Smith says, her son quit the footnor and a victim of bullying. and would take action if anyone ball team at Haggard because of Smith and her attorney are making a threat is local and apbullying. His coach did not take calling for the incident to be inpears to pose an imminent danaction when the boy raised the vestigated as a hate crime. ger. issue, Smith alleged, instead Under state law, there would Smith’s family had to leave saying, “Boys will be boys.” have to be another crime assotheir Plano home out of fear for
their safety, said Kim T. Cole, their attorney. Someone left a watermelon on their front porch, she said, and everyone in the family needs counseling to get through this. “I am not OK,” Smith said. “Not by a long shot.” The DMN Education Lab deepens the coverage and conversation about urgent education issues critical to the future of North Texas. The DMN Education Lab is a community-funded journalism initiative with support from The Beck Group, Bobby and Lottye Lyle, The Communities Foundation of Texas, The Dallas Foundation, Dallas Regional Chamber, Deedie Rose, The Meadows Foundation, Solutions Journalism Network, Southern Methodist University and Todd A. Williams Family Foundation. The Dallas Morning News retains full editorial control of the Education Lab’s journalism.
day. Monday is Monday every week, December is December every year and Haley’s comet appears every 75 years. I believe many of those who hate math would have a change of heart if they only knew God as a master mathematician. To realize that the movements of the planets throughout the Universe, the shapes and patterns of flowers and the perfect design of a snowflake are Sacred Geometry-- God’s math. Colors are frequencies, so art is math. Music, all music regardless of genre, is math-- God’s math. Would you want to live in a house, drive a car or fly in an airplane where the engineering and craftsmanship were close but not accurate? Accuracy represents the truth. Either it is straight, or it isn’t. Either it is level, or it isn’t. The problem with inaccuracy is that it is compounded when you try to build on it. The first level may be adequate, and you may not notice by the second, but by
See MILES MIND, page 6
Talia Richman, Staff writer. Talia is a reporter for The Dallas Morning News Education Lab. A Dallas native, she attended Richardson High School and graduated from the University of Maryland. She previously covered schools and City Hall for The Baltimore Sun.
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Virtual Community CalenVirtual andand liVelCiVe ommunity Calendar
WOMENS WOMENS HISTORY HISTORY MONTH MONTH MarchMarch 11 4
Ralph David Abernathy Policing Reform for Racial Justice. Feat: was born in1926 Detective Marquez “Marq” Claxton Event
by Anna Julia Cooper Center. RSVP: https:// Lunch & Learn: bit.ly/3az3gwG. Understanding5-6:30 the pm. CST. Sales Game. Event by Zan W Holmes JrFinancial Community Outreach Center. Feat: Planning for Women. Event by Savvy Chicks Rule Audrey BrownManagement. Event online:Event: zwhjcoc. & EA Wealth Eventbrite.com 6:30-8 pm. org. 11:30 am CST. ALL STAR WEEKEND Talent CompetiSoulJazz Thurstion. Host HBCU Heroes. 7 pm. Event is days Feat: Vandell Andrew. Hosted live on @ twitch.tv/hbcuheroes. by Sandaga 813, 813 Exposition Ave. 8 pm-12 am.ThursVisit www.sandaga813.com. SoulJazz days Feat: Vandell Andrew. Hosted by Women’ s 813 History Month Event Sandaga 813, Exposition Ave. 8 pm-12 Chantre Camack, Exec. Editorial Producer for ABC News’ Soul am. sandaga813.com. of a Nation. Event hosted by NAACP Ozaukee County Branch. Learn more about Women Expansion in the NAACP. The Impact of Medicaid on Reg. FoodEventbrite.com. and Financial 5:45-7 pm.Event CST. by Dallas Coalition for Hunger Solutions Reg: Security. https://bit.ly/2MxDP6C 1-2 pm. CST. Writers LIVE! with Terry McMillan. Host Enoch Pratt Library. Feat: Victoria 5-7 KenneMarch dy. Reg. Eventbrite.com. 6-7 pm. CST. 56th Anniversary of Selma Bridge HistoryCrossing at The Crossing Jubilee. Black A Historical Gregory School-Pt Goes Global as a Virtual Event to fightIII. COVID-19: A Global Pandemic’s “Bloody Impact on the Black Family. COVID-19. Commemorating Register: Eventbrite.com 6:30 pm. CST. Sunday.” Register: selmajubilee.com.
MarchMarch 5 12 Texas became a Slave in 1865 Charley Parker, JazzState Musician Died in 1955
From Marva with Love, with Marva Sneed. am -1with pm. CST, FaceFrom11Marva Love,Fridays withonMarva book Live/@TexasMetroNews, and BlogSneed. 11 am -1 pm. CST, Fridays on TalkRadio.com. Join the conversationandat Facebook Live/@TexasMetroNews, 646-200-0459. BlogTalkRadio.com. Join the conversation at 646-200-0459. Every Friday Night Don Diego and The Razz BandFriday, at Club Odyssey, 7439Event by AARP Florida. AARP Fitness Aerobic Dance. Westmoreland Rd. 68:30-9:30 pm. Facepm.Mask Online: local.aarp.org Required. Black Mental Health Matters. Event by Circle of Arms. 2 pm. Elevation Comedy CST. Reg: http://bit.ly/3bNuobN. Tour 2021. Host Shavonda with a V. Feat: 9 pm-1 am. Tickets: The Strength OfAnastasia A Woman.The EventBold. hosted Paypal.me/CarlJ23. Flores Ballroom, 4615 by Ohemaa Speaks. Tickets: Eventbrite. com. 1-3 pm. CSTSingleton Blvd. Spring THINGZ featuring Johnnie March 13-14 Blu & Shugga. Event by Allure Jazz & CigarEncore! Lounge,- 110 S. Cockrell DBDT: Dancing BeyondHillBor#A. DeSoto. 8-11:59 pm. Tickets: ders. Host Dallas Black Dance Theatre. Eventbrite.com. Event is online. Tickets: Eventbrite.com. 13th at 7 pm. 14th at 112:59 pm CST.
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identity belonging: writers share their Deep Dive intoWomen MoneyEmpowering In Politics. Host American Promise Race, 17th Annual Women’ s Conference. THE DOC SHEPand SPEAKS SHOW! Three From 11 personal stories. Event hosted by The Guardian Live. Feat: -Event NorthbyTX.Daughters Online Reg: us02web.zoom.us. 10:30 am–12 pm of Deborah, Inc. Reg: Eventbrite.com. 9:30 am. CST on Facebook Live/@TexasMetNikesh Nadia Owusu, Georgina CST. am. CST. Online: http://bit.ly/3selYAK. roNews,Shukla, @fnsconsulting, and You Tube @Lawton. 3pm. CST. Tickets: Eventbrite.com. docshepspeaks Up Day-Smooth JazzChurch Edition. Host Girl Sip (Sisters inPop Pursuit) Event by Renew - ArlingSocial2131 40.W.The1-20, Dojo-Dallas Fashion, ton, La Quinta InnDFW & Suites, Grand Prairie. 12-1 DFWMarch News &16Tings 2414, Converse St, Dallas. 4-9 Pm. Pre pm. CST. Tickets: http://bit.ly/2NMaAh3. with Jirah Nicole. Reg-Online www.dfwsocial40.com. Rebecca J.From Cole 2ndpm. Black Woman 11 am-1 CST Tuesday’ s on Faceborn in 1846 Daiquiris & Chill 5 at Blends Daiquiri book Doctor, Live/@TexasMetroNews and BlogWoman’ History Month. EventSocially hosted by Pinkabilityclm. A Lounge. sEvent hosted by The TalkRadio.com. Join the conversation at virtual workshop for women to manage THE DOC SHEP SPEAKS SHOW! From 11 Astute, DjDre Day. Blends Daiquiri self-care. https://9n646-200-0459. ziej8u.paperform.co/ -10Rdpm.#145, CST. am. CST on Facebook Live/@TexasMetLounge, 2810 E Trinity8:30Mills Carrollton. 4-9 pm. CST. Williams Chicken roNews, Presents@fnsconsulting, Entrepre- and You Tube @ docshepspeaks neurs are Innovators! Panel Tim WilDallas Mavericks vs Denver Nuggets. Energy Delivery and Texas. Event hosted liams, Carlos White, Carl Shields, & Vic9 pm. CST in Denver at the Pepsi Center. Nicole Mickle Show. by Coffee and Politics 101. Message: Coffee The tor J.Jirah Elmore. Webinar Series. Reg:From www. am-1 pm. CST Tuesday’ s onpm.Facebook and Politics 101. Virtual on: youtube.com 11williamschicken.com 5:30-7 CST. Live/@TexasMetroNews and BlogTalkRa10-11 am CST. BWN Virtual Monthdio.com. the conversation LitNight Join Reading Series. Eventatby646LitNight. Zoom Meeting ly 2021 42nd Anniversary. Event hosted 200-0459. https://smu.zoom.us/j/91910236244, Meeting ID: 919 1023 March 7 by Black Women’s Network. Feat: Marva 6244 Passcode: 967699 7-8:30 pm. Smith Battle-Bey. Reg: Evebrite.com. 12- Community Conversations Pt. 3. Event by Zora Neale HurHappy Birthday to 2:30 pm CST. ston Festival of theMarch Arts and Humanities. Online: http://bit. Town Hall w/ Rep. Crockett. HostEva D. Coleman ly/2MRWmuw. 6-8 pm. ed byCST.Rep. Jasmine Crockett. Online event: Anyhaus Theatre. Dramatic readings, of Marita Bonner and http://bit.ly/301RAO9. 7-9 pm. CST. Angelina Weld Grimké. RSVP for Zoom Instructions: caamu- A Real Conversation with seum.org. 4-5:30 pm CST. Lynn Whitfield Event host- March 10 Andrew’s World with host, Andrew ed by AARP Black CommuniMarch Whigham III on14BlogTalkRadio.com 8-10 tyI Was & Harriette Cole MEDIA. Just Thinking with Norma Adam. Sundays. Tune in for thought-provok- Online Live: Facebook ams-Wade. From 11 amLive/ -1 pm. CST On Eli Whitney patented the and enter- ARRP. ing, enlightening, informative, 4 pmLive/@TexasMetroNews CST. Facebook and taining news Cotton Ginand incommentary. 1794 Join the call BlogTalkRadio.com. Call in and join the at 646-200-0459. March 17 conversation at 646-200-0459. The Roast of Royce West. (Virtual) WomenAppearance: Make History. by Eventura Nat King ColeSaxophonist was bornAndre in 1919 Cavor perSpecial DaleEvent Hanson. Event Event Planning a celebration of International Women’ s Day. Reg: Eventbrite. forming songs by: Drake / Jay Z/ by Dallas County Democratic Party. 3 com. 1 pm. CST. Snoop Dog. Live on Facebook @ pm. https://secure.actblue.com/donate/ I Was Just Thinking with Norma AdSaxophonist Andre Cavor. 6-7 pm. springroast. ams-Wade. From 11 am -1 pm. CST On Ubuntu Market for Small Business. Hosted by Pan African Facebook Live/@TexasMetroNews and Connection, 4466 Month Marsalis,HERstory Dallas. 12-5 pm. For vendor Info: BlogTalkRadio.com. Ask Dr. Amerson with AmerWomen’ s History Conversation. Host ShaJoin Dr. theLinda conversaEmail: adjwoahogue@yahoo.com, or call 214-943-8262. son.at12646-200-0459. pm. CST @DFWiRadio.com, and non Skipworth. Feat: Syreeta Martin of WURD Radio, & State tion Rep. Joanna McClinton. Reg: Eventbrite.com. 1-2:30 pm CST. Live on Facebook @DrLindaAmerson. March 8 Ask Dr. Amerson with Dr. Linda AmerMarch The World According to Drew with Anson.11 12 pm. CST @DFWiRadio.com, and International Women’s drew Whigham, III on Day BlogTalkRadio. Live on Facebook @DrLindaAmerson. com 8-10 am. On Sundays. Tune in for Ralph David Abernathy Phyllis Maethought-provoking, Daley, first ofenlightening, four African inforwas born in1926 Americanmative, NavyandNurses to serve entertaining news andincommentary. the call at 646-200-0459. Just Walk! Event hosted AARP Georgia. WWII Join in 1945 Lunchby& Learn: Understanding the Sales Online: aarp.event.com. 9-9:30 Game. Eventam. by Free. Zan W Holmes Jr CommuMarch 15 Women of Impact: Celebrating Women in Photography! nity Outreach Center. Feat: Audrey Brown March 18 zwhjcoc.org. 11:30 am CST. In celebration of International Women’s Day, join Nikon AmEvent online: bassadors Tamara Lackey, Ami Vitale Michelle Valberg. Los Angles Sentinel wasandfounded by Reg: Eventbrite.com Dana E. OwensMarch AKA12 Queen Latifah Leon7 pm. H. CST Washington
was born in 1970
In the Middle with AshleyMonth Moss. Series. From Elizabeth & Emily From Marva with Love, with Marva Sneed. 11 am -1 pm. National Women’ s History 11 am -1 pm. CST On Facebook Live/@ Live/@TexasMetroNews, BlogBlackwell the first women in America to receive an M.D. Reg: CST, Fridays on Facebook Black Feminist Vision: Artist and Lubaina TexasMetroNews and BlogTalkRadio. TalkRadio.com. Join the conversation at 646-200-0459. Eventbrite.com 3-4 pm. CST. Himid. Event hosted by The Research Forum. com. Call in and join the conversation at Reg. Eventbrite.com. 12-1 pm. 646-200-0459. AARP Fitness Virtual Book Club Meeting for WomFriday, AerobicThe Living Room en’s History Month: The Colour PurAgainst Gravity: Flying Afrikans and Other Urban Legends. Dance. Event ple. Host: Haringey Libraries. CelebratChronicles - EricbyRoberson. Event by Event by Hi-ARTS, Renegade Performance Group and André M. AARP Florida. Online: local.aarp.org 8:30-9:30 pm. ing Alice Walker’s Pulitzer Prize 1982 The Food For Soul Experience LLC. FaceZachery. 5 pm. CST RSVP at bit.ly/hiartsRSVP. novel. Reg: Eventbrite.com 8-9 pm. CST. book Live @The Food For Soul ExperiBlackLLC. Mental ence 9 pm.Health CST. Matters. Event by Circle of Arms.2 pm. March 9 CST. Reg: http://bit.ly/3bNuobN.
Daring to Dream with Roberts and Telisa Yancy. Host In 1932 the first Black Dream Daily Bank, Reg: Newspaper was published Evenbrite.com. 3-3:45 pm CST. Deep Dive into Money In Politics. Event by American Promise - North Texas. Online Register:19 us02web.zoom.us. 10:30 March am–12 pm CST.
March 13 Robin
The Negro Theater was founded in Los Pop Up Day-Smooth Jazz Edition. Event by DFW Social 40. byFashion Langston Hughes TheAngles Dojo-Dallas District2414, ConverseinSt,1939 Dallas. 4-9
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MarchMarch 14 20 UNCF Mayor’s Masked Ball Dallas 2021. Hosted by Dallas Eli Whitney patented the Mayor Eric Johnson. UNCF.org/DallasMMB 6:30 pm
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Miss Dee’s Kitchen Comedy Show at TBAAL, Muse Café TheRoast8 pm. of Royce (Virtual) Speatre, 1309 Canton St.TheDallas. Tickets:West. Ticketmaster.com. cial Appearance: Dale Hanson. Event by Dallas Democratic Party. 3 pm. Scholarship Fish Fry. EventCounty by Naomi Star Chapter 31, Tiffany https://secure.actblue.com/donate/sprinJernigan Jennings and Teice Holloway, 1121 S Ewing Ave, Dalgroast. las, Tickets: paypal.me/naomistar31 11 am-2 pm CST.
Women’s History The Month LivingHERstory Room Chronicles Featuring Conversation. HostAndre Shanon Skip- Live @The Food Taylor Facebook worth. Feat: SyreetaForMartin of WURD LLC. 9 pm. Soul Experience Radio, and State Representative Joanna McClinton. Reg: Eventbrite.com. March 21 1-2:30 pm CST.
Dr. Martin Luther King led the 54 mile March 15 march from Selma to Montgomery Alabama in 1965 In the Middle with Ashley Moss. From 11 am -1 pm. CST
On Facebook Live/@TexasMetroNews and BlogTalkRadio.com. Call inFriends and joinNew theLife conversation at 646-200-0459. New Virtual Race To End Sex Trafficking. Reg: http://bit.ly/3sYYFeC. 12 am CST. National Women’s History Month Series. Elizabeth & Emily BlackwellMarket the firstforwoman Ubuntu Smallin America Business.to receive an M.D. Reg: Eventbrite.com 3-4 pm.Connection, CST. Hosted by Pan African 4466 Marsalis, Dallas. 12-5 pm. For vendor Info: Email: adjwoahogue@yahoo.com. Virtual Book Club Meeting for Or call 214-943-8262. Women’s History Month: The Colour Purple. Host: Haringey Libraries. CelNeo Soul Sundays feat.ebrating SoulfulSoundz. Events by Retro Prize Hip Alice Walker’ Pulitzer Apparel, DallasBlack.com. Lava Cantina 5805 Grandscape Winning 1982 novel. Reg: Eventbrite. Blvd., The Colony. 4-10 pm. comCST. 8-9 pm. CST.
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My Truth
42 Dallas ISD Schools Considering Alternative School Calendar More than 40 Dallas ISD elementary and middle schools are considering adopting an alternative school year calendar to ensure that students do not fall behind aca-demically because of the pandemic. Under the alternative, “intersession” calendar, the calendar would run from August to late June, with no changes to the school day hours; start and end times each day would remain the same. The alternative calendar would exist for two years and provide more personalized attention for
United Way invests $100,000 for Winter Storm Recovery United Way of Tarrant County is investing $100,000 to offset unexpected expenses as a result of February’s winter storm. The funds are intended to help older adults pay for items such as food, utility bills, rent, hotels and housing solutions, clothing and toiletries. “Our older adult population is one of the most vulnerable in our community and, like
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students and additional planning time for teachers. Not all students will be asked to attend the extra intersession weeks. Only schools where the teachers, campus staff and families are strongly in favor of the intersession calendar will move forward with the alternative calendar. so many in our community, is in desperate need of assistance because of the damage caused by the winter storm,” said Leah King, president and CEO of United Way of Tarrant County. United Way of Tarrant County activated its Emergency Relief Fund Feb. 18 to help those impacted by this month’s winter storm. Donations can be made online to: https:// www.unitedwaytarrant.org/donate/ As additional donations are re-ceived, funds will be distributed to older adults and families with household in-come less than $60,000, and nonprofit organizations that sustained damage during the storms.
America. I took a breather on Sunday to enjoy the love from Selma, Tallahassee and Atlanta. I was beaming with pride. Which brings me to my truth. On Saturday, March 13, 2021 we will socially-distance, fully mask and gather at Globe Life Park in Arlington for the State Fair Classic featuring Grambling and Prairie View A&M Universities. We’re still talking Black History and HBCU love.
Miles Mind from page 6
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Now because of COVID-19 the crowd that makes this contest one of the top HBCU gatherings in the world will be considerably smaller; but the love, pride and spirit of competition will definitely be in full effect. I’ll take a moment during the game and remember the wonderful Opal Smith, who was the prettiest woman in Dallas. Mrs. Smith, who was Miss Prairie View A&M 1954, transitioned in December 2020. She had so much love for her alma mater, and all HBCUs. Some will say they are going to look forward to attending the game in October during the State Fair of Texas, when it
returns. We must continue to be safe, wear our masks and socially distance. We must also support our HBCUs. Someone asked me if I was racist because of my love for HBCUs. Guess what? I’m not even taking that walk or having that talk. And people still ask why do we have to have Black History Month! Why don’t you join me at the game? If you have reservations, I definitely overstand. So instead; write a check, cash app, use whatever device you choose and support our HBCUs.
tice and subsequently, you will never know peace as you seek it. The history of man and of civilizations shows that man is not in the peace business, man is in the power business. Man is in the business of control at all costs and business is good for those who possess the power. Man is not in the business of relinquishing
control or power, so if a few lies is all it takes to maintain control, the pain and anguish they may cause are simply the cost of doing business. 90-degrees is 90-degrees, and that’s the truth, and the truth matters. That’s what’s on my mind. Website: www.milesjaye.net Podcast: https://bit.ly/2zkhSRv Email: milesjaye360@gmail.com
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COMING 2 AMERICA AT THE MOVIES By Hollywood Hernandez It’s been 30 years in the making but finally one of the most eagerly anticipated sequels in movie history is available on Prime Video (free to its subscribers), COMING 2 AMERICA. The movie is set in present day Zamunda and we catch up with Prince Akeem(Eddie Murphy), his queen (Shari Headley) and his family of three daughters who are well-versed in the culture of their native land. At the start of the movie King Jaffe Joffer is on his deathbed and reveals a long held secret to his son; he has a son and an heir to the throne of Zamunda living in the United States. After the king holds a big final celebration for himself, which features some big name talent (I won’t ruin the surprise), he dies and Akeem and Semmi, with Arsenio Hall back in his role as the prince’s best friend, head to Queens to find his son and the rightful heir to the crown of Zamunda. Once in Queens they are reunited with all of the old crew from the original 1988 film. With the help of the men at the barber shop Akeem ventures out to find his son. He finds him outside of Madison Square Garden scalping tickets to the New York Knicks game, and tells him that he is his father. The young Prince Lavelle, played by Jermaine Fowler, is skeptical and brings him home where he finds his mother Mary (Leslie Jones) and his Uncle Reem, played by Tracy Morgan. After Semmi spills a briefcase, filled with thousands of dollars and gold, Lavelle and his mother Mary decide to accept Akeem’s invitation to move to Zamunda and ex-
perience the life of royalty. Back in Zamunda, Akeem has problems that he has to deal with. General Izzi, portrayed by Wesley Snipes, is still angry because his sister, who still jumps on one foot, wasn’t chosen by Akeem to be his wife. Izzi, who discovers Akeem has a “bastard son,” devises a plan to match up his daughter, the incredibly sexy Bopoto, played by Teyanna Taylor, with the young prince, to create an alliance with his neighboring country and Zamunda. Of course Murphy and Hall reprise the characters they played in the original movie and in the sequel the story also involves a strong supporting cast who are more involved in the storyline, rather than relying so heavily on Akeem and Semmi to move along the story.
The story has a younger feel to it with the help of all of the younger generation in the film, which was a wise move because the story has so much more energy than if it was just about a bunch of 50-yearold characters. In my opinion, COMING 2 AMERICA is a better movie than the original. It’s the excellent big cast of new actors that gives it that something extra. It may be because the film was so eagerly anticipated but I loved it. COMING 2 AMERICA is hilarious and in no way disappoints. The film is rated PG with a run time of 1 hour and 50 minutes. On my “Hollywood Popcorn Scale” I rate this movie a JUMBO! You can only see it on Prime Video.
Big Mama was right a bought lesson is better than a told one BLACK CARD By Terry Allen “A bought lesson is better than a told one,” is a statement that my Big Mama uttered a lot during my childhood. I never understood until much later in life. It was also a lesson that didn’t resonate with any of Big Mama’s kids until we grew older. Now during the Racial and COVID-19 Pandemics, Big Mama-ism is back front and center in my mind. The original statement is: A bought lesson is better than a taught lesson.” For the record the textbook definition is “You will learn more as you experience it, more than anything anyone teaches you.” Big Mama told me when I moved to NYC to stay alert and use my ‘first mind.” I did not listen. My first “bought” lesson came when I moved to New York City and fell in love with the taxi system. I lived in Westchester and I would stop and take the A-train in Manhattan. Mostly, I rode all over NYC taking Manhattan by storm by taxi-riding. I rode North and South as well as the East and West. I hit Harlem and Midtown on a Sunday, Greenwich Village and Upper East Side on Tuesday and then finally on Saturdays, it was Tribeca, SoHo and East Village. I applauded the drivers’ friendly personalities! They asked me how long I was here? How did I like New York?
They were very nice! I bragged to my native New York family about the amazing low cost vs. me driving my car. As I began to boast about the routes, then suddenly my New York family began to laugh at me, not with me. It turns out that every taxi driver overcharged me on purpose because I didn’t understand the geography and they took longer routes. The friendly questions were to assess my level of knowledge and I discovered I spent more on taxis than I should have! I had to pivot and dial back my ego for this lesson. So the advice of Big Mama was right. She would say, “keep your first mind.” So here we are in a second surge of COVID-19 infections making Texas a hot spot again. This time the infected includes those between 18 and 39 years old. We have had our 15th day of record hospitalizations and deaths. Despite expert medical advice, our leadership was among the first to lift restrictions and open up. We created a perfect storm. Now here leadership is dialing back and restricting interaction. This is a classic case of a bought lesson. Big Mama was right. In closing, this takes me to my endgame question: What lessons and words might your Big Mama say right now? Email me with your answer at Terryallenpr@ gmail.com and you will get a Texas Metro News gift from me. Terry Allen is an awardwinning multi-media journalist and owner of 1016 Media.
Dr. Kang has a secret FROM MARVA WITH LOVE By Marva J. Sneed On From Marva with Love, Dr. Sharka’Kang Zoolo Kang. Who is a Shaman, a healer, an herbalist and naturalist; naturopathic doctor talked about healthy living. He was born into a family of healers and naturopathic doctors in Cameroon in 1982 and has spent decades studying the plants and herbs of North, South and Central America, Africa, Indian, China, and world medicine. Dr. Kang started as a child, healing animals, mixing herbs. He said he is blessed with the gift of telepathic clairvoyance to see visions. He is so special and a gift to mankind. Dr. Kang came to the United States, a selfeducated man, diagnosed with asthma, diabetes, high blood pressure and obesity. After unsuccessful treatments with conventional doctors and traditional western medicine, he gave up everything and embarked on a 30-day fasting and spiritual journey. It was on this journey that he said the spirit of his ancestors (grandfather) began to remind him how to heal himself and go back to nature. MS: Dr. Kang, tell us a little background about yourself and Grandpa’s Secret? Dr. K: Yes, as you say I’m a Shaman, a healer, a doctor of natural medicine. I have developed over 2,000 and something formulas. I have written five books, I have three inventions that I’m working on now. I’ve just developed another formula. I’m working on a natural male birth control. MS: So you have developed over 2,000 formulas, do they address all types of illnesses? Dr. K: They address a lot of different illnesses. We have to understand that there
is one cause of illness and it is inflammation mucus. When you have a lot of mucus concentrated in your prostate, you’re told you have prostate issues. When you have a lot of mucus in your lungs you may have bronchitis or they have asthma. So it’s depending on where the mucus is concentrated. It’s not rocket science. Look at nature, take a baby cat or rat most of these animals, they don’t have the problems that we are having. So most animals do not die of disease they die of natural old age. Every animal has a specific diet. So you ask most human beings what is the right food for humans, I’ve never heard anyone who actually answered that question. If we don’t know what food is right for the human body then we are bound to get what you call disease and that simply means the body is not at ease.
Dr. Kang
My grandfather was a Shaman and people came from all over the world and he was able to help them with things just by observing nature. One thing he advised me of was that I should grow old and not become an educated fool. He said nature is your best teacher. Just observe nature. Whatever problems you have in the human body nature can fix it. Grandfather would talk about drought. “You see that bald person over there they are experiencing drought in their body.” Tune into “From Marva with Love” Fridays from 11 am-1 pm. on BlogTalkRadio.com and Texas Metro News Facebook page. marvasneed@myimessenger.com
Advancing Black Pathways Women undergraduate experience The Advancing Black PathwaysWomen Early Insights Program seeks to provide Black, women undergraduate students with a first-hand look at what it’s like to work at a leading financial services firm. The program will offer training and networking events, earlier consideration for internships and the opportunity to receive a financial award for successful candidates that receive an offer. Applications for summer
Johnson & Johnson COVID-19 Vaccine is single dosage U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) issued Emergency Use Authorization (EUA) for its singledose COVID-19 vaccine. Health officials said the decision was based on scientific evidence, including data that demonstrated the vaccine was 85 percent effective in preventing severe disease across all regions studied, and showed protection against COVID-19 related hospitalization and death, beginning 28 days after vaccination. The terms of the EUA allow use of the vaccine while more data are gathered. “This milestone follows a year of
internships open on April 1, 2021. Visit jpmorganchase.com/careers for upcoming events, career advice, our locations and more. JPMorgan Chase & Co., one of the oldest financial institutions, offers innovative financial solutions to millions of consumers, small businesses and many of the world’s most prominent corporate, institutional and government clients under the J.P. Morgan and Chase brands.
Rivera receives William Pulte Innovative Leader of the Year Award
Israel Rivera
Photo Courtesy Dallas ISD
incredible work by our dedicated teams and unprecedented collaboration with health leaders around the world – all of whom shared a goal of bringing a single-shot vaccine to the public,” said Alex Gorsky, Chairman and Chief Executive Officer at Johnson & Johnson. “We will do everything we can to help bring this pandemic to an end, in the United States and throughout the world.” The Company has begun shipping its COVID-19 vaccines to the U.S. govern-ment and expects to deliver enough single-shot vaccines by the end of March to enable the full vaccination of more than 20 million people in the U.S.
Vaccine
from page 1 a visual of what appeared to be a smooth operation, but workers said a lot of coordination went into providing a process that was not foreboding and overwhelming. According to Rep. Johnson, who has toured the megasite previously, the initial set-up was not as organized. With folks having to park and walk long distances only to have some turned away because they were out of vaccines for the day, well, it was somewhat frustrating. While many concerns have been expressed about hiccups in the system, Marva Sneed found the process was seamless for her on Friday. “It went so quickly,” she said. “Even though I had heard several stories about issues, didn’t have any problem. I was in and out in no time and I feel fine.” And that was good news for workers, and elected officials; along with the announcement
Israel Rivera, principal of School of Business and Management at Townview, has been recognized by the national organization Bilingual VIDA Bilingüe. The non-profit recognizes the importance of bilingualism and bilingual education across the country in developing the next generation. Rivera received the William Pulte Innovative Leader of the Year award by VIDA Bilingual for his leadership and championship for instilling bilingualism among native English-speakers and English Language Learners. Rivera has been an educator in Dallas ISD for 16 years, including five as bilingual teacher and one as assistant principal. Rivera, who is also an officer for the Asso-ciation of Hispanic School Administrators, spent his last ten year serving as a principal.
that at least 1 million doses of the vaccine are scheduled to arrive in Texas next week. “We realize there are numerous concerns,” said Rep. Allred, adding that just as it is important to keep wearing masks and follow proven protocols, steps have to be taken to make the process easy for citizens. “This is our federal support at work. We have active duty military here helping out with the public health officials.” Citing her background as a nurse and referencing her age, Rep. Johnson said it is important to “follow the science” instead of “politicians who are making poor decisions for political reasons.” “I’m old and this is a hot spot,” said Rep. Johnson, who blasted efforts to relax restrictions. “It doesn’t make sense to stop using a mask in the middle of this pandemic! “I really do not want people to subject themselves to a virus that is still killing people just because the governor said you can take
off the mask.” Even members of the clergy are using their “influencer” status to encourage their congregants to get the virus and to also continue wearing a mask. In a promo for Parkland Hospital, Rev. Dr. Tommy Brown, of New Mount Zion Baptist Church said, “As the pastor of a church, I have to serve so many people and be in so many different locations. I thought it best to protect myself and my family by getting vaccinated.” Rep. Veasey participated in a town hall meeting on Sunday and said the government is planning to help people affected by the Coronavirus regarding healthcare, job loss, unemployment and the pending stimulus package. “The coronavirus pandemic has exacerbated the existing health care disparities that face low-income communities,” he said. The COVID-19 Town Hall was broadcast on the Urban One Facebook pages for 97.9 The Beat
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COVID-19 health threat increases psychological distress among Black Americans As the coronavirus pandemic continues to devastate communities of color around the country, Black Americans are facing additional stressors due to COVID-19. Researchers from the University of Georgia study examined the perceptions of coronavirus threat and psychological distress among Black Americans and determined that the additional stresses arise from the prevalent belief among Black Americans worried that they might not recover from how hospitals treat them if they become infected with the coronavirus. The study used data from the American Trends Panel survey by the Pew Research Center collected shortly after the initial outbreak in March 2020, a nationally representative sample of adults in the United States. “We found that the perception that the coronavirus outbreak was a major threat to one’s health and the belief that Black Americans face racial discrimination in medical settings were both positively and significantly associated with higher levels of psychological distress,” said Ryon Cobb, assistant professor of sociology in the UGA Franklin College of Arts and Sciences and lead author on the study. “While the notion has been floated among commentators, this is the first study that uses nationally representative data to assess whether this threat, or feeling, is real among Black adults, and then assess how it and Majic 94.5 via Streamyard with Community Affairs Director and On-Air Talent, Jazze “RadioChica” Maxie as the moderator. Rep. Veasey’s message is similar to that of Dallas County Commissioner John Wiley Price who has been working to ensure fair and equitable distribution of services and vaccines; while also educating his constituents on information as quickly as it becomes available. “Since the introduction of the Pfizer vaccine, I have been inundated with questions from people in this community and frankly across the country,” Price said. “The doubt and skepticism around this issue concerns me.” In addition to encouraging citizens to register and take the vaccine at their earliest opportunity, Price said he will focus on dispelling and dismissing some of the misinformation and conspiracy theories surrounding the issue. While coming short of criticizing the governor, Dallas Mayor Eric Johnson, on pretty
Photo Courtesy Stock Footage/Canva
impacts their health,” he added. The research also establishes a relationship between these two factors that multiply the risk. Cobb said the data suggest people may take preventive measures more seriously though it could also cause Black adults to engage less with the health care system. “These findings highlight the complexity of how a public health crisis can influence Black community members’ navigation of an already unequal health care system in increasingly difficult circumstances,” W. Carson Byrd, associate professor at the University of Michigan, added. “Discussions about dealing with the fear of just getting it or not often come down to, if you don’t get it, you’re fine,” Cobb said. “But the outbreak itself is stressful, and the increasing stress is part of people’s health, regardless of whether they have COVID.” “By the time things are critical, at least for Black Americans, the perception is that there is little hope for recovery.” much the same line as other elected officials, issued a statement, “The people of Dallas should continue to mask up and take precautions to slow COVID19’s spread and mutations. We are getting closer to achieving herd immunity, and now is not the time to let down our guard. Vaccines, masks, and social distancing are the best tools we have for fighting this virus, which has claimed far too many lives in the last year.” The mayor went even further during a news conference on Thursday at the City’s newest vaccination site, The Potter’s House, in Southwest Dallas County. He said he would be issuing an emergency regulation requiring face coverings inside all city buildings. Although there are exceptions, the mayor’s regulation, passed on March 4, 2021 and went into effect at 12:01 a.m. on March 10, 2021; occurring at the precise time of the Governor’s executive order (GA-34) that reopened Texas.
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My COVID-19 action plan:
How to cope when the virus hits home By Sonja Bartolome, M.D.
Internal Medicine - Pulmonary Disease UTSouthwestern Medical Center Special to Texas Metro News
In a pandemic, even when you do everything right, viruses can still find a way into your home. As a respiratory specialist, I have lived in PPE for the better part of a year and made sure that my family has taken every precaution. I was also among the first health care workers to be vaccinated. So when my husband, Ivan, got COVID-19 this winter, it was a stark reminder of just how insidious and unpredictable the SARS-CoV-2 virus can be. Ivan didn’t have a mild case, either. He was sick with a fever and cough for two weeks straight. When I posted an update about Ivan’s condition to my social media, I was surprised how many people came out of the woodwork and said, “I had it, too!” or “My whole family caught it at the same time!” It was as if they felt ashamed of being infected by a novel coronavirus that has spread to nearly 29 million people in the U.S. They also seemed worried about being judged by others: What were you out doing? Didn’t you wear a mask or wash your hands? Leading up to Ivan’s illness, we hadn’t really gone anywhere or done anything. We never went out in public without masks on and hand sanitizer in tow. But that’s what viruses do. They are always searching for an available host, even when we do our best to be careful. As we approach the one-year mark of living with COVID-19, we need to eliminate the stigma and shift our focus to controlling the controllables, particularly as new variants to the SARS-CoV-2 virus arise. The vaccines, while vital, don’t mean we can let our guard down. If someone in your immediate family becomes infected, there
Even before his test results came back, my husband, Ivan, self-isolated. Our master bedroom has an exterior door, so we could see him through the glass and we could FaceTime. By following safe practices, we were fortunate nobody else in our house was infected.
are steps you can take to reduce the risk and limit the spread at home. We developed an action plan when Ivan tested positive for COVID-19, and I wanted to share our experience in hopes it might help others.
UT Southwestern offers several options for testing, including drive-up facilities.
1. GET TESTED EARLY When Ivan first started feeling sick, we thought it might be a cold or flu and not COVID-19. But just to be sure, we all got tested right away. My tests came back negative, and we were surprised when his were positive. More severe symptoms began
shortly thereafter. My children and I got tested a second time just to be sure, and we were still negative. Testing helped us isolate him early, potentially sparing the rest of the family from infection. Explore UT Southwestern testing options.
Our master bedroom has an external door, so we could see him through the glass if we stood in the yard. We could FaceTime, but it was difficult being apart for that long. I empathize with people who have had to deal with this situation throughout the pandemic with relatives in nursing homes and hospitals.
bathrooms. In tight quarters, do your best to keep people who have COVID-19 or symptoms in one area of the home and those who are well in another. We know families who live in their RVs. When one person got infected, that person stayed in a room at the back of the RV, leaving only to use the restroom (masked up, of course). The rest of the family stayed out of the person’s space, masked up, and used antiviral cleaners to wipe down the doorknobs, toilet handle, and faucets. No one else in the family got sick. Do your best in your environment. Keep at least six feet of distance between sick and well individuals for at least 14 days after a positive COVID-19 test and after they’ve been fever-free for 24 hours. Keeping them isolated behind a door is safest, but physical distance may suffice. Weather permitting, spend time outdoors at home as much as possible. The virus is more likely to spread in closed in spaces without much ventilation. Related reading: Tired of social distancing? Try NPIs on for size
2. ISOLATE AT THE FIRST SIGN OF SYMPTOMS
4. WEAR PPE AT HOME WHEN SOMEONE IS SICK
Even before his test results came back, Ivan self-isolated at the first sign of symptoms. We’re fortunate to have a bathroom off the master bedroom, which he was able to use through his two-week isolation. I took the spare room, main bathroom, and kitchen so I could bring him food throughout our time apart. I also worked from home, attending meetings and seeing patients via video conferences. Ivan and I set up a protocol. I’d mask up, then knock. He’d put on his mask and move at least six feet from the door. I’d place his food on a side table, chat a bit, then leave so he could unmask and eat. When he was through, we’d repeat the process to clear away the dishes.
Most of us don’t love wearing masks, but they make a difference. At work, I wear an N95 mask, face shield, gloves, gown, you name it. But at home, we wore simple surgical masks, and the virus did not spread to anyone else in our home. Some of the recently recorded COVID-19 variants appear to spread faster than the original SARS-CoV-2 virus, but they do not appear to cause more severe infections. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recently reiterated the importance of wearing a snug-fitting mask and even suggested wearing two masks, depending on the type, to further reduce the risk of exhaling or inhaling respiratory droplets.
Throughout our time apart, I worked from home and we developed a protocol so I could bring Ivan his meals and he could remain isolated.
3. DIVIDE AND CONQUER to
Not everybody has access separate bedrooms and
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5. CONSIDER NEW TREATMENTS TO AVOID HOSPITALIZATION If you test positive for COVID-19 and are at high-risk for severe symptoms, consider getting a monoclonal antibody infusion. This new treatment consists of laboratory-made proteins that mimic how the immune system fights viruses. While the infusion doesn’t cure COVID-19 infection, it can help decrease the viral load by blocking the virus from entering more cells. The goal is to reduce the severity of infection and avoid an ER visit or hospitalization. Patients 12 and older who are hospitalized with COVID-19 may benefit from remdesivir, an antiviral medication that interrupts virus production, lowering its ability to multiply. Research suggests that fewer than 3 percent of patients have mild side effects from the infusion. Perhaps the main drawback on monoclonal antibody treatment is that you can’t get a COVID-19 vaccine for 90 days afterward because the treatment may impair your body’s immune res-
ponse to the vaccine. However, it is rare to get infected with COVID-19 again in that timeframe due to the nature of the virus. Texas has set up monoclonal antibody infusion centers around the state, including at UT Southwestern. Your primary care provider must refer you for treatment, which is under an emergency use authorization because it is so new. Find a center near you.
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ways be the case. As soon as you are eligible, you can schedule a vaccination appointment at UT Southwestern’s Vaccination Page. Around the time my husband recovered from COVID-19, he became eligible for the vaccine because he has a high-risk con-
corded cases that the CDC has recommended vaccination for people who have been infected with the virus. It may sound cliché, but none of us are safe until all of us are safe. That’s why it’s important to get vaccinated when your time and opportunity come.
BUILDING CONFIDENCE IN THE COVID-19 VACCINES Vaccine hesitancy runs deep in the U.S., particularly in hardhit communities of color. Dr. Quinn Capers, Associate Dean for Faculty Diversity at UT Southwestern and a national leader on the issue of diversity and inclusion in medicine, says the key to connecting with Black and Hispanic patients is delivering on a message of trust and equality. 6. GET VACCINATED – EVEN IF YOU’VE ALREADY HAD COVID-19 The vaccine supply is limited right now, but that won’t al-
dition. He registered right away, but he did get some questions from friends who thought once you had the virus you were immune. That’s a common misconception. Nobody is sure how long natural immunities last, and while reinfections aren’t common there are enough re-
The potential side effects from a COVID-19 vaccine are minor and short-lived, especially when compared with the symptoms of COVID-19 infection for a patient who has comorbidities such as blood pressure, diabetes, or obesity. If you feel hesitant about getting vaccinated, talk
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with your primary care provider about your personal risk/benefit balance. A FEW CLOSING THOUGHTS Patients sometimes ask, “Why me? Why did I get this when I am so careful?” The truth is, viruses don’t discriminate – they just look for any way to spread. That’s why it’s essential to continue following COVID-19 safety protocols: • Wear a mask • Wash your hands • Practice social distancing • Avoid large indoor gatherings • Get tested early and often • Self-isolate if you feel sick or suspect you’ve been exposed There shouldn’t be a stigma attached to catching COVID-19. Do your best to implement the precautions, and if someone in your family gets infected, do everything you can to limit the spread to the rest of your family and the community. Working together, we can beat this virus. To visit with a primary care or respiratory health doctor, call 214-645-8300 or request an appointment online.
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Black authors are having a sort of “Renaissance” – a revival of writing and publishing - of their very own. Frisco-based publishing consultant Rekesha Pittman said that the social and political climate in the United States has ignited a fresh literary movement - and a greater demand for equity and inclusion in both children’s and adult books. “For a lot of African Americans, in the past, literacy was viewed as a challenge to keep our people suppressed and oppressed,” said Pittman, who earned a degree in English and creative writing at the University of Southern California. “And now, many Black authors want to tell their stories, and it’s not just biographies.” “Authors are writing about a variety of issues and topics, putting out all kinds of content that people can relate to,” she said. On the other hand, Black literary consumers have an insatiable appetite for books written about African American experiences in America, said Monique Christian-Long, library manager for Dallas Public Library. After the highly publicized deaths of George Floyd, Breonna Taylor and other Black Americans, Dallas Public Library staff
saw increased inquiries from African American parents seeking book recommendations with characters who looked like their children, said Christian-Long. “We got an influx of requests for books (for and by Black authors) due to the social climate and the Black Lives Matter movement,” she said. “Parents would come to us and say, ‘Help me find books with representation like them’.” To meet such demand, Christian-Long and other librarians created the Dallas Public Library’s Young Black Readers newsletter, which is published bi-monthly and includes books by an author or illustrator who is either African American or a member of the African diaspora. Meanwhile, Pittman, who owns Get Write Publishing, says Black authors increasingly are choosing to self-publish to retain artistic freedom and minimize barriers to getting their stories told. This has led to a more diverse literary landscape, she says. “It’s become easier than ever to create and produce content (as an author),” said Pittman, an author herself and a self-publishing consultant. “Self-publishing is helping to diversify the literary world and everyone is finding their voice.” Still, doing so comes with challenges for Black authors. Marketing their work, for example, often is difficult.
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Massachusetts author Sandra Hinds self-published I Love You Every Second, a book for young children in 2012, after being told “no” by too many publishing houses. “I’d gotten rejection letters from big publishers, but I decided to say ‘yes’ to myself so I could accomplish my dream of seeing my work in print,” she said. “But because I self-published, I do the marketing on my own.”
Shauntelle and Madelyn Modeste
While she envisions the book becoming available in schools and libraries around the world, for now, Hinds relies on social media and word of mouth to market the book. “I’m not looking to make a lot of money. That would be nice. I just think I have a gem that I want to share with the world,” Hinds said. “I think every author wants that for themselves,” she said. “At some point, maybe I’ll hire some-
one (to help with publicity) but, financially, I can’t do that right now.” Madelyn’s mother, Shauntelle, believes there is a ripe market for delivering more stories with African American characters. She may be correct: According to the Cooperative Children’s Book Center, a research library at the University of Wisconsin-Madison, representation in all literature is lackluster but, in children’s literature, it’s especially dismal. The Center looked at 3,717 children’s books published in the United States in 2019 and found that only 5 percent – or 675 titles - were by Black authors or about Black characters. Shauntelle Modeste said the statistic underscores a need to fill this void. “When it comes to reading and our community, we need books that spark our interest and attention, stories that speak to family, love and faith” said Modeste, who is a former instructional specialist for the Lewisville Independent School District. “With things like the language and the graphics, the books Madelyn reads should reflect her lived experiences.” The idea for Madelyn’s book came after her mother stumbled across a story on the young social activist Marley Dias who, after becoming frustrated at a white protagonist in a book she had read, created the hashtag “1000Black-
• Mar. 11 - 17, 2021
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GirlBooks” in 2015 while she was in elementary school. “One day I came across Marley Dias and her story and it inspired me to encourage Madelyn to try to write a book,” Modeste said. To get the project done, Modeste found a publishing coach online and enrolled her only child in a month-long virtual course to help her with the writing process. “We homeschool and we have flexibility in our schedule,” Modeste said. “Madelyn logged on to the class every week for a month to work with the coach and at the end of the process, we decided to work towards having it physically published.” Modeste also found an artist online to illustrate and help bring Madelyn’s book to life. “We wanted to make sure everything, down to the graphics in the book, accurately reflected the Black experience and, at the end, we uploaded it to Amazon to self-publish,” she said. The writing of the book, however, the plot and the ending, are entirely Madelyn’s work. For Madelyn, writing her book was a way to see herself in literature, but also to be an example for other girls of color. “Everything that happens in the book are all facts that actually happened in my life,” she said. “People can look at the book and see a girl who’s African American with curly hair, just like them.”
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