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MY TRUTH By Cheryl Smith PUBLISHER
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FIGHT FOR WOMEN
OF COLOR WHO FIGHT FOR US By Ben Jealous
Special to Texas Metro News
President Joe Biden has nominated extraordinary women of color to high-level jobs in the Biden-Harris administration. Many of them are being attacked and smeared by the far right. That’s why People For the American Way has launched the #HerFightOurFight campaign. We cannot let far-right forces silence and smear these trailblazing women who are eager
Cheryl’s for real! I want to talk about Cheryl for a minute. The sister is all over the place! She went to an HBCU, so that means that she has it going on! She pledged a sorority and knows the importance of sisterhood, and she’s been committed to public service, family, hard work and faith. She didn’t just arrive on the scene. Cheryl has been working a long time and making a difference so it’s no wonder that she is prepared for a time such as this. She expects you to have your stuff together, because guess what? When you come needing something from her, it’s always together! So why should she accept less from you? Cheryl lifts as she climbs and makes opportunities for others. Not only does she know her way around a broadcast studio; she has that publishing gig down pretty solid too. Cheryl is sounding pretty decent right about now. Which brings me to my truth. No, I am not talking about Cheryl Smith. I am talking See MY TRUTH, page 15
Thanks for picking up the phone, Shaun Rabb! P-8
Ben Jealous
to advance the progressive values that Americans voted for when we put Joe Biden and Kamala Harris in the White House.
VANITA GUPTA Our first ad tells the story of Vanita Gupta, who has been nominated for associate attorney general. Gupta was a young civil rights lawyer in her first job after law school when she heard about a gross injustice in the small town of Tulia, Texas. Almost 40 people—nearly all of them Black—had been wrongly arrested, convicted by all-white juries, and jailed on bogus drug charges. It was a big percentage
Sports Editor
He was a basketball phenom in high school, named a prestigious McDonald’s AllAmerican and led Dallas Lincoln High School to a state and national championship with a 40-0 record. Now he’s closer to reaching the pinnacle of his career. This week, Dallas native Chris Bosh was named a finalist for
Chris Bosh
Credit: Twitter
the NBA’s Naismith Memorial Basketball Hall of Fame to be
Dallas Mayor Eric Johnson
See FOOD PANTRY, page 15
See VACCINE, page 9
considered for election in 2021. This year’s list includes nine first-time finalists including Bosh, a two-time NBA champion and 11-time NBA All-Star; the ninth-winningest coach in NBA history Rick Adelman; five-time NBA champion and five-time NBA All-Defensive First Team selection Michael Cooper, NBA Finals MVP and 10-time NBA All-Star Paul Pierce, the first Black NBA head coach See NBA HOF, page 5
Jarvis Christian College holds Grand Opening for Student Food Pantry
Everick Murrell (Mr. Jarvis), Joe Stephens (District Vice President, Brookshire Grocery Co.), Mrs. Gloria Newman (First Lady, Jarvis Christian College) and Dr. Lester C. Newman (President, Jarvis Christian College)
Dallas Mayor: ‘Don’t Hesitate To Get The COVID-19 Vaccine’
100- $50 gift cards to the College to distribute to students facing food insecurities and a $25,000 scholarship endowment as part of their “Focus on the Future” scholarship program. The pantry is located in the Ronald Hay Building and will be open on
See FIGHT, page 5
Hawkins, TX – Jarvis Christian College celebrated the grand opening of its student food pantry with a ribbon-cutting ceremony on March 11, 2021. Brookshire Grocery Company donated $5,000 in gift cards to stock the pantry. The Company also generously donated
SPECIAL MESSAGE
We are now more than one year into the COVID-19 pandemic, which has been a menace to our communities. We all have loved ones, friends, neighbors, and colleagues who were affected by the virus. People have lost jobs, lost lives, and lost time. In Texas alone, more than 47,000 people have died. That is the equivalent of the entire population of Rockwall. And while COVID-19 has impacted every city and community across the United States, it has disproportionately harmed Black and Hispanic communities. According to national, state, and local data — data that I pushed Dallas County to report early in the pandemic — people of color experience higher infection and mortality rates. But the end is in sight thanks to vaccines. All three approved COVID-19 vaccines — Moderna, Pfizer, and Johnson & Johnson — give us a shot to beat this pandemic. The vaccines are effective in protecting us and preventing the spread of the virus. However, this effectiveness can only be achieved if enough people are vaccinated. That’s how we get to herd immunity. But therein lies a problem. Despite the negative impacts on our communities, last year, one Pew Research poll showed that nationally, only 42% of African Americans. were likely to get the vaccine. For contrast, 83% of Asian Americans in the same poll said they were likely to
Dallas Native, Former Lincoln Standout Chris Bosh named NBA HOF finalist By Dorothy J. Gentry
HBCU Diamond Classic
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Covering Opioids and Alcohol Addiction 2021
UNT Dallas College of Law ranked #1 for Law School Diversity
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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
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.
WASH HANDS WEAR MASK
In their Winter 2021 Edition, preLaw / National Jurist Magazine announced the Top 25 law schools and UNT Dallas College of Law is Ranked #1 in the country for Law School Diversity. While racial disparity remains in America, many institutions of higher learning are stepping up recruitment efforts to attract the best and brightest students from all backgrounds. UNT Dallas College of Law (COL) has been recognized by the magazine over the past few years for earning a number of esteemed banners including Top 10 Best Law Schools for African Americans and Top 20 for Hispanics. Now, the Dallas law institution sits atop an elite list of law schools in the U.S. Former Assistant Dean for Admissions and Scholarships - Valerie James and her second in command Sheena Brooks were responsible for executing an extremely aggressive strategy to build a culturally diverse law-school student body when the doors opened in 2014. Brooks was at the helm when law schools throughout America were forced to establish new protocols for meeting potential students during the pandemic. After reassessing a slew of new recruiting norms during COVID-19, the admissions team amassed a record number of diverse applicants for the Entering Class of Fall 2020. Dr. Nicole Gibbs, who joined UNT Dallas COL as the new Assistant Dean for Admissions and Scholarships in October 2020, is working
Dr. Nicole Gibbs
diligently to continue the successful climb by incorporating the latest law school best practices. UNT Dallas COL has a proud, albeit short, history as an innovative educational law program with a number of local and regional championships in Moot Court and Mock Trial competitions. With brand new recognition as a diversity leader among all law schools in the country, UNT Dallas COL is living up to its mission of training lawyers who are as diverse as the communities they serve. The American Bar Association (ABA) completed a site visit last week at UNT Dallas COL, which was provisionally approved in June 2017. For more information about UNT Dallas College of Law visit https://lawschool.untdallas. edu
With reports that alcohol and drug abuse have risen steeply during the pandemic – and that addiction treatment is as elusive as ever - the National Press Foundation and the American Society of Addiction Medicine are offering an opportunity for journalists to pause and take a deep dive into the science of addiction. This training will cover the increase in alcohol and drug use during the pandemic; the latest on the opioids crisis; the latest research on treatment and telemedicine for addiction treatment; the role of marijuana and alcohol; trends in substance abuse; racial disparities in access to drug treatment; and more. With this grounding in hand, journalists will then cover the three-day American Society of Addiction Medicine Virtual Conference. The NPF training is April 7, 12, 14, 16 and 19 and May 19 on Zoom. Sessions will be mid-day – 11 a.m.-1 p.m. – to catch reporters in all time zones. The ASAM Annual Conference runs from April 22-24. The program is open to all U.S.-based journalists. Black, Indigenous and other journalists of color are encouraged to apply. Journalists do not need to be covering addiction issues now, but they should have an interest in doing so in future and an outlet for their work. Contact Chris Adams (cadams@nationalpress.org) for details or apply here: https://npf.wufoo.com/forms/w13fewf00frsc27/ Applicants must commit to attend all sessions of the NPF training and the ASAM conference. Support for this program comes from Arnold Ventures and it is hosted by ASAM. NPF retains sole responsibility for programming and content.
Celebrating Women’s History Month
Revitalize South Dallas Coalition Verify details w/sponsors. RSDC does not sponsor/endorse these events Monday Night Politics May 1st City Council Election Forums Mondays, March 29th; April 5th; 6pm. On the 22nd, District 6 city council candidates Omar Narvaez, Wendi Macon, Monica Alonzo, Earl Thomas and Tony Carrillo will present their platforms and debate the issues. District 6 includes West Dallas. On the 29th, District 7 candidates (South Dallas, Joppa, Buckner Terrace, Ferguson Road) will debate. And, April 5th, includes District 8 candidates (South Oak Cliff). Contact: Mbelt@Dallasexaminer.com. Register: https://us02web.zoom.us/webinar/register/WN_kdJQhtklQdm8jmm8nfw0FQ BridgeBuilders: Job Training Program 1st class March 22 – April 9, 2021. Free; 5210 Bexar Street; #103, Dallas, 75215 (Bonton). BridgeBuilders and NRF (National Retail Federation) provide job training thru 3-week courses held monthly through November 2021. Orientation is happening NOW. Topics: Customer Service, Sales, Resume Creation, Interview Prep; and NRF Certification. Contact: Sheldon Norred, 469621-5912; snorred@bridgebuilders.org. Logistics Certification Program:
Dallas College Information Sessions: Wednesday, 31st; 10am. Free. Logistics is the process of delivering goods and services to consumers as quickly and efficiently as possible. It is a rapidly growing industry, especially in Southern Dallas. Consider getting your Manufacturing Skills Standards Council Certification thru Dallas College. You will learn about operations, warehousing, production, distribution, and inventory control. Contact: shaneika.frazier@dcccd.edu. Interest Form: https://bit.ly/3aLceYY “Women Leading in Government”: Virtual Table Talk Wednesday, March 24, 2021; 11:30am – 12:45pm. Free. In celebration of Women’s History Month, the Dallas Police Department’s Office of Community Affairs, sponsors this event. Topic: “Overcoming Average”. Roundtable panelists will focus on reflection, encouragement, and empowerment. Contact: Ms Foster; 214-671-4045. Register: https://www.eventbrite.com/o/ dallas-police-department-office-of-community-affairs-and-employee-communicationsoca-214-671-4045-8265975612
“Make Your Website Work for You”: Veteran Women’s Enterprise Center Thursday, March 25, 2021; 1pm – 2pm. Free. Geared toward veteran women but open to all, learn how to create a dynamic website that drives user action. Questions: Is Your Website Easy-to-Reach? Useful? Functional? Intuitive? Findable by search engines? Maria Duron, Google Trainer and expert business consultant, is the presenter. Contact: VR Small; info@veteranwomensec.org. Register: https://veteranwomensec.org/activities/2021/2/25/ use-youtube-to-grow-your-businesstrending-thursdays-bgmyr Runways to Business: Vendor Day 2021 @Love Field Thursday, March 25, 2021; 1:30pm – 2:30pm. Virtual Microsoft Teams. If you are a contractor, vendor or professional services entrepreneur, learn more about procurement opportunities with Love Field Airport. Presentation includes: How to Register to Do Business with the City; M/WBE & DBE documentation; Upcoming Opportunities. Contact: patricia. davis@dallascityhall.com.
21st Annual Destiny Awards Luncheon: St Philip’s School Friday, March 26, 2021; 11:30am. Virtual Event. Distinguished author, Isabel Wilkerson, writer of the bestsellers “The Warmth of Other Suns” and “Caste: The Origins of our Discontents”; and a Pulitzer Prize winner, is guest speaker. Tickets: $175.00. Scholarships are available. The Destiny Awards is St. Philip’s largest annual fundraiser. Past guests included Cicely Tyson and Soledad O’Brien. Contact: 214-421-5221. Registration/Tickets: https://stphilips1600.givingfuel.com/75th-anniversary Jobs & Job Training Now & Ongoing. The Regional Black Chamber, First Step Community Empowerment and Dallas College have partnered to offer employment assistance. Jobs: Food Production/Quality Control making up to $17/ hour; and Solar Construction Workers making up to $600/week. Training: Construction, and opportunities for those recently released from jail or prison. Requirements vary for each opportunity. Contact: Ralph Adams or Pam Davis; 214-565-8946. Contact event sponsors to re-verify event information Ken Smith; info@rsdc.us
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A STEP IN THE RIGHT DIRECTION THE LAST WORD
By Dr. Julianne Malveaux Exhale. Relief is on the way. President Biden’s COVID relief bill cleared the Senate with the narrowest of margins. It was a grueling process. As a delaying tactic, Wisconsin Senator Ron Johnson (R) demanded that the entire 600 plus page bill be read aloud. It took more than 10 hours for Senate clerks to read. The ridiculous demand imposed no hardship on any Senator. Most, including Johnson himself, drifted in and out of the reading, which lasted until 2 am on the morning Friday, March 5. The Senators were not inconvenienced – they were under no obligation to be seated as the legislation was read. The inconvenience, instead, was on the clerks who read for several hours, and to what end? No matter. The delay did not prevent the legislation from passing, although it passed on strictly party lines. Do any Republicans represent the poor people who hunger for relief? And what about Senator Joe Manchin (D-WVA), who dug in his heels to limit relief checks to the “wealthy,” reduce unemployment benefits from a proposed $400 per week down to $300. West Virginia is one of our nation’s poorest states. Their “moderate” Senator turned his back on his constituents, watering down the House plan to provide more. Still, essential components of the legislation remained. The amended bill may pass Congress as early as March 10, retained help to cities and states, support covid vaccinations, and a child credit that will put
money in people’s pockets. The legislation is, in some ways, disappointing. In many other ways, it is a step in the right direction. At moments like this, I think of folks like Elder Betty Shabazz, who always says, “find the good and praise it.” So we must praise the legislation that has passed and what it will mean to those struggling in the face of this pandemic. We must praise the money that poor people with children will get. And we must praise the relief that will come to small businesses, which have a two-week window to get ahead of the capitalist exploiters who have manipulated the system.
We must also embrace our disappointment as motivation to move forward. Thanks, Senator Bernie Sanders, for continuing your passionate fight for $15. Why have so many settled at $11 or raised the issue of differential minimum wages based on the cost of living? No matter where you go, a McDonald’s or Burger King sandwich costs about the same unless there are sales. So does food. Housing costs may differ, and that’s worth consideration. Here’s the other question – how much poverty are we prepared to accept? Are we prepared to accept its consequences? We are also disappointed that President Biden has backed off student loan forgiveness, suggesting that it might be limited to $10,000 per borrower. The backbone of Biden support, Black women, carry the most enormous student loan debt.
Biden and his team need to target student loan relief and ensure that those who shouldered the most debt get the most help. While there are certainly flaws to the Biden/Warren plan for total student loan debt forgiveness, the Biden proposal does not deal with the racial wealth gap and how Black students often pay more to get less in higher education. I am not complaining. It would be unseemly in the face of this victory. I am merely saying there is so much work to do. If we are tempted to take a victory lap around the passage of covid relief, we must also be ready for the next steps. The House of Representatives passed HR1, which is an election protection measure that guarantees voting rights. Already, there are more than 200 voter suppression proposed legislation that comes from more than 40 states. In Georgia, the state legislature has crafted a bill that directly attacks the efforts of voter organizers. It limits Sunday voting, negating the efforts of “All Souls to the Polls”. It forbids the distribution of food and water to those who have been standing in line for hours. Georgia legislators know the power of the Black vote. They want to diminish it. Since the mid-1990s, the Black church has called for “all souls to the polls”. Some folks don’t want our souls there. They want to continue their autocratic nonsense, and unless we vote, despite obstacles, they’ll have their way. Passing COVID relief is a step in the right direction. But it must be the first step, not the last. 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.
Always Right to Fight! QUIT PLAYIN’ By Vincent L. Hall Now this one will probably get me into trouble, but it does not matter. There is undeniable evidence that my mama and God love me. That’s enough for me, and even if it were not, this has to be said. I am tired of Black folks who spew disinformation and ignorance. White privilege may make allowances for some, but not for us. After the horrific murders of some of our Asian sisters in Georgia, the press started asking whether or not the Black community would align with them to stop the senseless racist attacks against them spurred on by Trump and his merry band of White Supremacists. It was devastating to me to read many of the social media responses and sickening to hear them among friends and family. “What did the Asians ever do for us? I don’t remember them being a part of our civil rights struggle!” There are three significant flaws in this dismissive reasoning. First, reportedly, only 3-5% of Black folks followed King and the civil rights movement in general. Second, plenty of Asians like our Jewish brothers and sisters went to bat for us. Go back and read the history. Finally, the revolutionary fight for the liberation of all peoples should never be conditional. Good people must challenge racism, sexism, homophobia, and all other forms of oppression without regard to the race, ethnicity, or government on either side of the equation. Many believe as I do, that Jesus Christ was of African descent. However, if that same Jesus died for Africans but no one else, he would not be worthy of my spiritual allegiance. We should pounce on injustice in the world roundly and without question. How shallow is it to ask, “What did Asians or Mexicans or anyone else ever do for us? Miss me with that dumb sh!t! Nothing in the Christian credo or ethos requires compensation or reparations for good deeds. Nevertheless, for the sake of the naysayers, let me reiterate a few of the main points of a CNN article by Van Jones, “Black-Asian solidarity has a long and
storied history in America!” This may be the only time you ever hear me quote Van Jones. “Legendary civil rights icon Frederick Douglass gave a speech about immigration in 1869 at a moment when restricting Chinese and Japanese migration to the United States was central to the political debate. Douglass took a strong stand for a “composite nation” with free migration as a fundamental human right. When Filipinos decided to fight for their country’s independence instead of accepting US colonial rule, the US launched a war against them. That war created a crisis of conscience for some African American soldiers. Prominent African American figures like Henry M. Turner and Ida B. Wells empathized with the Filipino freedom fighters and spoke out on their behalf. African American opposition to the Vietnam War was widespread. Leaders like Malcolm X, Muhammad Ali, and Martin Luther King Jr. spoke out. Protesters carried signs reading, “Black men should fight white racism, not Vietnamese freedom fighters.” Near the end of his life, an embattled Malcolm X was isolated from the Nation of Islam. As he struggled to forge a new path for himself, Yuri Kochiyama, a Japanese American human rights activist, stood by his side. The two became friends and helped each other develop global perspectives on human rights. When assassins gunned Malcolm X down, it was Kochiyama who famously cradled his head as he lay dying on the floor of the Audubon Ballroom. My angst is simple regarding the need for African Americans to take a stand against injustice anywhere that poses a threat to justice everywhere. Dr. King made it plain. “The time is always right to do what is right.” He ended that quote with another equally compelling line. “You could start right now by doing a small part to treat people with dignity, courtesy, and respect.” As the most hated people on planet earth, African Americans should show some respect and regard to our Asian-American family’s plight in this critical juncture of American history. Dr. King was assassinated 10 days before Easter and 53 years ago. Let us honor his legacy rather than distorting it. It is always right to fight injustice. Vincent L. Hall is an author, activist, and an award-winning columnist.
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Pick Your Battles Carefully FAITHFUL UTTERANCES By Dr. Froswa Booker-Drew This past week, what apparently was an argument between Kirk Franklin and his adult son was now in the public sphere for consumption, comment and even debate. His son recorded their spat and Kirk’s words of scorn were saturated with some colorful language. I’m not sure what his son’s intention was in making their private disagreement public. If the goal was to make others see his father in a negative light— it’s possible that it could have done that for both of them. If the goal was to demonstrate that his father was human and experienced expressions of anger as many of us do, then he was successful.
NBA HOF from page 1
Bill Russell, two-time NCAA national champion Villanova coach Jay Wright, seven-time WNBA All-Star and twotime Olympic gold medalist Yolanda Griffith, seven-time WNBA All-Star and threetime WNBA Most Valuable Player Lauren Jackson, and NCAA national champion and WNBA Coach of the Year Marianne Stanley. The entire Class of 2021 will be unveiled on May 16, 2021. The Class of 2021 Enshrinement ceremony is scheduled to take place in September 2021. The date of the Class of 2021 Ceremony will be announced prior to the Class of 2021 Announcement on May 16. Bosh is an 11-time NBA All-Star (2006-2016) and a two-time NBA Champion with the Miami Heat (2012, 2013). In 13 NBA seasons, he averaged 19.2 points and 8.5 rebounds per game. Drafted by the Toronto Raptors, he was a member of the NBA All-
If his goal was to reconcile the relationship, I would say that it probably did the opposite. Relationships are messy and quite often, it’s easy to see these family disagreements as a failure without recognizing the difficulty it is to be a parent. I think we also fail to see how many of our issues in relationship with family actually are a mirror of our relationship with God. Being a parent is one of the most difficult jobs I’ve ever had. I describe my adult daughter as my heart walking outside of my body and yet, as much as I love her, we’ve had some disagreements and even times when we needed space from one another. I can admit that as great of a relationship we have, there have been some rocky roads we’ve traveled in between the great moments. There are decisions I don’t necessarily agree with that she has made. Yet, I realize that she is an adult and can make
Rookie Team in 2003-2004. His NBA career was cut short by a blood clotting condition that the NBA ruled to be a career-ending illness. Bosh played his final NBA game on February 9, 2016. Bosh fought to resume his playing career for three years before announcing in February 2019 that he intended to retire.On March 26, the Heat retired his no. 1 jersey. As a collegiate athlete at Georgia Tech, Bosh earned ACC Rookie of the Year in 2003. As a high school standout in his native Dallas, Bosh was named Texas Mr. Basketball and a McDonald’s AllAmerican, while leading Lincoln High to a state and national championship with a 40-0 record. On the international stage, Bosh won an Olympic gold medal in 2008. Bosh has written a book “Letters to a Young Athlete” and spends time speaking to youths about the benefits of reading and education through his Chris Bosh Foundation in Dallas and Toronto.
choices just as I do. We all want the best things for our kids and when they make choices that we believe will hurt them, it’s hard to step back and watch. In our attempt to help them, I think sometimes we can hurt them by our approach, our words, and our actions. We can be well intended and not comprehend the impact of our decisions. For some of us, we hold grudges, allowing our anger to build up and at some point, we explode. I think the thing I’ve learned in our relationship is addressing issues as they happen instead of waiting, taking a step back when necessary, and always listen more than give input. The Bible gives us instruction in dealing with conflicts. Read (Matthew 18:15-17a). We have been a given a roadmap to address issues—whether it be with our children, co-workers, friends, or loved ones. We first attempt to deal with the person. If they are not willing to listen,
Fight
from page 1 of the Black community in that town. It was devastating to the individuals and their families. And they saw little chance to get justice. But then Gupta, who was working for the NAACP Legal Defense Fund, took up their cause. She exposed the injustice and won their freedom. She even got them pardons from a Republican governor. Gupta has been fighting for equal justice ever since. She led the Justice Department’s Civil Rights Division for part of the Obama administration. And for the last few years she has led the Leadership Conference on Civil and Human Rights. But right-wing groups are running a more than million-dollar ad campaign to smear her. And unprincipled politicians like Ted Cruz are attacking her over her civil rights work in the Obama administration. VOICE BEHIND CAMPAIGN Our #HerFightOurFight ad is narrated by Shirley Sherrod, a former government official who lived through a dishonest smear campaign that twisted and distorted
then we should bring it to wise counsel that we trust and know will seek truth and reconciliation. These are individuals who stand for righteousness and justice but understand the importance of mercy and grace. If they do not listen still, then you try again to bring reconciliation in another way. You don’t give up. The church doesn’t necessarily mean the physical structure or everyone within the congregation but those individuals who can offer sound advice, guidance, and offer discretion. How many times do we get angry at God, turn away, and say things out of doubt and unbelief because we didn’t get our way? Just as children do this to their parents, we, too, must own those times we’ve turned away from God. Pay attention to the temper tantrums you have with God, it could be a reflection of some of our interactions with others. Are we willing to hang on, work
her words to try to destroy her career. She sees the same thing happening to Gupta and other brilliant women of color, and she’s speaking out. It is important to defend women like Vanita Gupta who are being unfairly attacked. But this campaign is about more than these specific women. It is about all of us. These women are ready to make change happen—the change we voted for. They represent the kind of inclusive multiracial and multiethnic society we are building together—and the Biden-Harris administration’s commitment to building one of the most diverse governing teams in our nation’s history. IT’S OUR JOB I am sad to say it is not surprising that many of Biden’s nominees are being attacked by people who see that vision of our future as a threat. It is not surprising that the descendants of the Jim Crow south whose power is threatened by people of color turning out to vote are passing new laws to try to stop us. It is not surprising to see racism and sexism used as a political weapon. We know that progress is often
it out and keep the faith even when things go wrong or do we give up too easy, fuss, and cuss each other out? God models the behavior we all should strive for as parents or children; one that embraces honor, sees the best, tells the truth, and gives respect. It is one that love is foundation for every action and that forgiveness is essential. I don’t know the details of the fight between Mr. Franklin and his son but what I do hope is they are able to resolve and reconcile their issues privately with God instead of in the court of public opinion that does nothing but further isolates, and creates division and more pain. Go to those you love privately and make it right.
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.
met with backlash. Our long march toward justice has sometimes been beaten back temporarily—on the blood-stained Edmund Pettus Bridge, in courtrooms where whiteness trumped justice, in state legislatures where the Constitution’s promise of equal justice was repeatedly betrayed, and in the U.S. Senate, where the filibuster was used to delay passage of civil rights laws. IT’S OUR FIGHT Time and again, we have overcome, often led by courageous Black women and other women of color whose leadership was frequently overlooked and overshadowed. Today, we fight for Vanita Gupta and Kristen Clarke, a brilliant Black woman nominated to head the Justice Department’s Civil Rights Division, and other brilliant women who are ready to help President Joe Biden and Vice President Kamala Harris fight for a country that comes closer to meeting our ideals of freedom, equality, justice, and opportunity for all. #HerFightOurFight. Ben Jealous is president of People For the American Way and People For the American Way Foundation. He also is the former president and CEO of the NAACP.
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Whataboutourdaughters? —
Encouraging the Celebration of Everyday Icons Through Letters, Unity and Service By BlackPressUSA Alpha Kappa Alpha Founder’s Great-Grand Daughter, Chantel Harris, Celebrates Iconic Daughters this Women’s History Month (New York, NY) To celebrate Women’s History Month, Whataboutourdaughters? founded by a former presidential staffer Tiffiany Vaughn Jones, has launched a women’s empowerment campaign; that honors her former boss, Vice-President Kamala Harris while also encouraging women and girls to honor a special woman in their lives through the ‘Iconic Women Changing the World for Women and Girls’ campaign. This campaign that says being ‘Iconic’ is far less about being a superstar, actress, or model and focuses more on the importance of being a role model to other women and in your community. The platform encourages women to pass down greatness and build a legacy for women and girls. The campaign features Mrs. Chantel D. Harris, a human rights activist and the great-great-granddaughter of Alpha Kappa Alpha Founder, Ethel Hedgeman Lyle. Mrs. Harris’s commitment to helping others started at a young age. Through her church, she served the homeless and worked with the Circle of L.O.V.E (Let’s Overcome Violence Everywhere) program that was started by her grandmother and member of Alpha Kappa Alpha, Muriel “Puff” Lyle- Smith. In Mrs. Harris’ advocacy for women, she has lent her support to the national initiative Whataboutourdaughters? to help advance issues for daughters that are motherless, fatherless, homeless, forgotten, or hurting daughters. Harris lost her mother at a young age and says, “After experiencing the loss of my mother and knowing the emptiness that can come from such a loss, Whataboutourdaughters? mission to help motherless daughters is a cause that is very close to my heart.”
In the spirit of sisterhood, Whataboutourdaughters? is encouraging women across the globe to write a love letter to the women in their lives who helped shape them into the women they are today.
As a true heir to greatness, the AKA founder’s granddaughter posted a selfie wearing her Whataboutourdaughters? ‘Heir to Greatness’ sweatshirt. The merchandise is offered through Teespring, an online fundraising platform to raise funds for the 100% volunteer-based organization. Whataboutourdaughters? honors soror, Madam Vice-President Kamala Harris as an iconic woman and role model for women and girls and salutes Harris for her women’s activism and refusing to sit on the sidelines of history. Vice President Harris is featured as an Iconic Woman to celebrate
in the Whataboutourdaughters? Women’s History Month collection. The female empowerment ‘t-shirt and accessories line also celebrates unity, inclusion, and sisterhood. Iconic ‘Woman’ is written in English, French, Spanish, Swahili, Chinese, Hebrew, and Hindu to represent women across the globe. Throughout March, the campaign will bring visibility and awareness to unity, sisterhood, and service while focusing on initiatives that help eradicate social and economic barriers that prevent a woman or girl from walking in greatness.
The organization will also be kicking off its annual shoe drive with shoes donated by the heir. The Alpha Kappa Alpha honorary member will be passing down new and gently worn shoes from her closet that will be donated to women and girls in need this summer. In the spirit of sisterhood, Whataboutourdaughters? is encouraging women across the globe to write a love letter to the women in their lives who helped shape them into the women they are today. The platform hopes to inspire women to share their notes and stories online using the hashtags #letterstoanicon and #womenshistorymonth2021. At press time, Whataboutourdaughters? founder and former Biden-Harris staffer, Tiffiany Vaughn Jones said, “During Women’s History Month, we salute the generations of extraordinary women, suffragists, and Black women that paved the way for women. Our mission is to continue to amplify the vital truth that when women succeed, the world succeeds.
“The election of Kamala Harris is indicative of how far we have come. However, our work is not done. We must rise to meet this moment and recommit ourselves to building a future of opportunity and prosperity for our daughters, our granddaughters, and all women in the community.” Whataboutourdaughters? is a national community of women changemakers powered by SisterHood Inc., a 501c3 organization founded by Dr. Rev Hilda Covington in 1996. The initiative inspires women and girls to build a legacy of greatness while pouring back into the lives of vulnerable women in the community that are motherless, fatherless, homeless, forgotten, or hurting daughters. The community-driven program has provided groceries, shoes, business attire, dolls, and enrichment programs to women and girls in need. Whataboutourdaughters? Online Shop: http://www.teespring.com/stores/whataboutyourdaughters Website: http://www.whataboutyourdaughters.org http://www.sisterhoodworldwide.org
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Virtual and liVe Community Calendar WOMEN’S HISTORY MONTH
March 26-28
March25
State Fair Diamond Classic Baseball at Dr. Pepper Ball Park, 7300 Rough Riders Tr. Info: BCSG360.org. Grambling & PVAMU.
Ida B. Wells-Barnett died in 1931 Prose Bookstore, presents P&P Live! Henry Louis Gates, Jr. | The Black Church with Eddie S. Glaude Jr. Tickets: Eventbrite. com. 3-4 pm. CDT. Prairie View A&M University, Launches the “Ruth J. Simmons, Center for Race and Justice.” Online: youtube.com/ pvamu. 2 pm. CDT. Zeta Phi Beta Sorority, Inc. & Delta Alpha Alpha Zeta Chapter. Hosts Finer Womanhood Month Webinar: Stock Trading Like A Boss! Online: us02web.zoom.us. 7 pm. CDT. Veteran Women’s Enterprise Center, hosts Make Your Website Work for You. Presenter: Maria Duron, Google Trainer and expert business consultant. Contact: VR Small; info@veteranwomensec.org. Register: http://bit.ly/3bT6LzK. 1-2 pm. Runways to Business: Vendor Day 2021 @Love Field 1:30– 2:30 pm. Learn more about procurement opportunities with Love Field Airport. Contact: patricia.davis@dallascityhall.com. Celebration of Black Excellence in Wilmington. Hosted by “It’s Time Wilmington.” Host Kenyetta McCurdy-Byrd. Online: www.wilmtoday.com. 6 pm. CDT. www reachriverside.org. Hispanic Women’s Network of Texas, hosts Be Inspired con Jennifer Cortez. Reg: Eventbrite: bit.ly/38Z6x8o 6-7 pm. CDT.
March 26 William H. Hastie, 1st Black Federal Judge in the Virgin Islands in 1937 From Marva with Love, with Marva Sneed. 11 am -1 pm. CDT, Fridays on Facebook Live/@TexasMetroNews, and BlogTalkRadio.com. Join the conversation at 646-200-0459. TBAAL presents, Jazz At The Muse, at Clarence Muse Cafe Theatre, 1309 Canton Street. 9 pm. Tickets: Ticketmaster.com. Relapse Again featuring Michael Shawn Event hosted by City of DeSoto Parks & Recreation Department. Tickets: Eventbrite.com. 8-9 pm CDT. 21st Annual Destiny Awards Luncheon: St Philip’s School. 11:30 am. Virtual Event. Speaker: Author, Isabel Wilkerson. Contact: 214-421-5221. Reg/Tickets: bit.ly/3cMjWle. The Rotation - A Covid friendly approach to Networking. Host Business Lounge Dallas. Tickets: Eventbrite.com. 10 am12 pm, 2-4 pm, and 6-8 pm. CDT.
March 27 Pamela Gordon, Bermuda’s first Black Woman Prime Minister in 1997 A Short History of Racism in Detroit Virtual Tour. Event hosted by Detroit Experience Factory. Info: www.detroitexperiencefactory.org. 5-6:30 pm. CDT. Women’s Ministry Spring Conference. Hosted by Orchard Knob Missionary Baptist Church. Online: zoom.us ID: 87334486613 Passcode: 095887. 9-11 am. DSM Book Festival Headline Author Tayari Jones. Hosted by DSM Book Festival. Reg: https://bit.ly/3tigKVa. 3 pm. CDT.
The World According to Drew with Andrew Whigham, III, on BlogTalkRadio.com 8-10 am. CDT. on Sundays. Tune in for thought-provoking, enlightening, informative, and entertaining news and commentary. Join the call at 646-200-0459. Raleigh, Zetas Omicron Zeta hosts the 67th Finer Womanhood Observance. Online Reg: us02web.zoom.us. 3 pm CDT.
Meet, Connect & Learn: Getting to Know Our City Manager. City of Duncanville, and Municipal Government. Zoom: bit. ly/3qGcZHD. 10-11:15 am. CDT. North Texas Business & Professional Women’s League, Inc. hosts 2021 Women’s History and Founder’s Day, Honoring Mrs. Ann Williams of Dallas Black Dance Theatre. 11 am. Reg: bit.ly/3r8Kbro. Annual Women’s Expo. Hosted by The Whiskey Spot, 1305 Wycliff Ave. Ste. 140 Dallas. 1-4 pm. Info: Eventbrite .com. Paint & Sip - Celebrating Women’s History Month. Hosted by Flava Haus, 1730 W. Bardin #400, Arlington. 8-10:30 pm. Raising Proud Black Children, Pep Rally, A Black Education and Empowerment Event. Free online. RSVP: SankofaClub. com/PepRally. 1-4 pm. CDT. Ft. Worth Association of Federated Women’s Club Celebrates Women Owned Businesses at Evans Ave Plaza, 1050 Evans Ave. Ft. Worth. 11am-4 pm.
March 28 Happy Birthday to Michael “Hollywood” Hernandez No Cross, No Crown: A Special Resurrection Concert. Host Lomax Sisters Gospel Group. Tickets: Eventbrite.com. 7-9 pm. Neo Soul Sundays. By DallasBlack.com, at Lava Cantina, 5805 Grandscape Blvd. The Colony, feat. Tomea & Nem. 4-10 pm.
April 1 Linny Nance Network. Hosted by The Free Man, 2626 Commerce St. 7-10 pm.
April 2-4
Book Signing, Meet and Greet, Author Dareia Jacobs “Leaving your Pain on the Pew” at: 2349 Cedar Crest Blvd. 3 pm.
Easter at One Community Church at One Community Church, 2400 State Hwy., Plano. For times each Church Campus Location, RSVP: https://www.visitonecc.com.
March 29
April 2
The Dallas Examiner hosts, Monday Night Politics, May 1st City Council Election Forums. District 7 candidates from (South Dallas, Joppa, Buckner Terrace, and Ferguson Road) will debate. Info. contact: Mbelt@Dallasexaminer.com. Reg: http:// bit.ly/3cVOBN8. 6 pm.
March 30-31 Chris Howell Foundation, Winter Relief Drive. Tarrant County College-South, 5301 Campus Dr. Ft. Worth. 9 am-1 pm.
Ask Dr. Amerson with Dr. Linda Amerson. 12 pm. CDT DFWiRadio.com, and Live on Facebook @DrLindaAmerson.
3rd Annual Broughton Wells Lecture Series- Reconstructing Womanhood. Host: Friendship-West Baptist Church. Feat: Rev. Traci Blackmon. Online: friendshipwest.org/justice.html. 7 pm.
Cowboy Willie “Bill” Pickett dies in 1932 From Marva with Love, with Marva Sneed. 11 am -1 pm. CDT, Fridays on Facebook Live/@ TexasMetroNews, and BlogTalkRadio.com. Join the conversation at 646-200-0459. Promising Young Artists at TBAAL, Muse Café Theatre, and Feat: Jada Arnell. 1309 Canton St. Tickets: Tickemaster.com. Project Covid Virtual Job Fair / Career Expo Event in Dallas. Times and dates vary. Reg: projectcovid.org/we/jobfair.
March 30
April 3
15th Amendment gave Blacks the right to vote, in 1870
Fruit of Calvary Worship Night. Event hosted by Chris Liverman. Online on Facebook.com/Chris Liverman. 6 pm. CST.
THE DOC SHEP SPEAKS SHOW! From 11 am. CDT on Facebook Live/@TexasMetroNews, @fnsconsulting, and You Tube @ docshepspeaks The Jirah Nicole Show with Jirah Nicole. From 11 am-1 pm. CDT Tuesday’s on Facebook Live/@TexasMetroNews and BlogTalkRadio.com. Join the conversation at 646-200-0459. AT&T Performing Arts, presents: Art Heist – “A True Crime Walking Theater Experience.” , AT&T Performing Arts Center, 2403 Flora St. Dallas. Tickets: www.attpac.org/on-sale/2021/ art-heist. 5:30-9:30 pm. Resources to Boost Your Job Skills. Hosted by AARP Programs. Info: www.facebook.com/AARPPrograms. 6-6:45 pm.
March 31 Jesse Owens Gold Medalist died in 1980 I Was Just Thinking with Norma Adams-Wade. From 11 am -1 pm. CDT On Facebook Live/@TexasMetroNews and BlogTalkRadio.com. Join the conversation at 646-200-0459.
Caribbean Saturday’s Pop Up DFW 3409 Main St. Suite B Dallas. No Cover B4 11:00 pm. with RSVP: Eventbrite.com.
April 4 The World According to Drew, host Andrew Whigham, III on BlogTalkRadio.com 8-10 am. on Sundays. Tune in for thought-provoking, enlightening, informative, and entertaining news and commentary. Call in at 646-200-0459. Ubuntu Market, for Small Business. Hosted by Pan African Connection, 4466 Marsalis, Dallas. 12-5 pm. For vendor Info: Email: adjwoahogue@yahoo.com.
BLACK LIVES MATTER
MetroNews Thanks for picking up the phone, Shaun Rabb! T E X A S
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If you “googled” the name of a Dallas-area veteran journalist last week, you might have jumped to a conclusion as so many others did. Phones were ringing as many tried to verify reports that Shaun Rabb, FOX 4 News had transitioned. I was clueless when I received
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my first call but a phone call to the man who launched my career in radio 31 years ago put to rest the rumor that was rapidly sweeping the country. He answered the phone cheerfully and authoritatively as I whispered “thank you, thank God!” As I shared the information
I received with him, other calls began coming in. I began texting people who had reached out to me to share the good news. I was near tears. It’s easy to see how someone could take the first line and run. The story, covered by Mr. Rabb, was actually about another person many were fond of,
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Bishop Omar Jahwar; who transitioned recently. As you can see, from the screen shot below, it reads that “Beloved church leader, activist passes away...”
Well, guess what? Award-winning journalist Shaun Rabb, who celebrated 30 years at Fox 4 in 2020, has been the pastor of New Light Church in Pleasant Grove for the past 16 years! And as one-half of one of the area’s most influential and respected couples--he’s married to Dallas County Sheriff Marian Brown -- it’s no wonder phones were ringing. It is indeed a blessing to be able to continue hearing his voice, signing off on stories, “Shaun Rabb, FOX 4 (PAUSE) News! -Cheryl Smith
Vaccine from page 1 get the vaccine. Thankfully, that number increased to 61% of African Americans in a new Pew poll last month. But it’s still not high enough. I understand the hesitance of some. Historically, African Americans in our country have been abused in the name of science, which was actually pseudoscience. The Tuskegee experiments were an atrocious breach of basic human rights. Growing up in West Dallas and Oak Cliff, I heard the horror stories. These awful and unethical incidents bred generations of mistrust in medical institutions. And today, misinformation about COVID-19 and the vaccines spreads rapidly on social media and harms the efforts to achieve herd immunity through vaccinations. It is likely that the apparent speed at which the vaccines were developed has contributed to questions of safety and clinical due process. But based upon the words of clinical scientists and available evidence, the expedited process in the development of the COVID-19 vaccines under Operation Warp Speed does not suggest that the vaccines skipped any scientific verification protocols involved in its production and clinical trials. The expedited process is simply attributed to technological advancements that had taken decades to develop. Our current health system has institutional checks and balances to ensure the safety
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of pharmaceuticals distributed for nationwide and global use. For COVID-19 vaccines, these same checks and balances were applied in the evaluation process to ensure the vaccine’s safety. The clinical trials consisted of diverse groups of people. And post-trial, the vaccines proved just as effective and safe among Blacks and Hispanics when compared to other groups. In other words, the vaccines are safe and effective for all of us. That’s why I got my vaccine from UT Southwestern when I became eligible. Congresswoman Eddie Bernice Johnson, a former nurse, has also received her vaccine and is encouraging people to take it as well. Yes, receiving the vaccine could make your arm sore or even make you feel ill for a day or so. But this short-term issue is far better than COVID-19, which has killed more than 500,000 people and counting across the country. I am urging you to get the vaccine for your own safety and for the safety of your community. Let’s rid ourselves of this menace and get our lives back so we can focus on giving ourselves and our neighbors a real opportunity to thrive in the years to come. Residents who are age 50 and older are now eligible to receive the vaccine in Texas. Anyone who is over 16 with serious underlying health issues is also eligible. To register for the vaccine, visit DallasCountyCovid.org or call 1-855-IMMUNE9 between 7 a.m. and 7 p.m.
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Serving the Homeless
By Hollywood Hernandez On Thursday, March 11, Where Are You Homeless Outreach teamed up with St. Phillips Missionary Baptist Church to provide food and supplies to the people in the Oak Cliff area who have been affected by the pandemic or who are struggling to make ends meet after the re-
cent episode of bitter cold temperatures. The supplies were trucked in from Richmond, Virginia by three men who wanted to do something to help the people in Texas after they saw the devastation in Texas provided by the cold snap. The three men, headed by Bobby Vincent, collected a truckload of supplies through donations in the Richmond area and made the 15 hour drive to Texas to pass out the supplies to the needy. In a conversation with Mr. Vincent he said, “We heard there was a need in Texas and we just
wanted to be a blessing.” Volunteers downloaded the truck and passed out supplies to a long line of cars that went all the way down the block. Cars were filled with canned goods, bags of fresh fruit and vegetables, cereal, snacks, paper products, diapers and a truck load of bottled water. Letitia Owens, the head of Where are You Outreach, said she was thrilled with the day’s event, “If you just ask, God will provide.” Also at the end of the event Mr. Vincent said, “If you need us again, we’ll be here.”
Alcoholic and cheating parents ASK ALMA By Alma Gill
Alcoholic Parents Dear Alma, My Dad and my Stepmom have been together for over 20 years. They both have and always did drink way too much. I’d even say both are alcoholics. Recently my Dad was hospitalized and obvi-
ously told he has to stop drinking. My Stepmom says that’s his problem, not hers. How do I get her to see what she’s doing is wrong and how can I stop her from drinking in front of my Dad? My Dad won’t stop drinking if she keeps providing it. C.K., Alexandria, Va. Hi C.K., This is a tough situation and I sympathize with the position you’re in. That still, however, doesn’t remove the fact that your Dad has an addiction that he’s “large and in-charge” of. Let’s pause here and give you a minute
to understand and resonate, this is your Dad’s burden to bear. Allow me a minute and address the consideration and compassion this deserves. I say this as respectfully as I can muster – you can’t give up crack living next door to the crack house. You feel me? Offer your Dad resources to finding a local Alcoholics Anonymous meeting. He has to take the first step. Once associated, I’m sure they’ll direct him on what his next step should be. Remind your father that facing his addiction is a sign of strength. Let him know you’ll support him unconditionally. After
Letitia Owens (in yellow) and volunteers
Yemi Solomon
Desmond Patterson
taking hold of his responsibility, your Dad will decide what to do about your stepmom. That, too, is his choice not yours. I’ll be praying for your Dad, you and your family. Alma
the calls were to the same number, which made me believe it was her number. I hit the button and she answered the phone. When she said hello, I hung up. I put the phone back and didn’t tell him. I love him and am trying to keep my marriage. He hasn’t said anything about my phone call. Do you think I should mention it? My ego is just about gone and all I want to do is stay in bed. I wish I had not looked in the trunk. I do not know if I should stay or go or why I’m confused on what to do. Name withheld, Durham, N.C.
My Husband is Having an Affair Dear Alma, Around six months ago, I started to see clues that something was going on with my husband. I started going through his wallet and cell phone because I thought he was having an affair. I was right. I almost fainted when I found a phone in the trunk of the car with pictures of him and another woman. All of
Okay Anonymous, You’re not confused sweetheart, you’re heartbroken. You’re dejected, sad and depressed. Your husband is having an affair and you don’t want to confront him because you’re scared he might leave you. Let that truth simmer for a minute, then drop it. If not addressing it is an option, learn to live with it. My question to you is, why did you go searching for what you weren’t ready to find? Should you mention it, you asked. Really? If you need me to answer you Sweetie, continue to entertain that rubber ducky in your dirty bath water. Email me back when you’re ready to pull the plug and do something about it. Let me know when you’re ready to clean up your mess, redress your problems and restore your self-worth. That’s when I’ll have amazing, life affirming advice to share. Honestly, if I took the time to answer you, you wouldn’t hear me. Cause truth-be-told, right now, on this day, you love him more than you love yourself. Alma
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Play Your Position
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OUR VOICES By Lewis Flanagan III STATEMENT GAMES Nothing is more frustrating to a loyal sports fan than a team unable to regroup, or make the managerial, mid-game, or strategic adjustments required to win. All too often, the fine line between the field and those in the winner’s circle can be attributed to just that. The last year, and all of its drama therein have afforded the Black athlete an opportunity to have a hand in determining just what the “Normal” in “The New Normal” will really be and mean to the future of American athletics. The NCAA and each of the nation’s largest professional sports leagues have very long and documented histories of discrimination against African Americans, and in so-doing have sentenced themselves to torture by the very identity-politics that they now claim has no place in sports. It is for that very reason that those who would like to question the need for discussions of identity politics (or politics at all, for that matter) in sports. It was almost exactly a year ago, when the COVID-19 strain of the Coronavirus laid siege on the American consciousness; sportsfirst. Despite the negative impact of such a unique interruption to what we then considered regularly scheduled programing, it was also the sports industry that became the catalyst and symbol of our national resolve to fight this horrible pandemic and return to some sort of normalcy. NBA TAKES A STAND, THEN STANDS DOWN The unforgettable reaction of Dallas Mavericks owner Mark Cuban to the immediate suspension of all NBA games (including the very one he was watching from his courtside seat) became synonymous with that of the country at large. Cuban also
quickly became the face of the league’s stand against racial injustice in policing after the murder of George Floyd. The Milwaukee Bucks did what no team had ever done before; electing to sit out of a game in solidarity with those protesting the murder of Jacob Blake, a 29-year old Black man, in Wisconsin. Eventually the entire NBA universe, which had been suppressed to the confines of what would come to be known as “The Bubble” would rally around the cause championed by so many of the league’s most prominent Black players. Phrases like “Black Lives Matter,” and other calls for interracial harmony were littered across the NBA canvass, but the sentiment
the move as one of progress, it is yet another example of a created identity framework, destroyed by its creator; only when it was convenient. So many of the figures that will benefit the MLB going forward, lived and died without enjoying a moment of respect, or simple consideration during their careers. That is criminal. Though I would absolutely, under no terms, argue against the worthiness of those who paved the way for all diasporic players that would follow in their footsteps, I cannot help but acknowledge the disappointment felt in knowing just how many would not receive their roses while they were here.
biggest offseason headlines have been that both of Texas’ Black starting quarterbacks needed to “know their places,” or face future uncertainty. Cowboys quarterback, Dak Prescott has out-earned his salary from the first second he took to the field. It was Prescott’s youth and value per dollar that made his rise to stardom, and an NFL Rookie of the Year award, what it was. The Cowboys got the benefit of a young player looking to prove himself worthy of the role that he was thrust into. Five seasons after being selected in the fourth round of the 2016 NFL Draft, Prescott the second he went down with a season-ending ankle injury in week five of the 2020 season.
NBA Commissioner Adam Silver
Dak Prescott
DeAndre Hopkins
courtesy photo
Courtesy DeAndre Hopkins
NOT FAIR LEAGUE
Though many top quarterbacks’ names were thrown around in the free agency discussion, Cowboys Owner and General Manager Jerry Jones chose to acquiesce to Prescott, giving them some chance of making good on the potential playoff window ahead of the team. Just down Interstate 45 things have been more than tenuous between the Houston Texans and their starting play-caller, DeShaun Watson. After pinning one arm behind the ball slinger by trading away Houston’s most talented player in wideout DeAndre Hopkins to Arizona, the Texans front office allowed a series of terrible administrative and personnel decisions to turn into the hallmarks of a franchise in premature decline. Chief among the laundry list of unforgivable sins committed by the Texans, was the broken promises of involvement in hiring decisions that were reportedly offered to Watson, but never
well seemed to run dry over the off-season, giving way to a more “traditional” feeling product. NBA Commissioner Adam Silver who once stood as an outlier among professional league executives, has fallen eerily silent; even in the wake of criticism of very rigid and, frankly sensitive officiating this season. Technical fouls have been issued with reckless abandon this season, and most of those whose participation and effect on game outcomes have been Black players. Is this a compensatory effort to push the pendulum the other way? And how will a move back toward the middle of the political road help, or hurt the NBA? STEALING HOME While few were paying attention, Major League Baseball elected to absorb Negro League Baseball’s history and achievements after decades of turning a blind eye. While many may see
No league has had more damage control to do in light of the current landscape than the National Football League. “The Shield” made a concerted effort to lean on the flag and performative false patriotism, in the face of an outcry for basic civil rights. In the aftermath of Floyd’s murder, and the actions of Trump-supporting Capital rioters on January 6 , 2021, the stench of the league’s original hard stance reeks so badly, that they have simply offered their half-hearted mea-culpa and chosen to ignore the gravity of the decisions made when privilege was certain to trump justice just a few weeks ago. Had NFL owners only understood what a glasshouse carnival they had turned the shield into. Proving that the league has little sincere interest in righting the shipwreck that has become their image in the eyes of African Americans at large, two of the NFL’s
made good. Feeling abandoned by the only NFL team he has ever known, DeShaun Watson has threatened to sit out the 2021-22 season if he is not granted a trade to another team. The Texans have publicly stated that Watson will be their quarterback in the coming season, but all indications point to a stand-off between the two, the likes of which we have never seen before. Adding insult to injury, a Houston-area attorney has recently come forward with accusations of sexual impropriety against Watson. Watson has publicly denied the allegations, vowing that the attorney responsible for the filing will regret his involvement in what the 25-yearold characterizes as character assassination. Neither of these situations, nor the issues they bring up can be adequately discussed and entered into greater discussion on future architecture, unless we all vow to take our heads out of the sand, and become as enveloped as fan and support bases, as those who have come to be the faces of most pro sports leagues. This is the fourth quarter of what could be Black America’s best opportunity to assert itself as the consumer (thus political) force that it is, but sadly could still be. The difference between the promise of a prosperous tomorrow depends on what is done with every second until the final buzzer. Can we (all) get our heads back in the game? How many times will we allow them to lecture us on the fact that it’s all business before we get down to it, rather than bouncing around the surface issues, and take our place at the tables that we hold up? Failure to pick up the ball and run will almost certainly result in the continuance of cruelty against our people in, and on every field. Every game, negotiation, and season has become a statement game. There are a great many things to discuss, and I intend to do just that; right here with you. Will you Play Your Position? I promise you, ‘I’ll play mine. Lewis Flanagan III is an avid sports enthusiast and writer.
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WITH EACH NEW YEAR The shadows are parting and the New Year brings me hope. That memories and His grace will help me to cope. With my loss and your absence and all in between. Still not understanding what it all means. Forced into a reality not of my choice. Often finding myself screaming although I don’t hear my voice. Comforted by friends and family who can. Yet, they think my pain should be over because they don’t understand. How deep my sorrow and
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Food Pantry from page 1
Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays from 3 p.m. to 6 p.m., Tuesdays and Thursdays from 8 p.m.to 10 p.m., and Saturdays from 12 p.m. to 3 p.m. Students expressed their desire for a food pantry during a meeting initiated by the College’s Administrators to determine how to enhance campus life. “We understand that food insecurity is a real issue and we are very grateful to Brookshire Grocery Company for providing the funds to make this food pantry a reality for our students,” said Dr. Lester C. Newman, President, Jarvis Christian College. “We also appreciate the $25,000 scholarship endowment that will decrease the financial burden of our students so that they may continue to pursue their academic goals. We are delighted to have Mr. Joe Stephens, District Vice President of Brookshire Grocery Company, here with us to represent the company during this grand opening.” With the help of Brookshire Grocery Company, the Office of Institutional Advancement, the Office of Student Services, and Jarvis Christian College’s Circle K International Chapter, the food pantry was organized and fully-stocked with a variety of items that are available to students free of charge.
“We are very excited to launch the “Focus on the Future” program which will help thousands of students achieve their dreams for years to come,” said Brad Brookshire, Chairman and CEO for Brookshire Grocery Company. “We support our local communities and value education which is one of our top philanthropic efforts. So many families and individuals have been financially impacted by the pandemic. We are proud to be able to help those aspiring towards their dreams.” The food pantry is a small example of how the College identifies with the needs of its student body. “The food pantry is a good addition to the campus, because we have a place to obtain food without having to leave campus,” said Elysia Gordon, a freshman at Jarvis. “The Administration has definitely responded to our request.” In addition to Mr. Stephens, the grand opening was attended by members of the local community, faculty, staff, and students. “As I walked around and looked at the food pantry, I was in awe,” said Mr. Stephens. “The partnership that Brookshire Grocery Company has with the College is awesome and this is something we want to keep on for years to come. We just want the town of Hawkins and Jarvis Christian College to know that Brookshire Grocery Company is here to continue to serve them.”
BRIEFS
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• Mar. 25 - 31, 2021
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My Truth from page 1
Photos courtesy: Jarvis Christian College
about Cheryl Polote Williamson. But, as I am writing, in my head I hear Carly Simon’s song, “You’re so Vain.” When I look up at the stars, it seems like I see Cheryl’s face peering back at me. Some might say, “Gosh Cheryl Polote Williamson is all over the place. She just popped up outta nowhere!” Hold up wait a minute. No impostor syndrome, complex; whatever you want to call it going on over here. Cheryl has labored and learned, listened and mentored so that she was ready when the opportunity came her way. You may just now be beginning to see what was around you all the time—a hard-working sister with a vision. So today we are reading her books, listening to her presentations, enjoying her plays, and more. And beginning this week, we will see the wife, mother, sister, friend, and all around great person in action as the executive producer of Twenty Pearls: The Story of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Incorporated, a documentary featuring other dynamic women, like actress Phylicia Rashad and Vice President Kamala Harris; who are also her sorority sisters. And if you think this will be her only film project, well you’ve got another think coming! Look out, because just like folks have gone to other parts of the country and been successful in television and film; well, the Shaw University alum is about to show that some great things can happen right here in the D/FW Metroplex! You can catch the premiere on March 26, 2021 at 7pm CDT on Comcast Xfinity, Channel 1622, followed by a Q&A. Then stay tuned for more announcements regarding air dates, as well as Cheryl’s next project because I just know she is working on something else! It’s wonderful that the premiere occurs during Women’s History Month. Let’s celebrate Cheryl’s accomplishments. Let’s keep the celebration going and celebrate women every month, every day, every minute; because every breath you take is because of a woman!
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• Vol-9
WWW.TEXASMETRONEWS.COM
• Mar. 25 - 31, 2021
COVID-19 Vaccine Registration Need help with registration? We can help! Baylor Scott & White Health and Wellness Center community outreach representatives are available to help residents register for COVID-19 vaccines (by phone or in-person): Call 214.820.4846 for: • Assistance with registration (online or mobile app) • Assistance with transportation (to appointments) • Assistance with vaccine education
LOCATION
ADDRESS
DAY/TIME
Baylor Scott & White Health and Wellness Center
4500 Spring Ave. Dallas, Texas 75210
Monday - Friday 8:00 AM - 5:00 PM
Cummings Recreation Center
2976 Cummings St. Dallas, TX 75216
Monday - Thursday 10:00 AM - 1:00 PM
Beckley - Saner Recreation Center
114 W. Hobson Ave. Dallas, TX 75224
Monday - Wednesday 10:00 AM - 1:00 PM
Fireside Recreation Center
8601 Fireside Dr. Dallas, TX 75217
Thursdays 10:00 AM - 1:00 PM
Martin Weiss Park
3400 W. Clarendon Dr. Dallas, TX 75211
Tuesdays 10:00 AM - 1:00 PM For more information contact: Candace Thompson, MSSW, MPA, CHWI Community Outreach Manager BSWHWCMEMBERSHIP@BSWHealth.org
4500 Spring Avenue I Dallas, Texas 75210