February '25 Issue. Honoring Black History by Indie Incognito

Publisher'sPage

Tony S mith Publisher

IndieIncognitoMagazine

It's been one hell of a month in the new Trump administration. For all those saying his Project 2025 was just campaign troll talk, you are eating all kinds of crow right now.

We are not at a crossroads We are way past that This country is in the midst of a full blown revolution There are young and progressive brothers and sisters of all races who are marching and resisting this "White is Right" mantra. What I see is that are many of us ready to roll up our sleeves and do the dirty work to have this Apartheid style government come to a halt.

What is scary to the Trump party is the realization that WEHAVEHAD ENOUGH. Previous generations made it possible for us to achieve what we have by staging sit in's, bus and business boycotts, and so much more.

I would hate for them to look down on us now and see us being soft, apathetic and with a Head In The Ground, I Have Mine mentality

This is our home We will not allow a singular race with a singular goal, to have it as they want

The fight is real and I, along with millions more, are ready to Stand Tall and Stand Strong. Let's Get To Work.

INDIE ICOGNITO M AGAZINE

@K ASEQTR

Tony Sm it h

Publisher

Rhonda Fost er-Sm it h

Editor In Chief

Jo-Lynne Herbert

Associate Editor

Paulet t e Jackson

Contributing Editor

Keyanna Harper

Contributing Editor

Donnell Spencer, Jr

Photography Director

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Indie Incognito In Remembrance!

Lorraine Hansberry

Activist Public Intellectual, Activist, Writer

Born Black and Female

by Robert Nemiroff

? I wasborn on theSouthsideof Chicago. I was born blackand a female. I wasborn in a depression after oneworld war and cameinto adolescenceduringanother. WhileI wasstill in my teens, thefirst atom bombsweredropped on human beingsand bythetimeI wastwenty-three yearsold mygovernment and that of theSoviet Union had entered activelyinto theworst conflict of nervesin history? theCold War ?

? Lorraine Hansberry, ?The Negro Writer and His Roots: Towards a New Romanticism,? American Society of African Culture, First Conference of Negro Writers, March 1, 1959.

These words, spoken by Lorraine Hansberry before a conference of young Black writers at the very beginning of her career starkly illustrate the circumstances of the playwright?s childhood in the 1930s. As a result of a legal battle waged by her father the ?restrictive covenants?of Chicago, which confined Blacks to one of this nation?s ugliest ghettos, her father occupied disputed property in a hostile white neighborhood A brick hurled through the window nearly killed the eight year old Lorraine

She remembered too the faces of the mob that cursed and spat at her on the way to school, and the sight of her mother patrolling their home through the night with a loaded Luger, while her father and NAACPlawyers in Washington fought a struggle in the Supreme Court that resulted in an historic decision bearing his name Years later, as a freshman at the University of Wisconsin, Lorraine Hansberry

slipped into the auditorium of the University during a rehearsal of Sean O?Casey?s Juno and thePaycock She was mesmerized; the student portraying O?Casey?s heroine wailed in grief at the death of her son, killed in the Irish struggle for freedom: ?Oh, Blessed Virgin , where were you when me darlin?son was riddled with bullets? Sacred heart of the crucified Jesus, take away our hearts o?stone and give us hearts of flesh!. NAACPlawyers in Washington fought a struggle in the Supreme Court that resulted in an historic decision bearing his name.

One day in 1957, in a fit of disgust, she flung the manuscript of a play on which she was working to the ceiling, then into a wastebasket, and stormed out; her husband? as she liked to tell the story in later interviews? gathered up the pages and put them away until a better time? and then patiently started her back to work

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The play ARaisin In TheSun It opened on Broadway in March 1959? and American theatre has never been quite the same since This was not just because Lorraine Hansberry became, at 29, the first Black dramatist? as well as the youngest American? to win the Best Play of the Year Award of the New York Drama Critics?Circle. Or that the play has become an American classic, published and produced in over 30 languages abroad and in thousands of productions across the country ARaisin In TheSun marked a turning point because, as James Baldwin has summed it up: ?Never before in the entire history of the American theatre had so much of the truth of Black people?s lives been seen on the stage ?

The play brought a new Black audience to the theatre And it opened a door for a generation of Black artists, writers, performers? among them all of the original company In addition to Sidney Poitier, the only previously established star, these included: Lloyd Richards, Broadway?s first Black director, Claudia McNeil, Ruby Dee, Diana Sands, Ossie Davis, Louis Gosset, Ivan Dixon, Glynn Turman? and, he even in the smallest roles, Douglas Turner Ward, distinguished founder and Artistic Director of the Negro Ensemble Company, and Lonne Elder III, author of CeremoniesIn DarkOld Men.The play did not ?make?these artists, their own talents did that Nor did it solve the problems of a theatre racist in vital respects ? but the mere fact a cast could be assembled in one play proclaimed unmistakably the depths and of additional Black talent waiting.

Perhaps most important,ARaisin In theSun pointed the way to others Etched within its seemingly simple tale of a Black family?s refusal to sacrifice human dignity to the demands of a racist society, were multiple themes and levels of the Black

revolution in consciousness that was to erupt with stunning swiftness in the 1960s, although most American theater-goers were unprepared to recognize this at the time These were the themes of Black identity, Black power, and liberation? from the mass symbolic utilization of the ?Black is Beautiful? slogan with its emphasis on images of Blackness reflecting unmistakable African ancestry, to the assertion of growing links with Black Africa? the passionate belief in which infused all the writings of Lorraine Hansberry, from her first play, set in Chicago, to her last, set in Africa

In ARaisin In TheSunfor the first time on the stage: an African student, Asagai, articulates his vision of the coming liberation of Africa and the revolutionary future; the natural hair style and African dress appear in a ghetto setting; the young daughter, Beneatha, attacks the concept of ?assimilationism . . . into the dominant and in this case oppressive culture?(and also sounds a clear note for the liberation of women); while the hero, Walter Lee, in final confrontation with his family and himself, rejects the operating money values of society in favor of the continuing quest for dignity and freedom

On January 12, 1965, five years later, during the run of her second play,TheSign In Sidney Brustein?sWindow,Lorraine Hansberry died of cancer. She was 34.

full story credit: Note: This essay is a part of her story. Published as liner notes for the 1971 cast recording of To Be Young, Gifted and Black(Caedmon records,TRS342).

SurvivingTurbulent Times:What MattersMost Right Now.

byKeyanna Harper

On Easter Sunday, 1939, contrailto Marian Anederson stepped to a microphone in front of the Linclon Memorial Inscribed on the walls of the monument behind her were the words "All Men Are Created Equal".

Facing four years under another Trump presidency can feel heavy, especially with America?s direction leaning closer to an oligarchy But we?ve been here before? navigating tough times, making things work, and surviving when others didn? t think we could. The key is staying grounded, focusing on what matters most, and preparing ourselves for what?s coming.

Fam ily: Your Foundat ion in Hard Tim es

Family has always been where we find strength. Leaning on each other, spending time together, and having honest conversations can help keep everyone steady These aren? t just nice ideas; they?re necessities

Rev. David Peck talks about how shared spiritual practices can bring people together This could mean praying as a family, sharing daily affirmations, or even sitting down once a week to talk about goals and gratitude

Practices like these build understanding and strengthen bonds. They remind us that we?re not alone and give us something to hold on to when things get tough

In Black communities, we know the power of family. Whether it?s blood relatives or chosen family, having a strong support system helps us survive and thrive, even when the world feels like it?s closing in. Let?s keep that in mind and do better

Finding Joy in Sm all Things

Happiness matters, and it?s not a luxury Doing things that bring you joy can improve your mental health and help you stay strong for the challenges ahead. When you?re stressed or overwhelmed, carving out time for something you love can change your whole mood.

Why does this work?Activities you enjoy? like painting, cooking, or even just walking? release feel-good chemicals in your brain. These chemicals lower stress, lift your mood, and make it easier to think clearly. Plus, it?s a way to take back control You can? t control everything happening around you, but you can decide to give yourself time to feel good

Making space for joy also sets a good example for the people around you. If you have kids, they?ll see that it?s okay to take care of themselves too. In our community, we?ve always found ways to hold onto happiness, even in hard times That?s part of what keeps us going

Making Your Money Work for You

Money is tight for a lot of people, and that?s not going to change anytime soon Big companies are coming for everything we know and love So, it?s time to make smart moves with your money.

Start with an emergency fund if you don? t already have one Save enough to cover 3-6 months of expenses It?s not easy, but having that cushion can be the difference between staying afloat and sinking during an unexpected crisis

Next, think about where your money is going. Are there subscriptions or services you don? t really need?Could you buy from local businesses or Black-owned brands instead of big corporations? Every choice matters, and when you spend with intention, you?re investing in your community

If you have extra income, look into ways to grow it. That could mean putting money into a savings account, starting a small side hustle, or learning about investing. Whatever you do, make sure it?s a move that fits your goals.

St ay Inform ed Wit hout Losing Yourself

It?s important to keep an eye on what?s happening in the world, but don? t let it consume you Spending all your time glued to the news or scrolling through social media can drain your energy and your hope

Instead, set limits. Check in on current events once or twice a day, but don? t let it take over your life Balance the hard stuff with uplifting things? like music, books, or anything that brings you peace Remember, being informed is about knowing what you need to know, not about drowning in every detail Don't let social media consume you either We now know it to is compromised, so turn it off it it gets to heavy

Building Com m unit y and St aying Ready

One thing we know as Black people is how to survive turmoil We?ve been doing it for generations But not everyone has that knowledge. Other communities might be caught off guard by what?s coming, while we know what?s up. That means we?ve got to focus on what matters most to us and build something stronger together.

Support each other Shop Black-owned Share resources Teach what you know The stronger our community is, the better we?ll all get through this.

Be ready for anything That means saving money, learning new skills, and staying mentally and physically prepared for challenges We can? t afford to keep our heads down and hope for the best Pay attention, but don? t let the weight of it all crush your spirit

The Bot t om Line

These next four years might not be easy, but we?ve faced worse and come out stronger. Focus on family, take care of your mental health, make smart financial moves, and stay connected to your community. We?ve always known how to adapt, survive, and thrive This is no different Let?s push through together

Keyanna Harper is the founder of Obsidian People

Empowering Black Creatives & Artists

Celebrating Culture | Amplifying Voices

Art | Expression |Community

She is the Next Gen Voices editor for Indie Incognito

@keyharp

@obsidianpeople

https://www instagram com/obsidian people/

HONORING NIKKI GIOVANNI

In her own words.

source: https://nikki-giovanni.com/

I"wasasked to do a biographyso thisisit. I am 71 yearsold. I highlyrecommend old age; it?sfun. I havebeen awarded an unprecedented 7 NAACP ImageAwardswhich makesmeveryveryproud. I havebeen nominated for a Grammy;been a finalist for the National BookAward I am very proud to haveauthored 3 NewYorkTimesand Los AngelesTimesBest Sellers, highlyunusual for a poet. I am a UniversityDistinguished Professor at Virginia Tech. I don? t have a lot of friendsbut I havegood ones. I havea son and a granddaughter. Myfather, mother, sister and middleaunt areall deceased literarilymakingme go from beingthebabyin thefamilyto beingan elder. I liketo cook, travel and dream. I?m a writer. I?m happy."

Nikki Giovanni, one of the most famous and recognizable Black poets, passed away at the age of 81 Giovanni died on Monday, Dec 9, following her third cancer diagnosis, according to a statement from friend and author Renée Watson ?We will forever be grateful for the unconditional time she gave to us, to all her literary children across the writerly world,?said poet Kwame Alexander in the statement.

Giovanni has been published in many poetry anthologies, released several poetry recordings, nonfiction essays, children?s books, and several essays analyzing race, class, sexism, and other social issues She has been awarded an unprecedented seven NAACPImage Awards, and has been nominated for a Grammy.

She has also been a finalist for the National Book Award, and authored three New York Times and Los Angeles Times Best Sellers Born Yolanda Cornelia Giovanni, Jr., on June 7, 1943, in Knoxville, Tennessee, Giovanni published her first poetry collection, Black Feeling Black Talk, in 1968. It established her as an emerging figure out of the Black Arts Movement In it, Giovanni writes about the intersections of love, politics, loneliness and race Her language is sometimes spare and longing, other times dense and righteous The final lines in ?Word Poem? read, ?let?s build / what we become /when we dream.?

"Writers don't write from experience,although many are hesitant to admit that they don't if you wrote from experience,you'd get maybe one book,maybe three poems Writers write from empathy"

-Nikki Giovanni

Giovanni published numerous collections of poetry? from her first self-published volume, BlackFeelingBlack Talk(1968), to New YorkTimesbest seller Bicycles:LovePoems(2009) She wrote several works of nonfiction and children?s literature and made multiple recordings, including the Emmy-award nominated TheNikki Giovanni Poetry Collection (2004). Her most recent publications include MakeMeRain: Poems& Prose(2020); ChasingUtopia:A Hybrid (2013); and, as editor, The100 Best African American Poems(2010) She published more than two dozen volumes of poetry, essays, and edited anthologies and 11 illustrated children?s books, including Rosa, an award-winning biography of Rosa Parks

Charles Dickson

A self proclaimed Artistic Enigma

I rem em ber t he day I visit ed Charles' Sout h-Cent ral Los Angeles st udio. I w as accom panied by m y phot ography direct or, Donnell Spencer, Jr We w ere bot h in aw e of

space, t he art w ork, t he vibe, and hist ory. Charles Dickson w as as happy t o see us as

w e w ere t o see him As he show ed Donnell around t he vast space of his, I sim ply

soaked in t he m ajest y of his art w ork Asking m yself, how in t he hell did t his m an

produce all of t his? Aft er t alking t o Charles for five m inut es, t he answ er w as clear As he

t old m e, he is w hat w e see right here Indie Incognit o is pleased t o int roduce Mr

Welcom e, Mr. Charles Dickson. Happy reading!

Charles Dickson was born in Los Angeles in 1947, lives and works in Compton, is an Artist in Residence at the Watts Towers Art Center and has been an important figure in the Black L.A. art scene for decades His intricate carvings in wood and metal reflect the African diaspora through direct references to traditional motifs, languages and styles of well documented African ritual objects and languages, including Ghanaian Adinkra symbols His many public artworks include the Dr Martin Luther King, Jr memorial in Watts, Wishing on a Star at the California African American Museum, Spirit Tree at the Watts Towers Art Center, Divine Order: The Manifestation of the Soaring Spirit for the Metro C(Green) Line Mariposa Station (El Segundo) and The Beacon at Crenshaw Plaza, as well as a series of award medals and sculptures commissioned by Charles R. Drew University of Medicine and Science

Over the course of his career, Charles Dickson has taught both formally (including at Otis College of Art and Design) and informally and has participated in more than one hundred exhibitions, including shows at the National Black Arts Festival, Los Angeles

Contemporary Exhibitions, California African American Museum, Japanese American National Museum, Los Angeles Arboretum, Korean Cultural Center and Watts Towers Art Center.

His many public artworks include the Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr memorial in Watts, Wishing on a Star at the California African American Museum, Spirit Tree at the Watts Towers Art Center, Divine Order: The Manifestation of the Soaring Spirit for the Metro C(Green) Line Mariposa Station (El Segundo) and The Beacon at Crenshaw Plaza, as well as a series of award medals and sculptures commissioned by Charles R. Drew University of Medicine and Science

Charles Dixon discussed his early fascination with carving, influenced by his mother's shopping trips and fathe's cake decorating. He discovered art in junior high and was inspired by his father's creativity. Dixon's work evolved into public art, with notable projects like Destination Crenshaw, where he leveraged his expertise in materials and collaboration. He emphasized the importance of representing Black women in art. Dixon's trip to Senegal sparked new techniques in his photo alchemy process He plans to continue his women's series and explore textiles. Dixon aims to leave a legacy of hard work, creativity, and community impact. Here is an Indie Incognito magazine exclusive One on one with Charles Dickson A conversation with our special correspondent Estella Holeman, aka, Stella the Poet

MYSCULPTORSAREA WAYOFMEPRESERVING MEMORYANDPASSINGONTRADITION.

Evident in the placement and purpose of his artwork in Sankofa Park,Car Culture is the unique confluence recognizing spirit,place and intention in Black cultural life in Los Angeles where cars replace the symbol of the African bird for mobility Car Culture is a trio of elongated figures resembling famous West African Senufo ritual objects. For the Senufo, these carved figures are the conduit between the living and spirit worlds, and Dickson continues this practice by connecting fiber optic cable between these larger than life portals to the past and the car fronts and ends that become their crown Cars are a fundamental component of Crenshaw street life that brings together innovation,creativity and the communal joy of gathering in celebration of the unbounded ingenuity of Black and Brown makers.

source. Destination Crenshaw

So Mr Dixon, can you tell us about the young Charles Dixon?

The young Charles Dixon? Well, I could t ell t he st ory w hen I w as five and exposed t o a neighbor w it h a pen knife carving anot her knife, kind of like a kind of like t he shape of Alibaba, kind of sw ord In any case, I becam e fascinat ed w it h t hat process and w hat could be shaped from it And t hen I becam e int rigued w it h all kinds of m at erials, know ing t hat w it h m ud, w it h a concret e, you could do som e shaping. That a brick could be shaped int o anot her form . I t ried t est ing out all kinds of t hings

What influence did your upbringing have on your career path?

My m ot her w as a great influence Because I w as very ill at t he t im e, I had t o go int o Hollyw ood t o Children's Hospit al And our journey led us from Children's Hospit al t o dow nt ow n, and she w ould go shopping at Bullocks for furnit ure, t he shoes, t he perfum e, t he hat s t o w hat ever.

At what age did you understand what art was?

I can recall t hat w hen I reached junior high school, and som et hing in m e said I could be an art ist , or w hat did I like? What w as it ? What w ere t he creat ive t hings I w ould like t o m ake, and w hat w ould t hey look like.

Q&A

She w ould school m e in design And on t he ot her hand, m y fat her w as a cat Cake decorat or and baker He decorat ed t he cakes in t he house I w at ched him m ake roses and process all t hese different t hings

So did you grow up in Beverly Hills?

No, I grew up in Los Angeles.

I speak of m y fat her 's baking t hing because he he act ually w as a baker before t hen, he w as act ually a cook on a bat t leship. And so w hen he got out t he service. He cont inued, you know t hat baking and cooking process.

I rem em ber going t o t he library and not so m uch a big reader I could look at t he pict ures really w ell. I looked at every art book, lit erally, t hat w as in t he library t o find out w hat I liked and w hat I didn't like, and w here I found m yself looking for t hose form s, or, you know , searching for t hat kind of qualit y in m y w ork I t hink t hat t hat 's w hen I st art ed looking at w hat I w as doing as a real art form w ould t hey look like? I rem em ber going t o t he library and not so m uch a big reader I could look at t he pict ures really w ell. I looked at every art book, lit erally, t hat w as in t he library t o find out w hat I liked and w hat I didn't like, and w here I found m yself looking for t hose form s, or, you know , searching for t hat kind of qualit y in m y w ork I t hink t hat t hat 's w hen I st art ed looking at w hat I w as doing as a real art form

Who was your earliest artistic influence?

I t hink it w as m y fat her because I w ould w at ch him decorat e cakes, and he w as t he only art ist ic influence t hat I could t hink of at t he t im e.

Things w it h he w ould draw birds on t he cake, and he w ould draw pict ures, and he w ould do sunset s, and he w ould do all t hese different t hings on cakes. And he w ould m ake w edding cakes, he w ould st ack t hem . And t hat also gave m e an idea w hat st ruct ural engineering w as about , because t here w ere cert ain t hings he had t o do t hat cake t o m ake t hose t hree or four years go up

You describe yourself as a Enigma. Exactly what does that mean?

Enigm a? I t hink you know t he w hole st ory of being an art ist is based on paint ing and sculpt ing som et hing, not varying from a part icular st yle or object . For inst ance, a paint er, a port rait paint er, or a sculpt or just w ant s figurat ive t hings from one m at erial. I like all kinds of m at erials. I like t o play. I like t o enjoy t he process of t hings. I like t o discover m yself as an invent or So, I enjoy t he full spect rum of m aking t hings from various m at erials, and on average, m ost art ist s do not do t hat When did your art becom e m ore t han a passion and becom e a cause? You know , I t hink t hat as I grew up, I looked at because in m y com m unit y, I saw black w om en, I didn't see w hit e w om en, but in t he art com m unit y of m useum s and such, t here w as only w hit e figures t hat w ere exam ples of beaut y, but I saw t hat sam e I saw beaut y around m e, but I didn't see t he expression of it

I rem em ber I st art ed carving a part icular body form t hat I had been exposed t o. It w as not a nude figure, but it w as a figure. And so, I but I saw it t hrough t he clot hing, and I st art ed t o t ry t o m im ic t hat form

What did doing destination Crenshaw do for your spirit?

That is a good quest ion You know , I have done various public art project s for over 30 years. Ninet y-nine percent w as done w here I dug t he hole. Basically, I did it all hands on. And t he budget s w eren? t big budget s at all. I had t o, like, really show a lot of som et hing like, okay, Met ro Rail, for inst ance, t he t it le of our project w as called Part of our project w as called m ore bang for t he buck Why did t hey give t hem m ore bang for t he buck? They act ually did not w ant m e t o do all m y bang, but I w as able t o do all t hose t hings, and in som e cases I w as punished for it . But designat ion Crenshaw w as one in w hich I w as given t he sam e t he sam e pow er of doing w hat I w ant ed t o do and, but I knew all t he t echniques I knew all t he t hings I knew , all t he inroads t o doing all t he t im e, saving devices, and I knew t he polit ics of public art , so I w as able t o init ially get t he budget s t hat I w ant ed I w as w it h a foundry w it h That I had been 36 years, t hat I could get a good price, so I knew how t o t alk t o people, archit ect s, and engineers, and collaborat e w it h t hem . I, you know , reached a point w here I felt very com fort able w it h w hat I w as doing.

And t hen, in t he ult im at e end of it , I finally released t he hands on t o a point aft er I did t he m ajor figure, and it w as cast in st ainless st eel, I w as able t o, like release t he fabricat ion of t he cars and cert ain engineering t hings, and t he t rust t o a person t hat w as dealing t hat knew how t o deal w it h w elding st ainless st eel My w elding w as lim it ed t o sm all st ainless-st eel object s, but on t his level, it w as not cert ified, t hat w as t he ot her t hing I w as required t o be at t he sit e t o see if t he if t he hole w as dug right , if t he pieces w ere, you know , t hey w ere doing t hings according t o m y w ant s and desires And t hat is like a big st ep in anot her direct ion. That 's like w hen you reach a cert ain pinnacle of public art , you can ask your t eam , are t he people t hat have hired you t hat you w ant cert ain t hings t o appear in your w ork and I w as assured t hat t hey w ould do t hat for m e So far, it 's been absolut ely perfect

Is there one piece you've created that stands above the others?

Dest inat ion, Crenshaw , t he Car Cult ure piece, I t hink is t he highest point of w hat I've done w it h t he w it h public art It 's anot her kind of personal expression. Describe your t rip t o Africa, and how did it im pact you? I had decided t hat m y t rip t o Africa w as not t he dest inat ion, but t he journey.

When I got t o Africa, I felt as t hough I had been t here before, but I discovered by t alking t o anot her art ist , anot her level of m y w ork, t hat I w ant ed t o go int o, and he w as using t echnique t hat I hadn't quit e t hought about . And so, t o t his day, I use t hat t echnique t o express som e of t he st ret ch can't st ret ch canvas In m y phot o alchem y process, I did a piece called scroll w here I ow ned, I t ook t he phot ograph of on Canvas, and I m ade it m ove in and out , or undulat e across t he surface, and t hat 's just t he beginning of w here I'm going t o be.

But it w as going t o Africa t hat enabled m e t o have t hat ext ra lit t le idea What is next on your agenda? I am in a new st udio space. Creat ing, you know ,unpacking. But I w ant t o cont inue w it h his puff explorat ion t hat I developed in t he eight ies. And I w ant t o finish m y w om en's series, w hich I have st udied for t he last 50 years in research and developm ent So, I w ant ed t o carve t hose figures in w ood life size So, I finally developed a t echnique t hat I w ant ed t o do back in t he day, w hen I first decided t hat I w as not able t o w eld, I didn't know about w elding So, w elding and w orking w it h various m at erials like st yrofoam and Bondo and different adhesives. Now I'm able t o fulfill t hat dream and goal.

Do you have an apprentice?

Yes, I have had several apprent ices. When I do a public art project , I w ould at least bring in com m unit y art ist s t hat w ere int erest ed in learning how t o m ake m olds w ork on a large public art project , and t hroughout t he process of doing t hat , I w ould give t hem t he opport unit y t o express t heir creat ive self by act ually becom ing t he forem an of t hat job, t aking on a t ask t hat norm ally I w ould do, but I figured t hat w ould be like a graduat ion t hing, t hat t hey could do t o show m e t hat t hey learned w hat t hey w ere supposed t o learn in t he process. That t hey really care about t hat

How do you wish to be remembered?

I w ant people t o know t hat I w as a heart hard w orker, but a very sm art t hat , t hat I never forgot w here m y gift cam e from , t hat I w as alw ays w illing t o share w hat w as given m e because and t o share t he fact t hat all of us are creat ive individuals and should be honored t hat w ay And you know , and t he w ork it self w ill express w hat t he legacy or w hat m y being here w as all about .

When I got t o Africa, I felt as t hough I had been t here before, but I discovered by t alking t o anot her art ist , anot her level of m y w ork t hat I w ant ed t o t o go int o, and he w as using a t echnique t hat I hadn't quit e t hought about . And so t o t his day, I use t hat t echnique t o express som e of t he st ret ch can't st ret ch canvas In m y phot o alchem y process, I did a piece called scroll w here I ow ned I t ook t he phot ograph of on Canvas, and I m ade it m ove in and out , or undulat e across t he surface, and t hat 's just t he beginning of w here I'm going t o be. But it w as going t o Africa t hat enabled m e t o have t hat ext ra lit t le idea.

What next on your agenda?

I'm in a new st udio space. Creat ing, you know , unpacking. But I w ant t o cont inue w it h m y his puff explorat ion t hat I developed in t he 80s And I w ant t o finish m y w om en's series, w hich I've st udied for t he last 50 years in research and developm ent So I w ant ed t o carve t hose figures in w ood life size So I finally have developed a t echnique t hat I w ant t o do t hat back in t he day, w hen I first decided t hat I w as not able t o w eld, I didn't know about w elding. So w elding and w orking w it h various m at erials like st yrofoam and Bondo and different adhesives. Now I'm able t o t o fulfill t hat dream and goal.

How do you want your legacy to be remembered?

Artist/ sculptor Charles Dickson with master South African sculptor, Andile Dyalvane, at the opening of "Mother Tongues" at the Southern Guild Gallery, the first gallery in the United States representing South Africans artists. Stella the Poet, joined them in this photo.

"I thought it was a phenomenal exhibition," says Dickson "We speak the same language," he adds.

Charles Dickson, a public works master artist, has invited the South African artists to his downtown LA studio/ workshop for a tour before FRIEZEand FELIX , 2024 (invitation for this Tuesday, 2/ 27 at Noon) and to dialogue with local artists and friends. Thank you, Lyn Winter, PR consultant for setting it up!

Well, do you have an apprentice?

Yes, I've had several apprent ices When I do a public art project , I w ould at least bring in com m unit y art ist s t hat w ere int erest ed in learning how t o m ake m olds w ork on a large public art project , and t hroughout t he process of doing t hat , I w ould give t hem t he opport unit y t o express t heir creat ive self by act ually becom ing t he t he forem an of t hat job, t aking on a t ask t hat norm ally I w ould do, but I figured t hat w ould be like a graduat ion t hing, t hat t hey could do t o show m e t hat t hey learned w hat t hey w ere supposed t o learn in t he process That t hey really care about t hat . But anyw ay, yeah, I've had several apprent ices One of m y apprent ices w as w it h m e for 25 years, and he w as also an ent repreneur t ype person So he developed his ow n gallery, and is doing quit e w ell w it h t hat He st ill creat es, he draw ings but in t he process, he t aught m e how t o w ork w it h com put ers, and t hrough t hat process, I developed phot o alchem y. So t hen I'm w orking w it h a new apprent ice Is Neo bio, and he is w orking w it h t ext ile I also sew ed fabric back in t he day on sew ing m achines, so I'm looking t o develop a t ext ile w it hin t he st udio space, because I w ant t o do t hings w it h leat her and fabrics and all t hese t hings blended t oget her t o because I'm act ually doing t he phot o alchem y on Canvas So t hey'll be st it ching and sew ing canvases t oget her for st ret ch canvas and all kinds of t hings t his I put no lim it at ions on creat ivit y or w hat it can bring.

What would you tell a 20 something year old Charles Dixon today?

What w ould I t ell m yself if I go back int o t he past and suddenly w e'll do a t hrough a t im e m achine I w ould look at w ould say, keep w orking in joy.

Work in divine order and pursue you Keep pursuing your dream s. They w ork out for you

For information and inquiries about college lectures, museum shows and gallery exhibitions, please contact: Am ber Wit cher, Business Manager

thedicksonstudio@gmail com St ella t he Poet , Publicist backinharmony@yahoo com

t hedicksonst udio com

go to page 51-53 or more Charles Dickson artwork Destination Crenshaw

LA Arboretum by Charles Dickson

St ella t he Poet

Author of Truth Shots & Ida?s Brew, Stella the Poet, is insightful, honest and inspirational She comes from generations of community activists who instilled in her, cultural pride and resilience She?s a graduate of Beverly Hills High School and holds a journalism degree from Howard University

Stella the Poet is a proud world traveler, art lover and freelance writer. She is currently completing her second poetry book, Love, Magic & Maroon Moons and is co-authoring an art and poetry book celebrating Black Women with the master artist/sculptor, Charles Dickson

?Stella the Poet?serves as an advisor to community-based organizations and is a volunteer at LAUSD?s Central High School

She?s a trained spiritual practitioner who creates tools for individual and group transformation

You can find her reading poetry on her YouTube channel under ?Stella the Poet?

As Stella the Poet, in her writings, she offers words that are odes and offerings to mamas before, sisters who walk alongside, and daughters emerging Her poetry envelopes and awakens? especially when spoken from her own lips They serve as reminders of who we really are Estella Holeman has been a regular member and panelist for Black Lives Matter and other grassroots organizations that fight for justice and equality.

Behind every great m an is a great w om an. Meet Est ella Holem an aka

St ella The Poet , t he force of energy for Charles Dickson

Charles, Estella and Indie incognito publisher, Tony Smith

Charles Dickson and Indie Incognito photographer, Donnell Spencer, Jr

Writing Our Own Future: Stella the Poet

Char l es Dic kso n 's "Car Cul t ur e"

Pays Tr ibut e To Cr en shaw.

DestinationCrenshawisa1.3milepublicart project,showcasingover 100 publicart piecesbyBlackartistsfromL.A.

Oneof theproject'scommissionedartistsissculptor CharlesDickson,a prominent figureintheL.A.art scenefor decades.

Get aninsidelookat Dickson's"Car Culture"sculptureset tobeerectedin DestinationCrenshaws' SonkofaPark. thedicksonstudio.com

@backinharmony

COMING IN MARCH FASHION WITH SHENEKA GUNN

by, Jo-Lynn Herbert

Sheneka Gunn, proprietor of 1Qtee Boutique, is a local Las Vegas fashion designer business owner making a profound impact on her community by offering fashion designs for all adult ages and sizes She ensures that everyone looks and feels their best, with the right apparel that accentuates outer beauty and enhances confidence

This further encouraged her to assume responsibility for providing fashion techniques in the industry to educate others and expose unique fashion to all Her entry into the fashion world began at the prestigious Magic Clothing Convention, a global platform displaying designers from around the world

Her early experiences in modeling ignited a passion for fashion that extended

Having Sheneka Gunn as our fashion editor brings a unique perspective and expertise to our fashion column. The depth of her knowledge with styles, trends and what women want will be invaluable

We are excited to have this be one of our most read columns.

photo

SOUND OFFwith JO-LYNN HERBERT

Black History Month:

A Movement of Now ?Definitely Honorary. Definitely Intentional Definitely then and Now Definitely a Mission Full of Us

A Treasure Worth Living ?We have the power to undo what we think we can? t do WEHAVEWHAT WENEED TO BECOME WHAT WEWHAT TO BECOME.

YOU?REGOING TO TELL MEWEthrived TO reach 2025 JUST TO GO BACK, yeah ok, Nope!

You and I are so much as a community, full of curiosity, conversations, boldness determination, Purpose, commonality, so creative and innovative. Being more than enough! We can go to any book store, library, museum, Broadway, GOVERNMENT, UNIVERSITY, big and small screen, theater, SCHOOL, Hospital, classroom, NON PROFIT, FORPROFIT, SPORT, Tv Programming, news program, Magazine, classics to NEW MANUSCRIPT, film, music halls and venues, , dance and so much more and you will see us

WEARETHERE

We have all we need to look in the mirror and start a new day full of grace and opportunity Building our future sealing our blueprint. We don? t have to spin our day to defend or convenience anybody or anything to fulfill our mandate to be who we are Black History month is day by day living

My who I am is every day 24 hours a day, wherever I go Wherever I am I decided not to get any tattoos. The styles of tattoos are pretty and creative, however, years ago, I thought my beautiful shade of Black skin didn? t need to be covered. My reasoning and cause were to allow myself to see what others didn? t want to see Learning to accept by honoring those Honorees who stood in the gap so you and I can stand today

I had to learn myself, love myself accept myself and see myself while studying, reading and feeling what others worked so hard to create and share. We are the keepers of knowledge to maintain our history, present and future We are the keepers of knowledge that allow us see our treasure Our personal best is the community we create We bring our interests, A and B game, sadness, Disappointment, skill sets, excellence,pain, social ills, mental health, success, however we come we come as we are still to thrive to see and go beyond any barriers.

We can? t stop Our universe is massive

Our footsteps have been paved from intelligence, commitment and love.

BLACK History is more than History it?s a timeless treasure

Jo-Lynn Herbert is a published author, Writer, and a licensed social worker. She is a regular Indie Incognito columnist.

Jo-lynn-expressions com

Black

Hist ory ~ World

Hist ory

OpEd ? By

Paulette Jackson

February has been designated Black History Month How ironic that it is during the shortest month of the year (several conversations have been had around this) But, when I think of Black History, I think of all of our people of color that have made great sacrifices and have paved the way for us all, to live better, be creative, innovative and most of all, the instinct to survive!

People of color for many years, have had to endure much pain, prejudice, ridicule, and struggle, all because of the color of their skin

(how very sad and infuriating)

They had to fight harder, excel beyond setbacks and opposition It has always boggled my mind how some people of this world, even today, can have so much hate towards a person just because they look different but that will be a discussion for another day.

For me, Black History Month is not in February, it is 365 days a year Black Americans have contributed greatly to our country from

"Black Hist ory is World Hist ory and w e should all cont inue t o learn all w e can about it and pass t hat hist ory dow n t o t he next generat ions t o com e. We have t o know t he st ock w e com e from and t hat ot hers realize w e are a vit al part of hist ory

inventions to artistry, African-Americans are the backbone of a country that is supposed to treat everyone fairly, and sadly that is not the case.

Even present day, I find out more

gifts and talents that have worked hard to leave an unmistakable mark on this world, men and women alike. We have to remember that Black History is World History to be studied and celebrated every single day We should no longer ignore the greatness of Black Americans and that they have endured so much in order for us to be able to have and do better, to leave our mark on this world and to honor them by continuing to shine and to make it better for the next generation.

As an artist and creative, I can? t help but to think about those before me who have shared their gifts with us and left a legacy behind for us to show honor and respect, thank you.

Paulette Jackson is Founder/CEO of SCORPRadio Network and Jazz Zone Radio.)

and more about how people of color have invented and created things from musical instruments that are used today, to electronics We are a people of phenomenal

She is an associate editor and Indie Incognito columnist.

@msmusic

@SCORPRadioNetwork

BOBBY ROEBUCK A LIFEBEHINDTHELENS

by Tony Smith: Indie Incognito

A lot of us know that in the social media world, when it comes to entertainment, it's a small world indeed. It is in this realm that I heard of Bobby Roebuck. We pay attention to the photography of the artists we follow and love This brother's name kept appearing in the credits, so I did my research

Mr. Bobby Roebuck has, organically, earned his stripes in the world of smooth jazz photography and that was just the beginning Bobby has become a well respected and highly sought after photographer by all of the stars we see on stage

Bobby Lee Roebuck has been a freelance photographer with a unique artistic vision for the past 14 years He is a creative photographer striving to capture the essence of the moments to be etched in a person?s mind a lifetime

As a photographer he taps into his natural talent, as a visual artist since elementary school in the 70?s.

This enables him to utilize his ability to manipulate light to bring out the true beauty in a potential subject matter.Bobby has engaged in photographing jazz concerts; he is always fascinated with the dynamic musicians?ability to bring melodies to the listener?s ear He feels the energy stage-side as he captures each expression of the performers and maneuvers in the right position to secure the unbelievable expressions demonstrated in each face.

During the 2012 Jon Coltrane Jazz & Blues Festival he had the opportunity to capture George Duke & Stanley Clarke?s historic performance nearing the end of Mr Duke?s lifetime As a jazz lover Bobby was thrilled to showcase the legends style of musical domination on the stage.

Bobby has photographed for a number of local jazz festivals throughout the triad and local public/private events He begins the summer each year with his home town of Winston- Salem NC; the Friday Evening Jazz and summer Partnership under the leadership of Jason Theil, community jazz promoter and events planner.

Bobby Roebuck Q&A

w it h Tony Sm it h

How was it growing up and who were my first influence

I grew up in a household of 7 siblings w it h m y Grandm ot her t he m at riarch of t he fam ily I used art as an out let from t he const ant m ovem ent and noise in t he house I w as born in Balt im ore Maryland and in m y Elem ent ary years m oved t o Winst onSalem , NC. --w it h m y Grandm ot her.

I learned Mart ial Art s t aught by a friend and neighbor I begin t o draw w hich capt ured m y int ellect ual eye for light ing, inclusive of shadow s and dark pat t erns.I ent ered int o draw ing cont est .

My Grandm ot her and Oldest sist er w ere m y influences

It w asn? t unt il m y adult life, I picked up a cam era because I w as part icipat ing in a m ovie script and w e needed a phot ographer; w it h t he help of a friend Robert Brow n and Sam uel Hodges w ho show ed m e t he basic of cam era usages I becam e int rigued by t he cam era and purchased a sm all cam era

The use of t he cam era BEGUN

What lessons learned early in life have had positive results in your life?

Three P w ords com e im m ediat ely t o m ind w hen I t hink about t his quest ion.

Persist ent , Pract ice, People-t hese 3 w ords resonat ed t hroughout m y life in t he past , present and helps t o develop fut ure goals

Persist ent ---is cont inually t rying, reading and st udying t he craft t o learn m ore. Daily I read art icles on light ing, and phot ography t o assure m y t echniques are current I look on t he YouTube and read Magazine and Concert Phot ography/ Books for exam ple: All Access-Your Backst age Pass t o concert Phot ography? w hich is m y favorit e book on get t ing passes and st age et iquet t e. I am a self- t aught Art ist and Phot ographer. I have becom e friends w it h m any of t he m usicians t hat I t ake pict ures of at different fest ivals.

I pract ice phot ography by set t ing up light s, addit ionally, I go out for environm ent al shoot s using t he sunlight .

I am blessed w it h a variet y of People t hat refer m e for phot ography, and t hey serve as m odels at different locat ions They have t old m e w hen it s good and w hat I need t o change I have a cont inues im provem ent m indset .

When did the photography bug grab you?

The phot ography bug hit m e w hen a friend asked m e t o com e for an Indy Pro Wrest ling Mat ch, w hile t here t hey needed a ringside phot ographer.I grew up enjoying w rest ling and I w as fam iliar w it h m ost of t he m oves Therefore, I said Yes I ran around t he ring, posit ioned m yself for t he high- flying m oves The next t hing I knew I w as get t ing calls t o com e and t ake w rest ling m at ch phot os My friend?s son/ GUNNER w as a w rest ler and t hey asked m e t o do a prom o phot o shoot w rest ler.This for him .Gunner is a form er WWE pro w as m y first Pract ice Professional Phot o shoot in 2012.

What was the first event or artist you photographed that put you on the map?

Winst on Salem NC is know n for t he Cit y of t he Art s, in t he sum m ert im e, Jazz Musical t alent s are show cased dow nt ow n in t he park on Friday and Sat urday evenings The Winst on Salem Event is called t he Winst on Salem Dow nt ow n Friday Sum m er Jazz Series at The Corpening Plaza The first art ist I phot ographed at t hat series w as Dee Lucas, Marcus Anderson, Jeff Bradshaw and John Dillard in 2016. The sound of m usic t akes on a new m eaning for m e.I becam e fascinat ed by t he m usicians and t heir facial expressions. I am know n for capt uring t he expressions and hand m ovem ent s of t he t alent ed art ist I becam e know n by shoot ing Jazz Fest ivals such as John Colt rane Fest ival in High Point NC and t he VAROOM Jazz Fest ival in Durham , NC in 2016

It s im port ant t o t ell a st ory w it h m y cam era, from t he beginning, m iddle and end of t he m usical set . The dow nt ow n perform ances have helped put m e on t he m ap

Marcus Anderson becam e one of m y favorit es t o phot ograph at t he Marcus Anderson Jazz and Coffee Fest ival (MA JACE) in Asheville and Durham NC Marcus Anderson gave m e m y first opport unit y t o be a Jazz Fest ival phot ographer at The Diana Wort ham Theat er in Asheville NC during t he MA JACE in 2019

Who was your favorite artist to photograph?

The fam ous pianist George Duke; perform ed at t he John Colt rane Int ernat ional Jazz and Blues Fest ival in, High Point NC -- 2015 The energy and facial expressions port rayed by him w hile perform ing w as phenom enal.The art ist ?s w ife had recent ly died and it w as clear he w as having an em ot ional m om ent w it h t he m usical select ion.I w as capt ivat ed by his im age

What civic events that you worked, meant the most?

I have phot ographed t he NAAACP Banquet in Winst on Salem NC, The Winst on Salem Sport sm an Aw ards Banquet , Red Heart Wom en?s Banquet , The Black Theat re Fest ival, Wom en?s Fund sponsored by t he Winst on Salem Foundat ion and The Unit ed Way Sneaker Fundraising Banquet . My favorit e w as w hen m y w ife served as t he inspirat ional speaker at t he Wom en?s Fund Banquet t he day aft er Hillary Clint on lost t he President ial Elect ion, t he crow d of w om en w ere dow n My w ife?s t alk w as very m ot ivat ional I also phot ographed her w hen she received t he Wom en of t he Year Aw ard at t he Wom en?s Red Heart Banquet

How proud of you of the documentary The Jazz Photographer?

I am very proud; t he producer could have select ed som ebody else I don? t alw ays see m y accom plishm ent s, because I had such a hum ble beginning. Cinem at ographer Cedrick Ingram , Winst on Salem based and I w orked on t he project for about a year. He did a w onderful job of capt uring m y st ory I am grat eful for t he opport unit ies

Cedrick Ingram st at ed t hat ?people don? t realize w hat goes on in t he im age behind t he lens of t he cam era. The phot ographer get s lost , people som et im es only care about w ho is in front of t he cam era.The docum ent ary highlight s Bobby Roebuck and how he brings t he im ages t o life?.

The documentary is doing well, it has been accepted into 2 Film Festivals, the results will be highlighted in the future.

What w ords of encouragem ent s do you have for our readers?

My talents are God Given, I say to potential artist, BELIEVEIN YOURSELF. There will always be NAYSAYERS. You have a gift and vision for a purpose-- follow your staying on task, it may unfold differently than you imagine Remember my 3 Pwords Persistence, Practice, People

Persistence. Keep trying--the gift will unwrap itself. Timing and outcome is worth it.

Practice for perfection--People? network--- use technology to meet new people, ask permission to talk or engage with them Correct timing is everything

Cedrick Ingram and Bobby Roebuck on set

Cedrick Ingram

Shot To The Head Photography promo video Music by Norman Brown Shot & edited by Cedi it off Films

t wan a

Mr s.bo bby r o ebu c k

Tell us about the amazing role your wife has played in your life and career

My w ife, Tw ana Roebuck, is very det ail orient , she has helped m e schedule m y Com m it m ent s, Light ing and Phot ography Assist ant , Collect inform at ion about t he Talent s w hen needed Writ es Grant s, Art icles, Spirit ual Part ner, Cooks and keeps m e m ot ivat ed She is a blessing and a Help Mat e. Behind Every Phot ographer is a good w om en.

Mrs

Find Bobby and Shot To The Head Photography at Shottotheheadphotography com @shot To The Head facebook @shottotheheadphotography instagram

Mr and

Bobby Roebuck He could not have any of this magic with Twana by his side.

Marcus Anderson by Bobby Roebuck George Duke by Bobby Roebuck

Marcus Anderson by Bobby Roebuck

Oct. 16,1968: Olympics Black Power Salute

Time Periods: 1961

Themes: African American, Civil Rights Movements,

Racism & Racial Identity, Sports

African American,Civil RightsMovements,Racism & Racial Identity,Sports

On Oct 16, 1968 during medal presentations at the 1968 Summer Olympic Games in Mexico City, winning sprinters Tommie Smith and John Carlos raised their black-gloved fists while the U S national anthem was played Australian Peter Norman wore an Olympic Project for Human Rights pin, and stood in solidarity with their protest Smith and Carlos were suspended from the team by the U S Olympic Committee two days later.

Dave Zirin notes,

When mentioned at all in U.S. history textbooks, the famous photo appears with almost no context For example, Pearson/Prentice Hall?s United States Historyplaces the photo opposite a short three-paragraph section, ?Young Leaders Call for Black Power ?The photo?s caption says simply that ? U S athletes Tommie Smith and John Carlos raised gloved fists in protest against discrimination.?

The media ? and school curricula ? fail to address the context that produced Smith and Carlos?famous gesture of resistance: It was the product of what was called ?The Revolt of the Black Athlete ? Continue reading ?

Fists of Freedom: An Olympic Story Not Taught in School ?

In thisOct. 16, 1968, filephoto, Australian silver medalist Peter Norman, left, standson thepodium asAmericansTommie Smith, center, and John Carlosraise their gloved fistsin a human rightsprotest. | AP

TARGET. Diversit y, and Som e Christ ians

Here?s a part of Target?s story few know about

By: 'bumpyjonas? 1/29/25

I remember the chain store Target ?s Pride campaign back in 2023 When I went in the stores, you noticed it. The colors of the Pride flag were everywhere. I strolled through and thought Wow, this is quite a bit of progress I did wonder how people felt about it considering it was a national campaign and not a regional campaign. Well, it turns out that Pride campaign was the beginning of the end of Target?s DEI program more than likely Little did I know and probably many reading this,

Target got boycotted by customers as a result of its Pride campaign Someone was upset and complained. Target?s stock price went down and the store suffered a drop in sales

Then Target got sued by a guy named Brian Craig, and some others Craig is a shareholder

The thing is, it is hard to sue a store and say, hey you are promoting LGBTQ ideas and values, we are going to sue That won? t work Target was sued alleging that it misled its shareholders and customers.

The suit is called Craig v. Target Corporation

Target lost the first round in the procedural part of the case Target tried to get the case dismissed but the motion was denied. Here is how the judge, a Trump appointee, but well respected lawyer described the case in his order: ?In May 2023, Target Corporation undertook a children and family-themed LGBT ?Pride Month? marketing and sales campaign as part of an environmental, social, governance (?ESG?) and diversity, equity, and inclusion (?DEI?) initiative. The campaign focused on displaying Pride Month-related merchandise at the front and center of Target?s stores across the United States. This resulted in customer backlash and a boycott that Plaintiffs allege caused Target?s sales and stock price to decline

read full story on Medium

Black-ow ned brands urge US consum ers not t o boycot t Target over end of diversit y effort s

By Arriana McLymore and Siddharth CavaleJanuary

28, 20256:00 AM EST

NEW YORK, Jan 27 (Reuters)Please don't boycott Target!

That's the message from Black founders and influencers to consumers about a backlash against the retailer's decision to end its diversity, equity and inclusion efforts

With the U.S. political climate trending right, the Minneapolis-based company announced the move on Friday prompting calls for a boycott of its stores from labor advocacy group We Are Somebody and a Minneapolis city council member

The campaign would be aimed at hurting the company's sales and preventing Target from profiting from products by minority-owned companies, advocates said.

But Black-owned companies and entrepreneurs urged against a boycott on Monday, saying they would lose revenue and consumer exposure, which would harm the brands more than the retailer.

"If we all decide to boycott ... so many of us will be affected and our sales will drop

Customers go through the self check out line at a Target store on the week of Black Friday shopping in Chicago, Illinois, U S November 26, 2024 REUTERS/Vincent Alban/File Photo Purchase Licensing Rights

our businesses will be hurt," Tabitha Brown, an actress whose kitchen wares are sold at Target, said in an Instagram post Target did not immediately respond to requests for comment on the boycott calls.

Building on previous inclusivity efforts, Target in 2022 set a goal of making a financial commitment of more than $2 billion to Black-owned businesses by 2025. read full story

Dickson at California African American Museum

Charles Dickson at work

Charles Dickson, Stella The Poet and Indie Incognito publisher, Tony Smith at Matter Gallery in Los Angeles

Black In Mayberry

Black in Mayberry is primarily focused on addressing the systemic and institutional racism that robs, burdens and disrupts the lives of Black people in the United States of America. Through the application of art and education, we strive for political, social, economic and legal change.

We believe that art is a powerful tool for encouraging discourse, educating minds and changing hearts. Through creative collaborations with artists and activists, we intend to expose, discuss, evaluate current systems and doctrines that uphold racism whether direct or indirect

By Black In Mayberry

How Art Combats Racism; Insights from Black Artists

The Docum ent ary

Meet TanyaTaylor, Founder of Black in Mayberry

Tanya Taylor is the founder and executive director of Black in Mayberry, a nonprofit organization dedicated to combating systemic and institutional racism through art and education The organization aims to inspire political, social, economic, and legal change by leveraging the power of creative expression.

blackinmayberry org

In 2023, Tanya was featured as a social justice innovator during the TEDx Manhattan Beach event, where she engaged over 200 participants in creating advocacy discs, fostering community involvement in anti-racism efforts.

blackinmayberry org

Tanya's commitment to social justice and her innovative approach to addressing racism have made her a prominent figure in the movement toward equality and inclusivity.

Founder & Executive Director

Tanya Taylor

How Art Combats Racism

Insights from Black Artists

By Black In Mayberry

Black in Mayberry

presents the ?We Are Here?Art Exhibition this Black History Month, shining a spotlight on the untold stories of displaced African American communities in Los Angeles. This powerful exhibition celebrates resilience, culture, and history through art, personal narratives, and community connections

We?re looking for:

Exhibiting Artists to share works that explore displacement, identity, and belonging

Teaching Artists & Activists to lead workshops that inspire and educate. Collaborators and Creative Spaces to bring this vision to life.

Family Photos & Stories from the community to preserve and showcase your heritage

Sponsors passionate about supporting this impactful and free event for the public

Be part of a movement that honors the past while shaping the future

Exhibition Dates: February 2025

Location: Los Angeles, CA

Submit your art, stories, or partnership interest today! Visit

https://lnkd in/gv9Db72K or DM us for more details

Let?s come together to make history visible

hashtag#WeAreHereExhibition

hashtag#BlackHistoryMonth

hashtag#ArtForChange

hashtag#CommunityStories

hashtag#SupportBlackArtists

ReBUILD LA® ? Help Los AngelesFire Survivors

Donat e Now or Text ?WFRF? t o 414-44

The Los Angeles wildfires have torn through communities, leaving thousands of families devastated and without a home In addition to the emotional toll, survivors now face the financial burden of rebuilding or relocating. In many cases, homeowners were uninsured or underinsured, leaving them with little to no coverage for rebuilding their homes

Habitat for Humanity of Greater Los Angeles (Habitat LA) has a long history of helping vulnerable households after a disaster, including rebuilding 120 homes after the recent Woolsey and Creek fires In response, Habitat LA is launching ReBUILD LA®, a long-term emergency response campaign, to assist those affected to rebuild their homes, relocate to other housing, provide essential supplies, and restore their lives.

The immediate need for assistance is overwhelming. Thousands of people have been displaced, and many face the prospect of not having a safe, affordable home in the near future According to niche com, 22%of households in the affected area earn less than the median income for Los Angeles County

YOUR CONTRIBUTION WILL:

- Help families who have lost everything rebuild or relocate, ensuring they have a safe place to call home

- Provide essential goods through gift cards to purchase food and other necessary items.

- Support those whose homes are uninhabitable, with rental or mortgage assistance and other intermediate housing needs.

- Replace home furnishingswith vouchers for Habitat?s ReStores

- Offer assistance to vulnerable survivors who have been left without options to afford housing

Toget her, We Can ReBUILD LA®

Our mission is to build homes and communities so everyone has a place to live with dignity In times of disaster, it?s more important than ever to stand together and help those who need us most. Habitat LA?s efficient and transparent use of donations means that every dollar you contribute goes directly to helping the people of Los Angeles rebuild their homes and lives after this tragic event.

difficult to control

California battles devastating wildfires, claiming lives, destroying homes and displacing thousands. Strong Santa Ana winds and dry conditions fuel the blazes, with federal support mobilized for recovery.

January 09, 2025/ 16:52 IST

CALIFORNIA WILDFIRES2025: Firefighters battle a blaze at a burning structure on Lake Avenue, downtown Altadena, Pasadena, Wednesday, Jan. 8, 2025. (Image: AP)

Alt adena?s Black resident s disproport ionat ely hit

by Eat on fire.

La Toya Andrews and Nancy Ferdinand of Altadena hug Jan 11 at a donation center set up at First AME Zion Church in Pasadena to help those affected by the Eaton fire.(Jason Armond / Los Angeles Times)

By Hannah Fryand Brittny

MejiaJan 28, 20255:44 PM PT

Black residents of Altadena were more likely to have their homes damaged or destroyed by the Eaton fire and will have a harder financial road to recovery from the disaster, according to research released Tuesday by UCLA

The fire burned more than 9,000 structures in the heart of Altadena, ravaging historically Black neighborhoods that for decades had thrived despite racial discrimination and, more recently, gentrification

A study from UCLA published Tuesday reveals that Black residents in Altadena were 1 3 times more likely to have experienced major damage or complete destruction of their home during the inferno Researchers also found that Black fire victims tended to be older and often with financial circumstances

that will make it more difficult for them to rebuild when compared with residents as a whole

The study found that 61%of Black households in the community are in the fire?s perimeter, compared with 50%of non-Black households And nearly half of Black residents?homes were leveled or suffered severe damage, compared with 37%of non-Black households, the study says ?This is threatened by any kind of shock, but particularly this kind of shock that happens so swift and to such a large number? 2800 households? in a 24 hour period,?said Lorrie Frasure, an author of the study and director of the Ralph J Bunche Center for African American Studies at UCLA.

The Eaton fire burst out of Eaton Canyon and made a run north and west amid hurricane-force winds Embers flooded Altadena?s west side, leveling entire blocks These areas west of Lake Avenue have large Black populations in part because of a history of segregation and redlining policies.

In 1939, Home Owners?Loan Corp created a security map of the region in which it ranked neighborhoods by the relative risk to lenders. In Altadena, areas west of Lake Avenue were mostly zoned in the ?definitely declining? category, the second-lowest ranking, while the neighborhoods east of Lake Avenue were ranked either ?best?or ?still desirable.?

These were my neighbors when I live in Pasadena and my heart goes out to them

International Brotherhood of Electrical WorkersLocal 47 workto reconnect electrical to existinghomesin the Eaton fireburn area in Altadena on Monday, Jan. 27, 2025 and haul awayburned poles. (Photo bySarah Reingewirtz, LosAngelesDailyNews/SCNG)

By David Wilson| dawilson@scng.com

UPDATED:January 29, 2025 at 10:12 AM PST

?Altadena?s Black community has long served as a symbol of resilience and opportunity in the Los Angeles region, but the Eaton Fire exposes how decades of segregation and the legacy of redlining practices have left Black households more vulnerable,?Lorrie Frasure, a professor of political science and African American studies who directs the Bunche Center, said in a news release

Since its outbreak on Jan. 7, the Eaton fire has destroyed more than 9,000 structures, burned about 14,000 acres and killed at least 17 people and the disparities stemming from it to provide tailored support that ensures the restoration and future of this vibrant community ?

Since its outbreak on Jan. 7, the Eaton fire has destroyed more than 9,000 structures, burned about 14,000 acres and killed at least 17 people

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HIP HOP KENDRICK LAMAR

m akes a resounding STATEMENT!

CORNER

Kendrick Lamar performs at halftime of Super Bow; 2025, Sunday Feb 9, 2025 in New Orleans AP/Brynn Anderson

Kendrick Lam ar w ent Hard In The Paint on t he biggest st age in t he w orld. Wit h a lit t le help from t he legend Sam uel L. Jackson.

Message Sent . Message Received!

Public Enem y | Credit :EmileeChinn / GettyImages| GregoryShamis/GettyImages

KENDRICKUNCUTON THEWORLD WIDESTAGE

By:TonySmith IndieIncogntio

Being an avid football fan, Super Bowl Sunday was as relaxing a day as ever Wings, a couple of cold brews and mucho relaxation. The game revealed itself in the first quarter due tho those Philly Dawgs on defense.

OK, here comes halftime and I am thinking bathroom break and maybe a smoke. Then they preview Kendrick Lamar as the Halftime show performer. I decided to wait a minute to just check out how this was going to go.

Best decision I made that day As soon as I saw that young man crouched on that 1987 Buick GNX, I knew something interesting was coming. Interesting ended up being a major understatement. My first audible reaction was the words OH DAMN Followed by UNAPOLOGETIC BLACKNESS

I found myself transfixed by the artistry, choreography, messaging and plain old Gittin It by Mr. Lamar.

Kendrick Lam ar, 2025 Super Bow l Halft im e Show , Polit ical Hyperbole and t he Ongoing Frant ic Fear of Whit e Fragilit y and Whit e Suprem acy!

by: Elwood Watson, Ph D

It has been several days, and Kendrick Lamar?s Super Bowl halftime performance is still garnering controversy in a multitude of political and social circles. Lamar, a Pulitzer Prize winner, is known for his passionate storytelling, and his performance at Caesars Superdome told a story of Black Americans and their placement within the fabric of American history It was a performance filled with political references and allusions to Black history

Given the frantic and hostile reaction from many on the pollical, social and cultural right/maga-melts-down-over-kendricklamars-super-bowl-lix-halftimeperformance/, you would have thought that the artist had performed a reenactment of Nat Turner?s Rebellion raid known as the Southampton Insurrection on Southampton, Virginia in aslave rebellion that took place in Southampton County, Virginia, in August 1831. Led by Nat Turner, the rebels, made up of enslaved African Americans, killed between 55 and 65 White people The reality of the recent Super Bowl performance was much more subdued and culturally relevant

Lamar?s performance began with the appearance of Hollywood award-winning actor Samuel L. Jackson. Known for his deft timing and, in particular, his penchant for spewing the f-word, Jackson donned a red, white, and blue garish outfit with a top hat to introduce Lamar at ?the Great American Game ?

This representation was one that offered a starkly divergent narrative of what the patriotic Uncle Sam, routinely depicted as White, looks like. Midway through the performance, Jackson accused Lamar of being ?too loud, too reckless, [and] too ghetto,?depicting stereotypes often associated with Black people, hip hop music, and Black culture Notably, Jackson portrayed a docile, subservient self-hating character named Stephen in the 2012 film Django Unchained

The prison industrial complex has continually been a central debate topic for more than a few Black Americans Kendrick Lamar?s performance provided its own message As the rapper and his all-Black dancers danced around the field, it became readily apparent that they were performing in a prison environment The platform was structured to draw attention to the issue of mass incarceration and the gross racial disparities faced by those who are currently behind bars Black Americans are incarcerated at considerably higher rates than White Americans, even for committing duplicative offenses.

While Lamar has never been a victim of the criminal justice system, he routinely raps about its impact on Black Americans His recent Grammy performance was not the first live show Lamar has used to highlight the system?s disparities.

In 2016, he donned a prison outfit and led a chain gang of backup dancers across the stage as musicians performed in prison cells During the performance of ?Not Like Us,?Lamar rapped to his backup singers, ?40 acres and mule, this is bigger than the music ?This was a direct reference to the reparations and 40 acres of land promised to Black Americans following the end of slavery by the union army. The promise was never fulfilled, and the issue is still a part of current debates related to reparations for Black Americans

Perhaps the most critiqued aspect of Lamar?s performance was that his dancers were dressed in red, white, and blue. However, if the message was not clear enough, they came together during ?Humble?to form an explicit image. At one point during the lineup, the dancers all bent forward, lifting their backs in the air This was a not-so-subtle message to remind or inform viewers that the nation was built on the backs of Black Americans during slavery Afterwards, the dancers separated, standing in two groups on either side of Lamar. The image of a divided flag spoke to stark political divisions around the nation, to which Lamar hinted at with the line, ?It?s a cultural divide.?Perhaps the most critiqued aspect of Lamar?s performance was that his dancers were dressed in red, white, and blue. However, if the message was not clear enough, they came together during ?Humble?to form an explicit image. At one point during the lineup, the dancers all bent forward, lifting their backs in the air This was a not-so-subtle message to remind or inform viewers that the nation was built on the backs of Black Americans during slavery

Afterwards, the dancers separated, standing in two groups on either side of Lamar. The image of a divided flag spoke to stark political divisions around the nation, to which Lamar hinted at with the line, ?It?s a cultural divide.?

The truth is that more than a few Black Americans (and individuals of other groups) have frequently lamented about what the American flag means to them This is particularly the case when witnessing the flag in the company of those who are the purported enemies of certain communities. Such weaponized flags are an alarming and blatant warning sign to anyone who is not White, Christian, heterosexual, and conservative in their philosophy Rather than embracing our commonalities, they highlight our differences in sinister and menacing ways

Throughout the 13-minute performance, many people likely came to the realization that although they cannot stop the constant avalanche of despairing news, they do have some degree of control Turning off the television or changing the channel are two options they have The action reinforced his declaration at the beginning of his performance as he knelt on top of a Buick GNX: ?The revolution ?bout to be televised.

This slogan was a direct reference to Gil Scott-Heron?s 1971 song ?The Revolution Will Not Be Televised ?https:/revolution will not be televised/youtu be According to his biographer Marcus Baram, Mr. Scott-Heron wrote the song in part to showcase ?the disconnect between the consumerism celebrated on TVwith the social unrest that was occurring in the nation at the time ?

Lamar reversed the meaning of these famous words during his radical performance, ending with a wake-up call reminding us that we do, indeed, have control, and the controller, in our hands We as the public have the ingredients necessary for resistance at our disposal

Lamar?s halftime performance at the Super Bowl collectively asked, ?What is America without Black people??Indeed, the performance represented a measure of racial progress that should not be ignored What it also indicated is that there is still work to be done on the racial front.

About the writer:

Elwood Watson Ph D is a professor of History, Black Studies and Gender and Sexuality Studies at East Tennessee State University He is a cultural critic, syndicated columnist and author of the book, Keepin?It Real:Essayson Racein ContemporaryAmerica.

(University of Chicago Press)

by: Oladimeji Odunsi

MR. ADRIAN CRUTCHFIELD

Adrian Crutchfield is known around the world for his neo-soul sound ?creating music in a variety of genres such as jazz, R&B, pop, funk, soul, hip hop, and fusion.

His high energy show brings a diversity to jazz never seen before with music for every generation! Adrian takes pride in bringing a new and powerful sound, merging jazz with today?s pop and hip hop.

Adrian Crutchfield has taken the world by storm in recent years, not only as the last sax player to perform and record withPrince, touring the world and being featured on Prince?s last three albums, but also touring domestically and internationally with acts such as Lionel Ritchie, Bette Midler, and Cee Lo Green ? all the while writing and building his 2017 release titled ?Leap?

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Known as the last horn man to perform with Prince and The New Power Generation, Adrian is featured on many of Prince's final masterpieces, including the 2017 Grammy Nominated Hit-N-Run Phase 2.

Adrian also had the privilege of performing with Lionel Ritchie, Bette Midler, Ceelo Green, R&B Icon Anthony Hamilton, Fantasia and with hip hop superstar Young Jeezy.

On the jazz scene, Adrian has been featured with Brian /Culbertson, Kim Waters, Mike Phillips, Alex Bugnon, Jeff Lorber and Brandford Marsalis, Fourplay The Gap Band and Charlie Wilson

I met Adrian in 2016 while at the Seabreeze Jazz Fest as tour manager for Jazz In Pink What made it more profound was that it was the day Prince passed away We met later at a after concert jam session Kicked it Found out we had tons of mutual connections and became immediate friends What I know is that this man is committed to his craft Adrian Crutchfield is a professional entertainer who knows how to put on a show. More importantly, he is genuinely good man.

Adrian is currently doing his swing in Charlotte and on the road with Brian Culbertson

Stay tuned for so much more from this dynamic artist, entertainer.

Find Adrian Cruthfield @adriancrutchfieldmusic/#

A D R I A N C R U T C H F I E L D