“Jack Whitten: Five Decades of Painting”
aesthetically speaking
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Insight News September 21 - September 27, 2015
Vol. 42 No. 38 • The Journal For Community News, Business & The Arts • insightnews.com
Reading Horizons $1.25 million contract
MPS reading materials denigrate Black culture By Harry Colbert, Jr. Contributing Writer Yet again the Minneapolis Public Schools (MPS) is embroiled in controversy as to the education of students of color. This time around the controversy has to deal with books that were found to be highly offensive yet were designed to stem the reading gap among early learners of
color. Also at the center of the controversy is a $1.25 million contract awarded to the company that provided the books. While students never saw the books (as they were pulled before distribution) the district still paid for the materials and now questions are being raised as to how was the company vetted and how could such materials ever be considered acceptable in an education arena. Reading Horizons, a Utah based company, was given a
hefty $1.25 million contract to provide learning materials specifically designed to educate young students of color, addressing a problem that has embarrassingly plagued the district. Problems with Reading Horizons arose when a second purchase – beyond what initially was a $1.2 million contract – was authorized for a series of “Discovery Little Books.” That purchase of
MPS TURN TO 7
Black women mobilizing for 2016 vote By Jazelle Hunt NNPA Washington Correspondent
Jazelle Hunt/NNPA News Service
Black Women’s Roundtable convener, Melanie Campbell (left) and member, Avis Jones-DeWeever.
WASHINGTON (NNPA) – As the 2016 election cycle ramps up, Essence magazine and the Black Women’s Roundtable have teamed up to mobilize and reenergize Black women voters. The partnership hopes to raise the profile of the already-powerful Black women’s vote. In the 2008 and 2012 elections, Black women had the highest turnout of any group, with 60 percent of 18- to 29-year-old Black women hitting the polls in 2012 despite a national decline. “When we’re engaged and folks address our issues, we turn out [to vote]. In turning out, we
want to make sure our needs are met,” said Melanie Campbell, president and CEO of the National Coalition on Black Civic Participation, and convener of the Black Women’s Roundtable, a national civic engagement network. She continued, “So we wanted to…get this information out early enough that it can resonate in the election cycle.” One way the partnership plans to do this is through its Power of the Sister Vote poll, which Essence launched with its readers last month. The results from more than 2,000 respondents were released this week as part of the Congressional Black Caucus Annual Leadership Conference in
VOTE TURN TO 5
Dark money in politics threatens Black interests predicted a sea change in spending on elections. The Demos report said that since the ruling, dark money flooded into the system and in 2016 it’s only predicted to get worse. Dark money is generally defined as funds given to nonprofit organizations to influence elections without the group disclosing the sources of the their funding. The report said that political donations could influence lawmakers on a number of critical issues that have a significant impact on communities of color, including the minimum wage, paid sick leave and criminal justice reform. “Secret corporate political spending threatens the integrity of our democratic self-government, as those with the deepest pockets can overwhelm other voices,” the report said. “This financial influence leads to the needs and wants of corporations being prioritized and can skew important public policy outcomes, often in ways that perpetuate racial inequities.” The report noted that
By Freddie Allen NNPA Senior Washington Correspondent WASHINGTON (NNPA) – The explosion of “dark money” spent in the political system in the United States threatens racial equity in the United States making it harder for Blacks and other minorities to gain a foothold in the middle class and fully participate in the democracy, according to a recent report by Demos, a public policy group. “Between 2007 and 2012, 200 of America’s most politically active corporations spent a combined $5.8 billion on federal lobbying and campaign contributions. [But] what they gave pales compared to what those same corporations got: $4.4 trillion in federal business and support,” the report said. When the United States Supreme Court ruled that the First Amendment protections prevented the government from limiting nonprofits from making independent political contributions in the 2010 decision in Citizens United v. Federal Election Commission, voting rights advocates
NNPA Photo by Freddie Allen
Dark money in politics hurt Blacks
MONEY TURN TO 5
Business
Sports
Education
Community
New technology can help small businesses thrive
Torii Hunter named Twins nominee for Roberto Clemente Award
Sesame Street moving to HBO angers some
WE WIN Institute’s griot invasion
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138 582 181 Participants
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Insight News • September 21 - September 27, 2015 • Page 3
BUSINESS New technology can help small businesses thrive (StatePoint) Only half of U.S. small businesses survive more than five years, according to the U.S. Small Business Administration. This data underscores that small business ownership is no cakewalk. Beyond the classic entrepreneurial challenge of making and sustaining a profit, small business owners now struggle to find time and resources to adapt to new technology, say experts. “The pace of technological development is as staggering as the ever-changing ways that consumers engage and utilize it. To stay competitive to consumers and to employees, small businesses need to adopt and incorporate online technology into their everyday business operations,” says Seong Ohm, senior vice president of merchandise business services at Sam`s Club. To help entrepreneurs navigate new technology
BUSINESS TURN TO 4
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How to fundraise without a powerful board FUNdraising Good Times
By Mel and Pearl Shaw Part II of II What if your nonprofit isn’t comprised of people with power, wealth and influence? What if your board chair can’t pick up the phone and raise $1 million? How do you compete when you feel
other organizations are supported by power-brokers and you can’t get your message heard? Here are our thoughts. Use the assets available to you. Build a team and relationships that will serve you for the long run. You may be surprised by the resources and riches available within your network. Here are some suggestions to consider. First, remember it’s hard to raise money from behind a desk. You have to be constantly out in the community making the case for your organization or institution and developing relationships. This is your work as CEO. It’s also the work of board
members and your development director or vice president. Get the pulse of your community and find ways to implement your vision in partnership with others. Take names! Build your list of contacts. Stay in contact. Don’t depend on social media for your communication – build and nurture mutual relationships. Consistently grow your list of prospective donors. If you need to raise $250,000 we recommend creating a list of people, businesses, foundations and granting agencies who can give a combined total of $750,000. You don’t have the luxury of assuming people will
give the amount you request: you need enough prospective donors to cover the reality that not everyone gives. Even if you think it is a “sure deal” make sure you have a Plan B. Talk with your staff, advisors, board members and friends. Ask them who they know and who they can influence. It’s not only high profile people who can open doors! You don’t know who knows who – if you don’t ask you may be missing an opportunity. For example, our experience has shown that barbers, hair stylists, maids, waiters and waitresses have the pulse of a community. Keep it personal. If there
is someone within your organization who knows a donor or volunteer, ask them to take the time to personally thank those who give their time and money. Always debrief with your development director. Let him know who you are visiting. Make sure contact information for those you meet is entered in your database. Don’t assume you are the only person with relationships: ask team members for suggestions before going into a “big meeting.” Become politically astute – know your government leaders and make sure they know you and the priorities of your
organization. You may feel frustrated that your board or staff need to “catch up” with you. Don’t let that get you down. It is your responsibility to communicate with passion and vision, set direction, and invite others to join you. Copyright 2015– Mel and Pearl Shaw Mel and Pearl Shaw position nonprofits, colleges and universities for fundraising success. For help with your fundraising visit www. saadandshaw.com or call (901) 522-8727.
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Rare journey to Israel changes NFL Hall of Famer’s life By Curtis Bunn Urban News Service For Chris Doleman, the NFL Hall of Fame is nothing compared to being baptized in the River Jordan. The former Minnesota Viking and 18 other NFL Hall of Famers toured Israel with Ron Dermer, that nation’s ambassador to Washington, David Baker of the Hall of Fame, and New England Patriots owner Robert Kraft. “Phenomenal,” Doleman, 54, told Urban News Service. “I would say to all African Americans: Go. It’s an amazing place.” Doleman, a Christian, considered the opportunity to visit “the actual place where Jesus traveled, a once-in-alifetime chance I couldn’t pass up. To be able to go and touch and see where Jesus walked, to see the Holy Land, was amazing. The journey was the brainchild of Dermer, a former star quarterback for the Israeli football team* who grew up
in Miami loving sports. “This experience brought my two passions together,” Dermer said. “Football and Israel. My thinking was that if we allow these men to see Israel for themselves, they would be sort of ambassadors to help spread the accurate word of what it’s like. “The image of Israel is that it is in major conflict. The reality is that it’s a beautiful, safe place with a rich history. And Chris Doleman and the others embraced all that they were able to experience in about five days.” Doleman — a 6-foot-3, 275-pound hulk, who scored 150 1/3 sacks, mainly as a Viking — is a self-described “germaphobe.” He refuses to touch public door knobs with his bare hands. Regardless, the idiosyncratic Doleman volunteered to be baptized in the Jordan. “It was an out of body experience,” he said. “I’m not one for public displays. When in church, they have the call to the altar, and I’ve never been moved
to go up there. But when the offer came up in Israel, my hand
popped up…Everyone looked around. I was the last person they expected to volunteer.” The Jordan is not pristine. Rather, it is dark and muddy. And yet the “germaphobe” eagerly was dipped. “The Jordan River is where Jesus was baptized, OK? There is no new water in the world. It’s all recycled. So there’s a chance I was baptized with the same water as Jesus. That’s why I did it. It looked like the Chattahoochee River [near Atlanta, where Doleman lives], but smaller. I understood that it was where Jesus was baptized— and that my life wasn’t fulfilled.” After this emotional occasion, Doleman called his father. “I said, ‘Pop, I got baptized in the Jordan River.’ He said, ‘I’m glad. You were the only one [of the five Doleman kids] who wasn’t baptized.’” “I saw Chris the night he was baptized, and he was visibly moved,” Ambassador Dermer said. “I think they all were surprised by the depth of the experience.”
They also were astounded by how safe they felt. Doleman said, “Our guide told us we were an hour’s drive from where ISIS was cutting people’s heads off, which was crazy to learn. But I never felt like my well-being was in jeopardy. We had armed guards the entire time. And there was no drama where we traveled. Jerusalem was on one side of the street, [the West Bank was] on the other side. I mean, that close. But I didn’t care. I felt like, if I were going to die there, it would have been worth it.” The Americans also visited Tel Aviv and myriad historical and religious sites, including the Dead Sea, Mt. Olive, the City of David, and Bethlehem. They toured a military base and interviewed female fighter pilots. And they met Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu. “For 90 minutes we talked to Netanyahu,” Doleman said. “It was unbelievable. It’s an experience that can never be replicated. “For African-Americans, it’s a must-visit place. We, in general, know of one or two
types of Jews. But their culture is much more than we think. There are so many black Jews from Ethiopia in Jerusalem, it’s amazing. There’s a history over there attached to us that we have no idea.” A CBS crew joined the footballers and is working on a TV special about their excursion. Meanwhile, Dermer said that he plans to lead several NBA players to Israel to expose them to a world that likely will differ from familiar “television characterizations.” “For better or worse, we’re in the age of celebrity,” Dermer added. “There are three kinds of celebrities: musicians, actors and athletes. As a former athlete, I tend to sway toward them, and athletes tend to be more devout…There is a generation of people 10 or 15 years younger than them who admire them and listen to them. “If we can get them to experience Israel, the Holy Land, they will share with others what it’s like. And then it’s a win for everyone.”
The power of “prophetic” grief Child Watch
By Marian Wright Edelman “Prophetic grief is more than crying and sighing and weeping and mourning . . . Prophetic grief is planting gardens of healing in the midst of raindrops of blood. Prophetic grief is declaring to the world that love is stronger than hate, that God’s grace is greater than our grief, that God’s power is greater than our pain.” – Reverend Otis Moss, Jr. Recently Reverend Otis Moss, Jr., pastor emeritus at Olivet Institutional Baptist Church in Cleveland, Ohio and former co-pastor at Atlanta’s Ebenezer Baptist Church after Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr.’s assassination, and Reverend Otis Moss, III, Senior Pastor of the Trinity United Church of Christ in Chicago, preached together at the Children’s Defense Fund’s Proctor Institute for Child Advocacy Ministry. The terroristic murders of nine Black worshipers during Bible study at Charleston’s Mother Emanuel AME Church had broken everyone’s hearts, and father and son spoke on how all of us could use this moment to move forward together through “prophetic” grief.
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Rev. Otis Moss, Jr. explained this is different from being overcome by “pathetic” grief in the face of such a tragedy. “Pathetic grief is that kind of grief that causes you to be blinded by bitterness, hate, despair—the kind of grief that puts you in the class of the one who caused the grief. Pathetic grief sends you into a scale of darkness where Langston Hughes says ‘there ain’t been no light.’ It leaves you diminished, degraded, and in cooperation with the one who diminishes and the one who degrades.” He said we are called to something else. Prophetic grief can spur action and change, and Rev. Moss, Jr. urged that instead of focusing on the murderer we need to focus on the larger culture that fosters hatred and violence. “It’s easier to deal with the ‘who’ and singularize, if you will, the vastness of the crime and make one person responsible and thereby excuse ourselves. We like to deal with the ‘who,’ but we are not ready to deal with the ‘what’ . . . I think we have to lift up the fact that we live in a culture that has made guns our god. We have to deal with the ‘what.’ Why is it easier to get guns and drugs than it is to find a good counselor, a scholarship, a job? . . . Why is it that we live in a nation that’s more committed to gun rights and states’ rights than we are to civil rights and human rights? There are those who will, at the drop of a hat and less, pass another bill to arm people in classrooms and
in churches, but they are slow and resistant to [support] child care, affordable health care.” Rev. Moss, Jr. continued, “Let me hurry on to say I believe the 21-year-old alleged killer was born not out of a creative process controlled by God, but born into a destructive process and culture created by human beings. What kind of lessons are we going to give to our children? What are we feeding them? What is the diet we are giving them? What is it that makes guns objects of worship where people will kill you about a gun? What is it that creates this kind of climate for children?” Rev. Moss III added that this kind of prophetic grief that turns pain into power has always been a hallmark of the Black faith experience. “The very nature of our faith is carved from the splintered wood of an unfinished democracy . . . This is a faith where miracles are
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cards, which more securely protect consumers. To avoid bearing liability for fraudulent credit charges, small business owners can depend on merchant services experts to become EMV chip card-compliant, affordably and without hassle. • Be visible: Even if your business is centrally a brickand-mortar operation, the importance of having an online presence cannot be overstated.
not anomalies, redemption is not a fairy tale, and deliverance is more than a descriptive adjective, but an active verb permeating the soul of every believer. This is a faith where [Harriet] Tubman learned her freedom, [Sojourner Truth] discovered abolition, [W.E.B.] Du Bois discovered intellect, Zora [Neale Hurston] found her literary power, Langston [Hughes] crafted poems, and Ida B. Wells discovered her journalistic integrity.” When another murderer shot and killed two journalists in August in Virginia and blamed his actions partly on his deep rage at the Charleston murders, it was a misguided claim of diminished, degraded, pathetic grief. But when reporter Alison Parker’s father chose to use his great personal tragedy as an opportunity to speak out in favor of “whatever it takes” to end the crisis of gun violence in America
and pass common sense gun safety laws, it was a powerful lesson in prophetic grief and turning pain into power and overwhelming sadness and anger into action. Days after his daughter was murdered Mr. Parker wrote in the Washington Post: “In recent years we have witnessed similar tragedies unfold on TV: the shooting of a congresswoman in Arizona, the massacre of schoolchildren in Connecticut and of churchgoers in South Carolina. We have to ask ourselves: What do we need to do to stop this insanity? In my case, the answer is: ‘Whatever it takes.’ I plan to devote all of my strength and resources to seeing that some good comes from this evil.” As he prepared for a September 10th “Whatever It Takes” Day of Action and rally on Capitol Hill, he added: “After my daughter Alison was tragically killed two weeks ago, I said on national television that we have to do whatever it takes to fix this country’s gun violence problem. I know that weakening the stranglehold of the gun lobby won’t happen overnight. I know, too, that passing background check laws won’t prevent all acts of gun violence from taking place. But we must keep the pressure on our lawmakers until they do the right thing. And if they won’t, find their replacement.” Let’s all heed and follow his example and the Rev. Mosses’ call. In a nation that has nearly as many guns as people; when
the United States accounts for less than 5 percent of the global population but owns an estimated 35 to 50 percent of all civilian-owned guns in the world; and when American companies manufacture enough bullets each year to fire 31 rounds into every one of our citizens, let’s stay focused on this urgent challenge to embrace prophetic grief and use it to do whatever it takes to transform our national culture of violence into one of nonviolence and respect for human life. A child or teen dies or is injured by a gun every 30 minutes in the U.S. Why are our children and teens 18 times more likely to die from a gun than their peers in 25 other high-income countries? When will we come to our senses? It should not be a symbol of national pride that we are the world leader in the killing of children by senseless gun violence.
It’s not enough to simply have a website, you need to be discovered. Google frequently changes the way it determines search results rankings. Invest in search engine optimization (SEO) not once, but periodically, to conform to Google’s makeor-break formulas. A solid social media strategy and mobile capacity for your site will also positively impact your search ranking. Put the
marketing books away and lean on digital marketing experts to audit your current online presence and build a strategy that works for your budget and grows your customer base. • Stay connected: You may be the one pulling the trigger on big decisions, but that doesn’t mean you are expected to know it all. Seek advice from trusted industry peers or a local SCORE mentor
through LinkedIn and social media. Make time for webinars and networking events. Most importantly, stay connected to friends and family during times of stress. • Get smart about taxes: Set up a legal entity for your business online. This will allow you to hold on to more of your income and increase your asset and liability protections. Business taxes can be more expensive and complicated than personal filing, so find an accountant that gets your business. You can greatly benefit from the assistance of online accounting experts. They will help you take advantage of deductions and tax credits and assist you in filing your frequent, varied deadlines on time to avoid penalty. • Safeguard your data: Small businesses are often targets of identity theft. Create sophisticated passwords to protect sensitive information. Consider investing in a protection service with roundthe-clock threat monitoring and recovery support in case of fraudulent activity. To tap into these resources that will create efficiencies when starting or running a business, visit SamsClub.com/ benefits. Don’t let the adoption of new technology overwhelm you. Many of these services are more affordable than you think, are easy to update and offer anytime, anywhere access to experts. These tech tools can swiftly fuel your business operations, streamline processes and save you time and money.
A child or teen dies or is injured by a gun every 30 minutes in the U.S. Why are our children and teens 18 times more likely to die from a gun than their peers in 25 other high-income countries?
Marian Wright Edelman is President of the Children’s Defense Fund whose Leave No Child Behind® mission is to ensure every child a Healthy Start, a Head Start, a Fair Start, a Safe Start and a Moral Start in life and successful passage to adulthood with the help of caring families and communities. For more information go to www. childrensdefense.org. Mrs. Edelman’s Child Watch Column also appears each week on The Huffington Post.
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Insight News • September 21 - September 27, 2015 • Page 5
Torii Hunter named Twins nominee for Roberto Clemente Award Major League Baseball and Chevrolet announced that Torii Hunter was named the Minnesota Twins 2015 nominee for the prestigious Roberto Clemente Award. Sept. 16 marked the 14th annual Roberto Clemente Day, which was established by Major League Baseball to honor Clemente’s legacy and to officially recognize local club nominees of the Roberto Clemente Award presented by Chevrolet. Hunter is one of the 30 finalists for the annual award, which recognizes a Major League Baseball player who best represents the game of baseball through positive contributions on and off the field, including sportsmanship and community involvement. The award pays tribute to Clemente’s achievements and character by recognizing current players who truly understand
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the value of helping others. Hunter currently oversees the Torii Hunter Project, a comprehensive, long-term effort to impact youth in need in various parts of the United States. Torii and his wife Katrina have personally contributed more than $1 million to the project, which has impacted nearly 50,000 middle and high school students in five states and has provided more than 100 students with college scholarships. In addition to the Torii Hunter Project, Hunter is involved with many local charities including Big Brothers Big Sisters of Orange County, the Probation Community Action Association, the Prostate Cancer Foundation and the Make-A-Wish Foundation. Since 2004, more than 50,000 disadvantaged youth have attended a Twins game for free through Hunter’s community ticket program called Hunter’s Homies. Since his return to the Twins in 2014, Hunter has worked with local family shelters to bring homeless youth to the ball park and provide them with clothing and shoes. He has also partnered with the Boys & Girls Clubs to raise more than $230,000 for the local organization in just one year. “Few are as deserving as Torii Hunter to win this prestigious community service
Torii Hunter
Keith Allison (Creative Commons)
award,” said Bryan Donaldson, executive director of the Minnesota Twins Community Fund. “He has been truly dedicated to the community throughout his career with the Twins, Angels and Tigers.” “I’ve been blessed to be able to play the great game of baseball and it’s an honor to be nominated for this award,” said Hunter. “It has been an even bigger honor to serve the youth in these great communities that have embraced me.” Fans are encouraged to participate in the process of selecting the winner of the Roberto Clemente Award by visiting www.chevybaseball. com to vote for one of the 30 nominees. Participating fans will be automatically registered for a chance to win a trip to the 2015 World Series, where the winner of the Roberto Clemente Award will be announced. The concept of honoring players for their philanthropic work was created in 1971 as the Commissioner’s Award, but was renamed to the Roberto Clemente Award in 1973 in honor of the Hall of Famer and 15-time All-Star who died in a plane crash on New Year’s Eve 1972 while attempting to deliver supplies to earthquake victims in Nicaragua. Each September since 2002, Major League Baseball has commemorated Roberto Clemente Day.
Editor-In-Chief Al McFarlane Publisher Batala-Ra McFarlane Assistant to the Publisher Shumira Cunningham Associate Editor & Associate Publisher B.P. Ford Associate Editor Afrodescendientes Carmen Robles Associate Editor Nigeria & West Africa Chief Folarin Ero-Phillips Associate Editor Culture and Education Dr. Irma McClaurin Associate Editor Leadership and Social Enterprise Dr. Anita Davis-DeFoe Director of Content & Production Patricia Weaver Sr. Content & Production Coordinator Ben Williams Production Intern Sunny Thongthi Distribution/Facilities Manager Jamal Mohamed Receptionist Lue B. Lampley Contributing Writers Melvin Carter, Jr. Harry Colbert, Jr. Julie Desmond Fred Easter Timothy Houston Penny Jones-Richardson Alaina L. Lewis Darren Moore Carmen Robles Lydia Schwartz Ryan T. Scott Toki Wright Photography David Bradley Contact Us: Insight News, Inc. Marcus Garvey House 1815 Bryant Ave. N. Minneapolis., MN 55411 Ph.: (612) 588-1313 Fax: (612) 588-2031 Member: Minnesota Multicultural Media Consortium (MMMC), Midwest Black Publishers Coalition, Inc. (MBPCI), National Newspaper Publishers Association (NNPA) Postmaster: Send address changes to McFarlane Media Interests, Marcus Garvey House 1815 Bryant Avenue North, Minneapolis, Minnesota, 55411.
Vote From 1 Washington, D.C. “This year is the 50th anniversary of the Voting Rights Act, and we should not take that for granted,” said Essence Editorin-Chief Vanessa De Luca. “I wasn’t surprised at all at how enthusiastic [readers] were about the survey. Unfortunately, it’s so seldom that people ask. We got the opportunity to share our opinions.” Campaign season began early and under unconventional circumstances. Several candidates for the Republican nomination are pulling significant interest, making it difficult to identify a clear frontrunner and causing quiet divisions within the party. The Democrats have twists of their own – among them are an email controversy surrounding Hillary Clinton that threatens her run for the White House. One advantage to this lengthy
Money From 1 taxpayers foot the bill for government contractors who can then spend money on programs and lobbying efforts that do little to benefit people of color. “Hundreds of billions of dollars in federal contracts, grants, loans, concession agreements, and property leases go to private companies that pay low wages, provide few benefits, and offer employees little opportunity to work their way into the middle class,” the report said and because people of color make up a disproportionate share of the low-wage workforce, they are directly impacted when companies argue against raising the minimum wage. The biggest players in the for-profit prison industry also seem to benefit from their relationships with elected officials, but current regulations prevent the public from knowing the full extent of their political expenditures. Citing research by the Center for Responsive Politics, the report said that Corrections Corporation of America (CCA), The GEO Group, Inc. (GEO), and Management and Training Corporation (MTC) spent $3.698 million on lobbying federal officials and the PACs and employees of these companies contributed $552,636 to federal campaigns in 2014. “But this may only be a fraction of what these companies have filtered into the federal political system because it includes only those contributions that have been disclosed. There is no way of knowing how much money these companies have funneled into the political process through 501(c)(4) and (c)(6) organizations,” the report said. “The payout for CCA, GEO, and MTC’s efforts: in 2013 and 2014, these companies
and uncertain election season is that Black women can better position themselves as a crucial voting bloc. “What I do know is that I haven’t seen us come together enough to leverage our political opinion. We need to get the sense of the timing. You always hear about [our high turnout] once the election’s gone down the road,” Campbell said. “It’s to the benefit of our communities to make sure our communities are respected in 2016, and that our issues are elevated and addressed.” The Shelby v. Holder Supreme Court ruling, which nullified the Voting Rights Act’s (VRA) protections against voter discrimination, has also helped create a unique political landscape for 2016. The states flagged for continued voting rights violations are home to a majority of Black women – without Sections 4 and 5 of this key civil rights legislation, these states have already begun redistricting communities and tightening voting requirements. “The voting rights issue
is definitely something Black women are concerned about. That issue will resonate not just as a policy issue, but a practical issue as well,” Campbell stated, adding that without Congressional intervention, voters “will go into election season in January with people changing the rules willynilly.” She continued, “We don’t have the same level of [voter] protections we once had. It’s new territory.” Voting rights is one of many issues affecting Black women in political discourse today. With topics such as criminal justice reform, fair wages, and weakened access to women’s health care in the public spotlight, De Luca pointed out that there’s much for Black women to say. “There’s so much more at stake that is of concern to our community. And it’s not just a presidential election year, it’s also a Congressional [election] year,” De Luca said, adding that the absence of President Barack Obama does not necessarily spell
received over $1.561 billion in contracts from the federal government.” Even though, Whites account for 62.2 percent of the U.S. population, more than 82 percent of Congress is White, the report said. Roughly 14 percent of the population identified as Black, but Blacks account for less than 9 percent of U.S. lawmakers on Capitol Hill. Because companies are more likely to spend money to elect White candidates instead of minority candidates, underrepresentation of minorities in political offices,
is sure to continue, despite shifting demographics. The Demos brief recommended that President Barack Obama issue an executive order requiring federal contractors disclose political donations. “This Order would be an important first step in bringing corporate political spending out of the dark and into the light,” to illuminate what candidates are in the pockets of big businesses with interests that diverge from those of the American public,” the report said, “and, in particular, people of color.”
Black voter disinterest. “That’s a fallacy. People may think, ‘it’s not going to be Obama so what does it matter’… but I’d argue it matters more than ever.” Aside from rallying Black women to wield their political power, Essence has also joined the BWR’s Healthy, Wealthy & Wise Empowerment Tour. The multistate tour, which ends at the end of the month, addresses income inequality, health justice, criminal justice and retirement security; its final stops are Orlando, Fla., Atlanta, Ga., and Detroit, Mich. Ultimately, De Luca and Campbell hope the partnership
empowers Black women and girls in a variety of levels. “It’s key for Black women to elevate ourselves, and in a way that our voices are heard,” Campbell said, adding that the actions send a positive message to Black women voting for the very first time, and those who may be feeling jaded. She explained, “We want to make sure we’re encouraging the power of our vote to still resonate. Black women have to start leveraging our opinions, and if we can do that, we can definitely make change.”
Save the Dates! October 6, 7, and 8th 2015
FREE
Cervical and Breast Cancer Screenings for women ages 40 to 64 who are uninsured or underinsured* What:
FREE Cancer Screenings* and Community Health Education
When:
Oct. 6th, 7th, 8th Tuesday Oct. 6th English Speakers Wednesday Oct 7th Spanish Speakers Thursday Oct. 8th Hmong Speakers Registration Check-in: 8:00 AM Screening: 8:00 AM–2:30 PM Health Education: 8:00 AM–4:00 PM
Where: 1313 Penn Ave. North To register call 612-767-9197 or visit www.northpointhealth.org
Page 6 • September 21 - September 27, 2015 • Insight News
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COMMENTARY
Black votes matter Black Press of America By Dr. Benjamin F. Chavis, Jr., President and CEO, NNPA As we enter the 2016 political campaign season with numerous candidates for president of the United States in the Republican and Democratic parties, it appears once again that the political and economic interests of Black America are not being adequately addressed by either of the major political parties. It is as if the Black American vote is being taken for granted.
The Black vote is important first to the Black community and secondly to American democracy. The right to vote and the Voting Rights Act of 1965 did not come about without a struggle. Many brothers and sisters went to jail and paid a heavy painful price to acquire the right to vote. Some even died in the struggle to advance Black political and civic participation. In the Civil Rights Movement, voting rights were deemed precious and a sacred moral responsibility to everyone of voting age. Today, there is need for the Black community to reassert the value and strategic leverage of the Black vote. It is one thing for the status quo to ignore the political interests of the Black
community, but it is another when so many of us are missing in action on Election Day. According to the United States Elections Project, Black voter turnout has been significantly increasing steadily from 48.1 percent in 1996 to 52.9 percent in 2000 to 61.4 percent in 2004 and peeking at 69 percent in 2008 when Senator Barack H. Obama was elected president. In 2016, we should have no less than a 90 percent Black turnout. If that happens, the Black vote, more than any other single voting group in the U.S., will determine the outcome of the elections. We should recall that in the 2012 elections, for the first time in history, Black voter turnout was higher than White
voter turnout – 66.6 percent to 64.1 percent. Why do all these voting statistics matter? The short answer is because if we can continue to increase our voter turnout we will be better positioned to advance the interests of the Black community. A few weeks ago, the Pew Research Center reported that for the first time in history, there are at least 364 counties, independent cities and other county-level equivalents in the U.S. that did not have a White majority population – “the most in modern history, and more than twice the level in 1980.” Ninety-two of the 364 counties are predominantly Black. This is leading to the election of more Blacks as county sheriffs, county chief executives, and
other high public offices at the county and regional levels. Some would say it is poetic justice, but it is a rapidly changing racial demographics reality in terms of population density increases and Black elected officials are on the rise particularly in the 11 states that once made up the old Confederacy: Alabama, Arkansas, Florida, Georgia, Louisiana, Mississippi, North Carolina, South Carolina, Tennessee, Texas and Virginia. That’s not surprising when you consider that 55 percent of all African Americans reside in the South, up from 53.6 percent in 2000. It’s not surprising that some of the most intense efforts to suppress the Black vote is taking place in the South.
Yes, Black Lives Matter! We must do whatever is necessary to improve the quality of life for our families and communities. Do not fall into the cynical attempts to persuade us that our votes do not count. Our votes do count and do make a big difference for the betterment of Black America. Yes, Black Votes Matter! Benjamin F. Chavis, Jr. is the President and CEO of the National Newspaper Publishers Association (NNPA) and can be reached for national advertisement sales and partnership proposals at: dr. bchavis@nnpa.org; and for lectures and other professional consultations at: http:// drbenjaminfchavisjr.wix.com/ drbfc
Obama is no ‘lame duck’ president Black Press of America By George E. Curry NNPA Editor-in-Chief Almost as surprising as Barack Obama’s election as the nation’s first African American president is his success in not becoming a lame duck president, a term normally applied to a politically weakened outgoing president’s last two years in office. Few presidents have been
many expected Obama to be impotent as he limps out of office next year. But they were in for a surprise as Obama transformed his campaign motto of “Yes, we can” to “Yes, we did.” In the last year alone, Obama commuted the sentences of 46 prisoners incarcerated for nonviolent crimes, most of them drug related. He restored diplomatic relations with Cuba after a 50-year standoff, with each country reopening its embassy. President Obama issued an executive order allowing the parents of children born in the U.S. to remain in this country. He extended abortion coverage to Peace Corps volunteers who became
as lame as George W. Bush, who was largely dismissed in his last two years in office and so unpopular that Republicans did not want him to show up at the last Republican national convention of his tenure for fear of harming the GOP’s chances of winning the White House in 2008. Bush, acting as though he was in the federal witness protection program, didn’t appear, but that did not alter the outcome of the election. Given the GOP’s extreme hostility toward Obama – with the open declaration by nowSenate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell [R-Kentucky] that his sole objective was to make Obama a one-term president –
pregnant as a result of rape, incest or life endangerment. And his administration raised the qualification for receiving overtime pay from $23,660 to $50,440. Obama scored a major victory when, in the face of heated Republican opposition, he joined five other world leaders in curbing Iran’s nuclear program. Practically all of the Republicans running for president and their echo chamber, Fox News, have misrepresented the terms of the deal. MediaMatters, the media watchdog group, provides
OBAMA TURN TO 8
“’Akeelah and the Bee' triumphs.” – Star Tribune
Photo of Akeelah and the Bee Cast by Dan Norman
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Insight News • September 21 - September 27, 2015 • Page 7
Sesame Street moving to HBO angers some By Stacy M. Brown Special to the NNPA from The Washington Informer Sesame Street will now be brought to you by the letters H-B-O. The iconic children’s program is moving from the friendly confines of PBS to the adult world of Home Box Office and the move has left more than just Oscar feeling grouchy. A number of Baltimore area child care agencies and others are expressing their outrage, noting that while PBS is known for offering family and kids’ favorites like Sesame Street, the Electric Company and Masterpiece Theater, HBO is rife with sex, violence, harsh language and is otherwise not child-friendly. “It’s very sad because you could always count on Sesame Street on PBS,” said Jennifer Dorsey, the founder of A World of Friends Learning Center. “This must be a money deal. I know PBS is run by grants and community donations, but it’s a shame that they can’t keep [firstruns] of Sesame Street,” said Dorsey, who also holds a position on the Mayor’s Early Childhood Advisory Committee. The New York Times spelled out how the partnership will work between HBO, the network known for the Sopranos and its mob hits and scantily clad women and PBS, often praised
The familiar characters of Sesame Street, a form of education for children that has spanned generations for its educational Muppets and even teaching kids what to wear. In a new five-year deal between the network and Sesame Workshop, the nonprofit group behind the children’s television program, first-run episodes of Sesame Street will run exclusively on HBO and its streaming outlets this fall. The arrangement allows the financially challenged Sesame Workshop to significantly
increase its production of Sesame Street episodes and other new programming. The group will produce 35 new Sesame Street episodes a year, up from the 18 it now produces, the Times reported. It will also create a spin-off series based on the “Sesame Street” Muppets along with another new educational series for children. After nine months of
appearing only on HBO, the shows will be available free on PBS, home to Sesame Street for the last 45 years. “Kids are getting squeezed in the middle,” said Tim Winter, president of the Parents Television Council, a nonpartisan education group that advocates for responsible entertainment. “In order to watch original episodes of the most iconic children’s program in television
history, parents are now forced to fork over about $180 per year and subscribe to the most sexually explicit, most graphically violent television network in America. I can’t imagine a greater juxtaposition in television than this.” In a statement, an HBO spokesman said, “We are incredibly proud of our role in securing the future of ‘Sesame Street’ and its availability to PBS
for free.” Other child care workers weren’t as enthused. “I don’t think you should be charged to see Big Bird,” said Sheryl Crosby, the business manager at Creative Learning Center, an ethnically diverse preschool and childcare center. “My husband and I don’t have HBO because of all of the garbage that’s on it and I have a huge problem with this because PBS connects with education while HBO connects with, well garbage,” Crosby said. Debi Karpinsky, the director of the Playtime Learning Center and Child Care, said she hadn’t heard about the Sesame Street to HBO deal until contacted Friday. “I see this as a big problem,” Karpinsky said. “Everything has become one big horrible cycle. Now, kids won’t get what they need which is something simple as a [free] television show. It’s just inappropriate and more bad news because many of us watched Sesame Street when we were children.” Karpinsky said the Playtime Learning Center and Child Care instructs children using thematic units which teach basic skills through real life and hands-on experience. She said the goal is helping children to realize that learning can be fun. “But, this move to put Sesame Street on HBO is all about the almighty dollar,” Karpinsky said.
A symbol of reconciliation for victims of British rule Sept. 14 (GIN) – In a ceremony attended by thousands of Kenyans, statues dedicated to the victims of torture and ill-treatment by British colonialists were unveiled this recently at Uhuru Park’s Freedom Corner in Nairobi. The memorial, backed by Britain, was witnessed by many veterans of the so-called “Mau Mau” rebellion which brought an end to colonial rule in that country. In a statement released by the British High Commission, it was revealed that the memorial was part of an out-of-court agreement between the British government and some veteran freedom fighters in 2013. More than 5,200 claimants received compensation in the settlement - worth nearly $31 million. The memorial features a statue of an armed rebel
Veteran freedom fighters
receiving a bag of supplies from a woman. It stands as “a symbol of reconciliation’’ between the British government and all the victims of the emergency period, which lasted from 1952 to 1960. But all is not well in Kenya today. A nationwide teachers’ walkout is now in its second week. The bitter strike brings attention to government’s refusal to raise low salaries paid to the country’s over 280,000 essential instructors. Currently, the lowest paid teacher earns a basic salary of about $160 a month, and the highest, a chief principal, takes home $1,090 in basic pay. Yet demands for decent wages are being met with resistance and the Finance Minister, Henry Rotich, recently made clear that raises were not in the cards, saying: “This financial
year, we have not provided for resources for any pay hike.” Kenya’s Central Organization of Trade Unions (COTU) now threatens to send home their workers in solidarity with the teachers. A “seven-day strike notice” was delivered to the labor minister, said Francis Atwoli, a union official. The claim of no funds available has a particularly false ring as a shocking report released over the summer by the Auditor General revealed that only 1.2% of Kenya’s 9 billion dollar budget for 20132014 “was incurred lawfully and in an effective way”. The 361-page report is a litany of mismanagement, incompetence, wastage, misspending and possibly corruption on a huge scale.
St. Paul police-community dialogues St. Paul’s district councils have begun cross-cultural dialogues among community members and the St. Paul Police Department in efforts to bridge the divide between communities of color and law enforcement. Given the national media coverage of protests around police actions in communities of color, this project is a community-led, cooperative work aimed at finding routes to racial equity in St. Paul.
Managed by the District 1 Community Council and overseen by a Steering Committee of five additional district councils (District 2-Greater East Side, West Side Community Organization, Dayton’s Bluff Community Council, Payne-Phalen District 5 Planning Council, and Summit University Community Council), this city-wide project has been in the works since November 2014. The project developed out
of 2014 neighborhood crosscultural dialogues; funded by the Saint Paul Foundation and hosted by the district councils. Community participants identified several issues and action steps during the dialogues, one being the need for cross-cultural dialogues to happen between city departments and community members – especially between youth and police. The district councils are funded in their 2015 work by an
Innovation Fund awarded by the city of St. Paul, and have been supported by the mayor’s office and St. Paul Police Department administration. Since March 2015, more than 40 community members from across the city have been meeting to plan the dialogues, along with representatives from the police department, the Latino Peace Officer Association, the Minnesota Asian Peace Officers Association, and the National Black Police Association. The
MPS
Levy-Pounds said just this past February the district introduced a computer software game that simulated the life of a slave. Levy-Pounds said the game was in use by students of the district until objection was raised by the group, Black Advocates for Education Minnesota. In that game, users were given badges – rewards – for successfully navigating life as a slave girl, such as not answering a white man because “he liked his slaves silent.” “This (the purchase of the offensive books) is a part of a pattern here with Minneapolis Public Schools,” said LevyPounds. “These things happen because of an unwillingness to engage parents, students and the community and what’s happening is our children are continually suffering because of it. This type of material gravely impacts the psyche of our kids. This is just another example of what happens to kids of color in the district.” The NAACP president said with such a large contract being awarded, it is appalling that these materials were ordered – and a company such as Reading
Horizons was chosen – without being properly vetted. LevyPounds also said this issue could have been avoided if the now defunct Office of Equity and Diversity was intact and given the teeth it was supposed to have had when it was created. “The district needs to bring back the Office of Equity and Diversity and equip it with the authority to truly affect change. We don’t want an office in name only,” said Levy-Pounds. The Office of Equity and Diversity was dismantled by the district’s interim superintendent, Michael Goar. During a Sept. 8 MPS board meeting, several board members expressed outrage at the inclusion of the books in the Reading Horizons curriculum. But according to Levy-Pounds, simple outrage is not enough. “They need to void the contract with Reading Horizons, period,” said an exacerbated Levy-Pounds. “I don’t see any reason why they should remain in a contract with a company that demonstrated a lack of cultural competence and racial sensitivity. This is unacceptable.”
Although the board did draft a resolution calling for an apology and reimbursement for the books, it did not seek to void the contract with Reading Horizons. In a letter penned by Goar, he defended Reading Horizons. “Reading Horizons works,” said Goar in a letter provided by the district to Insight News. “Research shows this program has been successful in improving student outcomes across the country, including outcomes in diverse districts like ours.” Goar blamed the lack of vetting on “staffing shifts” within the district. Within the past few months several key administrators – many, AfricanAmerican – have resigned from the district. “Due to staffing shifts and the desire to get a program in place for the new school year, the books were not comprehensively vetted,” said Goar. “We now know this was a mistake.”
From 1 $236,700, included such titles as “Lazy Lucy,” which depicts Lucy as a lazy African girl who does not want to clean her hut, and “Nieko the Hunting Girl” that depicts a primitive view of Indigenous-Americans and yet even another book that focuses on Kenyans and how “Kenyans are able to run very fast” and “some Kenyans run with bare feet.” The books first came to light during an August teacher training session conducted by Reading Horizons at a cost of $104,000. Several concerned teachers voiced their objections to the materials they said were racist and also sexist. While the purchase of such materials by MPS is disturbing, it is not shocking according to Minneapolis’ NAACP president. “The sad part is I was not surprised,” said Nekima Levy-Pounds, president of the Minneapolis NAACP.
current dialogues are facilitated by community members (both youth and adults) trained with support from Everyday Democracy, a nationally recognized organization specializing in study circles focused on racial equity and positive change. The dialogues will run for four more sessions, on Mondays from 6 p.m. – 8 p.m. until Oct. 12, at the Wellstone Center/El Rio Vista Community Center, 179 E. Robie St. The council
is still recruiting community members, especially youth and young adults of color, to share their experiences and jointly develop solutions to making the city more equitable for all its residents. To RSVP for participation, to discuss any assistance for participation residents may need, or for more information about the project, contact Chia Lor, project coordinator at district1chia@gmail.com or (651) 578-7400.
Help Plan the Future of Minneapolis Parks Share your opinion about what you want in parks over the next 25 to 30 years, and about options for funding those needs.
Get Involved! Attend a public meeting: • Monday, Sept. 21, 6:30-8:30 pm – Farview Rec. Center, 621 29th Ave. N • Tuesday, Sept. 22, 6:30-8:30 pm – Bryant Sq. Rec. Center, 3101 Bryant Ave. S • Thursday, Sept. 24, 6:30-8:30 pm – Audubon Rec. Center, 1320 29th Ave. NE • Monday, Sept. 28, 6:30-8:30 pm – Keewaydin Rec. Center, 3030 E 53rd St.
Take a 15-minute survey by Sept. 30: • https://www.surveymonkey.com/r/ourparks
Attend the Closing the Gap: Insider Insights for Park Funding event to hear how other cities funded their parks: • Tuesday, Sept. 29, 6-8:30 pm – Walker Art Center, 1750 Hennepin Ave. Limited seating; RSVP to closingthegap@minneapolisparks.org or 612-313-7789 with your name, number attending. Co-sponsored by City Parks Alliance and The McKnight Foundation. If you need a meeting modification in order to participate, email ewolfe@minneapolisparks.org or call 612-230-6415 in advance.
www.minneapolisparks.org /closingthegap Soomaali: 612-230-6574
Page 8 • September 21 - September 27, 2015 • Insight News
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LIFESTYLE What it means to be a “grand” parent Man Talk
By Timothy Houston A couple months ago my 12th grandchild was born. Titus is a handsome baby boy born to my son Tim II and his wife Shaunte, and my 9th grandson who will carry on the Houston name. While some of my family and friends have nice alternatives names they prefer their grandchildren to use, I
prefer the title “granddad”. Just consider the synonyms for grand – outstanding, majestic, splendid, magnificent, and you understand why. Grandparents are just that, “grand”, and as grandparents, we are uniquely tasked with enriching our grandchildren’s lives. First, grandparents enrich the lives of their grandchildren by serving as secondary parents when needed. There are times for various reasons that the people are not able to parent their children, and the grandparent may need to step in. It is in this role that grandparents are most needed. I had a personal situation where I had to parent
Titus one of my grandchildren for about 6 months. It was not easy, but it was a part of my role as a grandparent. Many successful members of our society were helped raised by their grandparents including President Barack Obama. Although this should be the exception and not the norm, it
is too important a responsibility not to mention. Secondly, grandparents enrich the lives of their grandchildren by supporting parental authority. Although it may understood that grandparents may on occasion give a child a piece of forbidden candy, grandparents
should work with the parents on teaching what is right. This helps the child to know that you are both on the same page and teaches them the value of family and extended family. When the parents and grandparents reinforce what each other is saying, the child cannot choose sides and the grandparents become a part of the parental support system. Thirdly, grandparents enrich the lives of their grandchildren by correcting bad behaviour. All parents need help in developing good behaviour, and grandparents can be a good source of help. Because the grandparents are a second set of eyes, they will also be able to help the child develop good habits that the parents may not know they are lacking. Grandparents who ensure that the child makes his or her bed, take their plate off the table or pick up after themselves, and are courteous and respectful are helping to develop behaviour improvements that the parents will welcome and appreciate. Finally, grandparents enrich the lives of their grandchildren by providing a temporary break from home.
There is nothing like a child’s weekend or summer getaway to the grandparents to provide parents the space to reset. Parenting is 24/7 so breaks are necessary. When the child is at the grandparents, the parents get the opportunity to retune themselves, and the child gets the opportunity to be the center of the grandparent’s attention. These visits relieve pressure and provide a safe place for the child to spend time away from their parents while maintaining a healthy relationship with their grandparents. Grandparents are an important part of the family structure, and they can help to ensure that children are respectful members of society. As I welcome my grandson Titus, I will remind his parents that they have my support because grandparents enrich the lives of grandchildren everywhere. Timothy Houston is an author, minister, and motivational speaker who is committed to guiding positive life changes in families and communities. For questions, comments or more information, go to www. tlhouston.com.
Happiness is... Motivational Moments
By Penny JonesRichardson The strangest thing happened to me the other day. I was talking with an individual about what makes a person happy. He stated how he does not know what true happiness feels like. He also stated that he has been unhappy for most of his life. His story made me so sad. Not because
Obama From 6 extensive documentation in debunking myths created by conservative detractors. Among the myths: MYTH: Iran Deal Makes The U.S. And Israel Less Safe FACT: Experts Laud ‘Excellent’ Deal That Deprives Iran Of Pathways To Build Bomb MYTH: Deal Will Allow Iran To Have A Nuclear Weapon After It Expires FACT: Iran Is ‘Permanently’ Bound By Curbs On Ability To Obtain Nuclear Weapon, Even After Some Provisions Expire MYTH: Sanctions Relief Will Greatly Increase Iran’s Ability To Fund Terrorism FACT: Experts Believe Iran
he had this negative outlook on life, but because he didn’t realize what would make him happy. I believe that happiness means doing things that make you feel good about yourself. Happiness is time spent with loved ones and family and sharing special moments together. Some people find happiness in those great times spent vacationing to places that they may have always dreamt about going. The truth really is, that happiness is something that we all need to survive. We need happiness to get us through this life so we can have something to put a smile on our face and make
us feel like we are alive. When I think of happiness, I think of people smiling and enjoying life. I think of people doing things and achieving goals that they always wanted to achieve. Happiness means so many things to people, but everyone wants to experience it. I’ve never met a person who stated that they just don’t want to be happy. Most people know what will make them happy, and they do the things that move them toward that happiness. They work on bettering their lives, they spend time with friends and family, and they also enjoy time spent alone doing personal things that make them
happy. My personal favorite thing to do that makes me the happiest, is helping to make others happy. I write to motivate people and in doing so I hope that people find happiness in my writings and I hope they make someone smile. Now that’s my definition of happiness! And as always, stay focused, stay determined, and keep striving for greatness. Penny Jones-Richardson is a published author and life coach. She can be reached via her website at www. thequeensproject.com or email at penny@thequeensproject. com.
Will Use Sanction Relief To Restart Economy, Say Terrorists Would Benefit More From Rejection Of Deal
Cornel West, someone who ‘posed as a progressive and turned out to be counterfeit.’ They’re outraged that Wall Street hasn’t been punished, that income inequality remains so high, that ‘neoliberal’ economic policies are still in place.” But given Republican opposition to less ambitious goals presented by Obama, Krugman argues that Obama would have no success trying to advance such progressive ideals. Krugman wrote recently in Rolling Stone magazine: “Despite bitter opposition, despite having come close to self-inflicted disaster, Obama has emerged as one of the most consequential and, yes, successful presidents in American history. “His health reform is imperfect but still a huge step forward – and it’s working better than anyone expected.
Financial reform fell far short of what should have happened, but it’s much more effective than you’d think. Economic management has been half-crippled by Republican obstruction, but has nonetheless been much better than in other advanced countries. And environmental policy is starting to look like it could be a major legacy.” In a speech last October at Northwestern University, President Obama said he is proud of his accomplishments. He said, “When I took office, businesses were laying off 800,000 Americans a month. Today, our businesses are hiring 200,000 Americans a month. The unemployment rate has come down from a high of 10 percent in 2009, to 6.1 percent today. Over the past four and a half years, our businesses have created 10 million new jobs; this is the longest uninterrupted stretch of private sector job creation in our history. “Think about that… Right now, there are more job openings than at any time since 2001. All told, the United States has put more people back to work than Europe, Japan, and every other advanced economy combined.” From January 2009 to April, Black unemployment had declined from 12.7 percent to 9.6 percent, a decrease of 3.1 percent. Not ideal, but not lame.
MYTH: Secret Side Deal Allows Iran To Inspect Itself FACT: Side Deal Concerns Only Past Activity At One Site — IAEA Has Ability To Ensure Iran’s Full Compliance With Long-Term Deal MYTH: Most Americans Don’t Support Terms Of Iran Deal FACT: Majority Supports The Iran Deal When Its Terms Are Explained Criticism of Obama by conservatives was not unexpected. But Nobel Prizewinning economist Paul Krugman explains, “There’s a different story on the left, where you now find a significant number of critics decrying Obama as, to quote
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George E. Curry, former editor-in-chief of Emerge magazine, is editor-in-chief of the National Newspaper Publishers Association News Service (NNPA) and BlackPressUSA.com. He is a keynote speaker, moderator, and media coach. Curry can be reached through his Web site, www.georgecurry.com. You can also follow him at www.twitter.com/currygeorge, George E. Curry Fan Page on Facebook, and Periscope. See previous columns at http://www.georgecurry.com/ columns
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Insight News • September 21 - September 27, 2015 • Page 9
COMMUNITY WE WIN Institute’s griot invasion The WE WIN Institute Griot Invasion of north Minneapolis at Bethune Park inspired incredible dance and movement from WE WIN Institute youth. For 10 weeks, under the leadership of Kenna Cottman, students learned the history of the Griot and the role of the dance Griot. A griot is an African storyteller. Students learned how dance was a part of the liberation movement of people of African descent throughout the world. They also learned how to use movement as a way of giving voice to their feelings and events going on in their communities. Cottman has been dancing, studying, teaching and community organizing in the Minneapolis area for more than 20 years. Her main area of focus is Black dance, with an emphasis on West African and hip-hop dance and culture. Cottman dances for Pramila Vasudevan/Aniccha Arts, teaches at the TU Dance Center, curates non-traditional performances and creates her own contemporary work.
dance were not stopped by these restrictions as African slaves found ways to adapt their dancing and continue their traditions in secret. They made changes to their dances; such as shuffling the feet and moving hips and body because they were not allowed to lift their feet. Because of importance of dance in the daily life of Africans, many who were enslaved continued to use dance as a way to keep their cultural traditions and connect with their African homeland. WE WIN students have learned about the tradition through a dance and song called Lamba. The history of Lamba goes back to the old Mali Empire in the 15th century when Timbuktu was a center of learning, trade and culture. The songs in Lamba are giving honor to the Griots, called Djali in the Malinke language. The dance is composed of flowing movements and head snaps rolling through the spine. The rhythm has many parts which assigned to each drum create a complex polyrhythm that should be recognizable to those in the culture. The children learned each essential part of the rhythm for the djembe, doundounba, sangba and sangbani.
WE WIN institute dancing on stage at Griot festival
Kenna Cottman
The ultimate communicator: African dance By Kenna Cottman African dance has played an important role in the culture of African people. Much more than entertainment, dances communicate emotions, celebrate rites of passage and help strengthen the relationships between members of the community. Captive Africans were taken to the United States and prohibited from performing most of their traditional dances. The importance and spirit of
Damontae Combs performing with Kenna Cottman
Classifieds Minneapolis Urban League President/Chief Executive Officer The Minneapolis Urban League Board of Directors launch nation-wide search to fill the position of President & CEO of the Minneapolis Urban League. The Urban League Board is seeking applicants with successful personnel, fiscal and fundraising management experience as well as excellent organizational and communications skills and government/community relations experience. The Position: President/Chief Executive Officer The President/Chief Executive Officer provides leadership, vision, direction, and administration for the Minneapolis Urban League in fulfilling its mission. The President/Chief Executive Officer is the primary representative of the agency in the community and is directly responsible for its success. This is a fulltime, exempt position reporting to the Board of Directors. Key Accountabilities: • Guides and leads board into effectively developing and executing strategic plans. Informs the board members and chair of programs, funding, and organizational changes. Prepares agenda and monthly reports for board. • Oversees and directs the day-to-day operations, implements and administers MUL policies and procedures. • Formulates plans for Board approval and administers major policies. Demonstrates leadership through strategic planning. • Makes sound decisions. • Directs Fiscal Management. Oversees financial planning and forecasting, prepares and implements an annual budget to ensure achievement of the Association’s goals, and ensures that funds are allocated properly to reflect current needs and future demands. • Approves and monitors, with the Chief Financial Officer, all financial and accounting activities for the agency. Implements systems of internal controls to safeguard MUL funds; ensures fiscal accounting and reporting in accordance with standards of accounting for non-profit entities. • Oversees Human Resource Administration. Ensures compliance with applicable laws, including State and City certifications. • Cooperates with agency personnel to ensure that the highest quality of service is being rendered to clients and the community. Develops and oversees the quality assurance function of the agency. Ensures ongoing evaluation of service programs and involvement of service recipients in evaluation and program planning. • Responsible for fund development, including fund raising and grant writing. • Oversees community relations. Develops and maintains sound relationships with other community organizations, religious organizations, planning agencies, funding agencies, government agencies and officials and other groups/coalitions as appropriate. • Ensures exceptional public relations. Serves as a spokesperson and representative for the organization to foster superior community relations with other agencies, clients, financial supporters, and the media. Assist board in the development and implementation of a public relations strategy designed to communicate the mission, programs, and services to the community. Creates other effective outlets to represent the agency. • Demonstrates effective problem solving. • Maintains professional affiliations to enhance professional growth and development and to keep up with the latest trends in agency administration. • Develops and/or seeks out programs that respond to identified community and constituent needs; ensures that programs are properly administered in a fiscally sound manner and audits program performance to ensure efficacy. • Serves as community advocate for constituents. Participates in policy development and debate affecting constituents and stakeholders. Keeps abreast of legislation affecting MUL constituents. • Oversee facilities. Ensure the effective use, management, security, and upkeep of association facilities, owned and rented. Qualifications: Required • Undergraduate degree in business administration, public administration, education, social work, human resource administration, finance or a related discipline. • Minimum of five years experience in business management, personnel management, fund raising, strategic planning, fiscal management, program development and administration. • Two years of experience working with a volunteer board or other demonstrated community leadership experience. • Proven track record in successful personnel, fiscal and fundraising management. • Significant experience with direct responsibility for financial budgeting and oversight of budgets of $2M+ organization. • Strong relationship development and leadership capabilities. • Ability to engage the media and sustain government and public support for the agency. • Excellent interpersonal skills, sensitivity to cultural and personal diversity. Preferred • Masters/PhD degree in a related field from an accredited college/university. • Experience as a President/Chief Executive Officer of a non-profit organization. • Knowledge of youth programs, leadership and empowerment, elimination of racism or a related mission is highly desired. • Experience in research, public and community education, the development, implementation and evaluation of programs, and management of volunteers. • Prior Urban League experience a plus How to apply: Interested candidates should submit cover letter, resume, and salary expectations to: Minneapolis Urban League, Search Committee Chair, c/o The Diversity Connection LLC/kp companies at the following email address: miquel@kpcompanies.com by October 15, 2015. All submissions shall be received in strictest confidence. Minneapolis Urban League is an equal opportunity employer.
Phone: 612.588.1313
We Win youth practicing with Kenna Cottman
Fax: 612.588.2031
Email: info@insightnews.com
Whispering Pines Apartments
Now Accepting Housing Applications Mission Oaks Townhomes is accepting housing applications for our waiting list for 2 and 3 BR apartments with Section 8 rental assistance. The waiting list will open on 9/7/2015 and close on 11/7/2015. Income limits apply. For a housing application, please call 952-876-9203. EHO.
ST. STEPHEN’S HUMAN SERVICES EMPLOYMENT OPPORTUNITY TITLE: Temporary River of Life Shelter Advocate (10 available positions) REPORTS TO: Shelter Manager SCHEDULE: November 2015 through April 2016 – Hours vary – up to 30-40 hrs/wk; potential Day/Evening and overnight hours; requires weekend work JOB TYPE: Non-Exempt, TEMPORARY BENEFIT ELIGIBILITY: Ineligible COMPENSATION: $14/hour ABOUT US St. Stephen’s Human Services is a leading, 501c3 growing nonprofit whose mission is to end homelessness. Through programming that includes housing opportunities, employment support, emergency services, and outreach, we help thousands of people secure housing and other support each year. We use the knowledge from our work to influence systemic changes to improve the quality of life for all people we serve in our community. St. Stephen’s Human Services is an Equal Opportunity Employer/AAE with excellent benefits and growth opportunities. St. Stephen’s Single Adult Programs consist of four areas designed to address and end homelessness by specializing on the needs of single adults. The four program areas are as follows: Ending Long Term Homelessness, Street Outreach, Homeless Shelters, and Singles Rapid Rehousing. POSITION OVERVIEW The River of Life Winter Shelter is a non-sober shelter that operates in North Minneapolis to serve the overflow needs of the community and Hennepin County. It will operate November 1, 2015 through April 30, 2016. The Temporary River of Life Shelter Advocates will be regularly scheduled, as well as on-call, to fill in when shifts need to be covered. The Shelter Advocates work as part of a team to manage the daily operations of the River of Life winter shelter. The primary duties of this position are maintaining a safe, secure, and dignified shelter for all guests by ensuring a clean environment, completing operational tasks, upholding the rules in an impartial manner, maintaining clear and accurate documentation, and attending regular staff meetings. Operational tasks may include making coffee, washing dishes, and serving meals. The advocate will also assist clients locate housing, employment, medical and other basic needs during their stay at the shelter. Additional responsibilities will include answering the shelter phone, completing nightly data collection, and working with volunteers and other community partners. HOW TO SUBMIT YOUR APPLICATION Please submit a cover letter and resume addressed to Michael Huffman at hr@ststephensmpls.org or fax to 612-870-2281. Applications will be accepted until filled. No phone calls please.
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ST. STEPHEN’S HUMAN SERVICES EMPLOYMENT OPPORTUNITY TITLE: Shelter Advocate REPORTS TO: Shelter Manager SCHEDULE: Typically works Friday to Tuesday – Late Afternoon and Evening hours; occasional day hour availability required; Must be available for Monday 1:00pm staff meetings JOB TYPE: Non-Exempt, Full-time 40 Hours/week BENEFIT ELIGIBILITY: Ineligible COMPENSATION: DOQ ABOUT US St. Stephen’s Human Services is a leading, 501c3 growing nonprofit whose mission is to end homelessness. Through programming that includes housing opportunities, employment support, emergency services, and outreach, we help thousands of people secure housing and other support each year. We use the knowledge from our work to influence systemic changes to improve the quality of life for all people we serve in our community. St. Stephen’s Human Services is an Equal Opportunity Employer/AAE with excellent benefits and growth opportunities. POSITION OVERVIEW The Shelter Advocate works within a team to manage the daily operations of the St. Stephen’s homeless shelters including the sober shelter located at 2211 Clinton Avenue South, Minneapolis, and the non-sober winter shelter that operates out of River of Life Church in North Minneapolis. The advocate will also be responsible for assisting clients locate housing and employment and connect to other essential services such as physical and mental health care and other basic needs. Additional responsibilities may include representing St. Stephen’s Human Services at meetings, answering phones, working closely with volunteers, doing light building maintenance and housekeeping duties when necessary, and assisting with administrative work. St. Stephen’s Human Services Single Adult Programs are divided into four program areas: Ending Long Term Homelessness, Street Outreach, Shelter and Singles Rapid Rehousing Program. These four programs work together to provide emergency services, housing and case management for single adults experiencing homelessness. HOW TO SUBMIT YOUR APPLICATION Please submit a cover letter and resume addressed to Michael Huffman at hr@ststephensmpls.org or fax to 612-870-2281. Please include your desired salary. Applications will be accepted until filled. No phone calls please.
STAFF ATTORNEY Central Minnesota Legal Services seeks full-time attorney for its Minneapolis office. Fam. Law including representation of non-custodial parents; some work in other poverty law. Licensed in MN pref’d. Postlaw school pov. law exper., fam. law or clinical exper. pref’d. Spanish or Somali language a plus. Salary $45,000+D.O.E. Excellent benes. Resume with references and writing sample to Lynelle Wells, CMLS, 430 First Ave. No., #359, Minneapolis, MN 55401. Appl. deadline: 9/28/15 or until filled. EOE.
ST. STEPHEN’S HUMAN SERVICES EMPLOYMENT OPPORTUNITY TITLE: Custodian – Temporary River of Life Shelter (2 available positions) REPORTS TO: Shelter Manager SCHEDULE: November 2015 through April 2016, Monday – Friday 8am-4pm, Saturday & Sunday 8am-11am JOB TYPE: Non-Exempt, TEMPORARY BENEFIT ELIGIBILITY: Ineligible COMPENSATION: $14/hour ABOUT US St. Stephen’s Human Services is a leading, 501c3 growing nonprofit whose mission is to end homelessness. Through programming that includes housing opportunities, employment support, emergency services, and outreach, we help thousands of people secure housing and other support each year. We use the knowledge from our work to influence systemic changes to improve the quality of life for all people we serve in our community. St. Stephen’s Human Services is an Equal Opportunity Employer/AAE with excellent benefits and growth opportunities. St. Stephen’s Single Adult Programs consist of four areas designed to address and end homelessness by specializing on the needs of single adults. The four program areas are as follows: Ending Long Term Homelessness, Street Outreach, Homeless Shelters, and Singles Rapid Rehousing. POSITION OVERVIEW The Custodians are responsible for maintaining a clean shelter, both inside and outside. Responsibilities include cleaning the shelter space inside including the restroom, sleeping area, kitchen and office facilities. Outside maintenance includes picking up trash and cigarettes from the immediate area around the shelter, emptying waste bins, and ensuring that the alley around the shelter is clean. The custodial position will also sort, transport, wash and dry all linens used for shelter operations. HOW TO SUBMIT YOUR APPLICATION Please submit a cover letter and resume addressed to Michael Huffman at hr@ststephensmpls.org or fax to 612-870-2281. Applications will be accepted until filled. No phone calls please.
Page 10 • September 21 - September 27, 2015 • Insight News
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Photos courtesy Alexander Gray Associates, New York
Jack Whitten
WALKER ART CENTER’S EXHIBITION
“Jack Whitten: Five Decades of Painting” By Carmen Robles Jack Whitten’s abstract paintings are mesmerizing. Adding everyday objects to the metaphorical strokes of his paint brush, he is able to create thought provoking pieces that connect the art work to the inspiration. Born in a segregated south and active in the Civil
Rights Movement of NYC during the turbulent 1960s, Whitten exemplifies the resilience of the artistic spirit and its connection to the soul. The retrospective paintings of Whitten, “American Abstract Painter” opened Sept. 13 at the Walker Arts Center. Fifty years of dynamic poetic paintings by this American abstract painter include “Soul Map,” a large-scale
acrylic collage on view in the exhibition. “As an abstract painter, I work with things that I cannot see,” said Whitten. “Google has mapped the whole earth. We have maps of Mars. We don’t have a map of the soul, and that intrigues me.” “For five decades, Jack Whitten has produced inventive abstract work steeped in
questions of history, culture, race and identity in America. The Walker is thrilled to present the first exhibition to span the full breadth of the artist’s work in depth,” said Olga Viso, executive director of the Walker Art Center. The exhibition will run until Jan. 24 in the Target and Friedman Galleries with free admission on Saturday, Oct. 3.
The Walker Arts Center is located in Minneapolis at 1750 Hennepin Ave. Underground parking is available on-site. Gallery admission is free from 5 p.m. to 9 p.m. every Thursday night. Gallery admission is also free on the first Saturday of each month. Families can enjoy live performances, films, gallery adventures, and hands-on art-
making from 10 a.m. –3 p.m. “The Walker is a multidisciplinary art center presenting the art and artists of our time, including visual art, performance, film, and design” said Meredith Kessler, assistant director, Public Relations. “The Walker’s mission is to be a catalyst for the creative expression of artists and the active engagement of audiences.”
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Insight News • September 21 - September 27, 2015 • Page 11
INTERVIEW
Karrin Allyson chats about her latest jazz album By Kam Williams Born in the Midwest, fourtime Grammy nominee Karrin Allyson has always been on the move. School in the Bay Area and a degree in classical piano and performance led to Minneapolis and on to Kansas City, where she signed her first contract with Concord Jazz. Thirteen albums followed, with performances at clubs, concert venues, and major jazz festivals in the U.S., Brazil, Australia, Japan and many major cities in Europe. In 2014, Allyson traveled to 30 cities across the U.S. and Canada as a solo vocalist with the Newport – Now 60 Tour, which concluded at the Newport Jazz Festival. Her independently-produced holiday album, “Yuletide Hideaway,” followed just in time for the holidays, and won four stars from Downbeat. Long known for a remarkable versatility as well as the depth of her performances, the vocalist-pianist-composerbandleader has now moved on to Motema Music and a new album, “Many a New Day (Karrin Allyson Sings Rodgers & Hammerstein).” The project features Kenny Barron on piano and John Patitucci on bass in an intimate interpretation of beloved classics and lesserknown works. While the album is yet another first in her career, Allyson finds herself powerfully drawn to the world of Rodgers and Hammerstein. “I’ve been all around the world musically, from bop and bossa and chanson to blues and singer-songwriters. And now, I feel like coming home,” said Allyson. Kam Williams: Hi Karrin, thanks for the interview. Karrin Allyson: Glad to do it, Kam. KW: What interested you in doing an album of Rodgers and Hammerstein classics? KA: I grew up with these songs, and about a year ago I saw an American Masters program on PBS about Oscar Hammerstein, and it hit me what a decent human being he was and how he was able to communicate issues of justice in his lyrics, and romance, of course. Couple that with Rodgers’ amazing melodies. KW: They have such a vast songbook to pick from. How did you decide which tunes to include? KA: Of course I’ve always had my favorites, but I watched several DVDs and went through all my music books and made a list, then started to weed them out – especially from “South Pacific.” In high school, I played Nellie Forbush, but I also wanted to choose songs not so often heard, at least in the jazz idiom, like “Can’t Say No” and “Out of My Dreams.” KW: Is it just me, or do they no longer write Broadway show tunes that are as catchy and as socially-conscious as Rodgers and Hammerstein did in their day? KA: I’m not qualified to answer that, really, ’cause I’m so out of that scene. There have got to be some out there. KW: Which of their songs is your favorite? KA: That usually depends on the night or day I’m singing. KW: How did you come to collaborate with John Patitucci and the legendary Kenny Barron? Had you already decided on arrangements where you’d only be accompanied by piano and bass? KA: I sought Kenny out first, as I’ve always wanted to work with him, and John was on my
Ingrid Hertfelder
Karrin Allyson “Ballads (Remembering John Coltrane)” record. He added such beautiful stuff. I knew he’d be great on this, too, and the pairing of the two seemed just right. They are consummate. KW: Your upcoming concert is a benefit for Woman, Cradle of Abundance. How did you develop an interest in this cause? KA: My parents are liberals and have worked for justice issues throughout their lives. My mom was the first feminist I knew and continues to inspire me in that way. KW: What’s the solution to the crisis? KA: Education and getting the point across to the world that women’s issues are human issues. KW: (A reader) asks what was the last book you read? KA: I just finished “Unaccustomed Earth,” a collection of wonderful short stories by Jhumpa Lahiri. KW: (Another reader’s question), what was the last song you listened to? KA: A Beethoven symphony! KW: What is your favorite dish to cook? KA: Chicken, rice, black beans … my “go to” with greens.
KW: Was there a meaningful spiritual component to your childhood? KA: Yes, of course. I grew up in the Lutheran church. My dad, grandfather and uncle were pastors, and my mom and grandmother did much of the music for their churches. But nature is my most spiritual inspiration.
KW: (A reader asked) what is your earliest childhood memory? KA: Wow, you’re thorough. Playing outside, I think. KW: What was your very first job? KA: I cleaned offices, then I started to teach piano lessons. Around 18 years old, I was
making a living with music. KW: If you could have one wish instantly granted, what would that be for? KA: Truly, equality and love of all for Mother Earth. KW: What advice do you
have for anyone who wants to follow in your footsteps? KA: Work hard, enjoy life. KW: How do you want to be remembered? KA: As someone who made a positive difference.
Page 12 • September 21 - September 27, 2015 • Insight News
insightnews.com Regina Marie Williams
happening that facilitates space, time and fertile ground for cross genre artistic exploration of the professional dance community of the Twin Cities. Vie Boheme and Kelly Vittetoe co-curate.
Saturday, Sept. 19
Ester Rada
BLOCK PARTY/ FUNDRAISER Dear Gaza Block Party West 24th Street and Lyndale Avenue South $10 – $20 suggested donation 3 p.m. – 10 p.m.
Sept. 21 - 26 Vie Boheme
Celebrate Palestinian lives while simultaneously saving them. With the help of Anera, Dear Gaza plans to send an abundance of life saving medical aid to the Gaza Strip. The event features performances by Ayvah, Villa Rosa, Dis-Play, Guante, Nazeem, Hello Psychaleppo, Lifted Mindz, Pseudoubt, and Doks Robotiks.
Aesthetically It! is a list of picks from the editors of Aesthetically Speaking. Aesthetically It! features venues, events, outings and more that are worthy of “It” status. If you have a venue, event or outing that you feel is “It” worthy, email us at aestheticallyit@ insightnews.com
Sunday, Sept. 26
Monday, Sept. 21 AWARD SHOW/THEATER Ivey Awards State Theatre 805 Hennepin Ave., Minneapolis 7:30 p.m. $35 – $125
WORLD/NEO-SOUL/ PERFORMANCE
SCREENING/FASHION SHOW
La Chiva Gantiva and Ester Rada Cedar Cultural Center 416 Cedar Ave. S., Minneapolis 7:30 p.m. $15 – $59
“Empire” screening and fashion show Seven Sushi & Steak Ultra Lounge 700 Hennepin Ave. S., Minneapolis 6:30 p.m. – 9:30 p.m. Free, VIP $20
Sept. 24 FESTIVAL/STORYTELLING
Actress and singer Regina Marie Williams and Christina Baldwin host the 11th annual Ivey Awards. The awards honor those associated in the Twin Cities professional theater community.
Israeli born Ethiopian singer Ester Rada mixes sound and combines funk, Ethio-jazz, neo-soul, and R&B. BelgianColumbian group La Chiva Gantiva headlines the show.
Tuesday, Sept. 22
Wednesday, Sept. 23
The Twin Cities Black Film Festival presents a screening of the popular television show, “Empire” along with an “Empire” themed fashion show.
Thursday,
24th Annual “Signifyin’ & Testifyin’” Master Storytelling Festival Lundstrum Center for the Performing Arts 1617 N. 2nd St., Minneapolis Free with RSVP This family-friendly exposition of the power of the oral storytelling tradition as practiced by African people in the Diaspora takes place over three days. The Black Storytellers Alliance will bring together internationally recognized storytellers
Thursday at Lundstrum, Friday at Ames Elks Lodge, and Saturday’s finale at Cowles Auditorium. For more information go to www. blackstorytellers.com.
Friday, Sept. 25 DANCE/PERFORMANCE Hit the Step! 2nd Edition James Sewell Ballet 528 Hennepin Ave., #215, Minneapolis 7:30 p.m. $8 advance, $12 doors Hit the Step! is a quarterly
THEATRE “U/G/L/Y” Guthrie Theater – Dowling Studio 818 S. 2nd St., Minneapolis 1 p.m. $12 – $22 A new performance work by celebrated theater artist and activist Shá Cage, “U/G/ L/Y” examines cultural, generational and personal definitions of beauty. Through lyrical storytelling framed by personal and pop culture lenses, Cage inhabits multiple characters as she incorporates movement, video and music by violinist Kate Pehrson.
Gene Pittman
Ralph Lemon
Ralph Lemon’s work bridges performance, contemporary art Choreographer and interdisciplinary artist, Ralph Lemon, references his 2014 Walker performance exhibition “Scaffold Room” with a free solo lecture/ performance – what the artist refers to as a “memory refraction” – one year after the work’s premiere. Lemon, who began his career as a dancer and choreographer, is now seen as a critical figure
exploring intersections between performing and contemporary art worlds. The artist has had eight increasingly interdisciplinary works supported by the Walker over the course of 17 years, and recent projects at the Museum of Modern Art in New York, the Studio Museum in Harlem, and various other international museums. The showing takes place
Monday, Sept. 28 at 7 p.m. in the Walker Cinema, 1750 Hennepin Ave., Minneapolis. Limited free tickets will be available at the lobby desk starting at 6 p.m. Following a brief afterword by Museum of Modern Art associate curator, Thomas J. Lax, audience members are invited to join the artist for a post-performance reception in Gather restaurant.