Insight ::: 08.05.2024

Suni Lee, Simone Biles, and team win Olympic Gold

Simone Biles and Team USA earn ‘redemption’ by powering to Olympic gold in women’s gymnastics

By WILL GRAVES AP National Writer

PARIS (AP)

—

Simone Biles, Jordan Chiles and Sunisa Lee spent the night before perhaps the biggest gymnastics meet of their lives restless.

There was a tension in the air. They’d all been in the Olympic spotlight before, experiences that left them with medals but also the kind of scars — be they physical, psychological or both — that heal but never really go away.

And here they were in Paris, the leaders of a star-laden U.S. team everyone expected to finish atop the medal stand, and something wasn’t right. In a different time, in a different era, it might have festered. Might have followed them onto the floor at Bercy Arena and into the history books, too.

This is not a different time. This is not a different era.

This is now.

So the oldest team the U.S. has ever sent to the Olympics, including a trio that has spent their respective careers breaking barriers about what a female gymnast can and can’t do, what they can and can’t be, did something they

never used to do.

They talked, with Biles — three years removed from a Tokyo Games that dragged the conversation around mental health and sports kicking and screaming into the light — right in the middle of it.

“I think there was a little bit of struggle,” she said.

“So it was really needed.”

By the time they walked onto the floor for the Olympic final, the tension was gone, largely replaced with joy.

And not soon after, gold.

The self-described

“Redemption Tour,” the moniker given to a team filled with women who wanted to return to the Games for deeply personal reasons, ended with Biles and the Americans where they have almost always been since she burst onto the scene 11 years ago: on top of the podium, the rest of the world looking up.

Eight years after winning gold in Rio with a team that called Aly Raisman grandma because she was all of 22, Biles — now 27 and married — was back again with Jade Carey (24), Chiles (23), Lee (21) and teenager Hezly Rivera at her side.

“We don’t have to be put in the box anymore,”

Biles said about a group that

has dubbed itself “The Golden Girls.” No, they don’t. With Biles at her show-stopping best, the Americans’ total of 171.296 was well clear of Italy and Brazil and the exclamation point of a yearlong run in which Biles has cemented her legacy as the greatest ever in her sport, and among the best in the history of the Olympics.

“She’s the greatest of all greats,” said Chiles, who now has gold to go with the team silver she, Lee and Biles earned in Tokyo, when Biles removed herself from the team final to protect herself.

Chiles, who seemed like a longshot to make it this spring after injuries piled up, was pretty good in her own right. She began the night by drilling her double-twisting Yurchenko vault, sending the Americans on a four-apparatus stop on their “Tour” that felt equal parts coronation and celebration.

By the time Biles, the left calf that bothered her during qualifying heavily taped, stepped onto the floor for the final event — a floor exercise set to music by Taylor Swift and Beyonce — it was over.

She joked she knew she simply needed to stay on her

feet to win. She did more than that, providing an exclamation point on the U.S.’s third gold in its last four trips to the Games. The Americans remain peerless (if not flawless, this is gymnastics after all) when at their best. And over two hours in front of a crowd that included everyone from tennis great

about anything.

Her status as the sport’s greatest of all time. Her ability to move past the “twisties” that derailed her in Japan. Her spot in the pantheon of the U.S. Olympic movement.

She now has a staggering 38 medals in major international competitions.

Eight of those have come under the Olympic rings, moving her past Shannon Miller for the most by an American gymnast.

Yet her return wasn’t so much about winning. That’s never really been the point anyway, just a byproduct of her unparalleled excellence. It was about a joy she had lost somewhere along the way.

“I was like ‘Yes, please no flashbacks or anything,’” Biles said. “But I did feel a lot of relief. And as soon as I landed I was like ‘Oh yeah, we’re going to do this.’” Yes they were. Just like always.

The only real drama centered on who would finish next to the Americans on the medal stand.

Italy, which was a surprising second to the U.S. during qualifying, returned to the podium for the first time since 1928 by holding off Brazil for silver.

Yet there was no question about the top spot. There rarely ever is when Biles is involved.

The road back to this moment has been difficult at times. Uncertain. They felt the weight of everything on Monday night. Rather than let it weigh them down, they shed it.

“I think the talk that we had yesterday definitely helped all of us like come together tonight,” Lee said. “And it just made it so much more special.”

It seems to have returned. She leaned into the crowd that roared at every flip, every leap and, yes, every twist. With her husband — on break from NFL training camp — waving an American flag while sitting next to her parents, Biles did what she has done so well for so long save for a couple of difficult days in Japan during a pandemic: she dominated. Biles met with her therapist in the morning to put her in the right mindset. There was brief — very brief — moment of trepidation as she raced down the vault runway, the event that began to spin out of control in Tokyo. Only this time, she essentially stuck her Cheng vault, the one that sends her spinning through the air in a fraction of a second. Afterward, she exhaled.

Serena Williams to actor Natalie Portman, Biles left little doubt

From left to right, Jordan Chiles, Suni Lee, Simone Biles, Hezly Rivera and Jade Carey celebrate after winning the gold medal during the women’s artistic gymnastics team finals round at Bercy Arena at the 2024 Summer Olympics, Tuesday, July 30, 2024, in Paris, France. (AP Photo/Charlie Riedel)

Simone Biles, and Suni Lee, left, of the United States, prepare to performs on the uneven bars during the women’s artistic gymnastics team finals round at Bercy Arena at the 2024 Summer Olympics, Tuesday, July 30, 2024, in Paris, France. (AP Photo/Charlie Riedel)

Lucas Giambelluca President,

In the tradition of great love warriors: Spike Moss

in history so we can tell the generations to come, “We’ve been this way before.” Today we celebrate Spike Moss: warrior, champion, leader, commander in chief.

WCCO TV Newsman Don Shelby I have to take you back about 45 years when I

first met this man and how important he has been not only in this community, but in my community, he has told the truth and he has made the truth real and unavoidable for Europeans to accept what was real and needed attention. I owe much of who I am today to Mr. Spike Moss.

Minneapolis Mayor Jacob Frey We honor our heroes. We love our legends. We cherish our icons, and we recognize our leaders. And when you’re all four of those things at the same time, we rename a street after you.

Oftentimes, we at the city have renamed streets postmortem. We haven’t recognized people that have done incredible

work until it’s too late. And in the case of Spike Moss, when the recommendation came to us to find ways to honor someone that has given so much, to be honest with you, this was a no brainer. You start to understand how much Spike Moss has done. I start to read history and experience directly how much he has done for this city, and I start to see that I’ve only been through the first chapter. Had he just found a way to desegregate the fire department that would’ve been enough. Had he found a way to diversify the Minneapolis Police Department, that would’ve been enough. Had he just been the executive director of “The Way,” that would’ve been enough. Had he only partnered with Clyde Bellecourt to make sure that we have civil rights in this city and in this country, that would have been enough. But here is a man, here is a legend, here is a person that has taken this one step further and then one step further again. And for those that have had the experience and the honor of learning from him personally, intimately, and directly, it’s

something that you will never forget. I will never forget going over to Spike’s home, heading down into his basement with hundreds if not thousands of these beautiful model cars and learning.

We need to be learning from those that have come before us. We need to recognize that we are standing on the shoulders of greatness, and greatness is Spike Moss. This is the way. This is the way to be righteous. This is the way to think with a forward vision. This is the way to honor your neighbor and this is the place, this is the way whether you are eight and a half or 85 years old where you can recognize our common humanity and it’s all made possible by Spike Moss…. Spike, personally, thank you. You have made me a better mayor. You have made Minneapolis a better place.

Your dedication, your love, and the way that you’ve mentored and inspired so many, will live long. It is an honor just to know you my friend.

Minister Nii Ora Hokes It’s Freedom Day. Freedom Day was first observed in the city of Minneapolis on Plymouth Avenue. Mrs. Mabel Brewer sewed the Flag, which I have over on my seat. And Victor Propes was the Civil Rights Director and 5th Ward Council Member Louis DeMars had said that June 19th forever would be Freedom Day. So it was Freedom Day before it was Juneteenth. As a young man, Spike became involved with pastor Stanley King who was at Sabathani Baptist Church and Joe Buckhalter, Minnesota’s

first African-American auto dealership owner. They went and talked to Rev. Leon Sullivan about having an OIC (Opportunities Industrialization Center) in the city of Minneapolis so that AfricanAmericans could have job skills to enter the job market. Rev. Sullivan granted them Twin Cities Opportunities Industrial Center (TCOIC) franchise, which you now known as Summit Academy. Then there was Pilot City Health Center, which you now known as NorthPoint Health and Wellness Center, that Spike helped create as a member of its community based board of directors. And then there was the Northside Summer Fun Festival where you got to meet all of the local artists and some of the upcoming ones. Y ‘all know who Uncle Charlie is? Spike helped create our Miss Black Minnesota Pageant. You may hear something contrary, but I got the document right here. We had the franchise for the

By Pulane Choane Contributing Writer

By Stacy M. Brown

By Pulane Choane Contributing Writer

Photo: Wikipedia

Photo: KingDemetrius Pendleton

Photo: KingDemetrius Pendleton

Photo: KingDemetrius Pendleton

Spike Moss and music mogul Terry Lewis at July 16th ceremony renaming Plymouth Avenue to Spike Moss Way

we created our Black History production. I want you to know ain’t no stopping us now. We are on the move.

Paramount Chief Vusi Zulu

I’m glad that some of the folks have recognized that Spike has been telling the truth all along.

I’m glad that he had the courage to stand up and tell the truth to those to whom the truth needed to be told. And he never hesitated in doing that. The fact of the matter is that Spike didn’t just stand up and tell the truth to the local folks, the mayor, the city council…he told the truth to the governor, he told the truth wherever he went throughout the country, whether it was in California or whether it was in Missouri. He listened to the greatest teacher in our time, brother Mahmoud El-Kati.

But he did more than just listen. He learned and then he took what he learned and he put it into practice. You see, as a young man, Spike Moss had other young folks following him. He was a leader at an early age, even sometimes in the boxing ring. Now I’m not going to tell you this story about how he learned how to box. One time, his trainer was trying to tell him, “Spike, keep your left up.” But by the time he could get the words out, the bell rang and Spike was back in the fight again. The dude was putting a little bit of a lightweight tapping on Spike until he got back to the corner again and found out he sometimes had to find his own message and follow his own way. He has been doing it ever since.

KMOJ Radio Personality

Walter Banks

I’m 65 years of age and I still look up and respect this brother for the things that he’s done for this community. Now it started back a long time ago with KMOJ Radio. I’m talking about 1976 and Jeanette Cotton who, alongside Ora Hokes, Liz Samuels, and Bernadette Anderson, gave birth to the radio station.

But if it wasn’t for Spike Moss doing some things that he did with Terry Lewis, Andre Cymone, and Prince, giving some of them that opportunity and having a way in doing so… if it wasn’t for Spike speaking up and letting them know how important life is… Spike, I want to thank you for just helping all of us come to that meeting ground because this is history within itself.

There’s a thing called NFL that a lot of people don’t understand. We’re not talking about the National Football League; we’re talking about Northside for Life.

Minneapolis Fire Department Chief Bryan Tyner I grew up here. I grew up just actually a couple of blocks away from here in the late 60s, early 70s. And one thing I remember growing up is that New York had Spider-Man, and Gotham City had Batman, and Metropolis had Superman, but the Northside, had Spike Moss!

Growing up, I recall him looking like Mr. Universe, that yellow T-shirt, the way in the black block letters, and The Way, which was, if you don’t know, located right here behind me where the Fourth Precinct now sits, was safe place for us to go. It was safe place for us to be.

You could go to The Way whether your interests were in sports, music, or anything you needed to do your

homework. But while I was doing that and having a good time marching down the street to the Wheatley Festival, or racing, trying to win the bike, y’all remember that, what I didn’t know is that he was actually making a way for me and for us, and for our future.

Minneapolis Fire Department didn’t always hire Black firefighters. Efforts led by Elder Spike Moss, Ron Edwards, and Matthew Little and others created the opportunity for what you see standing behind me here. I stand before you as, not only a Black firefighter, but a Black Fire Chief. And I’m not the first one, I’m the second one. And I’d also like to acknowledge that we have the Minneapolis African American Professional Firefighters Association here, and President Charles Rucker. By the way, I’m the only Black Chief in the 5-state region. The only Black person. But we also have the only Black Assistant Chief who’s with me now.

So Mr. Moss, I want to thank you and I want you to know that we know that we stand on your shoulders. We will never forget it. One of our sayings is that we are what we hope. We are continually in the struggle trying to push your work forward.

Retired Minneapolis Police Chief Medaria Arradondo

There are four stages in change. First one is we have to dream of it. The second stage of change is the most important and it’s the hardest. That’s the struggle. The struggle is the hardest, because we are going to lose people in that struggle. The task is going to be overwhelming and daunting. We’re going to go three steps ahead, and two steps back, and we are going to lose people, because it’s going to be too much. Elder Moss, your place for our people was in that second stage of change, the struggle, and we are here and grateful for you for all you sacrificed for that struggle.

Now the third stage of change is when it comes to fruition.

Minneapolis Fire Department Chief Bryan Tyner

There are four stages in change.

First one is we have to dream of it. The second stage of change is the most important and it’s the hardest. That’s the struggle. The struggle is the hardest, because we are going to lose people in that struggle. The task is going to be overwhelming and daunting. We’re going to go three steps ahead, and two steps back, and we are going to lose people, because it’s going to be too much. Elder Moss, your place for our people was in that second stage of change, the struggle, and we are here and grateful for you for all you sacrificed for that struggle.

Now the third stage of change is when it comes to fruition.

I stand before all of you having served as the 53rd Chief of the Minneapolis Police Department. And that’s because of the struggle and sacrifice of Mr. Moss and others.

And if you want to know what the fourth stage of change is, it’s simple. It’s rinse and repeat. And that’s what we will continue to do in your honor.

At 16 years of age when some of us were just lucky to drive our car for the first time, you were doing real people’s work. Later, 1968 right here in Minneapolis, there was an incident of police abuse which caused the governor at that time to have to bring up National Guard troops. You were a leader in wanting to hold the police accountable. Fast-forward: this very sacred ground that you’re standing on now became The Way because of what you’ve spearheaded.

Beginning in 2003, you spent five years, five years with other leaders here today trying to bring police and community together to build trust with a groundbreaking Memorandum of Agreement. Then you went to our prison systems y and talked to our young Black men, preparing them to come back into our communities, into our zip codes, to be productive community members and fathers to their children. We are so grateful for you.

“I am blessed I have stood on your shoulders, Mr. Moss, and I love you and today is your day. We will hold your legacy forever. ”

We thought we were “all that”. Spike started doing the North Side Fun Festivals and invited the Kansas City Cobras. Y’all remember them?

Spike said, “You better watch them. You better watch them and learn.” The Kansas City Cobras whipped our behinds. And we said, “Okay, we learned.” And can I switch the story around? So the following year we went down to Kansas City and we were ready, Spike. I’m going to tell you how Kansas City did us. When we came out, everybody walked out the gym. But we represented Minneapolis and we started kicking. We kicked so hard everybody started rushing back in to see what’s going on. People got so mad they bombed and robbed our buses down in Kansas City. Why? Because we started learning. Because of what Spike installed in us, The Leo Johnson Drum Corp is the only professional drum corps that has been invited to the Mardi Gras twice.

Spike, we thank you, man, because we had a dream and you taught us to love us, love people, and love each other, and be proud of who you are. We thank God for that and we thank God for you. God bless you.

unacceptable for us to shoot each other down in these streets.” Spike Moss would also say, “You raise that gun to your brother and sister and create havoc in our community… It’s unacceptable. It’s wrong and it’s got to come to a stop.” So, Spike has always been ready to call everybody to account, the government, our own community, everybody, he’s calling us all to be better all the time. And that means you have integrity, Spike Moss. That means you’re honest, decent, and sincere, and you care about what’s right and what’s wrong, and you’ve always stood up for it.

I stand before all of you having served as the 53rd Chief of the Minneapolis Police Department. And that’s because of the struggle and sacrifice of Mr. Moss and others.

And if you want to know what the fourth stage of change is, it’s simple. It’s rinse and repeat. And that’s what we will continue to do in your honor.

At 16 years of age when some of us were just lucky to drive our car for the first time, you were doing real people’s work, going down south with the Freedom Fighters. Later, 1968 right here in Minneapolis, there was an incident of police abuse which caused the governor at that time to have to bring up National Guard troops. You were a leader in wanting to hold the police accountable.

Fast-forward: this very sacred ground that you’re standing on now became The Way because of what you’ve spearheaded.

Beginning in 2003, you spent five years, five years with other leaders here today trying to bring police and community together to build trust with a groundbreaking Memorandum of Agreement. Then you went to our prison systems y and talked to our young Black men, preparing them to come back into our communities, into our zip codes, to be productive community members and fathers to their children. We are so grateful for you. I am blessed I have stood on your shoulders, Mr. Moss, and I love you and today is your day. We will hold your legacy forever.

Joey Gurley I’m

19.

in order to be the best, you need to see the best.”

Mahmoud El-Kati

If you really want to know more about Spike Lock Moss, pick up Insight Newsread the latest issue.

When my son Stokley was about eight years old, I brought him his first set of drums. Spike was a drummer - a drumming unicorn as a youngster. And he came by to give Stokley some tips, how to play drums. And I’ll never forget it. This is the lesson. He said, “Look, on drums, if you can say it, you can play it.” And

Minnesota Attorney General Keith Ellison

When I stood up in front of a microphone a lot like this one on April 21, 2021 and we were announcing the verdict where we convicted the man who murdered George Floyd, my mind was at many places, but it really was on one person who made such a big difference in my life and that was Spike Moss. Now you may ask, “Keith, you’re the Attorney General, you’re just finished this case. You convicted this person who murdered George Floyd and caused so much harm. Why are you thinking about Spike Moss?” Well, the reason that Spike Moss is because was the first person who ever taught me that you could organize work, and actually not just fight for justice, but actually win some accountability.

Before George Floyd, there was Tyrel Nelson who was killed right up on that street right over there. Before George Floyd, Spike organized all of us to go to South Minneapolis and get with Dennis Banks and Clyde Betancourt, because the police had put Native American people in the trunk of a car. Before that there were other cases. Spike Moss said, “Come on y’all. We’re not going to sit around. We’re not going to be quiet. We’re going to raise our voices; we’re going to demand justice. We’re not going to back down. And the issue is not whether we win or lose. We’re going to fight. We’re going to stand up, and one of these days, we are going to get one.” And so I’m telling you that Spike Moss was the leader, the valiant brave brother that inspired me and a whole generation, your Minnesota president of the Minnesota Senate, Bobby Joe Champion, a disciple of Spike Moss. Your Minnesota Attorney General grew up listening to Spike Moss. I met Spike Moss when I was a 22 years-old. I law student, fresh in town. I’m 60 years old right now, and I’m telling you, every single thing I’ve ever worked on, I have to take my head off to, Spike Moss. Spike Moss did not only spend his time criticizing police practices that were unfair and, I would argue, unconstitutional. He also criticized our community when there was community violence. Spike Moss would also say, “Wait a minute. It’s

really proud to be here. And I’m really proud to be here for you because you are one of the most awesome men I know in my life. You were a father figure for all of us who didn’t have that father figure. You were a protector, a guider but I also want to mention a few other people because I want to take the opportunity because they protected us and gave us a safe haven. And one of those people was Bertha Lee whose Jellybean Johnson’s mother. We had Ray Eiland, who was like a father figure to me and Doris Eiland, his wife. Beautiful. Bernadette Anderson. You must know her. Remember these names. Teach them to your children and your children’s children. My mother, Ms. B, Doris Eiland and Bernadette Anderson gave us safe haven and put up with a whole bunch of noise for a lot of years to help us develop. And then out of the building that used to be here, The Way, produced so much talent was nourished and produce because it gave us safety. It gave us a place to go and to share and be with like-minded people. But a building is just a building unless it has a man like Spike Moss. I want to thank you, Spike, for being there for us and making us believe in ourselves, giving this opportunity, giving this opportunity to see ourselves against national talent, to see ourselves in a better light, in a bigger way. And that’s the beautiful part of my life that I always like to give back because of that I want to make sure that the kids have the same opportunities that I have. I want to always come in and make the world a better place than it was before. So I owe that to you, brother, and God bless you.

he never forgot that. Thank you.

I’m not going to talk about Spike as much, but I want you to bear with me and participate with me and honoring Spike, who is a part of a long, long line of Black traditional prophets. He is a love warrior. We’ve been blessed as a people with many, from Frederick Douglas, to Martin, Malcolm, and Medgar, and Fannie Lou Hamer.

I’ll never forget this, thank you and your wife, Sherron, for giving me one of the most sacred moments of my life. They took me to Mississippi, to the grave site of Fannie Lou Hamer. I don’t think I would be doing what I’m doing without the influence from Fannie Lou Hamer. What these love warriors taught him down through the years, and taught me, is to stand up, speak loud, tell the truth, shame the devil and get free.

Listen. You are an heir to that. That was handed down to you by our loving, brave, courageous forbearers. You stand on their shoulders and you understand that you are a love warrior.

I met Spike, a young man with fire in his belly and undying love for his people, in 1966. And to meet that in Minnesota was almost miraculous. But that’s what he was... a steady light for young people, which he has inherited from the great fore parents, from Douglas, from Malcolm, from Medgar, Dr. King, Rosa Parks, Fannie Lou Hamer, Mary McLeod Bethune, those are love warriors. He’s gripped by them spiritually. Gripped by the spiritual. He can’t help from doing what he’s doing.

Music Producer & Artist Terry Lewis

I am part of the NFL.

This was my home. A block away up the street. And I’m

Music Producer and Artist Andre Cymone

It’s great to be home. I love Minneapolis. The mere mention of the name Spike Moss brings a smile to my soul. Just the name Spike Moss. It just makes me; I smile because I know this brother. It is important for everybody to understand is that this community owes a debt of gratitude to Spike and to his teachers, like my mother, Bernadette Anderson. As a musician, I’ve traveled the world. I’ve been to Russia, I’ve been to China, I’ve been everywhere. And I say thank you to this community and to Spike, being the orchestrator. He’s done so many things on so many different levels. Let me put it like this. Our band was Grand Central – me, Prince, William Doddy, my sister, Linda, Terry, Jackson, and Charles Smith. Spike gave us our opportunity to do our first shows. That’s a big deal for me. And the one thing I got to tell you is I’m probably, I don’t know, I could be wrong, but I might be the only one musician artist that came out of Minneapolis that actually thanked Spike on my album. My first album. I thanked him on my album. I had to. I owed it to this president because... And again, not only... Music is one thing and music is great. I’ve learned a lot of things. Family is a big deal. A lot of people wonder, “Where’s Andre?” I’m a dad. I got six kids and four grandkids. So I’m a dad and I take it serious. But also, I love my community. I love my mom; I love my family. I love my nieces and my nephews. And I love this community and I really want us to come together. And I think Spike has inspired a lot of people, but we can’t let that stop. We got to keep inspiring young brothers

Drummer

a Way kid. I started going out to The Way when I was

We really became together when we started the Leo Johnson Drum Corps. When we started out, we didn’t even have drums. He let us practice in the basement. and stuff. Spike told us, “Hey,

Former Minneapolis Police Chief Medaria Arradondo and Senator Bobby Joe Champion

Fire Chief Brian Tyner, Assistant Chief Melanie Rucker and Black Firefighters Association members

Attorney Clayton Tyler and MN Attorney General Keith Ellison

Photo: KingDemetrius Pendleton

Photo: KingDemetrius Pendleton

Photo: KingDemetrius Pendleton

Photo: KingDemetrius Pendleton

Photo: KingDemetrius Pendleton

Photo: KingDemetrius Pendleton

Photo: KingDemetrius Pendleton

Photo: KingDemetrius Pendleton

to do what Spike did, to do what Bernadette Anderson did, and keep this community growing. Okay? We got to keep it going because if we don’t, we know what’s going to happen. We can’t just rest on our laurels and live off the vapors of the past. We got to keep it going. Because if we don’t, you know what’s going to happen. What’s going to happen? What’s going to happen? I don’t hear y’all loud enough. That’s the problem. Because we need to know that. You got to vote. You got to know what you’re voting for. You got to empower yourself. You want things to change, you want your community to be stronger, you got to get involved. You got to get involved.

And like Terry said, I’m going to ride…whether by car, motorcycle, or helicopter, I’m going to ride something down Spike Way. I’ll tell you what. If it’s a tricycle, I’m riding down Spike Way. Thank you, Spike.

that you’ve done so that we can ask ourselves, “Are we living up to that model?” We got to ask ourselves, “What’s our mission? What’s our purpose? What’s our pedagogy?” And those are the things that you taught me, Spike. So I just want to thank you from the bottom of my heart.

AIM Co-Director Frank Paro Bonjour. I’m one of the national directors of American Indian Movement

5th Ward Alderman Jeremiah Ellison

When Senator Bobby Joe came up to me and he said, “Hey, we got to do this commemorative sign for Spike. What do you think? Will you author the application?” My first response was, “Well, you know we got a policy and I don’t know.” He said, “Jeremiah, we got to get this done.” So of course, here we are today to honor the work of Spike Moss.

I’m the council member of the Fifth Ward. So welcome to the Fifth Ward. But that’s not how I know Spike. I know Spike from being a little kid. I’ve known you my whole life, Spike, and the work that you’ve done in this community is not only not lost on me, but I’ve internalized it. My dad used to have a program called Black Power Perspectives at KMOJ, and Spike used to be on there so much I thought he was one of the co-hosts of the show. And Spike was up there talking about what it meant to be a leader, to be somebody who served your community, what it could look like to advance policies for Black people. And that’s something that I try to serve as I play in my role. I’m really glad that we get to celebrate you in person today.

We often see folks who have done great in our community, they become institutions. And the more you’re an institution, we get further and further away from your humanity. You become a name on a building somewhere. We’ve got to know the work

(AIM), along with my sister Lisa Bellinger. She’s also an executive director. I just want to say two things. I only met two people in my life that I really looked up to. Mr. Spike Moss is one of them. Somebody earlier mentioned when they met Spike the first time. In 1976. I was getting out of Stillwater. I’m in the holding cage. Spike Moss walks in. I knew who he was. So I introduced myself. We talked for a few minutes. He was going into Stillwater to speak to the brothers. Spike, you’ve always been there when we called. Every time I called him, he’d always answer his phone. No one is more deserving than you, Spike.

AIM Co-Director Lisa Bellinger Bonjour, everybody. I am so honored to be here with my comrade, Frank Paro, from the American Indian Movement to pay our respects and to join in the honoring and celebrating

this great occasion for our Uncle Spike Moss. So I know in our community and our traditions, leadership is a very important element of our communities. And I heard earlier talks about what has changed. And I talked about how the energy and the work flows through the families and through the generations. And in our way, we have to think seven generations ahead. We have to think about our whole community. And I know that whenever, like Frank said, whenever there was an issue, Spike was there. Uncle Clyde Bellecourt would call him up and he would show up. He would just show up. He would hear about it and be there in a minute. And it takes that unity, that unity amongst our communities, right? To be the change, to make the change. And so with that, I just want to say a big heartfelt, from our hearts, from our nations, thank you for stepping up with us, for standing side by side with us and to help lead and to mentor and show us. Thank you.

Men of M.A.R.C.H. Leader

Tyrone Terrill

40 years ago I walked into The Way. I had a meeting scheduled with Spike Moss and he stood me up. I came back the next day, he stood me up. I came back the Thursday and he said, “College boy, what do you want?” Well, that meeting has turned into 40 years of friendship and as I stand here today, I know Mother Liz Samuels and Sister Bernie Anderson are looking down blessing this moment right now.

A lot of stuff that we were doing was led by Bernie and Liz. We might’ve been on TV, we might be in the newspaper, but Bernie and Liz were always behind us. We were always called their boys. And so to my brother, who is my big brother, I love you, man. And not just for everything you’ve done for this community, because you’ve given way too much.

Entrepreneur & Clockmaker

Derrick Holmes

I’m the CEO of Benjamin Banneker Watch and Clocks named after Banneker. Spike was the conduit to Alfred Babbington Johnson and the guys that helped me get my company off the ground 20 years ago.

This clock has a collage of some of his body of work. In celebration of the naming of your street, every time this clock ticks will be a reminder of all the time that you’ve dedicated to so many.

Spike Moss I have been totally overwhelmed, totally. Unbelievable. I can’t believe I did all that work. Somebody should have paid me for it. Let me first say there’s so many in the audience who have worked with me, who have allowed me to mentor you. I don’t have time to go through each of your stories, but I need to publicly say thank you for everybody that stood up with me, everybody that marched with me, everybody that’s fought side by side with me. John Jacob I met at the Phillis Wheatley when I was playing football and boxing. He’s put that courage, determination and fearlessness in me. We can’t lose. We’re going to win. We are champions. That went a long way in my life. At 15, you got to leave the Junior Golden Gloves in boxing and you go to open division. At that point, Ray Wells entered into my life. He promised my mother that he would take care of me, train me well and protect me. He began to teach me, not just train me. He said, there’ll be no smoking, no drinking, no drugs. I have lived that life

that Ray Wells gave me. When I started marching, he would always take the right side of my shoulder to protect me and he would physically protect me. And he did that my whole life. He would leave his job to check on me. And then I met Ray Eiland who got on my board of directors. He and his wife taught me every step of the way. He said, “Spike, where you’re going, you’re going to need a lot of information. I went to school with Dick Gregory. He’s a friend of mine. He’s going to be your mentor.” And once Dick Gregory became my mentor, it was wide open. The sky was a limit, and he was the same as Ray Wells. He going to march with me, take a bat and physically stop you from harming me. And then I was listening to the women: the great Mother Liz Samuels, Liz Moore, Bernadette Anderson, and Patricia Hickman from St. Paul. They taught me everything they could teach me to make me successful. I love my people. I love you when you’re up. I love you when you’re down. I might not love all that you do, but you can damn sure bet I love my people.

I can’t thank all of you for giving me this day from 1966 when they first beat that 14-yearold Black girl up in downtown Minneapolis in broad daylight, which changed my life forever and I never looked back since. But the one thing God has done for me, he’s allowed me to keep mentoring. As long as the people need soldiers to do, get up and do for your people. Get up and do. And I don’t want to get political, but you better listen to what Andre said. You better watch this next election. They might roll us back 40 to 50 years of the progress we made. You better watch this election and be ready to what he said do. To this whole committee, I can’t thank you enough.

Council Members Jeremiah Ellison, 5th Ward, Latrisha Vetaw, 4th Ward and Michael Rainville, 3rd Ward.

Spike Moss and Sheron Thompson

Photo: KingDemetrius Pendleton

Photo: KingDemetrius Pendleton

Photo: KingDemetrius Pendleton

Photo: KingDemetrius Pendleton

Photo: KingDemetrius Pendleton

Photo: KingDemetrius Pendleton

Senator Bobby Joe Champion and Spike Moss

Photo: KingDemetrius Pendleton

El mismo año en que el poeta y activista Luis J. Rodríguez se prepara para celebrar su 70 cumpleaños (el 9 de julio), su exitosa memoria Siempre corriendo celebra su 30 aniversario.

En Always Running, Rodríguez reflexiona sobre su participación con las pandillas mexicano-estadounidenses en el este de Los Ángeles (LA) durante las décadas de 1960 y 1970. Publicadas en 1993, las memorias son memorables por sus violentos relatos de la vida en los barrios equilibrados con una visión articulada y politizada de las condiciones estructurales que dan forma a estas realidades de las clases marginadas. Como autores de una nueva e innovadora antología

In the same year the poet and activist Luis J. Rodríguez prepares to celebrate his 70th birthday (on July 9), his bestselling memoir Always Running celebrates its 30th anniversary. In Always Running, Rodríguez reflects on his involvement with MexicanAmerican gangs in east Los Angeles (LA) during the 1960s and 1970s. Released in 1993, the memoir is memorable for its violent tales of barrio life balanced with an articulate, politicised vision of the

sobre su vida y legado, creemos que Always Running es tan relevante hoy como lo fue a principios de los años 1990, por su discusión sobre problemas sociales y estructurales. Always Running sigue siendo una característica importante en las listas de lectura de las escuelas secundarias de EE. UU., a menudo señalada como material potencial para “lectores reacios”. Según algunos informes, también es el libro más robado en el sistema de bibliotecas públicas de Los Ángeles. Muchos de los temas del libro, incluido el racismo estructural, las desigualdades y la pobreza, así como la educación selectivamente insuficientemente financiada y, por tanto, segregada de facto, son tan actuales ahora como hace 30 años. La narrativa gráfica de Rodríguez abordó los infames disturbios de Los Ángeles de 1992 tanto en el prefacio como en el epílogo,

structural conditions shaping these underclass realities.

As the authors of a groundbreaking new anthology about his life and legacy, we believe Always Running is as relevant today as it was in the early 1990s, for its discussion of social and structural problems.

Always Running remains a strong feature on US high school reading lists, often flagged as potential material for “reluctant readers”. According to some reports, it also is the most stolen book in the LA public library system. Many of the book’s themes, including structural racism, inequalities and poverty, as well as selectively underfunded and therefore de facto segregated education, are as topical now as 30 years ago.

Rodríguez’s graphic narrative addressed the infamous LA riots of 1992 in both the preface and epilogue, using the uprising as well as the incarceration of his son, Ramiro, to frame tales of gang conflict

utilizando el levantamiento y el encarcelamiento de su hijo, Ramiro, para enmarcar historias de conflictos de pandillas con una narrativa de conversión. Mientras tanto, las memorias sostienen que la creatividad tiene el poder de curar y ayudar a trazar una salida al pantano. En 2023, fuimos los primeros académicos en trabajar en los archivos de Rodríguez, sus documentos personales que habían sido adquiridos por la Biblioteca de Colecciones Especiales de la Universidad de California, Santa Bárbara. Ese mismo año, se inauguró un mural de 200 pies de altura en la histórica estación de tren Watts en Los Ángeles con el poema Watts Bleeds de Rodríguez. El poema se publicó poco antes de Always Running y su presentación pública coincidió con el 30 aniversario de las memorias. Característica de las memorias de Rodríguez, así como de su poesía en general, el verso al costado de la estación

with a conversion narrative. All the while, the memoir argues that creativity has the power to heal and help plot a way out of the morass.

In 2023, we were the first academics to work in the Rodríguez archives, his personal papers that had been acquired by the Special Collections Library at the University of California, Santa Barbara. In the same year, a 200-foot-high mural was unveiled at the historic Watts train station in LA bearing Rodríguez’s poem Watts Bleeds.

The poem was published shortly before Always Running and its public unveiling was to mark the 30th anniversary of the memoir. Characteristic of Rodríguez’s memoir as well as his poetry more widely, the verse on the side of the train station captures the raw underside of LA that he experienced as a child: Watts bleeds dripping from carcasses of dreams: Where despair

de tren captura el lado crudo de Los Ángeles que experimentó cuando era niño:

Con un lenguaje conmovedor e imágenes viscerales que persisten mucho después de leer las líneas, el resto del poema habla de las historias y los sueños de los residentes negros y morenos de este barrio del centro de la ciudad del sur de Los Ángeles. Y recuerda a todos aquellos que han sido pasados por alto (“terrenos baldíos/y edificios incendiados – templos desolados por la ira del pueblo”).

Sin embargo, el poema –y las memorias– podrían escribirse hoy para Los Ángeles. Desde COVID, la ciudad ha luchado contra campamentos de personas sin hogar en constante crecimiento y poco más del 15% de la población de la ciudad vive por debajo del nivel de pobreza. Un artículo de The Guardian de enero de 2024 reveló que los agentes de policía de California todavía detenían y registraban a conductores negros y latinos en

is old people sitting on torn patio sofas with empty eyes and children running down alleys with big sticks.

In poignant language and visceral images that haunt long after the lines are read, the remainder of the poem speaks to the histories and dreams of black and brown residents of this inner-city neighbourhood in south LA. And it recalls all those who have been overlooked (“vacant lots/and burned-out buildings – temples desolated by a people’s rage”).

Yet the poem – and the memoir – could be written for LA today. Since COVID the city has struggled with ever-growing homeless encampments and just over 15% of the city’s population lives below the poverty level.

An article in The Guardian in January 2024 revealed that police officers in California still stopped and searched black and Latinx drivers at significantly

un porcentaje significativamente mayor que a los blancos, lo que se suma a las ya marcadas disparidades raciales en el sistema penitenciario estadounidense. Al escribir sobre el aniversario de Always Running en el LA Times, el periodista Gustavo Arellano sostuvo que la narrativa es un “manual para la salvación de Los Ángeles”. Considera que las memorias son un compañero literario de la exposición de la realidad carcelaria del erudito marxista e intelectual público Mike Davis, City of Quartz, publicada tres años antes. Pero creemos que la importancia actual de Always Running es un testimonio de la compleja vida de un hombre que ha utilizado inquebrantablemente su acceso a las instituciones de poder para servir a la comunidad de clase baja que lo destetó. La continua popularidad del libro habla de la

higher rates than white people, which adds to the already stark racial disparities in the US prison system. Writing about Always Running’s anniversary in the LA Times, journalist Gustavo Arellano contended that the narrative is a “manual for LA’s salvation”. He deems the memoir a literary companion to Marxist scholar and public intellectual Mike Davis’s exposé of the carceral reality, City of Quartz, published three years earlier. But we believe that Always Running’s ongoing significance is a testament to the complex life of a man who has unwaveringly used his access to institutions of power to serve the underclass community that weaned him.

Read more: The unfulfilled American dream stalks Mike Davis’s dystopian Los Angeles in his masterful City of Quartz

The book’s continued popularity speaks to the

universalidad de su trabajo para iluminar e intervenir en la difícil situación de las clases bajas, los trabajadores y los sobrevivientes de la violencia maltratados y heridos. La narrativa habla de las dimensiones materiales y espirituales de recuperar la humanidad a nivel personal, interpersonal y global. El hijo de Rodríguez, Ramiro, hace tiempo que salió de prisión. Pero la dedicación de Rodríguez a la política proletaria y sus preocupaciones por las clases trabajadoras, interrelacionadas con su enfoque en cuestiones de la “vida real”, lo han hecho –y Always Running– popular entre los lectores de todo el tiempo y el espacio.

Estos lectores utilizan los escritos de Rodríguez y otros esfuerzos relacionados como piedras de toque para interpretar y comprender la sociedad y la cultura estadounidenses contemporáneas en relación con el mundo en general.

universality of his work to illuminate and intervene into the plight of the underclasses, workers, abused and wounded survivors of violence. The narrative speaks to the material and spiritual dimensions of reclaiming humanity at the personal, interpersonal and global levels.

Rodríguez’s son, Ramiro, has long since been released from prison. But Rodríguez’s dedication to proletarian politics and concerns for the working classes, interlinked with his focus on “real-life” issues, has made him – and Always Running – popular with readers across time and space.

These readers use Rodríguez’s writings and other related endeavours as touchstones for interpreting and understanding contemporary US society and culture in relation to the world at large.

No mesmo ano em que o poeta e ativista Luis J. Rodríguez se prepara para comemorar seu 70º aniversário (em 9 de julho), seu livro de memórias best-seller Always Running comemora 30 anos. Em Always Running, Rodríguez reflete sobre seu envolvimento com gangues mexicano-americanas no leste de Los Angeles (LA) durante as décadas de 1960 e 1970. Lançado em 1993, o livro de memórias é memorável pelas suas histórias violentas da vida no bairro, equilibradas com uma visão articulada e politizada das condições estruturais que moldam estas realidades das classes baixas.

Como autores de uma nova antologia inovadora sobre a sua vida e legado, acreditamos que Always Running é tão relevante hoje como era no início da década de 1990, pela sua discussão de problemas sociais e estruturais. Always Running continua sendo um destaque nas listas de leitura do ensino médio dos EUA, muitas vezes sinalizado como material potencial para “leitores relutantes”. De acordo com alguns relatos, é também o livro mais roubado no sistema de bibliotecas públicas de Los Angeles. Muitos dos temas do livro, incluindo o racismo estrutural, as desigualdades e a pobreza, bem como a educação selectivamente subfinanciada e, portanto, segregada de facto, são tão actuais agora como há 30 anos. A narrativa gráfica de Rodríguez abordou os infames tumultos de Los Angeles em 1992, tanto no prefácio como

no epílogo, usando a revolta e o encarceramento do seu filho, Ramiro, para enquadrar histórias de conflito de gangues com uma narrativa de conversão. Ao mesmo tempo, o livro de memórias argumenta que a criatividade tem o poder de curar e ajudar a traçar uma saída para o pântano. Em 2023, fomos os primeiros acadêmicos a trabalhar nos arquivos de Rodríguez, seus papéis pessoais que haviam sido adquiridos pela Biblioteca de Coleções Especiais da Universidade da Califórnia, em Santa Bárbara. No mesmo ano, um mural de 60 metros de altura foi inaugurado na histórica estação ferroviária de Watts, em Los Angeles, com o poema Watts Bleeds, de Rodríguez. O poema foi publicado pouco antes de Always Running e sua divulgação pública marcaria o 30º aniversário do livro de memórias. Característico das memórias de Rodríguez, bem

como de sua poesia de forma mais ampla, o verso na lateral da estação de trem captura o lado cru de Los Angeles que ele experimentou quando criança: Em linguagem comovente e imagens viscerais que assombram muito depois de os versos serem lidos, o restante do poema fala das histórias e sonhos dos moradores negros e pardos deste bairro do centro da cidade no sul de Los Angeles. E recorda todos aqueles que foram esquecidos (“terrenos baldios/e edifícios incendiados –templos desolados pela raiva de um povo”).

No entanto, o poema – e o livro de memórias – poderiam ser escritos hoje para Los Angeles. Desde a COVID, a cidade tem lutado com acampamentos cada vez maiores de sem-abrigo e pouco mais de 15% da população da cidade vive abaixo do nível de pobreza. Um artigo no The Guardian de Janeiro de 2024 revelou que os agentes da polícia

na Califórnia ainda paravam e revistavam condutores negros e latinos a taxas significativamente mais elevadas do que os brancos, o que aumenta as já acentuadas disparidades raciais no sistema prisional dos EUA. Escrevendo sobre o aniversário de Always Running no LA Times, o jornalista Gustavo Arellano afirmou que a narrativa é um “manual para a salvação de LA”. Ele considera o livro de memórias um companheiro literário da exposição da realidade carcerária feita pelo estudioso marxista e intelectual público Mike Davis, Cidade de Quartzo, publicada três anos antes. Mas acreditamos que o significado contínuo de Always Running é um testemunho da vida complexa de um homem que usou inabalavelmente o seu acesso às instituições de poder para servir a comunidade da classe baixa que o desmamou. A popularidade contínua do livro demonstra a universalidade do seu trabalho para iluminar e intervir na situação das classes baixas, dos trabalhadores, dos sobreviventes abusados e feridos da violência. A narrativa fala das dimensões materiais e espirituais da recuperação da humanidade nos níveis pessoal, interpessoal e global. O filho de Rodríguez, Ramiro, já foi libertado da prisão há muito tempo. Mas a dedicação de Rodríguez à política proletária e às preocupações com as classes trabalhadoras, interligada com o seu foco nas questões da “vida real”, tornou-o – e a Always Running – popular entre os leitores de todo o tempo e espaço. Estes leitores utilizam os escritos de Rodríguez e outros esforços relacionados como pedras de toque para interpretar e compreender a sociedade e a cultura contemporâneas dos EUA em relação ao mundo em geral.

Siempre corriendo: las memorias de Luis J. Rodríguez sobre los días de las pandillas en Los

Por Josephine Metcalf

Macdonald Anyanwu, Managing Editor,

Luis J. Rodriguez and the 30th anniversary edition of Always Running. David Shankbone/flickr/Simon and Schuster, CC BY-SA

Commentary/Letters

On President Biden’s Supreme Court reform proposals...

By

Yesterday, President Joe Biden proposed sweeping reforms to the United States Supreme Court during his visit to the Lyndon B. Johnson Presidential Library in Austin, Texas.

Commemorating what’s arguably LBJ’s greatest legacy, his signing of the Civil Rights Act of 1964 60 years ago this week, Biden, deriding what he called “an extreme and unchecked (Supreme Court) agenda,” set the stage for what could become his signature legislative legacy—federal court reforms—if it passes.

Warning: Do not hold your breath in hopes of Biden’s proposals being passed any time soon due to the facts that Republicans hold the majority in the House of Representatives—and that a 60 vote supermajority would be needed to end the inevitable Republican filibuster in the Senate even if, by some miracle, Biden’s proposal passes out of the House.

However, I further caution that delay doesn’t mean defeat! Meaning, with a vast number of Americans losing faith in the independence of the Supreme Court amid scandals, attacks on civil rights, and its

expansion of authoritarian rule by the Executive Branch, the president’s proposed reforms will soon become a hot topic in the presidential debates between Trump and presumptive Democratic nominee Kamala Harris—as well as in down ballot races that could find Democrats in the majority in both chambers of Congress come January.

In addition to proposing term limits and ethics reforms, President Biden also called for a constitutional amendment that would reverse last month’s Supreme Court decision in the U.S. vs. Trump case that provides immunity from criminal prosecution for any president who claims that their felonious acts were a part of their «official» duties as president.

Biden, speaking for the second time since his rather surprising decision last week to not seek a second term, said, “I have great respect for our institutions, the separation of powers laid out in our Constitution. What’s happening now is not consistent with that doctrine of separation of powers. Extremism is undermining the public’s confidence in the Court’s decisions.”

Vice President Kamala Harris, when questioned later in the day about the president’s speech, replied, “throughout the course of our Nation’s history, trust in the Supreme Court of the United States has been critical to achieving equal justice

under law. President Biden and I strongly believe that the American people must have confidence in the Supreme Court...These popular reforms will help to restore confidence in the Court, strengthen our democracy, and ensure no one is above the law.”

Indeed…

For the record, I am in FULL support of President Biden’s proposals; I find them to be LONG overdue, and I submit that I would LOVE to see a fourth proposal sooner or later—which would be to increase the number of Justices on the Supreme Court from nine to at least 13!

While the Framers of the Constitution advocated lifetime appointments for federal judges during the Constitutional Convention of 1787, they did so during a time when the

average life expectancy for a white man was about 40 years!

The Framers could not have foreseen that future male and female jurists would live (and work) well into their 80’s, thus, my belief that term limits would provide each generation with a new set of judicial eyes and ears to consider the crucial cases and controversies of the times! As to judicial ethics reform, in each of the 200 or so cases that I’ve tried in state and federal courts, there was always point during the jury instructions when the presiding judge told jurors that the lawyers (and by extension, the judges) “must avoid even the appearance of impropriety.”

The fact that Justices Thomas and Alito have been pimped out with millions of dollars in cash, gifts, and trips by special interests—and brazenly don’t

care what anyone thinks about them being on the political stroll—is inexcusable! On this point, the president’s proposal that justices “disclose gifts, refrain from public political activity, and recuse themselves from cases in which they or their spouses have financial or other conflicts of interest” is not just sound public policy— but plain old common sense!

Last, while President Biden has shown little interest in adding seats to the Supreme Court, a position that progressive politicians and pundits (including yours truly) have called for over the years, the issue could arise anew in a Harris administration, especially if at some point during those four years, Democrats (and the few remaining moderate Republicans) gain solid control of Congress.

Lest we forget that since 1789, the Supreme Court has grown from as few as five sitting justices to as many as 10 in 1869; that year, then President Ulysses S. Grant signed a Judiciary Act into law that set the number of justices at nine–where it has remained ever since.

In 1869, our nation consisted of 37 states and nearly 40 million citizens and yet today, over 300 million Americans in 50 states are still served by the same number of Supreme Court justices!

The last president to propose adding additional justices was Franklin D. Roosevelt back in the early 1930’s. Roosevelt, frustrated

that a then conservative Supreme Court was opposing key aspects of his first term New Deal proposals to pull the country out the Great Depression, proposed adding six new seats for a total of 15; FDR never got the additional seats, but the very fact that he was bold enough to ask soon found the Supreme Court acting more favorably to his executive orders and progressive leaning legislation from Congress. Today, the times are far different, and with political stalemates being more rigid, the mere proposal of additional judges will not be enough to intimidate the current 6-3 conservative majority into realizing that they are not aligned with the will of millions of people who do not support restrictions on abortion, birth control, IVF, or the reduction in civil liberties and civil rights that are fecund among the conservative minority in America. For the reasons outlined in the preceding paragraph, I surely look forward to Vice President Harris, one of the leading Senate Judiciary Committee members during her time in the Senate, to wield Supreme Court reform as a mighty hammer on the campaign trail this Fall! Chuck Hobbs is a freelance journalist who won the 2010 Florida Bar Media Award and has been twice nominated for the Pulitzer Prize for Commentary.

Endorsing Ilhan Omar

Last year, I introduced the “Restore the Vote” bill, which ensures more people can participate in democratic processes by allowing those who have served their time but are still on probation or parole to vote. The Restore the Vote Act granted voting rights to over 55,000 Minnesotans who have returned to their families and communities after serving their time.

Congresswoman Ilhan Omar has always been on the right side of this issue. When Congresswoman Omar was in the Minnesota State House, she co-authored the Restore the Vote Act, advocating for it even during a divided government. This early work by DFL electeds allowed us to quickly pass the legislation once the DFL held all chambers of the State Legislature. But she didn’t stop there. Congresswoman Omar’s first bill she co-sponsored in Congress was HR 1 — the Voting Rights Act. She understands that the disproportionate

incarceration rates result from policies influenced by the disenfranchisement of those affected by the legal system. She knows the importance of bringing more voices into our democracy. Congresswoman Omar knows democracy only flourishes with more participation not less. She understands that a truly representative Democracy is only possible when all voices can be heard. She will always fight to expand access to the ballot box. I am excited to vote for her in the August 13th primary.

Vital Response to the Opioid Crisis

I founded the Stairstep Foundation to engage the challenges that disrupt the wellbeing of the African American community. The opioid epidemic is a vicious predator that ravages our village, and we must become proactive. In that spirit I support and urge others to become familiar with and join in support of the Alternatives to Prevent Addiction in the Nation Act (The Alternatives to PAIN Act).

The unfortunate truth is that African Americans face disparate health outcomes compared to our white counterparts. We are more likely to experience heart disease, strokes, cancer, asthma, influenza, diabetes, and more. Regrettably, opioid overdoses are another category of unbalanced outcomes.

In 2023, 259 Black Minnesotans died of opioid overdose, which equates to 65 Black Minnesotan lives lost annually per 100,000 people compared to 10 deaths per 100,000 for White Minnesotans. Unfortunately, this disparity continues to widen.

Amid such a crisis,

we must consider solutions at the city, county, state, and national levels of government. The Alternatives to PAIN Act aims to protect our seniors from the opioid crisis before they can become addicted.

Currently, seniors on Medicare Part D are often prescribed opioids to treat acute pain because they are the cheaper drug. However, if the Alternatives to PAIN Act were to be passed into law, those on Medicare would be able to consult with their doctor about the treatment option that is right for them without fear of cost barriers for non-opioid alternatives. By moving seniors to non- opioid alternatives, we can prevent dependency and overdoses before they can begin.

In 2021, nearly a quarter of Medicare Part D beneficiaries received opioids. As a society, we are extremely reliant on opioids to treat acute pain, and our seniors are no different. Given the fact that those on Medicare are treated for acute pain more often than other demographics, decreasing seniors’ dependency on opioids is extremely important.

Another important feature of the legislation is the banning of step therapy. Step therapy, no stranger to those

on Medicare, is a program that requires patients to try a lower-cost drug for whatever reason before “stepping up” to a similar but more expensive drug. This system has benefitted Big Pharma for far too long and hurt those in need of care.

Providing our seniors with the best possible treatment, no matter the cost for insurance companies, is vital. While seniors are often the last group we would consider to be impacted by the opioid crisis, the fact offers a sobering picture. In 2021, more than 1 million Medicare beneficiaries were diagnosed with an opioid disorder. We must curb our nation’s dependency on opioids regardless of demographics, passing this bill helps us do just that.

The Alternatives to PAIN Act isn’t controversial. It is a bipartisan bill with broad support in both the IN.S. House and Senate. Our Minnesota congressional delegation must do all they can to ensure this bill becomes law to protect the elders of our village. Rev. Alfred Babington-Johnson is the CEO and founder of the Stairstep Foundation and Convener of His Works United.

Hobb servation Point

Chuck Hobbs

Alfred Babington-Johnson, Stairstep Foundation

By Rep. Cedrick Frazier (DFL) District: 43A

Sharing

Unearthing Us

By W.D. Foster-Graham Book Review Editor

Poems and Practices for

Discovering Our Fullest Selves by Joe Davis

There is something about Spoken Word that is deeply personal, engaging, and compelling. In my previous review, Rev. Dr. Thomas L. Nins stated that “poets have always stood in the forefront of a revolution.” In so many ways, poets are our modern-day griots.

Transformation and embodying all of who we are in the best ways is an ongoing process; the inspiration and catalysts can come from anywhere in the world and from anyone.

I had the honor and opportunity to attend the launch of the amazing performing artist Joe Davis’ latest collection of poems Unearthing Us: Poems and Practices for Discovering

Our Fullest Selves. The inspiration for this collection came from a recent visit to Jamaica, the island of his maternal roots. His collection has three sections: Plant (poems for planting seeds), Grow (poems for growth), and Flourish (poems for creating abundance). Being a most engaging poet, Unearthing Us is interactive, with each poem followed by an Unearthing Practice. The Unearthing Practices encourage us to take a deep dive into who we are, our relationship to family,

community, and the earth. In his words, Davis invites readers “to envision a world planted with possibility, growth, and flourishing.” As a performing artist, his positive energy is infectious, and at the end of his readings, he invited us to write down the names of people who were/are Possibility Models in our lives. Think of the people who planted the seeds of possibility in you by their example, who inspired you to grow, who saw the best in you. He beautifully makes the correlation between the garden and soil of the earth to that of our minds and soul, and the importance of cultivating both. Davis is the founder and director of Finding Your

Freedom Practice, which is “an arts education program that activates hip-hop, Spoken Word, creative writing, and theater as tools for holistic wellness.” If you ever get an opportunity to check out his show, you are in for a treat; it is something for all ages.

Unearthing Us is Davis’ third poetry collection, and it is available through Amazon, Spark House (wearesparkhouse.org), and his website, JoeDavisPoetry.com.

Thank you, Joe, for your words that fill us with healing, wellness, discovery, and infinite possibility!

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some really good candidates out there,” Omar noted. “A lot of people are talking about Andy Beshear of Kentucky and our own governor, Tim Walz, who has had a great record of accomplishments with a slim majority.” However, she expressed concern about candidates like Mark Kelly and Josh Shapiro, stating, “We might lose crucial Senate seats, which could be detrimental to our efforts.”

The show’s cohosts then shifted the focus to Omar’s primary campaign and the challenges she faces. Yusef Mgeni inquired about the tone of her campaign and what she anticipates for the general election. Omar responded, “We’re running a joyful campaign as we always

do. Our opponent has chosen hateful, sexist rhetoric to campaign against me, which I find unbecoming. But we have a strong base of support, and we are reminding everyone that there is a primary happening on the 13th of August.”

The discussion delved into broader themes, including the Biden administration’s policies on Palestine, which have been a contentious issue among young progressive voters. McFarlane posed a question regarding the Vice President’s stance on Palestine and how she could appeal to both young progressives and traditional supporters of Israel. Omar expressed her hopes for a shift in policy, saying, “My hope is that she distances herself from the current policies. We need to end the impunity that Israel has enjoyed and call for a ceasefire to stop the genocide against the people of Gaza.”

Dean Burnele Powell brought a critical perspective,

questioning the use of the term “genocide.” He argued, “I do not believe that any jurisdiction in the world would declare what Israel has done as genocide. We should not take legal terms and use them in popular conversation.” Omar countered, citing historical precedents where genocides

were not immediately recognized as such. As the conversation drew to a close, McFarlane asked Omar about her accomplishments and what she has delivered to her constituents. Omar proudly listed her achievements, “We’ve delivered $54 million

in project community funding, passed the Meals Act to feed 33 million children during COVID, and worked on the Inflation Reduction Act, which includes historic climate investments.” She emphasized the ongoing work, including protecting reproductive rights and expanding voting rights,

and noted the success of her gun violence bill.

The topic of voter enthusiasm and turnout in Minnesota was also addressed. Omar highlighted the significant increase in engagement, particularly among Black women and other communities of color. “There is a lot of energy and renewed hope. We’ve seen an uptick in people signing up for volunteer shifts and a massive fundraising haul for the DFL. This energy is crucial as we move towards defeating Trump and securing a Democratic victory.”

In a final appeal to voters, Omar reminded listeners of the importance of their participation. “Our vote is our voice. People wouldn’t work so hard to disenfranchise it if it wasn’t powerful. Politics is personal, and in this election, we are fighting against efforts to dismantle many of our rights and civil liberties.”

re-election, his endorsement of Kamala Harris, and the broader implications of this for American democracy.

Al McFarlane kicked off the conversation by reflecting on the past tumultuous week: “We’ve seen President Biden’s announcement not to pursue re-election amid a storm of controversies, from recent Supreme Court decisions to Biden’s own health struggles. It’s been a dramatic turn of events, to say the least.”

Professor Burnele Powell, former Law School Dean at University of South Carolina and at University of Missouri at Kansas City, speaking from South Carolina, shared his perspective on Biden’s political trajectory.

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governance that align with authoritarian ideals. Both plans, shaped by Trump loyalists, aim to reshape the government and civil society under what can only be described as a fascist framework, asserting their mission is to rescue the country from radical leftist influences. Project 2025 envisions

“From my viewpoint, it was becoming increasingly clear that Biden might need to step aside,” Powell noted. “Despite his efforts, the polls weren’t moving in his favor. It seemed inevitable that he would eventually need to find a graceful exit. The crises – from his poor debate performance to his health issues – created a backdrop where stepping aside became a practical decision.” Powell elaborated on Biden’s decision, describing it as a strategic move amidst a series of crises. “I had anticipated that Biden might use these crises as an opportunity to step aside. Instead, we saw a culmination of challenges – health issues, political setbacks, and external pressures – that accelerated his decision. Biden’s ultimate choice to support Kamala Harris reflects both a strategic and a personal decision.”

Powell also offered his views on the broader political landscape: “This isn’t just about Biden stepping down. It’s about the future of American

ending the administrative state by placing the entire federal bureaucracy under direct presidential control, a “Unitary Executive” approach often seen as a pathway to autocracy. Similarly, Agenda 47 aims to dismantle the socalled “deep state” by firing thousands of civil servants and replacing them with loyalists, referred to as “patriots who love America.” According to Trump, this restructuring would make federal bureaucrats and politicians accountable to the American people. However,

democracy. We’re at a critical juncture where the integrity of our democratic institutions is at stake. The rise of autocratic tendencies globally – as seen in France, Turkey, and Hungary –serves as a cautionary tale for us. We need to remain vigilant and ensure that democracy prevails.”

Yusef Mgeni, joining the discussion from St. Paul, echoed Powell’s sentiments and highlighted the immediate implications for the Democratic Party. “The decision for Biden to endorse Kamala Harris was not just a strategic move but a necessary one for the health of the party and the country,” Mgeni said. “In the wake of Biden’s endorsement, Harris has already seen a surge in support and fundraising. This reflects a critical shift as the campaign gears up for the next phase.”

Mgeni emphasized the importance of Harris’s fundraising success, noting, “Kamala Harris has raised over $100 million in just 24 hours,

the plans fail to explain how the people would actually hold these officials accountable, raising fears of unchecked presidential power.

Authoritarian leaders have long used propaganda to manipulate public opinion, and experts suggest that Trump’s rhetoric follows this playbook. By framing checks and balances as “corrupt obstacles to the popular will,” Trump seeks to justify their dismantling, creating an illusion of serving the public while concentrating power in the executive branch.

which is crucial to counteract the significant financial advantage held by the Trump campaign. The stakes are high, and the funding will play a pivotal role in shaping the upcoming election.”

The conversation also touched on the potential vice-presidential candidates and the implications of having two women on the ticket. Mgeni discussed the considerations and potential drawbacks of this choice.

“There’s a debate about whether having two women on the ticket could amplify issues of sexism. Yet, Kamala Harris’s extensive experience as a prosecutor and her role as Vice President position her well to confront the challenges ahead. Harris, being of Afro-Caribbean Indian descent and not an African American woman, brings a unique perspective to the ticket.

“

Mgeni also added that her journey from an ‘invisible’ role behind the scenes to centre

Despite ongoing controversies, including the police murder of Sonya Massey, Trump has doubled down on his rhetoric of providing “federal qualified immunity” to all officers. This stance aligns with his earlier declarations that police should have the authority to shoot perceived criminals on sight, a policy that could lead to increased instances of unchecked police violence. Adding to the controversy is Trump’s own legal history. He has received 34 felonies convictions, a judge

stage contrasts sharply with Trump’s bombastic style. Her legal background equips her to face Trump, a man accused of numerous felonies and fraud. “The questions now are how will Kamala fare on the campaign trail, and who will she choose as her running mate?

Minnesota’s own Senator Amy Klobuchar and Governor Tim Walz are strong contenders, with the party weighing the potential impact of a dual-female ticket,” said Mgeni. Mgeni further elaborated on Harris’s potential to challenge Trump directly.

“Kamala Harris’s background as a prosecutor, district attorney, and Attorney General of California certainly prepares her to stand against a figure like Trump, who has been accused of 34 felony crimes and other charges. Her legal acumen and tough stance on justice provide a stark contrast to Trump’s contentious legal history.”

Furthermore, Powell and Mgeni explored the implications of recent Supreme

found him guilty of committing significant business fraud, and a civil jury found him guilty of sexually assaulting a writer. Many have noted that these convictions and allegations paint a troubling picture of a leader advocating for policies that could undermine democratic norms and the rule of law.

As the 2024 election approaches, Trump’s statements and policy proposals have raised alarms about the future of American democracy. His calls for Christians to vote

Court decisions, which have altered the landscape of U.S. law and governance. Powell pointed out the dangers of the current judicial climate, saying, “The recent rulings –from overturning Roe v. Wade to the new precedents set by the Supreme Court – pose serious risks to our democratic institutions. The court’s actions suggest a shift towards authoritarianism, which could undermine democratic norms.” Mgeni added to this, highlighting the broader consequences:

“The judiciary’s current trajectory, especially with the Supreme Court’s decisions, creates an environment ripe for authoritarian rule. This represents a significant threat to democratic governance and personal freedoms.”

As The Conversation ended, Al McFarlane underscored the urgency of voter participation by saying:

“The upcoming election is not just about choosing a president; it’s about safeguarding our

as if it’s the last time, combined with plans for sweeping governmental changes, suggest a vision of America that could lead to authoritarian rule. “When Vice President Harris says this election is about freedom she means it,” the Kamala Harris campaign said in a statement. “Our democracy is under assault by criminal Donald Trump.” Washington Democratic Rep. Pramila Jayapal called Trump’s rhetoric “terrifying.” “We cannot let this be the case,” she asserted.

Ilhan Omar on The Conversations Al McFarlane

Sports

Mielle Organics Partners with Tall Girls United Enhancing support for Black women in sports

By Pulane Choane Contributing Writer

In a major development for sports and fashion, Insight News MN’s Sports Editor, Leahjean Denley, better known as CoachLeah, who is also the co-founder of Tall Girls United, announced a new partnership with Mielle Organics on Radio KFAI 90.3 FM’s The Conversation with Al McFarlane. This collaboration underscores Mielle Organics’ ongoing commitment to supporting Black women in sports and continues its trailblazing role as a champion for textured hair.

Mielle Organics, celebrated for its advocacy for Black women and natural hair, recently achieved a significant milestone as the official textured hair care product for the 2024 Paris Olympic and Paralympic Games.

Mielle President Omar Goff highlighted the historical importance of this role on social media: “Mielle will be in Paris making sure that each athlete AND their family –regardless of hair texture – can look and feel their best to help them perform [at] their peak!” Goff emphasized, “At Mielle, we recognize the historical significance of the appearance of Black women’s hair at the Paris Olympics, and we’re proud to amplify the representation and inclusivity of textured hair.” CoachLeah elaborated on the new partnership during her conversation with Al McFarlane. “We’re thrilled to have Mielle Organics as a sponsor,” she said. “Their support is invaluable, especially as we continue to empower

and unite tall girls and tall girl brands globally. This partnership aligns perfectly with our mission to uplift and celebrate tall girls, and it’s a testament to Mielle’s commitment to our community.”

This new sponsorship comes on the heels of Mielle’s groundbreaking role as the first textured hair care partner for the WNBA. CoachLeah reflected on this milestone, stating, “The partnership with the WNBA was a pivotal moment for Mielle. Their continuous efforts to highlight the beauty of natural hair and support Black women athletes is truly commendable. This new collaboration with Tall Girls United is an extension of that dedication.”

As the conversation shifted, CoachLeah also discussed the recent WNBA All-Star Weekend, where she was deeply involved in the event. “One of the highlights of the weekend for me was the WNBA Celebrity Fashion Show at the Cambria Hotel rooftop,” she shared. The fashion show featured local designers such as Black Russian Label, Racquel Riturbam, House of Donaldson, and Bridget Pettis’s new line, Authentic Path Clothing. CoachLeah praised their contributions, saying, “We had four local designers who brought incredible energy and creativity to the show. Seeing their work on the runway was a testament to the vibrant talent in our community.”

Sylvia Crawley Spann, co-founder of Tall Girls United and a former WNBA player, played a crucial role in the event. “Having Sylvia’s expertise and connections in the WNBA has opened many doors for us,” CoachLeah noted. “Her vision and dedication are truly

inspiring. The partnership with Mielle Organics is a direct result of her hard work and influence.”

The fashion show also highlighted over 30 models, including NBA Moms, current and former WNBA players and coaches, and former men’s and women’s NCAA players.

CoachLeah emphasized the diversity and talent on display:

Credit: Instagram (@exquisitemo)

LSU Basketball champion, Angel Reese, as one of the ambassadors of Mielle Organics. Image Credit: Essence

Looking ahead, CoachLeah and McFarlane teased an upcoming deep dive into the economics of Name,

“It was a beautiful display of diversity and talent. The support from the community and the participation of these incredible individuals made the event unforgettable.”

Image, and Likeness (NIL) deals in sports. CoachLeah highlighted the significance of Angel Reese, a brand ambassador for Mielle Organics.

“Angel Reese is with Mielle Organics,” she said. “We’ll be exploring what NIL means and its impact, especially with some states offering NIL opportunities to high school players. It’s crucial to understand how this affects athletes at all levels.”

As the conversation wrapped up, CoachLeah reflected on the resilience and spirit of Tall Girls United.

“We’re not going to let anything stop our show,” she said, capturing the essence of their mission. With Mielle Organics by their side, the future is indeed looking brighter for tall girls and women in sports.