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November 25, 2019 - December 1, 2019
Vol. 46 No. 47• The Journal For Community News, Business & The Arts • insightnews.com
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Legend BLUES GREAT BOBBY RUSH PERFORMS THIS WEDNESDAY (NOV. 27) AT THE DAKOTA
STORY ON PAGE 8
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Insight News • November 25, 2019 - December 1, 2019 • Page 3
Insight News WINNER: 2018 NNPA MERIT AWARDS: 3RD PLACE BES T COLUMN WRITING
November 25, 2019 - December 1, 2019
WINNER: 2019 GENERAL EXCELLENCE, 3RD PLACE, COLUMN WRITING, 2ND PLACE
Vol. 46 No. 47• The Journal For Community News, Business & The Arts • insightnews.com
Finding purpose in Minnesota Commentary by Sylvia Bartley Shortly after arriving in Minnesota in 2010, a work colleague invited me to a Black gathering spot in the Twin Cities. I was excited to experience Black America in Minnesota. I was welcomed with open arms. As a newcomer, I was constantly asked questions about my accent, my experience living in the United Kingdom, and how I like America. That night was no exception. A lightskinned Black lady was curious about my marital status. When I informed her, I was not married she replied in an innocuous tone, “you will never find a husband here because you are too dark.” At that moment, I experienced one of Black America’s most deep-rooted man-made cancers designed to divide and weaken the Black community. I was not phased at the time because I did not know colorism; I just knew it was an odd comment to make. Unbeknownst to the lady, let’s call her Sarah Jane for the sake of this article, I did not come to America to find a husband or even love, I came to America to find purpose. Growing up in the U.K. in a working-class family, I spent most of my childhood inside my head questioning my purpose in this lifetime, trying to overcome the emotional struggle of feeling like I’m on the outside looking into a world where I didn’t belong. These thoughts made me introspective, constantly seeking internal peace and adopting mindful tactics to overcome the negative self-talk that was dominant in my mind. It made me open to new experiences. I survived many of life’s painful lessons, each lesson causing me to dig deeper seeking to understand my path and purpose. Coming to America, was part of that quest. Moving here for work, I grabbed the opportunity to seek fulfillment in a different land. I immediately got involved to help as much as I can to address the racial disparities in Minnesota. This work gave me a tremendous sense of fulfillment – a sense of purpose and a strong sense of belonging as I worked with many people from
Eric Holder
Sylvia Bartley all walks of life to help address the issues we were all passionate about. Using my skills, working pro bono to help Black children receive a high-quality education, to support imperatives focused on improving the health and wellness of Black women and the economic status of the Black community was work I felt compelled to do for the betterment of my community. I was also forced to address my emotional health while living in Minnesota. It reached its peak, letting me know I could not ignore or try to suppress it anymore, to the point where I felt I was not going to make it – this time. I had work to do. I doubled down on my mindful practices. I sought regular counsel from a phenomenal Black female psychologist. My belief in a higher power, in a plan greater than me, was stronger than ever. My spiritual awareness supported me through this very dark time in my life. Through this work, I surrendered. I named my depression, denied it no longer and started the process of healing. Once I surrendered, I am finding myself more in alignment with my path and purpose. I am open to receiving what the universe has in store
for me. As a result, I’m the happiest and more at peace than ever before. I’m intentional about every aspect of my life aligning with my values and life’s purpose. Working for a Minnesota-based mission company in a leadership role aligns completely with my values and hence gives me a sense of fulfillment. The lifelong friends I found in Minnesota are precious and are people who equally align with my values. And yes, Sarah Jane, you were correct. I did not find a husband. I found the love of my life, my wife, Dr. Reba Peoples, who is equally passionate about community. Our union is divine; it is one of love and purpose. We were brought together to support each other’s spiritual growth, to partner on our quest for internal fulfillment and to double down together on our desire to enhance the emotional health of the Black community. Minnesota has opened my eyes to American Black history and the reasons behind the different types of cancers that still exist in our community. It has shown me the strength, beauty, and resilience of Black America and what possible when all people, irrespective of their background,
come together to address the racial disparities between Black and white people. Minnesota provided me with the space and opportunities to more closely align with my purpose. I’m eternally grateful to Minnesota and all the people I have grown to love during my time in the beloved Twin Cities. Dr. Sylvia Bartley, a senior global director for the Medtronic Foundation, is well known for her community work in the Twin Cities and her voice on KMOJ radio. She was recently listed in Great Britain’s Powerlist 2020, of the top 100 most influential Black people in the U.K. The Powerlist included The Duchess of Sussex, Megan Markel, and actor Idris Elba. She was also named as one of Pollen Minnesota’s 2019 50 over 50. Bartley recently moved to Atlanta with her wife Reba but is still connected, committed and invested in the Twin Cities community. Her book “Turning the Tide: Neuroscience, Spirituality and My Path Toward Emotional Health” outlines the links between our brains and our souls while inspiring readers to change the world with that knowledge.
Upper Harbor will enrich the wealthy, gentrify the Northside By Alexis Pennie Earlier this year, the Minneapolis City Council voted to approve the Upper Harbor Terminal (UHT) Concept plan — which features a private concert venue and hotel, less parkland and river access than originally called for, and less opportunity for community revitalization — and five amendments to the concept plan. These amendments were items that community members helped draft and were the result of a broad coalition of Northside residents, anti-displacement and environmental activists coming together to strengthen language in the concept plan. This broad coalition pressured elected officials to amend the concept plan to utilize a racial equity framework to help guide redevelopment
Alexis Pennie policies at this site, include community ownership opportunities, incorporate
environmental standards, implement anti-displacement strategies and provide power-
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Toki Wright named chair of Berklee’s Professional Music Department
PAGE 4
sharing opportunities in the next phases of planning. The City of Minneapolis is moving quickly to go from the approved UHT Concept Plan to a Coordinated Plan and has designated a self-imposed timeline of March 2020 to approve the Coordinated Plan. The planning process and Collaborative Planning Committee (CPC) appointed earlier this year that are assisting in guiding us from the Concept Plan to the Coordinated Plan were supposed to provide meaningful community engagement and authentic opportunities for residents to review and discuss several alternative development proposals or options. The CPC has not had the opportunity to create or evaluate a single alternative development scenario. The City of
UPPER HARBOR 4
Former attorney general under president Barack Obama, Eric Holder, will keynote the annual Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Holiday Breakfast. One of the largest celebrations honoring the late Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr., the breakfast, which takes place at 7 a.m., Jan. 20 at the Armory, 500 S. 6th St., Minneapolis, will also feature music by gospel star Jovonta Patton. The announcement of Holder as keynote comes amid speculation he may enter the 2020 Democratic race for president. Holder, who served as the nation’s attorney general from 2009-2015 and is the first Black to serve as attorney general, is currently the chairman of the National Democratic Redistricting Committee. In March he ruled out a run for the presidency, but his name reentered the fray earlier this month when Pulitzer Prize winning journalist Eugene Robinson said he had credible sources saying Holder was again exploring a run. The breakfast has in the past featured several prominent world
Meda CEO Alfredo Martel The Metropolitan Economic Development Association (Meda) announced Alfredo Martel will be the organization’s next president and chief executive officer. “As the son of Cuban entrepreneurs, I am honored to build on the proud legacy of this important institution,” said Martel. “Meda has a remarkable history of fostering economic empowerment and advancing the success of minority entrepreneurs, and we are solidly poised for purposeful innovations in serving our clients. I look forward to partnering with Meda’s donors, supporters and client communities – as well as our experienced and dedicated staff and board – to build economic bridges for generations to come.” With more than 30 years of international business development, community development, multicultural marketing and entrepreneurship experience, Martel will follow Gary Cunningham, who stepped down as Meda’s president and CEO to work with Prosperity Now in Washington, D.C. Martel has held high-level executive positions at several major companies, including Caribou Coffee, KFC and Yum! Brands, Inc. Prior to leading Meda, he worked as chief of marketing and strategic communication at the Walker
Eric Holder to keynote 30th annual MLK Breakfast figures as keynotes. They include Sen. Cory Booker – a current Democratic presidential candidate, former Massachusetts Gov. Duval Patrick, attorney and Bill Clinton operative, Vernon Jordan, journalist Don Lemon, the actor who portrayed King in the movie “Selma,” David Oyelowo, civil rights icon Myrlie Evers-Williams and political strategist and commentator Donna Brazile. With more the 2,000 attendees annually, the beneficiary of the breakfast are area students. The celebration supports the United Negro College Fund (UNCF), which provides scholarships to young learners to both historically Black colleges and universities (HBCUs) and predominately white institutions. Tickets for the Jan. 20 event are $25 of an individual seat (no table, light breakfast) and $50 for a table-seated breakfast. Tickets are available online at www. mlkbreakfast.com.
Alfredo Martel named Meda president and CEO Art Center in Minneapolis. Martel earned his Bachelor of Science in Communications from Cornell University and his MBA from Boston College. Hailing from Puerto Rico, he is the son of Cuban exiles who left that country in 1959. He is the former Chairman of the Board for The Brand Lab, a non-profit diversity in marketing organization. He also served as a board member of The Walker Art Center where he led the Diversity, Equity & Inclusion task force. “We are thrilled to have Alfredo Martel join Meda as our next CEO,” said Meda Board Chairperson Barbara Butts Williams. “His vision, passion and commitment to developing and supporting successful minority enterprises – combined with his keen business experience, legacy of innovation, highly engaging and purpose-centric approach – will drive continued growth and economic vitality for our clients and their communities. The board of directors looks forward to working with Mr. Martel and the talented leadership team at Meda as this 48-year-old organization begins another exciting chapter.”
Health
Help for expectant and new moms experiencing depression, anxiety
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Page 4 • November 25, 2019 - December 1, 2019 • Insight News
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Toki Wright named chair of Berklee’s Professional Music Department Toki Wright has been named chair of Berklee’s Professional Music Department. As an acclaimed MC, producer, writer, radio host, arts diplomat and community organizer, Wright was named the second assistant chair in the department’s history in July 2018. Wright assumed the position of chair on Nov. 1. “We are fortunate to have Toki Wright as the new chair of the Professional Music Department,” said Darla Hanley, dean of the Professional Education Division. “Toki brings a unique perspective as an experienced educator, administrator, hip-hop artist, producer, community leader, and media personality. Our department is all about pursuing multiple professional interests, and Toki is a fantastic role model of that for our students.” Wright’s work at McNally Smith College of Music created the country’s first fully accredited hip-hop studies program, which received the Best Transformative Higher
Learning Model award from the Hip-Hop Education Center at New York University. As a community organizer, Wright led the youth nonprofit organization Yo! The Movement, facilitating seven Twin Cities Celebration of Hip-Hop festivals and other community actions. He also helped establish HipHop at H.E.A.L.S., teaching performance to former child soldiers in Gulu, Uganda and promoting the careers of hiphop artists in Croatia and Sierra Leone. “Coming to Berklee in 2018 became a turning point in my journey navigating through the worlds of music, education, community development, policy, and media,” said Wright. “When my former institution closed, Berklee took on the incredible role of accepting the transfer of many students who were left with few options to complete their educational journey. It displayed not only the power of Berklee, but also its willingness to help students in need.”
As a musician, Wright has released albums through his imprint, Soul Tools Entertainment, and the historic Rhymesayers Entertainment label, and has performed at events such as Coachella and Rock the Bells. He has toured and collaborated with acts such as Atmosphere, Brother Ali, the late Sean Price, Talib Kweli, BJ the Chicago Kid, Caroline Smith, P.O.S., G Yamazawa, and others. A two-time Emmy Award winner, Wright cocurated the two-time CLIO Award–winning and Cannes Lions–nominated “Watch the Stove” mixtape for Hamburger Helper/General Mills, one of the biggest viral marketing campaigns of 2016. Wright also created “Soul Tools Radio” on KFAI-FM in Minneapolis in 2013 and hosts “Wright About Now” on American Public Media’s The Current. He hosts several arts and music events, writes for Insight News, and is a judge for NPR’s Tiny Desk Contest.
Toki Wright
What’s at stake in Byron Allen’s supreme court showdown with Comcast Commentary by Maurita Coley President and CEO of the Multicultural Media, Telecom, and Internet Council The U.S. Supreme Court heard arguments in a suit between Comcast and Byron Allen, a prominent African-American programming executive. What began as a fairly routine television carriage dispute has turned into risky gambit that may give the court’s conservative majority an opportunity to roll back fundamental civil rights protections. The lawsuit arose out of Comcast’s decision several years ago not to carry several Allen-owned television channels, such as Pets.TV and Recipe.TV. Comcast has argued its rejection of Allen’s channels was purely a business decision, reflecting what it viewed as the channels’ limited audience appeal. Allen then promptly filed a $20 billion lawsuit against Comcast, alleging that the company’s refusal to contract with Allen’s company
was racially motivated, in violation of Section 1981 of the Civil Rights Act of 1866. District Court Judge Terry Hatter – a well-respected African-American judge with an apparently strong record on civil rights – dismissed the case three times, finding that Allen had not established a plausible argument that Comcast would have contracted with his company “but for” Allen’s race. Allen appealed to the 9th Circuit, which remanded Judge Hatter’s dismissal with a new guideline to the lower court that a plaintiff can state a viable claim under Section 1981 if discriminatory intent plays any role in a defendant’s decision not to contract, regardless of whether race discrimination was a “but for” cause of that decision. Comcast petitioned the Supreme Court to review the 9th Circuit’s decision, and the Supreme Court agreed. Carriage disputes between cable operators like Comcast, and programming content providers like Allen, are exceedingly common. In my more than 30 years in the industry, I’ve represented both sides – networks seeking
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Given Allen’s huge success as an African American businessman, these channels cannot be so important to him that it’s worth placing all of our civil rights at risk. distribution and distributors seeking content – and in the early days of cable, I even represented minority-owned distributors such as Barden Cablevision of Detroit, and minority-owned programmers such as Black Entertainment Television. In my experience, this
Comcast-Allen case doesn’t fit the usual framework for a race discrimination case. As best I can surmise, Allen’s channels are not ethnically or culturally diverse; he claimed the alleged race discrimination was that, “but for” the fact that his channels are Black-owned, his channels
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would have been carried because Comcast was already carrying similar white-owned food and pet-themed channels. His suit rejected Comcast’s defense that its decision not to carry his channels was not racially motivated, saying that it had other non-racial reasons, such as better ratings, higher-quality programming, or other business considerations for not carrying the channels owned by Allen. In any event, the parties were not able to resolve their content carriage dispute, and now this case, which started as a private contract dispute, now puts at risk the civil rights enjoyed by all Americans, because a conservative Supreme Court majority hostile to civil rights has a chance to fundamentally re-examine Section 1981. The court will get to decide – not just for this case, but in a precedent that will impact all future discrimination cases – whether a plaintiff must prove that intentional race discrimination was the decisive factor in a decision (the “but for” standard of proof), or whether race just needs to be one factor in the decision (the 9th Circuit’s “mixed motive” standard, which civil rights leaders strongly support). If the Supreme Court gets to decide this case, it seems very likely that – at a minimum – the court will choose the “but for” standard that is currently used in most jurisdictions outside the 9th Circuit. That would be a major setback to the civil rights community’s advocacy for establishing nationwide the 9th Circuit’s broader “motivating factor” standard. It’s even conceivable that this conservative Supreme Court could go even farther, exploiting the facts of Allen’s private contract claim to justify an even
Upper Harbor From 3 Minneapolis, United Properties, and First Avenue are not working to advance the public’s interests and instead seek to allow private interests to take the lead and reap the majority of the benefits on publicly-owned property and enrich one of the wealthiest families in the nation, the Pohlad family. Moreover, the city cites that its number one state bonding priority for the 2020 legislative session is a $20 million request for public bonds to finance a privatelyoperated concert venue at UHT. This venue will be operated by First Avenue and is unlikely to yield many living-wage jobs. Taxpayers are being asked to subsidize a project that makes a few wealthy people wealthier while not delivering livingwage jobs, affordable housing, or economic inclusion. City leaders should be required to explain to Northside residents why the city is choosing a private development scheme, abandoning its commitment
more regressive outcome by applying the “but for” standard in EEO retaliation, fair housing, voting rights, or other claims. Civil rights groups such as NAACP have jumped into this case, filing amicus briefs that seek to convince the court not to embrace the “but for” standard. What I suggest now is that the civil rights groups try to persuade both parties to help get us out of this precarious place in history. To do that, it’s essential that Allen withdraw his $20 billion lawsuit, and that Comcast withdraw its petition for certiorari to the U.S. Supreme Court. Given Allen’s huge success as an African-American businessman, these channels cannot be so important to him that it’s worth placing all of our civil rights at risk. Likewise, Comcast, which ranks No. 2 on Fortune’s list of 100 best workplaces for diversity and has one of the strongest records of programming diversity in the industry, should demonstrate those values by withdrawing its petition for Supreme Court review if Allen also agrees to step back from the ledge. Both parties should close their eyes, take a leap – and hold their noses if they must – but do their part to take this case off the docket of a deeply conservative court. Otherwise we might all find ourselves facing an uncertain future, stripped of key civil rights protections. No contract or channel is worth the risk. The op-ed was first published in the Morning Consult on Nov. 13. Maurita Coley, a veteran communications attorney and former executive at BET Networks, serves as president and CEO of the Multicultural Media, Telecom, and Internet Council.
to equity, and how this project came about with wealthy developers at the forefront, not community vision. This city-owned site offers much more opportunity to shape development and set the tone for the rest of the Northside riverfront. UHT is what sets the tone for what the Northside riverfront will be and who it will be for. If the city truly cared about equity, it would have approached UHT as a community development project, not a real-estate development project. The next wave of land sales and redevelopments are likely to be private transactions over which city control is limited. Trying to address gentrification, displacement, and racial disparities through those private developments will be expensive and ineffective. Now is the time to address concerns and the city is wasting the opportunity. Alexis Pennie is a Northside resident, University of Minnesota - Twin Cities alumni, and serves on the City of Minneapolis’ Upper Harbor Terminal Collaborative Planning Committee as chair.
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Insight News • November 25, 2019 - December 1, 2019 • Page 5
Walz makes appointments to two advisory councils focused on children Gov. Tim Walz appointed members to the Children’s Cabinet Advisory Council and the State Advisory Council on Early Childhood Education and Care. In addition to the nine appointments made by the governor, four members of the Minnesota legislature, two from the House of Representatives and two from the Senate, sit on the State Advisory Council on Early Childhood Education and Care, along with the Commissioner of the Minnesota Department of Health and the State Head Start Director,
appointed by the Minnesota Department of Education. “Minnesota should be the best place in the country for each and every child to grow up,” said Walz. “When we focus on improving equity and outcomes for our littlest Minnesotans, we lift up all of us. I am grateful for the service of these leaders – representing youth, teachers and schools, researchers, counties and tribes, and leaders of many walks of life.” “Too often, race, zip code, and income determine the trajectory of our kids’ lives,” said
Gov. Tim Walz
Toni Carter
Lt. Gov. Flanagan. “This council – made up of parents, advocates, teachers, school districts, county
and tribal administrators, leaders and voices from the private and
public sector, communities of color, and Greater Minnesota – will help our charge to place children at the center of government and commit to prioritizing equitable outcomes so that all Minnesotans can reach their full potential.” Both Walz and Flanagan said extensive outreach and conversation went into the appointment process for these positions over the last three months, with nearly 200 people applying to serve.
“I am very encouraged by the governor’s commitment to children and youth in Minnesota, and I am honored to be a part of the Children’s Cabinet so we can make transformative change in the lives of children,” said Wahi, executive director of Children’s Defense Fund – Minnesota and appointee to the Children’s Cabinet Advisory Council. “No child’s opportunity to actualize their fullest potential should be determined by their geography,
WALZ 6
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Page 6 • November 25, 2019 - December 1, 2019 • Insight News
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Insight 2 Health Help for expectant and new moms experiencing depression, anxiety For Hennepin Healthcare, breaking ground on the Redleaf Center for Family Healing means healing and hope are just ahead for Twin Cities’ moms, babies and families. About one in seven mothers experience depression and anxiety during and after pregnancy, according to Dr. Helen Kim, medical director for the Mother-Baby Program and co-founder of the Redleaf Center. Without treatment, the impact on a mother’s mental health can be devastating – and sometimes fatal. It can affect the entire family – including future generations. The Redleaf Center will expand on the space and services of Hennepin Healthcare’s Mother-Baby Program. The program is Minnesota’s first intensive mental health program for pregnant and postpartum moms. The Redleaf Center will support families through services that nurture the mind, body and spirit – from comprehensive mental health and relationship support to on-site childcare, integrative medicine, a teaching kitchen, gathering space and more. “When a new mother is dealing with severe depression or anxiety – at this critical time in her baby’s physical, emotional and cognitive development – she may be unable to provide the care and attention her infant needs,” said Kim. “That’s why the Redleaf Center is so vital for children’s and families’ well-being.” The groundbreaking ceremony drew leaders from health care, the community and local government, including Hennepin County Commissioner Marion Greene, District 3.
Families who have benefited from the Mother-Baby Program also attended the ceremony. The Center is a $30 million endeavor initiated by a $10 million donation from the Lynne & Andrew Redleaf Foundation. The ceremony took a moment to publicly announce a new gift of $2.25 million from the Pohlad family. “The Redleaf Center is at the heart of Hennepin Healthcare’s investment in the health of our community, and it is only possible because of our donors’ transformational gifts,” said Theresa Pesch, president of Hennepin Healthcare Foundation. “Their compassionate and visionary philanthropy means that more moms across the Twin Cities will get the support they need to raise strong families. And we all know that strong families are the bedrock of strong communities.” The groundbreaking took place on Hennepin Healthcare’s Minneapolis campus, at the future site of the new 9,000-square-foot facility. It will be connected to Hennepin Healthcare’s HCMC Purple Building on the corner of Chicago Avenue and Sixth Street. “We see all kinds of moms – from across the Twin Cities – struggling to cope,” added Kim. “Treatment and care make a dramatic difference in the way they are able to connect with and care for their infants and themselves. It is absolutely lifechanging. And soon we will be able to help many more families grow stronger together with the service and treatments they need.” Redleaf Center building construction is expected to be completed in November of 2020.
The Redleaf Center for Family Healing, to be built on Hennepin Healthcare’s downtown Minneapolis campus, will offer mental health and relationship support to moms and families, on-site childcare, a teaching kitchen and more. The groundbreaking ceremony took place Nov. 13.
Obesity among Black women remains high By Darcie Ortique Betty Busby, 55, has struggled with her weight since high school. “It’s in my genes to be chubby, and I have always thanked God that I have a man that loves my shape,” she said. “He still thinks I’m sexy with my small waistline, big hips and thighs. I will be forever grateful for that.” However, Busby’s significant other has been upset – and sometimes frustrated – with her recent drop in weight and size of her hips. “I’m attempting to improve my health by dieting and exercising,” Busby explained. She is under a diet regimen and is taking medication for high cholesterol and hypertension after feeling the pain of extra lower-body weight. “I sometimes get annoyed because he is constantly (overseeing) my meals and complains about the difference in hip size.” African-American women are reportedly more susceptible to being overweight or obese than any other race. The U.S. Department of Health and Human Services Office of Minority Health has reported that roughly four out of five African-American women are either overweight or suffering from obesity. This statistic has a lot to do with the long-standing history of the African-American culture, socioeconomic status, stress, and dietary habits that have been passed down from one generation to another. Some will argue that there are a number of cultural barriers that may also challenge or prevent many African-American women from
Walz From 5 economic status or race. I am ready to dig into the work.” “I am excited to see
iStockphoto/NNPA
Today, there is still a disproportionate ratio between the height of most African American women and their weight which is how body mass index is measured. exercising regularly. Surgeon General Regina Benjamin stated in an interview for the Chicago Tribune, “Oftentimes you get women saying, ‘I can’t exercise today because of my hair or get my hair wet.’” For some, there’s a trade-off between preserving heat-required hairstyles and physical fitness and research suggests that misplaced vanity is at the root of the problem. According to the Washington Post, the poll revealed that “although Black women are (generally) heavier than their white counterparts, they report having appreciably higher levels of self-esteem. That figure was 66 percent among Black women considered by government standards overweight or obese.” Research like this also
suggests that, as a culture, the majority of African-American women see no harm in being too vain to take accountability for their health. The 1992 hit, “Baby Got Back,” by Sir Mixa-Lot, highlighted the fact that many Black men embrace full-figured black women, despite contrary beliefs. Dr. Richard White, a physician specializing in internal medicine and research at the Mayo Clinic in Jacksonville, Fla., has studied the correlation between health literacy and the effect is has on chronic health disease and obesity in underserved communities. “It’s really going to require the African-American community to come together as a unit to really say, ‘you know what? this is our health
as a community, this is something that we’re going to take the initiative and interest to improve ourselves and not necessarily rely on outside or external forces to try and make it happen for us,” White said. He encourages his African-American patients to take a personal inventory of their lives and take accountability for the foods they are consuming and the decisions they make regarding physical activity. “I think we can create in our community a mentality that this is something that we don’t have to accept,” said White. “We have the collective energy as a community and as a culture to push back and to really make changes.” In most AfricanAmerican gatherings and
celebrations, food is the highlight of the event and often sought out as the most important. The problem is that calorie-dense foods that are rich in flavor – but lack vital nutrients – are usually presented as a way of fellowship with little to no portion control. “The thing that I really feel passionate about is empowering, particularly our African-American community to really understand the influences that have been propagated from across the culture that have led to poor health outcomes,” White said. “There’s a social injustice that’s being propagated towards us as a community.” Researchers speculate whether this may be the first generation to not outlive their parents, considering the alarming numbers of obese
the insights and opinions of others on what they can change or improve the lives of kids and young people like me,” said Eubanks, a high school student at St. Paul Conservatory for Performing Arts and appointee to the Children’s
Cabinet
– White Bear Lake, Megan Gunnar Dahlberg – Roseville, Lynn Haglin – Duluth, Kelly Holstine – St. Paul, Keenan Jones – Maple Grove, Nicole Kern – Sartell, Patina Parks – Minneapolis, Rebecca Shlafer – Minnetonka, Andrea Singh
– Apple Valley, Leroy Staples Fairbanks – Cass Lake and Bharti Wahi – Minneapolis. Appointed to the State Advisory Council on Early Childhood Education and Care are Laurie Coleman – Erskine, Barb Fabre – Ogema, Anna
Advisory Council. Appointed to the Children’s Cabinet Advisory Council are Hufsa Ahmed – St. Paul, Toni Carter – St. Paul, Kelvin Currington – Brooklyn Center, Jazzy Eubanks – Brooklyn Park, Fanny Fernandez
children, who later become obese adults. There is a psychological approach to preventing obesity and it is the responsibility of the parent(s) to have candid discussions about what children should put into their bodies and what foods are important to consume in moderation. The U.S. Department of Health and Human Services Office conducted a study in 2015 that revealed African-American women were 60 percent more likely to be obese than nonHispanic White women. Today, there is still a disproportionate ratio between the height of most African American women and their weight which is how body mass index is measured. “If you look at a lot of those commercials for fast food industries, you will see they’re specifically targeting AfricanAmerican communities and it’s sad, but it’s something that we as a culture, have sort of allowed to happen,” White explained. “These industries are multibillion-dollar industries for a reason because we continue to give them our dollars.” According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Black women had the highest percentage of fast food consumption at 42.9 percent versus 36.3 percent of white women and 35.8 percent of Latino females. In addition to proper nutrition, exercise is a key component to combat obesity and other cardiovascular complications. The U.S. National Library of Medicine reported only 36 percent of adult African-American women achieve the national physical activity guidelines for aerobic activity.
Gruber – Staples, Daniel Guit – Lauderdale, Dianne Haulcy – St. Paul, Michelle Keleny – Roseville, Jennifer Mueller – Monticello, Aaron Sojourner – Minneapolis and Jodi Wambeke – Sunburg.
insightnews.com
Insight News • November 25, 2019 - December 1, 2019 • Page 7
Vulnerability celebrated in published anthology ‘What God is Honored Here?’ By Abeni Hill The anthology “What God is Honored Here?” explores the power and bravery in vulnerability and creating a safe space for a narrative that isn’t at the forefront. The book discusses the emotional depth and broad spectrum of emotions and perspectives when a miscarriage or infant loss occurs in the lives of Native women and women of color. Co-editors and authors Shannon Gibney and Kao Kalia Yang collaborated on this recent book project because they saw a lack of representation when seeking answers to why they had lost their babies. Yang had a miscarriage of her child, Baby Jules. Gibney went through a stillbirth with her first daughter, Baby Sianneh. “I was looking everywhere I could think to look for real and meaningful writings about these experiences as Black
woman and women of color,” said Gibney. “It was a vacuum. I couldn’t find anything.” Before the book project, the authors were friends and familiar with each other’s work. After years of processing their experiences and both women having more children, Gibney and Yang decided to document their stories, as well as create space for narratives like theirs. “It forces a simple reality (that) women of color feel,” said Yang, referencing the importance of the anthology. The author mentioned the Black Lives Matter movement, a blackcentered political movement sparked by the murder of 17year old Trayvon Martin and founded by three Black women, as part of this reality. “Every feeling a mother has felt when their children have been taken away from them; this is how deeply we feel,” said Yang. The collection of essays featured 24 contributors
from all over the country aside from Gibney and Yang. “All these women had been waiting for an opportunity like this to come up,” said Yang, reflecting on what she found the
Roseville in Bloom seeks artists Artists are being sought for a project to show the world that Roseville is in bloom. Recognizing the success of statue events around the world such as the “Cows” in Europe and Chicago, the “Peanuts on Parade” characters in St. Paul (drawing over 2 million people during a 5 year summer run), and the “Donkeys and Elephants” in Washington, D.C., Visit Roseville has commissioned TivoliToo, the company that created the “Peanuts on Parade,” to create 20 seven-foot tall Rose statues in a promotion called “Roseville in Bloom.” The roses will be on display throughout the city from June through September 2020 and planned community events, contests and social media campaigns hope to bring thousands of new visitors to the Roseville next summer.
Rainbow Blend Blossom
Visit Roseville is seeking Minnesota artists to design a statue a piece. Artists Adam Turman and Christopher Straub have each signed on to design a rose and Visit Roseville is looking for 18 more artists. The artist stipend is $2,000 and that does include the artist›s materials. The project is open to amateur and professional artists.
Visit Roseville will provide maps, website, contests, postcards mailed for free, and mini statue paint-offs in the parks and/or at Rosedale pending final statue locations. More information about the project is available online www.visitroseville.com/ roseville-in-bloom.
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most memorable part of creating the anthology. “The level of intimacy these women have shared with me and the world is amazing,” said Gibney. “The trust and
vulnerability these women have and gave to us is such as honor as an editor.” Yang said some of the contributors expressed their need to take their time with their pieces because they had to relive their trauma. During the book launch event at St. Catherine’s University in mid-October, some contributors were overcome with emotion and started to cry while reading excerpts from their pieces. “There were moments I really felt held up by all these women,” said Gibney recalling the event. She said she provided support for her fellow writers during the book’s creation and felt supported when she read her excerpt at one of the book launch events. “I wept and all these women just held me,” said Gibney. Gibney identifies as a Black woman who is also biracial as well as a transracial adoptee. Transracial is intersectionality of someone having a racial identity
or experiences that differs from the one of which they were born. For example, when a child is adopted by someone outside of his or her race. This can create a unique and isolating experience for the adoptee because that adoptee does not know the specific social and cultural norms within the race they were assigned at birth. Gibney was adopted by white parents in 1975. Like her young adult fiction novel, “See No Color,” most if not all of her creative and scholarly work draws from her transracial adoption experience and the dynamics of identity, race, gender, class, and family. Yang is a HmongAmerican author who published her first book, “The Latehomercomer: A Hmong Family Memoir” in 2009. The novel follows her family’s journey to America as they escaped genocide in Laos. Yang was born in a refugee camp in Thailand and her family came to America in 1987.
Page 8 • November 25, 2019 - December 1, 2019 • Insight News
insightnews.com
Bobby Rush plays the Dakota this Wednesday
Chance to witness a living legend perform Blues great Bobby Rush is coming to the Dakota. Rush will be performing a solo show this Wednesday (Nov. 27) at 7 p.m. at the Dakota, 1010 Nicollet Mall, Minneapolis. Dakota audiences have been treated to Rush in the past, but this time around, it will get to hear the singer and musician on the mic and guitar. Rush, who is currently featured in the blockbuster Netflix movie, “Dolemite,” starring Eddie Murphy, has a long and illustrious career in music.
A 2017 Grammy Award winner for Best Traditional Blues Album for his album, “Porcupine Meat,” Rush garnered new fans with the acclaimed documentary “Take Me to the River,” a film dedicated to exploring the storied Memphis music scene. Rush, A Blues Hall of Fame artist, is a staple of the music that came out of Memphis, recording for labels that included the legendary Stax Records and Chess Records. Following the success of the documentary, Rush teamed with other artists, including hip-hop artist Frayser
Boy, an Academy Award winner and also featured in “Take Me to the River,” on a national tour. “Sitting on Top of the Blues” is Rush’s 26th studio album and astonishing 75th release overall. Defying age, Rush, 86, tours constantly, averaging more than 200 shows a year. Tickets for Wednesday’s show are $30-$40 and available online at www. dakotacooks.com/event/bobbyrush or by calling (612) 3325299.
Bill Steber
Bobby Rush
1970s throwback, Lenora — helping fans to ‘Relax’ with her music By Stacy M. Brown NNPA Newswire Correspondent @StacyBrownMedia Chelsea Lenora White – simply Lenora to her family and fans – is proving herself to be one of the most exciting rising singers in the music industry. The Houston-based crooner has released, “Relax,” a smooth tune with a languid feel that gives listeners a carefree, letting go, sensual experience. Lenora’s “Relax” counts as a throwback to the 1970s with enough appeal to make lasting impressions throughout the next decade. “Just relax,” Lenora sings on the track. “You could do it if you put your mind to it.” By every definition, Lenora is a throwback. For “Relax,” she introduces an alter-ego, “Suga’ Love,” an afro-wearing Foxy Brown-like character whose looks underscore the fadhappy decade of the 1970s. “I’m a ’90s baby, but at heart, I’m like a child of the ’70s. That era of music heavily
influences me,” said the artist. While the ’70s is known for the lack of boundaries, Lenora understands that modern-day artists are under more of a microscope, mostly because of social media. “I’m cautious. I love that era of music, but it always has to be fresh and new,” Lenora said. “Even with the cover art we use for the single, I thought was tasteful.” In the cover art, Lenora is in her underwear, but unlike the penchant today to photograph sexy women in thongs and G-strings, she’s decked out in full bottom briefs. She’s also facing away from the camera, so only the back of her bra is revealed. It’s just another way in which Lenora gets her message across for people to “Relax.” “I draw a parallel between blue cheese and ranch,” Lenora said regarding the line she chooses not to cross when displaying such sensuality in her music. “A lot of people don’t like blue cheese, but I love blue cheese. But ranch is agreeable to everyone. So, with ‘Relax’ I was like okay; this record is like
For “Relax,” Lenora introduces an alter-ego, “Suga’ Love,” an afro-wearing Foxy Brown-like character whose looks underscore the fad-happy decade of the 1970s. my ranch dressing. Everybody can get on board with this.” Lenora and her team, which includes the influential Houston-based producers, Beanz n Kornbread, and award-winning songwriter Dustin “Dab” Bowie, wrote the hit single in one hour. Lenora said she just so happened to be in the same studio as Bowie one night, and she eventually played some music for him. It was a Saturday night in Los Angeles, Lenora explained. A flight she had scheduled to leave two days later
was delayed, so Lenora returned to the studio, and that’s where she and Bowie co-wrote “Relax.” Already, the song has touched listeners in ways Lenora found surprising. “I feel like music is therapy, music is escapism. I always hope my music will heal and provide therapy,” Lenora noted. “A girl told me that the song saved her life. She said that in the song, I remind people to breathe. Some people’s lives are so hectic that they want something for themselves to
be able to get away even if they can’t afford to get away physically, the music can provide some of that escapism for them.” Lenora started singing in kindergarten and has wowed audiences from her church to local venues in Houston and on into college where she’s classically trained, in opera. Thus, it might surprise most who have heard her sing that Lenora went through a period of selfdoubt and stopped performing. “I think it was like six years that I didn’t put music out. It was 2017 when I finally started singing again,” Lenora said. After a self-imposed hiatus, Lenora returned to the spotlight for a special performance in Washington, D.C. She belted out a Diana Ross tune, “Reach Out and Touch (Somebody’s Hand)” during the enshrinement ceremony of her late grandmother and former Houston Forward Times publisher, Lenora “Doll” Carter. The ceremony inducted Carter into the Gallery of Distinguished Black Publishers. “I knew I couldn’t stay away from music,” Lenora stated. “But, I had management
and people telling me to do things that I didn’t necessarily agree with. When I did come back out, I did a performance called ‘Motown and More,’ and it’s a huge deal. There are 40,000 people there over the weekend for that show, and I had never done it before 2017. When I did the audition, they were like, ‘Who are you?’ ‘Where have you been?’ And I realized that this style of music is who I am.” With a hot new single and tens of thousands of followers on social media, Lenora is on the fast track to superstardom. “That Motown show opened doors for me in terms of people knowing what I do. ‘Relax’ is the biggest so far for me, it’s getting a lot of radio play,” said Lenora. “It’s trending in the West Indies and London, and that’s crazy because I’ve never been to any of those places yet. I’m not a brand-new artist, but essentially I am a new artist because I’ve rebranded, I’ve taken a step back.” “Relax” is available on all streaming platforms. Download “Relax” at https:// song.link/relax.
Alexander O’Neal’s Holiday Concert
Second date added!
DEC 18-19
The Vic Volare Lounge Orchestra’s Holiday Party
BoDeans
DEC 20
DEC 21-22
George Maurer Group: 21st Annual Holiday Show
The Bad Plus
DEC 23
DEC 25-28
New Year’s Eve w/Davina and
Joyann Parker Band
Acclaimed Heartland Rock
Retro-Smooth Sass & Swing
the Vagabonds
Reid Anderson | Orrin Evans | Dave King ɳ ûƇĭƣÝƇĈ UōƼōĭƇƪɴ Album Release
Passion, Power & Soul
DEC 31
Dinner Show 6pm Cocktail Show 10:30pm
JAN 3
Johnnie Brown & The Sound of Philadelphia
Masters of Hawaiian Music
feat. The Music of The O’Jays Encore Performance!
feat. George Kahumoku Jr., Led Kaapana & Kawika Kahiapo
JAN 4
JAN 15
Bruce Henry: The Music of "ƍŸƇĭž qÝƪƼĈńā
Tina Schlieske Sings Sinatra to Simone
JAN 17
JAN 18
Electrifying Singer & Entertainer
612.332.5299 dakotacooks.com
An Evening of Torch and Swing
1010 Nicollet Mall Minneapolis, MN
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