L.A. Focus Newspaper June 2021

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News Briefs: Celebrities Rally Around Naomi Osaka PAGE

Hollywood Buzz: Taraji P. Henson ‘s Unspoken Curriculum PAGE

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Upfront

Emma Shariff Takes Solid Lead In Compton Mayoral Race As the results of Compton’s June 1st’s general election continue to be counted, Compton City Councilwoman Emma Sharif has taken a commanding lead in her bid to become the city’s next mayor. So far, the 70year-old Sharif has received 56% of the vote against her opponent, the 26-year-old real estate agent Christian Reynaga’s 46%....

Saving Grace: Roland Martin

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contents

June 2021

L.A. Focus Publications

Left: Councilmember Mark Ridley-Thomas and HOPICS multi-disciplinary team members visit Leimert Park restorations; Middle: Supervisor Janice Hahn joins with the Boys and Girls Club of the LA Harbor to celebrate hand out food including the one millionth box, which went to the Ycoy family. Right: County Supervisor Holly Mitchell and Councilman Curren Price commemorate the dedication of the Lillian Mobley Family Housing project.

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4 Commentary

From The Editor Honoring Our Fathers

Taraji P Henson’s Unspoken Curriculum; Honk For Jesus Save Your Soul

One On One

“California Governor’s Recall is Misguided and Dangerous”

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Hollywood Buzz

Chris”Ludacris” Bridges

UpFront Councilwoman Emma Sharif Takes Solid Lead In Compton Mayoral Race; Compton Sues L.A. Sheriff’s Department; Krogers Closes Two Ralphs Locations; Celebrities Rally Around Naomi Osaka; Most Blacks Locked Out of Market as California Median Home Cost Soars Past $800K

13 Red Carpet Style MTV Movie & TV Awards

Eye On Gospel Best In Gospel

8 Headlines From Africa 14 Through The Storm Special Report 9 Money Matters 15 Head to Head

Reflecting on the Tulsa Race Massacre

18 From The Pulpit of 19 In Good Taste 21 Saving Grace 22 Pastor Profile Anthony Pigee, Jr.

New Life Christian Church

Joe Randall

Roland Martin

Dreion: “Ward of the State No More”

Goldman Sachs Launches $10 Billion Initiative to Impact One Million Black Women by 2036

Biz News Briefs

50 Cent to Set Underperforming Kids on Path to Entrepreneurship;USDA To Forgive

On the Money

Music and Misogny:Does Rap Culture Feed Domestic Violence

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Church News

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First Lady Files

The California Boom Is Now A Bust For Blacks

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Cover Story Getting Back to Church and What The Church Will Look Like Post Pandemi

staff

Publisher/Editor-In-Chief Staff Writers Photographer Advertising

Lisa Collins Gerald Bell,,Keith Delawder, Chez’Ney Hadley Ian Foxx Kisha Smith

L.A. Focus–On the Word, is published monthly.

Address all correspondence to: L.A. Focus, 333 W. Florence Ave., Suite C333 Inglewood, CA 90301 • (310) 677-6011 Subscription rates $25.00 per year.

The Church of God In Christ Mourns Evangelist Joyce Rodgers;Bishop T.D. Jakes Says Churches Are Needed to Treat Pandemic Trauma

Teresa Pleasant

Kobe Bryant’s widow, Vanessa Bryant with eldest daughter, Natalia, who donned her Dad’s Hall of Fame jacket ahead of his induction into the Basketball Hall of Fame last month.

honorary advisors West Angeles C.O.G.I.C. City of Refuge Greater Zion Church Family Southern Saint Paul Church Faithful Central Bible Church Mt. Moriah Baptist Church Baptist Minister’s Conference Inglewood Minister’s Association

Bishop Charles Blake Bishop Noel Jones Pastor Michael Fisher Rev. Xavier L. Thompson Bishop Kenneth C. Ulmer Pastor Emeritus Melvin Wade Pastor K.W Tulloss Bishop Robert T. Douglas Sr.

Siebert, Brandford, Shank & Co. Bible Enrichment Fellowship International Church Morgan Stanley Bob Blake & Associates

L.A. Focus/June 2021

advisory board Napoleon Brandford Pastor Beverly Crawford Lem Daniels Bob Blake

Cover Design: UpScale Media Group

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Commentary

CHERYL BROWN Guest Columnist

“California Governor’s Recall is Misguided and Dangerous”

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s an older Californian, I want to commend Governor Gavin Newsom for the work he has accomplished to make us the center of his “California for all” idea. He recognizes California’s population is aging rapidly. According to the California Department of Finance, in just ten years, our state’s population will have nearly twice as many older adults as in 2010. This shift will be felt by all of us- young and old alike, while impacting our economy, our families and our communities. His plan prepares us to meet the needs of this growing population.

For senior citizens, the attempt to recall Governor Gavin Newsom is particularly misguided and even dangerous. For the first time in California’s history, we have a Governor who has prioritized the needs of our aging population.

In June of 2019, Governor Newsom signed Executive Order N-14-19 calling for the creation and development of the California Master Plan for Aging, providing a roadmap for coordinated, system-wide change that equitably uplifts older adults, people with disabilities, and their family caregivers. In this time of urgent need, the Master Plan is a once-in-a-generation opportunity to boldly advance solutions over the next 10 years.

One of the most important parts of the plan is the Equity portion. The racial, disability, income, immigration status, language, religion/faith, sex, gender identity, sexual orientation and family status included looking at those issues through an equity lens. As the plan was developed it was carefully making sure equity was “baked in not sprinkled on”.

Equity requires strategies to equalize resources and opportunities. His plan notes that strengths and assets of each community must be highlighted to help us move in culturally inclusive ways. Systemic racism can only be eliminated through systemic solutions.

Recommendations must be very specific and about the communities they are addressing. Terms like Communities of color or generic language weakens and takes power away from the group who has been systemically underrepresented. Included in his plan are a set of equity questions that guide staff and volunteers in making recommendations.

Over the years, our aging population has suffered greatly from the lack of attention to their needs - whether poverty, lack of access to affordable housing, lack of transportation alternatives, lack of access to affordable in-home care, food insecurity, and workforce shortages, among others. Negative stereotypes and fears of aging have historically pushed aging issues into the background of societal discourse. The COVID-19 pandemic has magnified long-standing systemic problems that for

From the Editor

years have been neglected. This has been found to be true across the country, with other states facing similar challenges.

California’s Master Plan has the potential to re-imagine aging affecting how society thinks about, plans for and responds with equity and inclusion to the needs of a diverse aging population that has often been forgotten.

Many said it would be impossible to accomplish in California, but today there is hope for meaningful reform, because of Governor Newsom. The Scan Foundation documented that he put his money where his mouth is. This year included in his budget is the funding needed for many of the programs.

During these difficult times, the Master Plan provides a critical template for a better life for all Californians, not only for our older generations — but for all of us — to age with dignity and justice.

As Governor Newsom has noted, California’s demographics are shifting, and older adults are the fastestgrowing population group. All of us, young and old alike, share a stake in planning for our future. A Master Plan that enables older Californians to age well at home, with innovative solutions to address isolation and loneliness, enriches all our communities.

Recalling Governor Newsom is a futile effort grounded in misguided political animosity. Our state needs real, bold leadership. This is no time to jeopardize progress for older Californians by recalling the only Governor who has recognized this issue and taken action.

Older Californians should reject this recall which distracts us from the necessary work at-hand.

Cheryl Brown is a former memver of the Caliornia Assembly (47th District 2012-2016) and Chair of the Aging and Long-Term Care Committee.

LISA COLLINS Publisher

“Honoring Our Fathers”

L.A. Focus/June 2021

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y dad rarely speaks of the things he has accomplished, except to reflect in one moment or another on a memory that was triggered by an event, statement or something he saw on television.

In many cases, he has stood on the precipice of history, whether as a famed Tuskegee Airman or at the side of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr., for whom he served as West Coast executive director of what was then known as the Western Christian Leadership Conference andwas responsible–along with the famed Xernona Clayton–for raising millions in the struggle for civil rights.

Because of all he did we grew up in a home where our phones were tapped and if Dr. King was in Los Angeles, our house was under watch and my Dad and his pastor friends were shadowed by law enforcement officials.

He counted among his close allies–former Ambassador Andrew Young, Gilbert Lindsay, a City Hall janitor who worked his way up to becoming the city's first black City Council member and Tom Bradley, L.A. first black mayor, who also just happened to be a high school classmate of his.

My Dad was a man that let very few of his talents go to waste, including a great singing voice that early on landed him in local choruses and as the associate minister, under my grandfather, led to beautiful Sunday morning solos. When two years ago, he was asked to be a special guest at a ceremony posthumously honoring the life of Jessie Robinson, the first Black woman songwriter to be admitted to the American Society of Composers, Authors and Publishers, ASCAP, he had forgotten that she had dedicated one of her songs to him.

His vocal skills also landed him a stint as extra on

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the star-studded 1959 film, Porgy and Bess, starring Sidney Poitier, Dorothy Dandridge, Diahann Carroll and Sammy Davis Jr, whom he would later work with in the fundraising efforts for the March from Selma to Montgomery.

But one of my biggest delights as a kid was seeing him alongside the great character actor, Joel Fluellen, in one of the opening scenes of the original “Mighty Joe Young” film as they sold the young gorilla to a young white girl.

Fact is, I grew up a Daddy’s girl, and believe that what I got most from him was the fearlessness to spread my wings and make the fullest use of my talents. Now, don’t get me wrong, he was hardly perfect which is why his biggest gift to me was raising me up with a strong foundation in the church.

In a column I once read titled “Fatherlessness Is Not Fatal”, author Chandra White writes, “the absence of an earthly father, while sad and unfortunate, can be overcome. The absence of God the heavenly Father cannot be overcome and is deadly. There is no substitute for Him. It’s vital we shift our focus to include the absolute necessities of our children knowing, loving, and following God; and parents making Him the foundation of our homes.”

Not to make light of the fact that the impact of the absence of fathers in any home–regardless of race–has been well documented. Strong fathers can make the difference as parental separation is known to affect a child’s development and the psychological effects of growing up without a father can be traumatic.

So, kudos to all you great Dads out there. You are loved, you are vital, and I join in the celebration of you this Father’s Day.

In closing, I want to share one of my earliest memories of my Dad. It is also my earliest experience with Acrophobia, or the fear of heights. (Seems I’ve always liked being on solid ground).

I must have been about four or five when he took my brothers and I to an amusement park and strapped us in to what was to be my first and last turn on a Ferris Wheel.

I grew more and more uncomfortable as the gondola spun upward to about 60 or so feet and as it reached the top I began to scream. Note that this was probably the first rotation and just seconds into the ride.

My brothers were fine and had that, ‘Oh-just-ignoreher, we’re-having-fun-look.’ But my Dad–who was standing near the Ferris Wheel operator– nearly choked on his popcorn as he nudged the guy and pointed to me.

Realizing the man was not going to stop the ride, he tossed the popcorn, forcefully took the guys arm and said, “Stop the ride and let her off.” Fearful of what he might do next, the man acquiesced and just like that, my Dad became my hero.

Happy Father’s Day. Keep the faith.

UpFront

News Briefs

Councilwoman Emma Sharif Takes Solid Lead in Compton Mayoral Race

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As the results of Compton’s June 1st’s general election continue to be counted, Compton City Councilwoman Emma Sharif has taken a commanding lead in her bid to become the city’s next mayor. So far, the 70-yearold Sharif has received 56% of the vote against her opponent, the 26-year-old real estate agent Christian Reynaga’s 46%. With about a third of ballots yet to be counted and ballots postmarked by election day still eligible to be received until Friday June 4th, Sharif is still waiting to declare victory though she remains cautiously optimistic.

“Although I am not ready to claim victory, I am extremely proud of our lead after the initial votes have been counted,” Sharif said in a statement. “We will wait for updates from the County Registrar after the vast majority of votes are counted. I am thankful that our message resonated with the voters of Compton and they believed in our vision to create a better quality of life for all residents. I look forward to working with the City Council, staff and community to unify our city and serve all of the residents of Compton once elected. Lastly, thank you to all those who supported me throughout the campaign.”

In January when the popular incumbent mayor Aja Brown-- who at the age of 31 became Compton’s youngest mayor- announced that she will not run for a third term, the people of Compton had to decide who was right to lead the city out of the pandemic. Despite Christian Reynaga receiving Mayor Brown’s endorsement, a strong showing in the primaries, and vying to become the first Latino mayor in a city that is about 68% Latino, voters so far have favored

Sharif’s steady hand and years of experience.

Sharif, who has represented Compton’s 4th District on the City Council since 2015 has built her platform on the five key areas of tackling homelessness, finishing street repairs, economic development through new business, increasing funding to expand senior citizen programs and increasing public safety by improving the city’s relationship with the Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Department.

“To me this is a new beginning for this city and this community,” Sharif tells L.A. Focus. “We have a lot of things that we’re looking to accomplish but we need to start with our street repair program, and we also need to address the homeless population in our community, so we are working on and moving forward with our efforts there.”

If elected, Sharif will be focusing her efforts on projects that will improve the quality of life for residents of Compton

Compton Sues L.A. Sheriff’s Department CHEZ HADLEY Staff

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L.A. Focus/June 2021

ompton Mayor Aja Brown joined with the members of the city council and residents at the City Hall to announce the filing of a against Sheriff Alex Villanueva, Compton Station Captain LaTonya Clark, and unknown Los Angeles County Sheriff Department Deputies and personnel employed by the Los Angeles County Sheriff Department and County of Los Angeles for fraud.

The complaint alleges that the Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Department had committed fraud which is likely to have cost the City multiple millions of dollars and potentially will cost the City additional millions into the foreseeable future.

“The last time we assembled here, we demanded an independent investigation into the deputy gangs that run Compton station only to have Sheriff Villanueva deny their existence and deflect that I, myself raised this issue for political purposes and gain,” said Brown.

“Yet, here we are one year later, deputy gangs have been confirmed and we're addressing more widespread fraud and abuse against the taxpayers of the great city of Compton. We are here to demand that Sheriff Villanueva no longer stand back and standby while the Compton station runs rampant with deputies who are abusing their position, committing

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fraud.”

The fraud concerns the use of “annual minutes” Compton is contracted to pay the L.A. Sheriff’s Department in exchange for their services. In 2019-2020, the city agreed to pay the LASD nearly $22,775,000 for 700,800 minutes of deputy crime suppression and 858,720 minutes of special assignment deputy sheriff services.

Lawyers for the city of Compton, however, allege that the LASD has committed flagrant “minutes fraud” through the unauthorized use of City minutes for County non-crime suppression duties in violation of its contract, resulting in major understaffing, a lack of responsiveness to calls for service, increased crime and a financial loss to city taxpayers estimated to be in excess of $10 million.

“In February of this year, allegations of minutes' fraud by the sheriff were made public by a whistleblower. These claims concerned fraudulent activities at Compton station,” Compton City Attorney Damon Brown said. “Today, the city of Compton is taking an exit from the road to nowhere at my direction, and with the approval of the city council, the law offices of douglas & Hicks' law filed a claim for damages this morning with the county of Los Angeles, alleging among other things, fraud and breach of contract Compton continued to page 24

KEITH DELAWDER

Celebrities Rally Around Naomi Osaka

Contributor

Despite her openly frank and vulnerable admission of bouts of depression she has had to cope with surrounding the anxiety of speaking to world media, Naomi Osaka’s withdrawal from the Grand Slam tournament after winning her first round match draw a firestorm of controversy.

The 23-year-old four time Grand Slam singles champion and reigning champion at the U.S. Open was also fined $15,000 for refusing to participate in a subsequent press conference.

“Here in Paris I was already feeling vulnerable and anxious, so I thought it was better to exercise self-care and skip the press conferences.”

Reactions werer swift and mixed, but for the most part, supportive of what many are calling a courageous move on Osaka’s part as reflected in tweets from the likes of Ava DuVernay, Jada Pinkett Smith, Usain Bolt and Kyrie Irving.

Fellow ace tennis players Serena and Venus Williams both encouraged Osaka to take care of herself, while Golden State Warriors Stephen Curry tweeted, “You shouldn’t ever have to make a decision like this-but so damn impressive taking the high road when the powers that be don’t protect their own.”

And from women’s basketball great Lisa Leslie came this: “I stand with you @naomiosaka Your mental health is just as important as your physical health.”

while making it attractive for businesses that will spur economic development.

“We want to get a lot of the things done that the community has been asking for a while now, things like keeping the trees maintained,” says Sharif. “We will be continuing with economic development plans so that people still want to come to our city, and to make sure we’re cleaning up our city. If we focus on cleaning up our city, people will come, businesses will come, and people will move here. We will stay focused on building relationships here so that we can keep crime down in our city and make sure our community is safe.”

A Compton resident for over 20 years, Sharif raised her children in the city working as a public school teacher and Youth Development Director. As a result of her passion and advocacy for her students Sharif was appointed to the Compton Unified School District (CUSD) in 2001 and would go on to serve as Trustee of the CUSD Board of Directors for fourteen years before joining the City Council in 2015.

When asked what motivates her to continue serving the people of Compton in the city’s highest seat, her answer is simple.

“I’m just here to serve this community. I don’t have any hidden agendas, I’m just here to be of service to the people,” says Sharif. “When I see that I’ve done something to really help this community, that’s what gives me motivation and hope that we can make positive change.

And when people see things getting done, that gives everyone hope.”

The results of Compton’s General Municipal Election are expected to be certified on June 14th

Kroger Closes Two Ralphs Locations TINA SAMEPAY Contributor When you pass through the Crenshaw district this week, you might be surprised to see that the red Ralphs logo that once decorated building on Slauson and Crenshaw is now gone. Kroger abruptly announced the closure of several Ralphs locations in March and kept true to their closing date of May 15th.

In March, the Los Angeles City Council voted 14-1 to pass an emergency ordinance requiring large pharmacy and grocery store chains to provide their workers an additional $5 an hour.

Companies would also have to pay hazard pay for all non-managerial employees at locations with 300 employees or more for 120 days. The ordinance is a move towards more fair compensation for those who have sustained large retail chains, while working for minimum wage during a global pandemic.

“It is unfortunate that the store had to close, along with the other stores in L.A as well as Long Beach. This extra pay mandate put an extra layer of burden and expense on the store that we could no longer afford to operate sustainably.

Instead of passing that on the customer, we had to close permanently,” said Ralphs media contact, John Votava.

In addition to this location, Kroger also

Ralph’s continued to page 24

USDA To Forgive $4 Billion in Debt to Minority Farmers As part of the latest COVID-19 relief package, the U.S. Department of Agriculture will begin handing out $4 billion in payments to an estimated 16,000 Black farmers beginning as early as next June to counter decades of loan discrimination by the USDA. Some say the provision –introduced by Georgia Senator Raphael Warnock– would benefit Black farmers in a way no legislation has since the Civil Rights Act of 1964. In addition to debt relief, the funds would provide other forms of assistance in acquiring land including grants, training and education.

Due to systemic racism, Black farmers in the nation have lost more than 12 million acres of farmland over the past century.

The announcement came as Agriculture Secretary Tom Vilsack was to participate in a roundtable discussion with Black farmers. Last month, the Farm Service Agency published the first notice of funding availability for loan payments for eligible borrowers who have qualifying direct farm loans.

“The Plan has made it possible for USDA to deliver historic debt relief to socially disadvantaged farmers and ranchers beginning in June,” Vilsack says. “USDA is recommitting itself to gaining the trust and confidence of America’s farmers and ranchers using a new set of tools provided in the American Rescue Plan.”

The Plan authorizes funding and authorization for the FSA to pay up to 120 percent of direct and guaranteed loan with outstanding balances as of January first of 2021. He says the tools are designed to increase opportunity, advance equity, and address systemic discrimination in USDA programs.

UpFront Most Blacks Locked Out of Market as California Median Home Cost Soars Past $800K

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he California Association of Realtors (CAR), the California Building Industry Association (CBIA), and Habitat for Humanity California have joined together to urge lawmakers to make additional investments in this year’s state budget to encourage developers to build more homes across California.

This is the only way, they insist, to solve two of the state’s most stubborn problems: a critical housing shortage and a general lack of affordable housing.

Those three organizations, along with a coalition of homebuilders, racial justice activists and homeownership advocates, are also calling for investments in the budget to address the racial gap in homeownership by increasing the housing supply at every income level.

Black and Latinx households are priced out of the market disproportionately, a CAR. representative said. The median sales price of a home in California surged past a record $813,980 in April, and housing production stalled for the second consecutive year in 2020.

“California desperately needs more housing to meet the needs of diverse middle-class and low-income Californians,” Dave Walsh, president of CAR, said during a virtual news conference on May 20.

“With a historic budget surplus, now is the time to address the racial divide in homeownership and fix California’s severe housing shortage.”

As home prices in California continue

to set record highs, and only one in four Californians able to afford a home priced at the median cost, investments in new housing supply would address severe disparities in homeownership and reverse decades of exclusionary housing policies, CBIA, CAR., and Habitat for Humanity California said in a joint statement.

In February, CAR reported that housing affordability for the average Black household in California is 50% worse than that of their White counterparts. Less than one in five Black California households were able to buy a $659,380 medianpriced home in 2020.

“To achieve the housing we need, our state must make the investment in creating housing opportunities for working Californians to access all forms of stable homeownership,” said Michael Gunning, Senior Vice President of Legislative Affairs for CBIA. “To close the racial homeownership divide, we must address segregation caused by explicit, historic government policies at the local, state, and federal level.”

That figure is compared to two in five White households in the state who could buy the same dwelling. A minimum annual income of $122,800 was required to make a monthly payment of over $3,000 on a fixed-rate mortgage.

Homeownership is a key element to building generational wealth and it helps to stabilize communities. Homeownership rates are at their lowest in California since the 1940s. Black and Latinx house-

holds are twice as likely to rent properties as White Californians.

CBIA, CAR, and Habitat for Humanity California say that the record state budget surplus this fiscal year creates a historic opportunity to address California’s housing crisis and invest in more housing inventory across the state.

Of the $9.3 billion allocated to housing in Gov. Newsom’s proposed May Revise budget, only $725 million, or less than 8%, goes toward expanding homeownership opportunities with programs such as down payment assistance, CAR points out.

“It is time for California to lead through action in Sacramento to address these painful truths about past housing policies and create a new housing future that works for everyone,” Gunning said.

“That can start with the budget investments we’re calling for today.”

ANTONIO RAY HARVEY CA Black Media

The groups are requesting for additional budget investments in a number of areas that would create opportunities to expand the housing inventory in the state, including matching grants and tax credits to complement those proposed by the Biden Administration; tax credits for first-time and low and moderate-income buyers; and incentives to increase construction.

“This is about the future of our state.

This is about keeping more Californians from being cost-burdened and falling into homelessness,” Walsh said. “It’s about creating true housing equity for all Californians. Let’s come together to prioritize more ownership housing – it’s the right thing to do to ensure the American dream of homeownership doesn’t slip away for Californians who call the Golden State home.”

HeadToHead Reflecting on the Tulsa Race Massacre

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s a former history teacher, I Recognizing neighborhood of Tulsa and kill an often quote George estimated 300 people. the Santayana’s admonition Centennial It was later determined the event that, “those who cannot remember of the 1921 was fabricated, in other words, “a the past are condemned to repeat Tulsa Race big lie.” Mr. Rowland was later vinit.” But one cannot remember that dicated, but the damage to the Massacre which one does not know.That is Tulsa community and the loss of the case for too many people regarding the life could not be undone.

Tulsa Race Massacre. And for good reason.

Today, we are experiencing a modern The more interactions I have with folks day “big lie” tearing at in Washington and around the country, the fabric of this counthe more appreciative I am of Ernestine try. Hopefully we Walker, Marybelle Howe, William Howell, have learned lessons Rosa Harris and many other teachers, and from Tulsa that will some of the other students they taught, help maintain the and with whom I studied and debated on greatness of our fragthe campus of that little HBCU— South ile democracy.

Carolina State.

Greenwood was I was blessed with integral knowledge known at the time as of Tulsa, Rosewood (Florida), Hamburg “Black Wall Street” Con. Jim Clyburn (South Carolina) and many other historic — due to its status as one of the most prosand horrific — events that were “white- perous African American communities in washed” by newspapers and left out of his- the country. The devastation wrought by tory books. I still remember the one-on-one the mob, many of who’d been deputized session I had with Ernestine Walker dis- and armed by local officials, took the lives cussing Tulsa native John Hope Franklin’s and livelihoods of many in the Greenwood outstanding book “From Slavery to community. It caused irreparable damage Freedom” as a blessed experience. And it to hundreds of Black families, who never was a blessing to have had a one-on-one received justice for their losses. with John Hope himself when he chaired Many survivors of the massacre whose the “race committee” for President Bill only proof of their bank accounts were Clinton. burned up with their other possessions, I was also blessed by Tulsa native Alfre never got their money and were never Woodard, who wrote the foreword to my compensated for their losses. memoir, “Blessed Experiences.”

This horrific incident was erased from The Tulsa Race Massacre is a prime collective memory when the Tulsa Tribune example of inflaming issues and ignoring destroyed all original copies of the May 31, history. They both significantly lead to the 1921 edition of the newspaper and inability and failure to learn the real les- removed it from any archival copies. sons that true history can teach us. It was Scholars later discovered that police and the inflammatory reporting of the chance state militia archives about the riot were encounter of a young Black man, Dick missing as well. We cannot overcome the Rowland; and a young white elevator oper- issues of race that have troubled our ator, Sarah Page, that ignited one of the nation since its inception by ignoring the deadliest episodes of racial violence in our failings of our past. nation’s history.

I often quote Alexis De Tocqueville’s On May 31st, 1921, the Tulsa Tribune notion that America’s greatness lies not in newspaper printed the headline; “Nab being more enlightened than any other Negro for Attacking Girl in Elevator,” and nation, but rather because it has always the same edition included a report of a been able to repair its faults. To repair our white mob’s plan to lynch Rowland. The faults, our country must acknowledge past newspaper account was based on false mistakes and work to ensure we don’t claims that Mr. Rowland sexually assault- repeat them. ed Page, a white woman; and is cited as I believe this anniversary gives us the the spark that incited a mob to burn and opportunity to remember this dark past loot 35 blocks in the Black Greenwood and recommit ourselves to finding ways to Jim Clyburn continued to page 24

Headlines From Africa

Burkina Fasa: Internal conflict between armed groups and security forces have triggered displacements with civilians increasingly becoming the targets of violence amidst an increase in food insecurity.

Burundi: Entire villages west of the city of Bujumbura were inundated by water, after days of torrential rains caused water bodies to burst their banks and led to the displacement of families—particularly in poor, low-lying neighborhoods of Bujumbura lacking proper drainage systems — abandoning their homes in search of dry ground.

Congo: At press, 40 were still missing and more than 20,000 people left homeless in the wake of a volcanic eruption in eastern Congo that killed dozens and sparked strong earthquakes in the nearby city of Goma. The ash cloud triggered by the eruption shut down airports in Goma and Bukavu and is feared to cause respiratory diseases.

Eritrea/Ethiopia: Eritrea's Information Minister, Yemane Gebremeskel is denying reports that Eritrean and Ethiopian soldiers were reported to have forcibly detained more than 500 young men and women from camps for displaced people in the northern region of Tigray. Ethiopian officials say Tigrayan rebels have killed 22 officials of the war-hit Tigray region’s interim administration Kenya: Cases of gender-based violence nearly quintupled during the COVID-19 pandemic according to Kenya’s Department of Gender, which note that due to the stigma and fear of recording gender violence, the numbers may actually be a great deal higher.

Mali: Mali's interim President Bah Ndaw and Prime Minister Moctar Ouane resigned two days after being arrested

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s the 100th anniversary of descendants are presently fighting Painful History the Tulsa Race Massacre for reparations and justice. One Lessons from was observed from May 31 part of the documentary that espethe Tulsa Race to June 1, I spent part of cially resonated with me was how Massacre Memorial Day watching the PBS the Vernon A.M.E. Church was, documentary: "Tulsa: The Fire and the and still is, a solid foundation of Tulsa's Forgotten."

African American community. Many fled to Many younger adults who are fans of the building's basement while Greenwood the popular HBO horror drama "Lovecraft was being burned.

Country" were introduced to this grim hisThe White mob eventually set Vernon tory of the mass A.M.E. on fire, but the basement and the slaughter in Tulsa's Black families in it miraculously survived.

Greenwood district They still showed up for service the next while watching the Sunday morning after their town was nothseason one episode ing but rubble. I can only imagine that they "Rewind 1921." had Job-like determination to still worship The fact that young God with a "though you slay me, yet will I people gained knowl- trust you" mentality after losing everyedge about the Tulsa thing. Learning about what they lost is Jessica Johnson killings through pop particularly painful because generational culture reminded me of how I learned wealth was also viciously destroyed. about the 1923 Rosewood massacre in Greenwood was famously dubbed "Black Florida by viewing the film bearing its Wall Street" by W.E.B. DuBois, and businame in 1997. ness was literally booming there.

Both the Rosewood and Tulsa Oklahoma Policy Institute records show Greenwood tragedies were instigated by a that Greenwood's business district had two false accusation of a Black man sexually schools named for Paul Laurence Dunbar assaulting a White woman. In the and Booker T. Washington respectively, a Greenwood case, it was a young Black bank, a public library and two newspapers teenager, and the Rosewood claim was a and movie theaters. fabrication. The end was horrifically the Greenwood survivors were maliciously same, with both towns burned as Black denied compensation for the loss of their people were mercilessly slain by White homes and businesses as a grand jury of all mobs. Rosewood and the Greenwood town- White men blamed them for the violence. ship were also prosperous Black settleThe "Fire and the Forgotten" points out ments that thrived economically despite the harsh repercussions of that decision racial oppression and segregation. remain evident today. Many Blacks who I was a young Ohio State graduate stu- live in North Tulsa, –one of the country's dent when I watched "Rosewood," and I most segregated areas–are struggling to had the same question then that many overcome social disparities of poverty, have today learning about the Tulsa car- crime and high unemployment. nage: Why were these events omitted from In reflecting on Greenwood and American history books?

Rosewood, it's difficult to fathom how peoMany decades later, investigative repor- ple could let the sin of racism infiltrate and ting would bring the horrific truth of these darken their hearts to commit such muratrocities to the forefront of the nation's derous acts. Yet, I believe those courageous conscience. Writing for the St. Petersburg Vernon A.M.E. souls who went to church Times in the early 1980s, Gary Moore pub- praising God after the massacre would tell lished several articles on Rosewood, and us not to lose faith. The fires destroyed more recently, the work of Washington their property and possessions but not Post reporter DeNeen L. Brown has their spirit. And we must hold on to this revived the buried stories of Tulsa. divine spirit of resiliency to ensure a better Brown is featured in "Tulsa: The Fire future. and the Forgotten," and her passionate stoDr. Jessica A. Johnson is a lecturer at rytelling provides viewers with an intimate Ohio State University. Email her at view of what happened to Black smojc.jj@gmail.com. Follow her on Twitter: Greenwood residents and how their @JjSmojc

A look at current news from the continent of Africa by the military, deepening a political crisis and potentially setting up a standoff with international powers.

Mozambique: According to a BBC report, People desperate to flee a town in northern Mozambique following a jihadist attack have had to pay bribes to leave after security forces set up roadblocks, trapping thousands. There are also growing fears of a humanitarian emergency in the area where aid agencies have not been given access.

Senegal: The purchase of a new presidential plane is being decried as an unnecessary and irrelevant expense, leading to calls for accountability.

Sierra Leone: Amnesty International has warned in a new report that survivors of traumatic experiences and others in need of support in Sierra Leone are being failed by the severe lack of available mental health services years after the country’s brutal civil war and devastating Ebola epidemic.

South Africa: Prosecutors allege that former President Jacob Zuma received more than 700 bribes over the decade before he was president including cash payments from a French arms company on the opening day of Zuma’s corruption trial.

Tanzania: Two months after the death of former president John Magafuli—who denied the seriousness of COVID and urged citizens to pray it away before himself succumbing to the deadly virus—Tanzania’s new President Samia Suluhu Hassan has issued strict recommendations to address the pandemic’s toll on the nation.

Uganda: After widespread reports of election irregularities and bloody violence, Yoweri Museveni has been sworn in for his sixth term as president, as police surrounded the home of Bobi Wine, his main opposition rival who decried the inauguration as a “sham”.

Money Matters

On the Money The California Boom Is Now A Bust For Blacks

Goldman Sachs Launches $10 Billion Initiative to Impact One Million Black Women by 2030

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n partnership with Black-women-led organizations, financial institutions and other partners, Goldman Sachs has committed $10 billion in direct investment capital and $100 million in philanthropic capital over the next decade to address the dual disproportionate gender and racial biases Black women have faced for generations, which have only been exacerbated by the pandemic.

The initiative, One Million Black Women, is named for and guided by the goal of impacting the lives of at least one million Black women by 2030 with a power-packed advisory council of Black leaders including Walgreens CEO Rosalind Brewer, former President Obama Senior Advisor Valerie Jarrett, former Secretary of State Condoleezza Rice, Former Secretary of State Condoleezza Rice, Issa Rae and Marc Morial, President and CEO of the National Urban League.

“This initiative is transformational,” said Melanie Campbell, Convener of the Black Women’s Roundtable and President and CEO of the National Coalition on Black Civic Participation, a partner with Goldman Sachs on the program. “What Goldman Sachs is doing has the potential to materially impact the lives of Black women, their families and communities across the country.”

“Our newly published research, Black Womenomics, suggests that no investment could have a bigger impact than unlocking the economic potential of Black women,” said David M. Solomon, chairman and CEO of Goldman Sachs. “In the face of significant disparities, they’ve shown admirable resilience, especially as they’re starting businesses faster than anyone else in the U.S. Building on our 20-year history of investing in female entrepreneurs and underserved communities we are now proud to partner with Black female-led organizations and an outstanding advisory council to invest in opportunities to unlock their economic and leadership potential.”

Black Womenomics estimates that reducing the earnings gap for Black women has the potential to create 1.2 to 1.7 million U.S. jobs, and increase the annual GDP by $300 to 450 billion in current U.S. dollars. The research has also informed the areas in which the firm’s initial

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investments will be made: housing, healthcare, access to capital, education, job creation and workforce advancement, digital connectivity and financial health.

“The more we tell the stories, the more we measure the results so that others can learn from it, and to hold up those best practices for everyone to see, I think the possibilities for One Million Black Women are infinite,” said Valerie Jarrett.

Among the first round of eleven grantees was Birth Center Equity (supporting Black women led community birth centers in providing access to new resources); BlocPower WiFi (expanding broadband services across the Bronx and Upper Manhattan with a focus on lowincome neighborhoods); Buy From A Black Woman (website development, social media education content, technical assistance and grants to small Black-women owned businesses) and the Sadie Collective (funding the creation of high school economic clubs for young Black girls to participate in the annual Federal Reserve Challenge).

“As we make these investments and grants, along with that comes agency,” said Condoleezza Rice. “Our partners will have responsibility. None of this will come as a surprise to Black women who have been [sacrificing and working hard] for a couple of centuries now.”

Morehouse School of Medicine President Valerie Montgomery Rice MD, a member of the One Million Black Women Advisory Council spoke about the impact of the grant sharing her plans, “My goal for the Center for Maternal Health Equity at Morehouse School of Medicine is to create a model that can be used across the nation, and globally to empower others to advocate and work on behalf of women. Currently, maternity mortality rates are unacceptable; women deserve to live through the experience [of childbirth] and hold their baby and go home.”

“In addition to access to capital, we have to provide Black women with a safe space to learn and grow. This is why I am so proud to be a member of the Advisory Council, said Ayesha Curry, author, TV personality and publisher of Sweet July Magazine.

Photo Credit: Rebrand Cities from Pexels

he California boom appears to be over as the state–for the first time in history–lost a congressional seat due to the fact that its growth rate has slowed. Credit exorbitant housing costs as the key factor in the decline given that the median price for a home in L.A. County is in the neighborhood of $750,000. Don’t even think about San Francisco, it’s $1.4 million and ranks as the most expensive city (with a population of over 200,000) for housing in the nation.

Four other California cities–San Jose, Fremont, Los Angeles and San Diego made the top ten list. This year, San Diego’s median home price hit $680,000. Up 17 percent, they represent the second fastest home prices in the nation, behind Phoenix. A little closer to home, a median home in Orange County is going for $835,000, and Palm Springs is the latest hotspot for real estate as home sales were up 27 percent with a median price of $450,000 to 502,000. The Inland Empire remains the least expensive option, but even those prices have risen 17.2% in the last year to an average of $475,050. That’s up 12 percent.

The average home in a primarily Black neighborhood nationwide is worth $46,000 less than a comparable home in a primarily white neighborhood, according to research outlined in a new report from Redfin the technology-powered real estate brokerage. Redfin analyzed value estimates for more than 7 million homes that were listed and sold from 2013 through February 2021, accounting for the fundamental factors that contribute to a home's value, such as size, condition, neighborhood amenities and schools. The $46,000 gap exists after accounting for those fundamental factors.

The fact that homes in Black neighborhoods are worth less is one reason for the racial wealth gap in the U.S., as home equity is a major way to build wealth.

Just over 44% of Black Americans own the home they live in, versus 74.5% of white Americans. The Black families who do own their homes have less equity than other races, with median home equity of $89,000 in January 2021 v e r s u s $113,000 for white fami. lies..

And a great way to start things in Houston. It’s three schools now, but it’s going to be a lot more.”

nity, advance equity, and address systemic discrimination in USDA programs.

USDA To Forgive $4 Billion in Debt to Minority Farmers

Ludacris Signs Global Licensing Pact With Mattel

As part of the latest COVID-19 relief package, the U.S. Department of Agriculture will begin handing out $4 billion in payments to an estimated 16,000 Black farmers beginning as early as next June to counter decades of loan discrimination by the USDA. Some say the provision –introduced by Georgia Senator Raphael Warnock– would benefit Black farmers in a way no legislation has since the Civil Rights Act of 1964. In addition to debt relief, the funds would provide other forms of assistance in acquiring land including grants, training and education.

Due to systemic racism, Black farmers have lost more than 12 million acres of farmland over the past century.

Last month, the Farm Service Agency published the first notice of funding availability for loan payments for eligible borrowers who have qualifying direct farm loans under the American Rescue Plan.

“The Plan has made it possible for USDA to deliver historic debt relief to socially disadvantaged farmers and ranchers beginning in June,” Vilsack says. “USDA is recommitting itself to gaining the trust and confidence of America’s farmers and ranchers using a new set of tools provided in the American Rescue Plan.”

The Plan authorizes funding and authorization for the FSA to pay up to 120 percent of direct and guaranteed loan with outstanding balances as of January first of 2021. He says the tools are designed to increase opportu-

Actor/rapper Chris “Ludacris” Bridges has signed a multi-year global licensing pact to manufacture a line of toys inspired by the animated series he developed for his daughter, Karma’s World.

As part of the new deal, Mattel will develop dolls and doll accessories, styling heads and other items tied to the adventures of Karma Grant, a 10-year-old aspiring musician and rapper initially inspired by Bridges’ oldest daughter. The line will be infused with hip-hop music while featuring streetwear fashion and original choreography.

“Karma’s World is an important legacy that I want to leave for my daughters,” says Bridges. “The world needs more positive portrayals of Black girls in pop culture. Mattel has really gotten behind Karma’s messages of empowerment, self-expression, and using your voice to change the world, and I’m so excited for the impressive line they are developing to be available to kids everywhere.”

Overall, Karma’s World is described as “a coming of age story about a young Black girl finding her voice and using it to change her world.”

Targeting kids ages 6-9 with themes of selfexpression, identity, leadership, creativity, and the importance of community, Karma’s World is set to make its retail debut in the fall of 2022.

Biz News Briefs 50 Cent to Set Underperforming Kids on Path to Entrepreneurship

“The kids that won’t listen to nobody, will listen to me. We come out of the same kinda confusion,” “This program is just gonna show them how to win,” said 50 Cent of his GStar program aimed at helping students from three Houston high schools who are struggling academically.

Launched last month, the program will offer paid internships to the students who will have access to a G Unity Business Lab as well as to the successful rap

L.A. Focus/June 2021

mogul and business leaders.

The rappers’ G Unity Foundation donated $300,000 to the program that is in partnership with Houston ISD and will also offer MBA-level courses taking the students through the process of creating a concept/product, brand marketing, creating a business plan and running a company.

“Over the past 20 years, I’ve been focused on academic enrichment projects and making donations to already exciting organizations that can execute it,” 50 Cent said. “Following COVID, providing the opportunities and tools for people to make their path easier in entrepreneurship, it’s exciting to be a part of that.

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L.A. Focus/June 2021

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week before their May 23 service–marking Greater Zion Church Family’s first return to in-person worship in more than a year–Pastor Michael J.T. Fisher released 150 tickets (representing the church’s newly configured, socially distanced seating plan) on Eventbrite.

Within an hour, 150 tickets had been snapped up and 30 requests for additional tickets were placed in a waiting queue and eventually accommodated.

“I was good with that,” said Fisher. “But you’re talking to someone who normally saw 1200 people on a Sunday morning” And while 180 was a far cry from the 1000-plus members Greater Zion averaged in the four Sunday services he regularly managed before the pandemic, it confirmed for Fisher that his members were ready to get back to church.

All across the city, county, state and nation, churches are gearing up for a return to physical worship services after being shuttered in March of 2020 by a pandemic that killed nearly 600,000 people in the United States, including a host of both local and well-known faith leaders while becoming the third leading cause of death.

Some churches have already re-opened their doors.

Most are gearing up for a return sometime this summer. Many like megachurch pastor, Bishop T.D. Jakes are re-opening in phases, while three of L.A.’s largest megachurches–West Angeles COGIC, City of Refuge and Faithful Central Bible Church–have set July 4th for their coordinated re-entrance.

It is the culmination of a year that has irrevocably changed the way churches operate. The question is just how quickly will parishioners feel safe enough to return and what will the church look like post-pandemic.

“Those humongous numbers we saw pre-pandemic, it’s going to be a long while before we see them again in one setting and the days of long Pentecostal slain in the spirit services is going to be for a very small few and forget about in person mid-week services,” Fisher observed. “Before, churches would some-

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LISA COLLINS Editor-in-Chief

times have up to three services or as many as five services on a Sunday–even smaller churches might have two services, now it’s like one service–shortened to 6070 minutes.”

From shorter and less frequent in person worship services to less live music, more innovative ways of gathering and accelerated social media platforms, going to church post pandemic will hardly be business as usual. Evening services are going to be more scarce, mid-week services–for the most part– will be online and people will be able to join a church electronically without walking down the aisles.

“A third of our churches are back,” said Rev. E. Wayne Gaddis, senior pastor of the Greater St. Augustine Missionary Baptist Church and president of the 225-church strong California Missionary Baptist State Convention, Inc. “The rest will be back between now and our annual session in October.

“We have a lot of churches with quite a few seniors who are not ready to come back. They want to see if there is going to be another spike.”

To that end when Gaddis does open his church in July, he will place speakers in the parking lot for those seniors who prefer to listen to services from inside their parked cars feet away from the sanctuary.

“I don’t believe it will ever be the same,” Gaddis continues. “We are going to cut the fat. It’s going to be a more streamline presentation with our services being cut anywhere from 30 -45 minutes every Sunday.

People will see that a lot that we did before was unnecessary–the announcements, presentations. Even with the offering, you can place it on your way in and on your way out. We are going to allow room for the Holy Spirit, but a lot of stuff we are were doing was not led by the Holy Spirit.

“I do not believe that God wants us to go back into our churches the same, but I do believe in being in church,” Gaddis continues. “I believe virtual had its time and place, now I believe it is time to get back to the unity of fellowship. I was glad when they said unto me let us go into the House of the Lord.”

A very small number of churches Gaddis’ oversees will not be coming back and have permanently shuttered, but such instances, for the most part, have been scarce.

Both Pastor K.W. Tulloss, who leads the Baptist Minister’s Fellowship of Southern California and

Those humongous numbers we saw pre-pandemic, it’s going to be a long while before we see them again in one setting and the days of long Pentecostal slain in the spirit services is going to be for a very small few and forget about in person mid-week services.

Before, churches would sometimes have up to three services or as many as five services on a Sunday—even smaller churches might have two services, now it’s like one service—shortened to 60-70 minutes.

Pastor Welton Pleasant, who presides over the 300-member strong, California State Baptist Convention, say that none of their churches have been permanently closed.

“Many of the small churches,” said Pleasant, “were still able to meet. I was out of the building for 59 Sundays and my church never missed a beat. COVID has made the building virtually obsolete. We always said that the building is not the church, the people are the church and COVID proved it.

“Personally, I believe Sunday morning in person worship is the only thing we will be doing in the building,” Pleasant continued. “I don’t see us going back during the week for Bible studies, church meetings and auxiliary boards. All of that now can be done on zoom.”

It is one of the first major changes expressed by a majority of churches.

“For my congregation, we will always have a zoom Bible study and a virtual option,” said Pastor Eddie Anderson of McCarty Memorial Christian Church.

“Being in person on a Tuesday or Wednesday night is not most important as it is just being together in community and that means it more people can join virtually.”

Pastor Eddie Anderson

Pastor Wayne Chaney

want to leave learning something. The pandemic–especially with all the racial upheaval and the election– made people start thinking and asking questions.”

McCarty Memorial Christian Church Pastor Edward Anderson agrees.

“Some of what has drawn people to church has been superficial. COVID has taken that away. Church can no longer be a show or about the music. People are no longer coming because they have a legacy in the church.

“What brings people in the door has changed. Now, you have to actually have a real sense of not only community, but something they can’t get anywhere else that’s unique to their experience.

“That may mean how are you engaging with community in a different way –helping people find recovery– be it healthcare, justice or financial, in light of the fact that people have lost so much during the pandemic. So, part of coming back to church is going to be the church serving as that safety net for folk on a wider scale.”

Of course, the biggest change in church ministry is the pivoting of the church to a hybrid model that is both online and in-person Sunday worship.

Pastor Michael Fisher

“This is going to be our new normal,” said Tulloss.

“People will gradually come into God’s house as they feel safe, because a lot of people still don’t feel safe. At least 50% of my membership–mostly those 40 and up– have been vaccinated, but some of our younger members remain hesitant.”

Who is and who isn’t vaccinated is a concern that’s personal for many.

“Unless we don’t leave our house at all, that’s the world we’re living in.,” said Pastor Nissan Stewart of the Lynwood-based, Greater Emmanuel Temple Church.

“It’s tough but we have to take precautions. I’m an advocate for the vaccine, but a lot of people aren’t. I’ve taken the vaccine. My wife hasn’t, and for me, losing the churches lead deacon at 46, it’s personal, because we don’t want anyone else to die.”

Those like Stewart–who has hosted pop up vaccine clinics–are not even sure about asking.

“I’m trying to see is it okay to see who has been vaccinated and who hasn’t and I’m following the lead of the county and the state for which way to go.”

Antioch of Long Beach pastor Wayne Chaney’s June 27 launch is part grand opening and part re-opening.

“This is not a return for us,” Chaney said. “It’s going into a place we’ve never been. COVID hit one month before the grand opening of our facility and we wanted to make sure our celebration was impactful.”

Chaney and his staff conducted a survey of their thriving 1,000+ membership–the largest group of which is millennials– to see how parishioners felt about coming back.

“We found that 80% are comfortable with coming back to worship. 70% are vaccinated. 15% are in the process of being vaccinated. Still, most of them would like some level of precaution. And while the vaccinated people have not expressed any challenge being around unvaccinated people, we have a section in our balcony that is socially distanced with a separate entrance.

“While we know gathering is significant and Biblical,” Chaney adds, “we’re processing through inviting people who’ve been out of church for a year and a half and reframing or revisiting their theology around in-person gathering is going to be important. Broadcast never replaced the in-person worship. It’s intangible. We’re just going to have to put a little more effort into the why.”

“Your message,” says Pleasant, “has to be substantive. “People have become more intentional about the time they’re spending in church,” he explained. “They

Pastor E. Wayne Gaddis

Pastor Welton Pleasant

schedule will prevent burnout.

“How the church evangelizes moving forward is how they supply the community with resources,” Fisher maintains. “That is what kept a lot of churches alive. The church that during the pandemic fed and clothed people, and provided other social services and or resources. They are the ones that remained relevant.

“So, it’s not just Sunday Morning service that’s going to draw people to your church. It’s going to be all the above–are you involved in the culture, social justice, how are you responding to the economic needs of your community. To that end, it’s not just about counting your congregants, it’s about counting your constituents. So your pastoring not only the people who come to church on Sunday but the people you fed all week long even if you never see them.

“It’s not so much about the megachurch, it’s about mega reach. How many people can you reach versus how many people can you seat.”

Two challenges remain. The challenge for most will be creating opportunities for intimacy and fellowship.

“To be sure, there is no substitute for the intimacy of

Pastor Nisan Stewart

“The church has always been behind the times,” Pleasant states. “COVID put the church where it needed to be. I have a saying, if your church is not dot com, it’s dot dead. Pre-COVID, many senior pastors were resistant to tech and social media, but they embraced it because they understood that without it, they wouldn’t have a church.

“Many of our seniors were not tech literate,” he notes.

“We brought in a media person, showed them how to use a smart phone, and in some cases brought them computers. Now, we are reaching more people via social media.

We were all challenged getting the millennials and Gen z throughout the week, now they are able to participate.”

While it is different for every ministry, most churches have enjoyed a greater reach through their online broadcasts.

Said Tulloss, “We’ve invested quite a bit in our online ministry, and it has literally broadened our ministry beyond California. The BMC [Baptist Minister’s Conference] has focused in on pastors being prepared and understanding the guidelines. I was very surprised at how quickly many of our churches pivoted online.”

Two terms have come to define an emerging trend in what is this new era of ministry–electronic evangelism and digital discipleship.

“Those things are going to be key,” said Stewart.

“Every church has the obligation to create and put intention into that online space. It’s just as equivalent as if you have a building, how you must cut the grass and clean the bathrooms.

“To me, being a musician and in the entertainment field, it’s an easier transition,” said the pastor who is also a renowned drummer and gospel artist who has served as a musical director to the likes of Jamie Foxx. “It’s getting used to it and learning to be better.”

What’s more, most churches that transitioned to online found their parishioners to be financially supportive, which alleviated a critical concern for the viability of churches.

“People found that they could experience church by themselves,” adds Fisher, “but there’s nothing like experiencing church with a community. Greater Zion came back with a stronger appreciation for community and worshipping together.

“The other thing that has changed is now that people have been used to watching online and having a different schedule on Sundays, they’re not going to want to alter that every Sunday to come to church. Pastors also now get to spend time at home with their families. This new

Pastor K.W. Tulloss

Bishop Kenneth Ulmer

fellowship and the touching of people,” Pleasant affirms.

“Every first Sunday I have fellowship with the pastor online–it’s a social conversation for an hour and a half where we just converse and my members get to ask me whatever they want, and it’s hilarious.”

At McCarty Memorial, Anderson is hosting an outside workout class that will double as a worship service for those who can’t come to church on a Sunday or on zoom.

“We will always be more cognizant of both audiences,” Anderson reports. “Before it was more focused on taking care of the folks who were in the room. But now, our church services have been rearranged to make sure that folks who are virtual and may never return to church, remain engaged. Or members who have joined from other states–making sure that there is a way for them to connect with the church is going to be a part of how church is done moving forward.”

The biggest challenge remains how to disciple those you can now reach and for Faithful Central, that virtual reach has granted them an audience in upwards of 30 countries including South Africa, Canada and parts of Europe.

“I’m reaching people in London, in Europe. Those people will never come to 333 W. Florence,” says Senior Pastor, Bishop Kenneth Ulmer. “The challenge is how do we continue to do ministry and turn those viewers into disciples. No one knows how to do that digitally, because it hasn’t been done. Especially when our model for 2000 years has been gathering and what we do know is that the old model by definition, cannot work, because the old model focused in on people coming into a building.”

As they venture into that unchartered territory, churches are doing the best they can to make the best of both worlds “We have our online platforms and on Sundays we’re back in church,” states Tulloss. “We’re going to continue in our singing while understanding that we can’t control the shouting.

There will however be no high fives to your neighbor and the fellowship might be limited after service as people remain very aware that we are still living in the midst of a pandemic.”

HO L LY W OOD SPOT LIGHT Chez Hadley “The Underground Railroad” A grippingly brutal account of slavery and the treatment of slaves, Amazon’s The Underground Railroad, is not for the faint of heart. While oftimes hard to watch, this masterful interpretation and compelling drama from Oscar winning filmmaker Barry Jenkins (“Moonlight”, “If Beale Street Could Talk”), is just as frequently hard to stop watching.

The scene of whites dancing as a black man is tied to a platform, whipped and tortured and then burned alive is one of those moments.

But just as surely there are moving moments of grace, beauty, humanity, determination and triumph in this tenpart cinematic telling of the story of

catcher named Ridgeway (Joel Edgerton).

Based on the 2016 Pulitzer Prizewinning novel by Colson Whitehead, “The Underground Railroad” represents breakout roles for South African actress Thuso Mbedu and the UK born Pierre.

Jenkins’ Underground Railroad is a surreal interpretation of Whitehead’s fictional story with a real life train that can at times go off the rails with its twists and turns marked by dreamlike sequences and flashbacks that provide both backstory and revelation.

With its alternate reality and surreal interpretations, it’s a lot to take in, but well worth the watch.

Cora (Thuso Mbedu), a slave on a Georgia plantation in the mid-1800s who escapes harsh plantation life with another slave named Caesar (Aaron Pierre) by way to the Underground Railroad, despite being tracked by a relentless and stone-hearted slave

OUT THIS MONTH

HOLLYWOOD BUZZ

Under the Stadium Lights June 4

Hitman’s Wife’s Bodyguard June 16

Taraji P Henson’s Unspoken Curriculum

L.A. Focus/June 2021

Last month, actress/mental health activist Taraji P. Henson expanded her mission to change the perception of mental illness in the Black community–and encourage those who suffer anxiety and mental health trauma– with the launch of its latest initiative, The Unspoken Curriculum. The six-week program, designed to shape how Black youth view themselves, addresses racial bias in the classroom and other negative experiences that become part of those life experiences that weren’t part of the lesson plan, but have handicapped Black children. “There’s implicit bias in the education system that clearly disadvantages Black students,” Henson posted of the program that is part of Boris L. H e n s o n

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Fatherhood June 18

Foundation, which she established in 2018 in the name of her late father.

Henson says she’s still affected by things that were done to her and biases that happened to her when she was in school. She believes the Unspoken Curriculum will advocate for meaningful change in the classroom by rethinking and reforming the lessons Black students learn in school and inspiring youth to feel confident and empowered to talk about their personal experiences publicly in the classroom and privately with mental health experts, while also seeking additional support when they need it. For more information about The Unspoken Curriculum visit borislhensonfoundation.org.

Honk For Jesus. Save Your Soul Regina Hall and Sterling K. Brown have teamed up to produce and star in Honk for Jesus. Save Your Soul, a short film that has been developed into a movie. A satirical look at megachurches, the movie keys in on Trinity Childs, the first lady of a prominent and respected Southern Baptist Mega Church in the aftermath of a scandal who attempts to help her pastor-husband, Lee-Curtis Childs, rebuild their now borderline non-existent congregation.

They must however, reconcile their faith with their personal demons in order to make the biggest comeback that commodified religion has ever seen. Meanwhile, on June 15, Brown is set to exec produce and cohost the OWN television special Honoring Our Kings: OWN Honors Black Fatherhood, with Oprah Winfrey. “The greatest role of my life happened 10 years ago when I became a father for the first time,” said Sterling K Brown, co-host and Executive Producer. “I am honored to celebrate these exceptional men who are my ‘Brothers in Fatherhood’, and continue to shift the national percep-

F9: The Fast Saga June 25

tion of Black fathers.”

In other casting news, everybody needs a supergirl and for Ava DuVernay it’s Kaci Walfall. At least, that’s who she’s tapped to star in her new superhero drama for the CW Network, Naomi.

The show follows a teen girl’s journey from her small northwestern town to the heights of the multiverse after a supernatural event shakes her hometown to the core and she sets out to uncover its origins.

On the Home Front: Empire star Bryshere Gray will have to do ten days in jail after pleading guilty to aggravated assault in a domestic violence incident. The deal is part of a plea the made by the 27-year old actor who was initially charged with aggravated assault with a deadly weapon and kidnapping. In addition to his jail stay, Gray will be required to complete three years of probation, participate in a domestic violence offender treatment program and pay restitution.

Briefly: Howard University has announced that it will honor Chadwick Boseman, one of its more famed alumni–by renaming its College of Fine Arts after him…Ironically, Boseman mentor Phylicia Rashad was recently named as the dean…Omari Hardwick will join Halle Berry in “The Mothership”, a project will star in and exec produce. Berry stars as Sara Morse, who one year after her husband mysteriously vanishes from their rural farm discovers a strange, extraterrestrial object underneath their home, setting her and her kids off on a race to find their husband, father and the truth…Finally, just weeks after announcing her engagement to Nigerian businessman Simon Guobadia (after just one month of dating), Real Housewives of Atlanta’s Porsha Williams is planning not one or two, but three wedding ceremonies.

Q&A

Chris “Ludacris” Bridges Hometown: Champaign, Illinois Big Break: Back for the First Time Upcoming Projects: “F9: The Fast Saga” Ludacris is a Grammy award winning rapper, actor and successful entrepreneur who began rapping at the age of nine and would later go on to release nine studio albums. He turned to acting in 2003 with 2 Fast 2 Furious and has become a staple of the successful franchise in addition to other acting projects. The happily married father of three girls also owns a record label, a restaurant, a cooking show, a Netflix TV series and is developing a line of toys for Mattel.

On how he came to be part of the Fast & Furious: I was on tour with Eminem. I believe Ja Rule was supposed to get this part and they couldn't come to an agreement. At the last minute they had to hurry up and fill this role. I remember right before getting on stage, I was in my dressing room and someone told me, 'You have to try out for this part. They only have one day so you've got to put it on tape now, and here's the sides and you've got to do it.' I'm like 15, 20 minutes from going on stage... And I did it, and the rest is history.

On Fatherhood: Having daughters has made me to be more aware of the world, its current state and how things are shaping up. It’s made me more of a protector. I’ve always been a provider, but I want to be more in their lives, teaching them game for the time that boys do come into their lives, because I know every trick in the book, so I have to pass on the knowledge. It’s impacted me so much to have daughters that I have created businesses centered by and around them.

On legacy: I’ve had a lot of accomplishments in my life, but everything I’ve experienced seems to have led up to this point to where I can leave a legacy for all my daughters. “Karma’s World” is one of those legacies. I hope this series will show kids that there are many ways to overcome difficult situations. This show is going to move hip hop culture forward and show young girls that they have the power to change the world.

On Kid Nation, the media platform he created to help kids learn about current events through music: I just feel like the landscape is very dated, in terms of what is out for children’s music at the moment.

Because we are in the height of not only COVID-19, but we’re also in the height of a racial divide that is starting to make small, positive change, and we want to help with that change. We’re trying to ensure the future of children everywhere.

On the Fast & Furious franchise coming to an end: They just announced that we're going to end on 10 and 11. Personally I thought we were going to end on 10 but I'm not at all sad about it because you got to think about, I came out in 2 Fast 2 Furious. We never knew we would get a callback from 5, now I've been in 5, 6, 7, 8, 9. And now they're telling me there's going to be two more? I'm happy! To hell with being sad!

On Persistence: There are 2 types of people in this world–those that make things happen and those that let things happen to Them. When I set out to accomplish a goal, I stop at nothing to make it happen.

RedCarpet Style

JURNEE SMOLLETT in a cutout Alexandre Vauthier jumpsuit

RACHEL LINDSAY in white satin slacks with a cropped white jacket

Celebrities tend to get a little more funky with their fashion on the red carpet at the Annual MTV Movie & TV Awards and 2021 was no different. Here’s how some of your favorite stars lit up the red carpet.

YVONNE ORJI in a Mimi Plange fringe maxi

LESLIE JONES in a bright red gown

YARA SHAHIDI in a Yara X Adidas suit with a yellow bustier

Eye On Gospel Best In Gospel The year in gospel belonged to Jonathan McReynolds, Anthony Brown & Group Therapy, Kierra Sheard and Pastor Mike. That’s according to the 36th Annual Stellar Gospel Music Awards, which recognizes the year's best performances in the genre and released its list of nominations in 28 categories last month.

McReynolds topped the list of nominees this year with eight nods for his work on "People", earning him nominations in the categories of Artist of the Year, Male Artist of the Year, Album of the Year, Producer of the Year, Contemporary Male Artist of the Year, and Contemporary Album of the Year. He also is nominated for Song of the Year and in the category of Urban/Inspirational Single or Performance of the Year for his work on "Movin' On featuring Mali Music".

“His eye ain’t even red tho…his favor lasts a lifetime,” the Chicago-based artist posted on Instagram in reaction to the news. McReynolds edged out Anthony Brown & Group Therapy, Kierra Sheard, Maverick City Music, and Pastor Mike, Jr. who were in a four-way tie with each receiving seven nominations, including a nod each for Artist of the Year.

Brown's contemporary music ignited roof-raising praise, resulting in nominations for

"2econd Wind: Ready" in six additional categories of Male Artist of the Year, Duo/Chorus Group of the Year, Producer of the Year, Contemporary Duo/Chorus Group of the Year, Contemporary Album of the Year, and Special Event Album of the Year.

“I never ever take one single bit of support for granted,” Brown said. “My grandfather, BishopHeber Brown Sr. used to say “people don’t have to be nice…and if they are, they don’t have to be nice to you”. Alot of people have been really nice to me and Group TherAPy. Thank you to every person that took time out to vote for us and congratulations to all of the nominees in every category. I honestly love gospel music and all of the people who make it, sing it, play it, and push it out to the world. I’ve been at this for 20 years and I’m humbled to even still be mentioned among these nominees.”

Sheard's inspirational project "Kierra" was recognized in the categories of Albertina Walker Female Artist of the Year, Album of the Year, Contemporary Female Artist of the Year, Contemporary Album of the Year, and Urban/Inspirational Single or Performance of the Year.

She also received a nomination for Song of the Year for her work on the project "Something Has to Break (Live) featuring Tasha Cobbs Leonard".

Each year the event recognizes the year's best while also paying special tribute to gospel trailblazers. This year's recipient of the James Cleveland Lifetime Achievement is The Clark Sisters. Lady Tramaine Hawkins will be honored with the Aretha Franklin Icon Award and Shirley Caesar will receive the Ambassador Dr. Bobby Jones Legends Award for her 70+ years of longevity in the industry.

"Over the past year, Gospel music has taken on an even more pronounced role in the lives of people around the world - dealing with a double, global pandemic of COVID19 and social injustice - who have relied on Gospel music as a source of comfort, strength, and encouragement until we can get to better days ahead,"said Stellar Awards founder Don Jackson.

Other celebrated artists receiving multiple Stellar nominations include: Jekalyn Carr, Tasha Cobbs Leonard,

the Clark Sisters, Rev. Luther Barnes and the Restoration Worship Center Choir, and the Chicago Mass Choir.

The Stellar Awards live taping returns to Nashville on July 10. Viewers can tune to the show in national syndication starting July 30th through September 5th.

Provided below is a partial list of nominees: Song of the Year: •All in His Plan Featuring Le'Andria Johnson & Mary Mary– PJ Morton •Man of your word; Jonathan Jay, Nathan Jess, Chandler Moore & Tony Brown •Movin' On featuring Mali Music; Darryl L. Howell, Jonathan Caleb McReynolds, Kortney Jamaal Pollard & Terrell Demetrius Wilson •Nobody Like Jesus featuring Lisa Knowles Smith; James Fortune, AyRon Lewis & David Dickinson •Something Has to Break (Live) featuring Tasha Cobbs Leonard; Kierra Valencia Sheard, J. Drew Sheard II, Jonathan Smith & Mia Fields Album of the Year: Big: Freedom Sessions (Pastor Mike Jr.); Changing Your Story (Jekalyn Carr); Kierra (Kierra Sheard); People; Jonathan McReynolds Choir of the Year: Chicago Mass Choir (My Soul Says Yes) JJ Hairston (Not Holding Back); Jonathan Nelson (The Reunion); Ricky Dillard (Choirmaster); Rev. Luther Barnes & The Restoration Worship Center Choir (Look to the Hills) Contemporary Female Artist: CeCe Winans (Never Lost); Kierra Sheard (Kierra); Koryn Hawthorne (I AM); Tasha Cobbs Leonard (Royalty: Live at The Ryman) Contemporary Male Artist: Jonathan McReynolds (People); Marvin Sapp (Chosen Vessel); Pastor Mike Jr., (Big: Freedom Sessions); Travis Greene (Broken Record) New Artist of the Year: Jonathan Traylor (The Unknown); Juan & Lisa Winans (It Belongs to Me); Maverick City Music (Maverick City Music Vol 3 Part 1); Melvin Crispell III (I've Got A Testimony); Rich Tolbert Jr. (Never Be Defeated)

Through the Storm

H

Ward of the State No More

is music may be electrifying, but it’s his story that is more intriguing.

The dynamic singer/songwriter doesn’t remember every detail, but as more facts about his childhood come to light–it’s clear Dreion is a living wonder.

Born to a teen mom who proved very early to be unprepared for parenting, Dreion was placed in the foster care system at age six, just as he was starting his elementary education. In fact, the incident that sparked the chain of events that would forever alter his life took place at school as officials witnessed the way in which his mother had publicly chastised the then six-year old and were so alarmed by it that they reported what they saw to law enforcement. It wasn’t long after that he was removed from his mom’s custody.

Extended family members offered to take young Dreion in and provide care for him, but the court system determined they were no better qualified to assume a guardian role due in part to their own existing legal records.

“I went through five different foster homes in a matter of six months,” recounts Dreion, a native of Omaha, Nebraska.

“I had some really built-up anger and aggression from being molested when I was younger before foster care,” so there were a lot of things that happened more-so with my foster parents not being able to deal with me.”

Four of the five foster homes were parented by total strangers. In some settings he was the only child, and in other cases there were multiple foster children living under the same roof. Dreion admits that every one of his foster parents were nice people who never directly harmed him.

Dreion

Instead, his stay was always cut short because it was his own erratic behaviors that were deemed unmanageable.

Case managers recommended he undergo therapy and was subsequently prescribed various medications resulting in adverse side effects, further obstructing his mental state and behaviors.

“I was on seven different medications,” adds Dreion.

“The medicines just made my behavior that much worse because I was under the influence of a hallucinogen or medications that were making me suicidal or very emotionally suppressed. Even when I was off the medicine, I was just all over the place.”

There were also times when he had to be admitted to the psychiatric ward of a local mental hospital in attempts to get his emotions and actions under control.

It was inside these facilities where Dreion tragically faced conditions such as bullying and older kids tormenting him. On one occasion, he remembers being thrown down a flight of stairs and stomped at the bottom of the steps by other foster boys.

“I was bullied. I was neglected. I was not listened to.

So many traumatic things happened to me in that sixmonth period,” Dreion reports. “My mind and mental capacity were still developing at that age. There were a lot of things I didn't understand at the time.

“As a six-year-old child I still believed in Santa Claus and the tooth fairy, but they stole all of that from me.”

Due to his experiences, Dreion–who also suffered from post-traumatic stress disorder–would come to believe that some of the foster parents, the foster care agencies, and his therapists were only in it for the money.

“As a ward of the state, they're putting me in rooms with a therapist whose job it is to diagnose me, but that’s the only way they get paid from insurance,” said Dreion. “If they diagnose me incorrectly, it doesn't matter, they get their money. I was being diagnosed incorrectly with conditions that I didn't have, just so a therapist could pay for their own living expenses and make money at my detriment.”

On the other side of his unstable foster care journey, the courts decided he could return to live with his birth mother—who battled alcoholism he later learned. But that arrangement was a failure, and he was returned to the foster care system. This time Dreion was taken in by a biological aunt in foster care and he describes the experience with her as, “The best time of my life!”

Dreion’s aunt closely supported his mother, who reassumed custody after a judge threw the case out of court. There were new schools, new friends and other relatives who stepped up to help Dreion have a fighting chance of a normal life.

One of those relatives was an uncle– Keith Miles–who got him into church where that formation of his faith and musical interests began to take hold.

His uncle, a church musician, encouraged him to play instruments and provided a platform in the church for him to showcase them.

He was a natural at singing, playing drums and the organ and as a budding young musical artist, Dreion discovered healthy ways to express himself and manage emotional imbalances. It didn’t take long for his passion for music to begin serving him in ways that led to reducing the need for prescription drugs— which his mother said was “turning him into a walking zombie.”

A relationship with God and music became Dreion’s newfound therapist. Not only were the two a winning combination for his mental health, but they set him on a course that today has him soaring beyond what most case managers would have never

“

I went through five different foster homes in a matter of six months...I was on seven different medications which just made my behavior that much worse because I was under the influence of a hallucinogen or medications that were making me suicidal or emotionally suppressed.

”

imagined.

A graduate of the Berkley School of Music, Dreion was a Gates Millennium Scholar (sponsored by Bill and Melinda Gates) and a Susan Buffett Scholar (sponsored

by Warren Buffet and his daughter Susan Buffet).

Determined to be a Berkley graduate with no school loans, Dreion had applied for approximately 30 college scholarships on his own volition and was awarded over $700,000 in educational funds.

As a student, Dreion honed his dynamic on-stage presence that ultimately earned him appearances in several campus shows. Paid engagement opportunities started coming his way, including invitations to perform in Germany and France. His soulful vocals, high energy dance moves, spins, and splits, leaves audiences amazed at his commanding performances–complimented by his radiant smile.

In 2019, Dreion was named “Performer of The Year” by the Berklee Urban Service Awards. He performed at major venues and events including the Boston Boy and Girls Club Annual Charity Gala, the College World Series, and at Gillette Stadium, and Grand Ole Opry.

“I believe my music is soul therapy,” claims Dreion, who is a huge fan of Gospel artist Kirk Franklin. “I write music that has to do with life and with the things not only I went through, but what I've seen others go through. My intent is to inspire, inform, shed light, and to reach the deepest parts of the soul. I believe that directly ties into the ministry of my music.”

Last year, Dreion auditioned for American Idol, but didn’t make it to the show’s televised portion. But music from a debut EP he released,–titled “I Am Life –made the soundtrack of a Shaquille O’Neal produced film, “Foster Boy”, which brings attention to the everyday realities that youth face in foster care.

“I seek to be an international superstar,” exclaims the now ebullient foster care survivor turned performer who is all over social media. “I'm working with and talking to people like Phillip Bailey and Sheila E, Morris Day, Stokely Williams and many more, who I have connected with who are helping me in my career. Hopefully, you'll see me a lot more on your TV screen too!”

As a survivor of the foster care system, Dreion is using his story of trauma and triumph, along with his inspiring music and live performances, to advocate for foster care reform. He partners with major foster care organizations such as First Star Academy, Mixed Roots Foundation, and Music Is Unity as an ambassador and honorary board member bringing awareness to needs of foster care youth across the country.

“I think it's really important that the foster care system, that was not only oppressing me, but also other foster youth, be dealt with,” says Dreion. “I've always been a believer…always had faith that I could do what people said I couldn't do.”

SpecialReport “Music and Misogyny: Does Rap Culture Feed Domestic Violence?”

O

ne in four women and one in seven men will at some point in their lives experience relationship abuse, and music–particularly hip hop– has served as both a backdrop, and at the same time a platform for the glorification of relationship violence.

In her 2017 Daily Beast expose, “How Hip-Hop Rewards Rappers for Abusing Women”, Amy Zimmerman writes, “Celebrating the authenticity that’s clearly connecting with these rappers’, fans can feel like an absolution of the crimes that they’re confessing to”, adding that “the entertainment industry has an undeniable problem with complicity” particularly as it relates to domestic violence.

So, does life imitate art or does art imitate life?

In 1949, Billie Holiday sang in Ain’t Nobody’s Business, “I’d rather my man to hit me than for him to jump up and quit me…ain’t nobody’s business if I do”.

In the lyrics to Eminem’s 1997 “Low Down, Dirty”, one line reads “support domestic violence. Beat your bi***hes ass while your kids stare in silence”.

The late XXXTentacion’s art did indeed imitate life. He raps about his girlfriend in his song “Carry On”, stating, “Trapped in a concept, falsely accused, misused and misled/ B****, I’m hopin’ you f****** rest in peace”.

In 2017, the Florida rapper faced felony charges of aggravated battery of a pregnant woman, false imprisonment, domestic battery by strangulation and witness tampering.

In an interview, Brother Marquis from two Live Crew echoed these sentiments:

TMZ video of violent elevator altercation between rappers Saweetie and Quavo

‘‘I’m degrading [women] to try to get me some money.

Rufus Morgan, an artist manager and So So Def producer, who was featured in Jermaine Dupri’s docuseries The Rap Game, says, “Fortunately I haven’t had to work with artists that write that type of music. I mainly work with R&B artists now and they don’t usually go there with their lyrics.”

Morgan also shares the same sentiment about record labels that Zimmerman talked about, calling the entertainment industry complicit. He continues, “I’ve noticed labels don’t care. They’re not into censoring artists. They will just let any backlash from controversial lyrics fall on the artist.”

Last July, rap star Megan Thee Stallion was shot twice in the foot by her boyfriend singer Tory Lanez, after a violent argument as the couple left a Hollywood party.

At first, she was silent about the details of the incident, but she subsequently posted: “Even though he shot me, I tried to spare

him. He’s not in jail because I didn’t tell the laws what happened, and I should have.”

Just last month, a video went viral of rapper Saweetie and her rapper boyfriend Quavo having a violent altercation in a NOHO apartment building elevator. In the video they seemed to be tussling over an orange bag. It appears Saweetie swung on Quavo, which resulted in the rapper slinging her into the elevator wall.

In a 2009 study on “Rap music’s violent and misogynistic effects: Fact or fiction?”

Researchers from the University of California at Irvine and George Washington University identified five misogynistic themes that appear with some frequency in hip hop music: derogatory naming and shaming of women, sexual objectification of women, distrust of women, legitimation of violence against women, and celebration of prostitution and pimping. Condoning violence against women was less frequent, but was found to appear in almost one-fifth (18%) of the misogynistic songs.

Dr. Oliver J. Williams, director of IDVAAC (Institute on Domestic Violence in the African American Community) states “This generation ages 15 to 38 is under siege there are higher rates of intimate partner violence, homicide and suicide. When you’re dealing with men who are dealing with so many challenges, taking on the issues of how this destructive behavior is destroying the family is hard.”

Music’s importance to youth can also be measured by the amount of time they spend listening to it. According to Statista, a company specializing in market in con-

CHEZ’NEY HADLEY Contributor

sumer data, found in 2019 teens (13 to 18year-olds) averaged seven hours and 22 minutes a day with 16 to 24-year-olds four times likely to cite hip-hop/rap as their favorite music genre.

In conclusion, the study found that rap’s messages resonate in communities where those who listen have fewer opportunities for socioeconomic success and where respect is instead often earned by mistreating young women.

Dr. Michael J.T. Fisher, Pastor of The Greater Zion Church Family in Compton says, “I believe music serves as a soundtrack to the culture which means whatever we sing we often play out in our schools, in our workplaces and in our homes. Rap music which often times degrade women, diminishes their status and shows this generation that they are nothing more than property and accessories.”

Fisher continues, “Rap music is definitely the reason why we have a generation of men that do not respect women.”

A memorable beat and catchy tune can easily have us overlooking the haunting lyrics of a violent song, but music has influence. Music has the power to bring us up or tear us down.

This article is the third in a eight- part series L.A. Focus is producing on domestic violence in collaboration with California Black Media and the Blue Shield of California Foundation. It explores how individuals, families and organizations in our community can seek creative solutions to work through the host of problems that stem from intimate partner violence. For more information, call the National Domestic Violence Hotline at 1-800-799-7233 or visit: www.thehotline.org.

ChurchNews

Agape Church of Los Angeles Worship Center Consolidated Plaza: 3725 Don Felipe Drive, Los Angeles, CA 90008

The Church of God In Christ Mourns Evangelist Joyce Rodgers “The Gospel is needed more than ever before and finding ways that we can minister to the souls of men, the emotions, the mind, memories in a holistic way. If you’re not sleeping right, if you’re not eating right, if you’re having digestive issues … it may be coming from suppressed trauma that may not be showing outwardly but may be eating you up inwardly. Ministry is very helpful,” Jakes maintained.

New Study Finds 43% of Millenials Don’t Believe God Exists

T

he Church of God in Christ is mourning the death of famed evangelist, speaker and author Joyce Rodgers, who died last month after battling an undisclosed illness at the age of 65. The announcement comes just days after Rodgers was installed as the supervisor for department of women for the Texas Northeast First Ecclesiastical Jurisdiction. Prior to taking that post, she served as the chairperson and administrative facilitator for the International Department of Women.

Described as a life-strategist, coaching women and young girls on how to achieve success on God’s terms, but Rodgers’ impact was just as profound on the church at large, having published three books–including “Go Big: Believe In God”.

COGIC Bishop Charles Blake tweeted: “In loving memory of the incomparable, one and only, faithful woman of God, Supervisor Joyce L. Rodgers. We honor her life and legacy!”

In his social media post, Bishop T.D. Jakes thanked Rodgers for "teaching us to slay our giants with the full fervor of faith".

Donnie McClurkin, who referred to her as his sister posted: "With a heavy heart that expected a different outcome, it is the will of God...we concede to God's sovereignty and accept His will!"

Bishop T.D. Jakes Says Churches Are Needed to Treat Pandemic Trauma

L.A. Focus/June 2021

Last month, during a panel called “Finishing the Race: What the Church Needs to Know about COVID-19 Vaccines and Access by the Ad Council, Bishop T.D. Jakes suggested that the Black Church would be needed more than ever to treat what he termed as the residue of trauma left in the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic.

“I borrowed this from [Bishop] Vashti McKenzie, but it really aptly describes our reality that ‘trouble doesn’t last always, but trauma lasts for a while.’ And I think we have to realize that as the trouble begins to dissipate that does not mean that the trauma is gone,” Jakes said.

“And the Church is more needed now than ever before to treat the residue of trauma. We’re seeing it in an escalation of murders. We are seeing it in an escalation of divorce. We’re seeing it in an escalation of spousal abuse.

Trauma takes on a lot of forms. And it’s one thing to hear it as a word, but when you see it in the behavior of people, sometimes we don’t really associate their behavior with the isolation that preceded it, the fear and the frustration, the loss of jobs that preceded it.”

The event–supported by groups including the Black Coalition Against COVID-19, Choose Healthy Life, National African American Clergy Network, and the National Latino Evangelical Coalition– featured a powerful lineup of faith and community leaders for a conversation about vaccine education and access, and promoting vaccine confidence among the faith community.

16

The American Worldview Inventory 2021, a survey of the philosophy of life on American adults from Arizona Christian University, assessed the worldviews of four generations: millennials (born 1984-2002), Gen X (19651983), boomers (1946-1964) and builders (1927-1945).

Among their findings, 43% of millennials stated they either don’t know, don’t care or don’t believe God exists compared to 28% of boomers, and 44% of millennials believe Satan is a real and influential, compared to 64% of boomers.

On spiritual matters, Americans younger than 55 are far more likely to distrust the Bible and to believe God is uninvolved in people’s lives.

Still, a majority of Americans call themselves Christian, ranging from 57% of millennials to 83% of builders.

Researchers warn that the beliefs and behaviors of younger Americans, especially millennials, “threaten to reshape the nation’s religious parameters beyond recognition. In fact, this radical spiritual revolution has created a generation seeking a reimagined world without God, the Bible, or churches,” they wrote.

Commenting on the study, George Barna, CRC director of research, said that Gen X and the millennials have “solidified dramatic changes in the nation’s central beliefs and lifestyles,” adding: “The result is a culture in which core institutions, including churches, and basic ways of life are continually being radically redefined.”

Pastor Gailen Reevers Succumbs to Cancer Following a lengthy battle with cancer, Pastor Gailen Reevers– senior pastor at Lincoln Memorial Congregational UCC–passed away last month.

He was 72. Ordained into the United Church of Christ (UCC) in 1983, Reevers was called to be the pastor at Lincoln Memorial Congregational UCC in 1995.

During his leadership, Reevers organized and implemented various community outreach programs such as a youth mentoring program, a health and safety ministry, and a SAT Prep camp.

The Detroit native also founded the Amistad Development Corporation. In that role he partnered with Retirement Housing Foundation and built Amistad Family Apartments, a 56 unit affordable housing complex in Los Angeles. Amistad was a catalyst for the development of Chesterfield Square, a 250,000 square- foot regional shopping center that became the first major retail development project completed in South Los Angeles in more than a decade. Rev. Reevers also oversaw the financing, development and construction of the Lincoln Family Life Center; a 9,000 square-foot facility dedicated to youth and community service activities.

"Lincoln is not about me," he once told L.A. Focus. "It's about the people who are here. My name is not on the bus.

You won't see my picture up anywhere in the building, – none of that stuff. In fact, if you came to my church during the day, you might have difficulty deciphering who is the minister.

"We are actually in the business of creating disciples of Christ. It's not a new paradigm. It's an old one, but if I do my job, my people will be empowered to do ministry.

We're talking about a transformation that becomes a lifestyle. It's a commitment to Christ, not to me."

Corprate Office: 4602 Crenshaw Blvd, Suite 2A, Los Angeles, CA 90043 (323) 295-5571 www.agapela.org Bishop Craig A. Worsham, Founder & Senior Pastor Sunday School: 10:00am Morning Worship: 11:00am Loving, Lifting & Liberating Humanity Through The Word Bethel Missionary Baptist Church of South L.A. 10905 S. Compton Avenue, Los Angeles, CA 90059 (323) 566.5286 Pastor Alvin Stafford Jr. Sunday School: 9:30am Morning Worship: 10:30am Book by Book Bible Study (Wed.): 6:30pm Sunday service broadcast on Facebook live Sunday school and Book by Book Bible Study services are conducted on Zoom For more information, visit www.bethelsola.com

Bryant Temple AME Church 2525 W. Vernon Avenue Los Angeles, CA 90008 (323) 293-6201 • F: (323) 293-0082 Pastor Dwaine Jackson Sunday School: 8:15am Morning Worship: 9:15 am Bible Study (Tues): Noon Pastor’s Bible Study( Tues): 6:00pm

Calvary Baptist Church 4911 W. 59th Street,Los Angeles, CA,90056 (323)298-1605•F: (310) 568-8430 • calvarybaptistla.org Rev. Dr. Virgil V. Jones Sunday Prayer: 8:30am Sunday School: 9:30am Sunday Worship: 11:00am Wednesday Bible Study: 12:00pm & 7:00pm We are the Church on the Hill where the Light Shines Bright!

Congregational Church of Christian Fellowship 2085 S. Hobart Blvd. Los Angeles, CA 90018 Phone: (323) 731-8869 • F: (323) 731-0851 www.christianfellowshipla.org Pastor James K. McKnight Sunday LiveStream: 10:00am (facebook.com/christianfellowshipla) Sunday Conference Call: 10:00am (310-372-7549 / code: 342408) Tue/Thurs Morning Word & Prayer: 7:00am Wed. Bible Study w/ Elder Stephen Brown (701-802-5001 / code: 825252# Crenshaw Christian Center 7901 South Vermont, Los Angeles, CA 90044 (323) 758-3777 • F: (323)565-4231 • www.faithdome.org Pastor Frederick K. Price, Jr. Sunday Service: 9:45am Bible Study (Tue): 11:00am & 7:30pm Tue. Night Children’s Ministry: 7:30pm Tue. Night Bible Study (Teens): 7:30pm Alcohol & Drug Abuse Program (Wed): 7:30pm

God’s Faithful Disciple of Jesus Christ / Prayer Clinic & Deliverance Ministry P.O. Box 561368, Los Angeles,CA 90056 (323)293-7566 • www.gfdjc.org• gfdjc@att.net Ruby Cottle, Ph.D., Pastor & Teacher Prophetess June Morgan / Assistant Pastor

Services Every Friday: 7:00pm-9:30pm We meet at: St. Paul’s Evangelical Lutheran Church 3901 West Adams Blvd, LA, CA 90018 Watch Dr. Cottle on HBN TV on Wed’s 7:30am Starting May 2nd: Channel 886 Dish, Smart TV 35.2

Grace Temple Baptist Church 7017 South Gramercy Place, Los Angeles, CA 90047 (323) 971-8192 Rev. Rodney Howard Sunday L.I.F.E Group: 8:30am Sunday Worship Service: 9:30am Wednesday Intercessory Prayer: 6:30pm Wednesday Night Bible Study: 7:00pm E-Mail: gtbcla@gmail.com

Grant AME Church 10435 S. Central Avenue • Los Angeles, CA 90002 (323) 564-1151 • F: (323) 564-5027 Rev. Dr. J. Arthur Rumph, Senior Pastor Reappointed to Grant AME Church Los Angeles Rev. Dr. James A. Rumph

Sunday School: 8am Worship: 9:30am Wed. Bible Study: 11:30am •6pm

Greater Ebenezer Baptist Church 5300 S. Denker Ave., Los Angeles, CA 90062 (323) 759-4996 Rev. DeNon Porter Early Worship: 8am Sunday School: 9:30am Mid-Morning Worship: 11am Radio-KALI 900AM: Sun. 11-Noon, 7-8pm KTYM 1460AM Sundays: 5:30pm Bible Study (Tues, Wed & Thurs): 7pm

Holman United Methodist Church 3320 W. Adams Blvd. Los Angeles, CA 90018 (323) 703-5868 • www.holmanumc.com Email: holman@holmanumc.com Rev. Dr. Ken Walden, Senior Pastor Sunday Morning Worship: 8:00am & 11:00am Sunday Radio: KJLH 102.3FM at 11:00am Sunday School: 9:30am (Children/Youth) & 9:45am (Adults) Bible Study: Every Thursday @ Noon We Gather,Grow,Go and Live the Gospel of Jesus Christ!

Israel Missionary Baptist Church - A Holy Spirit Filled Church 4501 South Compton Ave, Los Angeles,CA 90011 Church/Fax: (323) 233-3295 or 3296 Website: www.Israelmbc.com • Email: israelmbc@yahoo.com Rev. Rodney J. Howard, Sr. Sunday School: 10:00am Morning Worship: 11:30am Sunset Service: 5:00pm Communion Every First Sunday First Sunday Men In Prayer: 8:30 am Pastor’s Bible Study Tuesdays: 7:30pm Life Of Faith Church 8216 S. Hover Street, Los Angeles,CA 90044 Office: (562) 375-1668 Website: www.lofnation.org • Youtube:LifeOfFaithChurchLive • Facebook: LifeOfFaithChurch•IG: LifeOfFaithC Pastor Anthony Pigee, Jr. Morning Worship: 10:00am Bible Study: 7:00pm

McCarty Memorial Christian Church 4103 W. Adams Blvd., Los Angeles, CA 90018 (323) 731-4131 • www.mccartychurch.org Senior Pastor Edward Anderson Sunday Worship: 10:45am Bible Study: Tues @ 12:30pm/ Wed @6:00pm Zoom Call Into: (605) 472-5454/Access:188857 Online Services Stream Live: Sundays@10:45am to www.mccartychurch.org Give: Text 77977 Instagram@mccartyconnect Mount Moriah Baptist Church of Los Angeles, Inc. 4269 South Figueroa St. Los Angeles, CA 90037 (323) 846-1950 •Fax: (323) 846-1964 Reverend Johnteris Tate-Pastor Sunday Church School: 8:00am Worship Service: 9:15am Baptist Training Union: 7:00am Tues. Bible Study/Prayer:Noon & 7:00pm

Mt. Sinai Missionary Baptist Church 3669 W. 54th St. Los Angeles, CA 90043 • (323) 291-1121 F: (323) 291-1133 • office@sinai.church • www.sinai.church George E. Hurtt, Pastor-Teacher Sunday Worship: 8:00am, 11:30am Discipleship Groups (Sun): 9:45am Noonday Bible Study(Tue): 12:00pm Tuesday Night in the Truth: 7:15pm Radio: KKLA 99.5 FM (Sat): 9:00pm Our Goal: To glorify God by winning more Christians and developing better Christians (Matt. 28:18-20)

Mt. Zion Missionary Baptist Church 1300 E. 50th Street Los Angeles, CA 90011 (323) 235-2103 • F: (323) 235-3177 • www.mtzionla.org Dr. Edward V. Hill, II, Pastor Sunday Intercessory Prayer: 9:15am Morning Worship: 9:30am Children’s Church: 9:30am Sunday School: 11:30am Baptism: 2nd Sun. & Lord’s Supper: 1st Sunday Tues. Pastor’s Bible Study: 6:30pm Wed. Noon-day Prayer: Noon

FIRST LADY FILES

KAREN A. BROWN Contributor

Theresa Plesant Christ Second Baptist Church

P

reacher’s kids (PK’s) are born into families that serve God, the church, its congregants and the community in the various ministries of the church often without being asked for their opinion. This reality is well known to, Teresa Pleasant, who grew up singing in the choir, ushering and working in ministry at the Baptist church where her dad served as pastor.

Pleasant, the second oldest of six, spent her adolescent years in the Bay Area with her family. She, along with her mother and five siblings helped her father as he pastored the Mount Zion Baptist Church. “My whole family always worked in ministry. My mother was a musician who played the piano and my dad directed the choir, then he preached,” she remembers fondly.

In fact, she was in church when she met her husband, Pastor Welton Pleasant who had come to preach an early morning service.

“I never go to 8:00am service but I went this particular Sunday,” says Pleasant. It would be the beginning of their courtship.

The two were soon married and Pleasant moved to Los Angeles with her new husband where he currently pastors the Christ Second Baptist Church of Long Beach and Teresa Pleasant serves as the music director of the choir, a talent that she has always been drawn to given her love of music.

As Pleasant reflects on her favorite scripture she recalls the words in Isaiah 55:8, “For my thoughts are not your thoughts and my ways are not your ways,” with reminds her to align her thoughts with those of God’s.

When reflecting on her role as first lady, Pleasant is reminded of the wise words of her late mother, “Your first ministry is to your husband and your children. Let your home be a place of respite.”

She also wants to remind women “Don’t stop being who and what God has called you to be.”

Pastor Welton and First Lady Teresa Pleasant are the proud parents of two adult sons.

New Antioch Church of God in Christ 7826 So. Vermont Ave. Los Angeles, CA 90044 (323) 778-7965 • www.newantiochcogic.org Superintendent Jeffrey M. Lewis Sunday Early Worship: 8am Sunday Morning Worship: 11am Sunday School: 9:30am Tuesday Bible Study: 11am Wednesday In The Word: 7pm All services streamed on Facebook and You Tube @New Antioch Church of God In Christ Park Windsor Baptist Church 1842 W. 108th St. Los Angeles, CA 90047 (323) 756-3966 • RevTerrellTaylor@sbcglobal.net Rev. Terrell Taylor Morning Worship: 8:00am & 11:00am Bible Study Wednesday: Noon & 7:00pm Communion: 1st Sunday at 8:00am & 11:00am

People’s Independent Church of Christ 5856 West Blvd. Los Angeles, CA 90043 • (323) 296-5776 Pastor Roshod Sundays: Morning Worship: 8:00am & 11:00am Wednesday Bible Study & Mid Week Worship: Noon & 7:00pm Prayer Meeting: 6:30pm

St. Mark Missionary Baptist Church 5017 S. Compton Ave, Los Angeles, CA 90011 (323) 231-1040 • stmarkmbcofla.org Reverend Dr. Lovely Haynes, Pastor Sunday Morning Worship: 8:00am & 11:00am Sunday School: 9:30am Mon-Wed Corporate Prayer: 6:00 - 6:55 pm Monday Night Bible Study: 7:00pm Wednesday Noon Prayer: 12 Noon Wed. Exposition of Sunday School Lesson: 7:00pm

The Potter’s House at One LA 614 N. La Brea Ave. Los Angeles, CA 90036 (818) 763-4521 • www.tphla.org Sr. Pastor Toure’ Roberts Sunday Worship: 9:00am, 11:15am & 1:00pm Thursday Midweek Service: 8pm Watch Live: http://tphla.org/watch-live/

Trinity Baptist Church 2040 West Jefferson Blvd., Los Angeles, CA 90018 (323) 735-0044 • F: (323) 735-0219 Rev. Alvin Tunstill, Jr Sunday Worship Services: 10:00 am YouTube channel: tv.trinitybaptist.cloud Facebook/Website:trinitybaptistchurchofla.org SundayRadio Broadcast KJLH FM: 9:00am Zoom Wed. Night Virtual Bible Study: 7:00pm Sign in to zoom.us click on “join in a meeting” enter meeting ID: 480-271-5449. By phone call 1-699-900-6833 give zoom ID. Sign-in at 6:55pmrchofla.org Weller Street Baptist Church 129 S. Gless St, Los Angeles, CA 90033 (323) 261-0949 • F: (323)264-6601 • www.wellerstreetlive.com Pastor K.W. Tulloss Sunday School: 8:00am Sunday Morning Worship: 9:00am Tues. Bible Study: 6:45pm www.wellerstreetlive.com “We have not walked this way before” Joshua 3:1-6

West Angeles Church of God In Christ 3045 Crenshaw Blvd., Los Angeles, CA 90016 (323) 733-8300 Bishop Charles E. Blake Sunday School: 8:00am & 10:30am Early Worship: 8:00am Morning Worship: 11:00am Evening Worship (North Campus): 7:00pm Wed. Mid-Week Worship: 7:00pm Sun. Radio Broadcast KJLH 102.3FM: 10am www.westa.tv Citizens of Zion Missionary Baptist Church In Compton 12930 No. Lime Ave., Compton, CA 90221 (310) 638-0536 • F: (323) 636-2080 • www.citizensofzion.org Rev. Bobby Newman, Jr., Senior Pastor; Rev. B.T. Newman, Pastor (Pastor Emeritus) Service Time: 10:45 Virtual Worship: Youtube

Greater Zion Church Family 2408 North Wilmington Avenue, Compton, CA 90222 (310) 639-5535 • (Tues - Thurs 10am -4pm) Dr. Michael J. Fisher, Senior Pastor Sunday Worship: 8:00am|10:45am| 5:00pm Wednesday Bible Study: 12pm|7:00pm FB: GreaterZion IG: GZCFamily www.gzcf.us

Holy Chapel Missionary Baptist Church In Compton 1016 E. Rosecrans Avenue, Compton, CA 90220 (310) 537-3149 • F: (310) 537-3149 Rev. Dr. George L. Thomas Sunday School: 9:45am & 10:15am Early Morning Worship: 7:30am Mid-Morning Worship: 11:15am New Members’ Class: 9:45am Holy-Communion (1st Sunday): 7:30 & 11:15am Mid-Week Prayer & Bible Study (Wed)- 7:00pm Broadcast (KALI 900AM - Sunday): 2:00pm3:00pm Love and Unity Christian Fellowship 1840 S. Wilmington Ave, (P.O. Box 5449), Compton 90224 (310) 604-5900, www.loveandunity.org • info@loveandunity.org Apostle Ronald C. Hill, Sr. Founder and Pastor Live Stream Sunday Worship:10am & 6:30pm Live Stream Bible Studies:Wed.7:30pm&Sat 9am Live Stream Prayer w Apostle: Fri: 9am Food For Your Soul TV Ministry Impact Televison Network: Mon-Fri @6:30amPST KJLH 102.3 Sundays 9:00pm

The City of Refuge 14527 S. San Pedro Street, Gardena, CA 90248 (310) 516-1433 Bishop Noel Jones

In Gardena

Morning Worship: 8:00am & 11:00am Evening Worship: 6:00pm Bible Study (Wed): Noon & 7:00pm BET/Fresh Oil (Wed): 7:00am

Atherton Baptist Church 2627 W. 116th Street Hawthorne,CA 90250 (323) 757-3113 • www.athertonbc.org F: 323-757-8772 • athertonbaptist@sbcglobal.net Pastor Larry Weaver

In Hawthorne

Sunday Morning Worship: 8:00am & 11:00 am Sunday Bible Enrichment Class: 9:45am Mon.-Thurs. Bible Study: 7:00pm Wednesday Bible Study: 12:30pm & 7:00pm Bible Enrichment Fellowship International In Inglewood 400 E. Kelso, Inglewood, CA 90301 (310) 330-4700 • www.bamcm.org Dr. Beverly “BAM” Crawford Morning Worship: 9:30am Tues. Bible Study: 7:30pm Wed. Mid-Week Prayer: 5am, Noon & 7:00pm Wednesday Pathway: 7:00pm Thurs Bible Study: 10:00am Sat Marriage & Family Prayer: 7:30am

Blessed Family Covenant Church 325 North Hillcrest Blvd, Inglewood, CA, 90301 (310)-674-0303 • F: (310)-674-0303 • blessedfamilycovenant.org Pastor Wendy Howlett Sunday Morning Worship & Word: 9:30am Wednesday Prayer & Bible Study: 7:00pm View Sunday Worship: www.youtube.com (Under Blessed Family Covenant Church)

Church of God Center of Hope 9550 Crenshaw Blvd., Inglewood, CA 90305 (323) 757-1804 www.go2Hope.com Pastor Geremy L. Dixon Morning Worship: 8:00am & 11:00am Wed. Mid-Week Service: Noon Wed. Teaching Ministry: 7:00pm 1st Sunday Communion 5th Sunday Baptism

Faithful Central Bible Church 321 N. Eucalyptus Ave. Inglewood, CA 90301 (310) 330-8000 • F: (310) 330-8035 Bishop Kenneth C. Ulmer, Ph.D. Senior Pastor/Teacher Sunday Services: 7:00am, 9:30am & 11:45am Wed. Mid-Week Service: 7:00pm The Tabernacle is located at 321 N. Eucalyptus Ave., Inglewood www.faithfulcentral.com

Jacob’s Ladder Community Fellowship, inc.

1152 E. Hyde Park Blvd., Inglewood, CA 90302 (866) 330-1702 • F: (310) 674-0760 Watchman/Shepherd Dr. Robert T. Douglas Sr. Sunday Fresh Start & Prayer 9:00am Sunday School: 10:00am Morning Services: 11:45am Evening Service: 7:00pm Wed. Lock & Load Prayer: 7:00pm Wed. Bible Study: 7:30pm 3rd Friday Youth Night: 7:30pm www.jacobladderschurch.com

Pastor Profile: Anthony Pigee Jr. Church: Life of Faith Church How Long at Church: One year Hometown: Los Angeles Family: Wife Tineisha, one daughter, Alaysha

How did you come to be in ministry?

There are four generations of preachers in my family.

My mom’s water broke with me in church, so some say I was born in church. I’ve served as a youth director, armor bearer, musician, drummer….

How I started preaching? I was on the organ one Sunday and my father, Bishop Anthony Pigee Sr. looked over at me and announced, “Y'all got to come back to church tonight,” and everybody was like, “What's going on?” And he said, “My son is preaching his first sermon.”

I’d never preached a sermon a day in my life. Never thought about pastoring.

I preached “99 problems, but a praise ain't one”. It was one of the most important days of my life. I was 20.

Most PK’s try to get away from the church for a minute?

That was me for sure. For a little background, my mom's side of the family was heavily invested in the streets. My dad's side was church, so I came home to both worlds. I loved the amenities at church. We had this church mother who used to make fried baloney sandwiches and I looked forward to church for those sandwiches.

On the flip side, I had my fair share of being in the streets and out there I didn’t show no signs of being a preacher at all. I was a gang member.

L.A. Focus/June 20210

How did you get away with being a gang member and a church boy at the same time?

Throughout the week, I was in the streets and on Sundays I was at church. What happened was one particular Sunday, a guy came up to receive salvation and my father asks him, “What made you make this decision?” The young man told my father, “Well, I see your son and he's serving and if he can do it, I can do it.”

Come that Saturday, we had what we used to call back in the day, a hood meeting, at a particular park and lo and behold, the guy that just received salvation was at that park. So when I saw him, I tried to hide behind trees. He saw me and said, “Aren't you the pastor’s son?”

I said, “Yeah, bro, you got me.” And he said, “What are you doing here?” And I said, “Well, what are you doing here?” And he said, ‘Man, I just got saved, but you've been in church your whole life.’

Since that day, he was like, I can't do church and he became an atheist. It wasn't until

18

that point I realized I can't play both sides anymore, because that blood is literally on my hands. That's when I began the transformation process.

Did your father know you were a gangbanger?

Absolutely. There was nothing I ever did that God did not reveal to that man. My car was marked because of something I did, and my father found out about it. I remember we were going to take our last family picture before my mom passed, and he says, ‘Son, your brothers and sisters can ride in the car with you. The Lord showed me some stuff …your car is marked.’

What attracted you to the street life?

Wanting to belong…Growing up in church, you have this stereotype that men in church are soft so I didn't want to be a church boy. Plus, I loved the money…and what I thought was power.

So, what do you say to those women in churches and single mothers with sons out in the streets that they're trying to pray back into church?

Never give up on your child. The majority of the time it's just a season – a phase they're going through.

Sometimes, as parents, we have to learn how to reach our children where they are, opposed to you just shoving down what you think they should be doing. Sometimes you have to let them know, “Hey, I love you. I'm here for you and what can we do together to turn this corner?”

Instead of “You’re just like your daddy”, “I knew you were going to be nothing” or “You got demons in you.”

That type of stuff that does nothing but push people further into that lifestyle. The Bible tells us, ‘by love and kindness have I drawn thee’.

In my context, I was like, ‘Dad, you just want to get me off the streets, because you want me to preach or be there for the church.’ And I didn't want to be part of any of that.

Has that experience served you as a preacher?

Absolutely. A young man at our church was recently pulled over by the cops and there was a firearm in the vehicle he was completely unaware of and he had to go to jail. I told his parents to bring

him to the church after they released him and I was able to minister to him and say, ‘Hey man, I've been in your shoes. I want to let you know I love you. You're a good person. You made a bad decision. I've been there.’

Had I not experienced that I would have been like, you had no business in the car.

Your father, who was the pastor of the church, passed away last year to COVID, was it a given that you would take over the church and how difficult was that process?

It was a given because he made sure everybody knew publicly that if something happened to him, I was to be the pastor. It was and still is one of the most difficult times of my life, because not only did he pass away, but he passed away at the beginning of the pandemic.

We couldn't have a service for him. The church was grieving. The family is grieving. We couldn’t fellowship with each other. I had no pastor I could call and say, “Hey, how do you pastor during a pandemic, because nobody had a point of reference. So, when I wanted to talk to my father about the loss of my pastor, I couldn’t, and when I wanted to talk to my pastor about how to deal with the loss of my father, I couldn't.

What was biggest lesson you learned from your father that you draw on today?

Perseverance. I watched my father take care of my mother, lose my mother and then preach that Sunday. I’ve seen him deal with loss and church politics and my father always persevered and that's literally in my DNA. What are your thoughts on losing your father to COVID? It damaged me because I'm like, Lord, my father was faithful. He prayed for people and I’ve seen them recover.

He was living right. And to be honest, it was other people that I'm like, they ain't even saved. They’re doing everything wrong and I said, ‘God, why did you take him?’

Monday through Friday, you serve as a school counselor?

I've been working for Paramount School District for the past 11 years as a behavior specialist/ counselor.

Basically, I kind of redirect kids in how they rationalize and internalize their thoughts, redirecting their behavior, whether it stems from home issues, bullying, poverty or whatever the case. It is my job is to make sure that their behavior is not in direct conflict with their academics, but to make sure we prepare them with the tools and the resources so they can be successful.

What have you had to personally overcome ?

I had a problem delegating authority. That's one of the traits I learned immediately. Number two, is having a heart of compassion. My father was very stern and disciplined. That's in my DNA and sometimes it can be misinterpreted as a lack of compassion, so I'm learning how to Pastor profile continued to page 24

From the Pulpit of: New Life Christian Church “Daddy Changed The World”

F

ather's Day blessings to each and every one of you–fathers, mentors, and father figures who stepped into individual's lives– who stood in the gap.

To every father out there who mentored child that wasn't yours, who stepped in and stepped up to the plate not as a stepfather, but as a father.

On May 25th, 2020, we all saw the vicious and savage murder of George Floyd, and the protests rising up amidst the outward displays of racism and a pandemic that has been around far too long. In the midst of that, George Floyd's daughter, Gianna says something profound and it’s the title of today's message: ‘Daddy changed the world’.

In Ephesians 6:1-4, Paul writes, Children obey your parents because you belong to the Lord, for this is the right thing to do. Honor your father and your mother. This is the first commandment with a promise. If you honor your father and mother things will go well for you and you will have a long life on the earth.

Fathers, do not provoke your children to anger, by the way you treat them, rather bring them up in the discipline and instruction that comes from the Lord.

The entire book of Ephesians to the church at Ephesus is a powerful treatise to the body of Christ. In chapter one, we learn that we sit in heavenly places. In chapter two, we are saved by grace as a gift of God, not through works. In chapter three, we learn there's power in our prayers when we lean in our relationship with the Lord Jesus Christ. Chapter four helps us to understand that we are bond servants of Christ. Also, we learn in Ephesians 4-6, that we are equipped to do the work of ministry and we are to do it until we all mature into the stature even under Christ.

Chapter five helps us to understand the relationship of the believer to the church; how to submit to one another; for husbands to love your wives and wives respect your husbands.

Then it opens in Chapter 6 to continue this dialogue around a sanctified, separat-

ed, and anointed family of God, with what it looks like in particular for children to honor their fathers and their mothers as the first commandment with a promise, but also most certainly what it means for a father to become a daddy who changes the world.

I don't care what stature you hold in the community; you and I have an opportunity to be a change agent in the world, particularly during this dark time in this dark season.

There's something about a man in a child's life. I've experienced it in my own life, watching my own two daughters and now my transgender daughter still be able to succeed in life because they had a father who invested in them not only intellectually, emotionally and psychologically in a way that helps them to understand the world around them, but sharply investing in their lives spiritually.

We teach our sons how to tie bow ties, to shine their shoes. We teach our daughters how to be respected and not allow a man to treat them any old kind of way based on how we treat their mothers or the women around them. But God is calling you and I–as daddies who change the world–to help us understand that after teaching all the things of the world –including what it is to survive when being pulled over by the police or how to respond in situations that may be adverse because of who you are– we must also teach them how to put their trust in God. Yes, we must teach them how to build on their relationship through the instruction and the discipline that comes from the Lord.

The first thing we must understand is that daddies will change the world when we prophetically prepare our children and not provoke them as directed in Ephesians 6:4.

This is very instructive because when we prophetically speak into the lives of our children, what we are doing is speaking into their lives in such a way that causes them to have the proper analysis of their present condition while also having hope in spite of what they're going through and what they must go through.

True Friendship Missionary Baptist Church 7901 South Van Ness Ave. Inglewood, CA 90305 (323) 750-7304 Rev. James A. Perkins Sunday School: 9:30am Early Worship: 8am Morning Worship: 10:45am Bible Adventure Hour (Tues): 6pm Bible Study (Tues): 7pm Bible Study (Thurs): Noon

Antioch Church of Long Beach 350 Pine Ave. ,Long Beach, CA 90802 (562) 591-8778 •www.antiochlb.com Senior Pastor Wayne Chaney, Jr.

In Long Beach

Online Services Stream live: Sunday 10:00 am at antiochlb.com Give: text antiochib to 77977 Social Media: facebook.com/antiochlb instagram.com/antiochlb youtube.com/antiochlongbeach

Christ Second Baptist Church 1471 Martin Luther King, Jr., Ave. Long Beach, CA 90813 (562) 599-3421 • Fax: (562) 599-6175 • www.csbclb.org Rev. Welton Pleasant II, Senior Pastor Sunday School: 8:30am Sunday Worship Service: 9:40am Wed. Bible Study: 7:00pm Wed Youth & Young Adult Ministry: 7:00pm

When we speak prophetically into their lives, through the discipline and instruction of God's word, we help them to understand they have a future and hope in spite of their present condition. That when you and I project in them the discipline of God's word, as well as the instruction that comes from God's word, we help them to understand that they are more than their condition; more than what the family they've been raised in; more than what the world would try to get them to believe about themselves.

They are more than even having a knee on their neck in spite of it being a reality in their lives.

We prophetically speak into their lives to help them understand there's an anointing on their life. That they are able to do exceedingly abundantly above all that they can ever ask God to do according to a power that is prophetically operating in their lives.

Fathers, we have been called to be world changers, but it must start at home, which means do all that you can on your knees to prophetically pray and speak into your child's life.

One of the things I've had to learn is that they do have minds of their own and we want them to be critical thinkers. We want them to have courageous conversation. Here's a news flash, daddy, let them start those courageous conversations with you.

One of the most powerful conversations I'm having with my daughters is about their experience growing up in my home.

As much as I thought I've been a change agent in their lives, the reality is there are some ways and sometimes I failed them, but praise be unto God that He's able to recover, restore and heal.

I know it's hard to be a father.

We're working through some of our own stuff but let me encourage you that you are a world changer because you are a daddy who changes the world when you speak prophetically.

And part of that prophetically speaking to their lives is our time in prayer when the Lord

begins to prophetically download into our lives what our children are to become.

Here is the third thing daddies do to change the world. We actively serve and obey Christ.

Matthew 16:24-26 says, “Then Jesus said to his disciples, if any of you wants to be my follower, you must give up your own way.”

We follow the Lakers. We follow Golden State. We follow the Rams. We know more stats about individuals in the world than we do about the word of God. We must learn to obey Christ by picking up the cross, not His cross, but your cross to be a daddy that changes the world. Your cross to be a daddy that stands up, a Daddy who disciplines himself through the word of God so that we can actively instruct and discipline our children through the word of God. The reality is if we're going to change the world, we've got to be obedient. We've got to follow and serve Christ in spite of how it feels; in spite of the challenges, you have in your life; in spite of your not even having a father in your own life. You've got to serve…obey.

The fourth thing we need to do is to model faithfulness and the three ways we model faithfulness is– to God first, to our families second, and then to our communities and here’s how: We do justice.

We do justice in our families when we prophetically speak into our children's lives and not provoke them; when we build altars of prayer as priests and we do justice when we actively serve Christ and obey him.

And we model this faithfulness not only by doing justice, but by showing loving kindness and mercy.

We've Pastor Sam continued to Casey page 24

Christian’s Community Center of Los Angeles 3960 E. Gilman Street, Long Beach, CA 90815 (562) 597-3252 Senior Pastor Thom Washington Live Stream Sunday Service: 11:00am Wednesday Night Prayer: 6:00pm Sunday Bible Class: 9:30am Sunday Afternoon Services: 4:00pm (2nd & 4th Sunday) Wednesday Prayer: 6:00pm Bible Study Wednesday 7pm

Grant AME Church of Long Beach 1129 Alamitos Ave. Long Beach, CA 90813 • (562) 437-1567 grantamelb@aol.com • www.grantamelb.org Rev. Dr. Michael W. Eagle, Sr.

Family of Faith Christian Center 345 E. Carson Street, Long Beach, CA 90807 (562) 595-1222 • F: (562) 595-1444

First United Methodist ChurchCompton 1025 S. Long Beach Blvd •Compton, CA 90221 (310)639-0775•F: (310) 639-1161

Sun. Worship Experience: 10:45am 3rd Sun. Healing & Anointing: 10:45am Wed. Bible Study: Noon & 6pm Mothers of Murdered Youth & Children Where all receive a little attention, affection and love.

Bishop Sherman A. Gordon, E.D. Min

Dr. Arnetha E. Inge, Pastor

Sunday School: 8:00 am Morning Worship: 9:00 am

Sunday School: 8:30am - 9:30am Sunday Morning Worship: 10:00-11:45am TONGAN Worship:1:00pm(2nd&3rd Sundays) Wed. Prayer & Bible Study: 7:30am & 6:30pm

Gospel Memorial Church of God In Christ 1480 Atlantic Ave. Long Beach, CA 90813 (562) 599-7389 • F: 562-599-5779 • gospelmemorial@aol.com Bishop Joe L. Ealy Sunday School: 9:30am Sunday Worship: 11:00am Evening Worship: 6:30pm Wed. Intercessory Prayer: 7:00pm Wed. Pastoral teaching adults: 7:30pm Wed. Youth Ministry Boot-Camp; Youth Bible Study: 7:00pm & Choir Rehearsal: 7:30pm

Greater Emmanuel Temple 3740 E. Imperial Highway, Lynwood, CA 90262 (424) 296-0400 •www.greateremmanuel.org

In Lynwood

Pastor Nissan Stewart Sunday Morning Worship: 11:00am Wednesday Prayer: 6:30pm Mid-Week Refuel/Bible Study: 7:00pm (Wednesday) Follow us: @GETFamilyNow The Greater Emmanuel Temple App Available in App Store

Walking In The Spirit Ministries Double Tree (Sonoma Grill) 13111 Sycamore Drive, Norwalk CA 90650 (213) 248-6343 P.O Box 1597 Norwalk CA,90651 Tim & Leshia Brooks

In Norwalk

Ralph’s continued from page 6

Morning Worship: 11:00am Services Held Every 2nd & 4th Sunday and Free Breakfast Is Served Bible Study: 8:30am (Every 5th Friday)

Arise Christian Center In Westchester 6949 La Tijera Blvd. Suite C,Westchester, CA,90045 (310)568-8445•F: (310) 568-8430 • Arisechristiancenter.com Pastor Ron Taylor Morning Worship: 9:00am & 11:15am Bible Study Wednesday: 7:00pm Intercessory Prayer Tuesday : 7:00pm Intercessory Prayer Sunday: 8am - 8:45am Thursday:11:30am-12:30pm

Jim Clyburn continued from page 8 address racial inequities by taking steps that are necessary to repair the faults of our past. Working together, with informed acknowledgements and our eyes wide open, we can make significant strides in our “pursuit of a more perfect union.”

L.A. Focus /June 2021

Compton continued from page 6 against the Los Angeles county Sheriff's department.”

“Essentially what the allegation is that the county is paid $20+ millions to patrol the streets of compton to make sure the streets are safe, and the residents are safe,” said Jamon Hicks, whose firm has been retained on behalf of the city of Compton. “However, in actuality, what is happening is fraudulent billing - what that mean is we have deputies say they are at location they are not at.”

Michelle Chambers called for transparency.

“We asked for justice instead we get excessive force.

Constantly harassment. And now a total blatant misuse of our funds, the residents of compton deserve better.”

“Lastly, we hope Compton is paving the way for other contract cities to take action and protect their residents and tax dollars by holding the Sheriff's department accountable.”

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Pastor continued from page 22 soften my love.

What will set your church apart?

I believe God called me to be a pastor to the unchurched.

Lots of churches cater to churchgoers, but I tell people, don't bring anybody from another church, then we're just recycling church members. Bring somebody that doesn't know God, who doesn’t go to church of has been hurt by church. Not to say we'll be the only church doing that, but it is something we're striving for at Life of Faith, and that our church can be a beacon light to those in need 24/7 and I'm praying that God will give us the resources to do so.

Pulpit continued from page 23 got to learn how to be merciful and to model loving kindness. Peace is not the absence of conflict, it's you choosing to model faithfulness unto God, to your family, to the community, to do justice, to walk in a merciful way and pray.

I don't care what you've gone through, you are a world changer. You matter, daddy. And you may not be celebrated much, but I want to tell you by the spirit of God today, that you are a world changer. Keep building altars. Keep prophetically speaking. Keep actively serving. Keep modeling faithfulness.

announced the closure of Ralphs on Pico Boulevard as well as a Food 4 Less on Sunset.

Kroger’s decision to close the Ralphs on Slauson presents a different set of issues for a community that is already lacking access to many healthy food options outside.

“Within a four-mile radius we operate seven Ralphs and Food 4 Less locations.

The reason that store closed is because it was experiencing losses year after year,” Votava continued.

The closure is just one of many blows to a community facing rampant gentrification. As new developments spring up, concerns continue to grow about longtime residents who continue to be pushed out or left behind.

All hope is not lost however, as community groups work on ways to fill the void. Olympia Auset, the founder of SUPRMARKT, is among these groups.

“The closure is disappointing and leaves an already under resourced area with even less resources. It also puts more burdens on under resourced non-profits to increase health food access, but we are up for the challenge,” said the food activist who has been doing pop-up grocery stores in Leimert Park since 2016, providing fresh fruits and vegetables.

She has helped to provide over 100,000 pounds of produce that can even be purchased with EBT for lower income residents.

“We are pulling together with other food fighters to provide thousands of free organic food bags to area residents and look forward to releasing details in the coming weeks.

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L.A. Focus/June 2021

t makes total sense that #RolandMartinUnfiltered would be the name of Roland Martin’s current daily digital show which broadcasts several social media platforms including YouTube.

Candid, forthright and honest, Martin is an award-winning journalist whose natural gift for speaking truth without compromise has landed him in highly regarded spaces and fervent conversations.

Martin’s unfiltered way with words is in-part rooted in his childhood upbringing, where family conversations were always inclusive of both adult and younger generations. “There were lots of debates that took place about present day issues,” he reflects. “As a kid you had to hold your own with grown folks. So, my ability to debate on television was long honed from those fiery and spirited conversations with my relatives.”

A native of Houston, Texas, Martin knew as a youth he would pursue a career in journalism. After graduating from Jack Yates High School-Magnet School of Communications—where he returns annually to award $1,000 scholarships to seniors—he went on to earn a BS degree in journalism from Texas A&M University.

While in college interning at KBTX (CBS affiliate) radio station, Martin applied for a weekend sports anchor position that had become available. “Everybody at the station said, ‘this is a no-brainer, that job is Roland’s,’” he recalls.

The station’s news director, Jeff Braun, who was responsible for filling the position, had a different opinion. A colleague confided in Martin that ten years prior, Mr. Braun had an altercation with a Black man that he has never forgotten about. Because Martin was of the same race, the sports anchor job was given to another candidate.

“I was pissed!” quips Martin. “[He’s] not going to hire this black guy because of whatever the hell happened a decade ago? I left the station.”

In 1991, the Birmingham News declined to hire Martin (even though all sixteen news editors at the publication wanted him on staff) because of his then credit score. Turns out, Alabama state law permitted employers to deny jobs to people whose credit ratings were unattractive no matter how well qualified they were for the position.

“Could my career have gone differently had I gotten that job? I don’t know,” he reasons. “But I will always use it as fuel to prove what has to be done.”

Martins’ get-it-done attitude is how he’s been able to share countless media platforms with multiple U.S. presidents, A-list athletes and entertainers, political pundits, and community activists.

For six years Martin served as a contributor to CNN, appearing on numerous shows and earning accolades for his explicit honesty, conviction, and perspective on current issues. In 2005, he began contributing commentaries on TV One, where he’d later be named host and managing editor of Washington Watch, a Sunday morning show.

Between 2013 to 2017, Martin was host and managing editor of NewsOneNow, the first daily morning news show in television history targeting African Americans.

In all, he spent 13 years at TV One and played a significant role in helping to build and sustain the Black owned network.

“I believe the commitment that Martin has had all these years to keep the global community informed about what goes on in this country in relationship to

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Roland Martin There’s this assumption, that in order to spread the Good News or operate in God’s will, that you have to be in a pulpit. When, in fact, God said to me, ‘I need folks just where they are.’ So, when I’m on TV, the radio, and when I’m writing columns, I have literally touched and spoken words of faith to far more people than most pastors will ever preach to in their lifetime.

African Americans and people in need of a voice has been very well placed,” said legendary actor and activist Harry Belafonte, on the evening Martin was named Journalist of the Year by The National Association of Black Journalist (NABJ) in 2013. “I think anybody that gets into that space and can reveal the truth about what’s going on becomes an important player.”

Advocating passionately on behalf of the Black community and illuminating perspectives that are easily covered up is a sweet spot for Martin — whose voice has reached beyond the US into Canada, Australia, Columbia, Italy, South Africa, and the UK. While Jet Magazine readers voted him “King of the Hill” (2012) in terms of who they turn to on issues that concern African Americans, Martin would argue that his perspectives on culture, social and life values span across racial and ethnic lines. He has recognized what people in general need to hear and learn and doesn’t limit his ability to debate and articulate to one group of people. “[One of the] things that bring me joy is touching people, informing people, delivering news and information that is life-changing,” says Martin, a four-time NAACP Image Award recipient. “I’ve had a lot of people over the course of my career come to me and say how what I have said or what I’ve reported has impacted and changed their lives.”

As a matter of fact, Martin who was raised a devout catholic, has encountered others so inspired by his words and influence, that they’ve accused of missing God’s call to ministry.

“I’ve also had people come up to me [and say] ‘you’re running from your calling’…

And I said, no I’m not,” h e insists.

“There’s this assumption, that in order for you to spread the Good News, or to

operate in God’s will that you have to be in a pulpit.

When in fact, God said to me, ‘I need folks just where they are.’ So, when I’m on television, when I’m on the radio, and when I’m writing columns, I have literally touched and spoken words of faith to far more people than most pastors will ever preach to in their lifetime.”

Martin, who attended Louisiana Baptist University earning a master’s degree in Christian Communications, admits to never being shy about practicing and sharing his belief in God. The first show he hosted on CNN was called, “What Would Jesus Do?” As an author of three books and a fourth on the way, the title of his first publication, Listening to the Spirit Within: 50 Perspectives on Faith, is a collection of columns he wrote in which the context was centered around faith.

“There’s some who see their faith as part of who they are, and then there are those who see faith as the essence of who they are,” notes Martin, whose wife, Rev. Jacquie Hood Martin, is an ordained minister. “It’s not like it’s private for me, I have always infused it into my work.”

Martin’s career has garnered him more than thirty honors and awards including being named four times by Ebony Magazine as one of the 150 Most Influential African Americans in the United States. In addition, he received the 2008 President’s Award by the NABJ for his work in multiple media platforms.

“The joy for me comes in practicing and doing what I went to Jack Yates High School for,” affirms Martin.

“There’s a fascination with just doing the work and then getting better, and making it more interesting, and the new discoveries you experience just going through the process…It’s that constant pursuit of excellence.”

To say that Martin is far from slowing down would be stating the obvious. This year, the media mogul is premiering “Roland S. Martin Presents We Got Next: An Intergeneration Dialogue” on Facebook Watch.

Each episode brings together with the fire and vigor of the young, with the wisdom and knowledge of elders involved in social justice activism for a series of engaging and informative conversations with no set agenda. On top of that he’s penned a new book, White Fear, in which he argues that the election of Trump in 2016 was largely driven by backlash from white Americans who feel threatened by the inevitable transition to a majority non-white country. White Fear is slated for release in early 2022.

As the CEO and owner of Nu Vision Media, Inc. a full-service media firm that produces and distributes his daily digital show, Martin likens his work ethic to his love for the game of golf. “A golfer is in pursuit of the perfect round, and the reality is there is no perfect round,” observes Martin. “If you shoot a 59, a golfer will say that’s amazing. But I could have shot a 58!

Meaning you can have 59 amazing swings, but you’re