The Metropolitan Atlanta Rapid Transit Authority (MARTA) officially re-opened the newly renovated Airport Station Monday.
MARTA temporarily closed the rail station for six weeks beginning April 8 to complete renovation work on the concourse and platform levels, including installing new flooring, replacing ceilings, and lighting, and installing infrastructure for a new elevator.
The closure ensured the work could be done safely and significantly reduced the total construction time by 17 months.
The Airport Station Project is designed to improve the safety and appearance of the concourse and platform levels of the rail station that connects to the world’s busiest airport, Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport. The station is served by the Red and Gold Lines and is one of MARTA’s
busiest rail stations with approximately 11,000 daily customers.
The project is part of MARTA’s approximately $1B multi-year Station Rehabilitation Program and primarily paid for with State of Good Repair Funds in the Capital budget. The total project cost estimates around $55 million.
During the closure, MARTA has provided bus shuttles between College Park Station and Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport, with the service averaging 7,000 to 9,000 customers a day. For reference, Airport Station typically serves 11,000 customers daily.
MARTA Chief Capital Officer Carrie Rocha said the importance of the closure was to maximize the closure in six weeks and to be prepared for the World Cup.
“We were able to get an awful lot of construction work done and we’re preparing for the World Cup,” she said. “We want to complete all of the things on the station, so by
closing we’re able to begin bringing much larger equipment and be much more efficient with the work that we can do.”
She also said they don’t have to put up temporary barricades, so they are able to make the rail lines safe for all workers.
“We’re able to do a lot more work in a very short period of time,” she said.
Rocha also said the flooring on both levels were main priority during the renovation, repainted walls, and to seal many of the leaks they had over time.
“We painted all the surfaces up there and we’ve installed new frames for new benches in certain locations,” she said.
Fulton County District Attorney Fani T. Willis soundly defeated Democratic challenger Christian Wise Smith in their primary election Tuesday night. Smith is a former Atlanta solicitor and prosecutor in the Fulton County District Attorney’s Office. Willis will take on Courtney Kramer, an attorney that previously served in former President Donald Trump’s administration, in November’s general election.
Willis told supporters, which included Atlanta Mayor Andre Dickens, Georgia AME Bishop Reginald Jackson, attorney Charlie Bailey, and South Fulton Chief of Police, Keith Meadows, this is a momentary pause in the race. The Fulton County District Attorney cautioned the crowd tonight’s results aren’t the end of the road. But, rather, the beginning.
“You all, in all seriousness, my opponent has a super PAC already supporting her,” Willis exclaims. “The Republican Party of this country and this State has already supported her. But right here is a grassroots campaign. Nobody is supporting me but the people of Fulton County. And so we need you all the way in.” Willis also touted her record outside of the courtroom. She says her office is going after violent criminals, and the powerful. Also, she is giving first time offenders the second chance. Her office has developed the REACH program. It provides weekly small group sessions on in-
tegrity, leadership, decision-making, character, gangs, and conflict resolution. REACH life skill training then focuses on understanding money, credit, vision, and the hunger for education.
During her speech, Wills reminded everyone of her race from 2020, in which she said Atlanta had a gang problem. In the four years she has been Fulton County DA, homicides in Fulton County are down 21%. Violent crime is down 25%, rape is down 49% percent. However, crime nationwide is down 5% nationwide, according to Willis.
Prior to becoming Fulton County DA, Willis worked for former Fulton County District Attorney Paul Howard for sixteen years. Willis also served as the lead prosecutor in the trial of 12 Atlanta Public School teachers accused of correcting standardized test answers by their students. All but one of the defendants was found guilty of racketeering.
Of being challenged in the November’s general election by Kramer, Willis said, “I want you all to understand: my opponent is completely unqualified. Completely,” Willis said of Kramer. “She has less than four years of practicing law. She has never been in a criminal courtroom. But while she is inexperienced and unqualified and does not represent the values of my County, don’t get confused: She is a real threat because of who backs her and how they back her.”
Incumbent Fulton County Sheriff Patrick Labat was re-elected in what can be considered a landslide on Super Tuesday. As of 10 p.m., three hours after polls were closed in Georgia's largest county, Labat was leading the other three candidates, Kirt Beasley, James "JT" Brown, and Joyce Farmer by more than 23,000 votes.
Labat earned nearly 40,000 votes while Farmer finished second overall with just under 17,000 votes. Both Beasley and Brown earned 11% of the vote with just over 8,000 votes each.
Asked how he feels about having been in such a comfortable lead with more than 60% of the votes having been counted earlier in the evening, Labat said he was "fortunate."
"We worked really hard and were very intentional about what we wanted to do, which is protect and serve our community."
Asked what this victory meant to him, Labat said it was, "The opportunity for us to continue to serve the community."
Atlanta Mayor Andre Dickens made his way into the watch party a few minutes after 9 p.m. after having spent some time at Fulton County District Attorney Fani Willis' watch party. Willis won her primary election by 60,000-plus votes over Democratic challenger Christian Wise Smith. A supporter of Labat in the past, Dickens shook hands and hugged Labat and his wife Jacki. Labat's daughter Maya arrived
a few minutes earlier. She was following the election results on her phone. "On my way down here I heard it was 58%," she said. Looks like 54% is all Labat will need to continue representing Fulton County in the role of sheriff. Just under 90,000 votes were cast in the race for sheriff. Fulton County has 751,192 registered voters, according to date provided by the Secretary of State's Office.
Fulton County Superior Court Clerk was won by the incumbent Che Alexander with 52% of the vote. Former Atlanta City Councilmember Keisha Waites finished with 33% of the vote.
The race for Fulton County Commissioner District 4 seat looks like it is headed to a run off between incumbent Natalie Hall and Georgia State University professor and lawyer Mo Ivory. The pair were stuck at 41% of the vote each well into the 11 o'clock hour on election night.
The race for Clayton County sheriff has narrowly inched its way into a runoff as well. Incumbent Clayton County Sheriff Levon Allen won 50% of the vote Tuesday night while challenger Jeffrey Turner won just 24%, but that was enough to finish in second place. Both Clarence Cox and Charlene Watson Fraser finished in third and fourth place after earning 20% and 7% of the remaining votes, respectfully.
QUOTE OF THE WEEK
“The torture of being the unseen object, and the constantly observed subject.”– Amiri Baraka (The System of Dante’s Hell)
The notion of free market capitalism has faced fierce condemnation in recent times from those who decry its perceived inequity and cruelty.
A particular piece entitled “Capitalism is not a God-ordained economic system” presents such arguments. Yet, upon closer scrutiny, it becomes evident that this economic framework finds its origins in one of the most venerable and powerful works in existence: the Bible. Far from being a product of contemporary culture, free market capitalism is deeply rooted in Biblical tenets and has been embraced by civilizations throughout the ages.
While the origins of the term may not be credited to him, the prevalence of the term “capitalism” can be traced back to Karl Marx’s publication of “Das Kapital,” in 1867. He defined capitalism as a system that prioritizes profit and private ownership over individual freedom and fair competition.
Under capitalism, large corporations hold significant power and influence, leading to monopolies and price fixing, which goes against the principles of a free market economy. Additionally, capitalism allows for exploitation of labor and resources, leading to unequal distribution of wealth and opportunities.
In reality, free market capitalism is based on the belief that prices, wages, and resources should be determined by the interactions between supply and demand, with minimal government intervention. Therefore, it can be argued that capitalism (as defined by Marx) is a perversion of the true ideals of a free market economy, as it distorts the concept of fair competition and undermines the principles of individual freedom and equal opportunity.
Free Market Capitalism has been the driving force behind the unprecedented growth and prosperity of both America and the world. It has fostered innovation and competition, leading to advancements in technology, medicine, and other industries. Its ability to efficiently allocate resources and generate wealth has lifted millions out of poverty and created countless new opportunities for individuals and businesses.
Free Market Capitalism has also served as a powerful agent for spreading democracy and promoting peace globally, as countries that engage in economic trade are less likely to engage in warfare. While not without its flaws, it has undoubtedly been one of the greatest contributors to human progress and should be celebrated and protected for its immense benefits.
Simply stated, Free Market Capitalism gives individuals the freedom to make their own economic decisions based on their own self-interest. This concept of free market economics is not only supported by economic theories and principles, but it is also deeply rooted in Biblical teachings.
First and foremost, the Bible teaches about in-
dividual responsibility. In the parable of the talents, we see that the master distributes talents to his servants and each of them is responsible for using them wisely. Similarly, in a free market economy, individuals are responsible for their own success and failures. They have the freedom to use their resources and talents to create wealth and improve their standard of living.
Moreover, the Bible emphasizes the importance of property rights. In the Ten Commandments, it is stated “Thou shalt not steal.” This commandment recognizes the right of individuals to own and protect their property. In a free market economy, private property rights are respected and individuals have the right to keep the fruits of their labor. This encourages entrepreneurship and innovation, as individuals have the freedom to reap the rewards of their hard work.
Furthermore, the Bible speaks about the value of fair and just trade. Proverbs 11:1 states, “The LORD detests dishonest scales, but accurate weights find favor with him.” This verse teaches us the importance of fair and honest trade, which is a fundamental principle of free market economics. In a free market, prices are determined by the market forces of supply and demand, ensuring fair and efficient trade for all parties involved.
Additionally, the Bible teaches about the importance of competition. In Ecclesiastes 9:11, it is stated, “The race is not to the swift or the battle to the strong, nor does food come to the wise
or wealth to the brilliant or favor to the learned; but time and chance happen to them all.” This verse highlights the fact that success is not guaranteed to anyone, but rather it is earned through hard work and determination. In a free market economy, competition drives individuals and businesses to constantly improve and innovate in order to succeed.
Finally, the Bible also emphasizes the importance of generosity and helping those in need. However, this is best achieved through voluntary acts of charity rather than through government intervention. In 2 Corinthians 9:7, it is stated, “Each of you should give what you have decided in your heart to give, not reluctantly or under compulsion, for God loves a cheerful giver.” In a free market economy, individuals have the freedom to decide how and when to give to those in need, rather than being forced through government regulations.
While Marx’s “capitalism” may not be “God Ordained”, free market capitalism is not only a sound economic principle, but it is also Biblically supported. It aligns with Biblical teachings of individual responsibility, property rights, fair trade, competition, and voluntary charity. It promotes a system where individuals have the freedom to use their talents and resources to create wealth and improve their own lives, while also encouraging generosity and helping those in need.
FOUNDED May 11, 1966 FOUNDER/EDITOR
Ed Clayton Immortalis Memoria
PUBLISHER/EDITOR
J. Lowell Ware
Immortalis Memoria
The Atlanta Voice honors the life of J. Lowell Ware.
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SPIRITUALLY SPEAKING
BY JAMES A. WASHINGTON The Atlanta Voice
Iknow it must be hard for many of us to realize that we’re in the middle of a battlefield. I know I find it difficult at times to acknowledge that Satan wants me as a victory trophy, while God invites me to be a living testament to His eternal love. I don’t remember ever being so popular or valuable as to be the prize in such a high stakes game of life and death, where my only weapons are my faith and the word of God.The problem is Satan will and does attack at any given moment. He is relentless in his pursuit and often my guard is just not up. On my best days there are distinct moments when focusing on the Word of God is the last thing on my mind. Events and circumstances and people make it seemingly impossible, unlikely or just plain too hard.
I now know that this is when the devil is at the top of his game.You see that’s what I mean when I say I don’t realize Satan wants me and you as his personal trophy dead, stuffed and mounted on his wall of shame to
The problem is Satan will and does attack at any given moment. He is relentless in his pursuit and often my guard is just not up.
display victory over the Lord. When I’m consciously aware of things, I understand Satan wants to embarrass, humiliate and, like a scorned lover, hurt the Lord.What better way to do that than to steal something, degrade something, ruin something that the devil knows the Lordloves. That would be me and yes, you too. I don’t know about you but it’s hard to think of myself as that important. It’s hard to consider myself as a pivotal piece in an eternal game of spiritual chess; a king or queen to one and pawn to the other. So I suppose without knowing it, I’m always vulnerable. Like a child who unknowingly wanders off into a swamp, he or she has no idea of the danger. Injury and death are but steps away.That’s how I feel sometimes. I know I’m lost. I
“YOUR VOICE”
know I’m in trouble. If I’m not vigilant, the devil will take me out and celebrate my wake.Therefore, much like the weekend athlete, I pretty much know I’ve got to train and be prepared. But some days I just don’t want to work that hard. I just want to be left alone.
Can you see how that rather simplistic thought can spell trouble?Can you see how that frame of mind can get you killed in this particular game? The bible is full of references about those who would be seduced, tricked, abducted and persecuted for not being true to the Word of God. God Himself,expresses frustration at times about those who willingly forget (selective memory), or unwillingly choose not to remember who He is and to whom they belong. The
consequences can be catastrophic. So what’s the answer when you’re not feeling it? What’s the answer to being lost in this world? What’s the defense for Satan’s temptations? Simple. Get into the Word.Get into the Word and strategize an offense and a defense of personal testimony. Armed in this fashion, like Jesus in the desert, the devil cannot win.You know better than me, that when you’re determined, you cannot be distracted.There are some qualities we all possess that arm for this fight. Recognition, understanding, desire and discipline come to mind. Together they guarantee victory for God and humiliation for the devil. Sometimes it just takes a will to win. May God bless and keep you always.
This column is from “Spiritually Speaking: Reflections for and from a New Christian” by James Washington. You can purchase this enlightening book on Amazon and start your journey towards spiritual enlightenment.
From a woman’s perspective, what are your thoughts and feelings regarding Sean Combs’ domestic assault and public apology?
Atlanta
“It’s pretty much karma. You can only hide things for so long, and everything will come into the light. ”
NYEUSI MWEZI
Atlanta“I don’t have any feelings towards that other than, obviously, that it is unfortunate. People with money and wealth have been performing heinous and masochistic crimes since the beginning of time, so I am not surprised. But for it to play so much in rotation in the media, it just feels like a distraction from some of the larger things happening in America. So it’s just unfortunate.”
JANICE CLEMENTS College
Park“I don’t think the apology was sincere or for her. I think it was more so of him trying to cover up. He’s telling us, ‘I’m not like this. She’s making me do this.’ So whatever he’s doing, whatever they are trying to get him for - that’s his business. Somebody is trying to be nosy, or maybe they are just mad because they can’t get into that.”
EVELYN ROBINSON Atlanta
“My opinion on the P Diddy situation is that he is currently being blackballed, but within reason. I do feel like he’s the smoke screen; he’s the fall guy for something bigger that is going on. What that ‘bigger’ may be, I don’t know, because he’s not the only one going down for these ‘crimes’ that’s going on. Now, the situation with Cassie, I think, is crazy. That situation is complex itself, and there are more videos to come. Just wait on it. Eve said it first. And there will be more apologies. Other than that, I don’t know. We will just have to wait to see how the situation with P Diddy plays out. Is he going to get arrested? I don’t know why he hasn’t been arrested yet. We will have just to see how it goes.”
Compiled by Vincent Christie.
ONLINE
1,500 Georgia State University applicants got acceptance emails. It was a mistake
Terri M. Lee has announced the first new leadership appointments to the Atlanta Housing’s Executive Team.
• Dr. Alan Ferguson, Sr., Chief Housing and Real Estate Officer
• Dwayne Vaughn, Chief Operating Officer
When appointed to lead the 86-year-old organization in January 2024, Lee stated that one of her primary focus areas would be to enhance the agency’s ability to implement innovative solutions to expedite the delivery of affordable housing for Atlanta families. Her first two leadership appointments reflect that priority as she continues to drive Atlanta Housing toward the fulfillment of its strategic goals, the first of which is to create or preserve 10,000 units of affordable housing by 2027.
“Addressing one of the most critical issues of our time will require us to drastically reshape the way we think about serving Atlantans,” said Terri M. Lee. “Atlanta Housing will move forward with a renewed sense of urgency to deliver vital services which will uplift people. We have set audacious goals, and to achieve them we must move from a posture of transactional activity to transformative leadership. This will, in many ways, require a cultural shift for this historic institution, but we are prepared to leverage our real estate portfolio using creativity and innovation to preserve access to Atlanta for all people, across all income levels, who wish to call this city home. Leaders with the experience, reputation, and track records of Alan Ferguson and Dwayne Vaughn will encourage that evolution. Welcoming Alan and Dwayne to my executive leadership team is a significant step in that direction.”
Mayor Andre Dickens said that he values his partnership with Terri M. Lee and Atlanta Housing. “My administration is proud to have Atlanta Housing’s partnership as we work to move Atlanta forward to a city of opportunity for all,” said Mayor Dickens. “I applaud the bold decisions Terri has made in the early days of her tenure, setting the tone for the significant role Atlanta Housing will play in ensuring the affordability of our city for generations to come. Terri’s ability to recruit a leader as accomplished as Alan Ferguson and retain and elevate someone with the depth of experience as Dwayne Vaughn says a lot about the vision she has set forward. I am proud to welcome them in their new roles and look forward to their collaboration
as our offices work together to ensure that all Atlantans have access to safe, quality, and affordable housing options.”
“The Atlanta Housing’s Board is excited by the momentum coming from Terri and her team as they continue to bring forward new opportunities to advance the mission of Atlanta Housing,” said Larry Stewart, Atlanta Housing’s Board Chairman. “We welcome Alan Ferguson to Atlanta Housing and look forward to deepening our relationship with Dwayne Vaughn as he officially transitions from General Counsel to Chief Operating Officer.”
Chief Housing and Real Estate Officer
Dr. Alan Ferguson, Sr. brings extensive experience and expertise in affordable housing, neighborhood revitalization, and community and economic development. Known for creating and advancing future-forward solutions to address Atlanta’s affordable housing availability, Alan most recently served as the President and CEO of Habitat for Humanity in Atlanta, Inc., where he led the organization’s return to full production post-COVID-19 pandemic, diversified funding, established new partnerships, and advanced strategies to pursue denser housing development. Alan formerly worked at Invest Atlanta and, during his 8-year commitment to the organization, led teams focused on building vibrant communities and increasing economic prosperity for all Atlantans. This involved bringing together policy, strategy, and innovative tools to create and deliver diverse housing, development, and revital -
ization opportunities in the City of Atlanta. While at The American Opportunity Foundation, Inc., he led affordable workforce housing acquisition and investment activities. Alan’s previous experience at Fannie Mae includes a number of roles, one in particular at Fannie Mae’s American Communities Fund, where he led debt and equity investments for neighborhood housing community revitalization investments for the Mid-Atlantic and Southeast.
Throughout his career, his dedication and focus to completing complex transactions in the areas of housing, commercial real estate, business finance, public finance, and equity investments furthered his broad experience in community and economic development leadership.
Alan holds a Bachelor of Arts in Banking and Finance from Morehouse College, an MBA from The Goizueta Business School at Emory University, and a Master of Science in Real Estate from the J. Mack Robinson School of Business at Georgia State University. Alan pursued doctoral studies (ABD) in Real Estate Finance at Georgia State University and earned a Ph.D. in Entrepreneurship and Innovation at The University of the Cumberlands.
“I'm excited to join the amazing team at Atlanta Housing under the leadership of President and Chief Executive Officer, Terri M. Lee. Together, we share a core belief that quality housing provides more than shelter. Housing provides a pathway for both individual and community transformation, a means to address inequities, and an opportunity for pros-
perity. I'm looking forward to continuing and expanding Atlanta Housing's efforts to open doors for everyone.”
Alan’s role as Chief Housing and Real Estate Officer is effective June 3, 2024
Dwayne C. Vaughn is an experienced and respected leader with a track record of guiding static and comfortable organizations and business units toward vibrant market-sustainable entities focused on serving families and other clients with honor, respect and equity. Most recently serving as Interim COO for Atlanta Housing, Vaughn has devoted more than 30 years of increasingly complex legal and operational experience to assist Boards, policy makers and executives enhance and reposition programs and affordable assets. Prior to being tapped to serve as interim COO, Vaughn led Atlanta Housing’s legal team as General Counsel for nearly three years, working closely with the Board of Commissioners, Chief Executive Officer, Chief Operating Officer, and executive team to provide legal leadership for Atlanta Housing’s affordable housing and human development services initiatives.
For more than two decades, Dwayne has practiced real estate, corporate, employment and civil rights law and spent many years in executive and senior-level positions with housing authorities in the Southeast. Dwayne joined Atlanta Housing in 2021 from Atlanta BeltLine, Inc., where he served as Vice President of Housing Policy and Development.
Dwayne earned a bachelor’s degree from Howard University and a Juris Doctorate from Rutgers University School of Law.
“Atlanta Housing has entered a new era, necessitating innovative approaches to the challenges of today’s accelerated housing market. There are few goals that are more noble and necessary than making quality housing opportunities available to Atlanta’s families. I am proud to focus my service to Atlanta Housing as Chief Operating Officer, enhancing the lives of Atlantans across the socio-economic spectrum. I am honored that Terri M. Lee has entrusted me to help actualize her vision of an Atlanta Housing organization that leverages housing as a starting point to elevate people to economic success.”
Dwayne’s role as Chief Operating Officer is effective immediately.
4:45 p.m. - President Biden's caravan left Mary Mac's Tea Room and headed north to the Arthur Blank Family office for a high-dollar fundraising event, which was hosted by Blank, co-founder of Home Depot and owner of the Atlanta Falcons and Atlanta United, who wasted no time comparing Biden's leadership capabilities and morals to the late Georgia Congressman and Civil Rights icon John Lewis. Blank called Lewis "a dear friend" while discussing him.
"The president is a true leader and is somebody that isn't afraid to lean into controversy," Blank said. "I'm truly honored and extremely proud to invite President of the United States Biden to the podium."
In attendance at the fundraiser were Georgia politicians like Lucy McBath, Shelly Hutchinson and Congresswoman Nikema Williams. Former United States Deputy Attorney General and United States Attorney for the Northern District of Georgia Sally Yates was also in attendance. As was former Georgia Senator San Nunn, who Biden recognized for his decades of service. Biden said the two came into the United States Senate together in 1972.
Biden wasted no time getting to the point of visit. "Georgia is the reason I'm the President of the United States," he said. 'You're the reason we defeated the former president, and you're the reason we're going to beat him again."
Biden also took time to thank former Georgia Lt. Governor Geoff Duncan for his recent public support.
On several occasions throughout the day Biden called former President Trump a "sore loser" and "unhinged."
"We cannot let this man become president," he said.
During his 15 minutes at the podium, Biden made a number of politically-charged proclamations, including "Elect me a Democratic Congress and Kamala and I will make sure Roe V. Wade is the law of the land."
3:oo p.m. -President Biden met with individual voters and supporters at Mary Mac's Tea Room on Ponce de Leon Avenue in Midtown. Coming into the main dining room, Biden was greeted by applause and a curtsy and hug combination from former Georgia gubernatorial candidate Stacey Abrams.
"I realize that I am surrounded by Morehouse men, but I'm a Delaware State guy," Biden said. "It's good to be back. The last time I was in this room was in 2014. You really made a gigantic difference."
Biden offered to answer questions "from everyone one of you" and proceeded to
move around the room shaking hands.
Before the press were led out of the restaurant, Biden said a familiar phrase hanging over this year's election, a rematch of the last presidential election.
"This election there's a lot at stake," said Biden. It's not about me, it's the alternative."
12:25 p.m. - United States President Joseph R. Biden arrived in Atlanta a day early for his commencement speech at Morehouse College to speak with Georgia voters on Saturday, May 18, 2024.
Atlanta Mayor Andre Dickens, Georgia Senators Jon Ossoff and Raphael Warnock, and Birmingham Mayor Randall Woodfin and Montgomery Mayor Steven Reed were among the assorted local leaders awaiting Biden on the tarmac at Hartsfield-Jackson International Atlanta Airport Saturday morning. Both Reed and Woodfin were in town last month for The African American Mayors Association Conference (AAMA) that took place at the Omni Atlanta Hotel at Centennial Park.
Clayton County Sheriff candidate Jeffrey Turner was also a part of the greeting party. President Biden has been under fire for how he has handled the conflict between Israel and Palestine. A number of protests have taken place at college campuses across the country, including in Atlanta at Emory University and Morehouse College. Biden's invitation and acceptance to give the commencement at Morehouse College has also been under question, both locally and nationally.
On the cusp of political tension, graduation season here is filled with high emotions and angst while graduates prepare to walk across the stage.
Morehouse College held their 140th commencement this weekend and as this year’s guest speaker, President of the United States Joseph R. Biden delivered his commencement address to Morehouse College Class of 2024, his most up-front engagement with college students since the start of the Israel-Hamas War.
Biden’s speech at Morehouse comes against a slew of protests on college campuses nationwide over his handling over the war in Gaza, with many students and faculty members voicing opposition to the White House’s continued financial/military support for Israel.
Although Morehouse’s commencement ended on a peaceful note, it did not stop some individuals from peacefully protesting outside their campus.
Morehouse College Class of 2024 Valedictorian DeAngelo Jeremiah Fletcher said Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.’s philosophy was “injustice anywhere was a threat to injustice everywhere.”
“His campaign and message reached far and wide to follow in the footsteps of our gratefulness,” he said. “It is totally right for the class of 2024 to utilize any platform provided to stand in solidarity with peace and justice.”
Fletcher also added the Israel/Gaza conflict has “plagued the people of its region for generations” and as a Morehouse man and human being, he calls for an immediate and permanent ceasefire in Gaza.
“It is important to recognize that both sides have suffered heavy casualties in the wake of October 7. From the comfort of our homes, we watched an unprecedented number of civilians mourn the loss of men, women, and children,” he said. “We’re calling for the release of all hostages and for the first time in our lives, we've heard the global community seeing one harmonious song that transcends language and culture.”
Some hoped Biden spoke directly to those concerns and fortunately, he did to the best of his ability while also encouraging and uplifting Morehouse’s future leaders.
“What’s happening in Gaza, Israel is heartbreaking, attacking and killing innocent lives and holding people hostage,” Biden said. “I was there nine days after seeing pictures of a mother and daughter being tied together in a row where Kerosene was thrown on them, causing them to burn and die.”
He also said innocent Palestinians caught in the middle of all the conflict are in desperate need of water, food, and medicine and it is a humanitarian crisis.
“That’s why I’m calling for an immediate ceasefire, and working on a deal as we speak, so we can bring those hostages home,” he said. “We are going to also get more aid to Gaza to help re-
build and bring the region together.”
Also, during his speech, Biden announced he will be investing another $16 billion in Historically Black Colleges and Universities.
Morehouse College released a statement after the announcement stating how appreciative they are of the partnership between Biden and the White House staff for listening and most importantly, applying what the community and global society have requested.
“The work is nowhere near finished, and Morehouse College will continue centering consequential, nuanced dialogue and critique to foster positive societal change,” Morehouse College said in a statement.
Additionally, Biden talked about the loss of his first wife, daughter, and son, correlating the loss with the loss of lives during the COVID-19 Pandemic.
“Most of you, four years ago, lost loved ones, mothers, fathers, brothers, sisters, who were unable to be here to celebrate with you today. You missed your high school graduation and started college on the heels of the murder of George Floyd,” Biden said.
Biden also questioned the nature of what democracy means for the Black community asking, “What is democracy if Black men are being killed in the street?”
“What is democracy but a trail of broken promises leaving the Black community behind,” he asked. “You have to be 10 times better than anyone else to get a fair shot, and as you’ve heard before, to be a Black man who loves his country, even if it doesn’t love him back in equal measure.”
Additionally, Biden said in this walk of life, the Morehouse men have come to an understanding that they don’t know where, what, or when fate will bring, but to also know they do not walk alone.
“I've learned there’s no easy optimism, but by faith, we can find redemption,” he said.
To end his speech on an inspirational note, Biden gave the Morehouse Men Class of 2024 a piece of advice moving forward in their next chapters.
“Leadership is about fighting through the most intractable problems. It’s not about challenging anger, frustration, and heartbreak, but find a solution, smile, and do what you believe is right, even when it’s hard,” he said. “You have to decide, guided by knowledge, conviction principle, and your own moral compass.”
Furthermore, Biden said the desire to know what freedom is and what it can be, is the heart and soul of why Morehouse College was founded in the first place.
“Providing a free nation is born in the hearts of men spellbound by freedom, that’s the magic of Morehouse and the magic of America. To the class of 2024, as you know, you join sacred traditional education. Morehouse education makes you fearless,” he said.
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The woman behind the podium answered her own question immediately after she asked it to the room full of Spelman College soon-to-be graduates.
She said, "Could the day be any more glorious and could you be anymore beautiful?'" She answered, "I think not."
Multi-time award-winning actress and director Angela Bassett, star of stage and screen, delivered the commencement speech during the 2024 Spelman College graduation exercises on Sunday afternoon in College Park. The exercises took place inside the Georgia International Convention Center.
Upon taking the stage to immense applause following an introduction by Spelman College President Dr. Helene D. Gayle, Bassett had the crowd in the palm of her hands. Her many messages to the graduating class of 2024 ranged from recounting her youth in St. Petersburg, Florida and the empowerment and high expectations for excellence that her mother had set for her and sisters to keeping your head high out in the world after you walk across the stage as a Spelman College graduate.
"There will be times when you may feel like the unnamed Black women, this is especially true when you come across people in your work place and in your community, and your own home, who may not see your full humanity and all of your glory. But it's in those moments that I want you to remember who you are, raise your head and embody the queen that you have been prepared to be."
A graduate of Yale University and the school's School of Drama, Bassett made a point of emphasizing using the education that the graduates received at Spelman College, while also following their dreams. She told a story about seeing a play while in high school on a trip to Washington D.C., being moved and knowing at that moment that she wanted to make people feel the way she felt when she watched people perform the arts.
She would go on to begin her acting career at a local theater in her hometown, go on to Yale and when she told people she would be pursuing acting she recalled a not so positive response from some of them.
"I was supposed to go to law school, or become a scientist, or a doctor," she said. "Anything but an artist." During the early portions of her career she told the graduates, their families, and the Spelman faculty assembled in the room that she worked "odd jobs" in between acting auditions. The message: All of those little steps got her to where she is today.
"Every single opportunity matters," she
explained.
Bassett, a wife and mother who is preparing to begin the collegiate journey with her children, called Spelman College "the Mecca of Black excellence and Black womanhood. She even took a moment to compare it to a fictional country from one of the more popular movies she starred in.
"Spelman College is the higher education equivalent of Wakanda," Bassett said to thundering applause. "This special place has prepared you for greatness" and "When the world tells you to be quiet, speak up."
She closed her time on stage with, "Your tomorrow starts today."
Bassett and Supreme Court Justice Dr. Kentaji Brown Jackson were awarded honor-
ary degrees. Bassett received a Doctor of Fine Arts degree and Brown Jackson received Doctor of Laws. Award-winning journalist and host of the WABE show "Closer Look" Rose Scott was also honored. She was awarded the National Community Service Award which is given by the Spelman College Board of Trustees.
The invocation was delivered by The Rev-
erend Dr. Neichelle Guidry, Dean of Chapel at Spelman College. During the prayer Guidry spoke of the graduates being in this place at this time to honor God.
"We are gathered in this place at this appointed time to say thank you," she said. "You have been present God."
Guidry would also deliver the benediction before the recessional ended the exercises.
Damsel, the multi-level establishment, is no ordinary supper club but much more.
Located in the Works on Atlanta’s Westside, Damsel brings a collection of global-inspired finger foods to try and a cabaret-style show with the culinary experience.
To better describe the 10,000 square-foot restaurant, think “sexy and 1880s Paris, the Moulin Rouge meets 21st-century Cabaret/Musical Theater, with a touch of disco madness thrown in for good measure”.
Damsel offers three separate dining experiences.
Downstairs offers small plates, the restaurant’s private club has elevated cuisine, and the lounge features interactive cooking displays. Damsel also has live shows every night featuring dancers, musicians, and other forms of entertainment.
Damsel’s vision is to create a haven where art, elegance, and entertainment converge to form a tapestry of unforgettable moments.
The culinary experience, curated by owner and restaurateur Dave Green, who owns The Select, another top-rated dining spot in Atlanta, and entertainment referred to as “The Show,” was directed by the esteemed choreographer Otis Sallid.
Damsel’s creation
With their grand opening back in April, Green said it feels “amazing” to be open finally.
“It’s amazing because we’re finally able to share what we wanted to create with the public,” Green said. The grand opening was an eye-opener, I think, for everyone, and now we get to go around, meet everyone, and get their feedback.”
Green also said the experience has been “extraordinary,” and live entertainment had “gone early from Atlanta, especially at this level.”
“I think the response has been overwhelming,” he said.
Damsel was a two-year project, according to Green.
Furthermore, Sallid was tasked
with producing “The Show” with his company, Creative Otis. The Show is a highly stylized cabaret described as ‘sexy, seductive, sassy, at times bawdy, always elegant, and a fashionista’s dream.’
Green said a cabaret-style restaurant was always in the works because live entertainment was non-existent in Atlanta. One day, he was telling a group of people at his restaurant about why he named it “The Select,” which is about the 1920s restaurant where many luminaries gathered and wanted to change culture forever.
“They were very successful in bringing all of Europe together, and it was an interesting time after World War One, which became the roaring 20s, which was the Jazz Age in Europe,” he said. Cabarets were a place to bring people together.”
As he’s talking about The Select’s history, a young producer comes out of the bathroom and overhears the story, which she thinks is amazing, according to Green. This is where the lady introduces Green to Sallid.
“She told me who Otis was, and I was completely blown away but thought he had way too much going on to work with me on this cabaret,” he said. “When I met him, it was wonderful.”
Additionally, Sallid said producing and choreographing “The Show” was about making history.
Sallid and his wife visited The Select one day and sat listening, talking, and seeing how Green treated his staff and how he moved around the room.
“This time in my life, we’re not looking for a job, but we’re looking to make history, and so he was saying all the right things down to how he treated his staff and being the kind of person we believed in,” Sallid said.
The process, Sallid said, was like “making soup” and finding the right ingredients for the show to fly.
“We needed a certain kind of dancer, a certain kind of person. We found a lot of great people, not just in Atlanta. We needed to find the right people for this, and we found five great dancers,” he said.
The shows last five minutes, and then you have small bites for 15 minutes, and vice versa. Sallid said he wasn’t sure if it was going to work, but Green told him it would.
Sallid said they both operate in trust, which is the bonding of their relationship.
“When we started doing it, it worked,” he said.
“I have tremendous respect for him, his wife, and his life’s work. He represents 50 years of modern American dance culture, and he’s here in Atlanta. For us to meet was like aligning the planets,” Green said.
The Damsel Menu
Executive Chef Julian Parker and his eloquently trained team experiment with unique, globally inspired cuisine, such as their crab canapés, lobster cones, and foie gras benedict, to deliver a burst of flavors in one delicious bite.
Aside from the bites in the supper club, guests can find a private space on-site for exclusive, members-only dining and a rooftop lounge with interactive food carts for display cooking and midnight breakfast.
Green also said curating the menu with Executive Chef Julian Parker was amazing.
Some of Sallid’s favorites are the Shrimp Phyllo and the Tuna Roll.
“He’s (Julian) an artist, those are my favorites,” he said.
Green said he likes the A5 Wagyu Nigiri and the lobster cones because it’s full of lobster.
“We also do truffle arancini, tenderloin, Beef Wellington, Sliders, and more,” Green said. We have a vegan presentation in our ‘Count Me In,’ which is our first platter you get in one of the interstitials.”
Damsel & Beyond
After the show, Damsel becomes
a dance club, reminiscent of New York’s Studio 54, so the party can continue.
“We stay open until 2 a.m. Thursdays, Fridays, and Saturdays,” Green said.
He also said they are going to add Happy Hour and give away free bites on the rooftop from 5 p.m. to 8 p.m. Green added there will be what’s called “Midnight Breakfast,” so when guests hang out late, they can order breakfast items such as pancakes, chicken, and waffles.
“The rooftop has happy hour, and then it becomes the place where there are food carts, and we’re thinking about getting a Flambé station, so after your meal, you can come to the dessert room, which will be on the rooftop,” he said.
By phase three, Green said, Damsel will be the hottest place in Atlanta.
“That’s what we’re shooting for,” he said.
Both Green and Sallid said to pay attention to the dress code and what people wear.
“Look at the elegance and how people are dressing up in Atlanta. They’re paying attention to our dress code and trying to have an elegant night out, whether it’s a date night, if you want to meet somebody, or if you want to go out with friends,” Green said.
Green said that no matter what, there’s a place for everyone at Damsel, and you will be welcomed with open arms.
“I love being connected again and feeling at home,” Sallid said.
When guests visit Damsel, Sallid said there’s a feeling of joy, love, and happiness, and he wants to permeate the work they do because it will stick with guests for the rest of their lives.
Green said when people visit Damsel, he wants them to open their minds, be a part of something new, and have a good time.
“Be a contributor, be a giver when you come to Damsel. It is going to take a community to raise Damsel, and we’re very clear on that. Leave all your inhibitions at home,” he said.
For more information, visit https://www.damselatl.com.
In June 1965, Ronald Yancey walked across Georgia Tech’s commencement stage with an electrical engineering degree to become the first Black student to graduate from the institution. Almost 60 years later, in May 2024, his granddaughter Deanna Yancey walked across a similar stage to earn her master's in electrical and computer engineering.
His legacy was personified, and at the end of that stage stood Ronald as he prepared to present Deanna with her diploma and pass the baton.
“It was amazing. It was kind of hard to live in the moment because I know with the hustle and bustle of graduation, it wasn’t like we could spend a five-minute moment in the middle of other people graduating together,” Deanna said. “But I know afterwards, when I finally got to meet them outside, I hugged my grandfather again, and he told me how proud he was of me … So it's just moments like that that I cherish.”
It’s a legacy that was hard-won. From multiple admittance rejections to social isolation and racial discrimination, Ronald’s perseverance is now memorialized through a statue titled “The First Graduate” that sits on the stairs of the Clough Undergraduate Learning Commons.
Deanna said she didn’t truly grasp the gravity of her grandfather’s legacy until she attended Penn State for her undergrad. It wasn’t until 2015 — Tech’s 130th anniversary — that the school began reaching out to him for his perspective on his time as an undergrad, and growing up, Deanna didn’t recall the random regalia that comes with embracing your alma mater littered around her grandparent's house.
“Before then, it was just very quiet,” Deanna said. “And then, all of a sudden, it was, oh, here's a Georgia Tech blanket. Oh, here's another hat. Here's more Georgia Tech stuff. And I think it was around the same time that his story started to get a little bit more public that he started embracing Georgia Tech a little bit more.”
When she applied to complete her master's at Tech, Deanna revealed that she didn’t tell her family until she was accepted. In an effort to keep her identity low-key and focus on her classes and full-time job without the pressure of her name, she also revealed that she didn’t make the school aware she was related to Ronald until two months before graduation when she came up with the idea to have him on stage with her.
It became a mad scramble to organize the
touching moment when Deanna, donned in an all-black cap and gown with a red, white, and gold master's hood draped across her back, shook her smiling grandfather’s hand and hugged him as he handed over her diploma.
“I wanted to also share his story, because I know a lot of people in the younger generations don't know due to the fact that it happened almost 60 years ago. I wanted it to
revamp his story and have more people get interested in his story and do a little bit more research on him and the institution.
“Having him on the stage, it was like, I know this person who's on the other side of the stage handing me my diploma and I know how happy and proud he is of me. And then all the years that I've spent going over to his house, and we've talked about the latest things in engineering and the latest tech, It
was kind of like passing the baton from one engineer to another.”
Deanna joins the 3% of Black women who are engineers, a feat that now marks her own legacy. While she would love to see more Black graduates from these institutions, she recognized the accomplishment as a huge win for the community.
“Representation matters, so being a Black woman in engineering and getting her master's, I think was huge just for our community. So that was also another reason why I was like, wow, this is a huge moment.”
Reflecting on her grandfather’s sacrifices, Deanna said that if she had the chance to talk to the student who would soon become the first Black graduate of Georgia Tech, she would tell him one simple thing: “Keep going.”
“The legacy you set here is going to influence generations to come. I've seen and heard so many different stories of Black students at Georgia Tech who are like, ‘Look, your grandfather's story is the reason why I kept pushing. I felt like I wasn't alone in this situation because I know someone went through it worse than I did, and he still was able to make it through.’
“Knowing that he paved the way for so many people, especially myself, I’d be like, you've got this. I know it's really hard, and I know you have a lot of cards stacked against you, but you've got to keep going.”
The Metro Atlanta American Heart Association is partnering with Fulton County Libraries to provide blood pressure kits for locals to check out for free, in an effort to combat high blood pressure issues in the area. Photo
Credit iStock.com/ Prostock Studio
The Metro Atlanta American Heart Association (AHA) is partnering with Fulton County Libraries for a project to help Georgia residents combat high blood pressure issues. Libraries with Heart is an initiative that places blood pressure kits in Fulton County libraries for locals to rent for free. The kits contain devices that read blood pressure, material that tells what your numbers mean, and a list of health care providers near the area of the library branch. The two organizations are collaborating to meet people where they are so that more Georgia residents know their status regarding high blood pressure.
"Many people may have high blood pressure and do not know. Having the ability to access these devices where you can check them out or go to the library to check your blood pressure every day will allow us to increase the number of people who know their numbers so that they are not walking around with undiagnosed hypertension," said Shauna Scott, Vice President of Community Impact for Metro Atlanta American Heart Association.
The Libraries with Heart Initiative launches on Monday, May 20. Seventeen libraries across Fulton County will have blood pressure kits for guests to check out. Blood pressure stations to check your numbers at your local branch will also be available. High Blood pressure is a health obstacle that many Georgia citizens face today. According to the American Heart Association, about 75 million adults suffer from high blood pressure nationwide, and about 13 million don't know that they have it. Access to blood pressure machines and health care providers are barriers that several people face. Lack of transportation, inadequate health insurance, or needing the financial means are common access challenges. A peculiar obstacle Georgia locals face is medical provider desserts. Scott explains that Georgia needs more medical providers. Specific
communities need more doctors and staff to serve residents. This creates more healthcare barriers. The American Heart Association re searched to find the high-risk areas in Fulton County. College Park, South Fulton, Fairburn, and Hapeville are among the high-risk areas on that list.
"The American Heart Association already did research on areas that are higher risk. We purposely looked for libraries that fit within the range to start this project," said Teryn Gil liam, Branch Group Administrator and Adult and Volunteer Services Coordinator for the Fulton County Library System.
"We always try to provide the services that our communities need. Libraries with Heart coincide with our strategic plan that involves literacy with action. I believe this service will impact many people and potentially save lives," said Gilliam.
Libraries were the best place to do this ini tiative because they are central to all com munities and accessible to members within communities. Scott shares that libraries are safe, convenient spaces for people. They were the most accessible place to get information to locals, and it was part of the American Heart Association's strategy to reach people where they live, work, and play.
The number of times kits are checked out, and blood pressure stations are used will de termine whether the initiative is successful for both organizations. AHA has estimated that libraries with hearts will reach 56,440 library guests monthly.
Metro Atlanta AHA intends to expand this program to more areas where people congregate. The organization launched a health hub at The iVillage @ MLK, located at 2491 MLK Jr Dr. SW, Atlanta, GA 30311. Residents of that area will have access to check their blood pressure numbers. The following step is to partner with churches in East Point to reach more people. Libraries With Heart is an Initiative designed to make a difference in Georgia locals’ health. For more information, log on to heart.org.
artist
“Change comes in many forms,” these are the words that Andre Holland’s Huey P. Newton speaks to his father, Walter Newton, played by television alumnus Glynn Turman, when talking about what it will take to bring change to society.
On Tuesday, May 14th, the Gathering Spot played host to a screening of the Apple TV+ series The Big Cigar. The screening room featured multiple props such as a wicker chair for attendees to take pictures with multiple props. The show chronicles the story of Huey P. Newton, co-founder of the Black Panther Party, escaping to Cuba following allegations of him murdering a 17-year-old prostitute, Kathleen Smith in the early 70s.
The first two episodes, directed by film and television star Don Cheadle, the title sequence features footage showing the main cast during moments in their characters’ lives, as well as archived footage of the turbulence during the early 70s and late 60s. The opening scene with Holland’s Newton narrating speaks on the contradiction of being free only after escaping America. In the first 10 minutes of the show, we are immediately thrust into the world with Newton and his wife showing up on the door of Hollywood Producer Bery Schneider (played by Alessandro Nivola).
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The television series intricately weaves between present-day events like “the escape,” and pivotal moments in Huey P. Newton’s life, including the inauguration of the Black Panther breakfast program and the historic televised phone call with Eldridge Cleaver (played by Brenton Allen) . Through these flashbacks, the series showcases the multifaceted nature of Newton’s character, portraying him as both a militaristic revolutionary and a community advocate and peacekeeper who ardently advocated for education and community empowerment.
Several other key moments are showcased in the first two episodes, such as the opening of episode 2, which begins with the iconic photoshoot of Huey P. Newton in the wicker chair.
The paired episodes evoke visual and story elements reminiscent of a heist film; from the character’s point of view, the ticking clock, to the scene transitions.
Following the screenings, The Gathering Spot hosted a moderated panel by Jermail Shelton, Chief Development Officer and Founder of Just Add Honey, Ryan Wilson, CEO and Co-Founder of The Gathering Spot, and Mike Davis, Commercial Real Estate
Advisor. The dialogue centered on the Black Panther Party’s approach to economic empowerment and the broader impact of their initiatives on today’s struggles for equity and justice. Wilson reflected on the Party’s emphasis on self-sufficiency and community intentionality, stating, “It wasn’t just about economic survival—though that was crucial—it encompassed holistic care that was economic, spiritual, and deeply connected to our identity as a people. We still have much to learn and apply from their strate-
gies, especially in how we address current challenges.”
During the panel discussion, Davis highlighted the simplicity and universality of the Black Panther Party’s 10 Point Program, noting that many of the demands made by the Party are basic human rights, particularly salient for the Black community. Davis emphasized the ongoing need for collective action over individualism, a principle that the Party championed and one that still resonates in contemporary struggles for justice.
Davis contributed by speaking to the Black Panther Party’s success in grassroots engagement, particularly in contrast to the dominance of large organizations in the nonprofit sector. He emphasized the vital role of smaller, community-focused groups in providing essential services like healthcare and education locally. Davis also noted the overlap between familial responsibilities and community activism, highlighting the significance of every small contribution to these grassroots efforts, “You have rabbis raising their grandbabies, your aunties raising you,” said Davis.
“I was really excited to know that we were going to show heroes of mine at least in a format that I’ve never seen before,” Wilson told The Atlanta Voice following the panel discussion on what he was expecting going into the show.
After the screening, David Colquitt, 63, reflected on his childhood memories and experiences related to the Black Panther Party’s initiatives. Witnessing the portrayal of Huey Newton’s escape and the Black Panthers’ community involvement triggered memories from his past, particularly recalling the food program initiated by the party, “When you saw the food program that Black Panthers initiated, I remember all those things,” Colquitt told.
The first two episodes of The Big Cigar will be available to stream starting May 17th on Apple TV+
“Republicans are the party of Abraham Lincoln, but Black people are stuck on the Democratic plantation.” Please stop saying this. Every time someone makes this argument, an angel in heaven loses a few brain cells.
It’s 2024, and Virginia school board members have voted to put the names of Confederate leaders on two public schools. At the same time, the state’s Republican governor, Glenn Youngkin, has still not signed a Democratic bill passed in February to eliminate tax breaks for the United Daughters of the Confederacy.
Meanwhile, in Mississippi, Republican Governor Tate Reeves declared April to be Confederate Heritage Month. In Florida, Republicans are trying to punish local officials who remove Confederate monuments. And in Texas, Republican Governor Greg Abbott has invoked a Confederate theory of secession to justify violating federal law.
After lecturing Black people to “move on” and stop talking about the legacy of slavery, white Republicans just can’t stop celebrating the racist traitors who lost the Civil War nearly 160 years ago.
That’s one of the many reasons why Republicans are no longer the “party of Lincoln.” That party died long ago.
Republican Abraham Lincoln served as president from 1861 until he was assassinated in 1865. For the next 12 years, Republicans led the fight for Reconstruction, creating the Freedman’s Bureau, passing landmark civil rights legislation, and ratifying the 13th Amendment abolishing slavery, the 14th Amendment guaranteeing citizenship to Black people, and the 15th Amendment granting Black men the right to vote. Then it all ended.
Nearly the entire history of Republican legislative and policy accomplishments for Black people rests on the four long years of the Civil War and the 12 short years of Reconstruction that followed it.
While many noble Black and white Republicans carried on the cause of racial justice for the next century, the Republican Party itself effectively abandoned Black people with the Compromise of 1877 that allowed Republican President Rutherford B. Hayes to take office in exchange for the removal of federal troops that protected African Americans in the South.
In the decades that followed, Republican politicians and judges would enable racist Democrats and Ku Klux Klansmen to terrorize Black communities in the South, drive out Black elected officials, and impose an oppressive new racial caste system called Jim Crow segregation. In fact, for most of the twentieth century, both parties were openly racist.
It took 100 years after the Civil War for the
parties to switch roles when a famous Southern Democrat signed the Civil Rights Act of 1964 and an Arizona Republican condemned it.
So, when Republicans today claim to be the “party of Lincoln,” they want you to focus on what their party did way back in the 1860s and 1870s but ignore what the same party has done since the 1960s and 1970s.
Some even quote Malcolm X, who rightly condemned both political parties for their racism in a famous speech called “The Ballot or the Bullet.”
But history didn’t end in April 1964, when Malcolm X gave that speech. In the years that followed, Democratic President Lyndon Johnson went on to sign the Civil Rights Act of 1964, the Voting Rights Act of 1965, and the Fair Housing Act of 1968, and he appointed the first Black Supreme Court Justice.
But what have Democrats done for Black people lately?
But history didn’t end in April 1964, when Malcolm X gave that speech. In the years that followed, Democratic President Lyndon Johnson went on to sign the Civil Rights Act
of 1964, the Voting Rights Act of 1965, and the Fair Housing Act of 1968, and he appointed the first Black Supreme Court Justice.
But what have Democrats done for Black people lately?
Fifty years after Strom Thurmond bolted from the Democratic Party to run for president as a segregationist, Senate Republican Leader Trent Lott openly embraced him.
And when Obama tried to remove racist Southern Democrat Andrew Jackson from the $20 bill, it was Trump who reversed him. In fact, two of Donald Trump’s first official acts as president were to hang a portrait of Jackson in the Oval Office and to visit Jackson’s Tennessee slave plantation.
Why would a 21st-century Republican president show so much love for a 19th-century racist Democrat?
It’s the same reason why Trump vetoed a national defense bill so he could preserve a Confederate general’s name on a military base in North Carolina. And why Republicans in 2023 fought to protect a Confederate Memorial at Arlington National Cemetery.
The party of Abraham Lincoln, who once appealed to “the better angels of our nature” and fought the Civil War to preserve the American union, is dead. The party of Donald Trump, who appeals to the worst demons of our disposition, and seeks to destroy the union, is alive and kicking.
“Black Vote, Black Power,” a collaboration between Keith Boykin and Word In Black, examines the issues, the candidates, and what’s at stake for Black America in the 2024 presidential election.
Keith Boykin is a New York Times–bestselling author, TV and film producer, and former CNN political commentator.
RFP for Sweet Auburn Grande located at 229 Auburn Ave, Atlanta, GA.
BIDS DUE: June 6, 2024, at 2:00 pm
PRE-BID MEETING will be held on site on May 22, 2024, at 11:00 am.
PLANS: Hard Copies of plans available upon request and at subcontractor’s expense from A1 BluePrint (www.a1blue.com), Phone: 404-524-8881 OR for a link contact Linda at Lstache@gormanusa.com.
Contact Info: Linda Stache, Gorman & Company, Phone: 608-835-5177
CERTIFICATIONS: SBE/MBE/WBE/EBE/DBE/VBE, BABAA-Iron and Steel Only and SECTION 3
Please note: This is a prevailing wage rate project.
IT Professionals (Atlanta, GA) Business Analysts, Software Engineers, Software Quality Test Engineers, Software Testers, Solution Architects, Network Engineers. Multiple Positions. Various worksites. May travel to unanticipated client sites nationally. Mail resume to Convergence Acceleration Solutions LLC DBA Wipro Telecom Consulting LLC Attn: HRGC, 2858 Woodcock Blvd. STE 100, Atlanta, GA 30341.
