with community spirit and a sense of togetherness.
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On Saturday, June 1st, Justin J. Pearson o cially kicked o his re-election campaign for State Representative of District 86 with a spirited community celebration at Alonzo Weaver Park. You may need to adjust your vision to nd him. If you’re looking for his familiar 1970s-style afro, he’s rocking twists now. But his signature eloquence and passion were on full display for a diverse and enthusiastic crowd of supporters eager to engage with Pearson’s vision for the future.
Despite the potential for inclement weather, the mood was optimistic and festive. Attendees enjoyed complimentary food trucks, kid-friendly activities, a bounce house, live DJ performances, and summer treats like shaved ice. e atmosphere was lled
is marks Pearson’s third campaign for the o ce. Initially elected in a special election in January 2023, Pearson was expelled from the Tennessee House of Representatives in April 2023 for participating in a gun control protest on the House oor. Despite this setback, he was re-elected in a special election just a few months later, demonstrating strong community support and resilience. Pearson, along with Justin Jones, became known nationally as part of the “Tennessee ree” for their roles in advocating for gun control.
A highlight of the event was the presence of special guest Rep. Gloria Johnson, a US Senate candidate, who joined Pearson on stage to show her support. Johnson, a white Democrat from Knoxville, was the third member of the Tennessee ree and is seeking to unseat incumbent U.S. Senator Marsha Blackburn.
In his speech, Pearson delivered a passionate and inspiring message that resonated deeply with the attendees. He emphasized the interconnectedness of political possibilities and divine TRI-STATE DEFENDER tsdmemphis.com
A growing number of so-called “community re-development” projects are being paid for with taxpayer dollars.
ese projects, generally led by private developers, are issued tax exempt bonds (or loans) by the city or county to pay for either the “removal of slum and blighted conditions” and/or the development of a ordable housing.
Four things happen in this process:
1. e developer gets a tax-free loan, courtesy of the city/county;
2. e property taxes in the “development area” are frozen at current levels;
3. Current residents are displaced; and
4. Once the redevelopment period is completed, any increase in property values results in an increase in tax dollars.
As development occurs, property values should rise, and the increase in tax revenue above the frozen level, known as the “tax increment,” is paid to the city/county redevelopment agency or authority to pay o the bonds and to invest in further development. is is called Tax-Increment Financing (TIFs).
Every time a city or county agency with TIF-granting powers creates a TIF, that is up to 30 years, taxes in that area are not going into the general fund to pay for things like parks, schools, libraries or infrastructure. Instead, this increment is o en le at the mercy of developers and the developer-friendly agencies that administer these programs, and in many cases, the allocated uses are vague.
Additionally, though TN state law requires protections for low-income residents impacted by the resulting residential or commercial development, when low-cost residential units are demolished under the guise of slum
clearance, they are generally not replaced with more a ordable housing units. Instead, middle- and upper-income housing is built in its place; or more o en, commercial and industrial development replaces what was once residential. As a result, lower-income residents, who originally lived in the neighborhoods and were relocated during demolition and construction, are unable to move back once the redevelopment is complete.
O en, developers are given lots of leeway in their development process. is was happening continuously with little or nothing communities and residents could say or do.
As of May 6, in response to community outcry, the Shelby County Commission has voted to approve and implement a set of guidelines and practices that ensures that a Culturally Competent Community Engagement process is an integral part of any TIF planning and implementation throughout Memphis and Shelby County.
e process to increase community engagement began in 2023 with a contentious Community Redevelopment Agency TIF-creation process in the Klondike neighborhood, where the developer was allowed to count meetings with CRA sta as “community meetings.”
In response to the community outcry, my o ce launched an ad hoc committee to look into the community engagement processes of TIFs. e Klondike-Smokey City TIF Ad Hoc Committee started its work last year,
predominantly made up of community engagement experts, including Klondike residents. Over the last year, this group created a “Culturally Competent Community Engagement” (CCCE) process as part of a broader Equitable Development framework that guided the policy and process changes proposed by the committee.
A commitment to proactive, consistent community engagement makes the framework a living document. e CCCE framework has four pillars –Education, Planning, Approval, and Implementation. Within each pillar are speci c policies, consisting mostly of common sense details residents living in or near a TIF deserve to know. Basic stu like: 1) written notice to all residents in a 0.5 mile radius of a TIF district or project before it can seek taxpayer dollars; and 2) active community advisory boards.
Surprise! ere is opposition to residents knowing and being involved in what happens in their communities. Many TIF-granting agencies did not like this idea and pushed back hard when the resolution came up for a vote in the Commission. Two quasi-government agencies (EDGE and CRA) wrote letters to the Commission, bemoaning the “administrative expenses” of the letter notices, which would be covered by the developer. e CRA even said they may not have sta capacity to mail out the notices. A very peculiar claim for an agency that supports multi-million-dollar developments and is sta ed with some of the smartest planning/project management minds in the city. Moreover, both EDGE and CRA pushed back on giving voting powers to residents. EDGE said “a voice should not be a vote.” e CRA more directly stated, “ is takes the review / approval
process from the CRA Board.”Not understanding that the board would still get to review all projects that meet the community’s standards.
Despite the pushback, the County Commission approved this resolution and the TIF game in Shelby County has now changed forever. We are on the precipice of a new era of TIF community engagement, but these agencies clearly won’t do this on their own. Like always, the people will need to push them to follow these new rules and hold them accountable if they do not. Luckily, the County Commissioners that voted to approve the CCCE framework are holding town hall meetings with the community to discuss these changes and how residents can get involved in making sure the policy is followed by TIF granting agencies. See dates, times, and locations of each town hall below.
• June 27th, 5:30 pm
• June 29th, 11:00 am
• July 18th, 5:30 pm: Commissioner Caswell – Embassy of Faith Church
• July 20th, 11:00 am
• July 25th, 5:30 pm: Commissioner ornton & Commissioner Ford – Mt. Vernon Westwood Baptist Church
• July 27th, 11:00 am
• August 1, 5:30 pm: Commissioner Brooks and Commissioner Lowery –Pursuit of God Church
It is up to all of us to make sure Shelby County doesn’t just get sold to the highest bidder, but that we develop the city in a democratic and equitable way. is new resolution has the opportunity to go a long way, but it will require good ole’ fashioned people power to make sure this new process is followed. Grab your own chair and saddle up to the table. It’s time to ght for our neighborhoods. It’s clear no one else will.
Sheltering at home like the rest of us during the pandemic, visual artist Charly Palmer and his wife, Karida L. Brown found a spark of inspiration in an obscure publication W.E.B. Du Bois authored more than 100 years ago.
It was called “ e Brownies’ Book,” and Du Bois designed it to provide positive images to little black kids growing up in a segregated society. Brown, a sociology professor at Emory University and Du Boisian scholar, discovered e Brownies’ Book during her research, and recognized that there’s still need for Du Bois’ concept.
“She stumbled on some letters that Du Bois was writing to little children,” Palmer said in a TSD exclusive interview. “And it’s like, “ is is interesting. Why is he responding? Because these children are asking all kinds of questions. And it addressed being a black child in America in the 1920s.
“My wife said, I remember her saying it: “Somebody should do this, somebody should produce a book,’” Palmer said. “And one day, it became ‘WE should do a book.’”
Palmer agreed, and the result is “ e New Brownies’ Book: A Love Letter to e Black Family.” Palmer was the featured guest at Waterkolours Fine Art Gallery in Memphis recently to share his art and talk about his book, his art, and what drew he and his wife to the
project.
“ ere was a kid who wrote a story, “Dr. Du Bois, I don’t think parents should whoop their kids. I think we’re smart enough to be spoken to in a way that we learn lessons,’”Palmer recounted. “And Du Bois took the time to say ‘Parents, stop beating your children and talk to them.’”
Stories like that lit a re under the couple. Much like Du Bois did, Palmer and Brown reached out to writers and artists to provide content for “ e New Brownies.”
e anthology features the work of talented and exciting Black creators, including playwright and poet Ntozake Shange; writer and editor Damon Young, Def Poetry Jam co-creator and painter Danny Simmons; sociologist and educator Dr. Bertice Berry, children’s book illustrator James E. Ransome; muralist Fabian Williams; collage artist Marryam Moma, and many more.
Palmer’s dedication to “ e New Brownies” re ects his broader mission as an artist. His works consistently explore themes of Black identity, history,
and empowerment. is commitment extends to his interactions with young people, whom he encourages to pursue their passions.
“Find something that you enjoy doing and you’ll never have to work a day in your life,” Palmer tells young Black children, drawing from his own journey.
Danny Jenkins, owner and curator of Waterkolours Fine Art Gallery, praises Palmer’s unique impact.
“Charly’s work has a deep consciousness about Black people, our struggle, where we want to go, and where we are now,” Jenkins said. “Memphis is dealing with deep racial divides and economic inequalities, and Charly’s work resonates strongly here.”
Palmer’s love a air with art began in an unexpected way. At the tender age of four, he found his inspiration not from traditional art icons but from the Beatles.
“Charly’s work has a deep consciousness about Black people, our struggle, where we want to go, and where we are now,” said Danny Jenkins, founder of Waterkolours Fine Art Gallery of his friend and colleague. “Memphis is dealing with deep racial divides and economic inequalities, and Charly’s work resonates strongly here.”[/caption]
“ ere was a mania, an excitement. Watching these four young men, they looked like they were having fun. e music was great, and they had these nice tailored suits and boots,” Palmer recalls. “I wanted to create something that made me feel like their music and energy did.”
From those early drawings of the Beatles, Palmer’s path to becoming a professional artist was neither straight nor easy. Growing up in a generation where pursuing art was o en discouraged in favor of more stable careers, Palmer faced the common parental refrain to have a backup plan. However, his passion for art never waned and was eventually rewarded.
Palmer’s journey is marked by signi cant milestones, including creating the cover art for John Legend’s album “Bigger Love.”
“ e art director for Sony had
purchased one of my works years ago in New Orleans. When the pandemic
happened, they suggested a painting for the album cover,” Palmer said. “John saw my work on social media and agreed.”
Charly Palmer’s work is deeply intertwined with his commitment to social justice and community healing. His creative process o en involves addressing profound societal issues through subtle yet powerful imagery.
“When Donald Trump got elected, I wanted to address what ‘Make America Great Again’ meant for us. It didn’t include us. So, I painted a mammy with an American ag falling apart behind her. e piece was called ‘America Was,’ but it really is ‘America Is.’”
A recurring subject in Palmer’s work is the legendary writer James Baldwin. “I can’t stop painting him,” he said jokingly before admitting he had to take a break.
“James Baldwin was fearless, saying things publicly that many black folks wouldn’t say even today,” he said. “I want to create paintings that make me feel the way Baldwin’s writings make me feel.”
Palmer’s art also serves as a response to the trauma and pain experienced by communities, particularly Black communities in cities like Memphis. He believes in the power of art to heal and o er an outlet for dealing with these challenges.
“It’s sad, it’s tragic, and it’s real. I say to these young brothers and sisters, it’s not your fault,” he said. “You’ve been conditioned and deceived by constant lies. At some point, you get angry and respond where you are. I try to give love and understand because we’ve lost many brilliant minds to these conditions.”
you’re wondering what impact arti cial intelligence will have on education in general, and more speci cally, students in the Memphis Shelby County School District, you need to ip the question on its head.
e correct question: What impacts are MSCS students having on AI?
Last autumn at Granville T. Woods Innovation Academy, middle school students began actively studying the technology, learning about LLMs (large language models), and developing applications — as in chatbots.
And these aren’t “Aw, that’s cute” chatbots. We’re talking about chatbots that will actually be deployed by local organizations like the Memphis Chamber of Commerce, e Works, and Greater Imani Church.
e unveiling of the chatbots at the school was a major event, with Memphis Mayor Paul Young, school board members, and business leaders in attendance. e students presented their projects and received praise for their ingenuity and creativity.
“I really liked it,” said Xzavier Hampton, 13, one of the students who helped develop the chatbot for the Greater Memphis Chamber. “And that’s why I’m here now.”
Hampton and his classmates were introduced to AI through Stemi, a Croatian education technology company that partnered with Granville T. Woods to develop an AI curriculum. e program was the brainchild of Reggie Manning and Luka Perković, who founded Vista Data in 2023 to revolutionize learning with AI-driven data solutions.
Manning is the Chief Technology O cer. According to him, the speed at which arti cial intelligence has evolved
has posed a challenge for many entities in Memphis, businesses and schools, to incorporate AI into their day-to-day activities. He wanted to nd a way to bring this technology into the schools and integrate it into the curriculum, especially within schools that may not otherwise have access to it.
Well, it sure worked on Tiana Carr. She started the school year clueless about arti cial intelligence. At this event she unveiled her chatbot to provide information about Memphis in May.
“I didn’t know I would actually be into this — like can we do it every day?” smiled Carr, 13. “So, of course, the more you (work with) it, it makes you want to do it even more.”
Marin Troselj, the CEO of Stemi, said that he was impressed by the students’ progress.
“ ey went from zero to hero in six months,” Troselj said. “And it was really amazing.”
State Rep. G.A. Hardaway, who moderated a panel discussion at the event, said that AI is the future of education.
“Our young folks will be looking back years from now and talking about, ‘Why would we… What, were they thinking?’ ey won’t be able to gure out why we didn’t see all of the possibilities that AI will lead to,” Hardaway said.
State Rep. Antonio Parkinson said that AI is a “child that’s growing on steroids” and that Memphis needs to be at the forefront of this change.
The chatbot demonstration brought together an impressive group of leaders from K-12 education, the University of Memphis, the nonprofit sector, business, faith and government. The event culminates nearly a year of collaboration with Stemi, a Croatian tech firm aimed at getting AI into educational systems.
“What’s happening here at Granville T. Woods, that’s putting us on the forefront, on the front end of this,” Parkinson said.
Mayor Paul Young said that he was excited about the potential of AI to improve the lives of Memphians.
“Our infrastructure should be
structured for the future. And these young people are going to be the ones that take us there,” Young said. “And it’s because of initiatives like this that we’re going to be able to do it.”
e event also featured remarks from Althea Green, chair of the Memphis-Shelby County Schools board.
Above: “When you look at a teacher shortage, when you look at not having a teacher assistant in a room for every child, AI is that teacher assistant. AI is that additional help that our students will need.” – MCSC School Board Chair Althea Green
LEFT: Tiana Carr, pictured here with classmate and partner in development Mariana Fleming. The duo are developing a chatbot that will help people access info about Memphis in May.
“When you look at an initiative and a tool like AI, something that will say to a teacher, ‘Hey, Johnny can’t add 2 plus 3, and so we can’t move forward to 2 digits of addition,’ it will identify the problem, give a student an opportunity to have additional reinforcement,” Green said.
“When you look at a teacher shortage, when you look at not having a
“I didn’t know I would actually be into this — like can we do it every day? So, of course, the more you (work with) it, it makes you want to do it even more.”
— Tiana Carrteacher assistant in a room for every child, AI is that teacher assistant,” Green continued. “AI is that additional help that our students will need.”
For the students, there was also a classic teachable moment of “you never know who’s listening.” Bobby Garrett, Dean of the Fogelman School of Business at the University of Memphis, was on hand and stood to make a bold o er.
“In the business school, I have to admit, I don’t have the knowledge that y’all have on the technology itself,” Garrett said. “But what we know how to do . . . is commercialize the technology.
“So, if you get that foundational STEM education in knowing how to program, knowing how to make a chatbot,” he continued, “then you can bring us that idea, and with that idea, we can show you how to make money with it, how to start a business.”
Garrett told the students that he was impressed by their work and encouraged them to continue to be fearless.
“Be fearless, ask for help when you need it, and you will nd that this community is very willing and very eager to give you the support you need,” Garrett said.
Hampton intends to follow up on that o er.
“ at’s a big connection. at’s a very big connection,” said Hampton, the young chatbot engineer. “I would never have thought I would meet, be here with the Mayor or the Dean at the University of Memphis. I’m de nitely going to call.”
Note: is story was reported by Lee Eric Smith and written with the help of AI. (No pun intended. Also, no, seriously).
Gerrel Watkins is more than just a dad to his daughter, Chloe Gabrielle. He’s her travel buddy, homework helper, bedtime story listener, and biggest fan. Together, they’ve explored six countries, cheered on the Grizzlies, and enjoyed countless movie nights.
“He helps me with my homework and lets me read to him at night,” she said. “He tucks me in EVERY SINGLE NIGHT and I love him so much! He is a PowerParent at my school and a PowerDad at home!”
is heartwarming story of a father’s love is just one example of the many ways African American dads are making a di erence in their children’s lives. Do YOU know a Black Dad who deserves a HUGSHOT? Visit https://tri-statedefender.com/dads and tell us about him!
Alfred Lee Evans is a rst-time father who’s proving that fatherhood isn’t about perfect circumstances, it’s about unwavering commitment. Despite working 14-hour evening shi s, he prioritizes his daughter, picking her up and dropping her o at daycare daily. His dedication doesn’t stop there. He supports his daughter’s mother, encouraging her to return to school, demonstrating a holistic approach to family well-being.
“My granddaughter lights up when seeing her father walk in the room,” shares Alfred’s mother, Gwendolyn Evans. “Alfred makes sure quality time is spent with his daughter no matter how tired he is.”
Gwendolyn, a proud mother and
grandmother, witnesses rsthand the impact of Alfred’s love and sacri ce.
“I’m so proud of the father he has become,” she said. “He didn’t have a role model in the home. I had a village to help raise him. I’m so thankful. Alfred struggles like most black men. I just keep him prayed up each day.”
Alfred’s story challenges stereotypes and highlights the power of fatherhood within the Black community. Do YOU know a Black Dad who deserves a HUGSHOT? Visit https:// tri-statedefender.com/dads and tell us about him!
Jeremy Bowen, a devoted husband and father, exempli es what it means to be a present and supportive partner. From the very beginning of his wife Jasmine’s pregnancy, he embraced his role as a “Doula Dad,” attending to her needs and desires throughout the journey to parenthood.
“He has never missed a day or moment in our son, Moziah’s life,” shares Jasmine, emphasizing Jeremy’s unwavering dedication to their family. He not only showers Moziah with love, support, and guidance but also works tirelessly to provide for them.
Jeremy’s story is a heartwarming reminder of the vital role fathers play in their children’s lives. His commitment to being present, both emotionally and nancially, makes him a true pillar of strength for his family. Do YOU know a Black Dad who deserves a HUGSHOT? Visit https://tri-statedefender.com/dads and tell us about him!
e Whitehaven Banquet Hall celebrated its grand opening Saturday with a ribbon-cutting ceremony at the Whitehaven Community Center, located at 4318 Graceland Drive. e event, hosted by Mayor Paul Young and Memphis Parks, drew enthusiastic applause from community members and featured a day party with music and refreshments.
“Creating these spaces is really important," Mayor Young told ABC24. "It’s about enhancing the quality of life and ensuring that the residents of our community have spaces where they can gather for family reunions and other types of events. is is a space that’s going to be well used by the Whitehaven community.”
e ceremony included live music and free food, o ering a festive atmosphere for attendees. e new center, situated next to Rains Finley Park, is expected to become a well-used space for the Whitehaven community.
(Photos by Gary S. Whitlow/GSW Enterprises/Tri-State Defender)
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guidance, invoking a powerful sense of purpose and unity.
“We believe that what Tennessee can become, and Memphis can become, and Shelby County can become, and the United States of America can become is deeply interconnected to something more powerful than any person,” Pearson said.
Pearson highlighted his personal journey and the broader struggle for justice, equality, and opportunity. He shared his belief in the power of collective action and divine support.
“All things are possible. All things are possible. You’re the son of teenage parents. All things are possible. Straight up out of Westwood to the White House. All things are possible. Kicked out of the State House to get invited to the White House,” he said.
Addressing the current socio-political climate, Pearson underscored the importance of ghting against systemic injustices and advocating for comprehensive solutions to pressing issues such as gun violence, economic inequality, and environmental justice.
He said, “We are going to re-declare our independence from patriarchy and
misogyny and misogynoir.”
Pearson also paid tribute to the crucial role of Black women in sustaining democracy and his campaign, expressing gratitude for their tireless e orts and contributions. He urged everyone to acknowledge and appreciate their impact, stating,
“I’m here because of Black women,” Pearson said. “Democracy is still intact because of Black women.”
e event was not just a campaign launch but a celebration of community and shared aspirations. Pearson’s message of hope, resilience, and collective action struck a chord with many in attendance, who cheered and applauded throughout his speech.
As the event concluded, Pearson mingled with attendees, listening to their concerns and aspirations for the district. e campaign kicko not only marked the beginning of Pearson’s re-election bid but also rea rmed his commitment to the people of District 86.
For more information on Justin J. Pearson’s campaign and upcoming events, visit his o cial website or follow him on social media.
Note: is story was reported by Gary S. Whitlow. It was written with the help of AI.
