GOOD NEWS FROM THE CHURCH AND COMMUNITY
™ Winter 2020 thepositivecommunity.com
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TPC’s 20th Anniversary & Emancipation Day Awards Banquet
In Celebration of Our History: MLK’s Legacy | Jonathan Capehart Talks Civil Rights POSITIVEMUSIC
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Universal values. Personal attention. The students at Touro NYSCAS come from all walks of life, but share the same inner drive—and we’re here to help. No matter your background or intended future, we’ll give you the support you need to turn your goals into real achievements.
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BLACK HISTORY MATTERS
NYACK ALUMNI SINCE 1882
WINTER 2020
CONTENTS
SECTIONS MONEY ...................................14 HEALTH...................................18 EDUCATION.............................51 CULTURE ................................60
Features
28 31 ON THE COVER: Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. leaving Harlem Hospital triumphant in his recovery from an assassination attempt in Harlem. In September 1958, he was stabbed in the chest by a deranged woman while signing books at Blumstein’s Department Store on 125th Street.
SPECIAL SECTION:
EMANCIPATION CELEBRATION ................. 31
&also inside
West Harlem Group Continues the Journey .............. 14 Clinton Visits Cornerstone Baptist ............................ 15 Young Entrepreneurs ............................................... 17 Hidden Figures Gala ................................................ 18 East Orange Gets Health Help ................................. 19 Black History in Newark Health & Education ............ 20 Brooklynite Thrives at Voorhees College ................... 51 Postal Employees Hold 1st Triennial Convention ...... 54 Jonathan Capehart Talks Civil Rights, MLK, and More ... 58 The Whole Woman Fundraiser .................................. 60
Publisher’s Desk .................................. 8 Union County Fatherhood Awards ............................. 62 Guest Editorial: Sheila Oliver ................. 10 Memorial B.C. Celebrates Gardner’s Anniversary ...... 64 Guest Editorial: Joseph DiVincenzo ........ 12 UFT’s 10th Annual Faith-Based Breakfast ................. 69 Fitness Doctor .................................... 27 Clergy Men Stepping Up .......................................... 72 Gospel Train ....................................... 68 The Way Ahead .................................. 77 Fountain B.C. Welcomes TPC .................................... 73 The Last Word .................................... 78 Baptist Ministers Celebrate A.C. Powell Day ............. 75
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The Positive Community Winter 2020
www.thepositivecommunity.com
If it were up to me, we’d have all the healthcare we need. The 2020 Census informs funding for walk-in clinics, Medicare and all types of health services. Rest assured your answers are safe and secure.
Learn more at:
2020CENSUS.GOV Paid for by U.S. Census Bureau.
Mount Pisgah Baptist Church Commemorates
MAAFA 2020
Production created by The INCARN Ministry
Written by: Kenya Cagle Directed by: Michele Hawkins-Jones Choreographed by: Jamel Gaines and Naeemah Brown
Queen Nzinga of Angola
Showing at
Mount Pisgah Baptist Church In the ancient world, Africa was home to some of the world’s Queens that led their kingdoms with precision and power.
212 Tompkins Avenue- Bklyn., NY 11216
Bishop Johnny Ray YoungbloodExecutive Pastor/Spiritual Engineer
Thursday, Feb. 27 at 7pm Friday, Feb. 28 at 7pm Saturday, Feb. 29 at 4pm
Adults $20 Children 12 & under $10
For more information contact: Executive Office at: 718-388-3900 Email: incarn@mtpisgahny.org Facebook: @mtpisgahbk @incarnministry or Visit our web: www.mountpisgahny.com
R C
GREAT
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OLL
MAKE THE DIFFERENCE!
ALL
TO PROGRESS
he clergy organizations, churches, community businesses and institutions listed below have committed to the purchase of at least 50 magazines per month at $1.50 each or they support this publication through the purchase of advertising. Find out more by calling 973-233-9200 or email rollcall@thepositivecommunity.com. Concord B.C., Brooklyn, NY Rev. Dr. Gary V. Simpson, Pastor
Macedonia Baptist Church, Lakewood, NJ Dr. Edward D. Harper, Pastor
Pilgrim B. C., Newark, NJ Rev. Dr. Glenn Wilson, Pastor
Abyssinian B.C., Harlem, NY Rev. Dr. Calvin O. Butts III, Pastor
Convent Avenue Baptist Church, New York, NY Rev. Dr. Jesse T. Willams, Pastor
Mariners’ Temple B.C., New York, NY Rev. Dr. Henrietta Carter, Pastor
Ruth Fellowship Ministries, Plainfield, NJ Rev. Tracey Brown, Pastor
Abyssinian B.C., Newark, NJ Rev. Barry R. Miller, Pastor
Cross and Crown Christian Church, Orange, NJ Rev. Lula A. Baker, Pastor
Memorial, B.C., New York, NY Rev. Dr. Renee Washington Gardner, Senior Pastor
Shiloh AME Zion Church, Englewood, NJ Rev. John D. Givens, Pastor
Abundant Life Fellowship COGIC, Newark, NJ Supt. Edward Bohannon, Jr., Pastor
Aenon Baptist Church, Vauxhall, NJ Rev Alphonso Williams, Sr., Pastor Agape Baptist Church, Newark, NJ Rev. Craig R. Jackson, Pastor Antioch Baptist Church, Brooklyn, NY Rev. Robert M. Waterman, Pastor Archdiocese of New York Brother Tyrone Davis, Office of Black Ministry Baptist Ministers Conference of Greater NY & Vicinity Rev. Dr. Charles A. Curtis, President
Ebenezer B.C. of Englewood, NJ Rev. Preston E. Thompson, Jr., Pastor Elizabeth, NJ Councilwoman-At-Large Patricia Perkins-Auguste Empire Missionary Baptist Convention Rev. Dr. Carl T. Washington, Jr., Pastor Evergreen Baptist Church, Palmyra, NJ Rev. Dr. Guy Campbell, Jr., Pastor Fellowship Missionary B.C., Newark, NJ Rev. Dr. Elton T. Byrd Pastor/Founder
Messiah Baptist Church, Bridgeport, CT Rev. James Logan, Pastor Messiah Baptist Church, East Orange, NJ Rev. Dana Owens, Pastor Metropolitan B.C., Newark, NJ Rev. Dr. David Jefferson, Pastor Mother A.M.E. Zion Church Harlem, NY Rev. Dr. Malcolm J. Byrd, Pastor Mt. Neboh Baptist Church, Harlem, NY Rev. Dr. Johnnie Green Jr., Pastor Mt. Pisgah B.C., Brooklyn, NY Rev. Dr. Johnny Ray Youngblood, Pastor
Berean B.C., Brooklyn, NY Rev. Arlee Griffin Jr., Pastor
First B.C. of Lincoln Gardens, Somerset NJ Rev. Dr. DeForest (Buster) Soaries, Pastor
Bethany B.C., Brooklyn, NY Rev. Dr. Adolphus C. Lacey, Sr. Pastor
First Baptist Church, East Elmhurst, NY Rev. Patrick Henry Young, Pastor
Mount Olive Baptist Church, Hackensack, NJ Rev. Gregory J. Jackson, Pastor
Bethany B.C., Newark, NJ Rev. Timothy E. Jones, Pastor
First Baptist Church of Kenilworth, NJ Rev. Nathaniel Bullock Jr., Pastor
Mt. Olivet B.C, Newark, NJ Rev. André W. Milteer, Pastor
Bethlehem Missionary B.C., Roselle, NJ Rev. Jeffrey Bryan, Pastor
First Baptist Church of Teaneck, NJ Rev. Dr. Marilyn Monroe Harris, Pastor
Mt. Zion AME Church, Trenton, NJ Rev. J. Stanley Justice, Pastor
Beulah Bible Cathedral Church, Newark, NJ Gerald Lydell Dickson, Senior Pastor
First Baptist of Jericho, Deptford, NJ Rev. Derek V. Gaitling, Pastor
Mt. Zion B.C., Westwood, NJ Rev. Bernard Glee, Pastor
Calvary Baptist Church, Garfield, NJ Rev. Calvin McKinney, Pastor
First Corinthian Baptist Church, NY Rev. Michael A. Walrond, Jr., Senior Pastor
Calvary Baptist Church, Morristown, NJ Rev. Jerry M. Carter, Jr., Pastor
First Park Baptist Church, Plainfield, NJ Rev. Rufus McClendon, Jr., Pastor
New Garden State Jurisdiction COGIC NJ Bishop William Cahoon
Canaan B. C. of Christ, Harlem, NY Rev. Thomas D. Johnson, Pastor
First Baptist Church, South Orange, NJ Rev. Dr. Terry Richardson, Pastor
Canaan B.C., Paterson, NJ Rev. Barry L. Graham, Pastor
General Baptist Convention, NJ Rev. Dr. Lester W. Taylor, Jr., President
Cathedral International., Perth Amboy, NJ Bishop Donald Hilliard, Pastor
Good Neighbor B.C., Newark, NJ Rev. Dr. George A. Blackwell, III, Pastor
Charity Baptist Church, Bronx, NY Rev. Reginald Williams, Pastor Christian Love B.C., Irvington, NJ Rev. Brandon Keith Washington, Pastor
Grace B. C., Mt. Vernon, NY Rev. Dr. Franklyn W. Richardson, Pastor Greater Zion Hill B.C., Harlem, NY Rev. Dr. Frank J. Blackshear, Pastor
Clear View Baptist Church, Newark, NJ Rev. Curtis W. Belle, Jr., Pastor
Harlem Congregations for Community Improvement (HCCI) Malcolm A. Punter, President & CEO
Community B.C., Englewood, NJ Rev. Dr. Lester Taylor, Pastor
Imani Baptist Church, East Orange, NJ Rev. William Derek Lee, Senior Pastor
Community Church of God, Plainfield, NJ Rev. Antonio Porter, Pastor
It Is Well Living Ministries, Clark, NJ Rev. Kahlil Carmichael, Pastor
New Hope Baptist Church, Metuchen, NJ Rev. Dr. Ronald L. Owens, Pastor New Hope Baptist Church of East Orange, East Orange, NJ Rev. Dr. Vernard E. Hinton, Pastor New Hope Baptist Church of Hackensack, Hackensack, NJ Rev. Dr. Drew Kyndall Ross, Senior Pastor
Shiloh B.C., New Rochelle, NY Rev. Dr. DeQuincy M. Hentz, Pastor Shiloh B.C., Plainfield, NJ Rev. Sheila L. Thorpe, Pastor Shiloh B.C., Trenton, NJ Rev. Darell Armstrong, Pastor St. Anthony Baptist Church, Brooklyn, NY Rev. Dr. Walter L. DeLoatch, Sr., Pastor St. James AME Church, Newark, NJ Rev. Ronald L. Slaughter, Pastor St. John Baptist Church, Camden, NJ Rev. Dr. Silas M. Townsend, Pastor St. John B.C., Scotch Plains, NJ Rev. Shawn T. Wallace, Pastor St. Luke Baptist Church of Harlem, NY Rev. Dr. Johnnie McCann, Pastor St Luke B.C., Paterson, NJ Rev. Kenneth D.R. Clayton, Pastor St. Mark Missionary B.C., Jamaica, NY Rev. Owen E. Williams, Pastor St. Matthew AME Church, Orange, NJ Rev. Melvin E. Wilson, Pastor St. Paul Baptist Church, Montclair, NJ Rev. Dr. Bernadette Glover, Pastor St. Paul Baptist Church, Red Bank, NJ Rev. Alexander Brown, Pastor St. Paul Community B.C., Brooklyn, NY Rev. David K. Brawley, Pastor Tabernacle B.C., Burlington, NJ Rev. Dr. Cory L. Jones, Pastor The New Hope B.C., Newark, NJ Rev. Joe Carter, Senior Pastor
New Life Cathedral, Mt. Holly, NJ Rev. Eric Wallace, Pastor
Union Baptist Temple,, Bridgeton, NJ Rev. Albert L. Morgan, Pastor
New Reid Temple COGIC East Orange, NJ Bishop William Cahoon
United Fellowship B.C., Asbury Park, NJ Rev. James H. Brown, Sr., Pastor
North Selton AME Church, Piscataway, NJ Rev. Dr. Eric and Myra Billips, Pastors Paradise B. C., Newark, NJ Rev. Jethro James, Pastor Park Ave Christian Disciples of Christ, East Orange, NJ Rev. Harriet Wallace, Pastor
Walker Memorial B.C. Bronx, NY Rev. Dr. J. Albert Bush Sr., Pastor Welcome Baptist Church, Newark, NJ Rev. Dr. Elijah C. Williams, Pastor World Gospel Music Assoc., Newark, NJ Dr. Albert Lewis, Founder
“The Positive Community magazine does outstanding work in promoting the good works of the Black Church. All churches
and businesses should subscribe to and advertise in The Positive Community. Please support this magazine, the only one www.thepositivecommunity.com Winter 2020 The Positive Community 7 that features good news about the black community.”—Rev. Buster Soaries, General Baptist Revival, May 20, 2010
ADRIAN COUNCIL PUBLISHER’S DESK
2020
O
h, how good and pleasant it is when the people of God come together to observe and remember our mighty day of liberation and to celebrate the African American freedom journey in this land! On January 1st, 2020, hundreds from the NY and NJ region packed into the grand ballroom of the historic Robert Treat Hotel in Newark, NJ to participate in the Great American Emancipation Day Awards Banquet, honoring our community’s visionary institutions and individual leaders—Torchbearers of Progress. It was also a grand celebration in recognition of The Positive Community’s 20th anniversary.
Historic Occasion
What a blessed way to begin the New Year, together in a spirit of unity, community service and cultural pride—in anticipation of; commitment to; and faith in our collective ability to ensure the success of future generations! Business partner and co-publisher, Jean Nash Wells, myself, and The Positive Community family are most grateful to all who came out to celebrate and fellowship on this historic occasion. It was, in spirit and in truth, a positive community experience! We owe a debt of gratitude to our forward-thinking corporate partners, the stakeholders of community progress—our event sponsors—who early recognized the value of this service as a unique consumer marketing opportunity—a positive community-building idea and ideal! Thank God for clergy leaders of every faith, that awoke on the first day of a new decade with freedom on their mind. We appreciate the hospitality of the City of Newark and Mayor Ras J. Baraka for being the host city of this annual event. The Mayor sent a message of goodwill while visiting in Ghana, West Africa; New Jersey Lt. Governor Hon. Shelia Oliver and Dr. Jerry Young, President of (the 8 million member) National Baptist Convention, USA, Inc., also sent video greetings. To quote honoree, Newark Municipal Council President, Hon. Mildred Crump in a recent text message: “...Thank you (Adrian) and Jean for one of the greatest events in my life!!!” (visit thepositivecommunity. com for more.) The Great Emancipation
My friend, the late Dr. Clement A. Price, Distinguished Professor of History, Rutgers University would refer to the
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A New Year a New Beginning a Brand New Day! period in American history beginning on January 1, 1863, when the Emancipation Proclamation was issued, thru the passing of the 15th Amendment in 1870 (150 years ago), as the Season of the Great Emancipation. Yes, January 1st, is an important date on the American calendar, especially for the African American people. The 13th and 14th Amendments abolished forever, slavery in the USA. The 15th Amendment, granting African-American men the right to vote was adopted into the U.S. Constitution in 1870 (one hundred fifty years ago). Dr. Price suggested that the Emancipation Proclamation was a political strategy, a wartime maneuver. The Great Emancipation from the Negro perspective however, was a significant spiritual/cultural event. Just as God’s Hand was on Pharaoh in the Exodus of the Hebrew slaves out of Egypt, so too was the powerful Hand of Almighty God upon a United States president in the African American Exodus—Let My People Go! America’s Best
Let us be absolutely clear, with 2020 vision, about the essentials if we, the people, are to move forward in this 21st century. They are: #1., The progress of our children; #2., The integrity of our African American culture, values and traditions—our collective soul. It is therefore, our scared responsibility before God and to all mankind to see to the continuity of positive values and ideals from this generation to the next. As well, it is our patriotic duty, to seek meaningful, creative ways to preserve, protect and promote our very best—America’s best! The Cultural Narrative
Fifty years from now, our generation, the “Baby Boomers” will be counted among the ancestors. What will be our legacy; what values or talents will we pass along to future generations? What is our story; what will be theirs? The African American Cultural Narrative presents a solution. Both the Great American Emancipation Day Awards Banquet and the ideals expressed in the Cultural Narrative poster reveal the truth of who we really are: Liberated sons and daughters of the Most High God; Mighty decedents of the Great Emancipation—1863! Teach the children; inspire within their souls a hunger for truth and a thirst for righteousness. Wake up everybody . . . it’s a brand new day! www.thepositivecommunity.com
SHEILA OLIVER GUEST EDITORIAL
Sheila Oliver has served as Lieutenant Governor of New Jersey since 2018.
Our Battle Cry is “Let My People Vote:” Reflections on the Quadricentennial and Voting Rights Act of 1965
T
his month, we pay homage to the heroes of the resistance who define our story—Harriet Tubman; Frederick Douglass; Fannie Lou Hamer; John Brown; Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr.; Congresswoman Shirley Chisholm; Congressmen Elijah Cummings and John Lewis; President Barack Obama; and so many more. I’m filled with joy and gratitude for the freedom fighters of yesterday, and with prayer and hope for the leaders of today and tomorrow. 2019 was an important year because it marked the quadricentennial—400 years since “The Door of No Return” opened and history was changed forever when the first documented black person arrived on our shores. Time has been hard on the black community. We have endured brutality, torture and torment. Black History Month reminds us of our plight. It also reminds us that we are resilient, we are strong, we are time-tested, and we are great. We know that change and progress do not come easily. They require character, perseverance, strength, courage, and patience. Progress made and kept is a testament to the resilience of the black community. Of all the changes I have witnessed in my lifetime, I believe the Voting Rights Act of 1965 to be the most impactful in affirming black citizenship and steering our nation toward equality for all because there is no more basic right in American democracy than the right to vote. In 1965, Dr. King famously wrote a letter saying, “Our battle cry is, ‘let my people vote,’” urging President Lyndon Johnson to sign a law that would end blatant discriminatory voting practices such as poll taxes, literacy tests,
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intimidation, and violence at all government levels for African Americans. Most importantly, the Voting Rights Act fortified a national prohibition on the denial or abridgement of the right to vote on account of race or color. The impact was swift. By the end of 1965, a quarter million new black voters were registered. The Voting Rights Act was hailed a landmark decision. For the first time in American history, we had a voice in the election process. It set the stage for the black vote becoming a key factor for those seeking elected office. Not only did we gain many new voices, but our collective voice became influential. Progress is being made with our collective voice. Governor Murphy and I are working to combat social injustices and systemic racism. We have signed laws that help ensure equal pay is received for equal work, restore voting rights to over 80,000 people on probation or parole, restore critical funding for family planning and women’s reproductive health, and put us on a path to a fair minimum wage. Also, First Lady Tammy Murphy has championed a healthcare campaign called Nurture NJ to help protect black mothers and children from mortality during pregnancy and after childbirth. Progress is being made, but we still hold many challenges in New Jersey and across the country – voter suppression, mass incarceration, high black maternal and infant mortality rates, and the hardship that accompanies intergenerational poverty. This month, as we honor the freedom fighters of the past, let’s commit to increasing equity and equality in the new decade by staying engaged and reaffirming that our collective black voice matters. www.thepositivecommunity.com
Image Credit: ELLEN GALLAGHER, Bird in Hand, 2006, Oil, pencil, gold, plasticine, gold leaf, and paper on canvas, 93 3/4 x 120 7/8 inches, Š Ellen Gallagher. Courtesy Gagosian.
the 40th annual Marion thoMpson Wright lecture series
Clement A. Price Institute on Ethnicity, Culture, and the Modern Experience Presents:
Bw hla tas ece mks t oF bue ,tnue e rd neo tsb e: S A T U R D A Y, F E B R U A R Y 1 5 , 2 0 2 0
9:30 a.m. - 3:30 p.m.
SPEAKERS:
The Paul Robeson Campus Center
S a i d i y a H a r t m a n , Columbia University R u h a B e n j a m i n , Princeton University Y t a s h a Wo m a c k , Afrofuturist & Independent Scholar J a s o n K i n g, New York University
Rutgers, the State University of New Jersey 350 Martin Luther King Jr. Blvd. Newark, New Jersey 07102
F o r m o r e i n f o r m a t i o n , v i s i t e t h n i c i t y. r u t g e r s . e d u o r c a l l 9 7 3 - 3 5 3 - 3 8 9 1
Clement A. Price Institute on Ethnicity, Culture & the Modern Experience
Design: Diane Cuddy Design, LLC
Printing: The Printing Center
JOSEPH N. JOSEPH JOSEPH N. N. DIVINCENZO, DIVINCENZO, DIVINCENZO, JR. JR. JR. GUEST GUEST GUEST EDITORIAL EDITORIAL EDITORIAL
Joseph N. DiVincenzo Jr., widely known as Joe D., Joseph JosephN. N.DiVincenzo DiVincenzoJr., Jr.,widely widelyknown knownas asJoe JoeD., D., has been the County Executive of Essex County, has hasbeen beenthe theCounty CountyExecutive Executiveof ofEssex EssexCounty, County, New Jersey since 2003. New NewJersey Jerseysince since2003. 2003.
In In Memoriam: My My Friend, Calvin West
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ee all December 2019 when our allwere weresaddened saddenedin inDecember December2019 2019when whenour our good confidante, and mentor Calvin West goodfriend, friend,confidante, confidante,and andmentor mentorCalvin CalvinWest West passed before he died, had been passedaway. away.Just Justaaday daybefore beforehe hedied, died,IIIhad hadbeen been speaking lunch meeting at McLoone’s speakingwith withhim himto toset setup upaalunch lunchmeeting meetingat atMcLoone’s McLoone’s Restaurant—his socialize with friends, meet Restaurant—hisfavorite favoriteplace placeto tosocialize socializewith withfriends, friends,meet meet new of knowledge of governnewpeople, people, and and share share his his wealth wealth of of knowledge knowledge of of governgovernment, Calvin’s birthday was apment,politics, politics,and andlife lifein ingeneral. general.Calvin’s Calvin’sbirthday birthdaywas wasapapproaching the milestone, there were proachingand andbesides besidescelebrating celebratingthe themilestone, milestone,there therewere were some And when Calvin wanted someissues issueshe hewanted wantedto todiscuss. discuss.And Andwhen whenCalvin Calvinwanted wanted tototalk talkto toyou, you,you youmade madethe thetime. time.
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Heand andhis hissister, sister,Larrie LarrieWest legendsin inNewNewHe WestStalks, Stalks,were werelegends legends in Newark.While WhileLarrie Larriewent wenton CountySurrogate Surrogate ark. onto toserve serveasasEssex EssexCounty County Surrogate fortwo twodecades, decades,Calvin Calvinserved asaaaNewark NewarkCity City for servedjust justone oneterm termasas Newark City Councilman. Both Both were were trailblazers—Larrie asthe theAfrican African Councilman. trailblazers—Larrie asas the African American Constitutional Constitutional Officer generationin inNew New American Officer of of her her generation generation in New Jersey and and Calvin Calvin who whowas AfricanAmerican Americanto to Jersey wasthe thesecond secondAfrican African American to be elected electedto tothe theNewark NewarkCouncil firstto tobe beelected elected be Counciland andthe thefirst first to be elected toaacity-wide city-wideseat. seat. to Don’tbe befooled fooledby byCalvin’s anelected electedoffioffiCalvin’sshort shorttenure tenureasasan an elected offiDon’t cial.Although Althoughhe heonly onlyserved capacityfor forfour four servedin inan anelected electedcapacity capacity for four cial. years,his hisimprint imprinton onNewark Newarkand Countywas wasdeep. deep.He He andEssex EssexCounty County was deep. He years, did thecity’s city’ssuccess successand and lift its resdid just just as as much much to toensure ensurethe andlift liftits itsresresidents office.He Hedearly dearlyloved loved the City idents as as anyone anyonein inelected electedoffice. lovedthe theCity City of worked behind behind the scenes of Newark Newark and and for for generations generations worked behindthe thescenes scenes counseling preparingup-and-coming up-and-coming communicounselingpoliticians, politicians,preparing up-and-comingcommunicommunitytyleaders, whateverhe hecould couldto toimprove improve the lives leaders,and anddoing doingwhatever improvethe thelives lives of andEssex EssexCounty. County. ofthe theresidents residentsof ofNewark Newarkand His but his his reach reach was was long long and went His stature stature was was short, short, but longand andwent went well of Newark. Newark. His His counsel and well beyond beyond the the boundaries boundaries of His counsel counseland and bymany. many.He Hewas wasthe the chief of staff insight insight were were sought soughtafter afterby thechief chiefof ofstaff staff andran ranthe theNorth NorthJersey Jersey Office for for forMayor MayorSharpe SharpeJames Jamesand JerseyOffice Officefor for two twogovernors. governors. Politics feellike likeaabare-knuckle bare-knuckle fight. TemPoliticscan cansometimes sometimesfeel bare-knucklefight. fight.TemTempers arecalled. called.But ButIIdon’t don’tthink think Calvin had persflare flareand andnames namesare thinkCalvin Calvinhad had aa malicious his body. body. Always Always calm calm and and collected— malicious bone bone in in his andcollected— collected— and dapper in in those those amazing amazing suits— and always always looking looking quite quite dapper amazingsuits— suits— Calvin statesmanwho who never said Calvinalways alwayswas wasaagentleman, gentleman,aastatesman whonever neversaid saidaaa bad badword wordabout aboutanyone. anyone. bad word about anyone. am lucky lucky that that throughout throughout my my life and political career III am am lucky that throughout mylife lifeand andpolitical politicalcareer career havebeen beensurrounded surroundedby by many of my elders who eagerly IIIhave have been surrounded bymany manyof ofmy myelders elderswho whoeagerly eagerly sharedtheir theiradvice adviceand andfriendship. friendship. am proud that Calvin shared shared their advice and friendship.IIIam amproud proudthat thatCalvin Calvin was one of them. We first met when I ran for public was one of them. We first met when I ran for public office was one of them. We first met when I ran for public office office and andour ourfriendship friendshipcontinued continuedfor for close to 40 years. Friendand our friendship continued forclose closeto to40 40years. years.FriendFriendships shipsin inthe thepolitical politicalworld worldcan can be tenuous best, but Calvin ships in the political world canbe betenuous tenuousatat atbest, best,but butCalvin Calvin remained remained devoted devoted and and true. true. I I was was blessed blessed by by his his loyalty. loyalty. remained devoted and true. I was blessed by his loyalty. www.thepositivecommunity.com
importantto to honor honor individuals individuals who ItItisisimportant who have have changed changed history historyand and continueto toserve serve our our communities communities with continue withtheir theirlong longlasting lastinginfluence. influence. We have have created created statues statues of Dr. We Dr. Martin MartinLuther LutherKing, King,Jr., Jr.,Donald DonaldM.M. Payne,Sr., Sr.,and andRosa Rosa Parks Parks at the Hall Payne, Hall of ofRecords Recordsand andAlthea AltheaGibson Gibson at Branch Branch Brook Brook Park Park so that future at future generations generations continue continue to to be be inspiredby bytheir their courage courage and contributions. inspired contributions. ~Joseph ~JosephN. N.DiVincenzo, DiVincenzo,Jr.Jr.
Joseph N.N. DiVincenzo, DiVincenzo, Jr., Essex Joseph Essex County CountyExecutive Executive and the the Board of Chosen and Chosen Freeholders Freeholders Salute African American Salute American History HistoryMonth Month DonaldM.M.Payne, Payne,Sr.Sr.Statue Statue Donald
Althea Althea Gibson Statue RosaParks ParksStatue Statue Rosa
Martin Luther King, Jr. Statue Dr.Dr.Martin Luther King, Jr. Statue
M Money
buiness, finance + work
Continuing the Journey
Executive Director West Harlem Group Assistance, Inc. Donald C. Notice
NY Assemblywoman Inez E. Dickens
West Harlem Group Assistance 48th Annual Fundraiser
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est Harlem Group Assistance, Inc. (WHGA) is built upon harnessing the perseverance, pride, strength, and talents of Harlem residents. WHGA’s mission is to provide and increase the availability of safe and decent affordable housing and encourage, facilitate, and strengthen the economic viability and stability of the Harlem community. On December 4, 2019, WHGA held its annual fundraiser at the Lenfest Center for the Arts at Columbia
University School of the Arts. More than 100 people celebrated the nonprofit’s work on housing access and other social services. WHGA has entered the 21st Century with a strategic, broad-based series of community development activities which, in effect, will launch Harlem’s second renaissance by benefitting, strengthening, and preserving all positive sectors of the world-renowned community of Harlem.
L–R: Dyana Williams, media personality; Donald Notice, WHGA executive director; Honoree Jane Silverman, executive director of Community Development Banking at JPMorgan Chase; June Andrews Henderson, WHGA deputy director; Honoree Robert Brown, New York Yankees VP/CFO
Leon Ellis
Executive Director West Harlem Group Assistance, Inc. Donald C. Notice and Honoree Robert B. Brown, New York Yankees VP/CFO
Faith & Love Fuel His Vision By Glenda Cadogan
Honoree Jane E. Silverman, executive director, JP Morgan Chase Bank and Assemblyman Al Taylor thepositivecommunity.com
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L–R: Lionel Davison, Brian A. Benjamin, Donald C. Notice, Robert B. Brown, Michael Garner, and Courtney Bennett Summer 2017 The Positive Community
The Positive Community Winter 2020
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Clinton Visits Cornerstone Baptist Church in Bed-Stuy Former President Assesses Energy Saving Technology Resulting From A Clinton Foundation Commitment
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www.thepositivecommunity.com
Reverend Lawrence Aker, pastor Cornerstone B.C., Brooklyn, NY Photos: Raymond Hagans
everend Lawrence Aker welcomed former President Bill Clinton to Cornerstone Baptist Church in Bed-Stuy, Brooklyn to see the energy-efficient upgrades implemented there resulting from a Clinton Global Initiative University commitment. Outfitted with high-tech, but low-cost eco-friendly technology, including efficient lights and a new cooling system, estimates by church staff of the ecological benefits of the new green tech indicate a 30 to 40 percent per year savings on energy bills. which President Clinton praised as essential in the fight against climate change. “This is a picture through which we can see a better future,” said Clinton. “Some of the lowest cost responses are what you see happening in this church, and they all buy us 10, 20, 30 years before the worst happens for us to fix the whole thing.” The retrofit was done by BlocPower, an energy startup founded by Donnel Baird courtesy of funding provided by the Clinton Global Initiative University, who in 2013 committed to lowering energy costs across the country for small businesses, churches, and non-profits. Baird has retrofitted over 500 buildings in Brooklyn. Nominated for listing on the New York State and National Registers of Historic Places in December 2019, listing on the registries would enable Cornerstone access to grants and tax credits for renovation projects. The state describes the intact Romanesque and Gothic Revival style design including brick, terra cotta, and stone details of the church as significant. Materials and documents also recognize the transition of the neighborhood from a majority white area into the most important African American community in Brooklyn, as the church itself transitioned from a white Congregational church to an African American Baptist church. Erected in 1889 and formerly known as the Lewis Avenue Congregational Church, Cornerstone Baptist Church has served as a symbol of civil rights actions, community development, and activism.
Former President Bill Clinton
L–R: Rev. Lawrence Aker and former President Bill Clinton Winter 2020 The Positive Community
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The Positive Community's
Young Innovator Award IMU Media
I
MU Media, established in 2015, is an online publication/media outlet that specializes in digital media, branding, marketing, and advertising. IMU Media also provides training to students, providing the tools and techniques they need to succeed in the media business. IMU Media is committed to creating and establishing a business brand story for its clients. They have created a solid economic niche utilizing the latest marketing trends and advertising techniques, to enhance business branding. They pride themselves on their creativity and expertise as well as working alongside their team of young, ambitious business professionals.
Jovan Acree, chief executive officer of IMU
Their core mission is to provide young innovators with the resources and opportunities to become leaders and mentors through IMU Media.
Future IMU Media endeavors include: IMU Broadcasting Network IMU EDU IMU Cares Non-Profit Foundation IMU Clothing Line IMU Wireless
See page 31 for much more about The Positive Community Awards Banquet or visit online at: thepositivecommunity.com Special Thanks to TPC's Emancipation Day Video and Photography Corps: Wali Amin Muhammad Risasi Dais Vincent Bryant Karen Waters Raymond Hagans Bruce Moore Raymond Tidwell IMU www.thepositivecommunity.com
Winter 2020 The Positive Community
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Health ideas for wellness
Hidden Figures Gala Women in Medicine Honored
Photo: Karen Waters
L-R: Renee E. Baskerville, MD (Pediatrics); Diane M. Ridley, MD (Anesthesiology); Debra N. Goldson-Prophete, MD (Internal Medicine); Erica David-Parks, MD (Physical & Rehabilitation Medicine); Jeanine Downie, MD (Dermatology); Dr. Patricia W. Bennett, (Podiatric Surgeon); Sandra D. Adams, PhD (Molecular Genetics/Virology); Sonya Hutchins, MD, MPH, DrPh (Preventive Medicine); and Norma Rae, MD (Obstetrics & Gynecology)
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he Williams Forum for Diabetic Education and Healthcare, (WFDEH) (a 501 C 3) came about through the vision of Dr. Patricia Bennett. The nonprofit organization focuses on public education on health disparities and STEM careers for young girls. Their Physician Speaker’s Bureau represents all medical specialties. This year celebrated the third “Hidden Figures” gala on November 16 at the elegant Il Tulipano in Cedar Grove, NJ. The event highlighted the accomplishments of extraordinary women in medicine and science: Diane Ridley, MD (Anesthesiology); Jeanine Downie, MD (Dermatology); Norma Rae, MD (Obstetrics & Gynecology); Erica David-Parks, MD (Rehabilitative Medicine); Debora Golden-Prophete, MD (Internal
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Medicine); Sonja Hutchins-Eke, MD, MPH, Dr. PH (Preventive Medicine); and Sandra Adams, PhD (Molecular Genetics & Virology). Keynote speaker Renee Baskerville, MD (Pediatrics & Adolescent Medicine) made an exhilarating presentation on the historical participation of women in medicine and science. The life stories and career pathways described by the honorees mesmerized the approximately 200 guests.They also spoke about the profound health disparities that exist in their medical and scientific specialties. With cameras flashing and friends reacquainting, guests dined, danced, and closed the night with promises to stay involved with the foundation. Plans are in progress for the development of a public forum on health disparities in spring 2021. www.thepositivecommunity.com
New Foundation is Launched to Improve the Health and Wellness of East Orange and Surrounding Communities
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new foundation has been created to address the healthcare needs of residents of East Orange, Orange, Irvington and the South and West Wards of Newark. The Health Care Foundation of the Oranges, Inc. (HCFO) located in East Orange, New Jersey, was formed in 2016 from the sale of a local community hospital to a for-profit entity. The Foundation was established to focus on ensuring the community, once served by the local community hospital, continued to have access to quality healthcare, health education and a multitude of other health resources and services. HCFO Board Chair, Leonard Murray II, said, “The HCFO is a unique organization with an extraordinary opportunity to impact the health and wellness of the people in the communities we serve.” He continued, “We see the Foundation as a convener, bringing together community partners to help us address social determinants of health.” He added that as the HCFO grows, the goal is to bring awareness to the need for local government, community and faith-based partners to work together to improve the overall health of the community. He added, “It is our hope that our shared initiatives will have a beneficial and lifelong impact on the individuals in the communities we serve by making health and wellness a priority for their daily lives.” The vision of the HCFO is focused on healthcare awareness, education and funding for healthcare initiatives within
www.thepositivecommunity.com
the designated service areas. The HCFO takes a holistic approach to health, focusing on the emotional, mental and physical health of the community. The Foundation has created a new program, entitled, “Taking Care of You; Mind, Body and Soul” and supported a number of other initiatives aimed at raising awareness and creating a culture of wellness in the designated cities. The HCFO’s signature program, “Taking Care of You; Mind, Body and Soul” is a 12-month initiative that focuses on health awareness, education, prevention and ailment management. The program follows the Centers for Disease Control calendar of observances, highlighting many of the observances in the clinical work, discussions and health assessments that are part of the program. With “Taking Care of You” the Foundation takes a multi-disciplinary approach to
healthcare that includes traditional healthcare with physicians and nurses. The Foundation is also expanding their reach to include non-traditional and growing practices such as incorporating doulas, life coaches and access to practitioners of eastern medicine. HCFO partners include local government agencies, faith-based, and community-based organizations. The Healthcare Foundation of the Oranges held a Friendraiser at the Newark Museum on December 3. The purpose of the event was to formally introduce HCFO to organizations working in the health and wellness space. During the event the Chairman provided an overview of the Foundation and announced the first set of grants to several community-based organizations. For more information about the Healthcare Foundation of the Oranges, please visit us online at hcfoinc.org.
Winter 2020 The Positive Community
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The Makings of Black History BY ROBERT L. JOHNSON, MD, FAAP’72 THE SHARON AND JOSEPH L. MUSCARELLE ENDOWED DEAN RUTGERS NEW JERSEY MEDICAL SCHOOL INTERIM DEAN ROBERT WOOD JOHNSON MEDICAL SCHOOL
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or more than 50 years, my life has been firmly rooted in the city of Newark. In 1968, I chose to live and learn here while earning my medical degree and completing my residency program. As a pediatrician, I chose to provide care to children and families in this city. My career led me to become an educator, and I remained here to teach students to develop a passion for our community. Newark is where I made history, becoming the first black dean of Rutgers New Jersey Medical School (formerly UMDNJ). Last year, Newark was an inextricable part of the story as I made history again, becoming the first black man, and only person regardless of race, to be named dean of two medical schools (New Jersey Medical School and Robert Wood Johnson Medical School) in the United States. Taking a reflective look at Black History Month, I’ll examine three pillars of the community that were integral on my path to leadership: education, the church, and black media. Academic institutions in the US often have complicated histories. It was our blood, sweat, and tears that built many of these institutions. In an effort to shed light on dark moments in its past, I have great appreciation for Rutgers University acknowledging the contributions of black Americans by renaming several of its buildings and providing a safe place to have difficult conversations about historical injustices. Whether traditional universities or HBCUs, educators and students have made an indelible imprint on raising our country’s consciousness. It’s no surprise that Negro History Week and Black History Month can both be traced back to institutions of higher learning. The halls of academia are regarded as sources of intellectual voices and are often a flashpoint for philosophical and social change. An equally influential presence in my life was, and still is, the church. For us, the church provides a spiritual foundation. And, the church has often been the place
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where political movements begin. In fact, many leaders in the black community are leaders within the church. It’s also an institution that has economic power. Members give to the church, and the church invests back into the community–oftentimes making major investments in education. Indeed, most HBCUs have religious underpinnings. The black church has been instrumental in our achievements. For a large part of my life, black press was the only place that talked about black people. Dating back to the early 1800s, African American publications provided a form of communication when we were excluded from mainstream media. Publications such as New York Amsterdam News, The Final Call, Jet, Ebony, and The Positive Community were common in African American homes. With the launch of BET and OWN, our stories moved to the television screen. Social media and the internet are the next phase along our continuum of communication. I am impressed by how we have utilized Twitter, YouTube, Instagram, Facebook, blogging, and the web to amplify what is important in our communities. I believe that education, the church, and media will remain the bedrock of our community. In the city of Newark, I’ll add healthcare as a fourth pillar. Since relocating to Newark 60 years ago, New Jersey Medical School and other health entities have been key to achievements in health issues including HIV and AIDS, substance abuse, lead poisoning, and traumatic injuries. In summary, I share my professional achievements and pillars of support to simply highlight the fact that history, although viewed through a retrospective lens, is something that we are all presently creating. Black history takes place every day in Newark. It is my great honor to make history within such a vibrant and resilient community. This month, and in perpetuity, I celebrate our rich history while working diligently to advance and elevate our narrative within our community and the U.S. www.thepositivecommunity.com
THE SHARON AND JOSEPH L. MUSCARELLE ENDOWED DEAN
ROBERT L. JOHNSON ,MD, FAAP
BLACK HISTORY MONTH "Remember, educate, and celebrate. Black history is inseparable from American history. Many of the political forces that exists in this country are related to the presence of African Americans. By not recognizing the contributions of the people of color, we begin to denigrate them as individuals."
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10/21/19 10:34 AM
Living Your Best Life Black History Festival and Health Fair Date: Saturday, February 22 Time: 10 AM - 2 PM Location: Holy Name Medical Center (Marian Hall) Register: Call 201-833-3336 or visit holyname.org/BlackHistoryFair In recognition of Black History Month, Holy Name Medical Center will be hosting a day of screenings and seminars designed to help you achieve wellness. Screenings will include blood work, blood pressure, BMI, bone density, vein screening, diabetic risk assessment and medication review. Join us for a day of health, food, music and art!
A Heart in Good Hands Innovative heart surgery techniques saved the life of a Roselle man. David Grier, 60, of Roselle, NJ, walked into Newark Beth Israel last year with a fatal heart condition and walked out with a new lease on life. The major blood vessel in his heart, his aorta, had been stretched thin and enlarged to greater than three times its normal size. Even more dangerous, its inner layer had started to tear, a condition known as aortic dissection. He appeared so healthy, but his heart was dangerously damaged. David’s only real symptom had been the tiredness that was slowing him down in his work as assistant pastor at Calvary Baptist Church in Plainfield, but testing revealed that David’s aorta was three to four inches in diameter, instead of the normal one inch. He was at high risk of a sudden and life threating tear. David needed aortic arch repair, one of the most complex and formidable operations a cardiovascular surgeon can perform.
Protecting the brain On December 3, a team of cardiothoracic specialists began the 8-hour-long surgery needed to perform the aortic arch repair and replace the diseased parts of the blood vessel. At about a foot long, the aorta is the body’s largest artery. It runs from the heart, through the chest and down into the abdomen. As the aorta goes across the top of the heart, it forms an arch, from which smaller arteries branch off to provide blood to the head, neck and arms. The arch was the area of the aorta that was enlarged and needed to be replaced. In order to perform the aortic arch repair, the surgical team must stop all blood flow through the heart for about an hour.
In David’s case, he would also need an innovative technique known as brain perfusion, a complex procedure where the surgical team must keep blood pressure in the brain high enough to protect it, but low enough to avoid damaging the delicate blood vessels there. The surgical team cooled David’s entire body below the neck to just below room temperature and then connected him to special devices that would keep blood pumping to his brain and throughout the rest of his body during the procedure. The staff at NBI is very experienced and use specialized tools designed specifically for this procedure.
A life renewed With blood flow to the Rev. Dr. Grier’s heart stopped for 45 minutes, the team was able to replace the damaged aorta; then restart blood flow and bring his body back to a normal temperature. Surgery was a success. David spent three weeks of recovery at NBI, followed by three more weeks in a rehabilitation facility. Now back at home and getting his life back to normal, David reflects on all the events that brought him to this point: surviving such a serious heart condition for so many weeks, then having experts who could perform an incredibly difficult operation just 10 miles from his home, and at a hospital he had never before visited. “God had a hand in orchestrating it all,” David says.
Your heart doesn’t beat just for you. Get it checked. To schedule an appointment with a Newark Beth Israel Medical Center cardiac specialist, visit rwjbh.org/heart
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KAHLIL CARMICHAEL THE FITNESS DOCTOR
Kahlil Carmichael MAPCC, MDIV, CPT is the pastor of Live Well Church, in Somerset, New Jersey. He is a fitness specialist at The Fitness Doctor, a fitness and wellness consulting company; and the author of 50 Tips for a Better You. He is a contributor to Guideposts magazine. His first publication, Living Longer Living Better, is available now. Go to www.livewellchurch.org for more information.
Know Thyself
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am so grateful for not just the start of another year, but the start of a new decade. It’s 2020 and I cannot wait to get moving. Like so many, I have set some wonderful, personal goals for my spiritual, mental, financial, relational, and physical health. And just like many others, I am susceptible to falling short, missing the mark, and not completing or fulfilling them. Statistics tell me if I’m not careful, by the end of February—like countless scores of other people—I will give up on more than half of the goals I set before I accomplish them, unless I take an honest assessment of myself and determine what works and does not work for me. Someone once said, “Everything will line up perfectly when knowing and living the truth becomes more important than looking good.” Many of our greatest thinkers wrote about the importance of understanding ourselves and living authentically. Here are some tips for your consideration that can help you move forward in 2020 and beyond and reach some of your physical fitness and health goals: • Find a Doctor Before starting any exercise program, make an appointment with your physician (if you don’t have one, find one) to determine if you are healthy enough to start an exercise program. • Face the Truth The truth may be that you do not have the capacity or knowledge to work out on your own. You need a professional, Beloved! You need a professional trainer—a fitness doctor! I want to invite you to give me a call and I will be glad to help point you in the right direction. www.thepositivecommunity.com
• You are a “Foodie” A foodie is a person who has an ardent or refined interest in food and who eats food not only out of hunger, but enjoys food for pleasure. Let’s be honest: you like to eat and you will not stop!! My sacred text teaches that the fear of God is the beginning of wisdom (Proverbs 9:10 NKJV). It has also been said that knowing thyself is the beginning of wisdom. There is some truth in that. Beloved, you know that fad diets, food deprivation, and starvation tactics do not work for you. Eat healthy and enjoy the food you love in moderation. • Fitness is Not Your Friend I understand you don’t like to work out. But I also understand you don’t like the way you feel. If you find a way to overcome your disdain for exercise and implement a consistent exercise program, you will feel better. Someone once said, “Change happens when the pain of staying the same is greater than the pain of change.” I am expecting great things this year and beyond. I believe this is going to be one of the best years ever at the Fitness Doctor. I am excited about helping all people exercise consistently, eat healthier, and live well. Why don’t you take a self-assessment and decide to get healthier? Live Whole, Live Well, Live Free.
Disclaimer: The information contained in this column is of a general nature. You should consult your physician or health care professional before beginning any exercise program or changing your dietary regimen.
Winter 2020 The Positive Community
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Celebrating the Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Holiday By Dr. Nathan Allen
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he citizenry must implement a significant paradigm shift to realize and internalize the goals, objectives, and strategies envisioned by the late Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. He became, in the view of many, an urban and rural prophet, a prime mover and innovator who cared more for shoring up the foundations of America than safeguarding his own welfare. He was a man who viewed life as meaningless without something higher than life itself. While inspired by many of
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the teachings of Mahatma Gandhi of India, King’s cause and Gandhi’s differed markedly. In India, the majority resisted the tyranny of a minority. Dr. King’s mission began with a visible minority challenging an order imposed by the Southern majority in the State of Alabama. It is important to remember King’s famous “Letter from Birmingham City Jail.” In it, he wrote, “My friends, I must say to you that we have not made a single gain in civil rights without determined legal and nonviolent pressure. www.thepositivecommunity.com
“. . . we can never forget that everything Hitler did in Germany was legal and everything the Hungarian Freedom Fighters did in Hungary was illegal.” On breaking the law, he emphatically stated, “. . . an unjust law is no law at all.” History is the long and tragic story of the fact that privileged groups seldom give up their privilege voluntarily.” Speaking of those who jailed him, he stated, “. . . we can never forget that everything Hitler did in Germany was legal and everything the Hungarian Freedom Fighters did in Hungary was illegal.” On breaking the law, he emphatically stated, “. . . an unjust law is no law at all.” Dr. King had the same aims as many other black leaders. His means, however, separated him decisively. He spoke not just to a local city or region. He utilized his ideas related to moral persuasion with the intent to isolate and make more visible an unjust system that violates the American Creed—the defining element of American identity that includes liberty, equality, individualism, populism, and laissez-faire—and causes it to be dismantled. Dr. King was not alone in this effort. There were those leaders and groups cutting away the tentacles of racism, such as Walter White’s National Association for the Advancement of Colored People; Whitney Young’s Urban League; Julian Bond’s Student Non-Violent Coordinating Committee; and others. He succeeded—at great personal cost to himself, his family, and some of his followers — in bringing to the conscience of the nation a higher agenda of human and legal interaction. He did this by using faith, intellect, determination, and integrity within the framework of what he referred to as liberation theology. From a religious and biblical perspective, King defined liberation theology as an organic, often formalized body of opinions concerning God, and man’s relationship to God and its efforts to seek universal justice for all in which the church becomes the instrument that guides and directs its responsiveness. Public policy pundits would argue that a list of Dr. King’s accomplishments must include the passage of the 1964 Civil Rights Act and the 1965 Voting Rights Act. The latter, which prohibits racial discrimination in voting, is probably the most significant legislation in the United States. Interestingly enough, its renewal presently sits on the Senate Majority Leader’s desk. Therefore, as we move forward to perpetuate the achievements of Dr. King, maybe every church will ensure that every member of their congregation is a registered voter. The right to vote is the www.thepositivecommunity.com
cornerstone of our democracy and we must not ignore its overall impact. In the Congress of National Black Churches, Inc. proceedings of the Black Church Leadership Conference, Dr. Wallace S. Hartsfield, former pastor of Metropolitan Baptist Church, Kansas City, MO and a noted Old Testament scholar; stated: The church must vocalize her concerns in that area of community life which touches every aspect of an individual’s development. For the church not to be concerned about the political arena is not to be concerned about the educational needs of the people. It is not to be concerned about the economic welfare of the people. It is not to be concerned about their cultural needs and their spiritual needs. In this changing community, the church must recognize that she has a moral obligation to those who find themselves with their backs against the wall. What is needed oftentimes is a sense of direction and the church can articulate that direction. It [the church] provides a viable mechanism for the nation to maintain, sustain and perpetuate King’s notion of a liberation theology. Furthermore, we must always remember, without the vision, ideals, commitment and courage of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr., a generation would have lacked the kind of leadership cemented by a religious belief. His was the dream that mobilized and aroused Americans of all ages and backgrounds and a generation of college students to challenge those national and regional norms virtually ignoring or diminishing Americans of color. His life is the perfect example of fortitude, patience, quiet strength, dignity, and integrity. His was the sacrifice that shines as an example to so many black leaders today. We rejoice in the spirit and mobility with which he lived. We also mourn him still and cry that he cannot walk among us and see Americans of all backgrounds celebrate his birthday as one among several “American heroes.” But as leaders of the nation move forward in our neighborhoods, communities, and cities, we must always remember the importance of the struggle to make a difference. To make a difference, we must make the vision real and understand that protest may not only be necessary, but essential. Winter 2020 The Positive Community
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‶Lift Every Voice and Sing″
THE THE GREAT GREAT AMERICAN AMERICAN EMANCIPATION EMANCIPATION DAY DAY AWARDS AWARDS BANQUET BANQUET CELEBRATING CELEBRATING THE POSITIVE POSITIVE COMMUNITY’S COMMUNITY’S THE TWENTIETH ANNIVERSARY ANNIVERSARY TWENTIETH TM
st New Year’s Day | January 1 New Year’s Day | January 1st 2020 2020 || 2pm–6pm 2pm–6pm Robert Robert Treat Treat Hotel, Hotel, Newark, Newark, NJ NJ
EMANCIPATION DAY PRESS CONFERENCE
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press conference hosted by the City of Newark in the Rotunda of City Hall announced the Great American Emancipation Day Banquet and The Positive Community’s 20th Anniversary.
L–R: Gwen Moten, director of cultural affairs; A. Curtis Farrow, executive producer of McDonald’s Gospelfest and CEO of Newark-based ad agency and promotions firm Irving Street Rep.; with Newark Municipal Council President Hon. Mildred C. Crump.
L–R: Rev. Dr. Charles Curtis, president Baptist Ministers’ Conference of Greater NY & Vicinity and pastor of Mt. Olive BC in Harlem; Rachel Ankrah-Fosu, board member African American Chamber of Commerce of NJ; Council President Crump; Elder Lanel Guyton representing Brooklyn and Westchester County AME Districts.
TPC Publisher Adrian Council, Sr. and CEO of IMU Media Jovan Acree, recipeint of the Young Innovator Award
Clergy, business, and government leaders celebrating the Cultural Narrative! Special thanks to the Black McDonalds Owners and Operators of NY & NJ for their support; Brian Hairston, president.
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Committed to Newark for more than 140 years, we continue to see the promise of prosperity.
We began with a sense of purpose that lives on today in our commitment to Newark and communities around the world. Prudential is proud to support The Positive Community’s 20th Anniversary. Congratulations and best wishes for continued success.
© 2019. Prudential, the Prudential logo, the Rock symbol and Bring Your Challenges are service marks of Prudential Financial, Inc. and its related entities, registered in many jurisdictions worldwide. 0307724-00001-00
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Today, we’re doing more than ever to champion the aspirations of Newark families. Through partnerships across the city, we’re creating avenues for new ideas and technologies to emerge. For businesses, nonprofit organizations and educational institutions to thrive. And to help individuals achieve the promise of prosperity for generations to come.
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DR. HAZEL N. DUKES “...If I Can Help Somebody As I Pass Along; Then My Living Shall Not Have Been In Vain.” L–R: Hazel Dukes with son Ronald
TORCHBEARER AWARD
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r. Hazel N. Dukes is president of the NAACP New York State Conference, a member of the NAACP National Board of Directors, and a member of the NAACP Executive Committee. Her role linking business, government, and social causes exemplifies her dedication to human rights and equality. President of the Hazel N. Dukes & Associates consultant firm, specializing in the areas of public policy, health, and diversity, she is a member of the Assembly of Prayer Baptist Church. In 2009 she was conferred the Honorary Doctor of Humane Letters by Medgar Evers College, Brooklyn, New York. In 2012 she was awarded the Honorary Degree of Doctor of Humane Letters from Touro College of Osteopathic Medicine, Harlem, New York. Dr. Dukes has many organizational affiliations and is the recipient of numerous awards for her outstanding leadership activities. An active member of the Delta Sigma Theta Sorority Northern Manhattan Alumnae Chapter, Dr. Dukes has been selected to receive the sorority’s Althea T.L. Simmons Social Action Award.
L–R: Julia Porterfield, CEO of Amaker & Porterfield, NJ’s largest African American owned transportation company, with Ms. Dukes
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L–R: Hazel Dukes with Michael Garner, president 100 Black Men of NYC
L–R: NAACP NYS 1st VP Geoffrey Eaton, Dr. Dukes, and daughter in-law Janet Dukes
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REV. DR. CALVIN MCKINNEY “Teaching And Growing A Praying People Of God.” L–R: Rev. Dr. Kenneth Clayton and Rev. Dr. Calvin McKinney
TORCHBEARER AWARD
C
alvin McKinney has served as pastor of Calvary Baptist Church of North Jersey in Garfield, New Jersey, since June 1972. The youngest moderator of the North Jersey District Missionary Baptist Association, he
L–R: Rev. Louise Roundtree with the McKinneys
was also one of the youngest presidents in the history of the 300,000-member General Baptist Convention of New Jersey, Inc. Dr. McKinney has served as General Secretary of the National Baptist Convention, USA, Inc. since his election in 2009. Dr. McKinney’s faith inspired him in 2003 to guide his congregation in the construction and completion in 2006 of a $10 million, 1,500 seat sanctuary, which includes educational, fellowship, and administrative complexes. Known for its humanitarian outreach, in 1998, the Calvary Community Development Center (CCDC) was established to bridge the economic, social, and political gap in the communities it serves by providing clothing, food, and emergency assistance to those in need.
L–R: Myles McKinney, First Lady Bredalyn McKinney, Min. Gina L. McKinney, Mason McKinney (grandson), Dr. McKinney, Calvin James McKinney, James (grandson), Jenise McKinney (daughter in-law), Carolyn McKinney-Croix (sister) www.thepositivecommunity.com
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MILDRED C. CRUMP L–R: Hazel Dukes and Mildred Crump enjoy a moment together
“To God Be The Glory For The Things He Hath Done.”
TORCHBEARER AWARD
O
n July 1, 1994, Mildred C. Crump swore the oath of service to the community as Newark’s first AfricanAmerican Councilwoman in the city’s 336-year history. A longtime community activist, she has been a consummate and consistent advocate for women, children, senior citizens, the disabled, working families, and those in need. Crump made history becoming the first African-American teacher in the City of Detroit to teach braille. Later, having moved to New Jersey, she found herself in the unique position of first African-American teacher of braille in New Jersey. She received her Master’s degree from Rutgers UniversityNewark in Public Administration, and is a proud member of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc., a public service sorority. The first woman to be named Council President, originally holding the position from 2006 to 2010, Ms. Crump again became Council President, maintaining the position after the 2014 municipal elections. She is the recipient of numerous awards and has presented workshops in China, Ghana, Nigeria, and throughout the United States of America. Because of her philanthropic work in the African Diaspora, she is known as “Momma Africa.”
L–R: Daughter Sheri Crump, Mildred, son Laurence (Larry) Crump, and TPC Editor-in-Chief Jean Nash Wells
L–R: Rev. Dr. Guy Campbell, Jr.; Mildred Crump; and TPC Publisher Adrian Council, Sr.
Standing L–R: Rev. Louise Roundtree, Kim Green, Rev. Derrick Green, and Sheri Crump. Seated L–R: Zelma Crump, Larry Crump, Mildred Crump, Lorna Johnson, and Muthi Reed
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Nationally renowned specialty programs. Defining excellence together, right here in Newark.
The renowned Advanced Heart Failure Treatment and Transplant Program New Jersey’s only certified Advanced Lung Disease and Transplant Program The Frederick B. Cohen, MD, Comprehensive Cancer and Blood Disorders Center The Healthcare Foundation of New Jersey Breast Health Center
rwjbh.org/newarkbeth
An advanced Robotic Surgery Program The award-winning Beth Greenhouse New Jersey’s largest Valerie Fund Children’s Center for Cancer and Blood Disorders Children’s Heart Center
African American Chamber of Commerce of New Jersey John E. Harmon, Sr., founder, president & CEO
PATRIOT AWARD
T
he African American Chamber of Commerce (AACCNJ) performs an essential role in New Jersey’s economy. As affirmed in its mission statement, the Chamber seeks to economically empower and sustain African American communities, facilitating entrepreneurship and free enterprise activity within the state with direct outreach programs. Their goal is to enable African American businesses to compete in New Jersey. AACCNJ works to ensure that minority and other disadvantaged entrepreneurs are not left behind due to unfair assumptions and a lack of effort to help them achieve success. AACCNJ provides the necessary assistance and support system to instill a sense of pride in the African American business community. Different from acting as simply an association of allied businesses, the AACCNJ serves as a proactive advocacy group with a 5013c tax exemption, similar to the National Black Chamber. While providing a collective voice for New Jersey’s African American business leaders, the AACCNJ advocates and promotes economic diversity while fostering a climate of growth through major initiatives on the educational and public policy levels.
L–R: John Harmon, Sr. with NYC Councilman Robert E. Cornegy
Honorees Jovan Acree, John Harmon, and Rev. Dr. Waterman surrounded by friends and supporters
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38THANNUAL
2020
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Deborah Collins and Cecil Cates
GUESTS ARRIVING
Union Baptist Temple, Bridgeton, NJ
National Coalition of 100 Black Women of Bergen and Passic Counties
L–R: Min. Joan Couser and Dr. Pauline Ballard
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New England Missionary Baptist Convention President Rev. Dr. Albert Morgan, dinner chair
WLIB/WBLS Radio Personality and Mistress of Ceremony Liz Black
Historian Linda Epps, Ph.D
G
uests stood for the “Star Spangled Banner” on video performed by Grammy Awardwinning Artist Whitney Houston at the 1991 Super Bowl. Then, everyone sang the Negro National Anthem as lyrics to all three verses of “Lift Ev’ry Voice and Sing” scrolled across the screen.
LIFT EVERY VOICE
(r) Caterer And Master Chef Kevin Smallwood of Two Fish and Five Loaves www.thepositivecommunity.com
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L–R: Sis. Jamila Bembry and Kaylyn Dines
L–R: Publicist Dedra Tate with parents, Sandy and Bob
L–R: Sis. Teresa Koons and Deacon Darryl Koons L–R: Hon. Mildred Crump, Dr. Valerie Durrah, James Durrah, Rev. Douglas Bendall, Jenifer Fells-Haynes, and John Harmon
L–R: Rev. Edward and First Lady Virginia Harper
L–R: Lolita and David Fields
The Berkeley College team
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Rev. Wendy Kelly-Carter
Publicist Pauline Barfield
100 Black Women
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New Hope Baptist Association and New Bethlehem BC., Rev. Jeffery Bryan pastor and moderator
L–R: Rev. Albert Morgan with Gospel Music Month Founder, Dr. Albert Lewis
EMANCIPATION CELEBRATION
L–R: AME Elder Lanel Guyton and Lady Tanzania Guyton
Miles Council with mom Felecia
Union Baptist Temple www.thepositivecommunity.com
William Ewing, Esq. and Marcia Brewington
Dr. Charles Curtis
Second from right: Diane Keel Atkins and Leaders of the New Garden State Jurisdiction of Church of God in Christ (COGIC), Bishop William T. Cahoon jurisdictional prelate
United Missionary Baptist Convention of NJ
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Winter 2020 The Positive Community
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FRIENDS OF HARLEM HOSPITAL Rev. Jacques André DeGraff President & Board Chair
COMMUNITY SPIRIT AWARD
L–R: Rev. DeGraff and Michael Garner, president One Hundred Black Men of NYC
L–R: Rev. DeGraff with NJ businessman Danny Dunn
T
he Friends of Harlem Hospital Center was founded in 1987 on the occasion of the 100th Anniversary of NYC Health + Hospitals/Harlem to engage in and support activities that promote the work of the hospital. Since 2000, the organization has dispersed grants of over $1.3 million dollars. The hospital is credited with saving the life of The Reverend Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. in 1958 when a deranged woman stabbed him in the chest. Chief of Surgery Dr. Aubrey Maynard performed a unique, complex, and innovative procedure, and Dr. King made a full recovery. Today, the hospital is a primary resource for medical practice and education for a heterogeneous mixture of professionals who are pursuing careers in healthcare, dedicated to service in medically underserved areas.
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L–R: Rev. DeGraff and Hazel Dukes
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African American Clergy & Elected Officials Dr. Robert Waterman, president
SERVANT LEADERSHIP AWARD
F
ounded in 1989, by Rev. Dr. Gardner C. Taylor, Rev. Dr. Herbert Daughtry, and others, the goal of the African American Clergy and Elected Officials Organization (AACEO) was simply to play a significant role in the election of David N.Dinkins, the first AfricanAmerican Mayor of the City of New York. Their success in that effort is historic. Now, its mission is for clergy and elected officials to serve, strengthen, and empower the parishioners and constituents of Brooklyn through advocacy and participation in areas where social and economic injustice exist. The African American Clergy and Elected Officials Organization is the only organization in the state of New York in which pastors, priests, ministers, elected officials, and community stakeholders meet monthly to exchange information on community issues on all levels of government.
L–R: Terri Seeney-Majette, Liz Black and Dr. Waterman
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Make NYC your next customer. Find out how the Department of Small Business Services can help you get certified.
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L–R: Adrian Council, Sr.; Dr. Robert Waterman; and Hon. Robert E. Cornegy, NYC Councilman www.thepositivecommunity.com
nyc.gov/getcertified
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NOTABLE QUOTES
W
hat a wonderful way to start the New Year, honoring living legends that continue to invest in our community. Each of their stories inspired us and challenged us to find a way to make a difference. Rev. Evans Spagner
General Baptist Convention of NJ
T
he Positive Community projected a renaissance of the forgotten luster of our black American ancestry. Bringing to the forefront that whatever our achievements, we are standing on the shoulders of the unstoppable pioneers who survived the atrocities of slavery, to become the unforgettable black gems of American Society. We had a wonderful time. Rev. Dr. Pauline Ballard
Pentocostal Family Prayer Center
I
woke up early on January 1, 2020 with my mind set on freedom… … I did not consider it robbery to cross the waters from Brooklyn to New Jersey to remember, to reflect, and to be reset for this new decade. I will never view New Year’s Day the same, ever again. Rather than focusing only on a New Year’s resolution, I will pray to God and give him all the thanks and glory for the life and times of our ancestors who fought and died for our freedom. Thank you, The Positive Community, for always bringing us the Good News that is relevant.
T
he Positive Community reminded us to never forget our past. The soul-stirring, sold-out event held on January 1, 2020 set the tone for all to remember the words of Marcus Garvey when he stated, “A people without the knowledge of their past history, origin, and culture is like a tree without roots." Rev. Wendy Kelly-Carter
Baptist Ministers’ Conference of Greater NY& Vicinity
Rev Dr Valerie Oliver Durrah
Neighborhood Technical Assistant Clinic
J
ust want to express my gratitude to staff at Positive Community for the wonderful event as you celebrated your 20th Anniversary. Thank you for your love and hard work in keeping our African-American communities across the Tri-State area informed. It was an extraordinary event! Kim Nesbitt Good
Chairperson Juneteenth Committee
T
he Great American Emancipation Day Awards Banquet was elegant, edifying, and encouraging for all guests. Brother Adrian Council and The Positive Community family, congratulations on building another African American legacy!
H
istory marched on January 1st 2020 with the Emancipation Day Awards Banquet, an event highlighting the African American Cultural Narrative serving as the prequel to MLK because that narrative made MLK possible… We non-Black Americans have already imbibed deeply of the Kool Aid of cultural amnesia which is being spooned out to Black America as well. The Emancipation Day Awards Banquet points out that to go forward you have to come from. Don’t let the “enemy” triumph, remember your story, and in the process save America! Elder Paul Trautman
Third Presbyterian Church Newark, NJ
Reverend Dr. Albert Morgan
President, New England Missionary Baptist Convention Pastor, Union Baptist Temple, Bridgeton, NJ
www.thepositivecommunity.com
Thank you all.
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Be proud
Berkeley College graduates are part of the diverse workforce that keeps the tristate area thriving.
Diana Jordan Certified Surgical Technologist University Hospital, Newark, NJ
Edwin Fleurant Technical Analyst, FDNY
Michelle Dunn-Dawes Manager of Laboratory Services, New York City Transit Shakim Richardson Graduate Student, NYU Steinhardt School of Culture, Education, and Human Development; Second-Grade Teacher, Achievement First Endeavor Charter School, Brooklyn, NY
Nancy Robles-Guess Executive Vice President, Operations and Compliance Officer, Eastern Funding, LLC
Catering for all Occasions: • Weddings •Church Events •General Meetings •Parties •Full Service Catering Kevin Smallwood “Caterer to the Stars”
Two Fish Five Loaves.com
908.227.9065
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• Outdoor Events/Cookouts •Bar-B-Ques •Fish Fry’s •Thanksgiving Celebrations •Christmas Parties
Annual Events: Buy tickets on Eventbrite.com
1) Mothers Day Celebration with Liz Black WBLS/WLIB •Open Buffet •Special Entertainment •DJ
2) July 3rd Cookout Hosted by Shaila WBLS
•Fish Fry •BBQ •Contests •Line Dancing •Rain or Shine
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TT ThePositive PositiveCommunity’s Community’s The GreatRoll RollCall Callto toFreedom Freedom Great
he he following following institutions, institutions, organizaorganizahe following institutions, organizations tions and and churches churches are are charter charter memmemThe Thechurches Positive Positiveare Community’s Community’s tionsof charter members bers ofand Community’s project Emancipation Emancipation Day/ Day/Positive Freedom Freedom Day Day project bers of The project in and and Emancipation have have embraced embraced Day/ Freedom the the ideals idealsDay expressed expressed in Cultural Narrative Narrativethe document. document. andCultural have embraced ideals expressed in the the the Cultural Narrative document.
National NationalBaptist BaptistConvention, Convention,USA, USA,Inc. Inc. Rev. Rev.Dr. Dr.Jerry JerryYoung, Young,President President National Baptist Convention, USA, Inc. Rev. Rev.Dr. Dr.Calvin CalvinMcKinney, McKinney,General GeneralSecretary Secretary Rev. Dr. Jerry Young, President Rev. Dr. Calvin McKinney, General Secretary AME AMEFirst FirstEpiscopal EpiscopalDistrict District Bishop BishopGregory GregoryGM GM Ingram Ingram AME First Episcopal District Bishop Gregory GM Ingram Empire EmpireMissionary MissionaryBaptist BaptistConvention ConventionofofNY NY Rev. Rev.Dr. Dr.Carl CarlWashington, Washington,Jr., Jr.,President President Empire Missionary Baptist Convention of NY Rev. Dr. Carl Washington, Jr., President General GeneralBaptist BaptistConvention ConventionofofNJ NJ Rev. Rev.Dr. Dr.Lester LesterW. W.Taylor, Taylor,Jr, Jr,President President General Baptist Convention of NJ Rev. Dr. Lester W. Taylor, Jr, President United UnitedMissionary MissionaryBaptist BaptistConvention ConventionofofNJ NJ Rev. Rev.Dr. Dr.Marilyn MarilynM. M.Harris, Harris,President President United Missionary Baptist Convention of NJ Rev. Dr. Marilyn M. Harris, President New NewHope HopeMissionary MissionaryBaptist BaptistAssociation Association(NJ) (NJ) Rev. Rev.Jeffery JefferyBryan, Bryan,Moderator Moderator New Hope Missionary Baptist Association (NJ) Rev. Jeffery Bryan, Moderator Baptist BaptistMinisters’ Ministers’Conference Conference ofofGreater GreaterNY NY&&Vicinity Vicinity Baptist Ministers’ Conference Rev. Rev.Dr. Dr.Charles CharlesCurtis, Curtis,President President of Greater NY & Vicinity Rev. Dr. Charles Curtis, President African AfricanAmerican AmericanClergy Clergyand andElected ElectedOfficials Officials Rev. Rev.Robert RobertWaterman, Waterman,President President African American Clergy and Elected Officials Rev. Robert Waterman, President Abyssinian AbyssinianBaptist BaptistChurch Church(Harlem) (Harlem) Rev. Rev.Dr. Dr.Calvin CalvinO. O.Butts ButtsIII, III,Pastor Pastor Abyssinian Baptist Church (Harlem) Rev. Dr. Calvin O. Butts III, Pastor Metropolitan MetropolitanBaptist BaptistChurch Church(Newark) (Newark) Rev. Rev.Dr. Dr.David DavidJefferson, Jefferson,Sr. Sr.Pastor Pastor Metropolitan Baptist Church (Newark) Rev. Dr. David Jefferson, Sr. Pastor Bethany BethanyBaptist BaptistChurch Church(Newark) (Newark) Rev. Rev.Timothy TimothyAtkins-Jones, Atkins-Jones,Pastor Pastor Bethany Baptist Church (Newark) Rev. Timothy Atkins-Jones, Pastor Grace GraceBaptist BaptistChurch Church(Mt. (Mt.Vernon, Vernon,NY) NY) Rev. Rev.Dr. Dr.Franklyn FranklynRichardson, Richardson,Pastor Pastor Grace Baptist Church (Mt. Vernon, NY) Rev. Dr. Franklyn Richardson, Pastor Union UnionBaptist BaptistTemple Temple(Bridgeton, (Bridgeton,NJ) NJ) Rev. Rev.Albert AlbertMorgan, Morgan,Pastor Pastor Union Baptist Temple (Bridgeton, NJ) Rev. Albert Morgan, Pastor Evergreen EvergreenBaptist BaptistChurch Church(Palmyra, (Palmyra,NJ) NJ) Rev. Rev.Dr. Dr.Guy GuyCampbell, Campbell,Jr. Jr.Pastor Pastor Evergreen Baptist Church (Palmyra, NJ) Rev. Dr. Guy Campbell, Jr. Pastor Community CommunityBC BC(Englewood, (Englewood,NJ) NJ) Dr. Dr.Lester LesterTaylor, Taylor,Pastor Pastor Community BC (Englewood, NJ) Dr. Lester Taylor, Pastor St. St.Johns JohnsBC BC(Harlem, (Harlem,NY) NY) Dr. Dr.John JohnScott, Scott,Pastor Pastor St. Johns BC (Harlem, NY) Dr. John Scott, Pastor National NationalCoalition Coalitionofof100 100 Black BlackWomen WomenofofBergen/ Bergen/Passaic PassaicCounty County(NJ) (NJ) National Coalition of 100 Paula PaulaMadison-Ryner, Madison-Ryner,President President Black Women of Bergen/ Passaic County (NJ) Paula Madison-Ryner, President
One OneHundred HundredBlack BlackMen Men(NYC) (NYC) Michael MichaelGarner, Garner,President President One Hundred Black Men (NYC) Calvary CalvaryBC BC(Garfield, (Garfield,NJ) NJ) Michael Garner, President Rev. Rev.Calvin CalvinMcKinney, McKinney, Pastor Pastor Calvary BC (Garfield, NJ) Rev. Calvin McKinney, Pastor St. St.Johns JohnsBC, BC,(Scotch (ScotchPlains, Plains,NJ) NJ) Rev. Rev.Shawn ShawnWallace, Wallace,Pastor Pastor St. Johns BC, (Scotch Plains, NJ) Rev. Shawn Wallace, Pastor Harlem HarlemCongregations Congregationsfor for Community CommunityImprovement Improvement(HCCI) (HCCI) Harlem Congregations for Joan JoanO. O.Dawson, Dawson,PhD, PhD,Board BoardChair Chair Community Improvement (HCCI) Dr. Dr.Malcolm MalcolmPunter, Punter, President President &&CEO CEO Joan O. Dawson, PhD, Board Chair Dr. Malcolm Punter, President & CEO NYS NYSConference ConferenceNAACP NAACP Dr. Dr.Hazel HazelN. N.Dukes, Dukes,President President NYS Conference NAACP Dr. Hazel N. Dukes, President CITY CITYOF OFNEWARK NEWARK Hon. Hon.Ras RasJ.J.Baraka, Baraka,Mayor Mayor CITY OF NEWARK Hon. Hon.Mildred MildredC. C.Crump Crump Hon. Ras J. Baraka, Mayor Municipal MunicipalCouncil, Council,President President Hon. Mildred C. Crump Municipal Council, President African AfricanAmerican AmericanChamber ChamberofofCommerce, Commerce,NJ NJ John JohnHarmon, Harmon,President President African American Chamber of Commerce, NJ John Harmon, President African AfricanAmerican AmericanClergy Clergyand andElected ElectedOfficials Officials Rev. Rev.Robert RobertWaterman, Waterman,President President African American Clergy and Elected Officials Rev. Robert Waterman, President Friends FriendsofofHarlem HarlemHospital Hospital Rev. Rev.Jacque JacqueDeGraff, DeGraff,President President Friends of Harlem Hospital Rev. Jacque DeGraff, President The TheNew NewGarden GardenState StateJurisdiction Jurisdiction Church ChurchofofGod GodininChrist Christ(COGIC) (COGIC) The New Garden State Jurisdiction Bishop BishopWilliam WilliamT.T.Cahoon, Cahoon,Jurisdictional JurisdictionalPrelate Prelate Church of God in Christ (COGIC) Bishop William T. Cahoon, Jurisdictional Prelate Bethany BethanyBaptist BaptistChurch, Church,Brooklyn, Brooklyn,NY NY Bethany Baptist Church, Brooklyn, NY Sr. Sr.James JamesAME AMEChurch ChurchNewark Newark Rev. Rev.Ronald RonaldSlaughter Slaughter Sr. James AME Church Newark Rev. Ronald Slaughter Fountain FountainB.C, B.C,Summit, Summit,NJ NJ Rev. Rev.Sanders, Sanders,Pastor Pastor Fountain B.C, Summit, NJ Rev. Sanders, Pastor National NationalAction ActionNetwork Network Franklin FranklinRichardson, Richardson,Chairman Chairmanofofthe theBoard. Board. National Action Network Franklin Richardson, Chairman of the Board. United UnitedMissionary MissionaryBaptist BaptistAssociation AssociationofofNY NY Rev. Rev.Anthony AnthonyLowe, Lowe,Moderator. Moderator. United Missionary Baptist Association of NY Rev. Anthony Lowe, Moderator. Mt. Mt.Pisgah PisgahB.C, B.C,Brooklyn Brooklyn Rev. Rev.Dr. Dr.Johnny JohnnyRay RayYoungblood, Youngblood,Pastor Pastor Mt. Pisgah B.C, Brooklyn Rev. Dr. Johnny Ray Youngblood, Pastor First FirstBaptist BaptistChurch ChurchatatLincoln LincolnGardens Gardens Rev. Rev.Dr. Dr.DeForres DeForresB. B.Soaries, Soaries,Pastor Pastor First Baptist Church at Lincoln Gardens Rev. Dr. DeForres B. Soaries, Pastor North NorthJersey JerseyBaptist BaptistAssociation Association Rev. Rev.Dr. Dr.Ralph RalphBranch, Branch,Moderator Moderator North Jersey Baptist Association Rev. Dr. Ralph Branch, Moderator
Perry’s Perry’sFuneral FuneralHome, Home,Newark Newark Samuel SamuelC. C.Arnold ArnoldPresident President Perry’s Funeral Home, Newark Samuel C. Arnold President Committee CommitteeofofBlack BlackChurchmen Churchmen ofofNorthern NorthernNew NewJersey Jersey Committee of Black Churchmen Bishop BishopJethro JethroJames, James,President President of Northern New Jersey Bishop Jethro James, President St. St.Paul PaulCommunity CommunityBC, BC,Brooklyn, Brooklyn,NY NY Rev. Rev.David DavidK. K.Brawley, Brawley,Pastor Pastor St. Paul Community BC, Brooklyn, NY Rev. David K. Brawley, Pastor House Houseofofthe theLord LordChurch, Church,Brooklyn Brooklyn Rev. Rev.Herbert HerbertDaughtry, Daughtry,Pastor Pastor House of the Lord Church, Brooklyn Rev. Herbert Daughtry, Pastor Ruth RuthFellowship, Fellowship,Plainfield, Plainfield,NJ NJ Rev. Rev.Tracy TracyBrown, Brown,Pastor Pastor Ruth Fellowship, Plainfield, NJ Rev. Tracy Brown, Pastor Memorial MemorialBaptist BaptistChurch, Church,Harlem, Harlem,NY NY Rev. Rev.Renee ReneeWahington-Garner Wahington-Garner Memorial Baptist Church, Harlem, NY Rev. Renee Wahington-Garner Macidonia MacidoniaWalker WalkerMemorial, Memorial,Bronx, Bronx,NY NY Rev. Rev.Joe JoeBush Bush Macidonia Walker Memorial, Bronx, NY Rev. Joe Bush Newark NewarkEcuminical EcuminicalClergy ClergyAlliance Alliance Rev. Rev.Louise LouiseRountree, Rountree,Director Director Newark Ecuminical Clergy Alliance Rev. Louise Rountree, Director Community CommunityChurch ChurchofofGod, God,Plainfield, Plainfield,NJ NJ Rev. Rev.Antonio AntonioPorter, Porter,Pastor Pastor Community Church of God, Plainfield, NJ Rev. Antonio Porter, Pastor Macedonia MacedoniaBC, BC,Lakewood, Lakewood,NJ NJ Dr. Dr.Edward EdwardHarper, Harper,Pastor Pastor Macedonia BC, Lakewood, NJ Dr. Edward Harper, Pastor Women WomenininSupport Supportofofthe the Million MillionMan ManMarch March(WISOMM), (WISOMM),Newark Newark Women in Support of the Sis. Sis.Fredericka FrederickaBey, Bey,Founder Founder Million Man March (WISOMM), Newark Sis. Fredericka Bey, Founder World WorldGospel GospelMusic MusicAssociation Association Rev. Rev.Dr. Dr.Albert AlbertLewis, Lewis,Founder Founderand andDirector Director World Gospel Music Association Rev. Dr. Albert Lewis, Founder and Director Abyssinian AbyssinianBC, BC,Newark, Newark,NJ NJ Rev. Rev.Barry BarryR. R.Miller, Miller,Pastor Pastor Abyssinian BC, Newark, NJ Rev. Barry R. Miller, Pastor Barnabas BarnabasHealth Health The TheBerger BergerOrganization Organization Barnabas Health Pillar PillarCollege, College,Newark Newark The Berger Organization Berkley BerkleyCollege, College,NY/NJ NY/NJ Pillar College, Newark New NewYork YorkTheological TheologicalSeminary, Seminary,NYC NYC Berkley College, NY/NJ Rutgers-Newark Rutgers-Newark New York Theological Seminary, NYC Columbia ColumbiaUniversity, University,NYC NYC Rutgers-Newark New NewBrunswick BrunswickTheological TheologicalSeminary Seminary Columbia University, NYC New NewBrunswick, Brunswick,NJ NJ New Brunswick Theological Seminary Drew DrewUniversity, University,Madison, Madison,NJ NJ New Brunswick, NJ Nyack NyackCollege College Drew University, Madison, NJ Medgar MedgarEvers EversCollege, College,Brooklyn, Brooklyn,NY NY Nyack College Touro TouroCollege, College,NYC NYC Medgar Evers College, Brooklyn, NY Essex EssexCounty CountyCollege, College,Newark, Newark,NJ NJ Touro College, NYC Essex County College, Newark, NJ
.. .. .. Because Because aa positive positive community community isis everybody’s everybody’s business. business. ItIt really really pays pays to to care! care! . . . Because a positive community is everybody’s business. It really pays to care!
THE POSITIVE COMMUNITY’S 20TH ANNIVERSARY CELEBRATION!
I
t’s hard to believe that 20 years ago we had an idea to create a magazine that would feature positive news and information from and for the African American community. To be able to share our history, our journey, and the possibilities of our future—what we call “The Good News”—with our thousands of loyal readers in the tri-state area and beyond is a blessing. As we look forward to the next 20 years, we are excited to announce our 2020 vision. This year The Positive Community Corporation (TPC) will launch the TPC Network. With a new look to the magazine, website, and other digital media platforms including a radio station, the Positive Music Matters Foundation, and various other outreach initiatives, TPC Network will continue to report “Good News from the Church and Community.” We delighted in your presence on a wonderful afternoon as we celebrated the Emancipation Proclamation, our first milestone to freedom. We must remember that day, and lift our collective spirits to realize the dreams of our predecessors who paved the way for our future as a people. We thank you for your support over the years and believe God has more for us to do, more lives to touch, more information to share. We are continuing our journey toward fulfilling the promise of a positive community.
Adrian A. Council, Sr. Publisher
Jean Nash Wells Co-Publisher
OUR SPONSORS
Save the Date! JANUARY 1ST
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SPECIAL SECTION
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Education the art + science of learning
Photo: Times and Democrat Newspaper
Brooklynite Thrives At Voorhees College Donovan will remember feeling initially apprehensive at moving to a small southern city, but then quickly right at home as a part of the campus community. Her memories also will include listening to Voorhees professors who shared with students their experiences traveling to Ghana and seeing firsthand the vestiges of the transatlantic slave trade.
HBCU’s Affiliation with Episcopal Church Provides Church and School
C
hristina Donovan considers herself a nontraditional undergraduate student. At age 27, she is older than many of her classmates at Voorhees College in Denmark, South Carolina. Yet she exemplifies, with her personal background and academic interests, the type of student whom administrators say they strive to serve at Voorhees, a historically black college whose ties to The Episcopal Church date to 1924. With about 500 students, the college’s faculty can devote greater attention to nurturing students academically than what pupils could expect at a large university, Donovan told Episcopal News Service. And as a young black woman from Brooklyn, New York, she appreciates being joined by other African American students as they spend these years focused on their education. On campus, “everybody knows everybody,” she said, like a family. “I love it. … The fact that I was able to be around people that looked like me was a little easier because you’re not competing or not dealing with a lot of the issues.” Those issues often center around race and racial tensions, which sometimes become distractions in multiracial learning environments, Donovan said. Instead, her www.thepositivecommunity.com
BY DAVID PAULSEN EPISCOPAL NEWS SERVICE
academic career has flourished since she left New York in 2017 for Voorhees, including a stint last year as the college’s Student Government Association president and a fellowship this year with the Congressional Black Caucus Foundation in Washington, D.C. Behind the success of students like Donovan is a range of assistance – financial, administrative, spiritual – provided to the college by The Episcopal Church, Voorhees President W. Franklin Evans said in an interview with ENS. The church’s last two triennial budgets included more than $1.6 million for Voorhees and Saint Augustine’s University in Raleigh, North Carolina, another historically black school with Episcopal roots. The Episcopal Church’s recent work with historically black colleges and universities coincides with a greater emphasis on racial reconciliation under the leadership of Presiding Bishop Michael Curry, who was elected in 2015 as the first African-American bishop to head the church. Evans said Voorhees is looking forward to welcoming Curry to speak on campus this April 7 as part of the college’s 123rd Founder’s Day celebration. Continued on page 74 Winter 2020 The Positive Community
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Successready with New York City career and internship advantages just 12 miles away
For residents outside of New Jersey, the National Student Scholarship offers an opportunity to study at Montclair State and pay in-state tuition, a savings of over 40%.
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First Triennial District Convention National Alliance of Postal & Federal Employees
L–R: Gwen Carr (mother of Eric Gardner), Rev. Wendy Kelly-Carter, and TPC Publisher, Adrian Council, Sr.
Photos: Bruce Moore
D
istrict Eight, National Alliance of Postal & Federal Employees held their 1st Triennial District Convention at the Sheraton Stamford, Stamford, CT from Oct. 17-19, 2019. Honorees: Adrian Council, Dr. Dorothy Kirton, Mary White Warner, Van Ferguson, Marlo Martin, and Robert Harris.
L–R: Raymond Gray; Sharmon Still; Gwen Carr; Rev. Wendy Kelly-Carter, District Eigth President; Rudy Coombs; Verona Proctor; Marlo Martin
the BADGe of heRoeS #100yearanniversarynJsP Join our 100th Year Anniversary Class & Accept the Honor to become a New Jersey State Trooper! The New Jersey State Police are accepting applications for State Trooper positions until February 23, 2020. You’ll have the once in a lifetime opportunity to be part of our 100th year anniversary graduating class. Although the process is just getting started, everyone interested in wearing the badge should begin preparing NOW. Get a head start by learning the REQUIREMENTS and begin your personal physical training TODAY! Learn more at:
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Pil l a r
C O L L E G E Truth in Education
“I
TM
In a Class all By Herself
t isn’t by your size that you win or fail.” Martin Luther King, Jr. spoke these words to a group of students at Barratt Junior High School in Philadelphia in 1967, six months before he was assassinated. His words reverberate with the bravery of a pint size black girl from Louisiana who fueled the fight against segregation in the education system. For educational justice and inclusion, Ruby Bridges was in a class all by herself. The social constructions of race borne out of the justification of the commodification of the bodies of blacks perpetuated the myth of the inferiority of blackness resulting in racism, violence and discriminated through Jim Crow laws. Jim Crow laws that continued to promote separation of races based on fallacious eugenics ideology viewed blackness as deficient. One result of that disparity in equality and equity was that schools were segregated. Later on, the U.S. Supreme Court’s landmark ruling in Brown versus the Board of Education (1954) ended racial segregation in public schools. This meant that schools would be integrated, so black students had to be ‘bused’ to white schools in an effort to racially integrate white schools.
My first day at school was not like the first day for Ruby Bridges. I saw caring faces, crayons, and colors, but what greeted six year old Ruby at the all-white William Frantz elementary school in Louisiana on November 1960, were snarling faces and boiling hatred. However, notwithstanding the fiery darts thrown against her, Ruby’s tenacity indicates that size is not a barometer for success but courage and consistency can impact culture and change oppressive systems. Ruby and her mother were escorted by four federal marshals to the school every day that year and for the whole year she was in a class all by herself. She showed up with the right attitude. Despite the cup of racial bitterness that protesters tried to force her to drink every day, Ruby’s biographies point out that she refused to sip from that cup. She never retaliated in hate or anger but she, according to her teacher, always came ready to learn. As we commemorate Black History Month, the stories of the experiences of Civil Rights activists and the actions and activities of that era are a rich repository demarcating the struggle and survival of many who paved the way for the
By Dr. Joanne Noel flourishing of this generation and the generation to come. Ruby Bridges reminds us all that we can make a difference in our contexts and her story delineates the need for us to persist despite the barriers that are set to impede our progress and self-actualization. It reminds us that we do not have to drink from the poisonous cup of racism that is still present in many areas of our society and culture. We can choose to work in our contexts to dismantle systems of oppression, wherever we encounter them, from the school house, to the white house or the church house. Finally, Ruby’s story reminds us that we ought to have what Civil Rights champion, Martin Luther King referred to as a “deep belief in our own dignity, worth and sombodiness.” At such a young age, her experience during the work to desegregate schools in the south shows that she was in a class all by herself.
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PILLAR COLLEGE | Call Today: 1-800-234-9305 | PILLAR.EDU
56PositiveCommunity_Feb2020_halfpage.indd The Positive Community Winter12020
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K E A N University celebrates Black History Month by welcoming
Martin Luther King III
Civil Rights Activist and Humanitarian February 13, 2020 The Distinguished Lecture Series brings renowned speakers and thought leaders on a wide variety of contemporary issues to Kean University’s campus.
kean.edu/lectureseries www.thepositivecommunity.com
Winter 2020 The Positive Community
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Capehart Discusses MLK, MLK, Civil Rights, and Superheroes Superheroes ahead of Bethany Bethany Baptist Keynote Keynote Speech By By R.L. R.L. Witter Witter
H
isis name name isis befitting. befitting. Jonathan JonathanCapehart Capehartdons donshis his cape cape of of logic, logic, intelligence, intelligence, and and civility civility to to comcombat bat racism, racism, ignorance, ignorance, and and injustice injusticeeverywhere everywhere through through his his writings writings in in The The Washington Washington Post, Post, his his regular regular appearances appearances on on MSNBC, MSNBC, and and his his podcast, podcast, Cape CapeUp. Up.The The Pulitzer Pulitzer Prize-winning Prize-winningwriter writerhas hasalso alsoreached reachednear neariconic iconic status status on on Black Black Twitter Twitter with withhis hisquick, quick,snappy snappycomebacks comebacks and and eloquent, eloquent, thought-provoking thought-provokingcommentary commentarydelivered delivered via via tweets tweets in in 280 280 characters charactersor orless less(or (ormultiples multiplesthereof). thereof). While While some some saw saw the the announcement announcement of of Capehart Capehart bebeing ing the the keynote keynote speaker speaker at at the the historic historic Bethany Bethany Baptist Baptist Church’s Church’s MLK MLK service service as as an an opportunity opportunity to to star star gaze, gaze, those those in in the the know know were werefilled filledwith withexcitement excitementatatthe theprosprospect pect of of seeing seeing Capehart Capehart “Cape “CapeUp” Up”live liveand andin inperson. person. His His friendly friendly demeanor demeanor and and easy easy smile smile belie beliethe thedeep deep reverence reverence that that fills fills him him when when the the topic topic of of civil civil rights rightsisis mentioned. mentioned. His His voice voice rises risesand andfalls; falls;itittrembles tremblesand andresoresonates nates as as he he discusses discusses the the historic historicissues issuesthat thatare aresomehow somehow and and sadly, sadly, still still all all too too current current and andtopical. topical.“All “Allthese thesepeopeople ple going going to to see see Marvel Marvel movies moviesand andsuperheroes—yeah, superheroes—yeah,II would would love love itit ifif Bethany Bethany Baptist, Baptist, New New Canaan, Canaan,Ebenezer, Ebenezer, or or 16th 16th Street Street Baptist Baptist Church Church took took on on the the superhero superhero mantle mantle and and said, said, ‘We’ve ‘We’ve got got aa strong strong history history here,’” here,’” he he mused. mused. “‘You “‘You can can squeal squeal about about Thor, Thor, Aquaman, Aquaman,and andall all these these people, people, but but let let me me tell tell you you about about this this person personand and this this heroic heroic thing thing this thisperson persondid.’” did.’”And Andhe hecomes comesby byboth both his his reverence reverence and and knowledge knowledgehonestly. honestly. Last Last spring spring for for three three months months his his Cape CapeUp Uppodcast podcastfeafeatured tured aa nine-part nine-part series series called called Voices Voices from from the the Movement, Movement, which which spotlighted spotlighted nine nine civil civil rights-related rights-related stories stories or or inindividuals dividuals “to “to sort sort of of remind remind people people that that people people forget, forget,
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His friendly demeanor and easy smile belie the deep reverence that fills him when the topic of civil rights is mentioned. His voice rises and falls, it trembles and resonates as he discusses the historic issues that are somehow and sadly, still all too current and topical. there are living beings who lived this stuff who are still with us, who have stories to tell. So, if anyone wants to get a sense of who I am or my reverence for these people, listen to those nine episodes,” he explained. “To be able to sit there with Clarence Jones—I bet a lot of people don’t even know who Clarence Jones is. Well, Clarence Jones was Dr. King’s personal lawyer. He’s the man who visited King in the Birmingham jail and smuggled the letter out. To be able to sit there and talk with him… he [Jones] said, ‘I went to the jail because I needed to talk to Martin about getting these kids out of jail and he kept handing me these scraps of newspaper with all this writing and I kept saying ‘yeah, yeah, yeah, let’s talk about this,’” Capehart explained like a patient, but excited teacher. “He [Jones] couldn’t have cared less about those papers that every time he went to visit, Dr. King was giving him. And it wasn’t until — I think it was Rev. Wyatt T. Walker who got the notes typed up — that he [Jones] sat down and read it and said, ‘Oh my God! This is amazing!’ THAT MAN IS STILL ALIVE.” Where as a journalist he has to be mindful of partisanship and perceived biases, as a student and aficionado of history and the civil rights movement, his passion comes across as both genuine and abundant. “Minnijean Brown Trickey, one of the Little Rock Nine, STILL ALIVE! To sit across from her and listen to her talk about what it was like to integrate a school—the hatred she faced—and how she’s still dealing with it all these decades later, “ he continued. “It’s amazing to hear their voices talk about these things, to sit across from history. I interviewed Congressman John Lewis, who we’re now all praying for. I’ve had the honor of walking the Edmond Pettis Bridge with him three times. There are no words to describe what it
Last spring for three months his Cape Up podcast featured a nine-part series called Voices from the Movement which spotlighted nine civil rights-related stories or individuals “to sort of remind people that people forget, there are living beings who lived this stuff who are still with us, who have stories to tell. www.thepositivecommunity.com
was like, especially that first time. Being there with him… trying to visualize what he saw that day—the policemen on horseback and all the people behind him and then to be rushed by law enforcement and clubbed in the head,” his voice softened and he paused for a moment. “And here we are decades later and I’m standing on that bridge with him. Not a direct descendant of him like a bloodline descendant, but an historical descendant. And now imagine young people, telling them, ‘You do realize, you have in your community and in your lives your own John Lewis; your own Minnijean Brown Trickey; your own Rosa Parks. People who lived it, thought it, and might not talk about it. But imagine what would happen if you just sat down and asked.” At the time of our interview, Capehart had yet to pen his remarks for the Bethany Baptist service; but the wheels were already turning and the yet-to-come clicking and clacking of his fingers on the keyboard were almost audible. “So I view my role in my remarks is to walk us through where we are now and how the representation of Dr. King is something we need to remind ourselves of and get back to and be mindful there are millions of people around the country working so hard to make sure we get back to a period in this country where we all know it’s not perfect, but it was damn near more perfect a few years ago than it is right now—” he paused to “excuse” his language. “The role Dr. King played in holding a mirror up to the nation about what it was doing to its fellow citizens, about hollering the words of those documents back in the faces of the power structure and asking, ‘How can you swear allegiance to these words when there are millions of people who don’t have the right to vote; who are being lynched, maimed, and murdered for even attempting to live up to these ideals?’” He concluded thoughtfully, putting things into a personal and yet universal perspective: “I think younger generations have to understand as bad as things are now, my 78-year-old mother and her whole generation have seen a lot worse, and we cannot forget that. But it could get worse. And so we have to be reminded of the moral leadership and courage of Dr, King and all those regular folks who literally put their bodies on the line so you can sit where you’re sitting, I can sit where I’m sitting; and remember rights, privileges, freedom, and democracy require vigilance, require protection, and require everyone to do their part to ensure our rights and freedoms are maintained.” Winter 2020 The Positive Community
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Culture
music, art + literature
Natalie B. McKenzie’s The Whole Woman Fundraiser
Natalie McKenzie with husband Obie
Mistress of Ceremony Erin Saxton
BY DEDRA N. TATE
T
he Whole Woman, LLC (TWW), an organization that brings together women of influence to raise funds and awareness for the underserved, held their annual fundraiser and toy drive at the beautiful Knickerbocker Country Club (KCC) in Tenafly, NJ. Two hundred supporters with a common goal to raise funds and collect toys for those who need to be lifted up attended the sold-out event, hosted by TWW founder/CEO Natalie B. McKenzie. Never Alone Again Resource Center (NAA) for victims of domestic violence and abuse was the beneficiary of all proceeds. TWW also partnered with Bergen County Sheriff Anthony Cureton to donate $50 gift cards to at-risk teens from CBH Cares in Hackensack, NJ. Community Baptist Church in Englewood received the toys for their Toys on the Alter program for underserved children. Funds raised from donations, raffles, and auctions totaled more than $18,000. The Style Party live auction featured models wearing designer fashions by Hope Wade Designs, Tiannia Barnes shoes, and luxury exotic-skin handbags by Krenoir. Guests included Hon.Tahesha Way, Secretary of State for the State of New Jersey;
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Sheriff Cureton (l), Natalie and Obie McKenzie (r) present $18,000 check to Theresa F. Johnston of Never Alone Again.
L–R: Donita Judge, Esq.; Hon. Vivian Sanks-King; Natalie McKenzie; Pamela T. Miller, Esq.
Hon. Vivian Sanks-King; and Rev. Gregory J. Jaskson, senior pastor of Mount Olive Baptist Church in Hackensack. Rev. Jackson received a lifetime achievement award presented by title sponsor Obie L. McKenzie. McKenzie’s goal is to party with a purpose with an emphasis on enjoying life while raising funds for women and children in need of healthcare, education, and advocacy. She is already gearing up for Women Honoring Women, her next event celebrating women in spite of their adversities, on Sunday, March 29 at The Capital Grille in Paramus, NJ. For more information about The Whole Woman, visit www.twwthewholewoman.com www.thepositivecommunity.com
Bloomingdale’s Marlie Massena, Tarik Barber, Natalie McKenzie
L–R: Joe Cupoli, Kat Flanders, and Heather Won Choi
L–R: Charles Way, Hon. Tahesha Way
Tammy Felton of State Farm
Rev. Gregory J. Jackson
L–R: Style Party Designers Tiannia Barnes and Hope Wade
L–R: Natalie McKenzie, Sheriff Anthony Cureton, Denise Morelli, Theresa F. Johnston Photos: Dara Elana Photography & Mark Cunningham
L–R: Style Party Models: Brienne Jeanty, Beverly Baker-Jackson, Minasia Alston, Suzy “Q” Arku-Nyadia, Yolanda Blaze, Kat Flanders www.thepositivecommunity.com
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Men Standing on The Shoulders of Men Awards Dinner of the Union County Fatherhood Institute Coalition, Inc.
L–R: TPC Editor-in-Chief Jean Nash Wells and TPC Publisher Adrian Council, Sr.
F
L–R: Thabiti Boone, Fatherhood Initiatives Advisor at Allan Houston Legacy Foundation and Kim Nesbitt Good, founder of the Union County New Jersey Fatherhood Initiative Foundation
L–R; Rod Spearman, Mike Smith, Rev. Steffie Bartley, Thabiti Boone, Bill Jones
ounded in 2012 to fill a critical need in our community regarding the engagement of fathers with their children and families through education and recognition, the Union County Fatherhood Institute Coalition, Inc. (UCFIC) has pioneered healthy father/ child engagement, education, and support activities. In addition to preparing and supporting fathers, UCFIC also
mentors men who may lack the resources and connections to fulfill their potential in all spheres of life. UCFIC hosted their annual awards dinner and fundraiser at The Westwood in Garwood, NJ, on October 8, 2019. Joining The Positive Community as honorees were Peapack-Gladstone Bank and Community Access Unlimited BarCode. Photos: Karen Waters
The Union County Fatherhood Initiative Coalition (UCFIC) Leadership Team; L-R: Chairman Rod Spearman, Kevin Caldwell, Bill Jones, Bill Stevens, Ron Richardson, Adrian Council, Rev. Ron Thomas, and Alex Elie
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www.thepositivecommunity.com
gregory porter & ledisi Sun, Feb 16 @ 7PM It’s a night of soul with two of today’s most captivating vocalists.
Featuring NJ Premieres Aszure Barton’s
BUSK
Jamar Roberts’
Ode
Darrell Grand Moultrie’s
Ounce of Faith Donald Byrd’s
yvonne orji Lagos to Laurel Tour Sat, Feb 22 @ 7PM The hilarious standup comedian from Insecure, A Black Lady Sketch Show and Night School makes her NJPAC debut!
Greenwood Jessica Lang’s
EN
Camille A. Brown’s
City of Rain
Judith Jamison’s
alvin ailey american dance theater
may 8–10
Divining
plus Alvin Ailey’s masterpiece
Revelations
Solomon Dumas Photo by Andrew Eccles
johnny mathis The Voice of Romance Tour Fri, Mar 20 @ 8PM Greatest hits and personal favorites from a music legend.
free community events!
beyond gospel music series raphael saadiq
valentine’s all-star comedy show
with special guests Jamila Woods & DJ Duggz Fri, Feb 14 @ 8PM Raphael Saadiq, the king of neo-soul, performs your favorite R&B songs from Tony! Toni! Toné! up to today
dance series
Feb_Positive_Community.indd 1
Sat, Feb 15 @ 8PM Fall in love with Bill Bellamy, Luenell, Don “D.C” Curry, Blaq Ron and Sheryl Underwood.
Sisters of the WORD: Women of Real Devotion Thu, Mar 26 @ 6:30PM Express Newark– 54 Halsey Street, Room 213, Newark Women in Ministry from various denominations discuss sustaining the balance of their calling, their work and their home. @NJPAC • 1.888.GO.NJPAC • njpac.org Groups of 9 or more call 1.888.696.5722 One Center Street, Newark, NJ
1/28/20 2:27 PM
Memorial B.C.: It’s a New Year, New Decade, New Visions, and Same GOD
R
Photos: Bruce Moore
ev. Dr. Renee F. Washington-Gardner celebrated her 15th pastoral anniversary with congregation, friends, and family on Sunday, October 20, 2019 at Memorial Baptist Church in Harlem. The wife of Rev. Sean Gardner, pastor of East Ward Missionary BC in Harlem; Pastor Washington-Gardner is the mother of Rev. Brandon Washington, pastor of Christian Love BC, Irvington, NJ. She is also 1st Vice Moderator of United Missionary Baptist Association (UMBA), representing over 164 churches and congregations in Manhattan, Bronx, and lower Westchester County. Rev. Dr. Anthony Lowe is UMBA Moderator.
L–R: Rev. Sean Gardner, Rev. Renee F. Washington-Gardner, and Rev. Brandon Washington
Memorial Baptist Church dancers
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Photo: Raymond Hagans
L–R: Rev. Dr. Joe Albert Bush, Sr., pastor, Walker Memorial B.C. Bronx, NY; and guest facilitator Rev. Dr. Johnny Bush
Brooklyn’s Bethany B.C. Joins the Cultural Narrative Movement
Rev. Dr. Adolphus C. Lacey and TPC Publisher Adrian Council, Sr. holding the Cultural Narrative poster
www.thepositivecommunity.com
The Star-Ledger has recognized Two River Theater as “the regional home of Wilson.”
AUGUST WILSON’S DIRECTED BY
BRANDON J. DIRDEN FEB 29 – MAR 22
Director Brandon J. Dirden (King Hedley II, Seven Guitars) returns to Two River to direct our sixth production from August Wilson’s American Century Cycle—Radio Golf, the Cycle’s 10th and final play, set in 1997. Real-estate developer Harmond Wilks is determined to become the first black mayor of Pittsburgh, and to revitalize the Hill District. Starbucks, Barnes & Noble and Whole Foods are ready to move in. But one particular house on the development site, at 1839 Wylie Avenue, must be torn down, a casualty of urban blight. And that house belonged to Wilson’s legendary Aunt Ester— forcing Harmond, and the Hill District itself, into a battle between the past and the future.
CALL 732.345.1400 | TWORIVERTHEATER.ORG | 21 BRIDGE AVENUE, RED BANK Photo by and of the August Wilson House.
20
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The Positive Community Winter 2020
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PATRICIA BALDWIN
RCA Inspiration Music Group Inspires Grace and Peace Family, s we settle into this new year, we must believe not only do our words have power, but whatever we put our hands to do will be powerful and it will attract. Attraction can be inspiring and RCA Inspiration (formerly Verity Records) is moving progressively with its gospel artists and the Holy Ghost taking the ministry to higher heights. Let’s start with living legend Bishop Marvin Sapp. He has collectively received 24 Stellar Awards, two Soul Train Music Awards, two BET Awards, three Dove Awards and eight BMI Songwriter’s Awards along with many other accolades and honors from national, regional, and local institutions. He is preparing to do a live recording at his new church, The Chosen Vessel Cathedral in Ft. Worth, TX on Friday, February 21 at 7pm. This will be Sapp’s first recording since 2011’s I Win. The project is truly a labor of love. “This recording is special to me because I’m doing it in my new home—literally and figuratively,” Sapp explained. “I never imagined that I would live and pastor in the DFW Metroplex, and now that I am here, I can’t wait to continue to connect with the community and immerse my church into this side of my ministry through this live recording,” We are excited for the limits being non-existent in Marvin Sapp’s life and career. RCA Inspiration is proud to celebrate two nominations from the historic 51st NAACP Image Awards. This year’s nominations include hit-making gospel icons Kirk Franklin (for his hit single “Love Theory”) and Donnie McClurkin (for his single “Not Yet”). Both nominations are in the category of Outstanding Gospel/Christian
A
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Song (Traditional or Contemporary) and both albums were released mid-2019. These two albums are essential to any gospel music collection and are motivating other artists to re-dedicate themselves and push forward to produce some of their own best music. RCA Inspiration has stepped up their game and is flaunting their roster with artists including Donald Lawrence featuring the Tri-City Mass Singers and Le’Andria Johnson; Jason Nelson; Sunday Best winner Melvin Crispell, III; Kurt Carr; Kierra Sheard; Koryn Hawthorne; 3-time Grammy Nominee Travis Greene; and so many others It’s an exciting and inspirational time for gospel music fans! We are grateful for every blessing that awaits us in 2020 and are prayerful that God will grant us 2020 vision as our spiritual journey continues. Happy New Year! Thank God for another chance to improve yourself and your community. Get inspired in 2020!
L–R: Fred Hammond, Travis Greene, Kirk Franklin, Christon Gray, Donnie McClurkin
www.thepositivecommunity.com
Photos: Raymond Hagans
Rev. Henry A. Breland, III and Director Of Staff Anthony Harmon, UFT
UFT President Michael Mulgrew
L–R: Rev. Dr. Robert Waterman, District 16 Council Member Vanessa L. Gibson, Elder Kirsten John Foy, Rev. Patricia Malcolm, and Minister John Williams
The United Federation of Teachers 10th Annual Faith-Based Breakfast
R
eligious leaders from around the city heard about the importance of boosting New York City’s participation in the 2020 Census at the union’s 10th annual Faith-Based Breakfast on Jan. 7. Billions of dollars in federal funding for New York schools, subways, roads, hospitals, and more depend on an accurate count, and the faith-based leaders learned how they can help to increase census participation in their communities. “We’re calling on you all to activate your faith community and spread the word about Census 2020,” UFT President Michael Mulgrew told breakfast attendees at UFT headquarters in Manhattan. “Ten years ago, we didn’t make it a priority and we were the worst-performing city in the entire country.” New York City had a 61% response rate for the 2010 Census, well below the national average of 74%. The Rev. Henry A. Belin, III from the First AME Church in Harlem, the event’s keynote speaker, emphasized the stakes if New York is once again undercounted. “How can the nation respond to the needs of poor folk unless the government knows there is a need and where it is?” Belin said. “We’re going to lose what we ought to have in our own communities.” Mulgrew pointed to fear of the federal government as the primary obstacle to getting everyone counted in this
www.thepositivecommunity.com
NYC Deputy Mayor Phillip Thompson
BY MICHAEL MURPHY year’s census. The Trump administration’s persecution of undocumented immigrants has made many in immigrant communities particularly wary of giving information about their families to the government. Mulgrew emphasized that, by law, the personal information collected by the Census Bureau cannot be shared with any government agency or court. Census Bureau employees are sworn to protect confidentiality for life. He pledged that the UFT would send lawyers to safeguard those legal protections. “We’re not going to let those who hate us — who hate what we stand for — win,” said Mulgrew. “We count. Every single human being counts.” New York City Deputy Mayor Phillip Thomas put the issue in historical perspective. “My family has been here since before the revolution,” said Thomas. “When the constitution was written, they said black people like my ancestors only counted as 3/5 of a person. That’s what they’re trying to do again; they want to undercount certain populations so others at the top can benefit.” Pastor Joseph Maldonado, from the Lower East Side Fellowship, said he appreciated the UFT’s advocacy on the Census. “The union took a stand and said they’re in our corner,” said Maldonado. “I like looking back and knowing that somebody’s got my back.”
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The Positive Community Winter 2020
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THE GRAMMY-WINNING ®
SONGS MOVES
THE TONY-WINNING
PHOTO: SAINT
®
PRETTY CLOSE TO PERFECTION! B E N B R A N T L E Y, T H E N E W Y O R K T I M E S
On Broadway at the Imperial Theatre AintTooProudMusical.com
www.thepositivecommunity.com
Proud Partner of Ain’t Too Proud
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Clergy Men Stepping Up
E
ach month Metropolitan Baptist Church in Newark hosts a special men’s ministry meeting. The gatherings encourage and support men as heads of their families and leaders in our communities.
Photos: Raymond Hagans
In prayer
L–R: Rev. David Jefferson, Sr.; Guest Preacher Rev Jacques A. DeGraff; and Deacon George Singleton.
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Fountain Baptist Church TPC Publisher Adrian Council, Sr. Makes a Special Presentation Of the “Cultural Narrative” Photos: Karen Waters
Pastor J. Michael Sanders
O
n Sunday November 27, 2019, Fountain Baptist Church of Summit, NJ celebrated their Annual Marriage Enrichment Worship Service. The Positive Community’s “ Cultural Narrative” was also introduced and was well received. Over the years, under the leadership of Pastor J. Michael Sanders, the church has answered the call to service raising hundreds of thousands of dollars to support disaster relief efforts from Hurricane Katrina to the Haiti earthquake. Most recently, the congregation has contributed over $80,000 to help the Bahamas recover from last year’s devastating hurricane.
L–R: Fountain B.C. Youth Minister Rev. Gregory Davis, Pastor Jerry M. Sanders, and Associate Minister Rev. Vernon Williams
L–R: Shawn and Lynn Redd, Douglas and Hope Mitchell, Rodney and Renee Williams, Fred and Jacqueline Smith, Jacquelynn and William Oliver, Anita and Donald McLaren, Gwen and Arnold Foster, Doris and Wade Dollard. www.thepositivecommunity.com
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DONOVAN
Continued from page 51 When Donovan graduates this spring with a bachelor’s degree in mass communications, she’d like to find an opportunity to continue working in Washington but doesn’t yet have firm plans. She will leave Voorhees with memories for a lifetime, like the time she served as the thurifer on Absalom Jones’ feast day in the campus’s St. Philip’s Chapel and “smoked it out” with an intense level of incense. The college’s affiliation with The Episcopal Church was one reason she was drawn to Voorhees. “I’m able to still have my church life and be at school,” she said, also recalling childhood Sundays when she would serve as an acolyte at Christ Church in Brooklyn’s Bay Ridge neighborhood, near her home in Sheepshead Bay. Donovan will remember feeling initially apprehensive at moving to a small southern city, but then quickly right at home as a part of the campus community. Her memories also will include listening to Voorhees professors who shared with students their experiences traveling to Ghana and seeing firsthand the vestiges of the transatlantic slave trade. She’ll also remember her first visit to campus when she learned about Voorhees’ founding in 1897 by Elizabeth Evelyn Wright, whose mission was to improve black lives through education. And the college continues to “keep her spirit alive” for new generations of students like herself, Donovan said. “It’s a place for you to find who you are and what you can do for the world or in your community.”
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Baptist Ministers Celebrate Adam Clayton Powell Day
L–R: Guest Speaker Dr. Michael Eric Dyson, and Rev. Dr. Calvin O. Butts
T
he Baptist Ministers Conference of Greater NY & Vicinity held their annual Rev. Adam Clayton Powell, Jr. Day to commemorate and celebrate the life and legacy of the noted pastor, congressman, and activist. Abyssinian Pastor Rev. Dr. Calvin O. Butts, III and the Abyssinian congregation were in attendance. Under the leadership of President Dr. Charles Curtis, the Ministers Conference meets each Monday, 2pm at the historic Convent Ave. Baptist Church, 145th St. and Convent Ave. in Harlem where Rev. Jesse Williams is host pastor.
L–R: Rev. Dr. John L. Scott, Dr. Michael Eric Dyson, and Rev. Herbert L. Daughtry
L–R: Rev. Dr. Brian Scott; Rev. Dr. Charles A. Curtis; and Rev. Dr. Carl L. Washington, Jr.
L–R: Rev. Wendy Kelly-Carter, Rev. Geraldine Harris, and Rev. Dr. Betty Spencer Photos: Bruce Moore
Leadership and guests of the NY Baptist Ministers Conference www.thepositivecommunity.com
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Where Opportunity Meets
Where Where Where Opportunity Opportunity Opportunity U NUI NV IEVRESRI ST Y I T Y| N| ENWEAWRAKR K Meets Meets Meets Excellence Excellence Excellence
UNIVERSITY | NEWARK UNIVERSITY | NEWARK
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UNIVERSITY | NEWARK
Where Where Opportunity Opportunity Meets Meets Excellence Excellence
Where Opportunity Meets Excellence
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Christ stated: When the Son of Man comes in his glory, and all the angels with him, he will sit on his throne in heavenly glory. All the nations will be gathered before him, and he will separate the people one from another as a shepherd separates the sheep from the goats. He will put the sheep on his right and the goats on his left.
Then the King will say to those on right, ‘Come, you who are blessed by my Father; take your inheritance, the kingdom prepared for you since the creation of the world. For I was hungry and you gave me something to eat, I was thirsty and you gave me something to drink, I was a stranger and you invited me in, I needed clothes and you clothed me, I was sick and you looked after me, I was in prison and you came to visit me.’ Then the righteous will answer him, ‘Lord, when did I see you hungry and feed you, or thirsty and give you something to drink? When did we see you a stranger and invite you in, or needing clothes and clothe you? When did we see you sick or in prison and go to visit you?’ The King will reply, ‘I tell you the truth, whatever you did for one of the least of these brothers of mine you did for me.’ —Matthew 25:31–40 (NIV)
A NAA CNHCR OHROK RI NISNTSI T IUTTUI TOINO N in in N ENWE A WRAKR, Kof, of N ENWE A WRAKR K
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urge readers to study the performance history and espousals of national, state, and local political candidates and nominees; compare what they say and do to God’s biblically-expressed commands, and vote accordingly. As Christians, let’s value God more than politics, and allow our Christian conscience to determine our votes.
www.thepositivecommunity.com
A FAF FOFRODRADBALBEL E DEUDCUACTAI TOINO N
Jesus Christ instructs us to treat people the way we want to be treated, and to avoid oppressing foreigners. In the Old Testament also, God instructed His people to treat people well. He instructed the Jews: “Do not mistreat an alien or oppress him, for you were aliens in Egypt. — Exodus 22:21 (NIV) Christian brothers and sisters in the United States, during 2020, and beyond, let’s purposely approach voting from a Christian perspective. The Book of James instructs us to “… be doers of the word, and not merely hearers who deceive themselves.”—James 1:22 (New Revised Standard Version) The 2020 presidential election is scheduled for November 3, 2020. Time flies, so let’s focus on how we will vote, seriously analyzing candidates from a Christian perspective. Vote for candidates whom your Christian study, observation, and discussion indicate are most likely to do God’s will. Study relevant scriptures; purposely analyze candidates, nominees, and incumbents from a studied Christian perspective. For example, analyze which candidates (on all levels) are most likely to help people in need. Try to carry out these actions without neglecting other important matters, such as church and family responsibilities. Let’s be God-centered, Christ-centered, and let our thinking, analysis, and votes emerge from that. Winter 2020 The Positive Community
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GOOD NEWS FROM THE CHURCH AND COMMUNITY
thepositivecommunity.com
Winter 2020
Vol. 20 No. 1
The The Last Last Word Word
Publisher
BY BYR.L. R.L.WITTER WITTER
Editor-in-Chief
CIVIL CIVILRIGHTS RIGHTSHISTORY HISTORYIS ISNOW NOW
Adrian A. Council, Sr. Jean Nash Wells
Associate Editor R. L. Witter
Sales
Angela Ridenour Adrian Council, Jr. Marc Williams Burton Waddy NGS Communications, Inc. Satori MPR
Contributing Writers Patricia Baldwin Glenda Cadogan Fern Gillespie Derrel Jazz Johnson g.r. mattox Mwandikaji K. Mwanafunzi Rev. Theresa Nance
Photographers
Vincent Bryant Risasi Dias Regina Flemming Bob Gore Raymond Hagans Bruce Moore Wali Amin Muhammad Seitu Oronde Karen Waters Rev. Dr. William L. Watkins, Jr.
Art Direction & Layout Penguin Design Group Maishman Media, LLC
Production Assistant April Davis
The Positive Community Corp. 133 Glenridge Avenue Montclair, NJ 07042 973-233-9200 Fax: 973-233-9201 Email: info@thepositivecommunity.com Website: thepositivecommunity.com All contents © The Positve Community Corporation. All Rights Reserved. This publication, in whole or in part, may not be reproduced, stored in a computerized or other retrieval system, or transmitted in any form, or by any means whatsoever without the prior written permission of The Positive Community Corporation. Any opinions expressed herein are solely the opinions of the writer(s) and not necessarily those of The Positive CommunityTM its management or staff. The Positive CommunityTM reserves the right to retain all materials and does not assume reponsibility for unsolicited materials.
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ver ve ry y Januar January y we we rememremember ber Rev. Rev. Dr. Dr. Martin Martin LuLuther th erKing, King,Jr. Jr.with withsomber somber reverence. reverence.We Wereflect reflecton onall allhe he did did for for the the civil civil rights rights movemovement mentan and d what whatmore morehe hemight might have havedone donehad hadhe henot notbeen beenasassassinated—thus sassinated—thus robbing robbing the the world world ofof his his brilliance, brilliance, wiswisdom, dom, and and leadership. leadership. When When Februar February yarrives, arrives,we wecelebrate celebrate Black Black Histor History y Month Month and and all all ofof the the accomplishments accomplishments and and hard-won hard-won victories victories ofof black black people peoplearound aroundthe theworld. world. I I have have always always been been aa curicurious ous person person and and that that curiosity curiosity has has likely lik ely contributed contributed toto my my love love ofof learning. learning. Ever Every y FebFebruar ruary y I I can can count count on on finding finding out outabout aboutaanew, new,unsung unsunghero hero ofof Black Blac k Histor History y or or becoming becoming aware aware ofof another another accomplishaccomplishment mentby byone oneofofthe thenames namesI’ve I’ve known known for for years. years. The The part part ofof Black Black Histor History y that that causes causes me me toto struggle struggle isis how how recent recent and and present presentititreally reallyis. is. I I was was aa young young child child when when America Americacelebrated celebratedher herbicenbicentennial, tennial,200 200years. years.There Therewere were drawings, drawings,paintings, paintings,and andre-enre-enactments actmen tsdepicting depictingwhite whitemen men wearing wearing powdered powdered wigs wigs with with waistcoats, waistco ats, knickers, knickers, and and all all sorts sortsofofcolonial colonialgarb. garb.The Thefew few women women included included wore wore grand grand gowns gowns filled filled out out with with bustles bustles and and held held inin by by corsets. corsets. IfIf any any black black people people were were included, included, they theywere wereslaves. slaves.ItItwas wascrcrystal ystal clear clear toto me me this this was was histor history;y; the thepeople peoplelooked lookedand andsoundsounded ed like like historical historical figures figures and and lived lived inin aa world world ofof muskets, muskets, prairies, prairies, and and other other things things so so far farremoved removedfrom fromour ourtime. time. There’s There’sthe therub rubfor forme mewith with African African American American Histor History.y.
So So much much ofof our our histor history y isis rerecent. cent.We Wedon’t don’thave havetotorely relyon on artists’ artists’ renderings; renderings; we w e have have photos photos ofof many many ofof the the pivotal pivotal events. events. We We even even have have video video ofof luminaries luminarieslike likeDr. Dr.King, King,JackJackieie Robinson, Robinson, Thurgood Thurgood MarMarshall, shall, Mar Mary y McLeod McLeod Bethune, Bethune, Congressman Congressman John John Lewis, Lewis, and and James JamesBaldwin Baldwin——just justtotoname name aa few. few. Even Even when when we we think think ofof “long “long ago” ago” histor history,y, we we have have actual actual photographs photographs ofof figures figures like like Harriet Harriet Tubman, Tubman, FredFrederick erick Douglass, Douglass, Ida Ida B.B. Wells, Wells, W.E.B. W.E.B. DuBois, DuBois, Ruby Ruby Bridges, Bridges, and andothers otherswe weregard regardasashistorhistorical ical figures figures (Rev. (Rev. Al Al Sharpton Sharpton isisonly only65 65years yearsold). old).But Butthey they aren’t aren’t so so far far removed removed from from the thehere hereand andnow. now.As AsJonathan Jonathan Capehart Capehart reminded reminded us, us, many many ofof the the historical historical figures figures from from the the civil civil rights rights movement movement are are STILL STILLALIVE. ALIVE. And And(somewhat (somewhatsadly sadlytotome), me), there there are are still still plenty plenty ofof firsts firsts happening. happening. The The first first black black asastronaut tronaut isis 77 77 years years old old asas ofof this thiswriting. writing.Hank HankAaron Aaronisis85; 85; the thefirst firstblack blackMiss MissAmerica Americaisis 56. 56. The The first first black black Mayor Mayor ofof New NewYork YorkCity Cityisisstill stillalive, alive,and and America’s America’sfirst firstblack blackPresident President isis only only 58 58 years years old. old. Surely, Surely, there thereare aremore morefirsts firststotocome. come. They They say say histor history y has has aa way way ofof repeating repeating itself, itself, and and they they might might be be right. right. Scenes Scenes from from Ferguson, Ferguson, MO; MO; Chicago, Chicago, IL; IL; Memphis, Memphis, TN; TN; Dallas, Dallas, TX TX and and other otherAmerican Americancities citiesplay playlike like news newsclips clipsfrom fromthe the1960s 1960sand and 1970s. 1970s.We Weneed needtotolook looktotoour our past pasttotosecure secureand andprotect protectour our future. future.Ever Everything ythingwon woncan canbe be lost; lost; we we cannot cannot let let that that haphappen. pen.Let’s Let’slook lookback, back,but butkeep keep moving movingfor forward. ward. www.thepositivecommunity.com
U ITED FEDERATION OF TEACHERS UN NITED FEDERATION OF TEACHERS UU NN I TI E D DFF EE DD EE RR AA T ITO N NOO F FTT EE AA CC HH EE RR SS TE IO UNITED FEDERATION
UNITED FEDERATION
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TEACHERS
Complete the CENSUS ... Complete the CENSUS ... Complete ... Completethe theCENSUS CENSUS ... Complete CENSUS ... Complete the CENSUS ... We're counting on you! We're counting on you! We're counting on you! We're counting on you! We're you! We're counting on you! United Federation of Teachers • A Union of Professionals
••A of United Federation ofNY Teachers • A Union of Professionals Federation of Teachers A Union ofProfessionals Professionals United Federation of Teachers 52United Broadway, New York, 10004 www.uft.org •212.777.7500 A Union Union of Professionals United Federation of Teachers • A Union of Professionals United52Federation of New Teachers Broadway, York, NY 10004 212.777.7500 www.uft.org 5252 Broadway, New York, NY NY 10004 212.777.7500 www.uft.org Broadway, New York, 212.777.7500 www.uft.org Michael Mulgrew 52 Broadway, New York, NY 10004 10004 212.777.7500 www.uft.org
52 Broadway, New York, NY 10004 212.777.7500 www.uft.org Michael Mulgrew Michael Mulgrew Michael Mulgrew
President Mulgrew Michael MulgrewMichael President President President President President
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