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PULSE OF THE CARIBBEAN PEOPLE | 3
March Articles 8 Rivers to Cross 10 The Reggae Chef bringing Jamaican Foods and Culture to Every Kitchen 12 Home Improvements Wines Unlimited & LiquorsWhere Service Matters
Vol #13 3rd edition
Contents
Feature Articles Exceptional Women
22 B uilding a Community through Empowerment
pg 20
G’s Restaurant 26 Supermodel Naomi Campbell 28 The Story of Sarah Baartman 32 The Delaware Valley Voice
7 Keys to a Healthy Relationship
14 The Beauty of the Black Woman
pg 31
16 5 Black Female Warriors You Weren’t Told About 18 Say What??
CHAIRMAN & PUBLISHER
EDITOR-IN-CHIEF
PHOTO JOURNALIST
LEGAL COUNSELOR
PHOTOGRAPHERS
DELAWARE VALLEY
CLIVE WILLIAMS
ADIKA BUTLER
MARJORIE FLASH
GARNETT H. SULLIVAN, ESQ
MARJORIE FLASH OF MY FLASH KEN/UNIVERSAL
PRESIDENT & ASSOCIATE PUBLISHER ART DIRECTOR
NEW MEDIA INITIATIVES
CONTRIBUTING WRITERS
MEDIA
(PHILADELPHIA, SOUTH JERSEY, DELAWARE)
CHRISTOPHER C. WILLIAMS
VICTOR STOUTE JR
ROCKSTONE MEDIA GROUP
SENIOR VICE PRESIDENT
MANAGING EDITOR OF ONLINE CONTROLLER MAGAZINE MICHELLE WILLIAMS
ADIKA BUTLER - DR. CLIVE WILLIAMS - MARJORIE ON THE COVER IMAGE Audrey Thomas, millicent clarke, karen FLASH - CHRIS GODFREY SHERON P. - REUBEN mitchell, naomi campbell, dr. lorraine JAMES - BEN CASSELMAN nelson
ANNETTE GORDON
NAKISHA DUNCAN
INQUIRIIES
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PUBLISHER’S VIBE
HAVE BLACK WOMEN MADE REAL GAINS IN AMERICA? Clive Williams, CEO/ Publisher _________________________ This month’s cover is graced by two exceptional women professionals who epitomize the growing emergence of confident, competitive and successful black women in America; they are coincidentally, Jamaican immigrants, who are acutely aware of the challenges faced by other immigrant minorities and have dedicated their professional lives as lawyers and advocates to their communities and far beyond. These two attractive and talented women are a reflection of the professional paradigm shift taking place in America and to a lesser extent, in other parts of the world. Women have begun the march to take their rightful place of being honored, admired and respected for their brains and accomplishments in addition to their femininity. However, there is also a troubling under belly to the apparent success many of these women are enjoying; the state and fate of black women nationally is cause for great concern and will remain so for as long as the inequality gap continues to widen. It’s a mixed bag of great opportunities on one hand – then on the other institutional barriers, prejudice and oftentimes unfair competition from men and white minority women, who are also clawing their way up the social and economic ladder. The post- modern image of the gorgeous, glitzy, well dressed, successful black woman is only partly true, the sub-text to that, is the growth of poverty, stress-related illnesses, heart disease, obesity and hypertension that afflicts far too many of them. Being quite perturbed by my less flattering findings, I turned to two of the most comprehensive and recent research findings done on African-American women; the first is titled “state of African-American women in the US,” by Maria Guerra of The Center for American Progress presented as a fact sheet, whose statistical findings I will share with you and the second is – “Black women in the United States 2014, presented by The National Coalition on Black Civic Participation Inc., at The Black Women’s Roundtable in March of 2014. 6 | PULSE OF THE CARIBBEAN PEOPLE
I would guess that not many black women are even remotely aware of the publication and findings revealed by these studies, and why not? Because two of the most enduring legacy’s of the inequality gap is the information deficit and the corresponding apathy that goes with it. The studies reveal some startlingly bad news and some encouraging news, that encouraging news is in the form of - higher educational attainment by black women since Brown vs. Board of Education and more profoundly since the administration of President Obama. I think we knew that instinctively, even before we were given the facts, but it is in the area of entrepreneurship that black women are rapidly making strides. (a)In the area of entrepreneurship, African American women owned businesses continue to grow despite significant financial and social obstacles. (b)The number of companies started by African American women grew 258% from 1997- 2013. (c)African American women owned businesses employed 272,000 workers and generated 44.9 billion in revenue in 2013.* When we put that in perspective it represents the combined GDP of Trinidad & Tobago, Jamaica and Barbados. (Writers note.) The aforementioned educational attainment by Black women is supported by research done by Avis Jones DeWeever, PhD. Who wrote, that “sixty years after the historic Brown Vs, Board of Education decision, they have experienced a tremendous surge in educational attainment. Since that time, high school graduation rates of Black women have increased by 63% closing the graduation gap with white women to a mere 7%. In 1960 that gap was 22% as well as virtually eliminating the gap with Asian women. Today 86% of young black women graduate high school compared to 66% of Latinas 88% of Asian young women and 93% of young white women. In the area of post-secondary education black women are participating at higher rates than any other groups in America. By 2010 black women made up 66% of all black completing a Bachelor’s Degree, 71% of those completing a Master’s Degree and 65% of those completing a Doctorate Degree.”
Despite these encouraging numbers presented at the Black Women’s Roundtable in 2014, black women continue to face modern day institutional challenges in their quest for educational attainment. However, they continue to demonstrate a strong and consistent commitment to self-empowerment through the pursuit and successful acquisition of education. “It is in the area of healthcare that black women face grave challenges and these facts were also presented at the Black Women’s Roundtable in 2014. Although life expectancy has increased for black women and black teenage birth rates have plummeted, black women have tripled the maternal mortality rate of white women in America and face an increase likely hood of having a low birth rate baby or one that dies within the first 3years. Breast cancer is especially deadly for black women, in part, due to substantially delayed linkage to treatment as compared to white women. Heart disease, High Blood Pressure and Diabetes remains especially high among black women. We are acutely aware that the nation, as a whole, struggles with obesity, but its prevalence is especially pervasive among black women. Despite there being a significant decrease of new cases of HIV in black women, they still remain over-represented.” With respect to economic security which includes labor force participation, unemployment challenges and intensified levels of unequal pay as well as retirement prospects black women continue to lag behind their white counterparts. As gloomy as this picture might seem, there are factors it does not take into account, such as; the strength of the black woman, her determination, resilience, perseverance, and deep spirituality, are elements that has kept her through hundreds of years of oppression, suppression and depression and yet, she rises. Whereitzat expresses our gratitude to: Maria Guerra of the Center for American Progress as well as AvisJonesDeWeever – Black Women’s Round Table. *from fact sheet; Center for America Progress by Maria Guerra.
WHEREITZAT PUBLISHER AND CHAIRMAN MAKES AN “AMAZING, ONE OF A KIND GUARANTEE TO EXISTING AND NEW ADVERTISERS: IT’S CALLED THE WHEREITZAT ADVERTISER AD –VANTAGE! Hi I am Clive Williams, our publication WhereItzAt has distinguished itself as a high quality, colorful tabloid with sharp images and fascinating stories. We have established a solid and trusted reputation for satisfying the needs our advertisers. We are committed to YOU the advertiser – we pledge to be your customers as well as your biggest promoters. When YOUR business succeed – we succeed. The WhereItzAt AD – Advantage also means, YOU can call on us to advise you on all the marketing, branding and social media aspects of your business development.
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Our team of professionals, are the best at what they do. We pledge to do whatever it takes, within the bounds of propriety, to increase your customer base.
1) Myself, the Whereitzat family and our extended friends and readers will continue to support the growth and success of your business as long as the services and products provided, remain at a high standard. 2) We have a wide and diverse network of support through our readers, they get to know your business through our stories, our online presence and our Public Relations outreach. 3) We have developed the Business Innovators and Game-Changers Awards, (B I G AWARDS) which promotes the interests and success of Small business Owners. 4) We distribute Whereitzat Magazines at the best locations in your neighborhoods to ensure that you get results from your ADS. 5) The ADVERTISER AD-VANTAGE PAY PLAN allows you TIME TO PAY! Here’s how. Whatever the value of the contract you choose – you deposit only 40% down, with time to pay off your balance MONTHLY or WEEKLY as you choose. Please ask yourselves this question – which other publication has shown the commitment or the concern to offer you this GUARANTEE?
FOR YOU AND YOUR BUSINESS SAKE – CALL ME NOW! WE’LL HELP YOU GET EXCITED ABOUT YOUR BUSINESS AGAIN, WITH THE WHEREITZAT BUSINESS AD-VANTAGE PROGRAM. CALL ME AND LET’S BEGIN A CONVERSATION – CLIVE WILLIAMS 917 749 7613. PULSE OF THE CARIBBEAN PEOPLE | 7
Rivers to Cross Self discovery is the journey to where? This is the quest Ifa Priest James Weeks sought to discover in 2003 while journeying to Africa to be by the side of his beloved “spiritual father” who would soon die. In his first documentary Across the King’s River, directed by Emmy Award winner, Stanley Nelson, Weeks gives an intimate look into his relationship with his “spiritual father,” the ancient healing traditions of the Yoruba people, and his will to live life to the fullest.
CULTURE & EDUCATION Across the King’s River is a moving documentary about the power of the human spirit
head, and the unknown at its tail. Though the documentary introduces and educates people about the elite healers and diviners of the Yoruba culture, there’s a larger picture that foreshadows all the information which is a story that is just as unique as the individual living it.
As James said, “Our lives are important, everyone has a story, and there is power in our stories.” Weeks’ is a story of purpose. It was with purpose that he’d gone to Africa in 2003. It was on purpose that his son would be the There’s something to say for those who are catalyst to lead him to his destiny. Therefore, healers. Those people who use every means to it is important to never take for granted the serve for the sake of humanity, and in Weeks’ angels, those unexpected light bearers that come case, by any means necessary. Weeks opened up disguised as “troubled sons,” for they are the about the tribulations he faced being a father ones purposed to hold the torch lighting the witnessing the strife his then teenage son bared way. and which he called a matter of life and death. “I was [desperate] to seek help for my son,” Weeks’ Its amazing how brilliance is birthed from recalls during an interview with WhereItzAt. one little idea, and funny how the initial idea, “For some time he’d been getting involved in a simple thought, is incomparable to what’s the wrong activities and I knew something had really in store. Across the King’s River is no to change. A close friend of mine from Nigeria exception to this. “I had gotten the idea to do suggested I take my son to Africa to an Ifa Priest the documentary by someone,” says Weeks. “Initially I’d plan to create a calendar series named Aseea.” based on my travels, but the idea of creating a One could only imagine what the journey felt film documenting my spiritual journey sounded like with the anxiety and fear of the unknown. better.” With a great idea, and the motivation Would his son be transformed for the better? to do something fresh after the passing of his James admitted things seemed questionable in birth father, Weeks embarked on something the beginning, however quite expected, this that he’d never imagined doing with one goal in was the first time he’d seen a traditional African mind: To inspire people to find their own truth ritual take place. That same year, the man who’d and their own power through his story. healed his son would be the one to ordain his “I wanted to create an action film that teaches priesthood. people to be different,” Weeks says. “I wanted Weeks grew up in the Virgin Islands and was to remind people that we are the microcosm of raised Catholic. Aspiring to be a priest would the macrocosm, therefore unlimited in what seem to be a road less trodden, but it’s is even we are capable of doing.” He had nicely given more so when you choose to practice a religion the example that God is capable of doing more outside of your personal upbringing. “I was than one thing at once. “God does not decide never entrenched in Catholicism, as a child I to set aside a day for rain or a day to make babies never liked going to church,” he laughs. This solely, God can do everything.” I realized then wasn’t the first time he crossed paths with a that some of us had been thinking small. His spiritualist and neither was it his first time he advice, “Always put the word ‘and’ at the end of was told that he was a healer. What led him to your name.” priesthood, he says, was destiny. “I was destined Before interviewing Weeks, I wondered where to become a priest.” self-discovery was the journey to. Yet after The documentary Across the King’s River “reading” the story of James Weeks I’ve come seems to have destiny at its core, purpose at its to the conclusion that it is the journey into 8 | PULSE OF THE CARIBBEAN PEOPLE
the unknown. It is the place where unlimited possibilities await, a course of events already predetermined by God waiting to be lived, yet you must be open and curious to discover them. Weeks’ story confirms that discovery never ends, similar to the lineage of the universe that spans forever, and that your life is not your own. In a speech given at Harvard University he stated profoundly, “If you follow your vision long enough you’ll discover your vision is not really about you. Your vision is about a greater question, a bigger picture. That question is how can you best serve humanity? And if you follow your vision long enough you’ll discover that your vision is really an answer to someone else’s question.” Across the King’s River is a documentary filled with the zest of life which will not only inform you about the ancient mystical healing practices of the Yoruba people, but you will be surprised to learn where the internet truly originated from. Scored by Omar Sosa, expect to be moved, touched, and fulfilled. With this film project, Weeks demonstrates that he is a man who refuses to put a period at the end of his name. He is Ifa Priest, James Weeks, a father, son, teacher, healer, speaker, counselor, visionary and filmmaker. By: Jasmine Scott
PULSE OF THE CARIBBEAN PEOPLE | 9
SMALL BUSINESS & ENTREPRENEURSHIP
The Reggae Chefs Bringing Jamaican Foods and Culture to Every Kitchen Once in a while you come across someone you meet for the first time and you find yourself completely impressed with their passion and motivation to succeed. I had the pleasure of interviewing such a person recently. His name is Peter Ivey and he is the mastermind behind a unique concept. Peter is the founder of The Reggae Chefs, a personal chef service specializing in the fusion of Jamaican food and culture. The Reggae Chefs will come to your home bringing the food, pots and all utensils they need to use in preparing a meal for your family and friends while entertaining them with Jamaican games (like Ludi), sweet reggae music to dance to, and will broaden your knowledge on Jamaican culture and history all while they cook your favorite dishes. They literally bring Jamaica to your house Patois and all. Ivey explains he first formulated the idea on a trip to Las Vegas while attending a concert called Reggae in the Desert where major reggae act like Damion Marley, Marcia Griffiths and Freddie McGregor performer. To his amazement he saw thousands of people consuming and enjoying reggae music and foods, vendors selling wares, T-shirts, arts and craft and all were nonJamaicans. It occurred to him that all these people were selling and profiting from Jamaican culture and he wondered why Jamaicans weren’t
D’sent Nicholas 10 | PULSE OF THE CARIBBEAN PEOPLE
California and Canada. Word of mouth marketing has been an effective tool in their growth as is social media. Jamaican media has also played a huge part in publicizing The Reggae Chefs. They were recently recognized by the National Library of Jamaica who have recorded and archived their services as the only company to have ever attempted this concept. This speaks volumes in the extent of the reception that they have been getting from clients. Says Peter “In general, the reception has been overwhelming. We have people who come up to us all the time and tell us that they appreciate what we do.” He also describes certain special moments that mean a lot to them like going to client’s homes who have children born in the US but have never stepped foot in Jamaica and they tell Born and raised in Spanish Town, Peter’s culinary them Anansi stories or teach them about Louise skills were passed down from his mother, Bennett and the big role she played in Jamaican grandmother and uncle. His uncle who served art and folklore. as the head chef at the Jamaica Police Academy for over two decades took Peter under his wings The Reggae Chefs are young men and women as he believed boys should know how to cook who have a passion for both cooking and being and had him follow behind him every day in the proud Jamaicans spreading their culture and kitchen to learn what he did and thus started rich history. Their menu consists of classic the foundation. Ivey is also a protégé of famed traditional Jamaican cuisine as well as a fusion of exciting signature dishes. Peter says “the Caribbean chef to the stars Yvette Lacrette. majority of their clientele are curious nonThe Reggae Chefs are based in New York, but Jamaicans who typically request the traditional have expanded their services to Miami, Atlanta, Jamaican dishes such as ackee and saltfish. at the forefront of expanding, spreading and preserving their culture. The seed was planted as Peter pondered on what he could do to bring Jamaican authenticity to the forefront and filed it in the back of his head. That was almost a decade ago. That idea mulled around in his mind for years as he tried to piece together his love for talking about Jamaica, teaching about Jamaica and trying to pull it together to make it valuable. Finally realizing that “food was the quickest way to people’s heart, getting them to invite you in and feel comfortable around you,” he came up with the concept of The Reggae Chefs cooking and teaching about Jamaican culture all in one. The Reggae Chefs was born in 2012 with their first client.
Ricardo Grant
Peter Ivey
continues on pg 15
PULSE OF THE CARIBBEAN PEOPLE | 11
EDITORIAL PAGE
HOME
Improvements
The amount of power that you currently have frameworks of those who put the hammer and can be assessed by observing your ability to wrench to work for real. manipulate your environment to effect desired Your personal space is the place in which these changes within it. losers with rulers set the poisonous groundwork Those who do not want to see you enhance your for your disgrace. We work our magic through ability to do this are not your friends although our wood. Don’t let wayward woodworkers they may appear to be. They are the carpenters invade your space. of defeat, assembling limiting structures that rupture the mansions of mastery within your In my writings I speak truth to power because I know that we’ve all been lied to on our spiritual mind. energy bills. We generate megawatts for blocks They use the height of your personal failures, on full batteries. These chumps can’t “charge” and the length of your losses, as measuring us. sticks for their own success. They cannot draw up a workable blueprint for themselves because It would be a violation of our souls if they they are too busy critiquing the architectural did. After all, we are walking power plants in an endless dance with the damsels and dons of
destiny. When we speak truthfully about our respective conditions it clarifies our collective reality while enabling us to connect emotionally with one another by highlighting powerful common experiences. If you’re a reader of WhereItzAt Magazine, chances are you are a progressive, forwarding thinking, individual who wants the best for themselves and their community. Unfortunately, not everyone is like you! Some say that home is where the heart is. Our hearts beat for brighter tomorrows. Be careful who you share your dreams and highest aspirations with. And even when you do, pay close attention to their reactions. Is your perceived confidante a beacon of encouragement, or are they a mouthpiece of defeat? When we refuse to pay attention we end up paying a hefty price. If this message resonates with you, feel free to lace up your track shoes and run with it. Hopefully, it contained helpful words of Home Improvement from the drawing boards of the Editor’s Desk. Adika Butler Editor-In-Chief
Wines Unlimited & Liquors – Where Service Matters
The best measure of any business service in a community is its ability to satisfy the needs of that community by providing great prices and excellent service in a comfortable and appealing environment. You and I know that there are a few who live up to those expectations in our community. Another outstanding hallmark of good business practice is whether that business gives back to the community from which it gets. Again very few businesses live up to that standard. That is why I must commend my friends at Wines Unlimited. For the great service they provide for their community.
I have visited huge wholesale type stores where I couldn’t get the attention of anyone knowledgeable enough to answer my questions. This is true particularly if you want to explore the fascinating world of wines and the many varieties that are available. At Wines Unlimited all you have to do is ask. Mark is more than willing to help you choose what is best for your taste and your pocketbook
I must admit, I have been a loyal customer for many years and, this is where I send my friends; not just for the price but for the overall experience of being treated with dignity and This is one store where you are always treated respect by people who are committed to serving like a person not a number. Mark the proprietor their community. So if those important elements and his team always has a ready smile for their matter to you, they matter even more to us at customers’ needs. Customers can take their Whereitzat because we recommend that this is time asking questions of Mark and James who where you shop. are both knowledge about wines and liquors. By: Clive Williams 12 | PULSE OF THE CARIBBEAN PEOPLE
PULSE OF THE CARIBBEAN PEOPLE | 13
Beauty Black Woman The of the
PHOTO CREDIT: Damion Reid
World-renowned photographer Damion Reid captures the amazing images of women in the Tri-State area as part of his Beauty of the Black Woman project. The project has evolved into a book collection of heart-stopping photographs that capture the style, grace, and natural beauty exemplified by Black women of all ages. Be sure to check out Reid’s Tumblr page at Damionkare.tumblr.com, and follow him on Instagram at @BOTBW2013.
14 | PULSE OF THE CARIBBEAN PEOPLE
WOMEN EMPOWERMENT
SMALL BUSINESS continues from pg 10 They want foods indigenous to the island and as authentic as possible.” However he finds that Jamaican clients, who are already familiar with traditional Jamaican foods, want something different and this is where they display their abilities as chefs, doing what they love and have come up with creative signature dishes inspired by traditional Jamaican meals. The Reggae Chefs offer packages that pair meals with unique cultural experience and entertainment such as cooking lessons, Patois lessons, dance lessons, board games and much more. Peter speaks of a client that had been to Jamaica played Ludi and drank red stripe beers and wanted to recreate that experience, who called The Reggae Chefs and requested those services. Then there are those clients who have never been to Jamaica but are mystified by the culture who call The Reggae Chefs to get a flavor. The Reggae Chefs will customize a package that will initiate these clients to Jamaican foods, culture and history and often times this has led new visitors to Jamaica. Along with the personal chef service, The Reggae Chefs are a catering service. “For our personal chef side we are fully able to combine the Jamaican experience and we do all our cooking in front of the clients bringing our own utensils and everything. For catering events we still combine some of the Jamaican experience but depends on the setting we’ll cook outside on venue or we’ll cook food elsewhere and bring to the venue but what is always present is the Jamaican experience” says Peter. The New York Reggae Chef crew consists of Ricardo Grant, D’sent Nicholas and Martina Campbell and work in teams to go out for each appointment. They are looking to expand their market to the UK and Japan in the future. Japan has a particular lure for them as Reggae music and dance is so widely popular over there this could be a significant market growth. Where do they see The Reggae Chef Service going? “The sky’s the limit” says Peter “there is a joke that comes to mind that everywhere you go there’s a Jamaican there or a Jamaican flag even when there’s no Jamaican present. Because if people are waving the flag where Jamaican’s don’t exist they are yearning for our culture and our foods and they might be yearning for much more than a restaurant on a corner. Our goal is to take it there. I see The Reggae Chefs growing from strength to strength.”
Space Accomodations
WE CAN ACCOMMODATE FROM AS LITTLE AS 10 UP TO 260 GUESTS
To hire The Reggae Chefs visit their website: www.thereggaechefs.com. By: Marjorie Flash PILLOW TOP BED
MARBLE BATHROOMS
• Newly renovated facility
• Adjoining Rooms
• Easy access to expressways
• Complimentary WiFi
• We can cater your event or bring in your own food
• Fridge and microwave
• Great Audio Visual options
Ricardo Grant
Martina Campbell
Peter Ivey
KEURIG COFFEE MAKERS
• Complimentary Breakfast • Complimentary Parking
221-17 Northern Blvd • Bayside, NY 11361• T 718-631-5900 F 718-279-9080 • www.adriahotelny.com PULSE OF THE CARIBBEAN PEOPLE | 15
CULTURE & EDUCATION
5 Black Female Warriors You Weren’t Told About with her own soldiers. She was blinded in one eye after she was wounded by a Roman. However, Queen Nanny, a Jamaican national hero, was a the full extent of the Roman humiliation has yet well-known leader of the Jamaican Maroons in to be disclosed since the Kushite account of the the 18th century. Nanny was kidnapped from war, written in the Meroïtic script, has not been Ghana, West Africa, as a child, and was forced fully decoded. into slavery in Jamaica. Growing up, she was influenced by the Maroons and other leaders Queen Nzinga Mbande (c. 1583 – December of the enslaved Africans. The Maroon people 17, 1663) were enslaved Blacks who fled the oppressive plantations and formed their own communities Queen Nzinga Mbande was a highly intelligent and powerful 17th-century ruler of the Ndongo in Jamaica’s interior. and Matamba Kingdoms (modern-day Angola). Nanny and her brothers ran away from the Around the turn of the 17th century, Nzinga plantation and hid in the Blue Mountains fearlessly and cleverly fought for the freedom of area. From there, they led several revolts across her kingdoms against the Portuguese, who were Jamaica. Queen Nanny was a well-respected, colonizing the Central African coast at the time intelligent spiritual leader who was instrumental to control the trade of African human beings. in organizing the plans to free enslaved Africans. To build up her kingdom’s military might, For over 30 years she freed more than 800 Nzinga offered sanctuary to runaway slaves slaves and helped them settle into Maroon and Portuguese-trained African soldiers. She communities. She defeated the British in many stirred up rebellion among the people still left battles and despite repeated attacks from the in Ndongo, by then ruled by the Portuguese. British soldiers, Grandy Nanny’s settlement, Nzinga also formed an alliance with the Dutch called Nanny Town, remained under against the Portuguese. However, their combined forces were not enough to drive the Portuguese Maroon control out. After retreating to Matamba again, Nzinga Amanirenas (died c. 10 B.C.) started to focus on developing the kingdom Amanirenas (also spelled Amanirena) was one of as a trading power and the gateway to the the greatest kandakes, or queen mothers, who Central African interior. At the time of Nzinga’s ruled over the Meroitic Kingdom of Kush in death in 1661 at the age of 81, Matamba had northeast Africa. She reigned over the kingdom become a powerful kingdom that managed to between c. 40 B.C.-10 B.C. When Roman resist Portuguese colonization attempts for an emperor Augustus levied a tax on the Kushites extended period of time. Her kingdom was only in 24 B.C., Amanirenas and her son, Akinidad, integrated into Angola in the late 19th century. Queen Nanny or Nanny (c. 1685 – c. 1755)
led an army of 30,000 men to sack the Roman Nyabingi Priestesses Muhumusa (died 1945) fort in the Egyptian city of Aswan.They also destroyed the statues of Caesar in Elephantine. Muhumusa and Kaigirwa were feared leaders of the East African Nyabingi priestesses group that Under orders from Augustus, the Roman general was influential in Rwanda and Uganda from Petronius retaliated, but met strong resistance 1850 to 1950. In 1911 Muhumusa proclaimed from Amanirenas and her troops. After over “she would drive out the Europeans” and “that three years of harsh fighting, the two parties the bullets of the Wazungu would turn to water agreed to negotiate a peace treaty. The Romans against her.” agreed to return their army to Egypt, withdraw their fort, give the land back to the Kushites and She organized armed resistance against German colonialists and was eventually detained by the rescind the tax. British in Kampala, Uganda, from 1913 to her The brave warrior queen, Amanirenas is death in 1945. She became the first in a line remembered for her loyal combat, side-by-side, of rebel priestesses fighting colonial domination 16 | PULSE OF THE CARIBBEAN PEOPLE
in the name of Nyabingi, and even after being imprisoned she inspired a vast popular following. The British passed its 1912 Witchcraft Act in direct response to the political effectiveness of this spiritually based resistance movement. Queen Mother Yaa Asantewaa (c. 1840– October 17, 1921) Yaa Asantewaa was the queen mother of the Edweso tribe of the Asante (Ashanti) in what is modern Ghana. She was an exceptionally brave fighter who, in March 1900, raised and led an army of thousands against the British colonial forces in Ghana and their efforts to subjugate the Asante and seize the Golden Stool, the Asante nation’s spiritual symbol of unity and sovereignty. Yaa Asantewaa mobilized the Asante troops and for three months laid siege to the British fort of Kumasi. The British colonizers had to bring in several thousand troops and artillery to break the siege, exiling Queen Yaa Asantewaa and 15 of her closest advisers to the Seychelles. She lived in exile until her death in October 1921. Yaa Asantewaa’s War, as it is presently known in Ghana, was one of the last major wars on the continent of Africa to be led by a woman. By: A MOORE
PULSE OF THE CARIBBEAN PEOPLE | 17
?? ARTS & ENTERTAINMENT
Say What...
ALIVE” . As the International PR officer for the 1972 launch of “The Harder They Come” in Jamaica and London, she presented the film at the Venice & Cork (Ireland) Film Festivals.
Barbara Blake Hannah March is the month for celebrating women. In this Women’s Month I would like to recognize an accomplished woman who is more than well-deserving of the accolades. Her name is Barbara Makeda Blake Hannah. A multifaceted Ethiopian Orthodox Rasta women who has broken down barriers, pioneered and excelled in the fields of international film and media. Born in Kingston Jamaica, Mrs. Blake Hannah was educated at Wolmers Girls School achieving eight ‘O’ Levels with Distinction in four classical subjects and also graduated from the London Institute of Public Relations. Barbara has provided PR services representing clients like Shabba Ranks, Patra, Yellow Man, and Damion Jr. Gong Marley to name a few. As a cultural consultant she lectured at the University of Vienna, Austria; New York University Graduate School; Florida International University; University of the Virgin Islands, St. Croix; University of the West Indies – Guyana & Jamaica campuses, and at the World Archeological Congress, Curacao. A trailblazer in the film and television production industry for more than 30 years, beginning in Jamaica with JBC-TV and Britain as a TV reporter and interviewer on THAMES TV “TODAY with Eammon Andrews”, as reporter on “ATV TODAY, Birmingham, and as producer on BBC-TV weekly program “MAN 18 | PULSE OF THE CARIBBEAN PEOPLE
One of Jamaica’s most respected cultural ambassador and author she has written five books, starting with Rastafari – The New Creation first published in 1982, the first book about Rastafari written by a practicing member of the faith, now in its 7th edition. Her novel Joseph: A Rasta Reggae Fable is inspired by the life of Bob Marley. Her book Home – The First School is a homeschooling guide based on her own parenting experience. Growing Out – Black Hair and Black Pride, published in 2010 is a biography of her youth in Jamaica and years in England. In the political sector, she has served in the Office of three Jamaican Prime Ministers: Michael Manley, Edward Seaga and Bruce Golding with assignments as Advisor/Consultant to the Minister of Information, Culture, Youth & Sports, and as Director of PR for the City of Kingston. Most notable, the Governor General appointed her to serve as an Independent Senator in the Jamaican Parliament.
It is no surprise that she has received a host of awards. In 2011 she was awarded a Lifetime Achievement Award in recognition of her pioneering work in journalism and media by the British Entertainment Film, Television & Theatre Awards (BEFFTA). The Ethiopian Crown Council chairman, His Imperial Highness, Prince Ermias Sahle Selassie presented her with a Gold Adowa Centenary Medal for services to the Royal Family and the Rastafari community; and in 1974 she was awarded the United Nations Peace Medal at the first Jamaica Film Festival. In 2014 Caribbean Development for the Arts, Sports & Culture Foundation, in association with the Caribbean Community and UNESCO, inducted her into the Caribbean Hall of Fame in recognition of her outstanding contribution in the field of film. Her most recent award was given early March by the Women Initiating Self-Healing (W.I.S.H) at their celebration for International
Women’s Day.
In 1974, Blake Hannah organized the first Jamaica Film Festival that brought 7 Black Hollywood films and 35 Black Hollywood stars, directors and producers for a 7-day event in Kingston under the patronage of Prime Minister Manley and his wife Beverly. Other film festivals under her belt were CARIFESTA ‘76, Cuban Film Week in 1977 and the World Festival of Youth & Students in 1985. She has independently produced and directed eight films and documentaries since 1977 that have featured Jamaica with prominent actors and musicians that have been screened all over the world.
The first Reggae Film Festival took place 2008 after meeting a British film archivist who introduced her to his collection of films depicting reggae and Jamaican culture which led to seven leading film makers being appointed to the Jamaica Film Academy. After five years at the helm as Executive Director, Barbara resigned from organizing the Reggae Film Festival. She explains “a bad case of flu which was made life-threatening by the lingering after-effects of the Chick-V virus that had struck me (and many Jamaicans) late in 2014. After a week of serious illness requiring antibiotics and bed rest, my doctor advised me to stop all work and stressful activity for at least one month to recover completely. As a result I announced the cancellation of efforts to present a 2015 event.” However, she goes on to say “This does not mean there will never be another Reggae Film Festival, as the Jamaica Film Academy is still active and will continue to present film screenings whenever and wherever possible.” One a personal note, Barbara’s greatest influence was her father, Evon Blake of whom she speaks fondly “He was a great journalist who not only published Jamaica’s first news magazine SPOTLIGHT and several books including BEAUTIFUL JAMAICA, and was the founder of the Press Association of Jamaica. Growing up seeing him writing and publishing led me to become a journalist and follow in his footsteps as an author, publisher and eventually film maker.”
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ARTS & ENTERTAINMENT Her only child, son Makonnen, was homeschooled and was remarkably declared a ‘genius’ at age 13 years and appointed the Government’s youth technology consultant. Undoubtedly a move that “inspired many parents to follow since the homeschooling community has grown enormously as the Jamaican education curriculum is now online and the resources are widely available for education of all kinds on the internet which make it easy for parents who want to home-school” says Barbara. This phenomenal women attributes her ability to achieve to “Jah, is my Light and Salvation. I am inspired greatly by the principles and lifestyle of Rastafari, especially the examples of Emperor Haile Selassie, whose life and faith have led me to reinforce my early Christian upbringing with the knowledge I have gained of the Ethiopian Orthodox Christian faith in Lyesos Krystos. RASTA has given me the answer to life’s questions and showed me a pathway to God, whom I call JAH. Since 1972 I have been trying to live according to the principles of the RASTA way of life.” These days, Barbara discloses “I am doing research and preparing to make a new documentary film. The topic is ganja-related, which is not only timely, but will draw on my history of involvement with the Legalize Ganja Campaign from the 1970s.” She continues to write books and is working on her sixth book; a continuation of her biographical story Growing Out – Black Hair & Black Pride but covering the years since she returned to Jamaica in 1972 and her life and growth as a Rasta. When asked what she would like the public to know about Barbara Makeda Blake Hannah, her response speaks to her spirituality and beauty “that I have tried to live in obedience to the teaching that LOVE is the greatest noun and verb.” Barbara Blake Hannah is a quintessential Jamaican women, and we salute her for her contributions and astonishing achievements over the years. By: Marjorie Flash
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WOMEN EMPOWERMENT
MILLICENT Y. CLARKE, ESQ Exceptional Woman – Exceptional Lawyer In April of 1986, Ms. Clarke began working as a Special Assistant for the INS at the United States Attorney’s Office for the Eastern District of New York, in Brooklyn, comprised of Staten Island, Brooklyn, Queens and Long Island. She was responsible for the prosecution and defense of all cases arising under the Immigration and Nationality Act, including the preparation of INS search warrants for presentation to the Federal Magistrate Judge, in that district. As such, she successfully prosecuted and defended a number of high profile cases and cases of first impression in Immigration and International law. They included, inter alia, the first effort to denaturalize and deport a Jewish Nazi collaborator, as well as the defense of Bertrand Aristide, President of Haiti, who was at the time, in exile, in the United States. She defended, over a four-year period, a complex class action federal tort claim and Bivens action involving the detention of excludable aliens. Ms. Clarke has also litigated numerous Employment Discrimination, False Claims, Social Security, Tort, Attorney Fees, Personal Injury and Forfeiture cases on behalf of the United States, and its respective agencies. In 1995, Ms. Clarke was appointed to the Immigration Bench by then U.S. Attorney General Janet Reno, a position she ultimately declined, opting to enter private practice. Ms. Clarke subsequently founded Clarke & Associates. The practice deals with the full range of immigration and consular law, including litigation in the Federal Courts.
States Court of Appeals for the Second Circuit. During 2014, her office defended and won a number of complex cases, including identifying as a United States Citizen, and compelling the release of a Jamaican national, held by ICE for 5 ½ months for imminent removal from the U.S. Ms. Clarke has spoken locally and nationally on immigration issues in a number of forums, such as, the Federal Courts Committee of the Nassau County Bar, and the National Bar Association. She has served as a panel member on the U.S. and Caribbean Issues Forum at the Congressional Black Caucus Legislative Conference in Washington, D.C., and on an Immigration panel sponsored by the Federal Bar Council. She regularly speaks to church and community groups. Additionally, Ms. Clarke was a regular speaker on Drive Time Radio, WPAT 930AM on Saturdays, where she addressed the full range of immigration issues. From January 2011 to the July 2013, Ms. Clarke served as an Adjunct Professor of Law at the Bread & Life: Immigration Clinic at St. John’s University School of Law, New York. She sits on a number of local boards and has received numerous commendations in the course of her career for her commitment to her profession and community.
Millicent Y. Clarke, Esquire, has been described as “A Brilliant and Fearless Litigator.” She has practiced Immigration Law for over 30 years. Ms. Clarke obtained a Bachelor of Arts Degree from Fordham University, and a Juris Doctor from Temple University School of Law. Upon graduation from Law School, she was selected as a United States Department of Justice Honors Graduate. As a result, her first formal legal position was with the United States Justice Department in Chicago as a General Attorney for the Immigration and Naturalization Service (INS), now known as the Department of Homeland Security. While serving in that Editor: Annette Gordon capacity, she represented the then INS, before the Immigration Court, served as a designated Naturalization Examiner, and defended the former INS in equal employment opportunity Since entering private practice, she has defended cases. a number of cases which have garnered the Ms. Clarke’s professional path subsequently led attention of the national media including The her to the United States Department of Justice, New York Times, The Washington Post, The Office of Immigration Litigation, (OIL) in Washington Times, The New York Daily News, Washington, D.C. There she authored appellate the San Jose Mercury News, and the Korean briefs and argued cases before the various United Times. She was also featured in New York States Courts of Appeals, nationwide. While Newsday’s Question and Answer Immigration at OIL, she was responsible for a number of column. In the year 2000, the Board of precedent decisions involving the development Immigration Appeals published one of her of appellate immigration law pertaining to in asylum cases, Matter of S- A-, as a precedent decision. In 2009, she won two extensively and absentia hearings. arduously fought removal cases before the United
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WOMEN EMPOWERMENT
AUDREY A. THOMAS ESQ Exceptional Woman – Exceptional Lawyer Attorney Audrey Thomas is regarded by many as a “renaissance woman,” in fairness to her, that may be an understatement as this humble but self-assured woman ratchets up success after success in her legal career; first as a prosecutor and more recently as an advocate and Criminal lawyer of repute. Renaissance woman? Yes, most assuredly, her broad interests and involvement in social inquiry, writing and publishing books makes her the consummate philosopher of her time.
•EVE’S HILLS: THE HEART AND THE VAGINA ARE ONE ORGAN
Audrey Thomas has championed the cause of “womanhood” in that she has managed to balance, life, career, motherhood, spirituality, friendship and intimacy artfully.
•52 THEMES TO SELF EMPOWERMENT
Audrey immigrated to the United States as an undocumented immigrant in 1980. Since then, she had managed to secure her United States citizenship via a Republican (President Ronald Reagan’s) amnesty program.
•MYTH OF TOI
From 1980 to now, Audrey’s accomplishments can only be described by saying “even her mistakes have been amazing.” This is because from 1980 to date, Mrs. Thomas has managed to meet every personal goal she has set for herself and more.
A passionate writer who has had several articles published in various legal periodicals, Audrey has written several winning legal briefs, has been a contributing columnist for the New York State Criminal Justice Journal case review section, and was featured on the front cover of the New York State Criminal Justice Journal in 1999.
Audrey Thomas is an Attorney who runs a general practice law firm in Queens, County. She was a Prosecutor for a number of years who served under the tutelage of Hon. Charles Joseph Hynes in the office of the Kings County DA. Mrs. Thomas is also the Editor in Chief of TEHRS. COM Magazine, the CEO of the back office service company known as The Empowerment Center LLC. Audrey sits on the Executive Board for ILoveNow, Inc. and she is author and co-author of several upcoming self-empowerment books, including “Your eyes can see my Heart,” and “White men aren’t Chumps,” which will be released shortly and eight others which will be released over the next eighteen months. •YOUR EYES CAN’T SEE MY HEART •WHITE MEN AREN’T CHUMPS: AN INTELLECTUAL DISCUSSION ON RACE RELATIONS IN AMERICA
•FAILURE TO MAN IS NOT FAILURE TO GOD VOLUMES I, II AND III •STILL I RISE THE WINSTON WHITE STORY •DOES GOD HATE HOMOSEXUALS? NO GOD CANNOT HATE
•FROM PRISION TO PRAISE - THE ANDREW COY STORY
•THE LAYPERSON’S GUY TO LEGAL REPRESENTATION
resulted in the now precedential ruling in the case of People v. Cadle.
•CORRUPTED.
People v. Cadle, sets forth the standard for suppression of evidence, in cases involving search of the person, seizure of evidence and pursuit of the individual and serves as a guide for her colleagues with reference to New York State gun cases. See, People v Cadle 2010 NY Slip Op 01810 [71 AD3d 689] March 2, 2010 Appellate Division, Second Department Published by New York State Law Reporting Bureau pursuant to Judiciary Law § 431. As corrected through Wednesday, April 28, 2010.
Mrs. Thomas is credited with contributing to the setting of the New York State Criminal standard of review for suppression of evidence in cases involving search of the person, seizure of evidence and pursuit of the individual, in that, she successfully litigated these issues before the Honorable Justice Goldberg in the Supreme Court of the State of New York Kings County. Thereafter, Audrey wrote the winning briefs that were presented to the Appellate Division Second Department and, the New York State Court of Appeals after the Kings County District Attorney’s Office appealed Justice Goldberg’s decision. The Appellate Division affirmed Justice Goldberg’s decision and the New York State Court of Appeals denied the District Attorney’s application for leave to appeal further. This resulted in an absolute victory for Mrs. Thomas’ client, Mr. Arden Cadle. Ultimately, Mrs. Thomas’ tremendous efforts
People v. Cadle is a landmark case because it affords defendants the opportunity to effectively challenge the illegal pursuit, search, and, seizure of their persons. Despite its tremendous significance, Mrs. Thomas humbly declares that prior results do not guarantee future outcomes and she merely did for Mr. Cadle, what all attorneys are required to do: represent their client’s interest zealously. Audrey’s extensive educational background began with the attainment of her G.E.D after which she catapulted to her Juris Doctor Degree, from her Masters Degree in Public Administration and Bachelor of Arts Degree in Political Science as well as an Associate Degree in Criminal Justice and a Degree in Business. She will remain unquestionably the embodiment of
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CULTURE, COMMUNITY & EDUCATION
Building a Community through Empowerment Urban Strategies Early Learn Center knows how important it is to create a culture of learning within a community. Located in East New York Brooklyn, their Delegate Agency Parent Committee held their very first Women’s Empowerment Breakfast on March 19th 2015 in honor of Women’s History Month. I had the privilege of being asked to moderate the event which was a huge success. Promptly following Black History Month, the month of March focuses on women like Sojourner Truth, Ida B Wells, and Harriet Tubman, and highlights women who paved the way to end slavery: Abolitionists such as Lucy Stone, Lucretia Mott, and Elizabeth Cady Stanton who also fought for women’s suffrage. Issues of equal voting rights and equality were at the forefront in 1911 when Women’s History Month was created. It began as a week-long celebration from March 2nd to March 8th and is now acknowledged all month long all over the world as a time to reflect on the strides women have made in history. It is also a chance to empower women to continue to make changes in the world. The breakfast was intended to do just that: share resources with women in the community and have them become “ambassadors of empowerment”. There was a panel that consisted of many different organizations. Opening remarks were made by Urban Strategies Early Learn Family Service Coordinator Pauline Jones. The panel started off with Osman Boake East New York’s Community Partnership
G’s brunch
Associate. He encouraged participants to become foster parents as well as representatives that can assist with visitation for parents and their children. He advised that ACS are no longer considered “child snatchers” as they have been so commonly viewed, and assured that they have been taking better steps to assist families and children with transitioning into foster care. Melinda Perkins, Executive Director of East New York Restoration LDC updated participants on what is happening currently in East New York. She encouraged participants to apply for open employment positions in the new Gateway Mall and to participate in community board meetings. Wanda Best-DeVeaux, President of Citizens against Recidivism Inc. spoke about “mass” or “hyper” incarceration”. According to recent statistics, Blacks and Latinos only make up about 30% of the population but are 70% of the prison population. She spoke on advising children and family members how not to become a target and ways to stop the school to prison pipeline. Nyasha Rivera, CoFounder of Sister’s Building Sisters in Brooklyn, spoke about self-love and her organization which provides empowerment opportunities to women and girls living in underserved communities. Healthy living was also a topic spearheaded by Brooklyn Born LLC’s representative Kele Nkhereanye who informed residents that they can visit East New York Farms to learn more about urban agriculture, and
When a brunch becomes lunch and dinner then it’s no longer just a brunch, it becomes a super lunch this is the most economical, good food that we have discovered in years. For the after church crowd who find it almost impossible to go home to cook a meal, or for early morning church goers who may be starving when they leave church as well as the late risers who partied all night, G’s restaurant is the best stop you could make, for not only a full-filling meal but for $19.99 you can eat to your heart’s desire. However there is more, you not only want to eat, you want food that is attractively presented, healthfully prepared and the kind of service that make you feel that your every need is being catered to.
how to obtain healthy affordable foods from the local farmer’s market. Keynote speaker Shachena Gibbs spoke about her personal story of domestic violence, and how helpful Urban Strategies was during the time she resided in their shelter. She touched on how important it is for women to have multiple streams of income and provided tips and tools on how to start a home-based business. There was a brief question and answer segment followed by a recap of events by Family Service Coordinator Ethelyn Pugh. Participants were allowed time to network and share their stories. This Women’s Empowerment Breakfast was a great way to connect residents and resources by working together for the betterment of a community. Congratulations to Urban Strategies on a successful event. By: Lila Green
favorite place for Father Audley Donaldson and his family and friends, as well as Dr. Marlene Reynolds-Cox with her family and friends. This writer has been to many brunches in Queens, Brooklyn, Long Island, Bronx, and Manhattan, so I have seen and tasted them all and this ranks as one of the very best. Thanks to Chef Stephen Spence, Brunch at G’s Restaurant is a smorgasbord of breakfast, lunch, dinner, fruits and pastries (which varies each week,) complimented with Sangria or Mimosa all tastefully prepared by Chef Stephen Spence. G’s provide a hospitable family friendly atmosphere complete with great background music. Brunch time is 11:00am to 5:00 pm. G’s is located at 139-20 243rd St. Rosedale NY. For info call: Lisa or Tiffany at: (347) 894-8577.
Another great feature of G’s Restaurant is its beautiful dining room and the strong family friendly atmosphere that is always there. It’s a By: Clive Williams 22 | PULSE OF THE CARIBBEAN PEOPLE
OUTSTANDING PERSONALITIES
PULSE OF THE CARIBBEAN PEOPLE | 23
WOMEN EMPOWERMENT
AUDREY A. THOMAS ESQ Exceptional Woman – Exceptional Lawyer “womanhood,” because she manages to attain her goals even though raising nine children, and two step-children. Audrey enjoys quality time with her three grandchildren and a host of nieces and nephews. It is no surprise that Audrey Thomas has received numerous citations and awards from several Community Organizations, for her public service, legal skills and advocacy, all - while being a devoted mother. . Audrey has been called upon to be the voice of empowerment several times over. She has been featured on the prestigious TV program, Profiles with Ian Boyne, TVJ Studios Jamaica WI; Video Alley with Suzie Q. CVM Studios Kingston Jamaica WI; CTVN1.COM TV New York, NY; TV2 Denmark News, Channel 12 News, New York; Channel 7 News New York, AMC Newspaper, New York, the Fresh Start Programme on Newstalk Radio 93 FM with Delano Seivwright
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and Sharon Hay-Webster, D’WRAP on CVM TV with Saudicka Diaram; and At Sunrise on CVM TV with Professor Verene Shepherd, Patria-Kaye Arons and Rohan Daley. When asked “How she maintains Balance?” Audrey responded “The things worth having, do not come by struggle. Success is as simple as choosing to turn and just walk in the other direction. I continue to choose not to be a slave to my choices.” Audrey’s legacy is definitely the fact that she has overcome much struggle but remembers only to love. As reggae artiste Hezron Clarke puts it, “Audrey A. Thomas, Esq. is a super lawyer, super woman, super everything!” Editor: Annette Gordon
Improving New York City & the World’s Schools— Dr. Green’s Prescriptions: Perspectives, Ideas & Remedies from Scholars and Educators in London, Guam, Jamaica, Kuwait, and Trinidad & Tobago. Dr. Rupert Green hails from NYC via Jamaica, and is uniquely positioned to address educational issues faced by the underprivileged and inner city youth. His book addresses a new set of ideologies that could solve the world’s education crisis using international case studies. . Dr. Rupert Green As a community leader pioneering the framework for Career & Technical Education, he has won the New York State Challenger Scholarship for Teachers, was voted the “Man of the Year” by the National Association of Professional Business Women, and the 113 Precinct Community Council Honoree. He is available for interviews in outlets and venues in New York, other states, and other locations. Contact (917-601-6425; educateme5@yahoo.com; website: educateme5.com) Book available at http://www.educateme5.com/book.html His book explains: • What NYC and other school chancellors or leaders, as well as parents, can do to get more Black and Latino children into specialized or Gifted and Talented schools. • How vocational education can improve schools, but is being used as a “dumping ground,” and being offered mostly to failing high school Black and Latino students instead of being introduced to middle and earlier grades students. • Reasons for school failure ( HIGHER POVERTY INDEXES *Black students entering school less prepared, * segregation, *“feminization,” * male students’ lower academic performance, *White teachers’ fear of Black students, *parents’ child rearing style, *few Black role models in school leadership, *bright Black students’ fear of acting White, *teachers’ failure to identify Black students as being gifted and talented, *too few single gender schools, *Latino and other ELL students not being properly immersed in English, *per session (overtime) scam—little Johnnies being failed by their teachers and attend after/summer school to be taught by the same teachers that failed them, INEFFECTIVE PARENT ASSOCIATION) • Reasons for school success ( socioeconomic integration—more higher performing Asian or White students, the immigrant effect, high expectations, rigorous and community supported after school programs, parents improving child rearing practice, ACTIVE PARENTIAL INVOLVEMENT AND MIDDLE CLASS VALUES) Dr. Green teaches and repairs computer (917-601-6425) PULSE OF THE CARIBBEAN PEOPLE | 25
ARTS & ENTERTAINMENT
SUPERMODEL NAOMI CAMPBELL PUTS HER ENERGY AND CELEBRITY BEHIND “FASHION FOR RELIEF” along with Bryshere and Naomi and the three embraced in a genuinely felt group hug moment. Celebrities were not only graced the runway but were in attendance too. To name only a few who stepped out to support the event was actress Vivica A. Fox, pop star Justin Bieber and America’s Next Top Model judge Miss J. Alexander. It was heartwarming to know that Naomi received fantastic support from her The 44 year old Streatham UK born supermodel designer friends and top fashion houses who looked absolutely incredible every time she donated all of her spectacular high-end couture sashayed down the catwalk decked out in a outfits for the show. number of very spectacular designer gowns. Greeted by tremendous applause Naomi stole Naomi launched Fashion For Relief a decade the show when she entered the catwalk in a blue ago in 2005 to raise funds for victims of exterior and leopard print interior tiered gown Hurricane Katrina in New Orleans; since that with a waist plunging crisscross design; the time her charity may be credited for hosting shortened hemline showed off her well-shaped fashion benefits for Hatti, Japan and other legs topped off by metallic stilettos. On her regions raising millions of dollars in much second catwalk appearance Naomi was clad in needed funds along the way. She also hosted a black and white mini-dress intricately detailed a second star-studded show benefiting Ebola in with black lace fringe and matching gloves that London reminding us all that “The Fashion For Relief Show is an incredible event and this year further highlighted her stunning beauty. we hope to raise more money than ever before.” As to be expected, Naomi invited a special Naomi who owns a home in Kenya is most group of friends and colleagues to take part in assuredly on a mission that includes raising the grand extravaganza fashion show and the public awareness and moreover, providing list of those who answered her call was endless. tangible help for survivors of the Ebola disease Actor Jeffrey Wright opened the show by giving in Liberia and Sierra Leone. the audience a brief introduction to Naomi’s charity. Also on stage were several immediately Proceeds raised during the 2015 shows will recognizable figures ranging from socialites help fight the crisis in West Africa and with the to designers, models to actors such as: Paris type of support she received over the weekend, Hilton, Rosario Dawson, Michelle Rodriguez, there is no doubt Naomi Campbell will indeed Kelly Rutherford, Daphne Joy, Tyson Beckford, reach fund raising goals for her commendable Adriana Lima, Grace Bol, Shanina Shaik, humanitarian efforts. If you would like to Winnie Harlow, NeNe Leakes, Joe Zee, Zac make a donation to assist victims of the Ebola Posen, Kelly Osbourne, Brad Goreski, Quincy crisis, Naomi’s official websites ask that you do (son of Sean “Puffy” Combs) and his girlfriend so through the organization called CARE, a R&B singer Cassie, and Bryshere Gray who nonprofit 501(c) (3) public charity. Visit them is Campbell’s love interest in the hot new TV at www.care.org or call 1-800-521-CARE series “Empire.” Mary J. Blige was the noted within the U.S. special guest of honor and she also looked stunning walking the runway wearing a low-cut By: Marjorie Flash black sequined dress; in the finale she appeared Naomi Campbell’s “Fashion For Relief ” charity fashion show was held in New York City at Lincoln Center as part of the Mercedes Benz Fashion Week presentation last month. It was a star-studded event with proceeds earmarked to help fight the effects of the Ebola crisis in Africa by providing much needed funds to the “Ebola Survival Fund.”
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CULTURE & EDUCATION
The Story of Sarah Baartman Dunlop renamed Baartman “Venus Hottentot.” Venus was the ancient Roman goddess of love and beauty. Hottentot was a derogatory name that European colonialists gave to members of the Khoisan nation which Baartman originally came from. In a severe case of irony, “Venus” received no love from the English, who marveled at her prominent posterior and large genitals. Described as a “wild animal,” Baartman was But although the highly gifted women in routinely thrown in a circus cage half-naked as today’s world of adult entertainment chose their amused onlookers paid admission fees to partake career paths under the principle of free will, we in her spiritual dismemberment. Dunlop, must remember that there was a time when who cashed-in on these cruel exhibitions, physically gifted Black women with similar laughed all the way to the bank. The English figures were forcefully brutalized, demoralized, public saw Baartman as another prime example and exploited for their sexual appeal. This was of Black inferiority. done for the express purpose of fulfilling the perverse sexual fantasies of highly privileged Baartman was later shipped to Paris, France, white men. While those so-called tabloid freaks where she caught the attention of scientist and pornstars may be cashing-in on the despair Georges Cuvier. According to Cuvier, Baartman’s of lonely hearts and lustful eyes, the women I “moves had something that reminded one of am referring to were defenseless victims caught the monkey, and her external genitalia recalled between the blood-stained teeth of a ravenous those of the orangutan.” After the Parisians beast called white supremacy. One woman who got tired of seeing Baartman—who had no falls into this category is the famous Venus way of returning to her South African home thousands of miles away— she was forced to a Hottentot, better known as Sarah Baartman. life of prostitution. Forced to adjust to a hostile Baartman was born in Cape Town, South culture and an unfavorable new environment, Africa in 1789. At the time her country was a Baartman’s life was a virtual nightmare. Ravaged colony of Dutch settlers known as ‘Afrikaans’ or by the venereal rewards of her trade, Baartman ‘Boers’. One day while Baartman was working died of syphilis in 1815. She was just 25-yearsas a slave on a farm on the Western Cape she old. was approached by an English surgeon by the name of Alexander Dunlop. Dunlop, who was Within hours of Baartman’s death, French visiting South Africa on business, took special authorities granted Cuvier permission to dissect interest in the South African woman. So much her body. He removed her buttocks, breasts, so, that he wanted her to accompany him on his and brain, which were placed in bottles and put on display at the Musee de L’Homme in Paris. trip back to London. By the demand of former South African After Governor Earl of Caledon granted Dunlop presidents Thabu Mbeki and Nelson Mandela, permission to take Baartman, 21, she left with who is himself a member of the Khoisan, him for London in 1810. Baartman probably Baartman’s remains were finally returned home thought that she had escaped the endless in January, 2002. torment of enslavement. Instead, she came to know a more sinister form of exploitation. In a grand ceremony that was highly publicized When Baartman reached London Dunlop by the international media, Baartman was threw her into the Piccadilly Circus where she buried in her homeland in August of that year. was paraded through England as a sexual freak While reflecting on the vile treatment that Baartman was subjected to in 19th century of nature. Europe, President Mbeki said in a BBC News I consider myself a connoisseur of fine art and there are millions of men—young and old, crippled and able, free and bond—who have dedicated themselves to the rigorous study of fine art, which in this case, is the Black woman’s body. Were it not a shining example of aesthetic excellence, then Black female sexuality would not be commoditized to the extent that it has.
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article: “It was not the lonely African woman in Europe, alienated from her identity and her motherland who was the barbarian, but those who treated her with barbaric brutality.” Although white men treated Baartman like the “wild animal” that God never intended for her to be, white females have long envied the dynamic physical proportions of the Black woman. As a matter of fact, the high-heel shoe (especially the stiletto) and the bustle (Victorian Era) were created to give the illusion that they had bumpers that were plumper than they actually were. Even today, several white women are finding ways to defy nature’s will. Some are running to the operating table, while others are buying designer jeans with a “special” cut that play optical illusions on the eyes of unsuspecting men. However, most prefer to practice special exercises to get that nice, full look. In the July 2003 edition of Self, a health and
continues on pg 30
Mark
James PULSE OF THE CARIBBEAN PEOPLE | 29
CULTURE & EDUCATION continues from pg 28 fitness magazine geared towards white women, there is an article titled “Get the butt you want.” On the left-hand side of the two-page spread that introduces the article is a photo of a dark chocolate honey with a ripe Nubian onion that would bring tears to the eyes of the most hardened thug. The picture is focused almost exclusively on her rump, which is about as tight as a million bucks stuffed into a tiny rubber-band. When you flip to the next page, there is another two-page spread featuring yet another black woman teaching special exercise techniques. These exercises are supposed to bless white women with Bria Myles-like backsides. “Use the moves and the companion bestchoices cardio guide for four to six weeks, and we guarantee you’ll be flaunting your bodacious booty or at least loving it a little bit more,” reads the article.f
world never had. She has the power to mold her self-image and control how she is presented to the world. No man, whether he is Black, white, yellow or brown, can portray a Black Woman as a sexual freak of nature unless she willingly grants him permission to do so. This is something that Although the natural allure of Black women every Black Woman should remember. Not for continues to be bottled and sold through hip-hop Sarah Baartman’s sake, but for her own. and adult entertainment, today’s Black woman has something that the Sarah Baartman’s of the By: Adika Butler by the larger society they get new names and labels that are designed to separate them from anything African. The ad drives home its point with the appropriate image while concealing envy through an inappropriate label.
I saw a plastic surgery advertisement on the train for a “Brazilian Butt Lift” which is really an African Butt Lift since the women in the northern parts of Brazil get their bottoms from their African foremothers. It’s interesting how when African features or styles are embraced
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Orders taken for all occasions 30 | PULSE OF THE CARIBBEAN PEOPLE
• Juice Bar
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RELATIONSHIPS
7 Keys to a Healthy Relationship by MELySMAX Together they are MELySMAX and they “stand for everything right in love.” Hailing from the lovely island of Hispaniola, Dominican-born digital artist Melimel and Haitian-born musician Smax are on a mission to spread that love and joy with the world. Mel hosted her third annual Women’s Empowerment event on March 7, 2015. Past speakers and sponsors of the event include Jay Blessed and Baked by Melissa. Smax shares his music regularly at Drom NYC in hopes of getting his audience members to “enjoy life.” They have been happily married for 10 years and it’s safe to say they know a thing or two about maintaining a healthy relationship. Here are their top 7 tips for doing just that: Respect - Couples cannot function or move forward in a positive direction where respect is lacking. It is okay and normal for couples to disagree and not see eye to eye all the time, but it is not okay to demean, attack or belittle your partner. Remember we are all sensitive at varying degrees and in the heat of the moment, the awareness to keep cool diminishes. But putting love first in a sticky situation every time is a surefire way to maintain respect in a relationship. Honesty - A relationship based on lies will crash and burn quickly. Honesty is what threads love, trust, respect, communication, and loyalty together. Without honesty, these equally important parts to a relationship will start to rip at the seams. Couples need to trust what their significant other says and does. Credibility as a supportive, loving and honest partner is essential to a healthy relationship.
an unhealthy, dead-end relationship. In most cases, a relationship lacking loyalty will soon lack trust as well, and at this point will be very difficult to successfully salvage. Trust - Trust between couples is a must. When two people trust each other, working towards a bright future together is very promising. It gives the relationship security and assurance that both partners are committed to making the relationship work. Love - All you need is love is not quite right. While love is what brings two people together and the active ingredient in a relationship, if the other elements in a relationship are suffering, love may not be enough to keep it running. By working on all the elements simultaneously, love will naturally continue to fuel the health of the relationship to everlasting love. Compromise - Learning to “agree to disagree” is easier said than done, but it is very important to compromise in a relationship. Sometimes your partner’s feelings on a particular issue will be stronger than yours or vice versa. Working together to come to a mutual understanding and solution should be the goal in this situation, and if the previous six elements to a relationship are in good standing, compromising will be easier to do. Find out more about this dynamic duo, their work and their events at melysmax.com! By Danique Robinson
Communication - Communication is successful when the message is sent, received and understood. Many times disagreements take place because messages are sent and received back and forth, but not necessarily fully understood. As dreadful and tiring as repetition and constant reminders can be, it is important to always work towards improving communication and ensuring couples are on the same page by checking for understanding. Loyalty - Keeping a relationship in excellent shape and condition requires fidelity. Cheating, downplaying the relationship, or not putting each other first in most circumstances is a surefire way to
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Presents...
The Pulse of the Caribbean People
The Delaware Valley Voice
32 | PULSE OF THE CARIBBEAN PEOPLE
WOMEN / BUSINESS
women’s Empowerment forum of owning and operating her own business. Mitchell is the CEO and founder of True Indian Hair, a widely popular business in the hair market across the United States. With three stores located in New York, she was able to create her own niche in the virgin hair market at a time when few persons were just waking up to the idea that providing virgin hair would become a booming business venture.
Karen Mitchell The women of the Caribbean Culture Commission based in Philadelphia will host a Women’s Empowerment Forum on May 2015 at the True United Church, Old York Road. The forum will feature guest speaker Karen Mitchell an entrepreneur with over a decade of experience
No stranger to different business ventures Mitchell tried her hand at establishing a magazine/ newsletter company in New York, however when that was not successful she tried her hands at something else. Describing herself as a ‘go-getter’ who self-motivates she did not give up when another business venture was not a success but instead stuck to her convictions that she could and would make something of herself and her intended business. Originally from Jamaica she noted she was not from a wealthy background, however through sheer determination and hard work she fought to
become a success at whatever she put her hands to. Today True India Hair is the premier place for hair for both celebrities and other persons, she has been featured on television and top magazines across the U.S. She sees it as a great honor to be invited to speak with other females about her business ventures and the work and sacrifices she has had to put in over the years to make it successful. She believes anyone can succeed at whatever they wish as long as they are determined. “Never let someone kill your dreams, I was on the verge of bankruptcy at one point, however I was adamant to make my dreams become reality. I had two failed businesses but I never gave up.” She said. Mitchell believes that by telling her story to others they too will become empowered and will use her experiences and advice to motivate themselves into even going into businesses of their own. The Women’s Empowerment Forum begins at 5 PM on May 3, 2015 and females are invited to come out and be a part of the movement and hear Karen Mitchell’s story.
Whereitzat in Philly For more information on whereitzat contact Andre Porter at 267-368-8026 Email: andrep1977@yahoo.com
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ARTS & ENTERTAINMENT
A Look at Philly’s “Hottest” Selector Zan Kartel A selector or DJ in dancehall or reggae circles plays a pivotal role and are sometimes considered the most powerful and recognized figures on a sound system dependent on the event. No matter what event you go to that features a live sound system you will always find a DJ ‘rocking the mic’ and pumping up the crowd. Twenty nine year old Zan Kartel, real name Zanu Beadle is one of the top sound selectors in Philadelphia. On any given night you can catch him doing duties at, at least three different events. The modest sound selector/DJ who hails from Portmore, St Catherine in Jamaica entered the music business seventeen (17) years ago at the tender age of twelve (12). Since then he has honed his craft into becoming the top of his game. Zan Kartel reminisces that some of his fondest memories as a youngster were being placed on blocks or crates at dance sessions in Jamaica in order to play music. He also stated that he started playing music on vinyl as computers were not very popular back then. He cited Carlos Bailey (now deceased) as the main person who encouraged him
to pursue a career as a sound selector. Popular sound system Black Stallion out of Jamaica which was owned by his best friend’s father was the very first sound system he had the opportunity to play on when he lived in Jamaica. Music was however not the career choice his parents had for him and when the opportunity came for him to migrate from his native Jamaica he actually decided to focus on becoming a soccer player. That however was not his ultimate dream and he soon went back to playing music which he considers is his calling. The popular DJ despite his great reputation as a top sound system selector remains humble and stated, “I am not one to blow my own horn you will have to ask my friends what they think of me as a selector.” He had some word of encouragement for upcoming sound selectors: “Keep your head up and have a passion for music, listen to all genres and know how to bring it across, also research different types of music and stay focused.”
When next you enter a party in Philadelphia don’t be surprised if Zan Kartel is the person you find on the “wheels of steel.”
THE CARIBBEAN COLLECTIVE: BUILDING ALLIANCES AND ENCOURAGING COLLABORATIVE ENDEAVOURS Our Caribbean community is still such an undiscovered gem in Philadelphia, that we have yet to fully uncover the power we have as a collective. There have been many conversations and discussions about the lack of representation and active roles in fostering more cooperation among our Caribbean residents, many of whom are local entrepreneurs, but not much has taken place to change the status quo. Growing up in St. Lucia I became quite aware of the innate abilities of our Caribbean brothers and sisters to demonstrate a natural entrepreneurial spirit and drive, but I subsequently learned that we lag behind in building alliances and collaborating effectively to create wealth and institutions. We can grow individually and collectively if we take heed and explore the many opportunities right here among us. What will it take to start this conversation that may trigger a dynamic shifting in the way we 34 | PULSE OF THE CARIBBEAN PEOPLE
choose to conduct business? It means eradicating those self-imposed boundaries among our individual groups. I have seen such a wonderful collaboration of ideas and tangible achievement and growth when I dared to trust and take a chance to connect with organizations such as Zandoli International Foundation and Women Entrepreneurs of America. These national and international organizations understand the importance of networking and building effective alliances while growing their target markets and resources. I experience that growth equally by being a part of a cohesive effort. Growth and change will occur if we trust and take risks that will open up other avenues that benefit us socially and economically. The antiquated mindset must be abandoned so that our Caribbean community can take its rightful place as respected, creative and enterprising citizens.
Do I believe there is hope for change and a better mutual understanding among the Caribbean community here in PA? Of course I do! Change starts from within and once it is understood supporting elements that encourage this new trajectory of growth will most definitely follow. When I look around, I see such pride and passion in our community, but I am also cognizant that we can be so much better. Lets take the time to learn the importance of building alliances and collaborative efforts with each other and other individuals and organizations that are in alignment with our vision. There is a momentum shift in the air as more resources are being placed at our disposal – a new community organization, the Caribbean Culture Commission and a News magazine, providing a platform for us to stand up and be heard loud and clear. By Angel Regis-Felix
COMMUNITY, CULTURE & EDUCATION
Empowering - Ourselves and our Community the issue of education, entrepreneurship, abuse and self image. We need to reshape how we view ourselves personally and professionally, because it translates into how we behave. As women, we should know, we do not need permission to take the lead when it comes to making decisions With this in mind, we will be, on behalf of The that affect us, as well as our families. Note this Caribbean Culture Commission, our founder will not be male bashing session, we are getting and CEO Andre` M. Porter and President together to build one another as well as our Bishop Shawn D. Bartley, holding a Women’s families and communities. Empowerment Forum where woman can get together to have a discussion about issues that Understanding our past is one of the ways we directly and directly and indirectly affects us. can build and move forward in the future. Our It will be held on May 3, 2015 at True United ancestors worked hard and sacrificed much in Church, 6201 Old York Rd. at 5:00 PM sharp. order for us to enjoy a lot of the liberties that Nadine Midgley will serve as moderator assisted so many of us take for granted today. It is my by our Vice President Denise Samuel and Angel hope that by having this forum and opening the dialogue we can join with other organizations Regis. in other states and eventually the world, to We have invited about 50 women to the create change in ourselves that will be a positive discussion. Some topics that are on the table are influence on some of the young women of today. Empowerment - this word means a lot to all of us. Whether we are male, female, young or old we all have a relationship with this word. It’s often used to uplift and inspire, motivate and create change.
We have to start somewhere. I grew up in a time when, if you were doing something inappropriate, any elder in the community was at liberty to discipline you; now we live in a time when children feel it’s ok to curse you or put bleach in your food in an attempt to kill or cause grave harm to you when you scold or punish them on their behavior. They don’t realize that all we are doing, is preparing them for the world which has no mercy, where we are judged by the color of our skin and in some cases by the content of our character. By: Laverne Andries
Black & Nobel Teams Up With Sea Moss Gold and is used by many persons in the Caribbean community,” Obi said. community. The Golden Sea Moss unlike most other sea moss may be had raw as opposed to the She decided to partner with Hakim of Black and Nobel as she saw it as a way to get her products others which have to be boiled. to move even faster the market. Plans are now It is very clean and contains natural sea salts, is in place to venture into the Caribbean market highly alkaline and has numerous properties that with the Gold Sea Moss products the company are beneficial to one’s overall health. The products is planning to do by - products from the moss are imported from St. Lucia and Belize and may in order to produce, baby foods and toothpaste be used to make a drink combined with fruits to name a few.. Omi Obi also said she will be juices or may be had in the dry form. visiting Jamaica in summer 2015 with Black & Nobel to further broaden their market there. You may purchase the Sea Moss Gold online or at the Black and Nobel store in Philadelphia. The By Tracey Spence product which has been used for many years has been described as an amazing product which may even be used by women who are breast feeding because of its highly nutritional contents. Omi Obi said she started selling the products thirty years ago after being introduced to it by a doctor.
The CEO and founder of the Philadelphia based Black and Nobel Hakim Hopkins has partnered with Omi Obi of Sea Moss Gold to distribute the very healthy and nutritious Sea Moss Gold products in Philadelphia. Sea moss also known as Irish moss has the ability to rebuild and “We are taking it and experiencing what it does regenerate most of the cells in the human body to the body, as well as introducing it to the
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WOMEN EMPOWERMENT
The Womens Wisdom House: Taking A Stand For Homeless Female Veterans We live in a world in which there is an over- saturation of “causes” and yet, not enough organizations to represent those who cannot represent themselves; so, in midst we will always have a large percentage of needs that are not being adequately met and many deserving people go underserved. One such group has been homeless female veterans. However in the city of Harrisburg, Pennsylvania a special someone has made sure that this group gets the attention it deserves; Ms. Jolanda Woods created and founded the Women’s Wisdom House a 501 (c) (3) non-profit organization to serve and provide a voice for homeless female veterans as well as offering a safe haven and much needed empowerment programs to uplift and enrich their lives. One of the key missions is to facilitate their transition so that they can reintegrate into society more confident better equipped, as they journey to the next phase of their lives. The organization provides transitional housing with carefully curated programs that cater to the total well-being of each female veteran, ensuring that they can expand the limits of their potential in their respective communities. Ms. Woods’ inspiration to create this much needed organization with programs that meet specific needs’ for these female veterans stemmed from her own personal experience of having an older sister who served her country but now suffers from a form of PTSD. The mission of The Women’s Wisdom House is a miraculous one, and is an inspiring example of the power of ONE – ONE person taking the initiative to address a problem of crisis proportions, “ the very existence of women who are now homeless after bravely serving their country.” Many are shocked and in disbelief that this particular issue of “homeless female veterans” exists, but organizations such as The Women’s Wisdom House is a clear example of the truth of this matter and that we need to do all we can to support these initiatives and programs in an effort to raise awareness about the plight of our, moms, sisters, daughters, wives, aunts and nieces who( are), or could one day become a homeless female veteran. The vision of The Women’s Wisdom House is to bring about awareness and eventual change on all societal levels, as it relates to issues pertaining to homeless female veterans. For more information about The Women’s Wisdom House please contact: Website: www.wisdomhouse2013. org; Email: www.wisdomhouse2013@gmail.com; Mailing address: 334 Brook St, Harrisburg PA 17104. Office: 717-234-3526; Fax: 717-236-2108. Please help to support The Women’s Wisdom House through donations or volunteering. By Angel Regis-Felix
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PUZZLES et cetera Word Search
Rum Reggae Ackee Marley Babylon Raggamuffin Zion
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Kingston Coffee Reespek Quattie Negril Portmore
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• None of today’s major crops of Jamaica (Sugar Cane, Mangos, Bananas, Breadfruit, Coconut Palms) are native, they all were imported at varying time of island history
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• an Fleming writer, creator of James Bond character chose to build Goldeneye his dream home in Jamaica, where he wrote ten of his spy thrillers.
• Queen Elizabeth II still remains the Queen of Jamaica, by tradition only. Along with Canada, Jamaica remain a member of the British Commonwealth. •
Jamaica is one of only two countries in the world that
has no colors in common with the ag of the United States of America. Mauritania in Africa is the other one.
Puzzle made by: PK PULSE OF THE CARIBBEAN PEOPLE | 37
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B.I.G Awards Gala 2015 The premier event for the recognition and celebration of business leadership, community service and outstanding achievement, invites you to its Gala Awards Ceremony and Presentation
“Promoting Entrepreneurship and Small Business Development”
Adria Hotel, 221-17 Northern Blvd, Bayside, Queens, NY 11361
Saturday, June 13th, 2015 8pm-1am Tickets (all inclusive): $75/person
Dress: Strictly Formal – no exceptions For more information, Contact: Dr. Clive Williams: 917-749-7613
bigawards@gowhereitzat.com
“Think Big, Achieve Big – and realize Big Rewards”
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