CAPITOL from Page 1 ing how they struggled to defend the Capitol and members of Congress. With new video footage of the riot played during the hearing, the officers detailed the violence they endured as Trump supporters stormed the building. “At no point that day did I ever think about the politics of that crowd; even the things that were being said did not resonate in the midst of that chaos,” D.C. Metropolitan Police Officer Michael Fanone told the congressional panel. “But what did resonate was the fact that thousands of Americans were attacking police officers who
were simply doing their job,” Fanone asserted. He added his belief that government officials incited the riot. “In retrospect now, thinking about those events, the things that were said, it’s disgraceful members of our government, I believe, were responsible for inciting that behavior and then continue to propagate those statements, things like this was the 1776, or that police officers who fought, risked their lives, some who gave theirs, wore red coats,” Fanone stated. “To me, those individuals are representative of the worst that America has to offer,” he said. Daniel Hodges, another D.C. police officer, used the law to ex-
plain why he refers to the rioters as terrorists. “U.S. Code title 18 part 1 chapter 1.1.3, B as in brown, section 2.3.3.1,” Hodges explained. “The term domestic terrorism means activities that involve acts dangerous to human life that are a violation of the criminal laws of the United States or of any state and B, appeared to be intended to intimidate or coerce a civilian population, or to influence the policy of a government by intimidation or coercion or to affect the conduct of a government by mass destruction, assassination or kidnapping and occur primarily within the territorial jurisdiction of the United States,” he said. Dunn, an African American, told the panel that the rioters used racial slurs when they approached him. He added that he’d encountered belligerent individuals before but none like the Trump supporters who stormed the Capitol. “The only difference that I see . . . they had marching orders,” Dunn remarked. He noted that one of the most frightening moments he faced
during the riot – and today – remains the suspects who believe they had a right to carry out the attack. “When people feel emboldened by people in power, they assume they are right,” Dunn continued. “And that makes for a scary recipe for the future of this country. I think that’s why it is important that you all take this committee seriously and get to the bottom of why this happened and let’s make it never happen again.” While no additional hearings have been scheduled, U.S. Rep. Bennie Thompson (D-Miss.), the committee’s chair, reported that others could take place in August. “We now have a body of testimony that we will review. We are in the process of putting that together,” Thompson said. “I put some members on notice that they won’t enjoy the entire August recess but we will give them time to work in their districts. Then, conceivably, we could come back before the end of August,” he said. WI @StacyBrownMedia
BROADWAY from Page 34 Broadway,” declared Gandy, who also worked in the music industry with legends like B.B. King, Patti LaBelle and The Jackson 5. Gandy also served as a producer on “Lady Day,” and “Porgy & Bess,” the latter earning the 2012 Tony Award for Best Revival of a Musical. “Broadway is green,” Gandy said. “Now we have 10 Black shows coming including “Pass Over,” “Lackawanna Blues,” “Chicken’ N Biscuits” and we have “MJ the Musical.” Come out and see them,” she said. WI @StacyBrownMedia
Gandy also served as a producer on “Lady Day,” and “Porgy & Bess,” the latter earning the 2012 Tony Award for Best Revival of a Musical.
HONORS from Page 34 that is both mirror and muse for life in America; an artistic tour de force and America’s Divine Miss M, Bette Midler has enjoyed an unrivaled and prolific career, entertaining millions with her wondrous voice and trademark comedic wit; and songstress Joni Mitchell, blends raw, deeply personal lyrics with her stunningly ethereal voice in 19 albums, becoming one of the most influential singer-songwriters and cultural figures in 20th-century popular music.” The honors recipients are recognized for their contributions to American culture through the performing arts— in music, dance, theater, opera, motion pictures, or television—and are confirmed by the executive committee of the Center’s Board of Trustees. Throughout its 43-year history, the primary criterion in the selection process is excellence, according to Kennedy Center officials. Berry Gordy, 91, said in a statement that he’s thrilled to become a part of this prestigious American legacy. “The arts not only give voice to the voiceless, but connect us, transform us, and soothe our souls,” said Gordy.
38 JULY 29 - AUGUST 4, 2021
5 Berry Gordy. (Courtesy photo)
“Growing up in Detroit, I was not only Black but the “black sheep” of my family. I was a failure at everything I did until I was 29 years old, while my younger brother Robert was not only a family favorite, but strangely, a favorite of mine as well. He inspired me with his loyalty, love, and graciousness.”
“Throughout the years I’ve been blessed with many wonderful memories, but this—the Kennedy Center Honors—is one that will be forever in my heart.” The Kennedy Center Honors will be recorded live on Dec. 5 and broadcasted on television at a later date. WI
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