A HOOD TALKS HISTORY

'Women On 20's' Wants American Female Hero to Replace Andrew Jackson on Currency

2015-03-05T14:47:00.001-05:00

Sojourner Truth

The organization 'Women On 20's, is pushing for a female hero to replace the 7th American President Andrew Jackson, on the twenty dollar bill.

When first hearing about this, the feminist nature in me perked up and my insides began doing a celebratory dance. Now, of course I would be celebrating to soon as the change has yet to take place, but the very thought of it widens my eyes and makes me smile from ear to ear.

Seriously! Can you imagine a W-O-M-A-N being on our American currency?! How exciting! I'm mad at myself for never fathoming the possibility, but I feel this is a discussion that needs to be had.

Alice Paul

If YOU believe we should honor one of our historic American female hero's, click here to vote on three potential candidates and make sure to share the site with your friends. If you're not aware of who the women are, you can read up on their historical contributions here; the information should inspire and motivate you to be down for the cause.

#WomenOn20s #LetsVote

2015 LA

New Jim Crow Lynchings Found In Updated Report

2015-02-10T19:14:00.002-05:00

Above, a mass of white Texans watch as a black man named Henry Smith is hanged. Smith was accused of killing a white girl named Myrtle Vance.

In a report published Tuesday, the Montgomery, Alabama based nonprofit Equal Justice Initiative (EJI) spent five years researching newspaper articles, historical archives, and court records on the lynching of African Americans in the Jim Crow-era South.

The new report found that white mobs murdered a total of 3,959 black persons in 12 southern states between 1877 and 1950, which is a shocking 700 more than previously reported.

A push for the construction of war memorial-style effigies in the communities where these race crimes were committed, are the next steps in finding closure to such horrific acts which EJI Director Bryan Stevenson, admits that building such memorials will most surely be met with aggressive resistance in the South, where many still hang their Confederate flags high and proud.

"We want to change the visual landscape of this country so that when people move through these communities and live in these communities, that they’re mindful of this history," Stevenson told The Guardian. "We don’t think you should be able to come to these places without facing their histories."

Revealed in the report are the Southern counties where lynchings happened the most; Florida was where the rate of lynchings was the highest, but Georgia had the most overall lynchings at 586. Constant attacks such as these is what eventually led many African Americans on a great migration to the North -- seeking a more tolerant society and a better way of life.

On a side note: This is reminiscent to modern-day lynchings of black males and females, by the hands of corrupt police officers and civilians.

Worst Southern States And Counties For Lynchings, 1877-1950

By state:
1. Georgia - 586
2. Mississippi - 576
3. Louisiana - 540
4. Arkansas - 503
5. Florida - 331
6. Texas - 376
7. Alabama - 326
8. Tennessee - 225
9. South Carolina - 164
10. Kentucky - 154
11. North Carolina - 102
12. Virginia - 76

By county:
1. Phillips, Arkansas - 243
2. Caddo, Louisiana - 54
3. Lafourche, Louisiana - 50
4. Tensas, Louisiana - 40
5. Ouachita, Louisiana - 35
6. Orange, Florida - 34
7. Bossier, Louisiana - 32
8. Marion, Florida - 30
9. Jefferson, Alabama - 29
10. Dallas, Alabama - 25
11. Early, Georgia - 24
12. Iberia, Louisiana - 23

Lynching rates by State, 1880-1940
Florida - 0.594
Mississippi - 0.556
Arkansas - 0.545
Louisiana - 0.475
Georgia - 0.378
Alabama - 0.256
South Carolina - 0.180
Tennessee - 0.165
Texas - 0.154
Kentucky - 0.111
Virginia - 0.072
North Carolina - 0.068
(Lynching rate calculated per 100,000 residents)

2015 LA

SELMA - Movie Review

2015-01-14T22:17:00.003-05:00

'Selma' described in one word, epic.

One could feel that this film was passionately put together by its director Ava DuVernay, who did an amazing job at shocking the nerves of moviegoers from the very beginning with the tragic Birmingham, Alabama, bombing where four little girls were killed while attending church services. The scene was an immediate eye-popper that naturally drew you into what came next.

What came next was countless calls from MLK (played by actor David Oyelowo), to LBJ (played by actor Tom Wilkinson) and vice versa, setting the plot of the story that was based around Blacks being able to register to vote without hesitation, discrimination, and human body violation.

I watched Dr. King, and his group leaders use pristine strategy in structuring their organization of followers to join the fight for equality and justice for all. It reminded me of our nation's current plight of black victimization by the hands of white law enforcement, and how the masses continue to protest everyday as a means of bringing awareness to this issue that'll hopefully mold into a resolution.

In the movie there were those that didn't understand why MLK's non-violent strategy could work, and why anyone would put their livelihood on the line to meet death. But MLK had an "if you don't stand for something then you'll fall for anything" kind of approach, to the matter of segregation and rampant racism.

The act of slavery that proliferated within America, wasn't right and was brought on by ignorance and fierce hatred which kept minorities oppressed and in bondage for centuries.

Just in knowing this fact is enough to understand why MLK, and others fought vociferously against those doing the oppressing, without their efforts many minorities would've been subjugated back to the hellish slavery chains of inequality -- therefore, not enjoying the equal rights that we enjoy today and are currently fighting fiercely to keep.

The film showcased White's that didn't take kindly to King, telling the truth about who the oppressors were while shining light on their racist strategy; they felt he was stirring the pot by pitting one race against the other.

But MLK didn't start the war between the races as that war had long begun when the Pilgrims happened upon the Americas, where the Indigenous people already had claim. This race war has been a constant battle in our nation's history due to those who believe that one race is superior over another.

The movie came to a close as Martin Luther King Jr., gave a chilling speech in front of the Alabama Capitol building where Governor "Segregation now, segregation tomorrow, segregation forever" Warren, ruled at that time.

Dr. King led a crowd of thousands as he spoke his controversial conscious words, to the people and too Governor Warren -- giving light to the vicious cycle that continues to repeat itself throughout history; white privilege.

MLK educated those listening in front of the Capitol that day, that he firmly comprehended the strategy of how wealthy white men keep poor white men on their side through an appeasement process; the notion that even if one is without riches favorability is guaranteed over other races, due to one's non-existent melanin.

Today in the 21st century, white privilege continues to pervade the United States of America -- not in all places, but in many high places.

What do I mean? If you are a person of color that happens to be employed by a company, one day take the time to look around you. Familiarize yourself with the faces of the people that run the company starting with the CEO, and slowly work yourself down the chain of command; did you notice any Black leaders?

Certain Republicans in Congress, like to use the phrase that minorities simply lack the "skill-set" needed to obtain high paying salaried positions, but this is simply an assumption used to dismiss the lack of diversity within leadership roles.

If a person wasn't aware of this carefully crafted game they'd constantly think that their immaculate skills and education simply wasn't good enough, not comprehending that their skin color diluted their chances from the very beginning. And all that's left is hope of a crack in the foundation, accidentally overlooked by the oppressor so that one can attempt to slip through uninterrupted and unnoticed; institutionalized racism is slavery in the 21st century.

If you haven't viewed this amazing piece of work that is 'Selma', it'd be worth your while to do so; the comparison of back then verses now is mind-blowing. The past is the present -- take a closer look.

2015 LA

Show Me The Mo'ne!

2014-08-19T15:03:00.003-04:00

Mo'ne Davis, a 13 year old baseball playing, 70 mph right-arm throwing -- Philadelphia native, is the first female in Little League World Series history to throw a shutout with only two hits, while striking out eight batters and walking none against Tennessee.

And although the little leaguer has already made a name for herself and garnered world wide press along the way, she remains humble in knowing who she is but most importantly -- what equality should like look as she stated, "it does mean a lot to be the first American girl, but more girls should start joining boys' teams," Davis told the Philadelphia Daily News.

"The attention should not just be on one girl; more girls should join boys' teams so it is a tradition and it won't be so special."

There you have it; beauty, brains, brawn, and a stellar bright star for all little girls who love sports and wish to participate.

Mo'ne's future goals require being the first female in MLB, or playing basketball in the WNBA -- although baseball is her priority.

Her team plays against Las Vegas, 2-0, on Wednesday night.

2014 LA

First Woman NBA Assistant Coach Makes history

2014-08-12T19:37:00.001-04:00

Becky Hammon, a point guard for the San Antonio Stars was recently chosen by coach Gregg Popovich, to stand beside him while offering up her basketball expertise as a means of accelerating the advancement of the 2014 basketball champions -- the San Antonio Spurs.

This is not only a historical moment in the NBA, but an empowering example for so many females who may have dreamed of one day being able to coach within the NBA.

I've always had an issue with men being able to coach women in the WNBA, but wouldn't allow the same equality for women to coach in the NBA. To me I saw no difference -- only in gender, but talent speaks for itself.

Maybe it's the feminist in me but I always felt that women should've been able to coach men in the NBA, and I constantly made my argument during friendly debates.

So now to see it actually happen is simply elating, although I'm still pushing for a woman to become an NBA head coach one day.

#ICanDream

2014 LA

Michelle Howard Makes 'Four Star' American History

2014-07-07T18:41:00.001-04:00

Adm. Michelle Howard, flanked by Navy Secretary Ray Mabus, left, and her husband Wayne Cowles, accepts her new rank during a ceremony at Arlington National Cemetery. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class Armando Gonzales)

Have you ever seen the movie Captain Phillips starring legendary actor, Tom Hanks?

In this particular film a group of Somali Pirates surrounded and invaded a US Cargo ship, while taking the captain (played by Hanks) hostage.

Well, what you probably didn't know is that a woman by the name of Michelle Howard, was behind the rescue of that captain. She not only was the brains behind the entire rescue operation serving as a female naval officer, but has recently been appointed as the US Navy's vice chief -- making her the first woman and first black person to reach the rank of four star admiral ever in the history of the United States!

How's that for female power?!

Kudos to Ms. Howard for standing strong in the face of adversity and for furthering the cause and mission, that women most definitely deserve a seat at the table. Thank you Ms. Howard, for your heroic work and sacrifice to our great nation; females everywhere young and old should be inspired and very proud.

2014 LA

PBS Freedom Summer Documentary

2014-06-30T20:09:00.001-04:00

After watching the PBS documentary of Freedom Summer 1964, I gained more clarity and much more compassion for the white race.

Taking into account mine and others' discriminatory experiences it almost always felt like a constant fight between "us" verses "them", but taking in those two hours of historical revelations I realized that it wasn't just black people being oppressed -- it was also white people.

Not just the white people that came down to Mississippi to volunteer for Freedom Summer, but the white people who fought viciously against both the black and white Freedom Fighters. You see, those white people that displayed such hatred in their eyes and such disdain for the black race prevailing, they were following their races' ideology because they thought it was the right thing to do. Even if deep down they felt a twinge of compassion for the black race there was no room for tolerance, as they knew their people well and the violent streak that would ensue should they decide to "change" direction. With regards to the misinformed, the saying of "They know not what they do" makes even more sense.

Although white people in Mississippi had it better than black people livelihood wise, they were still oppressed because their entire way of life was dictated to them; women were to look and behave a certain way, children as well and there was no room for anything different. Everything had to remain the same with white men having all the money and power, because this was the true way of America. The only people that were truly free in this great nation were the white men that ran it, period.

Moreover, it took for white and black people to come together in order to initiate magnetic change, one race couldn't do it without the other race -- hence, the reason President Obama was elected twice.

We will always need each other and we'll always be stronger for it, but it's imperative to stay united against the fear mongering and hateful rhetoric -- for this is what's used as the great divider amongst the races. Now in the 21st century, it should no longer be a fight between black and white but a fight between good verses evil or truth verses lies. For people aren't bad or evil unless it is taught to them -- therefore, color becomes completely irrelevant and the hostile feelings is what remains at the forefront.

Hostility is what the Freedom Fighters were met with until it brought about miraculous change within The White House, where President Johnson won a second term and was compelled to stand up for what was right by writing into law the Voting Rights Act of 1965 (which key parts of the VRA was struck down just last year by the SCOTUS).

Lyndon B. Johnson had a tremendous weight on his shoulders, not wanting to stir up a second civil war among the races -- especially since Freedom Summer was deemed to be the most violent acts of domestic terrorism since Reconstruction. But the integrated Mississippi Freedom Democratic Party couldn't be ignored, no more than its electrifying leader, Fannie Lou Hamer.

Freedom Summer brought about sacrifices -- those who were willing to give their lives in order for democracy to prevail, but the deaths and injuries of both black and white people wouldn't be in vain as true change most certainly came the following year with the VRA.

Change is hard yes, but change is also inevitable in which it most surely promises the progressiveness and betterment of future generations. How fitting that our first black president is literally "two sides of the same coin"; black and white, the two races which have been in constant feud for centuries.

One thing is for sure, as long as we stay privy to mainstream politics by engaging the electorate with our voices and votes, hope will never be to far behind.

We shall overcome, we will overcome and we must continue to overcome -- or die. Americans, in this upcoming November election let your conscience be your guide, just like Mississippians did in this past primary.

2014 LA

Freedom Summer 1964 Remembered

2014-06-23T20:33:00.000-04:00

This past weekend marked the 50th anniversary of Freedom Summer 1964, when three young men by the names of Michael Schwerner, James Chaney and Adam Goodman were kidnapped, shot dead and burnt up, by the hands of a Mississippi Deputy Sheriff and the Ku Klux Klan, who the sheriff alerted to action after he pulled the men over for false speeding.

It took the wife of Michael Schwerner, the families of the men, many protesters and activists, who eventually found the bodies of the missing men 40 days later buried in an earthen dam side by side.

These men were killed because they were trying to register African Americans to vote, so that they too could have a voice in the political process within America.

For more information about Freedom Summer 1964, click here.

2014 LA

Maya Angelou Remembered At Memorial Service

2014-06-08T01:19:00.001-04:00

Maya Angelou was a legendary artist, activist, and mother/sister/friend, to all that knew her well and to all that connected to her spirit through her words and on May 28, 2014, her work in the physical realm was complete in which she has now moved on to a much higher purpose; becoming God's supernatural angel.

My condolences to the Angelou family for the loss of such an extraordinary human being, whose mark will remain forever and always on those who are lucky enough to encounter her great works.

Rest in peace Ms. Angelou, and thank you for all that you've done and all that you will continue to do for us in heaven.

2014 LA

Is the New Testament in the Holy Bible a Reincarnation of Nietzsche's "Thus Spoke Zarathustra"?

2014-05-30T20:55:00.003-04:00

The character Zarathustra, is described as a religious innovator who lived in Persia (Modern Iran) between 1750 and 600 BCE. His ideas of God/good and Devil/evil, had far reaching effects with regards to Judaism, Christianity and Islam.

As I continued to read more and more of this fascinating literary piece of work, it dawned on me that there were way to many characteristic similarities between the two notable books. Also, the fact that the author called this particular writing the "fifth Gospel", pretty much eluded to the fact that there might be more biblical terms in store for curious readers.

Thus Spoke Zarathustra gives way to Psalm readings,

repast, the supper (as in The Last Supper?) where wine was being served although the "bread" was missing, poisonous serpents that were regarded as "knowledgeable" and "Wise", ie, the "tree of knowledge" in the Bible, eagles are regaled as excellent beast of prey that can see all -- and is commonly used in many countries flags (I thought it interesting that Mexico's flag displays an eagle biting off the head of a serpent; seen above).

Nietzsche's literature goes on to represent man as superior over woman and in the Holy Bible the word "man", was used commonly to describe both male and female characters making it even more obvious who the "dominate" sex should be. Also per the Bible, man was put on earth before woman, which I find rather interesting since historically speaking everything has always grown from "mother earth", ie, woman.

In Nietzsche's Thus Spoke Zarathustra, women were regarded as "playthings" and "pure and fine like the precious stone," in which a woman's most important job was birthing the next rulers and/or heirs. The latter description in itself screams misogyny; would this explain why certain men are very misogynistic?

Is this why for centuries women had no rights, and were expected to be barefoot and pregnant in the kitchen? And is it coincidence that the quote was used most commonly under German Empire?

The character Zarathustra recited that "when all have denied him, only then will he return." The familiar wording is also representative of the New Testament in the Holy Bible, but in this case it is supposedly Jesus that bespeaks about people denying him -- as well as his second coming. And doesn't this make you wonder even more about a particular event that our 43rd president attended and spoke at, in which he called for the converting of all Jews to bring about the second coming of Christ?

Friedrich Nietzsche even made the statement, "To have glued this New Testament, a kind of rococo of taste in every respect, to the Old Testament to make one book, as the "Bible", as "the book par excellence" - that is perhaps the greatest audacity and "sin against the spirit" that literary Europe has on its conscience." ~Beyond Good and Evil~

I mean, you can't get anymore clearer than this as he openly admits that his people, the Germans, are responsible for taking his work and twisting his meaning to interpret what they wanted it too mean to others.

And because Nietzsche's sister married an anti-semitic German Nazi, in which she took her brother's book and tried manipulating his words before handing it over to Hitler who acknowledged it as the Third Reich; slowly the fog starts to dissipate and the dots begin to connect as one intuitively realizes, that man had way more control over the book par excellence then we could have ever known.

During slavery in America's South, the Holy Bible was

constantly used by slave masters as a way of restoring order and obedience among the enslaved. Did the slave masters know something that the slaves didn't or were the slave masters themselves tricked into believing, that cruelty to other races must occur in order for their race -- the "white race" to prevail?

Honestly, I can go on and on and on with the extremely close similarities between Nietzsche's work and parts of the Holy Bible, but it would take up this entire page and then some -- just to break it all down. Moreover, I wanted to put it out there in case someone else wanted to dig a bit deeper; it would make for an extraordinary thesis.

Does this book explain why the divisiveness between specific countries, gave way to horrible wars in the past and currently in the present?

2014 LA

Will Ta-Nehisi Coates' Case for Reparations Begin a National Dialogue?

2014-05-26T00:51:00.002-04:00

Ta-Nehisi Coates

Ta-Nehisi Coates' case for reparations tackles the decades of crying out by African Americans, who've long fought against the unjust system of exploitation here in America.

Deriving from the personal experiences of those who lived through the Jim Crow era and interjecting valid facts about slavery, and how it transitioned in to institutionalized racism; the writer lets us know that this is more than an issue -- this is an epidemic.

In the Atlantic article written by Mr. Coates, you'll receive a brief insight into America's shameful past through the eyes of those that lived it. History always makes a comeback when scores haven't been settled -- when debts haven't been paid. For centuries black bodies have been treated like credit cards that never max out, and now in the 21st century, Ta-Nehisi Coastes readjusted the "black bodies bill" and shipped it off by first class mail to the public, in hopes of finally attaining payment -- or at least a discussion for the masses, on a past due balance.....that's long overdue.

#ThankYouToAllThatFoughtForReparationsInThePast
#ThankYouToAllThatContinueToFightToday

2014 LA

Ta-Nehisi Coates Talks Reparations

2014-05-20T18:45:00.004-04:00

Writer Ta-Nehisi Coates talks reparations, stay tuned....

Alexis Wilkinson: First Black Female President of the Harvard Lampoon

2014-03-23T18:58:00.003-04:00

MSNBC contributor and MHP substitute Jonathan Capehart, made history yesterday on 'The MHP' show as he interviewed the first black female President of the Harvard Lampoon in 138 years! The Harvard Lampoon's first issue was released in 1876.

Alexis Wilkinson (seen above) wrote for the Lampoon for two years and broke extraordinary barriers, as she referred to the almost century and half year old organization as an "all boys club."

Wilkinson stated that her ultimate career goal would be to write for a film/TV show, or write for her own late night program as she enjoys comedy.

Kudos to Ms. Wilkinson for making progressive history.

2014 LA

Black Oscar History Making Moments

2014-03-06T19:57:00.000-05:00

Since its founding in 1929, only seven Black women have made Academy Award history with the seventh winner seen above, Lupita Nyong'o.

1. Hattie McDaniel won an Oscar 74 years ago and was the first black woman and person, to ever win such an award. She won Best Supporting Actress for the film 'Gone With the Wind.'

2. In 1991 Whoopi Goldberg, won the Oscar for Best Supporting Actress in the movie 'Ghost.'

3. Halle Berry was the first black woman to win Best Actress for her role in 'Monsters Ball.'

4. Jennifer Hudson won the Academy Award in 2006, for her role in the musical film 'DreamGirls.' The American Idol contestant was the first black actor to win for a debut film performance.

5. Mo’Nique took home the gold for Best Supporting Actress in the jaw dropping film 'Precious.'

6. Octavia Spencer won an Oscar for Best Supporting Actress for her comedic and dramatic role in 'The Help.'

7. In 2014 Lupita Nyong’o is the seventh black woman to win an Oscar, in which she won for Best Supporting Actress in the film '12 Years a Slave.'

Congrats and much thanks to all these lovely ladies for breaking down barriers and making history in the process.

2014 LA

'Free Angela Davis And All Political Prisoners' - Documentary Review

2014-02-27T20:55:00.003-05:00

For Black History month BET (Black Entertainment Television) played a documentary directed by Shola Lynch and titled, 'Free Angela Davis And All Political Prisoners.'

Never fully knowing the story behind the woman I felt it was my duty to tune in, and learn a more detailed version of this particular time in history.

Ms. Davis' background proved to be challenging because she grew up in the deep South of Birmingham, Alabama. Her early recollection of childhood memories referenced the fact that her father often kept weaponry in the home, as a defense mechanism used to deter outsiders that wished to do his family harm. Just in knowing the latter, makes one understand why in her adulthood she chose to defend herself with a gun.

Death threats by letters and in person became the norm for Ms. Davis, while she taught Marxism philosophy at UCLA (University of California Los Angeles). Moreover, the Alabama native who was lucky enough to attend school in the Northeastern part of America during the Jim Crow era, and who eventually proceeded to study German philosophy abroad -- was a natural target when she came back to the states unapologetic about her communist roots.

President Richard Nixon, Governor of California Ronald Reagan, and FBI leader Herbert Hoover, all completely denounced Ms. Davis' appointment as a professor at UCLA and felt she would use her position to indoctrinate students with her political views.

And when a heinous attack took place leaving some dead and others injured (a sitting judge included) with all weaponry at the crime scene identified under Angela Davis' name, that was fuel which set federal officials on fire in hot pursuit of the liberal activist.

The young intellectual didn't turn herself in but instead flew to Chicago, Miami, and then New York, where she was later arrested and taken to jail. While in prison she was put in solitary confinement for a majority of the time, and she said it was done as a means of "breaking" her; being forced to be anti-social. Then Ms. Davis said something remarkable on her reflection of jail life, "Prison can either break a person or make a person stronger," in which she disciplined herself to do the latter.

She use to fight for the rights of political prisoners and now she had become one herself, and all those who she came to know, teach, and love all around the world -- loved her back by rallying together in protest for her release.

Roger McAfee, a middle class white man with a wife and children, used his entire farm as collateral for the bailing out of Angela Davis. Her bail was over one hundred and two thousand dollars, but because the rural resident believed in Ms. Davis' message of equality with regards to jobs, housing, safety, education, and civil rights, that was enough for him to put his family's entire livelihood on the line in hopes of a more progressive America.

Leo Branton, one of Davis' defense attorneys had this to say during her trial: "I knew I had to prove that Angela's plight was not their nest of guilt. I said to the jury, I want you to play a role with me. For the next several minutes I want you to think black, I want you to be black; don't worry, I'll let you return to being white when this is over."

[...] "If you're black, you know that your fore parents were brought to this country as slaves. And the United States Supreme court ruled there are no rights that a black person has that a white man is bound to respect. An intellectual like Angela Davis knew this, she also knew that during the 60's, every time a black person raised his voice in support of liberty and freedom of the black man, he was assassinated. And so if you know all of those things, if you are Angela Davis or if you're black, you don't wonder "why" she fled. You only wonder why in the world did she allow herself to be caught?"

[...] "Angela Davis is no fool, why would she buy a gun to blow a judge's head off and buy it in her own name?"

And as the all white jury came back with a verdict of not guilty on all charges, people began screaming out "Power to the people" and "Power to the jury!"

When fearless activist Angela Davis (seen below) finally got a chance to speak with the people, she thanked them for their tireless support while grinning from ear to ear about this day being the "happiest day of her life." And then as usual she got serious and back into her teaching mode as she stated,

"Throughout this country people are becoming increasingly aware of the fact that whatever the government does is not a priority -- the truth. And it's not only the struggle around political prisoners that has begun to change the climate in this country so that an acquittal like this could occur, but also the reaction to the war in Vietnam and the reaction to Nixon's economic policies, I think there's a lot more resistance now and that means we have to continue to build that resistance and allow it to mature."

Wise words from an extraordinary leader whose inspirational story should empower women and men all over the world.

This documentary was excellent and proves once again that knowledge is a powerful tool that can be used to change the world, and even though there are those who denounce education for this very fact, that alone should set a spark inside of everyone to learn more -- in order to figure out what a certain "few" are trying to hide.

2014 LA

Happy 85th Birthday Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.

2014-01-20T14:19:00.001-05:00

In remembrance of a man that gave power to the powerless and a voice to the voiceless, a man who nullified fear while taking on full responsibility of a people; fighting for our right to freedom.

This day we celebrate Dr. Martin Luther King Jr., the man, the leader, the hero, who in a 1954 sermon proclaimed that, “The real problem is that through our scientific genius we’ve made of the world a neighborhood, but through our moral and spiritual genius we’ve failed to make of it a brotherhood.”

And today, as we press on to continue the dream of this legendary and admirable figure, we must keep in mind that although things don't always come easy -- taking a stand for justice has always been the ladder of continued progress towards realizing a more peaceful world.

Dr. King, thank you good sir, for everything you've done to enrich the lives of millions, and thank you Congressman Lewis for co-authoring the federal legislation that made today a national holiday in which to honor our extraordinary leader.

Happy Birthday, Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.

2014 LA

The Man of Non-Violent Defiance: Nelson Mandela Makes His Exit

2013-12-19T16:23:00.003-05:00

The iconic anti-apartheid man named Nelson Mandela, was laid to rest this past Sunday in Qunu, South Africa, where he was born and raised. Over 4000 thousand mourners paid their last respects on Sunday, after a 10 day celebration and remembrance of an extraordinary human being.

Mandela was a man that meant hope to all who knew him and knew of him. He made his purpose in life a forever mission to free the people of South Africa, and was often vilified and ridiculed -- even by America, for trying to do so. He was labeled a terrorist by some, but a terrorist he was far from; terrorists kill and Mandela wanted people to live, and live freely within their own land. This was a man that committed himself to death so that others may enjoy life.

Twenty-seven years Mandela spent in prison; 27 years of innocence behind bars -- paying the price for speaking truth to power. And although his physical being was imprisoned his mind was not. He refused to give his oppressors the one thing that enabled him to press on, so he gave his body instead. After 27 years of reading, writing, praying and struggle, Mandela became more powerful than ever before which ultimately led him to become president of South Africa. His dream had been realized and not just for himself, but for all his fellow South Africans who seemed more like close family than citizens.

Mr. Nelson Mandela may you eternally rest in peace good sir, for your purpose on this earth has been fulfilled; in which I'm sure new works await you on the other side.

2013 LA

12 Years A Slave - Movie Review

2013-11-06T13:11:00.001-05:00

Preparing for this film was a breeze; saying to myself it's another slavery film I can handle it. Not true.

Paying money to view this work of art is what kept me glued to my seat had I been able to pause it, I would've gotten up and walked away for a breather. I needed a breather more than a few times because the truth from this film spoke so loud that it shook me to my core.

I tried conquering the brash truth by rubbing my forehead, breathing deeply, crying, blowing out strong wind, shaking my legs, twisting in my chair, and yelling f*** you at the evil slave owners. This film was so raw and unapologetic that it left me feeling dehumanized and violated, as if I were too reliving my ancestors' tragic past.

Freedom looked real good at the beginning of the movie, where the main character Solomon Northrup (played by actor Chiwetel Ejiofor) lived peacefully with his wife and two children in Saratoga, New York, in 1841.

His freedom would end abruptly as he was blind-sided by two gentlemen who pretended to need his musical services for a particular event, fixing Solomon's drink in a way that would knock him unconscious only to wake up in slave chains. Those slave chains would mark the beginning of Mr. Northrup's twelve years of hell.

An unspeakable evil took over the screen for most of the film's duration, making the atmosphere tensely thick and uncomfortable. Watching families be torn apart for the purposes of money and power, is reminiscent to our 21st century politics. Furthermore, listening to the white Southerners in the movie preach from their Christian bibles referring to themselves as lord and master, reminded me of the extremists within our government who use the bible consistently to make their points valid -- but to no avail.

It reminds me of a passage I read by the notable philosopher Friedrich Wilhelm Nietzsche which does state, "To have glued this New Testament, a kind of rococo of taste in every respect, to the Old Testament to make one book, as the "Bible," as "the book par excellence" - that is perhaps the greatest audacity and "sin against the spirit" that literary Europe has on its conscience." ~Beyond Good and Evil~

Annoyance became the norm for me every time I watched a slave master preaching to the slaves, from a Bible that the slaves themselves weren't permitted to read.

The drilling of obedience and servitude by the slave masters was a strategic mechanism used to brainwash the victims, and it made me sick to my stomach. The Book of Eli with actor Denzel Washington playing the main character of Eli, makes even more sense to me now.

The "missus" of the house (played by actress Sarah Paulson seen below scratching Patsy's face played by Lupita Nyong'o) was a bitter, miserable, evil and jealous

woman, who took pride in abusing her slaves especially Patsy, whom her husband highly favored and repeatedly raped.

Patsy endured the most grotesque beatings, rapping's, labor, and mental abuse. She was beat nearly to death for traveling to a nearby plantation to retrieve soap, since the "missus" of the house refused to give her any. That scene is permanently engraved in my mind, remaining as a constant reminder of how far we've come and how much further we still have to go.

Solomom Northrup was called an "exceptional ni****" by the Southern white men because he could read, write, play the violin, and knew math very well, so well that it pissed off his overseer who automatically deemed himself more intelligent because he was white.

Jealousy and envy drove the overseer crazy in which he attempted to beat Solomon, as a result of his own inadequacies. This particular scene reminded me of present corporations that house supervisors and directors who are threatened by "exceptional" minorities, and will go insofar as to deny promotions for fear of competition.

And no matter how dangerous it was to trust any white men in the South, Solomon entrusted two; one who stole his money and lied for personal gain, and the other who was less ignorant and more humane which ultimately led to Mr. Northrup's freedom -- again.

This film isn't for the faint of hearts but if you love history and if you wish to view the act of slavery through the eyes of the man who lived it, this is definitely a must see. Kudos to the writer John Ridley and director Steve McQueen, for making us confront the real evil of our time.

2013 LA

In America is the "Great Migration" Being Consistently Enacted?

2013-09-23T17:38:00.001-04:00

- No employment; move

- No housing; move.

- No love; move.

- No hope; die.

Are migrators purposely forced to shift their entire livelihood, simply to appease those who crave a certain way of life? That way of life may exclude certain races of people who may have differing statuses, while being placed in "a box" labeled "class".

African Americans began their Great Migration between 1910-1970, leaving horrid memories of the South behind to advance North, towards freedom and opportunity. The great migration of African Americans was attributed to fierce racism, which was protected by Jim Crow law from 1876-1965.

When the Emancipation Proclamation was enacted in 1863, that was code for Black people to get-the-hell out of the South!

The executive order passed by our 16th President Abraham Lincoln, infuriated White Southerners to the point of retaliation; enters the first Klan members of 1866, with political massacres carried out by 1868. With no hope for career opportunities in the South -- the "Great Migration" commenced.

Was it difficult for African Americans to up and leave the South, being that they had no money because their forced labor didn't acknowledge their worth? What about when they reached their destination, where would they lay their heads?

The desperation for freedom to live, far surpassed their fears of the unknown that certainly awaited them on their enduring journey.

Fast forward to 2013, where some of the richest Americans have roots firmly planted in the South, with many companies of substantial status to show for it. The heads of these companies will most certainly hire like-minded individuals, as to not cause in off-set within the conservative utopia.

Hiring individuals not like-minded, is a game that must be played due to federal laws and regulations currently in place. However, those companies can retaliate by keeping "not like-minded" individuals at bay; meaning to be kept in lower wage job positions with no opportunity for advancement. And only those who've experienced it can properly call it by its name; discrimination.

- No employment; move.

- No housing; move.

- No love; move.

- No hope; die.

2013 LA

Lee Daniels' "The Butler" - Movie Review

2013-09-12T15:44:00.001-04:00

The much anticipated film of the year and the biggest hit at the box office to date Lee Daniels' "The Butler", had me on edge as the storyline opened up to America's greatest sin; slavery.

The slavery scene in the beginning set the mood for the rest of the film, and I immediately understood the journey in which I was about to embark; It was dark, stifled, lonely, and the only traces of light was the love shown between a father and his family. Love of family coupled with a people's persistence to persevere regardless of the odds, is what got me through the film.

One of the most disturbing scenes displayed the Freedom Riders where Klansmen/civilians attacked a group of college students, until their bus exploded into flames. Every emotion in me wanted to make my body stand-up and throw something at the movie screen, I wanted to scream at the top of my lungs for them to STOP!

As the heinous scene dissipated into the next so did my fury, leaving behind traces of my tears. As my heart palpitations ceased, the struggle between father and son continued. A struggle between two men living in two different worlds and clashing, because while one tempted the status quo the other tried harder not too.

The true events of the film gave way to the election of our first black president, Barack Hussein Obama. I surprised myself when my body began quivering, emitting loud sobs from deep within that my neighboring movie goers couldn't help but hear. It was an unexpected reaction at the end of the film, but as I replayed Lee Daniels' "The Butler" in my head -- my loud outcry made sense. The journey of darkness led to a victory of light and after all that, my sobs of bittersweet emotions were indeed relevant.

Kudos to the writer of this film Danny Strong and the Director Lee Daniels, for bringing this film to our eyes and ears. And kudos to the extraordinary cast for using their artistic craft of acting, to simultaneously mess with ALL my emotions. This film is a must see!

2013 LA

Was Friedrich Nietzsche Warning Us?

2013-07-30T21:51:00.000-04:00

Reading Friedrich Wilhelm Nietzsche's works is to think that you've gone far past a perversion of nature, and on the other hand your curiosity for a higher truth, one that makes more sense than what you've been force fed all of your life -- draws you into his blunt and painstakingly truthful rhetoric.

Nietzsche's works helped me put to bed the very skepticism that I myself had come too, and I must admit, it felt good to see that someone else thought the same. His works put more of a distinct timeline to my perspectives, which would've been thought to be conspiracies.

Nietzsche's works have been described as the "unexplainable" or the "forbidden", but why should "truth" be forbidden? And the so-called "unexplainable" was explained to me just fine, so much so, that I often felt as if Nietzsche was personally speaking to me. He questioned me through the journey of his words as if to make sure I understood him and if not, it was imperative to backtrack and reread what I could have possibly missed.

He made you feel as if he were testing your capacity to comprehend him and if you did, then you would make it to the end of his essay. Nietzsche thought highly of himself and if you were his equal you'd not only finish reading his works, but would have mastered the understanding of it.

A true artist of his era as he sought truth on the deepest level; a level so deep and sacred that it could stop a parent from attending their child's wedding due to differing biblical views. A level so deep that one could be condemned and/or disowned from their immediate circle of family and friends for being in biblical opposition.

Nietzsche's written work titled 'The Antichrist', is exactly what it sounds like. The philosopher calls into question the problems of morality regarding good and evil, while giving a world view perspective which claims that there is only one truth or one true interpretation of existence.

This book explains how Christianity came to be in a way I had never before seen. Moreover, it also answered many questions that I had about the bible and of a particular people that had mass influence to change it. The 'Antichrist' introduces us to a new world order and judge, a concept recreated from the original copy. A contradiction as Nietzsche would say, "in plain English; the most dangerous kind of parasite."

There is much truth in Nietzsche's literature because it bespeaks a familiarity of my present day, our present day; the 21st century. Which is why I recommend reading this book for all curious minds interested in a different world view perspective.

Through his writings you'll embark on his travels, his notable interaction with other philosophers and their works which allowed Nietzsche to compare and contrast, as well as various theologians, priests, authors, artists etc. His magnum opus (masterpiece) has been the experiences of life, things that can not be taught in a classroom. Furthermore, Nietzsche requires that one should step outside the status quo of instructed learning, as he sees life to be the best possible classroom.

Not for nothing, but I thinks it's relevant to quote a few paragraphs from 'The Antichrist' so you understand how it's similar to our present day.

1. "The greatest number became "master".

2. "Sin, I repeat, this form of self-pollution par excellence on the part of man, was invented in order to make science, culture, and every elevation and noble trait in man quite impossible; by means of the invention of sin the priest is able to rule." (LBGTQ , interracial couples, disobedient wives )

3. "The prerequisite thereto was the admission of the fact that the type of the Savior has reached us only in a very distorted form. This distortion in itself is extremely feasible: for many reasons a type of that kind could not be pure, whole, and free from additions.

The environment in which this strange figure moved, must have left its mark upon him, and the history, the destiny of the first Christian communities must have done so to a still greater degree. Thanks to destiny, the type must have been enriched retrospectively with features which can be interpreted only as serving the purposes of war and of propaganda.

4. "Diet is selected in such a way as to favor morbid symptoms and to over-excite the nerves."

5. "In order to be able to say Nay (no) to everything that represents the ascending movement of life, prosperity, power, beauty, and self-affirmation on earth, the instinct of resentment, become genius, had to invent another world, from the standpoint of which that Yea-saying (yes) to life appeared as the most evil and most abominable thing."

Nietzsche's works are a must read.

2013 LA

In The 21st Century: Enters Friedrich Wilhelm Nietzsche

2013-07-23T22:46:00.000-04:00

Have you ever heard of a great philosopher named, Friedrich Wilhelm Nietzsche (last name pronounced 'Knee-chee')?

The first time I heard the last name of this person it was in an Eddie Murphy movie titled, Coming to America.

Actor Eddie Murphy quoted Nietzsche while on a date in this particular film. Years later I would come across this infamous name 'Nietzsche' again, but this time, I decided to research this often referenced individual. In doing so, I discovered that my greatest fear was something that was studied and documented over a century ago.

Funny how the behavior of individuals from the past carry all the way through into the present, and resurfaces at such an extreme rate that it becomes historical, therefore, calling into question past historical events to compare too.

In fact on September 24, 1886, Friedrich Nietzsche stated in a letter almost as if he had a psychic prediction, that "People will be allowed to read [my work] in about the year 2000", as if he knew his work would be of great importance in the 21st century -- hence, the political extremism that's been taking place all over the world.

It isn't just military wars erupting, it's election wars, federal government wars, social movement wars, technological wars, corporation wars, propaganda wars, disease wars, and I'm sure many more left unsaid. The uprisings of these individual wars are causing many people to question what's happening in our society?

Some people are content with relaying today's current

events as a "sign of the times", relating of course to biblical terms. And there are others who are jilted from their complacency of interpreted news, and who branch out seeking as much full disclosure of historical and current trends in order to make sense of it all; enters Friedrich Wilhelm Nietzsche.

Through Nietzsche's work which is so profound it often left me gasping for air, he takes us on a journey through his self-taught empowerment, curiosity, comparisons and teachings; stripping completely bare the flesh that is us in order to expose the multiple spirits that make up our soul.

He breaks down our human connection/instinct to animals, while displaying our inner battles of good nature verses aggressive nature (good verses evil), and how only by learning one's self completely through the dynamics of culture can we control a darkness (evil) that is very much real.

"Thus Spoke Zarathustra" a 19th century poetic texts written by Friedrich Nietzsche (1883-85), in my opinion is an alter-ego of Nietzsche who only understands it as such because through his life experiences he has lived it; the good side and the bad side.

Nietzsche recreated the historical figure Zarathustra the ancient Iranian prophet and founder of Zoroastrianism, and teaches the difference between the "eternal return" and the "Overman", the new meaning of existence in order to overcome the morality of good and evil. Nietzsche understood human behavior in such a way that he contemplated the "eternal return", which simply means history repeating itself until the right/correct/original lessons are learned.

In 1887 "On the Genealogy of Morals" was written by Nietzsche, and through analyzation of soul configuration he discovered that the world order is shaped by morality, and exposes its make-up as ressentiment; rejection of, or contempt for that which is "different" or "greater than one." Bad conscience and guilty feelings are linked to the syndrome of crime and punishment, and the self-disciplined denial of the body, sensuality and sexuality. Sound familiar?

Much of Nietzsche's work was deemed controversial due to the bluntness and boldness of his rhetoric, which I feel such boldness is necessary. The fact that Nietzsche calls us to question our own character and morality in terms of how the world works, shows a fundamental understanding that we all have a part in molding the world with our minds but it would behoove us to mold with the good parts and not the bad -- which Nietzsche expresses is attainable.

Friedrich Wilhelm Nietzsche's literary works, have become my new passion!

2013 LA

Robert F. Kennedy's 'Day Of Affirmation' Speech Speaks Volumes

2013-07-10T20:12:00.001-04:00

Ever heard the song 'We are the World'? What about 'The Greatest Love of All'? Or 'Hero', 'Firework', and 'Born This Way'?

These songs share a common message of unity, defiance, acceptance, uniqueness and love. Each of these musical creations was prepared with thought given to the message, and all seem to bare significant outreach to the youth of the world.

Outreach to our youth and making the world a better place for them to live in, has always been our nation's mantra. And after reading Robert F. Kennedy's 'Day of Affirmation' speech it becomes unequivocal yet again, that our children deserve for us to fight for their future.

See below excerpts from RFK's 'Day of Affirmation' speech.

Our answer is the world's hope; it is to rely on youth.
This world demands the qualities of youth: not a time of life but a state of mind, a temper of the will, a quality of imagination, a predominance of courage over timidity, of the appetite for adventure over the life of ease -- a man like the Chancellor of this University.
It is a revolutionary world that we all live in; and thus, as I have said in Latin America and Asia and in Europe and in my own country, the United States, it is the young people who must take the lead.

Timeless words from a powerfully conscious leader.

2013 LA

George W. Bush's Ancestor's Were Slave Traders/Masters/Investors

2013-06-20T20:22:00.001-04:00

Another racist story hit the media waves today but instead of it being about Paula Deen, this time it's about our 43rd president, George W. Bush.

A new three-page report in Slate provides explicable detail about Bush's ancestor Thomas "Beau" Walker, who was a notorious slave trader in the 18th century.

Slate investigated claims of two historians from Yale University who claimed Thomas Walker was involved in 11 slave voyages to West Africa, between 1784-1792.

The Bush family’s spokesman had no comment on the findings but Slate notes that in 2003, George W. Bush called slavery one of the “the greatest crimes of history.”

Now if George W. Bush really felt that slavery was "the greatest crimes of history", why was it so hard for him while he was president to offer a binding apology for the crime of slavery? Why did an apology only become popular after then Senator Obama, began running for the Oval office?

Why was his "no child left behind" program a total sham and ended up leaving many children behind?

Was Bush's aid to Africa really helping the population, or simply helping conservative made programs masked by the Africa AIDS agenda? I'm just saying, the proof is in the pudding.

You know what Kanye West, I think you're on to something.

For FULL slave trader article click here.

2013 LA

1957 Documentary On Race In America

2013-05-18T16:29:00.002-04:00

Researching America's history I came across a documentary titled, 'A Series on Changing Neighborhoods' by Dynamic Films Inc.

The video footage was taken back in 1957 in Levittown, Pennsylvania, which is midway between Philadelphia, PA and Trenton, NJ. The comment and analysis was done by Professor Dan W. Dodson, Director Center for Human Relations and Community Studies, School of Education, New York University.

I felt it was important to post this piece of history because it's indicative of the 21st century.

In the documentary it displayed a typical family friendly neighborhood that became extremely tense when new neighbors arrived. The new neighbors were the Myers, a college educated married couple with two children. What made the Myers stand out to their neighbors wasn't the fact that they were college educated and married, but instead the brown hue of their skin is what caused an uproar within the white middle class community.

Various neighbors were interviewed on the basis of their feelings, in regards to the Myers moving into the community. There were progressive neighbors and there were racist neighbors, which I felt the racist neighbors were simply misinformed and were raised to be prejudice.

It was most interesting when one of the neighbors actually stated that a black family would "bring home property values down" if they were allowed to reside in the community!

Another neighbor came to the Myers' rescue stating that the "Myer's have nothing to do with property values increasing or decreasing, it's a white problem not a negro problem. The majority group will influence property value not the minority."

The narrator then goes on to say, "If a negro family can afford what you can afford, how do you justify your feelings of superiority?"

I see the elephant in the room do you? It's called superiority. That's the problem. A person shouldn't ever feel that they're superior over anybody, otherwise the racist cycle will continue. This video is way deep.

2013 LA