MCJ April 29, 2015 Edition

JJOUROURNALNALWISC O N S I N ’ S L A R G E S T A F R I C A N A M E R I C A N N E W S PA P E R

CCThe Milwaukee

OMMUNITYOMMUNITYVOL. XXXIX Number 39 April 29, 2015 www.communityjournal.net 25 Cents BULK RATE

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MILWAUKEE, WISCONSINPERMIT NO. 4668

The School System: Educational Revolution

MENMENEMPOWERINGEMPOWERINGMENMENIn 2003, I was scheduled to defend

my dissertation at the University ofWisconsin-Milwaukee. This shouldhave been a great time in my life, butmy family was planning the earthlytransition for my father. After thecancer occupied more portions of hisbody than healthy cells, the doctorstold us it was only a matter of timebefore his time on earth would beover.The hospital introduced our family

to a palliative care program, as weprepared to place my father into ahospice. Palliative care is a multidis-ciplinary focus that focuses on the

physical, mental, emotional and spir-itual needs of those with life endingillnesses. Like most caring families,I was against putting my father intoanything that resembled a nursinghome setting. However, after the staff showed

me the hospice and informed myfamily someone could be with my fa-ther 24 hours a day and what pallia-tive care really encompassed myfears were eased. I remember me, mysister and Aunt all taking the lionshare of the shifts to stay with my fa-ther. The rest of the family were able to

rotate in from all across the city, stateand nation at various times. When

my father passed away, I was sad.Still, I had a feeling of great content-ment that we allowed my father todie with dignity surrounded in a seaof love. Fast forward eight years later, my

family noticed my twin boys’ speechwas not developing typically. It was the weirdest thing because

they were able to read words, buttheir pronunciation was not discern-able to anyone who were not aroundthem on a regular basis. As a former, special education

teacher and school psychologist, Iwas fearful about putting my boysinto a system that seemed more coun-terproductive than productive for ed-

ucational and social growth. How-ever, armed with a family of supportwe placed our boys in the Birth to Three program. I am pleased to

state that the services my boys re-ceived from a plethora of sourceshelped them tremendously. Even with this help, they still

needed additional services when theyentered in school. Special education is not a place to

be navigated alone; but, with dedi-cated parents armed with a strongsupport system and exceptional edu-cators and para-professionals whoare often overshadowed by theirmore nefarious colleagues, it can in-deed be special and have special re-

sults.If you are still reading, you are

probably wondering if this is an au-tobiography or an article on educa-tional reform. Family, it was the totality of these

two experiences that confirmed to methat if we are truly going to help ourstudents, we need to surround themin a cocoon of structure and supportfrom the cradle to the grave; but, itshouldn’t have to be from a deficitand reactive perspective. The care my father received as he

exited this world and the care mysons enjoyed as they were just enter-ing the world should be allocated toevery sentient being. What if all of

our healthy elders received palliativecare before they were on their deathbed when they could really appreci-ate and enjoy it. What if all children received spe-

cialized Birth to Three services? Theactivities and interventions the pro-

Dr. Ramel Smith

JANIE HATTON: “Withstrong affirmation:ABSOLUTELY! Mrs.Lynch has con-founded the legalsystem with compe-tence, integrity anda will to have fidelity for justice. Fi-nally, she’s a child of God and a Deltabuilt to serve.”

STATE REP.MANDELABARNES: “I amvery confident thatshe can do the job.It is very unfortu-nate that it hastaken so long toconfirm Atty. General Lynch. Her re-sume speaks to her ability.”

ODELL BALL:“Atty. GeneralLoretta Lynch ismore than quali-fied for this posi-tion and muchmore. I get tired ofhaters doubting theability of well qualified people.”

CONG. GWENMOORE: “Atty.Genera. Lynch’sconfirmation islong over due. Herconfirmation washeld up becauseRepublicans onceagain insisted upon interfering. This isa victory for our country, the CivilRights Movement, and our system oflaw.”

PULSE OF THE COMMUNITYPhotos and question by Yvonne KempQUESTION OF THE WEEK:Loretta Lynch was recently con-firmed and sworn in as the firstAfrican American woman

U.S. Attorney General. Do youthink she can do the job? Why or

why not?

LorettaLynchSworn InAsFirstAfrican American WomanUnited States Attorney GeneralIn Moving CeremonyBy Lynette Holloway, courtesy of NewsOne.comLoretta Lynch was sworn in Monday morning by Vice President Joe Biden

as the 83rd U.S. attorney general during a moving ceremony at the U.S. De-partment of Justice.The long-awaited ceremony followed a rancorous debate over the Repub-

lican Senate’s five-month delay to confirm Lynch in a partisan dispute withPresident Barack Obama.Finally confirmed last week, Lynch, 55, on Monday was flanked by her

husband, Stephen Hargrove, and father, Lorenzo, as Biden sang her praisesduring the ceremony that was broadcast live on CNN and observed by New-sOne. He began by saying she and her predecessor, Eric H. Holder Jr., are cutfrom the same cloth.“Loretta Lynch will exceed the high standards set for her because she is

cut from the exact same cloth as [Holder],” Biden said. “Both she and Ericembody the mantra of one their predecessors [Robert F. Kennedy], a manafter whom this building is named who said, ‘The purpose of life is to con-tribute in some way to making things better.’”Biden also paid homage to Lynch’s 83-year-old father, a Baptist preacher,

who has played an important role in her personal and professional life. Lynch,the former U.S. attorney for the Eastern District in New York, graduated fromHarvard Law School and Harvard College.“As I’ve read, your dad always taught you to stand up for what’s right,

speak out for what’s just, get up when you get knocked down and move on,”Biden said. “And following her father’s example, she excelled in everythingshe’s done from the time she was a child. She’s never been limited by thelower expectations of others, but has always exceeded those expectations sheset for herself.“For 30 years, she has been a fair-minded, independent lawyer and prose-

cutor as a U.S. attorney and in private practice,” he continued. “She has shownresolve to prosecuting and jailing terrorists, mobsters and gang members.She’s shown fidelity to the law, rooted out public corruption. She’s showndetermination to bring down financial fraudsters and child abusers. She’sshown a dogged pursuit to bust human trafficking rings she has encountered.She has shown an unyielding commitment to the law and basic human rights.She has shown us her entire life who she is, so believe her.”With that, Lynch was confirmed by placing her left hand on the Bible and

raising the right one. In remarks, given after resounding applause, she evenjoked about the long delay in her confirmation.

As her father Lorenzo Lynch and husband Stephen Hargrove look on,U.S. Vice President Joe Biden administers the oath to Loretta Lynch,making her the 83rd and first Black female U.S. Attorney General in thenation’s history. Photo courtesy of Mark Wilson of Getty Images.

(continued on page 8)

NEW WELDING CLASS UNVEILED AT NORTH DIVISION HIGH SCHOOLNorth Division High School unveiled its newwelding class and students recently. North Di-vision’s principal, Stanley McWilliams (farleft), proudly stands with student welders(left to right): Herman Paige, Devonta Tharp,Anthony Norris, Darrell Thompson, ExavierSandifer, Arkee Kirk, and Shemar Moore.Standing between Kirk and Moore is the class’teacher, Darrel Iwanski. The class will give thestudents training and exposure to a soughtafter (and lucrative) trade. Also on hand wereNorth Division alumni who joined the studentsin a symbolic “ribbon cutting” ceremony.(Photo by Yvonne Kemp)

DELTA SCHOLARSHIP RECIPIENTS MEETNOTED AUTHOR AT SORORITY’S ANNUAL LITERARY LUNCHEONNational best-selling author ReShonda Tate-Billingsley is flanked by scholarship recipients atthe 39th annual Delta Sigma Theta Literacy Lunch-eon, held Saturday at the Italian Conference Centerin the Third Ward. Tate-Billingsley was the keynotespeaker of the event. She is the author of 35books. Her newest novel, “What’s Done in theDark,” is now in bookstores and her second novel,“Let the Church Say Amen,” has been made into amovie. The Delta Memorial Endowment Fund 2015Scholarship recipients pictured are (in no particularorder): Brianna Langs, Victoria Millet, RuhongekaNtabala, Sydnei Parker, Brielle Richmond, NhiaVang, and Jazmin Vargas. (Photo by Yvonne Kemp)

THREE YOUNG MEN LEARN HOW TO BE“CONSTRUCTIVE” IN THEIR COMMUNITY!What better way to bring back our “KUDOS!” photos honoring people and events that show thepositives of our community then with this impressive story of three young men learning to beconstructive by being...well, “constructive.” Eddie Knox (second from left) of A Star Home Im-provement, is showing Rickey Ragiano, Jerrell Pearson-Huff, and Rishon Ragland (from left toright) how to rebuild a porch at a home in the 2000 block of 11th Street in the North Divisionneighborhood. According to Knox, the boys are learning a skill that will last them a lifetime andempower them to perhaps start their own construction business one day. (Photo by YvonneKemp)

A GRAND TIME AT HOMEPLATE!Milwaukee Brewers Outfielder Elian Herrera (facing camera) is congratulated by teammates(left to right): Infielder Jean Segura, Catcher Martin Maldonado, and Infielder Aramis Ramirez,after Herrera hit his first career grand slam in a game against the Cincinnati Reds at MillerPark. However, it wasn’t enough to put the Brew Crew in the win column. The team lost a slugfest by a 16 to 10 score. (Photo by Yvonne Kemp)

KUDOS is Back!

By Dr. Ramel Smith“The Blaquesmith”


The Milwaukee Community Journal April 29, 2015 Page 2

PERSPECTIVESPERSPECTIVESTHETHE PULSEPULSEThe WHO•WHAT•WHERE• WHENof YOURCommunity!F o r m e r l y t h e 4 W C o m m u n i t y H a p p e n i n g s

Beckum Stapleton LittleLeague Holds its Opening Day Parade &Ceremony for the 2015Little League SeasonBeckum Stapleton Little League, Milwaukee, Wiscon-

sin 2015) – Beckum Stapleton Little League will hold itsOpening Parade & Ceremony for this year’s Little LeagueSeason on May 2, 2015, starting at 11:00 a.m. with theParade from the Clinton Rose Park. Beckum Stapleton Little League is chartered by Little

League for (BASEBALL: Tee Ball, Minor, Major, andJunior Division) Special mention for the start of this sea-son include the honoring of Jimmie Ruth Beckum, thewife of James Beckum, who passed away earlier thisyear. She was a solid part of the foundation of the League

and we will honor her legacy this season by wearing abadge with her initials on the jerseys. Also we would like

to acknowledge the supporters that have supported theLeague, including a special donation this season by J.P.Morgan Chase and GloballGiving.Opening Day Parade & Ceremony is the official kick-

off to the 2015 season for the Beckum Stapleton LittleLeague. This year, there is even more to celebrate, asLeague celebrates its 50th Anniversary as a Little LeagueAffiliate. “Our Opening Ceremonies are always a wonderful day

to celebrate our players, parents and volunteers,” saidTasha Jenkins, League President. “This year is extra spe-cial as we honor those that have been the foundation ofthe League and those that continue to support our efforts.We’re excited to kick off our new season and looking for-ward to a great year of baseball.” For 76 years, Little League has provided communities

around the world the opportunity for families to connectand for children to come together in a healthy, safe envi-ronment to learn the values of team sports and the funda-mentals of baseball and softball. Beckum Stapleton LittleLeague is proud to be able to provide this opportunity toour community.The season will run until July 2015, and continue

through the tournament season. The League continues toseek volunteers for various functions during the season.

James Beckum, one of the founders of the Beckum-Stapleton Little League addressed Little Leaguers, theirparents, coaches and city officials at a past ceremony opening the Little League baseball season and the re-naming of a park after Beckum. (Photo by Yvonne Kemp)

HEALTH ADVOCACYAGENCY CREATESPETITION AGAINSTTOY GUNSCALL-TO-ACTION ISSUED TO BLACKMOMS AND GRANDMOTHERSAt a time when the Black community in Milwaukee

and across the country is being traumatized by in-creased gun violence, Black Health Coalition of Wis-consin, Inc. (BHCW) has created the Black Moms andGrandmothers Against Toy Guns petition through Colorof Change. “We are offering this petition as one way toaddress a very complex issue,” stated Dr. Patricia Mc-Manus, President/CEO of Black Health Coalition ofWisconsin, Inc.African Americans, who make up only 6.5 percent of

Wisconsin’s population, accounted for two-thirds of itsfirearm homicide victims in 2014. Blacks in Wisconsinwere more than 30 times as likely as non-Hispanic whitesto die in gun homicides. From 2008 to 2012, federal sta-tistics show, this ratio was 20 to 1 for Wisconsin and 10to 1 for the nation.In 2014, three Milwaukee kids age 10 and under were

fatally shot. So far in 2015, gun violence injuries anddeaths in Milwaukee are rapidly nearing the overall totalfor 2014.It is without question that viable solutions to eradicate

gun violence in the Black community are needed. Therate of gun related deaths in the African American com-munity is much higher than the national average. This violence occurs within the Black community;

whether through gang activity, robberies, unintentionalinjuries and other methods. All too often lately there hasbeen increased gun violence perpetrated on Black peopleby the police. Some of these cases involved the victims

having toy guns police officers thought were real guns.Some may say kids have played with toy guns for gen-

erations. Dr. McManus argues that violence has increased so

dramatically that children can no longer innocently playwith toy guns.

There has been a desensitizing to violence based onexposure to gun violence in video games and movies. Theconstant exposure has normalized violence.Dr. McManus asserts that there is a direct correlation

with the playing of guns as kids and the involvement withviolence later in life. McManus believes mixed messagesare given to kids when they are allowed to play with toyguns, “they don’t have the ability to discern the differencebetween playing and the deadly consequences that comewith real guns.”For over 25 years, BHCW has been a strong voice

against racial health disparities. The agency’s health ad-vocacy approach works to address the broad spectrum ofissues that impede the community’s health. Gun violenceterrorizes communities unlike other crimes, the impactpermeates throughout the community. The petition offersthe community a way to be a part of the solution to endgun violence. An awareness campaign such as this mayseem simple, but awareness is the first step to behavioralchange.Although the anti-toy guns petition is addressed to

Black moms and grandmothers, BHCW welcomes Blackdads and grandfathers, as well as people from other com-munities, to support the call-to-action. “Moms and grand-mothers are the backbone of the Black community,” Dr.McManus stated, “Black grandmothers play a crucial roleto children, she continued. “Oftentimes it is the mother burying their sons who

have died due to gun violence and the grandmothers whoare left to raise the grandchildren.” She urges everyoneto take an active role in eradicating gun violence. This sentiment is echoed by one of the petition signers:

“I'm not Black, and I'm not a mother, but this could beone piece of the puzzle to reduce violence.”The Black Moms and Grandmothers Against Toy Guns

can be accessed via BHCW’s website, www.bhcw.org.

“Airsoft guns” is a generic term for realistic replica toys or training devices that are made to looklike real firearms and fire 6mm plastic pellets. (Photo by Rob Pincus-personaldefensenetwork.com)


PERSPECTIVESPERSPECTIVES QUOTE OF THE WEEK: “A freedom that only asks what’s in it for me,A freedom without commitment to others, A freedom without love or charity or duty or patriotism, Is unworthy of our founding ideals, and thosewho died in their defense.--President Barack Obama

This article is written about the powerful and most timely song written andproduced by the legendary songwriting team of Kenny Gamble and Leon Huff:“Give the People What They Want” which was performed by the O’Jays. The song ultimately went number one on the R&B Charts in 1975 "Give the

People What They Want" was also used as part of the regular playlist at campaignevents for President Barack Obama's 2008 presidential candidacy. The timeless-ness of the song is apparent in the fact that it is currently being used by NBC topromote one of their affiliate station's news and programming. Like all of the music made by Gamble & Huff, this song has transcended race,

age and background. It is heavily sampled in EPMD's song "Give the People"from their 1990 album Business as Usual and is also used as the intro thememusic for former NBA player Jalen Rose's podcast, The Jalen Rose Report. Aportion of the lyrics are: You got to give the people, now - Give the people what they want - Well, well,

well, wellNo, don't know you - You got to give the people - Give the people what they

want?But I done been all over the world - And everybody feels the same - It's a unan-

imous decision - I said they're ready for a change, yeah, yeah, yeahDon't know you - Got to give the people, give it up - Give the people what

they want? - Well, wellNo, don't know? You don't know, no - Got to give the people - Well, well –

Give the people what they wantWell, it's about time for things to get better - We want the truth, the truth and

no more lies We want freedom, justice and equality - I want it for you and I want it for meBlack people, like all other people, want freedom, justice, and equality. The

mere fact that these words were being “coined” in a song in 1975 suggests thatBlack people hadn’t achieved them then – and, I say, that we haven’t achievedthem today. Why has this been so elusive for Black people? As the great MarvinGaye stated: “What’s Going On?”

I believe that we have been misled; lied to; bamboozled; and hoodwinked.What do I mean? I mean that we have been sold a bill of goods that have dis-tracted us from the real focus that we should have been focusing on all along.Guided by liberal leadership, we have been chasing social equity in this countrywhen the real race that we should have been running is for “economic equity.” In fact, one can’t have social equity in America without economic equity. At

the end of the day, no matter how you slice it, it is the economic benefits thatAmerica refuses to share with Blacks. They won’t even acknowledge the rolethat Black people played in helping America become the rich superpower it istoday. Black people want freedom, justice, and equality. Beginning in the early 1600’s with the massive kidnapping of Black people

from Africa, followed by the torturous “transatlantic passage” and culminatingwith the enslavement (chattel slavery) of millions of Black people that wouldlast for 350 years, the American institution of slavery and its lethal legacy con-tinues to wreak havoc on the Black community. I reference slavery as an Amer-ican Institution because I like to make some very clear distinctions that we mustponder:

1) There has been some form of slavery that has been documented since thebeginning of time – in fact, even today, slavery of some sort exists. What makesAmerican slavery so unique is the “global” scale of it and the number of Blacksenslaved (millions); how many European countries participated; how many in-dustries were supported by it; and on a local level, how brutal it was and, unlikeother forms of slavery, American slavery was chattel slavery (humans were re-duced to being nothing but property). Historically, slaves were prisoners of war or had committed some type of

crime. The American form of slavery had Black people hunted and captured likeanimals and forced into generational slavery.Other types of slavery provided the enslaved with some rights and there were

conditions whereby they could earn and/or buy their freedom; slavery didn’t sub-ject their children and their children’s children into perpetual enslavement (theywould be born free). Blacks under American slavery had no rights (animals had more rights) and

all of the laws supported a brutality perpetrated against Black people that hadnever been seen before or since. As stated earlier, this enslavement wasn’t for afew years, this enslavement lasted nearly 350 years where an entire nation and aculture of hate and brutality was created. Millions of our Black people were forced and/or born into slavery with no way

out (millions of Black people died in slavery). Slavery in America was by farthe worst and most prolonged barbaric treatment of human beings in modern his-tory and, even today, the legacy of slavery is nearly as powerful. Black peoplehave been severely damaged by slavery. America was built on slavery and the

brutality against Black people. That’s why today, freedom, justice and equalityfor Black people is so elusive.2) Like all institutions, it becomes self-protecting and depending on the eco-

nomic windfall, will dictate and direct all other institutions. Slavery was Amer-ica’s cash cow and controlled every aspect of American life at the exclusiveexpense of Black people. The American institution of slavery was a crime againstAfrica, Africans, and all of humanity and when you express this in economicterms, slavery was the largest and most lucrative economic windfall the worldhas ever witnessed. American slavery was the catalyst for the massive expansionof a global economy creating wealth beyond anyone’s comprehension. Not only did Americans become extremely wealthy, but nearly all the countries

of Europe were direct participants and beneficiaries of slavery on the backs offree black labor. Slavery was beyond profitable; its economic impact was thefoundation for today’s $100+ trillion in wealth and has placed America in its po-sition of a as the clear superpower and global leader today. America was built on the economics of slavery on the backs of Black people

– that’s why today, freedom justice and equality for Black people is so elusive.America owes a real economic debt to the Black community that it has refused

to pay. To make matters worse, America, via its political, financial, educational,and other systems have made Black people, who are the victims, the culprit. This is the result of measuring today’s economic gains without consideration

of the start for both groups (why can’t the Black community do better, you’vebeen free for 150 years). Too much emphasis is placed on the inadequacies ofthe Black community without any reference to our past in this country – whereyou start matters, how you start matters, especially in an economic race.

We were in the musical phase ofthe Sunday services at the House ofGrace Ministries when I looked overmy shoulder and was shocked to seemy great grand niece twirling theblond hair of a Barbie Doll. My first impulse was to snatch the

doll from her two-year-old hands, butcommon sense got the better of meand instead I whispered to her motherthat she should replace the ‘Barbie’with a Black doll (preferably withdreads or a natural, a big butt andlarge kissable lips).Actually, I probably didn’t have to

make my observation, given that mygrandniece was raised by parentswho embraced a cultural paradigmthat was in tune with my philosophy.And if that isn’t defining enough, sheis married to an African. The doll, she told me later, was a

gift from her mother’s Hispanic fi-ancé’ who died a few weeks ago, andthus held a special meaning to her,and her daughter. Moreover, she ex-plained, her daughter has severalBlack dolls, and as she matures willbe indoctrinated on America’s racialdynamics.All of my siblings and most of my

close relatives understand the impor-tance of instilling within our childrena strong Africentric foundation. Part of that cultural paradigm con-

sists of opening our children’s eyesto the richness of African and AfricanAmerican history. Replacing Whitedolls with Black ones is also part ofthe equation, as it focuses on Blackpride and more importantly, counters

one of the most insidious social phe-nomena impacting Black America:Internalized racism and a hatred ofour Blackness.Over 50 years ago Dr. Kenneth

Clark and his wife Mamie, conducteda landmark study that focused onstereotypes and Black children’s self‘perceptions about race.’ The researchers interviewed Black

children between three and five. Theresults clearly revealed that Blackchildren favored white dolls overBlack ones, and opened a nationaldebate on the effects of institutionalracism and the far-reaching ramifica-tions of self-hatred.In their research, the children over-

whelmingly favored white skin overtheir own.The children also gave the color

'white' positive attributes like ‘goodand pretty.’ On the contrary, 'black'was attributed to being bad and ugly.’The last question asked by the

Clarks’ was considered the most dis-turbing, since by that point, most ofthe Black children had already iden-tified the black doll as the bad one.Among the subjects, 44% said theWhite doll looked like them! While the study was conducted 14

years before the Brown vs. Board ofEducation school segregation trial, itbecame a center pierce of that land-mark legal ruling and dozens to fol-low proving, “that school segregationwas distorting the minds of youngBlack kids, causing them to internal-ize stereotypes and self hatred basedon their skin color.”

Called the “Clark Doll Test” by at-torneys in the segregation lawsuit,the research ‘helped to persuade theAmerican Supreme Court that “sep-arate but equal” schools for Blackand White Americans were anythingbut equal in practice and were there-fore illegal.Everybody, from civil rights attor-

neys to janitors, have debated boththe methodology of the Clark studyto whether segregation in and of it-self can be blamed for low esteemand self hatred among Black Ameri-cans. I would agree, for example, that

the issue was not necessarily about“integration” (which cannot be or-dered by court or legislation), but in-stead about equal opportunity, andunequal resources between whiteschools and segregated Blackschools. On the flip-side, can you say

graduates of traditionally Black col-leges and universities are hurt be-cause of “segregation?” In fact, theopposite may very well be true:Black students generally emerge withboth a degree and cultural pride. Following that train of thought, it

could be theorized that Black chil-dren attending a predominantly whiteschool may be overwhelmed by theEurocentric paradigm that existsthere. I’m not talking about the idi-otic rants of stupid Black folks whosay those Black students are “actingor talking white.” I’m talking aboutthe many Black students who emergefrom those predominately whiteschools in denial or hatred of theirblackness as they try to “fit in,” andadapt to the predominant Eurocentriccultural paradigm.But this is not a new phenomena.Low Black esteem, or the racist—

albeit widely accepted—-adage that“if you’re White you are all right, ifyou’re yellow you’re mellow, ifyou’re brown stick around, but ifyou’re Black stay back,” has rootsdating back to slavery. Free Black Americans (I can only

assume that title is accurate) and theirslave counterparts were indoctrinatedto believe that Whites were superiormembers of a system that affordedthem special privilege akin to whatWhite South Africans held underapartheid. Not by coincidence,mixed race South Africans were clas-sified as ‘colored’ and were grantedintermediate privileges. Many ofthem, including Indians like Ma-hatma Ghandi, looked down uponand discriminated against BlackSouth Africans. (Yeah, you got thatright. The man idolized by Rev. Mar-tin Luther King, Jr. was also a bigot.)Some of those cultural nuances

were replicated in America, includ-ing efforts by darker skinned AfricanAmericans to assimilate into whatthey deem the “beautiful” or domi-nant society. Until recently, Black magazines

ran ads for skin whiteners. They did-n’t have skin whiteners during theslavery era, so many Black men usedwheel grease on their hair so it wouldlook like their “massas’ hair.”Until a few decades ago, one of the

most popular, and expensive, serv-ices offered by urban barbers was the“process” in which the barbers ap-plied lye to straighten those nappylocks.

Today, it is the weave, a “fad” thathas made Korean beauty supplychains millions of dollars. So “des-perate” are some Black women tolook European, they not only crossedthe picket lines at Beauty Island (alsoknown derisively as “Booty Island”),but they threatened Black protesterswho demonstrated because the storeowner allegedly assaulted a pregnantBlack woman he accused of stealing.(I participated in those protests, but Ialways wondered whether the preg-nant sister went back later to get aweave for her ebony baby.)Don’t get me wrong. You can look

like, sound like or smell like anyoneor anything you wish. You can wearextensions down to the ground,pierce your nose, lips and eye brows,dye your skin until you look likeMichael Jackson, deflate your buttand thin out your lips—that’s yourprerogative. I love you and God blessyou. But as for me, I like naturalBlack people, proud of what Godblessed them with—-thick lips, andnappy hair (naturals, Afros, ordreads) crowning their chocolatefaces.Maybe the compromise is to show

pride in your beautiful Black self,your African heritage, and the jour-ney God ordained for you. And ifyou want to give your little girl awhite doll, so be it. But give her aBlack one too, and explain that she’sthe queen, a descendent of greatnessand God’s chosen.

Hotep.

The Clark “BLACK Doll/WHITEDoll Test” and the politics of “self-hate”

SIGNIFYIN’SIGNIFYIN’By Mikel Kweku Osei Holt

Give the People What They Want!We Want Freedom, Justice and Equality

“You can look like, sound like or smell like anyone or anythingyou wish. You can wear extensions down to the ground, pierceyour nose, lips and eye brows, dye your skin until you look likeMichael Jackson, deflate your butt and thin out your lips—that’syour prerogative. I love you and God bless you. But as for me, I

like natural Black people, proud of what God blessed themwith—-thick lips, and nappy hair (naturals, Afros, or dreads)

crowning their chocolate faces.”

THETHEMILWAUKEEMILWAUKEECOMMUNITYCOMMUNITYJOURNALJOURNALPublished twice weekly,Wednesday & Friday3612 North Martin LutherKing Drive, Milwaukee, WI 53212Phone: 414-265-5300 (Advertising and Administration) • 414-265-6647 (Editorial) • Website: communityjournal.net • Email: [email protected]/[email protected]

Opinion and comments expressed on the Perspectives page do not nec-essarily reflect the views of the publisher or management of the MCJ. Let-ters and “other perspectives” are accepted but may be edited for contentand length.

MCJ STAFF:Patricia O’Flynn -PattilloPublisher, CEORobert J. ThomasAssoc. PublisherTodd Thomas, Vice Pres.Mikel Holt, Assoc. PublisherThomas E. Mitchell, Jr., EditorTeretha Martin, Technical Consultant/Webmaster BillingDept./Publisher’s Admin. Assist.

Colleen Newsom,Classified AdvertisingJimmy V. Johnson, Sales Rep.CONTRIBUTING WRITERS:Taki S. Raton, Richard G. Carter,Fr. Carl Diederichs, Rev. JoeMcLinPHOTOGRAPHER: Yvonne Kemp

Kenny Gamble (standing) and Leon Huff



RELIGIONRELIGION

Pastor and First Lady of Mt. OliveBaptist Church celebrate 30 years ofpreaching and teaching God’s WordOn Sunday,April 26, the Rev. John

K. Patterson, along with his wife,First Lady Barbara Patterson, cele-brated 30 years of “Preaching andteaching God’s Word to His People.” This Appreciation Service was

held at the Mt. Olive Baptist Church,located at 5277 N. 36th Street. Thetheme for the service was, “The Pas-tor: God’s Gift to the Church.” Guest speakers for the morning

service included Rev. JohnMcVicker, of Christ the King BaptistChurch, who preached on the topic:“Problems or Possibilities.” The afternoon guest speaker was

Rev. Demetrius Williams of Commu-nity Baptist Church. Rev. Williams spoke on “Pastoral Appreciation.” This celebratory weekend was highlighted byguests from California, Illinois, Missouri, Texas and other states as well.Rev. Patterson is a native of the city of Milwaukee, who married his high school sweetheart, Sis. Barbara J. Strick-

land. They were blessed with two children, Kevin D. and Chanice J. Patterson.Pastor Patterson was called into the Ministry in May 1985 and preached his first sermon in July 1985. In September

of 1987, Pastor Patterson was called as the first Pastor of Greater Community Baptist Church in Missouri and laterpastored at the Greater Metropolitan Baptist Church of Springfield, Missouri for seven years. He is the son of thelate Genora and Zenobia Patterson.Pastor Patterson is a graduate of Cardinal Stritch University in Milwaukee. He holds a Bachelor’s Degree in Reli-

gious Studies and a Master’s Degree from Trinity Evangelical Divinity University in Deerfield, IL in Religious Stud-ies. Currently, he plans to go back to school for his Doctorate in Leadership and Communication.Pastor Patterson has been the Pastor the Mt. Olive Baptist Church for the last eighteen years, where he enjoys a

warm and intense God-led partnership with his congregants.

Rev. John and First Lady Barbara Patterson

Scene from the 30th anniversary celebration for Rev. and First Lady John andBarbara Patterson at Mt. Olive Baptist Church. (Photos courtesy of Mt. Olive Bapt. Church)

“A Change Is Gonna’ (Has To ) Come” Introducing a Reorientation of Mission in the Black Church

There is a genuine sensethat here in Milwaukeeand elsewhere across thiscounty, a dramaticchange in worldview hasbeen taking place forprobably the past 50years. Whatever we may call it, this

shift from a modern to postmodernworld generally has been difficultfor the church to accept. We find ourselves lost in a per-

plexing global jungle where our wellused Christian theological GPS sys-tems don’t seem to be operable any-more. It seems we’ve awaken to find

ourselves in contact with a strangeand unexpected reality that defiesour customary ways of dealing withissues of the church and its’ mission. All of this amounts to what I

would refer to as an ecclesial(“church”) future shock, where weare left wandering in a society andworld we really don’t recognize any-more. In the struggle to grasp our new re-

ality, many of our most anointed andgifted ministers and church leadershave become painfully aware thattheir inherited concepts, language,and indeed their whole way of think-ing is often inadequate to describewhat is going on around us. The problems raised in such a sit-

uation are not merely intellectual,but together amount to an intensespiritual, emotional, and existentialcrisis. The truth is that the 21st century is

turning out to be a highly complexphenomenon where neo-liberalism,globalization technological innova-tion, and discontinuous change con-front us at every point. Worldwide hunger, poverty, eco-

nomic crisis, nuclear proliferation,climate change, and terrorist threatsare monumental concerns. Every day we are corralled into a

repressively demonic system thatprovides us the slick illusion of free-dom but all the while scoffs at freewill, stymies our creative and revo-lutionary capacities, and leaves uslittle room to authentically carve outour own paths. This systemic construct is de-

signed to strip the “faithful” of ourinclination to empathize and cooper-ate, siphon our communal spirit, sti-fle our capacity to imagine a betterworld, and make us accept the neces-sity to trample one another to “getahead”. In terms of the black community,

there is perpetual specter of racial,cultural, and economic oppression,violence, and class warfare that di-minish our opportunities for collec-tive empowerment andself-determination. In the face of all of this, even the

most confident among us wouldhave to admit that the “black” churchas we know it faces a significantadaptive challenge. An overwhelming majority of

black community church leaderstoday report that it is becoming farmore difficult for their communitiesto negotiate the increasing complex-

ities in which they find themselves.As a result, the church is on a mas-sive, long trended decline in Amer-ica. In this situation we must ask our-

selves probing questions: “Will moreof the same do the trick? Can wesimply rework the very same modesand understanding of church and fi-nally, in an ultimate tweak of the sys-tem, come up with a winningformula?” I am convinced that the inherited

formulas will not work anymore andI am not alone in this view. There is a massive roaming of

minds going on here in Milwaukeeand elsewhere as the search for alter-native heats up. There is a radical rem-

nant of Christ followers who are try-ing to avoid the present paradigms ofchurch ministry in a desperate effortto put distance between the wide-spread negative perceptions of or-ganized religion and their genuinefaith in Jesus. Our Savior paid the redemptive

price for a people who would reflectthe radiance of his glory and the lib-

RELIGIOUS COMMENTARYRELIGIOUS COMMENTARYRev. Derrick D. Rogers Pastor, Compassion Ministries of Milwaukee --

Director, The XodusEd Group


Rev. Derrick D. Rogers

“Every day we are corralled into a repressively demonicsystem that provides us the slick illusion of freedom but allthe while scoffs at free will, stymies our creative and revo-lutionary capacities, and leaves us little room to authenti-cally carve out our own paths. This systemic construct isdesigned to strip the “faithful” of our inclination to em-

pathize and cooperate, siphon our communal spirit, stifleour capacity to imagine a better world, and make us accept

the necessity to trample one another to ‘get ahead’. “


RELIGIOUS COMMENTARYRELIGIOUS COMMENTARY


Extreme Elitesgala fundraiser atMt. ZionChurchBy Taki S. RatonThe Extreme Elites will hold their first fundraiser

on Saturday, May 2, 2015 at Mt. Zion Church ofGod In Christ, 1527 North Astor beginning at 11a.m.Ranging in ages from 4 to 17, the Extreme Elites

are a dance troupe, “united by our passion to dance,”says Coretta Kimble, parent coordinator for Extreme

Elites with a 7 and 16-year-old in the group.The troupe came together in early March accord-

ing to Kimble and she adds that, “we’ve since cre-ated an unbreakable bond.”Nivia Davis-Frechette, the inspiration behind Ex-

treme Elites, has had a passion for dance since be-ginning at the age of 5. Davis-Frechette claimeddancing as a “safe place to express herself openly.”Inspired by her Pastor, Elder John Daniels III by

his sermon on “Purpose,” she sought consultationand direction from him regarding her vision to teachdance. He advised her to pursue her dream and start her

very own dance team. Utilizing her skills and talentto dance, she is now the CEO and Head Coach ofExtreme Elites.Pastor Daniels and his wife, First Lady Ericka Joy

Daniels according to Kimble, are among the Ex-treme Elite’s biggest sponsors and supporters.Davis-Frechette’s purpose for Extreme Elites is

her contribution towards helping to heal the com-munity by starting with the young and by giving

them a safe and positive environment “to be free andexpress themselves with integrity!”Serving as assistant coach is Quieta Brown. The

group’s practices are held every Monday andWednesday at 3500 West Mother Daniels Way from5 to 7 p.m.According to their Mission Statement, the Ex-

treme Elites are “Dedicated to Distinction” in theirdevelopment of both recreational and competitivelevel talent. Each and every Extreme Elite memberis provided with a solid foundation for dance andthe guidance to assist each dancer to discover theirstrengths and to reach their own personal potential.Within their shared learning experience, the Ex-

treme Elites underscore in their statement, “Dedi-cated to Motivate,” that their goal is to inspire teammembers to be motivated by one another in their ef-

fort to live, learn, teach, create and develop an ap-preciation for dance.In their comment noting their “Dedication to This

Team,” the Extreme Elites learn and grow as agroup. “Together we share the responsibility for de-veloping self-worth and cultivating self-assurance,”as is stated in their Mission Statement. “We placethe highest value on respect – respect for each otherand respect for ourselves,” it is noted.Kimble says of Extreme Elites that, “I support that

which I love, and I love to see young girls and youngladies come together as a single unit, drama free, ina positive environment.”For additional information on the group’s Mt.

Zion Church of God In Christ fundraiser or for de-tails on the Extreme Elite dance troupe, please con-tact Davis-Frechette at (414) 750-0559.

YY&&EEY O U T H & E D U C A T I O N


KALEIDOSCOPEKALEIDOSCOPEt h e MCJ l i f e s t y l e & e n t e r t a i nmen t s e c t i o nFROMTHEBLACK

STRESS FREE FOR LIFE is an excellent book to help you eliminate thestress in your life and help you get back on track. This is an excellent book tohelp your loved ones that are locked up in the penitentiary. They have time toread and get a great understanding of what the book is saying that will helpthem change their lives around.

You can order a copy by calling the publisher Taui Network at 718-469-3199. The cost of the book is $29.95 (includes shipping and handling).Pass the word to other friends and family members to do the same thing. It’stime for a revolution of the mind. AhVant Soul First Friday-Jon Pierre Gee and AhVant

Soul perform live classic soul, R&B, jazz and blues music. This Friday, May 1from 6 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. no cover charge. Join us for a delicious fish fry at Cof-fee Makes You Black, 2803 N. Teutonia, call 562-5225 for more information.Body and Soul Spring Market-You are invited to keep your money

and support in the community by shopping at this market located in the Sher-man Park neighborhood, bringing together the talent and creativityof many Milwaukee artists, food artisans, crafters, and more.

Saturday, May 2, 10:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. at the Body and Soul Heal-ing Arts Center, 3617 N. 48th St.International Workers Day-Join us May 1 from 6:00 p.m. to 9:00

p.m. for a presentation about Peace and Jobs. Speakers-Brian Verdin, educatorand activists, George Martin-MLK Justice Coalition, Angela Walker-Jobs Now andChrisitine Neuman-Ortiz, founder and director of Voices De La Frontera.

This event will be held at the Jazz Gallery Center for the Arts.926 E. Center St. and is sponsored by Riverwest Artists Association.

By Tony Courtney

THIS IS JUST NOT FAIR, IN FACT, IT’S DEAD WRONG. Why are all ofthese people and their systems steeped in denial and why do they blame the victimfor its condition? Black people have done nothing but struggle in this countryand continue to do so today. Blacks continue to lose ground in nearly every category with positive demo-

graphics decreasing and nearly every negative demographic increasing and thetopic of compensation for nearly 300 years of free labor is completely absent. Today, everything is viewed through a lens as if Blacks have freedom, justice

and equality and nothing could be further from the truth. Let’s unpack freedom,justice, and equality and what its potential application would mean for the Blackcommunity today. Freedom (real freedom is economic freedom) – The Emancipation Proclama-

tion signaled the end of the American institution of slavery. This was no smallfeat to be free Blacks from slavery. It took a civil war and the threat of the entireeconomic disruption of America that most didn’t want to see happen.

Ending slavery wasn’t a moral issue; it was an economic issue. Ultimately,the freedom of Black people would pit Black people against those who enslavedthem, especially poor whites, and chattel slavery would ultimately morph intoother forms of slavery which are equally as lethal. In the economic race, these things significantly slowed the progress of freed

Blacks, specifically Jim Crow and segregation, the Ku Klux Klan (KKK) and theterrorism of its lynching, failed public policies, war casualties, mass incarcerationblack males, voter suppression, and failed public education systems (and manymore). These “economic traps” were all designed by the enemies of Black people that

fully embraced the culture of hate which was produced by the American Institu-tion of slavery and have all significantly impeded the social and economicprogress of Black people since emancipation. Restated, it wasn’t enough that the Black people, with nearly 100% poverty

and 100% illiteracy were freed to become Americans, the truth of the matter is,at every step along the way, the former slave owners would lay out trap after trapto trip up and knock down Black people. When you consider the following two key facts (there are so many more): 1)

Black ownership of the nation’s wealth remains where it was in 1860 near theend of slavery (pre-emancipation) at one half of one percent (0.05%). After 150years, 100% physical freedom, and America’s token addressing of social issues,Blacks still only own one half of one percent (0.05%) of the nation’s wealth. Why is this? Wealth inheritance is the passing of past benefits and gains from

previous generations to future generations. Currently, nearly 90% of all of thenation’s wealth was passed from one generation to another. This wealth is foreverlocked up (i.e. cash, stocks, bonds, land, business, trust accounts, endowments,foundations, etc.). While not all White people are rich, there is a massive disparity between the

net assets of the average White family versus the average Black family ($100k+vs $6-8k). This plays out in educational opportunities, housing and neighborhoodselection, capitalization of entrepreneurial aspirations, and a genuine ability forself-determination for Black people. Let’s look at this differently in a way that might help you to get a better under-

standing of the economic challenges that Black people face today (many of uscan’t handle the truth). The freeing of the Black community can be compared to the release of some-

one who has been unjustly incarcerated at age 17 for 50 years and who is now67. During his period of incarceration, he worked from sun up to sun down andwasn’t afforded development of any real empowerment skills, so when he wasreleased, he was completely penniless and nearly illiterate. His captives, who acknowledge that he was imprisoned unjustly, now tells him

that his physical freedom is all he needs and to now go out here and compete. There are no reparations; there is no payment for the injustice that was perpet-

uated; there was no preferential treatment for housing, employment, for food;there was nothing, except that he achieved his physical freedom. He has no skills, no money, yet he has to survive and now, at age 67 he has to

compete for resources with those who are educationally and economically giantsover him. How ridiculous is this? In many respects this is the state of the Blackcommunity. TRUE FREEDOM IS ECONOMIC FREEDOMEveryone marvels at Dr. Martin Luther King’s “I have a Dream Speech”, but

few no the real contents of this most powerful speech and some say it representeda turning point in the philosophy of Dr. King. He called the Emancipation Procla-mation (the physical freedom) a “symbolic shadow.” “But one hundred years later, the Negro still is not free. One hundred years

later, the life of the Negro is still sadly crippled by the manacles of segregationand the chains of discrimination. One hundred years later, the Negro lives on alonely island of poverty in the midst of a vast ocean of material prosperity. Onehundred years later, the Negro is still languishing in the corners of American so-ciety and finds himself an exile in his own land. So we have come here today todramatize a shameful condition.In a sense we have come to our nation's capital to cash a check. When the ar-

chitects of our republic wrote the magnificent words of the Constitution and theDeclaration of Independence, they were signing a promissory note to which everyAmerican was to fall heir. This note was a promise that all men, yes, black men as well as white men,

would be guaranteed the unalienable rights of life, liberty, and the pursuit of hap-piness.It is obvious today that America has defaulted on this promissory note insofar

as her citizens of color are concerned. Instead of honoring this sacred obligation, America has given the Negro people

a bad check, a check which has come back marked "insufficient funds." But werefuse to believe that the bank of justice is bankrupt. We refuse to believe that there are insufficient funds in the great vaults of op-

portunity of this nation. So we have come to cash this check — a check that willgive us upon demand the riches of freedom and the security of justice. We have also come to this hallowed spot to remind America of the fierce ur-

gency of now. This is no time to engage in the luxury of cooling off or to takethe tranquilizing drug of gradualism. Now is the time to make real the

promises of democracy. Now is thetime to rise from the dark and desolatevalley of segregation to the sunlit pathof racial justice. Now is the time to lift our nation

from the quick sands of racial injusticeto the solid rock of brotherhood. Nowis the time to make justice a reality forall of God's children.”Today, nearly 45 million Black peo-

ple struggle in America socially andeconomically. Our great hero Dr. Martin Luther

King said it over and over but unfortu-nately, this isn’t what is talked aboutwhen we mention him – we’ve allowedthe same enemies of Black people thatcreated and implemented new types ofslavery to also water down his messageand the message of so many of ourother heroes. Yes, physical freedom was impor-

tant but where is the economic justice?Where is the deal to repair what was/isbeing done to Black people and howdoes the children of those who werecaptive and enslaved benefit from theeconomic windfall that is afforded tothe children who enslave them? Real freedom is economic freedom

and Black people want and deserve tohave real freedom. Today, Blacks rank

Give the PeopleWhat They Want!(continued from page 3)


DNS internship program a possible path to city employment

Alderman Russell W. Stamper, II isencouraging interested residents to applyfor the Department of NeighborhoodServices’ Code Enforcement Intern pro-gram -- a two-year training initiative thatcombines classroom training and on-the-job experience to prepare individuals forCode Enforcement Inspector positions. Alderman Stamper said interested in-

dividuals should go tohttp://bit.ly/1zVqnHh for more informa-tion and to apply. Applications are beingaccepted until the close of business onWednesday, May 6, 2015.“The City of Milwaukee is looking for

individuals who are willing to dedicatethemselves to a regimen that includeswork experience in the field and collegecoursework in this positive initiative,”Alderman Stamper said. Minimum requirements for the Code

Enforcement Intern program curriculumconsist of approximately 31 college cred-its in the combined fields of English, so-cial sciences, math/computers,architecture, and code enforcement. Theposition carries a starting salary of morethan $26,000 per year.


The School System: Educational Revolutionfessionals engaged my boys in would have benefited anychild with or without developmental delays. Family we need to create a womb to the tomb strategy

that helps our mothers with pre-natal care ensuring allchildren are given a true chance entering the world andkeep them covered with protection until their time on theearth has ended. This means that true education reforms begins with our

families and communities, not the school system, family.In a previous article I wrote, I discussed the uniquenessof the human infant and the tremendous effect of their en-vironment on their developing brain and personality. Lastweek, I stated that our government needed to allocatemore funding for educational reform.We can begin to distribute those funds with any facility

that houses children from 6 weeks to 4 years old. It is con-fusing to me how the qualifications for these settings andindividuals who work with the infants and toddlers areless restrictive than those who work with older children.I do not think one need have a college degree to workwith these precious souls, per se. In the same vein, just because one has a diploma from

an institution of higher learning does not mean they areappropriately qualified. I believe a combination of thosetrained in educational settings combined with those whohave an innate ability to love, nurture and work withsmall children. This sets the tone for multiple entities to work together

with a singular focus of helping each child maximize theirability. In a society where we have a true collective impact, we

take a multi-disciplinary approach allowing each entityto work within their individual silos, but with a connec-

tive bridge that allows all involved with the child to com-municate effortlessly and simultaneously. In special edu-cation, we are required to create an individualizededucation plan for each student. I submit that every child should have an individualized

plan? And not just for school, but for all areas of theirlife. We hold school teachers accountable for failing stu-dents, who do we hold responsible for children who failin life? Yes, the parents take on this responsibility, but ifthey fail – and we know many do—do these innocentsouls just slip through the cracks and be forced to fendfor themselves or is there a safety net for them? This iswhere our palliative care work should theoretically com-mence. Family, there should be multiple resources allocated for

each child before that are labeled at-risk or adjudicatedby the juvenile court system. Let’s see…… we have aproblem with unemployment. We have a need for anarmy of workers to work with children that could benefitour society today and tomorrow. Family, I just wanted to begin the conversation for ed-

ucational revolution with this article. Beloved, the strate-gies this week were purposely ambiguous, nebulous andutopian-like, as this was to serve as the seed for brain-storming. Remember, this is not a quick fix and it cannot be re-

actionary. For any formula to have success, it must havea multi-systemic team, be proactive, have a sustained ap-proach that is critically analyzed and regularly examined.The next article will deal with concrete ideas that can beimplemented immediately and in the future.

Selah. Ashe.The BLAQUESMITH

(continued from page 1)

“A Change Is Gonna’(Has To ) Come”erating transformative reality of his presence to every tongue, tribe and na-tion, but somehow we seem to have squandered his legacy amidst a mess ofecclesial misdirection. Over the next few months I hope to take a journey with you as together

we take a cursory peek into things that are very deep; things that if recovered,resurrected, and applied could have considerable ramifications for AmericanChristianity, the black church, and the Milwaukee community. Collectively let us experience intrigue, alarm, challenge, and hope. Exer-

cising a Sankofan spirit let us build upon the finest of what the saints havedone and are currently doing, and explore a fresh and provocative view ofthe church, Jesus, and his teachings. We can discover how an emerging understanding of Jesus and his core

message can infuse us with purpose and passion to both transform individualsand address the economic, political, environmental, and social dysfunctionsthat have overtaken our world. A “change is gonna’ (has to) come” y’all. Be assured that I write as some-

one who is not claiming this fact as my own. If anything, like all who receive grace from God, I feel that I am the hum-

ble recipient of but a miniscule portion of clarity and an infinitesimal frag-ment of revelation. There is an unearthing of something primal occurring inwhich I feel privileged to participate. In upcoming articles I will share portions of my stumbling attempt to ar-

ticulate some of this elusive revelation: something that belongs to the gospelitself and therefore to the whole of the faithful who live by it.

“Well, here we are,” she said laughing. “I have to say as I look out on all ofyou gathered here today, it seems like such an understatement to say thatmy heart is full, but it is. It is full of the most deep and profound gratitudethat I’ve felt in quite some time. I must, of course, thank the people whohave made it possible for me to stand her today. First and foremost, I haveto thank the president for his faith in me and asking me to lead the depart-ment that I love to even greater heights.”


Lynch sworn in as first Blackwoman U. S. Attorney General


Universally Speakingdead last in almost every positive de-mographics, and dominate in all of thenegative demographics. All of the negative demographics

have worsened over the past fiftyyears. All of this can be tied directly to our

economic struggles in this country.Contrary to the media hype, Black peo-ple never had glowing economic num-bers at any time since emancipation.Poverty, lack of educational achieve-ments, addictions, unemployment andunderemployment, incarceration, andthe demise of the Black family allthreaten the future of our race and aresymptoms of the economic struggle. The Black community has been

through it all and continues to strugglewith the number of disparities that weface, but there is no bigger disparityand more damaging to our communitythan the economic disparity that existsbetween the Black community and theWhite community. Reparations are about making right

on wrongs – it is the act of makingatonement, mends, and indemnity fora wrong committed against another.I’ve already stated that the wrong in-flicted against Blacks in America is theworst in modern history, so why isthere not even a conversation about it. The term implies an active repairing

of the damage or injury inflicted on thewrong party. The right to reparationshas long been recognized in Interna-

tional Law. While there a few that can be refer-

enced, none more than reparations paidto the Jewish victims of the Nazi per-secution of the 1930s and 40s. Amer-ica was built on the economics ofslavery acquired on the backs of Blackpeople. That’s why today, freedom justice

and equality for Black people is so elu-sive. WE HAVE TO GIVE THE PEO-PLE WHAT THEY WANT ANDTHEY WANT FREEDOM, JUSTICEAND EQUALITY (THANK YOUGAMBLE AND HUFF). My next article will discuss the com-

ponents of “justice” and “equality” andhow they too are elusive and their con-nection to economic freedom.


Charlotte Ghazarian with ThriventFinancial® in Glendale,WI has re-ceived the Qualified Kingdom Advi-sor™ designation from Atlanta-basedKingdom Advisors, Inc. The Qualified Kingdom Advisor™

is granted to financial professionalswho have met high standards in train-ing, integrity, character, and compe-tence as an advisor, leader, andcounselor.Qualified Kingdom Advisors™ are

individuals who have demonstratedthemselves to be: Believers in Jesus Christ – by

pledging agreement with the King-dom Advisors Statement of Faith andproviding a personal testimony of ac-cepting Jesus Christ as their Lord andSavior.Able to Apply Biblical Wisdom in

Counsel – by successfully complet-ing the Kingdom Advisors CoreTraining, participating in on-goingtraining courses, and committing to

incorporate biblical principles intheir financial advice.Technically Competent – by pro-

viding evidence of an approved pro-fessional designation (varying bydiscipline) or having at least 10 yearsfull-time experience in their disci-pline.Ethical and of Integrity – by agree-

ing to espouse and practice the King-dom Advisors Code of Ethics,

maintain active local church involve-ment, as well as providing pastoraland client letters of reference.Biblical Stewards – by pledging

that they practice biblical steward-ship in their personal and profes-sional life and giving regularly inproportion to their income.Ron Blue, president of Kingdom

Advisors, describes the individualswho attain this designation as,“trained and committed to be peopleof character who, from a biblicalworldview, serve clients with biblicalfinancial advice on how to best meetthe goals God has given them asstewards of the finances entrusted tothem.”To visit the national directory of

Qualified Kingdom Advisors or re-ceive more information on the Qual-ified Kingdom Advisor™designation, please visit www.King-domAdvisors.org.

Charlotte Ghazarian receives the Qualified KingdomAdvisor designation from Kingdom Advisors

Charlotte Ghazarian

PACKERS SETTO HOST 2015NFL DRAFTPARTY SATURDAY INMILWAUKEEAttendees can enter for chance to

announce Packers draft picksThe Green Bay Packers are set to

host their official 2015 NFL DraftParty on Saturday, May 2, at Evolu-tion in Milwaukee.Event attendees will have the

chance to participate in the draft byentering raffles for the opportunity toannounce Packers draft picks live onthe NFL Network or its online part-ners.The party will also feature a pro-

gram hosted by Larry McCarrenfrom noon to 1:30 p.m. The programwill include appearances and auto-graphs by Packers alumni AntonioFreeman, Jim Grabowski, LeRoyButler, Mark Chmura and DerrickMayes, as well as other prize rafflesand fan giveaways.The Saturday party is free to the

public and space will be available ona first-come, first-served basis, withactivities offered from 11 a.m. untilthe draft concludes. A $5 limitedparty menu will be offered and all tapbeer will be $4 during the event.

SPORTSSPORTS

Those wishing to enter the raffle toannounce the Packers’ draft pickslive on television or online can beginentering starting at 11 a.m. Raffle en-trants must be present to win.Evolution is located in downtown

Milwaukee's trendy yet HistoricThird Ward, at 233 E. Chicago St. Event parking is available in the

parking structure next door (225 E.Chicago St.), where full day parkingpasses will be $10. In addition to arestaurant, bar, lounge, and two pri-vate party rooms,

Evolution sports 12 top-qualitytable-tennis courts on cushionedOlympic-competition flooring, plus a13th stadium-like center court.Party attendees will also have the

opportunity to purchase Packers ProShop merchandise, including thePackers’ official 2015 NFL Draftcaps and other popular items fromthe store, at Evolution throughout theday’s festivities. Additionally, fans at the event will

be able to enjoy special promotionsand interactive displays from Miller-Coors, Chevy and Associated Bank.

The party will include draft cover-age on TV screens throughout Evo-lution, and will provide Wi-FiInternet access, allowing attendeeswho bring wireless-enabled laptopsand mobile devices to log on to theirfavorite draft websites and follow theaction online.The NFL Draft features a three-day

format, with Round 1 beginning at 7p.m. CT, on Thursday, April 30, fol-lowed by Rounds 2-3 beginning at5:30 p.m. CT Friday, May 1, andRounds 4-7 beginning at 11:00 a.m.CT on Saturday, May 2.

More information on the NFLDraft can be found online atwww.packers.com.



Universally Speaking

PACKERS SET TO HOST2015 NFL DRAFT PARTY SATURDAY IN MILWAUKEEThose wishing to enter the raffle to

announce the Packers’ draft pickslive on television or online can beginentering starting at 11 a.m. Raffle en-trants must be present to win.Evolution is located in downtown

Milwaukee's trendy yet HistoricThird Ward, at 233 E. Chicago St. Event parking is available in the

parking structure next door (225 E.Chicago St.), where full day parkingpasses will be $10. In addition to arestaurant, bar, lounge, and two pri-vate party rooms,

Evolution sports 12 top-qualitytable-tennis courts on cushionedOlympic-competition flooring, plus a13th stadium-like center court.Party attendees will also have the

opportunity to purchase Packers ProShop merchandise, including thePackers’ official 2015 NFL Draftcaps and other popular items fromthe store, at Evolution throughout theday’s festivities. Additionally, fans at the event will

be able to enjoy special promotionsand interactive displays from Miller-Coors, Chevy and Associated Bank.

The party will include draft cover-age on TV screens throughout Evo-lution, and will provide Wi-FiInternet access, allowing attendeeswho bring wireless-enabled laptopsand mobile devices to log on to theirfavorite draft websites and follow theaction online.The NFL Draft features a three-day

format, with Round 1 beginning at 7p.m. CT, on Thursday, April 30, fol-lowed by Rounds 2-3 beginning at5:30 p.m. CT Friday, May 1, andRounds 4-7 beginning at 11:00 a.m.CT on Saturday, May 2.

More information on the NFLDraft can be found online atwww.packers.com.



Documents

MCJ April 29, 2015 Edition