Send2Press Newswire

Black Unity Family Commemorates King Assassination with Letter to Fellow Americans

Fri, 04 Apr 2008 01:00:35 GMT

WASHINGTON, D.C., April 4 (SEND2PRESS NEWSWIRE) -- In commemoration of the 40th anniversary of the assassination of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr., The Black Unity Family, a diverse, nonpartisan coalition of groups and individuals co-convened by Dr. Dorothy I. Height, Dr. Joseph E. Lowery, Dr. Barbara Williams-Skinner and Melanie L. Campbell, released the following "Letter to Fellow Americans:"

Where Do We Go From Here?

"We are caught in an inescapable network of mutuality, tied in a single garment of destiny. Whatever affects one directly affects all indirectly.... Now is the time to make real the promise of democracy...." Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr.

Dear Fellow Americans:

On this, the 40th anniversary of the assassination of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr., we, a diverse, nonpartisan, intergenerational coalition of African-American groups and individuals, have come together so that our voices will be clearly heard.

Our community has a great stake in this presidential election, and issues that we are most concerned about must be addressed.

We share with all Americans a call for the prompt ending of the war in Iraq, universal health care, access to quality education, affordable housing free from predatory lenders, quality jobs and economic stability.

Our particular domestic and global priorities include: re-creating a high-wage economy, transforming underserved schools, increasing funding for historically Black colleges and universities, restoring communities devastated by Hurricanes Katrina and Rita, reconstructing a Supreme Court committed to justice for all, sustaining strong enforcement of civil rights laws and rebuilding urban and rural infrastructures.

We also call for expanding HIV/AIDS research, the recognition of workers' rights to organize, entrepreneurial opportunity, environmental justice, criminal justice reform, the reduction of disproportionately high incarceration rates, and support for the growth and development of Caribbean and African nations. These are critical human rights issues.

Our churches have been our moral foundation and prophetic witness for justice and equality since slavery, holding up a mirror on areas where the nation falls short of these virtues.

We strongly uphold the right to religious freedom of expression as reflected in our churches and other faith institutions.

Our unpaid labor, creativity, blood, sweat and tears helped build America. Today, we seek to work with Americans of all faiths, races and ethnic backgrounds to heal long-standing wounds in our nation.

Let us all join together to realize Dr. King's vision of social, racial and economic justice for all - for the love of our children and for future generations.

The Black Unity Family (Partial list. For a full list go to www.ncbcp.org )

Maya Angelou
Barbara Arnwine
Vanita Banks
Cora Masters Barry
Lezli Baskerville
Julian Bond
Donna Brazile
Clayola Brown
Khephra Burns
Melanie Campbell
Rev. Suzan Johnson Cook
Johnnetta B. Cole
Prof. Kimberly Crenshaw
Felicia Davis
Al Dotson
Thomas W. Dortch
Rev. Gerald Durley
Michael Eric Dyson
Hazel Edney
DeAnna Evans
Ralph Everett
Isaac Farris
Danny Glover
Dennis Hayes
Hon. Glenda Hatchett
Dr. Dorothy I. Height
Gerald Hudson
Rev. Jesse Jackson
Benjamin Jealous
Keith Jennings
Jeff Johnson
Oscar Joyner
Maulana Karenga
Martin Luther King, III
Bishop Eddie Long
Evelyn Lowery
Rev. Joseph Lowery
William Lucy
Julianne Malveaux
Darryl Matthews.
Bishop E. Earl McCloud, Jr.
Terry McMillan
Barbara McKinzie
Bishop Vashti McKenzie
Brenda Girton Mitchell
Rev. Judith C. Moore
Marc Morial
Constance Newman
Charles Ogletree
Kevin Parker
Rev. Tyrone S. Pitts
Steve Phillips
Kevin Powell
Lois A. Rice
Elsie Scott
Rev. Al Sharpton
Beverly Guy-Shefthall
Yvonne Scruggs-Leftwich
Bev Smith
Jane E. Smith
Rev. T. DeWitt Smith, Jr.
Hon. Calvin Smyre
Charles Steele
Beverly Daniel Tatum
Susan L. Taylor
Rev. Regena Thomas
Cicely Tyson
Iyanla Vanzant
Rev. C. T. Vivian
LaKimba DeSadier-Walker
Ronald Walters
Shelley Wynter
Rev. Barbara Williams-Skinner
Terrie Williams
Richard Womack
Hon. Andrew Young

NOTE TO MEDIA: The following BUF representatives are available for interview. Contact Edrea at edmedia @dogonvillage.com:

Susan L. Taylor
Melanie Campbell
Professor Charles Ogletree
Barbara Arnwine, Esq.
Dr. Joseph E. Lowery
William "Bill" Lucy
Kevin Powell

National Coalition on Black Civic Participation / Black Unity Family

Copyright © 2008 Send2Press® Newswire, a unit of Neotrope®
TAGS: Send2Press Newswire, National Coalition on Black Civic Participation, Black Unity Family

Black Youth Vote! National Civic Education Training Tour Promotes Voting in Iowa

Thu, 13 Dec 2007 11:30:46 GMT

DES MOINES, Iowa - Dec. 13 (SEND2PRESS NEWSWIRE) -- As part of ongoing efforts to motivate young people to engage in the political process, the League of Young Voters Education Fund (LYVEF) recently teamed up with the National Coalition on Black Civic Participation's (NCBCP) Black Youth Vote! (BYV!) for an innovative civic participation training at North High School in Des Moines, IA. The youth later participated in the Black and Brown Forum Presidential Debate.

Organizers underscored the importance of voting in the Jan. 3, 2008 primary even though people of color make up less than six percent of the Iowa population. "We are working diligently to educate young people on the role the primaries play in the political process," said Rob "Biko" Baker, LYVEF organizing director. "We used edutainment - spoken word and writing exercises - to tie the struggles faced by young adults to the power of the vote."

"Young people must learn the entire process. From getting youth-oriented issues on the table during the primaries, to holding elected officials accountable once they're in office," adds Melanie L. Campbell, executive director and CEO of the NCBCP. "This is one of many trainings we are hosting across the country to educate young people on the importance of voting and teaching them how to mobilize their friends and family around issues important to them."

Last month Black Youth Vote! hosted a comprehensive training in Washington, DC to prepare state BYV! coordinators to go into their community and galvanize young voters. Nearly 80 youth organizers from across the country engaged in interactive workshops and panel discussions to train them on voter registration, mobilizing young voters, voter protection, and educating the youth on issues impacting their demographic.

"There are a number of issues important to Black youth including the unprecedented levels of African American incarceration, high school expulsion rates, and their economic future," said Jordan Thierry, BYV! national coordinator. "Black Youth Vote! connects the dots between voting and resolving issues effecting their everyday life."

"It's a new day in America. Black youth under 35 represent nearly 50 percent of the Black American electorate," says Campbell. "Black youth have the power to impact the serious problems confronting the Black community. Their movement was energized with the historic participation of young voters in the 2004 election, followed by the massive demonstration in Jena. Black Youth Vote! is helping to channel that movement energy into the 2008 election cycle," she adds.

Black Youth Vote! (www.ncbcp.org), the youth division of the NCBCP, is a national grassroots coalition of organizations and individuals committed to increasing political and civic involvement among Black men and women aged 18-35. Founded in1996, the youth led organization educates young adults about the political process and trains them to identify issues and influence public policy through participation. BYV! has been instrumental reversing the downward spiral among young voters and educating voters who are increasingly disenfranchised from the electoral and legislative process.

The League of Young Voters Education Fund (youngvoter.org/iowa) empowers young people nationwide to participate in the democratic process -with a focus on non-college youth from low-income communities and communities of color. Founded in 2003, LYVEF makes civic engagement relevant by meeting young people where they are, working on issues that affect their lives, and providing them with tools, training, and support to become viable players in the civic process.

Copyright © 2007 Send2Press® Newswire, a unit of Neotrope®
TAGS: Send2Press Newswire, National Coalition on Black Civic Participation, Black Youth Vote

Megan Williams Kidnapping, Rape and Torture Case: Advocates and Family Call for Federal Hate Crime Charges

Wed, 03 Oct 2007 17:40:00 GMT

LOGAN, W.Va. - Oct. 3 (SEND2PRESS NEWSWIRE) -- Black Lawyers For Justice President, Malik Shabazz, Esq., today announced they will organize and advocate for Federal Hate Crime Charges to be brought against the 6 Defendants in the Megan Williams Kidnap And Torture Case, on behalf of the family.

On September 12, 2007 six white residents of Logan County were arrested and charged with kidnapping, sexual assault, malicious wounding, and battery against Megan Williams, who is Black and Mentally Challenged. It is also reported that the defendants allegedly repeatedly used racial slurs while forcing Megan to eat human feces, rat feces, and drink urine while trapped at the Logan County, West Virginia residence.

--- Urgent News Conference To Be Held ---

When: Thursday, October 4th, 2007

Location: Logan County Courthouse. Located at 300 Stratton Street
Logan, West Virginia
Time: 3:00 p.m. EST After Preliminary Hearing for Defendants
In Rape/ Kidnapping/ Torture case

Subject Matter: Bringing Federal Hate Crime Charges Against The
6 Defendants in the Megan Williams Case

Who will speak: Carmen Williams (The Parents of Megan
Williams (The Williams Family) and
Malik Shabazz, Esq. (Legal Advocate for the
Williams' Family)

Contact: Black Lawyers For Justice/ Attorney Malik Shabazz
(202) 408-7021

Attorney Shabazz stated, "After reviewing the facts of this hideous case, I am shocked that Federal Hate Crime Charges have not also been brought against these 6 Defendants. The overt evidence gathered in this case thus far, clearly indicates that this was in fact a hate crime. The six white defendants according to the evidence gathered, used racial epithets such as 'nigger' repeatedly while carrying out acts such as stabbing, beating and sexually assaulting the victim. The most compelling was the act of putting a noose around her neck and repeatedly raping her for seven days. The U.S. Justice Department must at once reverse the course and fulfill its duty to prosecute these hate crimes, many of which are increasing all over the nation."

Attorney Shabazz has said, "We will be seeking the assistance of the Congressional Black Caucus (CBC) in the Megan Williams matter. The Justice Department must intervene on the Megan Williams Case if Black People are to have any protection under Federal Hate Crime Statutes. Our people are under attack all over the nation and we must fight on all fronts to resist this new resurgence of racism, which is rearing its ugly head throughout the nation."

Megan Williams was lured into a Trailer House of Hate, a Black West Virginia Woman was raped, choked, stabbed and forced to eat dog and rat feces, as her six white tormentors berated her with the N-word. Prosecutors said, "Every time they stabbed her, they called her 'nigger.'"

Carmen Williams, the mother, told The Charleston Gazette, "She wakes up in the middle of the night screaming, 'Mommy!' What's really, really bad is, we don't know everything, they did to her. She is crying all the time."

Arrested are: Frankie Brewster, 49, and her son Bobby Brewster, 24., Karen Burton, 46; her daughter Alisha, 23; Danny Combs, 20, and George Messer, 27 in this abomination.

The suspects allegedly took turns beating, stabbing, choking, and sexually abusing Williams, while consistently threatening her with death, according to a criminal complaint. A rope was placed around Williams' neck, her hair was ripped out, and she was made to eat dog and rat feces, drink from a toilet and lick up blood, the complaint charges. At one point, she was sexually assaulted while scalding water and melting hot wax from a candle was poured on her body. She was stabbed in the leg at least four times and both of her ankles were cut by a female suspect who allegedly taunted her saying, "This one is for Kaunte Kente, and that's what we do to niggers around here."

Black Lawyers For Justice will be taking the Williams' Family to Washington D.C. to meet with the Congressional Black Caucus on these important matters. Furthermore, Attorney Shabazz is organizing several fundraisers to help defray the medical expenses and other needs for the victims, Megan Williams and her family.

"Justice for Megan Williams and an end to hate crimes, is a must!" concluded Malik Shabazz.

More information: www.blacklawyersforjustice.org

Copyright © 2007 Send2Press® Newswire, a unit of Neotrope®
TAGS: Send2Press Newswire, Black Lawyers For Justice, Attorney Malik Shabazz

JENA 6 LATEST UPDATE: Neo Nazi-Klu Klux Klan Groups Threaten Jena 6 Families and Black Residents

Mon, 24 Sep 2007 19:55:00 GMT

New Black Panther Party for Self Defense to Organize Coalition to Secure and Protect Jena 6 Families and the Streets of Jena

WASHINGTON, D.C. - Sept. 24 (SEND2PRESS NEWSWIRE) -- Malik Shabazz, Esq., Attorney and leader of the New Black Panther Party for Self Defense, announced today that members of the New Black Panther Party will begin patrolling the streets of Jena, Louisiana this week to protect the Jena 6 families and Black Jena residents against open and imminent alleged threats from Ku Klux Klan and other White supremacist advocating violence.

Dr. Shabazz announced that the New Black Panther Party was spearheading a coalition entitled The Security and Protection Committee of the Jena 6 (SPC-Jena 6) which would include several organizations and volunteers from around the nation that will coordinate and protect against Neo-Nazi and Ku Klux Klan groups operating in that part of Louisiana. This coalition will include: the New Black Panther Party for Self Defense, the Millions More Movement, the Black Muslims, volunteers from the local Jena Community, and National Civil Rights Organizations. The coalition will coordinate and lead an all volunteer effort that will man shifts and provide personal security for the Jena 6 families as well as local residents under the threat of Klan intimidation in the wake of the successful September 20th mass demonstration in Jena and around the U.S.

Recently, several White Supremacist websites posted the names, addresses, and phone numbers of the Jena 6 families, urging White Citizens to "do Justice to the Jena 6." Several families of the Jena 6 have received threatening and harassing phone calls by racist white supremacists and other Klan types groups while hanging nooses have subsequently appeared in areas also occupied by confederate flags. Sadly, the Jena police department and the county Sheriff have announced that they would not provide protection for the families of the Jena 6 under threat.

Malik Shabazz, Esq. stated, "Black leadership, we have a moral and ethical obligation to secure the safety and security of the Jena 6 families and the Black residents of Jena, Louisiana. The New Black Panther Party, the Millions More Movement, and other volunteers from civil rights organizations will spearhead a nationwide call to provide security, patrols units, and protection for the families and residents over the upcoming months. This threat is real. The September 20th protest, which we were aided in organizing, has created a resentment and backlash in certain quarters of Jena's white community. In the spirit of the Deacons of Defense, we intend to exercise our full range of legal rights of defense and protection to ensure that this very real threat of violence is neutralized. I want to be clear; in the name of God we as Black Men will not stand idly by and be weak in this hour. FREE MYCHAL BELL!!! FREE MYCHAL BELL!!! AND FREE THE JENA 6."

The New Black Panther Party has the experience to handle this assignment, as witnessed in Jasper, Texas in 1998 when the New Black Panthers chased the Klan from Jasper following the beheading of James Byrd Jr. The Millions More Movement, a coalition of activist organizations that was inspired by the Million Man March of 1995 and the Millions More Movement of 2005, also brings an array of well seasoned organizers. Attorney Malik Shabazz, the leader and attorney for the New Black Panther Party is also the President of Black Lawyers for Justice (BLFJ) and a national Co-Convener of the Millions More Movement. The New Black Panther Party (www.newblackpanther.com) is in 36 Cities across America, including Africa, England, and the Caribbean. All were active in organizing the September 20th March.

For information on how to join the Security and Protection Committee for the Jena 6 (SPC-Jena 6) contact us by phone at (202) 397-4577 or on the web at www.blacklawyers4justice.org or www.blackpowermovement.org

For more information, contact:
National offices
+1-202-397-4577
newpantherparty @ aol.com
www.newblackpanther.com

Copyright © 2007 Send2Press® Newswire, a unit of Neotrope®
TAGS: Send2Press Newswire, New Black Panther Party, Protection Committee for the Jena 6

Sons of Confederate Veterans, Inc. Statement on NAACP

Tue, 19 Jun 2007 19:08:00 GMT

COLUMBIA, Tenn. - June 19 (SEND2PRESS NEWSWIRE) -- According to reports in the national press, the NAACP is suffering financial problems and is closing some operations, including all regional offices, and is making staff reductions of 40%. SCV Commander-in-Chief Christopher M. Sullivan issued the following statement:

"The NAACP has steadily become a political fringe group, whose views are far beyond the mainstream. Because they have repeatedly taken extreme political positions they have become a distorted caricature of their original purpose.

"Recently, the leadership of the NAACP and their political allies like the NCAA have stridently used their remaining clout to attempt to harass Southern businesses and universities in states like South Carolina and Mississippi.

"As they are now learning to their detriment, these positions have become so shrill and discredited that ordinary people are no longer interested in supporting such outrageous posturing.

"Since 1991 when the NAACP passed resolutions condemning Confederate symbols, leading to historic distortions and faulty condemnation of Confederate soldiers and leaders alike, the SCV has been diligent in opposition to what we believe has been a flawed program and unfortunate direction of the NAACP. Our contention has apparently been shared by many who have supported the NAACP in the past.

"We of the Sons of Confederate Veterans extend an invitation to work together in unison to appropriately honor the thousands of blacks who served in Confederate military units.

"We, in SCV, would welcome a friendlier and more cooperative rhetoric by all concerned. shrill language of hatred and extremism exhibited by the NAACP in the past has harmed the cause of tolerance and benefits no one. The SCV supports a mutual goal toward bringing greater unity and respect for all Americans.

"We stand ready to meet with and discuss meaningful and responsible ideas with the new leaders of the NAACP.

"What better time than now as the NAACP faces new perspectives?"

Copyright © 2007 Send2Press® Newswire, a unit of Neotrope®
TAGS: Send2Press Newswire, black confederate soldiers, Sons of Confederate Veterans

Does the News Media Patronize the Black Community? asks United Voices for a Common Cause

Tue, 28 Nov 2006 18:36:00 GMT

LOS ANGELES, Calif., Nov. 28 (SEND2PRESS NEWSWIRE) -- Recognizing the need for another effective medium, H. Lewis Smith, author of "Bury that Sucka" (ISBN: 1413792693), is the founder of a new non-profit organization, United Voices for a Common Cause, Inc. The organization pledges and holds true "to not use the n-word as they strive toward cultural integrity and mutual respect for all Americans and to offer uncompromising resistance to social forces and structures which deny or limit their ability to do so. It is their intent to promote racial harmony, self-respect, pride and dignity affirming the highest of standards and values for the African American communities." In light of the "Kramer" Richards episode, UVCC is concerned about a developing climate in America and how the news media is possibly linked to it.

Michael "Kramer" Richards has been broiled, skewered and dragged over the coals for his horrendous display of racial epithet unmatched in recent times. The African American community, justifiably so...was immensely appalled at such audacity. However, one can't help but to wonder whether or not Richards has-through the news media-conveniently become a sacrificial lamb to ease and relieve the guilty consciousness of an institutionalized, systematized deeply rooted apathy that happened to erupt through him.

*(Photo Caption: H. Lewis Smith)

At some point white America must face up to black America and ask, since this word is so offensive, "Why is it so casually used by African Americans?" Is this a slight of hand reversed discrimination? Isn't this a classic example of a double-standard? These are questions that should be openly asked and needs to be asked. White America is a simmering teapot that is about to boil over and it will have nothing to do with being a racist. Often times what is misconstrued as racial discrimination is nothing more than a reaction reflective of human nature. Many whites are fearful of being labeled a racist and is therefore allowing their pent-up emotions to build and it is building to a boiling point. As sensitive of an issue the n-word is...it needs to be openly dealt with.

On that note, black proponents of the n-word retort would be as follows: Refusing to be held accountable for any of this brouhaha, the black n-word apologist will rattle off and try to justify their use of the word that they are taking the sting out of it, desensitizing it, will go so far as to apply the acceptance of the ghetto vernacular saying that by replacing "er" nigger with "a" nigga makes a difference and that nigga implies affection, love and endearment.

Proponents of the neo-revisionist use of nigga contend they have "reclaimed" the word and robbed it of its racist connotations. There are many prominent black Americans who support the usage of this word. For example, Ron Dellums, an American politician once said that "it's time for somebody to lead all of America's niggers."

Daman Wayans, has applied for a trademark of the name nigga to use on a clothing line and other marketable items. Comedian, turned activist, Dick Gregory is a proponent of the word and years ago he entitled his autobiography...Nigger. During a panel discussion at the Summer Television Critics Association tour in 2005, Aaron McGruder, creator of the popular comic strip, Boondocks, defiantly used the word with the explanation that everybody does it.

Harvard professor Randal Kennedy authored a book entitled Nigger, received rave reviews (from the news media) for his pro stance on usage of the word. Someone by the name of Tyrone, who refuses to say what race he is, owns a website called niggaspace.com and it is supported by thousands upon thousands of young black members many of whom are under 18 years of age.

Rapper, 50 cents, uses the word nigga more than 180 times on his CD Grow Rich or Die Trying. And he is just one of many rappers who repeatedly recites the word on their CDs. So why is it so surprising as to what came up and out of Michael Richards' mouth? Granted he said more than just the n-word, he went way over the line with his racist acidity rhetoric. The black community was victimized with his comments, but as irony would have it, Richards' too, is a victim and yes the country as a whole is a victim. Victims of a terrible negative destructive energy that vibirates from this word, holding an entire nation hostage.

At some point black America must become accountable. At some point the news media must become multilateral in covering the news scene. There are many African Americans who are simply fed up with the actions of the black propronents use of the n-word and this never, ever gets into the news. There are movements afoot to ban and abolish the n-word in the black community...it goes unreported.

H. Lewis Smith suggests that by referring to one another as niggers (nigga) the black American community are in fact unknowingly debasing and victimizing themselves, NOT keeping their heritage alive, as some may think.

In order to combat problems of racial discrimination, abuse and prejudice, which will never truly disappear, Smith reflects in Bury that Sucka on how we can achieve a better understanding of the detrimental effect the casual use of this word is having on both the individual and society as a whole.

H. Lewis Smith is the Founder/CEO of UVCC, the United Voices for a Common Cause, Inc. (http://www.theunitedvoices.org) a non-profit organization founded for the purpose of, promoting cultural integrity and mutual respect for all Americans. Mr. Smith is also the author of "Bury that Sucka, A Scandalous Love Affair With the N-word" (ISBN: 1413792693) www.burythatsucka.com.

Copyright © 2006 Send2Press® Newswire, a unit of Neotrope®
TAGS: Send2Press Newswire, United Voices for a Common Cause, Michael Richards racism

Blacks for Economic Security Today - Black Group TV Ads Blast Cardin and Ford as Bad for Black Voters

Fri, 03 Nov 2006 15:09:00 GMT

To view: www.besttrustfund.org

WASHINGTON, D.C. - Nov. 3 (SEND2PRESS NEWSWIRE) -- Blacks for Economic Security Today (BEST) have released two television advertisements designed by black voters to reach black people. The two ads blast Maryland Senate Candidate Ben Cardin and Tennessee Senate Candidate Harold Ford as bad news for black voters. The ad calls out Cardin for his dismal voting record for blacks as well as his taking for granted the black vote in Maryland.

The Ford attack calls into question why hard working blacks in Tennessee should vote for a candidate who rarely even votes. The ad equates the Congressman's lack of voting with not understanding the soft bigotry that blacks have to deal with on a regular basis in their jobs. The ad shows that black voters have to work twice as hard to get ahead while Ford works half as hard and feels entitled to become a Senator.

The ads can be viewed at www.besttrustfund.org. The two ads are the first in a series of four, according to BEST.

The Cardin spot states:

For 20 years Ben Cardin had been promising and promising. It's a fact. Ben Cardin has failed us. But we all know that. We thought this time would be our time. But there they go, another backroom deal to cut us out and they expect us to fall in line. Cardin hasn't delivered! As a matter of fact, in congress, Cardin votes to keep money out of the hands of black families and black owned businesses. He just voted against a Minimum Wage increase for black working families. And he even voted against lowering our gas tax. Now how's that for a one two punch?
The Ford spot highlights his no show tendencies:

Harold Ford is out of touch with hardworking Blacks in Tennessee. We work long hours at tough jobs missing time with our families. We have to put up with so much in the work place like soft bigotry. Harold Ford is not like us. He doesn't even bother to show up to work. And believe it or not he made the top 5 in Congress as having the worst voting record. Even Members of Congress in rehab have a better voting record than Ford and vote 98% of the time more than Harold. When he decides to show up to work and actually work and vote he's not keeping money in the hands of hard working black families in Tennessee. No Show Harold Ford now thinks he should get a promotion; well we think differently.
Both ads bear the identifier, "Paid for by Blacks for Economic Security Today Trust." BEST is a newly organized PAC whose mission is to amplify the truth about tax hikes on the backs of the African American growing middle class. BEST also works to foster stronger black families, achieved through issue advocacy campaigns.

Copyright © 2006 Send2Press® Newswire, a unit of Neotrope®
TAGS: Send2Press Newswire, Blacks for Economic Security Today, bad for black voters

ABFE Announces the Inaugural Class of Connecting Leaders Fellows

Fri, 07 Oct 2005 13:28:00 GMT

10 Emerging Leaders from across Philanthropy Selected for Year-Long Fellowship in Professional Development

NEW YORK, NY - Oct. 7 (SEND2PRESS NEWSWIRE) -- The Association of Black Foundation Executives (ABFE) recently announced the names of ten fellows who will participate in the 2005-2006 Connecting Leaders Fellowship Program. This fellowship is the cornerstone of ABFE's multi-year initiative to develop the next generation of leaders in philanthropy and to significantly increase philanthropic resources that are targeted to meet the challenges of Black communities.

"Our members felt it was imperative to take the lead in promoting the professional development of people likely to have both personal and professional interests in the well-being of Black communities," said Tim Russell, a senior manager at Sara Lee Corporation in Chicago and chair of ABFE's Board of Directors. "As part of our strategic plan, we recognized that, in order to get more philanthropic leaders to understand the individual role that they must play, there has to be more development, more training and in turn we expect more philanthropic resources directed towards improving Black communities."

The 2005-2006 class includes: Tonya Allen (Skillman Foundation); Andrea Anderson (The Aspen Institute Roundtable on Community Change); Susan Taylor Batten (The Annie E. Casey Foundation); Rudy Guglielmo (Arizona Community Foundation); Rahsaan Harris (The Atlantic Philanthropies); Obiel Leyva (The San Francisco Foundation); Toya Randall (Grand Victoria Foundation); Erika Seth (Donor to Associated Black Charities -MD); Phillip Thomas (Woods Fund of Chicago); and Akilah Watkins (The Community Foundation for Greater Atlanta). Each fellow will receive mentoring supports from seasoned leaders, a professional development stipend, and leadership coaching during the fellowship year.

ABFE is the oldest affinity group of the Council on Foundations. Since 1971, ABFE has promoted sustainable philanthropy in Black communities and encouraged Black leadership and participation within organized philanthropy.

Our activities include:

* Championing diversity in grantmaking institutions

* Forging strategic partnerships

* Recognizing and celebrating innovative philanthropic leadership

* Sponsoring lectures and workshops.

For more information about ABFE, log on to our website at www.abfe.org.

Hip Hop and Business Worlds Collide to Motivate Urban Youth

Fri, 29 Apr 2005 11:45:00 GMT

"Making The Band's" (MTV) Chopper and Kwame Jackson from "The Apprentice" (NBC) Join Forces to Promote New Line of Rap Snacks and Entrepreneurship Through Multi-City Promotional Concerts

CHICAGO, IL - April 29 (SEND2PRESS NEWSWIRE) -- Bad Boy recording artist Chopper, a.k.a. Young City of the worldwide platinum rap group "Da Band," recently signed on as the spokesperson for Rap Snacks Pork Skins and Cracklins, a new product line being launched by the Chicago-based Evans Food Group and Rap Snacks, Inc., headquartered in Philadelphia.

Caption: Business expert Kwame Jackson, from NBC's "The Apprentice"

Caption: Bad Boy recording artist "Chopper" a.k.a. Young City.

On Saturday, April 30th, Chopper makes his very first promotional stop in St. Louis to promote the product and his forthcoming single and album (Bad Boy South). He will perform at The Vault. Joining Chopper will be Kwame Jackson from NBC's first season of "The Apprentice." Jackson, a successful business owner and highly sought-after speaker, will co-host the concert series in an effort to promote entrepreneurship among the urban youth expected to attend the events. Jackson recently closed a $3.8 billion deal through his real estate company.

Rap Snacks, Inc. is a 10-year-old company headed by business man James Lindsay. Since 1994, Rap Snacks, Inc. has used popular rap stars and hip, positive phrases to sell chips to urban markets. Last year, the company reported sales of 3 million bags of chips per week, thanks to retail outlets and independent distributors in cities across the nation.

Chopper's photo is featured on bags of Rap Snacks Pork Skins and Cracklins, which are available in a variety of flavors. Also featured on the bags are motivational messages like "seize every opportunity," and "be who you are without shame." The new line of Rap Snacks Pork Skins and Cracklins is available in stores now.

Chopper gained popularity on P. Diddy's hugely successful MTV reality show "Making the Band." He went on to become the only artist to land a deal with the Bad Boy South record label.

More information: www.evansfood.com.

Demanding Accountability: Youth Visit State Representatives to Prepare for BYV! Leadership Conference

Mon, 14 Mar 2005 14:39:00 GMT

WASHINGTON, DC /Send2Press Newswire/ -- In an effort to leverage the historic youth voter turnout in 2004, a cadre of young activists across the country have identified issues important to them and are visiting state representatives to discuss how they will address those issues. The task is a pre-conference assignment for the Fifth Annual Black Youth Vote! (BYV!) Civic Leadership Conference (www.bigvote.org), Hip Hop Activism: Revolutionizing Black Power, April 7-9, at the National Education Association in Washington, DC.

"Learn by doing," charged Earl O'Neal, a board member of the National Coalition on Black Civic Participation (NCBCP), parent organization for BYV!. "You successfully registered and mobilized thousands of new voters across the country, now its time to hold those elected officials accountable."

Acting on the charge, Steven Waddy Atlanta BYV! coordinator, recently accompanied ten students from the Atlanta University Center to meet with Georgia committee chairs, local state representatives and senators.

"Just seeing the shock on the faces of legislators once they found out who requested to speak with them made many of the BYV! participants giddy with anticipation on how they could influence the next legislator on their list," said Waddy.

According to conference manager, Nancy Harvin, the assignments will be used as case studies during a series of workshops designed to train the youth to identify local issues that affect their community, equip them with the tools necessary to make change, and teach them to develop an action plan to execute locally and nationally.

Speakers include BET's Jeff Johnson aka "Uncle Jeff," Dr. Maya Rockeymore, author of "The Political Action Handbook: A How To Guide For The Hip Hop Generation," and members of congress, among others.

Sponsored by the NEA and State Farm Insurance, conference highlights include a Thursday morning legislative briefing on Capitol Hill, and a debate, "Is Hip Hop the Next Civil Rights Movement?," at the National Council of Negro Women Headquarters, that evening. Moderated by radio personality, Mark Thompson, this intergenerational dialogue will examine the impact of youth activism during the civil rights era and address the influence of hip hop on the political system.

"The Black youth electorate, many voting for the first time in 2004, felt the power of voting. The conference will prepare them to leverage that power and have an impact on their communities," says Melanie L. Campbell, executive director and CEO of the NCBCP.

Recently profiled in Black Enterprise Magazine (Feb. 05), BYV! is a coalition of organizations committed to increasing the political and civic engagement of Black youth under the age of 35. The NCBCP is a 501(c) 3 nonprofit, nonpartisan organization dedicated to increasing African American participation in civil society.

For more information visit http://www.bigvote.org or call 202.659.4929.

Health Experts, Fashion Designers and Businesses Unite to Promote Black Women's Heart Health

Thu, 24 Feb 2005 15:06:00 GMT

Heart and Style Conference, Fair and Red Dress Fashion Show, February 25-26

WASHINGTON, DC /Send2Press Newswire/ -- Heart and Style: Sisters Living Long and Living Well, a one-day heart disease prevention conference and fair aims to combat high risk of heart disease among African American women with a healthy dose of education, fashion and style. Produced by Public Square Communications in partnership with the Office on Women's Health, US Department of Health and Human Services, Heart and Style is being held in observance of February's American Heart Month.

HIGHLIGHTS and VISUALS:

* Red Dress Fashion Show featuring designs from DC and New York-based fashion designers

* Workshops with media personalities and women's health experts including:

Heart and Style Honorary Chairs: Blanche Williams, host of Greatness by Design on XM Satellite Radio and Angela Russell, WJLA/ABC 7 news; "Dr. Ro" Rovenia Brock, Ph.D, nutritionist and author; Dr. Andrea Pennington, author and president of the Pennington Institute for Health and Wellness; Wanda Bamberg Tia, Fitness Expert and producer of the WandaWoman Workout Series; Dr. Kim Singleton, author and psychologist; Angelique Shofar, Yoga Instructor and founder, The Spirit of Wellness; Dr. Wanda Minnis-Dyson, Change for Life Weight Loss; and Terri Carson, Wellness Coach, Warm Spirit, Inc.

* Heart Healthy Food Tasting by Whole Foods Market and Jasper's Restaurant

* Free makeovers by Sephora

* Free health screenings by Black Nurses Association

* Presentation of Mayor's Proclamation by Dr. Gregg Pane, Director of DC Department of Health

WHEN: Friday February 25, 2005, 9:00 a.m.-10:15 a.m.

Wear Red Kick-Off Breakfast and Fashion Show Preview

Saturday February 26, 2005 8:30 a.m.-4:00 p.m.

Heart and Style Conference and Fair featuring the Red Dress Fashion Show

WHERE: Sheraton Four Points Hotel

1201 K St NW, Washington, DC 20005

WHY: Heart disease disproportionately affects ethnic and racial minorities, with disparities in heart disease even more pronounced among African American women. Nationally, African American women are more likely to suffer from heart disease at an earlier age than white women and more likely to die of heart disease than other women. In the District of Columbia, heart disease is the leading cause of death for African American men and women.

More information: www.heartandstylewoman.com

Bringing African American History into America's Homes and Schools: How One Entrepreneurial Business Takes on the Challenge

Fri, 28 Jan 2005 17:38:00 GMT

Black Heritage Series(tm) Games and Puzzles, and Black History School Challenge Fund

HIGHLAND PARK, NJ /Send2Press Newswire/ -- When they first formed GEEBEE Marketing(R), Inc. in 1997, Gayle Brill Mittler and Robert Kersey, former colleagues in a large toy corporation, had one common vision: to create a complete line of games, toys, and puzzles that would bring the vast rich and diverse history of America's nearly 15,000,000 citizens of African American descent into homes and classrooms.

Photo Caption: Product image of 'Black Heritage Trivia Game.'

Today, the company's Black Heritage Series(tm) line includes three games and two puzzle assortments. The products are manufactured for GEEBEE Marketing, Inc. by the Pressman Toy Corporation of New Brunswick, New Jersey. The line is distributed by retailers such as Wal-Mart Stores, K-mart, Walgreen's, as well as gift and book stores across the country, online retailers and others. Its success has earned GEEBEE Marketing recognition as a leading marketer of ethnic products.

The company's games include: 1. My First Matching game, for ages 3-6 years, teaches about African American culture, 2. I Can Do Anything(tm) career path game, for ages 4-8 years, a board game that details the many different career opportunities available today, and 3. The Black Heritage Trivia game, for ages 8 through adult, with over 1200 questions on African American history and culture. The puzzle assortments include: Madame CJ Walker 24 piece puzzle, Elijah McCoy 24 piece puzzle, Buffalo Soldiers 100 piece puzzle, and Harriet Tubman 100 piece puzzle.

This year the Black Heritage Series will be featured in promotional main traffic areas during February in over 350 Wal-Mart Stores across the country.

"As an African American child growing up in America, I had to learn about my heritage by myself. Today I can help children grow up aware of the contributions African Americans have made to the development of our great country," said Robert Kersey, creator of the Black Heritage Trivia game.

"The Black Heritage Series is gaining a market share. The interest in black heritage is growing beyond just black families," reported Al Johnson, former manager of the Wal-Mart store in Princeton, New Jersey.

"It actually took us several years to convince retailers of the large potential market waiting for products like ours," said Gayle Brill Mittler, one of the founders of GEEBEE Marketing, Inc. "Today retailers more readily recognize the importance of the African American and other minority markets."

Brill Mittler did not stop her efforts to expand education of African American history with the success of their Black Heritage Series. In 2003, she founded The Black History School Challenge Fund, a non-profit 501(c)3 corporation. It is based in Highland Park, NJ. The Fund's initial mission was to introduce the Black History School Challenge Contest in schools as a means of gaining inclusion of African American history in public schools, at minimal cost (to the schools), and in a timely manner.

The Black History School Challenge Fund is comprised of educators, business people, and community leaders who are interested in ensuring the study of African American history throughout the school year. Ms. Rochelle Gray, a teacher in Piscataway, New Jersey schools created the Black History School Challenge Contest. The contest is based on the Black Heritage Trivia game's 1200 questions. Ms. Gray adapted the game for usage in in-school competitions. Members of the Fund procured corporate donations to award United States Savings Bond prizes to individual or team winners. Most of the funds donated to date have come from Pressman Toy Corporation and GEEBEE Marketing, Inc.

The first Black History School Challenge Contest was run in the Alexander Hamilton Middle School in Elizabeth, NJ in 2003. Students were divided into teams. Teams competed against each other in a "Brain Bowl" format. Their enthusiasm was overwhelming.

"I wished I'd taped the final game between the two 8th grade teams. It was absolutely wonderful and exciting. The two teams were so pumped up. They had banners and posters while rooting for their teams. You'd have thought it was an athletic event," said Ms. Gray.

After word of the successful event held in Elizabeth spread, the Fund was approached by several other school districts. Some of the contests have been run amongst 5th graders (Conerly Road School in Franklin, NJ), high school students (Project Grad students in Newark NJ), and 8th graders (Alexander Hamilton Middle School in Elizabeth NJ). The Fund now has a waiting list of schools hoping to participate in the program.

"Word is certainly spreading," said Gayle Brill Mittler. "We've been contacted by schools in New York and Virginia who want to participate in the program. This is exactly what we had hoped would happen. The goal is to bring African American history into the mainstream. To have all of our children learn it as a part of American history, not just in February, but all year-round."

Contact: Gayle Brill Mittler of GEEBEE Marketing, Inc. (732) 777-6033.