OneDiaspora Speaks!

HBCU Experience - The Book - Submit your story in the New Year

2012-01-19T12:26:00.000-08:00

Press Release

For Immediate Release

Thursday, January 19, 2012

Contact:

Media@blackcollegebook.com
www.blackcollegebook.com

GROUNDBREAKING HBCU ANTHOLOGY ROLLS INTO THE

NEW YEAR ON TIME AND ON TARGET

"HBCU EXPERIENCE - THE BOOK" WILL SHOWCASE ESSAYS BY HBCU

GRADS HIGHLIGHTING ALL ASPECTS OF BLACK COLLEGE LIFE

STORIES STILL NEEDED: DATING, ROAD TRIPS, JOYS OF GREEK LIFE,

STUDENT ACTIVISM AND SPORTS, AMONG OTHERS

Submission Deadline: Extended Until Further Notice

Washington, DC - Dr. Tia C. M. Tyree and Christopher D. Cathcart, co-editors ofHBCU Experience - The Book, a collection of essays showcasing life at Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs), proudly report that compilation of their groundbreaking anthology continues on course as the new year gets underway. After announcing the project last summer, stories authored by Black college alumni have been coming in with a steady and growing frequency, reflecting an assortment of schools, backgrounds and personal experiences.

The editors' goal is to collect 101 essays and to publish the work by fall of 2012. The submission deadline, which was the end of last year, has been extended until further notice to allow more time for submissions and thus a broader, more diverse representation.

"While experiencing the normal bumps, hurdles and inevitable delays along the way, we have been humbled by the response and outpouring of support thus far," says Dr. Tyree. "Submissions are coming in all the time, and we are getting a good cross-section of alumni involvement. However, there are still many more stories to be told and more HBCUs we need represented."

In fact, the editors point out that there are some experiences underrepresented with the current submissions, including dating and romance, road trips, the joys of Greek life, student activism/protests and sports. "We've received a lot about friendships, dorm life, academia, and the overall impact of going to an HBCU, which is fine and we'd like more, but we were surprised not to get more about dating and student protests and sports and organizational experiences," says Cathcart. "Also, we want contributors to know that they can submit more than one piece, if they like. We'll pick the best ones, regardless of the number the authors submit."

Additionally, the editors continue to make audio submissions available, when and where time and opportunity permit. Here, alumni are be interviewed over the phone and the editors will draft an essay from the recorded conversation. "We thought this would be a great way for folk who are hesitant to write or who may be pressed for time," adds Dr. Tyree. "We have a few good audio submissions now, including one from John "T-Bone" Crawford (Southern University/1960) and Cody Cox (Morgan State University/1994). The audio of those interviews are available on the website, as examples"

Some of the HBCUs represented thus far include Cheyney State University, Winston-Salem State University, North Carolina A&T State University, Howard University, North Carolina Central University, Lincoln University, Virginia State University, Alcorn State University, Texas Southern University, Southern University and the University of Maryland Eastern Shore, among many others. Contributing alumni hail from as far back as the 1950s up to recent graduates.

The overriding mission of HBCU Experience - The Book is to highlight the history, relevance and impact of Historically Black Colleges and Universities while emphasizing the still vital role these institutions have in our society. Writers may hail from any of the 100-plus HBCUs and be any age, gender or ethnicity. The 250-500 word essays will range in tone from the light and humorous to the serious and insightful, with the common thread being that they are genuine and engaging.The submission deadline has been extended into 2012; and plans call for the book to be available in the fall of 2012. Individuals may also submit photographs of their Black college experiences for inclusion in the book.

In keeping with the theme of celebrating and supporting Black colleges and Black college graduates, the editors have retained the services of the Law Offices of Manotti L. Jenkins, LTD. (www.MLJLawOffices.com) to oversee all legal matters pertaining to the anthology; Mr. Jenkins, a nationally recognized attorney, is a Howard University graduate. Efforts will be made, when and where appropriate, to engage other HBCU grads in the development and presentation of HBCU Experience - The Book.

For more information about HBCU Experience - The Book, including the submission process, please visit www.BlackCollegeBook.com. For press inquiries, please contact Media@Blackcollegebook.com.

About Dr. Tia Tyree

Dr. Tia C. M. Tyree is an Assistant Professor at Howard University within the Department of Journalism. She is currently the Public Relations Sequence Coordinator for the Department of Journalism, and she teaches several courses, including Introduction to Public Relations, PR Writing II, PR Writing I, SR: Event Planning, SR: Friends, Followers and Social Media and CapComm Lab. In addition to teaching, her research interests include hip-hop, rap, pop culture, film and African-American representations in the media. She is a graduate of both Morgan State University (Bachelor of Arts, 1995) and Howard University (Ph.D. Mass Communications and Media Studies, 2007).

About Christopher D. Cathcart

Christopher D. Cathcart is a published author; public relations, marketing/brand development expert and a noted social entrepreneur. In 1995, Cathcart founded OneDiaspora Group, a Los Angeles and Washington, DC-based PR/communications consulting firm. He has more than 23 years of public relations experience, having been an executive at such companies as CNN, Motown Records and Warner Bros. Television, among others.

His first book, The Lost Art of Giving Back, a how-to guide to volunteerism, was published in 2007. Cathcart also founded Ledge magazine, the nation's first and only HIV/AIDS online publication by and for Black college students. He is a graduate of Howard University (Bachelor of Arts, 1986).

# # #

Honoring the King Holiday with a Commitment to Ourselves

2012-01-12T13:11:00.000-08:00

By Christopher D. Cathcart

The federal holiday honoring the birthday of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. has been a part of our national landscape for nearly three decades now. Each January, we look forward to the many public and private celebrations observing the life and legacy of this remarkable man, and now, through the efforts of some dedicated folk, we are able to visit the King Memorial in the nation’s capital.

As for the special day itself, I still remember how, as a young Howard University student in the early ‘80s, I proudly joined in the demonstrations in support of the King holiday legislation. Making the long trek from Howard’s campus to the steps of Capitol Hill to hear speeches by Jesse Jackson, the late Coretta Scott King and, of course, Stevie Wonder made me feel a part of history, a part of helping this nation open its eyes and pay a just and lasting tribute to one of our true heroes.

More than that, I hoped this annual time of reflection would offer us an opportunity to look back on Dr. King’s life and review the many sacrifices he and those who struggled along side him made so that this country could live up to its goals of equality and full citizenship for all – an effort still unfinished.

I thought we’d use this time to look at the man’s life beyond the famous “I Have a Dream” speech and drink in his countless other speeches and writings where he challenged the powers of convention with peerless eloquence. Or review how he boldly spoke out against the Vietnam War, a move he made knowing full well it would distance him from his civil rights base, and move him even more squarely into the crosshairs of those seeking to silence his voice. (Imagine that, a leader who stood up for what he believed was right without regard to his own welfare or politically standing, man those were the days.)

This holiday was supposed to be a time of remembrance and recommitment for those of us old enough to have been alive when Dr. King was helping change America, and education for the ever-growing number of young people who wore born and raised well after that fateful day in Memphis in 1968. Unfortunately, as many of us painfully know, today the holiday is often appropriated for less noble ends.

In some circles, the commercialization of the observance borders on the absurd. Leading corporations dedicate month-long advertising campaigns, even offering discounts and other special promotions in “honor” of King Day. And many day-to-day folk now look forward to the long weekend as a chance to schedule ski trips, romps to the beach, or some romantic getaway.

Most disturbing, however, is the fact that for some it’s simply another day off from work, another chance to do – God help us – nothing. Today, the pride and struggle that went into demanding America recognize Dr. King’s birthday is often lost in our relentless trivialization of holidays in general. I gave up counting all the promotional emails I’ve received recently informing me of some great “MLK Weekend” party I should add to my list of social outings.

If we are not careful, and as the generations that still can remember the King era pass on, we may see the complete historical re-write of the man, his times and the work he committed much of his life to, and ultimately died for.

If we allow ourselves to get too complacent, too comfortable with this special “day-off,” soon kids will be playing “March on Washington” video games, or simply reading that one paragraph about Dr. King in their history books, while barely paying attention to the obligatory annual showing of the “I Have a Dream” speech footage.

And here’s the kicker – this is happening on our watch, in our time, in our faces. And while it is a fact that there are many organizations, businesses and individuals doing a wonderful job of keeping the real meaning of the man and this holiday relevant, the tide is steadily rising in the other direction.

The effort to stem the flow can’t come solely from our leaders and organizations, nor should it. It has to come from individuals who, in their own unique ways, carry on Dr. King’s legacy every day. The holiday must serve to ensure we never forget Dr. King and his work, and, more importantly, remind us of the work still to be done.

President Barack Obama has asked us to commit to a day of service to honor this special holiday. In truth, this day should serve as a yearly reminder that service is a way of life; that the “dream” we all hold dear will only be realized if we all do what we can, with what we have, wherever we are to make a difference.

*This piece is an adaptation of an earlier article.

HBCU Experience - The Book - Submit your story in the New Year

2012-01-03T09:27:00.000-08:00

The Table is Set for a Great New Year

Happy New Year - From Us to You

The editors of HBCU Experience - The Book would like to offer you warm wishes for peace and prosperity in 2012.

Reflecting on the past year brings back fond memories and happiness for us. We created new friendships and connections with so many good people at conferences, in coffee shops and other places during our journey to create the book. We stepped up our social media and traditional outreach efforts to better connect with the alumni whose stories make up the HBCU experience. We were highlighted in various media, including WEAA 88.9 FM (Morgan State University), News in Black, HBCU Buzz, the Black Engineer, The Hilltop (Howard University), HBCU Lifestyle, Black News and the Wave Newspapers (Los Angeles), among others. We also sponsored and helped organize a special event at Howard University called "If I Knew Then..." that brought alumni to campus to tell their HBCU experiences to current students. Most importantly, we received essay submissions and recorded stories from folk like you, and we are extremely thankful for that.

Now, as we move into the new year, we will begin to make decisions about which essays to include in the book. In addition, we will announce an "open call," extending the deadline to allow more alumni to submit. We will keep the call open as we close in on our goal of getting a good representation of not only HBCU grads and schools, but stories that reflect the rich, historic mosaic that is the HBCU experience. However, please don't take this as a sign we are slowing down the process, or that you should wait to submit. We still plan to publish in 2012.

With that, please continue to encourage your friends, family, co-workers and former classmates to write a story, visit our website (www.blackcollegebook.com), follow us on Twitter (@HBCUBook) and "Like" us on Facebook (http://on.fb.me/dRrtHq). We cannot do this without your support.

Have a happy and safe New Year. Your story is our story.

With Respect, your friends

Christopher D. Cathcart

Dr. Tia C. M. Tyree

Co-editors - HBCU Experience - The Book
www.BlackCollegeBook.com

3rd Day of Kwanzaa - Ujima, Collective Work and Responsibility

2011-12-28T09:20:00.000-08:00

Guest Post - Author DeAngelo Starnes

Ujima (Got Work To Do)

CULTURE | DECEMBER 28, 2011 BY STARNESD | 1 COMMENT

Ujima (oo-GEE-mah)Collective Work and Responsibility reminds us of our obligation to the past, present and future, and that we have a role to play in the
community, society, and world.

“Putting in work.” “Grinding.” Isn’t that what we call it? With pride. Proud of our work. Proud of working hard. Proud of effort. Proud of effort put into details. Proud of building. Proud of standing back and beholding what we built.

As we get deep into this season, I am reminded of how we need to remind ourselves – who are we working for? Who derives the benefit from our collective sweat? How fleeting are fruits of our labor? After all, who’s writing the checks?

The essence of Ujima is that we work to better the community. We do put in work. We work our asses off. The stereotype of the lazy shiftless negro is b.s. Sure there are lazy shiftless mugs, but that’s true in every group. But us collectively? Built a nation without getting paid and for no corresponding equity. So we continue to be happy with crumbs. And get dogged out about affirmative action and discrimination. Even though everyone knows it’s true. We have a legal argument about pay. Argue with them about money and see how low they think about you on the totem pole.

Think about it. We run a company – success. At the same time, we have the highest unemployment rate. Lowest paid. Last hired, first fired. But yet we work hard. Our hard work nets profits and growth. Our production numbers exceed everyone. So why do we have dismal employment numbers? As a community?

Maybe it is used as motivation to keep us running on that treadmill. But in our all-out-ness to dominate we seem to miss where the effort is going? Do we get caught up in cosmetic trappings? Does the material blind us? For instance, are we in our collective holes and busy paying a note on an over-priced undervalued home? Are we enriching beyond ourselves?

Don’t get me wrong. You have to take care of family and crib in the immediate. However, there comes a point when it gets to beyond. And then what? Are we patronizing the community? Are we circulating the dollars? Are we helping someone to get their business to soar? Are we helping someone to put some dough in the bank? Are we creating banks?

In the new paradigm that this decade, century, and economy wrought, we may have to evolve with reality. We work. We don’t have a problem working. We damn sure want to “get paid.” But we have to re-think what “work” is. It’s not just “getting a good job.” That’s part of it. But what about job creation? Because you get that off the ground, running, and community-sustaining, unemployment rate for Black folks is irrelevant.

We can do for self and community. We have engineers, IT personnel, lawyers, marketers, accountants, and consumers. We have homes we can re-classify. We have folks who can read and draft a contract, lease, and profit-sharing agreement. We have talent and drive. We have vision, decision-making, and problem-solving. We have each other. We just don’t take advantage.

We send our kids to school to learn. To learn to work. To work to learn. But do we have our children learn to work for themselves? Because control of destiny is the lesson we might learn but don’t conquer to dominate to benefit ourselves and community. We learn how to get a job. How to make money for someone else. And how to earn a nice salary making money for someone else. But we don’t emphasize going into business for ourselves.

We have the talent and gumption. Leroy Gingrich even said that much. We may have mis-directed that gumption by slinging, pimping, and preaching. But that ain’t the majorityof us. Some of us cut hair, do taxes, sell liquor, and cook food on a non-chain basis. Most of us know how to budget and manage – we have to have those skills when they don’t teach you to read, write and keep you out of schools to teach you how to read and write.

If you get ad hominen about it, you miss the point and thus, the power and tradition. Because there is, and can be, beauty in, and method to, the madness. Which circles us back to the point. We got to put in work. Contrary to popular mythology and stererotype, we ain’t never been afraid of work. We work our asses off. You hear me? We work. It’s just how do we cycle the work.

The principle of Ujima is to work for oneself and derivatively the community. Be proud and do you. But do you for all. “One for all and all for one.” Dumas was Black when he wrote that. It just got co-opted into you not knowing it. Articulated a Black concept. Articulated Ujima. We got work to do. Deep hole to climb out of.

TAGS: CULTURE

Black AIDS Institute Salutes President Obama

2011-12-02T05:27:00.000-08:00

Black AIDS Institute Congratulates President Obama

The Black AIDS Institute Congratulates President Obama for Implementing New Measures to End the AIDS Epidemic in America

Today, World AIDS Day 2011, the Black AIDS Institute congratulates President Obama for continuing to fulfill his commitment to create an "AIDS-free generation" by making several significant commitments to move us closer to ending the domestic epidemic.

First, President Obama acknowledged "the fight is not over--not by a long shot" and that we must persist with our efforts domestically, including in Black America. "When new infections among young Black gay men increase by nearly 50 percent in 3 years, we need to do more to show them that their lives matter. When Latinos are dying sooner than other groups, and when Black women feel forgotten, even though they account for most of the new cases among women, then we've got to do more," he said. We agree.

Second, in addition to allocating new money for international efforts, the President announced the allocation of $50 million in new money for domestic treatment plans, including $15 million for the Ryan White Program and $35 million for state ADAP programs. Almost 6600 Americans languish on ADAP waiting lists, many as a result of the economic downturn. The President called on state governments, drug companies and foundations "to do their part to help Americans get access to all the life-saving treatments."

President Obama also appointed Nancy Mahon, executive director of the MAC AIDS Fund, as chairperson of the Presidential Advisory Council on HIV/AIDS. A longtime HIV/AIDS and health activist Nancy is an excellent choice. I look forward to serving alongside her.

Thirty years is enough. We have reached a deciding moment. It's time to end the AIDS epidemic in America.

HIV is 100 percent preventable, including among some of our most at-risk populations: women, gay and bisexual men and young adults. HIV is also 100 percent diagnosable and in many cases treatable.

We have new diagnostic tools, new surveillance capabilities, new prevention strategies, new treatment options and a new understanding of how to interrupt acquisition and transmission. We can do more than imagine the end of the epidemic; we can make it happen.

The question is no longer can we end AIDS? The question is will we? Do we have the moral willpower and the political leadership? Will we use both the newly acquired and more primitive tools efficiently, compassionately and effectively?

We commend President Obama for understanding that "the fight is not over-- not by a long shot," for pledging that "we are going to win this fight," and for understanding "We just have to keep at it, steady, persistent, today, tomorrow, and every day until we get to zero."

Phill Wilson is the President and CEO of the Black AIDS Institute, the only National HIV/AIDS think tank in the United States focused exclusively on Black people. Follow him on twitter @iamphillwilson. Mr. Wilson is also available for interviews and press inquiries. Contact him atPhillWilson@blackaids.org or (213) 353-3610 ext. 105. www.BlackAIDS.org.www.BlackAIDS.org
Phill Wilson is the President and CEO of the Black AIDS Institute, the only National HIV/AIDS think tank in the United States focused exclusively on Black people. Follow him on twitter@iamphillwilson. Mr. Wilson is also available for interviews and press inquiries. Contact him at PhillWilson@blackaids.org or (213) 353-3610 ext. 105. www.BlackAIDS.org.www.BlackAIDS.org

The OneDiaspora Group Holiday Tie Drive....spread the word....

2011-11-28T16:19:00.001-08:00

"The Ties That Bind"

This year, our annual holiday "Give Back" drive will focus on neckties to be collected and donated to young men who need a helping hand and a good tie for school, work and life. While neck wear may not solve our most pressing issues, they can help a deserving young man feel stronger and more confident in school and beyond.

So comb through your collection, grab the tie or ties you feel you can part with and use them to help impart some confidence into a young man in need.

www.kayneeras.org

As with last year, our primary donation outlet will be the Kayne ERAS Center - a Los Angeles-based, non-public school for youth (ages 5-22) who are having difficulty functioning in the public school system due to:

Developmental Delays
Learning Disabilities
Emotional or Behavior Challenges
Health Impariments

I've had the pleasure of working with the Center for the past three years and can attest to the great work it does with our young people. Much thanks to George Woods, the Center's Assistant Principal of Middle School/Freshmen Academy, for this opportunity.

If you are interested in contributing, please contact me via Chris@OneDG.com to work out drop-off/pick-up arrangements. The necktie collection will take place November 29 - December 21. Thanks for your support and all that you do to make our community a better place.

Yours in Giving,

Chris Cathcart
213/840-8740
www.OneDiaspora.com

PS - To my buddies outside the LA area, please donate a tie to some young man in need in your local area, or do your own drive; this idea works across state lines :-).

Connect with US!

wwwOneDiaspora.com

Let's Break the Silence...Our Friend Terrie Williams Combats Depression

2011-11-16T18:26:00.000-08:00

Let's Break the Silence

We proudly support our good friend Terrie Williams' efforts to address depression in the Black community. If you are in the Los Angeles area on Nov. 27th, please check out this important event.

Click Image for Link

Attention:

Colleges * Organizations * Conference/Event Hosts

OneDiaspora Group President & Founder Christopher Cathcart is Ready, Willing and Able to Meet Your Speaking Needs

Cathcart at Howard University - September, 2011; Photo: George Newcomb

Topics Include:

Self Empowerment Through Volunteerism

Communicating Your Message Effectively

PR Techniques for Business and Beyond

Branding Yourself for Success

Leadership and Communications

Social Networking and Civic Engagement

Giving Back as a Way of Life

HIV/AIDS Awareness and Young Folk

and more...

For more information or to discuss a booking, please e-mail us atSpeaks@OneDG.com. Contact us today for seminars, panels, conferences, college presentations and much more. Please visit www.OneDiaspora.com for additional information.

Upcoming Speaking Engagements:

* Nov 9 - Freshman Academy Luncheon: The Kanye ERAS Center, Culver City, CA

* Dec 1 - World AIDS Day Presentation: University of Maryland Eastern Shore

* * *

Also, Chris' book on volunteerism is now available as an eBook; click the image below for details. Proceeds benefit ODG's community outreach efforts. A limited amount of signed paperback and hardcover copies are still available via the ODG website.

PS - Keep an eye out for the new," Last" Lost Chapter, available soon and only at our website.

Connect with US!

wwwOneDiaspora.com

ODG Fall News Blast - Speaking Discounts for Fall and Winter

2011-11-01T11:12:00.000-07:00

Attention:

Colleges * Organizations * Conference/Event Hosts

OneDiaspora Group President & Founder Christopher Cathcart is Ready, Willing and Able to Meet Your Speaking Needs

Cathcart at Howard University - September, 2011; Photo: George Newcomb

Topics Include:

Self Empowerment Through Volunteerism

Communicating Your Message Effectively

PR Techniques for Business and Beyond

Branding Yourself for Success

Leadership and Communications

Social Networking and Civic Engagement

Giving Back as a Way of Life

HIV/AIDS Awareness and Young Folk

and more...

Upcoming Speaking Engagements:

* Nov 9 - Freshman Academy Luncheon: The Kanye ERAS Center, Culver City, CA

* Dec 1 - World AIDS Day Presentation: University of Maryland Eastern Shore

* * *

A Site Fit For A King - A Must See For All

The Memorial is Call for Action!

Recently, I was in Washington, DC, and had an opportunity to see the new Martin Luther King Jr. memorial. It's an impressive sight and once again reminded me of the man's greatness and the difficult times he faced.

But it also underscored the fact that if we are to truly honor Dr. King, then we should do as he did and make service a part of our everyday lives. Or, better yet, using the jargon of today - MAKE SERVICE A PART OF OUR BRAND.

Chris

"An individual has not started living until he can rise above the narrow confines of his individualistic concerns to the broader concerns of all humanity."

Martin Luther King, Jr.

Congratulations to all who made the King Memorial possible

HBCU Experience - The Book, the groundbreaking anthology chronicling Black College life, has extended the deadline for essay submissions until the end of the year. Contributions are coming in each week; please make sure your voice and story are in the mix. Share your memories of homecomings, dating, Greek life, student activism, road trips, dorm living and more.

ODG Prez Chris Cathcart is co-editing the book with Howard University Professor Dr. Tia C. M. Tyree. For more information, including videos, submission details and general background, please visit www.BlackCollegeBook.com.

Howard University Homecoming 2011
Happy Homecomings One and All!!!

Connect with US!

wwwOneDiaspora.com

HBCU Great...Eldridge Dickey...

2011-10-30T13:47:00.000-07:00

Here's a little HBCU history...the first Black QB ever drafted in the first round was Tennessee State University star Eldridge Dickey (1965-68). He was drafted 25th overall in 1968 by the Oakland Raiders as a QB and then moved to wide receiver. (They drafted Ken Stabler that same year in the 2nd round). He never played QB for Oakland (though, reportedly, he out-performed Raider great Stabler in training camp) but helped blaze a trail none-the-less. It's time we all learn more about Eldridge Dickey.

Eldridge Dickey, QB, Tennessee State University.

Contribute your HBCU sports story to HBCU Experience - The Book...

www.BlackCollegeBook.com

HBCU Experience - The Book; Deadline Extended Until the End of the Year

2011-10-03T21:05:00.000-07:00

"Give me just a little more time, and our love will surely grow..."

The Chairmen of the Board - (1970, see below)

The Submission Deadline has been Extended Until the End of 2011!

This includes Essays and Photos - But Do Not Wait Too Long

Many of you asked, and we listened. We are extending the submission deadline for HBCU Experience - The Book until the end of the year so that even more of our fellow HBCU alumni can contribute to the collection. But please do not wait, essays are starting to roll in and the sooner we get yours, the greater likelihood it will be counted among the final 101 submissions.

Much thanks to those who did make the previous 9/30/11 deadline; your efforts are appreciated and your names are in the running for the Apple Store Gift Card. Good Luck.

To date, some of the schools we have represented include*:

Savannah State University

Virginia State University

Southern University

North Carolina Central University

Texas Southern University

Howard University

North Carolina A&T State University

Hampton University

Florida A&M University

Tuskegee University

University of the Virgin Islands

Morehouse College

Prairie View A&M University

Talladega College

....and counting...

*This includes both actual essays in hand and submissions under construction.

If you don't see your HBCU represented, then it's time to do something about it. Since it's that time of year, why not reflect on your best Homecoming story or how it felt to spend your first Thanksgiving or Christmas away from home - or something else?

Audio Submissions:

We are still accepting a limited number of audio submissions. If you are nervous about writing or too busy, than you can tell us your story by simply calling a special number. Select audio submissions will be transcribed for the book and/or featured on the website. Those interested should send an email tosubmissions@blackcollegebook.com, and put "Audio Submission" in the subject line. One of the co-editors will follow up with details on how to schedule the recording of your HBCU experience. Thank you.

About The Book:

Co-edited by Black college alumni Dr. Tia Tyree and Christopher D. Cathcart,HBCU Experience - The Book will celebrate the legacy and experiences of those who attended Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs). Further, with the debate still raging over the relevance and need for HBCUs in the new millennium, this collection of 101 essays will help showcase the unique experiences of HBCU graduates, highlight the important need for these institutions and accentuate the overall benefits of having an HBCU education.

The groundbreaking anthology will chronicle undergraduate realities such as dating and relationships, dorm living, road trips, pledging fraternities and sororities, student activism and leadership, athletics and much, much more.

Visit us today at www.BlackCollegeBook.com and learn more about this project, including submission details. There are also sample essays posted on the site.

Your Story IS Our Story. Let's Celebrate US.

PS - The Chairmen of the Board was an early '70's R&B group and "Give Me Just a Little More Time..." was their signature hit. We are sure some HBCU grads were dancing to that back in the day. Goggle 'em.

Join the movement; submit an essay...and spread the word.

All submission details are available at:

www.BlackCollegeBook.com

NEW SUBMISSION DEADLINE: END OF 2011

Twitter: @HBCUBook Facebook: HBCU Experience - The Book

Guest Post - DeAngelo Starnes on Troy Davis,...

2011-09-22T07:47:00.000-07:00

Don’t Call It A “Miscarriage of Justice.” Justice Was Not In the Equation

CRIME AND PUNISHMENT | SEPTEMBER 22, 2011 BY STARNESD | 0 COMMENTS

I knew the jig was up when they increased the police presence, including lights flashing, obnoxious sirens blasting, and helicopters noisily flying over the area of protest. Alternately, watching the video stream on Democracy Now!’s website and reading some cases on defamation in CU’s law library, I got an eerie feeling when that occurred. It happened an hour or so after it was announced the Supreme Court granted Troy Davis a reprieve from his scheduled execution on Wednesday, September 21, 2011. Initially, the reprieve was mistakenly announced as a stay. In my joy at the news, I prematurely ejaculated the mistake on my Facebook page.

Once the correction was made, I figured the pressure was so enormous that a stay was inevitable. After all, the facts of Troy Davis’ conviction and death sentence didn’t add up to something where the State would follow through on the sentence. No physical evidence. Conviction based almost solely on eyewitness testimony, which by itself is unreliable, but its unreliability is compounded when the witnessed event occurs at night. Compound that with seven of nine witnesses recanting their identification of Troy Davis as the culprit of the killing of a white police officer. Compound the recantation with these witnesses explaining their perjured testimony as products of police coercion. Compound that with of the remaining witnesses, one of them was possibly the actual culprit of the crime. And then compound that with three jurors saying that they would not have voted to convict had they known all of this information.

If the defendant were white and the victim Black, would we have to have fought so hard to have his life spared? Especially if you had the Pope, former President and former Georgia governor Jimmy Carter, Bishop Tutu, former FBI Director and former judge William Sessions asking for a commutation of the death sentence? Close to a million signatures begging for clemency. And then would that white defendant have been executed anyway?

But in the South, the more things change, the more it seems they stay the same. Because if a white police officer is killed, and a Black male is the suspect, any Black male you catch is good enough, regardless of the evidence.

I had a sinking feeling against hope when it was announced Clarence Thomas was reviewing the case. If you wanted to put a spin on it, what better way to do it? In many circles and among many persons, including a majority of African Americans, it is believed that Thomas is a self-hating Black man. If true, it only makes the sell easier that he hails from Georgia. Clarence Thomas dissented in the Supreme Court’s 2010 decision to send the case back to Georgia for an evidentiary hearing. A hearing where the burden was misplaced on Troy Davis to prove his innocence. Clarence didn’t even want to do that; he thought the sentence should stand and be carried out. At this point, this was Davis’ fourth time up for lethal injection, too? I’m sure Clarence said, “He’s had enough chances.”

The icing on the cake was when the police escalated their presence. You heard the excuse that the police were trying to intimidate the protestors. Nah. I believe the police knew what the decision was and were getting in place in case of a riot.

This feeling was sealed when a minister was interviewed. Amy Goodman of Democracy Now! asked him why he thought the police had suddenly beefed up their presence. He appeared to dodge the question and instead said that the protestors were staging a peaceful demonstration and that it would remain peaceful and nonviolent.

I saw that movie when I lived in LA back in 1992. With the jury allegedly still deliberating on the cops’ guilt in the Rodney King beating case a couple of days before the verdict’s announcement, a prominent minister was on television. He told the tv audience that regardless of the verdict, the public was to remain cool. His body language suggested to me that he already knew the verdict and that it was “Not Guilty.” He was trying avert a riot. Didn’t work.

Not advocating a riot. But there should be an investigation by the Justice Department into the police and prosecutors’ conduct during Troy Davis’ case. Too many inconsistencies to sustain a conviction – let alone one that resulted in a death execution.

Over the next few days, you’ll read many accounts of how much of a travesty this case is/was. How it may serve as the tipping point for outlawing the death penalty in the United States. You’ll read angry articles, blogs, Facebook posts, and Tweets about this being a “miscarriage of justice.” Except justice didn’t have anything to do with this case. Because if it did, Troy Davis would still be alive. Maybe not free, but alive.

Call it what it is. Abuse of power, system, and process. Prosecutorial and police misconduct. Witness intimidation and tampering. Deliberate ignorance and blindness. Injustice. Murder. But don’t use the word “justice” when describing this case. Justice was not part of the equation.

TAGS: DEATH PENALTY, POLICE, TROY DAVIS

ODG Prez Chris Cathcart to Speak at Black Power Film Screening 9/20

2011-09-18T15:24:00.000-07:00

Christopher Cathcart

Wall Photos

If you have not heard about this film...now's the time. "The Black Power Mixtape 1967-1975" by film maker Goran Hugo Olsson is a must-see for anyone interested in the crucial Black Power era.

I will be speaking on a panel following a screening of the film next week in DC. I'm honored and pray I can bring a relevant comment or two to the discussion. There's a trailer on youtube (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=lXQxyYllXnM&NR=1). And here's the screening info - if in town, come on out:

Location: Zinn Room @ Busboys and Poets, Hyattsville
Date: September 20, 2011
Time: 7-9PM
Cost: Free & open to the public

Audio Submissions now available for HBCU Experience - The Book (Limited Time)

2011-09-09T09:28:00.001-07:00

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Press Release

For Immediate Release

Friday, September 9, 2011

Contact: Rianna Felder

Media@blackcollegebook.com
www.blackcollegebook.com

"HBCU EXPERIENCE - THE BOOK" WILL ACCEPT A LIMITED NUMBER OF OVER-THE-PHONE RECOUNTS OF BLACK COLLEGE LIFE

FOR INCLUSION IN COLLECTION

Apple Store Gift Card to be Given to Lucky Contributor

General Submission Deadline: September 30, 2011

Washington, DC -- Dr. Tia C. M. Tyree and Christopher D. Cathcart, co-editors of HBCU Experience - The Book, a collection of essays showcasing Black college life, today announced they will accept a limited number of audio submissions for inclusion in the groundbreaking anthology. Citing a desire to engage a larger number of contributors, particularly those hesitant or unable to write essays, Tyree and Cathcart have set a September 15 deadline to field a select amount of over-the-phone submissions. These stories will be transcribed for possible inclusion in the book and/or use on the website in audio form.

Additionally, the editors have announced all HBCU graduates who submit stories or photographs by the September 30, 2011 general deadline will be entered to win a $100 Apple Store gift card. The winner will be randomly selected from all submissions.

Individuals interested in over-the-phone submissions are asked to send an email to submissions@blackcollegebook.com, with "Audio Submission" in the subject line. One of the co-editors will follow up with a call-in phone number and details on how to schedule the audio recordings. As with the written essays, not all audio submissions are guaranteed to make the final compilation.

"I think this provision opens up the process to even more people," says Cathcart. "Recently, I've talked to a handful of individuals who, due either to advanced age or the proverbial writer's block, expressed interest in sharing their story by voice instead of pen. While time restraints and other logistical issues require we only extend this for a limited period, it should open the door for some riveting submissions.

"And we're sure contributors of all ages can use a $100 gift card to the Apple Store."

HBCU Experience - The Book will highlight the history, relevance and impact of Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs) by chronicling undergraduate realities such as dating and relationships, dorm living, road trips, pledging fraternities and sororities, student activism and leadership, athletics and much, much more.

Tyree and Cathcart will amass 101 stories from graduates of HBCUs (or individuals who attended a Black college for at least four years) detailing these unique, undergraduate experiences while further emphasizing the still vital role these institutions have in our society. Writers may hail from any of the 100-plus HBCUs and be any age, gender or ethnicity. The 250-500 word essays will range in tone from the light and humorous to the serious and insightful, with the common thread being that they are genuine and engaging. The submission deadline is September 30, 2011; and plans call for the book to be available for Black History Month in 2012. Individuals may also submit photographs of their Black college experiences for inclusion in the book.

To date, a healthy cross-section of stories have been submitted, however, there is still time and room for many more contributions. Sample essays are available for review on www.blackcollegebook.com.

In keeping with the theme of celebrating and supporting Black colleges and Black college graduates, the editors have retained the services of the Law Offices of Manotti L. Jenkins, LTD. (www.MLJLawOffices.com) to oversee all legal matters pertaining to the anthology; Mr. Jenkins, a nationally recognized attorney, is a Howard University graduate.Efforts will be made, when and where appropriate, to engage other HBCU grads in the development and presentation of HBCU Experience - The Book.

For more information about HBCU Experience - The Book, including the submission process, please visit www.blackcollegebook.com, or email the editors at Media@blackcollegebook.com.

About HBCU Experience - The Book

Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs) have a rich legacy in the United States and graduates of these institutions have made and continue to make major contributions to the history and climate of this country. Co-edited by Black college alumni Dr Tia Tyree and Christopher D Cathcart, HBCU Experience - The Book will celebrate this legacy and the experiences of those who attended HBCUs. Further, with the debate still raging over the relevance and need for HBCUs in the new millennium, this collection of essays will help showcase the unique experiences of HBCU graduates, highlight the important need for these institutions and accentuate the overall benefits of having an HBCU education.

About Dr. Tia Tyree

Dr. Tia C. M. Tyree is an Assistant Professor at Howard University within the Department of Journalism. She is currently the Public Relations Sequence Coordinator for the Department of Journalism, and she teaches several courses, including Introduction to Public Relations, PR Writing II, PR Writing I, SR: Event Planning, SR: Friends, Followers and Social Media and CapComm Lab. In addition to teaching, her research interests include Hip Hop, Rap, pop culture, film and African American representations in the media. She is a graduate of both Morgan State University (Bachelor of Arts, 1995) and Howard University (Ph.D. Mass Communications and Media Studies, 2007).

About Christopher D. Cathcart

Christopher Darren Cathcart is a published author; public relations, marketing/brand development expert; and a noted social entrepreneur. In 1995, Cathcart founded OneDiaspora Group, a Los Angeles and Washington, DC-based PR/communications consulting firm. He has more than 23 years of public relations experience, having been an executive at such companies as CNN, Motown Records, and Warner Bros. Television, among others.

His first book, The Lost Art of Giving Back, a how-to guide to volunteerism, was published in 2007. Cathcart also founded Ledge Magazine, the nation's first and only HIV/AIDS online publication by and for Black college students. He is a graduate of Howard University (Bachelor of Arts, 1986).

###

Here's Your Chance to Be Heard

2011-09-07T15:48:00.000-07:00

HERE'S YOUR CHANCE TO BE "HEARD"

For a limited time, the editors of HBCU Experience - The Book are accepting a select number of audio submissions. If you are nervous about writing or too busy, than you can tell us your story by simply calling a special number. Select audio submissions will be transcribed for the book and/or featured on the website. Those interested should send an email to submissions@blackcollegebook.com, and put "Audio Submission" in the subject line. One of the co-editors will follow up with details on how to schedule the recording of your HBCU experience. Thank you.

Deadline for all audio submission requests is September 15, 2011.

About The Book:

Visit us today at www.BlackCollegeBook.com and learn more about this project, including submission details. There are also sample essays posted on the site.

Your Story IS Our Story.

$100 Apple Store Gift Card for a Lucky Participant

As a thank you for sharing your experience with us, all HBCU graduates who submit stories or photographs by the September 30, 2011 deadline will be entered to win a $100 Apple Store gift card. The winner will be randomly selected from all submissions.

Join the movement; submit an essay...and spread the word.

All submission details are available at:

www.BlackCollegeBook.com

SUBMISSION DEADLINE: SEPT. 30

Twitter: @HBCUBook Facebook: HBCU Experience - The Book

Sample Essay from HBCU Experience - The Book: By Lenee Richards

2011-08-23T08:05:00.000-07:00

The following is a "sneak preview" essay from HBCU Experience - The Book. Enjoy.

"It is important to acknowledge the contributions HBCUs have made to the tapestry of American culture. My professors greatly contributed to my HBCU experience by being equally invested in my success in and outside of college. Writing about my experience allowed me to pay homage to the brilliant professors that view teaching as more than just a job but a chance to shape our country's future."

Lenee Richards

Lesson No. 1: Education is a Privilege

by Lenee Richards

Virginia State University, 2007

Bachelor of Arts: Communications

"Do you think you can be late for class because you are tired from tennis practice?" That was asked of me in front of the entire class. I quickly realized that admitting to not hearing my alarm clock due to exhaustion from 5:00 am tennis practice was not a good idea. I was a freshman at the time, struggling to balance two-a-day practices, tennis matches, school, and a social life. My professor looked at me with pure disappointment as I embarrassingly admitted that being tired is never a good excuse to be late. That was the beauty of Virginia State University professors. They were not afraid to show their students tough love to cultivate them into true leaders. Later I realized that it wasn't about being late, my professor was disappointed in my seemingly lack of commitment to succeed.

One of the most important things I learned while attending VSU was that being in college was a privilege. And that privilege awarded me an opportunity to get more than a degree but also an education. My professors constantly reminded that there was a difference, and that I owed it to myself and my community to get an education. I understood that attaining my Bachelors of Arts degree in Communications was not a birth right but instead the expected conclusion to hard work and dedication.

The concept of lifting as you climb was instilled in me as a VSU student and I undoubtedly believe it helped direct my career path into social advocacy. What makes VSU so special is the unbelievable support that is given to students from the professors and faculty. I would like to thank Dr. Renee Hill, Dr. Wesley Hogan, Dr. Dirk Philipsen, Dr. Maxine Sample, Dr. Linda Person, Dr. Pamela Reed and Dr. Gladys Nunnally for your encouragement and life lessons.

Lenee Richards is from Queens, New York. She currently resides in Los Angeles where she serves as program coordinator for HIV/AIDS awareness initiatives.

Sample Essay from HBCU Experience - The Book: By DeAngelo Starnes

2011-08-21T15:50:00.000-07:00

The following is a "sneak preview" essay from HBCU Experience - The Book. Enjoy.

"This project was akin to riding in a time machine. Visiting memories of my days at Howard made me realize I could have written several books, a movie, and a television series on the HBCU experience (ooops someone beat me to those projects). I feel privileged and honored to have been called to participate in and contribute to this project. I feel it's a public service."

DeAngelo Starnes

RANDOM THOUGHTS ON MY HBCU EXPERIENCE

by DeAngelo Starnes

Howard University, 1987

Bachelor of Business and Public Administration:

International Business/Finance

My first time on Howard University's campus was much different than my last day in high school. Not just because I was in college living in Washington, D.C. as opposed to living at home with my family in Denver, Colorado. But because I went from attending an all-male, almost (99%) all white high school to an all-Black, high female populated college.

The high concentration of females at Howard was, I am not ashamed to say, the main reason I attended the university. The germ of the inspiration occurred because of the following conversation with an upperclassman from my high school who had been at Howard for two years: Me: "Are there any [fine] women there?" Him: "Too many women." Too many women? Sold.

One of the first things I noticed about Howard (other than the abundance of Black feminine beauty) was that there were a lot of cats who came from backgrounds and had tastes similar to mine. During high school, we achieved academically and athletically. We had a high artistic sense. We liked to drink brew and smoke weed (and I thought the rich white kids I went to school with could drink and smoke). In addition to soul and hip hop, we liked hard rock and jazz. And for the most part we had similar politics in that it was geared towards Black. It didn't matter if a person was a Christian conservative or a Pan Africanist, we had the same goal of uplifting Black people.

Attending an HBCU is a political act as far as I'm concerned. It's an act of pride. It's an act of protest. It's the one place in the world where African Americans eradicate the feeling of being a stranger in a strange land.

This political and prideful act served me well as I arrived at Howard in 1982. My entire attendance occurred against the backdrop of Reaganism. Born in the Sixties and growing up during the Seventies injected a political spirit in me and many of my peers. Those decades opened up society, but the Eighties witnessed president who sat in office intent on reversing all of that inflamed the Spirit of Protest.

The Spirit of Politics and Black Pride fortified by the Energy of Youth boosted our confidence in rejection of Reaganism. We stormed the A Building my freshman year in protest of censorship (I didn't know a damn thing about censorship at the time, but the rebellious component of my personality dictated it was a cool thing to do). At the beginning of my sophomore year, we attended the 20th Anniversary of the March on Washington for Jobs and Freedom. My junior year, these dynamic HUSA (student government) leaders educated the student body at the Flagpole over the issue of "divestment" (another unfamiliar term) in South Africa. It actually became fashionable to go down to the South African Embassy to get arrested. But the most prideful moment transpired when Jesse Jackson ran for President. Here I was at a Black school and we had a Black man being taken seriously as a Presidential candidate. My buddies and I used to sit around the television (whoever had one) and watch Jesse speak. Of course, this was also the first time being exposed to Minister Louis Farrakhan. And when he came to speak at Cramton Auditorium? That was the shit.

The other thing I noticed about Howard was how fashion conscious people were. It was almost a class system based on your clothes. It was the first time I heard of Izod and Polo shirts, Lee jeans, and penny loafers. Of course, I didn't own any of those brands.

Then there were the hairstyles. Coming from Denver, I didn't know anything about waves in your crop - let alone how to get them. Dudes in Denver sported Afros (of varying sizes, mine was medium length), shags, processed (I know, out of fashion, right?), or the infamous gheri curl (the wetter the better). And no, I did not wear a shag, gheri curl, or processed hair.

I got to Howard, and dudes wore their hair low, sporting waves, with parts in their hair. I was trying to be down so I began observing and asking how to style my hair like that. There were varying degrees of success depending on whether I attempted to cut my hair myself, the choice of barbershop when that didn't work, the pomade (I can tell you Afro-Sheen wasn't a good choice), and brush (I didn't know a damn thing about brushes as I used to comb my hair).

Your hair had to be correct because the first day it was warm on the Yard meant nobody was going to class. It was like a fashion show and picnic rolled into one. Folks wore the latest fashions that they couldn't afford without someone financing it for them. Every inch of grass was covered by spots where dudes weren't tossing footballs. Lowenbrau and Riunite were being drunk. Your nose might detect the odor of funny-smelling cigarettes. But most of all, nobody was in class, and if you were in class, you weren't sitting in class much longer.

The thing I dug most of all, and this feeling grew as I have become older - even to this day, was the pride I felt about being there with all those beautiful and intelligent Black folks. The feeling that "this was our thing" was huge. I still feel that way to this day. I guess that's how white folks feel about the world outside of an HBCU.

DeAngelo Starnes is a writer, musicologist, attorney, activist, Oakland Raiders fan, and business consultant. Outside of his parents, band membership, and football playing experience, he cites his attendance at Howard University as the most influential element in his life.

Giving Back Is Good Business

2011-07-26T08:28:00.000-07:00

Guest Piece - From The Network Journal

How Your Company Can Become Charitable

By: ANN BROWN

http://www.tnj.com

Monday, July 25, 2011

Business

You’ve grown a successful business. But is it socially conscious?

More and more companies are giving back to the community. And not only major corporations; small businesses are either creating charitable foundations or donating employee time and money to charities.  

"Involvement in charities is an investment in the community it serves. Additionally, it allows companies to positively influence behavior, recruit and retain employees and influence potential investors," says Robert Shumake, founder of private equity commercial real estate firm Inheritance Capital Group, LLC, who founded the The Robert S. Shumake Family Foundation to help young athletes and scholars.  

The foundation annually hosts the The Robert S. Shumake Scholarship Relays, which features high school track athletes who compete for scholarships. A former track runner himself, Shumake thought it important to give back to a sot that gave him so much. "I have an undaunted passion to see young athletes utilize their talents and achieve both their athletic and academic goals. As an all-city track star in my high school years at Detroit’s Edwin Denby, I developed a passion for track and field," he explains. "As a professional using the art of organized teamwork, I established the Robert S. Shumake Foundation and Scholarship Relays to highlight academic development and athletic ability."  

The Robert S. Shumake Scholarship Relays is a premier ‘Class A’ track and field competition for high school students across the nation. Its unique model is unprecedented in that it has a dual focus. The Shumake Scholarship Relay competition highlights both athletic ability and academic achievement. Prizes are awarded to the athlete on each team with the highest grade point average, teams with the highest score at the end of the meet and athletes who place 1st through 8th.  

Alex Askew too feels it is important for companies, no matter how small, to get involved in charity. He co-founded a national non-profit foodservice, hospitality, and educational networking organization called the Black Culinarian Alliance (BCA), whose goal is to bring culinary awareness to people of color in the hospitality industry." Generous corporate support and sponsorships are the reason nonprofits are able to maintain and develop programs focused on real-life social issues. These resources allow charities to assist in the development of programs," he notes. Like Shumake, Askew, a professional chef, decided to dedicate his time and energy to giving back to a field he knew, the culinary arts. "Currently, there is a lack of education, awareness and exposure that exists for culinary and hospitality professionals of color. By providing direction, networking opportunities and programs early in the career choices of students at the high school level, to and through college, we can help create the path toward the professions of their choice," says Askew. "The BCA is a national non-profit, culinary/foodservice and hospitality career advancement organization. Our objective is to advance diversity by creating exposure, professional and educational opportunities for culinary and hospitality professionals of color. We focus on motivating students of color by introducing them to the high standards and disciplines set by our industry, while exposing them to the variety of career paths available both through and beyond the culinary arts."  

Even if your company is unable to start its own charitable arm, you can get the firm moving in the way of giving--either monetarily, time, or skills. "I do not have a charity per se, but, through my consulting company, I encourage charitable giving and volunteerism to anyone who will listen. Truth be told, I've been doing this for more than 20 years in total, both officially and unofficially. Since giving back is a way of life, it has always been a part of my business model," says Chris Cathcart, president and founder of OneDiaspora Group and author of The Lost Art of Giving Back. "The answer for "why" is simple: first and foremost because it's right and we have a responsibility to repay those who helped us along the way. We should try to make sure we leave the world a little better than we got it. Also, it's a great branding element of any business." Cathcart’s OneDiaspora Group is the Los Angeles CA-based parent organization for OneDiaspora Consulting and The OneDiaspora Project. OneDiaspora Consulting is a full service, media/public relations agency, and The OneDiaspora Project is a non-profit community assistance and awareness organization.  

Taking the path to charitable giving only adds to your corporate image, says Cathcart. "It's a great way for a business to distinguish itself from its competition while also building stronger, longer lasting bonds with its customers. People tend to want to do business with companies that exhibit a real interest in their wellbeing and needs beyond merely providing quality goods and services. By investing – be it monetarily or via some community service – in the lives of their customers, businesses are able to brand themselves as caring partners in consumers' lives, and vice versa. This develops and enhances brand loyalty," he notes.  

If you want your company to adopt or start a charity, do some research. "One should know their local community, its resources and areas of need. One must be prepared to form a team, and have a mission or goal in mind. To simply get involved, research! The Internet is at your fingertips, and many charities have pages on how to get involved on their websites," explains Shumake. Adds Askew, "Sponsorship, support or collaboration is key. The target focus is to facilitate through an understanding of "value partnerships". This process helps organizations to recognize the connection between corporate giving and the charity." It is important, however, to find the right charity for your company profile, Cathcart points out. "Take a hard, honest look at your audience, or in this case customers. Be clear about what's important to them and their needs in life, and not just relative to whatever product or service you provide. Identify ways that can you help make their lives better or more empowered, then begin there. And it's fine to look for ways to tie in your core business," he explains. "For instance, banks provide free financial management seminars, sporting goods stores donate athletic gear to youth leagues, new technology outlets offer internships for science students, etc. Just be sure that you are meeting a need (theirs, not yours) first and foremost."  

Shumake agrees that it is vital to find a good fit. "Figure out what is close to the hearts of those at the corporation. It’s much easier to get involved with something you’re already passionate about," he says.  

Cathcart concludes, "If you are a small company, find a charity that is local and connected to your audience, or start one that impacts the local community. If you are a national outlet, either find a national charity that has local chapters or select a few groups that do the same type of work or service but in different communities or regions. The key is to try to connect with folk on a local level when and where possible. The most important step is a willingness to do it all. There will be hiccups and bumps in the road, for sure, but the upsides to giving back to your community while developing a distinct brand loyalty in the minds of your customers far outweigh any of the challenges involved. Giving back is good business. Period."

CURT FLOOD - SPORTS ABOLITIONIST

2011-07-12T22:07:00.000-07:00

Guest Blogger - DeAngelo Starnes

If you have a subscription on cable or satellite, you’d be doing yourself a favor to watch the latest in HBO’s series of excellent sports documentaries, The Curious Case of Curt Flood. I’m actually more perplexed by the title because there was nothing curious about Mr. Flood or his case. Nevertheless, you be the judge.

Jackie Robinson and Branch Rickey receive a lot of praise for breaking the color line in baseball. An act that led to the integration of all sports, except perhaps boxing. (I guess there was no problem watching brothas getting their heads bashed in by each other or some non-Black boxer). This act of integration led to wider exposure of Black athletes and their talents. But what Jackie Robinson did for racial integration, Curt Flood did for free agency and athletes’ salaries.

The thrust of the documentary deals with Flood’s battle with Major League Baseball over “the reserve clause.” The reserve clause was standard in baseball players’ contracts and provided the teams’ exclusive right to retain the rights of a player, even if that player’s contract term ended. Indeed, one of the opening shots of the

documentary shows Flood characterizing this clause as akin to “slavery.”

Flood then challenged the reserve clause based on the St. Louis Cardinals, one of the best teams in the National League, trading him to the Philadelphia Phillies, one of the worst - at the time. Flood refused to report. Instead, he demanded to be released so that he could negotiate with a team of his choice.

The team refused, a decision the Commissioner of baseball, Bowie Kuhn, supported.

The documentary does an excellent job via various interviews of explaining Flood’s rationale, courageousness, and stubbornness throughout this affair. But a story, as told by his actress wife (heroine to us blaxplotation movie fans), Judy Pace, may explain it. Once while shopping in South, Flood’s mother was approached by a white woman. The

white woman proceeded to ask his mother, “Do you know of any nigger bitches who can clean my house?” Flood’s mother responded, “I don’t know no nigger bitches that can clean your house.” I’m sure the white woman was shocked that her slap to Flood’s mother face was reciprocated.

As the documentary explains, Flood knew he would be ostracized. He knew that he was going to lose lots of

money in the process. But he was no one’s “nigger” nor “bitch.”

There exists a commonality between Flood and Robinson. Indeed, there is an evolution between the two. Robinson broke the color-line, which resulted in future African-Americans like Flood playing in the major leagues. Flood’s challenge to the reserve clause led to baseball free agency and multi-million dollar contracts.

According to his lawyer, Curt Flood was no martyr. His lawyer advised Flood he wasn’t going to get paid. Flood acknowledged that fact but claimed his challenge was for his fellow and future ballplayers.

Further, Flood saw his fight as a function of civil rights. It is no coincidence Flood took his stance during the height of the Civil Rights Movement. And like the Civil Rights Movement, where African Americans fought for

equal treatment under the law and where the gains made by that fight benefited all Americans, Flood, an African American, fought for freedom that eventually benefited all baseball players regardless of hue or nationality.

Such a fight against such rich, powerful people requires group participation. Something Flood did not receive. Despite taking on the fight, in part, for his fellow ball-players, he got no public help from them. Similar to Muhammed Ali who learned within the same time frame, these powerful people will strip you of everything for bucking

the system. And like Ali, Flood remained undeterred and true to his principles.

Flood took his case all the way to the Supreme Court, but he lost by a 5-3 decision. Despite this loss, the reserve

clause was eventually disbanded three years later. Thus, Flood’s fight was not for naught. He won the intellectual exercise. He just did not receive the economic benefits.

The fight took its toll. It drove him to Europe. It drove him to the Bottle. At the same time, he was able to transfer the artistry he displayed on the baseball field to the painting canvas.

Flood’s courageous act balanced the economic power between the owners and the players. For that, he was ostracized and nearly forgotten. Fortunately, this documentary of his life and legacy resurrects that memory. It’s well worth your 75 minutes for a slice of that American history.

A Message to My Straight Brothers: It’s Time to Talk about Our Homophobia

2011-07-08T18:47:00.000-07:00

By Christopher D. Cathcart

I originally wrote and published this in 2003, sadly I believe its message still resonates.

I am an AIDS activist. I am an African American man. I am heterosexual. And, consequently, I am often profoundly frustrated. With all the progress we’ve made, we – straight Black Men – still allow homophobia to cripple our thinking and our action, and it’s time we deal with it.

I’ve learned we can’t talk about getting straight brothers involved with the fight against HIV/AIDS unless we also discuss the issues surrounding Black male sexuality and homophobia. Attend any panel discussion featuring straight brothers talking about AIDS and clock how fast the conversation turns to homosexuality. You can set your watch to it.

For the record, I still struggle with this issue. I am not a finished project by any stretch. The process for me involved taking an honest look at the roots of my homophobia. I know I didn’t drop out of my mother’s womb that way. No, it came from a variety or sources. I, like most African American men, grew up being fed regular doses of Black manhood training, and one of the most important lessons was that “real” Black men weren’t gay.

While growing up in Plainfield NJ, no one ever openly discussed sexuality with me. Like most, I received my mis-education on the streets. My dad and the other significant men (relatives, coaches, teachers, etc.) in my world shared their life lessons more by example than heartfelt talks. But, for the most part, they helped me grow into a decent man, so this is not a complaint.

However, no one ever, and I mean EVER, taught me how to respect my gay brothers. I heard words like faggot, queer and punk daily while growing up. Not in my home so much, but in the barbershops, playgrounds and on the streets for sure. The older guys on the corner, whom I admired and wanted to be like, used those terms (and worse) all the time.

The dominant media of that era also played a role. I grew up worshipping the “blaxploitation” film-era heroes like Shaft, the Mack, Dolemite, and Black Belt Jones. These films depicted “real” Black men with severe cases of manhood overload, any references to homosexuals were purely for comic relief.

Then there was television. I can still remember characters like Fred Sanford, Archie Bunker and George Jefferson using disparaging comments about gays as comic fodder. These images and many more played their role in forming (or deforming) my young attitude.

It was, however, my beer-drinking, skirt-chasing days at Howard University (circa early ‘80s) that the tenets of homophobia were set in stone. In my circles, one of the greatest fears was being labeled gay. My friends and I would say things like, “I’m cool with fags, as long as they don’t bring that mess over here,” or “all they want to do is turn a straight brother out,” and so on.

But what was the real fear? Did we think we could really get “turned out?” Also, how was it that we could hide behind a wall of homophobia by day and try to sleep with as many sisters as possible by night? How could we lie to our sisters; have unprotected sex with them; leave them. Did being a real man mean doing and being anything you wanted as long as you weren’t gay?

The years following college didn’t change things much. I got a number of jobs, dated lots of women, and generally lived with my homophobia. As I got older, I’d pretend I was beyond such feelings. But when pressed, such as being in an overwhelmingly gay setting, I’d retreat into the familiar “us vs. them” mentality.

It was not until I became involved with the HIV/AIDS issue that I began to ask myself the difficult questions.

I tried to place the Black male sexuality issue into a group context. My own background aside, how was our collective Black male psyche formed? What are the lingering effects of slavery and discrimination? How has the continuing devastation of mis-education and self-hatred impacted how we view ourselves as men in this society? Have we been conditioned to believe that sexual conquests, athletic ability, income, and a willingness to kick ass if disrespected, among things, define our strength as Black men?

While I can’t accurately answer the broad questions, I know what we have to do now. We have to overcome society’s influences and find the courage to re-define our sexuality with, among things, an emphasis on compassion, understanding and commitment. As straight Black men, our first responsibility is to take a hard look at ourselves, not condemn the actions and lifestyles of others.

My work on the HIV/AIDS issue has helped me better cope with my own continuing growth process. By making me deal with folk from various backgrounds and orientations, I’ve realized that being comfortable with my own sexuality is not a straight or gay thing. It’s a human thing. It’s something I control.

Ours is a war on two fronts. We have to destroy HIV/AIDS as well as homophobia. We must reach out to our gay brothers. We must embrace them and talk with them about such thorny topics as same-sex marriage, the elusive undercover brother, and the impact these and many other issues are having in our community.

The international HIV/AIDS crisis demands our full involvement. Our people are dying, our communities worldwide are being destroyed, and our government has proven time and time again to be impotent in the face of this tragedy. We need our brothers, all our brothers, straight and gay, to get involved.

As strong, straight Black men, many things define our sexuality; homophobia can no longer be one of them.

Frederick Douglas' famed 4th of July Speech - 1852

2011-07-03T13:36:00.000-07:00

I first read this in college and read it each 4th of July. And I don't do this to conjure past evils, but to remind myself of the road traveled, and to further commit my energies to continuing this still unfulfilled journey.

Chris Cathcart/OneDiaspora Speaks...

Taken from the PBS Website (http://www.pbs.org/wgbh/aia/part4/4h2927.html)

During the 1850s, Frederick Douglass typically spent about six months of the year travelling extensively, giving lectures. During one winter -- the winter of 1855-1856 -- he gave about 70 lectures during a tour that covered four to five thousand miles. And his speaking engagements did not halt at the end of a tour. From his home in Rochester, New York, he took part in local abolition-related events.

On July 5, 1852, Douglass gave a speech at an event commemorating the signing of the Declaration of Independence, held at Rochester's Corinthian Hall. It was biting oratory, in which the speaker told his audience, "This Fourth of July is yours, not mine. You may rejoice, I must mourn." And he asked them, "Do you mean, citizens, to mock me, by asking me to speak to-day?"

Within the now-famous address is what historian Philip S. Foner has called "probably the most moving passage in all of Douglass' speeches."

"What, to the American slave, is your 4th of July? I answer; a day that reveals to him, more than all other days in the year, the gross injustice and cruelty to which he is the constant victim. To him, your celebration is a sham; your boasted liberty, an unholy license; your national greatness, swelling vanity; your sound of rejoicing are empty and heartless; your denunciation of tyrants brass fronted impudence; your shout of liberty and equality, hollow mockery; your prayers and hymns, your sermons and thanks-givings, with all your religious parade and solemnity, are to him, mere bombast, fraud, deception, impiety, and hypocrisy -- a thin veil to cover up crimes which would disgrace a nation of savages. There is not a nation on the earth guilty of practices more shocking and bloody than are the people of the United States, at this very hour."

Entire Address:

"The Meaning of July Fourth for the Negro"

Fellow Citizens, I am not wanting in respect for the fathers of this republic. The signers of the Declaration of Independence were brave men. They were great men, too Ñ great enough to give frame to a great age. It does not often happen to a nation to raise, at one time, such a number of truly great men. The point from which I am compelled to view them is not, certainly, the most favorable; and yet I cannot contemplate their great deeds with less than admiration. They were statesmen, patriots and heroes, and for the good they did, and the principles they contended for, I will unite with you to honor their memory....

...Fellow-citizens, pardon me, allow me to ask, why am I called upon to speak here to-day? What have I, or those I represent, to do with your national independence? Are the great principles of political freedom and of natural justice, embodied in that Declaration of Independence, extended to us? and am I, therefore, called upon to bring our humble offering to the national altar, and to confess the benefits and express devout gratitude for the blessings resulting from your independence to us?

Would to God, both for your sakes and ours, that an affirmative answer could be truthfully returned to these questions! Then would my task be light, and my burden easy and delightful. For who is there so cold, that a nation's sympathy could not warm him? Who so obdurate and dead to the claims of gratitude, that would not thankfully acknowledge such priceless benefits? Who so stolid and selfish, that would not give his voice to swell the hallelujahs of a nation's jubilee, when the chains of servitude had been torn from his limbs? I am not that man. In a case like that, the dumb might eloquently speak, and the "lame man leap as an hart."

But such is not the state of the case. I say it with a sad sense of the disparity between us. I am not included within the pale of glorious anniversary! Your high independence only reveals the immeasurable distance between us. The blessings in which you, this day, rejoice, are not enjoyed in common.ÑThe rich inheritance of justice, liberty, prosperity and independence, bequeathed by your fathers, is shared by you, not by me. The sunlight that brought light and healing to you, has brought stripes and death to me. This Fourth July is yours, not mine. You may rejoice, I must mourn. To drag a man in fetters into the grand illuminated temple of liberty, and call upon him to join you in joyous anthems, were inhuman mockery and sacrilegious irony. Do you mean, citizens, to mock me, by asking me to speak to-day? If so, there is a parallel to your conduct. And let me warn you that it is dangerous to copy the example of a nation whose crimes, towering up to heaven, were thrown down by the breath of the Almighty, burying that nation in irrevocable ruin! I can to-day take up the plaintive lament of a peeled and woe-smitten people!

"By the rivers of Babylon, there we sat down. Yea! we wept when we remembered Zion. We hanged our harps upon the willows in the midst thereof. For there, they that carried us away captive, required of us a song; and they who wasted us required of us mirth, saying, Sing us one of the songs of Zion. How can we sing the Lord's song in a strange land? If I forget thee, 0 Jerusalem, let my right hand forget her cunning. If I do not remember thee, let my tongue cleave to the roof of my mouth."

Fellow-citizens, above your national, tumultuous joy, I hear the mournful wail of millions! whose chains, heavy and grievous yesterday, are, to-day, rendered more intolerable by the jubilee shouts that reach them. If I do forget, if I do not faithfully remember those bleeding children of sorrow this day, "may my right hand forget her cunning, and may my tongue cleave to the roof of my mouth!" To forget them, to pass lightly over their wrongs, and to chime in with the popular theme, would be treason most scandalous and shocking, and would make me a reproach before God and the world. My subject, then, fellow-citizens, is American slavery. I shall see this day and its popular characteristics from the slave's point of view. Standing there identified with the American bondman, making his wrongs mine, I do not hesitate to declare, with all my soul, that the character and conduct of this nation never looked blacker to me than on this 4th of July! Whether we turn to the declarations of the past, or to the professions of the present, the conduct of the nation seems equally hideous and revolting. America.is false to the past, false to the present, and solemnly binds herself to be false to the future. Standing with God and the crushed and bleeding slave on this occasion, I will, in the name of humanity which is outraged, in the name of liberty which is fettered, in the name of the constitution and the Bible which are disregarded and trampled upon, dare to call in question and to denounce, with all the emphasis I can command, everything that serves to perpetuate slavery Ñ the great sin and shame of America! "I will not equivocate; I will not excuse"; I will use the severest language I can command; and yet not one word shall escape me that any man, whose judgment is not blinded by prejudice, or who is not at heart a slaveholder, shall not confess to be right and just.

But I fancy I hear some one of my audience say, "It is just in this circumstance that you and your brother abolitionists fail to make a favorable impression on the public mind. Would you argue more, an denounce less; would you persuade more, and rebuke less; your cause would be much more likely to succeed." But, I submit, where all is plain there is nothing to be argued. What point in the anti-slavery creed would you have me argue? On what branch of the subject do the people of this country need light? Must I undertake to prove that the slave is a man? That point is conceded already. Nobody doubts it. The slaveholders themselves acknowledge it in the enactment of laws for their government. They acknowledge it when they punish disobedience on the part of the slave. There are seventy-two crimes in the State of Virginia which, if committed by a black man (no matter how ignorant he be), subject him to the punishment of death; while only two of the same crimes will subject a white man to the like punishment. What is this but the acknowledgment that the slave is a moral, intellectual, and responsible being? The manhood of the slave is conceded. It is admitted in the fact that Southern statute books are covered with enactments forbidding, under severe fines and penalties, the teaching of the slave to read or to write. When you can point to any such laws in reference to the beasts of the field, then I may consent to argue the manhood of the slave. When the dogs in your streets, when the fowls of the air, when the cattle on your hills, when the fish of the sea, and the reptiles that crawl, shall be unable to distinguish the slave from a brute, then will I argue with you that the slave is a man!

For the present, it is enough to affirm the equal manhood of the Negro race. Is it not astonishing that, while we are ploughing, planting, and reaping, using all kinds of mechanical tools, erecting houses, constructing bridges, building ships, working in metals of brass, iron, copper, silver and gold; that, while we are reading, writing and ciphering, acting as clerks, merchants and secretaries, having among us lawyers, doctors, ministers, poets, authors, editors, orators and teachers; that, while we are engaged in all manner of enterprises common to other men, digging gold in California, capturing the whale in the Pacific, feeding sheep and cattle on the hill-side, living, moving, acting, thinking, planning, living in families as husbands, wives and children, and, above all, confessing and worshipping the Christian's God, and looking hopefully for life and immortality beyond the grave, we are called upon to prove that we are men!

Would you have me argue that man is entitled to liberty? that he is the rightful owner of his own body? You have already declared it. Must I argue the wrongfulness of slavery? Is that a question for Republicans? Is it to be settled by the rules of logic and argumentation, as a matter beset with great difficulty, involving a doubtful application of the principle of justice, hard to be understood? How should I look to-day, in the presence of Amercans, dividing, and subdividing a discourse, to show that men have a natural right to freedom? speaking of it relatively and positively, negatively and affirmatively. To do so, would be to make myself ridiculous, and to offer an insult to your understanding. There is not a man beneath the canopy of heaven that does not know that slavery is wrong for him.

What, am I to argue that it is wrong to make men brutes, to rob them of their liberty, to work them without wages, to keep them ignorant of their relations to their fellow men, to beat them with sticks, to flay their flesh with the lash, to load their limbs with irons, to hunt them with dogs, to sell them at auction, to sunder their families, to knock out their teeth, to burn their flesh, to starve them into obedience and submission to their mastcrs? Must I argue that a system thus marked with blood, and stained with pollution, is wrong? No! I will not. I have better employment for my time and strength than such arguments would imply.

What, then, remains to be argued? Is it that slavery is not divine; that God did not establish it; that our doctors of divinity are mistaken? There is blasphemy in the thought. That which is inhuman, cannot be divine! Who can reason on such a proposition? They that can, may; I cannot. The time for such argument is passed.

At a time like this, scorching irony, not convincing argument, is needed. O! had I the ability, and could reach the nation's ear, I would, to-day, pour out a fiery stream of biting ridicule, blasting reproach, withering sarcasm, and stern rebuke. For it is not light that is needed, but fire; it is not the gentle shower, but thunder. We need the storm, the whirlwind, and the earthquake. The feeling of the nation must be quickened; the conscience of the nation must be roused; the propriety of the nation must be startled; the hypocrisy of the nation must be exposed; and its crimes against God and man must be proclaimed and denounced.

What, to the American slave, is your 4th of July? I answer; a day that reveals to him, more than all other days in the year, the gross injustice and cruelty to which he is the constant victim. To him, your celebration is a sham; your boasted liberty, an unholy license; your national greatness, swelling vanity; your sounds of rejoicing are empty and heartless; your denunciation of tyrants, brass fronted impudence; your shouts of liberty and equality, hollow mockery; your prayers and hymns, your sermons and thanksgivings, with all your religious parade and solemnity, are, to Him, mere bombast, fraud, deception, impiety, and hypocrisy -- a thin veil to cover up crimes which would disgrace a nation of savages.There is not a nation on the earth guilty of practices more shocking and bloody than are the people of the United States, at this very hour.

Go where you may, search where you will, roam through all the monarchies and despotisms of the Old World, travel through South America, search out every abuse, and when you have found the last, lay your facts by the side of the everyday practices of this nation, and you will say with me, that, for revolting barbarity and shameless hypocrisy, America reigns without a rival....

...Allow me to say, in conclusion, notwithstanding the dark picture I have this day presented, of the state of the nation, I do not despair of this country. There are forces in operation which must inevitably work the downfall of slavery. "The arm of the Lord is not shortened," and the doom of slavery is certain. I, therefore, leave off where I began, with hope. While drawing encouragement from "the Declaration of Independence," the great principles it contains, and the genius of American Institutions, my spirit is also cheered by the obvious tendencies of the age. Nations do not now stand in the same relation to each other that they did ages ago. No nation can now shut itself up from the surrounding world and trot round in the same old path of its fathers without interference. The time was when such could be done. Long established customs of hurtful character could formerly fence themselves in, and do their evil work with social impunity. Knowledge was then confined and enjoyed by the privileged few, and the multitude walked on in mental darkness. But a change has now come over the affairs of mankind. Walled cities and empires have become unfashionable. The arm of commerce has borne away the gates of the strong city. Intelligence is penetrating the darkest corners of the globe. It makes its pathway over and under the sea, as well as on the earth. Wind, steam, and lightning are its chartered agents. Oceans no longer divide, but link nations together. From Boston to London is now a holiday excursion. Space is comparatively annihilated. -- Thoughts expressed on one side of the Atlantic are distinctly heard on the other.

The far off and almost fabulous Pacific rolls in grandeur at our feet. The Celestial Empire, the mystery of ages, is being solved. The fiat of the Almighty, "Let there be Light," has not yet spent its force. No abuse, no outrage whether in taste, sport or avarice, can now hide itself from the all-pervading light. The iron shoe, and crippled foot of China must be seen in contrast with nature. Africa must rise and put on her yet unwoven garment. 'Ethiopia, shall, stretch. out her hand unto Ood." In the fervent aspirations of William Lloyd Garrison, I say, and let every heart join in saying it:

God speed the year of jubilee
The wide world o'er!
When from their galling chains set free,
Th' oppress'd shall vilely bend the knee,
And wear the yoke of tyranny
Like brutes no more.
That year will come, and freedom's reign,
To man his plundered rights again
Restore.

God speed the day when human blood
Shall cease to flow!
In every clime be understood,
The claims of human brotherhood,
And each return for evil, good,
Not blow for blow;
That day will come all feuds to end,
And change into a faithful friend
Each foe.

God speed the hour, the glorious hour,
When none on earth
Shall exercise a lordly power,
Nor in a tyrant's presence cower;
But to all manhood's stature tower,
By equal birth!
That hour will come, to each, to all,
And from his Prison-house, to thrall
Go forth.

Until that year, day, hour, arrive,
With head, and heart, and hand I'll strive,
To break the rod, and rend the gyve,
The spoiler of his prey deprive --
So witness Heaven!
And never from my chosen post,
Whate'er the peril or the cost,
Be driven.

A few words about Eddie Long, New Birth Missionary Baptist Church and US - Guest Besse Swint

2011-06-17T14:51:00.000-07:00

I have read a lot of commentary on the Bishop Eddie Long situation and many of those people were by standers. I have been a member of New Birth Missionary Baptist Church for almost 20 years. I served as a leader in the homeless ministry for many years and my daughter was baptized in a baptismal pool by Bishop Long when she was 10 years old. I was baptized as a child but after losing my job at Ford Motor Company to mass layoffs in 2006. I went to Jerusalem seeking restoration a few years later on a trip sponsored by the church. In the Holy Land I was baptized in the Jordan River by Bishop Eddie Long. I have a little history with the church. There are too many things I could tell you about…

I know him to be funny, compassionate, wise, and a man steeped in knowledge of the word of God and the old school traditions of the Black church. I feel inspired to do better love more and be optimistic about life when I go to church and hear his messages. I don’t see him as Jesus or perfect or an infallible guide for my life. He is a man sharing his life and God’s word in an insightful uplifting and sometimes amusing way. He is a raconteur of great acclaim and I enjoy his messages.

Questions to ponder. Why didn’t the biblical folks dethrone King David who was a conspirator in the murder of his lovers husband, then married her. However the bible refers to him as a man after God’s own heart. Take Adam, God first son/creation made in him own image who he breathed into the breath of life. With that life of wonder in the garden he disobeyed although he knew God and knew better, he went against God’s plan. Abraham, Moses, Paul were all flawed. There are many current leaders who are flawed. Rev, Martin Luther King, Jr. who was rumored to have had affairs. Arnold Schwarzenegger has a maid/child. John Edwards has a love child. Newt Gingrich parades his ex- mistress now wife on the campaign trail for President. All leaders- All flawed. Why? All leaders are flawed because all people are flawed. Their life stories are great lessons to learn from. How far will a person go to cover up their flaws? Until they get caught and exposed… that’s when they stop. However, when it’s time for flaws to be exposed they will be. Do we pour salt on open wounds and heckle and taunt? What would Jesus do?

When the scandal first broke I was watchful… then hurt… then shocked. I remember what my Daddy always used to say, ”If you look to man you will always be disappointed so look to God. Even I (Daddy) will disappoint you.” (By the way my Dad did disappoint me on a few occasions and he let me know it was okay to be disappointed and to learn to forgive and keep my expectations in check) Next, I found out that a couple of the boys had actually been in my house eating and hanging out. I was grieved. Parents want the best for their children. And God fearing parents want the best for all children. When I asked my daughter who is their age and grew up in the youth ministry about it, she said she knows the boys but they have never spoken about it.

I pray these young men get counseling. Whatever happened they are young men worthy of restoration. I pray they are not bitter towards God and go on to live insightful blessed lives. I heard they got a settlement but money never settles issues of the heart. Money solves material problems not emotional problems. I hope they spend their time working though these issues with counseling and save the money because we all have a debt to pay at some time in our lives.

Back to the Bishop, last Sunday was the Pentecostal celebration and the oil was mixed for all the members to partake in. The ingredients of the oil were explained and the process of the crushing of the olives and the grinding of the cinnamon. The symbolic meaning that represents the sacrifice that is made by the crushing of our lives and the grind of life to produce a balm that will bring healing as long as we do not get bitter in the process. It was a thought provoking message. I was inspired to go through my week. The gifts and callings of God are irrevocable. Bishop Long has a gift and a calling to minister the word. The day before the scandal he was anointed and until his dying day he will be. God does not take back what he has created us to be.

There is sin in every life. Faults and hypocrisy and pain and unsettled issues are in every life. Why do we pretend that they are not. That’s what the journey of life is all about. We need to teach our children that there will be trials and flaws and pain. Pray, read the scriptures not for the good days but for when you have failed and been tricked or just made a bad choice and gotten caught. Then, get up with a hopeful heart to meets life’s challenges believing that you can be better, do better, live more fully, and evolve. Hopefully we learn to heal from our hurts so you don’t hurt others. We didn’t all start at the same place, we won’t run at the same pace but we will all finish the race. I will not judge the pace of someone else’s journey. It’s like that crazy show WIPE OUT. We are all on this crazy obstacle course of life. We take some crazy spills and fall legs flailing. But we must get up quickly because the clock is still ticking on our life and we must finish the course before time runs out. As viewers we should cheer those who dare to jump on moving platforms and run up hills with buckets of water being thrown on them.

Bishop Long like each of us must repent to God for all things sinful, and every day get up and keep his little life wagon out of the ditch. We can pile on more loads of baggage for each other or just get out of the way. Some say he is unrepentant. Don’t you need an apology? I say he has to answer to God and weather it is with his life or his ministry he will be judged. We all will be for our actions. I judge by the teaspoon not the dump truckload. The bible says you will be judged by the measure you judge. So all y’all truckload judges beware of the end of the dump truck you are standing. Ultimately we are all guilty of something. How we deal with it, grow from it, and get up and on with the journey is the great test of life.

I will be in church on Sunday and the one after that. I go to church for myself not because of any elder or leader. When the church gathering no longer inspires me, shares God’s word or offers the opportunity to praise God and feel his presence and love my fellow members I will leave. I can do most of that in my living room, all except love and be in relationships with other members. For that reason I enjoy my church. I have loved and enjoyed relationships with other members. I have deep friendships that I have established. I was not introduced to any of these people by Bishop Long and I will continue those relationships whether he is in my life or not.

We (the members) are the church. There is a reason that 25,000 people supported him. He touched our lives. We touched each others lives through the mission and ministry we believed in and worked towards. We must each examine our motives. I didn’t agree with his stance on homosexuals, Hillary Clinton who he initially supported as Pres. or the Million Man March and I didn’t leave. If each person agrees on the important aspects of God’s work-- loving people, feeding and equipping the poor, hurt and broken and sharing God’s inspiration- first, then let the issues we don’t agree on work themselves out. I don’t understand everything. I don’t know why this happened? I ask myself does it really matter in the grand scheme of MY service for God? I do my own research have my own mind and my own money. I use them as I see fit and in agreement with what I see fit and sometimes I’m wrong but it’s my choice. I get to make mistakes. I get to have the consequences and I get up to face the next day--So does Bishop Eddie Long.

He is not New Birth Missionary Baptist Church all by himself. I am the church. I am a representation of God in the earth flawed and perfect at the same time. So is he. I pray for him and know God can defend him, and judge him. I need to do neither. I am loyal to my friends and causes to a fault. I believe in covenant. That’s a deep word. I won’t give up on him, even if he gives up on himself. I will let God judge him and restore him. I hugged Bishop Long last week and said God Bless You after service. In my spirit I’m okay. Like I learned from my father I can be disappointed by someone, remember all the good that I have gotten from the purpose of the relationship, keep my expectations in check, and keep it moving.

Besse Swint

Photographer/ Owner jtbphotos.net

Mother of one beautiful daughter

New Birth Missionary Baptist Church Member almost 20 years

The Man in the Mirror - Guest Raynard Jackson

2011-06-15T23:32:00.000-07:00

The Man in the Mirror

June 16, 2011

Raynard Jackson

The church used to be the mirror that society looked into to see its reflection. But, now the church has become the reflection that mirrors society.

Unfortunately, the church seems to have lost its way and can no longer be counted on to provide light in a dark world.

Last month, embattled preacher Eddie Long made an out of court settlement of the sexual charges made against him by 4 teenage parishioners. The settlement is reported to have been for $ 15 million (to be split between the four accusers). The accusers were: Anthony Flagg, Maurice Robinson, Jamal Parris and Spencer LeGrande.

The suit accused Long of using his position as pastor of New Birth Missionary Baptist Church to coerce the men into having sexual relationships with him while they were teenage members of his congregation (they were said to have been 17 years old). The acts included massages, masturbation, and oral sex. The age of consent in the state of Georgia is 16. The accusers were all over the age of consent when the acts occurred, therefore law enforcement had no grounds for criminal charges.

New Birth is one of the largest churches in the Atlanta area, with a membership estimated to be around 25,000.

As to be expected, members are leaving the church in droves, including one of their assistant pastors, Bernice King, youngest daughter of the Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr.

To add salt to the wound, Creflo Dollar has shown his arrogance in his attempted defense of Long (a long time friend). According to Dollar’s sermon from last Sunday (seen on YouTube): "That preacher's still anointed to do what he was called to. He just had a wreck (the sexual coercion charge)…The blood (of Jesus) will take care of his issue just like it will take care of yours. And I just can't believe that people would leave their preacher because he had a wreck, instead of praying for him. So he had a wreck. You've had some wrecks. And I'm thinking, 'Man, the mercy of God showed on you, but you couldn't show it to the preacher?...He had a wreck, [but] here's the good news. He's got insurance. If you're from that church that you know I'm talking about, you trying to join here, I don't want you to join here. You need to go and join where you're supposed to be.”

Dollar is pastor of World Changers Church in Atlanta. They have an estimated membership of 30,000 people.

Long and Dollar are both advocates of the “prosperity gospel.” This is basically a belief in the modern church that God wants everyone to be millionaires. All you have to do is to obey preachers like Long and Dollar, give them your money, and God will give you a big house, an expensive car, and any other material possessions you want.

They should know. Long drives a Bentley, has a 9 bedroom house, and has a $ 1 million salary. Dollar (what an ironic name) has a $ 3 million house in Atlanta, $ 2.4 million condo in NY, 2 Rolls-Royces, and a private jet.

These preachers have basically made God into a personal ATM! According to their theology, if you don’t have material riches, you must be doing something wrong!

These mega churches have become the “Wall Street” of religion (as in the movie) where “greed is good.” These preachers depend on “the cult of personality” to expand their empires. People tend to join these churches because of the preacher, not the message that is being preached.

These preachers are nothing but celebrities with robes on. But, when you pull back the robes, most of them are naked---both literally and figuratively. Like in the movie, “The Wiz,” when you go behind the curtain, you find a big ole phony!

I am a graduate of Oral Roberts University, one of the preeminent Christian schools in the country. I have worked around many of the biggest names in the “prosperity theology” movement.

These preachers have absolutely no sense of the damage they are doing, not only to the church, but also to people’s lives. Proverbs 14:7 states: “There is a way which seemeth right unto a man, but the end thereof the ways of death.”

Dollar’s berating of those who left Long’s church is the epitome of arrogance. They have prostituted the church for their personal gain. The damage these types of preachers have done is incalculable.

For every ill we see in society, from politics, business, and entertainment, we now see reflected in the church.

The church is no longer the mirror, but the reflection. Just look at the man in the mirror!

Raynard Jackson is president & CEO of Raynard Jackson & Associates, LLC., a D.C.-public relations/government affairs firm. He is also a contributing editor for ExcellStyle Magazine (www.excellstyle.com) & USAfrica Magazine (www.USAfricaonline.com).

After 30 Years, AIDS has become a “Black Disease”

2011-06-03T08:49:00.001-07:00

From thedefendersonline.com - George Curry..

After 30 Years, AIDS has become a “Black Disease”

Posted By The Editors | June 1st, 2011 | Category: Main Story | 1 Comment » Print This Post

By George E. Curry

When AIDS was first detected 30 years ago, it was considered a White, gay man’s disease. In fact, it was known as GRID – gay-related immune deficiency. Now, although African-Americans represent only 12.6 percent of the U.S. population, they represent almost half of all new HIV infections and nearly 50 percent of AIDS-related deaths. What was once thought to be a “gay” disease has clearly become a “Black” disease.

Sunday will mark the 30^th anniversary of the first public identification of AIDS. To commemorate the anniversary, the Black AIDS Institute is releasing today a report titled, 30 Years is Enuf: The History of the AIDS Epidemic in Black America.

The report is a comprehensive review of the past three decades, chronicling missed opportunities, failed government actions, a medical community that was slow to react, African-Americans who underestimated the scope of the disease in their community and dedicated community activists forcing health officials to tackle what would later become known as AIDS (acquired immune deficiency syndrome), the final stage of HIV.

“From the epidemic’s earliest days, it was apparent that Black Americans were disproportionately affected by the epidemic,” Phill Wilson, founder and CEO of the Black AIDS Institute, wrote in the introduction to his organization’s report. “Yet, the epidemic in its early years was consistently portrayed as a problem for white gay men. Neither our national leaders, nor Black America itself, responded as they should have to the clear signs of an emerging health crisis among Black people.”

Initially, medical experts were baffled by the new disease.

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention reported in its June 5, 1981 Morbidity and Mortality Weekly Report (MMWR): “In the period October 1980-May 1981, 5 young men, all active homosexuals, were treated for biopsy-confirmed Pneumocystis carinii pneumonia at 3 different hospitals in Los Angeles, California. Two of the patients died. All five had laboratory-confirmed previous or current cytomegalovirus(CMV) infection and candida mucosal infection.”

In its editorial note, the CDC observed: “Pneumocystis pneumonia in the United States is almost exclusively limited to severely immunosuppressed patients. The occurrence of Pneumocystosis in these 5 previously healthy individuals without clinically apparent underlying immunodeficiency is unusual. The fact that these patients were all homosexuals suggests an association between some aspect of a homosexual lifestyle or disease acquired through sexual contact and Pneumocystis pneumonia in this population.”

It would take another three years to identify HIV, the virus that causes AIDS. Epidemiologists determined that HIV could be transmitted by men having sex with men, heterosexual couples, from infected women to their newborns, blood transfusions and through contaminated needles. An estimated 1.1 million people live with HIV/AIDS today, including 500,000 African-Americans.

Although early attention was understandably focused on White, gay men, there was sufficient evidence – often ignored – that Blacks were disproportionately affected.

“One of the enduring myths of the epidemic is that AIDS almost exclusively affected white gay men in the U.S. during the early years,” the Black AIDS Institute report states. “In reality, AIDS had a disproportionate effect on Black America from the very beginning. Representing just 12% of the U.S. population, Black people accounted for 26% of all cases reported in 1981-1983.”

It continued, “Outside sub-Saharan Africa, only four countries have HIV prevalence as high as the conservative estimates of the HIV burden in Black America. Indeed, were Black America its own country, it would have the 16^th largest number of people living with HIV, with levels of infection rivaling numerous countries in Africa.”

In the early years, there was widespread ignorance about the disease.

“Because health officials and journalists used the phrase ‘bodily fluids’ instead of specifying semen, blood and vaginal secretions, many people feared they could contract AIDS from toilet seats or drinking fountains,” wrote Lawrence K. Altman in the New York Times.

The first drug approved by the Food and Drug Administration to treat HIV infection was AZT, or zidovudine. But a more effective class of antiretroviral drugs, called protease inhibitors, were developed in the mid-1990s. Researchers discovered that by combining multiple classes of drugs, they could limit the viral replication process. The combination treatment was called Highly Active Antiretroviral Therapy (HAART).

“Black America has benefited from treatment breakthroughs but not to the same extent as whites,” the Black AIDS study observed. “Indeed, evidence indicates that Black-white disparities in HIV-related medical outcomes have actually widened in the HAART era. The sub-optimal HIV outcomes experienced by Black Americans stem from a combination of late diagnosis of HIV, inadequate health access, discontinuity of care, treatment adherence challenges, and a higher prevalence of other serious co-morbidities.”

Over the years, public awareness increased in unexpected ways.

“The AIDS-related death of actor Rock Hudson in 1985 shocked the country and dramatically increased AIDS awareness,” the Black AIDS Institute report noted. “A similar effect resulted from the AIDS diagnosis in 1988 of tennis great Arthur Ashe, one of only two men to win a Grand Slam tournament. Before his death in 1993, Ashe established a private foundation to fight AIDS.

“Public awareness of the AIDS crisis, especially in Black communities, underwent a sea change in 1991, when basketball great Earvin ‘Magic’ Johnson announced that he had tested HIV-positive. After his announcement, HIV testing rates in Black communities skyrocketed, as many Black Americans awoke to the reality that AIDS was not only a problem for gay men.”

By then, however, AIDS had ravaged Black America. The proof is in the numbers.

Although African-Americans represent 12.6 percent of the U.S. (13.6 percent when you include those who identify with more than one race), Blacks:

Account for 45 percent of new HIV infections;
Represent 46 percent of people living with HIV;
Represent 48 percent of all new AIDS diagnoses and
Account for 57 percent of all HIV-related deaths.

Figures for some groups are even more staggering. Black women, for example, account for 61 percent of the HIV infections among women, nearly 15 times larger than the rate for White women. Blacks aged 13-19 are only 17 percent of U.S. teenagers, they represent 68 percent of all new AIDS diagnoses among teens. According to a 5-city survey, 46 percent of gay and bisexual men were infected with HIV, compared to 21 percent of White men and 17 percent of Hispanics.

The Black AIDS Institute made a series of recommendations to end the AIDS epidemic in Black America. Among them: make major investments of HIV education in Black communities, increase AIDS funding, eliminate HIV treatment waiting lists, introduce new prevention tools, undertake a major marketing campaign to promote HIV testing and treatment and persuade every Black institution to implement an AIDS strategy.

Thanks to President Obama, the United States has put into place its first national AIDS strategy. Its vision: “The United States will become a place where HIV infections are rare and when they do occur, every person, regardless of age, gender, race/ethnicity, sexual orientation, gender identity or socio-economic circumstance, will have unfettered access to high quality, life-extending care, free from stigma and discrimination.”

According to the report, presidential leadership has been uneven over the past three decades. It assigned grades to recent presidents. Ronald Reagan earned an F, George H.W. Bush received a C, Bill Clinton got a B, George W. Bush was awarded a C- and Barack Obama received an incomplete.

Since June of 1981, 1.7 million people in the United States have been infected with HIV, including 600,000 who have died.

“As AIDS enters its fourth decade, there could be no more fitting tribute to the hundreds of thousands who have perished from this disease in the U.S. than to demonstrate that we have learned a lesson or two over the last 30 years,” Phill Wilson wrote in the Black AIDS Institute report. “In 2011, we have an extraordinary new opportunity to conquer AIDS. Only bold wise action will get us where we need to go.”

George E. Curry, former editor-in-chief of Emerge magazine and the NNPA News Service, is a keynote speaker, moderator, and media coach. He can be reached through his Web site, www.georgecurry.com You can also follow him at www.twitter.com/currygeorge

Black AIDS Call for Increased investment in HIV testing.....

2011-05-24T13:37:00.000-07:00

Guest contributor - Phill Wilson, Black AIDS Institute:

The Black AIDS Institute calls for increased investment in HIV testing, access to care, and HIV treatment education
Black AIDS Institute
Originally posted 5/19/2011

LOS ANGELES, CALIF. — The National Institute of Allergy and infectious diseases (NIAID) at the National Institute of Health (NIH) released the results of a historic study demonstrating the efficacy of treating HIV patients with antiretroviral drugs as a HIV prevention tool.

“As we prepare to commemorate 30 years since the first AIDS case was diagnosed in America, we now have the tools that could end the HIV epidemic as we know it,” says Phill Wilson, president and CEO of the Black AIDS Institute.

The study involved 1,763 couples in which one partner was HIV negative (not infected). The other partner was HIV positive (infected with HIV). All of the HIV positive participants had a T-cell count between 350 and 550. The participants were randomly di-vided into two groups. One group was started on antiretroviral treatment right away while researchers delayed treatment for the other group until the HIV-positive partner’s T-cells fell to 250-the re-commended time to start antiretroviral therapy for most of the world at the time of the study or until they exhibited symptoms of an AIDS related illness. All participants were given condoms, and provided HIV prevention services.

Twenty eight infections occurred over the duration of the study. Twenty seven of them occurred in the group where treatment was delayed. Only one infection occurred in which the virus was genetically linked to the infected partner in the group where treatment had been started right away. What this means is if a person with HIV is on treatment, according to this study, they are more than 96 percent less likely to pass on the virus than someone who is not being treated.

“We are at a deciding moment!” says Wilson. “We have the tools to end the AIDS epidemic. The question is whether we have the political will and compassion to make the investment necessary to use these tools.”

This study comes on the heels of promising trial findings a-round vaginal microbicides for women and recent findings around the efficacy of Pre-Exposure Prophylaxis for men who have sex with men. “The prevention tool box has just exploded.” says Wilson. This study definitively ends the debate of prevention versus treatment. Prevention and treatment are inextricably connected. Treatment is prevention!”

In accord with the National HIV/AIDS Strategy, the Black AIDS Institute calls on Congress and the Obama Administration to do three things: 1. Invest in expanded access to testing and linkages to care 2. Increase access to care for vulnerable communities 3. Raise HIV science and treatment literacy in vulnerable communities

People need to know their HIV status and those who are HIV positive need to be linked to appropriate care immediately. In the face of this study, federal and state governments must address the ongoing funding crisis in the AIDS Drug Assistance Program (ADAP). And we need to finally invest in HIV treatment education in vulnerable communities. The HIV health disparities are growing in the U.S. One of the biggest barriers is the lack of understanding a-bout how the virus works in the body and what treatment options are available.

“Too many of us in the Black community are distracted by myths and misinformation. When we don’t understand the science of HIV/AIDS, we are unable to protect ourselves, less willing to get tested, less likely to start treatment, and reluctant to take ownership of the disease or responsibility for ending it in our communities,” says Wilson.

In the Black community this includes raising the HIV science literacy, capacity and infrastructure. Regardless of the advances we’re making Black people will continue to be left behind if we don’t address these deficits. On every level Black people in America are disproportionately impacted by HIV. Black Americans are being infected at a younger age and at higher rates, diagnosed at a later point in their disease and die faster than any other racial ethnic group.

The Black AIDS Institute (The Institute) is the only national HIV/AIDS think tank in the United States focused exclusively on Black people. Phill Wilson, President and CEO of the Black AIDS Institute, is available for interviews and press queries. PhillWilson@blackaids.org or (213) 353-3610 ext. 105, www.BlackAIDS.org.

Something really quick...

2011-05-02T15:58:00.001-07:00

Just how petty does Donald Trump look now....

Do you have an HBCU experience you want to share....

2011-02-23T14:02:00.000-08:00

My co-author – Tia Tyree – and I believe this could be a powerful book to help promote, explain and highlight the unique HBCU experience. It’s important to know we don’t care about the grammar or writing styles. We’ll fix the wording. We just want genuine stories that help tell the HBCU experience and can help readers laugh, learn and/or think. We all went to HBCUs for a reason, and we believe there is a need for them. This book will help others understand what it’s all about.

BACKGROUND/PURPOSE

HBCUs have a rich legacy in the United States and many graduates of these

Co-Author: Dr. Tia C. M. Tyree

institutions made and continue to make major impacts on the history and climate of this country. This book will attempt to celebrate the legacy and experiences of those who attended HBCUs. Further, with the debate still raging over the relevance and need for HBCUs in the new millennium, this work will help showcase the unique experiences of HBCU graduates, highlight the important need for these institutions and accentuate the overall benefits of having a HBCU education.

WHAT TO DO – PHOTOGRAPH AND STORY SUBMISSIONS

Submissions are now being accepted for a book highlighting the undergraduate experiences of those who attended HBCUs. Stories can take on any tone from serious to humorous. Most importantly, stories should be first person narratives that reflect the experiences of the writer. Writers must be HBCU graduates or have attended a HBCU for at least four years. Writers from any HBCU are invited to submit stories, and graduates of all ages are encouraged to submit as well.

Submissions should be between 250-500 words. Interested writers can submit entries regarding academics, picking the right institution, love, relationships, motherhood, fatherhood, Greek life, pledging, balancing life and coursework, dealing with institutional or administrative challenges, internships, protests, sit-ins, social movements, friends, roommates, homecoming, athletics and giving back. Submissions can also cover academic years (i.e., freshman, sophomore, junior or senior years). Other topics not listed may also be considered.

Co-Author: Chris Cathcart

Submissions should be sent to hbcuexperience@yahoo.com by April 30, 2011. The email subject line should be HBCU Story Submission: Subject Area. For example, if you were writing a story about your favorite professor and how he or she helped shape your college experience, your email subject line would be HBCU Story Submission: Academics, or if you were writing a story about the importance of being affiliated with a sorority or fraternity, your subject line would be HBCU Story Submission: Greek Life. Writers should include the name of the HBCU attended,graduation year, full name and telephone number.

PHOTOGRAPH SUBMISSIONS

Visual representations of the HBCU experience are being solicited. Whether you have a photograph that captures a special moment in the history of your university, a milestone in your academic experience or you and friends relaxing, you can submit it. Photographs must be high resolution, authentic and copyright must be owned by the person submitting the photograph. Those interested in submitting a photograph do not have to submit an accompanying written submission. Most importantly, photographs should provide a unique look into the life of a HBCU student, and content and composition should be appropriate and relevant to the purpose of this call.

Submissions should be sent to pictureshbcuexperience@yahoo.com by April 30, 2011. The email subject line should be HBCU Photo Submission: Brief Photo Description. For example, if you have a photograph of you winning a national sports competition, your email subject line would be HBCU Photo Submission: Sports, or if you participated in a sit-in on your campus in the 1960s, your subject line would be HBCU Photo Submission: Sit-In. You should include the name of the HBCU attended, graduation year, full name, telephone number and no more than a 50-word caption for your photograph.

Facebook HBCU Experience Link: Become a Fan!

RELEASE DATE

We are hoping to publish the book in 2012.

WHO TO CONTACT WITH QUESTIONS: CO-AUTHORS:

Chris Cathcart

chris@oneDG.com – http://www.onediaspora.com/givingback.html

Dr. Tia C. M. Tyree

ttyree@howard.edu – http://drtiatyree.blogspot.com/ &http://communications.howard.edu/departments/journalism/public-relations.htm

My First Post...

2011-02-16T09:38:00.000-08:00

Just getting the kinks out....stay tuned.