INSIDE: Special Black History Section (Starting on Page 5)
Former County Supervisor makes it official!
EYON BIDDLE TO RUN FOR VACANT 15TH ALDERMANIC SEAT By Thomas E. Mitchell, Jr.
Saying he wants to finish what he started as a public servant, former Milwaukee County Supervisor Eyon Biddle announced his candidacy for the 15th district aldermanic seat vacated earlier this month by former Alderman and Common Council President Willie Hines. Biddle, who is currently the political and organizing director for SEIU local 150, made his announcement at Coffee Makes U Black coffeehouse and café, located at 2803 N. Teutonia Ave., last week. Biddle joins three other announced candidates vying for the aldermanic seat Hines vacated to become associate director of the Milwaukee Hous-
ing Authority: Milwaukee County Sup. Russell Stamper II, Deshea Agee and Patricia Ruiz. With the announcement of the four candidates (and possibly one or two more), a primary election will be held April 1. The special election will be held April 29. The inclement weather did not deter the impressive turnout of young Black and White professionals, students, older supporters, and elected officials who came out to show their support. Eyon Biddle and his wife, Corey Biddle are surrounded by This is Biddle’s second attempt to win the aldermanic seat. In 2012, Biddle gave up his supervisory position to take on Hines, losing the al- supporters after he announced his candidacy for the 15th Al(continued on page 2) dermanic seat once held by Willie Hines. (Kemp photo) www.communityjournal.net 25 Cents BULK RATE
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W I S C O N S I N ’ S L A R G E S T A F R I C A N A M E R I C A N N E W S PA P E R
BLACK HISTORY MONTH CELEBRATIONS AROUND THE TOWN!
Mayor Tom Barrett
Drummers from the Ina Onilu Drum and Dance Ensemble performed recently at the Black History celebration at the Milwaukee Math and Science Academy.
Yvete Johnson (center) was the keynote speaker at the Wisconsin African American Women’s Center’s Black History celebration. Johnson is the granddaughter of Booker Wright, who in 1965 appeared in “Mississippi: A Self Portrait,” a short NBC television documentary about racism in the American South that eventually lead to his murder.
A number of individuals from politics to sports were recognized during a Black History program held at Antioch Missionary Baptist Church. Awardees were (front row, left to right): Jeffery Roman, Ald. Ashanti Hamilton, Sen. Lena Taylor (who was the event’s keynote speaker), Jamika Burrows, Lloyd Wilson, James Smith, (back row, left to right):Percy Eddie, Pat Bridges, State Rep. Mandela Barnes, Clifford Phelps of JCP Construction; and Kevon Looney.
Dr. Umar Johnson (at podium wearing baseball cap), who is a descendant of Frederick Douglass, returned to Milwaukee to speak truth to power to a packed house at the headquarters of the Brotherhood of Black Firefighters, 7717 W. Good Hope Rd. Dr. Johnson spoke on what Black Americans must do before 2017 and the end of President Obama’s presidency, and how to organize an independent Black Parent Association in Milwaukee.
Trinity Village for seniors celebrated 13 Black history figures of the community. The seniors who were recognized were (starting with the front row): Lucinda Gordon, Carolyn Bolton, Willia M. AlexanderTownsend, Ethelen McClain Sartin; (second row, left to right): Annie Royal, Bessie Marie Gray, Beverly Njuguna, Frances Butler, Alicetine Ansley; (third row, left to right): Dr. John Williams, John Wallace, Walter Brownridge, and Carol J. Calvin.
Educator and historian Taki S. Raton shows Dr. Umar Johnson the Black History display Raton put together at Milwaukee Area Technical College. The exhibit will be run through much of the month of March. Read the story about the display in the MCJ’s Black History section.
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PULSE OF THE QUESTION OF THE WEEK: “Do we need a deeper examination of our Black History beyond Dr. M.L. King, COMMUNITY Photos & question by Yvonne Kemp Jr.; Harriett Tubman, and Thurgood Marshall?
SUPREME ALLAH: “Yes. While these are fantastic starts, much of our story is to be told by what we regard as ‘everyday Black people.’ Furthermore, there needs to be a deeper focus on the contributions to our legacy made by those from the continent and in the Diaspora. During February we often get folded into the ‘Black history is American history’ cliche. However, Black History is our history.”
BRO. OSHIYEMI ADELABU: “Most definately. The reason why we behave and act the way we do is because we don’t know who we are historically. History is like a tree with roots, its grounds you in the knowledge of yourself. What happens to a tree without roots?”
FATIMA ROBINSON: “Yes we do. We as a people need to study more on where we come from. If you don’t know where you came from, how will you know where to go? Embrace your culture and history. If you don’t, you are the only one losing out on its beauty.”
DAPHNE JONES: “Yes. Absolutely! There are so many stories to tell that have never been glorified. We need to keep the journey of our people alive. Our past history is rich with stories that will inspire dreams, fill us with pride and teach us to dream!”
Construction of new manufacturing facility at old A.O. Smith site highlights Mayor Tom Barrett’s “State of the City” Address By Thomas E. Mitchell, Jr.
The City of Milwaukee’s efforts to transform the former site of the A.O. Smith plant—now known as Century City—into an industrial park similar to the Menomonee Valley Industrial Center, is finally paying off. During his State of the City address Monday, Milwaukee Mayor Tom Barrett revealed ground will soon be broken for the construction of a 50,000 square foot manufacturing facility that has the potential of doubling in size in future stages. General Capitol and the Milwaukee Economic Development Corporation are behind the construction of the building on land that is now ready for investment and “a new century of manufacturing and jobs,” Barrett said. During his address, held at Journey House, a community based organization located at 2110 W. Scott St., Barrett said a number of companies have approached the city about locating their business inside the new facility. The mayor praised Aldermen Willie Wade and Ashanti Hamilton for their commitment and help in making what will happen at the Century City site a reality. Across the street from Century City, the Sewerage District and city have joined to plan and design a flood mitigation project to reduce flooding and create a green corridor near DRS Technologies. “The work will transform the 30th Street Industrial Corridor into a major modern employment center and economic hub. The construction news was one of several issues the mayor touched on that has great benefits for the city’s Black community. The mayor talked about continuing already existing initiatives he has put in place focusing on job creation for adults and teens, reversing the plague of foreclosed homes and revitalizing neighborhoods, which the mayor said is linked to a strong Milwaukee economy. Barrett also touched on initiatives that will focus on helping people coming out of the criminal justice system, reducing premature births, enrollment into the ACA health insurance marketplace, and the continued reduction in crime, with an emphasis in reducing the number of gun-related homicides. In his address, Barrett talked about the early success of his Strong Neighborhoods Plan, which addresses the impact foreclosures have on Milwaukee neighborhoods. “It (the plan) recognizes that even in the hardest hit neighborhoods, there is strength.” The mayor pointed to the recently completed renovation of a foreclosed property on the city’s northwest side that was purchased by the city that was done by the Ezekiel Hope program. “When Don Utech, chairman of Ezekiel and Jim Gaillard, vice-president of finance, finished their renovation in January, they were under budget, had contracted with five minority businesses and provided lead abatement training for 14 contractors,” the mayor proudly said. On a larger scale, the mayor said the city is working with organizations like ACTS Housing, which, he said, has a unique model that connects committed buyers with the dream of owning a home. The organization has also stepped up to reduce the impact of foreclosures. The mayor said in the last two years, ACTS has helped more than 60 families buy and fix up foreclosed homes. The mayor proudly touted the reduction in the African American infant mortality rate. Since setting a goal of a 15% rate drop by 2017, the city has recorded a 14.3% drop in the infant mortality rate. “While we are pleased with the progress, we can’t celebrate when the African American infant mortality rate remains stubbornly high.” But the mayor also noted the need to deal with the infant deaths due to complications of prematurity. “Reducing premature births requires us to build (continued on page 2)
P OLITICS & G OVERNMENT
The Milwaukee Community Journal February 26, 2014 Page 2
C i t y • C o u n t y • S t a t e • N a t i o n a l Alderwoman Coggs hosts Black History Month Read-In
In honor of Black History Month, and in recognition of the 25th National African American ReadIn, Ald. Milele Coggs (pictured at left seated) recently sponsored a Read-in at Martin Luther King Library, 310 W. Locust St. She was joined by (left to right): Jafar Banda (kneeling next to Coggs), a UWM student, Milwaukee County Sup. Khalif Rainey, Annette Harpole, Tracy Dent of Peace for Change, and Ald. Jose Perez. (Photo by Yvonne Kemp)
Mayor touts accomplishments Former Milwaukee County Sup. Eyone Biddle announces of his administration during state of the city adress run for for vacated 15th (continued from page 1) district aldermanic seat community partnerships, offer health education, and provide direct services
(continued from page 1) dermanic race by only 200 votes, garnering 40% of the votes. “I’m the best person for the job and it has nothing to do with my swagger, but what I accomplished as a supervisor in one year,” Biddle said to the gathering. “Give me two years (the remaining time in Hines’ tenure) in the Common Council and see what gets done.” Biddle said during his one year on the County Board, he introduced 12 pieces of legislation. One of those pieces of legislation was the $20 million “Ready to Work” program, domestic partnership legislation, the “Ban the Box” initiative to help released felons get jobs, and legislation that created a one million dollar fund to help minority small businesses. “We need serious leaders who will get things done in the 15th district; this (election) is about the people of the 15th district.” Biddle said Milwaukee can’t be a great city if it denies 44% of the city’s population what he called the “Milwaukee Promise”: The right to live as dignified human beings, have good schools, own a home, have the opportunity to get a job or start a business, public safety, and the right not be harassed by police. Biddle said he has met people in the district who admitted they didn’t vote for him in 2012. “But I believe they will vote for me this time. “We can do great things,” Biddle concluded. “I’m not afraid of anything. I will deliver the Milwaukee promise to every person in the 15th district.”
to those women who need it most,” Barrett said. Despite Gov. Scott Walker’s refusal to take federal Medicaid expansion dollars that would have saved Wisconsin $340 million through 2021, Barrett said the city is moving forward on its own to assist individuals and enroll them in the health insurance marketplace. The Milwaukee Health Department is enrolling people at 66 sites citywide. The deadline to purchase insurance through the health insurance marketplace is March 31. Barrett strongly encouraged private employers to hiring individuals who are coming out of the criminal justice system. He said 88 temporary workers those who came out of the system and were hired by the city’s Department of Public Works proved they were hard-working, motivated employees who need a chance. The mayor also lauded his “Earn & Learn” summer jobs program for area teens, which opens the door to work experiences that help them develop into responsible working adults. “I want to offer 3,000 teens jobs this summer,” Barrett said. Other notable accomplishments pointed out by the mayor were: • The Milwaukee Police Department report a 26% reduction in crime since 2007 thanks to focused deployment of personnel and technology. • the Fatherhood Initiative has served 8,000 men reconnect and be involved with their children. • The “I Have A Dream Milwaukee” program, started in 2008 at Clarke Street School that now served 52 “Dreamers.”
Gov. Scott Walker violated public trust, must answer important questions Article courtesy of Urban Media News
The release of more than 27,000 pages of emails turned state politics on its on ear last week, as individuals on both sides of the aisle, and journalists near and far pored over the documents for insight into the criminal corruption probe otherwise known as the 2010 John Doe investigation. Governor Scott Walker’s administrations, campaigns, and allies have been the target of not one, but two, criminal investigations since 2010 Gov. Walker (one is ongoing). Walker’s campaign and government offices, as well as the homes of several top Walker aides, were raided by government officials the day before the gubernatorial election in 2010. To date, the investigation has resulted in six of Walker’s associates being jailed -- four of whom have been sentenced to prison for crimes ranging from felony theft from charities intended to benefit wounded veterans and the families of fallen soldiers, to misconduct in public office, to doing official campaign work on county time. Adding to what we already know, the emails provide new insight to the investigation. From the documents, we learned that Scott Walker himself sent and received emails on a secret email network set up in his county office just feet away from his desk. Walker also requested his campaign and official staff coordinate by starting each day with a conference call, in violation of Wisconsin laws that specifically state that public employees may not conduct campaign activity on public time. If there was no wrongdoing at all on Scott Walker’s part, 27,000 pages of documents would surely put to rest any doubts about Walker’s involvement in the secret campaign operation going on right under his nose. Instead, the documents link him to the secret email network and raise more questions than answers about what Walker knew and when he knew it. Wisconsin deserves answers from Scott Walker. Emails confirm that he participated in a secret email network. Cindy Archer, a top aide to then County Executive Walker, emailed Walker aide Kelly Rindfleisch welcoming her into the “inner circle”, an email account she used to communicate with Walker and campaign staff often. It’s difficult to believe that he didn’t know that his most trusted and longserving campaign staff were conducting illegal campaign behavior just feet from his office. Scott Walker still hasn’t answered the question of if and when he first instructed his taxpayer-funded staff to coordinate illegally with his campaign staff. Not only do the emails confirm that Scott Walker knew of and participated in a secret email network to facilitate illegal campaign coordination, they show that once it became known to Walker that a staffer was involved in illegal campaign work on county taxpayer-funded time, he didn’t instruct his staff to end all illegal coordination. Facts suggest that campaign and county staff attempted to find an “alternative”, but were unsuccessful. One would think that Scott Walker would make it clear to his staff on both (continued on page 3)
Entrenched poverty and teenage vulnerability:Human Trafficking in Milwaukee
The Milwaukee Community Journal February 26, 2014 Page 3
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By Patricia O’Flynn Pattillo
winter day, banks of snow with more falling and two teen girls are walking Teutonia Avenue and Burleigh, mid-day! Scantly dressed for the weather, you wonder, are they what this Human Trafficking is all about?
Your mind quickly flashes back to the young woman who was raped, several years ago, by seventeen men, back to back, all varying ages, and the young woman was then diagnosed with HIV/AIDS. Then putting it closer to home, you’ve heard the cries of parents when their teenager has left home, angry about rules that had to be enforced, and the fear of their whereabouts and safety were unbearable, until they returned...or in some cases, they never returned. These are the symbols, the markers of the vulnerable, the youngsters most prone to be pulled into Human Trafficking. These are scars that penetrate lives, most often hidden, that represent the new slavery. Black Americans, in particular, have known or heard about the ravages of being taken, without permission, nor regard for person, and being made a human machine for the production of goods, revenue, and lifestyles of the “master”. Milwaukee, this beautiful city on the lake, known for its beer, Summerfest, clean streets and progressive political predilections is now the city with the highest amount of Human Trafficking in the Midwest region. How does this city get this acclaim? Simply stated entrenched poverty and teenage vulnerability. The adolescent years are historically treacherous, turbulent, filled with emotion, hormones, over-exuberance in fashion, identity and personal confidence issues. In the best of families, traversing that period from age 12 to 21 years requires much family interaction, superior communication, early identification of relationships, activities and institutions that encourage self-actualization and adherence to family values, social boundaries and high expectations. Young boys and girls need many positive role models to help them “ find themselves”. Supportive institutions, teachers, counselors, church family and neighbors who become the village binds them to successes and becoming contributing citizens. Higher education, volunteer activities and continuous applause for jobs well done are all a part of the success trajectory. But imagine what happens when these growth-marks are absent and kids lead kids and rebellion festers because not only is there limited access but the role models can be unsavory characters who desire to lead them into venues that do not support personal success but rather success for themselves. That is the role
Gov. Scott Walker violated public trust, must answer important questions
(continued from page 2) sides that the only alternative would be to shut down all illegal coordination. It’s what any reasonable, law-abiding person would expect. Even as all signs point to Scott Walker being not only knowledgeable of the secret email network, but the ringleader of the entire operation, Walker maintains a position that he did not know illegal activity was going on. However, much like the entire state and the nation, Scott Walker knows about the activity now. Not only does Walker know about the illegal coordination, he knows about the despicable emails and jokes traded via email amongst his staff. Racist, sexist, homophobic, anti-semitic, and other disturbing emails were unearthed that put the character of Scott Walker and his staff into question. Including Walker’s then chief of staff Tom Nardelli describing a “nightmare” where he turns into a black, Jewish, disabled gay man who is unemployed. And the demeaning comments from Walker’s deputy chief of staff Kelly Rindfleisch that “no one cares about crazy people” in response to a 33-year old woman dying of complications related to starvation while under the County’s care at the County Mental Health Facility. While not sent by Walker himself, these kinds of messages shed light on the company Walker keeps and a working environment where his close aides and associates felt comfortable, and even encouraged, to share offensive remarks. Scott Walker is clearly trying to distance himself from these messages, and the scandal as a whole, but several key players that used the secret email network and made awful comments still work for Walker or somewhere in the infrastructure of Wisconsin’s Republican Party. Years after the first John Doe began, Scott Walker still hasn’t cleaned house or encouraged those implicated to turn over their emails. So what reassurance do Wisconsin voters have that history won’t repeat itself? It’s concerning to Wisconsinites who now have reason to think the governor may not be as truthful as he lets on. Scott Walker can’t hide behind his moral Eagle Scout persona and refuse to address the facts. This time the questions are too important to ignore. Just because Scott Walker wasn’t found guilty of crimes in a court of law doesn’t mean that he is not guilty of unethical actions and violating the public trust. The governor can and should be held to a higher standard. We expect him to be honest, straightforward, and truthful. A trust has been broken between the public and Scott Walker and it cannot be repaired until the governor answers the tough questions.
The Perspectives Page will return next week!
of the pimp, the master, who applaud, entice, reward, initially and then enslave too many. The Academy Award contender “ Twelve Years A Slave” is a graphic, riveting movie that shows the pangs of slavery in the 18th century where a “free man” is invited to travel to a city for new musical and celebrity opportunities. After an evening of dinner and drinking, British Actor, Chiwetel Ejiofor, who plays the lead role in the Brad Pitt, Steve McQueen Academy Award contending epic, is bound in chains, held, and ultimately sold into slavery. His family is left to fare on their own, while he becomes a part of the slave trade, with no papers, no opportunities and total dictation of his life, his loves, his present and future by the slave-owner. No longer a person, he becomes chattel. Some people of color have criticized the movie saying it is too graphic, too painful and it is...but so is life without control, today. And Human Trafficking is enslavement. And it is not limited to Milwaukee, it is a global problem. In fact, some sources say that internationally over 30 million people are involved in Human Trafficking. Statistics reveal that 40.4% are Black; 25.6 % are White; 23.9% are Hispanic; 4.3% are Asian and 5.8% Other. The preponderance still remains Black. Another negative in the Black community, one we have to be more aware of and one we must fight, and win! Over $32 billion dollars in profits is generated by Human Trafficking, internationally, each year. This is slave labor personified: Prostitution, servitude and forced labor. Fifty percent of the trafficking victims are under the age of 16 years, locally and worldwide. Last year, the FBI reported that the problem in Milwaukee is real; it is one of the biggest issues facing our youth who are exploited by being promised false financial independence. Regrettably, they often end up being locked up, beaten and chained to dictated sex partners, according to FBI agent Theresa Carlson. Community awareness and continued advocacy for more employment opportunities for youngsters will discourage (continued on page 11)
RELIGION The Milwaukee Community Journal February 26, 2014 Page 4
Destiny youth meet Ald. Milele Coggs as part of its celebration of Black History Month
On Saturday February 22 at the NAACP-Milwaukee offices the Destiny Youth Ministry Covenant Youth programs met with Alderwoman Milele Coggs (6th District) in celebration of Black History Month. Alderwoman Coggs shared a brief history of Bronzeville and black business in Milwaukee. The youth were also able to ask her questions. The session also featured poetry from Simone Gray. Other activities included a review of the history of Black History Month, a discussion of black historical figures and an activity that asked the youth to brainstorm their ideal community. Destiny Youth Ministry is the Youth Ministry of Christian Faith Fellowship Church in Milwaukee, Wisconsin. Covenant Youth consists of the CovenantGirl (CG) and Covenant Achievers (CA) programs. CG and CA are unique mentoring programs which encourage the balance of body, soul and spirit by offering mentorship, group sessions and other opportunities for personal growth. Covenant Youth sessions instill the importance of character and leadership development, health and life skills, education and career exploration. The vision of Covenant Youth is to empower boys and girls to become confident men and women and contributing members of society. CovenantGirl and Covenant Achievers programming is for girls and boys respectively, ages 12-18 years old. For more information please contact: covenantgirl10@gmail.com
Brentwood Church of Christ to host 4th annual Black Marriage Day event March 22
Brentwood Church of Christ will hold their 4th Annual Black Marriage Day Event on Saturday March 22, 2014 from 2:00 - 4:00 pm at the church, 6425 N. 60th Street, Milwaukee, WI. The theme of the event will be Marriage: Building A Strong Foundation.
Pastor Marlon Lock
Pastor Marlon Lock to debut first album at Unity Gospel House of Prayer
Unity Gospel House of Prayer’s own Pastor Marlon Lock will be debuting and releasing his first album entitled: “The Good Seed Project” at a release party Friday, April 4, starting at 7 p.m., at Unity Gospel House of Prayer, 1747 N. 12th St. This concert is set to exemplify the desires of Pastor Lock, which is to save and touch the lives of all by any means necessary, through the word of God. In addition to teaching the principles of God, the additional means has come through the ministry of music. His music can be described as “soulful” Gospel; it’s uplifting and spiritual with a southern twist. The songs recorded were all written by Pastor Lock, some dating back 15 years ago. For more information, contact Unity Gospel House of Prayer at 264-4308.
The event will include entertainment by Andre' Lee Ellis, Actor & Artistic Director of Andre Lee Ellis & Company. Evangelist David Kimmons, Sr., assistant minister at Brentwood Church of Christ, will provide an inspirational message. A dessert social
will be held following the program. Black Marriage Day is a national observance on the 4th Sunday of March each year that celebrates marriage in the Black community. This event is open to everyone who believes in and supports the value of marriage in the Black com-
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Colleen Newsom, MCJ STAFF: Classified Advertising Patricia O’Flynn -Pattillo Jimmy V. Johnson, Sales Rep. Publisher, CEO Joan Hollingsworth, Sales Rep. Robert J. Thomas CONTRIBUTING WRITERS: Assoc. Publisher Taki S. Raton, Todd Thomas, Vice Pres. Rev. Roxanne Cardenas, Mikel Holt, Assoc. Publisher Troy A. Sparks, Thomas E. Mitchell, Jr., Editor Sports Editor Kia Marie Green, Mang. Editor Teretha Martin, Technical PHOTOGRAPHER: Yvonne Kemp Consultant/Webmaster Josephine Joki, Billing Dept./ Publisher’s Admin. Assist. Opinion and comments expressed on the Perspectives page do not necessarily reflect the views of the publisher or management of the MCJ. Letters and “other perspectives” are accepted but may be edited for content and length.
munity, this includes singles and individuals from all cultures. Tickets are $15 for individuals and $20 for couples, tickets can be purchased in advance or at the event. Please contact Thomas & Clarene Mitchell at 414-736-1546 for more information and tickets.
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BLACK HISTORY MONTH O UR STORY: As Quiet As It’s Kept! Black History Month Quote:”A people without the knowledge of their past history, origin and culture is like a tree without roots.” --Marcus Garvey, the father of the pan-african movement
EDITOR’S NOTE:
for our voices and accomplishments to be heard and re-
This is not a section containing the usual names and faces often associated with Black History Month. This special section honoring the heroes and sheroes of our struggle will focus on little known Black historical facts about our history, achievements, and continuing struggle
spected! Those facts about Black history that get little to no atten-
cerpts from the landmark book, “Dirty Little Secrets About Black History, It’s Heroes, and Other Troublemakers,” writ-
ten by noted Black historian and educator Dr. Claud Ander-
tion because they expose the REAL truths of our history
son, the author of other relevant and important books
and tear down the walls of myth and stereotypes.
related to our history and economic empowerment such as
To do this, we are doing a “Did You Know...” using ex-
“Powernomics” and “Black Labor, White Wealth.”
MONTH Did You Know... THE FATHER OF BLACK HISTORY “If a race has no
NOTABLE FIRSTS AND LASTS: • On January 1, 1804, Haiti’s new Black republic proclaimed itself a free country and abolished slavery. Haiti was the first, and to date, the only Black country to successfully revolt and overthrow a European colonial power (the French). • In 1865, General William Sherman issued reparations in Special Field Order #15, providing some land for ex-slaves in South Carolina and Georgia. In 1996, the State of Florida compensated the Black survivors of the Rosewood Florida massacre. • In 1900, Bert Williams and George Walker became the first Balck recording artists when they made several records for the Victor Talking Macine. • The phrase “gosepl music” was first widely used starting in 1875, when a book called Gospel Hymns and Sacred Tunes appeared in the North. HEROES AND HEROINES: • In the late 1890s, James Parker, a Black man, knocked down and captured Leon F. Czolgosz, the assassin who had just shot President Williams McKinley at the Buffalo Exposition. • In 1895, W.E.B. Dubois was the first Black person awarded a Ph.D. from Harvard University. He was the first to introduce the concept of Pan-Africanism and became recognized as Black America’s most prominent scholar and activist. • In 1908, Jack Johnson defeated Tommy Burns in a 14round boxing match in Sidney, Australia to become the first Black heavyweight champion of the world. FREEDMEN AND FREE LABOR: • From the 15th to 19th centuries, a “Black Holocaust” was carried out. Two-thirds of the 35 million slaves shipped out of Africa died en route to the Americas. Neither an apology nor reparations have been offered to the victimized Black race. • In 1787, the First Constitutional Convention met in Philadelphia to draft a Constitution that codified slavery and equated Blacks to three-fifths of a human being. Following suit, the new Congress enacted the first immigration bill that placed a zero quota on Black immigrants. • At a Berlin Conference in 1876, European governments arbitrarily divided up the entire African continent into colonies, then exploited them until they were the most economically improvered nations on earth. • In the 1860s, the 14th Amendment to the Constitution was enacted to give Blacks due process rights. Yet, for nearly a century afterwards, the U.S. Supreme Court ruled against every due process rights case involving Blacks. ADVENTURERS AND ARTISTS: • In 1795, a Black actor, for the first time, was allowed to play a role that was not a comic part. In James Murdock’s The Triumph of Love, the Black actor played a romantic character. • In the 1850s, approximately 2,000 free and non-free Blacks were involved in the great California gold rush. A few found sizable amounts of gold that most used to buy their own freedom or the freedom of loved ones. • In 1854, a London company published the first Black novel, Clotel, written by Williams Wells Browns about Thomas Jefferson and his Black mistress, Sally Hemmings. In the American edition, a senator was substituted for President Jefferson, due to the sensitive nature of the subject matter. • In 1877, when federal troops were pulled out of Black communities in the South and West, many Blacks straightened their backs, took up arms and organized self-defense militias. • in 1660, Maryland and Virginia colonies passed laws concerning Black and White servants. White servants could buy their freedom or collect freedom dues at the end of their contract period, but Black servants’ contracts were converted to enslavement papers. • During the latter part of the 1700s, all five of the “civilized
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history, if it has no worthwhile tradition, it becomes a negligible factor in the thought of the world, and it stands in danger of being exterminated.”
--Carter G. Woodson
BLACKS DURING THE HOLOCAUST The Milwaukee Community Journal February 26, 2014 Page 6
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Nazi propaganda photo depicts friendship between an "Aryan" and a black woman. The caption (not seen) states: "The result! A loss of racial pride." Germany, prewar.— US Holocaust Memorial Museum
he fate of black people from 1933 to 1945 in Nazi Germany and in German-occupied territories ranged from isolation to persecution, sterilization, medical experimentation, incarceration, brutality, and murder. However, there was no systematic program for their elimination as there was for Jews and other groups.
After World War I, the Allies stripped Germany of its African colonies. The German military stationed in Africa (Schutztruppen), as well as missionaries, colonial bureaucrats, and settlers, returned to Germany and took with them their racist attitudes. Separation of whites and blacks was mandated by the Reichstag (German parliament), which enacted a law against mixed marriages in the African colonies. Following World War I and the Treaty of Versailles (1919), the victorious Allies occupied the Rhineland in western Germany.
Cover of an anti-black and antisemitic Nazi propaganda brochure. Duesseldorf, Germany, 1938.—Bildarchiv Preussischer Kulturbesitz
The use of French colonial troops, some of whom were black, in these occupation forces exacerbated anti-black racism in Germany. Racist propaganda against black soldiers depicted them as rapists of (continued on page 8)
MATC’s Black History Month exhibit extended into March
MATC’S downtown campus Black History Month display, “Time, Presence, Civilization in Black – The Rescue and Restoration of Masterful African World Creation, Invention and Accomplishment on the Global State of Time and Achievement” has been scheduled for an extended viewing through March 7, 2014. Located at 700 West State Street on the second floor south corridor of the “M” building, the installation content, according to its designer Taki S. Raton, was greatly inspired by the films “Hidden Colors” 1 and 2 and has been warmly received by campus faculty, staff and students. As a part of Black History Month activities, lectures on the project were presented at MATC on Wednesday, February 19 and again on Thursday, February 27. “We are greatly appreciative of the rich investment of the time, attention, and scholarship as presented by Global African Images, Inc. (AGI), in the exhibit, ‘Time, Presence, Civilization in Black,’’ says Walter J. Lanier, Chair of MATC’s President Diversity Council. He adds that, “Sometimes, Black History Month is presented as if our history began in the early 17th century which is somewhat understandable however historically incomplete. ‘ Time, Presence, Civilization in Black’ incorporates Black History Month within the proper context of global world history. We have enjoyed and are deeply inspired by this presentation.” The MATC President Diversity Council is the campus sponsorship of “Time, Presence, Civilization in Black.” This is the second year for an AGI invitational at MATC. The 86 item installation during last year’s 2013 Black History Month was entitled “Exemplar Invention & Master of the African World – Presence, Accomplishment, Contribution.” The purpose of this year’s 97 item display is to elevate, enhance and advance African American historiography to the next level of world status, research, scholarship and instructional methodology. To achieve this goal says Raton, the African American experience over the now 395 years from 1619 to the present has to be interpreted thought its reconnection to the African global presence of prideful genius and accomplishment on the world stage of time and achievement.
Did You Know...
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tribes” were slave holders, slave traders and slave chasers. Indians earned $20 for every captured and returned runaway slave. • By the 1900s, every state in the United States had laws that defined who was Black based upon parentage, varying quantities of Black blood or the “one drop” of Black blood rule. • The “Black is Beautiful” concept emerged in the 1960s promoting a positive Black image, unity, and the need for Black people to control their own lives and communities. CONSERVATISM AND SAMBOISM: • In 1840, the U.S. Census Bureau reported 6,000 free Blacks as slaveholders. The states of Delaware and Kansas enacted laws to stop Blacks from being slaveholders since it game them status equal to White Slaveholders. • Of approximately 850 free Blacks living in New Orleans during the Civil War, more than 642 were free Black slaveholders. They formed two full regiments of Black soldiers to fight with the Southern Confeder-
The Milwaukee Community Journal February 26, 2014 Page 7
An objective of this effort quotes Raton “is to visually demonstrate that African World people, no matter where we have been on the planet throughout time since the beginning of mankind and no matter the prevailing circumstance, we have always been at the foundation of and contributed to the advancement of world civilizing activity.” He adds that even under African enslavement on North American shores, during Reconstruction and through the era of Jim Crow as evidenced in the exhibit, “Black people remained resilient, masterfully adaptive, masterfully creative, masterfully skilled and masterfully equalizing.” The multiple case viewing is divided into nine sections – Humankind Innovations, Classical African Kemetic Civilization, Great African Kingdoms, The Golden Age of the Moors, The Era of Enslavement, The Era of Reconstruction, The Era of Jim Crow, Present Day Higher Order Exemplar Achievers and “Young, Gifted & Black.” This final ninth case, “Young, Gifted & Black,” mirrors the promise of excellence, achievement and mastery in the coming generations as shared in select introductory profiles of national and international youth and teens featured in this Milwaukee Courier Newspaper’s bi-monthly series. Viewers are cautioned that from an African global image perspective, and within an African World historiographical context, the installation is not suggesting that Black achievers are by no mean “imitating,” being at “par” with others, or asking to be recognized because of any noted accomplishments. Says Raton: Given our unique and unusual experiences in North America, our ‘First’ on these shores is above, apart, beyond and surpasses the feats of all other people. In this context, our proficiency, talents, skills and performance is viewed as a continuation of and connected to a legacy of masterful adaptation and accomplishment that has its origins in our own humankind beginnings and is further reflective of a formerly “hidden” but now clearly emerging pattern that
acy to reserve slavery. • December 24, 1865, the day before Christmas, the Ku Klux Klan (KKK) was organized in Pulaski, Tennessee, to resist Reconstruction and bestowing of civil rights on Black ex-slaves. • It was not until the 1940 that the term “Uncle Tom” acquired its current derogatory meaning of a fawning, submissive, compromising Black man. BUSINESSES AND INVENTORS: • In 1704, most business advertisements for buying and selling slaves occupied a major place in the first newspaper printed in the colonies, the Boston Newsletter. • Later, in 1741, Benjamin Franklin, a philosopher and inventor, had the dubious honor of running the first magazine ad seeking the whereabouts of a Black runaway slave. • For the first time in this nation’s history, land became more valuable than a slave after the Civil War, when slavery ended. • In the 1870s, one of the largest and most successful Black businesses in America was the Chesapeake Marine Rail Way and Dry Dock Company in Baltimore, Maryland.
Educator and Historian Taki Raton (pictured above on the right) with Dr. Umar Johnson who was given a tour of the exhibit by Raton, who put it together with material he has collected over the years that demonstrate that Black greatness exhisted long before the rise of European civilization or Asian civilization. (Photo by Yvonne Kemp)
wherever is the African presence on this planet, civilization and accomplished mastery follows even under the most horrific, oppressed, brutal, and subjugated circumstances.” He further positions that, “connecting our experiences to the African world historical corridor is the next level of African American History and this is how this discipline should now be taught. ‘Time, Presence, Civilization – In Black’ both demonstrate and is dedicated to this vision. And we are additionally inspired and encouraged with this continuation of our African World legacy of excellence, accomplishment, and mastery in the last Case 8 bearing witness to the genius of our children. An African World History Case Search is available to educators and parents wishing for students and children the opportunity to more intimately engage this colorful and informative installation experience. Entitled “Reclaiming Mastery,” the case search is a packet of questions which acts as both a guide and a reference designed for young and adult viewers. Please contact Marvette Cox in MATC’S Department of Counseling and Advising, (414) 297-8027, for any additional questions on the display. For Power Point presentation arrangements on “Time, Presence, Civilization in Black” after February or for information on the exhibit at other locations, please contact Raton at: blydendelany@yahoo.com.
BLACKS DURING THE HOLOCAUST The Milwaukee Community Journal February 26, 2014 Page 8
Propaganda illustration from a Nazi film strip. The caption states, in German: "The Jew is a bastard." The illustration links Jews with others the Nazis deemed inferior—eastern peoples, blacks, Mongols, and east Africans. — US Holocaust Memorial Museum
African American soldiers escort German civilians through a site where camp prisoners were massacred during a death march from Buchenwald. Such tours forced Germans to recognize the crimes committed by the SS. Near Nammering, Germany, 1945. — US Holocaust Memorial Museum
German women and carriers of venereal and other diseases. The children of black soldiers and German women were called “Rhineland Bastards.” The Nazis, at the time a small political movement, viewed them as a threat to the purity of the Germanic race. In Mein Kampf (My Struggle), Hitler charged that “the Jews had brought the Negroes into the Rhineland with the clear aim of ruining the hated white race by the necessarily-resulting bastardization.” African German mulatto children were marginalized in German society, isolated socially and economically, and not allowed to attend university. Racial discrimination prohibited them from seeking most jobs, including service in the military. With the Nazi rise to power they became a target of racial and population policy. By 1937, the Gestapo (German secret state police) had secretly rounded up and forcibly sterilized many of them. Some were subjected to medical experiments; others mysteriously “disappeared.” The racist nature of Adolf Hitler's regime was disguised briefly during the Olympic Games in Berlin in August 1936, when Hitler allowed 18 African American athletes to compete for the US team. However, permission to compete was granted by the International Olympic Committee and not by the host country. Adult African Germans were also victims. Both before and after World War I, many Africans came to Germany as students, artisans, entertainers, former soldiers, or low-level colonial officials, such as tax collectors, who had worked for the imperial colonial government. Hilarius (Lari) Gilges, a dancer by profession, was murdered by the SS in 1933, probably because he was black. Gilges' German wife later received restitution from a postwar German government for his murder by the Nazis. Some African Americans, caught in German-occupied Europe during World War II, also became victims of the Nazi regime. Many, like
female jazz artist Valaida Snow, were imprisoned in Axis internment camps for alien nationals. The artist Josef Nassy, living in Belgium, was arrested as an enemy alien and held for seven months in the Beverloo transit camp in German-occupied Belgium. He was later transferred to Germany, where he spent the rest of the war in the Laufen internment camp and its subcamp, Tittmoning, both in Upper Bavaria. European and American blacks were also interned in the Nazi concentration camp system. Lionel Romney, a sailor in the US Merchant Marine, was imprisoned in the Mauthausen concentration camp. Jean Marcel Nicolas, a Haitian national, was incarcerated in the Buchenwald and Dora-Mittelbau concentration camps in Germany. Jean Voste, an African Belgian, was incarcerated in the Dachau concentration camp. Bayume Mohamed Hussein from Tanganyika (today Tanzania) died in the Sachsenhausen camp, near Berlin. Black prisoners of war faced illegal incarceration and mistreatment at the hands of the Nazis, who did not uphold the regulations imposed by the Geneva Convention (international agreement on the conduct of war and the treatment of wounded and captured soldiers). Lieutenant Darwin Nichols, an African American pilot, was incarcerated in a Gestapo prison in Butzbach. Black soldiers of the American, French, and British armies were worked to death on construction projects or died as a result of mistreatment in concentration or prisoner-of-war camps. Others were never even incarcerated, but were instead immediately killed by the SS or Gestapo. Some African American members of the US armed forces were liberators and witnesses to Nazi atrocities. The 761st Tank Battalion (an all-African American tank unit), attached to the 71st Infantry Division, US Third Army, under the command of General George Patton, participated in the liberation of Gunskirchen, a subcamp of the Mauthausen concentration camp, in May 1945.
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American troops, including African American soldiers from the Headquarters and Service Company of the 183rd Engineer Combat Battalion, 8th Corps, US 3rd Army, view corpses stacked behind the crematorium during an inspection tour of the Buchenwald concentration camp. Among those pictured is Leon Bass (the soldier third from left). Buchenwald, Germany, April 17, 1945.—US Holocaust Memorial Museum
The Milwaukee Community Journal February 26, 2014 Page 9
KALEIDOSCOPE The Milwaukee Community Journal February 26, 2014 Page 10
SISTA SPEAK... “SPEAK LORD!”
BLACK IS…
ROLE MODEL Reality TV...It is unfortunate of how we are portrayed in these reality shows We as Black Women appear to be Angry, Uneducated, Shallow and Materialistic Media reaches all avenues and this is how society makes their judgment of us by what they see on TV, Twitter, Blogs and read I find this DISHEARTENING Tara R Pulley
Editor’s Facebook photo picks of the week
the MCJ lifestyle & entertainment section A: Jasmine Johnson (on
the right), charperson of the Milwaukee NAACP Young Adult OneMKE
committee had a chance to chat with RadioOne
andTVOne founder and CEO Cathy Hughes during the recent NAACP
A
THIS IS WHAT BEING BLACK IS...TO ME ALWAYS KEEPING IT REAL Tara R Pulley KNOWLEDGE Black is knowing that it is imperative that we have a vision for our lives Black is knowing how to (TCB)…Taking care of business on that vision to make it happen! Black is knowing that we never fail Sonya Marie if the vision is Bowman halted for a time Black is knowing how to keep the faith all of the time no matter what it looks like Black is knowing that there is success in getting back up when we fall Black is knowing that there is power in numbers when we pray for an outcome Black is knowing and showing our pride in who we are as a people…Never give up this KNOWLEDGE of what Black Is!!! Sonya Marie Bowman TEACH US They taught us that black represents darkness, but in actuality Black is a vision waiting to come to light They taught us that black denotes evil, but in reality Black is the protection of all that is good They taught us that the black hole is the dimension for the lost, but for certain the Black hole is the element of endless Zelda Corona opportunity They taught us that black skin signifies oppression, but without a doubt, black skin is the armor of melanin desired by most They taught us that black people will never progress, but it is clear that Black people can always make a way out of no way They taught us that black women were insignificant in history, but without the Black woman, there would be no history They taught us that black America would never be educated, but it is certain that Black America has cultivated a new legacy They taught us that black is powerless, unattractive, and unsuccessful, but I CONCLUDE that black is…STRONG, BEAUTIFUL and VICTORIUS!!! Zelda Corona
personality Sherwin
Hughes (standing at right) probably talked
food with Grammy winning rapper and now
foodie Coolio during a recent Milwaukee Bucks
game against the Indiana Pacers, where Coolio performed at half-time as part of the Bucks cele-
We need to be Positive Role Models for our Sistas every chance we get Show that what we see and read is not how all of us behave In the spirit of Black History Month and all of this year and years to come We should strive to strengthen us and know the difference between TOM FOOLERY AND WHAT'S REAL
Image Awards in Los Angeles. B: WNOV talkshow
brated Y2K night. There
B
communityjournal.net! Where you can feel the PULSE of YOUR community!
was a special appearance by legendary Bucks player Glenn “Big Dog” Robiinson.
OUTKAST TO RETURN TO THE STAGE AND HEADLINE SUMMERFEST 2014
Grammy-Winning Duo Plans Festival Run to Celebrate 20th Anniversary of their Unique and Influential Sound; Very Special Guest Gary Clark Jr. joins them in Milwaukee Milwaukee World Festival, Inc. officials are excited to announce the eighth major show slated for Summerfest 2014. Outkast with special guest Gary Clark Jr. will headline the Marcus Amphitheater on Sunday, June 29. Ingenious and iconic recording artists and performers, Antwan “Big Boi” Patton and André "3000" Benjamin announced via Outkast’s newly launched social media platforms (Facebook, Twitter, Instagram) and www.Oukast.com that their return to the stage for their 20th anniversary will include festival dates around the world. The influential group will be the marquee act at over 40 festivals around the world throughout the Spring/Summer of 2014 (additional dates to be an(continued on page 11)
Entrenched poverty and teenage vulnerability:Human Trafficking in Milwaukee
The Milwaukee Community Journal February 26, 2014 Page 11
(continued from page 3) them from opting for questionable finances such as selling drugs or being lured into trafficking. This has to be a city-wide mission! The Public Television public affairs show Black Nouveau recently did a superb expose’ on the problem in Milwaukee. That program (program number 2919) is worth reviewing again. The Milwaukee Task Force on Human Trafficking is working vigilantly to bring the issue before the community. Led by Task Force Chairperson Dana World-Patterson, with support from other local leaders like community activist Martha Love, and Milwaukee County Supervisor Peggy Romo-West, the Human Trafficking Task Force meets every fourth Tuesday, monthly. Working closely with Career Youth Development through a Milwaukee County partnership. Counselors who work directly with victims affected, are available to provide or channel victims to additional services designed to rehabilitate them. Community Brainstorming, the tenured community think-tank forum, has addressed the trafficking conundrum several times and experts such Milwaukee Health Commissioner Bevan Baker, who oversees the City Office of Violence Prevention, and the Milwaukee Commission on Domestic Violence and Sexual Assault, pledged city support in changing the statistics in the city
I CARE
I pace the floor Minute after minute. Hour after hour. You did not come. I called your friends, My friends, their friends, My sister, your grandmother. You were not there, I went to your school. The store you patronize,
The places you play, And the house on the corner, You were not there.
of Milwaukee. Love has been the moderator/organizer who brought superb experts together, consistently. Her face and voice on the issue have become synonymous with the demand for change in Milwaukee. Other social services such as BASICS, a coalition of churches in the central city meet monthly to address the issue. Presently, they are working to fund and create the first complex to house and rehabilitate victims, with donations through their foundation. Other local agencies include, “Rethink Resources: Youth in the Sex Trade” , with Claudine O’Leary; the “Human Trafficking Outreach Program” at Umos, with Gina Allende; the Sojourner Truth House Support Group, with Natailyn Runte.; plus “Healing Hearts”, a local group of parents, thought to be the first that deals with the pangs and suffering of parents affected. We applaud these agencies and salute activities like the Daddy/Daughter Dance, given by the Department of Recreation and the Milwaukee Fatherhood Initiative, recently at the North Division gymnasium. There a sold out crowd brought fathers, uncles, and brothers out with their daughters, sisters,nieces and cousins to show positive, healthy relationships. These events teach young women how a young woman should be treated. They become little queens and little princesses as their male dates protect them, reassure them that they are beautiful, just the way they are. Self image,
You mentioned that the other day But everything that is your's, is still in your room, And you will be home soon.
I can only go home, I sit and think, Go home and wait. weeks have passed. Scared to answer Why did you take the phone. that chance? Afraid to listen. for Your room is still the sirens, filled with your Wanting to hear clothes from you, Except your pretty But not about you. white dress, You did not call. It is gone with you (forever), I think perhaps you And I NEVER told you "I CARE". ran away.
A student job that helps the community
Jasmine Woodley has discovered a way to help pay for her education while helping others. Woodley, a nursing student at the University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee, works as a tutor through the university’s America Reads program. The America Reads program is coordinated through the Center for Community-Based Learning, Leadership, and Research. Since she was in her first year at UWM, Woodley has been helping elementary and high school students who need some individualized attention with reading and mathematics. Currently, she’s working at Clarke Street School, Maryland Avenue Montessori School and St. Joan Antida High School. She particularly enjoys working with the elementary students. “I like being with them and seeing how excited the children are when they get an assignment done or a problem solved. I like challenging them and showing the way,” says Woodley. In high school, she’d volunteered as a tutor through the National Honor Society and at the Children’s Health Education Center. She learned about UWM’s program through an information session at the university’s Center for Community-Based Learning, Leadership and Research (CCBLR). The center develops partnerships with off-campus nonprofit agencies to develop jobs in the community, according to Rachel Spaulding, director of community-based learning for the center. Students can explore and learn about the community, helping others and earning money for their own education. Woodley’s work also counts toward 300 hours of service that she commits to as part of a scholarship she receives in the Bonner AmeriCorps Leader program. “It’s a way of supplementing student loans and other financial aid,” she says. A graduate of Riverside University High School, Woodley had long been familiar with nearby UWM, so when it came time to pick a university, the choice was obvious. “It was close and I was familiar with it, and I’d heard that the nursing program was very good.” While she enjoys working with the students as a tutor, nursing is her passion. “I’ve always wanted to be a nurse since I was in grade school.” Her grandmother, who helped raise her, had some health issues, and Woodley helped care for her. “I like to work with people.” Her eventual goal is to earn a graduate degree in nursing and work with a community-based clinic. In addition to the tutoring, Woodley was able to take part in CBLLR ’s Alternative Spring Break program last year, working on projects with community agencies in North Carolina. She enjoyed the opportunity to explore another part of the country, but was particularly im-
Jasmine Woodley
“I like being with them (elementary students) and seeing how excited the children are when they get an assignment done or a problem solved. I like challenging them and showing the way,” says Woodley. pressed with the work being done by a veterans’ agency she volunteered with there. The group had remodeled an old motel into a center for veterans, offering a training program and developing a garden. “We should have something like that here,” says Woodley. “I liked talking to the veterans about their experiences. The program there is really helping veterans get back on their feet.” She’s planning to take part in the Alternative Spring Break program again this year, but meanwhile is committed to her work as a tutor. “I see a lot of kids improving their reading levels, and that’s really important.” And, some of the students she works with at Clarke Street School are part of the “I Have a Dream” program, which will provide them with university tuition after they graduate, if they keep their grades up. As a university student, she provides a role model for them. “They’re really interested in college, and they’re always asking me a lot of questions about what it’s like to be in college.”
UN USED LOVE
self confidence, even self-protection begins early in life. Money will not be the master when a child has been made to believe that he or she is the master of their destiny. Loving family members can re-enforce the rules: (1) no other male can offer you more love, protection or more stability than the people that love you most. This is equally important for the young males who look to other males for example. They too must be loved, protected, encouraged to grow into manhood and become good men who will learn to protect, love, and reassure their families, their women, their children. Jobs, jobs and more jobs must be created...a child who earns through their own employment opportunities is less likely to look for an enticer, or listen to the promises of what “could be”, when they are encouraged by their family, applauded by the people who love them, and are supported openly in their endeavors. “Human Trafficking is a crisis, and the statistics alone prove it. Our children are being stolen, rented and sold into sex and labor trafficking”, said Commission Bevan Baker. “ The community component can help bring attention to sex workers, human trafficking, traffickers, drug houses, and all of that is very vital”, reminded, advocate, Martha Love.
My heart crys for the moments We have lost that belong to us. A thief stole a bit of our life Least it may never be lived, but cast aside, That it cannot be shared by thine loved.
State Sen. Nikiya Harris and health advocacy group to host information session about Affordable Care Act
With the March 31st enrollment deadline for the Affordable Care Act (ACA) quickly approaching and many young adults still not having coverage, Black Health Coalition of Wisconsin and State Senator Nikiya Harris are teaming up to host an ACA information session. The event will be held on Wednesday, March 5th from 5:30 - 7:00 pm at the Wisconsin African American Women's Center, 3020 W. Vliet Street. Attendees will
learn key facts about ACA and get their questions answered. BHCW's ACA Navigators will be on hand to provide enrollment assistance as well. If ACA enrollment is not completed by March 31st, enrollment can not occur until the next open enrollment period in November 2014. For more information, please contact Clarene Mitchell 414-933-0064.
OUTKAST RETURNS TO HEADLINE SUMMERFEST
(continued from page 10) nounced). “It's truly an honor to celebrate 20 years and still be free to do music the way we choose,” said Big Boi. “Don't just think outside the box, know that there is no box. “I'm looking forward to rocking the stage with my Bro Ski and to all the fans - stank you smelly much, this is for y'all!” "And imagine, all we wanted to do was rap,” says Andre 3000. “I am thankful to have been a part of a group that allowed me to explore Gary Clark, anything that came to mind and have fun doing it. “Returning to the stage together is the most exciting way for us to thank everyone for their 20 years of supporting Outkast.” To sum up Gary Clark Jr. is more challenging every day. He’s a musical universe unto himself, expanding at a nearly immeasurable rate, ever more hard to define — as a mind-blowing guitarist, a dazzling songwriter and engagingly soulful singer. With his debut album Blak And Blu he has become the first artist ever recognized by the Recording Academy with Grammy Award nominations in both the rock and R&B categories for the same album in the same year, winning the latter: “Best Traditional R&B Performance” - “Please Come Home” (from the album Blak And Blu). It’s a lot to live up to, but through it all his musical ambition and reach continue to grow. New songs he’s previewed to delighted audiences show him exploring ever further combinations of sounds and styles, all with his distinct stamp. Tickets go on sale Monday, March 3 at Noon and include Summerfest admission. Tickets can be purchased at the Summerfest Box Office, Ticketmaster Ticket Centers, Walmart stores, online at Ticketmaster.com and by phone at 1.800.745.3000 (live Ticketmaster Agent) or 1.866.448.7849 (“Ticketmaster Express” automated phone line). Patrons may also utilize “ticketfast” at Ticketmaster.com to print barcoded concert tickets from home. Convenience fees may be added to all purchases. PLEASE NOTE: To purchase Marcus Amphitheater tickets in person at the Summerfest Box Office on the day of the on sale, patrons must visit the temporary location at the Mid Gate on the corner of Harbor Drive and Chicago Street. Parking will be available across the street. It is impossible to quantify the creative impact and influence of Grammy-Award winning rap duo, Outkast, or the work of its members, André "3000" Benjamin and Antwan "Big Boi" Patton. Together and individually, these Atlanta natives have
set the bar for originality, blasting genre boundaries and combining mediums since their debut album Southernplayalisticadillacmuzik was released in 1994. The seismic effects of their originality continued to be felt with each subsequent release and, globally, Outkast has sold more than 25 million albums. Their critically lauded, PlatinumCertified sophomore album ATLiens (1996) was one of the rare works of art to be appreciated for being ahead of its time, in its own time. Jr. The double-Platinum Aquemini (1998) and quadruple-Platinum Stankonia (2000) received the highest praises from the loftiest critics to the most dedicated of Hip Hop fans. Both albums were ultimately enshrined in Rolling Stone Magazine’s definitive list of the 500 Greatest Albums of All Time in 2012. The Diamond-certified Speakerboxxx/The Love Below (2003) was not only a massive commercial success, it also earned six Grammys, including Album of the Year, making Outkast the first rap group ever to win the award in that coveted category. In 2006, the duo pulled off the unexpected by releasing Idlewild, a film both members starred in, and the accompanying soundtrack which debuted at #1 on Billboard’s Top R&B/Hip-Hop Albums chart. In recent years, Big Boi and André 3000 have frequently collaborators with a multitude of artists. Big Boi has released two critically acclaimed solo albums, Luscious Leftfoot: The Son of Chico Dusty (2010) and Vicious Lies and Dangerous Rumors (2013). André 3000 appeared in Be Cool, Semi-Pro, Four Brothers, and the upcoming Jimi Hendrix biopic, All Is By My Side. Benjamin’s own high-end clothing line, Benjamin Bixby, debuted in 2010, at which time GQ Magazine named him “Best New Designer of the Year.” Summerfest 2014 will take place June 25 - 29 and July 1 - 6 from Noon until Midnight and will be closed Monday, June 30. Following its 1968 debut, Summerfest has evolved into what is now recognized as “The World’s Largest Music Festival” and Milwaukee’s cornerstone summer celebration, bringing the music industry’s hottest stars, emerging talent and local favorites along with approximately 900,000 people from Milwaukee and around the world together each year for an unforgettable live music experience. During the festival, the spotlight shines on over 800 acts, over 1,000 performances, 11 stages, delectable food and beverages and interactive activities, all in a worldclass festival setting. Patrons can also enjoy Miller Lite, the Official Beer of Summerfest. For more details, visit Summerfest.com, Facebook.com/summerfest or Twitter: @Summerfest.
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The Milwaukee Community Journal February 26, 2014 Page 13
The Milwaukee Community Journal February 26, 2014 Page 14