Happenings in and around Historic 5 Points, Northeast Denver and Aurora December 2020
763 Free Christmas Dinners Distributed
5 STAR NEWS
Formerly 5 POINTS NEWS. Proud Recipient of the Dr. Syl Morgan Smith Excellence in Media Award and the Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc. Colorado Media Award
Colorado’s first Muslim Legislator, Representative-Elect Jodeh (right) and her husband Maytham Alshadood were among several volunteers who spent Christmas Day at brother jeff’s Cultural Center distributing free dinners at the ‘No One Should Be Hungry, Period’ national launch. Denver and Aurora political, civic, business and community leaders united behind the goal of providing 500 free dinners. They exceeded their goal and provided 763 dinners throughout the Denver Metro Area. The next goal is to provide 1000 free dinners on Martin Luther King Day. Visit page 3 and www.brotherjeff.com for more information.
Denver NAACP Sock Drive Collects Thousands of Socks
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Denver NAACP President Sondra Young, NAACP members and community members collect soxs A sock drive geared to provide our unhoused neighbors and community in need with a necessity. Denver NAACP recognized the demand for an essential item that every local shelter and organization alike is frequently in need of, but often the less donated item. The shelters shared the fact that socks are a key essential to the vitality of ones health. Under the direction of Madam President Sondra Young, Denver NAACP began to make an immediate impact. The chapter has organized a goal of 5,000 socks and community has stepped in. Kicking of the sock drive; December 1, 2020 ongoing until March 2020. Each month the organization has selected a location as the primary drop off and pick up. Allowing those in need to come in and those donating to be apart of the blessing campaign. The call is for new socks, or a donation and they will take care of the shopping for you. What are you waiting for? Be a part of the impact. Now accepting socks at the Brother JeffCultural Center. 2836 WELTON ST, Denver, Co. Donations: Cashapp $Denvernaacp Remember just $20.00 purchases 10 pairs of socks. Shay J
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13 Candice Bailey, Topazz McBride, NAACP President Sondra Young, Rodger Fletcher and Jason McBride at Sox Drove
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Funerals | Receptions | Cremations Archdiocese of Denver at Caldwell-Kirk Mortuary
2101 Marion Street | Denver, Colorado 80205 | 303-861-4644
Serving the Denver community for 70 years.
Elvin R. Caldwell, Jr. Founder
by d e w e i v can s l a r e n u F or g n i m a e Live Str ng, i t s a c b e W . n w o n k o s as it is al nformation. re i o m r o f l Cal
www.caldwellkirk.com
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Are You Taking the Covid 19 Vaccination?
brother jeff Founder/Editor 5 STAR NEWS
Covid 19 has touched every living person on the planet in one way or another. For many in the Black community that means barely escaping death or death itself. It has been nearly a year since family members have been together, employees have been to the office and places of worship have been occupied. Through it all science has been busy learning the finer details of the virus. The race for a vaccine and cure moved into full gear. In the wake of sickness and death as well as economic decline two vaccinations have been approved touting nearly 100% effectiveness. The introduction of vaccinations has lead to the number one question. Are you taking the shot? For Black people the answer is a resounding NO! This comes as NO surprise. The relationship between the healthcare profession has never been one of trust from either side. Blacks don’t trust the
system and the system does not trust Blacks. To be sure, there are some Blacks that will take the shot. They are most likely to have a trusting relationship with an individual provider. The most trusted medical doctor in the Black community is Dr. Terri Richardson who says, “I would encourage people to get the COVID-19 vaccine, you don’t have to be the first in line, but don’t be the last.” Like all of us, Dr. Richardson has seen the health and social devastation from COVID-19. It is not pretty! “I believe the COVID-19 vaccine gives us hope that we will be able to return closer to normal,” she says. The doctor has spoken. Will we listen? In fact, most of us will not be eligible to get the shot anytime soon. We are not at the front of the line and this time that may be a good thing. –brother jeff
Gary L. Harris, Ph.D.
June 24, 1953 ~ October 26, 2020
Gary L. Harris Ph.D., P.E., passed away on October 26, 2020. During his life, which began in Denver, Colorado, on June 24, 1953, he developed many loves and fought many fights—and won. Raised modestly along with six siblings in the Five Points neighborhood of Denver by his parents Norman Harris and
5 STAR NEWS Monthly Publication December 2020
Publisher brother jeff Editor brother jeff
Layout & Design Cynthia R. Martin Photography brother jeff Lens of Ansar
Gladies (Weeams) Harris, Gary explored science at an early age when he worked alongside his father learning Morse Code, using the Ham radio and repairing electronics. He decided to pursue his interest in electronics at Cornell University, where he received his B.S. in Electrical Engineering in 1975 and the M.S. a year later. Then in 1980, Gary broke barriers and became one of the first two African-Americans to receive a Ph.D. in Electrical Engineering/ Electro-Physics from Cornell. When Gary graduated with his Ph.D., he was among a small group of AfricanAmericans in the country with a doctorate in electrical engineering. With his area of expertise in the growth of semiconductor materials—which was in high demand at this time of Silicone Valley’s infancy— Gary could have gone into a lucrative career in private industry. Instead, he made an intentional decision to pursue a career in academics at a Historically Black College and University, where he could help broaden the under representation of Blacks in scientific higher education.
‘Big Jon’ Platt and Sony/ATV Music Publishing Partner with brother jeff’s Cultural Center to Launch ‘No One Should Be Hungry, Period’ Campaign on Christmas Day ‘No One Should Be Hungry, Period’ is a national campaign of brother jeff’s Cultural Center, a Denver-based nonprofit organization dedicated to socioeconomic development—particularly in the Black community. On Christmas Day, Denver-native ‘Big Jon’ Platt, Chairman/ CEO of Sony/ATV Music Publishing, kicked off a partnership with the center to address food insecurity and provided 763 FREE Christmas dinners for citizens in Denver, Aurora and the Denver Metro Area. “Denver has always been my foundation, but I didn’t grow up with much and there were times when Christmas was just another day for us. This holiday season, amid increasingly difficult circumstances—many families are struggling to secure basic needs such as food. I have quietly given to my hometown for many years and I am proud to partner with brother jeff, whom I’ve known since childhood, and his center’s campaign to eliminate hunger in the Denver community.” According to Action Against Hunger; around the world, more than enough food is produced to feed the global population—but more than 690 million people still go hungry. The United Nations says food insecurity was already on the rise before Covid-19 and the pandemic is an additional threat to food systems (https:// sdgs.un.org/goals/goal2). “As a community-based organization, we provide free nutritious meals daily. Throughout the Covid-19 pandemic the need has grown tremendously. We are
serving many who are forced to make a decision between house, car, prescription costs or food,” says brother jeff, Founder and Director of brother jeff’s Cultural Center. “The center’s partnership with ‘Big Jon’, launching in his hometown to make sure no one goes hungry on Christmas Day, is a wonderful gift to humanity.” Sony/ATV Music Publishing is the leading global music publisher, home to world-class songwriters, legendary catalogues, and industry-leading synchronization licensing and production music businesses. With an international network of 38 offices, Sony/ATV represents many of the most iconic songs ever written by celebrated songwriters such as The Beatles, Stevie Wonder, Michael Jackson, Carole King, Queen and The Rolling Stones, as well as contemporary superstars such as Beyoncé, Ed Sheeran, Pharrell Williams, Lady Gaga, Kanye West, P!nk, and Maluma. On Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Day (Jan. 18, 2021) the No One Should Be Hungry, Period campaign will follow up on their Christmas kickoff, which provided 763 free meals, by providing 1,000 free meals, this time launching in Aurora’s Ward 1. FREE dinners will be available for pick-up on January 18th 2021, from 2-4pm. The location is to be determined. Those needing a meal or wanting to sign up to volunteer can visit www.brotherjeff.com.
Contributing Writers & Researchers brother jeff Jim “Dr. Daddio” Walker Jon Bowman Shay J Distribution Gerald Borden 5 STAR News is a publication of brotherjeff.com 2836 Welton Street Denver, CO 80205 303.297.0823 5pointsnews@brotherjeff.com
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Menthol Cigarettes Targeted at Blacks
Leanne Wheeler
It is no accident that 85% of African American smokers use menthol cigarettes. The popularity of menthol cigarettes among African American communities and youth is a direct result of a decades-long predatory marketing campaign by the tobacco industry. Since the 1950s, the tobacco industry has targeted
Blacks with marketing for menthol cigarettes and this targeted marketing continues today. And during the COVID-19 pandemic and the fight for making Black Lives Matter, this is precisely the time to put strong public health measures in place to get these products out of our community. As we have all become aware, COVID-19 is not an equal opportunity killer: Black and Brown folks are dying disproportionately of this disease all around the country and right here in Denver. We know that smoking weakens the immune system, and diminishes the function of the lungs, the very organs that the virus annihilates. Now is the time to adopt strong tobacco control measures that can protect our families. We need to put the health of Denver residents first, not the interests and profits of the tobacco industry, the vaping industry, and their surrogates. It is time to stop tobacco companies from targeting and addicting Black communities through flavored products once and for all. –Leanne Wheeler
The Colorado QuitLine Program
Quitting tobacco is a process. Whether you are thinking about quitting, are not yet ready to quit, or have already quit, Colorado QuitLine can help you with each step of the way. The Colorado QuitLine is an online service available FREE to all eligible residents. When you become a member, a team of support coaches, research-based information, and a community of others trying to live tobacco free. Our coaches are available to discuss overcoming common barriers, such as: dealing with stress, fighting cravings, coping with irritability,
and controlling weight gain. We also offer a free telephone service, so you can speak to a coach in person. Through the telephone program you can receive a free supply of patches, gum or lozenges. Coaches determine if you are eligible to receive the patches, gum or lozenges. Contact a coach at 1-800-QUITNOW. You must be a resident to participate in the program. To qualify for nicotine patches, gum or lozenges, you must be 18 years of age or older. It may also be helpful to discuss quitting tobacco with your doctor.
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How Do We Wrap Up This Crazy Year?
Jon Bowman 5 STAR NEWS Journalist
So, we wind up 2020 by seeing a once in a lifetime happening… the sighting of what is thought to be what the Three Wisemen saw centuries ago, when Christ was born in Bethlehem. Jupiter and Saturn formed what many call the Christmas Star. Well, if that is what we need to shake off four years of hate and fear then I am all for it! How do we put a wrap on this crazy year, that has seen thousand upon thousand of Americans die at the hands of a virus that the last leader of the nation both lied about and failed to even try to control the deadly virus, which turned into a worldwide pandemic. Now, as the year comes to an end, there is some hope in that a pair of vaccines may hold a key to preventing the spread of the plague, but that won’t happen if we keep failing to follow guide lines from the medical community… WEAR A MASK, WASH YOUR HANDS AND SOCIAL DISTANCE! While our Lame-Duck Mayor, Mike Hancock warned us before Thanksgiving to stay home, refrain from having big gathering, and if you were a city worker and caught the Covid-19, he threatened to dock pay or something like that, if they had to take time off because of the virus. On the streets of the twin cities—Denver/Aurora--is much pain as neither city can deal with the unhoused neighbor situation that has seen more than 200 dead. And a couple of hip-hop crews… decided to speak on the tragedy that claimed the life of Elijah McClain and the failed campaign promises of Hancock to deal with solutions for the homeless problem. In Message to the Mayor, one group simply says., “Hancock we don’t believe you!”. And in another musical message about love and family… Love Mine…. A Meazy and crew laid down something that was a direct result of the lock-down caused by the Pandemic… fathers embracing their kids in a new way. Some of this may be the result of the tragic death of Kobe Bryant and his daughter GiGi almost a year ago. Kobe’s outward love for his children made a major impression on young Black men in this nation, and that is a wonderful thing. With the death of Kobe, who could have imagined that anything worse could happen, but it did. The President when he took office, his hate for Barack Obama, prompted him to do away with anything Obama—from health care to a pandemic playbook, which outlined what to do if and when our nation face a killer-disease such as Covid. So, without a playbook, the Orange Boy President, lied to the American people and said it was just a thing and would be gone by April. But, the cases grew as did the numbers of people contracting the virus. Donald Trump failed his biggest test as being a true leader. He will forever be remembered as the Impeached President who had more Americans die on his watch than any other, in our nation’s 6 8 5 STAR NEWS
history. And, as we saw the nation put on lock-down, we also saw the number of businesses close forever. Large and small, owners couldn’t keep up with paying bills, with no money coming in. Outdoor seating and curb-side picky-ups became the norm as summer wore on. Funny how business closures and deaths seem to track each other, until year’s end when super-spreader events saw deaths spike hard, with a new prediction of more than half million expected to die by by the March 17th anniversary of the plague. in short, one writer summed things up thusly, “America under Trump became less free, less equal, more divided, more alone, deeper in debt, swampier, dirtier, meaner, sicker, and deader. It also became more delusional. No number from Trump’s years in power will be more lastingly destructive than his 25,000 false or misleading statements. Super-spread by social media and cable news, they contaminated the minds of tens of millions of people. Trump’s lies will linger for years, poisoning the atmosphere like radioactive dust.” One Democratic Senator said, when Trump refused to acknowledge Joe Biden and Kamala Hariss as the new President and V.P. he had a comment all who run for office should remember, “Anybody that gets in politics has to be willing to accept winning and losing with some level of grace or maturity. I’ve done both. Losing is brutal, it’s personal, it hurts, but if you’re not willing to accept that, you should not be in political leadership.” In short, by Donald, your 50-odd lawsuits went nowhere, even his Supreme Court threw out requests for help, to keep him in office… all that rigged election crap was just that… bull-crap. Even tho Trump was the news of the last half of 2020… what most will remember is the Knee of the Neck of George Floyd. A Knee that killed Floyd right before our very eyes. Most times cops will kill Black men under cover of darkness, but this time a Minneapolis Training Officer out with three rookie cops, showed them and the world, what cops have been doing to Blacks for centuries. Well, old St. George as I like to call him, set off a social movement that saw millions marching for peace, justice, and to make sure Black Lives Matter! People of all races, from all walks of life, took it to the streets —this was around the world… St. George mobilized the biggest peace movement in history, and of course, the movement was met with Trump, cops, and the white right racists who blocked lawmakers around the nation from going into state houses and even threatened to ’string up people, who protested about police brutality and funding police get, from the people they are killing but supposed to protect and serve. Denver protestors took a major police attack, at the Capitol, in which dozens were injured and arrested, to Federal Court. The Court issued a decision that shook Denver leaders up. Police and the city were barred from using projectiles to do crowd control, no more pepper spray, rubber bullets and tear gas… and when they began using other departments personnel for crowd control, they too were under the Federal order, so things got safer for peaceful demonstrators. But, it wasn’t long until Denver police took the sport light away from Aurora, who during the summer, force a mother and four kids to lie down on hot pavement, while yanking them from a mini van —when they were looking for a stolen motorcycle. So, as we head into a new year, let’s hope the poets of our day can help us navigate a new direction is 2021. Happy New Year is all we can ask for! –Jon Bowman
Celebrating Dr. Justina Ford’s 150th Birthday January 22, 2021 marks Dr Justina Ford ‘s 150th birthday and on this day the Black American West Museum (BAWM) celebrates her contribution to the health of the state with a live streamed tribute. The two hour event showcases not only birthday greetings and interviews from her remaining patients and community organizations, but also includes a range of performances such as a reenactment of Dr Ford’s only known interview and the first ever public display of her handwritten letter to the Colorado Medical Society that documents her delivery of 7,000 babies in her 50 year career. The broadcast, sponsored by Denver Community Media, takes place at the oldest African American house of worship in the Rocky Mountain West, Zion Baptist Church, where Ford was once the ‘First Lady’ and can be viewed Friday, January 22, at noon via www.bawmhc.org and Denver Community Media on Comcast Channel 56, 57, 881 HD. In addition to the celebration, her date of birth is now officially known as ’Dr Justina Ford Day’, following the issuance of a mayoral proclamation that recognizes her medical care to the Denver community. Dr. Ford was the first licensed female African American doctor in Colorado however because of her race and gender, she was denied access to practice medicine at local hospitals. Instead, her home in Five Points, once the main district for Denver’s African American and immigrant communities, served as her medical office from 1911-1952. Many of Dr. Ford’s Hispanic and Black patients faced similar discrimination at city hospitals due to race and economic class. Dr. Ford often accepted services and food items in lieu of payment.
When she did a house call to a home that was lacking in food or heat, she often sent a basket of groceries or coal following her visit. She is best known for her obstetrics and pediatric work, and many patients knew her as the “Baby Doctor”. The Black American West Museum and Heritage Center, located at 3091 California Street in Denver, details the profound influence African Americans had on Western Expansion. Located in the former home of Dr. Justina Ford, the museum preserves the history of African American cowboys and the historic Five Points neighborhood. Restoration of Dr. Justina Ford’s historic house is underway. These renovations are made possible by grants from the State Historical Fund and The National Trust Partners in Preservation. The first phase of the renovations revealed more structural issues and additional costs. Phase one, which included exterior paint removal, revealed the poor condition of the original brickwork. An estimated 400 bricks will need to be replaced or require reverse facing. Each replacement brick costs $25 each, and an additional $10,000 is needed to complete the project. The museum is extending an invitation to all of its supporters to purchase a brick (or several) to sustain the legacy of Dr. Ford and contribute to the future of the Black American West Museum & Heritage Center. Donations to the museum can be made online at www.bawmhc.org, or checks can be mailed directly to the Black American West Museum, 3091 California St., Denver, CO 80205. The Dr. Justina Ford house was built in 1890 and was originally located at 2335 Arapahoe Stre et. – Sylvia Lambe
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Boyd New Town Center at Aurora Manager
Joel Boyd
Town Center at Aurora has hired Joel Boyd for the role of General Manager. As General Manager, Boyd will lead Town Center at Aurora’s operations, while collaborating with the team to execute innovative on-property events and activations. He will engage with tenants, potential business partners and community members alike and represent the town center’s mission of serving as a Goodwill Ambassador. Boyd began his role on November 2, 2020. “I am thrilled to join the Town Center at Aurora team,” said Boyd, General Manager at Town Center at Aurora. “My goal is to ensure our town center provides the best experience for our guests. As General Manager, I’m committed to safety, business readiness, and community collaboration. I will be working with our team to ensure Town Center at Aurora serves as a welcoming meeting place for the Aurora community. Additionally, I am excited
about the future of our Town Center with the additions of FieldHouseUSA, In-NOut Burger, and exciting new restaurants in the works. Boyd brings with him experience from the City & County of Denver’s Mayor’s Office, RE/MAX International’s World Headquarters, and a cumulative 26 years of experience in small business, non-profits, government, and corporations. Joel is a Colorado Native and grew up in the Denver Metro area. He spent many of those years in Aurora, where he currently resides. Joel is extremely passionate about his community. Growing up, “Aurora Mall” sponsored his first youth baseball team, the Aurora Pirates. Joel worked in the mall in various roles growing up, including May D&F, Foleys that are now Macy’s and Dillards anchor tenants at Town Center Aurora. He graduated from Southern University and Agricultural and Mechanical College at Baton Rouge, Louisiana with a Bachelors in Broadcasting and a Masters in Mass Communications focusing on public relations. Town Center at Aurora is the area’s premier shopping destination. The town center is home to more than 135 national and local retail, dining and entertainment options, as well as numerous events and activities throughout the year. A dynamic offering of things to do along with things to buy keeps guests engaged and returning often. Town Center™ at Aurora is open seven days a week; Monday to Saturday 10 a.m. – 8 p.m. and Sunday noon – 6 p.m. For more information on Town Center™ at Aurora, please call (303) 344-9764 or visit towncenterataurora.com. Like us on Facebook at facebook.com/TownCenteratAurora and follow us on Twitter @TCAurora and Instagram @TCAurora. – Alexis Watts, Town Ctr. at Aurora
Son Remembers Father
Cleveland ( Kris) King Early morning thoughts. To my friends and family who follow me on Facebook. This is one of the best ways to reach as many people as possible. To those who care about me and my family thank you for in advance for your condolences. My father passed away December 26th after a 15 day battle with Covid. He lived like he died a rebel. He was in decent shape for a 79 year old man. He walked and sometimes ran daily. He didn’t take Covid seriously until it was too late. He only wore a mask when it was required. He paid for his mistake with his life. I beg my friends/family to please take Covid seriously. You don’t want the mistake of thinking it is just like the flu and it cost you your life. Covid is not like the flu, it’s far more evil and deadly. My father was heavily medicated to the point he didn’t know where he was after his first 8 days in the hospital he then
went on a ventilator partially induced coma the last 7 days. He didn’t have a will so all his final life decision were reluctantly made by me, because no one else wanted to make those decisions. I have I mixed bag relationship with him. I had some good times and I had some bad times and I remember both. In the end I was faithful and loyal son even when his situation made my situation very difficult. “Honor thy mother and Father”. Some fathers make that choice easy. I wish I had a father like that. I had the one God wanted me to have and I am thankful. Covid creates impossible situations one can never imagine, because it’s so sudden and you really don’t know what to expect. You will see the best and the worse in people, especially the ones you love the most. I write in hopes someone will read my story and hear my plea to please wear a mask! Please take Covid seriously! I would not wish the death of Covid on my worse enemy. It is a horrible way to die. My father lost his ability to breath and supply oxygen to his body. The doctor prepared me for the inevitable on the 15th day and said. “We can keep doing cpr and bring him back when he dies, we will probably break some ribs every time but, he will keep dying or you can let him go because his lungs can no longer hold oxygen”. I chose to let him go. My father Cleveland King left this earth December 26, 2020. Rest In Peace Pops. Your son Cleveland ( Kris) King.
There’s No Room to Gather During the Pandemic
James “Dr. Daddio” Walker Sr.
I’m wishing everyone a Merry Christmas and a happy new year. As we continue to deal with Covid 19 we have been asked to do three things–wash our hands; wear a mask; and keep our distance from others. I have added a fourth requirement–use common sense. Using common sense is vital when dealing with Covid 19, because there are still many unanswered questions. There are vaccines that has been given to those at the top, but most ordinary people do not have access at this point. That means we must continue to do everything we can to be safe. I realize this is the holiday season and we are heading into the new year. We want to get our families together and have huge gatherings. However, we must use common sense and know that Covid 19 is dangerous, so put away the gatherings and parties. We can not do what we did in the past. We must look to the future. Do not gather and do not travel from
state-to-state or home-to-home. Stay among your immediate family and use technology such as Face Time to stay connected. Use common sense to protect ourselves and our families. We need to wait until next year to see one another in person. I can’t stress enough the importance of wearing the masks, washing our hands, keeping our distance, and using common sense. To our friends around the world, we have the technology we need to stay connected. We can call. We can text. We can Face Time. These new phones are designed to do whatever we want to do. Use them. Covid 19 is something the world has never experienced. We have never seen anything like this in our lifetime. This is a virus that we certainly need to deal with and understand. We need to recognize how serious this pandemic is and do everything we can to move forward. We are dealing with sickness. We are dealing with death. We are dealing with a different reality and we all need to stay in prayer and thank God every day for another opportunity. This year has been rough and we are looking forward to 2021 being a much greater year. God bless you. We love you. Take care of yourself and don’t forget to use common sense. –James “Dr. Daddio” Walker Sr.
According to the World Health Organization the United States leads the world in Covid 19 deaths with 34, 836,259.
Housing for People Experiencing Homelessness Denver City Council approved three contracts totaling $4.1 million that will provide much needed housing and medical services for people experiencing homelessness. The financing helps make possible the Colorado Coalition for the Homeless’ Legacy Lofts project at 2175 California St. The nine-story project will include 98 affordable units and a recuperative care center. “The solution to homelessness is housing, and we’re proud to partner once again with the Colorado Coalition for the Homeless to fund safe, secure housing with access to services,” said Britta Fisher, executive director of Denver’s Department of Housing Stability. “Legacy Lofts is indeed a legacy project that will make a critical difference in helping to exit individuals from homelessness and to establish stability in their lives.” Two HOST performance loan contracts totaling $3,302,899 were approved and will support construction of the studio and one-bedroom units. All units will be restricted to those earning at or below 30 percent of the area median income (AMI), with the possibility to stay in the build-
ing while earning up to 60 percent AMI, including housing supports. Council also approved a $797,101 grant to fund a recuperative care center at the property, which will provide 75 beds and medical services to individuals experiencing homelessness and transitioning from local hospitals and clinics. Funding is provided by the federal Community Development Block Grant program. Legacy Lofts sits at the intersection of California and 21st Streets, two blocks from the RTD L line and the 44 bus stop. The property is adjacent to the Stout Street Health Center. Two future HOST contracts for the Colorado Coalition for the Homeless to provide supportive services for Legacy Lofts residents are also on the horizon. The contracts, totaling $750,000, will support intensive case management services, housing stabilization, access to a multidisciplinary treatment team, and linkage to community supports. Site acquisition of the Legacy Lofts project was made possible through resources from a partnership between the City and County of Denver and the Denver Housing Authority (DHA).
5 Star News offers our deepest condolences to the King family and loved ones.
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Wishing You Joy This Holiday Season
Councilwoman Candi Cedebaca
Hello, District 9! 2020 has been a year unlike any other, and it’s more important then ever to take care of each other AND to celebrate the wins we’ve been able to secure for our communities. Due to the holidays, this is will be my last email newsletter for for the year, so I’m taking this opportunity to share some of our D9 wins from 2020: Co-sponsored Charter Amendment 2E: Restores balance to Denver’s government by giving City Council approval over some mayoral appointees. Sponsored $1 Million for Eviction Defense Legal Support: Protects vulnerable tenants from predatory and corporate rental companies during this unprecedented health and economic crisis. Co-sponsored STAR Program Expansion Funding: Provides non-police resources to reframe public safety with an evidence-based, public health-oriented, and antiracist approach.
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Protected Denver’s Fair Election Fund: Voted down mayor’s proposal to defund the Fair Election Fund, a campaign finance tool to reduce corporate influence in our local elections. Community Partnerships Advocating for Safe Outdoor Spaces: Activated housed and unhoused residents, business owners, homeless service providers to work together in advocating for an evidence-based, public health-oriented alternative to homeless sweeps Justice Reform Actions: Led the fight in Council to reject private prison and private security contracts in response to human rights and excessive force abuses. Virtual Meetings for City Council & Committees: Led the charge among my colleagues to provide virtual access to City Council meetings during the pandemic, increasing government transparency and public participation in public meetings. I wish you and your families joy and health during this holiday season. Know that I am actively working with my fellow public officials, community partners, and residents like you in demanding better support for our communities during the COVID-19 crisis. A better world is possible, and I will continue to fight for you in 2021! We need YOU—your energy and your involvement—so that we can build a city that prioritizes the health and safety of all of our people and communities. So take action and keep showing up in any way you can! I appreciate you! – Councilwoman Candi Cedebaca Candi CdeBaca Councilwoman, District 9 720-337-7709 district9@denvergov.org
Independent Monitor Mitchell Accepts New Job
The Office of the Independent Monitor (“OIM”) announced that Nicholas E. Mitchell has been appointed by a federal court to oversee a Department of Justice consent decree with the County of Los Angeles and the Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Department. The consent decree is a courtordered agreement designed to correct systemic, unconstitutional conditions in the Los Angeles County jails, the largest municipal jail system in the world. Mitchell is resigning his position as Independent Monitor for the City and County of Denver effective January 4, 2021. He was appointed Denver Monitor in August 2012. During his tenure, Mitchell: • oversaw thousands of investigations into complaints of misconduct, clearing many Denver Police Department (“DPD”) officers and Denver Sheriff Department (“DSD”) deputies, and ensuring accountability for those who abused their authority and the public trust; conducted a sweeping investigation into the police response to the George Floyd protests, making 16 recommendations for reform, all of which were adopted by the DPD; issued multiple reports about problematic practices in the DSD, including the mishandling of inmate grievances, triggering major reforms in Denver’s jails; served
as co-chair of the DSD Use of Force Policy Committee, which transformed use of force standards for Denver deputies; issued public guidance about deficiencies in the DPD use of force policy, leading to the complete rewrite of the policy; released an analysis of body-worn camera use by DPD officers, resulting in significant enhancements on their use; co-founded the Bridging the Gap: Kids and Cops program, which has won national recognition for helping to transform relationships between police officers and youth in Denver; and led three successful efforts to change the law that empowers the OIM, including a City Charter amendment passed in 2016 with the support of 72 percent of Denver voters. Mitchell received awards from the Denver Bar Association and the National Association for Civilian Oversight of Law Enforcement, and has been recognized as an expert on civilian oversight and law enforcement reform by CNN, the New Yorker, and other national publications. Mitchell consulted with numerous cities seeking to enhance oversight of law enforcement, including Phoenix, Tulsa, Madison, Baltimore, Colorado Springs, Aurora, and others. He looks forward to continuing similar work in the future.
The Best Project You Will Ever Work on is You
5 Star News Journalist Shay J
The Holidays are approaching, have you checked on you? This is not just another Holiday season, this is the year of a Pandemic, US civil unrest, a presidential election, and the heartbreak of numerous lost loved ones. The celebrations have been shifted from home gatherings to zoom calls, we are not able to connect the same, and quite frankly we’re all just trying to adjust and live in this new normal. So it may seem heavier than usual for most of us during this time. For so many people this time of year is filled with celebrations, social gatherings and family but not for all. This time of the year also brings up many unwanted, and unwarranted emotions for lots of people.The loss of loved ones, the lack of funds, the feeling of loneliness and the pain of past experiences. The overwhelming feeling of balancing the demands of shopping, parties, family obligations, and
house guests can increase tension and anxiety. Yes, depression may occur at any time of the year, but the Holiday season may cause even those who are usually content to experience loneliness and a lack of fulfillment. Have you checked on you? So many times we get caught up in the season and our image in what we think this time of year should look like; if nothing else the year 2020 showed us to expect the unexpected and make room for change. As you go into the season and even the new year, be open to new traditions, allow them to unfold and be open to the new experiences. As we are all in a similar space, waiting to hear the new mandates and updates, it’s important that you make going with the flow a part of your plan. Along with all the other things happening something is bound to go awry; try letting go of the need to control everything. Have some grace with yourself. It’s ok not to be ok! Hey this is a real thing, we must give ourselves permission to feel. We have all felt a level of pain, discomfort, loss or anxiety during this pandemic. The feelings you have are valid and they don’t just go away because the Holidays are here. Acknowledge your feelings-If someone close to you has recently died or you can’t be with loved ones, realize that it’s normal to feel sadness and grief. It’s OK to take time to cry or express your feelings. You can’t force yourself to be happy just because it’s the holiday season. Take care of you. Yes I said it, and I mean it. It’s the old airplane rule; before trying to save anyone, put on your own life jacket first. This is legitimate instructions, you can’t be fully present for anyone until you are fully present for you. The best gift you can deliver, is the best version of you.
Start this new normal by normalizing putting your mental and physical wellness at the top of the list. Keep your body goals in mind, not over eating , or drinking as coping mechanisms. Make an effort, to stay connected to your higher power, keeping prayers and mediation consistent. Look, this has been a YEAR for all of us, and we may not not know what’s to come, so let’s be extremely intentional about the one thing we can control, ourselves. Self awareness can take awhile, so be forgiving. While you’re working on you be attentive that others around may be doing the same, or simply surviving. Be the friend you wish to attract; love on someone. Reach out if you haven’t spoken in awhile, catch up with your friends, talk to the elders in your family. Tell people you love them and mean it. However you choose to celebrate, I wish you a peaceful loving Holiday season. and abundant New Year. Lets reimagine together as we take on the unknown. Remember “The best project you will ever work on is you” So do it on purpose. With Love,- It’s NOW!” –Shay J
“For so many people this time of year is filled with celebrations, social gatherings and family but not for all. This time of the year also brings up many unwanted, and unwarranted emotions for lots of people. The loss of loved ones, the lack of funds, the feeling of loneliness and the pain of past experiences.”
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Principal Shares Vision for New Denver High School Modeled After Historically Black Colleges
STEAM Academy named after Robert F. Smith
A new high school modeled after historically Black colleges and universities is set to open next fall in Denver, a school district working to improve education for Black students citywide. The Robert F. Smith STEAM Academy will open in far northeast Denver on a campus it will share with a small high school that helps students catch up on missed credits. The Smith STEAM Academy will start with ninth graders and add a grade each year. Principal Shakira Abney-Wisdom has spent the past five months solidifying the school’s vision and building the curriculum. STEAM stands for science, technology, engineering, art, and math. Abney-Wisdom said she’s guided by three principles: centering Blackness to build students’ pride in themselves, making sure every aspect of the school is inclusive regardless of students’ native language
or learning style, and creating connections across academic subjects so that an English lesson ties into an art project, which previews what students will learn in history class. Her aim is that the Smith STEAM Academy creates an environment for Denver high school students similar to those at HBCUs and colleges that serve Hispanic and Indigenous students. “Those institutions are designed fundamentally to elevate and explore the contributions of marginalized people and embody the rich history of what we contribute to society,” said Abney-Wisdom, who attended Florida A&M University, an HBCU. “At their core, they are designed to start with the learner and the learner’s identity and pride of self.” About 13% of Denver’s 92,000 students are Black, 53% are Hispanic, and nearly 1% are Native American. Test scores and graduation rates show Denver Public Schools has not served students of color as well as it has the 25% of students who are white. Abney-Wisdom first came to Denver in 2011 to serve as a City Year corps member tutoring students at Montbello High School before it was closed. She recalls working with a student who was valedictorian of her school in Mexico but whose intelligence was questioned in Denver because English was not her native language. The girl’s science teacher forbade students from speaking Spanish because the teacher did not understand it. But talking to her classmates in Spanish was the only way the student could follow along with the lesson. Had the teacher allowed the girl to learn in Spanish, she would have shown herself to be among the most
advanced in the class, Abney-Wisdom said. Abney-Wisdom took a different approach when she entered a teacher training program at another Denver high school. She taught her science lessons in both English and Spanish, translated her slides into other languages if needed, and spent the first couple weeks of each semester on trust-building activities to help her students get to know one another. She explored cultural holes in the curriculum rather than shying away from them. During a lesson on the 3.2-millionyear-old skeleton known as Lucy, one of her students asked: “If they found Lucy in Africa, and she’s the oldest human, does that mean everyone is Black?” “That was not part of the unit,” Abney-Wisdom said. “But it’s a place where students went because whatever we approach, we approach from the self. The curriculum was not designed for that approach. It was designed from a place of whiteness. “When we take pieces out of the puzzle, we miss beautiful parts of the picture.” The curriculum at the Smith STEAM Academy will aim to explore the full picture, Abney-Wisdom said. For instance, the district curriculum calls for students to study Shakespeare’s Romeo and Juliet. But instead of focusing solely on the two main characters, the unit at the Smith STEAM Academy will explore the theme of love through texts written by Black authors, poems by Indigenous poets, videos of TED Talks, and the tone and beat of love songs. “That is one example of the ways we’re centering Blackness, centering identity, and normalizing difference by
approaching Shakespeare in a more relevant and responsive way,” she said. The idea for the school came from a group called Warriors for High Quality Schools. Started by Black parents and sports coaches in far northeast Denver, the group called attention to the disparities between the schools in their neighborhood and those in other parts of the city. The Smith STEAM Academy is named for Denver Public Schools alumnus Robert F. Smith, described by the district as “a Black American investor, inventor, engineer, philanthropist, and entrepreneur.” Smith founded a tech investment firm called Vista Equity Partners. “We are living through an extraordinary time,” Smith said in a video. “It’s the first age in human history where ideas are the most precious commodity, and intellectual capital can be traded across the globe in an instant. For the students who attend the STEAM Academy, this means the only limitation in your lives will be your own capacity to dream, to work hard, and to build.” The son of two educators, Smith graduated from Denver’s East High School. His philanthropic efforts have included donating $20 million to the National Museum of African American History and Culture in Washington, D.C., and pledging to eliminate $34 million in student loan debt for 2019 graduates of Morehouse College, an HBCU in Atlanta. Smith recently reached a $139 million settlement with the federal government that allowed him to avoid prosecution for tax evasion. Abney-Wisdom declined to comment on the matter. – Melanie Asmar Read entire story co.chalkbeat.org December 2020 8
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The Colorado Black Caucus Writes Letter To Governor The Colorado Black Democratic Legislative Caucus has penned a letter to Governor Jared Polis urging him to reconsider his decision to remove incarcerated individuals in jail or prison as a high-risk population to receive priority COVID-19 vaccinations. Governor Jared Polis announced on December 1st that the state would not prioritize vaccinating the incarcerated community, despite Colorado’s initial plan to vaccinate them around the same time as essential workers such as teachers and grocery store workers. “The CDC has recognized that those working and living inside a prison are at increased risk for infection-and that their risk to infect members of the community where prisons are located is exponentially higher as well,” said Representative Leslie Herod (D-Denver), Chair of the Colorado Black Caucus. “Communities of color, and Black people specifically, are over represented in the prison population and over represented in COVID deaths. An equitable vaccination dissemination plan MUST prioritize and value the life of the incarcerated.” In the letter, the Colorado Black Democratic Legislative Caucus notes that the Colorado Department of Public Health and Environment declared racism a public health crisis, stating: “by failing to align actions with this declaration across the spectrum of public health policy decisions, we risk making this critical declaration meaningless.” Black and Native Americans in Colorado are three times more likely to be incarcerated than white Americans, and Latinx Coloradans are two times more likely to be incarcerated. These groups already suffer from increased levels of hospitalization and
death due to COVID-19 in Colorado. The Colorado Black Democratic Legislative Caucus states that this is an issue of health equity and that the state must follow science in the distribution of the COVID-19 vaccine. “The impact of COVID-19 has been devastating for communities of color,” said Sen. Elect Janet Buckner (D-Aurora). “Any vaccine distribution plan should take into account health equity and the disproportionate amount of people of color who live in congregate settings while incarcerated. Their increased risk for infection warrants timely access to the vaccine so that we can protect vulnerable members in our society.” “Until we can solve for all of the injustices that contribute to our over representation in our jails we must be diligent to prevent the injustices within our reach,” said Rep. Elect Jennifer Bacon (D-Denver). “This is one such injustice.” The Black Caucus is composed of 9 members, representing districts in Denver, Aurora and Colorado Springs, with the mission of working together to pass legislation, promote policies, and advocate for communities of color across the state. The primary goal of the Caucus is the advancement of equality in the areas such as: healthcare, workers rights, education, climate justice and criminal justice reform. In collaboration with community organizations, activists, and residents, the Balck Caucus works to ensure that the Black community’s interests are taken into account in all business before the legislature. – Colorado Black Democratic Legislative Caucus
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