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Who Killed Det. Sean Suiter? 190 Days and Counting May 26, 2018 - May 26, 2018, The Afro-American
Volume Volume 127 123 No. No.42 20–22
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Meghan, the Duchess of Sussex, attends a garden party at Buckingham Palace in London, May 22, her first royal engagement since her wedding to Prince Harry on Saturday. The event is part of the celebrations to mark the 70th birthday of Prince Charles.
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After Royal Wedding
Bishop Curry Takes on Poverty By J. K. Schmid Special to the AFRO
‘Breaking Big’ Set to Showcase Success
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The presiding bishop and primate of the Episcopal Church will lead a silent vigil and procession on the White House Thursday. Bishop Michael Curry, the first Black leader of a church as old as the Union itself, responsible for approximately 2 million baptized and approximately 3 million self-identified Episcopalians and or Anglicans, will join 10 faith leaders from AfricanAmerican, Catholic and Protestant churches, a May 10 Episcopal Church press
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The Most Rev Bishop Michael Curry, primate of the Episcopal Church, was one of the speakers during the wedding ceremony of Prince Harry and Meghan Markle at St. George’s Chapel in Windsor Castle in Windsor, near London, England.
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Stacey Abrams Wins Historic CBC Helps Sink GOP Farm Bill Nomination for Georgia Governor “Thirty-six percent
Courtesy Photo
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release said. The Episcopal Church, in the same release, estimates a procession of over one thousand. The procession syncs up with the ongoing “40 Days of Moral Fusion” direct action in Washington, D.C., an event organized by the Poor People’s Campaign. Originating with Dr. Martin Luther King in 1968, the Poor People’s Campaign’s initial demands to the U.S. government included $30 billion annually to alleviate poverty, full employment, a guaranteed
In Wake of Mounting Scandals, BPD Searches for Way Forward
Stacey Abrams is the first Black woman to win a major party nomination for governor in the United States. If elected she will be the first Black female governor in U.S. history.
By Aya Elamroussi Special to the AFRO
By James Wright Special to the AFRO jwright@afro.com
History was made May 22 when Stacey Abrams won the Democratic primary election in the state of Georgia. She is the first Black woman to win a major party nomination for governor in the U.S. If she wins in November, she will be the first Black female governor. “Everyone who believed that a little Black girl who sometimes had to go without lights or running water – who grew up to become the first woman to lead in the Georgia General
In a major, yet quiet, victory, the Congressional Black Caucus helped defeat one of the Republican – Rep. David Scott Party’s signature pieces of legislation largely on the basis that the bill will hurt low and middle-income Americans. On May 18, the U.S. House of Representatives voted 213-198 to defeat a Republican version of “The Agriculture and Nutrition Act” popularly known as “The Farm Bill.” U.S. Rep. David Scott (D-Ga.) is the ranking Democrat on the House Agriculture Committee that considered the bill before it went to the House floor. He thought it was a bad bill because it cuts the food stamp program (SNAP) severely.
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of all SNAP [food stamps] recipients are White families . . .”
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The Afro-American, May 26, 2018 - June 1, 2018
WHAT’S TRENDING ON AFRO.COM White HS Tennis Players Appear to Pose as KKK Members By Perry Green AFRO Sports Editor A group of high school tennis team players in Telfair County, Ga., will be disciplined by the school superintendent after posting a “racist” photo online last week, according to news reports. According to CBC affiliate 13WMAZ, several White players for Telfair County High School were seen in a photo wearing white bags over their heads with the eyes cut out, mimicking the white hoods for which the KKK is notorious. The photo, reportedly, was taken after the all-White team lost to a team from Irwin County High School, which reportedly has several Black players, during a state tournament in Rome. The shot first appeared on Snapchat, a more private/ closed social media app, but later surfaced on Facebook before viewers brought it to the attention of the local news. Telfair schools Superintendent Lenard Harrelson told 13WMAZ that he first found out about the incident on May 15 and began investigating immediately. Harrelson told the local
NFL Owners Adopt New Policy to Address Protests By The Associated Press
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White tennis players from Telfair County High School pose in school bus with white bags over the heads in the style of Ku Klux Klan hoods after losing to Black opponents. news station that he had to limit the amount of information released until he consulted the school district attorney, but did say action will be taken against the students for their “highly offensive” photo. “We are in the process of finishing up the investigation and disciplining those students involved,” Harrelson told WMAZ. Telfair Principal Eric Cowart told Newsweek that the students had already been disciplined—though he would not elaborate on the nature of the penalty. A Change.org petition has since been organized, calling for the offending students to be barred from graduation ceremonies.
NFL owners approved a new policy May 23 aimed at addressing the firestorm over national anthem protests sparked by Colin Kaepernick and polarized by President Trump, permitting players to stay in the locker room during the “The Star-Spangled Banner” but requiring them to stand if they come to the field. Commissioner Roger Goodell said the change was approved unanimously by the owners at their spring meeting in Atlanta, but even that was up for debate. The head of the San Francisco 49ers — Kaepernick’s former team — said his franchise abstained from the vote. CEO Jed York said he wasn’t comfortable with a process that didn’t directly involve the players.
(AP Photo/Elaine Thompson)
NFL owners have approved a new policy aimed at addressing the firestorm over national anthem protests, permitting players to stay in the locker room during the “The Star-Spangled Banner” but requiring them to stand if they come to the field. “I want to work with my team to make sure everything we do is about promoting the right types of social justice reform and getting to a better America,” York said. The NFL Players Association said it wasn’t consulted about the new policy and would challenge any changes that violate the collective bargaining agreement.
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May 26, 2018 - June 1, 2018, The Afro-American
Curry Continued from A1 income and plentiful and affordable housing. The Episcopal Church release is more vague on the material demands of it participants, but describes a country and its institutions on the brink of calamity. “The church service, the procession to the White House, and silent candlelight vigil is planned in response to the moral and political crises at the highest levels of political leadership that are putting both the soul of the nation and the integrity of Christian faith at stake,” said the Rev. Jim Wallis, President and Founder, Sojourners, in the release. “The elders call upon all Christians to remember that our identity in Jesus precedes every other identity.” Bishop Curry who last made headlines as a guest
Alexi Lubomirski/Kensington Palace via AP
The official wedding photo of Britain’s Prince Harry and Meghan Markle, center, in Windsor Castle, Windsor, England, May 19. Others in photo from left, back row, Jasper Dyer, Camilla, Duchess of Cornwall, Prince Charles, Doria Ragland, Prince William; center row, Brian Mulroney, Prince Philip, Queen Elizabeth II, Kate, Duchess of Cambridge, Princess Charlotte, Prince George, Rylan Litt, John Mulroney; front row, Ivy Mulroney, Florence van Cutsem, Zalie Warren, Remi Litt.
speaker at the May 19 Royal Wedding of Prince Harry and Meghan Markle, delivered a fiery speech to those gathered at St. George’s Chapel and viewers around the world. He opened with a quote from Dr. King. “We must discover the power of love, the power, the redemptive power of love. And when we do that, we will make of this whole world a new world. But love, love is the only way.” Bishop Curry quoted the civil rights leader, adding: “There is power in love. Don’t underestimate it. Don’t even over sentimentalize it. There is power, power in love.” Bishop Curry later sermonized on what the power of love can achieve. “When love is the way -- unselfish, sacrificial, redemptive,” the bishop said. “When love is the way, then no child would go to bed hungry in this world
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ever again. When love is the way, we will let justice roll down like a mighty stream and righteousness like an ever flowing brook. When love is the way, poverty will become history. When love is the way, the earth will become a sanctuary. When love is the way, we will lay down our swords and shields down by the riverside to study war no more. When love is the way, there’s plenty good room, plenty good room for all of God’s children.” Bishop Curry’s delivery during the event evinced his family’s upbringing in the Baptist faith and tradition, emulating the Baptist Dr. King in word and deed. And now, he too marches on Washington. Thursday’s events begin with a church service at National City Christian Church at 7 p.m. The vigil is scheduled to begin at 8:30 p.m.
Abrams
CBC
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Continued from A1 “This farm bill is mean, hurtful, deceitful, unAmerican and filled with racial vicissitudes,” Scott said when the bill was voted by the committee to go to the floor on April 16. “This bill takes 1.6 million needy families off of the SNAP program. Why? “A work program that you manifest and walk around and say able-bodied men or able-bodied people should work and not be on food stamps. You know what you are really saying with that? The image of able-bodied men not working is the image of African-American men not working in the minds of people out there who have this mental disposition.” The representative warned his Republican colleagues that if the bill becomes law, Blacks won’t be hurt the most. “Thirty-six percent of all SNAP recipients are White families, who desperately need that and whom I represent as well,” Scott said. “Only 16 percent of the food stamp recipients are in rural areas and only 11 percent in urban.” Scott also lambasted his Republican colleagues for hurting historically Black colleges and universities that receive funding from the bill. “And that is why I am also disturbed that when you take the African-American colleges, put a four-year scholarship program there and snatch away the funding from the CCC (Civilian Conservation Corps), how can you have four-year scholarships and you don’t have the money there,” he said. The Farm Bill is the primary agriculture and food policy tool of the federal government. It is renewed every five years and deals with programs under the jurisdiction of the U.S. Department of Agriculture. The $867 billion bill funds nutrition programs, agricultural extensions at Black colleges and
Assembly – could become the first woman gubernatorial nominee from either party in Georgia’s history,” Abrams said in a statement after her Tuesday night win Abrams was the first woman to lead a party in the Georgia General Assembly in 2010 and the first African-American to lead in the House of Representatives, according to Abrams’ campaign biography. She also founded the New Georgia Project, which, submitted more than 200,000 registrations for voters of color between 2014 and 2016, her biography said. Now, she’s on her way to the midterm elections on Nov. 6. “As an African-American woman, I will be doing something no one else has done,” Abrams told CNN before Tuesday’s election. It remains unclear who Abrams will face in November. The Republican candidate will be decided by an election on July 24. While her track record shows has a lot of barrier breaking “firsts”, her November win will not be easy. Democrats have had little success in achieving statewide support from Georgia’s conservative-leaning Whites. African American Democrats have held powerful state offices, but every governor position in Georgia has been held by a White male. Abrams is unlikely to try to gain support from rural Whites who have abandoned the Democratic Party, the New York Times reported. Instead, she is aiming to harness political support from young, non-White Georgians, the Times said.
Courtesy photo
U.S. Rep. David Scott (D-Ga.) helped defeat the Farm Bill because it cuts the food stamp program (SNAP) severely. universities that are 1890 land grant institutions such as the University of the District of Columbia, and research on a variety of foods, plants, and animals. The latest bill is 687 pages online and deals with funding amounts for programs in foreign trade, credit for farmers and farm businesses, forestry and commodities. The latest Farm Bill calls for work requirements in order to receive SNAP and that has outraged many CBC members, along with Scott. CBC Chairman Rep. Cedric Richmond backed
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up Scott in a letter to U.S. Speaker of the House Paul Ryan (R-Wisc.) and House Democratic Leader Nancy Pelosi (D-Calif.), calling the Farm Bill “disgraceful.” “These work requirements create new red tape for states and for low-income families that very easily could result in an increase in food-[in] secure families as a result,” Richmond said.” The only CBC member to support the Farm Bill was Rep. Mia Love (R-Utah). In a statement, Rep. Mike Conaway (R-Texas) said he will re-visit the failed Farm Bill and try to listen to critics of the bill.
“Tonight, communities that are so often overlooked – whose values are never voiced – stood with us to say: Ours is the Georgia of tomorrow,” Abrams said after her win. “A state where diversity is a strength. A state where progress is more than possible. A state where everyone has the freedom and opportunity to thrive. A state where equal opportunity is our truth, not their buzzwords.” Advisers to the Senate’s two Black senators, Kamala Harris of California and
“As an African-American woman, I will be doing something no one else has done.” – Stacey Abrams Cory Booker of New Jersey, are prioritizing Abram’s campaign for the fall, the Times said. In the past, voters have elected only two Black governors: Douglas Wilder in Virginia in 1989 and Deval Patrick in Massachusetts in 2006 and again in 2010. As a Black woman, Abrams race and gender may face difficulty in an arena dominated by White men. But Abrams said she believes in the state of Georgia. “Tonight’s victory was only the beginning. The road to November will be long and tough, but the next step is one we take together.”
The Morgan State University Class of 1969
is attempting to locate classmates in preparation of its May 2019-50th Anniversary celebration. Please visit www.morganstate1969.org or contact Jesse Bennett 443 286-5355 for details.
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The Afro-American, May 26, 2018 - June 1, 2018
COMMENTARY
Remembering Richard Collins III Congressman Steny H. Hoyer (MD-05) spoke on the floor of the House of Representatives in about the death Richard “Richie” Collins III one year ago. Collins was killed in what police say was a case of racial bias. His accused killer is set to stand trial later this year. The following remarks have been lightly edited for clarity.
Steny H. Hoyer
One year ago my community was shaken by the murder of Second-Lieutenant Richard ‘Richie’ Collins III, a young African-American stabbed to death while waiting for a bus on the campus of the University of Maryland. He was a student at Bowie State University, just days from graduation. Richie was in College Park visiting friends to celebrate his recent commission as an officer in the United States Army. He was a young man of great promise, very talented, and driven to succeed. He was very popular on campus and helped create Bowie State University’s first lacrosse team. He was an avid player of golf, soccer, and baseball. Richie loved deep conversations about life, politics, and philosophy. The individual on trial for his murder has been charged with a hate crime. We must do more to combat the spread of hatred by spreading tolerance and respect, instead. And we must never forget those, like Richie Collins, whose lives were cut short by hatred and prejudice. I again offer my condolences to Richie’s parents, Richard and Dawn, his family, and friends to mark our somber anniversary. We ask for whom the bell tolls. It tolled for us. Congressman Steny H. Hoyer(D) represents the 5th district in Maryland.
Thank You to the OGs at the Barbershop The following is a speech delivered by at New York Christopher Hearn University’s commencement on May 16 by a graduating student. It has been lightly edited and condensed for space and clarity. Before I begin my formal speech, I want to acknowledge that we are on Lenape land and I want to give honor to the people who called this place home before there was a New York City and before there was a Yankee Stadium. I also want to pay honor to my ancestors who came from bondage to give me the blessings I’m now receiving today. My name is Christopher Hearn and I am from the greatest city in the world—Columbus Ohio. I am graduating today with a Bachelor in Music Business from the Steinhardt school. I cannot explain how thankful I am to be addressing you today – over 17,000 graduates from over 18 schools here in New York City and campuses in Abu Dhabi and Shanghai. There is no way to condense our experiences of NYU into a single narrative. So instead I will bring you my story – and hope that it illuminates some kind of truth about this university and the transformative experiences that happen here. My mother brought me into this world when she was 16 years old. And now, on May 16th, 2018, I have the honor of helping to bring all of us into the next phase of life. But I know for a fact that I wouldn’t have made it here without the ones who helped me. I drew energy from teachers, mentors, my OGs at the barbershop, and my best friends. They contributed to my life in different ways, but the one thing they all had in common was they advised me to stay in motion. I took their advice and it
landed me here as an incoming student in fall 2014 as a Martin Luther King Jr. scholar. As great as all of that is, it took me about one month to realize that I wasn’t good enough for this school. On my first midterm I received a C- -- It was “Intro to Microeconomics” and I remember it like it was yesterday. Of course, I had an existential crisis on the NYU shuttle and I realized I had two options: Go back home to Columbus and start over, or stick it out in NYC and try to make it work somehow. As you can see, I chose the latter option. While a student at NYU, I served as vice president of the Gentlemen of Quality, a mentorship and community service group for men of color. I was on staff at the Academic Achievement Program, which gives social and academic support to students of color. I was Director of Diversity in student government. While I’ve had success in these roles, I would be lying if I said I felt ready for all of them when I started. Sometimes even after I had completed them I didn’t feel ready. But no matter what, I resolved to stay in motion until I did. At NYU, I learned that to realize your full potential, you have to act without always being fully sure. Often, we are presented with magnificent challenges and opportunities that cause us to freeze up because we feel unprepared or illequipped. But the truth is that the skills needed to rise to a challenge are not brought in with you. They are developed only once you set yourself in motion towards completing the task. I suspect that we all have been tempted to stop during this journey. Academic struggles, family concerns, knowing that graduating means losing HBO Go (and then, how am I going to
watch Season 3 of “Insecure”). But, if you are here today, it’s because you resolved to stay in motion, to keep going. Even the name of this event urges forward motion. This is a commencement ceremony. Not a farewell, or a concluding celebration. It’s a beginning, a start, it’s a call to initiate motion. I urge all of you to treat it as such. And we may not have noticed, but most powerful forces in our world are communicating the exact same message. The blood moving through our veins does so continuously. If it stops, we wouldn’t be able to continue living. The ocean is never still. Life above and below it depends on its motion to sustain. Our planet never stops spinning on its axis, the days and nights depend on its motion. This is not a “focus on the journey not the destination” speech. I am urging you to stay in motion because it is necessary for survival; vital for any progress we hope to see in the future. You can ask my people about that. To the NYU graduating class of 2018, I applaud you for making it this far, I encourage you to reflect on what it took to get here, but more than anything, I am urging you to stay in motion. Thank you and congratulations. Christopher Hearn graduated with a Baccalaureate of Music Business. He is a Martin Luther King Jr. scholar and during his time at NYU, served as the Vice President of the Gentleman of Quality (a mentorship and community service group for men of color), Director of Diversity for NYU student government, co-chair of the NYU Diversity Committee, and chaired sessions for the Academic Achievement Program (a group which gives social and academic support to people of color).
Ending Price Gouging by the Prescription Drug Industry If you suspect that you and your family are paying far too much for the prescription medicines that help you stay healthy and alive, your suspicions are justified – and you are not alone. These realities are why I asked our Democratic staff experts on the House Oversight and Government Reform Committee to investigate price gouging by the prescription drug industry. Our May 11th report to the American people, Skyrocketing Drug Prices: Year One of the Trump Administration], is a call to action by the President, the Congress and the American people alike. “Skyrocketing Drug Prices” explores the prescription drug price increases that we have been experiencing during the Trump Administration in three key ways. Prices increased for the best-selling drugs in America: The data indicate that 16 of the top 20 best-selling drugs in the United States increased significantly in price in the first year of the Trump Administration, mostly by double digits. Prices increased for drugs that cost most for Medicare: The data indicate that 12 of the top 20 most costly drugs for Medicare Part D increased in price in the first year of the Trump Administration. Prices increased for the biggest U.S. drug companies: The data indicate that the three largest U.S.-based drug companies—Pfizer, Merck, and Johnson & Johnson— increased the prices of eight of their nine best-selling drugs in the first year of the Trump Administration – the prices of seven of these drugs by double digits. Although alarming, the results of our analysis were hardly surprising. Over the past decade, the prices of 90 percent of brand name drugs have doubled.
Elijah Cummings
Prescription drug spending in the United States reached $348 billion last year – a staggering cost with real-life consequences for the American people. Nearly 20 percent of Americans reported not filling prescriptions because they could not afford them – a harsh and unacceptable reality that is even more appalling when practical, market-based solutions have already been proposed. Unfortunately, two of the most promising policy responses to rising prescription costs (prescription drug importation and Medicare prescription drug negotiations) were not included in President Trump’s “American Patients First” plan earlier this month. It is hardly surprising, therefore, that the proposals received mixed reviews from health policy experts. The critical question, therefore, is “what will reduce our prescription drug pain?” Here are two policy initiatives that the President did not propose – but should have. Since Americans pay significantly more for our prescription drugs than do our neighbors in Canada, Senator Bernie Sanders (I-VT) and I introduced proposed legislation in March of last year that would allow the importation of safe, lower-cost prescription medication from licensed Canadian pharmacies [S. 469 / H.R. 1245]. Our Affordable and Safe Prescription Drug Importation Act would require that imported medicines have the same active ingredients and strength as their US-approved counterparts – and we would also mandate safeguards, including FDA certification of foreign sellers. Government healthcare programs, especially Medicare, pay for approximately 40 percent of retail prescription drug expenditures. Because of that market power, reducing the cost of Medicare drug purchases (saving taxpayers $15-16 billion each year) could also moderate the cost of medications
for all Americans. Why, Americans should be asking, does Medicare pay far more for prescription drugs than do other federal and state programs? Under current law, the Secretary of HHS is prohibited from negotiating lower drug prices on behalf of Medicare Part D beneficiaries. As a result, Medicare Part D pays, on average, 73 percent more than does Medicaid for the same brand name drugs and 80 percent more than does our VA. That is why, in October of last year, Senator Bernie Sanders (I-VT), Congressman Peter Welch (D-VT) and I introduced legislation that would require cost-saving negotiations by Medicare [The Medicare Drug Price Negotiation Act, S. 2011 / H.R. 4138]. I know that President Trump understands the importance of reducing prescription drug costs by Medicare negotiations. I have met with him on the subject, looked him in the eye, and told him so. I also suspect that, on this issue and our related drug importation proposal, the President may have concluded that congressional Republicans and their lobbyist allies in Big Pharma would reject reforms that could reduce the price gouging and pain that Americans are experiencing. It follows, then, that the prescription for reducing the high cost of our medicines – for staying healthy and alive – is clear. We can vote for a Congress next November that is committed to rejecting the drug industry’s lobbyists. As voters, we have the power to make our pain go away. Congressman Elijah Cummings represents Maryland’s 7th Congressional District in the United States House of Representatives.
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WASHINGTON-AREA
Shining a Harsh Light on the School to Prison Pipeline
Now this is DC: Black Residents Offer Own Ad Campaign
By Gregory Clay Special to the AFRO
By James Wright Special to the AFRO jwright@afro.com
Wrong school colors. Wrong hair accessories. Wrong school uniforms. Those three no-nos can get you suspended in Washington D.C. public schools. And those violations have nothing to do with violence or physical safety issues. According to the National Women’s Law Center, 70 percent of school dress codes in Washington prevent students --- especially girls --- from wearing head-wraps or scarves, unless they are
“The time to fight for Black kids is always right now.” – Amesha Cross for religious purposes. And inadequate uniforms, in terms of color coordination and various imperfections can result in suspensions. Nationwide, many schools forbid Black students from wearing hair extensions, locs or braids. “We still have schools where students are punished for their Black hair, things that are natural to them,” said Dr. Andre Perry, the David M. Rubenstein Fellow at Brookings Institution, Continued on B2
Bowser a No Show but Gets Ward 8 Dems Nod Anyway D.C. Mayor Muriel Bowser didn’t attend the May 19 Ward 8 Democrats meeting but it appears she didn’t have to. She overwhelmingly got the organization’s endorsement in the upcoming election. The Ward 8 Democrats held a candidate’s endorsement forum for District of Columbia mayor, delegate to the U.S. Congress, and statehood senator at the Old Congress Heights School located on Martin Luther King Jr. Ave. in Southeast.
Photo by Lenore Adkins
District natives Angel Anderson and Tony Lewis Jr. gathered D.C. residents to showcase the true diversity of Washingtonians. See more photos from the shoot on page B3. By Lenore T. Adkins Special to the AFRO When Angel Anderson saw Washingtonian Magazine launch a social media campaign that did not include Black residents while claiming to represent the District of Columbia, the first call she made was to local activist Tony Lewis. “I felt neglected, just kind of left out and immediately, Tony and I got on the phone and we’re like, ‘We need to do something, we need to put out a counter image, a counter narrative,’ because there are Black people in D.C. and there are natives in D.C. and so it’s important for us to do this and use our social media platform,” Anderson told the AFRO. Together, the duo put together the “I’m Not a Tourist, I’m From Here” social media campaign. Its May 20 photo shoot brought hundreds of Black residents to Union Market, which Lewis dubbed “Old Florida Avenue Market” IN HONOR OF??? Dressed in Black T-shirts that read “Native,” “Chocolate City,” “I’m Not A Tourist. I’ve Been Here,” “So Southeast” and other messages, residents clapped back in a show of unity
against Washingtonian’s “I’m Not a Tourist. I Live Here” marketing campaign. Lewis and Anderson launched their counter campaign days after {Washingtonian} previewed its marketing campaign on Instagram that showed non-Black residents wearing T-shirts with the slogan, “I’m not a tourist. I live here.” The tone-deaf campaign drew widespread backlash over complaints that Washingtonian was attempting to whitewash the city, which is still majority Black, despite ongoing gentrification. The magazine eventually deleted the offending post and apologized for the lack of diversity. Lewis said he’ll keep the momentum going by mobilizing the photoshoot’s participants to fight for education, political representation, economic equity, safer neighborhoods and a better quality of life. “Pay attention, we’re still here,” Lewis told the AFRO. “We ain’t going nowhere.” The images from the “I’m not a tourist. I’ve been here” photoshoot are available on Anderson and Lewis’s Instagram handles, which are @TheSpiceSuite and @mrtonylewis. You can also find images using the hashtag #DCNATIVE.
“When you are invited, you show up.” – Ernest Johnson The only mayoral candidate that showed up was Ernest Johnson and he made it clear that the mayor should have been there. “When you are invited, you show up,” Johnson said. “I’m here. I showed up.” A campaign spokesman told the AFRO that Bowser “wasn’t feeling good” and decided to skip the forum, yet now it is known that the mayor was in the process of adopting a baby. In January 2014, Bowser got the most votes at the Ward Continued on B2
African and Caribbean After Fraud Allegations, Parents File Lawsuit Countries Score Big at Embassy Chef Challenge By Hamzat Sani, James Wright and Lenore Adkins Special to the AFRO
On May 23 Duke Ellington School of the Arts parents held a press conference laying out their grievances, frustrations and the details of a lawsuit against the Office of the State Superintendent of Education (OSSE). The lawsuit comes after an OSSE investigation found a third of the students had been enrolled as District residents although they lived elsewhere, thus dodging
tuition. The suit was filed by Ellington parent and lawyer,
Greg Smith, in the Superior Court of the District of Columbia May 21. According
to a press release, the purpose of the lawsuit was “to correct and delay an inefficient and ineffective auditing and investigative system that, unfortunately, has had a disproportionate impact on vulnerable families who are longtime D.C. residents.” The press conference revealed that in a appearance before D.C. Superior Court Judge Joan Zeldon, OSSE’s attorneys withdrew the letters. “Everybody’s letter has
Continued on B3
Trailblazing Civil Rights Lawyer, Dovey Johnson Roundtree, Dies at 104 Courtesy Photo
From left, chef Creig Greenidge, mixologist Philip Antoine and chef Sade Farrell all of the Embassy of Barbados, won the Best Beverage Award at the Events DC Embassy Chef Challenge May 17. By Lenore T. Adkins Special to the AFRO The Events DC Embassy Chef Challenge was a culinary smack down for the ages, netting several winners from the Caribbean and Africa who displayed their vision of culinary diplomacy to more than 1,200 guests. Embassy chefs were vying to win the celebrated People’s Choice and Judges Choice awards at the 10th anniversary contest on May 17 – judges hailed from diplomatic, culinary, cultural, and Continued on B2
By Brianna Rhodes Special to the AFRO Dovey Johnson Roundtree, one of the few African-American women lawyers who broke down barriers in law during the mid-20th century died in Charlotte, North Carolina May 21. Roundtree was 104 years old. Born in 1914, Roundtree was a pioneer in the field of law as well as many other sectors, such as ministry and the military. She played a major role in winning cases for Blacks and women in midcentury America, a time where segregation was still occuring and women were seen as the “weaker sex”.
According to a 1954 article from the AFRO, Roundtree was an attorney that believed that even in law, “Women should act like women and never try to be men.” “The male prosecutors give me hell when they can,” she said in the article. “But I don’t expect any breaks because I am a woman.” Roundtree held a bachelor’s degree in Biology from Spelman College. She taught school before she enlisted in the army. According to an article from The Flickr-SpelmanWebTeam New York Times, Roundtree became Dovey Johnson Roundtree (middle) with Dr. one of the first women of any race to Jane Smith (left) and Eloise Alexis (right) from be commissioned an Army officer. Continued on B2 Spelman College back in 2010
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The Afro-American, May 26, 2018 - June 1, 2018
Embassy Chef
Bowser
media circles. Chef Francis Otoo from the Embassy of Ghana won the second place People’s Choice and Judge’s Choice awards for his Lamb Jollof Rice. Meanwhile, Chef Jouvens Jean from the Embassy of the Republic of Haiti scored third place in the Judge’s Choice category for his Kabrit (goat) Kreyol served with Haitian cinnamon water. Africa and the Caribbean cleaned up in the 10th anniversary contest’s two new categories too. The Best Dressed Embassy Award went to the Embassy of the Kingdom of Morocco. The Best Beverage Award went to the Embassy of Barbados’ Chef Craig Greenidge and Mixologist Philip Antoine for their Drunken Bajan Lemonade. The sparkly purple lemonade, glows in the light and was incredibly popular, with people spending more than 20 minutes in line to try the drink. That prompted one guest to wonder if Rihanna was in the building (she wasn’t). Antoine
8 Democrats mayoral forum straw poll that added to her momentum to defeat incumbent Mayor Vincent Gray in the Democratic Party primary on April 1 of that year. Not only did Bowser not show up but another Democrat in the race, James Butler, did not participate in the forum because of a prior commitment. Bowser received 108 votes out of 126 that were counted. The Ward 8 Democrats bylaws state a candidate must get 60 percent of the vote to earn its support. “Mayor Bowser fights every day to build pathways to the middle class for residents in all eight wards,� Malik Williams, the Bowser campaign coordinator, said in a statement to the AFRO. “Now the Ward 8 Democrats have acknowledged that work and endorsed Muriel Bowser’s re-election so she can keep fighting for Ward 8 families and seniors.� Political observers say Butler and Johnson stand little chance of defeating Bowser in the June 19 Democratic Party primary because she has millions in campaign cash and a strong campaign organization, while the two men are running with limited funds and no major endorsements. D.C. Del. Eleanor Holmes Norton (D) and her party primary
Continued from B1
Continued from B1
“Today we can be able to celebrate united all in the name of cultural diversity.�
challenger, political newcomer Kim Ford, participated in the delegate’s candidate forum. At times it was spirited. Norton argued that she needs to be returned to the U.S. House of Representatives for the next session, which starts on Jan. 1, 2019, because there is a good chance that the Democrats will win control of that chamber. Norton has been the delegate to the U.S. House of Representatives since 1991. Ford, who said she has a great deal of respect for Norton, said it is time for change. “If you like the representation that we have on Capitol Hill, then stay with the status quo,� she said. Ford, a former Obama administration official, said she will work to have District students interning at federal government agencies and try to manage the student loan debt crisis fairly. Norton won the endorsement of the Ward 8 Democrats with 94 votes to 27 for Ford. D.C. Statehood Representative Franklin Garcia (D) has no opposition and easily got the 60 percent for the Ward 8 Democrats nod. However, there was no endorsement in the race for D.C. Statehood Senator that pits incumbent Michael Brown against political newcomer Andria Thomas. Thomas received 65 votes to Brown’s 34 but didn’t she didn’t meet the required 60
– Siyabulela Mandela told the AFRO he concocted the drink out of rum, butterfly pea flower, fresh mint, all spice, coconut extract and lots of love. The trophies were shaped like pineapples, the international symbol of hospitality. The event, held at the Ronald Reagan Building and International Trade Center, allowed guests to eat their way through 28 countries, including Jamaica, Cote d’Ivoire, and Ethiopia. Siyabulela Mandela, 25, a grandson of Nelson Mandela, the first Black president of South Africa, commended organizers for using food and drink to unite people from different cultures. He called the cook-off a nontraditional means for cultural diplomacy. “Today we can be able to celebrate unity all in the name of cultural diversity,� Mandela told the crowd as he donned Xhosa traditional attire from the one of the largest Black ethnic groups in South Africa. “I thank you, Wakanda forever.� Mandela is spending four months as a visiting scholar at George Mason University’s School of Conflict Analysis and Resolution, where he’s working on his doctorate in preventative diplomacy and the causes that give rise to violent conflicts. Like his late grandfather, the younger Mandela envisions an Africa at peace with itself. So, he’s educating himself to build on his grandfather’s legacy and will “probably fulfill his vision for Africa.� Mandela is also a professor for peace, security, and reconstruction and a doctoral candidate at Nelson Mandela University in South Africa. After stuffing their faces with international food and drinks, about two dozen people kept the party going at an after party. The soundtrack was extensive and included songs from Jay-Z, Rihanna, Shaggy and late Cuban salsa queen Celia Cruz.
Suspensions Continued from B1
a research think tank in Washington. Perry was part of a panel last week titled, “School to Prison Pipeline: Decriminalizing Public Education,� held at New America, a non-partisan think tank in Washington. The panel examined the alarming rate in which students --especially Black children --are disciplined, suspended or expelled from U.S. schools. The United States has the highest incarceration rate in the world and its prisons and jails are overwhelmingly filled with Black and Latino people. Nationally, 70 percent of students involved in inschool arrests or referred to law enforcement are Black or Latino.
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“It’s more about control of Black people when we see these structural constraints,� Perry said. “A lot of these structures and controls are because they are saying we don’t trust Black children as students in the classroom. All of this control is contributing to our school-to-prison pipeline.� Nationally, Black students are 3.5 times more likely to be suspended than White students, according to statistical matter furnished by the Greater Washington Urban League and the National Black Child Development Institute. “Kindergarteners are being suspended for biting or throwing things,� said Anise Walker, school climate specialist and restorative justice coordinator for the District of Columbia Public Schools. “But sometimes that’s what kindergarteners
do.� So, how do we get a handle on this issue of suspension overload? “The first thing we need is data, data, data,� said Tyra Mariani, executive vice president of New America. “You can’t develop a plan unless you have the data.� Quite often, the root of the problem is environment, especially for students who already have seen the worst of society at a very young and impressionable age. “They want you to act in a middle-class way without having middle-class money and resources,� Perry said. Dr. Ivory Toldson, editorin-chief of the “Journal of Negro Education� and a professor in the Howard University School of Education, added, “It’s not all about schools. We need to shut down bad policies, we need families to earn a
better wage, we need better housing.� Ameshia Cross, the panel moderator and director of policy and external relations at the National Black Child Development Institute said, “The time to fight for Black kids is always right now. Criminalizing students is intolerable. Schools should be places where students learn, grow, explore and not be an extension of Jim Crow.� May 17 marked the 64th anniversary of the Brown v. Board of Education U.S. Supreme Court ruling, which essentially outlawed forced segregation In the nation’s public school system. “But we have more segregated classrooms in 2018 than we did in the 1960s,� Cross said. “And to add insult to injury, classrooms have become entry points into the criminal justice system for Black students.�
Roundtree Continued from B1
When she reached the rank of captain, she recruited a number of African-American women for wartime Army service. That accomplishment wouldn’t be the only “firsts� Roundtree would achieve. According to The New York Times, she helped with the ban on racial segregation in interstate bus travel, was one of the first women to be ordained a minister in the African
Methodist Episcopal Church and she also became the first African-American admitted to the Women’s Bar Association in D.C., in spite of protests from members. Roundtree was also a founding partner of a D.C. firm called Roundtree, Knox, Hunter, & Parker back in 1970, which is still open today. Roundtree retired in her hometown of Charlotte where she lived until her death.
Fraud
Continued from B1 been withdrawn,� Smith told a gathering of 50 students and Ellington staff in front of the school. “It is my hope that they will work with us.� In their Complaint for A Declaratory Judgment, Temporary Restraining Order and Injunction, Ellington parents noted several issues with OSSE’s actions including not providing them with the mandatory notice of a 10 business day window to respond and have their case reviewed; a failure of the OSSE notice letter to let parents know that they did not have to un-enroll their student immediately, instead indicating that their children “thus is ineligible to attend a District school tuition-free.� The suit closely mirrored a letter drafted by Smith on behalf of Ellington Parents to D.C. State Superintendent of Education Hanseul Kang and cc’ing Mayor Bowser and members of City Council sent May 14. In it Smith alludes to an investigation that has alienated school officials, parents, students and administrators. The letter also asserts parents believe that Ellington was singled out and unfairly treated, as opposed to “exploring DCPS’s 90 schools equally, seeking wrongdoers citywide.� “OSSE focused its limited resources on Ellington, and then proceeded within our school on a guilty-until-proven-innocent approach,� the letter stated. The letter also notes that for the past five years OSSE itself has audited, cleared and signed off on all of Ellington’s students further confusing parents about why the agency would
now claim non-compliance. Smith alludes to a belief by some that there are ulterior motives at play citing the school’s recent reopening in affluent, predominantly White, Georgetown, while most students at the performing arts schools are Black. “While there is no mass incarceration from these latest events, there has been a similar demonization of this predominantly AfricanAmerican school.� Winston Clarke is a parent who received a letter from OSSE challenging his child’s residency and he was incensed. “The letter I received was telling me that I am a criminal,� Clarke said. “They were telling me I wasn’t a D.C. resident and they hand delivered the address to my D.C. home. I am a D.C. resident, my wife is a D.C. resident and so is my child. “I wished they could have simply asked me whether I was a D.C. resident. I am glad that everything was thrown out and we will have to wait for the next phase,� Clarke told the AFRO Though the initial letters were thrown out, Smith made it clear that parents whose children are enrolled in Ellington, but do not live in the District, should pay the tuition or leave. However, he said the process must be much better managed by OSSE. “They need to send the list to the school on who is there illegally,� he said. “We should also have access to the investigatory files and have the ability to meet with OSSE officials informally on this. We need for them to show us what you got.�
May 26, 2018 - June 1, 2018, The Afro-American
Women dancing to go-go
Yango Sawyer, 75
In response to the Washingtonian Magazine campaign which featured photos of only White District residents wearing shirts that read “I’M NOT A TOURIST. I LIVE HERE,” activist and influencer Tony Lewis Jr. and chef Angel Anderson rallied Washingtonians for a “D.C. Natives AFRO Washington, D.C. Photoshoot” to show the diversity of the city and Editor, Micha Green, combat the narrative perpetuated by the magazine. posing with the D.C. flag. On May 20 in Union Market, in Northeast, D.C., native Washingtonians donned all black, many with shirts and accessories alluding to District pride, posed for group and individual photos and shouted “D.C Native.” After the official photoshoot was complete, organizers turned on D.C.’s indigenous go-go music and held a block party.
Photos by Lenore Adkins and Micha Green Photoshoot organizers Angel Anderson, owner of the Spice Suite snack bar and Tony Lewis Jr.
Jimmi and Barney Barnwell with Loretta Franklin
Emma Ward, Miss Senior DC 2011, posing with the group
Poem, “Mother to Son” by Brother Michael Taylor
Ron Aldmont, owner of Check It Enterprises in Anacostia
Bowie State University Commencement On May 22, Bowie State University held its Spring 2018 Commencement at the Xfinity Center in College Park, Maryland. Bowie alumna, Eunique Jones Gibson, founder and publisher of Because of Them We Can, delivered the keynote address.
Israel Ibidapo, Senior Class President Dae’Quawn Landrum, Graduate Student Association President Eunique Jones Gibson, commencement speaker, Bowie State University alumna of 2007, founder and publisher of Because of Them We Can
Dr. Aminta H. Breaux , President of Bowie State University
Graduating Students Joe and Sue Briggs
Brothers Michael Taylor, Tim Lamb, Sheldon Schanck, Dion Chapman, Chester Keller, James Williams, Larry Pratt and Calvin Beidleman
Brother Pete Burnett(left) and Craig Spraggins(right) present special award to Dr. Lonise Bias, the keynote speaker
Guests who attended the celebration
Psi Alpha Alpha Chapter, Omega Psi Phi Fraternity hosted a tribute to mothers with the theme: A Celebration of Motherhood, We Exist Because of You on May 5 at The Waterford at Springfield in Springfield, Virginia. Dr. Lonise P. Bias, Founder of Bias Speaks, was the guest speaker and Sam Ford, Reporter, ABC7/ WJLA-TV, was the emcee. Brothers Tim Lamb, Sheldon Schanck and Cornelius Beidleman led the planning team for the celebration. Photos by Rob Roberts
Jerry Hubbard, Marlene Coleman, Janie Doctor, Geradine Woods and Brother Antonio Coleman
Craig Spraggins (standing) and Maurice Spraggins; Selam(right), Vernice and Marian Spraggins
Musical Selection by Nicholas McCatty
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Brother Conrado Morgan, 1st Vice District Representative, Third District, Omega Psi Phi Fraternity
Cornelius Beidleman, Cadleine Hudgins, Fairfax County Board of Superiors and Sam Ford, ABC7 News, emcee
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The Afro-American, May 26, 2018 - June 1, 2018
CHEVROLET AND NNPA JOIN TOGETHER TO OFFER HISTORICALLY BLACK COLLEGE AND UNIVERSITY STUDENTS A $15K FELLOWSHIP! The National Newspaper Publishers Association (NNPA) is excited to partner with the all-new 2018 Chevrolet Equinox to present Discover the Unexpected (DTU) – an amazing journalism fellowship. Selected DTU Fellows from Historically Black Colleges and Universities earn a $10,000 scholarship, $5,000 stipend and an exciting summer road trip in the all-new 2018 Chevrolet Equinox. Join our DTU Fellows on this multi-city journey as they discover unsung heroes and share stories from African-American communities that will surprise and inspire. DTU is back and better than ever! Are you ready to ride? #ChevyEquinox, #Chevy, #NNPA
#DTU2018
May 26, 2018 - June 1, 2018, The Afro-American
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ARTS & CULTURE
‘Breaking Big’ Set to Showcase Success
Trevor Noah, director Lee Daniels, actress Danai Gurira, cultural critic Roxane Gay, designer Christian Siriano and many more. Success is a subject Watson admits he has always been interested in. “I think if “Come here boy, you need a hug.” In a previous interview with you were a young Black boy growing up in America in a pre-Obama another publication, Carlos Watson revealed that this was the way world, in a place like Miami where sadly things weren’t always even his mother would greet him on the occasions when she was called steven, not only you, but your whole family, is focused on not only from work to come pick him up from school in the middle of the surviving but thriving,” he tells the AFRO. day for being disruptive. School officials would literally leave him The series will include analysis from eminent social scientists, on the sidewalk waiting for his mother to come retrieve him. She marketing experts, film critics, book editors and others to help viewers would sheathe whatever frustration she may have felt however, and understand the risk-taking and bold moves these journeys require. “I reinforce little Carlos’ self-esteem and emotional needs. realized,” he says, “that a lot of the old things that people might have Watson’s mother was a fixture at his schools not just because been taught years ago about how to break big such as hard work, she was summoned there when he was deemed unruly. She would honing your craft, really weren’t working anymore.” He wanted to find show up to repeatedly advocate for him when, even in spite of out what does work for today’s world and share that knowledge with overwhelming evidence to the contrary, schools would declare him his audience. Each episode is thirty minutes long and includes more “slow” and try to have him repeat grades. A ritual familiar to the than Watson going one on one with each guest. “Get a chance to go parents of many African-American men and women who eventually out and spend a couple of sessions with our profilees as well as their go on to success, are multiple trips to school to make a case for family and friends, competitors, mentors. So you really get a chance to your child’s intelligence and right to advance. get a 360 picture,” he says. The second of four children, Watson grew up in nineteenFrom the guests he’s already interviewed, he’s been surprised at seventies Miami. Despite his challenges, he eventually went on to some of the reasons they give for their success. “A couple of things attend Harvard University as an undergraduate and earned a law stood out,” he says. “I’ve been surprised at the extent that they degree from Stanford University. He was Managing Director in the encourage us to actively take risks. A lot of times what we hear in Investment Banking Division of The Goldman Sachs Group worked terms of trying to break big is in effect, ‘Play it safe, do the right thing, as a cable television journalist and founded several businesses. One (Courtesy photo) follow the trodden path.’ What I’ve heard Trevor Noah say, what I’ve of these is OZY Media, which has a news website and a production Carlos Watson’s new show on PBS ‘Breaking Big’ heard Danai Gurira say is ‘aggressively take risks.’ That’s not what company. The website is full of smart, insightful, forward-looking your Mom, Dad, Aunt etc. tell you.” will breakdown how successful people became content that is just ahead of the curve. His television programs “Breaking Big’s” subjects also allude to the fact that rapper successful. could be described that way as well. No wonder then Watson has Eminem was onto something when he sang “This opportunity comes previously won Emmy awards for his journalistic work on MSNBC once in a lifetime.” Says Watson, “One of the other things I hear them and CNN. say is ’make your first step, your best step’. Don’t save your best for last because sometimes in On June 15th, his latest show on PBS “Breaking Big.” debuts. A partnership between PBS those early days, you’ll have unexpected opportunities. A really powerful reviewer of plays may and OZY Media, it is a weekly deep dive into the lives of the successful such as Michael Strahan, only have that one chance to pop into that Off-Broadway show. That’s the moment when your By Nadine Matthews Special to the AFRO
Janet Jackson Shines at Billboard Music Awards
(Photo by Chris Pizzello/Invision/AP)
Icon award winner Janet Jackson performs a medley at the Billboard Music Awards at the MGM Grand Garden Arena in Las Vegas. By The Associated Press The 2018 Billboard Music Awards paid tribute to the students and teachers affected by recent deadly shootings in Texas and Florida, while the night also featured show-stopping performances by iconic singer Janet Jackson and K-pop group BTS. Shawn Mendes and Khalid were joined onstage by the Marjory Stoneman Douglas Show
Choir for the song “Youth,” a performance occurring three months after 17 people were killed at the school in Parkland, Florida. Mendes and the choir members wore sweaters that read “Youth,” while Khalid’s shirt read “Protect Our Guns Children” with “Guns” crossed out. The show wasn’t all somber though: Jackson rocked the Billboard Awards with an energetic and powerful performance of her past hits in an epic week that included her 52nd birthday and the 25th anniversary of her groundbreaking “janet.” album. In a glittery gold sweater-dress and thigh-high boots, Jackson sang “Nasty,” ‘’If” and “Throb” as audience members such as Ciara and Tyra Banks danced along at the MGM Grand Garden Arena in Las Vegas. Bruno Mars made a surprise appearance to introduce the singer, who earned the Icon Award. Jackson used her speech to pay tribute to powerful women. “Women have made it clear that we no longer will be controlled, manipulated or abused. I stand with those women and with those men equally outraged by discrimination who support us in heart and mind,” she said onstage. Ed Sheeran, who didn’t attend the show but performed from Dublin, won the night’s biggest honor — top artist — besting Mars, Drake, Kendrick Lamar and Taylor Swift. Luis Fonsi was passionate when he picked up top Hot 100 song for “Despacito,” the biggest hit of the last year which also included Daddy Yankee and Justin Bieber. “Thank you, guys, so much for embracing a mostly Spanish song,” he said. “This goes out to my Latino brothers, the immigrants ... to all of those when they say ‘Speak English,’ this goes out to you.” Camila Cabello won the chart achievement award and also won over the crowd with her performance of “Havana,” as audience members Mila Kunis and Rebel Wilson sang along and danced happily. Cabello’s former Fifth harmony bandmate, Normani, was fierce as she performed “Love Lies” alongside Khalid; Grande followed Clarkson’s emotional words with an energetic performance of “No Tears Left to Cry”; and John Legend’s performance ended with a photo of his new baby boy displayed on the large screens at the arena. Salt-N-Pepa closed the show with high-energy, performing the hits “Push It” and “Whatta Man” alongside R&B group En Vogue and even Clarkson.
SPORTS
NFL Teams Viewed Kaepernick as a Starting Quarterback By Perry Green AFRO Sports Editor pgreen@afro.com Colin Kaepernick’s lawyers have been building a collusion case against the NFL for nearly nine months now, and it looks like they may have finally put together enough evidence to prove Kaepernick was blacklisted from the league for kneeling during the playing of the National Anthem in protest of racism and police brutality. According to Pro Football Talk, internal franchise documents generated during the NFL’s free-agency evaluation process, along with witness testimonies gathered during depositions by Kaepernick’s lawyers, proved that several NFL team not only evaluated Kaepernick as good enough to play, but also viewed him as starting quarterback material. With this evidence, NFL owners can no longer
support the argument that Kaepernick hasn’t been signed simply because he isn’t talented enough anymore. Kaepernick’s lawyers now only need to prove that there was some form of coordination between teams to keep the former San Francisco 49ers quarterback from making a roster. But that may have already been proven when a secret recording of a meeting between owners, executives and players was revealed last month, exposing several owners advising the league to avoid the criticisms of President Donald Trump, who had blasted the league for allowing players to protest. Trump had also directly criticized Kaepernick, saying publicly that he or any other player who kneeled, should be “fired” from the league. Kaepernick’s lawyers perhaps need only to prove that the owners took Trump’s advice and coordinated their actions.
(AP Photo/Marcio Jose Sanchez)
Colin Kaepernick, left, was viewed as a starting quarterback by several NFL teams, contradicting previous statements teams made.
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The Afro-American, May 26, 2018 - June 1, 2018
Happy Graduates
Dr. David Wilson, president, Morgan State University
On May 19, nearly 1,000 candidates for the Bachelor’s degree braved the continuous heavy downpour of rain during Morgan State University’s 142nd Spring Commencement Exercises at Hughes Stadium. Philanthropist, community activist, renowned national radio show host, and advocate for HBCUs, Tom Joyner, was the keynote speaker for the commencement. Joyner challenged the graduates to, “Look out for each other, believe in and advocate for justice, give back to the University and your community.” Honorary degree recipients included Dr. Gloria Ladson-Billings, Stanley E. Nelson, an acclaimed documentary filmmaker, as well as the awarding of Doctor of Laws for Tom Joyner.
Honorable Kweisi Mfume, Chair, Board of Regents
Thomas Joyner, Radio Talk Show Host is conferred the Honorary Degree by Regent Chair Mfume and President Wilson
Dr. Mildred Huff Ofosu and Nina Hopkins The Honorary Degree, Doctor of Humane Letters is conferred upon Stanley E. Nelson Jr.
Rev. Dr. Frances Murphy Draper, vice chair, Board of Regents and CEO, Publisher of the AFRO
Class of 1968
Cheryl Hitchcock and Regent Dr.Marquis T. Walker Photos by Dr. A. Lois De Laine
On May 17, the James H. and Louise Hayley Gilliam Concert Hall of the Carl J. Murphy Fine Arts Center was crowded with family members and friends who came to celebrate the more than 200 students receiving their Doctoral and Master’s degrees. Two students gave salutes to the
graduates; doctoral candidate and cancer survivor, Tyrone Stanley challenged the graduates to “embrace your individuality and treat each
other with love and kindness,” and Jessica White implored the graduates to, “Make a difference in this world. Morgan has ingrained in us the characteristics with tools that will enable us to succeed in any environment.”
Jessica White, Master’s degree graduate gave a Salute to the graduates Dr. Glenda Prime and Dr. Patricia Welch, dean places the hood on Ph.D. candidate Avetta White
Tyrone Stanley, doctoral graduate gave a salute to the graduates
Dr. Carolyn Anderson, advisor with Doctor of Education candidate Debra Brooks
Senator Joan Carter Conway received her Master of Education degree
Professors and graduate advisors Dr. Michelle Bondima and Dr. Myrtle Dorsey
The Honorable Kweisi Mfume, chair, Board of Regents
Inaugural Online MSW Graduates Sakia Sanders, Danielle Baldwin, Shawanda Garner and Sensee George
Lakeisha Mixon, HBCU All Star received her MS in Social Work
Happy graduates with proud family member and friends Photos by Dr. A. Lois De Laine
Dr. David Wilson, president, Morgan State University
May 26, 2018 - June 1, 2018, The Afro-American
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Race and Politics
Baltimore County’s Message After Death of Officer Caprio is Unmistakable On May 21, Baltimore County Police Officer Amy Caprio was doing her job when she confronted Sean Yoes a male Baltimore AFRO in a Jeep suspected of Editor syoes@afro.com being part of a burglary in the Perry Hall community of Baltimore County. Caprio ordered the driver of the car, 16-year old Dawnta Harris to exit the Jeep. He didn’t; instead, Harris allegedly hit the accelerator and ran over Caprio where she stood, according to police. Officer Caprio, who would have celebrated four years in the department in July, died of her injuries at the Medstar Franklin Square Medical Center. The medical examiner ruled her death a homicide by multiple trauma to the head and torso. The death of Officer Caprio is a horrible tragedy; her family is never going to see her again and who knows what great things this
I realize that charging all of these boys as adults with murder, although only one is really guilty of running over Officer Caprio is legally tenable, but is it right? young woman could have accomplished in her life. But, that’s not where the tragedy ends in this case. Harris, if convicted will most likely take his last breath behind the walls of a correctional facility. Many believe that if that is Harris’ fate, then justice will be served. Others believe Harris deserves the death penalty and if Maryland still had the capital punishment statute still on the books, that should be his fate. All of the above may be true, but ultimately, Harris did what many 16-year olds do; he made a horrible choice, one that had catastrophic consequences. The three teen boys, ages 15, 16 and 17, that were allegedly robbing that house in Perry Hall, while Harris waited in the getaway vehicle, also made horrible choices and all three are also being charged as adults with felony murder and burglary, according to WBAL-TV investigative reporter Jayne Continued on D2
4 Teens Facing Murder Charges After Death of Balto. County Cop
opened the driver’s side door briefly, closed it, then accelerated towards Caprio striking her. Police say Harris abandoned the Jeep a few blocks away and fled by foot, but was caught by All four teens connected to the death of a Baltimore police a short time later. County police officer on May 21 are being charged as adults According to police, Caprio was set to go on a week’s with murder. Dawnta Anthony Harris, 16, of the 1600 block vacation with her husband, starting this weekend, to celebrate of Vincent Court in Gilmore their birthdays and third Homes in West Baltimore, has anniversary. been charged with first degree A man who identified murder. himself as Caprio’s father-in On May 23, the three other law, Dennis J. Caprio, stated in teens were also identified; a Facebook post, “Please pray Darrell Jaymar Ward, 15, of the for my daughter in law Amy. 2000 block of Ashland Ave., She is so special to us. Love Derrick Eugene Matthews, 16, her so much.” of the 200 block of S. Dallas According to court Ct., and Eugene Robert Genius documents, Harris allegedly IV, 17, of the 400 block of admitted to ‘driving at the N. Lakewood Rd. All four officer’, Matthews and Ward teens are currently being held admitted to burglary, but without bail at the Baltimore Genius declined to give a County Detention Center in statement and refused to agree Towson. Ward, Matthews and to the first degree murder Genius are also being charged charge saying he was in the Twitter with first degree burglary in house when Caprio was killed. addition to the murder charges, Dawnta Harris, 16, is being charged as an adult with first Harris had allegedly been according to court documents. degree murder in the killing of Baltimore County Police missing from home detention Officer First Class, Amy Caprio. Three other teen boys On May 23, veteran where he was wearing an have also been charged as adults in the killing of Officer Baltimore defense attorney ankle bracelet, since May 14, Caprio. Warren Brown announced he before his mother reported would represent Harris. him. Maryland Secretary Ward, Matthews, and Genius did not have attorneys listed in of Juvenile Services Sam Abed said May 22 during a press online court documents at press time. conference, “Every attempt was made to locate Harris.” Police allege Harris is responsible for multiple burglaries According to the Baltimore County State’s Attorney’s Office, and auto thefts over a three month span in the Perry Hall area, Harris served time in juvenile detention and community but court records do not list burglary as one of the charges programs before going missing from home detention. connected to the incident that killed Caprio. Funeral arrangements have been scheduled for Officer Caprio. According to the police,Baltimore County Police Officer Visitation will be May 24, from 2 p.m.-5 p.m. and 7 p.m.-9 p.m., First Class Amy Caprio, was killed when Harris struck her at Schimunek Funeral Home, 9705 Belair Rd., in Nottingham. with a Jeep Wrangler that was being used as a getaway vehicle The funeral service is May 25 from 10 a.m.-11 a.m. at while the other three teens robbed a residence at 3 Linwen Mountain Christian Church- New Life Center, 1802 Mountain Way. Caprio allegedly followed Harris in her police cruiser to a Road in Joppa, followed by a committal service at Dulaney cul de sac and demanded Harris exit the vehicle. He allegedly Valley Memorial Gardens in Timonium. By Michelle Richardson Special to the AFRO
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In Wake of Mounting Scandals, BPD Searches for Way Forward By Stephen Janis Special to the AFRO As the mayor conducts a national search for a new police commissioner, the damage done to the Baltimore Police Department (BPD), by a series of ongoing scandals has prompted much soul searching among politicians and activists alike. Recently, Commissioner Darryl DeSousa resigned after he was charged with failure to file tax returns for
Courtesy photo
The resignation of former Baltimore Police Commissioner Darryl De Sousa (seen here with Mayor Catherine Pugh during his swearing in ceremony) is the latest scandal rocking the embattled Baltimore Police Department.
Continued on D2
Dr. Lawrence Bell Dies
By AFRO Staff
Morning Star Baptist Church website
Morning Star Baptist Church, now located in Baltimore County, is celebrating its 122nd anniversary.
How Morning Star Baptist Church is Celebrating 122 Years By Joi Thomas Special to the AFRO If you have driven along Woodlawn Drive in the past four months, you may have noticed a beautiful, new church building that recently opened. That building is the home of Morning Star Baptist Church (MSBC), which moved from the city to Baltimore County in December of 2017. Morning Star celebrated their church anniversary, 122 years of serving God and His people, May 20.
One hundred twentytwo years of existence is something to celebrate. This year, the theme and focus for the church anniversary was “Faith Fest.” Bishop Dwayne Debnam, Pastor of the church, said Faith Fest is a celebration of what faith has done in the life of MSBC. “Faith has sustained us for 122 years. Faith allowed us to embark upon ministry expansion and so Faith Fest is what we do every year to celebrate the history of the church,” Debnam told the AFRO. Bishop Debnam has been
“We are thanking God that we are able to see faith in action as a church and on a personal level.” – Bishop Debnam
the Pastor of Morning Star for over 20 years. He said that this year was especially memorable. “It’s the first year in our new home and we are appreciating what faith has done and what God is doing in the life of the church. We are thanking God that we are able to see faith in action as a church and on a personal level.” Rev. Jimmy Baldwin, Pastor of Shiloh Christian Community Church in Baltimore, and Rev. Lewis Watson, Pastor of First Baptist Church of Salisbury, Maryland, were the guest preachers for anniversary Sunday at MSBC. Each service was full of energy and excitement as the choir, dancers, and congregation came together to give thanks to God for all he has done for
Continued on D2
Dr. Lawrence Bell, Jr., who operated a successful dental office at the corner of Auchentoroly Terrace and Gwynns Falls Parkway in West Baltimore for decades and was patriarch of a political family, died on May 18. He was 77. Bell was the second of five children born to the late Lawrence Bell, Sr. and Roxie Bell. Lawrence received Jesus Christ early in life, regularly attending The House of Prayer for All People with his family, and in recent years, reconfirmed his faith by being baptized at Christian Memorial Church. In 1958, Bell became the father of a daughter, Wanda (deceased). He received his early education in Baltimore City Public Schools, graduating from Frederick Douglass High School in 1960, and in the following year, welcomed his first-born son, Zane. Lawrence became the first in his family to attend college, attending Morgan State College, where he pursued a degree in biology. It was there that he met Elinor Willis, the love of his life and Dr. Lawrence Bell, Jr. wife of 57 years, whom he married in 1961. From this union was born two sons, Lawrence, III and Marshall. During his time at Morgan, Bell pledged Alpha Phi Omega Fraternity. In 1963 he received his Bachelor of Science degree in Biology. Bell was among the first African-American students to graduate from the University of Maryland, School of Dentistry, receiving his Doctor of Dental Surgery degree in 1974. After a brief period practicing at the Provident Druid Health Clinic on West North Avenue, and at an office on Duvall Avenue with his friend, Dr. Willie Richardson, Bell opened his own practice at the corner of Continued on D2
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Past Seven Days
107 2018 Total
Data as of May 23
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The Afro-American, May 26, 2018 - June 1, 2018
Race and Politics Continued from D1
Miller. I realize that charging all of these boys as adults with murder, although only one is really guilty of running over Officer Caprio is legally tenable, but is it right? Veteran Baltimore defense attorney A. Dwight Pettit says he saw a similar story play out almost 20 years ago. “In 2001, I had one of the biggest cases in Baltimore and the state of Maryland at the time,” Pettit told me over the phone. “Eric Stennett was allegedly shooting at somebody in West Baltimore...he fled police...he was doing 104 miles an hour in a Ford Bronco, he hits the officer, runs over the cop and kills him,” Pettit explained. Specifically, the police officer, 27-year old Kevon Gavin was killed when he pulled his police cruiser in front of Stennett driving the much larger vehicle at over 100 miles per hour. “They charged him (Stennett) with first degree murder, second degree murder and everything else,” recalled Pettit.
“There was no place for the vehicle to go traveling at 104 miles an hour, there was no intent no pre meditation.” The point Pettit is making is that police and prosecutors in all their zeal to throw the book at Stennett and get a conviction for killing a cop, made several mistakes in the investigation and the trial and overcharged Stennett. Ultimately, the jury acquitted Stennett, who was 18 at the time of the accident that killed Officer Gavin. “The jury...they just believed in their (police, prosecutors) haste, and emotional outcry didn’t present a case beyond a reasonable doubt,” Pettit said. Stennett did have another run in with the law according to Pettit after the incident where Officer Gavin was killed, but he appears to have steered clear of trouble ever since. “He’s grown up to be a very productive young man, who got a break because the jury acquitted him and changed his
life,” Pettit said. The four teens charged as adults with murder in the killing of Officer Caprio more than likely won’t get the chance Stennett got. “I think they are talking about felony murder and in Baltimore County that is not unreasonable, because it will be a conservative jury,” Pettit said. “They look at it as a political football and don’t think of the evidence and they dramatically over charge. It’s a political statement on behalf of police... crying out for blood and in Baltimore County they are going to have a very emotional judge and jury behind them.” Sean Yoes is the Baltimore AFRO Editor and host and executive producer of the AFRO First Edition video podcast, which airs Monday and Friday at 5:00 p.m. on the AFRO’s Facebook page.
BPD
Continued from D1 three years. And the fallout over the crimes of the Gun Trace Task Force continues to grow, as federal prosecutors are now investigating almost a decade’s worth of past crimes of the disbanded unit convicted of stealing overtime and robbing residents, among other crimes. The killing of Detective Sean Suiter, while he was on duty, last year remains unsolved. But, some say the seemingly intractable corruption is rooted in past mistakes; specifically, several pivotal failures to demand accountability of the BPD that is now coming back to haunt City Hall. Councilman Brandon Scott (D-2), has been one of the most vocal critics of City Hall’s inability to hold the department accountable. Chair of the council’s Public Safety Committee, for years Scott, also a candidate for Lt. Gov., has been an advocate for more civilian oversight of police. But it was in 2012 he says, that a failure to act on allegations of mishandling of police overtime pay may have set the stage for later problems. “That was the starting point for me,“ Scott said. The allegations focused on two commanders of the controversial now defunct unit called VCID (Violent Impact Crimes Division), a plain clothes unit that was later
the subject of multiple brutality lawsuits. Two supervisors, Deputy Majors Robert Quick and Ian Dombroski were accused of receiving overtime pay that their rank precluded them from earning. The State’s Attorney Office opened an investigation and the offices of VCID were raided. But, then State’s Attorney Gregg Bernstein promptly shut down the investigation and Janet Bledsoe, the prosecutor who led it was forced to resign. It was a critical moment for Scott, who was outraged by Bernstein’s actions and called for intervention by the Council. However, nothing happened, the first in a series of lapses he thinks coddled a culture within the department that led to more intractable problems later. “For me if we would have handled that case better, we may have been able to deal with the Gun Trace Task Force earlier,” Scott said. Since then Scott has tried to push legislation in Annapolis that would, among other things, change the police department from a state agency to city control. It is a move that would allow the Council to actually shape policy through legislation, not just advocate for change. But, each time he has tried to push bills aimed at police reform, including a relatively
Bell
Church
Continued from D1 Auchentoroly Terrace and Gwynns Falls Parkway, across from Druid Hill Park. It was there that he began to solidify his long legacy of providing quality dental care for the residents of Baltimore City, often with little regard for their means to pay. It was common knowledge that Dr. Bell would always find a way to help one receive the assistance they required. Along with his wife Elinor, a pillar of the community was built. Bell was an avid supporter of small businesses in the community, and was a longtime member of the Auchentoroly Terrace Association. Always the sharp dresser, Bell also enjoyed sharing good times with close friends and family. He could often be found socializing at the Sphinx Club on Pennsylvania Ave., or on his way to another exotic location around the globe, often vacationing with his close-knit extended family. He and Elinor, alone, were constant
modest move to overhaul the antiquated system of nine police districts, Scott has been rebuffed. “If a bill about police redistricting can’t even get a vote in the Senate, it tells you something is wrong and that there are other forces at play,” said Scott. But, the problem of a police department operating with little or no oversight goes back further, activists say. “I think the chickens have come home to roost,” former NAACP Baltimore Chapter President Marvin ‘Doc’ Cheatham told the AFRO. Cheatham points to the aftermath of the settlement won by the ACLU and his organization after they sued the department over its mass arrest policy in 2006. The lawsuit accused the department of illegally arresting tens of thousand of African-Americans under then Mayor Martin O’Malley. As part of the settlement, the department agreed to turn over arrest reports so that the plaintiffs could monitor compliance. But, Cheatham says from his perspective, the BPD failed to follow through. “None of us would have thought they would not have complied,” Cheatham said.
Continued from D1 jetsetters, blessed to have spent time together enjoying countless cultures, foods, sights and scenes in countries all around the world. Bell’s loyalty to and love for his family was boundless. In addition to membership in Alpha Phi Omega Fraternity,Baltimore Alumnae Chapter, and the Auchentoroly Terrace Association, Lawrence was a member of the National Dental Society, Inc., State of Maryland Chapter; member of the Frederick Douglass High School Alumnae Organization; and lifetime member of the NAACP, Baltimore City Chapter. Bell leaves to cherish his memory: his devoted wife, Elinor; sons, Zane Bell, Lawrence Bell, III, and Marshall Bell; grandchildren, Tylar, Kyle, and Jordan; brother, Kermit Golden, and sisters, Minnie Saunders, Carrie Johnson, and Lucinda ( “Sarah” ) Horsey; and a host of nieces, nephews, family, and friends.
Morning Star. As the church continues to be blessed, they also are a blessing to their new community. “Many new initiatives have begun, including a new food pantry, youth mentoring, partnerships with the local schools as well as an interfaith partnership,” Debnam said. The future looks bright for Morning Star. Soon they will be finishing phase one of their Family Life Center and moving forward with the vision of creating more space and opportunity to minister to the people God sends through their doors. It seems clear that faith has brought Morning Star Baptist Church through 122 years and will continue to sustain them in their future.
“But they did not comply with 80 percent of what they agreed to.” Ten years later Cheatham says he was not surprised when the Department of Justice (DOJ), found the department engaged in unconstitutional tactics aimed primarily at African-Americans. The findings were part of a scathing report that set the stage for the current consent decree between the DOJ and the city. “Had we been a little more careful to make sure they complied, maybe we could have avoided some of the problems now,” Cheatham says. “I think maybe we were too overjoyed we won the case.” The implications of the failure of the BPD to make promised reforms is not limited to curtailing abuse, Cheatham says. Lax oversight has also caused problems with the troubled agency’s ability to fight crime. “We have 14 open air drugs markets in the Matthew Henson Easterwood neighborhood. We told the police about it and nothing has happened.” Cheatham said. “They blame the consent decree, but it was the same before they signed the agreement. Nothing has changed.”
May 26, 2018 - June 1, 2018, The Afro-American
will be provided by Danny P, Mr. Music and the Golden Touch. For more information, call Derrick at 443-722-4100. Well, my dear friends, it has been a pleasure talking to you. I am out of space and out of time, just remember if you need me, call me at 410-833-9474 or email me at rosapryor@aol.com. Until the next time, I’m musically yours.
Boltonstock Festival Celebrates 4 Years Hello my friends, how are you? Well, I hope. I am doing great, thanks for asking. However, I have been going to so many funerals in the past few weeks and they’re still going. Every week I write my column it seems that I have to write a death notice. It’s a terrible situation! For example, a dear friend Rick Larry’s memorial service is next week. Rick was a member of 100 Black Men of Maryland. Then, I got the word that Dr. Lawrence Bell, Jr. passed away this week. My dear friends please keep both of these families in your prayers. Let’s talk about some happier stuff such as the Boltonstock Community Festival. Boltonstock 2018 is set for June 2, 6 p.m.-10 p.m. in Arnold Sumpter Park at Jordan and Laurens Sts. The hottest event of the summer will again feature delicious food and drinks, community engagement and a great lineup of local live music. And we must not forget that, along with the all the other vendors, yours truly will be there doing a book signing with both of my books. I will see you there. Well friends, I know by now you have heard that another one of our local landmarks is leaving us. I am talking about Expressions, books, art and custom framing store, located at 222 N. Paca St. The store, across from Lexington market, near the intersection of Paca and Saratoga, is closing its
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Rick Larry, former two-term president of 100 Black Men of Maryland and a member of the group from the beginning, passed away last week. Larry had over 30 years of service at the Social Security Administration. His funeral was held in Cincinnati, Oh. His memorial service given by 100 Black Men of Maryland will be June 2, at Huber Community Life Center, 5700 Loch Raven Blvd., noon-3 p.m.
doors for the last time May 31. I was told all items must go. After 31 years of serving the community Expressions is saying farewell. Expressions is where I had my first book signing in 2003 for my first book, African Entertainment in Baltimore, which many of you have renamed, The Pennsylvania Avenue Book. Owned and operated by the Evans family, Expressions has been a destination for people who sought high-quality custom framing, African American literature, collectibles, and figurines and so much more. The store is open 10 a.m.6 p.m., Monday through Saturday until they close for the last time on May 31. Now if you like Caribbean music (like me!), then I got something for you. “The Original Fun Seekers� will host a Carnival Jump Up on June 3, 7 p.m.-midnight, at Charm Baltimore, 407 E. Saratoga St. Music and entertainment
Margie Fleming Brinkley, also known as “Lady M,â€? will be honored by the community on May 26, at noon. She will be honored with a celebratory street sign in the 2700 block of E. Preston St., followed by a reception and birthday celebration at Fort Worthington Elementary/ Middle School #85, 2710 E. Hoffman St., 1 p.m.-5 p.m. Open to the public.Â
Rambling Rose and her Boo-Boo, Shorty Trusty, invite you to join us at the Boltonstock Festival located in Arnold Sumpter Park in Bolton Hill, on June 2, 6 p.m.-10 p.m. at Jordan and Laurens Sts.
We don’t just put you in a new home. We put you at ease.
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3.750% 3.910% RATE
ZERO POINTS
APR
15 YEARS
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D4
The Afro-American, May 26, 2018 - June 1, 2018
PAY WHAT YOU WANT WEDNESDAYS PURCHASE TICKETS INPERSON AT BMA BOX OFFICE | SUBJECT TO TIMED ENTRY AVAILABILITY
THE BALTIMORE MUSEUM OF ART
April 22–July 29, 2018 See the pioneering African American artist’s most personal work—hand-carved and assembled sculptures inspired by the materials and traditions of Africa and ancient Greece. PURCHASE TICKETS AT ARTBMA.ORG MEMBERS SEE IT FREEJOIN TODAY
This exhibition is organized by The Baltimore Museum of Art and The Metropolitan Museum of Art.
It is generously sponsored by The Alvin and Fanny B. Thalheimer Foundation, Suzanne F. Cohen, Anonymous, Heidi and Brian Berghuis, Amy L. Gould and Matthew S. Polk, Jr., Agnes Gund, Guy and
! ! " # ! Meadows, Clair Zamoiski Segal, Dorothy Wagner Wallis Charitable Trust, Eddie C. and C. Sylvia Brown, Eileen Harris Norton Foundation, Ilene and Michael Salcman, and Hauser & Wirth. Above: Whitten, Agia Galini, 1973.; Right: Jack Whitten. Detail, Homage to the Kri-Kri. 1985. Courtesy of the Artist’s Estate and Hauser & Wirth. Photography by Genevieve Hanson, NYC.