Chicago Weekend Citizen 9-23-2020

Y O U R S O U R C E F O R C O R O N AV I R U S N E W S

Citizen The Citizen: Serving The Black Community For 55 Years Week of Sept. 23, 2020

| Vol. 51 | No. 39 | www.citizennewspapergroup.com

CHICAGO WEEKEND

Truth, Racial Healing and Transformation has been conducting healing circles virtually since COVID-19 hit. To date, they have conducted 300 healing circles. Photo courtesy of Truth, Racial Healing and Transformation

RACIAL HEALING CIRCLES CONTINUE VIRTUALLY DURING COVID-19, BRING HOPE FOR SOLIDARITY Healing circles have long been a way for people to come together and express themselves with the hope of unburdening themselves and being healed. PAGE 2

Brand Launches Initiative to Support Black-Owned Businesses and Organizations

How to Make Kids’ Birthdays Special While Social Distancing

Newest trends for Black and Brown travelers presented at 7th Annual “State of Black Tourism” Event

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advertising@citizennewspapergroup.com thechicagocitizen@thechicagocitiz www.facebook.com/durrell.garth.9 www.citizennewspapergroup.com

2 | CITIZEN | Chicago Weekend | Week of Sept. 23, 2020

NEWS briefly EDUCATION PHI BETA SIGMA FRATERNITY, INC. DONATES $50,000 TO THE NAACP, FUNDS THE JAMES WELDON JOHNSON SCHOLARSHIP Phi Beta Sigma Fraternity, Inc. will donate $50,000 to the National Association for the Advancement of Colored People (NAACP) to fund the new James Weldon Johnson Scholarship.

The James Weldon Johnson Scholarship is named in honor of Bro. James Weldon Johnson, civil rights activist, author of “Lift Every Voice and Sing,” unofficially known as the “Negro National Anthem,” and former Executive Director of the NAACP from 1920 – 1930. The scholarship will provide support to students who exemplify Bro. Johnson’s commitment to social justice and community engagement. For more information, visit www.phibetasigma1914.org.

HEALTH

AARP BULLETIN REVEALS WHY WE GET SICK MORE OFTEN THAN PREVIOUS GENERATIONS Researchers into the human immune system are discovering that a host of environmental, lifestyle and medical issues not faced by previous generations are causing our immune systems to become routinely “dysregulated,” making older adults more susceptible to infections, including the coronavirus, according to a special report in the AARP Bulletin this month.

The report includes a unique five-part plan to lower your risk of infections and disease this winter, including a morning- to-night guide to bolstering your immunity, a list of six things never to do again, expert tips and more.

To learn more, visit www.aarp.org or follow @AARP and @ AARPadvocates

LAW & POLITICS

SUPREME COURT JUSTICE RUTH BADER GINSBURG, ‘A JURIST OF HISTORIC STATURE’ DIES AT 87 Associate Justice Ruth Bader Ginsburg died on Friday, September 18, surrounded by her family at her home in Washington, D.C., due to complications of metastatic pancreas cancer. She was 87 years old.

According to a press release, Justice Ginsburg was appointed to the Supreme Court by President Clinton in 1993. She was the second woman appointed to the Court and served more than 27 years.

Chief Justice John G. Roberts, Jr. said of Justice Ginsburg: “Our Nation has lost a jurist of historic stature. We at the Supreme Court have lost a cherished colleague. Today we mourn, but with confidence that future generations will remember Ruth Bader Ginsburg as we knew her -- a tireless and resolute champion of justice.”

Justice Ginsburg was born in Brooklyn, New York, March 15, 1933. She married Martin D. Ginsburg in 1954. She received her B.A. from Cornell University, attended Harvard Law School, and received her LL.B. from Columbia Law School. She served as a law clerk to the Honorable Edmund L. Palmieri, judge of the United States District Court for the Southern District of New York, from 1959–1961.

From 1961–1963, she was a research associate and then associate director of the Columbia Law School Project on International Procedure. She was a Professor of Law at Rutgers University School of Law from 1963–1972, and Columbia Law School from 1972–1980, and a fellow at the Center for Advanced Study in the Behavioral Sciences in Stanford, California from 1977–1978. In 1971, she was instrumental in launching the Women’s Rights Project of the American Civil Liberties Union, and served as the ACLU’s General Counsel from 1973–1980, and on the National Board of Directors from 1974–1980.

She was appointed a Judge of the United States Court of Appeals for the District of Columbia Circuit in 1980. During her more than 40 years as a Judge and a Justice, she was served by 159 law clerks.

While on the Court, the Justice authored My Own Words (2016), a compilation of her speeches and writings.

Truth, Racial Healing and Transformation hosts Affinity circles for groups with the hope that people are able to see themselves through others, and lead to seeing each other’s humanity.

Photo courtesy of Truth, Racial Healing and Transformation

Racial healing circles continue virtually during COVID-19, bring hope for solidarity Continued from page 1

BY TIA CAROL JONES

Healing circles have long been a way for people to come together and express themselves with the hope of unburdening themselves and being healed.

Truth, Racial Healing and Transformation has been conducting healing circles virtually due to COVID-19.

There have been 300 virtual healing circles since the pandemic began. The organization is also looking to train more circle keepers.

Jose Rico, director of Truth, Racial Healing and Transformation, said the healing circles methodology started with Dr. Gail C. Christopher, a mental health expert.

In 2017, Christopher launched an initiative to start conversations in almost 20 cities to reckon with the legacy of racism.

“The methodology that she created that we are using across the country is a racial healing methodology that acknowledges that racism has harmed us all, both individually and in our organizations and institutions,” Rico said.

He continued: “And, that it affects our ability to relate and value one another and really creates this false hierarchy that has stated for hundreds of years in this country, that white people are better and that whiteness is supreme to others and frankly, has also made a very clear anti-Black agenda and anti-Indigenous people agenda.”

Rico said racial healing circles address this hierarchy and allow people to share their personal stories. They also help people to see each other for who they are, allowing people to have conversations.

Rico said racial healing practitioners, Pilar Audain-Reed and www.citizennewspapergroup.com

Steven Rosado, and others are able to reconnect with humanity, celebrate resilience and develop accountability practices to tackle racism within communities, families, organizations and systems. Truth, Racial Healing and Transformation has been doing this work in Chicago since 2018.

Audain-Reed added it’s important for people—now more than ever, to recognize their commonality, especially Black and brown people and “to come together and really express what’s been bottled up inside, express the atrocities, express the day-to-day ongoings,” and what it means to be Black in America right now, she said. “The circle process is very crucial. It’s a free and open and safe space for Black people, brown people and even white people to come together amongst their own peers and really discuss what racism looks like today in our society.”

Audain-Reed said affinity circles have really been the focus of Truth, Racial Healing and Transformation and allow people to come together and talk about their role in the racial construct.

It’s been a really amazing process so far, she stated. “One of the things I love most is it provides a platform for us to see ourselves in one another. To really see the things we might have thought were so different about ourselves,” she added. “The Black and brown communities are so incredibly diverse with the ethnicities that exist and there are so many stigmas that we all know have been out upon our community through divide and conquer. What I love most is our ability to see ourselves in one another, to see our common struggle so that we can see that we are better and stronger together.”

Rosado said for the young people, the circles are radically different

than those for adults because young people’s experiences are so different in how they navigate the world.

“I think that is the biggest piece that is being brought into the circles. That understanding and that grounding that the circle’s really about bringing in our own individual experiences, but they connect in our humanity through those experiences,” he said.

Rico said with the virtual healing circles, he hopes empathy and the ability to be in relationships with other people result in the suffering of the most vulnerable, never happening again.

During the virtual healing circles, Rosado said one of the young people brought up the idea that Zoom eliminated the hierarchy and subordination because everyone appears in a box that is the same size.

Rico went on to say that since the pandemic, white people want to participate and have a conversation about racial healing and transformation.

However, he said they are very clear with them that it is not just about healing, it’s also about repairing.

Part of the repairing process, particularly for white people— is that they need to be very clear about their complicity in racism, Rico added.

White people also need to be very clear that the only way they’re going to be able to heal, is if they give up something—whether it’s their privilege, whether it’s their resources or the false belief that they are superior, he said.

But Rico added what they are learning as they move forward is that this is a process very few white people want to take. But that’s “such a necessary process,” he said. “Because that’s the only way we can truly be in solidarity.”

For more information, visit www. transformchi.com.

CITIZEN | Chicago Weekend | Week of Sept. 23, 2020

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NEWS BMO Unveils New Diversity and Representation Goals for Next Five Years

Tribeca Film Festival Emoji Documentary Premier

How the African-American Inventor of Diverse Emoji is Now Using Them to Take on COVID-19 As a kid, Katrina Parrott never dreamt she’d one day be breaking down racial barriers with emoji. In fact, as one of eight African-American siblings raised by a single mom, she wasn’t even expected to go to college.

But after defying the odds, graduating from American University and becoming a cross-functional leader in the aerospace industry, she had a classic a-ha moment: her daughter Katy, a Public Health PreMed student at UT, was texting someone and blurted out, “wouldn’t it be nice to have an emoji that looked like the person sending them?”

It was at that instant that Katrina was inspired to invent the world’s first diverse emoji called iDiversicons™. Finally, African-Americans and others had emojis that actually represented them, not someone else. Katrina’s hard-earned efforts in pioneering the five-skin tone emoji standard now used by Apple and Google were eventually highlighted in the documentary film Picture Character, which premiered at the Tribeca Film Festival and the American Film Institute DOCS, as well as countless other news publications across the country.

And today, as the Black Lives Matter movement coincides with the on-going COVID-19 pandemic, Katrina is using iDiversicons™ to not only help as many different people as possible express themselves, but to also encourage everyone to wash their hands and wear a mask—two simple acts, but also two of the most effective ways to stop the insidious Coronavirus in its tracks.

Now, you can download the iDi-

Katrina Parrott

versicons™ app and send the handwashing and mask emoji to friends and loved ones. While you’re at it, you can also send emoji featuring various ethnic groups, gender neutral, gender equality, hairstyles, religions, fraternities, celebrities, sports figures, holidays, mascots, disabilities, political affiliations, and more.

To watch the COVID-19 “Want to Stop the Spread of Coronavirus?” video, click on link: https://drive.google.com/ file/d/1ckcJWTyESnmHlelJ4j1lR7zJ_ e9FQmgR/view iDiversicons™ emoji and the new iOS animated 5-skin tone handwashing and mask GIFs are currently available for purchase from the Apple App Store at https://apps.apple.com/ us/app/idiversicons-worlds-first/ id947572946. Coming soon will be the new iDiversicons Android Sticker App in the Google Play Store.

BMO Financial Group has new, five-year, diversity goals to address gaps affecting Black, Indigenous, People of Colour, Latino, and LGBTQ2+ employees, customers, and communities. The Zero Barriers to Inclusion 2025 goals reflect an ambitious expansion of the multi-year diversity strategy last set in 2017.

New benchmarks and plans include doubling enterprise-wide representation of Black senior leaders, accelerating Indigenous talent strategies, introducing an LGBTQ2+ representation goal, and sustaining a strong gender equity position.

“Our commitment to create a more inclusive society is unwavering, and our renewed diversity strategy is one of the ways we’re driving meaningful change for our employees, customers, and local communities,” said Darryl White, chief executive officer, BMO Financial Group. “These ambitious goals will help us achieve our vision of eliminating barriers to inclusion in society, by directly addressing gaps in representation across our organization and the financial services industry to create opportunities for all.”

BMO’s Zero Barriers to Inclusion Strategy and Workforce Representation Goals BMO’s renewed diversity strategy focuses on underrepresented employees, with yearly milestones set in order to reach the Zero Barriers to Inclusion 2025 goals, which include: Increasing representation of Black employees in senior leadership roles to 3.5 per cent and 7 per cent in Canada and the U.S., respectively Increasing representation of People of Colour employees in senior leadership roles to 30 per cent or greater in Canada and the U.S., respectively Increasing representation of Latino employees in senior leadership roles to 7 per cent in the U.S. Sustaining their current gender equity position with a range of 40 to 60 per cent representation in senior leadership roles across the organization Increasing representation of Black and Latino interns and entry-level employees to 30 per cent in the U.S., and ensuring 40 per cent of student opportunities in Canada are directed to BIPOC youth Increasing representation of Indigenous Peoples across their workforce in Canada to 1.6 per cent www.citizennewspapergroup.com

Increasing representation of persons with disabilities within a range of 5 to 7 per cent of their workforce Introducing an LGBTQ2+ representation goal of 3 per cent of their workforce Having achieved four out of five goals from their previous workforce diversity strategy, the new benchmarks were developed with a combination of inputs, including data-driven trends, labour market availability, and internal and external environmental factors.

These goals will be reviewed on an ongoing basis by the bank’s Performance Committee, chaired by White, according to a news release.

Investing in Colleagues, Customers, and Communities BMO’s Zero Barriers to Inclusion 2025 strategy is also focused on providing access to opportunities and enabling growth for their colleagues, customers, and the communities they serve.

Internally, they are committed to continuing the diversification of the composition of their workforce and ensuring an equitable employee experience. Ongoing strategies to accelerate these key initiatives include: Creation of the Black and Latino Advisory Council, focusing on employee experience, advancement, and engagement of Black and Latino talent through dedicated taskforces and partnerships with BMO’s Enterprise Resource Groups (ERGs), including the Black Professionals Network ERG and the Leadership Committee for Inclusion and Diversity (LCID).

Focus on a culture of inclusion through learning with development programs that build the leadership pipeline for Black, Indigenous, and People of Colour (BIPOC) talent; Indigenous history and culture education available across the organization; access to relevant and timely racial injustice education materials, dedicated resources website, and e-learning programs; as well as 40 per cent of student opportunities directed to BIPOC youth.

Continuous action from the Indigenous Advisory Council (IAC), comprised of Chiefs and Indigenous leaders from across Canada, informing BMO policies and practices with a focus on education, employment, and economic empowerment.

Creation of a dedicated Indigenous Talent Strategies team that is identifying and resolving barriers to recruitment, development, and retention.

BMO remains focused on

supporting minority-owned businesses as part of their overall diversity strategy, the news release stated. Efforts to create meaningful change for customers and communities include: Partnering with Canadian business leaders to launch the Black Opportunity Fund, offering Black businesses and organizations long-term capital by attracting investment from the business community, philanthropists, and government.

Creating inclusive banking products and services to meet the diverse needs of Black and Latino business owners and customers.

Providing improved access to financial products and services in Indigenous communities across Canada through 13 full-service branches, one business office on-reserve, and 20 ABMs. Expanding Supplier Diversity Council enterprise-wide to ensure spending with diverse suppliers and partners that positively affect local communities.

Supporting disadvantaged communities through previously announced donations, including $1 million to North American organizations focused on social and racial injustice; $10 million to the United Way of Metro Chicago’s Neighborhood Network in support of the Chicago Mayor’s INVEST South/West initiative focused on addressing economic disparity; $10 million partnership with United Way Greater Toronto to foster inclusive economic opportunities; and $3 million to the Montreal Children’s Hospital Foundation, in support of Minnie’s Hope Social Pediatric Centre for the Cree community of Whapmagoostui and the Inuit community of Kuujjuaraapik on the southern shore of Hudson Bay. Ongoing action connected to the Canadian Council of Business Leaders Against Anti-Black Systemic Racism’s CEO Pledge, which was endorsed by White and aligns with the bank’s plans related to the representation and advancement, education, collaboration with the Black community, and setting conditions for success.

Continued support of efforts by the Chicago City Treasurer’s Office and the Illinois State Treasurer’s Office to address the need for greater equity and opportunity for Black communities in the financial service industry.

For more information on BMO’s commitment to diversity and inclusion, visit: https://corporate-responsibility.bmo.com/.

4 | CITIZEN | Chicago Weekend | Week of Sept. 23, 2020

BUSINESS

GreenTek Packaging Launches First-Ever Non-Plastic Disposable Utensils Made from Hemp Made from all natural elements, including U.S.-grown industrial hemp, GreenTek Packaging LLC’s newly launched Hemptensils™ is the first in-kind brand of plant-based disposable utensils that, unlike wasteful plastic end-use products, won’t harm the environment, according to a news release.

Developed by engineer and GreenTek Founder Jordan Hinshaw, Hemptensil forks, spoons, and knives are 100 percent bio-based (they have no petroleum) and are compostable, meaning they can break down heat and bacteria into water, air, and carbon dioxide. However, if the products were to end up in a landfill, they would not be devastating to the environment. The products also have a shelf life of more than four years. GreenTek is currently selling Hemptensils products on ecommerce channels, including its own website, Amazon, and the new “Shop” channels on Facebook and Instagram.

Additionally, GreenTek puts a major focus on sustainable production, as well as building American communities, farms, and manufacturing in accordance with the federal legalization of industrial hemp (less than 0.3 percent tetrahydrocannabinol) for a stronger, greener economic future. The company partners with growers in California, Kentucky, and North Dakota and is additionally in talks with a few other co-ops that represent hundreds of acres of hemp in the Midwest to see what can be done with their waste profiles.

Never has there been greater uncertainty as to the future of the American economy, but purchasing domestically produced hemp enriches both the consumer and the nation.

“There are 40 billion single use utensils used in America every year, of which barely nine percent are recycled. And considering the fact that businesses are using more plastic during the COVID-19 pandemic than they previously were, there could be more plastic than fish in the ocean by 2050,” said Hinshaw.

“Hemptensils offers a sustainable alternative that leans into the reality of our failing recycling systems to minimize our impact. Using Hemptensils greatly reduces the amount of plastic produced, and as a result, reduces the amount of long term waste created. Plus, working solely with American hemp growers gives us the ability to strengthen our economy.

Essentially, by using Hemptensils products, consumers and businesses can play their part to create both a greener, healthier future and a much more sustainable economy.”

Hemptensils

GreenTek purchases processed, decorticated hemp that has been converted into petroleum-free hemp pellets to produce its Hemptensils products. At its facility in Long Beach, the company combines pellets with decomposition accelerating enzymes, heats the mixture, and then injection-presses it into a custom mold.

In addition to Hemptensils, GreenTek manufactures hemp polymer cosmetic containers and secondary packaging products. The hemp polymer cosmetic containers offer an innovative solution to the billions of temporary plastic containers produced only to be thrown away. And, from exterior hemp paper boxes to compostable shipping labels, seals, and stickers, GreenTek’s secondary packaging products provide the essential accessories for purists and enthusiasts alike. GreenTek’s design team also offers additional custom, bio-based packaging options at best-in-class pricing.

GreenTek is working on inking multiple distribution deals to get its product into grocers and restaurants. The company currently has a partnership with Follow The Leader Distribution, which is based in Vancouver, British Columbia in Canada.

GreenTek also has plans to start selling new hemp straw products.

Those interested in staying updated on GreenTek’s new product launches should follow the company on Facebook @ ShopHemptensils, on Instagram @shophemptensils, on Twitter @GreenTekPlanet, and on LinkedIn (GreenTek Packaging, LLC).

Jordan Hinshaw

“WE FULLY INTEND TO SUPPORT BLACK-OWNED ENTREPRENEURS IN MEANINGFUL WAYS THAT LEAD TO GROWTH WHILE ENCOURAGING AND RECYCLING THE BLACK DOLLAR IN OUR COMMUNITY,” SAID GABRIELLE UNION. “THE SUCCESS OF THE FLAWLESS BRAND IS IMPORTANT TO ME, BUT SO IS ENSURING THAT WE ARE ACTIVELY CONTRIBUTING OUR REACH AND RESOURCES TO HELP EMPOWER OTHERS.”

Brand Launches Initiative to Support Black-Owned Businesses and Organizations Award-winning actress, producer and co-founder of Flawless by Gabrielle Union, Gabrielle Union, and celebrity hairstylist and business partner Larry Sims, recently announced the launch of the “Lift As We Climb” initiative in support of black-owned businesses and community organizations.

It is estimated that almost half of black-owned businesses will not survive the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic, which has far-reaching and devastating consequences in communities and families.

As a majority black-owned business, Flawless by Gabrielle Union will lend its support to others by highlighting black-owned brands across its social channels and webpages to elevate visibility and opportunities for these entities.

Consumers can learn more about each brand and purchase products from them through Gabrielle Union’s celebrity page on Amazon.com.

The initial group of Black-owned brands selected to highlight and ‘lift’ include: Mented Cosmetics, award-winning non-toxic cosmetics

line for all skin tones and pigments; Darlyng & Co, an innovative baby and children’s brand offering natural and non-toxic products; Honey Pot, the first natural and plant-based feminine care system; and BLK and Bold, a specialty coffee and tea brand.

An added component of the “Lift As We Climb” initiative is the brand’s support of the Black Women www.citizennewspapergroup.com

Health’s Imperative, the only national non-profit organization dedicated solely to the health and wellness of Black women and girls. A portion of proceeds of eligible purchases will be donated to the non-profit organization in collaboration with the Amazon Smile Foundation.

“We fully intend to support black-owned entrepreneurs in meaningful ways that lead to growth while encouraging and recycling the Black dollar in our community,” said Gabrielle Union. “The success of the Flawless brand is important to me,

but so is ensuring that we are actively contributing our reach and resources to help empower others.”

The “Lift As We Climb” initiative is a year-round effort that will continue to feature community organizations, small businesses, thought leaders, entrepreneurs, and business mentorship opportunities as Flawless

by Gabrielle Union expands.

For additional information about the participating brands and organizations, please visit Flawless by Gabrielle Union store on Amazon. com.

CITIZEN | Chicago Weekend | Week of Sept. 23, 2020

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Citi has a long-standing commitment to closing the racial wealth gap, and now with Action for Racial Equity, we are launching more than $1 billion in strategic initiatives to accelerate those efforts across our lines of business.

These efforts will provide greater access to banking and credit in communities of color, increase investment in Black-owned businesses, expand homeownership among Black Americans and advance anti-racist practices in the financial services industry. That way communities of color can build a stronger economic presence and progress towards a future that we can all believe in.

Learn more about Citi’s Action for Racial Equity at Citigroup.com/racialequity

Š 2020 Citigroup Inc. Citi and Citi with Arc Design are registered service marks of Citigroup Inc.

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6 | CITIZEN | Chicago Weekend | Week of Sept. 23, 2020

NEWS

How to Make Kids’ Birthdays Special While Social Distancing StatePoint - While some of the traditions of a typical birthday are not possible these days, parents can find new ways to celebrate these important milestones. Here are a few ideas for making your child’s upcoming birthday feel special: • Host a Virtual Party: Use video conferencing tools to host a party for your child. Consider picking a theme or activity for the event.

Start with a meet and greet and then dive right in -- from painting and pottery to sing-alongs and science projects, there are many fun themes that work well from a distance. Remember to tell all your guests in advance what they will need to participate or even drop off pre-made goody bags with supplies and snacks to celebrate.

• Plan a Drive-by Birthday Parade: These days, drive-by celebration parades are all the rage for graduations, birthdays and more -and this is for good reason. What better way to honor a special occasion than by seeing everyone you love? Tell friends and family what time to drive by, encouraging participants to use signs, music, balloons and banners to make a splash.

• Request Cards: Make a secret request to

friends and family asking them to send cards in the mail. Kids love receiving mail, especially on their birthdays. Alternatively, ask loved ones to create video greetings or other electronic messages.

• Give Fun Gifts: Don’t forget the presents!

Colorful, interactive toys will brighten the occasion, making your child’s birthday and year to come special. Consider Myla’s Sparkling Friends from VTech, a new collection of interactive toys that talk, sing and light up with a kaleidoscope of colors. With flapping wings and tail feathers that wag, colorful accessories and unique songs and sayings, this line -which includes Mia the Unicorn, Ava the Fox, Penny the Peacock and more – is packed with value at a great giftable price.

• Take an Outing: Parents comfortable doing so might consider planning a socially distanced picnic in the park. Bring your child’s favorite foods, treats and games for a fun-filled day.

Birthdays may look a bit different this year, but that doesn’t mean your family can’t celebrate. Virtual parties, gifts and special greetings can give your child a sense of normalcy and make them feel special on their birthday.

Virtual parties, gifts and special greetings can give your child a sense of normalcy and make them feel special on their birthday.

BUILD BACK BETTER

JOBS AND ECONOMIC RECOVERY AGENDA Joe Biden believes we cannot build back better without a major mobilization of effort and resources to advance racial equity across the American economy.

Visit joebiden.com/racial-economic-equity to learn more PAID FOR BY BIDEN FOR PRESIDENT

www.citizennewspapergroup.com

CITIZEN | Chicago Weekend | Week of Sept. 23, 2020

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HBCUs are more than an education.

They are a legacy.

It's the place you become; where you're uplifted by past generations. It's your family's history and newfound family's future. It's your HBCU. That’s why Xfinity recognizes the legacy, community, and importance of HBCUs. And, now that gatherings are a little different, it's time to reconnect to the culture. Just say, "HBCU," into your Xfinity Voice Remote to experience more HBCU.

Visit xfinity.com/discovermore to learn more.

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Restrictions apply. Not available in all areas. Requires Xfinity TV with X1. Š2020 Comcast. All rights reserved.

8 | CITIZEN | Chicago Weekend | Week of Sept. 23, 2020

NEWS Newest trends for Black and Brown travelers presented at 7th Annual “State of Black Tourism” Event The National Coalition of Black Meeting Professionals (NCBMP) recently presented its 7th Annual “State of Black Tourism” event on September 17, in partnership with the National Press Club.

Known as one of the preeminent organizations in the hospitality industry, NCBMP’s annual “State of Black Tourism” included a virtual convening that featured the leading hospitality executives in the industry, along with elected officials, who presented the newest trends for Black and Brown travelers in the U.S. and around the world.

Additionally, the virtual convening discussed current practices that affect Black hospitality professionals as well as the overall impact on the industry post Covid19 and George Floyd.

The 7th Annual “State of Black Tourism” is supported by the NCBMP national partners who include Greater Fort Lauderdale Convention & Visitors Bureau, Richmond Region Tourism, Greater Miami Convention & Visitors Bureau, and regmatch. For more information, visit www.ncbmp. com.

The National Coalition of Black Meeting Professionals (NCBMP), founded in 1983, is a non-profit organization dedicated to the training needs of Black hospitality professionals, and more, that support Black meetings and events.

Since its founding, NCBMP has

www.citizennewspapergroup.com

The National Coalition of Black Meeting Professionals (NCBMP), founded in 1983, is a non-profit organization dedicated to the training needs of Black hospitality professionals, and more, that support Black meetings and events.

KNOWN AS ONE OF THE PREEMINENT ORGANIZATIONS IN THE HOSPITALITY INDUSTRY, NCBMP’S ANNUAL “STATE OF BLACK TOURISM” INCLUDED A VIRTUAL CONVENING WHERE PRESENTERS DISCUSSED THE NEWEST TRENDS FOR BLACK AND BROWN TRAVELERS IN THE U.S. made a significant impact in the hospitality community by advocating for equity and helping members maximize their return on investments.

CITIZEN | Chicago Weekend | Week of Sept. 23, 2020

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ENTERTAINMENT

Bass Reeves: A Legend In His Own Time, A Hero In Ours First Black U.S. Marshall Gets Hero Journey

Bass Reeves Episode 2 Cover

One-hundred-ten years after his death, the story of the first black US Marshal arrives at Walmart in a new comic book published by Allegiance Arts & Entertainment. Kevin Grevioux, actor-writer and creator of the Underworld and I, Frankenstein film franchises, weaves hard-hitting Western action and soulful drama in six chapters vividly illustrated

by David Williams (Batman, Superman, Wolverine).

Released in bi-monthly installments, Bass Reeves provides a long-overdue look at a legend whose story may be more relevant now than ever.

Born into the humblest of conditions, Bass Reeves rose to fame as a paragon of justice, dragging the most hardcore outlaws from the wild and unforgiving Oklahoma Territories. It was terrain he mastered as an escaped slave, along with at least three tribal languages.

As the first black US marshal west of the Mississippi, he literally and figuratively cast a long shadow, using wit and a reputation as a tireless tracker to capture more than

3,000 fugitives, a record that stands to this day. He traded his marshal badge for a police badge at an age when police today are long since retired. And though he was an expert marksman, it is likely his reputation kept the peace.

The first arc in the Allegiance Arts saga draws on Bass’s legendary encounter with a notorious outlaw who wields superstition with a flare that echoes Bass’s penchant for guile.

Meanwhile, a fight for the soul of the Reeves family is brewing as a rebellious son threatens everything the legendary lawman stands for.

Bass Reeves takes an introspective look at the survival of faith and family in the face of ever-present danger, a tale with increasing relevance in our own time.

Bass Reeves is one of four flagship titles from Little Rockbased publisher Allegiance Arts & Entertainment. The first two blockbuster installments arrived this summer at nationwide Walmart locations and on walmart.com.

Digital editions are available at allegiancearts.com.

Bass Reeves (left) and Bass Reeves Episode 1 cover (right)

Writer Kevin Grevioux (left) and Artist David Williams (right)

A Faith Based Film On Racial Reconciliation Premiers In Theaters Despite Covid-19 “My Brothers’ Crossing” is a spiritually uplifting film that depicts a true story about a black pastor who unintentionally has a head on collision with his car into a motorcycle killing a white couple shortly after the Missouri riots in August 2014.

My Brothers’ Crossing is based on the book, “In the Blink of an Eye: Forgiveness in Black and White” and tells the story of the tragic death of motorcycle bikers Bobby and Pam Clark. The story unfolds from the perspective of Bobby’s brother, J.T. Clark, of whose on-screen character is played by award-winning actor Daniel Roebuck (The Fugitive, Getting Grace). Clark eventually forgives C.J. Martin, the black man who killed his brother and is played by veteran actor James Black (Godzilla, Days of our Lives).

The story dives deeper than just forgiveness, it also chronicles the journey of J.T.’s salvation during the turmoil of losing his brother. Clark stated that it’s like one of those stories you wouldn’t believe unless it happened to you.

Movieguide gives the movie 3 out of 4 stars and says it’s an inspiring story about the power of forgiveness, loving your neighbor and the importance of God.

The movie transcends human forgiveness and redemption, a much needed story amidst the current coronavirus pandemic, protests and economic chaos currently in the US today. Film director Ricky Borba says the film couldn’t have come out at a better time.

“The film was initially set to premiere in theaters last fall, but we are very thankful it was delayed and is hitting theaters now when this country so desperately needs healing across all racial lines.”

Borba went on to say, “I really believe God saved the film to premier for such a time as this.”

Actor Black was moved by not just the forgiveness element of the story, but also said, “the fact that after the Clark family forgave the Martin family, they loved them unconditionally.”

Borba said that he only had about two weeks to prepare for the directing of the movie, whereas with his prior directorial debut faith based film, “The Talking Tree,” — he had 18 months to prepare. Having such a short period of time to prepare created a unique set of challenges but he said it also created an incredible bond among the crew to work together as a team. Borba beamed that he couldn’t be more proud of the performances on screen and behind the scenes.

The movie was produced by Tony and Edna White, and executive produced by Reverend Samuel Rodriquez, who co-produced the film “Breakthrough” in 2019. Rodriguez says the story of forgiveness is timely in a way that cannot be a mere coincidence.

“Especially at a time when we are confronted with the unresolved problem of racism in America, our nation needs to remember that forgiveness can eclipse our racial divisions and heal even our deepest wounds.” Rodriquez continued, “I am honored to be part of such a powerful and compelling film, one that shares the hope of transformation for individuals and entire communities through the power of Jesus Christ.”

My Brothers’ Crossing is being distributed

by Atlas Distribution and is in several hundred Regal and AMC theaters across the US. The trailer for the film can be seen here: https://www.youtube.com/ watch?v=6D9PSeGQBxA Tickets for the film can be purchased here: https://www.regmovies.com/movies/mybrothers-crossing https://www.amctheatres.com/movies/mybrothers-crossing-64447

www.citizennewspapergroup.com

“My Brothers’ Crossing” is a spiritually uplifting film that depicts a true story about a black pastor who unintentionally has a head on collision with his car into a motorcycle killing a white couple shortly after the Missouri riots in August 2014.

https://www.fandango.com/my-brotherscrossing-223115/movie-overview Follow the movie on Facebook at: https:// www.facebook.com/mybrotherscrossing/

10 | CITIZEN | Chicago Weekend | Week of Sept. 23, 2020

HOME

4 options for an ideal outdoor space: Pick the one that's right for you (BPT) - If you dream of the perfect outdoor living space for relaxing with a good book in the shade, entertaining family in your outdoor kitchen, playing with the kids in the sunshine - or just breathing in the sights and sounds of nature in your own personal oasis - here are some tips to help kickstart the planning process when the time is right for you.

Modern landscaping and hardscaping offer limitless possibilities, so you can find the right solution to complement the way you live and your personal tastes. Whether you want a stylish lounge area for entertaining, a green-filled hideaway for connecting with nature, or a clean, minimal space for family fun and games, you can make it happen using a combination of pavers, walls, fire pits or even full outdoor kitchens.

Channel your imagination, with a little pro advice, to help you create an outdoor space that is perfect for your family, budget and home. One great resource is Collections by Belgard, which offers outdoor designers, contractors and homeowners a way to virtually re-imagine their outdoor space by pairing the right textures and colors to match the home's style - as well as the homeowner's vision.

First, spend a little time with your dream, nailing down what type of outdoor space you really want.

What do you most want to do in your outdoor space, and what style best expresses your vision and personality?

Relaxed entertaining center Maybe your dream sanctuary is a cozy fire pit surrounded by lounge seating to create a comfortable outdoor living room family and guests can enjoy day or night.

Or perhaps you want to dazzle guests with your culinary skills at a complete outdoor kitchen - including fun extras like a smoker, wine cooler or brick pizza oven.

Plan the exact features you want before choosing the style, and you can make your dreams come true.

Cozy natural retreat Create a space for unwinding from the week's stresses. Could you arrange a trellis or pergola bursting with plants and flowers to set your retreat apart from the rest of the yard? You could install relaxing hammocks or a serene fountain to complete your oasis.

Then choose hardscaping elements to work hand in hand with your favorite natural elements. For example, Belgard's Natural Collection provides hardscaping with the look of slates and worn stone that can set the tone for your special hideaway.

Eye-catching extension of your living space Whatever plans you have for hardscapes, furnishings, appliances and more, consider the overall ambiance you want to create. Consider not only the natural environment, but what style best complements your home's aesthetic.

Want a more aged, rustic appearance to suit your traditional style home? The antique, tumbled look of features from the Heritage Collection combined with elements from the Natural Collection may suit that style.

Focus on family fun Maybe your dream is to add outdoor recreation areas for you and your family. Consider making space for giant stacking blocks, life-size checkers or chess, cornhole or ring toss. How about a mini hedge maze or paver labyrinth?

Then use the existing feel of your home's exterior as the basis for your stylistic www.citizennewspapergroup.com

direction. You could go for a traditional, old-world aesthetic or combine traditional items with the more modern-looking Metropolitan Collection to add warmth to your contemporary space.

Homeowners and outdoor designers can work together to mix and match a variety of textures, colors and styles to create an outdoor space that suits any landscape - creating an extension of your home to make all your summer dreams come true.

Visit Belgard.com/summer for more design ideas and inspiration.

CITIZEN | Chicago Weekend | Week of Sept. 23, 2020

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12 | CITIZEN | Chicago Weekend | Week of Sept. 23, 2020

Hope.

It’s our greatest feature.

It all started in 1998 when a group of Hyundai dealers wanted to make a difference for kids facing cancer.

Their idea blossomed into Hyundai Hope On Wheels®. Now, every time a new Hyundai is sold a portion goes to Hyundai Hope On Wheels to help fight childhood cancer. To date, over $172 million and 1,000 grants have gone to support research at children’s hospitals with the hope of finding a cure. And during the COVID-19 crisis, Hyundai has also donated $4.4 million for drive-thru testing to help expedite diagnosis for health-compromised and at-risk children. September is Childhood Cancer Awareness Month, a good time to remember that hope is our greatest feature. And it comes standard on every Hyundai.

Model pictured for illustrative purposes only. For every new Hyundai vehicle purchased, $14 is donated by Hyundai to Hyundai Hope On Wheels. Funds are used for pediatric cancer research grants and to raise public awareness.

For more info visit HyundaiHopeOnWheels.org. Hyundai is a registered trademark of Hyundai Motor Company. All rights reserved. ©2020 Hyundai Motor America.