CNW 1/11/2023 - 1/17/2023

E notes

Chicago News Weekly

Cheryl Mainor Norman President & Publisher

Kai EL’ Zabar Editor In Chief Terri Winston Vice President Darnell Pulphus Art Director

Editors

Danielle Sanders Managing Editor

Sterling Caprico

Fashion Editor

Marti Worell

Arts & Culture Editor

Staff Writers

Dr. Sharice Braford

Liz Lampkin

Marcus Bouldin

David Pierce

Tammy Gibson

Theresa Horton

Wanda Wright

Marti Worell

Mila K. Marshall, PhD

Contributors

NNPA Newswire

Mare Evans

Tiana Allen

Shaneen Murray

Cover Photography

Worsom Robinson

8348 S Stony Island Avenue Chicago, IL 60617 (773) 437-3096

Vol. 1 No 14 Wednesday, January 11s, 2023

Chicago News Weekly is published weekly on Wednesday. www.cnwmedia.com

chicagonewsweekly@gmail.com

chicagonewsweeklyeditorial@gmail.com

Subscription $52 year

FROM DREAM TO NIGHTMARE

As we approach the celebration of a man who lived his adulthood in sacrifice for the vision he saw for Black people and the human race, to be treated and valued as human beings. I have to pause and address what’s on everybody’s lips-- but what about what’s on your mind? So, before I do that let’s acknowledge Reverend Dr. Martin Luther King Jr., whose journey on earth ended on April 4, 1968.

Did you know King’s death resulted in the temporary suspension of the 1968 presidential campaign? The Academy Awards ceremony was postponed. Businesses, schools, and other public buildings were closed. April 7 was declared a national day of mourning by President Johnson. His life gives a whole new meaning to what a true ‘disrupter,’ is.

KING WAS NO PUNK

And no, I am not going to go down that road of “I have a Dream.” I rather enlighten you and share that one year prior to his assassination, on April 4, 1967, the day he delivered a speech in New York entitled “Beyond Vietnam.” He pointed out that the war effort was “taking the Black young men who had been crippled by our society and sending them eight thousand miles away to guarantee liberties in Southeast Asia which they had not found in southwest Georgia and East Harlem. And so, we have been repeatedly faced with the cruel irony of watching Negro and white boys on TV screens as they kill and die together for a nation that has been unable to seat them together in the same schools.”

He addressed what the naysayers had said to him . . . “Over the past two years, as I have moved to break the betrayal of my own silences and to speak from the burnings of my own heart, as I have called for radical departures from the destruction of Vietnam, many persons have questioned me about the wisdom of my path. At the heart of their concerns this query has often loomed large and loud: “Why are you speaking about the war, Dr. King?” “Why are you joining the voices of dissent?” “Peace and civil rights don’t mix,” they say. “Aren’t you hurting the cause of your people,” they ask? And when I hear them, though I often understand the source of their concern. . . .I come to this platform tonight to make a passionate plea to my beloved nation. This speech is addressed to the United States.”

The following year, as Dr. King, engaged in the planning for the Poor People’s Campaign, death threats were escalating. Yet he decided that he needed to see through his commitment to the effort in Memphis; Sanitation workers—most of whom were African American and received a paltry wage of about $1.00 per hour—planned a strike for better wages and working conditions.

King had come to see the struggle in Memphis as emblematic of the objectives of the Poor People’s Campaign. He also recognized that being poor was not limited to Blacks, so he reached out to

the white workers as well. Their positive response threatened the white power hierarchy.

King was no stranger to death threats, but they had increased since he emphasized his opposition to the Vietnam War and then sought to bond with poor whites. Such is the sacrifice of such a visionary.

Do you see where I’m going? This man’s life was dedicated to our freedom as a people to be totally self-expressed, not to have us mimic and copy the Whites who have been relentless in their egregious and horrific acts of terrorism toward Blacks. So, the act of voting which gives us the power to protect our interests is important. Not voting always aids and abets the opponent. In our case, the enemy—the new Republican party, so broken yet evil and diabolical that living inside America with them is akin to being in an asylum for the insane.

CONCLUSION

After the inside philosophical arguments, and actual physical attacks amongst themselves, Kevin McCarthy became speaker after the 15th ballot, a total, unheard of since before the Civil War. The vote was 216 to 212 for Re. Hakeem Jeffries (D-NY) with six voting ‘present.

Though it took 15 votes attempts before the man who would be King got the absolute majority of votes necessary to be elected speaker of the House, it was worth it. The price he paid, was steep. In other words, McCarthy will be more of a constitutional figurehead than a powerful party leader. The upside? He’s second in line to be President should God forbid something happens to President Biden and Vice President Kamala Harris. Let us pray not. But be clear, the mess has begun.

And if you didn’t vote. . . . don’t you dare complain. You didn’t earn that right.

Kai EL’ Zabar Editor-in-Chief

photo credit: Dot Ward

Let’s Talk About Sex in the Church

Liz Lampkin CNW Staff Writer

Growing up in church, children and young adults are taught so many things. How to pray, the books of the Bible, how to be kind to others, and how to show love. While these and other principles of religion are valuable lessons for living a life that pleases God these aren’t the only lessons that students of the church should be educated in. Sex. Yes, sex. Leaders, elders, and adults of the church failed and are failing to teach young adults and children about sex from a biblical perspective. For some reason, it seems as though the church has made any aspect of sex taboo, or forbidden to teach about when in fact this is one subject that deserves more traction. So why does the church avoid the topic of sex? For starters, there are so many distorted images of sex and numerous ideals about what sex is that it’s difficult to decipher what it truly is and its purpose according to denominational beliefs. Pornography, sexual curiosity and the lack of controlling it, being uncomfortable with discussing the many aspects of sex, and inadequacy of knowledge of sexual intimacy are often reasons why sex is considered a restricted subject for discussion in the walls of the church. However, these reasons are the very reasons why conversations and lessons on the truth about sex from a biblical or religious point of view should be priority teachings amongst churchgoers. Here are a few other reasons why sex must be a consistent topic in the church.

Times when sex is mentioned in Church

• Sermons on adultery.

• Sermons about premarital sex and why it is forbidden.

• Abstaining from sex or remaining pure for singles.

• When acts of fornication are committed.

Fighting lusts of the flesh.

•

Looking at these all too familiar topics, it seems as though sex is viewed in a negative light in the church simply because these are the areas where leaders are comfortable with discussing sex and intimacy. This narrative must change. Here’s why.

Why Sex Must be Discussed Openly in Church

• Lessons and candid, yet respectful discussions about sex can and will teach young adults and adults about why sex was created.

• Discussions can make young parishioners comfortable with their body changes and curiosity, be unashamed of their thoughts and seek guidance from others on how to control them. Is this to say that sexual thoughts and curiosity should be encouraged by the church? No, but it is to say that young believers should be comfortable enough to discuss their sexual curiosity with the elders of the church without being judged.

• Knowing who created sex and its purposes will make young and older believers comfortable with discovering and discussing it for themselves.

• It will help individuals learn about the importance of intimacy before and during the marriage. Many married couples struggle with intimacy as one because the beauty of sex and sexual intimacy is not taught in church (or at home) from an individual perspective.

• It is important to discuss sexual intimacy amongst believers and learn from each other to provide guidance and support. This does not have to be an exercise of kiss and tell, but it can serve as lessons in intimate discussions to help those in need.

What Leaders can do to Effectively Begin the Conversation:

• Become comfortable with discussing sex from all aspects to reach every member. Churches are composed of members of all ages. It is the leader’s responsibility to reach everyone where they are when it comes to sex and sexuality.

• Have an in-depth understanding of what sex is, who created it and why it was created. Many leaders are so focused on sin-driven sex that they often fail to overlook its beauty and spirituality of it.

• Be transparent and non-judgmental. We are sexual beings. We know Who created us. There is no need for judging others for the way they feel or act upon their sexual feelings.

• Create a safe and open space for parishioners of all ages to speak freely of their wonders and insecurities about sex and sexuality.

• Help believers recognize that sex is a natural part of life and creation and that it serves a positive purpose. Everyone struggles with sex and sexuality in the church from married couples who can’t connect intimately, singles who want to live upright but give in to sexual desires, and leaders who are often tempted to step outside of their commitment or struggle within their own marriages. It is no secret that sex exists. It should not be kept a secret in sacred spaces, because it is a sacred act and the beauty of it should be discussed from all aspects. Let’s start talking about sex more in the church for all that it is, not just what’s comfortable.

Liz Lampkin is a Lifestyle, Love, and Relationships writer. Follow her on social media @Liz_Lampkin.

Hot topics

Elle Moxley on the Inclusion of Black LGBTQ+ Communities in Black Resistance Movements

Danielle Sanders CNW Managing Editor

Bayard Rustin, Pauli Murray, Alvin Ailey, Audre Lorde, James Baldwin, Barbara Jordan, and Marsha P. Johnson are just some of many members from the LGBTQ+ community who have exhibited forms of Black Resistance in their art and their work. From Pauli Murray whose 1944 Howard University paper became the basis for the Brown vs Board of Education Supreme Court case argued by classmate Thurgood Marshall, to Bayard Rustin who organized the 1963 March on Washington to the founders of the Black Lives Matter movement, Black Queer activists, artists, and community leaders have fought in black resistance movements since the early 1900s. Whether through art, politics, or advocacy it’s hard to deny the impact of the Black Queer Community when it comes to social justice.

Elle Moxley is a Black liberation artist, speaker, writer, and transgender rights activist. A freedom fighter, advocating for Black Trans Lives and multicultural women’s stories, she has led campaigns including “Raise The Debate,” #SayHerName National Day of Action, and the first-ever National Day of Action for Black Trans Women in 2015. She has been recognized in Essence’s Woke 100, The Root 100’s Most Influential African Americans, and Avenue Magazine’s Power List 100.

In Dec.2022, the DuSable Museum hosted “The Color is Fashion Exhibition” which discussed the black resistance movement in fashion. The “Power in Presentation” panel was led by Elle Moxley with panelists Nick and Jack Cave, and Michaela Angela Davis and discussed how self-identity, Black lives matter, hip-hop, and other Black movements intersect in the discussion of Black art resistance. Moxley says celebrating the work of artists, Nick and Jack Cave was an incredible opportunity.

“Fashion has given so many people opportunities to express themselves in ways that they might not be able to, verbally or spiritually. So, what Nick and Jack created was not only fashion art but fashion art that told a story about the plight of not only Black people but the plight of Black trans and queer people. We were honored to participate as the lead sponsor.”

"The Color Is" exhibition included 40-45 couture looks and fashion objects created by Nick Cave and Jack Cave and a number of specialty collaborators. According to both Nick and Jack Cave, the clothing is genderless. "I am proud to be able to showcase so many facets of the Black experience through fashion, especially alongside my brother, Nick, "said Jack Cave. "The process of being able to combine both of our individual styles and work them into one fluid exhibit that educates and celebrates everything from sustainability, queer liberation, and Black presence in mainstream high fashion has been an honor.”

Moxley founded the Marsha P. Johnson Institute to support advocacy for the Black Trans Community. The institute works on social justice issues specifically those involving racial, gender, and reproductive justice in addition to gun violence. Moxley said the foundation was birthed out of her own lived experience. “I wanted to

make sure that the movement that I had been a part of had a place to live, specifically the contributions of Black trans people to the larger movements that were forming across us globally. It made sense to have an organization to support this type of advocacy.”

The institute works to protect and defend the rights of Black transgender people in the U.S. through advocacy, coalition building, and building their capacity. According to the Harvard Civil Rights-Civil Liberties Law Review, “hate crimes against transgender and gender-nonconforming individuals have been on the rise for years. In addition, studies show that Black trans people have an unemployment rate twice as high as all racial and ethnic backgrounds in the trans community and four times as high as the general population. Homeless rates and suicide rates are also extremely higher than the national average in the Black trans community.

It is these alarming statistics that drive the work of the Marsha P. Johnson Institute. The institute launched several programs to support Black transgender individuals. In 2022, they launched a digital resource map that includes support, resources, and information in almost every state in the U.S. The list includes resources like housing, food security, legal and financial support, COVID-19 relief, health/wellness, employment, social support, and more listed by state and organized by asset. The institute also offers The Marsha P. Johnson Fellowship program which is centered on the arts and community organizing. They also have the Starship artist Fellowship where artists will work to create pieces that reflect their vision for a Black Trans Renaissance and the Organizing Fellowship which builds the capacity of organizers in the Midwest and in the South fighting back against the murders of trans women, unjust local and national laws that strip trans people of humanity, homelessness, joblessness, and high rates of suicide.

For more information on the Marsha P. Johnson Institute visit their website at www.marshap.org.

Photo Credit: Irvin Rivera Photography

West Side Heroin/Opioid Task Force to Offer Recovery Training

CNW Staff Report

Convened in 2016 by State Representative La Shawn K. Ford, IL-8, and coordinated by Prevention Partnership since July 2019, the West Side Heroin/Opioid Task Force brings together community-based agencies (CBO), governmental entities, health care providers, and persons with lived experience to confront the epidemic of opioid overdoses and resultant deaths in Chicago’s West Side communities. A key element of the project to date has been the project’s communications plan which is aligned with best practices for public health communications as described by the Centers for Disease Control (CDC) and the World Health Organization (WHO).

The Task Force Outreach Team provides on-site training on how to respond to overdoses and provides the overdose reversal drug naloxone, also called Narcan, in its nasal-spray form. The team works in collaboration with organizations that provide

treatment and support for those with Opioid Use Disorder. These organizations assist individuals in receiving Medicine-Assisted Treatment, which relieves withdrawal symptoms and allows them to safely begin recovery.

“The Constant flow of the deadly drug fentanyl continues to flood streets in communities across America,” said Ford. The West Side Heroin and Opioid Task Force team continues to be on a mission to help prevent fatal overdose death on Chicago’s West Side. I urge concerned residents to take advantage of free training to save a life from a fatal drug Overdose and pick up a free Narcan kit.”

All outreach starts at 10 AM, based on weather conditions, unless otherwise noted. For more information about the team or about how you or someone you care about can receive treatment for their Opioid Use Disorder, contact: Contact – Luther Syas – Director of Outreach 773-230-7281 or westsidetaskforce@yahoo.com

City News King Holiday Celebrations Around the City

Chicago Cubs Convention Returns

CNW Staff Report

The 36th Annual Cubs Convention returns to the Sheraton Grand Chicago January 13-15, 2023, for a fun-filled weekend featuring new surprises along with fan-favorite activities such as autograph opportunities with players, coaches, and alumni, engaging sessions, kid-friendly activities, Cubs Bingo presented by Budweiser and more.

The fan convention will kick off Friday at 5 p.m. CST with Marquee Sports Network: Red Carpet Special, a college gameday-inspired show, followed by Opening Ceremony featuring remarks from Cubs Executive Chairman Tom Ricketts, the announcement of the Chicago Cubs Hall of Fame Class of 2023, and player and alumni introductions. Guests can then enjoy some laughs during the late-night-style talk show, Off the Mound with Ryan Dempster presented by Budweiser.

Saturday’s schedule will feature informative sessions including the Business Operations Update presented by Wintrust, Baseball Operations Update, Ross and the Coaches, On the Mound with Jim Deshaies and members of the Cubs pitching staff, and a session with the Ricketts family. Cubs outfielder Ian Happ will host a live recording of The Compound podcast and long-time Cubs Convention favorite, the Kids Only Press Conference presented by Advocate Children’s Hospital, which will return midday, hosted by Cubs infielder Patrick Wisdom. Fans can get to know Cubs minor league prospects including Kevin Alcántara, Miguel Amaya, Ben Brown, Owen Caissie, Pete Crow-Armstrong, Brennen Davis, DJ Herz, Ed Howard, Ryan Jensen, Matt Mervis, Jordan Nwogu, Daniel Palencia, Chase Strumpf, and Jordan Wicks during The Road to Wrigley session. Cubs Bingo presented by Budweiser will follow as well as a new Cubs Convention addition, Harry Carayoke, where fans can belt it out like the beloved broadcaster.

Sunday will be dedicated to young aspiring ballplayers with a special youth baseball and softball clinic where attendees will learn the basics from hitting to pitching and fielding, all led by current Cubs players and alumni, and coaches from the Cubs RBI program.

New display rooms featuring never-before-seen jerseys, bats, baseballs, trophies, awards, and more from within the Cubs Archives collection will be showcased Friday and Saturday only. Notable items from the collection include the 1876, 1907, 1908, and 2016 Championship trophies, Ernie Banks’ 1958 and 1959 MVP Awards, Greg Maddux’s 1992 Cy Young Award, and Ron Santo’s 1969 game-used jersey.

All-access weekend passes are currently on sale. This pass provides three-day access to all activities and experiences offered at the Sheraton Grand Chicago, pending availability. There is a limit of six all-access weekend passes per household. Hotel packages also are available for purchase and include the opportunity to purchase up to four discounted all-access weekend passes.

To purchase hotel packages, and all-access weekend passes or to view the current Cubs Convention schedule, please visit www. cubs.com/convention. A portion of the proceeds will benefit Cubs Charities and its mission to mobilize the power of sport to champion youth, families, and communities.

Liz Lampkin CNW Staff Writer

Every third Monday of the month of January, the world takes time to celebrate a baptist minister, social activist, and the leader of the civil rights movement the Reverend Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Cities and states across the country pause to remember his life and legacy by hosting programs, listening to his many famous speeches/sermons and watching documentaries about his life. Many also see and use this holiday as a day of service. As the holiday vastly approaches, the city of Chicago and surrounding areas are gearing up for another day and weekend filled with celebrations to pay homage to and remember Dr. King. If you don’t have any plans to celebrate and remember Dr. King or you don’t know where to start, take a look at the list below to find out where, when, and how you can commemorate him on this day.

The Union League Club of Chicago will host its annual luncheon to honor and celebrate Dr. King’s legacy.

Join the Union League Club of Chicago at this annual event that will offer an opportunity to reflect on Dr. King’s legacy. This year’s keynote speaker is former Evanston Alderman Robin Rue Simmons.

Date: Friday, January 13, 2023 Time: 11:30 am- 1:30 pm

Location: Union League Club of Chicago, 65 W. Jackson Boulevard Attire: Smart Casual Cost: $35.00

The Chicago History Museum is hosting a Family Event for all ages.

Join the Chicago History Museum staff as they reflect on the life and legacy of Dr. King through family-friendly activities and performances for all ages.

Date: Monday, January 16, 2023

Time: 10:30 am- 3:30 pm

Location: The Chicago History Museum, 1601N. Clark Street

Cost: Admission is free on this day for Illinois residents. RSVPs are not required but are appreciated.

Live Storytelling: Freedom Stories at the Kusanya Cafe’

Join Sonny Speaks at this live storytelling event that will commemorate the Life & Legacy of Rev Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.

Date: Monday, January 16, 2023

Time: 11:00 am- 1:00 pm

Location: Kusanya Cafe, 825 W 69th St, Chicago

Cost: Admission is free.

Lawndale Christian Legal Center: MLK Celebration Housing is Violence Prevention

Join the members of the Lawndale Christian Legal Center as they celebrate Dr. King’s work of

the past, discuss the work taking place in North Lawndale, and the opportunities before us in the areas of housing and economic development.

Date: Monday, January 16, 2023

Time: 12:00 pm -2:00 pm

Location: Lawndale Christian Legal Center, 1530 South Hamlin Avenue

Cost: A donation of your choice will secure a ticket to the event.

33rd Annual Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Celebration: PUSH for Excellence Scholarship and Program Breakfast

Join the members of PUSH Excel as they celebrate Dr. King’s legacy while honoring future scholars.

Date: Monday, January 16, 2023

Time: 8:00 am -11:00 am

Location: Marriott Marquis Chicago, 2121 South Prairie Avenue

Cost: Individual tickets cost $150. Ticket sales end on January 15, 2023

Martin Luther King, Jr. Day Intro to Nonviolence Principles & Act of Service

Come out and join the Institute for Nonviolence Chicago for two hours as they introduce Building the Beloved Community using Dr. King’s Principles and Steps of Nonviolence.

Date: Monday, January, 16 2023

Time: 10:00 am to 1:00 pm

Location: 819 N Leamington Ave, 819 North Leamington Avenue, Chicago

Cost: Admission is free, but you must reserve your spot on Eventbrite.

All ages are welcome, and lunch will be provided.

MLK Family Project

Join the staff of the Bridge Teen Center and create memories and celebrate the legacy of Dr.King. Date: Monday, January 16, 2023

Time: 2:00 pm- 4:00 pm

Location: The Bridge Teen Center, 15555 71st Ct, Orland Park

Cost: Admission is free

Family members aged 10 and older are welcome to participate. A representative from families must sign up in advance. To sign up, email volunteer@ thebridgeteencenter.org, or call 708.532.0500.

MLK Day of Service 2023

Join You Matter 2 as they prepare lunches for South Suburban PADS and tie blankets for Project Kennedy!

Date: Monday, January 16, 2023

Time: 10:00 am- 12:00 pm

Location: Heather Hill Elementary School 1439 Lawrence Crescent Flossmoor, IL

Cost: Free, but it is recommended that you reserve a spot on Eventbrite.

These are just a few events and happenings that will occur to honor the memory of one of the greatest civil rights leaders known to mankind. However, you choose to celebrate, make it a day that brings you closer to your family and community in honor of the Reverend Dr. Martin Luther King.

Liz Lampkin is a Lifestyle, Love, and Relationships writer. Follow her on social media @Liz_Lampkin.

Mamie and Emmett Till Awarded Congressional Gold Medal

Tammy Gibson CNW Staff Writer

Last month, Congress unanimously passed a bill to posthumously award the Congressional Gold Medal to Mamie and Emmett Till. S.450, the Emmett Till and Mamie Till-Mobley Congressional Gold Medal Act of 2021, was passed by the Senate unanimously in January 2022. The House version (H.R. 2252) of the bill was introduced by Rep. Bobby Rush (D-IL), who also sponsored a bill to honor Mamie Till-Mobley with a commemorative postage stamp. “Emmett’s lynching shaped my understanding of racism at an early age and deeply affected Black Americans of my generation and those that followed. Earlier this year, we acknowledged the tragedy of Emmett’s lynching by making lynching a specific federal crime under the Anti-lynching Act. We are now honoring his mother for her courage and commitment, which deserves national recognition. Today’s victory would not be possible without the Till Family and the Emmett Till Justice Campaign, whose work has led us to this moment,” says Rush. The legislation is awaiting President Joe Biden’s signature.

The bill was co-lead by Rep. Don Bacon (R-Neb.). Senators Cory Booker (D-NJ) and Richard Burr (R-NC) served as Senate leads. The award comes months after President Joe Biden signed the Emmett Till Anti-lynching Act into law, making lynchings a federal hate crime. The anti-lynching bill failed in Congress over 200 times since 1900.

Recipients who have received the highest civilian honor include Jackie Robinson, Rosa Parks, Martin Luther King Jr., Coretta Scott King, the Little Rock Nine, mathematicians Katherine Johnson, Dorothy Vaughan, Mary Jackson, and the 6888th Central Postal Directory Battalion, known as the “Six Triple Eight.”

In 1955, Carolyn Bryant Donham, a white female clerk, accused Emmett Till of whistling and touching her inside Bryant’s Grocery store in Greenwood, MS. Bry-

ant’s husband Roy and half-brother J.W. Milan kidnapped, murdered, and threw Till’s body in the Tallahatchie River. On September 23, 1955, both were acquitted by an all-white male jury of the murder of Till. In a 1956 interview with Look magazine, Bryant and Milan confessed to killing Till.

The lynching of Till sparked the Civil Rights Movement. Mamie Till-Mobley turned the tragedy of her son into power. She insisted on an open casket at Roberts Temple Church of God, in Chicago, IL for the world to see what was done to her son. Till-Mobley spent her life as a social justice advocate working with children and fighting for justice for her son. Till-Mobley passed away on January 6, 2003, at the age of 81.

Relatives and activists have continued the call for justice for Emmett Till’s death for decades. In 2022, an unserved 1955 warrant for Donham was found in the basement of a Mississippi courthouse. The Mississippi Attorney General refused to prosecute Donham.

Rev. Wheeler Parker, the last surviving witness that saw Emmett Till being kidnapped from his bedroom, says he is grateful for the recognition. “There was a time that there was no interest or recognition for my cousin. It’s hard for me to see the attention it’s getting and the turnaround. When Emmett was killed, it was, “He got what he deserved.” I thank God things have turned for the better, and it shows how far we’ve come, but at the same time, how much work we still have to do. Emmett’s death was not in vain.” says Parker.

Parker will release his memoir “A Few Days Full of Trouble: Revelations on the Journey to Justice for My Cousin and Best Friend, Emmett Till,” on January 10, 2023.

The Congressional Gold Medal will be displayed near Till’s original casket at the National Museum of African American History and Culture in Washington, D.C. Tammy Gibson is an author, re-enactor, and black history traveler.

Black Women Entrepreneurs Make a Splash at Chicago Boat Show

CNW Staff Report

Three successful Chicago Black women entrepreneurs are navigating their businesses in new waters with a virgin voyage at the 2023 Chicago Boat Show, thanks to the collaboration and mentorship of the Breedlove Entrepreneurship Center, a program of YWCA Metropolitan Chicago. Terri Evans, of Dockside Delivery, and Lindsey Robinson, of Excelling in Excellence Boat charters are using their business skills and connections from the Breedlove Entrepreneurship Center at Booth #A401 at McCormick Place on Wednesday, Jan. 11 through Sunday, Jan. 15, 2023.

Evans’ three-year-old Dockside Delivery, (spawned by the Covid pandemic) delivers food, liquor, and essentials to boat owners and charter companies at Chicago’s ten Lakefront harbors.

Robinson’s three-year-old Excelling in Excellence quickly identified and leveraged an audience of families and professionals interested in Lake Michigan and Chicago River boat charters for business and pleasure.

Both women have witnessed meteoric growth in their businesses since accessing the tools, knowledge, and capital offered through the Breedlove Entrepreneurship Center accelerator program. They turned to another

Breedlove alum, Keeana Barber, owner of WBD Marketing, to support the marketing strategy and messaging in their boat show booth.

Excelling in Excellence and Dockside Delivery will offer great giveaways during the Chicago Boat Show, including gift certificates for boat charters and packages of food and supplies delivered to boaters at Chicago’s lakefront harbors.

Dockside Delivery will host boat captains and charter companies for a Meet and Greet at the Show’s Discover Boating Beach Club on Friday, January 13th, 5 - 7 pm. On Sunday, January 15th, Evans’ sorority sisters of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc. will be treated to a Founders Day celebration at the Club with signature pink and green cocktails and mocktails.

City of Harvey Sees Significant Decrease in Homicides

CNW Staff Report

The City of Harvey closed the year with a significant decrease in homicides. Harvey Mayor Christopher J. Clark identified several proactive measures that triggered the decline.

“My administration has been laser-focused on improving public safety,” said Clark. “Since I took office, we have added an additional $1 million dollars to the police budget, purchased new vehicles, hired new police officers, reorganized the department to put more officers on the street, and are in the process of constructing six (6) new community hubs/police substations. The decrease in violent crime can be attributed to those actions and the hard work of our officers.”

Records show that Harvey Police Department is solving more cases, particularly murders. To close out the year, an arrest was made for the 2020 murder of Ryan Reed. The Harvey Police Investigations Division, working with the Federal

Bureau of Investigations, placed Annalisa J. Whiteside in custody and charged her with homicide for fatally shooting Reed in the area of 154th and Hoyne.

In addition, after a prompt and diligent investigation, Harvey Detectives closed the homicide investigation of Kenneth Tyrone Donel. On Saturday, December 10, 2022, Harvey Police were dispatched to 15306 Robey where Donel was found deceased. Four days later, Harvey detectives arrested and charged a suspect with homicide.

Harvey Police Chief, Cameron Biddings said, “These recent homicide closings have been the result of good police work combined with the cooperation of the community and other law enforcement agencies working together.”

Mayor Clark and Chief Biddings will hold a Public Safety Forum on January 10, 2023, to hear from residents and discuss programs and efforts that have led to a 59% decrease in homicides from 2021.

First Installment Cook County property taxes due date pushed to April 3

CNW Staff Report

First Installment Cook County property taxes due date pushed to April 3 Cook County property owners will have an extra month to pay their First Installment property taxes this year, and their bills are already available online.

Governor J.B. Pritzker signed HB 5189 into law last month making Monday, April 3, 2023, the new due date. Property taxes are mailed twice a year. First Installment bills are usually due on March 1, and are 55% of the previous year’s total amount.

“Delaying a month is the right thing to do in order to give taxpayers some breathing room after Second Installment bills were late last year,” said Cook County Treasurer Maria Pappas. “Many people continue to struggle financially amid high inflation.”

First Installment bills will be mailed out in late February or early March but bills are available right now at cookcountytreasurer.com for payment or viewing.

To make a payment or download a copy of your tax bill, visit cookcountytreasurer.com:

• Select the blue box labeled “Pay Online for Free”

• Search by property address or enter your Property Index Number

• There is no fee if you pay from your bank account

• Payments made at cookcountytreasurer.com before 11:59 p.m. on April 3 will be recorded as on time.

Partial payments are accepted. Late payments are charged 1.5 percent per month, as required by Illinois law.

White House Summit STEMM Equity and Excellence Initiative to put $1.2B into DEI resources

CNW Staff Report

Chicago Pre-College Science and Engineering Program (ChiS&E)’s offers highly sought-after, free programs in mathematics, science, engineering, computer programming, advanced robotics, chemistry, and physics. Foundational to CHIS&E’s offerings has been its robust focus on Algebra. According to research conducted by Catalyze Tech, a new initiative to align the tech industry around collective action for diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI), called the Act Report, CEOs cite mastering 8th-grade algebra as being pivotal to their career success.

The findings were highlighted during the White House Summit on Equity and Excellence in Science, Technology, Engineering, Mathematics, and Medicine (STEMM) held on December 12th. The goal of the summit was to announce the Biden administration’s commitment to equity for people who have been historically underserved - people of color, rural communities, women, people with disabilities LGBTQ; power a more just, inclusive, and competitive science and technology enterprise; and eliminate systemic barriers to participation in STEMM and ensuring that all of the American public can contribute to and benefit from science and technology.

During the summit, panelist Baroness Oona King, vice president of Diversity, Equity & Inclusion, Snap, Inc. highlighted the reports key finding in answering ‘what is the one thing that would open computer science education for underrepresented groups more than anything else?’ The answer was eighth-grade algebra.

Thanks to the Kellogg Foundation ChiS&E has developed a curriculum that introduces topics in algebra for parents and children in grades K-3. 4th, 5th, 6th, and 7th-grade classes include algebra content and their summer enrichment program (7th, 8th 9th) includes topics in Algebra. Their “Math Booth Camp” held summers at Notre Dame focuses on algebra and they host a Saturday class “Algebra Topics for Calculus”.

White House Office of Science and Technology Policy (OSTP), in collaboration with the American Association for the Advancement of Science and the Doris Duke Charitable Foundation, hosted the White House Summit on STEMM Equity and Excellence. Funding for the five-part action plan from the government, philanthropy, industry, education, research, and community organizations totals more than $1.2 billion.

“Our organization was founded to increase the number of historically underrepresented African American and Latino students and motivate and academically prepare them to pursue careers in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM),” said Kenneth Hill, president & CEO. “This validation by the White House of our decades of effort is affirming as we continue our work tackling the underlying root causes that lock underrepresented groups out of vital careers in STEMM.

ChiS&E’s rigorous preparatory program is available at no charge to CPS students in grades K – 12 and includes internship opportunities at the University of Illinois Urbana and the University of Chicago. To learn more or support ChiS&E, visit www.chiprep.org.

PUSH-Rainbow Coalition Sponsors its’ 33rd Scholarship Breakfast

Wanda Wright Staff Writer

Fifty-five years ago on April 4, 1966, Reverend Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. took his last breath after a fatal gunshot to his head from an assassin’s bullet, while standing on the balcony of the Lorraine Motel in Memphis. Among the witnesses at King’s assassination was Jesse Jackson, one of his closest aides. Soon after King’s death, Jackson went on to form Operation PUSH (People United to Save Humanity).

Since then, Reverend Jackson has continued the fight for equality from the classroom to the boardroom.

On January 16, 2023, PUSH-Rainbow Coalition will sponsor its’ 33rd Scholarship Breakfast that Honors the Right to Vote and the KING LEGACY.

PUSH also dedicated itself to developing young people through reading programs and the creation of PUSH Excel. Reverend Dr. Janette C. Wilson, Esq., serves as Executive Director at Push Excel, the educational arm of Push Rainbow Coalition which showcases the accomplished works of youth inside the program with Push-EXCEL customized programs that are offered throughout urban cities in America amid growing demand for people across the nation to pay attention to that which oppresses people and how to fight back through focus and accomplishment.

PUSH Excel’s program emphasizes keeping inner-city youth in school while assisting them with job placement. The organization has been highly successful at compelling major corporations with a presence in the Black community to adopt affirmative action programs requiring the companies to commit to hiring Black and minority executives, supervisors as well as Black suppliers, wholesalers, and distributors on their purchasing lists.

EDUCATION MUST BECOME A FEDERALLY PROTECTED RIGHT

This annual event continues the fight through its PUSH-EXCEL(501C3) educational arm offering financial literacy, and oratorical skills bolstered by forensic instruction from kindergarten through post-doctoral support. Education fortified with Civic Education and Social Responsibility. Students learn the efficacy (results based) of legislation as well as the role and responsibility of elected legislators on local, state, and federal levels.

Push Excel’s intentional outcome is to craft an evolved Blueprint of education for youth through its Saturday School of tutoring in STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Math).

A quote from Dr. Martin L. King Jr., “An Architect draws a blueprint, model, pattern and guide for builders. No building is well built without a solid Blueprint -when you have educational skills no one living, dead, or unborn can do it any better, ” is a driving inspiration for the program.

Safe schools begin with safe home environments which lead to a sense of feeling safe in their community and feed the desire to go to /attend school. With so much violence in our communities, it’s imperative that we do more preventive work.

Facts support that, ‘Conflict Resolution’ and negotiation skills in communities reduce violence and build responsive leadership proficiencies for youth to navigate through chaos crisis, confusion, division, disconnection, and discord facing them today.

OUR FIGHT IS REAL

Disinvestment in advanced basic education is a national epidemic in America. Chicago has suffered more than enough disparity with closed schools and limited resources in the majority of African American schools from Pre-K to High School. Wilson built and designed one of Chicago Public Schools’ most accomplished and successful programs that reduced street violence and increased attendance to all-time highs.

Studies by the Children’s Literacy Initiative deliver some glaring statistics.” In 2019, before COVID-19 exposed the entrenched educational, health, and economic inequities Black and Hispanic families face, research showed that through no fault of their own, 85% of CPS Black 4th graders and 79% of its Hispanic 4th graders could not read proficiently, yet more than half (56%) of their white classmates could. Rev. Jessie Jackson says, “Students without food, shelter, clothing and social service support are unable to function within learning environments. Numbers are soaring, as rapidly deteriorating urban environments teem with violence and dissipating resources across America.”

Systemic racism has always been at the root of educational inequity. Traditional early literacy instruction centers around whiteness’ and deficit-based assessments, offering few mirrors and windows for students of color. Windows offer children a glimpse into the lives and experiences of people different from themselves. Mirrors reflect children’s own lived experiences. Both help children make sense of the world around them.

SAVE THE BABIES . . .

According to the Brook ings Center for research, “ Many educators have come to realize that poverty and language barriers in urban schools are unacceptable excuses for appallingly low student performance. To write off these districts’ dismal achievement levels as inevitable is to consign a generation of city youth to live without prospects or hope. Reform’s day has come. The rescue of urban schools entails dismantling entrenched and patron age-driven school board bureaucracies, holding schools accountable for their performance, and en couraging well-planned ex perimentation with charter and contract schools, and vouchers.

Executive Director Wil son elaborates, “PUSH EXCEL represents a na

THE COMMITMENT

Each year the Breakfast serves as a showcase and testimony of what’s changed for the future of children, and burgeoning leaders, and salutes to those that continue to fight for justice as they forge new sources for youth through scholarship support creating new opportunities for success.

Event and Registration Details can be found at www.

tional focus with a collaborative approach to address issues facing vulnerable children in municipalities, as preemptive action. Outdated rules complicated by aging education infrastructure no longer comprehensively serve urban student populations.”

Living the Dream

How Black Women are Continuing the Legacy of Dr. King

Danielle Sanders CNW Managing Editor

It was Rev. Martin Luther King Jr’s, “other dream.”

In 1968, King called for a “revolution of values” to unite poor communities across the country. After years of fighting for voting rights and desegregation, King believed true citizenship for Black Americans required economic justice. One of King’s last undertakings, “The Poor People’s Campaign” sought to seek federal funding for jobs, a guaranteed annual income, anti-poverty programs, housing, and equitable education for the nation’s poor. He said it was time to demand a “radical redistribution of economic power.”

His campaign unified poor people of every race. In his speeches and demonstrations leading up to the campaign, King was relentlessly criticized and demonized by the media, government, and even some Black people for his critiques of the nation’s policies regarding economic injustice.

King intended to bring thousands to Washington DC to demand legislation to help eliminate poverty. The march was planned for April 20, 1968, but King never lived to see his “other dream” come to fruition. He was assassinated on April 4, 1968.

SCLC’s president, Ralph Abernathy continued with demonstrators settled in Resurrection City, a section of tents built on the National Mall, and stayed protesting and demanding economic justice until they were forced to close on June 24th.

ring true today. Black people are still fighting for equity, equality, and justice in every area of their lives. We spoke with four women who have picked up the torch lit by Dr. King and who honor his legacy in their work, activism, and advocacy in Chicago and beyond.

Illinois State Senator Jacqui Collins

For over 20 years, Illinois State Senator Jacqui Collins has fought for policies that reduce inequality, expand opportunities, and strengthen communities. As a legislator, Senator Collins prioritized protecting women and children, worked to eliminate food deserts, expanded voting rights, elevated education, and more. Currently ending her term as IL State Senator, Collins says her focus is on policy and social justice as she looks to the future.

Rev. Dr. Janette Wilson, Esq Rev. Dr. Janette C. Wilson currently serves as Senior adviser to Rev. Jesse L Jackson Sr. and National Executive Director of PUSH For Excellence. Dr. Wilson has a passion for equality in education and social justice. She has spent her life hiring, mentoring, employing, and establishing internship programs for youth.

Kina Collins

olence prevention and healthcare advocate. After running for the United States Congress, Collins recently accepted a position with the Democratizing Philanthropy Project which builds long-term, reliable small donor revenue and a dynamic, engaged base for chronically underfunded, historically excluded frontline organizations.

Dr. Ngoze Ezike

Praised for her leadership of the State’s response to the COVID-19 pandemic, Dr. Ngoze Ezike was the first Black woman to lead the Illinois department of public health. With a career focusing on equity in health and medicine, Dr. Ezike is now President and CEO of Sinai Chicago, the city’s largest private safety net health system.

What’s the most pressing social justice issue facing Black Americans today?

Illinois Senator Jacqui Collins

“They’re all so interconnected. What puts us in a very precarious position is the suppression of voting rights. Today we are in a situation with the rise of white supremacy and a Republican-controlled house. They want to cut social safety networks. Everything is connected to voting and who you elect to any office. This is

again and that means coming together in unity as a Black community. Unity does not mean that we always agree on everything unanimously. It means on the core issues that are important

progress, and we take it to heart, what Dr. King put in place. We know the cost and

Rev. Dr. Janette Wilson, Esq

“I’m constantly fighting to change the public policies that negatively impact young people in particular, but poor people or people who are marginalized based on your race and gender. It’s about encouraging others but also opening doors for them so they can help not only themselves but others as well.”

Kina Collins

to our survival and our security we should be able to form some kind of unity around those issues. Dr. King was a role model because without even holding a public office he was able to move policy. His faith informed his definition of where we should go as a people and it has been my faith that has propelled me into public service, to try to give voice to those who have been marginalized, those who have been left out of society, those who have been devalued of words or disrespected and disenfranchised.”

Rev. Dr. Janette Wilson, Esq

“I think it’s economic investment. The schools that have the poorest children have the least amount of investment in children in the buildings in the structures. we’re constantly talking about equitable funding for public education, equitable funding and equitable allocation of resources, human resources, as well as physical resources.”

Kina Collins

“It’s poverty. One of the greatest battles that we have in equity and inclusion is making sure that people have their human rights impacts, proper housing, clean water, clean air, and access to food. When we talk about what Black America is dealing with at the core of it is the perpetual state of poverty that Black people are living in and that our governments and our political leaders are not addressing.”

Dr. Ngoze Ezike

“With so many forms of inequality, injustice in health is the most shocking and the most inhuman, because it actually results in physical death. I think that’s one of the biggest issues that we should be talking about, tackling, and working on.”

How are Black women keeping Dr. King’s legacy alive?

Senator Jacqui Collins

“Black women are the backbone bone of the Democratic Party. As Black women, we want generational

the sacrifices that have to be made that put future generations on good footing.”

Kina Collins

“We are the moral compass of this country. Not only are we showing up to the polling places, and bringing folks along with us, but Black women constantly put a mirror up to the face of our government and our leaders in the community. And it’s not just about complaining about things and issues that are occurring in our communities. It’s a saying, we have some of the best solutions to these problems because we’re closest to the pain of the problem. Black women serve as a template for how other communities and other demographics can be bold, and audacious and utilize their voice, their voices equity in their community.”

Dr. Ngoze Ezike

“Black women are the bedrock of the community. We participate in all of the things that make up the dream; whether it’s promoting the health of the family, providing education, helping steer people towards their educational goals, being the breadwinner, providing economic stability for the family, teaching the culture to ensure it is always uplifted and respected and partnering with others. We have a critical role in everything. It’s a wonderful badge that we wear and carry, and we’ve continued to do it very well and have done it well for a long time.”

How do you “Live the Dream”

Senator Jacqui Collins

“Living the dream is symbolized by working every day, putting on your battle armor, and going out into the world to make a difference and to raise your voice. Living the dream means getting up every day preparing for the fight.”

Dr. Ngoze Ezike

“Hope is a discipline, and it can be overwhelming at times, especially when seeing other communities invested in and ours not being invested in. When we keep that hope, and couple it with our activism and fight for changes in policy that matter to us, we can achieve anything. We don’t take our foot off the pedal, we continue to organize, we continue to build up the black dollar and we continue to keep the legacy of our great leaders alive “

“It’s working to get there. It’s always working towards the dream. It’s making sure that people who are actively steeped in this work and on this mission continue to sound the to get more people involved, to get more people to put their money and their efforts towards these important goals of really actualizing and living that dream. I really think that it’s about partnership and collaboration. With all the health disparities that have plagued the communities of color for decades, you can’t just leave it to the people of that community to fix it by themselves. Just as Dr. King locked hands with people of all races, ethnicities, and colors to work together to overcome the illness, the poverty, and the trauma that some of our communities are disproportionately facing, we must do the same.

Kina Collins

Dr. Ngoze Ezike

Rev. Dr. Janette Wilson, Esq

Senator Jacqui Collins

Ben Jealous on Ending Racism

Danielle Sanders CNW Managing Editor

Ben Jealous, scholar, journalist, civil rights leader and philanthropist, currently serves as the executive director of the Sierra Club. He was formerly President and CEO of People For the American Way, President and CEO of the NAACP, Director of the Human Rights Program at Amnesty International USA, and Executive Director of the National Newspaper Publishers Association. In his new book, “Never Forget Our People Were Always Free: A Parable of American Healing,” Jealous draws on life lessons, his family, and his work as he makes a passionate plea to restore humanity and end racism. Jealous was inspired to write his book because of the Jan. 6 insurrection at the Capitol. “The book is an urgent argument for why all should have hope we can pull this country together and move forward in greater unity.” In his book, Jealous writes about tracing his family history and how learning the results of learning his history shaped his life’s mission.

institutions of public higher education, and ultimately, work together to abolish the poll tax. I’d always wondered why my grandfather would have so much hubris at such a young age when he was only free for half of his 35 years. And then I realized, well, he understood that the blood that flowed through him was the same blood that flowed through General Lee, why shouldn’t he take his place amongst the leaders of the state?”

As Jealous shares, his book’s title was inspired by a truth instilled by his maternal grandmother, Mamie Todd Bland, the family griot, who recently died at the age of 105. Her belief in the inherent freedom and value of every human being was instilled by her maternal grandfather, Edward David Bland. An African American child enslaved by his White uncle, Edward Bland was a free man at the end of the Civil War and became an itinerant preacher of freedom—economic and political. He went on to help lead a movement that culminated in the creation of Virginia State University and secured the future of free public education for every child in the state, as well as serving in the state legislature.

we can exist beyond anything that we have done.”

Lie #2: Only White people have paid the price for desegregation. While, as Jealous acknowledges, it is true that some White men lost jobs when people of color were no longer barred from consideration; it is also true that Black Americans lost thousands of businesses—as well as safe places to raise their children—when the walls of segregation fell. “When desegregation ended, change became hard for everyone. That’s not a reason to fear it. Dr. King was right to be impatient. But it’s easier for all of us to adjust to change when we understand that everybody’s paying a price.”

Descended from Both Sides of History

“The most radical thing any of us can do is to actually recreate our memory of where we’re from. DNA research makes it much easier than it’s ever been. We looked the way we did for two reasons. One, DNA shows that I descended from Thomas Jefferson’s grandmother. Our family lineage was filled with rape. After two years, researchers at Harvard University concluded that our DNA was not of Native American origin but that we descend from Afro-Polynesian founders of Madagascar, specifically an afro Polynesian woman who had been a pirate when she was captured and, sold into slavery.”

In his DNA research, Jealous learned he was distantly related to Dick Chaney and Robert E. Lee. Learning he came from an ancestry on both sides of history, Jealous says it gave him insight into his family. “my grandmother’s grandfather was able to emerge from slavery and have the confidence to become the leader of the Republican Party in his state and the vision to reach out to a former Confederate General William B Mahone and ask him to join together and fight to preserve Virginia’s free public schools and expand and build new

“It’s true we all get scared. It’s also true that almost all of us ultimately want the same things: a better life for our children, a country where we can speak and worship freely (or not worship if that’s our choice), safe communities, good schools—a nation worthy of its promise of liberty and justice for all. Our ancestors may have arrived on ships or by plane, on foot, or in another way defined by the traditions of a particular Native American tribe. Regardless, if there is one thing we have in common, it’s that we are all in the same boat now. And for most of us, it’s the only boat we will ever have.”-Excerpt from “Our People Were Always Free”

THE THREE BIG LIES ABOUT RACISM

Throughout his book, Jealous tackles racial profiling, the connection between suicide and social isolation, race, racism, and the toll of mass incarceration on the country. Most prominently, however, Jealous says there are three big lies about race and racism that people need to know.

Lie #1: It has always been this way. “To end racism, we must agree there is nothing permanent about it,” Jealous stresses. As he shows, the meaning of race has evolved from its roots as a synonym for tribe or nation to a label used to separate people into a caste system, with a chosen “superhuman” group at the top. Comparing politics to physics, where something in motion returns to its original state, he has hope that America will return to a state where we recognize and celebrate our diversity. “Before there were slave rebellions. There were colonial rebellions. Those rebellions were European indentured servants and African slaves rebelling together. The fact that we existed together suggests that

Lie #3: Racism only hurts Black people and people of color. Racism has created a national delusion that poverty, gun violence and drug addiction are exclusively Black problems—despite staggering facts to the contrary. “The hidden victim of American racism is that it makes White suffering invisible,” says Jealous. “The value of racism, in the context of colonialism, was to divide the masses at the bottom of the economy in order to preserve the opportunity for a few people at the top of the economy, kings and those who would be king and maintain massive wealth.”

EVERY DAY PEOPLE CAN DO EXTRAORDINARY THINGS

Jealous believes that anyone can make a difference in their own communities. Using Dr. Martin Luther King Jr’s, excerpt from “Letter from the Birmingham Jail,” Jealous says there is a message in achieving common ground with our neighbors. “The way we leap forward as a community is to work with our neighbors to help them see we have more in common.” Jealous says it begins with “courageous conversations and “courageous listening.”

In spite of the divisive climate America is in, Jealous says unity is possible. “I believe that it is always darkest before dawn. We are living through the darkest before dawn and we have to keep the faith that Dawn will come in the morning. Just like we did before. We ended slavery and segregation. In this century we will elevate the state of America just as we did in the last two centuries. Ultimately, there’s every reason to have hope that we will win in the end. My hope is that everybody will walk away from reading the book with a greater sense of hope that we will pull our country together and a greater sense of power and how they can help do that in their own lives.”

“Never Forget Our People Were Always Free: A Parable of American Healing” is available online and wherever books are sold.

“The ultimate antidote for the insanity that is racism is to deepen our knowledge of self and understand our national and ethnic origins,”

-Ben Jealous

Illinois Passes Protect Illinois Communities Act

Danielle Sanders CNW Managing Editor

HB 5855 known as the Protect Illinois Communities Act passed making Illinois a state with one of the most comprehensive gun safety laws in the nation. Launched in Dec. 2022, Protect Illinois Communities was formed to support efforts to pass gun reform in Illinois. The organization works to ban assault weapons, stop the flow of illegal weapons into the state and increase resources to help implement red flag laws.

In 2022, Chicago endured 630 homicides and 2600 shootings alone. State Representative Bob Morgan sponsored the bill after the Fourth of July shooting in Highland Park, the community he represents. Representative Morgan was present at the Fourth of July parade where seven people were killed. HB 5855 bans assault weapons, large-capacity machines, and rapid-fire devices. The act also increases FOID eligibility to 21 years of age.

Gun rights advocates say the bill is unconstitutional and threatened to sue the state if the bill goes into law. In a statement on Dec. 2, the Illinois State Rifle Association said, “We have consistently heard from anti-Second Amendment legislators that they “don’t want to take away your guns, we only want common sense gun reforms.” Under HB5855 their first step is to take away your magazines and force law-abiding citizens to register their firearms. The legislation goes beyond magazines used in semi-automatic rifles to also include magazines used in millions of commonly owned handguns. Their next step is to use that very registry to take away your firearms. The anti-gun crowd’s agenda has always been to incrementally peal back the Second Amendment rights of law-abiding Illinois citizens. The Illinois State Rifle Association will not be entering into any negotiations on this piece of legislation. Elections have consequences. We will see the State of Illinois in court should this bill be enacted into law.”

While the bill bans the sale of assault weapons and high-capacity magazines with more than 12 rounds, those who already own assault weapons have 300 days to enter the serial number of those weapons into the FOID system, and those who own magazines with more than 12 rounds 90 days to convert, sell or dispose of them.

Gun violence survivors, advocates, faith leaders, and elected officials rallied at the Capitol last week in support of the act. At the rally, Senator Ram Villivalam, Representative Barbara Hernandez, Representative Bob Morgan, Representative Justin Slaughter, gun violence survivor Mary Dieudonne-Hill of the Everytown Survivor Network, Lyric Harris of B.R.A.V.E. Youth Leaders, gun violence survivor Maria Pike of Chicago Survivors board of directors and city gun violence chapter lead for Moms Demand Action, March for Our Lives organizer Rachel Jacoby, founder of Illinois Alliance to Prevent Gun Violence Stuart Reid, Rabbi Reni Dickman, Executive vice president of the Chicago Board of Rabbis, pastor T. Ray McJunkins of Union Baptist Church in Springfield, incoming

state chapter lead for Moms Demand Action pastor Brenda Mitchell, and Moms Demand Action leader Caryn Fliegler spoke about the importance of passing bans on assault weapons and high-capacity magazines during lame duck session.

“Weapons of war have no place on our streets, and it’s long past time that our legislators take action to save lives,” said pastor T. Ray McJunkins of Union Baptist Church in Springfield. “I’m proud to stand with advocates from across the state to make our voices heard in support of the Protect Illinois Communities Act. We shouldn’t let another day go by without passing this critical legislation.”

Representatives from Moms Demand Action, Students Demand Action, Everytown Survivor Network, People for a Safer Society, Illinois Alliance to Prevent Gun Violence, Parents for Peace and Justice, Illinois Coalition Against Domestic Violence, March for Our Lives, Amnesty International, Purpose Over Pain, and other organizations were also in attendance.

Also last week, over 300 doctors and numerous mayors and village presidents released letters urging legislators to pass the act. “At the Highland Park parade, I saw firsthand the carnage that was inflicted on innocent victims by an assault weapon. It literally blew bodies apart. Weapons of war have no place in the hands of civilians. We all should have the freedom to attend a parade, a school, or a shopping mall without fear. This is a public health and safety crisis,” said Dr. David Baum of Northwestern Memorial Hospital.

Mayor Lori Lightfoot also supported the legislation saying, “I am proud to join fellow mayors and leaders across Illinois in urging the General Assembly to pass this critically needed, common-sense, and lifesaving legislation. The flow of illegal guns is an inherently cross-jurisdictional challenge that requires collaboration and decisive action from both the State and Federal governments to alleviate the scourge of senseless gun violence which threatens our communities. The Protect Illinois Communities Act will absolutely make a marked, positive difference when it comes to safeguarding Illinois residents and families.

Illinois House Speaker Chris Welch applauded the legislature for their hard work saying, “I want to thank the members whose leadership, hard work, compromise, and compassion have allowed us to find purpose and progress in the pain and trauma so many have felt.”

In a statement, Gov. Pritzker said, For a long time now, I and many other leaders in the Illinois General Assembly have prioritized getting the most dangerous weapons off our state’s streets. Today, honoring the commitment we made, we passed one of the strongest assault weapons bans in the nation, one I will be proud to sign. This legislation will stop the spread of assault weapons, high-capacity magazines, and switches and make our state a safer place for all. I look forward to signing this bill immediately, so we can stop the sale of these deadly weapons as soon as possible.”

politics Record Setting Year for Cannabis Sales

CNW Staff Report

The Illinois Department of Financial and Professional Regulation announced that 2022 set adult-use cannabis sales records in all categories it tracks. This includes the number of items sold, sales totals to Illinois and out-of-state residents, and sales total by month. For the year, Illinois adult-use cannabis dispensaries sold $1,552,324,820.37 worth of product, an increase of more than 12% from 2021 and 131% from 2020, the first year cannabis sales were first legally allowed in Illinois. There are currently 113 adult-use cannabis dispensaries in Illinois, including the first three social equity dispensaries that opened their doors in 2022. These figures do not include taxes collected, which are reported by the Illinois Department of Revenue.

“When I signed the Cannabis Regulation and Tax Act into law in 2019, we set out on an ambitious goal: to create the most equitable and economically prosperous cannabis industry in the nation. Our data from 2022 shows that we are well on our way towards making that idea a reality,” said Governor JB Pritzker. “Not only did we break our previous sales record by more than 12% with a total of more than $1.5 billion, but we also saw the first of our social equity adult-use cannabis dispensaries open their doors for business—paving the way for an even stronger 2023.”

“This marks the second straight year that Illinois’ adultuse cannabis industry has seen record-setting growth, and we are excited for what the future holds for the most equitable cannabis industry in the country,” said Mario Treto, Jr., Secretary of the Illinois Department of Financial and Professional Regulation. “We are optimistic the industry will only continue to flourish in 2023, as we welcome more dispensaries to Illinois.”

Statistics compiled by IDFPR show 2021’s sales totals were all exceeded in November 2022. In total, 36,435,129 items were sold in Illinois adult-use cannabis dispensaries in 2022, an increase of 20% from 2021. In addition, Illinois resident sales totaled $1,073,132,436.48 (an increase of almost 14% from 2021), while sales to out-of-state residents totaled $479,192,383.91 (an increase of almost 10% from 2021). IDFPR’s complete adult-use cannabis monthly sales tracker may be found online here.

In addition to three social equity adult-use cannabis dispensaries that opened their doors in 2022, 189 other conditional licensees are in the process of receiving their full dispensary license from IDFPR. Dispensaries may begin adult-use cannabis sales once they receive their full license from IDFPR. The Department also announced in December 2022 that applications for the next round of cannabis dispensary licenses will be accepted starting January 30, 2023. Additional information for prospective applicants (including a mock application, proposed timeline, and social equity criteria applicants will need to meet to receive a license) may be found on IDFPR’s Adult Use Cannabis Program webpage under the “Information for Social Equity Criteria Lottery” section.

Refocusing America’s Pursuit of Perfection

NNPA NEWSWIRE — While our legislative wins were impressive and unprecedented, the pundits remained In his January 20, 2022, Inaugural Address, President Joe Biden called on us to, “look ahead in our uniquely American way – restless, bold, optimistic – and set our sights on the nation we know we can be, and we must be. But many Americans were looking back to the unprecedented and tumultuous attempted insurrection of January 6th. Backward looking is not normal for a democracy – especially one like ours that is always in “pursuit of a more perfect union.” But you won’t find perfection by looking backwards. President Abraham Lincoln reportedly once said, “I walk slowly, but I never walk backwards.”

President Lincoln led this country through an earlier period of internal turmoil, when there was no certainty that America would emerge intact. I believe President Biden faces similar challenges today. In addition to the political challenge that faced our country as he took office, our country was struggling to reduce the toll of Covid-19, restore our place on the world stage, reform community policing, keep our communities safe, combat climate change, and the list goes on and on and on.

President Biden took a page from President Lincoln’s methodical approach to move us forward. Within the first six weeks of his administration, President Biden signed the $1.9 trillion American Rescue Plan. That law made Covid-19 vaccinations available, stabilized families, unshuttered businesses, reopened schools, and got people back to work. He followed that historic legislation with another historic bill, the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law which is investing $1.2 trillion in roads and bridges, clean air and water, ports and rail, elec-

tric vehicles, and making highspeed internet accessible and affordability to every resident and business.

During our lively debate over the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law, competing interests within our party were threatening that agenda and our continued pursuit of a more perfect union. I urged members to step outside their comfort zones and find common ground. We were able to subsequently craft the bill that President Biden signed into law.

President Biden’s poll numbers dipped dramatically as the pandemic lingered. But Democrats entered the 2022 election cycle comfortable with his approach and confident in our agenda. We continued to focus on the future and passed much-needed legislation: the CHIPS & Science Act to keep skilled technical and manufacturing jobs in the U.S; the PACT Act to provide health care and resources for military heroes who had been subjected to toxic burn pits and Agent Orange, and the Safer Communities Act to combat gun violence and provide more law enforcement officers in rural communities.

We also passed the Inflation Reduction Act. While it was the largest investment ever to combat climate change, it also authorized Medicare to negotiate for lower drug prices and capped the cost of insulin at $35 for seniors starting January 1, 2023. President Biden and Congressional Democrats were putting the best interest of the American people over the politics of the moment, and the voters knew it.

While our legislative wins were impressive and unprecedented, the pundits remained focused on the noise and name calling. They bought into the dire predictions that the voters would turn Democrats out in droves. I was often

asked, “What would it take to get beyond the acrimony?” My answer was always the same, “a definitive election, one in which massive numbers of Americans would step outside their comfort zones.”

That is what happened on November 8th. Many Republicans and Independents who are not usually comfortable voting for Democrats did so in record numbers. The election results seem to have changed the narrative from one of looking backward to one that is forward-focused.

After a better-than-expected midterm election cycle during his first term, President Lincoln responded to a Michigan Senator and frequent critic from his own party, Zachariah Chandler, by saying, “I am very glad the elections this autumn have gone favorably, and that I have not, by native depravity, or under evil influences, done anything bad enough to prevent the good result. I hope to ‘stand firm’ enough to not go backward, and yet not go forward fast enough to wreck the country’s cause.”

Forward momentum is the only way to overcome the pull of the past and break the ties of those wanting a return to divisive and dangerous times. I believe President Biden has proven that he too will “stand firm enough to not go backward.”

With the House and Senate as closely divided as they are, progress will require that both sides step outside of their comfort zones and continue our pursuit of “a more perfect union.” The extent of our commitment and success will be determined by the American people at the time – and in the places – they usually render their decisions, at the ballot boxes.

Congressman James E. Clyburn

Love is a Lifestyle

Mila K. Marshall, PhD CNW Staff Writer

It’s a red and pink sea of balloons and chocolates, clouds of cherry red lips, and colored hearts posted and plastered in stores, it’s clearly a countdown to Valentine’s Day. Beyond the buying of romantic reminders, there is the little thing called love that either gets overlooked or becomes performative. What is real and true is that love is a lifestyle and this season we have curated a series of conversations, and tips to flirt with the idea that Black Love Matters. This four-part series introduces love practitioners and a his/ hers perspective on partnering, love, and romance. What a special season to be reminded to practice being loving as we count down our days to a collective expression of love. No…we aren’t pushing products, we aren’t here to convince you to celebrate commercial holidays, we are here to invite each of you to water the seeds of love, romance, and affection for each other to root down into the fertile soil of intentionality and let your love lifestyle blossom with every breath.

We begin with the sage wisdom of the author, romance expert, intimacy coach, and owner of Making Love Better Twogether Ms.Yanni Brown.

Love is her business

“I’ve always been a lover of love, I was very passion-

love matters

ate and vocal even as a teenager at the lunch table talking about love, sex, and relationships. I’d say all my failed relationships and my marriages have played some role in going to school for relationship education. I believe it is going to take a collective effort sharing our stories, our truths to learn how to practice love in ways that restore balance in our lives.”

Truth is a deposit in the love bank that earns interest over time. Truthtelling is one of many investments for creating respect and safety in relationships. Truth especially strengthens self-respect and inner contentment for the truth-teller. Deep feelings from misunderstandings can bring about resentment and disconnection, so when we speak our truths we open ourselves up to deal with and heal our issues.

From Playtime to Mindful Partnering

“I started selling adult novelty toys to make extra money and I began to realize that couples weren’t connecting. These people weren’t communicating, they weren’t close and they weren’t exercising the basics of what it takes to make a relationship work. I began to study and focus on what are the connections between couples and paired that with the playfulness of the toys and found myself creating ways for partnerships to reset, reconnect and rebuild through romance.”

Yanni’s awareness took her to a place where she invited herself to be honest with what pulled at her own heartstrings. We are all our own first loves. If we can not be honest about what moves and motivates us, if we deny ourselves the pleasure of feasting on the pursuit of our passions with intention, we starve our romantic partners with unrealistic expectations. Her journey of self-discovery for her passion is a practice in itself to note. To be a good partner we first have to practice living our truth and having the courage to exist in it. Love you…love what you do.

We miss opportunities to practice Black love

“There are selfish people in the world, both men and women, who believe that if it isn’t always about me you don’t love me. Unfortunately, selfishness and insecurity create a missed opportunity to pour into each other and access the type of love that one is capable of giving.”

Black men tend to often feel unloved,

belittled, and dismissed. Black women tend to feel underappreciated, invisible and last on the love list. Partnership is hard, but it is even harder when you don’t have an individual practice of self-accountability.

Appreciation over expectation

“It is important for partners to have honest conversations face to face about expectations and needs. Not everybody knows how to be loved or how to share love. The real questions are asking each other in what ways can those expectations be met and quite honestly the best question to ask your partner is how can I love you better.”

Gratitude goes a long way in relationships. Learning how to listen and share for the purpose of mutual understanding requires energy and grace. Ultimately we each decide to learn how to love in ways that shift our actions, words and how we receive our partners’ efforts.

Partner practice week 1: Close your eyes and reminisce on a joyful moment your partner made you laugh. Let your smile and the memory inspire your next act. Follow Yanni @makinglovebettr on IG for daily lifts of love.

National Geographic Live Explores Tulsa Race Massacre

Danielle Sanders CNW Managing Editor

National Geographic Live is a critically acclaimed speaker series offering firsthand accounts and expert voices on cultural and environmental issues. On Sunday, Jan. 23, 2023, the series comes to Chicago with “Greenwood: A Century of Resilience.” Tulsa-based archaeologist, Dr. Alicia Odewale shares how archaeology is used as a tool for recovering lost stories, reclaiming a narrative, and pursuing restorative justice.

“Black Wall Street” as it was called, was a thriving Black community with Black business owners and homeowners. At the time it was considered to be one of the most affluent Black communities in the country with Blackowned grocery stores, banks, hotels, libraries, and schools. In 1921, over 5000 white residents invaded the Black neighborhood of Greenwood in Tulsa, Oklahoma. Armed with guns and other weapons, some supplied by the Tulsa Police Department, white residents caused a storm of terror, setting homes and businesses on fire and attacking residents. The terror continued for 48 hours and when the smoke cleared, more than 300 people were killed, over 1000 homes were destroyed and more than $1 Million dollars in property was destroyed ($26.1 million in today’s figures). In addition, more than 800 people were admitted to hospitals and as many as 6,000 Black residents of Tulsa were interned in large fa-

cilities, many of them for several days. Considered one of the most violent episodes of racial violence in America, the impact of the massacre left a community destroyed and changed forever with generations of families impacted. Many survivors left Tulsa, while residents who chose to stay in the city, regardless of race, largely kept silent about the terror and violence for decades.

In May 2021, Viola Fletcher, a 107-year-old Tulsa Massacre survivor shared her story at the nation’s capital saying, “I still see Black men being shot, Black bodies lying in the street. I still smell smoke and see fire. I still see Black businesses being burned. I still hear airplanes flying overhead. I hear the screams. I have lived through the massacre every day. She continued, “I am 107 years old and have never seen justice. I pray that one day I will. I have been blessed with a long life – and have seen the best and worst of this country. I think about the terror inflicted upon Black people in this country every day.” Fletcher was seven years old at the time of the massacre.

Dr. Alicia Odewale is an Assistant Professor of Anthropology at The University of Tulsa. Her research and teaching focuses on archaeological sites of African heritage in St. Croix, the U.S. Virgin Islands, and Oklahoma. Her research interests include the archaeology of enslavement and freedom in urban contexts, Caribbean archaeology, rural

and urban comparative analyses, community-based archaeology, ceramic analysis, transferware studies, mapping historical trauma from the 1921 Tulsa Race Massacre, and investigations into different forms of cultural resistance.

Dr. Odewale’s latest research project, “Mapping Historical Trauma in Tulsa from 19212021” examines the historical and archeological evidence of the period focusing on the Greenwood community’s trauma and triumph in its aftermath. Dr. Odewale says, “we are just beginning to unearth and map the evidence of this black communities’ resilience over the course of 100 years.” According to their website, the project hopes to “create new, critical sites of memory to examine this dark moment in our shared history and consider its legacies and echoes in the present day through digital mapping, collaborative archaeology, and the curation and public presentation of research results.”

Dr. Odewale’s work sheds light on the impact of racism and racial violence in America through the lens of a community that continues to survive. “Greenwood: A Century of Resilience comes to the Auditorium Theatre located at 50 E. Ida B. Wells Drive Sunday, Jan. 29, 2023, at 2 p.m. Tickets are priced between $5-$48 and are available at www. auditoriumtheatre.org.

Fannie Lou Hamer’s

Grandniece Monica Land Receives IDA Documentary Award

CNW Staff Report

Monica Land’s revolutionary documentary “Fannie Lou Hamer’s America: An America ReFramed Special”. a co-production by WORLD Channel, American Documentary, and Black Public Media in partnership with PBS won the “Best TV Feature Documentary or Mini-Series” award, announced over the weekend by the International Documentary Association at the 38th IDA Awards ceremony held at the Paramount Theater in Los Angeles on Saturday, December 10, 2022.

Told through Hamer’s public speeches, interviews, powerful songs, and never-before-seen family photos and archival footage, Fannie Lou Hamer’s America is a unique portrait of the life and legacy of the Mississippi-born sharecropper whose harrowing encounters with injustice propelled her into leadership in the fight for voting rights. The film is currently available to stream on PBS Passport, Amazon, and iTunes.

“The entire WORLD Channel and America ReFramed team is honored by this recognition by the IDA and the hundreds of industry experts that selected Fannie Lou Hamer’s America as a 2022 IDA Documentary Award winner,” said Chris Hastings, executive producer for WORLD Channel at GBH in Boston. “WORLD Channel is proud to share Monica Land’s epic vision for this film, and to provide a platform for the story of Fannie Lou Hamer’s rise as a civil rights icon, told in her own words.”

The IDA Documentary Awards is the world’s most prestigious event dedicated to the documentary genre, celebrating the best nonfiction films and programs of the year. It seeks to represent excellence in the documentary field from around the world by emerging and established documentarians. The IDA Documentary Awards shortlists and nominees were selected by independent committees of 310 documentary makers, curators, critics, and industry experts from 52 countries.

Over the past decade, America ReFramed has received widespread acclaim which includes recent DuPont-Columbia, International Documentary Association, and News & Documentary Emmy Awards nominations. An essential platform for diverse artists and audiences, the series is the recipient of the prestigious George Foster Peabody Award and has been honored by the Gracies, Imagen Awards, Kaleidoscope Awards, Asian American Journalist Association, Native American Journalists Association, The Association of LGBTQ Journalists and the National Association of Black Journalists.

For more information and films, please visit www.WORLDchannel.org or follow @worldchannel on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, TikTok, and YouTube.

Hit Starz Drama “BMF”

Returns for its Second Season

CNW Staff Report

Exploring Black Wealth with New Podcast “Direct Deposit”

CNW Staff Report

Hosted by Chad Sanders, writer for HBO Max’s series Rap Sh!t and author of Black Magic, Direct Deposit is an episodic podcast that explores the complex dynamics around Black wealth and success.

Chad Sanders is a writer on the brink of wealth, whose world is changing fast around him. He goes from sleeping on a mattress on the floor of his Brooklyn apartment to Hollywood pitch meetings with his mentor, Spike Lee, to riding around Los Angeles with Kanye West. He lands a staff writing gig for Issa Rae’s new show, Rap Sh!t. His phone is ringing nonstop, and he can feel his burgeoning success, but can’t stop checking his bank account and obsessing over how he’s going to make more money without losing himself. Now that he’s getting some cash, Chad stays up at night wondering what’s going to happen next.

BMF

” returns for a second hit season and dramatizes the inspiring true story of two brothers Demetrius “Big Meech” Flenory (Demetrius Flenory, Jr.) and Terry “Southwest T” Flenory (Da’Vinchi), who rose from the decaying streets of southwest Detroit in the late ’80s and gave birth to one of the most influential crime families in the country, Black Mafia Family. “BMF” continues to humanize the choices of the brothers and their pursuit of the American Dream. Rooted in family, loyalty, and brotherhood, the series continues to explore the brothers’ complex familial relationships with their parents Charles Flenory (Russell Hornsby) and Lucille Flenory (Michole Briana White) who seek counsel from their spiritual advisor Pastor Swift (Snoop Dogg).

Rooted in authenticity and told with grit, heart, and humor, we parachute into the season with Meech and Terry at odds. Meech wants to expand the business beyond Detroit, yet Terry is no longer in the game and is focused on school and launching a legitimate car-ride service with his Pops. As the season unfolds, the streets implode and the brothers risk losing everything. We find out what happens to Meech and Terry as they both seek to become stronger than ever and strategically execute a new vision. Along the way, they meet and form an alliance with Goldie (Oscar-winner Mo’Nique), a sophisticated Atlanta strip club owner, who helps Meech forge his future. As the brothers reflect on their wins, little do they know that their new beginnings will also be plagued with new obstacles.

STARZ transformed Hollywood Boulevard in celebration of the new season of Detroit-based family drama with a star studded premiere. Held at the iconic TCL Chinese Theater, Executive Producers Curtis “50 Cent” Jackson, Heather Zuhlke, Anthony Wilson and Anne Clements alongside “BMF” cast members Demetrius “Lil Meech” Flenory Jr., Da’Vinchi, Michole Briana White, Myles Truitt, Steve Harris, Kelly Hu, La La Anthony, Arkeisha “Kash Doll” Knight, Christine Horn, Sydney Mitchell, Rayan Lawrence, Serayah, Caresha “Yung Miami’’ Brownlee and Laila Pruitt were spotted on the red carpet.

Stars from the “Power” universe showed support including Joseph Sikora, Michael Rainey, Isaac Keys and Kris Lofton along with celebrity attendees Kelly Rowland, 2 Chainz, G Herbo, Cordae, D Smoke, Hit Boy, Mario, Omarion, Tee Grizzly, YK Osiris, Lance Gross, Eric Bellinger, ORyan and more.

“BMF” stars Demetrius “Lil Meech” Flenory Jr., the son of Demetrius “Big Meech” Flenory, Da’Vinchi (The Way Back, “grown-ish”), Russell Hornsby (Fences, The Hate U Give), Michole Briana White (“Dead to Me,” She Hate Me), Myles Truitt (“Black Lightning,” “The New Edition doneStory”), Steve Harris (“The Practice,” Diary of a Mad Black Woman), Kelly Hu (The Scorpion King, “The Orville”), La La Anthony (“The Chi,” Think Like a Man), with Detroit rapper Arkeisha “Kash Doll” Knight, Snoop Dogg (Training Day), Leslie Jones (Coming 2 America, “Saturday Night Live”), Christine Horn (“Snowfall”), Sydney Mitchell (“First Wives Club”), Rayan Lawrence (“Underground”), and Serayah (“Empire,” Favorite Son) in recurring roles and Mo’Nique (Precious, “The Parkers”) as a guest star. In addition, Caresha “Yung Miami’’ Brownlee will make a guest appearance this season. Viewers can catch up on BMF Season one on the STARZ app via a limited-time offer of $5/month for 3 months at www.starz.com/buy-starz.

“We’re going to take you on the ride from being broke and hungry, to cashing some big checks,” Sanders says in the podcast’s trailer. “And all the complications that come with trying to get rich.”

In Direct Deposit, Chad discusses everything that happens to Black people who get rich through a series of illuminating, honest, funny, and moving conversations with Black Hollywood power players like Issa Rae, Charles King, Soledad O’Brien, and Gabrielle Union, as well as Black entrepreneurs like Slutty Vegan founder Pinky Cole, NFL quarterback trainer Quincy Avery and more, in a quest to understand the unique, fraught, and fascinating relationship that Black people have with money. To get to the real and raw truths about being rich while Black, Chad takes us into the clubs, black cars, studio lots, bedrooms, and therapy sessions inhabited by Black super-earners (including Kanye West’s bathroom).

Chad’s trying to answer the most urgent questions in his life: What’s money going to do for him? What’s money going to do to him?

Series Topics Include:

TRYING TO GET MONEY: Chad talks with Issa Rae (Insecure) and NFL quarterback trainer Quincy Avery about the early, hungry days of scraping and clawing to jumpstart their careers. Chad’s path toward wealth hits a dead end until he has a spectacular chance encounter with one of his heroes: Spike Lee.

HEATING UP: He talks with Vanessa Anderson (star publicist to Cardi B and Issa Rae) and David Leeks (2 Chainz’s manager) about how to create a buzz loud enough to get The Town’s attention. Can Chad grow his notoriety enough to cash it in?

BECOMING A THING: Chad’s life hits warp speed when he writes a viral OpEd piece in the New York Times about white people’s reaction to George Floyd’s murder. His phone is lighting up with offers, exes, and angry Instagram comments. The ride becomes disorienting so he calls on beauty mogul Jackie Aina and Pinky Cole, leader of the $100M Slutty Vegan empire, to get some real advice on how to stay grounded when everything around him is upending.

MONEY ON THE FLOOR: Chad takes us from first-class flights with rappers, to fancy steakhouses with NFL stars to an Atlanta club with a pimp. There are many ways for young rich people to blow their cash, especially in Atlanta. Chad explores the way ballers burn cash and the people who help them do it.

WORKING WITH WHITE PEOPLE: Chad examines the many angles of frustration, sadness, and anger that he’s experienced working with white people as his money grows. He talks with actress Gabrielle Union and journalist Soledad O’Brien to share their experiences about working in white environments.

MENTAL HEALTH & THERAPY: Psychologist Amanda Jurist speaks with Chad about some of the historic and insidious causes for his pain and why Black people must be particularly thoughtful about how they engage with therapy.

DON’T LOOK DOWN: Chad goes to see a professional - financial manager Anytwyne Delonde - to break down the ways Chad can avoid falling into the fear trap that snares many young, rich, Black people and leaves them broke.

TRYING TO STAY FREE: Chad has some money, a little bit of clout, and a future that looks bright. But still, he doesn’t quite feel free. Chad talks to people who have climbed to the top to ask them the question: are you free?

“Direct Deposit: What Happens When Black People Get Rich” is available on Audible

fashion

FASHION IN THE SAME SENTENCE AS SOCIAL CONSCIOUSNESS

C.L.Blackburn CNW Staff Writer

Five years ago, Remake created an assessment criterion with the goal of guiding the fashion community toward ethical and sustainable shopping alternatives to fast fashion. Its commitment has continued to fine-tune the process. In November 2022, Remake released its second annual Fashion Accountability Report. During their research, they found several troubling supply chain trends across the industry — but there were also a handful of significant sparks of change that appeared in their findings, pointing to the potential of a future for fashion that is fair, humane, and ethical.

While progress toward achieving a more sustainable clothing industry is slow, the following listed six major wins in the areas of wages, commercial practices, policy, governance, and raw materials achieved in 2022 s cause to celebrate the great work being done to create a more equitable and sustainable industry.

1. VICTORIA’S SECRET PAYS OVERDUE WAGE THEFT TO GARMENT WORKERS

In one of the most egregious cases documented, more than 1,250 Thai garment workers who sewed bras for Victoria’s Secret & Co., Lane Bryant, and Torrid were left without millions of dollars in legally owed severance when the Brilliant Alliance garment factory in Thailand abruptly shuttered in March 2021 and left workers destitute. The Thai government ordered the Hong Kongbased Clover Group, to pay severance within 30 days. Clover refused and informed the factory workers that it had no money and that they should agree to wait 10 years to be paid in full.

MORE TRANSPARENT ABOUT LIVING WAGE PROGRESS:

• Four companies (7%) – Hanesbrands Inc., Patagonia, Ralph Lauren, and Reformation – published some progress towards living wages in their supply chains in addition to disclosing the methodology they use to quantify a living wage.

• Five companies (9%) — Burberry, Kering (Gucci, Balenciaga), Marks & Spencer, PUMA, and Reformation — published partial information indicating that some of their direct employees – i.e. corporate or retail workers – earn a living wage.

4.

BRANDS PLEDGE TO SUPPORT THE FABRIC ACT :

The FABRIC Act aims to end wage theft for garment workers on a federal level, establish brand accountability, and incentivize the return of garment production in the U.S., and has been officially endorsed by nearly 100 companies thus far. And in a major win, Reformation and Everlane have pledged support to the FABRIC Act.

5. 17 COMPANIES (46%) OF THE RELEVANT COMPANIES FEATURED IN THE REPORT HAVE SIGNED THE INTERNATIONAL ACCORD.

In August 2021, during the wake of the Covid-19 pandemic, the new International Accord for Health and Safety in the Textile and Garment Industry was agreed upon and expanded its scope to include garment worker health and well-being.

6. Three BRANDS ACTUALLY REDUCED VIRGIN POLYESTER USAGE

Three companies (5%) – Everlane, Nike, Inc., and Patagonia – can demonstrate and report that their usage of virgin oil-based synthetic materials is decreasing – not simply that their use of recycled content is increasing. This is significant because it means these companies are making progress toward replacing virgin synthetics with recycled fiber.

However, fashion must significantly reduce its dependence on synthetic textiles, particularly virgin synthetics, if

we are to have any hope of making real progress on the overwhelming burden of plastics in our biosphere. Synthetic textiles are fossil-fuel derived, non-biodegradable, and non-compostable. They shed microplastics into our waterways, soil, and air. They’re found in most clothing that we wear and account for over two-thirds of all fiber production, with polyester alone comprising just over half.

As consumers start to connect the links between fashion, big oil, and the climate crisis, replacing a reliance on virgin polyester with a reliance on recycled polyester (rPET) gives companies a quick and easy sustainability story to tell. The promise of rPET production is that it is less carbon-intensive and less wasteful to produce than virgin materials. But recycled polyester is still… polyester. It doesn’t perform any better, it doesn’t eliminate microplastics, and it’s still non-biodegradable and non-compostable.

“THE TIMES ARE A CHANGIN’”

These six wins from this year’s report are a testament that the industry is ready and willing to become more ethical, more just, and more sustainable through tangible, positive actions. We must become conscientious consumers and continue to push for actions, policies, and binding agreements that hold fashion brands accountable and provide justice for people and the planet.

* Remake is a global advocacy organization fighting for fair pay and climate justice in the clothing industry. We are here to end poverty wages, unsafe conditions, and gender-based violence with which our clothes are made today.

2. GANNI BECOMES THE FIRST KNOWN BRAND TO SIGN A BUYER CODE OF CONDUCT

3. SOME BIG BRANDS Are BEING

Soft & Chewy Oatmeal Cookies

Mare Evans CNW Contributing Writer

It’s January and the New Year is still ringing in your head and the resolutions are fresh on your mind. You drank, ate, and ate some more excusing your behavior because wanted to get your last bit of decadence in before you stepped into the future. Well, here you are. So how do you eat healthily, yet be satisfied with delicious treats? Sweets and acholic beverages are our major weaknesses. So something sweet that hits the spot and is healthy is a good thing. It’s satisfying and leaves you with no guilt. This cookie recipe will satisfy your sugar craving without the use of processed sugar and clear your stomach leaving you feeling fulfilled but not stuffed. These deliciously sweet and chewy Avocado, Apple, Banana & Oatmeal Cookies will hit the spot!

Start your day off by ‘breaking fast’ also known as breakfast. Drink a refreshing glass of water to help clear the path to an easy release of the old. Next, serve up nutrition at breakfast or snack time with this tasty, family-friendly soft, and chewy cookie. With no sugar added, each bite is naturally sweetened by three kinds of healthy fruits: ripe avocado, banana, and apple. It is super easy to make - even children can help make a batch so that it becomes a family thing!

Serves 16

Ingredients:

• 1 cup of old-fashioned oats

• ½ cup whole wheat flour + 2 Tbsp.

• 1 tsp. ground cinnamon

• ½ tsp. baking soda

• ¼ tsp. salt

• ½ ripe, fresh avocado, halved, pitted, and peeled

• ½ cup mashed ripe banana (from 1½ medium bananas)

• 1 large egg, beaten

• 1 tsp. vanilla extract

• 2/3 cup finely chopped peeled sweet red apple (such as Gala, Fuji, or Honey Crisp)

Instructions:

1. Preheat the oven to 350F. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone baking sheet and set aside.

2. Place the oats, flour, cinnamon, baking soda, and salt in a large bowl and whisk until well combined.

3. Place the avocado in a medium-sized bowl, and mash until smooth. Add the banana, egg, and vanilla and whisk until well combined.

4. Pour the wet mixture into the dry ingredients and stir until just combined. Fold in the chopped apple.

5. Drop dough onto the prepared baking sheet using a spoon, and gently flatten until round and about ½-inch thick. Bake until slightly brown and firm around the edges, 10 to 12 minutes. Transfer to a wire rack and cool before serving.

Recipe Notes:

Store cookies in the refrigerator, or place leftovers in a resealable plastic bag and freeze.