Black Men Shaping Our Future: Featuring Chris Marshall

Summertime has arrived. We are feeling the

hot weather creeping into our lives making it hard to breathe. But we also know the summer brings family time and vacations and just an overall time of joy!

In June, many Fathers will be celebrated. My father passed away in 1993 and there has been a void in my life since that time. I wish all the Fathers a Happy Father’s Day! Black men have shaped the cultural, social, and economic landscapes of this nation. Black men have always had a history of standing courageous and advocating for justice. Black men have always had to fight for their spot at the table as intelligent and strong. They fight everyday against oppression, paving the way for our future generation of black men to

acquire more freedom and opportunity.

Our summer issue and web stories will focus on our black men and how they are making change in our communities and celebrating summer. We introduce you to the Founder and Owner of Sans Bar located in downtown Austin. Chris Marshall’s story is about sobriety and providing a fun and engaging place for all people to enjoy.

I hope your summer will be great and full of sunshine. As the song says,

“Here comes the sun!”

Enjoy Your Summer Friends!!

Damita Miller-Shanklin, Editor-in-Chief

@ujimamagazine1 #EmbraceYourCommunity

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Staying Cool This Summer from the Inside Out

By Christina Gobert, Contributing Writer

Happy Summer! Time seems to have flown by this year as we are now in the summer season. Here in Texas where temperatures regularly reach 100+ degrees this time of year, it is safe to say our daily lives are altered by the sweltering heat. In an effort to support you in keeping cool, I want to provide some suggestions/helpful reminders from an Ayurvedic and Alkaline perspective that you can incorporate into your summer days.

Sea Moss is a seaweed that grows in various oceans. Sea Moss is grown on a rock and therefore contains 92 of the 102 minerals that make up the human body. Restoring these minerals is crucial to keeping the body hydrated and properly running on a cellular level. You can purchase high quality Sea Moss here.

Coconut water or key lime water are excellent forms of naturally alkaline electrolytes that will hydrate your body on a cellular level.

Plan any activities for the early morning or later evening when it is cooler outside.

Many people’s appetites naturally decrease during this time, as your digestive fire is naturally lower. Honor this by not overeating.

Favor foods that will cool the body by providing natural hydration, such as watermelon, cucumbers and cooling salads.

Favor cool, but not ice cold drinks so as to not douse your digestive fire.

Whatever your plans are this summer, please embrace the heat and safely; enjoy this time of outdoor fun in the sun!

Christina G Chopra Health (Ayurveda) & Meditation

Instructor Natural Healing Wellness Co. “learn.align.heal”.

Empowering Black Men: How Black Women Can Help Them Thrive

By Jacqueline Johnson, Contributing Writer

Black men have always been our foundation, steadfast pillars of strength and resilience within our communities. From fighting for civil rights to leading families with unwavering dedication, their contributions and sacrifices have been crucial. Despite facing systemic challenges, they have consistently exemplified leadership, creativity, and perseverance. Their roles as fathers, mentors, activists, and innovators have laid the groundwork for progress and empowerment. Celebrating and supporting Black men is essential, as their unwavering commitment and achievements continue to inspire and uplift us all.

Their enduring legacy is a testament to their indispensable role as the backbone of our society. As Black women, we play a crucial role in this journey of resilience and success.

Here are some ways we can support and uplift Black men to ensure their continued thriving.

Emotional Support and Encouragement: Black men often encounter emotional and mental health challenges stemming from societal pressures and expectations. Offering a safe space for them to express their feelings and experiences is vital. By actively listening and providing encouragement, we can help them navigate these complexities with greater confidence and peace of mind.

Celebrating Achievements:

Recognition and celebration of Black men’s achievements can significantly boost their morale and motivation. Whether it’s a personal milestone or a professional accomplishment, acknowledging their hard work and

success reinforces their efforts and encourages continued excellence. Publicly sharing their stories and contributions also counters negative stereotypes and provides positive role models for younger generations.

Collaboration and Mentorship:

Collaborative efforts and mentorship programs can greatly benefit Black men. Professional networks and community initiatives where Black women actively participate can offer guidance, resources, and opportunities for growth. Mentorship, particularly, provides a platform for sharing knowledge and experiences

Contributing Writer, Jacqueline “ooh” Johnson

that can help Black men navigate their careers and personal lives more effectively.

Financial Empowerment: Economic stability is a cornerstone of thriving communities. Supporting Blackowned businesses and encouraging financial literacy within our circles can foster economic empowerment. By investing in and patronizing Black enterprises, we contribute to a robust economic foundation that benefits the entire community.

Black men are achieving remarkable success across various domains, often against significant odds. As Black women, our support, advocacy, and collaboration are crucial in helping them thrive. By providing emotional support, celebrating achievements, advocating for equality, collaborating through mentorship, and promoting financial empowerment, we can create a nurturing environment that allows Black men to reach their full potential. In doing so, we strengthen not just individual lives, but our communities as a whole.

Jacqueline Johnson, a proud Texan, currently resides in Denton, TX, alongside her spouse and last daughter to leave the nest. With two grown sons residing in California and two grandsons, and her newly married daughter and son-in-love, Jacqueline is the visionary behind Jacquie ooh, an online resource hub committed to equipping women with the tools they need to think well and live well. Additionally, Jacqueline has spearheaded the development of the Glow Collection by Jacquie ooh, an exceptional line of all-natural skincare products. Designed to provide your skin with a nourishing gourmet experience, this collection embodies her passion for holistic well-being. Jacqueline is also very involved in her community where she volunteers and is the precinct chair in her county. She is the author of: “Glow Through It” 21-Day Devotional Journal for Women, and “Dare to Sparkle” Entrepreneur Guide plus Dream Big 4-Day Devotional. And, most recently her remarkable show, “Motivational Monday with Jacquie ooh” is a 2X Telly Award winner for being an exceptional online talk show. For more information on Jacquie ooh please visit www.jacquieooh.com

She Speaks Wellness: DIVINE ASSIGNMENT

By Minister Sonya Hosey, Contributing Writer

You are at a crucial moment, filled with untapped potential to manifest the unique gifts God has specifically assigned. This journey requires faith, trust amid uncertainties, a deep connection with God, and reflection. "Yesterday is history, tomorrow is a mystery, but today is a gift. That's why it's called the present, a quote attributed to Alice Morse Earle.”

Romans 8:28 (NIV) assures us, "And we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love him, who have been called according to his purpose." God is at work!

Your divine purpose or mission, given by God, is the essence of life. It's not merely about fulfilling your duty; it's about confidently discovering your true self through the eyes of God. Reflecting on your journey is pivotal in aligning with this assignment. Are you evolving spiritually, emotionally, and mentally? If not, it's time to contemplate the necessary changes. Are your current circumstances a true reflection of who you are? How can you better align yourselves? For instance, your divine assignment could be to use your gift of empathy to comfort those in need or use leadership skills to guide others toward righteousness. Aligning with your divine assignment can lead to a transformative journey.

Your assignment is purposeful. God calls you to transcend your thoughts, circumstances, emotions, and actions. It would be best to recognize that it involves understanding the habits that hinder progress and reshaping thought patterns and behaviors to break free from bad habits. Embracing new ways of thinking is a choice that can bring about a profound positive change. As Pastor FREE wisely said, “A new day requires a new move.” You must make that move and embrace the change that leads to your divine assignment.

Embrace change and new ways of thinking. Start a gratitude journal aligned with scripture and prayers to shift your focus from what's wrong to what's right. Today is your gift for a divine assignment. Embrace this gift, live it fully, and let it guide you to a life of elevation and not stagnation. Your divine assignment – awaits!

Life Takes Time

By Aubrie, Contributing Writer

When I was about fourteen or fifteen years old, I was prescribed birth control for the first time. I had been struggling with hormonal acne for years, and my doctor thought it would be the best solution. I knew nothing about birth control besides the fact that most of the women and girls that I knew were on it or had been on it at some point in their lives, and most of them felt that the pros outweigh the cons.

The first birth control that I went on was great. I had no cramps, my mood was great, and my skin started to clear up. After the first month or two my insurance stopped covering my prescription, and I had to switch to a new formula. Things took a turn for the worse; I became incredibly moody and depressed, my anxiety worsened, and I had no idea why. This began a long journey of going from brand to brand, trying to find something that made me feel as good as the first one made me feel to no avail. When quarantine started in 2020, I decided to take a break from the search. There was no reason for me to continue taking it if I wasn’t even leaving the house, and I wanted to see what would happen if I went off of it. I felt slightly better, but the stress of quarantine made it hard for me to realize what effects going off of birth control actually had on my mental health.

When I started college, I decided to give it another try. At this point, I was already going through so many life changes that I didn’t even notice the effects that it had on my mental health until very recently. I was on continuously for the past few years, but recently I decided that I wanted to stop again.

Going off of my birth control was one of the best decisions I’ve ever made. In the past few months I’ve felt so much more alive and like myself, and the dark cloud of depression that I thought would haunt me for the rest of my life began to dissipate. I’ve learned that it’s really important to listen to your body and what it needs, and that it takes time to figure out what’s good for you. I wanted to share this story because I know how many women and girls feel the need to start birth control, but medicine is not one size fits all. Something that works well for other people may not work for you, because no one knows you as well as you know yourself.

Finding Community and Connection at Sans Bar: A SAFE HAVEN IN AUSTIN

Austin Texas is a city of vibrant culture and rapid change. This transformation has been both fascinating and eye opening. Chris Marshall moved to Austin 17 years ago and has watched the landscape change including areas that are almost unrecognizable.

Marshall is the Owner of the Sans Bar. Marshall has found a way to contribute positively to the community through the creation of Sans Bar located in Downtown Austin. It is a unique establishment dedicated to providing a non-alcoholic social environment. This concept was born from Marshall's personal struggles with alcohol and a desire to help others facing similar issues. “I got sober at 23 and moved to Austin from Houston in 2008,” says

Marshall. He went on to say, “I became a counselor and worked extensively with individuals struggling with substance abuse. I realized there was a significant need for a place where people could socialize without the pressure or presence of alcohol.”

People wanted to stop drinking but didn’t know where to go. They missed the camaraderie of socializing but needed a different environment.

Marshall’s journey to sobriety and community work led to the founding of Sans Bar in 2017. The bar quickly became a haven individuals seeking a social space free from alcohol. “People would come to him saying they wanted to stop drinking but didn't know where to go. They missed the camaraderie of socializing but needed a different environment.” The bar aims to be a welcoming space for everyone, regardless of their relationship with alcohol.

The important moment that solidified Marshall’s determination to create this space was the loss of a client who struggled with alcohol. “She talked about how hard substance abuse was for her and how much she missed socializing.” That Friday, she was vibrant and hopeful, but by Monday, she had lost her life. It was devastating and made him realize he couldn’t keep seeing amazing people lose their life to alcohol.

Sans Bar not only offers a safe social space but also engages the community through various events and initiatives. One such initiative is the Sans Bar Academy, which came about during the pandemic. The bar was closed for a year, and Marshall wanted to help the non-alcoholic movement grow. The Academy is a virtual course that helps people start their own non-alcoholic bars or bottle shops, Marshall explains. The Academy has helped over 50 businesses worldwide, teaching everything from business plans to marketing and community building.

Running a small business in Austin comes with its challenges. Marshall shared his challenges. One being the city is growing and changing so fast, and everything is getting more expensive. Another challenge is helping people understand that the Sans

Bar space is for “everyone”, not just those who abstain from alcohol. The San's Bar also hosts a monthly Black-owned business market, fostering a sense of community and support among local entrepreneurs.

Despite the challenges, the bar continues to thrive, adapting to changes and maintaining its mission. “COVID was tough, but it taught us the importance of diversifying our income. We are open only on Fridays and rent out our space for events,” Marshall shares.

Looking ahead, Marshall is focused on expanding the reach of non-alcoholic social spaces, particularly in higher education spaces such as colleges and universities. “Generation Z is drinking less and prioritizing mental health. We’re working with colleges to incorporate non-alcoholic options into their social scenes,” explains.

Sans Bar is more than just a business; it's a movement toward healthier, more inclusive social environments. “We know alcohol is harmful, and we’re creating spaces that promote well-being and connection without it,” Marshall concludes. For those in Austin and beyond, Sans Bar offers a glimpse into a future where everyone can find a place to belong, free from the pressures of alcohol.

Visit San’s Bar and join the community that celebrates life and connection in a safe, supportive environment. You can learn more at their website, https://www.thesansbar.com

MARY’S TIPS AND IDEAS

Activities for Children to Help Them Learn Through Play !!

School is out and summer is on the horizon. Young children should be outside at least 30 minutes per day , school age children need about 3 hours per day.

Here are some ideas for any age, you can always enhance ideas to suit your family and kids.

• Music, Dancing, and Singing. ...

• Imaginative Play. ...

• Running, Jumping, Climbing, Swinging. ...

• Nature Play. ...

• Sensory Play. ...

• Basic Board Games. ...

• The Cardboard Box. Yes really!

Enjoy your summer!

Mary Linnen, Editor

Cooking and Grilling Tips

It’s that time again to get the grill ready for summer grilling. There are so many grills to choose from, but they all require preparation before you get started with your favorite meats and recipes.

1. Always make sure your grill is hot.

2. Start with a clean grill.

3. Oil the grill grates.

4. Don’t move food around and don’t open the lid on the grill!

5. Use an instant-read meat thermometer to check for a safe and desired temperature.

6. Always let meat rest after removing it from the grill.

For an interesting grill hack, cut a potato in half and rub the cut side of the potato on hot grill grates, this will make the grill naturally nonstick!

Have a great summer!!

https://www.austintexas.gov/department/rebates-tools-programs

Dinner on the Grill

You can enjoy a fabulous meal cooked right on the grill. Yes, that recipe for a great one pan dinner can go on the grill as well.

Kabobs with fresh vegetables and fruit can also be a quick summer meal. Grilled peach halves topped with ice cream is a great dessert for the whole family.

Don’t forget the seafood foil packs. There is so many meals you can prepare on your grill.

Keep your oven off and your home cool!!

Enjoy!!

What Do the Colors of Juneteenth Symbolize?

The colors associated with June 19th, also known as Juneteenth, carry significant meanings rooted in African American history and culture. The most commonly used colors for Juneteenth are red, green, and black, reflecting the broader PanAfrican colors.

1. Red: Symbolizes the bloodshed and the sacrifices made by African Americans in their struggle for freedom and equality. It also represents resilience and strength.

2. Green: Represents the fertile land of Africa and signifies growth, renewal, and hope for the future.

3. Black: Represents the African American community and its rich heritage, acknowledging the identity and unity of the Black people.

These colors are often displayed on Juneteenth flags, clothing, and decorations to celebrate the emancipation of enslaved African Americans and to honor their history and culture.

Before We Go ...

As we close out our summer issue highlighting our Black men, these are some things to remember.

Black men have made significant strides in political and social leadership. We have men like Chas Moore, with the Justice Coalition, fighting for justice and the rights of black people. He also fights for the equality of all people fighting for equality and equity.

Many Black men are deeply involved in their communities, working as mentors, activists, and community organizers. Their efforts are vital in driving positive change and supporting the next generation. There are Black men such as Larry Wallace, Sr. and Dr. Larry Wallace Jr. who has seen the need of Black men to live healthier lives and they provide programs to meet that need for many men in our black community. There is also Michael R. Lofton, CEO and Founder of the African American Youth Harvest Foundation. He works hard to ensure our young black children have an opportunity to start off with a good foundation of opportunities and experiences that lead to a better future.

We have many black men in our communities, doing great work in the areas of entertainment, business, and education. As a community, we need to continue building upon the influence and resilience black men contribute to communities and our future in the world.

Lastly, enjoy our summer with your family and friends. There is so much to do around Austin. Don’t forget the Juneteenth celebrations in Austin and the surrounding areas. If you plan to travel. Be safe.

Ujima staff wishes you all a great summer. Stay hydrated and cool!