Certify CNY Black History Month Edition

CERTIFY CNY

BLAC K HISTORY M ONTH YESTERDAY, TODAY, TOMMOROW

COMMEMORATIVE EDITION

Publisher’s Note

by Rickey T. Brown

As an advocate for social and economic justice, let me be the first to admit how challenging this work can be. No one voice can be representative of an entire culture, nor raise the consciousness of a nation and certainly not without experiencing a fair share of criticism from both sides. However, like the ancestors before me, I recognize the great many sacrifices that must be made in order to reach the goal of racial equity in this United States of America.

My ultimate hero, El Hajj Malik El Shabazz, or Malcolm X, paid with his life, as did Medgar Evers, Fred Hampton, Dr. Martin Luther King Jr., and many other less prominent historical figures, but they all fought systematic discrimination and racial oppression. It does not escape me that the neo liberalism that today embraces and quotes the likes of Dr. King, fueled and gave birth to his assassination. We must recognize and learn to accept that a portion of this movement is only satisfied with creating a comfort zone to assuage white guilt and not necessarily concerned with the well being of Black Americans. They serve as gatekeepers for a system that largely upholds both white privilege and white supremacy.

Organizations which claim to be leaders in diversity and inclusion and stand on PLEDGES of anti-racism, have actually institutionalized the practice through hiring, monetizing, and reducing racial equity to a few buzz words in order to collect a check. It is our obligation to remove the veil of authenticity and expose these efforts as nothing more than an attempt at further capitalizing off of Black suffering.

It is important to remain steadfast in our approach, while also holding those standing in our path accountable. No man, politician, or organization is above reproach in our fight for equity. I am proud of the work we have accomplished and will continue in my fight to bring awareness to the many issues surrounding racial and economic justice in Central New York. In the words of brother Malcom, "If you're not careful, the newspapers will have you hating the people who are being oppressed, and loving the people who are doing the oppressing.”

Academy of Youth Entrepreneurship A PILOT PROGRAM FOR YOUNG ENTREPRENEURS

HOMMY DIAZ MAGNUS ALPHA PRODUCT OF AN IMMIGRANT

FASHION DESIGN

Illustrations by Zac Dynes

Find Us On Eventbrite.

Registration now open!

Diversify-NY, LLC brings you L.A. based fashion brand Magnus Alpha and the Product of An Immigrant fashion brand for an indepth discussion on brand development, manufacturing and marketing. This immersive class will teleport students deep into the global supply chain as Hommy Diaz recounts his journey from fashion school standout, to stints at some of the most recognizable brands in footwear and design. Hommy will join us virtually to give students hands-on access by sharing his firsthand knowledge of the fashion industry. Students will enroll in a four week course that will explore design, marketing, manufacturing and material sourcing, to supply chain management. Classes will begin in March. Registration is now open for students aged 13-24.

Admin OnCall

EILEEN COLLINS, PRINCIPAL

ADMIN ON CALL A COMMUNICATIONS COMPANY AIMED TOWARDS THE FUTURE

Eileen Collins knows that if her clients are successful, she’s successful. What she didn’t always know, was that she could be an entrepreneur based on the administrative skills she had acquired while working for others for 30+ years.

That is, until one day she visited a friend from church that had her own business. Although her friend was a serial entrepreneur, her office badly needed organizing. Eileen, who had been working in administration since she was “trained by the best” in the Air Force, offered to help. Her friend liked her work so much, she insisted on paying her and even referred her to her own clients.

It would take Eileen another fifteen years to pursue entrepreneurship full-time with her business Admin-On-Call LLC, which provides an array of administrative services for entrepreneurs and small businesses. In that time, she had relocated to Syracuse and was looking for work. She quickly found that Syracuse was rich with resources for entrepreneurs. “For entrepreneurship, Syracuse is the place because there’s so many resources and they work together to make sure you’re successful.” She took the Fast Track to Entrepreneurship course offered by the Small Business Development Center (SBDC) and got into the Department of Labor’s Self Employment Assistance Program (SEAP), which allowed her to continue to receive unemployment while pursuing entrepreneurship.

It was challenging at first because Eileen didn’t know many people in Central New York, but she started attending WISE Women business events, discovered the SSIC (South Side Innovation Center), the Women’s Opportunity Center (WOC), and quickly developed relationships. She soon realized people really cared. Despite the fact that it once took her twenty minutes to work up the nerve to go in to a networking event, Eileen persisted, and it was “the best thing I could have done.” Her clients now span across industries and levels including event planning and government contracting, but she has a special place in her heart for the construction industry. On one occasion, she’s even rumored to have changed from a suit to construction site gear in a matter of minutes in port-a-potty. Superwoman for sure!

WE PROVIDE COST EFFECTIVE ADMINISTRATIVE BUSINESS SERVICES ON AN AS-NEEDED BASIS. PERFECT FOR BUSY PROFESSIONALS, SOLE PROPRIETORS, HOME BASED BUSINESSES, AND SMALL BUSINESS OWNERS.

CONTACT US AT Email: adoncallny@gmail.com

VISIT US www.adminoncallny.com/

EILEEN COLLINS

Eventually, Eileen pursued MWBE Certification for her business. Her first potential contract as an MWBE came from a recommendation from the Upstate Minority Economic Alliance (UMEA) under then Executive Director, Rickey Brown, although her services did not meet the SOW for the project. It took another three years as an MWBE certified business before she landed her first contract as a subcontractor with Landon & Rian Enterprises, Inc., Compliance Officers for the Joint Schools Construction Board. In that role, she attends the Progress and Coordination meetings, and interviews the MWBEs onsite to address any compliance issues.

MWBE certification has helped Eileen tremendously. “I’ve been a subcontractor with Landon & Rian, Inc. for 2+ years now. This opportunity has helped the business to remain open and financially sustained through the Pandemic. If I wasn’t certified, I wouldn’t have had the opportunity to even be considered. I’m grateful even when opportunities didn’t end up panning out. The process of being interviewed and bidding motivated me to continue to renew my certification. The initial interaction from companies is due to the EEO requirements to fulfill a quota to hire a certain number of MWBE businesses, but it can lead to much more. It’s totally worth it to stay the course and get certified and/or renew your certification. That way you’re ready when the door opens, you don’t have to GET ready.”

That’s not to say it’s been easy. The hardest part of entrepreneurship happened in the beginning stages of her journey and that was staying committed to entrepreneurship.

“Because in lean times, I would go through ‘gotta get a job’ transformations and tell myself I needed to get a job, that this wasn’t working. I even went so far as to apply for a job and scheduled an interview. But you have to know down in your soul that this is what you’re supposed to be doing so that the downturns don’t drive you back into the workforce.

WWW.ADMINONCALLNY.COM/

Email: adoncallny@gmail.com

ADMIN ON CALL EILEEN COLLINS

OUR MISSION IS TO UNCHAIN YOU FROM YOUR DESK, REMOVE THOSE MOUNTAINS OF PAPERWORK, AND ELIMINATE THOSE LATE FEES. ADMIN-ON-CALL'S

You have to be committed to your goals and dreams.

It’s been worth sticking with it.”

Eileen has a lot to be proud of. She grew her business from a DBA to an LLC with MWBE Certification in less than a decade. Thanks to her MWBE certification, she recently landed a contract with a Rochester-based client who was awarded a contract with CENTRO. “It signifies real growth for me to recognize myself that the business is growing.” And other people are recognizing too.

Eileen received the Woman of the Year 2020 Award from the Women’s Opportunity Center and she was recently inducted into the Syracuse University Emerging Enterprise Program.

One of her goals is for the company is to become part of the B.A.I.L. team (Banking, Accountant, Insurance, and Legal), where the “A” will also include Administrative. Eileen sees the role for Administration playing an integral part when businesses are building their team. “Admin should be identified in these working meetings for new businesses.” She can even see Admin-On-Call, LLC potentially being a franchise one day. Whatever the future holds, Eileen will rely on what has helped make her successful so far. “I acknowledge that God gave me theses skills and I am humble and grateful for them and will use them to serv my clients. My tagline says it all, ‘Your success is my success.’ I embrace each of my clients and become a part of their team, operating in their business as if it’s my business. I always say, ‘I don’t work for you, I work with you.’ I love being behind the scenes so that they can be out there generating revenue for their business. I want to ensure that my clients are successful.”

ADMINISTRATIVE SERVICES WILL INCREASE PRODUCTIVITY AND PROVIDE YOU WITH THE FREEDOM TO FOCUS ON REVENUE GENERATING ACTIVITIES, SUCH AS NETWORKING, SELLING, PROMOTING, AND MARKETING YOUR PRODUCTS AND/OR SERVICES.

EMAIL: ADONCALLNY@GMAIL.COM

Her advice for MWBEs? “Don’t give up when it seems like nothing is coming.

Certification enables you to be available for opportunities when they arise. So, keep it renewed, attend every opportunity for bidding on jobs or networking events to establish relationships with the decision makers, not just to get the job, but to meet people and network too, even if they’re not in your scope of services.

Admin

OnCall

You’ve gotta be in it to win it! For example, I’m OSHA-10 certified, not because I needed it for my business, but because it is related to the clients I work with. Anything that sets you apart from other businesses, do it. Self-development and business development are key for growth and success.”

VIRTUAL ASSISTANT

FEB 19, 2021 • SEASON 1

• EPISODE 2

RENT PARTIES REIMAGINED •VIRTUAL CROWD FUNDING AFFAIR•

AIRING ON 2/19/21 @9 PM HTTPS://BIT.LY/3JZHFGN

HARLEM MAY HAVE GIVEN BIRTH TO RENT PARTIES, BUT SYRACUSE, NEW YORK JUST ADDED A TWIST.

In the early 1920's Harlem New Yorkers faced rampant housing discrimination with many landlords aiming to have Black residents evicted from their homes and neighborhoods.

By charging exorbitant rents, the landlords

THE REMIX

were seemingly able to oust those who could not afford the overcharged rents.

As Black people always do, we found a way to combat this form of legal extortion and thus gave birth to what was known as rent parties.

The rent party was truly one of the first forms of cooperative economics and one of the primary weapons against housing discrimination. Many families would host an

by Rickey Brown

event and charge an entry fee, a fee for food, and even for a cup to drink.

NOMADIC

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As many as 10-12 rent parties would be hosted in a single neighborhood with many featuring live bands. This era also helped to proliferate jazz music. The parties were advertised with gusto, with many requiring tickets or printed cards to gain entry. Cards like those featured here from the fabled collection of author James Baldwin, were a staple of the time.

Diversify-NY, LLC a company based in Syracuse N.Y. reimagined the rent party as a way to support Black owned businesses impacted by a global pandemic. The company's owner, Rickey Brown, thought, what if we raised capital and gifted a Black owned company the proceeds of one of these parties to sustain them through Covid? From there the idea grew. Diversify-NY, LLC partnered with Upstate Sound and Vision to produce a live monthly broadcast that featured locally owned Black and brown business owners with the goal of gifting one company per month $500.

RENT

PARTIES

HOSTED MONTHLY BY DIVERSIFY-NY, LLC

RICKEY T. BROWN Host, Principal of Diversify-N.Y., LLC

Chris Tracey of Upstate Sound and Vision has played in integral role in producing the digital content that each of the featured businesses are then able to share with their respective networks. The show also features a live DJ, with Hasan Stephens, aka, DJ Maestro spinning on the ones and two's.

Thus far, the exposure for these businesses has lead to an increase in sales in addition to expanding their networks outside of the City of Syracuse. The work has attracted eyes from around the nation including sponsorships to help support this innovative new crowd funding. For his part, Brown just wants to expand his network and give access to smaller Black owned companies that may not have the platform to grow and expand their businesses, especially during a pandemic.

For him, partnering with Upstate Sound and Vision has allowed him to visually and digitally tell the stories of these companies while also building brand awareness and global recognition for Syracuse based companies.

The digital imprint isn't confined to just the live monthly broadcast. His online magazine, Certify CNY which has already reached more than 15 countries and six continents, serves as another avenue to promote the rent party roster. His modest goal of having 100 businesses register in year one is sure to be eclipsed as businesses are registering at a fever pitch. More than 45 so far. For more on this effort, follow the Virtual Rent Party on instagram, facebook, linkedIn, and Twitter.

Interested in joining this effort or registering your business? Contact Rickey Brown at rickeybrwn@gmail.com for more information sponsorship opportunities.

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HOW VIRTUAL RENT PARTIES BENEFIT BLACK OWNED BUSINESSES

$500 GRAND PRIZE WINNERS Unrestricted capital to use directly for day to day operations. One business per month is awarded $500.

Upstate Sound and Vision and Diversif-N.Y. select 3 businesses per month to highlight and produce digital content to promote and expand these brands.

LIVE STREAMED MONTHLY BROADCAST

INCREASED

Branded Content

BRAND

Video Promotion

AWARENESS & EXPOSURE

Social Media

DIGITAL AD PLACEMENT

Digital Media

= MORE SALES

Let Us Help!

VIDEO PROMOTION

Upstate Sound and Vision creates visual concepts to communicate ideas that inspire, inform, or captivate consumers. This includes the production of 360° Virtual Pop Up Shops as an online alternative for Covid impacted businesses.

A New Flame

Youlanda Hudgins-Johnson This serial entrepreneur is back with a new business.

What ignites her passion and how has her brand remained so strong?

COCOAS CANDLES

by Diana Clark Youlanda Hudgins-Johnson’s customers know she’ll take care of them. The quality and care she puts into each order means that customers are sure to have an amazing experience each and every time they purchase the candles, wax melts, body scrubs, and lip and body balms she sells at Cocoa’s Candles. From the boxes and packaging to the unique and addicting scents, your self-care is on another level in Youlanda’s hands.

Youlanda began her entrepreneurial journey years ago when she opened Hot Cocoa’s, a store that sold an array of hair products, including wigs and extensions. Back then, it began as heart work. Her mother had been diagnosed with Leukemia and was told she would lose all of her hair. Youlanda realized, “other women go through hair loss too whether because of Cancer or Alopecia or other reasons. And our hair is our crown. I knew that this would help people so I decided to open a shop.”

She took what she had learned about customer service from her work in upper management at Byrne Dairy (Store Manager) and Wegmans (Front End Manager) and set about building a brand. At one point, there were three locations of Hot Cocoa’s, including one at Destiny USA, where it was the first Black-owned beauty store. She successfully ran Hot Cocoa’s for more than ten years, including surviving the recession of 2008.

After a while though, running the multiple shops got overwhelming.

“There’s definitely gonna be ups and downs in entrepreneurship. But after a while, it got to be difficult.” It was at that point that Youlanda made the difficult decision to close up shop at Hot Cocoa’s.

Youlanda gave up retail entrepreneurship for a while, and pursued other career opportunities. Still, the community never forgot her commitment to ensuring customers have quality experiences, and Youlanda never lost her entrepreneurial spirit. When the pandemic hit last March, she had an opportunity to provide for people once again. “I’ve always made beauty products for myself. I’m always playing around with stuff, but I never thought people would want it. Having more time during the pandemic, I started playing around to keep busy. I shared some products with a few people and got a lot of good feedback.

Then, back in September I launched with a candle party in my own backyard, and it took off from day one.”

CC COCOA’S CANDLES

by Diana Clark

Cocoa’s Candles now provides a line of organic home fragrances that are “curated with natural ingredients to foster a sense of remedy and relaxation to purify any distress in the comfort of your home.” A lot of people who support Cocoa’s Candles are friends and former customers from Hot Cocoa’s, a testament to its brand recognition and longevity. Cocoa’s Candles also includes products for men, as well as special themed and customizable products.

As with her previous business endeavor, Youlanda knows there will be challenges with any business. “The most challenging part for any small business is you are the business. You are the creator, researcher, maker, seller, marketing, packaging, delivery, etc. You do everything. Bigger businesses have people to do that for them, but not with small businesses. People want to talk to you, and you don’t want to have people waiting. So we work 10x harder than the bigger companies. We just don’t have the manpower and more is expected from us. Your blood pressure is always high because of that. We don’t make as much money but customers are expecting a lot. So yes, the struggle is the manpower. Having the people to deliver whatever products or services you provide and maintain the actual business.”

An additional layer of challenges comes with being a Black woman in the world. “There are huge diversity issues. I feel like opportunity is not always available for me the way it is for my Caucasian colleagues. But because of my experience, I’m aware of when I’m not being treated fairly, and that pushes me harder to do something. As the saying goes, If they don’t want to create a seat for you at their table, you build your own table."

"Entrepreneurship has been that for Youlanda and many others, a way to push back when there is a lack of growth opportunities within traditional work spaces. At the same time, we can continue to fight for seats at the table. “I think we can still fight for what’s right by staying in those places. At times it’s important to stay where you are so things change. Our voices have to be heard and we have to find creative ways to get on that platform so they know we mean business”

COCOA’S CANDLES Cocoascandles.net

CC COCOA’S CANDLES

by Diana Clark

Despite all the challenges, it is evident that Youlanda works hard at running her business and making sure customers have great experiences, and she has a lot to be proud of! She successfully built her first business, and launched a second while working full-time in the middle of a global pandemic. Perhaps the best success, though, is the personal connection.

“I’m proud of the fact that I can inspire other people to do something that they’ve always dreamed of, like open their own business. I believe you have to have your own creativity. If I can inspire people to do something, that’s great. Sometimes I feel like when people are doing something similar there’s a disconnect. But, I’ve always been the type of person that I’m the piece of the puzzle that brings people together.”

What has been a secret to Youlanda’s success?

“The real secret is being you and taking experiences that you had from whatever you’ve done in your life. It doesn’t matter what type of job you have, take those skills that you have from your own experiences and wrap it up in your own creativity, and that’s what makes you unique. I started out at Wegmans and Byrne Dairy. I learned a ton from those jobs about how to find creative ways to not only keep customers happy, but also bring them back and spread the word.”

If the first few months of Cocoa’s Candles is any indication, her formula works, and the future is full of possibilities. “I see this going worldwide. I feel like people are exhausted from traditional candles, but because ours are organic, homemade, and hand-poured, that’s what people want. I see it going much bigger: store fronts in other states, factories, etc. We were recently featured on the Virtual Rent Party and we look forward to pop-up shops for the Spring, candle and wine parties, and more. Watch out for us! We’re doing new things and we’re full of surprises. We try to keep it poppin’!”

COCOA’S CANDLES Cocoascandles.net

Her advice for aspiring entrepreneurs?

“Have a plan and stick with the plan, but be prepared just in case it does take off. And be creative. If you want to be known for what you do, taking other people’s ideas is not what you’ll be known for. Find your own way to promote what you do. Finally, there’s a whole set of things that are going on behind the wall in a small business, like doing taxes, for example. You don’t want to be caught without your paperwork done. It can be draining and overwhelming, especially during the pandemic. That being said, you can overcome a lot by being organized. Once you find an organized system it makes it easier.”

CERTIFIED JOB OPENINGS IN CNY

CURRENT JOB LISTINGS Make a name for yourself as a typography enthusiast and professional FIRST PRIZE - $500 SECOND PRIZE - $300 THIRD PRIZE - $150

Visit www.reallygreatsite.com to learn more

Now Hiring The following agencies are seeking candidates

Now Hiring NOW HIRING

CITY OF SYRACUSE DEPARTMENT OF NEIGHBORHOOD AND BUSINESS DEVELOPMENT JOB DESCRIPTION | BUSINESS OPPORTUNITY SPECIALIST The position is responsible for supporting business development through direct assistance of small businesses, entrepreneurs, as well as the attraction/retention and expansion of local firms. The incumbent is responsible for engaging with existing and prospective business owners and other community stakeholders seeking to create economic opportunity in the city of Syracuse. This includes conducting available commercial site location searches and identifying resources for real estate development, as well as providing administrative support to public authorities housed within the Division of Business Development when necessary. The incumbent may also provide additional capacity to City efforts to redevelop underutilized land including brownfields and municipally-owned property. The work also involves responding to general business inquiries and assisting projects under review for permitting and zoning approvals. Assignments and responsibilities may also include general research and providing technical assistance to ongoing City initiatives and planned development projects. Other related work activities will be performed as required. The incumbent works under general supervision of the Director of Business Development.

Those interested may email their resumes to Cecelia Halbert at careers@desktopinfinitypaper.co and add JOB: ASSISTANT to your email subject.

Now Hiring The following agencies are seeking candidates

Peace Inc

ASSISTANT MENTAL HEALTH COORDINATOR SUMNER HS/EHS ADMINISTRATION MENTAL HEALTH COORDINATOR

8/ NONEXEMPT 52 WEEKS PER YEAR A Master’s degree in Marriage & Family Therapy, Child and Family Studies, Social Work, Psychology, Early Childhood Education or related field.

Must have or obtain within 90 days of hire a mental health professional license or certification.

Two years verifiable experience with an in-depth knowledge of the developmental stages of children age 05, and preferably also experience with pregnant and/or post-partum women.

Candidate must have of knowledge of issues relating to at-risk and culturally diverse children and families.

Must have knowledge of treatment strategies in the areas of child behavior management and family crisis intervention.

Ability to work with families in a supportive manner through consultation in home or on site.

Ability to work effectively and directly with administration, staff, and families.

Good interpersonal and written communication skills.

Requires working knowledge of basic personal computer applications.

Must have a current NYS driver license and the ability to travel to various sites.

APPLY HERE:

https://bit.ly/3aRdWXJ

CERTIFY CNY

INAUGURAL PICK PERSON OF THE YEAR

C E R TIFY CNY MA K E S I T S F I R A T S E L E C T I O N F O R P E R S O N O F THE YEAR.

PERSON OF THE YEAR Stacey Abraham’s may have saved the fate of U.S. democracy.

PHOTOGRAPH BY MAMADI DOUMBOUYA

WHO WANT SMOKE BBQ Special Collaborative Edition Issue

BLACK HISTORY

MONTH PROJECT

Essays Compiled By STUDENT SCHOLAR HISTORIANS

TAMICA BARNETT Who Want Smoke BBQ Dear Syracuse,

PROJECT MADE POSSIBLE BY

Who Want Smoke BBQ

I am humbled to announce our Inaugural Black History Month

The Black History Project

project and for the opportunity to serve the community that has

Nine student scholar historians committed time researching and highlighting Black historical figures in Central New York history.

Sponsored By The Gifford Foundation Project Partners Include:

Crave Dessert Studio, Very Berry Munch, The Dunbar Association, The Creators Lounge, and Diversify-N.Y, LLC.

GIVING BACK We are proudly serving more than 300 households MENU ITEMS

Smoked chicken, smoked ribs, smoked ham, mac & cheese, collard greens, candied yams,, cornbread, cookies, and lemonade.

given so much to me, my family, and my newly founded business, Who Want Smoke BBQ and Catering.

As a native of the City, nothing brings me more pride than to reflect on the rich history that our ancestors have gifted us by connecting with our gifted student scholar historians and being able to further their legacy through our Inaugural Black History Month dedication.

In honor of our ancestors, past, present, and future, Who Want Smoke BBQ has fostered this publication in conjunction with a charitable offering to serve more than 300 meals to celebrate Black History Month and the many significant contributions of our ancestors. Please accept this gift on behalf of my partners and me, made possible by the generous donation of the What If minigrant from the Gifford Foundation.

Sincerely,

Ta mica tt e n r a B

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LIST OF HONOREES Inaugural Selection

PAST Jermaine Lougen Samuel Ward William Johnson Aunt Jemima Libba Cotton Majorie Carter Earl Lloyd Sandra Townes

THE AFRICAN AMERICAN HISTORY OF SYRACUSE RESEARCH PROJECT This Project Was Made Possible By Who Want Smoke BBQ and The Gifford Foundation

Syracuse is a place we call home, but so many residents are unaware of the many contributions African American people have made in times past, the impacts being made today, and the work being done to forge a bright future. Your assignment is to begin educating the masses on who the African American people of Syracuse were and are, which will continue to shape the THREE-ONE-FIVE.

PRESENT Jeanette Epps Jackie Grace Van Robinson Timothy Noble Jennings Bey Monica Williams Tiffany Lloyd Rasheeda Caldwell

FUTURE Morgan Scott Indaria Jones Jaleel Campbell Sultani Campbell

STUDENT SCHOLAR HISTORIANS Raquan Pride Jr., Kayla Green, Lordis Nicholson, Godis Nicholson, Arissa Mack, De'Zire Clarke, Nikayah Bullock, Adrian Brooks, Star Ruffin

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THE PAST

Jermaine Lougen, was” King of the Underground Railroad” was born February 5, 1813 in Davidson County, Tennessee into slavery. Lougen made the brave decision to liberate himself 1834. He eventually reached Canada where he began a farm. In 1837 Lougen moved to Rochester, New York where would work as waiter in a local hotel. Lougen attended Beriah Green abolition school, and later, became a licensed preacher of African Methodist Episcopal. Jermaine Lougen married Caroline Storum in 1840 and they had six kids one of which Amelia married Frederick Douglas’s son Lewis Douglas. Lougen finally made his way to Syracuse in 1841 where he would operate a stop on the Underground Railroad in New York state. His stop was known as “The Great Depot.” Lougen would put articles in the newspapers asking for people to help with funding for the freedom seekers. Lougen is known to have helped over 1500 African American freedom seekers and have owned over thirteen properties. Lougen continued helping African American people until he sadly passed away September 30, 1872 in Saratoga, New York, he is buried in Oakwood cemetery.

Samuel Ward was born in 1817 and was the son of enslaved African Americans in Maryland.

He would later liberate himself from the institution of slavey and make his way to New York to become an abolitionist. Ward later became the pastor of the Congregationalist Church in Cortland, soon after in 1848 Ward created the first black-owned newspaper in Syracuse known as the Impartial Citizen. Ward was also an avid abolitionist, he was apartof the AntiSlavey society in Canada that provided aid to formerly enslaved people. Naturally an abolitionist he participated in helping William Jerry Henry the former enslaved black man who endeavored to liberate himself from bondage as well.

Jermaine Lougen, King of the Underground Railroad PHOTO COURTESY WIKIPEDIA PAGE

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The Past Elizabeth “Libba” Cotten was an African American folk singer best known for the song “Freight Train” which she wrote when she was just 11 years old. Cotten was born in 1893 in Chapelhill, North Carolina. She worked many jobs within the domestic capacity to buy her first guitar. Since learned tunes by listening. She only needed to hear them once or twice, but her songs were always different each time they were sung. When Cotten was 13-14 years old she was baptized, while at the church she was told to give up her music, people within the church she was attending called her songs and style of singing “the devil’s” music. Cotten didn’t understand how it was sinful, but she gave it up and didn’t play for many years until she met Ruth Seeger, an American composer. Seeger offered Cotten a job as a part time housekeeper. Working for the Seeger family caused Cotten to be once again surrounded by music. One afternoon she was caught playing the guitar and singing Freight Train. Peggy, Ruth’s daughter, was intrigued and asked to be taught the song. Mike Seeger began recording Ms. Cotton’s work which eventually led to small concerts. By 1958 Cotten had come out with her first album “Negro Folk Songs and Tunes”. In 1965 Cotten came out with two more albums “Shake Sugaree” and “When I’m Gone.” By 1984 Cotton came out with her fourth and final album “Elizabeth Cotten Live,” which won a Grammy for “Best Ethnic or Traditional Folk Recording.” Elizabeth Cotten continued to tour and perform right up until the end of her life. In 1983, Ms. Cotten was named as a Living Treasure of Syracuse. The Libba Cotten Grove, at the Corner of South State Street and Castle Street pays homage to this unique woman.

Marjorie Carter was born in Syracuse in 1929 and by the 6th grade, she knew that she wanted to be a teacher. In 1950 she graduated from SUNY Cortland with a teaching certificate and was later hired by the Syracuse City School District to become the first African American woman teacher in the school district. Carter had a 40-year long teaching career and would retire in 1990. She would later be awarded the Pioneer Award by the Black Leadership congress and she was also a member of the Syracuse Teacher association as well.

Elizabeth "Libba" Cotten, Folk Singer PHOTO COURTESY,ALL ABOUT BLUES MUSIC.COM

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THE PAST

William H. Johnson was born in Syracuse New York in 1875. He received his undergraduate degree from Boston University. He served in the US Army during the Spanish American War of 1898. After the war he then returned to Syracuse and enrolled at the Syracuse University of Law. After he graduated from law school he was not allowed to take the New York bar exam because he was African American and because of that he was not able to practice law.

William Johnson used his abilities to help his community open doors of opportunities by helping people solve their legal issues . He was known for helping the likes of Harriet Tubman and George Washington Carver. Even though William Johnson was not officially able to become a lawyer, the Minority Bar Association of Central New York recognized him and it was renamed the William Herber Johnson Bar Association. In his honor, Syracuse College of Law gives a scholarship in his name annually.Johnson died at the age of 90 in 1965 but on October 18, 2019 he was admitted to the New York state bar.

Anna Short Harrington was born 1897, were she lived in Syracuse’s 15th ward. Her ability to make great pancakes at the New York State Fair in the 1930’s attracted the attention of Quaker Oats representatives who would eventually offer Harrington the opportunity to become the face of Aunt Jemima. Harrington would be employed in this role until the 1950’s. Her success as Aunt Jemima afforded her the ability to purchase a 22 room home located at 117 Monroe Street where she rented rooms to other African Americans, unfortunately her home was demolished in an effort to construct Interstate I-81. She is buried in Oakwood Cemetery.

Anna Short Harrington, Aunt Jemima PHOTO COURTESY NEWSBREAK.COM PAGE

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The Past

Earl Francis Lloyd was born April 3, 1928, in Alexandria, Virginia, and grew up under the oppressive and dehumanizing nature of Jim Crow. Lloyd became a star athlete and helped lead West Virginia State to an undefeated season in 1948. Lloyd was the first African American professional basketball player. He was drafted in 1950 to the Washington Capitals.

After drafted into the NBA he was then drafted into the Army at fort sill, Oklahoma. While fulfilling his military duty, the Syracuse Nationals picked him up on waivers leading them to the 1955 NBA Championship. From 1958-1960 Lloyd played for the Pistons. Lloyd has a total of 4,682 points, 3,609 rebounds, and 810 assists throughout his professional career. Lloyd recalled being refused service multiple times and an incident where a fan in Indiana spit on him. He signed on as an assistant coach from 1971-1972 for the Detroit Pistons. He was inducted into the Naismith Basketball Hall of Fame in 2003.

Sandra L. Townes September 29,1944-February 8, 2018. Sandra Townes was born in Spartanburg, South Carolina. She was a lifelong resident of Syracuse, New York. Early in her career, she was an English teacher at Corcoran Senior High School. She later was a graduate of Syracuse University College of Law. In 1977 she began work at the Onondaga County District Attorney's Office, eventually becoming the first Chief Assistant District Attorney. She was the first black woman elected to Syracuse City Court. Sandra Townes was Judge of the United States District Court for the Eastern District of New York from August 2, 2004, until February 8, 2018. She also was an adjunct professor at Syracuse University College of Law from 1987-1995 and at Onondaga Community College 1992-2001. Her contributions, efforts, and achievements within Law laid the foundation for the generation of African American women like Honorable Felicia Pitts.

Judge Sandra L. Townsend, Judge of the United States District Court for the Eastern District of New York PHOTO COURTESY,SYRACUSE.COM PAGE

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The Present Timothy Noble Jennings Bey is an anti-violence activist for Syracuse. He is the director of the Trauma Response Team and the creator of the theory Street Addiction. He is trying to prove that the streets have an addictive nature. Timothy had a wonderful childhood. He played basketball at the Boys & Girls Club and football for Pop Warner. He also did a lot of swimming. The most influential people in Timothy's life are his parents. His mom because she had him, inspired him, and taught him that it is cool to praise God. His father because he is a man of steel and modeled how to be a man. Ed Mitchel also played a major role in his life. Timothy impacts Syracuse with his voice and knowledge. He would love to see Syracuse get into a place where we can all heal. Timothy sees the African American community as a closed net because most of us are related to each other in some way. We all love hard and criticize hard. The legacy that Timothy Noble Jennings Bey wants to leave behind is the legacy of loving and healing.

Jackie E Grace Jackie E Grace was born on November 22, 1953, in Pike Road, Alabama. She grew up in a racially segregated community which greatly affected her youth. It would motivate her to become one of Syracuse city’s most notable black history figures. After moving to Syracuse at age 12, she attended a number of schools most notable, Roosevelt Jr. High and Corcoran High School. She then went on to attend Syracuse University, where she obtained a Bachelor’s Degree in arts & science. She furthered her education, going on to receive a Master’s Degree in addition to a certificate of advanced studies. Her mother and Grade school teacher were two remarkable women who sparked something in Jackie to build her own sense of what it meant to be a strong black woman. They are the reason why she wanted to be a teacher, and the reason she wanted to help children. Miss Grace went on to become an educator and author who has written a total of five books for children. Some titles include; “Leeroy the Wide Mouth Frog: A West African Tale Meets Hip-Hop”,” Lizzie Mae and Her ‘All About Me Day”, and a few others.” These books tell tales of black children finding themselves through representation, and self-awareness while engaging in African American culture. In later years, Miss Grace and her husband founded a school called Graces Children's Academy, which was the first black-owned pre-school in Syracuse.

Van B Robinson Van B. Robinson was born on November 21, 1937, in Oakville, New Jersey. Van grew up during the time of segregation and experienced discrimination first hand. There was a time where Van and his brother were asked to give their seats on the public bus to a white couple. Being asked to move upset Van’s mother, and in turn, she spoke up about the incident. She did not stand for the racial injustice but given the time, there wasn’t much done to compensate for this incident. In June of 1968, Van moved to Syracuse, NY. Since that time Van has spent 18 years on the City’s Common Council, addressing problems that burden the community. Over the years, the group participated in marches for equal rights, protests, and even community meetings to discuss the climate of the city’s racial/social issues. Of those 18 years on the Common Council, Van served 8 as the president.

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The Present Today, Van spends his retirement enjoying golfing, fishing, and reading, however after a brief retirement, Van chose to go back and help the community. He became the chair of the economic development for the NAACP. In 1995 Mr. Robinson began to work with the New York State fair to bring some black culture to space. His goal was to expand the Pan-African village. Van Robinson dedicated 40 years to our community and the youth that reside here. He sees a future in everyone and believes that in order to make a dream come true, your heart and mind need to be in sync with your goals. He wants all young people to know that dedication and courage can make anything great happen to you.

Monica Williams, was born in 1965 and grew up on the South Side of Syracuse. The best part of her childhood was hanging out with her friends and family. She passed time at the South-West Teen Center where she looked up to the adult workers for support and guidance, as she learned a lot from them. Monica recently retired from her County Legislator role after serving for twelve years representing the South Side of Syracuse. Today, Ms. Williams is a Chief Diversity Officer for Onondaga County. She was chosen for this role because she’s always positive, has a passion for helping others, and matched perfectly for the position. When asked who the most influential person in her life was/is, Monica replied “God” without hesitation. It was no surprise that her favorite book is the Bible. Her favorite quote is ‘’If you aren’t at the table you’re on the menu’’. Monica enjoys artwork created by Joel Luburg, and her favorite movie is Love and Basketball. Monica’s favorite soul food dish is Chitterlings. Her grandmother used to make them for her and now she can make them just as good herself. As part of the pantheon of great political figures in Syracuse which includes (herself)Monica Williams, Van Robinson, Sharon Owens, Helen Hudson, Mike Atkins, Sam Roberts, and Linda Erwin, Monica leaves a formidable legacy which is now carried by her son, Vernon Williams Jr. Rasheada Caldwell is a mother, mentor, and community activist. Rasheeda grew up in a very loving and supporting home with two parents and two grandparents. She was raised on old school values in a religious home. Rasheeda was also the youngest out of her two siblings. She graduated from Nottingham High School here in Syracuse. She then furthered her education at Lemoyne College for two years and then graduated from Empire State College. A few of the many things Rasheeda Caldwell does for her community includes two programs. One is called ¨ Let Me Be Great #44 Dunk Your Junk¨ where this teaches young people how to love and take care of their community. Another program she runs is called ¨Im A Lady Let Me Be Great #44¨ and this helps bring young ladies together to teach them about themselves and their worths. Both of these programs are very diverse and attract kids from all sides of town helping kids make new friends and giving them new experiences. Rasheeda uses two quotes to get through her day, one being ``Let Me Be Great¨ which honors her son and is used every day even through her worst times.

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The Present The other being ¨Ready.Set.Go¨ I'm ready, I'm set, and at any time I can go. Rasheeda is very optimistic about the world and wants to change it for the better, she wishes to be a positive influence and give back to her community everything it's given to her. That's why she is running for Syracuse Common Councilor at Large. Rasheeda is also a big soul food fan, her favorites being extra cheesy Mac and Cheese, Chicken, and Great Northern Beans with Cornbread.

Jeanette Epps

On November 3, 1970 Jeanette, with her twin sister was born in Syracuse, New York, and were the youngest of seven children. Jeanette’s mother stressed how important education was and Jeanette graduated from Thomas J. Corcoran High School in 1988 and went on to attend LeMoyne College and graduated in 1992 with a Bachelor of Science in Physics. She thenreceived her Master of Science in 1994 and Doctorate of Philosophy in Aerospace Engineering in 2000, both at the University of Maryland.

Growing up, Jeanette excelled in math and science and dreamed of one day working for NASA. At age 16 she decided she would study engineering. In 2003 Jeanette began working for the CIA inIraq as an analyst of foreign weapon systems and did so for about seven and a half years. Never giving up on her childhood dream, she put aside her fear and applied to the NASA program. In 2009, she was selected for NASA’s next group of astronauts from which she graduated in 2011. She is the second woman and first African-American woman to have participated in CAVES astronaut trainingCooperative Adventure for Valuing and Exercising human behavior and performance Skills). Epps (2017) said, “space-walk training is the coolest part of her job as an astronaut.” Epps (2017) said she’s often asked if she’s had any problems being a black woman working in engineering her response is “I always tell them I have no problem with it, but other people may have and that's their problem. If I make it mine, it stops me from moving forward. The intention [of their negativity] is to stop you from progressing and limit your creative thinking.”

Rasheda Caldwell, Candidate Syracuse City Council

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The Future Sultani Campbell, who is now 25 years old grew up on the South Side of Syracuse. He has enjoyed playing football since the age of 5 and spending time with friends. The most influential people in his life are his family. In Sultani’s youth, he looked to Jim Morris for guidance and support. Today, Sultani is all about improving the community and has a passion for helping the youth. He is the founder of the youth mentor program, Once Upon A Star where he enjoys working with young African American males and females. His goal is to help kids prepare for their future with an emphasis on leadership and integrity. He finds the African American experience in Syracuse “very challenging and faced with barriers that we must break”. He feels that we always have to work harder than everyone else to reach similar goals. His favorite quote is ‘’The Marathon Continues”, and he wants his legacy to be “somebody that stood for something big and positive”. Sultani’s favorite soul food dish is his grandmother’s macaroni and cheese. He can cook this dish but not as good as her.

Jaleel Campbell is an inspiring African American artist from the city of Syracuse. He creates images celebrating the beauty and rich history of black folks. Campbell grew up on the East side of Syracuse. He lived on Northway Street where he played outside during the summer with all the kids in his neighborhood. The most influential person in his life is his mother. She is the blueprint to all things that he has been able to accomplish, not only in his life but in his practice of art too. Campbell knew he would be doing something creative from an early age.

His first career goal was to become a hairstylist, then a chef, then a doctor, and then an architect. It wasn't until he enrolled in a graphic design course at summer college at SU that he fell in love with digital art. Campbell thrives in making images that uplifts all who view them. He believes that he is impacting the African American community by adding a necessary flair to Syracuse. His My Feel That Funk project, collective display art show, Jalethal Dolls, and annual open mics allow the

Jaleel Campbell, Artist PHOTO COURTESY OF JALEEL CAMPBELL, FAACEBOOK PAGE

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The Future community to have a good time worry-free. Campbell wants his legacy to withstand the test of time. Even when he's not here the world will know his name and artwork. Jaleel’s creative genius can be found in various spaces throughout the City.

Morgan Scott, an energetic six-year-old in the first grade is taking Syracuse by storm. Morgan has started her own business that focuses on organic healthy treats called ¨Berry Very Munch¨. Her business focuses on making healthy but tasty treats. Some of her treats consist of Very Berry Lemonade, Very Lemon Lemonade, Fruit roll-ups, Jams, Gummies, Sea Moss, and Sour Fruit Roll ups. Morgan also has an up and coming line launching called Immuniberry. These products are the same but have extra organic additives to boost your immune system. Morgan is helping you strengthen your immune system but in a yummy way!

Morgan wants to inspire people to eat healthily but most importantly to go after their dreams just like she did. Morgan has stated that her very own mother has inspired her to start her own business making organic treats. This lovely young lady wants to expand her business by having her products in all of the grocery stores and restaurants all over the world, she also wants to open up her own shop right here in Syracuse. When Morgan isn't busy running her business she loves to run around the sprinklers at Thornden Park, go to church, play with her little brother and with her toys, go to Billy Beez, and help out her aunt at her shop ¨Fresh Nail Lounge.¨Morgan loves living in Syracuse and her community, her favorite soul food is from ¨Who Wants Smoke¨ a local business. Morgan loves their macaroni and cheese as well as their cocoa bombs. Morgan is a very smart girl with an advanced reading level and her favorite book being ¨Go Dog Go¨. Even Though she is young she still makes an incredible mark in the city of Syracuse. Indaria Jones, CEO of Creators Lounge Syracuse first and only black-owned co-working location. Jones was born October 19, 1992, in Syracuse New York.

Growing up she was very family-oriented and had a very diverse group of friends all over Syracuse which taught her how to work with many

Morgan Scott, CEO Berry Very Munch PHOTO COURTESY, MARIE SCOTT PAGE

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The Future different people and personalities. She grew up around the Westside project and also she participated in activities at the Southwest Community Center and the Shonnard St boys and girls club. When she was a child she attended Webster Elementary school, Grant Middle school, and Nottingham high school.

As an African American girl growing up in Syracuse she learned to adapt to society early in life. Jones is very passionate about verging the gap between minority business owners in Syracuse which inspired her to open up Creators Lounge. Jones has accomplished many great things in her life including working with Sandy Loud, DJ Khaled, and other talented people. She says although she is very appreciative of that wonderful opportunity her biggest accomplishment was working with her daughter Leah to write and publish her very own book “Beautiful Butterflies “at three years old. Jones was just 21 years old when she found out that she was pregnant with Leah. Her work ethic is very inspiring, at one point in time she would travel from Syracuse to New York City every day so she could still raise her two-year-old daughter at the time and work in New York City. Jones lives by the quote “ Without commitment you’ll never start, but more importantly, without consistency, you’ll never finish”

by Denzel Washington.

Tiffany Lloyd was born October 10, 1980, in Syracuse, New York. She was raised in Syracuse throughout her childhood and at age 17 she enrolled in the military. Lloyd served in the military for 10 years and while serving she attended courses at Morgan State University, a historically black college in Baltimore, Maryland. She also lived in Missouri and San Antonio Texas for a short time before returning and remaining in Syracuse. Lloyd works a full-time job as the director of women’s health and engagement at the Allyn Family Foundation.

Indaria Jones, The Creators lounge PHOTO COURTESY, INDARIA JONES, FACEBOOK PAGE

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The Future Lloyd is also a part of a team that created a brand called “Layla’s Got You”. Layla is a twopart engagement; one component is digital while the other is focused on a group campaign.

The digital component provides resources and information about health, relationships, and empowering messages mainly for young African American and Latina women. Layla is not sex-focused, the objective is for helping young girls understand things such as the importance of when they have children, how many they have, and how closely they have those kids together. Instead of the traditional way of talking about condoms and sex, “Layla’s Got You” is working to create empowering opportunities for women, for example, if you’re passionate about being a dancer then you would not be ready for children because you would be thinking about your future as a dancer. Within the group component, Layla works alongside young women around the ages of 16-25, these young women are the ambassadors of the Layla brand. As ambassadors, they make posters and host events along with many other responsibilities. Lloyd hopes to leave on a legacy of women being heard, especially African American and Latina women. Women deserve to know that they are powerful and are more than capable of doing things on their own. With that, I leave you this quote, “when you change the way you look at things, the things you look at change.”

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The History of Soul Food Out of a tragic beginning emerges a legacy that is delicious and well-received not just by those who created, nurtured, and continue to be innovative with it, but by everyone across the World. Food traditions are one of the many things that traveled across the Middle Passage with the African people who were stolen from their homes and families, it was a form of resistance as well as a tool of control and has endured many changes over the last four centuries. As African people created new families and spaces and freed themselves in the Western World, our ancestors reflected on smells, tastes, and feelings of the family that was distanced by space and later time and made decisions to marry the old ways of a distant home with new circumstances and ingredients of the New World. The mass migration of Black people out of Southern States (and off of plantations) into places in the North and West changed so many things about them, but as they created new spaces, the home was always in their hearts, and while it was often-imagined, and re-created, somehow always tasted familiar. Soul Food is bold, it is sweet, it is salty, it is spicy all at the same time, and the word “soul” as used in the African American context is no different. The word “soul” after World War II became a signifier for aspects of Black culture, the food would be no different, it has been in constant development over the past 400+ years and will continue to inspire palates and taste buds across the World.

Pork During the Antebellum period of American history, Black people both free and enslaved were often tasked with the preservation of meats, as a result, the many techniques that are used today can be credited to our ancestors who were both enslaved and free. Inexpensive cuts of meat were set aside for enslaved people, ribs specifically. In an effort to enhance the flavor of an undesirable/unpleasant taste of pork, those enslaved African people drew from their knowledge of spices and flavors to create combinations that made their food not only palatable but enjoyable.

Many of the flavor combinations developed during then are still in use today, most barbeque sauces (whether homemade or commercial) have the exact same base developed by Black people.

Macaroni and Cheese One of the star dishes of every menu is Mac ‘n’ Cheese, everyone cannot make it, but it is one of the dishes that makes a plate complete. The creation of Mac ’n’ Cheese can be credited to an enslaved Chef from the African continent who was enslaved in Virginia. The dish itself was accessible for wealthy white families but emancipation would change that. After the Civil War Black people served the Mac ‘n’ Cheese as they reached new economic and social heights.

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The History Of Soul Food WHO WANT SMOKE BBQ

Yams Sweet Potatoes and Yams are different, while sweet potatoes are native to the Americas, they resemble the yams of West Africa. As African people were brought to the Americans, they realized that the same practices used to prepare Yams in their homeland could be applied in this new space. Sweet potatoes eaten by our ancestors were often wrapped in leaves and roasted on open fires to be cooked and eaten quickly, but over the last 400+ years that has drastically changed. Today, most Black people enjoy their sweet potatoes dripping with brown sugar, butter, and cinnamon or in a pie, either way, this vegetable has the ability to make an appearance twice at dinner.

Collard Greens Throughout the African continent, many different cultures boil leafy greens, and just like the many other traditions that have traveled across the Atlantic Ocean, Collard Greens as a Soul Food staple are no different. But we must be reminded, that there are other greens that can make an appearance on one’sSoul Food Menu, such as cabbage, turnip or mustard greens, and kale. To add flavoring to the leafy greens both enslaved and free Black people would incorporate the non-expensive cuts of pork to enhance the taste. As the quarters (living spaces) of enslaved Black people are being excavated by archeologists the remains of small animal bones are being found which indicate the use of meat fragments being used in in soups and/or stews. While some do not like their food to touch our ancestors ensured that the broth from these leady greens could and would be sopped up with cornbread, because nothing was to be wasted.

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The History Of Soul Food

Cornbread While we begin our menu with Barbeque, we shall end with cornbread, and pay homage to how soaks up all the flavors from the plate. Corn was a mainstay of the Native American diet and introduced to both Europeans and Africans upon their arrival to these shores. The recipe and method of preparing cornbread are almost identical between the various cultures of Native people and African Americans, both free and enslaved. Enslaved people were given limited rations and time for nourishment, and as a result, they became dependent on cornbread as a staple because it could be transported easily and eaten in the fields.

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WHO WANT SMOKE BLACK HISTORY PROJECT

Black History Student Scholars Sponsored by What If Mini-Grant from the Gifford Foundation

EVERY DAY IS BLACK HISTORY PROJECT MADE POSSIBLE BY PAGE

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In loving memeory of SHE'S GONE, BUT HER LOVE LIVES ON.

KRISTINA KIRBY

Kristina Kirby was a beloved mother, daughter, and highly respected community member who served as fiscal manager at Jubilee Homes Inc. at the time of her tragic passing.

Kristina also worked diligently with local youth through the Southwest Community Learning Farm & Urban Delights, where she helped to nourish young minds by cultivating their interests in Community Gardening and teaching them valuable life lessons such as how to prepare the fruit and vegetables they grow, safe food handling practices, the importance of the variety of produce, and how to make healthy lifestyle choices.

Tragically, Kristina lost her life soon after giving birth to her only child, Skylah Kirby-Willis.

Her passing on 8/29/2019 left a gaping hole in the minds and spirits of those the knew and worked closely beside her. Friends and family will affectionately recall her easy going personality, professionalism and commitment to her community.

Today, we celebrate Kristina “Krissy” Kirby in fond remembrance for all that she added to the lives of those she surrounded. We give thanks for her living legacy in her daughter and the persevering role she played in mentoring our youth. May the seeds she’s sewn continue to bear fruit and the next legacy she helped to cultivate be as fertile as the garden’s she tended.

THIS ISSUE IS DEDICATED TO THE

MEMORY OF KRISTINA “KRISSY” KIRBY.

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WE

REMEMBER DEDICATED TO THE MEMORY OF

BRIDGET L. LAWSON PhD, Cultural Foundations of Education

Jeffery Mangram, associate professor in the School of Education, was at the helm of the Early College High School project and recalls Lawson’s contributions as an assistant instructor. “She held historical, institutional, and social knowledge about the Syracuse City School District and the South Side of Syracuse. She became touchstones for so many of the 100 students or so we worked with, listening to and counseling the students on not only academic issues but also personal issues. She was proud to have graduated from the Syracuse city schools and living, still, on the Southside of Syracuse. She modeled for the students (and for all of us) the dignity and grace of being an African American woman.”

Excerpt from story by Jennifer Russo news.syr.edu

Bridget L. Lawson earned her Ph.D. in Cultural Foundations of Education in the School of Education, posthumously. Dr. Lawson embarked on a journey that would solidify her dreams and spawn a legacy forever to be remembered. Bridget had a wealth of experience supporting students’ academic success in the community. Dr. Lawson’s scholarly interests focused on social justice work in education as it relates to students of color experiences in urban public schools.

Looking specifically at the achievement gap, access to quality education, college access, and college persistence. With her scholarly experience, she began BeFree Consulting. As the founder and CEO, BeFree Consulting was a company that offers social justice, diversity education, and youth development training to Community Based Organizations, schools, and other educative spaces that will continue to live on. She was vigorous in her community and took on the personal commitment of mentoring youth. Beyond her contributions to Syracuse University, Lawson had worked for the Syracuse City School District as a substitute teacher, for the Center for Community Alternatives, the Dunbar Association, Contact Community Services, and SUNY Oswego. Dr. Lawson was an active member and the class leader of the Young Adult Missionary Society through The People's AME Zion Church, a proud member of Zeta Phi Beta Sorority, Inc., an executive board member of Image Initiative, Inc., and played an active role on countless youth organizations in the City of Syracuse. Dr. Lawson was dedicated to accomplishing her goals and creating opportunities for academic success initiatives for students. Dr. Bridget L. Lawson's legacy will flourish forever.

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Black History Month Commemorative Edition

Who Want Smoke BBQ

Thank you for coming!

We would like to express our sincerest gratitude for supporting our business by offering a FREE meal courtesy of the GIFFORD FOUNDATION and our partners for this promotion: Berry Bery Munch, Crave Dessert Studio and Diversify N.Y. LLC. BROUGHT TO YOU BY: