WE WE WEKNOWEXACTLY
WHAT WHATTO TO TODO DO DO
“But some look at this moment and rightly feel the weight of history. Some see the flames on our horizons, the rising waters in our cities, the shadows gathering over our democracy, and ask, ‘What do we do now?’ But we know exactly what to do, because we have done it before, and we will do it again.”
- Former Vice President Kamala Harris
At the February 6, 2024 village meeting, I shared that several surrounding cities and villages recognized and scheduled events celebrating Black History Month I expressed disappointment that Glenwood, a village that is over 70% African American, did not have any events scheduled to recognize the contributions of residents to the town and society, therefore; I created this newsletter to highlight as many as possible in this and future issues as well as other community concerns
- Deborah Birmingham, M Ed , M A
Celebrating Women's History Month: From National Leadership to Local Impact
March marks Women's History Month a time to honor the challenges overcome and the victories won by women throughout our nation's history. This year's celebration takes on special significance as we reflect on recent milestones in women's political participation and community leadership.
A Historic Presidential Campaign
In 2024, women throughout the country volunteered, organized, strategized, and mobilized behind Kamala Harris's historic presidential campaign Though Harris received 48 3% of the popular vote (75,017,613 votes), falling short of securing the presidency, her campaign contributed to increased representation of women in the U S Senate, House of Representatives, and local communities
Grassroots Mobilization
Jotaka Eaddy, Founder of #WinWithBlackWomen, continues to lead efforts empowering women across the nation. This powerful network of Black women leaders volunteers their time and talents to support fellow Black women in leadership roles
When President Biden announced he would not seek re-election, #WinWithBlackWomen demonstrated remarkable organizational strength Within 24 hours, they coordinated a nationwide Zoom call that attracted over 44,000 women eager to support Vice President Harris's presidential campaign. This mobilization inspired similar grassroots movements including Win with Black Men, White Women for Harris, White Dudes for Harris, and Cat Ladies for Harris diverse Americans united by the common goal of improving our country
Celebrating Glenwood's Women Leaders
Our own community of Glenwood boasts extraordinary women who contribute their time and talent to create a better quality of life for all residents This month, we proudly recognize the diverse accomplishments of local women leaders, including:
Authors, poets, and artists enriching our cultural landscape
Entrepreneurs, managers, and CEOs driving economic development
Scientists, engineers, medical researchers, and astrophysicists advancing innovation
Educators, librarians, and mentors shaping future generations
Healthcare professionals ensuring community wellbeing
Public servants and volunteers strengthening civic engagement
Military veterans who have served our nation
Partnership Across Genders
The achievements of women from the Civil Rights Movement to Vice President Harris's campaign to our local community initiatives have flourished with support from male allies These partners have led by example, walked side by side, or provided crucial support, proving instrumental to progress at both national and local levels
Building Our Future Together
Glenwood's men and women share the collective power to create a community where all residents can proudly live, work, and play. As we celebrate Women's History Month, we honor the past while committing to a future where all community members can contribute their unique talents toward our shared prosperity.
WHAT DO WE VALUE? WHAT DO WE VALUE? WHAT DO WE VALUE?
The True Cost of Community Disengagement The True Cost of Community Disengagement The True Cost of Community Disengagement
By Deborah Birmingham, M.Ed., M.A
In pursuit of the American dream, many of us work tirelessly to achieve homeownership in communities promising great schools, enriching sports activities, vibrant fine arts programs, and thriving local businesses. We envision neighborhoods where our children can flourish and explore their potential. The initial excitement of moving into such communities often leads to a comfortable routine returning home from work, closing the garage door, and retreating from the wider world.
Yet this pattern of disengagement reveals itself over time The schools we once admired begin showing signs of decline Sports participation dwindles Fine arts programs face elimination The clean, safe community that attracted us gradually transforms, sometimes resembling the very places we left behind
The Value Proposition
What do we truly value? If we genuinely prize homeownership, educational excellence, recreational opportunities, artistic expression, and community safety, we must recognize our responsibility in maintaining these assets. A thriving community requires more than our presence it demands our participation.
The Taxation Imbalance
A troubling reality emerges in many communities: residents pay higher property taxes while receiving fewer services in return This inequitable exchange represents a breakdown in civic accountability Our tax dollars should translate to well-maintained infrastructure, responsive public services, and adequately funded schools When this social contract falters, we must question where our resources are being directed and demand better stewardship of our collective investment.
The Power of Our Wallet
Our economic choices speak volumes about our values. Every dollar spent is a vote for the kind of community we want to build By consciously directing our buying power toward businesses that embrace diversity, equity, and inclusion, we strengthen the foundation of a respectful community When businesses demonstrate they value all community members regardless of background, they deserve our support Conversely, we must make deliberate decisions to refrain from shopping at establishments where our diversity isn't respected or valued This economic activism sends a powerful message that inclusive practices aren't just morally right they're good business
The Path Forward
Community revitalization begins with active engagement:
Be proactive, not reactive. Waiting until problems become severe makes solutions more difficult and costly
Educate, organize, strategize, and mobilize around issues that matter to our community's wellbeing
Hold elected officials accountable for their promises and performance, especially regarding the allocation of tax revenues
Teach our children the importance and power of voting and conscious consumerism The habits of civic and economic engagement must be passed to the next generation
Use our voices to express concerns about public safety, infrastructure maintenance, and fiscal responsibility.
Demand transparency in how our tax dollars are spent and the equitable distribution of benefits to all residents.
A Shared Responsibility
Whether we own homes, rent apartments, or operate businesses, we all have a stake in our community's success We must value our vote, our neighbors, our shared spaces, and our economic influence if we hope to preserve what drew us here in the first place
Our voice—and our spending—has immense value How we choose to use both may ultimately determine the quality of our community and the services we receive.
‘Our
Power Has Never Come From Having an Easy Path’
Former Vice President Kamala Harris Gave a Rousing
NAACP Image Awards Speech
“We use our power; we organize, mobilize, we educate and we advocate. Because, you see, our power has never come from having an easy path. Our strength flows from our faith — faith in God, faith in each other, and our refusal to surrender to cynicism and destruction. Not because it is easy, but because it is necessary. Not because victory is guaranteed, but because the fight is worth it.”
“This organization came into being at a moment when our country struggled with greed, bitterness and hatred. And those who forged the NAACP, those who carried its legacy forward, had no illusions about the forces they were up against — no illusions about how stony the road would be,” Harris said on stage in her first TV appearance since leaving office. “But some look at this moment and rightly feel the weight of history. Some see the flames on our horizons, the rising waters in our cities, the shadows gathering over our democracy, and ask, ‘What do we do now?’ But we know exactly what to do, because we have done it before, and we will do it again.”
“We use our power; we organize, mobilize, we educate and we advocate. Because, you see, our power has never come from having an easy path. Our strength flows from our faith — faith in God, faith in each other, and our refusal to surrender to cynicism and destruction. Not because it is easy, but because it is necessary. Not because victory is guaranteed, but because the fight is worth it.”
“While we have no illusions about what we are up against in this chapter of our American story, this chapter will be written not simply by whoever occupies the Oval Office — nor by the wealthiest among us. The American story will be written by you, written by us — by we the people. Thank you, God bless you, and God bless the United States,”
Jotaka EaddyJotaka EaddyJotaka Eaddy
FOUNDER
Win with Black Women
We are a collective of intergenerational, intersectional Black women leaders throughout the nation We are business leaders, political strategists, student leaders, faith leaders, tech leaders, labor leaders, pioneers in sports, music, and entertainment, movement leaders, and beyond We come together within our personal capacities to stand united in support of Black women
We were motivated by our collective concern with the narrative and treatment of Black women within the current political cycle. We believe that no matter your political affiliation - you should have been outraged by the treatment of Black women in that process We wrote and posted an open letter in August - within 72 hours, more than 2,6000 Black Women signed the letter
Founded business executive, social impact strategist, and investor Jotaka Eaddy, we first gathered on a zoom call in August 2020 -- 90 women gathered that night after an urgent email calling for action Since then, we have grown to more than 4,000 women within our network We've met virtually nearly every Sunday thereafter We made clear then and demonstrated that the pathway to the White House and unifying our nation was to #WinWithBlackWomen
Additionally, the group has successfully advocated for appointing Black women to senior positions within the Biden-Harris administration
We continue to support efforts to advance the policy agenda of Black women championed by Black women-led organizations.
In addition to advocating for a Black woman to be named to the 2020 democratic ticket, members of the collective have focused on a wide array of efforts, including:
Supporting efforts for a Black woman in U S Senate - #keeptheseat; Mobilizing to support Black Women leaders in the G A runoff (#thankyouGA and #livefromGA), which included 45 influencers "I.G. lives," garnering more than 4 million views
Raising and donating more than $600,000 in the 2020 political cycle for various candidates and non-profits. Deploying food trucks to polling locations in the General Election and Georgia Runoff
Most recently, we joined forces with other Black women-led organizations to urge President Biden to keep his promise and nominate a Black woman to the U S Supreme Court We stood up for and supported President Biden's Supreme Court nominee before we knew her name. Once Justice Ketanji Brown Jackson was nominated, we immediately began organizing, mobilizing, and calling for a swift and fair confirmation process. We developed digital strategy campaigns and partnered with influencers and prominent voices in our communities to urge U S senators to #ConfirmJudgeJackson Throughout Justice Jackson's hearing and confirmation process, we supported her and had her back by calling out racist and sexist attacks made against her We ensured that we fact-checked and corrected any information that was put out in an attempt to discredit her, as we knew that she was beyond qualified to become an Associate Justice of the U S Supreme Court
Our hashtag (#WinWithBlackWomen) has more than 800 Million organic social media. We are doers - led by the spirit of unity and sisterhood We seek to leverage our power, recognizing that we each have something to offer, no matter how big or small
Therefore: We organize and leverage our talent, influence, networks, and brilliance into areas of collective alignment
Radio Announcement on the Importance of Registering to Vote
Main content start
Author: King, Martin Luther, Jr
Date: October 1, 1964 to October 31, 1964?
Location: Atlanta, Ga ?
Genre: Speech
Topic: Voter registration Details
One Minute
I am Martin Luther King, Jr. I want to remind all who are listening that a democratic society cannot meet its full potential of achievement unless all of its citizens exercise their right to register and to vote. It is a part of the history of democracies that men have fought and bled and died to win the right to vote. In many quarters of the globe this fight still goes on. Those of us who can register and vote freely must by all means do so. I urge all of you, my fellow Americans, to make America a showplace of true democracy. Register, so you will be able to vote. Study the issues. And then cast your ballot on election day for the candidates and party of your choice.
https://kinginstitute.stanford.edu/document-rese
“Our lives begin to end the day we become silent about things that matter.”
Martin Luther King, Jr.
The registration period for the online voter registration system will close at 11:59 PM on 03/16/2025 and will reopen on 04/03/2025
To vote in illinois:
You must be a United States Citizen.
You must be at least 17 years old on or before the date of the Primary Election and turn 18 on or before the date of the General or Consolidated Election (16 year olds may preregister to vote).
You must live in your election precinct at least 30 days prior to Election Day.
You must not be serving a sentence of confinement in any penal institution as a result of a conviction.
You may not claim the right to vote anywhere else.
Check to confirm you are registered
EARLY VOTING: March 17th- 31st
Lynwood Senior Youth Center 21400 E. Lincoln Hwy, Lynwood, IL Mon-Sat., 9AM - 5PM Sun. 10AM - 4PM
Prairie State College Halsted & Vollmer Rd., Chgo. Hts., IL
PSC Conference Rm Center Rm 1322 Mon. 9AM - 5PM
REG. VOTING: April 1st
Check voter registration card for village polling place
PPresident President resident
Brookwood Point Brookwood Point Brookwood Point Homeowners Association Homeowners Association Homeowners Association
Greetings Brookwood Point and Glenwood residents,
As we start a new year, I'd like to first appreciate each of you for your support. It is with support that we have been able to accomplish initiatives and ensure our collective voices are heard.
Glenwood has a rich history built on community investment and community involvement. We are at a point in time where it is imperative that we remain involved. Political and cultural changes dictate that if ever there was a time to get involved, that time is now. Legacy is important, and if we are going to continue Glenwood's rich history, we cannot allow complacency to continue to take a front seat. I solicit your continued involvement and challenge you to invite a friend and a neighbor to get actively involved.
Homeowner association meeting is a good place to initiate involvement. Each association meets monthly and it's a forum where we can share ideas to improve our community and collectively address any concerns we may have. Brookwood Point Homeowners had a great presentation on self-defense in January and will continue monthly with various educational presentations throughout 2025. If you have ideas that you think will make the Homeowners meeting more productive, please let us know.
Collectively our voices can make a difference, but apathy and complacency will be a silent killer to our community.
I pray that you and your families will have a productive, prosperous and prayerful 2025. And I hope that we will see you get involved this year.
Respectfully,
Edwin King
Brookwood Point 1st Wednesday of the month @ Hickory Glen Fieldhouse - 7PM
Glenwood Manor 1st Thursday of the month @ Arquilla Park Fieldhouse - 7PM
Village Hall meeting 7PM 1st & 3rd Tuesday of the Month
Glenwood Estates 2nd Wednesday of the month @ Arquilla Park Fieldhouse7PM
Thanks, W.T. Godbolt, Esq., Ltd for presenting Thanks, W.T. Godbolt, Esq., Ltd for presenting Thanks, W.T. Godbolt, Esq., Ltd for presenting Trusts, Wills, Trusts, Wills, Trusts, Wills, and and and Power of Attorney Power of Attorney Power of Attorney
Equip yourself for life's challenges by heeding the advice of W.T. Godbolt to ensure you make the best decisions for yourself and your family.
MARY DEBOSE
Avid reader
Book club Member
BOOK RECOMMENDATIONS
TheManWhoLovedBookstooMuch
InMyShoes
AfroSheen
TheKidsExplorationMusicMuseum
Barlett,AllisonHover
McCray,Leroy
Johnson,George
GlendaFayeRowe
MEET THE AUTHOR T.J. Miller
The Southland’s very own has written his first sci-fi novel.
In 2023, STRUCK won the CIPA Silver Award for the Colorado Independent Publishers Association (CIPA) Multicultural Fiction category!
No one wants to get struck by lightning, of course. But what if getting struck by lightning could grant you unique powers? What would you choose to do with those powers? Born from the Storm tells the story of a special kind of lightning storm, one that strikes only occasionally-and strikes only Black men and women. Some of those struck turn their newfound abilities to the service of Black people and humanity as a whole. Others use their powers for evil. Either way, their stories all influence the world... Written by a sci-fi/fantasy fan for other superfans, Struck illuminates the complexity of being Black across time and space while entertaining with stories of courageous superheroes, terrifying villains, and everyone in between.
This season is a great time to begin a book club with family, friends, and neighbors. https://www.cipabooks.com/cip
LORRAINE HANSBERRY
Playwright & Writer
In the poem, Hughes uses metaphors to illustrate the emotional and psychological impact of unrealized dreams For example, he compares a deferred dream to a raisin drying up in the sun, which suggests that dreams can lose their vitality and shrink over time
The play A Raisin in the Sun by Lorraine Hansberry explores the same question of what happens to a dream deferred The play's title refers to the poem, and the play's themes include the value of hopes and dreams, the importance of family, and the pursuit of the American Dream
The play is set in Chicago during the mid-twentieth century and focuses on a working-class family's dreams The play's realistic portrayal of African American life helped pave the way for more diverse voices in American theater
The play's title is taken from “Harlem,” a poem by Langston Hughes, which examines the question “What happens to a dream deferred? / Does it dry up / like a raisin in the sun?”
Lorraine Hansberry wrote A Raisin in the Sun based on her own experiences growing up in Chicago and her family's court case against housing discrimination
Explanation
Hansberry drew on her own experiences as a child growing up in Chicago's South Side
Her father, Carl Hansberry, was a Black real estate developer who bought a home in Chicago in 1937 The home was subject to a racially discriminatory housing covenant
Hansberry's family fought the covenant in court, and the case led to a U S Supreme Court decision that helped outlaw racially-restrictive housing covenants.
Hansberry's play is about a working-class Black family living in Chicago who are trying to improve their financial circumstances after the death of the father
A Raisin in the Sun is Hansberry's best-known work. It became a highly acclaimed Broadway play and film starring Sidney Poitier, Ruby Dee, Claudia McNeil, and Diana Sands.
Harlem Harlem Harlem
By Langston Hughes
What happens to a dream deferred? Does it dry up like a raisin in the sun? Or fester like a sore— And then run? Does it stink like rotten meat? Or crust and sugar over— like a syrupy sweet? Maybe it just sags like a heavy load. Or does it explode!
THEME: This "Harlem" poem is about the possible negative things that can result when a person's dream or a wish that could contribute to their happiness doesn't work out The poem uses the poetic techniques of simile and metaphor to compare various negative consequences to a dream being deferred or even ended In the poem 'Let America Be America Again' by Langston Hughes, the overall message is a call for equality and justice in America Hughes explores the American Dream and its unfulfilled promises, particularly for marginalized communities such as African Americans, Native Americans, and the working class. Oct 4, 2023 Excerpt from Montage of a Dream Deferred
SMALL BUSINESS OF THE YEAR AWARDEE
SMALL BUSINESS OF THE YEAR AWARDEE
SMALL BUSINESS OF THE YEAR AWARDEE
RON & ADA STOVALL RON & ADA STOVALL RON & ADA STOVALL
RESIDENTS: 22 YEARS
MANAGER HISTOTECHNOLOGIST
PPAINTER PAINTER AINTER GARDENER GARDENER GARDENER
ager- Ada-Histotechnologist
t your job?
ng Ada- My job was rewarding, because it involved preparing human tissue samples to be examined by a Pathologist
. Would you encourage young people to pursue the field? Why or why not?
Yes- Management Is Always In Demand Ada- Yes Histotechnologists are in demand. Your interest in community: General Upkeep of Property. Basic Concerns Regarding Village Government Ada- My interest in the community is for us to have leadership that is focused on organized activities for our youth, and elderly, and transparency in our governing body
What do you see as some of the greatest obstacles facing young people today? Technology, AI, Job Security
Hobby(ies)- (Ron) Art, Sketching, Painting (Ada)- Reading, Walking, Gardening What got you interested in this hobby?
What do you enjoy most about your hobby(ies)? Personal Satisfaction
This is a mayoral election year and many young and older people are not interested in voting. Many are apathetic about voting as though their vote won’t count anyway. What advice would you offer young and older voters?
I would advise young people to seek information in school regarding Civics, and government structure. Emphasize the importance of Government, and relate in definitive terms how it affects their daily lives.
What advice would you give young people as they began their adult life/ career journey?
Seek information from school teachers and counselors, regarding the types of employment available in today's markets Discern the skills needed to perform jobs in the areas you prefer Make every effort to pursue the education and training needed to obtain a job in the area of your interest Let your motto be “Speak To Me Lord For Your Servant Is Listening”
Growingup,IlovedtodrawItwaswhatIdid wheneverIhadfreetime.Asolitarypastimeactivity thatfoundmecreatingmyowncomicbookcharacters instoriesthatImadeup,fashionsketchesor drawingsofanimals
In4thgradeIrecalldrawingadeerduringsomefree timeinclass.Theteachersawitandgavemehigh praiseassheshowedtheclassShedidn'tstopthere Shetoldmetotakeitnextdoortotheother4th gradeclassandhavethatteacherandstudentsseeit aswell!Whatadaythatwas!Teacherrecognitionwas everything,andmy15minutesoffamethatdayfueled thefireinme
I took nearly every art class offered in high school, and went on to earn a B S in Art Education at Northern Illinois University, with a concentration in drawing and painting Another degree would follow from Governors State University (M S in Education), plus numerous hours toward an MFA in drawing and painting at the same university
Upon graduating from NIU I spent the next 30+ years teaching art in the south suburbs of Chicago Kindergarten through High School Then with retirement came the fulfillment of a dream deferred creating my own art! I've always loved working with the human figure, so I started by taking life drawing sessions at the Tall Grass Arts Association in Park Forest, IL becoming a Guild Artist at Union Street Gallery in Chicago Heights, IL and taking pastel sessions with renown pastelist Marikay Peter Witlock This was the beginning of my love for the medium of pastels I love how rich the colors are, how forgiving they are when things go wrong, and how I found my technique when using them in my favorite finger blending method of application I also studied portrait/figurative painting under famed Chicago artist Clayton Beck III at this time, and I began to exhibit in many art shows in and out of state
My focus more recently has been on portrait and figurative drawings of children from African countries such as Mali and Kenya God has blessed me to be affiliated with two American humanitarian organizations who give aid to these countries The Zakat Foundation of America and Matanya's Hope both based in Illinois They do such wonderful work in their quest to bring aid to the people of these countries They also take photos of the families and children who receive their aid, and it's from these pictures that I ve been inspired to create paintings such as Blue Boy, The New Toy and The Water Girl My current body of work and this art direction are sources of real happiness for me I'm truly enjoying this art journey
In May of this year I was invited by Zakat to join them on a trip to Africa! We went to the west African country of Ghana Several cities were visited and I met and took photos of lots of people for future pastel paintings This was the trip of a lifetime, and you should stay tuned for inspired art that will come out of this trip
My studio space is in Union Street Gallery 1527 Otto Blvd a 100 year old former Elks Hall in Chicago Heights IL I have memberships in The Portrait Society of America, Chicago Pastel Painters and the South Side Community Art Center
SELECTED INVITATIONAL & JURIED EXHBITIONS
2024 I Am because You Are Solo exhibit LaGrange Art League Gallery LaGrange IL
2024 Black Creativity 2024 Museum of Science & Industry Chicago, IL
2023 * 1st Place Award Reflections in Pastel Arkansas Portrait Society North Little Rock, AR
2023 Illinois Members Show Portrait Society of America
2023 Figures & Faces Online Exhibition Laguna Beach, CA
2023 Solo Exhibition Nordstrom Oak Brook, IL READ MORE - CLICK Jean Lewis - About the Artist
2023 Virtuosity in Unity Union Street Gallery Chicago Heights, IL
2023 * People's Choice Award Park Forest Art Fair, Park Forest, IL
Click - Union Station Gallery Needs Your Help
The Red Hat received an Honorable Mention in an international art competition this month. The exhibit is titled Show Us Your Finest: A Global Art Showcase, and it’s given by the Pastel Society of Alaska. It’s an online show that runs from February 3rd through March 6th. It can be accessed at showsubmit.com/galleries
Chicago's Southland and the broader Chicagoland arts communities. We are dedicated to promoting art and arts education that is accessible to people from all backgrounds, featuring an exciting calendar of upcoming exhibitions, engaging programming, and the infusion of fresh artistic talent into our community! Union Street Gallery continues to captivate and ignite the creative spirit of each new visitor!
We invite you to make a one-time donation that will support the growth of our artistic initiatives, expand our programming, and ensure our continued role as a sustainable arts and cultural hub for the Chicago Southland community. Your contribution, combined with your passion and interest, empowers Union Street Gallery to provide the Chicago Southland with:
* Free access to high-quality art exhibitions
* Educational arts programming and events
* Complimentary school field trips, including informative tours and hands-on art projects
* Opportunities to connect with the arts and businesses of our community
* Free docent-led tours
* Support and resources for local artists
Your financial support is invaluable in making these offerings possible and ensuring that art remains an integral part of our community Your tax-deductible donation will be put to use immediately, allowing us to increase awareness and support for the arts Together, we can inspire and enrich the lives of individuals from all walks of life through the power of art Join us in our mission to make art a vibrant and accessible part of our community
Thank you so much for your consideration!
Please feel free to donate using the ‘Donate’ button below or by mailing a check to Union Street Gallery at 1527 Otto Blvd, Chicago Heights, IL 60411. All checks should be made out to Union Street Gallery.
Click Here for a PDF copy of our Appeal!
In the tapestry of life, they weave their grace,
In the tapestry of life, they weave their grace, In the tapestry of life, they weave their grace,
Strong and loving, radiant in every space.
Strong and loving, radiant in every space.
Strong and loving, radiant in every space.
Phenomenal black women, a force profound,
Phenomenal black women, a force profound,
With courage and wisdom, they astound. With courage and wisdom, they astound. With courage and wisdom, they astound.
Their laughter rings like music through the Their laughter rings like music through the Their laughter rings like music through the air, air, air,
Phenomenal black women, a force profound,
A melody of strength and tender care.
A melody of strength and tender care. A melody of strength and tender care.
In every challenge, they rise, undeterred, In every challenge, they rise, undeterred, In every challenge, they rise, undeterred,
Their voices a symphony, their power heard. Their voices a symphony, their power heard. Their voices a symphony, their power heard.
With roots deep in history’s fertile ground, With roots deep in history’s fertile ground, With roots deep in history’s fertile ground,
They nurture dreams, letting hope abound. They nurture dreams, letting hope abound. They nurture dreams, letting hope abound.
Their legacy, a beacon shining bright, Their legacy, a beacon shining bright, Their legacy, a beacon shining bright,
Guiding us through the darkest night. Guiding us through the darkest night. Guiding us through the darkest night.
Oh, brilliant daughters of the sunlit land, Oh, brilliant daughters of the sunlit land,
Oh, brilliant daughters of the sunlit land,
Your spirit like a fire, fierce and grand. Your spirit like a fire, fierce and grand. Your spirit like a fire, fierce and grand.
In your love, we find our truest way, In your love, we find our truest way, In your love, we find our truest way,
Phenomenal black women, you light the day.
Phenomenal black women, you light the day.
Phenomenal black women, you light the day. PHENOMENAL
ROOTS THAT BIND ROOTS THAT BIND ROOTS THAT BIND
In the fabric of time, they express their grace, Black women ascend, a powerful embrace. With strength like mountains, yet gentle like a breeze, They bear the weight of dreams, their hearts at ease.
With confident strides, they forge their own way, Driven by purpose, they spark the new day. Inspired by visions, they boldly create, Innovative thinkers that challenge fate.
Brilliant minds, illuminating the night, Optimistic spirits that reach soaring heights. Fiery souls with passion ablaze, In a world of shadows, they carve their own ways.
Deserving of honor, their voices ring clear, Determined in purpose, their roots are sincere. Ambitious warriors, they rise and they fight, With courage and love, they claim their own light.
So here’s to the women, both fierce and so kind, In life’s vibrant garden, they are the roots that bind.
With every heartbeat, they shape the new day, Black women, our heroes, in every way.
STORY STORY STORY of STRENGTH of STRENGTH of STRENGTH
Throughout history, Black women rise, With elegance and strength, they claim the skies.
Resilient and determined, they stride forth with pride, Innovators at heart, they refuse to hide.
Their spirits, so brilliant, light the path ahead, Fierce champions of hope, where love is widespread.
Cultivating communities, they nurture and guide,
Molding the future with bravery as their stride.
Their narratives echo with wisdom profound, Nurturing mothers and leaders abound.
In unparalleled resilience, they stand tall, Honoring their grace, they illuminate all.
Brightly they shine, turning shadows to light, Motivated and beautiful, unstoppable might.
Empowered they stand, a force to behold,
Black women, a story of strength and of gold.
CAREER OPPORTUNITIES
About
The Creating Pathways and Access for Student Success™ (CPASS) Foundation was created to attract, encourage, educate, guide, and increase the number of promising, yet underrepresented Illinois students in science, technology, engineering, and math (STEMM) related professions We are committed to providing a holistic educational foundation and exclusive access to career development resources for students to persist in STEMM careers CPASS’ predecessor program, Chicago Area Health and Medical Careers Program™ (CAHMCP) has been in place since 1979 and has primarily focused on increasing the number of qualified underrepresented minority applicants and matriculants from the city of Chicago to medical and other health professional schools
Our Mission
CPASS provides STEMM programming for underrepresented Illinois students while impacting policy change, providing access to valuable STEMM programs, empowering their STEMM identity, supporting them to excel as advocates, and lead social justice efforts in their home communities.
Our Vision CPASS will be the premier pipeline organization for underserved students to persist in STEMM careers and dismantle health inequity.
2024-25 CPASS STEMM Scholars Academy
We are excited to open applications for our STEMM Scholars Academy!
Summer 2025 Program Dates: July 5, 2025 to August 9, 2025
Cost: Free to participants that commit to the 5-week, 3-year program!!!
Are you a high school freshman passionate about science, technology, engineering, math, or medicine (STEMM)? If so, our residential STEMM Scholars Academy is your pathway to an incredible journey! Imagine spending five immersive weeks on a college campus exploring the wonders of STEMM alongside like-minded peers.
In your first summer, you'll delve into STEMM exploration with our partners like the Griffin Museum of Science and Industry, The Chicago School, and Lewis University But that's just the beginning! In your second and third summers, you'll engage in various classes, from Math & Science to Project-based STEMM workshops, College Prep, Peace and Social Justice, and English Language Arts This initiative also offers programming and support beyond the classroom with exclusive networking opportunities with STEMM professionals of color, visits to industry partners where you can witness STEMM in action, mentorship, and a host of other programming
Even during the academic year, you won't miss out You'll receive intensive Math enrichment, attend career workshops, build valuable networks, and access college prep resources – all at no cost to you Our program is 100% free because we believe in empowering every young mind with the chance to excel in STEMM.
Are you ready to embrace the future of STEMM education? Apply today to secure your spot in our transformative program Your STEMM adventure starts here!
CPASS APPLICATION
David N. Jones, MBA, CEM
ENERGY
David Jones is a technologist, polymath, inventor and CEO of Lumena Energy, a U.S. based Energy-As-A-Service software platform.
David is a nationally recognized industry leader in Renewable Energy and a pioneer in Virtual Power Plant technology He is a recipient of the 2019 Google Innovation Award He received his MBA from Massachusetts Institute of Technology
With more than 20 years experience as a technologist, he continues to innovate and push boundaries in his field and accelerate the adoption and proliferation of cleantech on a global level.
We will break ground on our smart city tech co-op in Ford Heights, IL. Project
Nehemiah: The project aims to create jobs, provide training opportunities, and revitalize the community through innovative housing and technology solutions
Groundbreaking: February/March
Specific dates coming soon!
Groundbreaking: February/March
Groundbreaking: February/March
Groundbreaking: February/March
Specific dates coming soon! Specific dates coming soon! Specific dates coming soon!
What do you enjoy/dislike most about your job/career?
President & CEO Blackboard Solar David Wilson
I am the President and CEO of Blackboard Solar, a company dedicated to developing energy-related solutions that address practical needs in a sustainable way What I enjoy most about my role is the ability to create innovative solutions that make a real impact on people's lives whether it's helping students in remote areas or assisting first responders in disaster-stricken regions What I find most challenging, however, is navigating the complexities of manufacturing and scaling a business, especially as a startup competing with larger, established players
Would you encourage young people to pursue the field? Why or why not?
Absolutely. The renewable energy and technology sectors are rapidly growing, and there's an increasing need for innovative minds to tackle global challenges like climate change and energy access. This field offers opportunities to make a tangible difference while also being financially rewarding. However, I would advise young people to be prepared for the long road of persistence and resilience it takes to bring an idea to market.
As a business owner, you’ve created the Blackboard Solar backpack that can be a game-changer in many industries. How has the product been received?
The product has been well received, especially in the promotional products industry and among organizations that prioritize sustainability and disaster preparedness We've partnered with various institutions and businesses that see the value of our mobile portable power solution The feedback has been positive, with users appreciating the convenience and sustainability it offers
What if any obstacles did you encounter/overcome getting your product patented and to the consumer?
Securing the patent for our mobile portable power solution was a challenging but rewarding process It required extensive research, legal guidance, and perseverance to protect our intellectual property Bringing the product to consumers involved overcoming manufacturing delays, supply chain issues, and ensuring that the quality met our high standards Additionally, educating the market about the benefits of our product has been an ongoing effort
I’m excited that Blackboard Solar will be partnering with Math with EEEs, Inc to supply students in remote Ghana villages with access to electrical power via the solar backpack that will relieve so much dependence on bonfire studying. Have you provided the product to other countries? If so, how has it been instrumental?
Yes, we have provided our products to other countries, particularly in areas where access to reliable power is limited. Our solar backpack has been instrumental in providing students with the ability to study after dark, improving their education opportunities. It has also been valuable in disaster relief efforts, providing essential power for communication devices in emergency situations.
EXPLORE CHICAGO'S AFRICAN AMERICAN PIONEERS & BUSINESS OWNERS
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This newsletter was created to highlight individuals whose contributions to the community and society are recognized and greatly appreciated as well as sharing important issues.
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