THE VOICE OF THE AFRICAN AMERICAN COMMUNITY SINCE 1934
August 20-26, 2020 Vol. 87 No. 3
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“AS IT WAS SPOKEN ... LET US RECORD.”
Homeless advocates, Mpls police clash over encampments
Photos by Chris Juhn Minnesota Rep (District 62B) Aisha Gomez talks to police who carried out forced removals at at Powderhorn Park.
Homeless supporters at Powderhorn Park clear mace from their eyes after being sprayed with the chemical by Minneapolis police.
Park Board scrambles to find solutions By Analise Pruni Contributing writer
lence protests. Some of those dispossessed by these events he housing crisis in utilizing homeless shelters, have turned to camping out Minneapolis is cer- and some supportive hous- in Minneapolis parks. In South Minneapolis, the tainly not new. How- ing was damaged in the fires ever, the COVID-19 pandemic and riots in the wake of the numbers of people living in has discouraged people from George Floyd anti-police vio- parks increased as a result
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Local election results include surprises By Mary Turck Contributing writer Marking her landslide victory, Congressmember Ilhan Omar tweeted Tuesday night: “In Minnesota, we know that organized people will always beat organized money. “Tonight, our movement didn’t just win. We earned a mandate for change. Despite outside efforts to defeat us, we once again broke turnout records. Despite the attacks, our support has only grown.” Omar’s victory over a well-funded primary opponent followed primary wins
by two other members of “The Squad,” the four firstterm progressive women of color who were targets of President Trump’s vitriol during the past two years. Both Democratic Reps. Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez (AOC) of New York and Rashida Tlaib of Michigan also won over primary challengers. Massachusetts Rep. Ayanna Pressley does not face a primary challenge. In the Minnesota legislature, progressive challengers defeated incumbent DFL representatives in four primary contests, all in what are con-
sidered “safe” DFL districts. South Minneapolis, District 62: 30-year-old Omaar Fateh, son of Somali immigrants, defeated State Senator Jeff Hayden, who has served in the legislature since 2008, first in the House and then in the Senate. More than half of the district residents are people of color and about one in four are immigrants. Fateh, who won the DFL endorsement, ran a campaign marked by strong grassroots organizing and calls himself a Democratic Socialist activist. In North Minneapolis District 59B, Esther Agbaje, who
MSR file photos
(l-r) Rep. Ilhan Omar, Esther Agbaje and Omar Fateh
of evictions from the Mid- As a result, the housing crisis town Sheraton Hotel located has been partially shifted onto near Lake Street. Between the shoulders of the Minne200-300 people experiencing apolis Parks & Recreation Board homelessness had been stay- (MPRB). Early Friday morning, August ing there, many of whom relocated to Powderhorn Park. 14, a crowd of people gathered at ■See ENCAMPMENTS on page 5
Many view historical Harris selection as hopeful sign for Black women Racist, sexist attacks widely denounced MSR News Service Last week, history was made as an African/Asian American woman, Kamala Harris, was selected as the vice presidential running mate for Democratic Party presidential contender Joe Biden. Harris is the first African American or Asian American to be named on the Democratic Party ticket for vice president. Harris was sworn into the U.S. Congress as a senator in 2017, becoming only the second African American woman and the first South Asian American senator in history. Harris’ parents are of Indian and African backgrounds and immigrated to the United States from Jamaica. Harris had previously put her hat in the ring to become the Democratic Party’s presidential nominee, but she fared poorly in the primaries. Harris’ nomination has met with positive reactions by many in the Black community similar to Barack Obama’s reception when he was named his party’s representative for president. Many have talked about how her selection is a sign of progress for African
Kamala Harris American women. Harris relates in her official biography that while growing up in Oakland as a Black child, she had “a strollereye view of the Civil Rights Movement.” Through the example of courageous leaders like Thurgood Marshall, Constance Baker Motley, and Charles Hamilton Houston, Harris said she learned the kind of character it requires to stand up to the powerful and resolved to spend her life advocating for those who could not defend themselves.
■See ELECTION on page 5
MSR file photo After earning an undergraduate degree from Howard University and a law degree from the University of California, Hastings, she began her career in the Alameda County District Attorney’s Office. In 2003, Harris became the district attorney of the City and County of San Francisco. Among her achievements there, Harris started a program that gives first-time drug offenders the chance to earn a high school diploma and find employment. ■See HARRIS on page 5
Back-to-school puzzle an ‘unsolvable Rubik’s Cube’ Keeping kids safe is also slowing their learning
PRST STD U.S.POSTAGE PAID TWIN CITIES MN PERMIT NO. 6391
By Charles Hallman Contributing writer
tion Association (NWEA) defined “a COVID-19 slide” as students showing patterns of academic setbacks due to schools being closed for nearly six months. The National Urban League said during a June educational virtual panel discussion that “longstanding [educational] inequities have been exacerbated and created uncertainty in the academic progress of the most vulnerable students, including students of color” because of distance learning due to COVID. The Minnesota Department of Health (MDH) guideA June study by the non- lines for opening up schools despite fears among many parents, teach- profit education research consists of five scenarios: iners and others over group Northwest Evalua- person teaching, part time or
Minneapolis and St. Paul are among many U.S. school districts that are starting the 2020-21 school year with more distance learning, which began when schools shut down in the spring due to the COVID-19 pandemic. But the debate over distance learning and its overall impact on students has not quieted down
reopening schools. It seems that just as many want their school-age children back in the classroom. An Axios.com article says that the COVID-19 pandemic has led to “the sudden, dramatic disruption of education” since the state shutdown in March. The article adds that as a result we can expect “deep social and economic repercussions for years, if not decades.”
“Going back to school feels very scary, so unstable.”
hybrid schedules, distance learning, and two scheduling levels where elementary school students are in school more often than older students. “There will be no sense of normalcy” no matter what scenario is used, said Minneapolis Public Schools’ Mi-
chael Walker, one of the panelists of the August 12 African American Leadership Forum (AALF) virtual forum that discussed the COVID’s impact on children as the new school year approaches. Walker is the director of MPS’ Black Student Achievement Office. He said, “It is in ■See SCHOOL on page 5
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August 20 - 26, 2020
MN Black Museum documents George Floyd uprising Reopening includes new multi-media exhibits
The Minnesota African American Heritage Museum and Gallery (MAAHMG) reopened August 18, 2020 after being temporarily closed due o the COVID-19 pandemic. The museum has implemented new procedures to comply with recommendaions by the State of Minnesota, City of Minneapolis, and he Centers for Disease Conrol and Prevention (CDC). Masks are required and the number of visitors is limited o accommodate social disancing. Admission is still free, but tickets can be reserved on Eventbrite. “This is a historic time in our country,” said MAAHMG Co-founder and Curator Tina Burnside, “and the museum has an important role to play n documenting history and encouraging conversations about systemic racism and how we move forward with solutions to address the probems.” New exhibits documentng the uprising sparked by he killing of George Floyd will be on display at the museum. “Gather In His Name: From Protests to Healing for George Floyd” is a portrait photography collection by ohn Steitz. “Un-Heard” is a video compilation of performing artists expressing the emotions of he movement featuring improv monologue by Alexis Camille; dance by LaTanya
Coventry Cowens, interim operations coordinator at MAAHMG
Cannady, Suzette Jornae, Naysha Glover and Ahzreanah Harris; spoken word by Joe Davis, Hannah Hagen, Sandrine Sugi, and Nico Moore; and sound designer and vocalist Andrea (Queen Drea) Reynolds. Also on display is photography by Jabari Holloman; a documentary of the first day of the protest in Minneapolis created by Unicorn Riot; and a plywood art mural created by DeSean Hollie that covered the window of an Uptown business. There is also the Black Lives Matter mural on Plymouth Avenue organized by the museum and created by 16 artists: Sean Phillips, Timi
Bliss, Beverly Tipton Hammond, Kelly Brown, Peyton Scott Russell, Brittany Moore, Donna Ray, A. Drew Hammond, Christopheraaron Deanes, Melodee Strong, Christopher E. Harrison, Reggie LeFlore, DeSean Hollie, Broderick Poole, Lissa Karpeh, and Kenneth Caldwell. A video of the making of the BLM mural, shot by Georgia Fort, is currently on YouTube. The museum also presents “A Reckoning: 100 Years after the Lynchings in Duluth,” an exhibition in collaboration with In Black Ink, marking the 100th anniversary of the lynching of Elias Clayton, Elmer Jackson, and Isaac McGhie in 1920. The exhibitions
Photo by Steve Floyd put the current events in context to show that the uprising in Minnesota did not happen in a vacuum, but is the result of unaddressed racial inequality. Minnesota African American Heritage Museum and Gallery is located at 1256 Penn Avenue N., Fourth Floor, Minneapolis, MN 55411. Admission is free. Free parking is available in the ramp. Find more info at www.maahmg. org. —Information provided by MAAHMG.
August 20-26, 2020
A letter of apology Burnout masking as no empathy When everything in me cares about you and your situation Please forgive me… When I allowed the color of your skin to determine how much I would fight for you Or let you suffer in pain because society taught us that you were only part humane, or had thicker skin, or that you were only trying to get high What a lie! Withholding necessary treatment Traumatic experimentation All in the name of science! Please forgive me… By Tamiko Foster, MD, MPH Guest contributor The medical community has been part of an institution that has brought both healing and harm. This harm, historically and currently rooted in structural racism, has contributed to distrust between doctors and patients, healthcare systems and communities. Discrimination, conscious and unconscious, hurts, and trauma must be called out. Yes, we must find a way to move on, but part of moving on is taking accountability, and that calls for an apology. Having tough conversations are critical to reframe the narrative in the hopes of bringing healing and solutions to help everyone attain their highest level of health.
Please forgive me… Though my intentions are good I’m part of a system that hasn’t always done what it should Took an oath to “first do no harm” with all sincerity Hypocrisy of The Hippocratic Mission pursued with vague clarity Though I’m not the oppressor I’m guilty by association Thought the skin I’m in made no representation Of the hurtful actions; we all played a role And I’ll stand in the gap if they won’t open their mouths Please forgive me… For the times I didn’t listen when you tried to tell me what you were feeling When I thought my years of training mattered more than your explaining Dismissing concerns, minimizing, or talking over you What you said didn’t check the box, so it challenged what I thought was true For not recognizing you as the expert of your own body For the times I didn’t treat you with kindness For not apologizing… For not apologizing… For not apologizing… Pride overtaking compassion Long waits and short visits, with surprise billing
For the times I labeled you as noncompliant, defiant, without finding out why $5 copay was too much, 2-hour rides on the bus Lost to follow up Late, “no show” I didn’t know That you really didn’t understand what I explained to you Speaking a medical dialect No interpreters Then assuming you speak the same language as I do But I’ve been hurt too! They see me as they see you The two letters behind my name giving partial protection And though we move differently The shade is being thrown in the same direction I should have been outraged when your babies died! Whether at the hands of police or a medical system that seemed to be more fascinated by the number of Black mothers and babies dying than trying to fix the problem When your loved ones, husbands, broth ers and sons Died by chokeholds and guns I should have cried with you But the truth is I do care I care more about you than you know Mental replays keeping me awake at night: “did I get it right?” “did I miss something?” “are they gonna be alright?” Missing out on my own family nights for the sake of practicing this medicine right The sacrifice of losing a little bit of them to take better care of you… lots of reading, research, prayer That’s how serious I care for you Trust never there to be broken But I’m willing to do what it takes to earn it We work better together In this struggle we need each other I want you to live and not die! V.I.P., you’re a Very Important Patient to me There’s more of us for you than against you
So please don’t let the bad few Give us all a bad name We’re not all the same And when you judge the group We all take the blame Yes, we’re part of a system rooted in darkness But most of us are here to bring light And we shine in all colors: Black, Brown, and White Excellent health care for ALL is not a privilege it’s a RIGHT For that I will continue to fight! Signed, Your Doctor #mymdcares Please share your stories of how your doctor cares about you. It’s time to reframe the narrative, build trust, and bring healing in our communities. Tamiko Foster, MD, MPH, is a board-certified pediatrician, medical director at a national health plan, and former Minority Health Policy Fellow at Harvard. Her work has primarily focused on health equity and caring for medically and socially high-risk populations. She previously worked at HCMC, NorthPoint Health & Wellness, and Hennepin Health as their chief medical officer. She is an author and the founder of the health and wellness company 2 E.D.I.F.Y., LLC. Contact: @ 2edifyllc.com.
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Three musts for safer meetings in the age of COVID-19 have COVID-19, and you need to plan accordingly. It starts with giving temperature checks at the Large meetings and events, so beginning of each day, temperamuch a part of the American eco- ture checks at general sessions, and system, remain on hold, have been temperature checks when people postponed, or have been cancelled are registering or signing in. altogether in recent months. When If there are people at the meetthey will happen again is any- ing showing flu-like symptoms, body’s guess. it’s a must to find out whether they Whenever meetings finally re- have COVID-19 and provide acsume, planners will need to have cess to rapid COVID-19 testing. a plan in place for protecting their attendees, reducing the risk of in- Response fection spread, and providing evIf some attendees are sick, meetery stakeholder with the resources ing organizers need to know how they need without fearing for their they will handle that. It’s advisable health. Essentially, we need to to come up with a strong sickre-establish health security in the attendee policy that’s enforceable meetings industry, and doing so and that can be monitored. That means applying three main prin- means if one is sick, they don’t atciples from which a sound plan tend the meeting, or if at the meetcan be formed. ing they must leave. If testing is positive for COVID, Prevention they have to be quarantined. Who There are certain things you did they come into close contact must do to prevent illness at a with while at the meeting? Those meeting. They include seating people, too, will need to be tested. configurations that allow for social distancing, sending out commuRemember, communication nications about all the protocols, is extraordinarily important at a encouraging frequent breaks for large meeting, now more than ever. hand washing, and disinfecting You may want to have somebody surfaces more frequently in heavy- dedicated to that role, putting infortraffic rooms. mative and honest content together. Facility staff should guarantee Attendees must be told the facts, the cleaning of each meeting room such as what the COVID situation between each meeting, including is at that time in the U.S. and in the the cleaning of all chair/table sur- city where the meeting is held. faces and spraying the room before the next group arrives. Dr. Richard Arriviello graduated from the Philadelphia College of OsDetection teopathic Medicine and completed his If you’re a forward-thinking residency at Midwestern University group that’s going to hold meet- in Chicago. ings this fall or in the winter of 2021, you will have to deal with sick attendees. They may have the seasonal flu, a cold, or they may By Dr. Richard Arriviello Contributing writer
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August 20-26, 2020
The Minnesota Spokesman-Recorder (MSR) welcomes and values commentary and feedback from the community. The articles found here are edited for clarity and/or space, but the opinions are the author’s own and do not reflect the views of the MSR.
COVID pandemic exacerbates Africa’s problems By Elizabeth Schmidt In March 2020, as the COVID-19 virus traversed the planet, U.N. Secretary-General António Guterres called for a global ceasefire to fight the common enemy. The virus, compounded by the effects of armed conflict, he noted, hit the most vulnerable the hardest. Women, children, the marginalized, and the displaced were among the most defenseless. Hostilities must cease to permit the delivery of aid, the conditions for diplomacy, and ultimately, a resolution to the conflicts. The response to Guterres’s appeal was discouraging. Africa, a key battleground on both the pandemic and conflict fronts, had much to gain from a universal ceasefire. However, in the months that followed, little student-athletes in return for common ground emerged at their labor on the sports field negotiating tables, where weakis adequate, it is becoming er actors made contingent demore and more obvious that mands that the powerful refused it simply is not just compen- to honor, or on the battlefields, sation. where more powerful parties deCollege sports rake in bil- clined to lay down arms, hoping lions of dollars, with the av- to achieve a military win. erage college football season The Security Council, divided bringing in over at least a few internally, failed to endorse the billion. proposal for more than three Interestingly, the football months. The United States posed conferences located in the a major obstacle when it insisted southern part of the United that its “counterterrorism” opStates are pressing on with erations be exempted from the their plans to play this fall. ban—a demand that was subBut this is the same section stantially honored in the final of the country that has stead- resolution. fastly refused to take the Absent political will, the UN coronavirus as seriously as resolution will not promote the it should. Most of the South- domestic and international coern states, against the advice operation necessary to defeat the of experts, reopened sooner virus. Evidence from Africa—nothan the Northern states and tably, Mali, Nigeria, and Somaas a result they are reporting lia—suggests that in countries the most cases of COVID-19 already weakened by poverty, and fatalities. political repression, and violent It’s also the same part of extremism, the pandemic is inthe country that is most ada- tensifying societal tensions and mantly anti-union. exacerbating rather than quelling The Big Ten and Pac 12 civil unrest. have made the most sensible The impact of the virus has decision and postponed their highlighted regional inequaliseasons until spring, which ties. The collapse of health and could eventually mean that economic systems, already unthe entire 2020 season will be der duress, has spurred ethnic cancelled. scapegoating and xenophobia. “When you’re dealing with Virus containment measures the lives of human beings, you have offered authoritarian states can’t have ‘I don’t knows,’” new opportunities to strengthen Big Ten Commissioner Kevin their powers and repress their Warren said in an interview opponents. with Yahoo Sports. Internal conflicts, which beWarren’s decision has been fore the pandemic had spilled criticized and he has been over borders and attracted forthe object of much criticism eign military intervention, risk throughout the country, but further intensification. who can argue with his logic? He is saying we simply do not know enough about this virus, so why take a chance. Ironically, some Big Ten schools, namely the University of Nebraska, want to press on with the season because the local economy in Lincoln By Christopher Devine and stands to lose tens of millions Kyle Kopko of dollars. Well, at least they are Presumptive Democratic honest. They want to con- presidential nominee Joe Biden tinue and put players at has picked Sen. Kamala Harris risk because they are con- as his vice presidential candidate, cerned about their bottom but here’s a reality check: Runline and ironically, still have ning mates have very little direct not opened the door to com- effect on voters. When people go pensating the players who if to the polls, they are primarily exrewarded financially could pressing a preference for the presihelp the school find a middle dential candidate, not the second ground in which everybody person on the ticket. wins. In our new book, “Do Running Mates Matter?,” my collaborator Justice, then peace. Kyle Kopko and I analyze half a century of political science survey Mel Reeves welcomes read- data to examine what effect a runers' responses to mellaneous19@ ning mate has on the success of yahoo.com. presidential candidates. In general, voters are very unlikely to choose a presidential ticket simply because they like or dislike the second-in-command. On rare occasions, voters can be swayed by running mates who are much more—or less—popular than their party’s main candidate. For instance, John Kerry’s vice presidential candidate in 2004, former North Carolina Sen. John Edwards, was relatively popular with voters early in the campaign.
College football drops the ball yet again MELLANEOUS By Mel Reeves Proving yet again that Blacks are a colony in the U.S., the debate on whether college football should be played or not has not included the opinion of the athletes themselves, the overwhelming majority of whom are African American. It does give one pause when you consider a group of Southern White folks are making decisions about the well-being of a largely Black group of athletes. Of course, many of these athletes if polled will likely say they want to play, which is understandable because they are young and some see playing this game as the only road to real riches if they are found good enough to play at the next level. So it stands to reason that these players should band together and form a union. Clemson’s star quarterback Trevor Lawrence has called for players to form an association, meaning that they ought to find a way to organize themselves so they too can be fairly compensated as well as have a say in what goes on in their game. Incidentally, his coach Dabo Swinney found some comfort in the fact that his quarterback said “association” rather than “union.” But his intentional misinterpretation of what the quarterback was really saying made him the butt of jokes nationally. Swinney tried to find a difference between union and association because he, like most coaches, are opposed to any kind of organized efforts of the players, union or otherwise. In fact, it's not much of a stretch to say that while these coaches express undying love for the labor force that provides them riches unknown to most, they do not support these kids' social causes. Few came out in support of their young Black athletes who showed overwhelming support this summer for the movement to eradicate police violence and racism from U.S. society. Swinney was seen earlier this summer during the height of national protests wearing a shirt that said “Football Matters.” And the championship-winning coach has been consistently backwards on racial justice issues. Enough said. Former football coach and life-long conservative Lou Holtz has likened the young people playing football to
the World War II invasion of France, saying. in essence. that playing college football is like war and some casualties should be expected. Holtz revealed more than he knew. Many people view college athletes as warriors who exist simply for their entertainment, and if a few of them get hurt or are victimized by a virus, “Oh well, too bad so sad.” The rapper Plies summed up the hypocrisy on Twitter this week saying, "Head coaches are front and center on every big news outlet fighting for college football. It's gotta happen. They need this. But a couple months ago, no one could find y’all for the Black Lives Matter Movement. "No one could find y'all when these kids were screaming against injustices in the system. You have solutions now but you didn’t have solutions for these kids or their parents when the Black Lives Matter Movement was going on. "You had no solutions. But all of a sudden, ‘They are safer with us here on campus; we can’t let em go back home.’ So if you know how bad it is for them back home, why weren’t you fighting against the injustices in the system? You know how bad it is for them back home, according to you. "So it’s okay to fight for them. For them to use their talents and abilities, but it ain’t okay for them to fight for them when they trying to get some equality and justice. Couldn’t find you; you ran from the cameras when there was a social issue going on in this country, but you are front and center [now]. You are livid asking how can you do this to my kids.” Without question, this also speaks to the mentality and lack of imagination of Black people who even in the 21st century continue to send their youth to institutions of higher learning that don’t really care about them or their wellbeing, but only what benefit they can bring to the institution. At the very least, schools like Clemson and the SEC that fail to support student organizing and anti-racism should be made an example of as kids should refuse to play for them. In essence, players, especially Black players, are playing for haters, who nevertheless depend on their passive cooperation to make billions. Though some still argue that the college education that is provided to so-called
African economies, already devastated by the impact of climate change, violent conflicts, and global downturns, have been further battered by the COVID-19 pandemic, which has pushed millions of people into extreme poverty. In Mali, where 3.5 million residents face food insecurity as a result of violent extremism and civil unrest, virus-related economic shutdowns and reduced remittances may threaten 1.3 million people with hunger and impoverish 800,000 more. In Nigeria, the World Bank predicts that COVID-19 will drive oil revenues down by 70% this year—fallout from worldwide industrial shutdowns, work-from-home orders, and the grounding of airplanes. The ripple effects may force 5 million more residents into poverty—in a country that already tops global charts for extreme impoverishment. Economically vulnerable populations, abandoned by their governments, are targets of opportunity for violent extremists— including many that are affiliated with al-Qaeda or the Islamic State. In Somalia, al-Shabaab has established a COVID-19 treatment center and offered protection and basic services where the state has not. Although courted by extremists, these populations are also the extremists’ greatest victims. In northeastern Nigeria and elsewhere in the Lake Chad region, Boko Haram has refused to close its mosques and schools, rendering local populations more vulnerable to the disease. With state attention and resources diverted to the pandemic, al-Shabaab and Boko Haram have stepped up their attacks, increasing the number of internally displaced persons and refugees and provoking multinational counter-offensives that have killed countless civilians. Fear and hardship provoked by the disease have fueled a rise in ethno-nationalism, xenophobia, hate speech, and the targeting of refugees, migrants, and other marginalized populations. Pandemic-induced border closures and movement restrictions render these populations even more vulnerable. In Yemen, where war and the COVID-19 pandemic have decimated the health system, Houthi militias have blamed migrants from Ethiopia and other parts of the Greater Horn for the virus’s
spread and forced thousands into the desert without water or food. Other African migrants, pushed into Saudi Arabia, have been beaten and imprisoned. If fear and hardship have stoked the flames, measures taken to impede the virus’s spread may generate further instability. Some governments have declared states of emergency that have broadened executive powers and opened the door to greater human rights abuses by authoritarian regimes. Across the continent, police have violently attacked civilians who ignored lockdown rules or protested virus-induced price gouging. Informal sector workers have been disproportionately targeted, and migrants from other countries have been denied services and assistance. Elections postponed due to health concerns have allowed some leaders to extend their terms; others have used the crisis to expand their powers. In Somalia, where elections have been delayed indefinitely, opposition forces have cried foul and warned that consequences will follow. The realization that we are all in this together has prompted a call for increased international cooperation to fight the COVID-19 pandemic. The UN’s call for a global ceasefire is one step in the right direction. However, the world’s response has been weak. The entrenchment of ethnonationalism, xenophobia, and narrow self-interest in some of the world’s wealthiest nations makes it unlikely that the global north will commit the resources and know-how necessary to combat the virus successfully— which would eliminate one of the factors contributing to civil conflict. While African actors on the ground are working to develop effective solutions, they are up against formidable odds. If those with power fail to act; poverty, repression, divisions within and between countries, and the long history of detrimental foreign intervention make further instability, rather than international cooperation, are the most likely outcome of Africa’s COVID-19 crisis. Elizabeth Schmidt is professor emeritus of history at Loyola University Maryland and the author of six books about Africa.
Biden’s choice of Kamala Harris will not decide the election And, as our research shows, Edwards’ popularity made voters more likely to vote for Kerry, at least in the short term. Some political analysts believe a vice presidential selection could draw key voters from that person’s own demographic group or their home state. We found that rarely happens, either. However, we found that voters view vice presidential choices as new information about the main candidate – and that information can shift voters’ views and change votes. The candidate’s choice gives voters insight into who the candidate really is, what he or she stands for and how the person might operate once in office. Take the 2008 presidential election, for example, when Democrat Barack Obama ran against Republican John McCain with Joe Biden and Sarah Palin as their respective vice presidential nominees. In our book, we demonstrate that voters who doubted Palin’s qualifications also were more likely to doubt McCain’s judgment and think he was too old to be president. As a result, they were less likely to vote for McCain.
Conversely, our analysis also showed that voters who believed Biden was well-qualified for office were more likely to approve of Obama’s judgment—and less likely to think he was too young to be president. As a result, they were more likely to vote for Obama. In 2020, Joe Biden is already well-known as an experienced former vice president, so it’s unlikely his running mate will outshine him on her own. But with this choice, Biden has a valuable opportunity to define himself as a candidate—and a potential president—in his own right. What does he really stand for? What are his political priorities? And does he have the good judgment to be president? Biden’s selection of Harris will help voters to answer these questions—and to decide whether he deserves their support in November. This commentary was republished with permission from The Conversation.
August 20-26, 2020
EncampmEntS
and making it harder for them to Vice President Latrisha Vetaw snatched from officers. was on site Friday helping peoThe crowd was forced to find stability.” ple transition to other locations. As of August 13, an estimated retreat as police responded by Continued from page 1 macing them. Several fell to 434 tents were scattered across “Initially I was like, whoa, wait their knees and tried to flush different encampments in 44 a minute, this isn’t my job. But Powderhorn Park to protest the Park Police clearing of the site, out their eyes with water or milk local parks. This number has then I said, wait, where are these which has become the epicenter while others cried for medics and shrunk from the estimated 560 people going to go?” Vetaw said. On July 15, MPRB instituted a tents at Powderhorn alone on of the homeless encampments inhalers. permit ordinance designated to Willow, who prefers to be July 9. that have skyrocketed over the “Park staff have been spending help maintain the safety and orlast five months. Bulldozers identified as gender neutral, sat swiftly cleared abandoned tents on the ground with streaming significant time and resources to ganization of people living in the and garbage while the people tears trying to flush out the mace address the influx of hundreds parks. The ordinance states that who were living there rushed while in a state of shock. Willow of unhoused people who have over time, no more than 20 parks to pack their possessions into lives near the park and, hearing been living in temporary park will be designated sites, and each may have no more than 25 tents. “A lot of the neighbors were really welcoming at first, but again [they] had no experience with this population or with homelessness, so they didn’t know that there were people preying on these communities,” Vetaw said. “We see drugs, a lot of mental illness, a lot of sex trafficking and prostitution happening in these spaces, so I don’t think neighbors were prepared for what was to come.” A number of stabbings, sexual assaults, and gunshots have been reported across multiple park sites since the numbers of people staying there began to swell. “The park board did what we could on our end by allocating 20 Homeless encampment Photos by Chris Juhn parks as sanctuary spaces. Now wheelbarrows and carts, or into it was being cleared, joined in the encampments since this spring,” we need community members said MPRB Superintendent Al who say they want to help out to busses and vans supplied by vol- protest. “The [police] car started to Bangoura in a statement after step up,” Vetaw added. unteers or MPRB officials there to Anyone can apply for a permit drive off. We were kind of push- the clearing of Powderhorn. “We help. Minneapolis and Minneapolis ing them along telling them it need safe parks for everyone, to designate a park as a sanctuary Park Police stood stoically behind was time to go. There was a little and having encampments in space; however, the park canthe police tape line while protest- bit of jostling,” Willow said. “I parks creates unsafe conditions not be too close to a school zone. ers screamed insults at them, tore was next to the car where a po- for many of those living in the Four such permits have been isdown the tape, and repeatedly lice officer pulled out a mace gun parks, those visiting the parks, sued for Boom Island Park, Lake and those living near the parks.” Harriet, Marshall Terrance Park pushed back the line. After the and maced the whole crowd. Some community members and The Mall. There are 16 other “I’m feeling really distraught site was cleared and the Park Police sought to make their way in this moment,” Willow contin- and activists believe people expe- parks that have been designated back to their vehicles, an angry ued, “and really my heart goes riencing homelessness should be as capable of accommodating crowd followed them to their out to the homeless neighbors allowed to stay, leaving City and encampments but have yet to recars and began pounding on ve- who are sent back now to find County officials scrambling for ceive applications. “If approved, the MPRB will hicle hoods as they tried to drive another place to be with no sup- solutions with the Parks & Recreprovide restrooms or portable away. Wires were torn from the port. This isn’t a solution. It’s just ation Board and Park Police. MPRB Commissioner and toilets, hand washing stations cars and several body cameras messing up their lives even more
harriS Continued from page 1 Having completed two terms as the district attorney of San Francisco, Kamala was elected as the first African American and first woman to serve as California’s attorney general. In this role, she “worked tirelessly to hold corporations accountable and protect the state’s most vulnerable people,” according to her biography. Over the course of her nearly two terms in state office, Harris won a $25-billion settlement for California homeowners hit by the foreclosure crisis, defended California’s landmark climate change law, protected the Affordable Care Act, helped win marriage equality for all Californians, and prosecuted transnational gangs that trafficked in guns, drugs, and human beings. “The job of a progressive prosecutor is to look out for the overlooked, to speak up for those whose voices aren’t being heard, to see and address the causes of crime, not just their consequences, and to shine a light on the in-
ElEction Continued from page 1 won the DFL endorsement, defeated four-term incumbent Rep. Ray Dehn. Agbaje’s campaign page says she works to “center the voices of low-income people and communities of color.” In St. Paul, challenger Athena Hollins won over nine-term incumbent John Lesch in District 66B. A lawyer and community activist, Hollins’ campaign page states, “We deserve better than ‘good enough.’” The fourth DFL primary upset came in State Senate
equality and unfairness that lead to injustice. It is to recognize that not everyone needs punishment, that what many need, quite plainly, is help,” wrote Harris about her role as what she termed a “progressive” prosecutor in her memoir The Truths We Hold. Since taking office as a U.S. Senator, she has introduced and cosponsored legislation to raise wages for working people, reform our broken criminal justice system, make health care a right for all Americans, address the epidemic of substance abuse, support veterans and military families, and expand access to child care for working parents. Women’s groups and the civil rights community in recent days had blasted media members and individuals on social platforms for racist and sexist attacks against Harris and others who were considered in the vice-presidential sweepstakes. In an open letter by nearly 700 Black women leaders, the attacks were roundly denounced. “Black women are many things,” the letter reads. “We are business executives, political strategists, and elected
District 7 in Duluth, where progressive challenger Jen McEwen trounced two-term incumbent Erik Simonson after a campaign focusing heavily on environmental issues. On St. Paul’s East Side, John Thompson won the nomination in District 67A, where the incumbent is not running for re-election. Thompson was a close friend of Philando Castile. He traces his political activism to the time that Castile was killed, saying, “At that moment, I knew that I could no longer remain silent.” The election of Hollins and Thompson in November would add two Black repre-
officials, philanthropists, and activists.” The letter circulated throughout the media and was posted to various social media accounts. “We are health and wellness practitioners. We are entertainers and faith leaders. We are wives, mothers, daughters, educators, and students. We set and shift culture. We build power, and we are powerful.” Among the many Black women who signed the open letter are Dr. Johnnetta B. Cole, Maya Cummings, Dr. Hazel Dukes, Suzanne DePasse, Valeisha Butterfield Jones, Cora Masters Barry, Melanie Campbell, and Karen Boykin-Towns. “We are the highest propensity voters in this nation. We are a coalition of Black women leaders, who, in this inflection point of the Black liberation movement, where people around the world are galvanized to action, know that the time for Black women in the United States is now,” the women penned in the letter. —The NNPA’s Stacey Brown contributed to this story.
sentatives to the current fourmember Black delegation in the Minnesota House of Representatives. In Minneapolis, Jamal Osman won the Sixth Ward City Council seat, which has been vacant since Abdi Warsame resigned in April to become the executive director of the Minneapolis Public Housing Authority. The city council is expected to make his election official the next time they meet. Osman led the field of 11 candidates in first-choice votes, with 29%, followed by AJ Awed at 22%. The thirdand fourth-place finishers were Minneapolis Park Board
School Continued from page 1 the best interest for us to stay out until we have the safety measures in place.” Reportedly over 100,000 school children in the U.S. have tested positive for the virus since reopening schools this month. State and county health officials say coronavirus cases in Minnesota have risen largely in part of more inflections among children and teenagers. APM Research Lab’s Andi Egbert, during a Twitter Q&A last week, told the MSR, “I think the back-to-school issue is an unsolvable Rubik’s Cube. Research tells us younger kids may be less mask[-wearing] compliant but less of a spreader threat, while older kids are more compliant but a higher threat.” “It’s not one variable that’s causing” the increase in COVID cases, said Children Hospital Nurse Adriene Thornton. “Before, we were keeping our kids home and keeping them safe, keeping our distance. Now we are seeing more kids testing positive for the coro-
Commissioner AK Hassan and Abdirizak Bihi. Because of ranked-choice voting and absentee ballot counting, the results will not be final until later in the week. Mary Turck welcomes reader responses to mturck@spokesman-recorder.com.
(as vendor supplies allow), and trash/recycling containers to a permitted encampment within 48 hours of issuing a permit,” the resolution reads. Despite these allowances, groups such as the Minneapolis Sanctuary Movement feel that these actions are not enough. Activists have been following their account on Twitter and Facebook to organize marches and protests and to find out where encampment sweeps will be held so they can block them. The group posted the following on their Facebook page after the Powderhorn Park clearing: “With no eviction notice, cops and bulldozers are destroying
5
ists held their ground at Peavey Park, waiting for the Park Police to arrive and remove homeless camping there. “So these people showing up to stop this, it’s not helping the people who are living in these parks,” said Vetaw. She added that with cold Minnesota weather around the corner, these camps are simply not practical. “It’s a really tough situation to have unhoused folks living in parks. We have to do something as a city to deal with this, but the Park Board can’t be solely responsible. Living in the park is not a long-term solution. It’s not even a short-term solution. It’s not a solution at all. We have to
“Living in the park is not a longterm solution. It’s not even a short-term solution. It’s not a solution at all.” the West Powderhorn Sanctuary, arresting residents and blocking volunteers who are trying to help residents pack their belongings. These violent encampment sweeps are dehumanizing, violate the human right to live with dignity, threaten public health and break unhoused residents' connections to vital resources, health care and their communities. “Governor Tim Walz, Mayor Jacob Frey, Minneapolis Park and Recreation Board and Minneapolis City Council are all culpable in this abhorrent, state-sanctioned violence. NO EVICTIONS ON STOLEN LAND.” According to the MPRB, eviction notices were served at Powderhorn two weeks before it was cleared. However, the date for the clearing was not specified. On the same day that Powderhorn Park was cleared, several other activ-
do better for our unhoused population, but living in the park is just not it.” “You can have supportive funds, or you can have funds that are basically the city trying to hold their power over everyone,” said one young woman protester who asked not to be named. “They shouldn’t be law and order right now. They should be compassionate and trying to keep people safe in their health and safety and in their mental health. They’re not trying.”
navirus disease. “COVID-19 is on pace to become the third leading cause of all deaths in the U.S.,” Thornton declared. “No one should be OK with that. It is a serious disease, but we don’t have everyone on the same page on how to manage it.” “There are a lot of guidelines,” admitted Thornton, a regular panelist on the AALF series on COVID’s impact on the Black community. “It is going to be different from school to school and district to district depending on the resources. There is a lot of planning.” “Going back to school feels very scary, so unstable,” said Ayolanda Mack. She and her husband have been their two children’s “teachers” since the state lockdown this past spring and will continue to home school them this fall. “You don’t have to have a rigid schedule. We have school around the clock,” she pointed out. Parents in Community Action Operations Director Monshani Chandler said that her organization has been working with parents, providing informational videos
for families and children on “how to talk about COVID.” “We have to make better for our students and families, specifically around this distance learning process,” said Walker. “If we’re thinking we can replicate what we did in the classroom, we are sadly mistaken, because we will continue those same disparities. “If we think we will go back to schools and do the same thing we have been doing, this will create those same disparities.” He added that students and community “should also be in the process to help us make better decisions.” If and when schools are reopened locally, Thornton advises parents to be involved in ensuring that their children are safe, such as by checking classrooms and building spaces. “We can’t put them in a bubble,” she concluded, but we can “ask the hard questions. Hold the school accountable.”
Analise Pruni welcomes reader responses to apruni@spokesmanrecorder.com.
Charles Hallman welcomes reader responses to challman@ spokesman-recorder.com.
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Business
August 20 - 26, 2020
Desserts delectable enough to satisfy a Prince Cheesecake Funk Black Business SPOTLIGHT by Ashley Lauren Contributing writer “I love baking because it brings people joy," said Vanessa Drews, owner and head baker of Cheesecake Funk. She operates her business out of Kitchen Space, a commercial kitchen located at 5750 Lyndale Avenue S. in Minneapolis. Drews, a South Minneapolis native, began her baking
Then in 2013, Drews found work at Paisley Park. “I was super honored working for Prince," she recalled. "I would set up his merchandise. I had been making cheesecake for family and friends.” But her cheesecakes eventually got Prince’s attention, as it became an instant hit amongst band members and staff at Paisley Park. “I would bring cheesecakes for them to put in the fridge," continued Drews. "I
Vanessa Drews, owner of Cheescake Funk
Cheesecake Funk! legacy in 2003 when she'd whipped up her signature cheesecake for friends and relatives. Later in 2008, her desserts were exclusively available at McMahon’s Irish Pub. Unfortunately, the pub was engulfed by a tragic fire in April 2010. As a result, Drews took a break from baking cheesecake and worked full-time as a senior paralegal.
made them as a care package for those who came to visit Minnesota.” To her surprise, Prince rocked with Cheesecake Funk. “I never thought he’d eat cheesecake because I thought he was vegan. He found it and tried it. He started posting it on Twitter.” His favorite? The turtle cheesecake. Prince referred to her cheesecake at “CHEESE-
CAKEFUNK” on a flyer and special invite for a “Paisley After Dark Park”show that took place on November 6 and 7 in 2015. He was inviting select people to view his “007” film and enjoy the superb cheesecake. The late legend's endorsement helped launch the brand. Cheesecake Funk also sparked the interest of producers at “Shark Tank,” a popular TV show that showcases innovative entrepreneurs. “It was super cool. By chance, I saw something online,” said Drews. After submitting her business, she was called upon to pitch it to the judges. We'll stay tuned to find out the outcome of her pitch. During August 2019, Drews departed from working a 9-5 job to focus on
strengthening and growing the Cheesecake Funk brand. “After working as a senior paralegal for 20 years, it is honestly a privilege and honor baking,” said Drews. In March 2020, Cheesecake Funk re-emerged but then the pandemic hit. Drews explained, “I moved into the Kitchen Space March 1. Then COVID hit; the shutdown happened in mid-March. I decided to take a pause in April," she said. After taking time to reflect, she began offering an online ordering option and curbside pick-up. As for the impact of COVID, the landscape has been challenging. “There’s been some ups and downs, but I’m trying to ensure the highest level of safety. When restaurants shut down, I wasn’t able
to fulfill orders,” said Drews. Now, Cheesecake Funk is busy processing orders. “I’ve had to pivot the pandemic," said Drews. She posted online that she would be hosting a pop-up event. To her amazement, she received over 50 orders within a day and a half. There was an outpouring of support. Customers picked up their orders curbside. It’s important to note that Drews' cheesecakes are intricately made from scratch. There’s a flavorful variation of traditional and unique cheesecakes to try. “Wide variety; solid 10-15 flavors. The traditional base of the cheesecake is so simple. Whether it’s Snickers Cheesecake or Keylime Pie. Customizing is totally ok too,” said Drews.
Customers can also order fresh flavors like apple, banana cream, blueberry, butterscotch, chocolate rain, cookies & cream, strawberry, turtle, white chocolate raspberry, and white chocolate caramel cheesecake. Each decadent dessert is baked by the owner. Cheesecake Funk desserts are also available at various restaurants in Minnesota. Customers can order a slice when they dine at the CRAVE Restaurants, Tequila Butcher, School of the Wise and/or Oak 19. In the future, Drew aspires to partner with local sports teams like the Twins and Vikings. Overall, “The main thing I want people to be aware of is my brand desserts,” said Drews. She encourages individuals to think of Cheesecake Funk when they want a rich, delectable dessert made from scratch. When asked what motivates her, Drews said, “Providing an amazing childhood experience for my kids. It motivates me. I want to provide a good homebase for them. Being a good mom and providing for them the best way I know how." Also, “My advice to youth is to gain all the education possible and follow your dreams. If you find interest in anything, excel at it and it will lead you onto an amazing journey in life,” said Drews. Cheesecake Funk is open Monday-Friday, 9 am to 5 pm and closed Saturday & Sunday. Note: Customers can place an order online Monday-Friday, 9 am to 4 pm. Orders are typically ready within 2-3 business days for curbside pick-up or delivery. For more info, visit www.cheesecakefunk.com. Ashley Lauren welcomes readers’ responses to alauren@spokesman-recorder.com.
Advertorial The African American Leadersip Forum (AALF), AALF is excited to be working with the Cultural Wellness Center (foundthe Cultural Wellness Center, and Relationships LLC Parted in 1996), a premier community and cultural knowledge-production ner to Launch a Cultural Health & Wellness Directory organization in the Twin Cities with a mission to engage in partnerships Working Together to Make Black, Indigenous, and People of Color Communities Stronger In 2016, the City of Minneapolis was selected to participate in the Resilience in Communities after Stress & Trauma (ReCAST) Program through a multi-year grant from the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services' Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA). ReCAST is intended to assist youth in high-risk geographies and their families and promote resilience and equity in communities that have recently faced civil unrest through implementation of evidence-based violence prevention and community youth engagement programs, as well as linkages to trauma-informed behavioral health services. SAMHSA created the ReCAST Program to support communities that have lived through demonstrations of mass protest in response to police-involved shootings of unarmed African American males. It is also intended to help those communities with high rates of violence develop trauma-informed approaches. Minneapolis is one of eight cities nationwide that received this grant award, working across Black, Indigenous, people of color, immigrant, and refugee communities. The resources of this award will be used to build collective power and to the shift the historical and future impact of systems on our communities. The African American Leadership Forum (AALF) is excited to announce the launch of a Cultural Health & Wellness Directory, which was developed by our 2020 Collective Impact Workstream cohort in partnership with the Cultural Wellness Center and Relationships LLC. AALF’s Collective Impact Initiative, comprised of a Task Force & Workstream cohort includes dynamic African American innovators from across the Twin Cities and Minnesota, who are chosen through a comprehensive application process to identify the Black community’s most pressing challenges and engage in projects that help solve them. The Cultural Health & Wellness Directory is a resource for recovering resilience and building the capacity of cultural practitioners to provide improved services to Black, Indigenous and POC communities. About the Partnership AALF, the Cultural Wellness Center, and Relationships LLC have come together to fully leverage our shared resources to empower Minnesotans to heal themselves and to build their communities. With a unified voice AALF and these partners, including Dr. Joseph Reid, are providing services to the City of Minneapolis (Division of Race & Equity) to design and implement a process that tracks the ReCAST program objectives as stated in the Trauma and Resilience Services & Capacity Building RFP. This partnership aligns with AALF’s mission to establish a just and healthy society that works equally well for everyone and with empowering the African American community around the organization’s four focus areas: Economic Development, Education, Health & Wellness, and Family & Culture. As a data-driven nonprofit comprised of over 1,500 African American leaders from across Minnesota, AALF strives to provide the social, political and leadership capital necessary to close disparities in the Black community as it relates to the areas above.
that develop models to solve problems and create lasting solutions. The Cultural Wellness Center works with individuals, communities, families, academic institutions, government agencies, philanthropists, and other non-profit organizations to build a body of knowledge and web of relationships that support community engagement, intercultural communication, and personal responsibility. This partnership is also strengthened by collaboration with Dr. Reid, who is a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist, professor, speaker, supervisor, and consultant with extensive experience in private practice, training and supervising students and interns. As founder of Relationships, LLC, a therapy mental health training center, he leads the center in providing inclusive education, training and mental health services to individuals, couples, family, and community. About the Community Project AALF, Cultural Wellness Center, and Relationship LLC were identified by the City of Minneapolis’ Division of Race and Equity as valuable resources for designing and implementing a process that includes the: (1) development and implementation of a web-based repository of providers, community cultural healers and licensed mental/behavioral health providers available to the community; (2) increasing the number of providers in the repository to receive training in trauma-informed approaches, violence prevention, mental health literacy, and other related training mental health or related workforce trained in behavioral/mental healthtrauma-informed approaches, (3) increasing the number of individuals (youth and family members) from the ReCAST Minneapolis geographical area of focus receiving services for trauma informed behavioral health, and (4) developing and implementing a process to provide funding to providers in the repository to increase the number of individuals (youth and family members) receiving services for trauma informed behavioral health. By working together, AALF, the Cultural Wellness Center, and Relationship LLC are providing the Black community and IPOC communities throughout the state with an essential resource that supports health & wellness by connecting healers and practitioners with the individuals, families, and communities that need them the most.
Advertorial
This Prince invitation for a show in November 2015 helped launch the Cheesecake Funk brand. Submitted photos
August 20-26, 2020
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TV fiction depicts backlash women face while running for highest office By Karrin Vasby Anderson
E
ven before Democratic Presidential candidate Joe Biden named Sen. Kamala Harris as his VP pick last week, his promise to name a woman running mate had already prompted familiar debates about gender and power. Are these potential vice presidents supposed to be presidential lackeys or understudies to the leader of the free world? Should they actively seek the position, or be reluctant nominees bound by duty? After Sen. Kamala Harris’ name emerged as a short-list favorite, CNBC reported that some Biden allies and donors “initiated a campaign against Harris,” arguing that she was “too ambitious” and would be “solely focused on eventually becoming president.” Claiming that people who want to be president make bad vice presidents might seem illconceived if your audience is Vice President Joe Biden. And pundits and journalists quickly pointed out that the argument was racist and sexist—like, really, really sexist. So why were Democratic Party insiders spouting it? One clue can be found in the way we tell stories about women politicians. In our book, “Woman President: Confronting Postfeminist Political Culture,”
Sen. Kamala Harris has been attacked for trying to climb too high. AP Photo/John Locher communication scholar Kristina Horn Sheeler and I examine how fictional and actual women presidential figures are framed in news coverage, political satire, memes, television and film. Our close reading of these diverse texts reveals a persistent backlash that takes many forms: satirical cartoons that deploy sexist stereotypes; the pornification of women candidates in memes; and news framing that includes misogynistic metaphors, to name a few. But in our chapter on fictional women presidents on screen, we found something particularly relevant to the coverage of the Democratic Party “veepstakes.” Women who are politically ambi-
tious are presented as less trustworthy than those who don’t actively seek the presidency. There have been seven series on U.S. television that follow a woman president for at least one full season: ABC’s “Commander in Chief;” the Sci-Fi Channel’s
create a “likeable” woman president, they go out of their way to demonstrate that pursuing the presidency isn’t her life’s goal. The women presidents in “Commander in Chief” and “Battlestar Galactica” didn’t campaign for the office. They ascended to the presidency as a result of tragedy. In the former, the president dies of a brain aneurysm; in the latter, a nuclear attack takes out the first 42 people in the presidential line of succession, leaving the secretary of education to fill the role. (To be fair, this did seem like a woman’s likeliest path to presidential power in 2004.) Each character is portrayed as an ethical and effective leader—not perfect, but plausibly presidential. Conversely, series like “24” and “Homeland” feature women candidates who aggressively seek the presidency. In both cases, the women start out as principled politicians, but their true nature is revealed as weak and duplicitous. Their presidential tenures end up being ruin-
Women who are politically ambitious are presented as less trustworthy. “Battlestar Galactica;” Fox’s “24;” CBS’ “Madam Secretary;” Fox 21’s “Homeland;” Netflix’s “House of Cards;” and HBO’s “Veep.” It may seem like a small point, but when showrunners want to
ous for the nation, and order is restored by a White male— “24’s” Jack Bauer and the male vice president in “Homeland.” HBO’s “Veep” takes the premise of a craven woman politician to an absurd extreme, with actress
Julia Louis-Dreyfus winning six consecutive Emmy Awards for her burlesque send-up of the familiar female trope. Interestingly, both “24” and “Homeland” have important connections to real-world presidential politics. Both series portray the first woman U.S. president as a veteran politician and middleaged White woman. They bear strong resemblances to the only woman who has been a majorparty presidential nominee: Hillary Clinton. Appearing in 2008 and 2017, respectively, the storylines were clearly planned to coincide with what could have been Clinton’s first term as U.S. president. Yet depictions in “24” and “Homeland” of fictional women presidents align with communication scholar Shawn J. ParryGiles’ findings that the media framed Clinton as inauthentic, Machiavellian, and ultimately, dangerous. That brings us back to our recent veepstakes. Criticisms of women vice presidential prospects echo cultural scripts that insist women who want to be president shouldn’t be trusted. Understanding the resistance to Harris—and Elizabeth Warren, Stacey Abrams and others who announce their eagerness to serve—requires recognizing the diverse forms that backlash against women’s political ambitions can take, which span
from calling a congresswoman a “f—— b—-” on the steps of the U.S. Capitol to portraying women presidents as Machiavellian on television dramas. Did pop culture cause those Biden funders to unsuccessfully try to undermine Harris? No. But the stories we tell ourselves on screen have taught us that women who actually want to be president can’t be trusted. That might be why people like Ambassador Susan Rice, who’s never run for office, and Congresswoman Karen Bass, who said she doesn’t want to run for president, landed on Biden’s short list to favorable coverage. “At every step in her political career,” The New York Times wrote of Bass, “the California congresswoman had to be coaxed to run for a higher office. Now she’s a top contender to be Joe Biden’s running mate.” Men who run for president typically have to demonstrate the requisite desire—the socalled “fire in the belly.” Bizarrely, women are supposed to act like they don’t even want it. Karrin Vasby Anderson is a professor of communication studies at Colorado State University. —This story was republished by permission from The Conversation.
‘Yusuf Hawkins: Storm Over Brooklyn’ Film Review: By Dwight Brown Decades ago, long before BLM protesters marched and chanted “George Floyd—I can’t breathe,” demonstrators shouted, “Yusuf. Yusuf. Yusuf. No justice, no peace!” Racially motivated crimes that ignite outrage have a long history. One of the most heinous felonies provides a back story to today’s struggles. On August 23, 1989, Yusuf Hawkins, a 16-year-old Brooklynite from East New York, traveled to the unfamiliar Brooklyn neighborhood of Bensonhurst with friends contemplating the purchase of a used 1982 Pontiac. Unbeknownst to him the largely Italian American community was hostile to Blacks. Some male teenagers misidentified him as an interloper there to meet a White homegirl, Gina Feliciano, and attend her birthday party. Gina’s acquaintance Keith Mondello, angered by the invi-
Filmmaker Muta’Ali Muhammad’s (“Life’s Essentials with Ruby Dee”) documentary focuses on a pivotal time in New York City’s history and includes an impressive set of interviews with many of those connected to the event, its consequences and Hawkins’ legacy. Footage is split
Yusuf Hawkins family photo between ’89-‘91 around the time of the murder and trial, and 30 years later when those involved reflect on their mission. The time capsule captures the height of the turbulent ’80s, from the dubious posturing of Mayor Ed Koch to the volatile
It’s like eyewitnessing a car crash, going into shock and living through the outcome. tation she supposedly extended to Blacks and Latinos, formed a mob equipped with baseball bats. They surrounded and attacked Hawkins and his buddies. Two gunshots rang out. Two bullets hit Hawkins in his chest just inches above his heart. It cost him his life. At the time, New Yorkers were weary and stressed by similar racially motivated deaths: MTA worker Willie Turks in Sheepshead Bay, Brooklyn in 1982; Michael Griffith in Howard Beach, Queens in ’86. Hawkins’ murder was a last straw. New York viewers who lived through this tragedy and its aftermath will have their memories refreshed by flashbacks of a divided city, a divisive mayor, an insular predominantly White neighborhood and a Black community in the hunt for answers and convictions. Those unfamiliar with the case will be shocked by the eerie similarities between protests of yesteryear and now.
atmosphere surrounding the Central Park jogger incident in April of 1989. NYC city is boiling over with Black vs. White tension. Add in four Black youths being victimized by a White mob in an outer borough, and the summer of ’89 was ripe for drama of Shakespearean proportions. Muta’Ali Muhammad’s approach to reconstructing the time and era is so thorough it makes up for his very traditional documentary style: New and old interviews, newspaper clippings, archival newsreels, family photos. Visually, his saving grace is a fairly eye-catching series of overhead shots of the Bensonhurst neighborhood, the corner where the murder took place and the Snack & Candy store involved. The effect looks either computer-generated or like aerial drone footage tricked out. Cars seem like toys driving around fake buildings. The arresting images become increasingly powerful as they are repeated, some-
times with red dots tracking the movement of the adversaries as they attack the unsuspecting victims. Equally impressive are the people who define their roles in Hawkins’ life, the incident and its aftermath. His mom Diane, brothers Amir and Freddy, sister and friends describe what it was like to be pulled into a firestorm, particularly as they marched through the riled enemy territory of Bensonhurst and were bombarded by racial slurs and death threats. The thin nattily dressed and astute Al Sharpton of 2020 compared to the overweight, showy and not always prudent Sharpton back in the day is a bit startling. Sharpton: “Every time a Black man comes to the bar of justice, there’s no justice.” Hearing from 90-year-old Mayor David Dinkins on how he handled NYC’s racial tension versus the very rambunctious Koch is enlightening. An interview with Russell Gibbons, a young Black man who lived in Bensonhurst and hung out with the White gang the night of the homicide, will surprise many. What’s it like to be in his shoes? Perhaps the most impressive persona is that of Hawkins’ father Moses Stewart. Only months before the incident, the estranged dad had reemerged. It’s as if fate sent Hawkins a guardian, not so much for his life, but for reparations. Hastily, Stewart transitions from a crestfallen father to an increasingly savvy activist learning how to work the press and give fiery speeches. If you’ve ever wondered how “everyday” people thrown into the midst of public tragedies compose themselves, adapt and navigate through media storms, Stewart is the archetype. Stewart: “You don’t know what you’ll do until something happens to you.” Which is why watching this film is so haunting. It’s like eyewitnessing a car crash, going into shock and living through the outcome. And if you are an African American viewer, some part of you has to acknowledge that the tempest that struck the Hawkins family could strike you, too. Just as it
did the families of Trayvon Martin, Eric Garner, and now George Floyd. Why did the NYPD ask the Hawkins family not to publicize their son’s death? How did Bensonhurst’s Mafia ecosystem influence an arrest? What hap-
him and those around him. His innocence and tragic murder made him a martyr who was eulogized at his funeral: “God takes the life of one who is pure to save those who are not pure.” For that to be true, lessons and principles have to be learned by those left
Mural dedicated to Yusuf Hawkins pened to Mondello, the batwielding mob and the killer? Who attempted to assassinate Sharpton? The film answers questions you couldn’t conceive. Hawkins walked into a nightmare. This is what happened to
behind. Has that happened?
they experienced but by their successful fight for justice. It’s a message that should encourage BLM activists. HBO premiered ‘Yusuf Hawkins: ‘Storm Over Brooklyn’ on August 12. It began streaming on HBO Max on
Photos courtesy of HBO August 13. Check your local listings for showtimes.
Thanks to Muta’Ali Muhammad’s thought-provoking Dwight Brown is an NNPA documentary, Hawkin’s fam- News Wire film critic. Find more of ily, friends and supporters are his work at DwightBrownInk.com no longer defined by the tragedy and BlackPressUSA.com.
August 20 - 26, 2020
Legals
Employment
Office of the Minnesota Secretary of State Certificate of Assumed Name Minnesota Statutes, Chapter 333 ASSUMED NAME: PRINCIPAL PLACE OF BUSINESS:
Private Risk Strategies 2727 Grand Prairie Parkway Waukee IA 50263 USA
NAMEHOLDER(S): Name: Holmes, Murphy and Associates, LLC Address: 2727 Grand Prairie Parkway Waukee IA 50263 USA
If you submit an attachment, it will be incorporated into this document. If the attachment conflicts with the information specifically set forth in this document, this document supersedes the data referenced in the attachment. By typing my name, I, the undersigned, certify that I am signing this document as the person whose signature is required, or as agent of the person(s) whose signature would be required who has authorized me to sign this document on his/her behalf, or in both capacities. I further certify that I have completed all required fields, and that the information in this document is true and correct and in compliance with the applicable chapter of Minnesota Statutes. I understand that by signing this document I am subject to the penalties of perjury as set forth in Section 609.48 as if I had signed this document under oath. SIGNED BY: Jessie Benson MAILING ADDRESS: None Provided EMAIL FOR OFFICIAL NOTICES: JBenson@holmesmurphy.com FILED 06/02/2020 11:59 PM
Steve Simon Secretary of State
Minnesota Spokesman-Recorder August 13 & 20, 2020
CASE TYPE: PERSONAL INJURY STATE OF MINNESOTA
DISTRICT COURT
COUNTY OF HENNEPIN
FOURTH JUDICIAL DISTRICT
Yolanda White, as individual Plaintiff and as Parent and/or Guardian of minors E’Mya Holliday and Annette Robbins, Court File Number: The Honorable: Plaintiffs, SUMMONS v. Trent Fair,
Defendant.
THIS SUMMONS IS DIRECTED TO the above-named Defendant: 1. YOU ARE BEING SUED. The Plaintiff has started a lawsuit against you. The Plaintiff's Complaint against you is attached to this summons. Do not throw these papers away. They are official papers that affect your rights. You must respond to this lawsuit even though it may not yet be filed with the Court and there may be no court file number on this summons. 2. YOU MUST REPLY WITHIN 20 DAYS TO PROTECT YOUR RIGHTS. You must give or mail to the person who signed this summons a written response called an Answer within 20 days of the date on which you received this Summons. You must send a copy of your Answer to the person who signed this summons located at: Brantingham Law Office 2200 E Franklin Avenue, Suite 202 Minneapolis, MN 55404 3. YOU MUST RESPOND TO EACH CLAIM. The Answer is your written response to the Plaintiff's Complaint. In your Answer you must state whether you agree or disagree with each paragraph of the Complaint. If you believe the Plaintiff should not be given everything asked for in the Complaint, you must say so in your Answer. 4. YOU WILL LOSE YOUR CASE IF YOU DO NOT SEND A WRITTEN RESPONSE TO THE COMPLAINT TO THE PERSON WHO SIGNED THIS SUMMONS. If you do not Answer within 20 days, you will lose this case. You will not get to tell your side of the story, and the Court may decide against you and award the Plaintiff everything asked for in the complaint. If you do not want to contest the claims stated in the complaint, you do not need to respond. A default judgment can then be entered against you for the relief requested in the complaint. 5. LEGAL ASSISTANCE. You may wish to get legal help from a lawyer. If you do not have a lawyer, the Court Administrator may have information about places where you can get legal assistance. Even if you cannot get legal help, you must still provide a written Answer to protect your rights or you may lose the case. 6. ALTERNATIVE DISPUTE RESOLUTION. The parties may agree to or be ordered to participate in an alternative dispute resolution process under Rule 114 of the Minnesota General Rules of Practice. You must still send your written response to the Complaint even if you expect to use alternative means of resolving this dispute. Dated: 8/11/2020
By: /s/ Jeremy Brantingham BRANTINGHAM LAW OFFICE Jeremy L. Brantingham, MN #0299558 2200 E. Franklin Avenue, Suite 202 Minneapolis, MN 55404 (612) 339-9700 ATTORNEYS FOR PLAINTIFF
Minnesota Spokesman-Recorder August 13, 20, & 27, 2020
INVITATION TO BID
A/1 Contract No. 21-068
Sealed bids will be received by the Public Housing Agency of the City of Saint Paul at 200 East Arch Street St. Paul, Minnesota 55130 for BOILER SYSTEM MAINTENANCE AND REPAIR SERVICES AT PHA PROPERTIES, CONTRACT 21-068, UNTIL 10:00 am, local Time, on September 10, 2020 at which time they will be publicly opened and read aloud. A complete set of bid documents are available by contacting Northstar Imaging at 651-686-0477 or www.northstarplanroom.com, under public plan room, BOILER SYSTEM MAINTENANCE AND REPAIR SERVICES AT PHA PROPERTIES, CONTRACT 21-068, Digital downloads are no charge, contact Northstar for hard copy pricing. Bids must be accompanied by a $500 bid guarantee, A MN Responsible Contractor Compliance Affidavit, and an Equal Employment Opportunity submittal. The successful bidder will be required to furnish both a performance bond and a separate payment bond. PRE-BID CONFERENCE WILL BE HELD ON TUESDAY, September 1, 2020, 10:00 AM AT 200 EAST ARCH STREET, ST. PAUL, MN 55130. The PHA reserves the right to reject any or all bids or to waive any informalities in the bidding.
AN EQUAL OPPORTUNITY AGENCY
8
STEVE AHNER PROJECT LEADER (651) 292-6069
Minnesota Spokesman-Recorder August 20, 2020
From Classified State of Minnesota Department/MN Certificate of Assumed Name Minnesota Statutes Chapter 333 Spokesman-Recorder ASSUMED NAME: PHONE: 612-827-4021 PRINCIPAL PLACE OF BUSINESS:
Pure Dior LLC 7940 Sierra Park Way Brooklyn Park, MN 55444 USA
FOR BILLING INQUIRIES & TEARSHEETS NAMEHOLDER: Wauneka Kellum PLEASE CONTACT 7940 Sierra Park Way ACCOUNTING DEPTBrooklyn Park, MN 55444 USA
I, the undersigned, certify that I am signing this document as the person whose ASSUMED NAME signature is required, or as agent of the person(s) whose signature would be required FLAT RATE me $150.00 who has authorized to sign this document on his/her behalf, or in both capacities. I further certify that I have completed all required fields, and that the information 2 WEEK RUN in this document is true and correct and in compliance with the applicable chapter of Minnesota Statutes. I understand that by signing this document I am subject to the penalties of perjury as set forth in Section 609.48 as if I had signed this document Please under oath. proof, respond with email confirmation to
display@spokesman-recorder.com
SIGNED BY: Steve Simon EMAIL FOR OFFICIAL NOTICES: None DATED: 08/03/2020 11:59 PM
Minnesota Spokesman-Recorder August 20 & 27, 2020
From Classified Department/MN INVITATION TO BID Spokesman-Recorder
A/1 Contract No. 21-062
Sealed bids will be received by the Public Housing Agency of the City of Saint Paul at 200 East Arch Street St. Paul, Minnesota 55130 for REPLACEMENT PHONE: 612-827-4021 OF COMMUNITY ROOM HVAC AND CORRIDOR VENTILATION AT RAVOUX HI-RISE, 280 Ravoux, St Paul, MN (Contract No. 21-062), until 1:00 PM, Local Time, on September 3, 2020 at which time they will be publicly FOR BILLING opened and read aloud.
INQUIRIES
& TEARSHEETS A Pre-Bid Conference will be held in conjunction with a tour of the building on August 18, 2020 CONTACT at 10:00 A.M. at the Ravoux Hi-Rise Community Room, 280 PLEASE Ravoux Street, St. Paul, MN. Immediately following the conference there will be ACCOUNTING a Pre-Bid Tour of the building.DEPT All questions arising from this pre-bid conference will be addressed by addendum, if necessary. SUMMONS A complete set of bid$200 documents are available by contacting Northstar Imaging at 651-686-0477 or www.northstarplanroom.com , under public plan room, REPLACEMENT OF COMMUNITY ROOM HVAC AND CORRIDOR VENTILATION AT RAVOUX HI-RISE, Digital downloads are no charge, contact Northstar for hard copy pricing. Bids must be accompanied by a 5% bid guarantee, non-collusive affidavit, EEO Please proof,Responsible respondContractor with email confirmation tosuccessful dis form and Minnesota Compliance Affidavit. The bidder will be required to furnish both a performance bond and a separate payment play@spokesman-recorder.com. bond. The PHA reserves the right to reject any or all bids or to waive any informalities in the bidding. AN EQUAL OPPORTUNITY AGENCY
STEVE AHNER PROJECT LEADER (651) 292-6069
Minnesota Spokesman-Recorder August 20, 2020
State of Minnesota Ramsey County Micheal Terrell Wilkes
District Court Second Judicial District Court File Number: 62-DA-FA-20-788 Notice of Issuance of Emergency (Ex Parte) Order for Protection by Publication (Minn. Stat. § 518B.01, subd. 8)
In the Matter of Sierra Elaine Hagen vs Micheal Terrell Wilkes To Respondent: YOU ARE NOTIFIED that an Ex Parte Order for Protection has been issued in this case. You may request a hearing if you contact the court administrator's office within 12 days of the date of publication of this notice. You may obtain a copy of the Ex Parte Order for Protection and the form to request a hearing from the court administrator's office at the following address: Ramsey County District Court 25 West Seventh Street St Paul MN 55102 Failure to request a hearing or to obtain a copy of the Ex Parte Order will not be a defense toprosecution for violation of the Court's order. Dated: August 12, 2020
Donald W. Harper
From Classified Court Administrator Department/MN Minnesota Spokesman-Recorder August 20, 2020 Spokesman-Recorder PHONE: 612-827-4021 FOR BILLING INQUIRIES & TEARSHEETS “I am excited to be here in St. PLEASE CONTACT ACCOUNTING DEPT Paul playing baseball,” he said.
Legal Technology Project Manager From Classified Department/MNLegal Aid. For Legal Services State Support/Mid-Minnesota Spokesman-Recorder more info go to: www.mylegalaid.org/employment. PHONE: 612-827-4021 FOR BILLING INQUIRIES Principal Business Systems Analyst & TEARSHEETS PLEASE CONTACT SAP Deliver Process, Medtronic, Inc., Mounds View, MN. ACCOUNTING DEPT Req. Bachelor’s in Info. Tech., Comp. Sci., Business Admin.,
or Comp. Apps. & 5 yrs. progressive exp. w/SAP Global Trade NAME Services. Must possessASSUMED min. 5 yrs. exp. w/each of the follow$150.00 & MM (Materials ing: SAP ECC modulesFLAT Sales RATE & Distribution 2 WEEK RUN Coordination) for cross-functional integration & dependencies; SAP GTS configuration & support of Compliance, Customs & Risk modules; SAP EDI/IDOC interfaces w/non-SAP systems, brokers, customs authorities, data providers; Please&proof, respondTest withscript writing & execution, incident & change coordination maintenance email confirmation to dis & tracking, & MS-Office utilization; Design of functional play@spokesman-recorder. specifications for applying SAP GTS Reports, Interfaces, Concom. versions, Enhancements, & Forms solutions incl. integrating GTS w/non-SAP, bolt-on, or cloud apps.; Testing Enterprise Change Requests in SAP integrated environments; Software Development Life Cycle, Waterfall, Agile & Software Testing Life Cycle methodologies; & SAP Life Cycle implementation From Classified project responsibilities & deliverables, migrating business Department/MN operations to SAP, & deploying SAP upgrades.
Spokesman-Recorder PHONE: 612-827-4021 To apply, visit https://jobs.medtronic.com/ select Req. FOR BILLING #20000C74. No agencies or phone calls please. INQUIRIES Medtronic is an equal opportunity employer committed to cul& TEARSHEETS tural diversity in the workplace. All individuals are encouraged PLEASE CONTACT to apply. ACCOUNTING DEPT LEGAL NOTICES SIZE: 2 COL X 4.5 = 9 RATE $15.53 PCI TOTAL: $139.78
Run your Legal Ads here email to: display@ spokesman-recorder.com Please proof, respond with email confirmation to display@spokesman-recorder.com
PrEP
He played as well with Jones’ younger brother Tre Jones, who Continued from page 10 also played at Duke, during his NBA was shut down by CO- sophomore season in 2015, averaging 21.5 points per game. VID-19 in March. When the league reopened in He made the jump to the the Orlando Bubble, Trent aver- NBA after averaging 14.9 points aged 18 points per game while at Duke, was the 37th overall From Classified complimenting outstanding pick in the 2018 draft by the SacDepartment/MN performances by teammates Da- ramento Kings, and was traded Spokesman-Recorder mian Lillard and CJ McCollum, to Portland. helping the Blazers capture the After playing just 15 games 612-827-4021 eighth PHONE: and final playoff seed in as a rookie and averaging 2.7 the Western Conference. points per game, Trent played in FOR BILLING Before competing in his first 61games this past season, scoring INQUIRIES and only collegiate season for 8.9 points per contest. & TEARSHEETS Duke, Trent played his first four Based on his performance CONTACT years ofPLEASE prep ball at Apple Valley during the Orlando Bubble, it’s ACCOUNTING DEPTevident that he saw an opportuHigh School before transferring his senior year to Prolific Prep nity and made the most of it. Academy (Napa, California). RAMSEY COUNTY While at Apple Valley he Dr. Mitchell Palmer McDonteamed1 with former Duke and ald welcomes reader responses to WEEK RUN currentFLAT Memphis Grizzlies mcdeezy05@gmail.com. RATE $100.00 PREPAID NBA player Tyus Jones to win the Class 4A state championship as an eighth grader in 2013.
Fitz Continued from page 10
did you think of the BIG Ten's decision?” said Gophers Football Coach P.J. Fleck. “Every “I’m happy to be here making a player…30 for 30 said they Continued from page 10 living.” think the BIG made the right LEGAL NOTICES decision." in SIZE: the right direction,” 2 COL X 4.45observed Charles Hallman welcomes Rutgers disclosed that 30 Alexander. “I alsoPCI feel it unique RATE $15.53 of its players tested positive that Mr. Floyd was killed here reader responses to challman@ TOTAL: $138.22 for COVID-19.The SEC and and he was buried about 10 min- spokesman-recorder.com. ACC, the conferences in the utes from my house in Houston.” South, have not officially said “It’s a time for change,” said Harris. been time with for email confirmation to display@ so, but it appears they will try Please“It’s proof, respond and play. change. I love that people are spokesman-recorder.com So here we are. The NBA taking a stand, but there’s a right playoffs begin this week in way and a wrong way. the land of Mickey Mouse and Disney World in Orlando; so far the bubble has not burst. Milwaukee (56-17) again had the best regular season record. Los Angeles Lakers with LeBron James (52-19) and defending champion Toronto (53-19) collectively had the best NBA records. Sixteen teams have qualified. The Timberwolves—this just in—missed the playoffs. What a shock! For a record 15 of the last 16 years! Owner Glen Taylor says he would like to sell the team. I don't know about you, but I think that's a great Idea. Obviously, NBA owners may all be billionaires but they are not created equally, not mentally, nor do they share the same thirst and
SOE
passion to win. No sports league has lost as much as the NBA has since last year, pre-COVID-19 nearly $500 million thanks to Houston's outspoken general manager. China severed business with the NBA over human rights issues. Yet since the restart, no sports league has done more for us as Black Americans since George Floyd was murdered. The NBA has committed $300 million to social justice causes. Charlotte owner Michael Jordan has committed $100 million. Black Lives Matter is highlighted at center court in Orlando. NBA players are encouraged to display personal messages on the backs of their jerseys. We have a long way to go in this country, but thanks to the NBA, this is a good start. Larry Fitzgerald is a longstanding contributing columnist at the Minnesota Spokesman-Recorder. He can be heard weekday mornings on KMOJ Radio 89.9 FM at 8:25 am, on WDGY-AM 740 Monday and Friday at 9:10 am, and at www.Gamedaygold. com. He also commentates on sports 7-8 pm on “Almanac” (TPT channel 2). Follow him on Twitter at FitzBeatSr. Larry welcomes reader responses to info@ larry-fitzgerald.com, or visit www.Larry-Fitzgerald.com.
August 20 - 26, 2020
BULLETIN Helping employees live in a pandemic NAMI Minnesota (National Alliance on Mental Illness) has developed an online mental health program for employers to offer their employees during the pandemic. The program will help employees manage their stress, coping skills and resiliency during this unprecedented time. The new program is called HELP—Helping Employees Live in a Pandemic. COVID-19 has increased stress levels due to the uncertainty about
struggles and supports their wellbeing,” said Sue Abderholden, executive director of NAMI Minnesota. HELP program classes include: Minding Your Mental Health During COVID-19; Keeping in Touch: Staying Connected During COVID-19; Coping with Kids; Self-Care and Mindfulness; Physical Activity; Nutrition; Positive Psychology; and Question, Persuade and Refer, which teaches the three steps anyone can take to help prevent a suicide.
Five service centers open to provide in-person assistance, technology resources Ramsey County opened five redesigned service centers last week to provide more convenient and accessible access to its programs for residents. The centers feature navigators who provide comprehensive in-person assistance with enrollment information connections to county programs. Service centers also have computer workstations available by reservation and secure 24/7 document drop boxes. “These newly redesigned service centers provide our residents with more accessible connections to all of the programs we provide in Ramsey County,” said County Manager Ryan O’Connor. “Residents no longer need to travel to a specific building for certain services but can visit the center that is most convenient for them.” All service centers are open from 8 am – 4:30 pm weekdays and are located at existing county buildings. Downtown Saint Paul, Maplewood and Roseville locations also feature Community Career Labs to assist job seekers who have been impacted by COVID-19. All Ramsey County Service Centers are designed and operated in accordance with Public Health guidelines for COVID-19. Location: Downtown (Saint Paul) Maplewood Roseville Shoreview West Side (Saint Paul)
Address: 160 E. Kellogg Blvd. 3025 Southlawn Dr. 2180 Hamline Ave. N. 4560 Victoria St. N. 90 Plato Blvd. W.
Information and reservation of computer workstations is also available by calling the Customer Contact Center at 651-266-8500 or online at ramseycounty.us/ServiceCenters, which also features an interactive map of all locations.
Courtesy of MGN the future; being alone or being together too much; caring for children or other family members; working from home or being an essential worker; and it has caused grief from cancellation of major life events. In response to the mental health needs of Minnesotans, NAMI Minnesota’s new program—HELP— was developed to address these issues and promote good mental health and coping skills. “For employers, taking a practical step like providing the HELP program sends a powerful message to employees that mental health is an important part of overall health and performance. It acknowledges their
All classes are one hour in length. Employers can choose one or all of the classes to be offered through Zoom or another online platform. A recent class participant remarked, “The speaker did a great job. I found the format for sharing to be grounding and inspirational.” NAMI Minnesota appreciates, but does not require, an honorarium for delivering the classes. For information or to schedule a class, contact NAMI Minnesota at namihelps@namimn.org.
Courtesy of MGN
—Information provided by NAMI MN.
GirlTrek’s #BlackHistoryBootCamp enters third week
Greater Friendship Missionary Baptist Church
Worship Mount Olivet Missionary Baptist Church
Bethesda Baptist Church
Rev. Dr. Billy G. Russell, Sr. Pastor
2600 E. 38th Street Minneapolis, MN 55408 www.greatfriend.org Phone: 612.827.7928 Fax: 612.827.3587 info@greatfriend.org
Rev. Arthur Agnew, Pastor
Week three of GirlTrek’s second season of the #BlackHistoryBootcamp, started Monday, August 17. With nearly 130,000 participants, the Acts of Resistance edition already has more people registered than the first season, which ran in June. The 21-day walking challenge celebrates powerful acts of resistance in Black history. The virtual walk and talks, led by co-founders T. Morgan Dixon and Vanessa Garrison, are held every weekday at noon EST. While the #BlackHistoryBootCamp walking challenge is free; registration is required. So far, the most-listened to episode is Harriet Tubman’s raid on Combahee Ferry. “We inspire women to start a daily habit of walking through national campaigns. We then train those women to be organizers. We’ve trained thousands of Black women across the United States to be health activists and public health organizers in their community,” said Vanessa Garrison, GirlTrek cofounder.
Rev. James C. Thomas, Pastor
451 West Central
St. Paul, MN 55103 651-227-4444
Church School 9:30 am Morning Worship 8:00 & 10:45 am Prayer Service:
Wednesday 7 pm "Welcome to
Mt. Olivet Baptist Church"
At the Old Landmark 1118 So. 8th Street Mpls., MN 55404
612-332-5904 www.bethesdamnonline.com bethesdamn@prodigy.net Sunday Service Times: Early Morning Service 9 am Sunday School 10 am Sunday Worship 11:30 am
Sundays 8:00am Sunday School 9:30am Worship Service The Friendly Church Where Everybody Is Somebody
Pilgrim Baptist Church
Wednesday Prayer Meeting, 6 pm Adult Bible Class 7 pm Children's Bible Class 7 pm
Rev. Doctor Charles Gill 732 W. Central Ave., St. Paul, MN 55104 Sunday Worship Service: 9:45 AM Sunday School: 8:45 AM
LETTER TO THE EDITOR POLICY The MSR welcomes letters to the editors. Letters should be typed, double-spaced, in 12 point font and must be signed. Anonymous letters will not be printed. A telephone number or email address must be included for verification. Letters of 250 words or less are more likely to be published. The editor reserves the right to edit letters for length.
SEND LETTERS TO: Minnesota Spokesman-Recorder- Letters to the Editor P.O. Box 8558 * Minneapolis, MN * 55408-0558 Or email your letters/commentary to mreeves@spokesman-recorder.com
The #BlackHistoryBootCamp podcast has exceeded 465,000 downloads.The podcast is available at Apple Podcasts, Spotify, and Buzzsprout platforms.
READER SERVICE • Circulation Department/Billing Department If you have any questions regarding your invoice or subscription, call 612-827-4021. 9 am to 5 pm, Monday through Thursday. • News Department To report a news event, call 612-827-4021 or email to sgustavo@spokesman-recorder.com • Advertising Department To reach our advertising departments call 612-827-4021 or email to: display@spokesman-recorder.com
CORRECTION POLICY If we make an error, we want to correct it. If you believe that an error has been made email sgustavo@spokesman-recorder.com. If a correction is warranted, it will be printed the next week.
9
10 August 20 - 26, 2020
Former U of M coach Stollings fired from Texas Tech for creating ‘climate of fear’
NBA forges on to playoffs
Fitz Beat Larry FitzgeraLd
I
t's hot NBA playoffs in the dog days of summer. I was watching the highly acclaimed Showtime series this weekend, "The Chi," when I remembered the last major sporting event I covered was the NBA All-Star game in my hometown on the West Side of Chicago in late February. I’m so blessed I was able to avoid being shot by the 63rd Street mob and avoided the coronavirus. Imagine 24,000 fans, and at the time we had not heard a peep about COVID-19 or social distancing or pandemic. That changed in a matter of weeks, and 169,000 U.S. deaths later it's August 17 and the NBA has survived a 22-team eight-game restart and one play-in game won by Portland over Memphis Now let the playoffs begin. The NBA shut down March 12 after Rudy Gobert of Utah tested positive for COVID-19, and the rest of the sports world followed. The NHL, MLS, PGA Tour and MLB stopped spring
training. The NFL canceled OTA's and the NCAA canceled the rich March Madness and the NCAA tournament. You might think we've come a long way since March 12 because at least we're playing games again, right? Don't buy it. Yes, the MLS, NHL, WNBA, PGA Tour, tennis and MLB are playing games again. The NFL is in training camp and oh, remember, they canceled all of the pre-season games because the NFLPA was in fear. The BIG Ten, PAC 12, and BIG East Conferences all canceled the fall sports seasons this week. The BIG presidents voted 12-2 following the advice of science and medical professionals to not play. Student athletes are not paid, unlike the NBA and NHL, and can't be isolated or forced to exist for months in a bubble. That still did not stop angry mob-like protesting parents at Ohio State and Iowa who look like saps after writing complaining and threatening BIG Commissioner Kevin Warren. “Oh, how dare a Black man keep our children from playing football and basketball!” After all, that's right, President Donald Trump said the coronavirus would just magically disappear. All lies—a sucker is born every day. The University of Nebraska and Iowa wanted to play. "I've asked a third of our football team… ’What
Ex-Gopher says similar conditions existed here
F
ormer Minnesota women’s basketball coach Marlene Stollings (2015-18) posted an 82-47 overall record (38-30 Big Ten) and two NCAA appearances before leaving to take a similar job at Texas Tech in April 2018. Tech fired Stollings August 7, two days after a investigative report was released saying that she and her staff were alleged by players to have fostered a culture of “fear, anxiety and
“A lot of players cried all the time in the locker room.” depression.” Twelve players have left the program since Stollings’ hiring. Top assistant Nikita Lowry Dawkins, who held s similar position in Minnesota, was later fired as well. According to former Gophers Jasmine Brunson and Taiye Bello in a published report last week, a similar culture also existed at Minnesota
during Stollings’ reign. The two said they’d planned to transfer before the coach left Minnesota in April 2018. A former teammate of Brunson and Bello talked exclusively to the MSR last week on the condition of anonymity. “Jane” (not her real name) said, “All of the stuff [that happened to the Tech players] happened to us.” Among the main claims the Texas Tech players alleged are: 1. Coaches demanded that Tech players keep a heart rate of at least 90 percent of capacity by using a “torture mechanism,” as they called it, during play or else face tough conditioning at the next practice. Something similar was done at Minnesota, said Jane, adding that the players were told “it would open our airways” while playing. “I did it three times [before stopping],” she said. “It made me uncomfortable.” 2. Some players often were ridiculed by coaches in front of the team. This also happened in Minnesota: “All the coaches were cool off the court, but on the court, it depended on their mood,” said Jane. “Every day it was somebody they picked on depending on how they were playing in practices or the games.” 3. One Tech player displayed depression symptoms but was admonished by coaches. “I’m sure that half of the [Minnesota] players were
Marlene Stollings depressed, but they didn’t go to the doctors,” recalled Jane. “A lot of players cried all the time in the locker room. I knew one of the girls had real bad anxiety, and they [the coaches] knew about that and they didn’t care.” 4. Five Tech players alleged that the strength and conditioning coach used a therapy technique that involved applying to the players’ chests, pubic bones and groins. The same coach also worked at Minnesota. Jane said she refused it but knew some players that did use the technique. Jane recalled when once during practice a ball was accidentally thrown at Stollings during a drill. “She threw the ball back at the player because she thought it was thrown on purpose. It didn’t hit her, but [Stollings] tried to.” Although she never intended to transfer, Jane noted, “I know a lot of players
Photo courtesy of Twitter who wanted to leave.” It also bothered her that the Gopher coaches didn’t tailor their motivational methods to the individual player. “I never took it personally… Some people couldn’t take it,” said Jane. “It was no letting up.” Jane said she and another Gopher teammate “worked to keep us together” as a team, and the players almost daily met and shared experiences. “It wasn’t the same for me, but I know it was happening to others while I was there.” The climate definitely changed when Lindsay Whalen succeeded Stollings, Jane said. “It was easier.” After she read the Texas Tech’s toxic climate report, “It didn’t surprise me,” Jane concluded. “Hopefully the Texas Tech players can get together and find that happy place.” Charles Hallman welcomes reader responses to challman@ spokesman-recorder.com.
■ See Fitz on page 8
Saints at play with fans in the stands The St. Paul Saints is the only Minnesota-based pro team that is playing with fans in attendance this summer. The Minnesota Twins, thus far this season, have played with “big head” cutouts in
gave me confidence, spiritually and emotionally. It plays a big part in how to play this game,” said Alexander. Harris returned in July after a couple of seasons in the Mexican League. He played two seasons with the Saints (2015-16) and then was traded to York in 2017, where the now-31-year-old outfielder was named Atlantic League and American Independent League Player of the Year. He was named Mexican League MVP last year. “I had a wonderful season. It was great,” said Harris,
[the majors] would rather pick somebody that’s playing than someone sitting at home.” When asked, both Alexander and Harris said they didn’t have any lingering doubts playing with a deadly virus raging. “I sat down and I talked to my mom and my dad,” recalled the former. “They gave me the confidence to go play: ‘You will be alright. Pray, trust in God and go play.’ I took their word for it and here I am.” Added Harris, “You can’t
“Some people don’t understand the hurt.” who was drafted out of high school in 2007 by the New York Mets. Troy Alexander But sitting out this season, virus or no virus, short season the stadium’s stands. St. Paul started its 2020 sea- or regular slate, wasn’t an opson later than usual, playing a 60-game season in one of the American Association’s “hub cities” because of the coronavirus outbreak. Sioux Falls has been the Saints’ field for much of July before returning to their St. Paul Lowertown ballpark, where a maximum of 1,500 spectators can be in the park, using social distance guidelines. “It was a little to adjust [to],” admitted Saints outfielder Troy Alexander on playing in Sioux Falls. “Once we got comfortable and acclimated, it was our home park.” Alexander and fellow outAlonzo Harris fielder Alonzo Harris are the Photos by Charles Hallman Saints’ only Black players. “I’m blessed to be here,” said the 23-year-old Alexander, tion for the veteran player as who St. Paul signed last July Harris seeks a major league roster spot. “I need to conafter he finished college. “That one year jump up tinue to play,” he said. “They
be too safe. This is my job. You got to do what you got to do, if everybody does what they have to do [such as] wear your mask.” He also believes that he contracted the virus while in Mexico last winter. “I got real sick in December,” recalled Harris. “I had all the symptoms, and it was the worst feeling. I went to the doctor. They didn’t know what it was.” Both men also talked about the climate of the times almost three months after George Floyd’s death in May, which led to this country’s racial reawakening. “I’m from Mississippi, a place where it’s really bad all the time,” said Harris. “Some people don’t understand the hurt. It’s just a matter of people being aware of things going on, of what things have been going on for years.” “I believe surely and slowly [the country is] moving ■ See SOE on page 8
Former prep star making mark in NBA
PreP Scene Dr. Mitchell PalMer McDonalD
It is safe to say that there were some NBA players who viewed the Orlando Bubble as a chance to make their mark and further show that they are capable of making significant contributions to their team’s success. One of those players who Gary Trent Jr. has done just that is former Apple Valley High School his second NBA season as boys’ basketball standout a member of the Portland Trailblazers after an outGary Trent Jr. Trent, a 6’6” guard, is in standing freshman season at
Photo courtesy YouTube Duke University during the 2017-2018 season. He was in the Blazers’ rotation during the regular season before the ■ See Prep on page 8