January 11, 2024 - Minnesota Spokesman-Recorder

Vol. 90

CELEBRATE

See a calendar of MLK celebrations on page 9.

THE VOICE OF BLACK MINNESOTA SINCE 1934

January 11 - 17, 2024

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MLK’S LEGACY

Young, Gifted, Paying it Forward and Black

By Abdi Mohamed Contributing Writer

An interview with MLK Breakfast featured speaker Marley Dias hen meeting Marley Dias, you might get the impression that she’s like most college teens. She studies diligently to ace her midterms and finals. She visits family and friends during the holidays. She also might give a speech at the White House alongside Michelle Obama.

Outside of her work as an advocate, educator, and producer for Netflix, Dias, 19, is a sophomore at Harvard University who enjoys challenging herself and thought-provoking debate.

While she made a name for herself at the age of 11 with the launch of #1000BlackGirlBooks, Dias’s journey in advocacy started long before she was born, as both her parents held strong views around activism, identity, and education.

Her mother, Dr. Janice Johnson Dias, is a Jamaican immigrant and her father, Scott Dias, is a fifth-generation Cape Verdean American.

The two met in Massachusetts and gave Dias

By Evette Porter Managing Editor n celebration of the Martin Luther King holiday, the MLK Breakfast has been a longstanding tradition in the Twin Cities. Once again, General Mills and the United Negro College Fund (UNCF) are hosting the annual breakfast, which will be in-person this year.

The theme for the breakfast is “Leading Onward – Elevating New Voices for Justice and Equality,” and will focus on King’s legacy of civil rights and its influence on today’s Black youth activists.

Laverne McCartney Knighton, UNCF’s area development This year’s MLK Breakfast director

Courtesy of UNCF Youth activist Marley Dias marks the 34th year the event Photo courtesy of Scott Nevers has been held, which is one of helps raise funds for under- Cities and support local stuthe middle name Emerson after Ralph Waldo Em- the nation’s largest celebrations represented students in the dents of color attending college erson, an essayist, abolitionist, and poet who was of Dr. King’s life and legacy. As Twin Cities. Proceeds from the at historically Black colleges and ■ See YGB on page 5 in previous years, the breakfast breakfast benefit UNCF Twin ■ See MLK BREAKFAST on page 5

The State of the News in 2024 A conversation with Minnesota’s local news leaders

By Abdi Mohamed Contributing Writer

subscription model as having a simienterprise for us and for most news can community a voice that was oth- fabric that ties us together,” he said.

Williams-Dillard shared her goal of lar approach to the large streaming organizations,” he said. erwise silenced.

The conversation pivoted to the “So, our role today hasn’t changed. reaching Black communities outside platforms. “You have all these subour of Minnesota’s leading two publications that serve Min- One of the things that I think about the metro area who are left without scriptions. We’re not just competing news publications gathered nesota’s diverse communities. Both is, the more things change, the any publication to reflect their lived against the kind of press like we want. on December 5, 2023, at the Sahan’s Ibrahim and MSR’s Williams- more they stay the same,” Williams- experiences.

We’re competing against Hulu, Dis“There is a news desert amongst ney Plus, Wine of the Month, whatMinnesota Public Radio (MPR) Kling Dillard spoke to their work in captur- Dillard said.

As for expanding the digital audi- a lot of my readers. We’re not in the ever other subscriptions are in your Public Media Center, to discuss their ing the authentic voices of Black and coverage of the upcoming 2024 pres- Brown Minnesotans. ence, MSR takes a slightly different places that we want to become more wallet that you may even forget you “I think we have really had a big approach. “Our approach is to offer involved in, which is Rochester and have,” he said. idential election and the challenges they face as news organizations in impact on how the local media cover a print and digital forum to engage a Mankato, where a growing number communities of color,” Ibrahim said. youthful demographic and to hope- of African Americans live. There’s Political coverage today’s digital landscape.

Minnesota Public Radio’s Cathy “We have proven that we can actu- fully create an environment where no other news media there that repIn allocating resources to this Wurzer hosted the discussion and ally cover communities of color in a they truly feel heard and come to resents those communities in their year’s elections, the MSR has a difmoderated the panel of local news- very meaningful way without the su- understand the true power of their neighborhoods,” she stated. ferent approach. “As a community “African Americans live throughout publication, we allocate coverage of makers. The panelists included Sahan perficial way of just drawing in when voice and the vote,” she added.

Journal Publisher and CEO Mukhtar Ibrahim, Star Tribune Publisher and CEO Steve Grove, Minnesota Spokesman-Recorder Publisher and CEO Tracey Williams-Dillard, and President of MPR Duchesne Drew.

The wide-ranging conversation covered a variety of topics including artificial intelligence (AI), how publications stay in touch with their readers, and the ways news outlets are sustaining their business in the digital age.

At the onset of the conversation Wurzer’s first question was about the health of Minnesota’s news media post-pandemic. MPR’s Duchesne Drew touted the organization’s 120,000 members as a sign of its health. He also pointed to the other (l-r) MPR’s Cathy Wurzer, Sahan Journal’s Mukhtar Ibrahim, Star Tribune’s Steve Grove, Minnesota Spokesman-Recorder’s Tracey Williams-Dillard, and organizations as a sign of how the local MPR’s Duchesne Drew Photo by Chris Juhn market had an appetite for local news.

“This is a really great place to be in journalism. And it’s a great place to something major happens.”

Minnesota. So, what happens in, say, elections by prioritizing local angles Expanding news audiences be in a community that has access to Having launched Sahan Journal in Much of the panel agreed on the Hopkins or Minnetonka also matters, and interests,” said Williams-Dillard. not just our four organizations, but 2019, Ibrahim stated that he quickly need for more resources dedicated to especially when it pertains to African so much of the richness of thought saw the hunger for stories involving coverage of Greater Minnesota com- Americans.”

“As a community and ideas,” he said. “You don’t get this Minnesota’s immigrant community, munities. Grove spoke to the dwindling publication, we allocate in most places, frankly.” which lacked coverage relevant to number of reporters in the region.

Making money in media coverage of elections by their lives.

“It is pretty stark when you look With a mix of nonprofit and forWilliams-Dillard pointed to the at the numbers,” he said. “There are profit models, the conversation The media landscape prioritizing local angles Wurzer referenced a Northwest- Spokesman-Recorder’s decades-long about 75 percent fewer journalists in steered toward how these news orand interests.” ern University report stating that history as a paper dedicated to ele- greater Minnesota than there were 10 ganizations sustain their work. Ibra2,500 newspapers went out of busi- vating Black voices in the community years ago. And I think about 25 per- him shared that roughly 70 percent “Coverage is often focused on how ness between 2005 and 2022, asking and remaining steadfast in that mis- cent fewer institutions themselves. So, of Sahan’s income comes from founpanelists if they believed print media sion. “The newspaper primarily cov- this is a crisis for our country.” dation support given its nonprofit national politics and policies impact was on life support.

Grove observed that many indi- status. He underlined the growing our specific community, including ers the interests of the African AmeriWhile the Star Tribune’s Grove can community and will continue to viduals in rural communities cited interest that foundations were tak- local reactions to political events, laughed at the notion, he agreed do so,” she said.

Facebook as their news source, a re- ing when it came to supporting local interviews with community leaders, and analysis of how national policy that the future was digital. “We’ve “It still plays the same role as it did ality that worried the former Google news outlets. seen pretty significant double-digit when my grandfather, Cecil Newman, executive. “If we can’t make local “I think foundations see journalism affects local businesses, schools and decreases in print subscriptions for started the paper in 1934, which is news work—not just in large major as an essential tool for the health of residents,” she continued.

Pexels MGN “We may cover local political the last 10 years. And even this year, coming up on the 90th next year. The metros, but in local communities—it our communities, for the health of events and campaigns, providing a that’s picking up. Habits are chang- role then was to be the voice of the has a detrimental effect on not just our democracy,” he said.

Grove pointed to the Star Tribune’s ■ See STATE OF THE NEWS on page 5 ing quickly. It’s still a very profitable voiceless. To give the African Ameri- quality-of-life, but really the social

2 January 11 - 17, 2024

Metro

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City sweep pushes homeless encampment down the block

By Cole Miska Contributing Writer Last Thursday, January 4, the city of Minneapolis evicted the largest homeless encampment in South Minneapolis, known as Camp Nenookaasi. The camp, which is majority Native American, was located in the Phillips neighborhood at the intersection Residents of Camp Nenookaasi clear out as city begins sweep.

Photos by Chris Juhn of 23rd Street and 13th Avenue.

The encampment was original- against Minneapolis Mayor Ja- the sale next month of the land name), called the city’s assistance ly slated to be closed in December, cob Frey, asking for an immediate parcel. Before the eviction of with housing “inconsistent.”

Camp Nenookaasi began, resiMarissa said that she was but the city delayed the closure, court order to stop the eviction. supposed to get a lease on an dents had already started setting Residents who filed the suit saying it needed more time to apartment the day of the evicup a new encampment located alleged that encampment eviccoordinate with its housing and four blocks away at 26th Street tion, but her caseworker never tions violate the constitutional mental-health service partners. and 14th Avenue. showed up.

She says another rights of Minneapolis’ homeless In a statement on its website, Activists heavily criticized camp resident’s promised houspopulation.

Judge Eric Tostrud Avivo, one of the city’s housthe eviction for taking place in ing move-in date was pushed found that a camp eviction ing partners, said the January 4 Camp Nenookaasi eviction was would not violate residents’ con- winter, when there were not back for months. enough shelter beds available in “We feel forgotten,” Marissa still too soon, and that it sup- stitutional rights.

Hennepin County to shelter the said.

“We are still humans too, ported another delay. camp’s population.

Eighty shelter you know.

And we are trying to “Encampment evictions are an “It’s important that we beds were available Wednesday make it. ” inhumane and ineffective soludon’t think of issues night, but the camp’s population Chance Askenekte, who had tion to unsheltered homeless- facing Native Americans was estimated to be double that been living at Camp Nenookaasi, ness,” Avivo said in a statement as just here in Camp number, at 160.

The city says said that it was difficult for many on its website. “The planned Nenookaasi, because it’s 19 Camp Nenookaasi residents homeless people to find housing eviction on January 4 places resiall across the state.” were transported to shelter ser- due to evictions or felony records. dents at higher risk.”

Askenekte said he had moved vices on the day of the closure.

The city cited crime, includbetween seven different camps Not all people staying in the The city plans to build the ing a shooting in December, and in the past year and compared camp were interested in the “Mikwanedun Audisookon Art a complaint letter from Metrothe city’s current eviction policies shelter system.

Many did not and Wellness Center, ” an Indigpolitan Urban Indian Directors with playing whack-a-mole. want to be split up from the comenous-led community center, on (MUID) as the reasons for evict“If we all had housing, there munity they had found at Camp the site where the encampment ing the encampment. Thursday’s wouldn’t be no homeless enNenookaasi.

One camp resident, was located.

The city is hoping to eviction happened despite a Marissa (who did not give her last campment, ” Askenekte said. break ground for the center after federal class-action lawsuit filed

Cobb family files POST Board complaint

By H. Jiahong Pan Contributing Writer

wrestle Cobb out of the vehicle, Londregan fired several shots at Cobb. Cobb ultimately died.

Londregan remains on paid leave since the shooting occurred, according to the State Patrol.

The Minnesota Bureau of Criminal Apprehension, which

Minneapolis police talk with activists before the encampment eviction.

A coalition of camp residents, most forgotten and marginalized activists, Native American lead- people in the entire country. We ers, politicians, and outreach have the highest homelessness service providers held a press rate. We have the highest rate of conference outside the camp educational disparities, the lowcondemning the decision to pro- est attainment for higher educaceed with the eviction and called tion. And why is this? Because for better encampment response [the government’s] promises policies. Some outreach workers were not kept.” said that current encampment Nicole Mason, one of the policies sometimes caused them founders of Camp Nenookaasi, to lose track of clients, making it said the eviction was not a loss harder to get them housed. because the community came Sam Strong, secretary of the together. “Whether it’s here or Red Lake Nation, criticized the somewhere else. I’m not going government for not keeping anywhere,” Mason said. “I will conits treaty obligations to Native tinue to live with the relatives until Americans, and for not doing we’re living in permanent housing.” enough to provide housing, eduMason, along with Red Lake cation, and health care to Native Nation leaders, met with Mayor Frey on Friday. After the meeting, American communities.

“It’s important that we don’t Mason tweeted that the parties think of [issues facing Native “are working on next steps to Americans] as just here in Camp helping the people through healNenookaasi, because it’s all ing and culture.” across the state,” Strong said. “It’s in Duluth. It’s in Bemidji. It’s on Cole Miska welcomes reader the reservations. comments at cmiska@spokesman“[Native Americans] are the recorder.com. is housed with the State Patrol under the state Department of Public Safety, turned over its investigation to the Hennepin County Attorney’s Office in September 2023. They have yet to render a charging decision.

“It’s been six months since

The family of Ricky Cobb II has filed a complaint with the Minnesota Board of Peace Officer Standards and Training (POST Board), against the state trooper who shot him during a traffic stop last July, killing him.

“It’s been six months since that trooper killed my son.

But it might as well have been six minutes because the pain doesn’t go away.”

The complaint, filed by Cobb’s mother Nyra Fields-Miller, accuses state troopers of not deescalating the situation and accuses the trooper who shot and killed Cobb, Ryan Londregan, of using deadly force that does not comply with state law. It says the troopers were not in the path of Cobb’s vehicle, which moved forward around the same time Londregan shot Cobb. Cobb was also not armed at the time of the

Attorneys for Ricky Cobb II’s family at an August press conference Photo by H. Jiahong Pan shooting, though officers did re- Tyler are representing Cobb’s cover a gun from the back seat family. of his car.

Cobb was pulled over in the “He didn’t read him his rights. early morning hours of July 31, He didn’t protect or serve. He 2023, for a taillight that was not made demands. He escalated on. Troopers at the scene asked the situation. And then he killed Cobb to step out of his vehicle him, even though he wasn’t a to discuss a hold-for-questionthreat to anyone. And none of ing that was issued for a violathe other officers did anything tion of an order for protection. to stop it,” said former South He refused, stating he wanted Carolina State Representative to discuss the hold-for-quesBakari Sellers, who along with tioning with his lawyer.

Harry Daniels and F. Clayton As troopers attempted to

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that trooper killed my son. But it might as well have been six minutes because the pain doesn’t go away,” said Cobb’s mother.

H. Jiahong Pan welcomes reader comments at hpan@ spokesman-recorder.com.

January 11 - 17, 2024

3

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HOMES• FAMILIES• LEGACIES HOMES• FAMILIES• LEGACIES

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4 January 11 - 17, 2024

Health Prioritize your health in 2024

spokesman-recorder.com

Here are 10 important checks to broaden your health aspirations

By Dr. Inell Rosario Guest Contributor

does not rejuvenate to improve memory, heal itself, or function adequately. If you are aware of loud snoring, restless sleeping, feeling tired when you wake up, or have medical problems such as high blood pressure, diabetes, high cholesterol, or atrial fibrillation, then see a sleep specialist for evaluation and a sleep study.

Many times, a sleep study can be done in the comfort of your own home with fairly accurate results. The best news of all is that treating sleep disorders leads to not only more energy to function day-to-day but also decreases and even can reverse the severity of many medical conditions.

It’s a new year and once again time for new resolutions.

Well, oftentimes it’s old resolutions being repeated. The start of a new year is always a great time to reflect on our health and overall well-being and the steps we would like to take to make the most of the one body we get to have.

Most often New Year’s resolutions revolve around weight loss with many promises to improve our eating habits and exercise more. These goals are not only admirable but truly desirable for improving health.

I’d like to encourage you to broaden your health aspirations and add these 10 health checks for 2024.

Get a hearing test Maybe this holiday season, being around family or in larger gatherings, you realized how often you were missing the punch line or needing to have things repeated. Hearing loss, unfortunately, is not as innocent as it may seem.

When we are not hearing, our brains are not being as stimulated, and neuronal pathways over time are lost, increasing our risk for memory loss and dementia. On a dayto-day basis, hearing loss leads to safety issues in our environment and social isolation.

In short, having great hearing keeps both our brains and our social life more fully engaged.

Get your blood pressure Get a sleep study Sleep is truly the founda- checked Yes, it’s true: High blood tion for everything. If we’re not sleeping well our body pressure causes more issues

A smile is not only refreshing for you to relax the muscles, decrease your cortisol or stress hormone level, and improve your serotonin feel-good levels, but it also can have the same effect on others.

Shutterstock of heart attacks and strokes than high cholesterol! Be sure to get your blood pressure checked various times during the day, and this can be done at no charge at many local pharmacies.

This is worth journaling with your blood pressure ideally below 140 / 80 anytime that it is checked. If it’s elevated, please seek further medical evaluation and treatment.

mass index, and overall health.

Get your PSA checked Prostate cancer is treatable and curable when caught early.

A prostate-specific antigen (PSA) is a blood test done via a simple blood draw and can save a life. If it’s elevated, please follow up with a urologist for a prostate check and biopsy.

Get a colonoscopy Colon cancer is unfortunately on the rise. Colonoscopy is now Get a hemoglobin A1C level It is amazing how often in indicated for starting screening the United States of America, at age 45. If a family member had people with diabetes are not colon cancer, then you would aware of their condition. While ideally do your first screening blood glucose tells you what 10 years before the age at which your blood sugars are cur- they were diagnosed.

For example, if your family rently, the hemoglobin A1C is a more long-term reflection of member had colon cancer at the average of your blood sug- age 50, then you would need ars. Diabetes, especially when to do your screening startuntreated, adversely impacts ing at age 40. While no one blood vessels, vision, body particularly enjoys the prep

before the colonoscopy, think of it as a good cleanse and the start of weight loss and better eating habits.

Get your cholesterol checked We all know that high cholesterol is a risk factor for heart disease, but it also increases our risk for strokes and puts many of our organs at risk for decreased function by narrowing the associated blood vessels. Dietary changes, exercise, and improved sleep are all a part of lowering your cholesterol level.

functioning of most of the cells in our bodies. Vitamin D supplements are available over the counter.

Get a CA-125 level test This is important if you have a family history of colon, ovarian or uterine cancers. Like the PSA, this blood marker, when elevated, should at least trigger you to get a repeat level.

Based on your symptoms and personal and family history, this may lead to additional testing to detect some of these soft tissue cancers early.

Smile more A smile is not only refreshing for you to relax the muscles, decrease your cortisol or stress hormone level, and improve your serotonin feelgood levels, but it also can have the same effect on others. Think of it as your no-cost random act of kindness!

So make 2024 different.

Make an appointment with your primary care doctor, or establish a relationship with a primary care doctor and get started on your better health journey.

Cheers to better health in 2024!

Dr. Inell Rosario is a boardGet your Vitamin D level checked certified ENT and sleep physician Living in Minnesota, our practicing at Andros ENT & Sleep sun exposure, both duration Center in Inver Grove Heights, and intensity, is reduced and Minnesota. She has many times therefore increases our risk been recognized as a Top Doctor for low vitamin D levels. A low and Best Doctor in various Minvitamin D, in particular, can nesota magazines and can be cause one to be tired. Vitamin reached at drrosario@androsentD is important in the proper sleep.com or 651-888-7800.

Do More in 2024!

EVERYONE WELCOME

By MSR News Service Sister Spokesman kicked off the year with an inspiring program designed to help participants realize their new year’s goals. A mix of veterans and first-time guests spent the afternoon engaged in visualization exercises, activities to help tap into their inner thoughts and dreams, as well as fun and games.

Tracey Williams-Dillard, the event’s host, welcomed the crowd with the traditional, “Hey Sistas!” greeting, setting the tone for a lively and engaging day. She invited guests to enjoy a delicious lunch, browse local vendors, make new friends, and learn something new.

Featured speaker, Ella Chapman of MsEllaInspires. com, led a vision-board activity. Ms. Ella talked about her personal history of unconscious goal setting, describing how she kept a small plaque that read “College Graduate” on her desk at work, and how it helped her realize and manifest her goal of completing her bachelor’s degree.

She advised the group to

WELCOME THE NEW YEAR WITH NATURAL WELLNESS (l-r) Ms. Ella and Tracey Williams-Dillard get in touch with their inner selves, to help complete their visions and reveal some hidden ideas locked in their subconscious minds.

Ms. Ella described how this activity helps people “walk through their purpose,” and brings out what’s in the heart, which can guide a personal narrative.

The afternoon proved to be not only fun and creative but also provided lessons in selfhealing and advice on leaving negativity in the past, while moving forward with confidence and passion.

Later, as she introduced the vision-frame activity, Williams-Dillard encouraged the audience to use their vision frame to manifest one goal at

Attendees create their vision boards.

a time, adding, “It doesn’t need to include your whole life. You don’t want to try to figure out too much and get lost and end up doing nothing.”

The afternoon continued with games and prizes, a signature of Sister Spokesman events.

There was an additional prize drawing and a playlist curated by Kylee Jackman that kept everyone smiling.

Sister Spokesman founder Williams-Dillard talked about how she had envisioned a room full of friends earlier in the week—both old and new—having fun and feeling good. And that’s precisely what happened.

Always remember, you’re invited to join the Sister Spokesman community.

Sister Spokesman’s next event “Heart and Harmony,” featuring The Love Engineer, Alex Merritt takes place on Saturday, Feb. 3, from 12-3 pm at Northpoint Health & Wellness Center, 1256 Penn Ave. N., Ste 5100, in North Minneapolis. Visit @SisterSpokesman on Facebook for the latest.

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January 11 - 17, 2024

5

spokesman-recorder.com iting the principal, Dias’s mother asked her what she intended to Continued from page 1 do about this problem.

“She equipped me with the a leader of the transcendental- ability to understand that every ist movement which believed person is so unique in their greatthere was inherent good in ness,” Dias said about her mother.

“That when you put the words people.

Dias’s mother named her to articulate it, you need to just Marley to commemorate her spread that gift rather than try to Jamaican heritage through the prove anything with it.”

From there, Dias would go legacy of Bob Marley, a cultural on to launch the #1000Blackicon from the island nation.

“I think just having the name GirlBooks initiative to collect Marley as a Jamaican American and donate 1,000 books which is super powerful because it just featured Black girls as the main brings pride and connectivity au- protagonists. Dias would go on tomatically when I meet Jamai- to collect over 15,000 bookscans that like my name,” she said. to-date for schools and libraries Dias found herself drawn to- across the country.

According to Dias, her mothward the reggae musician and songwriter’s outspoken per- er passed on to her the value of sonality and unifying messages. reciprocity and believing that His poster covers her bedroom every individual is deserving door, reminding her of the lega- of love and access to ways of cy in which she carries with her making them heal. By launching #1000BlackGirlBooks, Dias namesake.

Dias’s mother founded an or- found a way to give young girls ganization called the Grassroots like herself access to those Community Foundation. At just things that would affirm their five-years-old, she witnessed her self-worth.

“I just want people to be able mother launch a public health and social action platform out of their to have the access to be curious home. Her mother went on to cre- about identity. To be curious ate a leadership camp for young about the world. Not to have Black girls which has now expand- answers, but to have questions,” ed from New Jersey and Philadel- she said. phia to Jamaica and Ghana.

A handful of years later, Dias Reflecting on the legacy of would find herself following Martin Luther King Jr. As Dias continued her eduin her mother’s footsteps and making a difference for young cation, she came across the work of Dr. Martin Luther King girls just like her.

After growing frustrated Jr. whose speeches and writings with her school’s reading selec- continued to teach her about tion, Dias voiced her thoughts the value of reciprocity. In reto her mother. Instead of writ- flecting on her early years of ing a letter to her teacher or vis- education, Dias recalled having

YGB

MLK BREAKFAST

Continued from page 1

universities (HBCUs) member institutions. Through the partnership, General Mills has provided $7.2 million to UNCF. “Each year, this event gives us the opportunity to come together as a community to create an imperative to live out Dr. King’s legacy and celebrate his unwavering commitment to education,” said Mary Jane Melendez, chief sustainability and global impact officer at General Mills. “We remain steadfast in our commitment to creating a world that reflects Dr. King’s dream and to advancing a culture of equity and belonging.”

The MSR spoke with Laverne McCartney Knighton, UNCF’s development director who oversees fundraising for the organization’s 37-member private

Black colleges and universities and scholarships awarded to Minnesota, Iowa, Nebraska, and North and South Dakota area students. This April, UNCF will celebrate 80 years.

“We were founded by historically Black colleges and university presidents in 1944,” said McCartney Knighton. “That was when only a small number of students were admitted to predominantly White colleges and universities. Our founders knew that a college education was important. And they created UNCF to raise dollars for HBCUs, and the hundreds of thousands of students who attended them.

“So here we are today, 80 years later. We have raised over $5 million, and supported more than 500,000 students in their college journey. Basically, HBCUs have built Black America’s middle class.

“UNCF scholarships, which

job opportunities? Fair treatment in the criminal justice system? Safer communities, and more access to quality health care and public transportation?”

In addition to reporting on national and world events, Williams-Dillard said, all stories have a local connection through one-on-one community engagement using print and digital polls, heard-on-thestreet, and opinion pieces. “We always invite our readers into discussions and forums so that they not only learn but feel that they are a part of the coverage.”

a precarious view of Dr. King’s work because of the way his life has been covered.

“I felt for a long time that he was a figure that sort of tried to subdue many of the messages of Malcolm X or more revolutionary thinkers of the time. I felt that that was a dangerous assumption, a miscalculation

“She equipped me with the ability to understand that every person is so unique in their greatness.” [that] I made because of the lack of access to diverse literature I had, even in his own works,” she said.

Whether it was his views on Vietnam or his letters from jail, Dias believed that Dr. King’s message and ideology has been diluted, misrepresenting what he fought for in the Civil Rights era.

“It’s oftentimes why I feel like, as activists, we steer away from equality, because Dr. King’s words were used to create an image of assimilation,” she said.

Dias has continued to explore her relationship with the works of Dr. King and is excited to share some of her reflections at the upcoming the 34th annual Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr.

we raise money to provide, have helped students pay for their college degree and help them move up economically, which helps our society. Here at UNCF, we believe that higher education institutions have an important role.”

“They understand the need to recruit students of color and that it is important to their bottom line— creating more diversity and equity and nclusion.”

According to UNCF Twin Cities most recent data for Minnesota, the organization has awarded scholarships to

ing with their donor base and to improve their grant application process.

“I think there are more inContinued from page 1 novative ways that we can use platform for local candidates AI to our advantage,” Ibrahim and perspectives,” said Wilsaid. “The media is known liams-Dillard. “We work to creto have this bad relationship ate a political knowledge base with technology, and it killed that stimulates, encourages it. Google, Facebook came and and activates future generaliterally took the business of tions of African American votall the advertising and everyers in Minnesota.” thing out of the newspapers.”

The MSR has historically While technology is inevitacovered every local political ble in almost every industry, said election from gubernatorial Williams-Dillard, she believes races to attorney general, maythat news organizations should oral, city council, and school be cautious when employing board races. “We also cover ma- Artificial intelligence and the a tool that has not yet gone jor political appointments and future of media through an inclusive develophires such as school superinToward the end of the panel, ment process exposing it to a tendent and chief of police,” she the conversation settled on variety of diverse communities. added. “We share the perspec- the topic of digital platforms “The voice that comes from AI tives and policies of candidates and artificial intelligence. Al- doesn’t reflect our voices,” said with our readers through com- though each publisher shared Williams-Dillard. “As a Black munity meetings and one-on- their range of experience with publisher, we really haven’t used one interviews.

AI, they all agreed that there AI right now. We speak to our “Most of our questions are was an inevitability to the readers with an authentic voice.” standard political asks for our technology and its impact in communities,” said Williams- the newsroom.

Abdi Mohamed welcomes Dillard. “Will we have better Ibrahim shared how Sahan reader comments at amohamed@ schools for our children? More Journal has used AI for engag- spokesman-recorder.com.

THE STATE OF THE NEWS

“Being a Harvard student this semester was—it was definitely a semester I will never forget,” Dias said.

As the debate raged across college campuses, Harvard, University of Pennsylvania, and Massachusetts Institute of Tying the Civil Rights Move- Technology’s presidents came under fire during a congressioment to today’s activism This past semester, Dias took nal hearing about antisemitism a course called “Jim Crow: Histo- on college campuses.

Claudine Gay, the 30th presiries and Revivals,” which examined the parallels between Re- dent of Harvard University, and construction, the Civil Rights era, the first Black woman to hold the position, resigned from the and today’s political landscape.

She found a lesson in Dr. job after receiving backlash for King’s strategy. “He was still her testimony in Congress and willing to give to the crises of because of charges of plagiarism.

Dias shared that the conflict other people simply on the basis that they embodied white su- taking place in Palestine and premacy. [This] is a mechanism Israel has been weighing heavthat we as Black people and all ily on the hearts and minds of oppressed peoples have to em- students, some of whom are just forming their own political ploy more,” she said.

Dias believes that as long as identities.

“I’m so genuinely disheartthe oppression of Black people is viewed through the lens of ened by what has happened in battling against anti-Black poli- the world. I think there’s a reccies and not accurately labeling ognition that as young people it as white supremacy, we run and as college students this is the risk of being able to explore the first time where you get the the struggles of other groups, opportunity to sort of step into creating a missed opportunity in your political power,” she said. creating solidarity movements. “I also think that this has given an opportunity to allow people or potentially set up for further Political strife in higher ed and breaking the glass ceiling exploration into uncovering the University campuses have history of our world.”

Dias took solace in the fact become a flashpoint for the political debate surrounding the that there was now a spotlight conflict between Hamas and on these issues around the Israel after the Oct. 7 attack world, some of which she and launched by Hamas which killed her peers weren’t as aware of roughly 1,200 Israelis and the such as the conflicts in Sudan bombardment of Gaza, which and the Congo.

In hearing about Gay’s reshas led to the death of over 23,000 Palestinians. ignation, Dias believes that is

the unfortunate reality of how institutions treat Black women once they break the glass ceiling. In her words, “it shatters back down on them.”

“When we see examples of black women and girls who are ascending to the heights of these institutions, following everything that we seemingly think America would want out of a successful person. And once they reach those heights it seems as though they are turned on and unsupported by the very same people that have voted them in,” Dias said.

When the Supreme Court repealed affirmative action, Dias penned a piece in Rolling Stone stating that the court was working to push Black women and girls to the margins.

The actions of the court and the circumstances that pushed Gay out of her role at Harvard are, in Dias’s view, examples of why seats at the table will no longer suffice, but rather a sign for the need to uproot the structural racism that punishes Black women for ascending too high.

The best course of action, according to Dias, is simply to vote.

“The only way we can really change that is by voting.

As much as it might seem difficult to explain or to express to young people at this point in what we’ve seen from all sides, voting is the only way that we can do anything to counteract the permanence of that glass ceiling,” she said.

171 students and supported about 127 students. “The total amount awarded was just under a million dollars—$977,000 to be exact,” said McCartney Knighton. “The average scholarship amount is about $5700,” she added.

The impact of last year’s U.S. Supreme Court affirmative action decision on HBCUs and UNCF member institutions has not gone unnoticed.

“We’ve seen an increase in enrollment and requests for enrollment at HBCUs,” said McCartney Knighton. “It puts a burden on the funds that are needed for college and our efforts to raise money to help these students get to the college of their choice,” she added. “That’s the big impact—increased enrollment at all of our HBCUs.” Like many Black organizations, UNCF has its fair share of challenges.

“In terms of fundraising, it’s

held at the Minneapolis Convention Center on Jan. 15, 2024, from 8 a.m. to 9:30 a.m.

Doors open at 7 a.m., and tickets are available at MLKBreakfast.com.

Breakfast on January 15.

University of St. Thomas professor and founding director of the Racial Justice Initiative, Dr. Yohuru Williams, will be moderating the conversation with Dias during the breakfast.

always a challenge to be in a space where everyone is trying to raise money to support their organization,” said McCartney Knighton. “We’re fortunate to be in a community where we have a lot of Fortune 500 companies that are headquartered here and are very supportive of UNCF’s efforts,” she said. “They understand the need to recruit students of color and that it is important to their bottom line—creating more diversity and equity and inclusion,” she continued.

“The other challenge is trying to make sure we provide funding to our HBCUs that need infrastructure support, IT support, all those things that help create a thriving campus for our students,” said McCartney Knighton. “Also, we can help build endowments, so that schools can have that ongoing support that they need.”

The MLK Breakfast will be

Abdi Mohamed welcomes reader comments at amohamed@ spokesman-recorder.com.

UNCF is the nation’s largest minority education organization serving youth, the community and the country. By supporting education and development through scholarships and other programs, the organization helps strengthen its 37 member colleges and universities, and advocates for the importance of minority education and college readiness.

Today, UNCF supports more than 50,000 students at over 1,100 colleges and universities across the country. To learn more and contribute to the organization, visit UNCF.org.

Evette Porter welcomes reader comments at eporter@spokesman-recorder.com.

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6 January 11 - 17, 2024

Corporate Headquarters

Business

Black Business SPOTLIGHT

spokesman-recorder.com

Running a company while keeping your day job

By Chris Juhn Staff Contributor

our own hair journeys and stuff like that. That’s definitely important to both of us. We Two years ago, 37-year-old saw that this [product] wasn’t Ashley Hightower (AH) and really out there. So we’re like, 36-year-old Tasha Nembhard “Let’s create our own.”

(TN) launched Corporate Headquarters, a company that MSR: How does your busisells satin-lined, knit hats—or ness impact the community? beanies—on their site, shopAH and TN: We’re new. We corphq.com. According to are hoping to have a bigger imtheir website, the company pact soon. But right now, we name came from the idea that see our product as something although they work “in indus- that can benefit our communitries far more important than ty as a way to protect their hair. a beanie,” they hope that one Men can protect their exday “these hats will become pensive haircuts with this our corporate headquarters.” product. A lot of people in the Black community spend a lot of money on our hair. We’re MSR: What inspired you to big consumers of hair prodstart your business?

AH and TN: It kind of be- ucts and hair care. And this is came like a creative outlet for just another product to help us to find our own passion. We that investment. saw a need out there for a simple outerwear beanie hat that MSR: What do you consider was also satin-lined, to protect your main product? your hair.

AH and TN: I would say our black beanie is definitely the most popular. But I feel like it MSR: What made you think all depends on the person and of beanies?

AH and TN: Well, we both their style. We have three col-

Courtesy of Corporate HQ

wear a lot of beanies. We’ve ors right now—black, tan, and been friends for a long time, orange. But black is probably and we’ve been going through the top seller.

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that area at all.

It was good to just learn and to figure out the next steps. These are things that we wouldn’t have thought about on our own. From there, we just took a business class.

By then, we finally were like, okay, we need to do this. We need to put our ideas into an actual product.

We reached out and found these consultants and worked with them to design and find an ethical manufacturer to do all the sourcing and make the product. And now we’re here. That part

ing and kind of where we want to go.

probably took about a year going back and forth with designs and manufacturing, and then it takes time to ship the product.

(l-r) Ashley Hightower and Tasha Nembhard in Corporate HQ beanies.

Photo by Chris Juhn

MSR: What’s been your biggest challenge so far?

AH and TN: I feel like it’s the technology—figuring out how to do our own website, email, and just navigating that world.

This is currently a side project for us. We have full-time jobs, so we love to throw all our time and energy into this. But it has also been difficult finding the time to do both.

We have full time jobs, so we love to throw all our time and energy into this.

But it has also been difficult finding the time to do both.

Corporate Headquarters beanies

just have the three colors of hats. So, I know we definitely want to do more colors. We already have some in mind that we want to explore. There’s definitely been demand for kids’ hats. So, we definitely want to get into that market.

Then we can kind of see where it goes from there.

My big dream would be to partner with major league teams. Getting a licensing deal with them would be awesome. We’ve only been selling for the last couple of months. I feel like we’re still really trying to find our foot-

MSR: What are your fulltime jobs?

AH: I work as an executive assistant in education.

TN: I’m a contract manager for a health insurance company.

AH and TN: So, our jobs are not related to what we’re doing. I feel like we’re just trying to find our own path. And it’s one way that we’ve gone and it’s exciting.

MSR: What’s been the most rewarding part of owning your business?

AH and TN: I feel like getting to spend time together.

We’re best friends. We’ve known each other for over 15 years. It’s been fun just to collaborate, because we can both lean into our strengths. She’s [Ashley] definitely more creative. I’m more the analytical behind-the-scenes person.

It’s been just great to work together and explore this vision. It’s been fun putting our skills together that benefits us.

MSR: What’s your vision for your business?

AH and TN: Right now, we

MSR: What did the process look like for getting to where you are now?

Contact Corporate HeadAH and TN: We took a lot of classes. We went through quarters at shopcorphq.com. this apparel mentorship class to really learn about the apparChris Juhn welcomes reader el world. Because again, both comments at cjuhn@spokesof our backgrounds are not in man-recorder.com.

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January 11 - 17, 2024

7

Arts & Culture Louis Hunter’s remarkable journey spokesman-recorder.com

From rioting charges to restaurant ownership and a film

By Abdi Mohamed Contributing Writer

have to do that there, too.”

While the production was able to find workarounds in locations and schedules, there were several compliThere are times when Louis Hunter finds himself in the middle of his rescations brought on by the Covid-19 pandemic. taurant, staring off into the distance, “I couldn’t even get an actor to contemplating just how far he’s come come out from L. A.,” Cayce said. “I in life. “God led me to where I’m at, had to rent a hotel room for over 30 but it took for me to go through a days with the crew and actors. It was traumatic experience,” he said. very costly. We couldn’t get a comNearly six years ago, Hunter was facing up to 20 years in prison when mitment, one because of Covid, two, he was charged with two counts of ribecause of the uprising.”

This dilemma caused the producoting after demonstrating against the police killing of his cousin, Philando tion to “switch gears” and audition Castile, in 2016. He received an outlocal acts. They were able to still secure their lead in Sheldon Bailey, pouring of support following his arknown for his work on “Shameless,” rest, with over 18,000 people signing who plays Hunter in the film. They a petition advocating for his freedom. had also secured Miguel A. Núñez Jr., The charges against Hunter were “Juwanna Mann” and “Kickin’ It Old dropped in 2017. A year later, he coSchool,” in a supporting role. founded the plant-based restaurant With the film going into producTrio with Dan and Sarah Woodcock, and in 2019 he became the sole tion just months after the start of the owner of the business. Although he pandemic, the crew had to improvise never imagined himself running a res- Louis Hunter Courtesy of Trio their methods of securing the set to minimize the chance of a Covid outtaurant, Hunter said, “I felt the need to give something back, and it hap- the film as a chance to take back the that’s not new. I live in Los Angeles. break. “We actually started right benarrative and convey an emotional There’s a lot of neighborhoods we fore SAG and the unions had implepened to be plant-based foods.”

When Hunter heard that a Holly- story about the experiences many wood director wanted to tell his life Black people have when dealing with story, his gratitude for his life path the police.

She had never traveled to Minnesoared even further.

Marc Cayce, a veteran filmmaker sota before but found herself at the and actor from Los Angeles by way of Minneapolis-St. Paul International Detroit, was moved by Hunter’s story. Airport days after George Floyd had So much so that he wanted to make a been killed by Minneapolis police offilm inspired by his life events. Cayce ficers. Without hesitation, Copeland believed that the Twin Cities had be- abandoned her transfer flight to Calicome the epicenter of the Black Lives fornia and took a rental car to Floyd’s Matter movement and, with this no- memorial site in Minneapolis on 38th tion in mind, he made the call to bring Street and Chicago Avenue.

“I went there and it was packed. his production to Minnesota.

“Going to Minneapolis was almost That was the day his family had a like going to a place and being a part rally,” she said.

Copeland had stayed for two more of history,” he said. “There was rebeldays, attending vigils in the square lion in the air. I could feel it.”

The film, “BlackSkin,” tells the story and interacting with local activists. of a fictional Louis Hunter whose life is She was able to help Cayce and the upended when he’s arrested at a pro- film crew navigate the city when they test demanding justice after another arrived for filming weeks later.

The decision to make a film in the Black man is killed by the local police.

Carole Copeland, a producer recent aftermath of Floyd’s murder and locations manager with roots had some assets along with several in Washington D.C. and New York hindrances. According to Copeland, City, had collaborated with Cayce in there was a built-in tone for the the past. When he approached her theme of the film since the atmowith the idea to make a movie about sphere in the city was thick with civil unrest. On the other hand, there was Hunter’s life, she was all in.

“Mark and I were actually finishing some resistance to their filming given aspora another film that we had shot, and the heightened state of sensitivity ssword when he told me about this there was people had at the time. ayabsolutely [MLK]no way I wouldn’t want to “We had to pay some people to be Courtesy of Foremost Entertainment Inc. be involved,” she said. Copeland saw in that neighborhood,” she said. “But

Simon Burris: eace Prize [1964] *Africana Diaspora Black History Month II Crossword k **Martin Luther King, Jr. Day [MLK]

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29 30 31 1. **Martin Luther King’s Peace Prize [1964] 32 33 34 35 36 "Native 6. **1965 ___" King arrest site 11. **His lecture, so to speak 6]12. Smart ___ or wise guy?

39 40 37 38 13. Apex 42 41 14. California/Nevada border lake h16.

[1963] **Nonviolent Indian advocate Mahatma ___ ; riend" 18. _ _ _ lewood, California Down (Rev. King’s mentor; 1959) 19. Rest kly" (John 13:27) 19. Submit taxes online 1. **”How long? ___ long!” [1965] 20. **”Let ___ ring” [1963] 17. Hidalgo Oaks, New Mexico (initials) **MLK’s favorite novel “Na2. Gold, in Vera Cruz ott23.[1955] 21. “___ is finished” (John 19:30) 18.3._**MLK’s _ _ lewood, California tive ___” denomination (abbr.)

22. Roman 51 g 24. (wife) **Holiday honoree [1986] 4. Film visitor from space 24. “All ___ are created equal” [1963] 19. Rest 27. Opposite of WNW 5. **”___ nobody turn us around” 25. Capital of Arkansas (abbr.) ntry (1446 BC) 28. **”I have a ___” ! speech [1963]20. **"Let [1965] ___ ring" [1963] 26. *Actor _ _ vin Hart 29. “When a fellow __ __ friend” 6. *World’s largest desert: _ _ _ _ 30. Be fond of 21. "___ is finished" (John 19:30) 32. “That activist thou ___, do quickly” RA (Africa) 31. Match parts fellow 22.7.Roman (John 13:27) 51 Motors Musk of Tesla 33. Titus Epistle, briefly 34. *Montgomery ___ boycott [1955] 8. Town in Iowa (2 wds.)

34. _ _ _ OAD (scenic route) 24. "All ___ are created equal" [1963] 37. **Mrs. Coretta ___ King (wife) 9. **MLK’s alma mater, for short 35. _ _ _ EEP (care) 39. *Let my people go!’ country 25. Capital (Atlanta,of GAArkansas [1948] (abbr.)

36. Map lines (abbr.)

(1446 BC) 10. Fairbanks, _ _ 37. Word before Matthew, Mark [1965] 26.15. *Actor _ _ vin Hart 41. Eras **His likely schedules or Peter 42. **Rosa ___; Rev. King’s fellow 30.17.

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31. Match parts

Abdi Mohamed welcomes reader comments at amohamed@spokesmanrecorder.com.

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After having taken in and celebrated the film, Hunter still looks toward his future opportunities in business and to continue telling his story to help inspire others.

“We have a GoFundMe going on right now for a food truck. We’re trying to take this food truck around the world and let people know my story around the world. To let men and boys that look just like me know a hard time doesn’t always mean it’s the end,” he said.

“Six years ago, I was living in my van. Six years later, I have a restaurant and got a movie out. So these are the things that we want to get around the world.”

Originally Cayce had planned to make the film available to a wide audience on a streaming platform such as Netflix or Tubi, but because of the impact he witnessed, he decided to take it on the road.

The film has been screened across the Midwest in Minneapolis, Detroit and Chicago. Cayce and his team plan to have it showcased in more festivals nationwide and aim to have a distribution deal in place halfway through the year. In the short term, he’s pushing to have “BlackSkin” considered for an NAACP Award.

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“We want to let men and boys that look just like me know a hard time doesn’t always mean it’s the end.”

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mented the health and safety policies and the Covid compliance officer,” Copeland said.

“BlackSkin” held a community screening at the Capri Theater on Nov. 29 complete with a red carpet experience and performances by local musicians and dancers.

The 43rd annual

MARTIN LUTHER KING, JR. TRIBUTE

at the University of Minnesota

JANUARY 14 • 3 PM Ted Mann Concert Hall Free in-person & virtual celebration!

Learn more:

z.umn.edu/mlk24

8 January 11 - 17, 2024

Opinion

spokesman-recorder.com

The need for real Black unity

By A. Peter Bailey Black master teachers, including Brothers Malcolm X, Martin Luther King, Jr., Jerome Bennett Jr., Harold Cruse, Hoyt Fuller, John Henrik Clarke, and Sisters including Fannie Lou Hamer, C. Delores Tucker, France Cress Wesling, and Myrlie Evers-Williams didn’t totally agree on every issue confronting Black folks.

However, the one thing that they all agreed on was the absolute necessity for serious Black unity in this country and in the world.

Their beliefs were based on the principle that Black unity was the most effective way to promote and protect our health, economic, cultural, political, educational, technological, and communication interAmericans have everything to oring the riot at the U.S. Capitol

By Stacy M. Brown ests in a nation in which most lose, and African Americans can’t on January 6, 2021, which startof the majority population One of the most in-your-face help but feel they’re losing. ed New Year’s weekend, once insist that they are inherently Who has pretended not to again highlights the brazenness and undeniable moments that superior just because they are shows the direction most Re- know the true meaning of Make of White supremacy. On the third white. publicans and so-called conser- America Great Again? It implies anniversary of the Capitol attack, It’s way past time for those vatives are attempting to take that Claudine Gay must know her a game called “Storm the Capitol— of us who honor and celebrate America is the utter witch hunt place. It means that George Floyd TrueAnon Edition” hit stores. the great lives of the above To win the game, you need to meant to destroy Claudine Gay, deserved a knee on his neck, master teachers to understand who is now the former president though they’d just assumed the collect 100 ballots and reach the that until we achieve the kind of Harvard. Make no mistake police officers had used a noose. last room, where Trump awaits of unity they advocated, we It means women have no say over players. He plans to use a heliabout it—it was a witch hunt. will be physically and psychoA Black woman leading one of anything, including and especially copter to change the 2020 eleclogically abused by the propothe most prominent educational their own bodies. tion results in his favor “or ratify nents of white supremacy.

It means that affirmative ac- the real results of the 2020 elecinstitutions in the United States One of the ways to do that of America? The powers-that-be tion is the slave master grabbing tion,” so he can claim victory. is to set up unity conferences couldn’t stand too long for that. the whip—affirmatively acting, Consider also that, over the A Black man, in their racist eyes, if you will—when the African last three years, 18 states have addesecrating the White House American is out of line. opted laws restricting what teachand having the audacity to place ers can say about race and the U.S. his name on the very health history of race relations. White White fear of care that has rescued countless fear of losing power has jeoparpeople from complete and utter dized not just democracy but also losing power has misery and even death, includthe plight of African Americans. jeopardized not Defining African nations as By Ben Jealous ing the majority of White people, just democracy but “shithole countries,” Trump also is, in their view, as repugnant as attacked Mexicans as criminals, anyone else.

Even Ron DeSantis had to also the plight of demanded a ban on Muslims, and admit, when pressed at a CNN With racist conservatives reAfrican Americans. dubbed Charlottesville White na- townhall, January 6 was a bad peatedly trying to repeal Obamacare, we are reminded of a tionalists “very fine people.” day for America.

An event that took place in scene from the popular sitcom Trump displayed no remorse Invariably, following this “The Jeffersons,” which aired in 2020—and no, it had nothing to for the deadly violence he in- past week’s anniversary of the the 1970s. In the scene, George do with George Floyd—highlight- cited during the Capitol riots insurrection, we’re forced to saves the life of a member of the ed all of this. The video is infuriat- on January 6, 2021. Impeached ask ourselves: Will we ever be Ku Klux Klan. When the racist ing: A Black woman was hogtied twice during his presidency, able to pull this country back realized that it was a Black man and forced to sit headfirst, legs up, Trump ha s been indicted four together again? who had performed the lifesav- and behind her on the floor of a times, bragged about sexual asIt’s a reasonable question. ing act, with bitter and resentful police cruiser in Aurora, Colorado, sault, and a judge ruled he com- The fissures run deep. eyes, he declared, “You should for more than 20 minutes. mitted massive business fraud.

For the answer to that big, It becomes more abhorrent All of this has left the Black com- terrible question, I turn to the have let me die.”

They’d rather White people when, as she desperately calls munity uneasy as the political history books. And to the hisdie than choose a life-saving out that she can’t breathe and situation changes, causing con- tory of our country that was health plan under the Affordable begs for mercy from the White cern for both ordinary people long kept out of those books. officer, she resorts to calling him and prominent figures.

Care Act. In the wake of the Civil War, While President Biden con- “master.” The bodycam footage The potential return of Trump America was still a tinder keg. tinues to trail in popular polls of Shataeah Kelly was released and his administration’s policies In 1867, two years after the and hopes that the MAGA a few months before Floyd’s may worry many African Ameri- Civil War had ended and nine movement will help make Amer- murder. Officer Levi Huffine was cans. However, people are start- years before another almost ica realize its mistakes, Black fired and, of course, appealed his ing to consider a wider range of erupted, Frederick Douglass America must remember that it termination because, after all, perspectives. Many Black citizens laid out the argument for why, is not Biden or the people who the Black woman who called him have concerns about Trump’s as Americans, we should relook like him whose lives and master was just a slave. promise of authoritarian rule, fear- main optimistic about our fuA brand-new board game hon- ing a loss of more civil liberties and ture and our ability to come livelihoods are in jeopardy. Black an uptick in racial tensions. together.

That concern may also lie In “Our Composite Nation,” within the ranks of wealthy Af- Douglass explained, a nation’s rican Americans and celebrities. character is defined by that Despite their wealth and influ- nation at its best, not its worst. ence, any apprehension from And America’s character (at that crowd should stem from our best), our geography, and the realization that, historically, our already diverse population racism has spared no one. “all conspire to one grand end” Shataeah Kelly called a White … to make us the most “percop “master” because she felt des- fect national illustration of the perate, showing the power that unity and dignity of the human Trump and his supporters aim to family, that the world has ever submissions@spokesman-recorder.com have. The wealth and influence seen.” of a few Black Americans won’t It seemed a tall order in mean anything to racists who, just those tough times, as it does like after the Civil War, seized all now. And yet close to 15 years they could from Black people and after he gave that speech, a will undoubtedly be positioned to new movement erupted in Pedo it again. After all, they have the tersburg, Virginia that swept Supreme Court in their favor, with across the old Commonwealth laws being written and other pro- uniting freedmen and forsubmissions@spokesman-recorder.com tections struck down. mer Confederate soldiers in a If you’re not yet awake, you shared quest to save the pubmay as well keep sleeping be- lic schools. cause the freedoms that you The Readjusters Party now enjoy might end a year from emerged amid an attempt now when Trump is sworn in. by the old plantation owner oligarchs to reassert their inStacy M. Brown is the NNPA fluence, following the Hayessubmissions@spokesman-recorder.com.

Newswire senior national corre- Tilden Compromise.

The spondent.

Compromise—which both

The imminent danger facing all of Black America

throughout the country and cities that have sizable Black populations. Those of us who live in urban areas such as New York City, Washington, D.C., Chicago, Atlanta, New Orleans, Richmond, Nashville, Detroit and Cleveland should host events that focus on the need for unity of our people.

Following that, there should be a national conference during which each entity will present its action plans for discussion and eventually a unified action.

I do believe that there are enough serious Black folks in this country to begin laying the groundwork for a serious degree of Black unity.

Believe me, I am well aware that what I am proposing is not going to happen overnight…

But I do believe that there are enough serious Black folks in this country to begin laying

the groundwork for a serious degree of Black unity. One of our master teachers, Brother Martin, has a birthday coming up very soon.

The best way to celebrate and honor him is to make sure that any event one participates in or just attends will be given a quote by Brother Martin that makes very clear his profound belief in Black unity. It goes as follows: “Groups and training centers are now proliferating in some slum areas to create not nearly an electorate but a consensus, alert and informed people who know their direction and whose collective wisdom and vitality commands respect…

“Power is not the white man’s birthright. It will not be legislated to us and delivered to us in neat government packages. It is a social force any group can utilize by accumulating its elements in a planned, deliberate campaign to organize it under its own control.”

Brother Martin was asking for real deal Black unity.

Alonzo Peter Bailey is an American journalist, author, and lecturer. He was an associate of Malcolm X and a member of the Organization of Afro-American Unity.

The gap between January 6 and MLK Day prevented the possible outbreak of a second civil war and unleashed the terror of the Ku Klux Klan—resolved a bitter dispute over the election of 1876 and re-enfranchised former Confederates.

With the Confederates’ votes restored, the old oligarchs presumed their political power was assured. But they made a fatal mistake. They tried to dissolve the free public schools created by Black-led Reconstruction governments, claiming war debt made them unaffordable.

With the Readjusters offering a haven, working-class white former Confederates fled the Democratic Party of the plantation oligarchs to defend their children’s schools.

At the same time, sparked by both President Hayes’s betrayal of Black communities in the South and the same concern over public schools, my grandmother’s grandfather, Edward David Bland, led an exodus of Blacks from the Republican Party to join them.

The story of Frederick Douglass’s optimism and confidence in America’s destiny… is a reminder that the people of our country were always more resilient and greater than most politicians were ever willing to bet on.

The math of democracy necessitated that if they were going to save their children’s schools, they would have to join up with the white parents who shared their same fears.

The new Readjusters Party quickly took over the state and won the governorship, control

of both houses of the legislature, and would appoint both U.S. senators (state legislators still appointed U.S. Senators back then).

In four years, the Readjusters succeeded in saving the free public schools. They radically expanded Virginia Tech to make the college the working white person’s answer to the patrician University of Virginia, and aided the creation of what is now called Virginia State University—the first public university for the training of Black teachers. They also abolished the poll tax and the public whipping post, and even pushed the state out of a deficit into a surplus.

However, at the end of the one term any governor is allowed in Virginia, the Readjusters would be swept out of power by a political movement built on disinformation, ruthless violence, and a call to white supremacy. The new political regime of Jim Crow then took steps to ensure that the history of the Readjusters would never make it into the lessons taught to Virginia school children.

Jim Crow politicians knew how much of a threat that example was to their power structure, built on lies and hate.

The story of Frederick Douglass’s optimism and confidence in America’s destiny, and the Readjusters’ courage in pursuing it, is a reminder that the people of our country were always more resilient and greater than most politicians were ever willing to bet on.

It also begs the question: If they could unite then in the interest of all their children, what is actually keeping us from uniting now in the interest of all of ours?

Ben Jealous is executive director of the Sierra Club, the nation’s largest and most influential grassroots environmental organization.

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MLK Calendar

January 11 - 17, 2024

9

CELEBRATE MLK WEEKLY EVENTS

The MLK Holiday offers an opportunity to reflect on Dr. King’s enduring legacy with music, speeches, community service, and more. Check out highlighted events in the Twin Cities and beyond. Happy Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Day!

JANUARY 11

MLK Solidarity March: Fighting for the Dream!

2-5 p.m. @ St. Paul Police Department, West District, 389 Hamline Ave., St. Paul

MLK Achieving the Dream Conference 10 a.m.-3:30 p.m. @ Metropolitan State University, 700 E. 7th St., St. Paul

Community members will gather and demand justice in memory of Marcus Golden, who was shot and killed by St. Paul police in 2015.

For more info, visit bit.ly/MLKSolidarityMarch Celebrate the enduring influence of Martin Luther King Jr. with a day of discussions, speeches, and interactive workshops. Keynote speaker Dr. Yohuru Williams will explore the legacy of the 1963 March on Washington beyond Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr.’s iconic “I Have a Dream” with a presentation from his book, “More than a Dream: The Radical March on Washington for Jobs and Freedom.”

Annual MLK Holiday of Service: Our Origins Travel Onward For more info, visit bit.ly/AchievingDreamConference 1:15-4:30 p.m. @ Metropolitan Ballroom & Clubroom, 5418 Wayzata Blvd., Golden Valley

JANUARY 14

All are welcome to Sweet Potato Comfort Pie’s annual Martin Luther King celebration. This year’s theme is “Our Origins Travel Onward.” There will be a pie procession, presentations, awards, and facilitated conversations about racial justice among participants—all done in the spirit of Ubuntu to remind us that each of us is who we are because of our beloved community. This is a hybrid event.

For more info and to register to attend virtually, visit bit.ly/SweetPotatoComfort2024

43rd Annual U of M Martin Luther King, Jr. Tribute Concert 3 p.m. @ Ted Mann Concert Hall, 432 Morrill Hall, 100 Church St. S.E., Mpls.

This year’s theme, “The March Continues,” builds on last year’s 60th anniversary celebration of Martin Luther King, Jr.’s “I Have a Dream” speech and the partnership with the DREAM Initiative. Curated by U of M alumnus G. Phillip Shoultz, III of VocalEssence, the program blends King’s words with reflections and musical performances.

MLK Weekend – Faith in the Midst of Conflict: A Palestinian Perspective as An Israeli Citizen This year’s concert will also feature MARTIN, a life-size fabricated structure capped by a hand9:30-11:30 a.m. @ Calvary Church, 2608 Blaisdell Ave. S., Mpls. cast 40 lb. bronze bell created by local artist Bill Jeter. The event is free and open to all. This Marah Sarji, a Christian from Nazareth and Ph.D. student at Princeton Theological Seminary, concert will be live-streamed.

For more info, visit diversity.umn.edu/MLKTribute will join a discussion about faith in the midst of conflict and offer experiences and perspectives, both personal and theological. A continental breakfast will be provided. RSVP to connect@calvarychurchmpls.org.

MLK Comedy Showcase: MLK Weekend All Black Everything For more info, visit bit.ly/FaithInConflictMLK 7-8:30 p.m. @ CEO Hall, 905 S. 4th Ave., Mpls

JANUARY 13

Celebrate the MLK holiday with laughter at this showcase featuring local comedians. The evening will be hosted by K Jay the Comedian.

For more info, visit bit.ly/MLKComedyShowcase

JANUARY 15 2024 MLK Holiday Tribute Events in the Twin Ports 7 a.m.-1:30 p.m. | Various locations

One Dream, One Minnesota Career Fair 10 a.m.-2 p.m. @ St. Paul Armory, 600 Cedar St., St. Paul This career fair serves as an opportunity to showcase the jobs and career paths available within Minnesota’s state government and reinforces the state’s commitment to fostering a thriving and dynamic workforce. Job seekers will be able to engage with state agency recruiters and subject matter experts. Classes on resume tips and career management will also be offered. This event is open to the public.

For more info, and to pre-register, visit bit.ly/MLKJobFair2024

The Duluth NAACP’s MLK celebrations return with in-person events throughout the MLK holiday. The festivities kick off with a community breakfast at 7 a.m., a brief local program, and a broadcast of UNCF’s MLK Holiday Breakfast keynote address.

The breakfast takes place at First United Methodist Church, located at 230 E. Skyline Parkway in Duluth.

Following the march, a gathering will take place from 10:30-11:45 a.m. in the Washington Center gym, located at 310 N. 1st Ave. W. (entrance between 3rd and 4th St. on 1st Ave. West). The celebration continues with a rally from 12-1:30 p.m. at DECC-Symphony Hall, located at 350 Harbor Drive, Duluth. These events are free. For more info, go to duluthnaacp.org/mlk ■ See MLK EVENTS on page 10

10 January 11 - 17, 2024

MLK Calendar

MLK EVENTS | Continued from page 9

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26th PPNA Annual Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Day Celebration 10 a.m. – 2 p.m. @ Powderhorn Park Recreation Center, 3400 15th Ave. S., Mpls.

2024 Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Holiday Breakfast 7:30-9:30 a.m. @ Minneapolis Convention Center, Exhibit Hall A, 1301 2nd Ave. S., Mpls.

With the theme of “Leading Onward,” this annual breakfast benefits the UNCF Twin Cities to support local students of color to attend college and member HBCUs. The keynote speaker will be Marley Dias, an activist, author, contributor, cultural influencer, speaker, founder and producer known for her passionate advocacy for representation across mediums. Entertainment will be provided by Known and Nunnabove. For more info, visit www.mlkbreakfast.com Northeast Metro MLK Jr. Community Event 8-11 a.m. @ 3737 Bellaire Ave., White Bear Lake

The Powderhorn Park Neighborhood Association, in collaboration with the Minneapolis Park & Recreation Board, will host this annual MLK, Jr. Celebration that is free and open to the community.

For more info, visit www.ppna.org/mlkcelebration KMOJ’s 11th Annual Soul Bowl 10 a.m.-2 p.m. @ Bowlero Brooklyn Park, 7545 Brooklyn Blvd., Brooklyn Park Come celebrate the King holiday by supporting KMOJ, “The People’s Station,” at the 11th Annual Soul Bowl. For more info, visit bit.ly/KMOJSoulBowl State of Minnesota presents the 38th Annual Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Holiday Celebration 10:30 a.m. @ The Ordway, 345 Washington St., St. Paul

Following a live stream of the 34th Annual Twin Cities Dr. MLK Jr. Holiday Breakfast, a local program led by the students of the Black Student Union at White Bear Lake High School will take The Council on the Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Holiday invites Minnesotans of all ages to the 38th place. Students of the Black Multicultural Society at Century College will join them. This free proAnnual Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. celebration events sponsored by U.S. Bank. gram includes music, personal stories, poetry, skits, and a panel discussion led by Ramsey County Hosted by Gov. Tim Walz and Lt. Gov. Peggy Flanagan, in collaboration with Chief Equity OfCommissioner Victoria Reinhardt. ficer Dr. Stephanie Burrage, this free event features keynote speaker Caroline A. Wanga, CEO For more info, visit bit.ly/NortheastMetroMLK2024 of Essence Ventures, and special guest entrepreneur Houston White Jr. The 2024 Champion of Change Award recipients will also be recognized. Doors open at 9:30 a.m. with activities in the foyer. ASL interpreting and captioning services will be provided for the event.

St. Cloud University MLK Community Celebration For more info, visit ordway.org/events/mlk-holiday-celebration 8:15-10:45 a.m. @ River’s Edge Convention Center, 10 4th Ave. South St. Cloud

Unique, local content from the African American community's

The signature MLK Breakfast will commence at 8:15 a.m. at the River’s Edge Convention Center. A free breakfast will kick off the event, along with the announcement of the 2024 MLK Celebration Humanitarian Award/essay and art winners, live music, dance, community conversation and keynote address.

For more info, visit bit.ly/StCloudMLK2024.

2024 Bold Conversation with The Woke Coach Seena Hodges

12:30 p.m. | Virtual

Simply fill out the subscription form below and mail with payment to: Minnesota Spokesman-Recorder 3744 4th Ave S, Minneapolis, MN 55409 Name:

Woke Coach Founder and CEO Seena Hodges will share key takeaways from her newly released book, “From Ally to Accomplice: How to Lead as a Fierce Antiracist.” In addition, Hodges will delve into topics like what it means to be an accomplice and antiracist; the importance of having a community-centered mindset as a volunteer; and seeking solutions and tangible actions to make an impact in the community. The keynote is meant to inspire growth, discussion, and facilitate group learning.

Twelve copies of Seena’s book will be raffled to event attendees.

For more info, visit bit.ly/BoldWokeCoach ■ See MLK EVENTS on page 11

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Employment & Legals

January 11 - 17, 2024

11

spokesman-recorder.com

MLK EVENTS | Continued from page 10

STATE OF MINNESOTA COUNTY OF HENNEPIN In Re: Estate of Louise M. Brown, Deceased

4th Annual BBB MLK Black Youth Talent Showcase 3-5:30 p.m. @ Cub Foods, 701 West Broadway Ave., Mpls.

This event aims to provide space for youth to showcase their talents. Taking place in the Cub Northside community room, Black youth ages 8-22 who create original art, performance, or speech representing a Kwanzaa principle can earn $50 per principle. This free event also features an MLK discussion, food, and more. For more info, visit bit.ly/BBB4thShowcase

FOURTH JUDICIAL DISTRICT DISTRICT COURT PROBATE MENTAL HEALTH DIVISION

NOTICE OF INFORMAL APPOINTMENT OF PERSONAL REPRESENTATIVE AND NOTICE TO CREDITORS FILE NO. 27-PA-PR-23-1728

TO ALL INTERESTED PERSONS AND CREDITORS: Notice is hereby given, that an amended application for informal probate of the above named decedent’s last will dated August 18, 2023 has been filed with the Registrar herein, and the application has been granted informally probating such will. Any objections may be filed in the above, and the same will be heard by the Court upon notice of hearing fixed for such purpose.

MPRB Annual King Holiday Celebration 6:30-8 p.m. @ Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Rec Center, 4055 Nicollet Ave. S., Mpls.

Notice is hereby further given that informal appointment of Peter W. Brown, whose address is 3121 Portland Avenue, Minneapolis, Minnesota 55407, as personal representative of the estate of the above-named decedent, has been made. Any heir, devisee or other interested person may be entitled to appointment as personal representative or may object to the appointment of the personal representative and the personal representative are empowered to fully administer the estate including, after 30 days from the date of issuance of letters, the power to sell, encumber, lease or distribute real estate, unless objections thereto are filed with the Court (pursuant to Section 524.3-607) and the Court otherwise orders.

This event, emceed by Chad Jackson of the Minnesota Twins, features keynote speaker Dr. Verna Cornelia Price, co-founder and president of The Power of People Leadership Institute, and musical group Nunnabove. KMOJ’s Walter “Q Bear” Banks, Jr. will receive this year’s Living the Dream Award.

For more info, visit bit.ly/MPRBMLK

Notice is further given that ALL CREDITORS having claims against said estate are required to present the same to said personal representative or to the Probate Court Administrator within four months after the date of this notice or said claims will be barred.

JANUARY 18 MLK Service Event 11 a.m.-12 p.m. @ Minneapolis College, T.Plaza, 1501 Hennepin Ave., Mpls.

With the MLK theme of “Safeguarding Beloved Community,” this event showcases scholarship winners of the oratorical contest. Following the awards, students are invited to participate in a service project that will result in donations to nearby organizations supporting people in need. This event is open to students, employees, and the community at large. For more info, visit minneapolis.edu/mlk

Dated: Dece ber 28, 2023

Yvette M. Andrade Registrar

ProSe

Sara Gonsalves Court Administrator Minnesota Spokesman-Recorder January 4, 11,2023

Contract No. 24-129

JANUARY 24

REQUEST FOR PROPOSALS Sealed proposals will be received by the Public Housing Agency of the City of Saint Paul at 200 East Arch Street, St. Paul, MN 55130 for UTILITY BILL ANALYSIS, Contract No. 24-129 until 4:00 PM, Local Time, on January 31, 2024. Proposals may be submitted electronically, in a pdf format, to Northstar Imaging, www.northstarplanroom.com, or may be delivered to the address above.

Building CommUNITY Rising Voices 4:30-7:30 p.m. @ Founders Hall Reception Area, 387 Maria Ave., St. Paul Two-time Midwest Emmy-award-winning journalist Georgia Fort will serve as the keynote speaker of this 5th Annual MLK celebration. This year’s theme is “A Call for Courageous Action to Advance Racial Equity.”

This free event has both in-person and virtual formats. Refreshments will be served. For more info, visit bit.ly/MLKCommUNITY

A Pre-Bid Conference will be held virtually via Team apps on January 23, 2024 at 10:00AM.

JANUARY 25

AN EQUAL OPPORTUNITY AGENCY

A complete set of bid documents is available by contacting Northstar Imaging at 651-686-0477 or www.northstarplanroom.com, under public plan room, UTILITY BILL ANALYSIS, Contract No. 24-129. Digital downloads are available at no charge. Contact Northstar for hard copy pricing.

The PHA reserves the right to reject any or all bids or to waive any informalities in the proposal submittals.

MLK Presidential Breakfast 7- 9 a.m.@ Metro State University, T.Plaza, 1501 Hennepin Ave., Mpls.

MATT BORNDALE ASSISTANT CONTROLLER (651)292-6145 MATTHEW.BORNDALE@STPHA.ORG

Minnesota Spokesman-Recorder January 11, 2024

This event features Minneapolis College President Sharon Pierce, keynote speaker James White, senior VP of operations for the UnitedHealth Group Equity and Innovation Center located in the YMCA of the North, and live music by the College’s Jazz Ensemble. The event is open to students, employees, and the community at large.

For more info, visit minneapolis.edu/mlk For more events, visit spokesman-recorder.com/events.

SOE

Continued from page 12 of her native Charlotte, North Carolina.

“I’m a little farther from home, which is a little tougher,” Sanders told us just before she left for home during a short Christmas break. “The transition isn’t super easy for me,” she said, but thanks to the support of her teammates and coaches it hasn’t been as bad as it could have been. “They’re loving on me,” she admitted.

The 6-foot Holloway from Eden Prairie was a member of Minnesota’s star-studded 2022 recruiting class. She didn’t play last season due to an injury. “I think any day that

I can get any minutes on the “I think my role is just to be Finally… floor is a good day for me, and where my coach needs me to Norfolk State forward KiI use them the best that I can.” be,” said Holloway. “One of erra Wheeler (Minneapolis, “She needs to be someone the things I pride myself on is Robbinsdale Cooper) was who can come in and play, being adaptable.” named the Mid-Eastern Athand not necessarily be the pri“I like being back in my letic Conference (MEAC) Ofmary ball handler,” said Min- natural [point guard] position,” fensive Player of the Week nesota Coach Dawn Plitzweit added Sanders, who has two last week. The 6’1” junior avMDAN ONE the week degreesto andrun is working on a TIME, of Sanders. About Holloway, ads eraged a double-double withbeginning 1/7/2024 Plitzweit said, “She has contin- certificate in talent develop- 25 points and 11 rebounds in ued to grow and understand ment and gifted education. “I two wins for the Spartans.

Last week, the Grambling how to play both kinds of po- don’t want to be the reason that when I go in, there’s a women’s basketball team sitions [forward and center].

“I think they’re just doing drop-off in this style of play or beat College of Biblical Studthe little things to understand what we’re doing as a team. I ies 159-18 in a non-conferhow to play multiple posi- just want to come in, be con- ence game. It was the largest Plans start at just $20/month. tions,” said Coach P of the sistent, and be what I can for margin of victory (141 points) in Division I women’s baskettwo Gophers. “Even though the team. our offense is positionless, “Going into the Big Ten,” ball history. © 2023 Consumer Cellular Inc. Terms and Conditions subject to change. there are different ways, dif- she said, “it’s gonna be imferent things you have to do portant for our bench as a Charles Hallman welcomes at times in spacing and then whole to be able to help our reader comments at challguarding different scenarios.” starters out.” man@spokesman-recorder.com.

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Orlando is currently sixth in the Eastern Conference.

Continued from page 12 For those who might have forgotten, Suggs was one of the nation’s top prospects metro area. as a senior. Prior to earning Suggs leading the Orlando Star Tribune Metro Player of the Year, Minnesota Mr. BasMagic Jalen Suggs, the former ketball, Minnesota Gatorade Minnehaha Academy boys Player of the Year, and Mcbasketball phenom, appears Donald All-American honors to be coming into his own in 2020, he led his team to during his third year in the state championships in 2017, NBA as a member of the Or- ’18 and ’19.

In 2021, he led Gonzaga lando Magic.

The 6’5” guard, who is devel- University to the NCAA Divioping into a defensive standout sion I men’s basketball chamas well, is averaging 13.4 points, pionship game, and later that 3.3 rebounds and 2.4 assists June was Orlando’s No. 5 firstround pick in the NBA draft. per game for the Magic.

Clemson basketball game has metro area connections As I watched the University of North Carolina Tar Heels play the Clemson Tigers in an ACC men’s basketball matchup on ESPN last Saturday, a former Minneapolis North girls basketball standout who accomplished quite a bit at the prep and collegiate level came to mind.

Brandi Hunter-Lewis— known as Brandi Decker in high school—was one of the state’s top players for North from 1990-93. Her sons Chase Hunter and Dilon Hunter now play for Clemson, who lost 65-55.

Their mom accepted a schol-

arship to play basketball for the University of Georgia basketball, teaming with conference rival and friend Tracy Henderson of Minneapolis Patrick Henry.

The pair would help lead the Bulldogs to Final Four appearances in 1995—held at the Target Center—and ’96.

Senior Chase played 36 minutes scoring 17 points while sophomore Dilon received 26 minutes of court time.

Their father, the late Brice Hunter, was a star receiver for Georgia from 1992-95.

Dr. Mitchell Palmer McDonald welcomes reader comments at mcdeezy05@gmail.com.

@MNSpokesmanRecorder FREE SHOWER PACKAGE ship,” said Buford. “That’s a misBUFORD $1600 PLUS OFF sion of mine, so it’s super imporContinued from page 12

tant for me. I’m super grateful just for the opportunity, and “So, a lot of my role right really it starts with Jeremiah.” now is helping athletes with Now with two Black inditheir brand…and everything viduals, both St. Paul Central With purchase of a new Safe Step Walk-In Tub. Not applicable with any previous thatwalk-in goes with that.” tub purchase.

Offer available while supplies No cash value. Must present alumslast.and former Gophers, offer at time of purchase. CSLB 1082165 NSCB 0082999 0083445 Buford succeeds former charged with helping present Gopher Quincy Lewis, now U of M athletes in their NIL the Utah Jazz alumni relations endeavors, Bluford said, “I’m FINANCING AVAILABLE director. She is not only the WITH justAPPROVED super CREDIT hopeful and exfirst female letter-winner to cited about our potential and lead the M Club but its first our future work.”

Black female director as well.

“I’m a big advocate for Black Charles Hallman welcomes women in general, whether it’s reader comments at challman@ in coaching, sports or leader- spokesman-recorder.com.

1-833-966-3882

12 January 11 - 17, 2024

Sports

spokesman-recorder.com

Black head coaches committed to making their presence count here was a rare sight at the Barn: during the first half of the Minnesota-Maine men’s basketball game—the last home contest of 2023—all 10 players on the floor plus both head coaches were Black.

“I’m glad that you caught that because it’s obviously an important thing for me,” Maine HC Chris Markwood told me afterwards. “It means the world to me that both guys like me and Ben [Johnson, the Gophers HC] have these opportunities to lead young men and help them achieve the goals that they want.

“I’ll never take it for granted,” said Markwood. “It means the world to me that we had a situation like that out there.”

It wasn’t that long ago when seeing five Blacks on the floor at a non-HBCU basketball game was an unwritten no-no. It wasn’t that long ago that seeing two Black head coaches at a PWI coaching

men have nearly 40 years of PWI college coaching experience combined (16 for Markwood and 20 for Johnson).

Both men have paid their dues to be where they are.

Markwood is in his second season at Maine, hired in March of 2022, and Johnson is in his third guiding the Gophers.

“I was a business major and got into the business world,” recalled the Maine coach. “Fortunately for me, nine months later my college coach called me up [and said], ‘We got a position—something you want to do.’ I always knew Coach Chris Markwood Coach Ben Johnson Photos by Charles Halllman from a young age I wanted to coach. Jumped at it right away, against one another was rare used to go to Clem Haskins where they are today. Both and it was very fortunate to as well.

Basketball Camp,” recalled played at the same schools get into it at a really young age.”

Yes, in our current atmo- Markwood, who was born they are now coaching. Marksphere where Black leadership in Maine. “I saw Kirby Puck- wood graduated from the Uni“I always knew at all levels is being questioned, ett play a celebrity basketball versity of Maine in 2006, after from a young age undermined and scrutinized game in this gym.” playing two seasons for the I wanted to coach by people with deep-seated He also spent time in west- Black Bears. Johnson is a 2006 and was very misconceptions, what this col- ern Minnesota as a youngster, graduate of U of M who grew fortunate to get umnist/reporter saw is indeed when his mom was assigned up in Minneapolis. into it at a really Both coaches at one time a big deal—something that we there as a local church pastor. young age.” suspect flew past many of the “To be back here, this is always were also on their old schools’ folks sitting in Williams Arena a place that meant a lot to me coaching staffs as assistants, Johnson in 2013-18, and that night. growing up as a kid.”

Becoming a head coach one Markwood and Johnson Markwood and Johnson Markwood in 2006-11. Not day also was the dream and a both have Minnesota ties. “I also traveled similar paths to counting this season, both goal for Markwood. “Always

felt that was a possibility for me and something that I worked towards. Been blessed to work with some great guys and play for some great guys that have helped my evolution and my growth through the game that has given me the opportunity.

“I wouldn’t be here if it wasn’t for the guys that I worked and played for,” admitted Markwood.

Both he and Johnson know their presence on the sideline not only shouldn’t be devalued but also provides an opportunity to do it right. “It’s on guys like me and Ben to do our job,” said Markwood. “We got to show progress and show that we’re capable of leading programs in the right way.

“Not just winning games but developing young men, so that the next guy can come up right behind us and do the same thing,” he said. “We’ve got to open up those doors. It’s a big weight on my shoulders that I want to make sure that we give guys their opportunities.”

Charles Hallman welcomes reader comments at challman@ spokesman-recorder.com.

Former Gopher returns to help players navigate NIL landscape

By Charles Hallman Sports Columnist he NIL collective-deals rumor mill is at full tilt— there are alleged bigbucks offers to college athletes in the transfer portal that are oftentimes “completely made up,” says a recent Front Office Sports (FOS) report.

An example is Ohio State receiver Marvin Harrison, Jr., who supposedly was offered around $20 million to stay in school for an extra year rather than declare for the NFL draft. At least four industry experts told FOS this figure wasn’t true.

But the report also points out that some top-tier athletes can make around seven figures “due to a combination of collective earnings and other NIL contracts,” says FOS. These misleading reports are among the many things Kiera Buford hopes to dispel in

her new job as U of M director of alumni relations/NIL. Buford, a St. Paul Central and Minnesota grad was hired in November to direct the dayto-day activities of the school’s M Club and work closely with Gopher players in “growing their brands” and navigating through the NIL universe, which seems to change every day, she explained.

ered Buford throughout her prep career at Central (200408), her four-year Gopher basketball playing career, making the all-Big Ten Freshman Team and three consecutive academic all-conference teams (2008-12), and twice leading the squad in scoring.

We noted when Buford made the short list of Blacks who played on a state high school championship team (St. Paul Central, 2007 and 2008), “A lot of my role and later won a state title as Kiera Buford as player…and diright now is head coach (Robbinsdale Coo- rector of alumni relations/NIL. helping athletes Courtesy of Minnesota Athletics per, 2018). with their brand.”

Buford played overseas professionally and then em- knew all the things like the “Sports have changed so barked on a career in educa- back of my hand. But obvimuch. Every day is a learned tion as a high school admin- ously sports is my thing, and I experience,” said Buford in a istrator in three local school wasn’t set that I wanted to be recent MSR interview. “I’ve districts since 2014. a principal right now.” liked having opportunities to “I was at the top of my proNow back at her alma mado something different” after a fession—was going for my ter working with Gophers NIL decade or so working in edu- principal’s license. What is my “czar” Senior Associate Athletnext step?” Buford asked her- ics Director Jeremiah Carter, cation, she added.

This newspaper has cov- self. “I got to a point where I Buford pointed out, “It’s funny

ole players are very important for team success, especially in college basketball. Each player on Janay Sanders the roster once was a former Photos by Charles Hallman high school starter. But, of course, only five can be start- game is so important. ers in college. Therefore, in Janay Sanders, a graduate making the adjustment from student point guard, leads Minnesota’s upperclassmen in game experience (125 games “One of the things with 87 starts). Redshirt freshI pride myself on is man forward Niamya Hollobeing adaptable.” way has played only 15 games regular playing-time to limited with zero starts thus far in her playing-time, the flow of the college career. Both players

state levels.

“It looks so different depending on what conference you’re in,” continued Buford. “We have a lot of changes happening in the Big Ten along with the addition of new teams [in 2024-25]. The market is just changing for athletes.

■ See BUFORD on page 11

All looking good: South’s Tigers, homegrown NBA player, sons of former hoops star

Gopher reserves go where and when the team needs them There are approximately 100 African American and other student-athletes of color this school year at the University of Minnesota. In an occasional series throughout the school year and sports year, the MSR will highlight many of these players.

This week: Gopher basketball players Niamya Holloway and Janay Sanders

just how things work because if you’d asked me 10 years ago, I wouldn’t have predicted that this is where I would be. It just kinda worked perfectly.”

The NIL landscape is chock full of unsuspected holes, always changing without a consistent or formal oversight either from the NCAA, federal or

his week’s column features a Minneapolis City Conference team starting strong, a former metro star making it in the NBA, and connection to a former girls basketball star.

Niamya Holloway are key reserves for this year’s Gophers.

The 5’11” Sanders came from App State (2019-23), where she started last season and led them in scoring. She began her college career at La Salle, and started 20 of 26 games there (2018-19). This is her first time this far north ■ See SOE on page 11

South off to a great start The Minneapolis South Tigers boys basketball team is off to an 8-1 start led by the senior backcourt duo of Poet Davis and Jumarion Weh. Going into a Minneapolis City Conference match-up with defending league champ Minneapolis North—played on Monday, January 8, at North— Davis was averaging 21.4 points per game, while Weh had an 18.0 per game average.

Minneapolis South guard Poet Davis (#1) during a home game against Minneapolis Roosevelt on Wednesday. January 3 Photo by Dr. Mitchell Palmer McDonald Fellow classmates Romero spectively for the Tigers.

Davis and Weh form one Walker and James Underwood were contributing 10.9 of the top backcourts in the and 10.0 points per game re■ See PREP on page 11