UpLift Chronicles_BeyondTheChair_September2023_V2.I8

THE NEW INEQUALITY

CLOSING THE DIGITAL DIVIDE FOR THOSE WITHOUT INTERNET ACCESS

The New Mexico Black Leadership Council (NMBLC) focuses on 5 areas of impact, like spokes on a wheel. They are: advocacy & civic engagement; mental, physical & financial health; leadership & workforce development; cultural vibrancy; and positive youth development. The hub of the wheel utilizes collective impact organizing strategies and a communications network infrastructure in order to effect change in the 5 areas.

Well, if people don’t even have access to the means to connect or communicate, then how are they supposed to advocate for themselves in the first place?

We’re reminding you once again that the digital divide is real. The United Nations called it the “new face of inequality” two years back. And it represents the gap between those with internet access and those without it. Later in this issue, we tell you all about the Affordable Connectivity Program (ACP). It provides discounts on internet service and devices for those who qualify.

Now, let’s get to the nitty gritty about the divide and its impacts. Two barriers blocking so many residents

from adequate access to the internet are cost and insufficient infrastructure. The FCC estimates 19 million people in the US lack high-speed access. The highest percentage of people without access in the Southwest are right here in New Mexico.

The negative consequences of the digital divide are wide-ranging, especially when it comes to healthcare. During the pandemic, telehealth became bigger than ever. But those without adequate internet access were left out, leading to delays in receiving care and negatively impacting overall health and well-being. Getting and keeping a good job is also tough without access because the remote workforce continues to grow. And students who can’t connect to resources for research and assignments are more challenged in the classroom

On August 18, the NMBLC collaborated with UNM for a Digital Equity Summit to brainstorm ways to combat the divide. The group spent the day discussing strategies to close the gap for good. And we’re prepping for Digital Inclusion Week from October 2–6. So, this will not be the last time you hear about our collective effort to assess the digital needs of residents in the International District and beyond. We’re already connected—and in time, we’re hoping we can all be online. Lastly, be sure to voice your opinion about this concern or any troubles you’re having via our readers’ survey below. We wanna hear from you!

TALKIN’ RADICAL SOLIDARITY

AFROMUNDO’S NEW FILM SERIES HAS PEOPLE CONVERSATING

“We’ve had to be kicked out of every venue, because people just wanted the conversation to continue, and it’s like, ‘sorry, it’s closing time, gotta go.’”

That’s AfroMundo executive director L. Maritza Perez on how dope the new AfroMundo social justice film series is. The dynamic conversations that everyone wants to be part of go down on third Wednesdays at the National Hispanic Cultural Center (NHCC).

AfroMundo is a local nonprofit “dedicated to fostering civic engagement, building radical solidarity, and promoting wellbeing amongst Afro-Latinx, Afro-Indigenous, Afro-Asian, and BIPOC peoples,” per their mission statement. And Perez wants everyone to become part of the conversation.

“It was amazing. [NHCC] was supportive of AfroMundo from the very beginning…because they understood the importance of the project. They understood that Latino, or Hispanic, or LatinX, it’s not a language. It’s not even a race. Afro peoples

comprise an estimated one-quarter of the population throughout the Americas. That means one in every four. But nobody thinks, when they see a Black person, ‘oh, they might possibly be Latino.’” AfroMundo, Perez explains, is about narratives. About our stories. “Based on the narratives that society accepts, that’s how decisions are made. The issue is that BIPOC and LGBTQ narratives have been minimized, and even those that existed are now being wiped from curriculums.”

The film series is currently scheduled through the end of 2024. “That’s about 18 films. And it will never be enough, but we have to start somewhere.”

September’s film will be Maestra, about volunteers in Cuba’s National Literacy Campaign. Previous films have highlighted the Black maternal mortality crisis and Native American foodways. Always, the films are followed by discussion.

“Everybody is welcome, because it takes all of us. So come join in the conversation.”

A NEW FACE IN THE PLACE NMBLC HAS A NEW LEGAL ADVOCATE FOR RENTERS’ RIGHTS

The ongoing drama between landlords and tenants across the state continues and there are very few signs of tensions easing. Albuquerque neighborhoods, including the ID, continue to see historic rent increases. In March, we told you many renters believe landlords are engaging in “unprincipled price gouging,” with rental rates rising more than 30% in two years. The average cost for a two-bedroom apartment in the Duke City can be $1,700 per month.

The housing crisis has only worsened since the Emergency Rental Assistance Program (ERAP) stopped accepting applications earlier this year.

The NMBLC is committed to making sure renters are protected and well-informed of their rights. In light of that, we’re delighted to welcome the

newest member of our team, a staff attorney who will engage the housing crisis head-on.

Jordan Velasquez is a recent University of New Mexico Law School grad who comes equipped with diverse legal experience including advocating for renters. Velasquez most recently worked as a navigator for the New Mexico Eviction Prevention and Diversion Program, where he served as a liaison between tenants and landlords. Velasquez also provided guidance to renters, assisted with rental assistance applications, and ensured landlords received payments.

We are thrilled to have yet another asset on our NMBLC staff to uplift and advocate for the community we care for. Regarding the mission of our

organization, Velasquez notes he’s a great fit, adding “I firmly believe that my legal expertise and passion for social justice will enable me to make a meaningful contribution to the Council’s endeavors.”

Jordan Velasquez

MAKING MOODS & VIBES

WE TALK HIP-HOP’S 50TH ANNIVERSARY WITH UNRIVALED LOCAL DJ FLO FADER

Hip-hop was born from the unique turntable stylings of a young DJ named Kool Herc in the Bronx on August 11, 1973. And you’ve probably heard about all the anniversary celebrations going on, countrywide. Shoot, The Pharcyde hit up the Santa Fe Railyards and Souls of Mischief played Meow Wolf just last month. DJs everywhere are getting their propers, but Burque has its fair share of artists on the 1s and 2s now, too. So, what better way to celebrate the 50th anniversary of our expansive hip-hop culture than by talking to one of our own local DJs?

Flo Fader (aka Roscoe Floyd) is one of the first names to come to mind when hiring a DJ in Albuquerque. He’s known for his bumping tracks and seamless transitions. Ever been at a dance party where you’re feeling the jam, getting into the groove, finding your chill space, and then BAM—the DJ stops the track dead to start up a new one? This will not happen with a Flo Fader set.

The man is Jersey and New York-raised and learned how to spin in that venerable chocolate city, Atlanta. As a tour DJ for the likes of Masta Ace, he performed in faraway places like Australia, Japan, UAE, Croatia, France, Holland, and Iceland. We kicked back recently and had a chat with the world-traveling turntablist.

HOW DID YOU FIRST FALL IN LOVE WITH HIP-HOP?

I fell in love with hip-hop when I saw the [1984] movie Beat Street. It’s a hip-hop movie based out of the Bronx, New York. It had all the elements of hiphop in it: DJing, rapping, graffiti, and break dancing.

WHO ARE SOME OF YOUR FAVORITE HIP-HOP ARTISTS, OLD SCHOOL AND CURRENT?

I love artists like Big Daddy Kane, Eric B. & Rakim, Salt-N-Pepa, LL Cool J, Queen Latifah, De La Soul, Kendrick Lamar, J. Cole, and Jay-Z.

HOW DID YOU GET INTO THE BUSINESS?

I started in the DJ business in ’93 but didn’t start traveling the world to DJ until ’99. I was a college radio promoter for an indie label called Seven Heads. While working, I was approached by one of the artists on the label to [be the] tour DJ for him. He goes by the name of J-Live.

WHAT DO YOU ENJOY MOST ABOUT YOUR WORK?

I enjoy making moods or vibes that will motivate a crowd to dance all night long. I get to make people forget about their troubles for 4 or more hours. It’s the best feeling ever.

DO YOU HAVE ANY UPCOMING GIGS YOU’D LIKE TO SPREAD THE WORD ABOUT?

Every third Thursday I’m in Plaza Don Luis from 4-8pm, and every first Friday at Tractor Brewing in Nob Hill from 8-11pm.

ARE THERE ANY OTHER LOCAL HIP-HOP ARTISTS YOU THINK WE SHOULD KNOW ABOUT?

Def-i, The Soothsayerz, and PH8 with the Bees and Locusts.

WHERE CAN PEOPLE FIND THE HIP-HOP SCENE IN ALBUQUERQUE?

I think the best place to go for great hip-hop would be Canvas Artistry or any venue that I’m spinning at—hahaha!

FIND DJ FLO FADER instagram.com/flofader facebook.com/djflofader soundcloud.com/dj-flo-fader

NAME-CHECKED LOCAL ARTISTS & SPOTS

Def-i The Soothsayerz

PH8 with the Bees and Locusts Canvas Artistry

HIP-HOP HITS & THANGS

Beat Street trailer

De La Soul

“Me Myself and I”

Eric B. & Rakim “Don’t Sweat The Technique”

Kendrick Lamar “Alright”

Salt-N-Pepa “Shoop”

JAY-Z

“The Story of O.J.”

LEAVES ARE FALLING, JAZZ IS CALLING

Jazz is as American as Juneteenth, Maya Angelou, and soul food. And for seventeen years, the New Mexico Jazz Festival has hosted the music and its musicians at various venues throughout Albuquerque and Santa Fe. It runs September 7–30, so get ready to chill, bebop, and swing because there’s something for everybody this year. Festival co-organizer Tom Guralnick says when it comes to selecting acts for the festival, variety is key. That’s reflected in the lineup, with musical styles ranging from blues revival and early jazz to hard bop, contemporary, and experimental. There are solo artists, quartets, and full orchestras. Some of the concerts require tickets and some are FREE, so keep reading to get hip to the facts.

WHO MADE IT HAPPEN

The Outpost Performance Space is a nonprofit, member- and community-supported performing arts center down the street from UNM. Started by executive director Tom Guralnick 35 years ago, it’s an intimate, listening-focused space for major touring jazz artists. “Every town should have this as an alternative. I call it informally respectful.” Tom collaborates with Lensic Performing Arts Center head Joel Aalberts to make the NM Jazz Festival happen.

HOW IT ALL WENT DOWN

Inspiration for founding the festival in 2006 was “to keep jazz going,” says Guralnik. The goal is to have a mix of long-time, revered musicians as well as up-and-comers. It’s “really important to be presenting African American artists [and] women artists.” The festival is held at a variety of venues, from the intimate Outpost in Burque to Santa Fe’s 800+ seat Lensic Theatre; and there are outdoor performances at the Albuquerque Museum Amphitheater and Civic Plaza.

FESTIVAL HIGHLIGHTS

The Outpost is thrilled about all the acts coming to this year’s festival. Below is a sampling of the incredible talent; and you can use the QR code below for the full schedule.

Regina Carter, Thursday, September 14, 2023, 7:30pm, Lensic in Santa Fe. Grammy-nominated violinist and National Endowment for the Arts (NEA) Jazz Master explores jazz, R&B, Latin, classical, blues, country, pop, and African music.

“There Ain’t But a Few of Us,” A Conversation with Willard Jenkins and A.B. Spellman, Friday, September 15, 2023, 5:30pm, Collected Works Bookstore in Santa Fe. Talking about the recently released book, Ain’t But a Few of Us: Black Music Writers Tell Their Story

Christian McBride, Saturday, September 16, 2023, 7:30pm, Lensic in Santa Fe. Eight-time Grammy Award-winning bassist, composer, and bandleader.

Spanish Harlem Orchestra, Sunday, September 17, 2023, 7:30pm, Lensic in Santa Fe AND Monday, September 18, 2023, 7:00pm, Albuquerque Museum. Sponsored by local jazz enthusiasts Marcus and Miriam Ray.

Blues Night featuring GA-20, Toni Morgan & Soulful Sounds, and Charlie Musselwhite, Sunday, September 24, 2023, 6:00pm, Civic Plaza in Albuquerque. FREE.

Lakecia Benjamin, Monday, September 25, 2023, 7:30pm, Outpost in Albuquerque. One of the most sought-after and revered saxophonists in the world.

Cindy Blackman Santana Band, Tuesday, September 26, 2023, 7:30pm, Outpost in Albuquerque. Made famous by 10+ years providing the grooves behind Lenny Kravitz.

SPECIAL DEAL FROM THE OUTPOST PERFORMANCE SPACE: BUY TICKETS FOR FOUR CONCERTS AT THE OUTPOST, GET THE FIFTH OUTPOST CONCERT FREE.

NM Jazz Fest schedule

The Outpost

The Lensic

Mornings”

Lakecia Benjamin and Phoenix “New

Cindy Blackman Santana on PBS NewsHour Regina Carter NPR Tiny Desk Concert video Christian McBride “Being a Boss”

Christian McBride

Cindy Blackman Santana

Spanish Harlem Orchestra

Courtesy Latin Music Cafe

Courtesy of The Outpost

Larry Hilton

NEW TO TOWN: DR. LAURI ANDRESS, UNM

Dr. Lauri Andress joined UNM this summer as Associate Dean for the College of Population Health, relocating from Birmingham, Alabama. Welcome to Albuquerque, Dr. Andress!

Newcomer Spotlight

Below is our Q&A. Note: Answers have been edited for length.

WHAT BROUGHT YOU TO ALBUQUERQUE?

The opportunity to work in a collaborative manner to support Dean Tracie Collins as she builds the UNM College of Population Health. It is a positive, natural step of progression in my career.

WHAT ARE YOU EXCITED TO BRING TO YOUR NEW POSITION?

A unique background in politics and community organizing that helped me to establish a set of tools that train health practitioners to understand that health starts with taking care of oppressed populations before they enter the healthcare system. This means we work on the non-medical determinants of health: [things like] voting rights, jobs, housing, wealth, the right to high-quality, affordable food sources, and early childhood education policies to support brain development and a high-quality life as an adult, or even higher levels of education, free from debt.

THE PANDEMIC’S OVER, RIGHT? HOW DO WE CONTINUE TO INCREASE VACCINE CONFIDENCE?

The pandemic is not over, and we should continue to be vigilant. Lack of confidence in the vaccine may be only one reason that groups did not get immunized. But we need to understand their lived experiences. Research demonstrated that inequities in our systems and institutions contributed to reasons that underrepresented groups did not get the vaccine. These inequities are related to…no transportation, inconvenient clinic locations and hours, language barriers, fear of loss of wages or employment to support the household.

WHAT ARE SOME WAYS TO INCREASE ACCESS TO CARE?

This is not the answer you want or perhaps expect. Increasing access to healthcare means we have failed, and people are sick or dying. It is more ethical and effective to work on those non-medical determinants of health so that people do not need [healthcare]…Both the law and healthcare are not positive services or practices and, in fact, the law and healthcare appear on the scene when society has sunk to a low point. Therefore, the law and healthcare are products and services that are to be consumed infrequently, for short periods of time, and in small quantities. To be subjected to poor health and illness and the need for healthcare because a group has suffered from the historical denial of resources and opportunities is one of the biggest injustices in our society. We should address societal inequities up front before poor health occurs, and this is where I choose to spend my time—focusing on non-medical determinants of health.

“To be subjected to poor health and the need for healthcare because a group has suffered from the historical denial of resources and opportunities is one of the biggest injustices in our society.”

Lauri Andress next to statue of Rosa Parks in downtown Montgomery, Alabama

NOTHING BUT NET [THE INTERNET THAT IS]

In basketball, “nothing but net” represents a stellar shot, ending with a “swish!” The NMBLC works to ensure everyone in the International District gets their best shot at success. Internet access is a critical tool, becoming even more important in our post-pandemic world. But, the cost of internet service remains a roadblock for many. The good news? There’s help available to make connectivity more affordable— or even free. The NMBLC is spreading the word about the Affordable Connectivity Program (ACP) and closing the digital divide, especially because in the ID, the US Census tract data reveals nearly 30% of residents here do not have internet at home.

BEATS, RHYMES & LIFE

We’re giving a special shout-out this issue to hip-hop music, which turned 50 last month and has brought millions of fans, friends, and families together. On August 11, 1973, in a Bronx apartment, DJ Kool Herc invented playing the breaks of popular tracks over and over again; MC’ing—rapping—wasn’t far behind. Hip-hop today is a global, cultural force. Last year, hip-hop’s music revenue was almost $3 billion in America alone. From music to fashion to movies, the industry’s profile stays consistently high. Hip-hop has caught criticism over the years but early rap hits were often biographical and sociological, mirroring the systemic stressors in America’s Black neighborhoods. More recently, rap’s shown some inclusivity with performers like Lil Nas X, Frank Ocean, Snow Tha Product, Angel Haze, and others identifying as gay or nonbinary. And although only an estimated 12% of rappers are women, their numbers are growing.

The Substance Abuse and Mental Health Administration (SAMHSA) calls digital access a super-determinant of health. That means that lacking digital access creates obstacles to healthcare, education, and employment. Internet access has become a necessity.

Anyone who meets eligibility requirements for the ACP will receive a $30/month discount off their internet bill. If anyone in your household uses SNAP, Medicaid, WIC, Lifeline (“Obama-phone”) or other qualifying federal programs, you’d be eligible. Another “greenlight” for ACP eligibility is if a child living at home receives free or reduced-price lunch in school.

Raising awareness and assisting residents in the ACP application process is part of NMBLC’s goal to increase community resilience. A resilient community can identify problems, establish priorities, and make changes to improve life for individuals and the entire community.

In future issues, our website, and social media, we’ll keep reminding you

CELEBRATING HIP-HOP’S 50 ANNIVERSARY BRINGS PEOPLE TOGETHER

Hip-hop’s anniversary is being celebrated across platforms; Legends Recordings’ series of events, collaborations, and fundraising has “the intention to uplift, heal, and invest in the communities that created our beloved culture.” This past February, the Grammy Awards featured an all-star tribute including Missy Elliott, LL Cool J, Method Man, SaltN-Pepa, and Future. And a few weeks ago Yankee Stadium hosted luminaries like Run-D.M.C., Nas, Lil’ Kim, Snoop, Remy Ma, Lil Wayne, and Lauryn Hill among many others, rockin’ ‘til 2 in the morning.

Hip-hop culture is Black culture and Black culture is American culture. It’s a force that draws people together. Legendary rapper Ice-T encourages everyone, “Let’s make the 50th anniversary of hiphop a time to engage. Look to the future, support, effect change!” Check out the QRs to the right for more info and events!

to apply to the ACP and other means to bridge the digital divide. We’re also preparing for Digital Inclusion Week from October 2-6. So, stay tuned for details on special events we’re planning to ensure everyone has the digital tools they need to succeed.

Evolution Yankee Stadium Celebration

MAKE IT HAPPEN

NO MATTER THE OBSTACLES, JESSIE CUPPS WAS DETERMINED TO OPEN HER OWN SALON

Jessie Cupps’s Me Day Beauty Salon had a rocky start, even by her say-so. “I opened up during the pandemic… when they had the real strict rules. It was actually really difficult. It was harder than I thought it was gonna be, but I was just so excited to open that I was like, I’m gonna make it work. It’s gonna happen.” Truth be told, it had already been an uphill battle for Cupps before that.

See, a few years prior, Cupps was doing nails, her specialty, straight out of an Albuquerque cosmetology school, but left her first pro gig because she was being treated poorly. Then, a past client approached her about starting her own salon. “Mind you, I’d never been in business before.” Her new partner and his wife knew the business side, so she thought it would be a good match. But soon enough, she was treated more like an employee than an equal. “And then come to find out, they were steady spending money, so they weren’t able to pay people, and it got really bad.” What’s worse, when the lockdown happened, the partners literally locked Cupps and her coworkers out of the shop they shared. After some tension, Cupps and the other staffers entered the shop and everything in it was cleared out and their things were packed in boxes. “I left there mad. I was crying. I had called a friend of mine and they were like, You know what? I’ve been told you when you were ready to start your salon, let me know. I’ll invest.” The generous friend gave Cupps $10,000 and that’s how she started her own salon. Two hair stylists from the prior situation joined her.

Before Albuquerque, Cupps was a military brat, whose mother was in the Navy, so they moved around. She was born in Virginia and raised in Kansas. In 2010, she “needed to get away from Kansas. There wasn’t anything going on for me and I had a friend that lived out here.” She moved just after the new year— and then partied for two years. After that, “I decided it’s probably time to grow up.”

Cupps keeps it realistic about her current status; she recently downsized to a smaller space on Menaul near Uptown. She also

speaks plainly about the state of her industry right now. “I feel like a lot of the Black-owned salons don’t get support,” even from our own. “It’s like we’re fighting a never-ending battle trying to get people to support us.” Cupps has spent time doing community service with a friend, “and it’s even hard to get people to support that sometimes.”

She’s not discouraged, though. If anything, she’s focusing on her own business even more. “I really just want to get more clientele. I want the place to be able to do well to the point that I’m not feeling like I’m struggling to make it stay afloat. So, my goal is to put what I can into making it successful, you know?”