New York Trend NYC: November 9-15, 2017

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HONORED WITHOf Enforcing LIFETIME ANTI-DISCRIMINATION ACHIEVEMENT AWARDS LAW NYC Files Brief In Support

York and a former chancellor of the The Black Stars News 2015 Annual The Law also protects individuals New York City, Los Angeles, and "In New York City, refusing to serve a critically important interest in Awards Dinner will honor Mayor New York public schools system. against bias-based profiling by law Santa Clara County, together with individuals because of their sexual the enforcement of state and local David Dinkins, Rep. Charles Pioneering Stephen enforcement and producers discriminatory a coalition of over 65 additional orientation is a clear violation of non-discrimination laws to ensure Rangel, Rep. Yvette Clarke, Byrd and Alia Jones, through their harassment. and the United States Conference the NYC Human Rights Law, one that all citizens are treated fairly R. Donahue Peebles, Barbara company Front Row Production, of Mayors, filed an amicus brief of the most robust civil rights laws and equally. Discrimination against The NYC Commission on Human Arnwine, Inez Barron, Sabrina brought “Cat on a Hot Tin Roof” urging the United States Supreme in the nation," said Chair and LGBTQ Americans has wide-ranging Rights, which enforces the Law, Lamb, Dr. Rudy Crew, Stephen and “A Streetcar Named Desire” Court to deny a Colorado baker's Commissioner of the NYC Human affects on the health and well-beings has significantly increased its Byrd, Alia Jones, and the Central with a multi-ethnic cast to claim that the First Amendment Rights Commission, Carmelyn of the targeted individuals, and their enforcement efforts to address Park Five survivors of gross injustice Broadway. In 2016 they bring entitles him to turn away customers P. Malalis. "Anti-discrimination communities at large, which is why discrimination based on sexual on December 18 from 6:00pm – “Eclipsed” with Oscar Winner based on their sexual orientation laws exist to protect everyone from these jurisdictions have enacted a orientation and gender identity, 10:00pm at MIST Harlem, 46 West Lupita Nyong ’O to Broadway. in Masterpiece Cakeshop, Ltd. v. more than doubling the number of 116th Street.

Colorado Civil Rights Commission.

Honorees, the so-called Central investigations into discrimination “Each honoree for The brief argues that chosen regardless Park 5, are collectively and in these areas over the last two has demonstrated of the recognition baker's religious beliefs or individually heroes.

They are years with 80 new investigations exceptional leadership andnot vision in personal convictions, he should survivors of one of the ugliest in 2016, up from just 31 in 2014.

David Dinkins Charles Rangel her orfrom his respective profession or be exempt violating Colorado's miscarriage has of justice in New York’s The Commission the authority endeavor andlaws. in some significant anti-discrimination history; having been railroaded majority. She now leads The was a member of the New York to fine violators with civil penalties measure towards "Regardless of has theircontributed gender identity and unjustly convicted Transformative Justice Coalition. of up to City Council, representing the $250,000 for willful for anda crime creating a more all justAmericans society in this or sexual orientation, th they did not commit and for which Arnwine was for 26 years executivemalicious violations of the Law and 40 council district in Brooklyn, country,” says Black Starand News deserve the right to live freely they served long prison sentences director of the Lawyers’ Committee succeeding her mother, Una S. can award compensatory damages founder and publisher with dignity.

New York City has Milton ranging from seven years to 13 years for Civil Rights Under the Law. to victims, T. Clarke. In the current 114th including emotional Allimadi.

“Obviously long been a leader in the fightmuch for work before being exonerated when the Congress Clarke serves on Inez Barron, honoree, formerly adistress damages and other needs here and equality, and to webe aredone proud to stand actual rapist confessed.

They are: the Energy and Commerce State Assembly member, is nowbenefits. The Commission can also around the world.” with LGBTQ Americans across Yusef Abdus Salaam; Raymond Committee, responsible for a New York City council memberorder trainings on the NYC Human the country in this fight against with a The gala starts at 6:00pm Santana Jr., Antron McCray, Kevin consumer protection, food and a champion of education for Rights Law, changes to policies, discrimination," saidtoMayor Bill deby the cocktail hour be followed Richardson, andrelief Kharey safety, energy development, public and restorative justice suchWise. as our youth.

BELIEVE THAT ALLOWING DISCRIMINATION TO CONTINUE UNDER Blasio.dinner and awards ceremonies. There"WEhealth, communications, the community service and mediated The Black Star News, which focuses OF RELIGIOUS EXEMPTION ALLOWS FOR THE FURTHER Imhotep Gary Byrd is apologies. For more information on will be musical entertainment environment, and interstate and ONLYHonoree New York City Corporation Counselby THE GUISE on investigative journalism, has a legendary RHETORIC.” radio talk show host the NYC Human Rights Law, visit ACCEPTANCE OF HATEFUL AND DISCRIMINATORY opera singer Cassandra international commerce.

Zachary W. Carter said: "Our Douglas been featured as a result of some if executive producer, radio DJ, www.nyc.gov/humanrights. andhas from harmonica phenomenon coalition been on the forefront - Beverly Tillery, honoree, ExecutiveisDirectorand of NYC Anti-Violence Project its news scoops, on CNN, The New R. Donahue Peebles, poet, songwriter, music recording Williampeople Galison.

David of protecting from the Dinkins is York Daily News,toThe a leading developer and founder of New York City continues leadNew the York artist and producer, rapper, writer honored for of Lifetime Achievement significant harms discrimination Post, The Village Voice, and Brill’s The Peebles Co., the nation’s largest discrimination and bias, including series of local anti-discrimination nation in protecting LGBTQ rights. and community activist. He began — he that was everyone—whatever New York City’s first by insisting Content magazine.

African American-owned real laws. Therefore, those with deeply held religious recognizing a First Last month, the City launched the his career as a radio DJ in Buffalo African American their beliefs and howevermayor they and alsobeliefs. estate firm with $3.5fights billion worthAmendment The Commission to engage Project – the City's Past Black Star News honorees at age right 15. For over 30inyears, he’s NYC Unity welcomed Nelson Mandela to the conduct their private affairs—treat of properties under development discrimination every day to protect individuals would enshrine into first-ever, multi-agency strategy to It have included: Gil Noble (Like been a talk show host at WBLS and city after his release in 1990. one another equally in employment, or management —bias he was from discrimination and andone our laws a second class status for deliver unique services to LGBTQ Is), Rep. Maxine Waters, Soledad WLIB radio in New York City. He housing, public accommodations, Rep. Charles Rangel, also honored pioneering developerswho works of to the educate New Yorkers about LGBTQalso Americans, and undercut youth, O’Brien including trainings and Cosby, (CNN), Ms. Camille has a Friday night radio talk and other areas of Achievement, public life. In has the City's for Lifetime helped turn communities around and revitalize local jurisdictions diverse ability to ensure certification for more than 500 Theatre), Voza Rivers (New Heritage show on WBAI. this brief we argue that granting served in Congress since 1971. He is once-blighted so thatthe everyone has theAnacostia same equal treatment for all citizens.

HealthErrol + Hospitals physicians, new Louis (NY1 News), Amel petitioners an exemption from the Honoree Sabrina Lamb, founderdrop-in centers for LGBTQ youth, a recipient of The Bronze medal for neighborhood in Washington, opportunities and access to goods D.C. Larrieux (Entertainer), Dr. William New York City is of home to oneis of the Colorado Anti-Discrimination Actenemyand services. of World Money, a champion helping save soldiers behind A champion of African-American We look forward to as wellPollard as a public awareness (Medgar Evers College), strongest anti-discrimination laws in is contrary to Firstthe Amendment of financial literacy for youth-- she campaign centered on LGBTQ line during Korean War. economic empowerment Peebles’ is continuing our work with the City's Herm Edwards (NY Jets), Nayaba the country, the NYC Human Rights jurisprudence, significantly contemplating a possible run for NYC teaches knowledge about handlingyouth and Law Department to bring greater their families. Also this La-Verna Rep. Yvette Clarke is a Democratic Arinde (Amsterdam News), Law, which protects individuals impairs the ability of amici cities money, budgeting and planning. year, the de Blasio administration mayor in 2017. attention to cases like this and member of the US House of Fountain (Columbia University), living, working, and visiting New York to prevent discrimination in public empower victimsBarbara of discrimination New York City's first-ever Dr. discrimination Rudy Crew, honoree, isinone ofpublished Representatives from New Lillian Roberts (DC37), Desiree Dancy Honoree Arnwine, civil City from and bias accommodations, and would to seek help."

LGBTQ Healthcare Bill of Rights the nation’s leading educators.

He’s York whose 9th district covers (New York Times), Greg Floyd (Local rights lawyer, is a champion of 22 protected categories, including sanction discriminatory exclusion as which 237), affirms LGBTQ individuals much of central Brooklyn. Before The brief Rev. Al Sharpton (National president of Medgar Evers College protecting voting rights of ethnic argues that New York sexual orientation, race, religion, a constitutional norm." to medical care entering Congress in 2007, she City and Action Network), andwithout many others.

The City University minority groups — the emerging other municipalities have genderofand immigration status.of New legal right discrimination or bias.

INSIDE T HIS ISSUE: IS SUE : INSIDE THIS

PAGE 2 Education FLY BLUE!pg.5

PAGE 2 FIRST WOMAN DEAN NewYorkTrendnyc

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BluePage Sky EPIC pg.8LIKE YUH! 7 BAD

PAGE 6 SMITHSONIAN KICKSTARTER

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Page 11 NYC NEW YEARS!

PAGE 11 YONKERS ART EXHIBIT

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EDUCAT ION

HOWARD UNIVERSITY TO INSTALL FIRST WOMAN DEAN OF DIVINITY SCHOOL

The installation of Dr. Yolanda Pierce as the sixteenth dean and first woman to hold the position is a watershed moment in the life of Howard University and Howard University School of Divinity.

Dr. Yolanda Pierce will be installed next month as dean of Howard University’s School of Divinity, the first woman to hold the position. The installation service will take place on Thursday, Nov. 9, at 11 a.m., in Dunbarton Chapel in Houston Hall on the West Campus.

"We are excited to have Dr. Pierce installed as the 16th dean and first woman to serve as the dean of the School of Divinity,” said Provost Anthony Wutoh. “We look forward to the working together to further the legacy of the Divinity program."

Before her appointment to professor and dean at Howard, Dr. Pierce was the Elmer G. Homrighausen Associate Professor of African American Religion

and Literature and the director of the Black Church Studies Program at Princeton Theological Seminary and director of the Center for the Study of African American Religious Life, Smithsonian National Museum of African American History and Culture.

The speaker for the installation service is author and political commentator Dr. Melissa Harris-Perry, the Maya Angelou Presidential Chair, executive director of the Pro Humanitate Institute and founding director of the Anna Julia Cooper Center at Wake Forest University.

“The installation of Dr. Yolanda Pierce as the sixteenth dean and first woman to hold the position is a watershed

moment in the life of Howard University and Howard University School of Divinity”, said Renee K. Harrison, Ph.D., associate professor of African American and U.S. Religious History.

“Dr. Pierce’s leadership, scholarship, and religious commitments are emblematic of those clouds of women witnesses, often hidden or overlooked, that trail-blazed, sacrificed, and contributed to the life of the Academy, Church, and human communities from American slavery to present. Dr. Pierce's presence arches us closer toward the mark of honoring women in leadership and also becoming more intentional about women serving in significant decision-making positions in the Academy and Church in the 21st century. We have been gifted with the leadership of an innovative woman activist-scholar of faith and excellence forging us, in truth and service, into the millennium in light of the current and impending socio-political and economic climates.” Pierce holds a Ph.D. and two M.A. degrees from Cornell University and a B.A. degree from Princeton University. Her research specialties include African American Religious History, Womanist Theology, African American Literature, and Race and Religion.

Pierce is an ordained Christian minister, dedicated mentor, community activist, board member of a foster care agency and cable news commentator.

She maintains a public intellectual presence through her blogs, frequent appearances on television and radio and writings for magazines and newspapers.

Believing that teaching and scholarship are meaningful only if they truly enhance people’s daily lives, she works tirelessly to bridge the gaps between pulpit, pew and academy. A native New Yorker, Pierce was raised in the Church of God in Christ and still maintains a close connection to her Pentecostal roots. “With fervent expectation and deep gratitude in the sesquicentennial year of Howard University, we welcome the installation of Dr. Yolanda Pierce...” said Cheryl J. Sanders Ph.D., professor of Christian Ethics. “Her commitment to social justice advocacy and visionary theological education streams significantly from the contributions of the 15 deans who preceded her. Dr. Pierce is embracing this new leadership challenge at Howard with tremendous energy, vision and visibility. Her installation is a landmark celebration and a noteworthy milestone for the future of theological education in the United States and beyond.”

Howard University was established on March 2, 1867, by an act of the 70th Congress. The act provided for the creation of a theological department.

In 1870 a new academic unit for theological education was established.

The Association of Theological Schools accredited the unit in 1940, and in 1971, it became a member of the Washington Theological Consortium.

Today, the School of Divinity is one of the 13 schools and colleges within Howard University and is the only African-American theological school connected to an institution of higher research activity.

YOU CAN’T TAKE YOUR EYES OFF GAS SAFETY FOR ONE SECOND.

Gas safety starts at home. So make sure your burners are turned off when you’re not using them. Always store combustible items far away from those appliances. Don’t step, sit, lean or place any objects on gas pipes or equipment.

And, if you do smell gas (think: rotten eggs), leave the area immediately and then call 911 or 1-800-75-CONED (1-800-752-6633). If you like, you can even report it anonymously. Gas safety involves everyone. To do your part, read all our tips at conEd.com/GasSafety.

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November 9 - November 15, 2017

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NE WS HealthFREE.org To Aid Victims of HurricanE

Hurting? Dealing with grief?

HealthFREE.org is ready to provide relief! Offering hope through an unprecedented humanitarian effort that provides help and healing, HealthFREE. org is here to help those in need when disaster strikes.

We all know that millions have been affected by the devastation that Hurricane Irma and Hurricane Maria have caused. These disastrous storms have left many without shelter, food, and water and tragically, many precious lives have been lost.

Well, help is on the way! HealthFREE. org has a charge to save those that have survived. People in the Florida Keys, Puerto Rico, and other islands in the Caribbean require much needed relief since the overwhelming destruction of Hurricanes Irma and Maria. As you can imagine, many of these survivors are in dire need of medical assistance, as well. “We are committed to making a difference in the lives of those affected by the devastation of natural and human health disasters,” said David Aelion, Esq. CEO/Founder of CitiMED and HealthFREE.org. “We need the help of the entire community so that we can help bring the strong and brave survivors back to health mentally, physically, and spiritually.”

Established in 2016, HealthFREE.

org operates as a humanitarian effort through CitiMED, founding sponsor, and a premier provider of traumatic injury rehabilitation services. HealthFREE. org provides urgent care to medically underserved communities during crisis and natural disasters. Through HealthFREE.org’s mobile urgent care unit, the HealthFREE team provides critical medical supplies and healthcare assistance to patients AT NO COST. CitiMED volunteer health professionals are advanced registered nurse practitioners and physical therapists who are able to treat patients for a wide range of medical needs.

Taking to the streets to provide real hope and help, the team is currently operating throughout South Florida as a mobile urgent care to provide medical care for residents of Puerto Rico and the Caribbean Islands. CitiMED physicians have helped patients with respiratory, hydration, sutures and even life-threatening injuries. “We are aware that there are many good-hearted people donating food and clothing, but there is very little assistance with on-site doctors in these disaster zones,” shared Mr. Aelion. “CitiMED’s team is comprised of Nurse Practitioners with extensive ER experience and a qualified and competent medical team. Our new Mobile Urgent Care is equipped with X-Ray and MRI machines and additional supplies to handle most urgent care

FORMER NFL PLAYER Exposes Efforts

to Sideline Brain Injuries

In 2015, Chris Borland retired from the San Francisco 49ers after his rookie season, walking away from a promising career in football because he believed the National Football League wasn’t being honest about the risks of catastrophic brain damage to players. Now, Borland is working with the Union of Concerned Scientists (UCS) to raise awareness of how powerful interests, including the NFL, attack science for their own gain.

In a new public service announcement that will begin airing this week, Borland discusses his decision to leave the NFL. Chronic traumatic encephalopathy (CTE), a degenerative brain condition caused by repeated head injuries, is a risk for football players, but the NFL spent years working to downplay and discredit research on the condition, putting a generation of players at risk. “The NFL has been trying to sow doubt about the science behind brain injuries, which for me is especially sad when you think about the fact that there are 5-yearold kids out there playing tackle football,” said Borland. “The costs are high, and the NFL has made a lot of money while passing those costs on to the players, their families and their communities. We need to stop this from continuing—in football and in other industries—by standing up for science.”

The NFL is just one of the industries that UCS is featuring in the Disinformation Playbook, a new website exposing the ways that some companies and trade associations sideline science. The tactics that the NFL uses to attack the facts about concussions and CTE are similar to campaigns by the

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injuries.”

“We are committed to making a

difference in the lives of those affected by the devastation of natural and human health disasters.”

- David Aelion, Esq.

CEO/Founder of CitiMED/ HealthFREE.org.

HealthFREE.org’s humanitarian effort has been very successful in its infancy stages. In just one week of this effort, Mr. Aelion shared that HealthFREE. org has saved several lives including the life of a 7-year old that required urgent medical assistance. To date, over $500,000.00 has been spent on providing medical relief to residents of the Florida Keys, Puerto Rico and the Caribbean. HealthFREE.org’s goal is to raise $1.8 million to continue helping those in need of medical relief.

During natural disasters and crisis, HealthFREE.org’s medical professionals are prepared to treat Dehydration, Heat Exhaustion, Allergic Reactions, Lacerations, Puncture wounds, Anxiety/Stress, Abrasions,

Abscess Incision and Drainage, Asthma, Upper Respiratory Infections (viral and bacterial), Common Cold and Flu, Sore Throat (strep and pharyngitis), Fever, Dermatitis/Rashes, Nausea/Vomiting/ Diarrhea, Sprains and Strains, Simple Bone Fractures, Urinary Tract Infections, Pregnancy Tests, and Conjunctivitis (viral and bacterial). We provide quality EMT services and state of the art satellite communications.

HealthFREE.org is currently seeking donations to continue aiding victims of Hurricanes Irma and Maria.

Communities devastated by Hurricanes Irma and Maria need your help now more than ever. Sharing is caring. It takes one person to make a difference – this is a fact. But, thousands of people working together can make a major heartfelt impact! Donate today! Help is on the way!!!

DONATE NOW at: https://www.healthfree.org Any amount will be appreciated!!

Please like the Facebook page at: https://www.facebook.com/ HealthFree.org/

OBAMA: An Intimate Portrait

by Pete Souza

tobacco industry, fossil fuel companies, and manufacturers of sugary sodas to attempt to downplay the harms of their products.

“We’ve seen this playbook deployed again and again,” said Genna Reed, Science and Policy Analyst at UCS. “When science is pushed to the sidelines, it poses a real threat to our health and safety. We need to recognize and expose these tactics to make sure everyone can benefit from independent science.”

In addition to the video PSA, Chris Borland also talked about his experiences leaving the NFL on UCS’s Got Science? podcast, and will present at the Powering Precision Health Summit on October 24 and 25 in Cambridge, Massachusetts.

The Union of Concerned Scientists puts rigorous, independent science to work to solve our planet’s most pressing problems.

Joining with people across the country, we combine technical analysis and effective advocacy to create innovative, practical solutions for a healthy, safe and sustainable future. For more information, go to www.ucsusa.org.

When: Monday, November 20, 2017, 7–8:30pm Details: Former White House photographer,

Pete Souza has collected more than three hundred of his most iconic photographs into a comprehensive visual chronicle of the Obama presidency. These photographs, some of which have never been published, document the most momentous hours of Mr. Obama's terms in office—including historic images of President Obama and his advisors, moments with his family, encounters with children, as well as dealings with international leaders and cultural

November 9 - November 15, 2017

figures. Copies of the book will be available for sale and signing courtesy of Smithsonian Enterprises Venue: African American History and Culture Museum Event Location: Heritage Hall Cost: Free, registration required Tickets: http://www.etix.com/ ticket/p/7347411/obamaan-intimateportrait-by-pete-souza-washington-nationalmuseum-of-african-american-history-culturepublic-programs

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BUSINE S S

FOUNDATION To Host Construction Vendor Fair

The Carrie Meek Foundation, Foundry Commercial and several partners will host the Carrie Meek International Business Park – Construction Vendor & Labor Opportunity Fair on Thursday, November 16, 2017. The event takes place from 2 – 5 p.m. at Sherbondy Village Community Center, located at 215 N. Perviz Avenue in Opa-locka, Florida.

Admission is FREE, but registration is required.

“This is a great opportunity for the community and those with business

expertise to be a part of the plans for the Carrie Meek International Business Park,” said Tony Crapp, Sr., Executive Director of the Carrie Meek Foundation.

“We invite everyone to join us to learn more about the project and find out how you can become engaged and actively a part of its success.”

During the fair, attendees will hear about the project first hand from the prime contractor and several subcontractors working to build and develop the International Business

Park. Participants will learn about the three phases of the project that are underway and hear from partners. This event is essential for businesses with the following expertise: Asphalt, Building Maintenance, Hand Rails, Concrete Landscaping, Curb & Gutter, Electrical, Fencing, Irrigation, Painting, Plumbing, Sidewalks, Signage, and Underground Utilities, Skilled Laborers, and much more. Individuals desired on the project include skilled laborers, local businesses and vendors, and local subcontracting.

There will also be opportunities available for unskilled laborers as well. Applicants attending the fair should bring copies of their resumes, business cards, certificates and any construction and trade licenses.

“This is a great opportunity for the community and those with business expertise to be a part of the plans…”

- Tony Crapp, Sr.

Executive Director of the Carrie Meek Foundation

The Carrie Meek Foundation is a 501(c)3 charitable organization that sponsors and promotes programs in Education, Housing, Health, and Economic Development and is committed

to improving the quality of life for all residents of our community. The Carrie Meek Foundation sustains U.S. Congresswoman Meek’s work through grantmaking, civic engagement, and community development. The Carrie Meek Foundation is the legacy in action of one of the most visionary and productive public servants in U.S. history. Throughout her educational career and her distinguished tenure in state and federal office, Carrie P. Meek has staunchly advocated equity and opportunity for poor and disenfranchised people. Committed to taking bold, transformative steps, Congresswoman Meek has worked tirelessly to improve the quality of life and create opportunities for all, especially the young, minorities, and the disadvantaged. Her belief that safe, decent, affordable housing should be accessible even to the most economically vulnerable populations is manifest in the thousands of affordable rental housing units constructed through her efforts in the Florida legislature.

For more information and to register for the Carrie Meek International Business Park – Construction Vendor & Labor Opportunity Fair, contact Sonshine Communications at (305) 948-8063.

N UL P RE S IDE NT Appoi nt ed To Adv i s ory Committee on D iversity disproportionately affect marginalized

The National Urban League announced President and CEO Marc H. Morial's appointment by Federal Communications Commission (FCC) Chairman Ajit Pai to serve on the FCC's Advisory Committee on Diversity and Digital Empowerment, which has been established to provide recommendations on how to empower disadvantaged communities. Morial said, "I am pleased to have been selected by Chairman Pai to be a member of this important body. Millions of Americans are trapped in the digital divide. Most of whom live in rural areas, are low-income or only have access to the Internet via their mobile phones, which has its limitations. This Advisory Committee will counsel the FCC in addressing the kinds of communications issues that

communities to help bring tens of millions of Americans online and further diversity in the industry."

The Advisory Committee on Diversity and Digital Empowerment (ACDDE) will also work to accelerate the entry of small businesses, including those owned by women and minorities, into the media, digital news and information, and audio and video programming industries as owners, suppliers, and employees. In addition, they will make recommendations on how to ensure that disadvantaged communities are not denied the wide range of opportunities made possible by next-generation networks.

Julia Johnson, president of NetCommunications and board member

of the National Urban League, will Chair the committee.

ACDDE will hold its first meeting on September 25, 2017.

"I am pleased to have been selected by Chairman Pai to be a member of this important body."

-Marc H. Morial

Owner/Publisher Executive Editor Editor-In-Chief Dr. Teresa Taylor Williams

Online Editorial Director Rachel Breton Hamlett

NewYorkTrendNYC Catalogued and displayed in the U.S. Library Congress.

Art Director Jessica R. Doughty

New York Trend welcomes letters to the editor.

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Emeritus Office & Subscription Manager Sophie Taylor

International Correspondent Ann Brown

Social Media Zoie A. Williams

Travel Editor Jim Weaver

Writers Ezra Mechaber Deardra Shuler Jim Weaver Anastasia Williams Justin Williams Teresa Williams

Contributing Editor Justin Williams Circulation Manager Robert L. Taylor

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ENTER TAINMENT

SMITHSONIAN Launches “Anthology of Hip-Hop and Rap”

The Smithsonian has launched a 30-day Kickstarter campaign today for the Smithsonian Anthology of Hip-Hop and Rap, a powerful cultural statement told through an unequaled combination of music, text and stunning visuals. The compilation, to be produced and released by Smithsonian Folkways Recordings, includes nine CDs, more than 120 tracks and a 300page book with extensive liner notes, essays by artists and scholars, and never-before-published photographs from the National Museum of African American History and Culture’s collection.

created new traditions and furthered musical and cultural traditions of the African diaspora. “We have always been passionately committed to documenting and celebrating music with strong social impact,” said Huib Schippers, director and curator of Smithsonian Folkways Recordings.

“Hip-hop began in the 1970s as a distinctly African American urban culture that has since become a global phenomenon. This box set is a perfect addition to our catalog.”

Among its 4,000 albums, Smithsonian Folkways Recordings has released two landmark anthologies capturing the history

cost. They will also receive unique rewards only available through the Kickstarter campaign, including a set of hip-hop trading cards and an exclusive, digital-only remix by 9th Wonder, drawn from the Folkways archives. Other rewards, detailed on the project page, include a tour of the National Museum of African American History and Culture led by a curator and Questlove of The Roots; a limited-edition print of the album artwork for Public Enemy’s landmark Fear of a Black Planet by artist B.E. Johnson; and a one-ofa-kind pair of Adidas, transformed into a work of art by Cey Adams.

preservation, production and dissemination of sound. Its mission is the legacy of Moses Asch, who founded Folkways Records in 1948 to document “people’s music” from around the world. For more information about Smithsonian Folkways Recordings, visit folkways. si.edu.  ABOUT THE NATIONAL MUSEUM OF AFRICAN AMERICAN HISTORY AND CULTURE The National Museum of African American History and Culture opened Sept. 24, 2016, on the National Mall in Washington, D.C. Occupying a prominent location next

MC Lyte, Chuck D are among celebrities teaming with Smithsonian for the Hip-Hop and Rap Anthology.

This campaign allows dedicated fans the chance to be a part of the community that helps bring this landmark project to life—and into their homes. “The Kickstarter campaign to produce a hip-hop and rap anthology is one of the most important projects on contemporary history that the Smithsonian will ever undertake, because it shows that Smithsonian’s work is as much about today and tomorrow as it is about yesterday,” said Lonnie G. Bunch III, founding director of the National Museum of African American History and Culture.

“Hip-hop is a musical revolution that embodies the voice of an entire generation and that’s why it’s important for the museum to partner with the hip-hop community and Folkways Recordings to tell this story. Hip-hop helps us to understand the power of black music and the impact of African American culture on the world.”

The Smithsonian Anthology of Hip-Hop and Rap will be the first collection to include music from every major label and dozens of independent label recordings. The anthology explores important issues and themes in hip-hop history, and it provides a unique window into the many ways hip-hop has

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and defining an era of music, The Anthology of American Folk Music (1952) and Jazz: The Smithsonian Anthology (2011). “The story of hip-hop is one of great triumph and evolution, and it represents the very best of black music tradition,” said Chuck D, who played a prominent role in the executive committee, which also included MC Lyte, Questlove of The Roots and 9th Wonder; industry veterans Bill Adler and Bill Stephney; author Jeff Chang; and university scholars Adam Bradley (University of Colorado, Boulder), Cheryl Keyes (UCLA) and Mark Anthony Neal (Duke University). To assemble the anthology, this committee reached out to more than 50 artists, scholars, DJs, photographers, filmmakers and industry insiders for their input into the track list and final package. The project was coordinated by Schippers and Dwandalyn Reece, curator for music and performing arts at the National Museum of African American History and Culture.  KICKSTARTER CAMPAIGN Backers of Kickstarter, the world’s largest crowdfunding platform for creative projects, will have the chance to get the anthology before it arrives in stores and at production

Adams, a renowned visual artist and founding creative director of Def Jam, designed the anthology.

The Kickstarter campaign will run through Nov. 15. Its goal is $250,000. All funds raised through the Kickstarter campaign will go toward the costs of producing the anthology. A video describing the campaign is available on the Kickstarter project page, featuring Chuck D of seminal hip-hop group Public Enemy, and MC Lyte, the first female MC ever to release a full-length hip-hop album. Hip-hop lovers have 30 days to help make #HipHopHistory and ensure they are among the first to get a copy of the box set and other rewards.  ABOUT SMITHSONIAN FOLKWAYS RECORDINGS Going into its 70th year, Smithsonian Folkways Recordings, the “National Museum of Sound,” makes available close to 60,000 tracks in physical and digital format as the nonprofit record label of the Smithsonian, with a reach of 80 million people per year. A division of the Smithsonian Center for Folklife and Cultural Heritage, the non-profit label is dedicated to supporting cultural diversity and increased understanding among people through the documentation,

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to the Washington Monument, the nearly 400,000-square-foot museum is the nation’s largest and most comprehensive cultural destination devoted exclusively to exploring, documenting and showcasing the African American story and its impact on American and world history. For more information about the museum, visit nmaahc. si.edu, follow @NMAAHC on Twitter, Facebook, Instagram and Snapchat— or call Smithsonian information at 202-633-1000.  ABOUT KICKSTARTER Kickstarter, a crowdfunding platform, has enabled the funding of more than 132,000 projects with the support of more than 13 million backers pledging over $3.3 billion since it began in 2009. It adheres to an all-or-nothing method: If the project succeeds in reaching its funding goal, all backers’ credit cards are charged when the campaign ends. If the project falls short, no one is charged and the anthology will not be produced. To date, the Smithsonian has raised more than $1 million from nearly 16,000 backers in two campaigns, for the conservation of Neil Armstrong’s Apollo 11 spacesuit and Dorothy’s Ruby Slippers from The Wizard of Oz.

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ENTER TAINMENT

NEW SEASON OF “ WELCOME TO SWEETIE PIE’S” RETURNS ON OWN

OWN’s long-running, NAACP Image Award-winning docu-series “Welcome to Sweetie Pie’s” featuring soul food entrepreneur Miss Robbie Montgomery her son Tim Norman and their exuberant family returns to OWN: Oprah Winfrey Network on Saturday, November 25 at 9 p.m. ET/PT for its fifth season. Produced by Craig Piligian’s Pilgrim Media Group, the series follows the fun-loving, musical Montgomery family through their highs and lows as they work to expand their soul food empire.

On an all-new season full of equal parts family fun and jaw-dropping drama, Miss Robbie and Tim attempt to mend their mother/ son relationship by dividing the family business. Tim heads to Houston to rebound by opening up a new, full-service restaurant, while continuing his relationship with reality star Jennifer Williams – who puts on the pressure to get engaged. Charles and Chloe leave Los Angeles and strap on their cowboy boots to follow Tim to the Lone Star State, while he

also brings Monique down from St. Louis to manage the bar and live entertainment.

Just as the Houston restaurant seems to find its groove, Hurricane Harvey hits, shutting its doors and scattering this work family across the country. Not to be outdone, Miss Robbie thinks she’s keeping it simple by pursuing her dream of owning a classic burger joint while continuing to run Upper Crust, perform for her fans and spend time with her growing grandson, TJ. But as her 77th birthday approaches, the Montgomery family’s matriarch contemplates her legacy as she seriously considers retirement.

and creative instincts inform the brand – and the magnetism of the channel. Winfrey provides leadership in original scripted and unscripted programming and attracts superstar talent to join her in primetime, building a global community of likeminded viewers and leading that community to connect on social media and beyond. OWN is a singular destination on cable.

Depth with edge. Heart. Star power. Connection. And endless possibilities. OWN is a joint venture between Harpo, Inc. and Discovery Communications. The network debuted on January 1, 2011. The venture also includes the award-winning digital platform Oprah.com. Access OWN anytime, anywhere on WatchOWN.tv or across mobile devices and connected TVs.

“Welcome to Sweetie Pie’s” is produced by Pilgrim Media Group.

Executive producers are Craig Piligian, Melodie Calvert, Robbie Montgomery, Tim Norman, Jeff Keane, Tim Breitbach and Steve Luebbert.

OWN: Oprah Winfrey Network is the first and only network named for, and inspired by, a single iconic leader. Oprah Winfrey's heart

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MUSIC

DIANA ROSS TO RECEIVE LIFETIME ACHIEVEMENT AWARD

dick clark productions and ABC has announced that music superstar Diana Ross will be honored at the “2017 American Music Awards” with the “American Music Award for Lifetime Achievement,” in recognition of her remarkable career and her outstanding artistic contributions to the entertainment industry and popular culture. A

seven-time American Music Awards winner, Ms. Ross has a long-standing connection to the AMAs. In addition to attending the very first show in 1974 and leading several show-stopping performances throughout the years – including a star-studded performance of “We Are The World” in 1986, she hosted the show in both 1986 and 1987 and was on-hand in 2014 to present the first ever “Dick Clark Award for Excellence” to Taylor Swift.

As this year’s “American Music Award for Lifetime Achievement” recipient, the legendary singer will take the stage for a rare performance. The “2017 American Music Awards,” the world’s largest fan-voted awards show where music enthusiasts watch their favorite artists and pop culture icons come together to honor idols, newcomers and record-breakers in the contemporary music scene, will broadcast live from the Microsoft Theater in Los Angeles on Sunday, November 19, 2017 at 8:00pm ET on ABC.

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“I have endless memories of all the years that I have appeared on the American Music Awards,” says Ms. Ross. “It started with Dick Clark and The Caravan of Stars and American Bandstand. It was Dick Clark who said, ‘Music is the soundtrack of our lives.’ So true. I am so excited to be receiving this honorable award.”

The “American Music Award for

Lifetime Achievement,” formerly the “American Music Award of Merit”, is only given to artists who have made truly exceptional contributions to the music industry.

The award was last given in 2016 to Sting. Additional previous honorees include Garth Brooks, Johnny Cash, Whitney Houston, Janet Jackson, Michael Jackson, Gloria Estefan, Ella Fitzgerald, Billy Joel, Bon Jovi, Annie Lennox, Loretta Lynn, Paul McCartney, Willie Nelson, Elvis Presley, Prince, Frank Sinatra, Stevie Wonder and Tammy Wynette.

Nominations for the “2017 American Music Awards” were announced earlier this month, revealing Bruno Mars leads with eight nominations, including Artist of the Year, Video of the Year, and Favorite Male Artist – Pop/ Rock. The Chainsmokers, Drake, Kendrick Lamar, Ed Sheeran and The Weeknd tied with five nominations each, while Justin Bieber, Daddy Yankee and Luis Fonsi received four nominations each. Additionally, Keith Urban

earned three nominations, and Rihanna and Halsey earned two nominations each.

The American Music Awards winners Wednesday, November 1.

The Artist of the Year nominees are Bruno Mars, The Chainsmokers, Drake, Kendrick Lamar and Ed Sheeran. Voting for Artist of the Year will close on Thursday, November 16 at

8:59:59pm PT. Voting for all other editorial categories closes on Monday, November 13 at 8:59:59am PT. For New Artist of the Year presented by T-Mobile and Collaboration of the Year presented by Xfinity, fans can vote for each award 100 times per day, per voting platform in one or both of the ways below. Fans can vote for all other awards once per day, per voting platform.  Via web at com/amas and theamas.com/vote  Posting a tweet on Twitter that includes the nominee’s name or Twitter handle, the category name and #AMAs within the tweet American Music Awards nominees are based on key fan interactions as reflected in Billboard Magazine and on Billboard.com, including album and digital song sales, radio airplay, streaming, social activity and touring. These measurements are tracked by Billboard and its data partners, including Nielsen Music and Next Big Sound. The eligibility period for the “2017

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American Music Awards” was September 9, 2016 to September 14, 2017. Sponsors for the “2017 American Music Awards” include Comcast’s Xfinity and T-Mobile.

Media partners include Cumulus Media/ Westwood One and Music Choice. The “2017 American Music Awards” is produced by dick clark productions. Allen Shapiro and Mike Mahan are Executive Producers. Larry Klein, Barry Adelman and Mark Bracco are Producers.

The American Music Awards, the world’s biggest fan-voted award show, features performances from today’s hottest artists and presents fan-voted awards in the music genres of Pop/Rock, Alternative Rock, Country, Rap/Hip-Hop, Soul/R&B, Adult Contemporary, Contemporary Inspirational, Latin, EDM and Soundtrack, and the categories of Artist of the Year, New Artist of the Year presented

by T-Mobile, Collaboration of the Year presented by Xfinity, Tour of The Year and Video of the Year. The American Music Awards pays tribute to today’s most influential and iconic artists.

The show is produced by dick clark productions and is seen in more than 200 countries around the world. For more information, visit www.theamas.com, www. dickclark.com or abc.go.com/ shows/american-music-awards. dick clark productions (dcp) is the world’s largest producer and proprietor of televised live event entertainment programming with the “Academy of Country Music Awards,” “American Music Awards,” “Billboard Music Awards,” “Dick Clark’s New Year’s Rockin’ Eve with Ryan Seacrest,” “Golden Globe Awards,” “Miss America,” “Hollywood Film Awards” and the “Streamy Awards.” Weekly television programming includes “So You Think You Can Dance” from 19 Entertainment and dcp. dcp also owns one of the world’s most unique and extensive entertainment archive libraries with more than 55 years of award-winning shows, historic programs, specials, performances and legendary programming. For additional information, visit www. dickclark.com.

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THE AR T S

STUDIO MUSEUM IN HARLEM TO BREAk GROUND FOR NEW HOME

Thelma Golden, Director and Chief Curator of The Studio Museum in Harlem, and Raymond J. McGuire, Chairman of the Board of Trustees, recently announced that the historic ground-breaking for the Museum’s new building, designed by Adjaye Associates in collaboration with Cooper Robertson, will take lace during the 50th anniversary year of 2018. The completion of design development and the success of the quiet phase of the fundraising effort now make it possible to envision a late fall 2018 start for construction of this new home for the Studio Museum, the premier center for contemporary artists of African descent, the principal visual art institution in Harlem, and a magnet for visitors from around the world.

With plans for the building having received a warm welcome from the community and enthusiasm and support from New York City officials, the Studio Museum today unveiled the design and made public a capital campaign led by the Board of Trustees, with a goal of $175 million to meet hard and soft construction costs, provide an operating and capital reserve, and build endowment. A range of education and community programs inaugurated as part of the celebration of the 50th anniversary will ensure that the Studio Museum remains a vital presence in Harlem and throughout the art world during the construction period.

“We are thrilled to announce that during our 50th anniversary year, we will begin construction on the single biggest initiative the Studio Museum has ever undertaken, making David Adjaye’s brilliant design a reality.“ Thelma Golden, Director & Chief Curator Undertaken as a public-private initiative in partnership with the City of New York, the entirely new 82,000-squarefoot building will rise on West 125th Street on the site of the current facility, a century- old commercial building that was adapted for the Studio Museum in the early 1980s by late AfricanAmerican architect J. Max Bond Jr. The new building is designed to express the Museum’s core values of openness and engagement as they have been lived throughout a five-decade history of innovative and impactful exhibitions and programs, while also providing exceptional new spaces to elevate the Museum’s service to artists, audiences, the uniquely vibrant Harlem community, and the world of art. Thelma Golden said, “We are thrilled to announce that during our 50th anniversary year, we will begin construction on the single biggest initiative the Studio Museum

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has ever undertaken, making David Adjaye’s brilliant design a reality. We look back with pride on our legacy, so much of which has been built within the space that Max Bond renovated for us. We look forward to constructing a building that provides unprecedented resources for our work and creates a superb new cultural landmark for Harlem and the entire City of New York.”

The Studio Museum revealed that the quiet phase of fundraising has already achieved 70 percent of the capital campaign goal of $175 million, thanks to generous support from the City of New York as lead partner and to private individuals, foundations, and corporations. The City has committed $53.8 million toward construction of the new building, with funding coming from the Mayor’s Office, the

“For nearly fifty years, the Studio Museum has been a trailblazer in the cultural conversation, fostered the careers of emerging artists of African descent, and served as an anchor in Harlem,” said Mayor Bill de Blasio. “We are excited about the unique potential that the Museum’s new home brings with it. As they embark on creating a one-of-a-kind space to serve as a platform for the creative work of the artists from around the world, the Studio Museum is poised to have an even greater impact on the Harlem community, the City of New York, and the global cultural conversation.”

“The Studio Museum in Harlem is an iconic institution that is as vital and relevant as it has ever been in its nearly 50-year history,” said NYC Cultural Affairs Commissioner Tom

Public Library’s George Bruce Branch, churches, educational institutions, fellow cultural organizations, Harlem service organizations, the 125th Street Business Improvement District, and alumni of the Studio Museum’s Artistin-Residence program. “For almost half a century, the Studio Museum has been a jewel of the Harlem community,” said Manhattan Borough President Gale A. Brewer. “I’m proud to support this great institution as it prepares to build a wonderful new home, so that it can do even more to represent Harlem with integrity and authenticity.”

Melissa Mark-Viverito, Speaker of the New York City Council, said, “The Studio Museum is helping inspire the next generation of artists of color while paying respect to the vibrant history of Upper Manhattan, including the El Barrio/East Harlem area. I am glad to invest in their success in serving diverse audiences, especially those in my district. The Council is proud to advance the Museum’s work as both a showplace of art and a remarkable incubator of creativity —and as we look toward a future vision of Harlem, we must continue to support all arts and cultural institutions along the 125th Street Corridor. I will continue to work with my colleagues on the Council to look for ways to preserve and promote the arts throughout the City.”

City Council, and the Manhattan Borough President’s Office through the Department of Cultural Affairs. This includes over $13 million in new funding added in this year’s City capital budget, and the City Council is anticipated to commit an additional $9 million over the next two years. Other public and private funding, including a broad national coalition of philanthropists, business leaders, and art world leaders, accounts for another $62 million.

Raymond J. McGuire, Chairman of the Board of Trustees, said, “We are deeply grateful for the outpouring of support we have received to date from the City, our private donors, and the Trustees. In their generosity, they reflect and honor the feelings of artists and arts professionals, the Harlem community, and a public from around the world who are committed to the Studio Museum. Fifty years ago, our visionary founders answered the urgent and necessary call for this institution to come into existence. Since then, its work has proved to be instrumental in transforming the entire cultural landscape. Literally hundreds of vital artists, and the countless people who have been touched by their creations, can look back today and say in wonder and gratitude that, if not for the Studio Museum, the cultural world would be a vastly different place. Now, as we begin the next half-century of our history, we look forward in confidence to the great things we will do in our new building, designed especially to manifest our extraordinary mission and program.”

Finkelpearl. “We are proud to make a major investment in the museum as it transforms itself into an even better platform for artists of African descent and an incubator for new talent. I applaud Thelma Golden, Ray McGuire and the Studio Museum Board for their inspired leadership and look forward to seeing David Adjaye’s visionary design become a reality.”

This support is echoed by the Museum’s newly formed Community Advisory Network, a group of Harlem stakeholders convened to work with the Museum to ensure that the needs and aspirations of neighborhood residents are heard and addressed.

Members of the Community Advisory Network represent more than twenty stakeholder groups, including Community Board 10, the New York City Housing Authority, the New York City Parks Department, the Office of the Manhattan Borough President, the NYPD’s 28th Precinct, the New York

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“The Studio Museum in Harlem is a shining example of how a culturally specific institution, deeply rooted in its own neighborhood, can also be a global leader in its outlook and impact,” said New York City Council Majority Leader Jimmy Van Bramer. “The City’s significant investment in the Studio Museum is truly an investment in the future of the cultural sector in New York and shows how our capital investments in cultural organizations and institutions create place, identity and a future for the heart and soul of our City.” Bill Perkins, City Council Member for District 9, said, “Whether you look at it from the viewpoint of education, the economy, civil rights and civil liberties, or the sheer joy of great art, The Studio Museum in Harlem is an institution we must support, now and in the future.

It is truly our beacon—and with its new building, it will shine more brightly than ever.”

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P OLI T ICS High Profile Black BROOKLYNITES are Ambassadors for Brooklyn Community Services BCS board member. Through Activist Row at AFROPUNK and BCS involvement, she carries on her father’s legacy. “There are forgotten people in our Brooklyn community and BCS has never forgotten. BCS has always tried to improve people’s lives and educate people’s lives,” said Cooper. “I’ve seen programs transform not only individuals but families. Their work is key and it needs to continue. As long as people are in need, BCS needs to be supported.”

The Brooklyn Community Services (BCS) ONE Brooklyn Community public service poster campaign, seen on 36 Brooklyn subway stations, feature several high profile Black Brooklynites like AFROPUNK co-founder and partner Jocelyn Cooper, renowned educator Principal Nadia Lopez, MTV and Comedy Central comedian Franchesca Ramsey and Black Lives Matter co-founder Opal Tometi speaking out about Brooklynites who are living in poverty and the impact of volunteering, advocacy and philanthropy to make a positive difference.

Sponsored by Investors Bank, the ONE Brooklyn Community “Many Voices, Many Stories” subway posters spotlight a diverse group of notable Brooklyn residents who are advocates for an inclusive Brooklyn. The posters will be on view through October 12th.

Although many Brooklyn neighborhoods have experienced a rise in wealthy apartment renters and home-buyers, the current US Census estimates that 10 | NewYorkTrendnyc

23 percent of Brooklynites are living in poverty. BCS envisions ONE Brooklyn Community where all members of our community can access an excellent education, job opportunities, safe and affordable housing, and quality and affordable healthcare and wellness programs. Celebrating its 150th anniversary, BCS has over 25 program sites throughout Brooklyn and serves 18,000 people every year.

The ONE Brooklyn Community subway campaign, which includes YouTube videos, has 26 notable Brooklynite ambassadors ranging from children to adults that represent media, culture, entertainment, interior design, fashion, cuisine, education and social justice activism.

Ambassador Jocelyn Cooper, partner and co-founder of AFROPUNK, has created a festival filled with music, fashion, art, poetry and politics.

Cooper is the daughter of late political activist Andrew Cooper, publisher of Brooklyn’s famed City Sun newspaper and a former

ONE Brooklyn Community’s ambassadors span Brooklynites in entertainment, arts, design, food and fitness, education, entrepreneurship, human rights and activism who pay it forward through their volunteering, mentoring and partnering with charities. Some ambassadors include: Franchesca Ramsey, host of the MTV web series “Decoded,” is an actress, comedian, and video blogger with over 29 million views on YouTube and has an upcoming TV show on Comedy Central.

Educator Nadia Lopez, renowned author and principal/founder of Mott Hall Bridges Academy who has met with President Obama. Carla Hall, co-host of ABC’s Emmy award winning “The Chew,” is the culinary ambassador to the Sweet Home Café at the Smithsonian Institution’s National Museum for African-American History and Culture and has owned two eateries in Brooklyn.

There’s DJ Spinna, who collaborates with Spike Lee annually on the Michael Jackson tribute party. Tiq Milan is a transgender activist, writer, public speaker, media consultant and spokesperson for GLAAD. Penelope (Penel) Ghartey, age 9, is a transgender boy, student and athlete who has been featured in Cosmopolitan, REUTERS and ESSENCE. Georgia Becker, age 18, is a student at Oberlin College, who advocates for her brother Penel and uses her voice to support many social justice

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issues. Malene Barnett, Design Director at Malene B, an awardwinning design firm specializing in carpets, fine art wall coverings and artisan tiles. Anishka Clarke and Niya Bascomare, partners of Ishka Designs, are design experts in vacation properties, restaurants and residences globally. Gwendolyn Niles and Fifi Bell Clanton, co-owners of The Crabby Shack, established the crab soul food restaurant that’s drawn celebrities like Denzel Washington and Gabrielle Union. The campaign art director is Grammy nominated singer, model and TheRoot.com writer Maiysha Kai. “We are actively supporting and participating in the ONE Brooklyn Campaign to honor BCS’s 150-year legacy of serving people and communities across the Borough,” said Investors Bank Senior Vice President and General Counsel Brian Doran. “The campaign provides BCS with the framework to communicate how it is implementing new, innovative service models in Brooklyn’s diverse neighborhoods. Equally important, the campaign is helping BCS attract and involve more individuals as well as groups who bring new ideas for broadening and transforming its social services.”

“Partnering with Investors Bank has provided BCS with resources to build community engagement, volunteerism, mentoring, philanthropy and activism,” said Sonya Shields, who is a longtime social justice activist, graduate of Howard University and the Chief Officer for External Relations and Advancement at Brooklyn Community Services.

“As black people in Brooklyn we understand that many residents struggle in our community to make ends meet. This campaign is to bring our entire community together across economic status.” For more information, check out BCS on: www.wearebcs.org.

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END NO TE S ART EXHIBIT TO CELEBRATE LIBERATION OF YONKERS ENSLAVED AFRICANS

The Enslaved Africans’ Rain Garden, Inc., will be hosting an exhibition to preview two-of-five, life-sized bronze sculptures for a future urban-heritage sculpture garden at Yonkers Riverfront Library. The opening reception will be on Friday, November 10, 2017, from 5:00 p.m. - 8:00 p.m., followed by an artist talk, on Sunday, November 12, 2017, at 1:00 p.m.

The exhibit will be open for public viewing at the Yonkers Riverfront Library until the other three sculptures are completed in 2019. At that time, all the sculptures will be permanently installed in the Enslaved Africans’ Rain Garden on the banks of the Hudson River in Yonkers. In addition, a film that features an original story about The Boatman (written and performed by spoken-word artist, Ty Gray-El, with the photography of Leslie Jean-Bart) will be projected onto the exterior wall of the Yonkers Riverfront Library at night, which will inform and empower the Yonkers community as well as humanize enslaved Africans, bringing dignity to their memory.

The Enslaved Africans’ Rain Garden (EARG), Inc., is the non-profit 501(c) (3) arts organization that was created to promote public art that celebrates the history of enslaved Africans,

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inspires future artists, and educates and empowers the community-at-large.

EARG’s President, the Honorable Patricia McDow, points out: “150 Years after emancipation, the fact that our nation has built monuments to almost every U.S. historical event of significance while neglecting slavery negates the contributions of millions of enslaved people to our national heritage. They deserve the full respect of having their dignity restored. The strongest aspect of the Enslaved African’ Rain Garden Initiative is that it begins to address reciprocity by giving a voice to the previously unheard via accessible art in a public place.”

Artist Vinnie Bagwell is leading the development and creation of the public artwork for the Enslaved Africans’ Rain Garden that interprets the legacy of enslaved Africans who lived and worked at the Philipse Manor Hall — six of whom were among the first to be manumitted by law in the United States in 1799, 64 years before the Emancipation Proclamation. The law was written in New York State by U.S. Founding Father John Jay, the future first Chief Justice of the United States Supreme Court.

Former Yonkers City Council Majority Leader Hon. Patricia McDow brought the story of the enslaved Africans at Philipse Manor Hall to Ms. Bagwell’s

attention in 2009, which sparked the idea of creating a public art initiative to honor enslaved Africans.

– More – EARG | c/o Vinnie Bagwell | 92 Main Street, Loft 204,Yonkers, New York 10701 | vinniebagwell@gmail.com www.

EnslavedAfricansRainGarden.org

Ms. Bagwell envisions candid images of five enslaved Africans who will be met in a meditative rain garden. The idea of a rain garden — a planted depression that is designed to conserve municipal water resources by reducing the need for irrigation — has been chosen to demonstrate sustainability and environmental responsibility that make up the site’s plan design. In addition, rain gardens can cut down on the amount of pollution reaching the Hudson River. Yonkers Mayor Mike Spano declares, “Vinnie Bagwell teaches history and engages the community with her unique way of storytelling. Her art educates and empowers the public on African history and, now more than ever, our country needs to be having these conversations.

Enslaved Africans’ Rain Garden is a special platform for the Yonkers arts community, and I’m proud it is a part of downtown.”

Funding for this project includes the

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following: The New York State Council on the Arts awarded a $90K grant to the City of Yonkers Planning Department for the creation of the first, life-sized bronze: a lithe, 6’ woman balancing a bucket on her head, while carrying fish. She’s called “I’Satta.” The City of Yonkers’ Matching Grant of $100K funded the enlargement of the second bronze, “Themba the Boatman,” and the upcoming exhibition. In addition, ArtsWestchester (the largest nonprofit arts council in New York State) awarded a $3,100 ArtsAlive Grant. (ArtsAlive Grants are made possible with funds from the Decentralization Program, a re-grant program of the New York State Council on the Arts with the support of Governor Andrew Cuomo and the NYS Legislature, and administered

by ArtsWestchester to support the exhibition.) Entergy awarded $7,500 to support additional artists’ workshops throughout the school year for Yonkers Public Schools, Sarah Lawrence College, and Sister to Sister, International, Inc. A National Endowment for the Arts Grant award and a matching grant from the City of Yonkers will fund the creation and mold-making for two children, “Sola and Olumide.” Additional funding is being developed to cover additional costs for their casting and the creation of the fifth bronze, known as “BiBi.”

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DISASTERS DON’ T

PL AN AHEAD

YO U C AN DON’T WAIT. COMMUNICATE. Talk to your loved ones about how you are going to be ready in an emergency.

VISIT READY.GOV/PLAN.

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November 9 - November 15, 2017

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