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NEWMAYOR YORK TREND DAVID DINKINS, REP. CHARLES RANGEL, Serving New York City, Nassau & Suffolk Counties

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THE ALTERNATIVE VOLUMEPERSPECTIVE 26 ISSUE 40

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December 17, 2015 - December 23, 2015

VOLUME 31 ISSUE 3

February 4th, 2021 - February 10th, 2021  C E L E B R A T I N G B L A C K H I S T O R Y M O N T H 

Since 1989

C E L E B R AT I N G HONORED WITH LIFETIME ACHIEVEMENT AWARDS 30

N A A C P A P P L A U D S B I D E N ’ s D E C I S I O N TO The Black Stars News 2015 Annual EL E will Vhonor AT E R ACIAL JUSTICE Awards Dinner Mayor

YEARS!

York and a former chancellor of the New York public schools system.

David Dinkins, Rep. Charles the White House, she can formulate the most vexing challenge facing Derrick Johnson, President and Pioneering producers Stephen Rangel, Rep. Yvette and coordinate actions among CEO of the NAACP, issued aClarke, this new administration. It will Byrd and Aliaacross Jones, through their units and branches the R. Donahue Peebles, Barbara cabinet members to eliminate statement on the announcement require a herculean effort to company Front Row Production, nation, along with well over 2M Inez Barron, Sabrina systemic racism, root and branch, by the Arnwine, incoming Biden/Harris eliminate the institutional barriers brought “Cat onisatoHot Tin Roof” activists. Our mission secure Lamb, Dr. Crew, Stephen from within the government and administration onRudy efforts to promote throughout the government that and “Aeducational, Streetcar Named Desire” the political, social, Byrd, Alia Jones, and racial justice throughout the the Centralensure racial justice is at the still perpetuate racial inequality. with a multi-ethnic cast to and economic equality of rights Park Five gross injustice government: “Oursurvivors nation isoffacing an forefront of every agency’s agenda. With this announcement today, the Broadway. 2016 they bring in order to eliminateInrace-based on December 18 from 6:00pm – Given this momentous task, Dr. Rice Biden/Harris administration is off extraordinary crisis in racial justice. “Eclipsed” with Oscar discrimination and ensure theWinner health 10:00pm at MISTBlack Harlem, will require substantial resources Coronavirus is harming and46 West to a strong start to transforming Lupita Nyong ’O to Broadway. and well-being of all persons. Street. at staggering and personnel to help her fulfill this Brown116th communities our nation into a more just, equal In media attributions, please refer to Honorees, the so-called Central critical role. rates due to honoree longstanding disparities society. And it can count on the “Each chosen for Park 5, are collectively and in healthcare and has our demonstrated economy. recognition individually heroes. They are Police exceptional violence against Blackand people leadership vision in survivors of one of the ugliest David Dinkins Charles Rangel is at anher epidemic level. Andprofession the or his respective or miscarriage of justice in New York’s Oval Office was just by endeavor and occupied in some significant history; having been railroaded majority. She now leads The was a member of the New York someone who championed white measure has contributed towards and unjustly convicted for a crime Transformative Justice Coalition. City Council, representing the supremacy anda bigotry." creating more just society in this th they did not commit and for which Arnwine was for 26 years executive 40 council district in Brooklyn, country,” says Black Star News “Our nation is facing they served long prison sentences director of the Lawyers’ Committee succeeding her mother, Una S. and publisher Milton th anfounder extraordinary ranging from seven years to 13 years for Civil Rights Under the Law. T. Clarke. In the current 114 Allimadi. “Obviously much work crisis in racial before being exonerated when the Congress Clarke serves on Inez Barron, honoree, formerly a needs to be done here and justice..” actual rapist confessed. They are: the Energy and Commerce State Assembly member, is now around the world.” Yusef Abdus Salaam; Raymond - Derrick Johnson, President and Committee, responsible for a New York City council member starts at 6:00pm with a Santana Jr., Antron McCray, Kevin CEO ofThe thegala NAACP consumer protection, food and a champion of education for cocktail hour to be followed by the Richardson, and Kharey Wise. safety, energy development, public This moment requires bold our youth. dinner and awards ceremonies. There health, communications, the The Black Star News, which focuses and meaningful action to end Honoree Imhotep Gary Byrd is will be musical entertainment by environment, and interstate and on investigative journalism, has systemic racism. For that reason, a legendary radio talk show host opera singer Cassandra Douglas international commerce. been featured as a result of some if we have called upon the Biden and executive producer, radio DJ, and from harmonica phenomenon its news scoops, on CNN, The New administration to create a Cabinet R. Donahue Peebles, honoree, is poet, songwriter, music recording William Galison. David Dinkins is York Daily News, The New York position to focus exclusively on a leading developer and founder of artist and producer, rapper, writer honored for Lifetime Achievement Post, The Village Voice, and Brill’s racial justice. We can no longer The Peebles Co., the nation’s largest and community activist. He began — he was New York City’s first Content magazine. afford a piecemeal approach or to African American-owned real his career as a radio DJ in Buffalo African American mayor and also address these issues solely through estate firm with $3.5 billion worth Past Black Star News honorees at age 15. For over 30 years, he’s welcomed Nelson Mandela to the civil rights offices. We must identify of properties under development been a talk show host at WBLS and have included: Gil Noble (Like It city after his release in 1990. strategies for coordinating and management Photoor Soure: NAACP.org — he was one Is), Rep. Maxine Waters, Soledad WLIB radio in New York City. He Rep.allCharles Rangel, also honored deploying levers of the federal of the pioneering developerswho O’Brien (CNN), Ms. Camille Cosby, also has a Friday night radio talk for Lifetime Achievement, government to tackle structural has helped turn around and revitalize Voza Rivers (New Heritage Theatre), show on WBAI. Oval Anacostia Office us as the NAACP. NAACP’s support every step of the served in Congress since 1971. He is inequality. That includes recognizing the“the once-blighted Errol Louis (NY1 News), Amel was just occupied way.” Honoree Sabrina Lamb, founderNOTE: The Legal Defense a recipient of The Bronze medal for that institutional racism was once neighborhood in Washington, D.C. Fund Larrieux (Entertainer), Dr. –William by someone who of World ofinMoney, is atochampion helping save soldiers behind enemy dictated by federal policy and A champion of African-American also referred to as the NAACP-LDF Founded in 1909 response Pollard (Medgar Evers College), championed white of financial literacy for youth-line during Korean War. determining how the federal agencies economic empowerment Peebles’ the is ongoing in 1940(NY as aJets), part Nayaba of violence against Black shewas founded Herm Edwards supremacy and teaches knowledge about are stillRep. reinforcing inequality contemplating a possible run for NYC but separatedNews), in 1957 people around the country, the handlingthe NAACP, Yvette Clarke is a Democratic Arinde (Amsterdam La-Verna budgeting and planning. to become a completely separate and impeding mayor in 2017.bigotry.” NAACPmoney, (National Association memberprogress of the UStoward House of Fountain (Columbia University), meaningful opportunity for all.New - Derrick Johnson, President andcivil for theDr. It is recognized as theDesiree Dancy Advancement Coloredis one ofentity. Lillian Rudy Crew, of honoree, Representatives from Roberts (DC37), Honoree Barbara Arnwine, We areYork elated that the th Biden CEO of the NAACP nation’s first civil and human People) is the largest and most the nation’s leading educators. He’s whose 9 district covers (New York Times), Gregrights Floyd (Local rights lawyer, is a champion of administration has appointed Dr.Before law organization, and shares our pre-eminent civil rights organization much of central Brooklyn. 237), Rev. Al Sharpton (National president of Medgar Evers College protecting voting rights of ethnic Susanentering Rice to lead this august racial justice equal rights. nation. We have over 2,200 Congress in 2007, she Addressing Action to Network), and many others. The City University of New commitment minority groups — will the be emerging in the of challenge. From her position within

INSIDE T HIS ISSUE: IS SUE : INSIDE THIS

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N AT ION AL

P O L I T I C A L P R O F I L E : S TA C E Y A B R A M S

STACEY ABRAMS is a Politician, Author, Lawyer, Activist and so much more. Most noted for her political career, Abrams served as minority leader from 2011 to 2017. In 2018, Abrams was the nominee for the Democratic Party gubernatorial election, breaking the barrier to becoming the first black woman as a major party gubernatorial nominee. Stacey Abrams was involved in her community from a young age. Born of United Methodist ministers; she learned early on that “service is a way of life.” Her parent’s devotion to serving others was inspiration in fueling her career as a civil servant. Abrams has found more ways than the political sphere to help her community. She is also co – founder of a financial services firm devoted to helping small business grow called NOW Account. Despite losing the 2018 gubernatorial election to Brian Kemp, Stacey

Abrams continued to serve her community. She was able to identify that voter suppression was rampant in her state and decided to take action. In 2018, Abrams founded the Fair Fight Action – an organization created to address voter suppression. This initiative in tandem with other organizations that she headed, helped to register nearly 800,000 new voters in the state of Georgia before the 2020 presidential elections. This feat credits Stacey Abrams with turning the state of Georgia “blue.” A state that has not voted Democrat for presidential election in nearly 30 years. Stacey Abrams proved vital to the election of Joe Biden for the 2020 presidential race. Her initiative of combating voter suppression has inspired activists and political leaders nationwide into encouraging and registering their communities as well.

ONEUNITED BANK OneUnited Bank, the largest Black owned bank and first and only Black owned digital bank in the country and Visa are proud to announce for Black History Month

AND

the OneTransaction Campaign to close the racial wealth gap. The Campaign includes a state-of-the-art, free virtual financial conference on Juneteenth (June 19, 2021).

In 2020, America was forced to recognize the impact of systemic racism, and the resulting racial wealth gap. According to Brookings, the net worth of a Black family is $17,150 compared to $171,000 for a white family. While public policy is critical to addressing the consequences of discrimination, public policy moves slowly. More importantly, OneUnited Bank encourages all Black Americans to focus on One Transaction in 2021 that will increase their net worth. That transaction could be a will, life insurance, home

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VISA LAUNCH CAMPAIGN ownership, a profitable business, automatic savings, an investment portfolio or an improved credit score. The #OneTransaction Campaign encourages Black families to select One Transaction to accomplish in 2021 and provides action steps to accomplish that transaction. “The reality is the racial wealth gap for each family can be closed by one strategic transaction,” says Kevin Cohee, Chairman & CEO of OneUnited Bank. “By encouraging our community to accomplish One Transaction in 2021, we can make financial literacy a core value of the Black community and create generational wealth.” The Campaign includes a free stateof-the-art #OneTransaction Virtual Financial Conference in partnership with Visa, to be held on June 19, 2021 or Juneteenth, a holiday celebrating the emancipation of those who had been enslaved in the United States. The OneTransaction Conference includes expert presenters in business and personal finance including Tiffany Aliche, The Bugetnista, an award winning financial education teacher, Sharon Epperson, Senior Personal Finance Correspondent for CNBC, Karen Hunter, Pulitzer Prizewinning journalist and host of The Karen Hunter Show on Sirius XM Urban View, Daymond John, globally recognized from ABC’s Shark Tank, founder and CEO of FUBU and a

February 4, 2021 - February 10, 2021

Presidential Ambassador for Global Entrepreneurship, Calvin Martyr, founder of #BlackOutDay2020 and The Blackout Coalition, Everett Sands, Founder and CEO of Lendistry, a Blackowned SBA Preferred Lender, Michelle Singletary, personal finance columnist and author of upcoming book "What To Do With Your Money When Crisis Hits", Kemberley Washington, CPA and Tax Analyst with Forbes Advisor, among others. To secure your free ticket, go to www.oneunited.com/onetransaction. (Limited availability) “Prioritizing financial educational and tailoring solutions to close the financial disparities is key to building generational wealth,” says Mary Ann Reilly, Senior Vice President, Head of North America Marketing, Visa. “By partnering with OneUnited Bank, we are both working towards driving lasting systemic change and enabling individuals, businesses and economies to thrive.” OneUnited Bank is the premier bank for urban communities, the largest Blackowned bank, the first Black internet bank and a Community Development Financial Institution (CDFI). Its mission is to provide affordable financial services to support economic development in urban communities and maintain superior financial performance to maximize shareholder value. OneUnited is an FDIC insured bank and an equal housing lender.

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NEWS L e g i s l at i o n P r o t e c t i n g T r a n s g e n d e r N e w Yo r k e r s Pa s s e d The New York State Senate and Assembly has passed legislation cosponsored by State Senator Anna M. Kaplan (D-Great Neck) that repeals the outdated 1970’s era law known as the “Walking While Trans Ban.” The underlying law was originally intended to be used to combat prostitution in New York City, but in recent years had become nothing more than a tool used to target and harass transgender women of color. Senator Anna M. Kaplan said, “When it becomes clear that a section of the law is being abused to unjustly target vulnerable individuals in our community, it falls to lawmakers to correct the problem and prevent further injustice from taking place. With the repeal of the ‘Walking While Trans Ban,’ we’re removing a broken law that didn’t make anyone safer, and caused transgender New Yorkers undue hardship and suffering for far too long. I congratulate Senator Brad Hoylman for this achievement, I applaud the hard-working activists who fought for this day, and I thank our Majority Leader Andrea Stewart-Cousins for prioritizing measures that protect justice for New Yorkers.”

The bill passed with the support of the District Attorneys Association of New York, and local District Attorney Madeline Singas.

Photo Credit: Victoria Pickering via Flickr

The bill, S.1351, repeals section 240.37 of the Penal Law, relating to Loitering for the Purposes of Engaging in Prostitution, and includes a provision that would seal past convictions for this offense. Contrary to misinformation that has circulated on

the internet, the bill does not legalize prostitution, it doesn't affect any other prostitution-related offenses, and it leaves law enforcement with the tools they need to combat prostitution and sex trafficking related crimes.

NYC TEST & TRACE CORPS LAUNCHES SERIES As critical developments around COVID-19 happen at a whirlwind pace, the NYC Test & Trace Corps announces the launch of a new digital video series, “NYC, Let’s Talk COVID!,” to present the latest public health information in easily digestible format to help New Yorkers stay engaged and cope during the pandemic. Premiering online today, the first-of-its-kind series will feature the City’s top public health experts interviewed about timely issues and answering direct questions from everyday New Yorkers, facilitated by a host and correspondents from the world of improv performance. The series is part of the Test & Trace Corps’ ongoing efforts to educate New Yorkers about living safely in the time of COVID-19. “NYC, Let’s Talk COVID!” will premiere on Tuesday, February 2, at 6:00 p.m. EST, on facebook.com/nycletstalkcovid “With the amount of new information that constantly becomes available about COVID-19, New Yorkers need a trusted source to help them sort through the sea of headlines and get to the information that is most relevant and useful for their daily lives,” said NYC Test & Trace Corps Executive Director Dr. Ted Long. “We are excited to launch this new digital video series that leverages the worldclass resource of our City’s public health experts to help New Yorkers and their loved ones stay safe with reliable and timely information delivered in an innovative way.” “NYC, Let’s Talk COVID!” is hosted by actor Matt Richards with street reporting from correspondents Milly Tamarez and Lida Darmian, who will go into neighborhoods to talk with real New Yorkers and share their questions with the expert guests. A native of Queens, Richards currently hosts the popular game show app, HQ Trivia, and has appeared on networks such as CBS, Nickelodeon, Disney, E! and more. Work by Tamarez and Darmian has previously been featured on HBO, Buzzfeed, and VICE. In the debut episode, Richards interviews

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Dr. Jay Varma, Senior Advisor for Public Health in the Mayor’s Office, to give New Yorkers the latest updates on COVID-19 testing and what to expect, advice on how to stay safe during the winter surge of the virus, and counter misinformation with scientific facts. The episode also features street talk with New Yorkers who share personal experiences and ask Dr. Varma practical and candid questions about the virus. The “NYC, Let’s Talk About COVID!” series will consist of six 15-20-minute episodes,

each of which will be individually shareable. Topics to be covered include types of testing and how to prepare for a test, vaccine science and distribution, the ins and outs of contact tracing, isolation and quarantine tips, advice on mental health and navigating intimate relationships, how to safely return to the workplace, travel, and more. “There is nothing more important to our economic recovery than our health, and central to our health is our ability to deliver clear information to everyday New Yorkers,” said James Patchett, President and CEO of New York City Economic Development Corporation. “We’re thrilled this new digital series will help all New Yorkers stay informed with expertise from public health

leaders. As we build on New York City’s leadership in pandemic response, we’re laying the foundation to ensure that our City is safer and stronger for generations to come.” "One of the biggest challenges of COVID is uncertainty and a feeling of powerlessness. This digital video series seeks to educate and inform New Yorkers about the powers each of us has to fight COVID,” said Dr. Jay Varma, Senior Advisor for Public Health in the NYC Mayor’s Office. "Wearing a mask, keeping physical distance, washing

hands, getting tested regularly, and getting vaccinated when our turn in line comes up - these are actions we can take to reduce the risk of COVID to ourselves and our community." “The landscape of information around COVID-19 is always evolving, and when it comes to staying safe from the virus, timely and accurate guidance can empower every New Yorker to protect themselves and their loved ones,” said Dr. Amanda Johnson, Director of the NYC Test & Trace Corps Take Care Program. “This new digital video series will help us reach audiences in a creative way with practical tips and lifesaving information.”

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Nassau County District Attorney Madeline Singas said, “As we work to promote confidence and trust in law enforcement and our criminal justice system it’s important that we be clearheaded about the laws and policies that protect our communities, and those that can be abused to cause harm. No one should be profiled for their clothing, gender identity or expression, but data make clear that marginalized individuals—especially trans women of color—have been harassed, exploited, and unjustly charged with ‘loitering for the purpose of engaging in prostitution,’ and I strongly encourage the State Legislature to repeal this law. Violence and abuse victimizing our trans neighbors occurs at an alarming rate, and we must do more to protect them. The repeal of the ‘walking while trans’ law is an important step and I commend the leaders who have championed this issue so tirelessly.” The bill was signed into law by Governor Andrew M. Cuomo and takes effect immediately.

SAFE LIVING The Test & Trace Corps is the City’s comprehensive effort to test, trace, and provide support for every case of COVID-19. Through a partnership with NYC Health + Hospitals and the Department of Health and Mental Hygiene, the Test & Trace Corps allows the City to immediately isolate and care for those who test positive for the virus and then rapidly track, assess, and quarantine anyone who may have been exposed. To help all New Yorkers safely separate at home and monitor their health status, the Take Care pillar of the Test & Trace Corps also offers free hotel rooms with wraparound services for New Yorkers who are unable to safely separate in their own homes. For those safely separating at home, contact tracers perform daily calls and conduct in-person visits as necessary. These calls allow tracers to gauge the progress of cases, ensure proper compliance with separation protocol, and connect people to more supportive services as necessary. Today, 98% of all COVID-19 cases and 96% of contacts reported following isolation and quarantine requirements. NYC Health + Hospitals is the largest public health care system in the nation serving more than a million New Yorkers annually in more than 70 patient care locations across the city’s five boroughs. A robust network of outpatient, neighborhood-based primary and specialty care centers anchors care coordination with the system’s trauma centers, nursing homes, post-acute care centers, home care agency, and MetroPlus health plan—all supported by 11 essential hospitals. Its diverse workforce of more than 42,000 employees is uniquely focused on empowering New Yorkers, without exception, to live the healthiest life possible. For more information, visit www. nychealthandhospitals.org and stay connected on Facebook at https://www. facebook.com/NYCHealthSystem or Twitter at @NYCHealthSystem.

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NE WS Historic Church To Appoint a BLACK JUSTICE to the All-White Chancery Court Pastor Blaine Hackett of historic St. John African Methodist Church, Inc. in Newark has joined Citizens for a Pro-Business Delaware’s (CPBD) calls to fill the vacancy of Chancery Court Chancellor Andre Bouchard with a Black justice. Pastor Hackett echoes the calls of legendary civil rights activist Rev. Al Sharpton in his recent letter to President Biden advocating for

increased diversity within the federal judiciary, and in Delaware. “For too long in Delaware, and across the nation, our leadership

has not reflected the diversity of our congregations, our neighborhoods or our State,” said Pastor Blaine Hackett of St. John African Methodist Church, Inc. “The vacancy on the Chancery Court gives us yet another opportunity to advance Black leaders and support diverse, fair courts which, in turn, lead to fair rulings and fair sentencing. I stood outside the Senate building about

a year ago and urged the Governor to increase diversity on Delaware’s courts and fill Justice Montgomery-Reeves’ vacant seat with a Black justice. Although our calls were not answered,

we are again faced with the opportunity to begin to correct the past that has disproportionately awarded white men these positions of leadership. I urge the Governor to replace Chancellor Bouchard and Justice Smalls with Black judges and move our courts in the right direction for diversity and justice.” Pastor Hackett has joined Citizens for a Pro-Business Delaware in their

$250,000 awareness campaign for diverse appointments in leadership and on courts. The group has purchased print, radio and digital advertising space to spread awareness of the vacancies

and urge Governor Carney to take the opportunity to achieve his own stated goal of advancing diversity in leadership roles in Delaware. Since launching the campaign, CPBD has engage more than 350 Delaware residents to send emails to Governor Carney urging him to appoint a Black justice to replace Bouchard. “We have only just begun our outreach to Delaware residents and we already have more than 350 emails into the Governor asking him to appoint a Black justice to the Chancery Court, which in times of turmoil is tasked with representing the best interest of people across the nation from many different backgrounds,” said Chris Coffey, Campaign Manager for Citizens for a Pro-Business Delaware. “How can Delaware courts represent those they are meant to serve when they are overwhelmingly comprised of wealthy, white men? The opportunity for Governor Carney to increase diversity on the courts is here again, and the time for change was decades ago.” Citizens for a Pro-Business Delaware is a group made up of more than 5,000 members including employees of the global translation services company TransPerfect, as well as concerned Delaware residents, business executives and others. They formed in April of 2016 to focus on raising awareness with Delaware residents, elected officials, and other stakeholders about the unprecedented forced sale of TransPerfect. While their primary goal of saving the company has been accomplished, they continue their efforts to fight for more transparency in the Delaware Chancery Court. For more information on Citizens for a ProBusiness Delaware or to join the cause, visit DelawareForBusiness.org. Source: Citizens for a Pro-Business Delaware

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ENTER TAINMENT NE W FEDERAL THE ATRE CELEBRATES BLACK HISTORY On Saturdays from February 13 to 27, 2021 New York's New Federal Theatre (NFT) will present "New Federal Theatre Celebrates Black History Month," a retrospective readings series in which three rarely-done yet noteworthy plays, all previously produced by NFT, will be recreated by savvy actors and directors. These plays illuminate burning issues of their time and are newly instructive today. FEBRUARY 13 @ 7:00 PM (EST), streaming until February 15 @ midnight. "When the Chickens Come Home to Roost" by Laurence Holder, directed by Ralph McCain  Featuring Allie Woods as Elijah Muhammad and Lawrence Winslow as Malcolm X. The play centers on the relationship between Malcolm X and Elijah Muhammad – the beating heart of the Black Muslim movement. Its title is a reference to Malcolm X’s notorious comment in the wake of JFK’s assassination. The comment caused him to be censored by his leader, Elijah Muhammad causing a rift between the Nation of Islam’s founder and his star disciple. New Federal Theatre's 1981 premiere production starred Kirk

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Kirksey as Elijah Muhammad and Denzel Washington as Malcolm X. FEBRUARY 20 @ 7:00 PM; February 21 @ 7:00 PM and February 22 @ 7:00 PM (EST) "The Meeting" by Jeff Stetson, directed by Ajene D. Washington  Featuring: Joseph L. Edwards as Dr. Martin Luther King, Tyler Fauntleroy as Resheed, Beethovan Oden as Malcolm X. "The Meeting," whose premiere was presented by NFT in 1987, is an imaginary encounter between Martin Luther King Jr. and Malcolm X in 1965 in a hotel in Harlem. Differing in their philosophies but alike in their mutual respect, the two men debate their varying approaches to the same grave social problems. Both are prepared to die for their beliefs but neither is aware of how soon assassins' bullets await them. The play was televised on American Playhouse in 1989. FEBRUARY 27 @ 7:00 PM (EST), streaming until March 1 @ midnight (EST) "Widows" by Mfundi Vundla, director TBA  Cast TBA This drama, originally presented by NFT in 1981, is about the struggle of three

African women to overcome oppressive conditions in South Africa. New Federal Theatre’s Mission is to integrate artists of color and women into the mainstream of American theatre by training artists for the profession, and by presenting plays by writers of color and women to integrated, multicultural audiences plays which evoke the truth through beautiful and artistic re-creations of ourselves. To-date, the company has produced over 450 mainstage plays, an astonishing and influential record of achievement, sending multiple plays to Broadway and launching numerous playwrights actors, directors, designers into prominent careers. Its alumni are an honor roll of artists of color from the 1970s through today. For more info, including an expanded list of the company's distinguished alumni, see: http://www.jsnyc.com/season/ about_NFT.html. The troupe is now in the beginning of its 51st season. In May, 2020 the Off Broadway Alliance named Woodie King, Jr., Founding Director of New Federal Theatre, a "Legend of Off Broadway," recognizing his sustained achievement in Off Broadway theater.

February 4, 2021 - February 10, 2021

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ENTER TAINMENT

“C R O W N S O F H E R I TAG E” Campaign Launched

In honor of Black History Month, P&G’s Royal Oils by Head & Shoulders and Gold Series from Pantene enlisted the help of AfricanAncestry.com to trace the DNA of the team behind the brands and launch a journey of discovery that is #RootedInScience. The campaign, aptly entitled “Crowns of Heritage,” encourages people to reflect on the missing pieces of their family history and receive an opportunity to reconnect with the African roots of their family tree. The Crowns of Heritage Sweepstakes will give away 50 AfricanAncestry.com DNA test kits, giving winning individuals the ability to broaden their sense of identity and celebrate a fuller picture of their history. This press release features multimedia. View the full release here: https:// www.businesswire.com/news/ home/20210203005619/en/

knowledge to ensure that the range of products are effectively formulated for every stage of the curly, coily hair journey – natural, relaxed, blow outs, protective styles, and so much more. “Our team of Black scientists has made understanding our hair their mission, using specialized testing protocols on hair samples from people of African descent to ensure optimal performance and best-in-class product benefits,”

their commitment to science and innovation that empowers them to better understand themselves and their consumers,” said Dr. Gina Paige. “Our hair identity is a cornerstone of the Black beauty experience, and we hope this alignment deepens and enhances how we view ourselves and Africa in a very powerful, transformative way.” Join Royal Oils, Gold Series and AfricanAncestry.com to share your

From the inception of both brands, science and heritage have played a key role in filling a void in the marketplace for Black consumers with products designed to meet and support their haircare needs. As part of the Crowns of Heritage campaign, more than a dozen P&G Multicultural Haircare Brand Build Builders, Ambassadors, Executives, and Scientists took the AfricanAncestry.com DNA test and participated in a group reveal. Led by Dr. Gina Paige, AfricanAncestry. com co-founder, the team celebrated new connections and missing links in their family stories. The reveal also provided relevant historical context on the results and shared connections with other prominent Black innovators and leaders, reinforcing a legacy of strength and resilience, with hope for a more informed future. “This last year reinforced how important connection is to grow and thrive. Technology has been integral to staying connected to family and deepen those relationships,” said Nadirah Mutala of P&G Beauty Communications. “The Crowns of Heritage campaign allowed all of us to expand our family group to include ethnic groups from West and Central Africa. Now, we can fully embrace and explore a more complete picture of ourselves. The power of this knowledge is a gift that we can share with our families to empower us for generations. We want to give this gift to more people.” The power of science to unlock important answers is never more powerful and poignant than it is for us today. This legacy shows – from DNA testing to hair microscopy, P&G has committed to decades of cutting-edge innovation and technology, plus ongoing research of textured hair in partnership with Black scientists, dermatologists and stylists to create Royal Oils and Gold Series haircare products. Beyond the technology, the talented and dedicated team of Black experts who worked on these products combined personal passion with rich scientific

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said Dr. Rolanda Wilkerson, Principal Scientist of P&G Beauty. “Royal Oils and Gold Series are #RootedInScience, and that underpins all we do to ensure we deliver products that truly serve Black consumers. We turned to science in this campaign and our formulas to deepen the connection with the larger community, for a deeper understanding of our heritage and products designed for them.” The power of science and passion underpins the partnership with AfricanAncestry.com, which owns the largest database of proprietary African lineages for the Crowns of Heritage campaign. AfricanAncestry. com has demystified the African roots of more than a million people across the diaspora, underscoring the deep desire and need for people to better understand who they are in today’s America and across the world. “We are thrilled about our partnership with Royal Oils and Gold Series, and

#CrownsofHeritage this Black History Month:  WATCH the Royal Oils and Gold Series Crowns of Heritage video: https://youtu. be/sbCE94TjI1k.  ENTER to win 1 of 50 AfricanAncestry. com DNA Tests between now and February 28, 2021, at crownsofheritage. com.  JOIN the conversation by sharing how you’re connecting with your African heritage this Black History Month using the #CrownsofHeritage hashtag and tagging @pantene, @headandshoulders, and @ africanancestry on your social channels. (@headshoulders on Twitter and @headandshouldersusa and @ PanteneNA on Facebook) The Sweepstakes is open now through February 28, 2021 to legal residents of the 50 states of the United States and the District of Columbia, 18 years of age or older. For more information about the “Crowns of Heritage Sweepstakes,”

February 4, 2021 - February 10, 2021

please visit crownsofheritage.com. For more information about the Royal Oils Collection, please visit headandshoulders.com/en-us/ shop-products/royal-oils-collection. For more information about the Gold Series Collection, please visit pantene.com/ en-us/gold-series-collection. About Royal Oils by Head & Shoulders Developed specifically for textured hair by a team of Black scientists, Royal Oils by Head & Shoulders provides expertly designed scalp relief and luxuriously moisturized hair for all natural, relaxed, curly and coily crowns. Royal Oils scientists also understand the significance of protective styling, which is not only about looks, but also functionality. Launched in 2021, Royal Oils has released a new collection, specifically designed for prolonging protective styles while maintaining scalp health – the Royal Oils Protective Styles Collection.  About Gold Series from Pantene Gold Series from Pantene is a breakthrough line designed to provide strength and moisture for women with relaxed, natural, or transitioning hair. This superior care and styling line was co-created with scientists, stylists, and dermatologists who understand the unique needs of textured hair. Each product in the Gold Series Collection is powered by Pro-V blends and protective conditioning and repair agents formulated to work together to improve moisture, strength, elasticity, smoothness, and shine. Launched in 2021, Gold Series has an entire new collection dedicated to repairing your hair from the inside out – the Gold Series Hair Repair Collection, designed to condition, restore, and protect the hair from further damage. P&G serves consumers around the world with one of the strongest portfolios of trusted, quality, leadership brands, including Always®, Ambi Pur®, Ariel®, Bounty®, Charmin®, Crest®, Dawn®, Downy®, Fairy®, Febreze®, Gain®, Gillette®, Head & Shoulders®, Lenor®, Olay®, Oral-B®, Pampers®, Pantene®, SK-II®, Tide®, Vicks®, and Whisper®. The P&G community includes operations in approximately 70 countries worldwide. Please visit http:// www.pg.com for the latest news and information about P&G and its brands. Founded in 2003, African Ancestry Inc. (AfricanAncestry.com) pioneered genetic ancestry tracing utilizing its proprietary database of African lineages to more accurately and safely assess present-day countries of origin and tribes for people of African descent. With a commitment to never sell or share DNA, AfricanAncestry.com has demystified African roots for more than a million people including consumers, communities and renown notables. AfricanAncestry.com is a Blackowned enterprise headquartered in Washington, DC. and prides itself for being in the ‘Business of Being Black.’ Source: Procter & Gamble

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BUSINE FILM & SMEDIA S

‘Building Atlanta: The Story

On your next Delta Air Lines flight, if equipped with seatback in-flight entertainment, you’ll have the opportunity to view ‘Building Atlanta: The Story of Herman J. Russell’, a documentary film about the inspiring life and legacy of Atlanta businessman and founder of one of the country’s largest Black-owned commercial real estate development and construction firms, H. J. Russell & Company. Delta is bringing the film onboard as part of all new content on Delta Studio, its in-flight entertainment platform, beginning this month. The nearly hour-long film features interviews with notable Atlantans who knew Herman J. Russell well. Here is a 60-second trailer of the film. “As Atlanta natives, we pride ourselves on telling stories of some of the most consequential figures in our city’s and state’s history through film, and it was particularly rewarding to be able to create a documentary about an Atlanta icon who quietly and fearlessly did so much to help create the Atlanta we know today,” said co-director, David Duke of Living Stories Film & Video. “We are excited to have, for the first time in our filmmaking history, a film that Delta customers will get to see and learn about the amazing life and legacy of Herman J. Russell, one of Atlanta’s most prolific business leaders who truly helped inspire and shape not only Atlanta’s skyline, but also helped integrate a multicultural, partnering workforce in our hometown.” Herman J. Russell, who founded Atlantabased H. J. Russell & Company in 1952 and Concessions International, LLC, in 1979, is known for helping to build the Atlanta skyline as it’s seen today as well as for shaping the airport dining experience for travelers throughout the country and the U. S. Virgin Islands. However, his beginnings were humble. The Great Depression was a challenging time for most Americans, but particularly for a young African-American boy who was born

in 1930 in the segregated South. As early as the age of 8, Herman J. Russell was inspired to build and own real estate, and to be his own employer. Through working with his father and watching how he ran his plastering business, he felt the urgency and necessity to create jobs during the difficult economic times, and that is when his entrepreneurial spirit was born, which

lasted throughout his life until his passing in 2014. That entrepreneurial spirit was passed on through his legacy to his children and grandchildren. “As humble as he was, I think he would be thrilled that a movie about his life would air on Delta flights around the world,” said Herman J. Russell’s son, Michael B. Russell, CEO, H. J. Russell & Company. “We are grateful Delta is interested in featuring his story onboard to inspire an even larger audience.” “Our family felt it was important to document the legacy of our family patriarch in film for generations to enjoy and be inspired by, as we were all of our lives,” said Herman J. Russell’s daughter, Donata Russell Ross, CEO, Concessions International, LLC. “When we embarked on this family project, we never dreamed his life would be made available to be seen on television, let alone by millions of Delta customers.”

Herman J. Russell’ Documentary “In the 1980s, Delta had the foresight to put a Black-owned company and a whiteowned company together, H. J. Russell & Company and Holder Construction, to build the company’s headquarters,” said his son H. Jerome Russell, Jr., Chairman of the Board, the Russell Center for Innovation & Entrepreneurship (RCIE). “The documentary is also the inspirational

back story on which RCIE is being created to grow Black entrepreneurship. The two men who built Delta’s headquarters grew up two miles and two worlds apart in segregated Atlanta and came together through business opportunities to do great things to uplift our city and country.” ‘Building Atlanta: The Story of Herman J. Russell’ will be airing on Delta Studio until May 31, 2021 and will be featured within the airline’s “Must See Documentaries” spotlight collection. Those who won’t be flying in the coming months can also enjoy the film on H. J. Russell & Company’s YouTube channel. The documentary originally aired in February 2020 on ATL PBA. An interview with the filmmakers can be found on the H. J. Russell & Company “We Build: The Podcast” here or on other podcast platforms. ‘Building Atlanta: The Story of Herman

J. Russell’ was created in coordination with the Russell family by Emmy Awardwinning father and son co-directors, David and John Duke of Living Stories Film & Video. "We met Mr. Russell when we interviewed him for our documentary on former City of Atlanta Mayor Ivan Allen,” said John Duke. “As we worked on Mr. Russell's own story we quickly saw that he built more than buildings; he built relationships. The trust, confidence, and lasting friendships he established enabled a new generation of Black entrepreneurs to move into the mainstream. Herman Russell helped to make real the legacy of a city too busy to hate.” Founded in 1952, H. J. Russell & Company is one of the largest minorityowned construction services and real estate development firms in the United States. A multi-faceted organization providing integrated solutions and an exceptional customer experience, Russell has developed, designed/built, renovated, and managed some of the nation’s most complex, high profile projects involving multiple stakeholders and requiring exceptional diplomacy and skill, including the Mercedes-Benz Stadium with the HHRM JV and the Smithsonian National Museum of African American History and Culture with Clark Construction and Smoot Construction. Today, the company is at number 25 on the BE Top 100 list. Visit hjrussell.com to learn more about the firm. David Hughes Duke and John Duke of “Living Stories Video & Film” are Emmy Award-winning filmmakers and natives of Atlanta. Their other films include “Mayor Ivan Allen, Jr.: A Different Road,” “The Wise Heart: The Story of Emory University,” “One Law for All: The Story of the Atlanta Legal Aid Society,” and “The Story of Hope and Will: Children’s Healthcare of Atlanta.” For more about Living Stories, visit livingstories.tv.

M AT T H E W S A A D M U H A M M A D D O C U M E N TA R Y D e b u t The professional life of the late ex-light heavy weight champion, Matthew Saad Muhammad, has been touched on and made into a star-studded 90-minute cinema documentary. The documentary involves over 60 people and it explains that Saad was an abandoned child who was found wandering on a parkway. He was placed in a foster home by the Philadelphia Catholic Charities. He couldn't say his name so the name, Matthew, from the Bible, was given to him. The surname, Franklin was given to him because he was found on the Franklin Parkway in Philadelphia. Saad became a troublesome teenager who was institutionalized and corrected. He later emerged and became a world boxing champion in his early twenties. Soon after his emergence to fame and fortune, he became a Muslim and changed his name to Matthew Saad Muhammad. At the height of his career, Saad posted and paid a reward to a

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woman who came forward with the knowledge of his birth name, Maxwell Antonio Loach, and where his natural

television fighter and his fights were dramatic. Two of his fights were declared the fight of the year. Saad's new fighting

Photo Source: blackprwire.com

family was located. The reunite of Saad with his natural family was televised on a talk show in Philadelphia. Saad started his career as a top boxer. But, after losing a fight that he thought he won, he abandoned his boxing skills for a style of fighting that entailed using offense as a defense. Saad became a prominent

style was exciting but, even though he would win and, just to please the judges and the crowd, he subjected his body to a lot of avoidable abuse. His new offense fighting style led him to an eventual loss when he engaged in a bout with a fighter who fought with a style that demanded the boxing skills he had abandoned.

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The greatness of Matthew Saad Muhammad was not forgotten and he was inducted into five Boxing Halls of Fame before his death on May 26, 2014, one day before his 60th birthday. This Matthew Saad Muhammad documentary contains star studded testimonies from prominent people in the boxing world. In addition to dramatic narrated fight footage, it also contains verbally documented facts about occurrences in the childhood, teenage and young adult life of this ex light heavyweight boxing champion. Production footage was shot on locations in the following places: Philadelphia, Pennsylvania; Atlantic City, New Jersey; London, England; Los Angeles, California; Canastota, New York; Ohio and Atlanta Georgia. This 90-minute cinema documentary contains very strong content and it is currently for sale. It is also available for distribution and or lease. A three-minute trailer of this documentary can be seen on YouTube at: Matthew Saad Muhammad Documovie trailer. Copyright Owners, M.J. Productions.

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EDUCAT ION NFL LEGEND Raises Funds For the fourth consecutive year, Vincent Country is making an impact in the Super Bowl host city by raising funds and purchasing supplies for an adopted school in the market. NFL Legend Troy Vincent, his wife, celebrity chef, and podcast host, Tommi Vincent, will host events this week in Tampa; the Safe Zone Activity Day, and the famous Vincent Country Big Game Weekend Brunch. The fun begins at the Safe Zone Activity Day at Just Elementary School in Tampa, Florida. Created by Troy and Tommi Vincent, Vincent Country aims to enrich culture and communities through intentional service and legacyinspired cooking. The theme for this year’s Safe Zone Activity Day is ‘Unlock Your Future: The Door to Your Success.’ “Tommi and I know these kids. We were these kids,” says Troy Vincent, Executive Vice President of Football Operations at the National Football League and former NFL cornerback. “Being able to stand next to my wife in front of these students as a black executive in pro sports and show them their future - and more importantly show them love and kindness from the hundreds of people that help make this happen every year - is a gift. I would not be here without her.” On Tuesday, February 2nd, Just Elementary will kick-off festivities with a day of fun, food, and sports. The kids will play a series of contactless games and drills wherein each child will have their own sanitized equipment and lane to play while being coached by Spikes, and Mason. A previously completed mural at the school will be the

For

‘ J U S T E L E M E N TA R Y S C H O O L’

backdrop to a day of team-building and giving back.

Sponsors for the event include Zebra Technologies, Cigna and the

U.S. Commercial, says, “We’re proud to team up with the Vincent family and the NFL to help improve the health and well-being of Just

a fundraiser to purchase equipment specifically chosen by Just staff to help their students achieve their goals.

Photo Source: Vincent Country

NFL. “We know the Vincent Country Safe Zone Activity Day will provide an unforgettable virtual experience for Just Elementary School, and Zebra is excited to support it with a copy of our book, Zippy’s Special Gift for each student,” said Bill Burns, Chief Product and Solutions Officer for Zebra Technologies. “Giving back is part of the Zebra culture, and our partnership with Vincent Country is a great example of the positive impact we can all make by contributing time, talent and resources to our local communities.” Mike Triplett, Cigna President of

Academy students and teachers. This is our third year joining forces during Super Bowl Week to provide essential equipment that addresses technology disparities in local schools, and ultimately, helps kids learn, develop and grow.” The Safe Zone Activity Day is not just a one-time safe haven for these K-5 students. It also ties up a greater campaign of giving back to a deserving school that stands minutes from the big game. Vincent Country teamed up with NFL legends Cameron Lynch, Takeo Spikes, Cris Carter, and Derrick Brooks for the Just Academy Bowl,

On Saturday, February 6th, Chef Tommi will host her annual Big Game Weekend Brunch - albeit virtually this year - to prepare her classic shrimp and grits alongside Troy while recapping Safe Zone Day along with a Principal’s Roundtable and panel discussion with the sponsors. The brunch will highlight what it takes to “get off the bench” and help a community in need and announce the results of an ongoing online competition with Troy Vincent and other former NFL players School Bowl Fundraiser to raise additional funds for Just Elementary.

Str i d e Ki cks Off $1 0 MIL L ION S CHOL AR S H I P I N V E S T M E N T Stride, Inc. (formerly K12 Inc.; NYSE: LRN) has selected 47 recipients for the first round of its multi-year $10 million investment in We Stand Together Scholarships, an initiative aimed to improve access to education options for underserved Black students of all ages. This inaugural cohort will receive tuition-free fulltime enrollment at K12 Private Academy for the remainder of the 2020-2021 school year. “For 20 years, Stride has been committed to making high-quality education accessible to all students, and that includes removing racial and economic barriers,” said James Rhyu, CEO at Stride. “A stronger, more inclusive nation begins with

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economic empowerment, academic equity, and career readiness for all, and we are proud to extend

of company-wide initiatives that support racial and socioeconomic equity and inclusion in and through

materials and technology needed to complete their online courses. The inaugural scholarship was open to

that opportunity to more students through this new scholarship.”

education. This first group of recipients comes from 14 states and span kindergarten through 11th grade. Students will receive tuitionfree enrollment for the remainder of the school year, along with the

students who identify as Black, and recipients were chosen based on factors including their demonstrated academic achievement, educational and life goals, and financial need.

The We Stand Together Scholarship was launched as part of Stride’s commitment to institute a series

February 4, 2021 - February 10, 2021

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BUSINE S S Bl a c k S tre a mi ng S ervice L aunch e s BlackOakTV, a black-owned video streaming service exclusively featuring black content, has officially launched with a focus on super-serving the underserved black TV viewing audience. As of February 5th, 2021, viewers can subscribe to the beta subscription at the introductory price of $4.99 per month. Subscribers will get access to a powerful and growing library of black content featuring short films, movies, web series, and original black shows from some of the most talented up-andcoming black filmmakers and creators. BlackOakTV aims to address the fact that 75% of black people say they want more content targeting them. And while there are some entities focused on black content, BlackOakTV believes it can differentiate itself by collaborating on original projects with the immensely talented, independent black creators of today that will become the popular black showrunners and filmmakers of tomorrow. And through the continual development of its product, BlackOakTV will focus on creating a community around its shows, actors, and creators, connecting black viewers with one another as well as with the creative minds behind the shows they love. With a project 18 shows set to debut on BlackOakTV throughout 2021, today, the venture-backed startup launches with exclusive rights to three original series:  Untold Storie s with Unknown People . Created by Dormtainment, the black comedy troupe with over 1 million subscribers on YouTube,

“Untold Stories with Unknown People” is an anthological mockumentary series satirizing eight stories and documentaries from the past decade. It's risque, bold, and offensive, but most importantly, it’s a humorously satirical take on some of the culture’s most talked about documentaries of the past decade, including The Last Dance, Jeffrey Epstein: Filthy Rich, and McMillions.  The Retreat. Created, written, and executed by an all-black woman cast and crew, and led by Nuanse Entertainment’s Ashley Denise and Ricki Lynée, “The Retreat” is a suspenseful series about the schemes and betrayals that unfold among a group of black women after a damning secret is revealed during an artists retreat. The series picks up one year later, as a soon-to-be-published book of memoirs threatens to expose what happened in the woods.  First Date s (Season 2). Co-created by DGA award-winning director Talibah Newman, “First Dates” is a black sitcom about Samantha (Angela Wildflower), a political consultant, who is left navigating her life, career, and serial dating adventures after an abrupt split from her husband. The second season of “First Dates” resumes with Samantha licking her wounds from months of bad dates and the revelation of an illness she is not prepared for. BlackOakTV is founded by Uzo Ometu, who has 15 years of experience creating and distributing content. He spent the

with

O R I GI N A L CONT E NT

last 7 years at Google and YouTube, with most of his time focused on media and content partnerships. Prior to that,

C-CRETS HELPS PROFESSIONALS CLIMB

THE

Ometu filled various content roles at Inc. Magazine, CBS, and Disney.

C O R P O R AT E L A D D E R

Corporate professionals seeking to transform their careers can benefit from C-CRETS, a career development platform that includes podcasts and executive coaching. While announcing the launch of the Platform, Keith Powell, Co-Founder, said their aim is to help professionals, particularly underrepresented professionals, elevate their careers from entry level managerial

for the right seat at the table. “We launched C-CRETS as a comprehensive platform that has two major components. The podcast offers career development tips based on our experience as Black men who have beaten the odds to rise to the topmost positions on the corporate ladder. We also have personal executive coaching services that are aimed at providing

added burdens faced by their Black and underrepresented colleagues. Our platform is for all professionals who want to transform their careers and create a positive legacy.” Those who have benefited from the C-CRETS Founders sharing their experiences and offering personalized coaching tell of the great support and encouragement they received from

C-CRETS is a platform for professionals seeking transformative career advice and support. The Platform aims at building a community – a supportive and connected network working to break through and get their appropriate

and individual contributor roles to more coveted positions. The Company is led by Ricky Robinson and Keith Powell, two Black men who have overcome their challenging upbringings to reach C-Suite level positions in their careers. As strong proponents of equity, inclusion and social justice, the two have mentored hundreds of professionals across multiple industries, functions, and managerial levels, while assisting them to excel in their careers and advocate

equity for those who have been overlooked and underappreciated for far too long to advance to the top of the corporate ladder…,” said Powell while outlining the company’s platform. Robinson added, “As an HR Executive, I understand that women, people of color and LBGTQ professionals are woefully underrepresented in the top ranks of corporate America. C-CRETS was launched to close that gap as well as educate Corporate America on the

them. In a testimonial from a podcast listener, she describes receiving a 25% base salary pay increase, stock options and 100% medical insurance coverage saving her more than $300 per month. Similar sentiments are echoed by Sales, Program Management, IT, HR and Finance professionals. Ricky and Keith excel at helping professionals create personal brands, break out from the clutter, and take control of their careers. C-CRETS invites professional employees

seat at the table. With C-CRETS, there are gems to be offered in support of career journeys and equity in the workplace. Led by individuals who have traveled similar journeys, where they have overcome the odds as Black men and broken the cycle to rise to the top rungs of the corporate ladder – a place that few minorities reach. C-CRETS is about bringing that knowledge from the darkness to the light.

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February 4, 2021 - February 10, 2021

at any level to take the journey with them, so they can help transform careers and create equity in Corporate America.

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END NO TE S FUTURE

O F ‘ B L A C K A M E RI C A N ’

Donat Ricketts got his start featured in a McDonalds Commercial back in 06' when he was a teenager grinding in New York, New York. He has appeared on national television series: Cold Case (2010); Greek (2011); The Real O’Neals (2016); and Grow-ish (2017). He has appeared in films like Project X (2012); Where Children Play (2015); Viral (2016); and Raise Your Hand (2021). However, Ricketts’ biggest accomplish is his development and execution of Blake’s World (2012-2017), his brainchild. Ricketts’ work premiered at the Chinese Theatre in June 2017, and several film festivals, which included the Hollywood Independent Film Festival, the International Black Film Festival in the UK and the 2018 Cannes Film Festival in France. Ricketts’ intellectual property was then stolen and used to create a television series entitled: All American (2018). We all have been told, and at times feel, that anything is possible regardless of where you come from. But when life

hardship and even the Hollywood system clouded his perception. Since 2013, Ricketts looked in the mirror each day and asked himself, “Are my dreams

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H O L LY W O O D

Where Are You From? I’m from a small town called Lake

relationships. ‘Black Lives Matter 2020’ also convinced me to seek professional help. I found that my lack of interpersonal skills arose from a feeling of

Placid, FL “below the Mason Dixon Line”. I grew up in a poor black neighbor called “Hush Mouth City”, recently, some YouTuber ranked it amongst the Top 5 most dangerous places in Florida. The source of my creative/economic power is premised on first-hand knowledge, life experiences, critical thinking, and escapism.

worthlessness for being ‘Black American’, misunderstood, and silently suffering from a mental health illness with its’ nucleus premised on the ideology of a “White Problem”. In the end, I had to grow a profound appreciation for my roots. Thus, BLM is great, so long as the narrative is to promote, but-not exploit.

What Do You Think About The ‘Black Lives Matter Movement’? Trayvon Martin is a distant cousin and quite frankly everyone in America has taken a deep interest in modern issues arising from the black community since BLM. Personally, the BLM Movement allowed me to heal, grow and rebuild important

Biggest Inspiration? Tyler Perry, Byron Allen and Clarence Avant. These men embody, “Black Wealth” and the ability to travel lightly without rich white people treating them as a threat. For me, its' a gift and a curse to possess creative powers and tenacity derived from trauma and escapism.

personable without regard to authentic creativity and talent.

Photo Source: blackprwire.com

gets in the way of destiny – living your dream - may not always seem within reach. As an actor, Ricketts became more tenacious, although negative experiences, personality clashes,

W E A LT H

possible” … Says who? Ricketts strives to embody the ‘Black American Dream’. He believes Show Business is easy, but some people could make your journey difficult, subjective, and

February 4, 2021 - February 10, 2021

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+ + + +

WHAT IS THE AMERICAN DREAM?

A five-part discussion hosted by Carlos Watson. Join the inaugural conversation on positively resetting the American Dream, together. #realtalk

Aida Rodriguez Producer, Stand-Up Comedian

Jalen Rose Athlete, Commentator

Carlos Watson Host

Jasmine Davis Trans Activist

Eddie Glaude Jr. Princeton Professor

John Kasich Former Governor of Ohio

Angela Duckworth Professor

+ + + +

WATCH NOW ozy.com/realtalk

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February 4, 2021 - February 10, 2021