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THE ALTERNATIVE VOLUMEPERSPECTIVE 26 ISSUE 40

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VOLUME 32 ISSUE 1

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January 13th, 2022 - January 19th, 2022

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

C I V I L R I G H TS G RO U P S D E M A N D A C T I O N

The Black Stars News 2015 Annual N a t i o n a l U r b a n L e a g u e LeadingAwards civil rightsDinner organizations releasedMayor“As we approach Martin Luther King, Jr. will honor the following joint statement urging senators Day, we will not accept empty promises in David Dinkins, Rep. Charles to be on the right side of history and pass pursuit of Dr. King’s dream for a more equal Rangel, Rep. Yvette Clarke, the Freedom to Vote: John R. Lewis Act: and just America. Our leaders have a historic R. Donahue Peebles, Barbara opportunity to restore and protect Dr. King’s “HistoryArnwine, will judge senators for what they do Inez Barron, Sabrina legacy by passing the Freedom to Vote: to protect voting rights, not arcane rules.

John R. Lewis Act. Lamb, Dr. Rudy Crew, Stephen The Freedom to Vote: John R. Lewis Act Byrd, andcountry the Central“The Senate must act by any means will ensure thatAlia votersJones, across the can safely andFive freelysurvivors cast their ballots. necessary to pass the Freedom to Vote: Park of gross injustice Every senator who chooses on December 18obstruction from 6:00pm – John R. Lewis Act so that every vote counts over protecting our freedom vote is and we all have a say in our future. This 10:00pm at MISTtoHarlem, 46 West contributing to the fall of our democracy. legislation addresses some of the major 116thand Street.

Their legacies our legacy as a country problems facing our democracy by restoring

ON

YEARS!

By

are on the line. honoree Senators are elected to the power of the Voting Rights Act, setting “Each chosen for vote, not hide behind procedural rules while recognition has demonstrated our voting rights are under attack. Sham leadership and vision in excusesexceptional are unacceptable.

her or his respective profession or

 National Coalition on Black Civic Participation/Black Women’s Roundtable President and CEO Melanie Campbell  The Leadership Conference on Civil and Human Rights Interim President and CEO Wade Henderson  Lawyers’ Committee for Civil Rights Under Law President and Executive Director Damon Hewitt  NAACP Legal Defense and Educational Fund, Inc. (LDF) President and DirectorCounsel Sherrilyn Ifill  NAACP President and CEO Derrick

David Dinkins

“The right to vote is our most fundamental endeavor someallsignificant right and is the rightand uponinwhich our measure has contributed other rights rest. People have died to towards a more just society achievecreating and protect this precious right. in this Democracy cannot says exist without all of our country,” Black Star News participation.

We cannot tolerate barriers founder and publisher Milton to voting for people of color, veterans, Allimadi.

“Obviously people with disabilities, rural voters,much new work needs tocitizens, be done herepeople. and Americans, senior or young around world.”

We cannot toleratethe efforts to remove local election officials or harass them to prevent Thecounting gala starts 6:00pm them from everyat vote.

Instead,with we a cocktail hour be followed must move forward andto protect the voice by the and votedinner of everyand American. awards ceremonies. There

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

organizations:

Pioneering producers Stephen Byrd and Alia Jones, through their BWR promotes their health and wellness, company Row Production, economic security &Front prosperity, education brought “Cat on Hot Tin Roof” and global empowerment as a key elements for success. and “A Streetcar Named Desire”

with a multi-ethnic cast to The Leadership Conference on Civil and Human Broadway.

Rights is a coalition charged In 2016 theybybring its diverse membership of more than 230 “Eclipsed” with Oscar Winner nationalLupita organizations to promote and Nyong ’O to Broadway. protect the rights of all persons in the United States. The Leadership Honorees, theConference so-called works Central toward an America as collectively good as its ideals.

Park 5, are and

Charles Rangel

was a member of the New York City Council, representing the 40th council district in Brooklyn, succeeding her mother, Una S. T. Clarke. In the current 114th Congress Clarke serves on the Energy and Commerce Committee, responsible for consumer protection, food safety, energy development, public health, communications, the environment, and interstate and international commerce.

majority. She now leads The Transformative Justice Coalition.

Arnwine was for 26 years executive director of the Lawyers’ Committee for Civil Rights Under the Law. Inez Barron, honoree, formerly a State Assembly member, is now a New York City council member and a champion of education for our youth.

individually heroes. They are survivors of one of the ugliest miscarriage of justice in New York’s history; having been railroaded and unjustly convicted for a crime they did not commit and for which they served long prison sentences ranging from seven years to 13 years before being exonerated when the actual rapist confessed. They are: Yusef Abdus Salaam; Raymond Santana Jr., Antron McCray, Kevin Richardson, and Kharey Wise.

The Black Star News, which focuses

Honoree Imhotep Gary Byrd is be musical entertainment by “We arewill especially disappointed in on investigative journalism, has a legendary radio talk show host senatorsopera of bothsinger partiesCassandra who have Douglas been featured as a result of some if and executive producer, radio DJ, supported the Senate phenomenon rules for andamending from harmonica its news scoops, on CNN, The New R. Donahue Peebles, honoree, is economic matters,Galison. but are unwilling do poet, songwriter, music recording William DavidtoDinkins is York Daily News, The New York a leading developer and founder of so for the most critical matter facing our artist and producer, rapper, writer honored for Lifetime Achievement nation: the protection of the right to vote.

Post, The Village Voice, and Brill’s PhotoThe Source: nul.org Co., the nation’s largest Peebles and community activist. He began — he was Newmisguided York City’s These senators are either or first Content magazine.

African American-owned real his career as a radio DJ in Buffalo African American mayor and also disingenuous in their motivations.

We are firmtowith $3.5 billion worthJohnsonat age 15. For over 30 years, he’s For morePast standards protect access to the information on The Leadership Black Star News honorees also disappointed in Nelson senators who have to thenationalestate welcomed Mandela of properties under development vote, ending partisan gerrymandering of  National Council of Negro Women Conference and its member organizations, supported voting rights legislation in the have included: Gil Noble (Like It been a talk show host at WBLS and city after his release in 1990. congressional districts, beginning overhaul Director Janice L. Mathis visit www.civilrights.org. or management — hetowas one Executive past, but who refuse to do so now out of Is), Rep. Maxine Waters, Soledad

WLIB radio in New York our broken campaign financedeveloperswho system, and  National Urban League President andCity.

CEO He Rep. Charles Rangel, alsoparty honored fear of political retribution from cynical of the pioneering The Lawyers’ Committee for Civil Rights O’Brien (CNN), Ms. Camille Cosby, also has a Friday night radio talk creating new safeguards against subversion Marc H. Morial leadership.

History will judge them for it, as for Lifetime Achievement, has Under Law (Lawyers’ Committee), a helped turn around and revitalize Voza Rivers (New Heritage Theatre), show on Network WBAI. President and electoral process. The filibuster must  National Action it has judged others who have since sat idly1971. by as He of nonpartisan, nonprofit organization, was served in Congress is the the once-blighted Anacostia not be a barrier to protecting our freedom to Founder Reverend Al Sharpton Errol Louis (NY1 News), Amel civil rights have been abridged. They will be Honoree Sabrina Lamb, founderformed in 1963 at the request of President a recipient of The Bronze medal for vote. neighborhood in Washington, D.C. viewed with as much disdain as those who Dr. bar William The National Coalition on Black Civic John F. Larrieux Kennedy to(Entertainer), involve the private of World of Money, is a champion helping save soldiers behind enemy A champion of African-American have actively sought to abridge civil rights.

Pollard (Medgar Evers College), “The current efforts to advance this Participation (NCBCP) is one of the providing legal services to address racial of financial literacy for youth-- shein line during thecivil Korean War. In the tradition of those rights giants economic Peebles’ is active important legislationempowerment will finally allow for an most civil rights and social justice discrimination.

The principal mission the Herm Edwards (NY Jets),ofNayaba who fought for voting rights before us, we teaches knowledge abouttohandlingLawyers’ Committee for Civil Rights Under open and public debate. We will be watching organizations in the nation “dedicated contemplating a possible run for NYC Rep. Yvette Clarke is a Democratic Arinde (Amsterdam News), La-Verna ask those senators: ‘which side are you on, money, budgeting economic and planning. Law is to secure, through the rule of law, the debate closely.

We encourage all to increasing civic engagement, mayor in 2017. member of the US House of Fountain (Columbia University), senator, which side are you on?’ watch closely and note where each senator, and voter empowerment in Black America.” equal justice for all, particularly in the areas Dr.Women’s Rudy Crew, honoree, Representatives from New (DC37), Honoree Arnwine, civil The Black regardless of party, Barbara stands on preserving Roundtable (BWR)is one ofof votingLillian rights, Roberts criminal justice, fairDesiree housing Dancy th “History judge senators for the nation’s leading educators.

He’s York will whose 9 district covers (New York Times), Greg Floyd (Local democracy andlawyer, protecting fundamental is the women and girls’ empowerment and and community development, economic rights is athechampion of vote.” power building arm of the NCBCP. At the justice, educational opportunities, and Brooklyn.

Before right to protecting 237), Rev. Al Sharpton (National president of Medgar Evers College whatmuch theyof docentral to protect voting voting rights of ethnic championing just and equitable crimes.

ForNetwork), more information, please others. entering 2007, she Action and many ofof The City University of New hate minority groups — the emerging forefront rights, notCongress arcane in rules.”

This statement was signed by the following public policy on behalf of Black women, visit https://lawyerscommittee.org.

INSIDE T HIS ISSUE: IS SUE : INSIDE THIS

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PAGE 6 RAVE REVIEWS FOR ACTRESS

December 17, 2015 - December 23, 2015

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N AT ION AL W O M E N ’ S P L AT F O R M ColorComm, Inc., the nation's leading women's platform addressing diversity & inclusion across the communications, marketing, advertising, and media industries, will host the 5th Annual NextGen Fellows Program on February 25, 2022, with a summit & recruiting component to allow Fortune 500 companies, agencies, brands, and corporations to recruit students for internships and full-time positions.

ColorComm's 5th Annual NextGen Fellows Program will focus directly on current students and recent graduates of Historically Black Colleges & Universities (HBCUs). The year-long program will provide mentorship, professional development seminars, access to the full ColorComm Network, and a direct pipeline for leading media companies and brands to hire the next generation of leaders. The HBCU Fellows Program is an exclusive program where applicants will be evaluated on academic achievement, community give

TO

ADDRESS DIVERSITY

AND

INCLUSION

back, extracurricular activities, and their professional goals.

The virtual program and recruitment summit will bring together the best and brightest HBCU students from across the nation, and will reach ColorComm's Community of more than 100,000 multicultural professionals.

There is no cost associated to apply to the fellowship.

“As a proud graduate of Spelman College, I can recall the challenges entering the communications industry as a student looking for a full-time position in the industry. HBCU Students often face greater challenges to land top media and communications positions as the same companies frequent the same schools and often overlook the wide variety of HBCUs." said Lauren Wesley Wilson, Founder and CEO, ColorComm, Inc. “The 5th Annual ColorComm NextGen Fellows Program will give greater access to companies to engage

 Florida A&M University  Hampton University  Howard University  Jackson State University  Lincoln University  Morehouse College  Morgan State University  North Carolina A&T State University  Spelman College  Tuskegee University

with the best talent and will provide students with the access, resources, and knowledge to succeed after graduation,” said Wesley Wilson.

Participating HBCU Schools Include:  Alabama A&M University  Bowie State University  Claflin University  Clark Atlanta University

P H I B E TA S I G M A F R AT E R N I T Y G L O B A L F O U N D E R ’ S D AY Photo Source: blackprwire.com

Photo Source: blackprwire.com

There will be appearances by noted Sigma Men. Among them, singer-songwriter and member of the Grammy award-winning group, Boyz II Men, Bro. Shawn Stockman.

Then, prepare for an out-of-this-world chat with NASA Astronaut, Bro. Victor Glover.

Our Theme for this year's global event is "A Brotherhood to Believe In!" This is a celebration you don’t want to miss! Chapters across the globe will collectively commemorate our 108 years of ‘Brotherhood, Scholarship and Service.’

KEEPER

OF THE

Oakland University will welcome Emmy and Golden Globe nominated actor Anthony Anderson to campus as the keynote speaker for its 30th annual Keeper of the Dream Scholarship Awards Celebration.

Emmy and Golden Globe nominated actor, Anthony Anderson is the star and executive producer of ABC’s multi-award nominated sitcom “black-ish.” He portrays Andre “Dre” Johnson, a family man who struggles to gain a sense of cultural identity while raising his kids in a predominantly white, upper-middle class neighborhood. The show began its seventh season this fall.

THE PUBLIC IS INVITED The public is invited to join the men of Sigma in the virtual celebration. More information

available at PhiBetaSigma1914.org. Official hashtag: #Sigma108  WHAT: Virtual Global Founders’ Day Celebration  WHEN: Sunday, January 9, 2022, 4PM EST  WHERE: Online at Facebook.com/

Phi Beta Sigma Fraternity was founded at Howard University in Washington, D.C., by three African American male students on the principles of Brotherhood, Scholarship and Service. The Founders conceived Phi Beta Sigma as a mechanism to deliver services to the general community. This deep conviction is reflected in the Fraternity’s motto, ‘Culture for Service and Service for Humanity.’ Today, Sigma has blossomed into a global organization of leaders, with more than 800 chapters chartered across the United States and Canada, Africa, Asia, the Caribbean and Europe. The Fraternity delivers transformative experiences through its programs of Community Engagement and Economic Development, Social Action and Advocacy, Education and youth development through its Sigma Beta Club, as well as collaborations with strategic partners.

DREAM SCHOLARSHIP AWARDS

Front of a Studio Audience Norman Lear’s ‘All in the Family’ and ‘The Jeffersons’”, and then as himself in the second special, “Live in Front of a Studio Audience: ‘All in the Family’ and ‘Good Times,” performing the opening song with Patti LaBelle.

Anderson is currently developing the film FOOTBALL OR ME, a romantic comedy by AGC Studios, inspired by the Argentinian

comedy “Futbol y Yo.” Anderson has become familiar to audiences through roles in such prominent films as the Michael Bay blockbuster TRANSFORMERS, Martin Scorsese’s Oscar-winning feature THE DEPARTED alongside a stellar cast including Leonardo DiCaprio, Matt Damon and Jack Nicholson, and the all-star

Anderson is currently hosting his sixth season of the ABC game show “To Tell the Truth,” a popular prime-time re-imagination of the beloved classic game show of the same name. He is also producing “grownish” for Freeform and “mixed-ish” for ABC, both “black-ish” spin offs. Anderson is also executive producing “Road Trippin’” with Rickey Thompson and Denzel Dion which airs on SnapChat.

comedy THE BIG YEAR. Anderson first gained attention as one of Jim Carrey’s sons in ME, MYSELF, AND IRENE and has since appeared in such films as the BARBERSHOP franchise, SCARY MOVIE 3, KANGAROO JACK, EXIT WOUNDS, CRADLE 2 THE GRAVE, TWO CAN PLAY THAT GAME, MALIBU’S MOST WANTED, MY BABY’S DADDY, AGENT CODY BANKS 2, HAROLD AND KUMAR GO TO WHITE CASTLE, SMALL TOWN CRIME, THE STAR and the Academy Award nominated FERDINAND. Most recently, Anderson starred in and was the executive producer of Netflix’s film BEATS, alongside Uzo Aduba and newcomer Khalil Everage.

On the small screen, Anderson brought his talent and humor to his own WB sitcom “All About the Andersons” which was loosely based on his life. Anderson also starred in Fox’s “K-Ville” opposite Cole Hauser and had a recurring role in the police-drama television series, “The Shield,” opposite Michael Chiklis and Glenn Close and in NBC’s “Guys with Kids.” He went on to star as Kevin Bernard in “Law & Order.”

Anderson appeared in the Emmy award winning pair of ABC live television specials, “Live in Front of a Studio Audience.” He first appeared as Henry Jefferson in “Live in

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pbs1914; Twitter.com/pbs_1914; Instagram. com/pbs_1914; and Phi Beta Sigma Fraternity, Inc. - YouTube

Photo Source: blackprwire.com

Join Phi Beta Sigma Fraternity Inc., as we celebrate 108 years of service.

On Sunday January 9, 2022 at 4 PM EST, we will have our Global Founders’ Day celebration, hosted by CBS Television’s “Let’s Make A Deal” host, Bro. Wayne Brady. The event will be live-streamed simultaneously on YouTube, Facebook and Twitter, and feature a number of brothers, including President Chris Rey, J.D., with a special Founders’ Day Message and toast.

Anderson has hosted several culinary

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NEWS NUL APPLAUDS PRESIDENT’S APPOINTMENTS By

The National Urban League President and CEO Marc H. Morial released the following statement in response to President Biden’s historic nomination of Lisa Cook and Phillip Jefferson to serve on the Board of Governors (Board) of the Federal Reserve System (The Fed). If confirmed, Lisa Cook and Phillip Jefferson would become the first Black woman and the fourth Black man, respectively, to serve on the Fed Board in the central bank’s 108-year history.

Dr. Cook, an Economics and International Relations Professor at Michigan State University, is one of the most accomplished and internationally known macroeconomists. She brings a wealth of knowledge on banking systems, innovation, markets, and global finance to this role, and has a long and proven track record of advocating for more equitable participation of women and African Americans to boost the nation’s economic potential and reduce inequality. Dr. Cook holds bachelors’ degrees from Spelman College and

National Urban League

TO

FEDERAL RESERVE joined a letter with other civil rights leaders encouraging the President to consider more than one Black American to serve on Federal Reserve Board.

"We congratulate both nominees and urge swift Senate consideration of their historic nominations to the Fed Board to better ensure that our nation’s central bank has the leadership necessary to fulfill its critical mission as our nation continues to recover from the COVID-19 pandemic.”

Photo Source: nul.org

Oxford University, and a Ph.D. in Economics from the University of California, Berkeley.

Dr. Jefferson currently serves as Dean of Faculty and the Paul B. Freeland Professor of Economics at Davidson College. He began his career as an economist for the Federal Reserve Board and has held visiting appointments at the Federal Reserve Bank of New York and the University

of California at Berkeley. He holds a bachelor’s degree in Economics from Vassar College, and a PhD and MA in Economics from the University of Virginia.

“The National Urban League commends President Biden for following through on his commitment to appoint qualified nominees like Dr. Cook and Dr. Jefferson, who represent the rich diversity of this nation. In the fall, we

The National Urban League is a historic civil rights organization dedicated to economic empowerment in order to elevate the standard of living in historically underserved urban communities. The National Urban League spearheads the efforts of its 90 local affiliates through the development of programs, public policy research and advocacy, providing direct services that impact and improve the lives of more than 2 million people annually nationwide. Visit www.nul.org and follow us on Twitter and Instagram: @NatUrbanLeague.

CIVIL RIGHTS LEADERS CHEER DirectTV’S DROPPING ONE AMERICA DirectTV‘s decision to drop the toxic propaganda outlet One America News (OAN) will help stem the venomous flow of misinformation that fueled the deadly January 6 insurrection, the leaders of the National Urban League and National Action Network said today.

“For years, OAN has shamelessly promoted dangerous falsehoods and conspiracy theories, inflicting great harm not only to the subjects of its lies but to the nation as a whole,” National Urban League President and CEO Marc H. Morial said. “OAN’s unrelenting hype of the Big Lie directly contributed to the horrifying January 6 attack on Congress and the ongoing assault on voting rights and democracy. DirectTV’s decision effectively neutralizes the one of the most dangerous weapons in the arsenal of far-right extremists.”

The civil rights leaders had long raised

KEEPER

OF THE

focused shows on the Food Network including “Eating America, with Anthony Anderson” and “Carnival Cravings with Anthony Anderson,” as well as served as a regular judge on “Iron Chef America."

For the past two years, Anderson has hosted “Dear Mama: An Event to Honor Moms,” which is VH1's annual Mother's Day celebration to salute moms everywhere. In addition, he’s been a frequent guest host of “Jimmy Kimmel Live.”

Anderson has received seven consecutive Emmy nominations for “Outstanding Lead Actor in a Comedy Seriesm,” two Golden Globe nominations and three Critics Choice nominations for his popular role in “black-ish.” Additionally, in 2021, he won his seventh individual Image Award in the

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concerns about DirectTV’s role in supporting the network, which receives little advertising revenue and is funded largely by fees from cable, satellite and streaming providers.

“DirectTV’s announcement indicates that OAN’s viewership is dwindling, which is a positive sign for the nation

and the future of democracy,” Morial said. “The American people are choosing truth over lies, and common sense over hysteria. OAN has no place in a nation committed to peace, justice and equality.”

National Action Network Founder and

President Rev. Al Sharpton added, “A cancer has been excised from the body of democracy, and America is a healthier and safer place for it. DirectTV is not OAN’s only distributer, but it is the largest. It remains to be seen whether OAN can survive without it, and we can only bid it good riddance.”

DREAM SCHOLARSHIP AWARDS category of “Outstanding Actor in a Comedy Series,” adding to his 16 total Image Award nominations in his career. He has been nominated for four Screen Actors Guild awards, BET Awards, and Teen Choice Awards as well as one People’s Choice Awards and one Kids’ Choice Awards.

Anderson has also hosted the NAACP Image Awards for the past eight years.

In 2020 he was awarded a Star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame.

Active in his community as an advocate and philanthropist, Anderson will host his fourth annual Anthony Anderson Celebrity Golf Classic next year, benefiting the American Diabetes Association, Los Angeles Mission and Boys & Girls Club of America. He also proudly serves on the GOOD+ Foundation’s

Fatherhood Leadership Council and was inducted into the Class of 2017 Boys & Girls Club of America National Alumni Hall of Fame. Anderson has Type 2 diabetes and is an advocate for diabetes awareness and a spokesperson for the “Getting Real About Diabetes” campaign. Anderson has always been a supporter of his hometown, Compton, California. He has partnered with the City of Compton in holiday food giveaways in the city where they provided food to over 1,000 residents. Last year, he emceed the Los Angeles Dodgers’ Ground-Breaking Event to support local youths. In the battle against COVID-19, Anderson joined Mayor Garcetti at a South L.A. clinic to urge communities of color to seek COVID-19 testing. He also co-hosted the “Saving Our Selves: A BET COVID-19 Relief Effort” special,

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to support African Americans impacted by coronavirus. And in lieu of participating in the Veteran’s Day Parade due to COVID-19, he co-hosted “The 2020 National Memorial Day Parade: America Stands Tall” television special.

Born in 1970, Anderson pursued his acting career as he continued his education by attending Hollywood High School for the Performing Arts, where he earned first place in the NAACP's ACTSO Awards with his performance of the classic monologue from "The Great White Hope." That performance, along with his dedication to his craft, earned him an arts scholarship to Howard University.

Anderson currently lives in Los Angeles.

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COMMENTARY S E N AT E M U S T PA S S F R E E D O M T O V O T E A C T The National Urban League President and CEO Marc H. Morial issued the following statement after the House passed the Freedom to Vote: John R Lewis Act with a vote of 220 to 203: “On the heels of President Biden’s momentous speech on Tuesday, we were pleased to see the House of Representatives swiftly act and pass the Freedom to Vote: John R. Lewis Act ,which combines the John Lewis Voting Rights Advancement Act and the Freedom to Vote Act. We also are glad to see President Biden going to the Senate today to make a direct appeal to Senators. The protection of voting rights for all and the preservation of our democracy must be the chief priority of the nation and its leaders. The Senate should take up and pass the House measure as soon as possible.

“President Biden’s words in Atlanta were loud and clear: ‘history has never been kind to those who have sided with voter suppression over voter’s rights.’ There is a shameful, anti-democratic effort being undertaken by partisan state legislatures across the country to impede and restrict communities of color, native people, young people, older persons, and people with disabilities from voting.

These cynical efforts to preserve political power at all costs are a threat to our democracy and need to be challenged directly and

unequivocally.

“Coast to coast from Arizona to West Virginia, through Utah, and spanning Alaska to Maine -- every Senator will have to answer to the American people, to future generations, and to history for the position they take in this moment.

The filibuster was used in the past

of paramount importance. The Senate should bring this bill to the floor and pass it immediately. We encourage voters, organizations, and corporations alike to ask yourselves this important question: which side of history are you on? Use your voice to demand the Senate pass voting rights

Photo Source: nul.org

to block civil rights legislation and each Senator must ask whether that is the legacy they want to leave behind. The Senate rules have been changed repeatedly over the years to address our national economy, including most recently in December to raise the debt ceiling. But what good is an economy without a working democracy. We cannot continue to allow arcane Senate rules to stand in the way of our most fundamental right.

“Passing the Freedom to Vote: John R. Lewis Act will benefit all Americans, regardless of political affiliation, and strengthen our democracy in the process. It is

legislation now.”

The National Urban League sent a letter to the House of Representatives this morning in support of the Freedom to Vote: John R. Lewis Act. The full text of the letter is below: January 13, 2022 Dear Representative, As President and CEO of the National Urban League, and on behalf of its 91 affiliates in 37 states and the District of Columbia, I am writing to express our strong support for the House Amendment to the Senate Amendment to H.R. 5746, the Freedom to Vote: John R. Lewis Act, as it is considered

in the House and Senate in the coming days. As a historic civil rights organization dedicated to ensuring that all people are able to exercise their fundamental right to vote, we stand with our fellow civil rights organizations in supporting this bill.

The Freedom to Vote: John R. Lewis Act will ensure that voters can safely and freely cast their ballots, protect against election sabotage, stop partisan gerrymandering, and limit the influence of dark money in politics. In 2021 alone, 19 states have enacted 34 new laws that suppress the right to vote for all Americans and more are under consideration today. In addition, states are pursuing manipulative redistricting efforts which discriminate against and dilute the representation of Black and Brown voters. This legislation would fight back against these attacks and ensure the ability for every American to participate in safe, accessible, and transparent elections.

Our organization fully endorses this bill, which responds to the current needs of this nation in the fight for voting rights, and urges you to support this legislation. For more information, please contact Yvette Badu-Nimako, Senior Director for Judiciary, Civil Rights and Social Justice at ybadu@nul. org.

Sincerely, Marc H. Morial President and Chief Executive Officer, National Urban League

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ENTER TAINMENT 2 5 TH A N N I V E R S A RY B O U N C E T R U M P E T A W A R D S

Bounce, the nation’s popular entertainment television network serving African Americans, is rescheduling the 2022 Bounce Trumpet Awards, which had been originally planned to take place live on Jan. 15 at the Dolby Theatre in Hollywood and air on Bounce on Jan. 17. The date has yet to be determined.

were conceived to recognize the outstanding accomplishments of African Americans and those who have succeeded against great odds and inspired success in others.

Founded in 1992 by American Civil Rights leader Xernona Clayton, The Trumpet Awards were acquired

by Bounce in 2016. The list of prestigious honorees includes Muhammad Ali, Beyoncé, Jamie Foxx, Halle Berry, Stevie Wonder, The African American Women of the U.S. Congress, Steve Harvey, Martin Luther King, III, Janelle Monáe, and Spike Lee.

“We are taking appropriate cautionary steps to protect honorees, attendees, and all associated with the production from COVID,” said Cheryle Harrison, head of Bounce. “Resilience and perseverance are the cornerstones upon which the Trumpet Awards were built by the legendary Ms. Xernona Clayton, founder of the event, and we do believe the show must – and will go on. We are working with the Dolby Theatre and the schedules of our honorees on a new date.”

The Bounce Trumpet Awards is a night of inspiration, history, and crowdrousing performances celebrating African American achievements and contributions. The 2022 honorees include revered actor Courtney

B. Vance; accomplished producer and director of television and film Stan Lathan; singer, actor, and songwriter Tyrese Gibson; 2021 Scripps National Spelling Bee winner Zaila Avant-Garde; Georgia

senators Raphael Warnock and Jon Ossoff; and internationally known thought leader, artist, and educator Princess Sarah Culberson.  About the Trumpet Awards The Bounce Trumpet Awards

Bounce (@bouncetv) programming is seen over the air, on cable, on DISH channel 359, over the top on Roku®, on mobile devices via the Bounce and Brown Sugar apps, and on the web via BounceTV.com. Bounce features a programming mix of original series, docuseries and movies, off-network series, theatrical motion pictures, specials, live sports and events and more. Bounce is part of The E.W. Scripps Company (NASDAQ: SSP).

“The time is always right to do what’s right.”

Give back on Martin Luther King Jr. Day and every day Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.’s own words remind us of the importance of leadership, hope and service. And at AARP, we believe your experience, skills and passion have the power to inspire others to make a difference.

We encourage everyone to continue his legacy by lending a helping hand in their community. And we can help.

Join us in making a difference on Martin Luther King Jr. Day and every day.

Go to createthegood.org to find ways you can volunteer in your community Please serve your community and others safely by following all CDC COVID-19 guidelines and federal, state and local regulations.

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January 13, 2022 - January 19, 2022

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E VENT S CBC - NEW BRAND, SAME MISSION: LIFTING UP, LEADING FORWARD Since 1976, the Congressional Black Caucus Foundation, Inc. (CBCF) has worked to uplift the global Black community by developing leaders, informing policy, and educating the public.

For over four decades, CBCF has worked to create opportunities for young Black professionals in spaces that have historically excluded them.

CBCF is comprised of leaders, students, and communities who

share common values. These groups have continued to work together to realize and achieve CBCF’s vision of a world in which all communities have an equal voice in public policy through leadership cultivation, economic empowerment, and civic engagement. These accumulated stories, efforts, and achievements define the way others see us. They inform our consistent story. They inform our

brand—the way our audiences perceive the Foundation as they interact with us.

The new CBCF logo takes inspiration from the eye of the Capitol Rotunda. The painting, the Apotheosis of Washington by Constantino Brumidi, represents reaching the highest point. The focus on the center represents the goal one aims to achieve.

CBCF’s new tagline represents CBCF’s new logomark of the inside of the Capitol dome and the organization’s new perspective. It signifies CBCF’s work to advance the Black community by developing the next generation of Black leaders, and it uplifts policy analysis and research that benefits Black communities across the globe.

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BUSINE S S GRANTS AWARDED SmartBiz Loans®, the leading small business financing platform for SBA and bank term loans, has announced five new recipients of the 2021 SmartBiz® Grant Program.

The Program was established to support minority, women, and veteran business owners during the continuing pandemic and is an extension of the Company’s mission to help equip entrepreneurs with reliable access to smart capital.

Last quarter, SmartBiz awarded five $5,000 grants for a total of $25,000 to small businesses in the U.S. as part of the Program. The recipients were chosen from a pool of eligible minority, women, and veteranowned businesses who applied and outlined how they will use the funds to help their business face new challenges and move forward.

“The SmartBiz team is committed to empowering entrepreneurs across the U.S.,” says Evan Singer, CEO of SmartBiz. “From supply chain problems to hiring issues, we know that brighter days are coming and are proud to contribute to small business rebuilding.”

The grant recipients include Jasmine Parker, owner of Listen to Your Art Therapy & Empowerment Services,

TO

MINORITY-OWNED SMALL BIZ

LLC located in Spring Hill, Florida.

The organization provides art therapy sessions to assist teens in solving problems, increasing selfesteem, building social skills, and behavior management. Grant funds will be used to expand their mobile services.

Restaurant in Ontario, California.

Founded in 2020, B's Maple House specializes in soul food, blending California flavor with traditional Southern delights. The grant funds will help support daily business operations and new equipment purchases.

Eliana Stefanitsis, owner of Molos Restaurant, is using the proceeds for staff uniforms and vendor payments. Molos Restaurant is a Greek and Mediterranean inspired seafood restaurant located on the Hudson River in New Jersey.

SmartBiz has committed to support an ongoing grant program for minority, women, or veteran-owned businesses.

MPower Fitness, located in Palm Coast, Florida, is owned and operated by Fatima Q. Sena. She’ll use grant funds to purchase gym equipment so she can work with an older demographic and for print advertising to reach that community.

SmartBiz is the leading AI-powered small business financing platform for SBA and bank term loans, equipping entrepreneurs with access to the right capital at the right time.

To date, SmartBiz has connected

borrowers with more than $9 billion in SBA 7(a), PPP, and bank term loans while increasing efficiency for its network of banks and trusted lending partners. Over 60% of the loans funded by our banks are for minority, women, and veteran-owned businesses. More than 230,000 entrepreneurs have utilized SmartBiz to access the funding they need to grow.

Founded in 2009 and headquartered in San Francisco, SmartBiz is backed by Venrock, Investor Growth Capital, First Round Capital, Baseline Ventures, and Uncork Capital. Learn more at smartbizloans.com.

Freedom Bremner describes himself as a singer, songwriter, and storyteller. He is the founder of Houseofreedom, LLC in New Jersey. The funds will be used for social media and online marketing to promote his live music production services.

Brandi Dobbins owns and operates B's Maple House

PROFILE: MELLODY HOBSON Mellody Hobson is the Co-CEO and President of Ariel Investments.

She also serves as a Chairman of the Board of Trustees of the Ariel Investment Trust. Mellody is also the director of JPMorgan Chase and Quibi. In March 2021, Mellody was named Chair of the Board of Directors of Starbucks Company, becoming the first Black woman to hold that position at the company. In the past, Mellody was the chair of the board of directors of DreamWorks Animation and a director and board member of the Estée Lauder Companies.

Mellody started in Ariel Investments as an intern and worked her way to the top, becoming one of the few African American women in the investment industry. She is a successful businesswoman, investor, teacher, and financial literacy advocate who has established herself as a national financial expert. As an

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January 13, 2022 - January 19, 2022

ardent advocate of financial literacy, Mellody believes that children should be taught about money and the stock market in school.

Mellody is a contributor on financial issues to CBS News. Forbes named her one of the World's 100 Most Powerful Women in 2020 and Time Magazine as one of the 100 Most Influential People in the World in 2015.

Mellody is also a philanthropist; She serves as chairwoman of After School Matters, a Chicago-based charity that provides high-quality after-school programs for Chicago teenagers.

Mellody holds honorary doctorate degrees from Howard University, Johns Hopkins University, St. Mary's College, and the University of Southern California and a bachelor's degree from Princeton University's School of Public and International Affairs.

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HE ALTH H E A LT H D E PA R t M E N T C O M M E M O R AT E S A N N I V E R S A RY The Health Department commemorated the 100-year anniversary of the East Harlem Neighborhood Health Action Center with the release of “100 Years of Neighborhood Health,” a video honoring the center’s legacy. Opened in 1921 as the East Harlem District Health Center, the 158 East 115th Street site has been an integral part of the surrounding community. A place-based public health approach – tailoring health and social services at the neighborhood level in response to a range of community needs – is still a core practice. The Health Department’s three Action Centers (East Harlem, Central Brooklyn and the South Bronx) aim to eliminate health inequities by addressing factors that lead to poor health outcomes due to racism, inequitable wealth distribution, and unequal access to community resources among others.

“Healthy neighborhoods create a healthy city, and for the past 100 years, our work in East and Central Harlem, North and Central Brooklyn, and the South Bronx has played a vital role in that mission,” said Health Commissioner Dr. Dave A. Chokshi. “We continue to build on that legacy by hosting educational workshops and offering connections to health care and social services for New Yorkers living in neighborhoods impacted by decades of disinvestment.”

In 1921, in the wake of World War I, the East Harlem District Health Center opened as a pilot to co-locate health services, social service agencies and community-based organizations to coordinate health and social services for the neighborhood at a time of disruption and crisis. The original project united 22 health, nursing, and family services agencies, serving 112,000 people

in the first two years.

Throughout the twentieth century and into the new millennium, these heath centers have continued to bring together evidencebased approaches to improve health.

Co-location of community-based resources, multi-disciplinary services, and development of referral systems have been identified as effective strategies to address social determinants of health, provide preventive services, and improve health outcomes.

These centers paved the way for the NYC Public Health Corps, which will expand the public health workforce and promote health equity for communities that were hit hardest by the COVID-19 pandemic.

“As a former Assistant Commissioner for the Brooklyn Health Action Center, it was our mission to leverage the Health Department’s resources to collaborate and co-design solutions to address longstanding health inequities in key neighborhoods,” said First Deputy Commissioner and Chief Equity Officer, Dr. Torian Easterling. “The vision of the Action Centers builds on the social and racial justice principles of the community health center movement and is a critical public health approach to advance health equity in NYC.” “Community transformation starts locally, and I am honored to join with our partners and colleagues in celebrating a century of the Neighborhood Health Action Center model,” said Deputy Commissioner and Chief Medical Officer, Dr. Michelle Morse.

"To address health equity and racial justice, we must commit to the Action Center model in communities across NYC who have experienced disinvestment and inequitable health outcomes for generations.”

The commemoration event in early

BENEFITS (BlackPRWire) If you are not familiar with probiotics, then you might want to keep reading…probiotics offer plenty of health benefits.

Upon discovering that they are bacteria, you might think that probiotics sound bad instead of good, but do not fret.

Probiotics are not harmful to the body as you might believe. They are actually quite beneficial for women and our health.

What are probiotics?

Probiotics are live bacteria and yeasts – also known as microorganisms – often called “good” bacteria.

Yes, they are good bacteria that help us in managing our health if consumed.

When consumed regularly, probiotics are especially good for your digestive system and keeping your gut healthy. The probiotics help send food through your gut when affecting nerves that control gut movement.

The many types of bacteria are classified as probiotics, and they provide various benefits.

They are present in fermented foods and supplements.

What do probiotics do for women?

Probiotics should become a regular part of your diet, especially if you’re a woman. An area that is specific to women, fertility, can benefit greatly from probiotics.

For women, having a good ratio of certain strains can improve the odds of conceiving.

Of course, discuss with your OBGYN for suggestions on what probiotics are best.

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OF

OF

H E A LT H A C T I O N C E N T R .

YouTube screengrab of first East Harlem Neighborhood Health Action Center December featured long-time partners of the East Harlem site who shared reflections on 100 years of the Health Department’s investment in health and healing for Harlem residents. Opening remarks were shared by New York State Acting Commissioner of Health, Dr. Mary T. Bassett, who previously served as New York City Commissioner of Health from 2014-2018 and a long-time advocate for the Action Centers. The event also included spoken word reflections by Urban Word NYC artists and contemporary poet, writer, and activist Aja Monet.

In 2015 the Health Department renewed its commitment to the Neighborhood Health Action Centers and reinvested resources in the model in three priority neighborhoods: East Harlem; Tremont, Bronx; and Brownsville, Brooklyn. The Action Centers provide a variety of services, including referrals to health, social services, other neighborhood resources; and community

P R O B I OT I C S

Fertility is not the only area of focus for women that draws us to probiotics, but overall vaginal health is improved with implementing probiotics into our routines.

Best probiotics for vaginal health: Another area that is specific to women is vaginal health and the treatment of vaginal infections. Probiotics can balance out the vaginal microbiome, which wards off

are probiotics that help balance out the pH level of the vagina.

Our bodies are made to naturally maintain a balance of acidity and alkalinity, so pH balance is important for how our bodies function.

The probiotics help improve certain effects if our pH balance is off, such as reducing vaginal odor and itching as a result of restoring the vagina’s pH to its normal balance.

Photo Credit: Jetson Health via flickr

bacterial vaginosis, urogenital infections, and vaginal yeast infections.

According to studies, lactobacillus rhamnosus and lactobacillus fermentum are probiotics that can improve vaginal flora – the bacteria living inside the vagina – if taken daily.

Best probiotics for women’s pH balance: When looking further at vaginal health, there

Again, strains of lactobacillus are shown to improve your pH balance, as well as Bifidobacterium.

Best probiotics for women’s weight loss: Lactobacillus and bifidobacterium strains are also good for reducing belly fat and weight loss.

Probiotics affect appetite and energy usage. In fighting obesity, studies show

January 13, 2022 - January 19, 2022

space for individuals and groups to organize and plan around community health. Each of the Actions Centers also host a Family Wellness Suite with programs ranging from childbirth, breast-feeding, and reproductive health workshops to crib and car seat distribution. Between 2016 and 2020, the three Action Centers saw more than 137,000 visitors combined.

Action Centers have served a vital role making connections to programs and services more efficient by providing a onestop shop for community residents. The Action Centers are part of a neighborhood strategy that co-locates health and social services, leverages a referral system to facilitate linkages across providers to meet residents’ needs, and amplifies community power to bring the lived experiences and input of marginalized groups to bare in affecting social change.

FOR

WOMEN

that probiotics may assist in the release of appetite-regulating hormones and increasing levels of fat-regulating proteins.

Best probiotics for women’s overall health: We’ve gone over the women-specific health areas and how important probiotics are in maintaining health in those areas, but they are beneficial for the overall health of everyone.

There are probiotics that help with maintaining overall health, including the health of your organs, immune system, and your skin.

Saccharomyces boulardii, a yeast found in probiotics, for instance, helps fight digestion and diarrhea.

Lactobacillus, the most common probiotic, is known to help with digestion, including helping those who may have difficulty digesting lactose – the sugar in milk. It can also help with diarrhea.

Lactobacillus can be found in yogurt and other fermented foods, such as kefir, kimchi, and sauerkraut.

Bifidobacterium, found in some dairy products, can ease various conditions, including symptoms of irritable bowel syndrome (IBS).

Besides fermented foods, probiotic supplements are an option, but there are so many strains that offer various benefits.

If you are interested in probiotic supplements, visit your doctor to get suggestions on the best strains to meet your needs.

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ENTER TAINMENT

NINA SIMONE’S LIFE BECOMES

 By Ann Brown LITTLE GIRL BLUE (LGB) , a musical inspired

by Nina Simone’s life, written by and starring Laiona Michelle, will open OffBroadway at the Shubert Organization’s New World Stages (Stage 5) on Feb. 28, 2022, it was announced by the show’s lead producer, Rashad V. Chambers (co-producer of American Son, Tony Award-winning Ain’t Too Proud – The Life and Times of The Temptations, the critically acclaimed 2019 revival of Betrayal, and The Inheritance).

Michelle has been garnering rave reviews for her performance as the iconic singer/ songwriter/musician/civil rights activist, since the show premiered to sold-out audiences and nightly standing ovations, at George Street Playhouse in early 2019.

This past summer, Little Girl Blue continued wowing audiences, when it ran as part of Goodspeed by the River series in East Haddam, Connecticut, outdoors, under a big tent.

A

MUSICAL

In addition to Michelle in the title role, the company’s original cast and director are returning, including the exceptional trio of musicians that accompany Michelle on stage – Kenn Salters, Saadi Zain, and pianist Mark Fifer who is also the production’s Music Director and Arranger, as well as director Devanand Janki. The production will also have an all female BIPOC design team that includes Shoko Kambura (scenic design), Ari Fulton (costume design), Dawn Chiang (lighting design), Twi McCallum (sound design), and Earon Nealey (wig design). Jason Styres/ The Casting Collaborative is in charge of casting, Ernie Fimbres is the production stage manager, MZQ Productions is the management firm for this production, and Lisa Dozier/LDK Productions, will serve as the production’s General Manager.

Previews begin on Feb. 19 with the official press opening on Feb. 28t. Tickets are priced from $50.00 – $99.00. Tickets are available for purchase at Telecharge.

Photo courtesy of “Little Girl Blue”

“ THE SLAVE WHO LOVED CAVIAR , ” D E B U T S To reach the widest possible audience, Theater for the New City (TNC) will offer the entire run of Ishmael Reed’s new play, “The Slave Who Loved Caviar,” for both live audiences and online viewing.

Each performance will be performed and streamed live from TNC’s Johnson Theater.

Theater for the New City has been at the forefront of theaters demonstrating creative and safe performance possibilities.

Detecti ve M a ry va n H e l sin g (Ro z F ox ) re sc u e s J e n n i f e r Blue ( Kenya W ilson) , one of B a r o n D e Whi t ’s V ic ti ms.

Photo by Jonathan Slaff.

Last Winter, TNC offered “Open ‘Tho Shut,” a series of weekly free, live performances mounted in the theater’s set shop for audiences of socially distanced passers-by, who watched through an open garage door on East Tenth Street. These shows, 23 in number, were also live streamed on TNC’s website (https://www.theaterforthenewcity. net) and Facebook. TNC also offered a variety of live-streamed and on-demand performances and festivals. These included

its annual Halloween festival, Thunderbird American Indian Dancers’ Pow-Wow and Dance Concert, the annual Love ‘N Courage benefit, and plays by New Yiddish Rep and others.

Playwright Ishmael Reed uses satire to explore aspects of American culture and history overlooked by others.

His “The Slave Who Loved Caviar” is a theatrical Investigation into the relationship between Jean-Michel Basquiat and the art world, challenging the notion that Basquiat was merely Andy Warhol’s “mascot.”

The take-no-prisoners satire digs into the exploitation of Basquiat by art world vampires.

Directed by Reed’s frequent collaborator, Carla Blank, it’s the latest work for the stage by the man The New Yorker called “America’s most fearless satirist.”

DAMON LITTLE HAS #1 SINGLE,‘STAND UP’ Grammy Award-winner, songwriter, soul singer, and activist Damon Little current radio single “Stand Up” hits #1 on Billboard Gospel AirPlay chart this week. Powered by radio promotions firm By Any Means Necessary the emotionally charged song spends 44 weeks in the Top 30 making it the longest running radio single in 2021 on Billboards Gospel AirPlay chart.

Additionally, “Stand Up” lands at #8 on the Year-End 2021 Gospel AirPlay chart and Little ranks #10 on the Year-End 2021 Gospel AirPlay Artists chart. On October 19, 2021, the Baltimore native premiered his long-awaited seven-and-a-half-minute-long concept music video for “Stand Up.” The powerful imagery comprising the music video for “Stand Up” presses classical Civil Rights Movement concepts and themes including one of the most famous sites in Civil Rights history: the Edmund Pettus Bridge in Selma, Alabama, where, in March 1965, peaceful protesters were attacked by police engaged in the enforcement of segregation. Half a century later, Little takes to the Bridge with a group of marchers and throws a celebration of his own — and reminds us all of how far we still have to go. He’s also provided us

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with plenty of footage of Selma, including nighttime shots of the disused Washington Street Supermarket, the imposing Dallas County Courthouse, and the moving plaques in the Civil Rights Memorial Park.

When Little stands up before a judge and defends a client beaten by the cops, his call for justice echoes across the entire storied city. “Stand Up” is a call for unity, equality, and compassion — a firm and friendly handshake offered to humanity on behalf of God. Little has always put advocacy at the heart of his project: He’s consistently spoken out on behalf of civil rights and universal brotherhood, and he’s raised consciousness and promoted education about ostomies, a medical condition that affects half a million Americans. The new song follows the artist’s extraordinary run of gospel hits, which include the defiant “I Won’t Be Defeated,” the prayerful “Because Of You,” the heartfelt “Be Alright,” and many others.

Released on February 5 via Little World Music/Partners Music company, “Stand Up” is produced by Bubby Fann and Damon Little who’s also credited as the song’s sole songwriter.

January 13, 2022 - January 19, 2022

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ENTER TAINMENT & MEDIA

J AY- Z

AND

Emmy-winning actor Glynn Turman is coming off an incredible last year with buzz-worthy performances in Netflix’s “Ma Rainey’s Black Bottom” and a Critics Choice nominated role in FX’s “Fargo” and up next, he stars opposite recent Tony Award winner Adrienne Warren in ABC’s Jay-Z and Will Smith-produced “Women of the Movement,” as Mose Wright, a real-life Civil Rights movement leader and great-uncle to Emmett Till.

The show is set to premiere on the network on Jan. 6, 2022. Turman is also currently filming Netflix’s “Rustin,” the biopic on the Civil Rights icon which sees him costars with Colman Domingo and director George C. Wolfe in the first film for the Obama’s Higher Ground production company.

Turman is also the newest face for Beyoncé’s Ivy Park denim line, modeling the new clothing in this video, that was filmed on Glynn’s own IX Winds ranch in Southern California. Turman stars in the video opposite his

WILL SMITH PRODUCE ABC SERIES granddaughter, Melinda. Turman’s longtime passion for horses and showcasing the American history of Black cowboys and cowgirls made him a perfect fit for this campaign.

The New York City-born actor enjoyed his first real taste of acting success as a young teenager, originating the role of Travis Younger on Broadway in the landmark play “A Raisin in the Sun” opposite Sidney Poitier and Ruby Dee as his various family members. Upon graduation from the renowned High School of Performing Arts in New York, he apprenticed in regional and repertory companies throughout the country until he settled in Los Angeles in the mid-1970’s. Turman is also an award-winning stage and television director, helming episodes of “Hanging with Mr. Cooper” and “The Wayans Bros,” also directed during his seasons of acting work in “A Different World.”

His strong work in film and television continues today with his memorable roles on “The Wire,” “House of Lies” and “Queen Sugar” among many others.

Photo courtesy of Glynn Turman

LI FEST YL E S T RAT E G I S T S R E L E AS E S I D EN TI T Y SW I TC H

President and Founder of April Mason Enterprises, LLC, which includes the All Things Feminine and Feminine CEO Brands, April

you through the steps it will take to transform and rewire your mind in a humorous, informative, and straightforward way.

the life they want, by assuming a different version of themselves.

Identify Switch will spark positive conversations, introspection, and removing the mask. Identity Switch is for the woman who is fed up with the current life the old version of her has created. “If you're ready to make the mental, emotional, and spiritual changes to get the life you want, then Identity Switch is your blueprint,” says Mason. With the forward written by Grammy nominated recording artist, Rick Ross, this book will inspire.

and social media personality, April's purpose and passion is to help women embrace their femininity and identify who they are at their core. April’s caring, down-to-earth, fun, energetic, and witty personality, coupled with her wisdom and ability to help others achieve extraordinary results, is what makes her infectious to her audience.

“So much has happened since my last book, a lot more healing, more perspective, and more freedom to be me. When you feel free enough to share in a real way, that’s where the true transformation and evolution happens,” Mason explains. Identity Switch will release December 31 on Amazon and Ingram Spark.

APRIL MASON

Photo Source: blackprwire.com

Mason, shares the secrets of getting what you want out of life.

In Identity Switch, Mason guides

10 | NewYorkTrendnyc

Mason takes readers through a journey of self-discovery. She shares with women how to manifest

 ABOUT APRIL MASON April Mason is President and Founder of April Mason Enterprises, LLC, which includes the All Things Feminine and Feminine CEO Brands. As a femininity lifestyle strategist, international speaker, television

January 13, 2022 - January 19, 2022

www.newyorktrendnyc.com

IN MEMORIAM IN MEMORIAM: SIDNEY POITIER ACTOR, ACTIVIST

NAACP mourns the passing of Sidney Poitier, philanthropist, activist, pioneering trailblazer in the arts, and the first of many accolades.

His storied legacy is a guiding light for countless individuals. As an actor, he took on roles that shined a light on injustices and questioned societal norms at the time; as an activist, he used his voice and talent to fight against systemic oppression; and as a philanthropist, he dedicated his resources to giving back. Undoubtedly, he has touched the world with his actions, words, deeds, and kind heart. From entertainment to human rights, he has raised the conscience of people worldwide to be more compassionate, virtuous, and aware.

His life serves as a testament to enduring will and perseverance. As a lifelong friend of the NAACP, multi Image Award winner, an inductee into the hall of fame, Poitier will be sorely missed and regarded as a permanent fixture for inspiration.

We at the NAACP are grateful for his contributions that will continue to impact generations to come. We will forever hold him in our hearts and carry his words with us.

"If I'm remembered for having done a few good things and if my presence here has sparked some good energies ... that's plenty." - Sidney Poitier Rest in Power.

National Urban League President and CEO Marc H. Morial issued the following statement on the death of actor and activist Sidney Poitier: Few artists have contributed more to the Civil Rights Movement than Sidney Poitier. As an actor, he was determined not to be defined by his race, but he pointedly refused roles that perpetuated negative stereotypes. His charm and grace, both on-screen and off, helped to open hearts and minds as the nation challenged segregation and discrimination.

As the first Black man to win the Academy Award for acting, he blazed a trail for an entire generation of artists and set a standard for excellence that elevated the medium as a whole.

His early support of the Southern Christian Leadership Conference and the Student Nonviolent Coordinating helped make the March on Washington possible, and allowed the Freedom Summer volunteers to continue their work after the murders of James Chaney, Andrew Goodman and Michael Schwerner. Though he and his close friend Harry Belafonte were chased and threatened by the Ku Klux Klan when they arrived in Mississippi to deliver the money they'd raised, the encounter only strengthened his commitment to racial justice.

Our hearts go out to his family, and we join his many friends and millions of fans around the world in grieving his passing.

Photo Source: nul.org

R & B T R A I L B L A Z E R W h o C r e at e d h i t, “ J u i c y F r u i t ” P a s s e s A w ay (BPRW) JAMES MTUME Artist, Composer, Performer James Mtume, an R&B legend whose 1983 hit, “Juicy Fruit,” returned to the charts a decade later as #1 single of rap legend Notorious B.I.G.’s “Juicy,” died on Jan. 9.

He was 76. His death was confirmed by his publicist, Angelo Ellerbee.

Mtume’s musical genius ranged from disco to jazz, and everywhere in between. Not to mention his dramatic compositions for television (“New York Undercover”) and film (“Native Son”). “Juicy Fruit,” the biggest hit from his self-titled R&B group, has been sampled countless times, most famously on Notorious B.I.G.’s classic “Juicy.” Mtume also produced and co-wrote hit singles for Stephanie Mills (“Never Knew Love Like This Before”) and Roberta Flack and Donny Hathaway (“The Closer I get To You”) in collaboration with his musical partner and fellow Davis alum Reggie Lucas.

Mtume was born in the city of brotherly love, Philadelphia, as the son of saxophonist Jimmy Heath. Raised by his stepfather, Philly jazz pianist James Forman, the young musician grew up with activist roots (he saw Malcolm X speak as a child) and moved to California in the mid-‘60s on a swimming scholarship. There, he joined the Black empowerment group, the U.S. Organization

(whose founder, Maulana Karenga created the holiday Kwanzaa), and recorded his earliest solo albums starting with “AlkebuLan – Land of the Blacks.”

According to NPR, after returning to the East Coast, Mtume (whose name translates as

In his 1989 autobiography, Miles, Davis noted Mtume’s impact on the heartbeat of his band: “With Mtume Heath and Pete Cosey joining us, most of the European sensibilities were gone from the band. Now the band settled down into a deep African

Photo Source: blackprwire.com

at

76

Rainbow Seekers, the band released 1983’s Juicy Fruit. The title track became the band’s biggest hit, and it was famously sampled on the Notorious B.I.G.’s “Juicy.”

The band followed it with two more albums: 1984’s You, Me and He which spawned another hit record and 1986’s Theater of the Mind.

Mtume was later credited on songs by Mary J. Blige, R. Kelly, and K-Ci and Jo-Jo. Mtume became a radio personality for new York City’s KISS 98.7 FM. In 2019, he gave a TED Talk titled “Our Common Ground in Music.”

Following the news of his death, Mtume was mourned on social media by the artists who loved his music, including Gangstarr’s DJ Premier, Talib Kweli and others. “Thank you James Mtume for all the wisdom & love & respect you’ve shown me & my brothers over the years,” Questlove wrote.

“messenger” in Swahili), played with jazz band leaders such as McCoy Tyner and Freddie Hubbard as well as recording with his uncle, Albert “Tootie” Heath on the “Kawaida” album. Around this time Mtume joined Miles Davis’ band for a four-year stint that included some of the jazz legend’s most adventurous material, including “Dark Magus” and “Pangaea.”

thing, a deep African-American groove, with a lot of emphasis on drums and rhythm, and not on individual solos.”

In 1978, following dozens of jazz sessions, Mtume formed his self-named “sophistifunk” R&B-jazz ensemble with Lucas and vocalist Tawatha Agee, releasing the albums “Kiss This World Goodbye” (1978). After 1980’s In Search of the

“Rest In Power to the great James Mtume,” Philadelphia DJ Cosmo Baker wrote on Twitter. “The South Philly native & prodigal son, Jazz ROYALTY (the son of the great Jimmy Heath) and music trailblazer & pioneer. His passing is truly a monumental loss.”

“Rest In Peace to the legendary James Mtume,” added BET host Marc Lamont Hill.

“Thank you for sharing your tremendous gifts with us for so long…”

CAROL LANI GUINIER: CIVIL RIGHTS ACTIVIST

Photo Source: nul.org

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The National Urban League President and CEO Marc H. Morial released the following statement to honor the life of civil rights lawyer Carol Lani Guinier: “Professor Guinier was a brilliant civil rights leader who devoted her life to justice, equality, and democracy. Her bold ideas, advocacy, and bravery made her a leading voice for voting rights and the fight against systemic racism.

“Professor Guinier worked for the NAACP Legal Defense and Educational Fund, where she headed the Voting Rights Project and was a law professor at the University

January 13, 2022 - January 19, 2022

of Pennsylvania Law School. She went on to teach at Harvard Law School where she became the first African American woman to be appointed a tenured professorship.

“Professor Guinier's scholarship and mentorship inspired generations of lawyers and civil rights activists, including her son Nolan, who is currently serving as an Assistant Professor of Law at Harvard.

Through them, her legacy and impact continue to live on. We send prayers to her husband Nolan Bowie, son, and her family during this time.”

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January 13, 2022 - January 19, 2022

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