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EXECUTIVE ORDER ENSURES FAIR EMPLOYMENT PRACTICES FOR WOMEN #EqualPayNYC In a major effort to ensure fair employment practices and close the pay gap for women and people of color, Mayor Bill de Blasio today signed Executive Order 21 prohibiting City agencies from inquiring about the salary history of job applicants. Executive Order 21 is the most recent effort by the de Blasio Administration to ensure the families of NYC’s diverse workforce are supported and enabled to thrive. The Mayor also announced his intent to support Intro. 1253, sponsored by Public Advocate Letitia James, which seeks to prevent both public and private employers from inquiring about potential employees’ salary histories. The Mayor and First Lady were joined by senior Administration officials, elected officials, City employees and advocates. “It’s no secret that throughout our nation’s workforce, women and people of color are, on average, paid less for the same work as their white, male counterparts. As the employer of over 300,000 City workers, I have a responsibility to lead the way in putting an end to that cycle of discrimination,” said Mayor Bill de Blasio. “Women and people of color constitute the majority of our City workforce and a large share of the people of working age in this city. It’s essential to the success of our local government and our city as a whole that everyone is treated – and paid – with the fairness and respect they deserve.” “Back in 1976, when I graduated from college, women were paid roughly 60 cents for every dollar that men were paid. That means my classmates and I were valued less
through direct questioning of an applicant or through searches of public records. An applicant’s salary history includes prior wage, salary, benefits or other compensation. The Order allows for City agencies to inquire about previous salary only after making a conditional offer of employment that includes the salary for the job, and solely for the purpose of evaluating an applicant’s representations about their prior employment, such as degree of responsibility or breadth of role.
“ The disparity in pay is even greater for women of color.” — First Lady Chirlane McCray than our male peers and destined for a lifetime of less income. The disparity in pay is even greater for women of color,” said First Lady Chirlane McCray. “From the very beginning of our careers, women and men of color have been paid less than our colleagues for the same exact work. The Commission on Gender Equity, which I co-chair, is working hard to address this issue and create a city where everyone is treated equally. Today’s executive order will advance equal pay for equal work in our city, beginning with our hardworking public servants.” While over 90 percent of the City’s workforce is unionized and paid in accordance with collective bargaining agreements – which
have defined salary schedules driving uniformity and equitable pay practices – the City will take additional steps to ensure pay equity across the municipal workforce. A ban on salary inquiries prior to a conditional offer of employment provides a model for other employers in both public and private sectors. By eliminating questions regarding an applicant’s previous compensation – which is often used as a benchmark from which to determine starting pay in a new position – employers take a vital step to stop perpetuating a cycle of suppressed wages for women and people of color within their workforce. The Executive Order, which goes into effect in 30 days, dictates that prior to making a conditional offer of employment, City agencies cannot seek to obtain information regarding an applicant’s salary history either
The Department of Citywide Administrative Services will provide training for Agency Personnel Officers on the appropriate manner in which to ask about the pay history of applicants who have received conditional offers. Personnel Officers will train their Agency Human Resources staff. DCAS will also conduct periodic reviews to ensure that Agency practices comply with this Order and collect relevant data for its reviews. “Requiring applicants to provide their salary history perpetuates and exacerbates the existing wage gap,” said City Council Speaker Melissa Mark-Viverito. “Executive Order 21, which will cover those seeking City employment, is an excellent start for potential City agency workers. While the City Council has already implemented this initiative internally, we will soon be considering additional legislation by Public Advocate James to go even further by prohibiting this practice in the private sector. I thank Mayor de Blasio for taking this essential step toward tackling pay disparities and look forward to a hearing on the bill that will apply it citywide.”
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NATIONAL “WE STOOD UP: REFLECTIONS ON THE CIVIL RIGHTS MOVEMENT” CELEBRATES THE LEGACIES OF FREEDOM
Lincoln Financial Foundation, the philanthropic arm of Lincoln Financial Group (NYSE: LNC), announced today the release of an audio anthology for children, “We Stood Up: Reflections on the Civil Rights Movement.” The new album includes excerpts from interviews with some of the most influential voices on civil rights and social change, including the late Julian Bond and Franklin McCain, as well as former Atlanta mayor, Shirley Franklin, and current Congressman, John Lewis. In addition to the interview excerpts, the album features
original songs performed by children and artists that specialize in children’s music. It was produced by Philadelphiabased Emmy Award-winning composer, Rodney Whittenberg. “We Stood Up” also includes a reading of the legendary Maya Angelou’s “Caged Bird,” by her great-granddaughter Caylin Johnson, and renowned poet Sonia Sanchez recites her poem, “Catch the Fire.” The album is being released by Clamorhouse Kids, and it is available on iTunes. All proceeds from the sale of the collection will go to the Boys & Girls Club of Philadelphia. The educational album is also available as a free download to schools, libraries and nonprofits that serve children. Lincoln Financial has released the anthology as part of Lincoln’s Legacy, the organization’s
multiyear initiative focused on commemorating the values of its namesake, Abraham Lincoln, and the 150th anniversaries of the Emancipation Proclamation and the 13th Amendment. “President Abraham Lincoln’s ideals are at the heart of our company, and we launched this initiative to celebrate and honor the impact of his legacy on today’s children and on generations to come,” said Dennis R. Glass, president and CEO of Lincoln Financial Group. “Education lays a strong foundation for people to nurture their aspirations and get the most out of life, and this anthology is meant to both instruct and inspire.” “These remarkable stories, songs and poems are meant to be shared, and we want as many children as possible to hear them. It’s our hope that the collection inspires children to believe they
can achieve great things in their own lives,” said Nancy Rogers, president of the Lincoln Financial Foundation. “Whether it’s in classrooms, in libraries, or in afterschool programs, we believe that ‘We Stood Up’ should be available wherever children are listening. That’s why we’re inviting teachers and nonprofit groups to download the album for free.” “We are immeasurably grateful to the interviewees, the musicians and the performers that donated their time and talents to make ‘We Stood Up,’” said Allison Green, chief diversity officer at Lincoln Financial Group. “In every personal story we find reason to be optimistic and hopeful, and we are indebted to all those who have shared their stories and videos over the course of the Lincoln’s Legacy initiative.” B:8.125” T:7.875” S:6.875”
FLORIDA A&M RISES TO TOP OF HBCU’S
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According to Dr. Mangum, FAMU earning a 4.1 out of 5 for its peer assessment is a testament to FAMU’s strong reputation among the HBCU community. “Moving from No. 10 to No. 7 is validation that FAMU is, in fact, moving forward,” Mangum said. “This ranking is the highest we’ve achieved on the U.S. News Best HBCU list in recent history, and I believe it speaks volumes that the work we are doing is being recognized.” U.S. News has earned a reputation as the leading provider of service news and information that improves the quality of life of its readers by focusing on health, personal finances, education, and more.
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FAMU’s 2017 ranking surpassed last year’s No. 10 listing. The University’s ascension comes at no surprise as the rankings’ key measurements include graduation and retention rates – a primary focus of President Elmira Mangum’s administration. Other measures include peer assessment, faculty resources, student selectivity, and financial resources.
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Florida Agricultural and Mechanical University (FAMU) has risen to the No. 7 spot on U.S. News & World Report’s “Best Historically Black Colleges and Universities” list. Climbing three spots, the ranking reveals FAMU as No. 1 among public HBCUs and among the “Best National Universities.”
LOCAL NEWS
NEW APPOINTEE NAMED TO CIVILIAN REVIEW BOARD
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Mayor Bill de Blasio today announced the appointment of John Siegal to the Civilian Complaint Review Board. Siegal brings a wealth of experience to this position, with three decades as a trial lawyer, and having worked in both the private and public sectors as a partner at BakerHostetler and chief speechwriter to Mayor David N. Dinkins.
“My career has been devoted to advocacy, mostly for clients but for government reform too. I am grateful to Mayor de Blasio for the opportunity to now serve as a fact-finder helping to fairly and judiciously hear and determine civilian complaints to strengthen the NYPD and its relationship with the communities it serves and protects,” said John Siegal.
From 2009 through 2014, Siegal served as the Litigation Group Coordinator of BakerHostetler’s New York practice, managing a group that rapidly expanded to more than 100 litigating lawyers. At the same time, and throughout his career, Siegal has been an active participant in New York’s civic and political life.
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VOLUME 27 ISSUE 26
THE WORST THING YOU CAN DO IF YOU THINK YOU SMELL A GAS LEAK IS NOTHING.
As a younger lawyer, he served in City Hall as Assistant and Chief Speechwriter to Mayor David N. Dinkins and immediately out of college he worked as a Capitol Hill Staff Aide to U.S. Senator Charles E. Schumer. He serves on the Boards of Directors of the Fund for Modern Courts, the Center for an Urban Future and, formerly, the Council of Urban Professionals. He also was appointed to the Transition Committee helping staff the Office of Attorney General Eric Schneiderman.
John Siegal is an accomplished trial lawyer and courtroom advocate in federal and state courts in New York and across the nation. As a partner at BakerHostetler, he advises and litigates primarily for financial NewYorkTrendnyc
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“John Siegal’s years of private practice and helping clients navigate the litigation process, as well as his commitment to public service, make him a great addition to the Civilian Complaint Review Board,” said Mayor Bill de Blasio. “John has spent his time deepening his understanding of the law and the responsibilities that come with being a public servant. We also both had the pleasure of working with Mayor Dinkins and his Administration to combat inequality in all its forms. I look forward to working closely with John to address the needs and concerns of every New Yorker.”
services, media and real estate industry clients in private business disputes and matters involving public agencies and controversies.
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November 10, 2016 - November 16, 2016
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LOCAL NEWS
MAYOR’S OFFICE WORKING TO PROTECT DOMESTIC VIOLENCE SURVIVORS’ RIGHTS
Mayor Bill de Blasio and First Lady Chirlane McCray have announced a package of policies to protect domestic violence survivors, their livelihoods and their homes. Together with Julissa FerrerasCopeland, Mayor de Blasio will protect survivors and their families by introducing Paid Safe Leave legislation, which will allow survivors to take paid leave from work to attend to immediate safety needs without fear of penalty. The City will also put housing lawyers in every Family Justice Center to aggressively defend survivors’ housing rights, and work with the NYPD to root out chronic offenders by instituting new practices to ensure law enforcement targets resources on the highest priority abusers and contacts every victim to ensure safety after an Order of Protection has been violated.
“Domestic violence is a public safety menace in every neighborhood, affecting every population, and it’s by confronting domestic violence that we will end the vicious cycle that perpetuates it,” said Mayor Bill de Blasio. “We are sending a loud and clear message – we will not tolerate domestic violence, survivors have the City’s full support, and abusers must be held accountable. In the 21st century in the greatest city on earth, those who have already suffered at the hands of those they love should never have to
“ Domestic violence is a public safety menace in every neighborhood, affecting every population, and it’s by confronting domestic violence that we will end the vicious cycle that perpetuates it.” — Mayor Bill de Blasio choose between their safety and a paycheck or their home.” “Every day the NYPD gets roughly 800 domestic violence calls from every social and economic class and from all over the city,” said First Lady Chirlane McCray, co-Chair of the Commission on
Gender Equity. “Domestic violence is disturbingly common, and almost every one of us knows someone who has lived in fear of physical or emotional violence. It is time for us to come together as New Yorkers, protect the rights of victims and hold those who abuse others accountable. A safe city means a city that is safe for everyone – women, children and men.” Across the country, jurisdictions have struggled to effectively reduce rates of domestic violence. In New York City, where crime is at historic lows, domestic
violence persists. The de Blasio Administration is taking a new, interagency approach to break down silos in social service agencies and law enforcement to ensure that victims of domestic violence and their children are given the tools they need to seek safety from abuse. To fight domestic violence, the City is protecting the paychecks, safety, housing and rights of survivors, as well as instituting new practices to ensure law enforcement is triaging domestic violence cases with the most sophisticated and effective approaches.
FIRST HBCU TO WIN NATIONAL ACADEMIC LIBRARY
The Atlanta University Center (AUC) Robert W. Woodruff Library is the winner of the 2016 ACRL Excellence in Academic Libraries Award. This is the first time that a Historically Black College and University (HBCU) Library has received this national honor.
“This award is a stamp of recognition to the staff here and the programs we offer our students” says Loretta Parham, CEO and Library Director.“This brings an immense endorsement to the level of education that is provided at the AUC, it proves that an HBCU can bring as much value, and expertise as a library at a predominantly white institution. And we do it with much fewer resources.” The AUC Woodruff Library competed against hundreds of national university libraries. After a competitive selection process, the Association of College and Research Libraries (ACRL) and YBP 4
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destination in the academic village. “Each year we continue to see the ‘Club Woody’ definition evolve,” chuckles Parham. “We’re not offended by that title at all. People give nicknames to things that are near and dear to their heart. This is a welcoming space where students can visit with their friends, meet for classes, work on projects, engage in educational activities, and discuss social and political issues” she adds.
Library Services, selected the AUC Woodruff Library as its winner, recognizing the library’s staff, programs and resources which further the educational missions of the institutions they serve. The Atlanta University Center Woodruff Library serves the students and faculty at Clark Atlanta University, the Interdenominational Theological Center, Morehouse College and Spelman College. “While many academic libraries are challenged
by relationships with one group of administrators, faculty, and students, the Atlanta University Center manages to effectively support the teaching, learning and research at four different institutions, deftly managing those relationships,” says Trevor Dawes, chair of the 2016 Excellence in Academic Libraries Committee. Fondly known as “Club Woody” to its students and alumni, the AUC Woodruff library is heralded as a safe learning and social
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The AUC Woodruff Library has holdings of over 1.5 million items in all formats, and its Archives Research Center is a well-known destination for the preservation and documentation of African American history and culture. It houses items from the historic Morehouse College Martin Luther King Jr. Papers, the Asa G. Hilliard Collection, the Walter Rodney Collection, the C. Eric Lincoln Collection and the Tupac Shakur Collection. www.newyorktrendnyc.com
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NO ONE GETS A DIPLOMA ALONE.
If you’re thinking of finishing your high school diploma, you have more support than you realize. Find free adult education classes near you by texting FINISH to 97779 or by visiting FinishYourDiploma.org. NewYorkTrendnyc
November 10, 2016 - November 16, 2016
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NYC POLITICS
UPSTANDER AWARDS HELD AT GRACIE MANSION
goal of having a Center in every borough of the city. Family Justice Centers are walk-in centers that provide free and confidential assistance to victims of intimate partner violence, sex trafficking and elder abuse, regardless of income, language, immigration status, gender identity or sexual orientation. On-site services provided by community partners include: case management, risk assessment, safety planning, family law and immigration legal services, counseling for adults and children, self-sufficiency and economic empowerment classes and programming, NYPD Domestic Violence Prevention Officers (DVPOs) and Assistant District Attorney’s from the District Attorney’s Office. In 2015, there were over 59,000 client visits to the Family Justice Centers throughout New York City.
Mayor Bill de Blasio, First Lady Chirlane McCray and Office to Combat Domestic Violence Commissioner Cecile Noel host the City’s 3rd annual Upstander Awards at Gracie Mansion. The Upstander Awards salute New Yorkers who, along with the Administration, have taken an active role in helping the City to raise awareness about domestic violence. “Domestic violence often takes place behind closed doors, but its impact reverberates to every member of our NYC family. When a woman, man or child is put in danger by their family or loved one, we all need to stand up and speak out,” said Mayor Bill de Blasio. “This year we recognize New Yorkers who are Upstanders: individuals and groups that have dedicated themselves to combatting violence, raising awareness and supporting survivors.” “Every day, the NYPD gets roughly 800 calls about domestic violence. And that’s only a fraction of the true number, because so many people are afraid to report their abuser. In order to reduce the violence, we must get to the very root of the problem,” said First Lady Chirlane McCray. “We must teach our young people better models of interaction, which we are doing through our Healthy Relationship training workshops, and by supporting survivors so that no woman remains with her abuser because she doesn’t have another choice. Today we recognize five honorees who have taken those messages to heart. I’m proud to stand alongside these dedicated, talented and fierce advocates to 6
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renew our call to stand up, speak out and make change to end domestic violence.”
• Offer unconditional support to someone who has experienced violence.
Domestic violence occurs in every neighborhood and community in New York City regardless of race, ethnicity, gender identity or sexual orientation. Awareness is the greatest tool we have, which is why OCDV wants every New Yorker to understand that he or she plays a role in combatting domestic violence.
• Speak up against statements that promote violence.
The Upstander Campaign was launched to inspire New Yorkers to move from being bystanders to domestic violence to being Upstanders, focusing on the idea that everyone plays a role in preventing intimate partner violence. This public awareness campaign was featured in taxi cabs and online, and is one component of an ongoing campaign to raise awareness and bring an end to domestic violence in New York City. To become an Upstander against domestic violence, the City encourages New Yorkers to: • Recognize and speak out against intimate partner violence, gender injustice and all forms of abuse.
• Get help from an expert, advocate, or other professional. • Help share resources with those who need help: NYC DV Hotline 1-800-621-4673; 911 in emergencies; for information and connection to services, call 311 and ask for OCDV’s Family Justice Centers. OCDV wants all New Yorkers to know that there is help. OCDV is the City government’s hub for Citywide delivery of domestic violence services, development of policies and programs and work with diverse communities in the five boroughs to increase awareness. Through a robust outreach effort, OCDV is able to connect victims to critical services through the City’s Family Justice Centers and other key stakeholders. This past summer, the City opened the doors to the Family Justice Center in Staten Island, completing the Administration’s
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Along with opening the City’s fifth Family Justice Center this summer, OCDV also unveiled its Policy and Training Institute, which will assist City agencies and community-based organizations in reviewing and updating their domestic violence policies, and providing tailored trainings for their staff. Included within the Institute is the NYC Healthy Relationship Training Academy which last year conducted over 300 workshops and trained almost 7,000 youth, parents and organizational staff about what a healthy relationship consists of and looks like. This year, as part of the Academy, OCDV also introduced the Creating Awareness about Relationship Equality (CARE) Program, which will bring our trainings to the over 5,000 youth in the City’s foster care system, giving them the tools they need to build healthy relationships. The Upstander Awards remind New Yorkers that everyone plays a role in ending domestic violence. From global leaders to local media, all of the honorees are taking a stand against domestic violence in New York City. The five honorees at the award ceremony include: The Color Purple The Musical, the NYC Anti-Violence Project, New York City Sheriff Joseph Fucito, Judge Toko Serita of the Queens Human Trafficking Intervention Court, and Huffington Post senior reporter Melissa Jeltsen. www.newyorktrendnyc.com
NEW YORK NEWS
‘I GOT MY FLU SHOT…NOT THE FLU!’ CAMPAIGN Associate Pastor Reverend Samuel Phillips III.
The Health Department has launched a public awareness campaign, “I Got My Flu Shot…Not the Flu,” reminding New Yorkers that the flu vaccine is the best protection against influenza and its terrible symptoms. Influenza is a highly contagious respiratory viral illness that can cause significant illness and death. More New Yorkers die from influenza and pneumonia than from any other infection. In 2014, 2,220 New Yorkers died from influenza and pneumonia. About 90 percent of influenza-related deaths are among people aged 65 years and older. Influenza activity is usually at its peak from January through
March, but it can start as early as November and continue through the late spring. It is important to get vaccinated now – before influenza season starts. The campaign will feature four English and two Spanish ads, which will run in subway cars. The campaign will also have a social media component. The agency’s Health Bulletin on flu and other influenza information is available in more than 10 languages and can be found by visiting nyc.gov and searching for “health bulletins.” At the Concord Baptist Church of Christ Health in Brooklyn, Commissioner Dr. Mary T. Bassett was joined by Senior Pastor Reverend Gary V. Simpson and
“Flu activity remains low in New York City, making now the best time to get your flu vaccine from your doctor or a nearby pharmacy,” said Health Commissioner Dr. Mary T. Bassett. “The flu, combined with pneumonia – a common complication of influenza – is the third leading cause of preventable death in NYC. Many neighborhoods, including BedfordStuyvesant where we launched the campaign today, have low vaccination rates. The vaccine is safe and does not cause the flu, and best of all, it can prevent the horrible symptoms of influenza.” “Getting a flu shot is not only important for the health of individual New Yorkers, but for the health of all our communities,” said Public Advocate Letitia James. “Studies have shown that receiving an annual flu shot can reduce your risk of getting the flu by up to 60 percent and can mitigate the severity of many of the symptoms associated with getting the flu. This year and every year, I urge all New
Yorkers to get a flu shot, as it is the best way to protect yourself and to prevent the spread of the flu.” “I thank DOHMH Commissioner Bassett for highlighting the challenges our borough faces during flu season, as well as how vaccination can make a meaningful difference in the health of all Brooklynites, particularly seniors,” said Brooklyn Borough President Eric Adams. “There are a countless number of convenient locations across Brooklyn to get the vaccine, so everybody has access to this key for unlocking a healthier winter.” While annual influenza vaccination is recommended for all people aged six months and older, it is especially recommended for those at risk of developing influenza-related complications. Those at risk include: children under five, pregnant women, people with diabetes, chronic heart conditions and those over 65 years of age. Health care workers and people who live or work with people at high risk of influenza complications also need a flu vaccine to avoid infecting others.
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ENTERTAINMENT
COMMON ‘BLACK AMERICA AGAIN’ NOW AVAILABLE!
Multiple Grammy®, Golden Globe, and Academy Awardwinning Chicago rapper, actor, social activist, and philanthropist Common follows up the release of his explosive and politically relevant new single “Black America Again” featuring Stevie Wonder with today’s announcement that BLACK AMERICA AGAIN, the eponymously titled new album will arrived on ARTium/Def Jam Recordings. “I wrote this song in March,” Common said of “Black America Again” recently, “and unfortunately it was as relevant then as it is now. As it could have been in the 1960s or 1800s or any era that we have existed in this country.” The song’s socially conscious message resonates with scorching yet uplifting power, akin to Common’s groundbreaking 2014 single from the Selma movie soundtrack, “Glory” (with John Legend) for which they received Oscar, Grammy®, Golden Globe, and numerous other awards.
“‘Black America Again’,” Common continued, “is centered in the injustices that black people have experienced and endured since we arrived on the shores of America. ‘Black America Again’ is a call to
long-time friend and collaborator No I.D., who came of age in the ’90s as producer of Common’s first three albums. BLACK AMERICA AGAIN also features the anthem “Letter To The Free” featuring Bilal, the end-title track to Ava Duvernay’s powerful new documentary ‘13th.’ Centered on race in the United States criminal justice system, the film is titled after the Thirteenth Amendment to the United States Constitution which theoretically outlawed slavery. Acclaimed director of Selma, DuVernay argues that slavery is being perpetuated, however, through mass incarceration. “Letter To The Free” has already been nominated for a 2016 Critics’ Choice Documentary Award for “Best Song in a Documentary.”
action. It is a song about black love, black strength, black justice, black resistance, black resilience, black empowerment, and black people.” BLACK AMERICA AGAIN, the 11th studio album from Common,
is the long-awaited follow-up to Nobody’s Smiling (2014), his debut on No ID’s ARTium/Def Jam Recordings venture, which entered the Rap and R&B charts at #1. The album marked a creative reunion between Common and
JACK RADICS THE WATERSHED
Platinum selling Jamaican recording artist Jack Radics has been hailed as one of Jamaica’s finest cultural ambassadors and a National Treasure by Mrs Jewel Scott, Honorary Consul of the Jamaican Atlanta Consulate in Georgia. Mrs Scott made the remarks as she issued they keynote address at the launch of Radics’ new album, The Watershed, at the Bassmint Production Studios in Atlanta. Before a standing room only crowd filled with celebrities, industry professionals and well wishers, Mrs Scott called the launch of The Watershed album “Another milestone in the artistic journey of one of Jamaica’s finest sons and one of our most distinguished cultural ambassadors.” She noted that in a career spanning nearly thirty years, Radics had held the flag of his nation high on stages across the world, and had refused to bow to commercial pressure to create anything but “Music he can be proud of.”
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Common will hosted a special event at Morehouse College in Washington, DC on 10/24. Common talked with students about the important issues he grapples with on BLACK AMERICA AGAIN. More college events are planned for the coming weeks. BLACK AMERICA AGAIN IS AVAILABLE FOR PRE-ORDER NOW: http://smarturl.it/BAA
“We are all the richer for the music he has given us- as a producer, songwriter, bandleader and a singer,” she stated. The event was hosted by award winning hip hop artist and radio DJ Chubb Rock, of Majik 107.5 FM’s popular afternoon show The Ride, and featured performances by Radics along with The Blak Diamond Band, Rica Newell, and John ‘Jubu’ Smith of Maze featuring Frankie Beverly fame. The launch also featured the World Premiere screening of the music video for Love Is, the first single from the album. The video was directed by acclaimed film director James Thayer. Three versions of The Watershed album – main, acoustic and instrumental renditions- were all released simultaneously on Friday. It was also announced that Radics will shortly be embarking on a major US tour to promote the album. www.newyorktrendnyc.com
THE ARTS “ART’S CONSCIENCE II” AT INTERCHURCH CENTER GALLERY
A who’s who of top artists of color will be on hand as the Mackey Twins Art Gallery presents “Art’s Conscience II” at the Interchurch Center Gallery in Manhattan. The exhibit will include the works of Xenobia Bailey, Betty Blayton, Stacey Brown, Leroy Campbell, Demetric Denmark, James Denmark, Essud Fungcap, Magno Laracuente, Ruth Miller, Charly Palmer and TWIN and run from October 31 through November 30. Opening Night will be celebrated from 5:30 to 9:00 p.m. on Friday, November 11, and include an Artists’ Talk at 6:30 p.m. sharp. Those participating in the Artists’ Talk on Opening Night include Bailey, Brown, James Denmark, Fungcap, Laracuente, Miller and Palmer. The event will be moderated by Diedra HarrisKelley, co-director of the Romare Bearden Foundation. HarrisKelley is also a historian, writer and formally trained artist. In April 2013, the Gallery, the largest collection of exclusive works of artists of color in the tristate area, presented “Art’s Conscience” at the Schomburg Center for Research in Black Culture. November’s exhibition continues and expands on that theme. “The Conscience becomes the ‘soul’ in the matter of creating and collecting. The responsibility rests on both parties,” said Sharon Mackey, who, together with her identical twin sister, Karen, founded the Mackey Twins Art Gallery to develop art collectors of color while promoting the works by artists of color to all audiences. “Understanding the artist’s style process is critical.” NewYorkTrendnyc
throughout the country. She was one of the founding members of the Studio Museum in Harlem and founder of the Children’s Art Carnival. Blayton was the recipient of the 1984 Empire State Women of the Year in the Arts Award; New York State Governors Art Award; and the 1995 CBS Martin Luther King, Jr., Fulfilling the Dream Award, to name a few. Her vibrant works can be found in the collections of the Metropolitan Museum of Art, the Studio Museum in Harlem, Uniworld Advertising Corporation, Philip Morris Corporation, Fisk University, Spelman College, Virginia State College, Tougaloo College, David Rockefeller, Blanchette Rockefeller, Reginald Lewis, Byron Lewis, and more. Stacey Brown, a resident of Atlanta, Georgia, offers an eclectic collection of original paintings for the contemporary art lover. Born and reared in Murfreesboro, North Carolina, his artistic journey of discovery began with aspirations for a career in graphic design. After graduating from the Art Institute of Atlanta, he embarked on a successful ten-year career in his chosen field, but something was “missing” in his life.
“The artists’ inner struggle is to create, whether it’s safe, unpopular or political. In spite of these challenges, the artists want the collector’s approval,” said Karen Mackey. Clients and supporters of the gallery include Lonette McKee, Khalil Kain, Danny Simmons, Byron and Sylvia Lewis, Lloyd Williams and Voza Rivers, as well as firsttime buyers entering the field and more experienced collectors. The exhibition is open from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. weekdays. The Interchurch Center Gallery is located at 475 Riverside Drive (at 120th Street), New York, NY 10115. For more information on the exhibit or Mackey Twins Art Gallery, visit www.mackeytwinsart.com, email mackeytwinsart@gmail.com or call 917-796-5895 or 914-6438266. Follow the gallery on Twitter at @MackeyTwinsArt1 or like it on Facebook at www.facebook. com/MackeyTwinsArtGallery. ABOUT THE ARTISTS Xenobia Bailey is an artist and designer best known for her eclectic
crochet hats and her large-scale crochet pieces and mandalas, consisting of colorful concentric circles and repeating patterns. Her designs are influenced by African, Chinese, Native American and Eastern philosophies, with undertones of the 1970s “Funk” aesthetic. Her hats have been featured in United Color of Benetton ads, on the Cosby Show and in the Spike Lee film “Do the Right Thing.” In 2003, her designs were commemorated in the form of an Absolut Vodka ad entitled “Absolut Bailey.” Her work is in the permanent collections at Harlem’s Schomburg Center for Research in Black Culture, the Allentown Art Museum, the Museum of Contemporary Art and in the Museum of Arts and Design. Most recently, some of her crochet work has been transformed into mosaics and is on display at the New York City subway 34th Street-Hudson Yards station.
Leroy Campbell is a self-taught, mixed-media visual artist. Leroy Campbell has painstakingly captured the essence and emotion of god-fearing, self-reliant, proud, and intelligent subjects of his Gullah childhood through acrylic mixed-media collage-on-canvas works that display a deliberate choice of vintage quilted fabrics, news print clippings, burlap, threads, and elements of southern terrain. His works are also displayed in universities, corporations and private collections.
Betty Blayton was an accomplished artist who referred to herself as a “spiritual impressionist.” Her works are on display at major museums and corporations
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THE ARTS
BLACK WOMEN PRODUCERS SWEEP PITCH PRIZES
Black women won all three prizes in the second annual National Black Programming Consortium (NBPC) Pitch Black Forum, a pitching session in front of panels of industry executives. The winners, who personify #BlackGirlMagic, will each receive between $50,000 and $100,000 from NBPC’s 360 Incubator + Fund to develop their television, web and transmedia series, were announced Friday at a reception in Manhattan at the program’s lead partner, WNET/Thirteen’s Tisch Studios at Lincoln Center. With this program, NBPC, the nation’s only nonprofit dedicated solely to media content about the Black experience, is also helping advance projects by female producers. Hosted by veteran public television executive and producer Donald Thoms, Pitch Black was the culmination of 360’s intensive, six-week boot camp and incubator. Held Thursday at the Jerome L. Greene Performance Space in Manhattan, the event drew public television representatives from CPB, PBS, WNET/Thirteen, POV, SCETV and UNC-TV; executives from Cinereach, Tidal, BET and Third World Newsreel; and representatives from MacArthur Foundation, Ford Foundation and Tribeca Institute. Seven teams competed in the interactive pitching session. Proving that #BlackGirlsRock, winners include: “Saltbox,” a broadcast series by Shirlette Ammons, was awarded $100,000. The show is a hybrid cooking/reality series following former “Iron Chef” contestant Ricky Moore, who moves his wife and two kids from the big city of Washington, D.C., back to his home state of North Carolina. There he turns the gems of his rural raising into an urban culinary enterprise in Durham. “So Young, So Pretty, So White,” a broadcast series by Chanelle Aponte Pearson and Christiana Mbakwe, received $75,000. The show is a window into the often-secret world of skin bleaching, unmasking what drives people to lighten their skin. The series delves into the lives of those who adhere to the practice—the lure of lighter skin and the challenges to sustain it transcend national borders—and exposes multinational corporations who exploit regional discrimination 10 NewYorkTrendnyc
against people with darker skin tones. “Beyond the Book,” a web series by Dominique Taylor and Stephanie Fields, was awarded $50,000. The project blends entertainment and education for adults to continue a love for reading beyond our formative years. This imaginative, intellectual series encourages mature audiences to share the gift of reading with each other. “In recent years, we have seen a number of Black women emerge as producers of highly successful films. With Black women taking the top spots in the 360 Incubator + Fund this year—not by design but by sheer talent—we are excited to be part of this growing movement of Black female voices. That notwithstanding, the jurors still had the very difficult task of selecting the winning projects as they all were amazing,” said NBPC Director of Programs and Acquisitions Kay Shaw. “Although, only three will immediately move forward to the pilot stage, NBPC will continue to work closely with the remaining four deserving projects to find funding and a media home to ensure that these projects also find their way into the marketplace.” Panelists included Pamela A. Aguilar, PBS director of programming, Eric Johnson, VP of Sound + Engagement at Trailblazer Studios, and Jason Samuels, New York University associate professor of journalism and senior consultant for BET (broadcast panel); and
Deniese Davis, COO of Color Creative TV, Dennis Dortch, CEO/ co-founder of Black & Sexy TV, and Eric Freeland, PBS senior director, digital programming (web/ interactive panel). NBPC launched the 360 Incubator + Fund in 2014 to help ready quality content for market. Projects from the inaugural year have been both broadcast and acquired. “My Africa Is” by Nosarieme Garrick and Hassatou Diallo broadcast its pilot’s premiere earlier this year as part of NBPC’s “AfroPoP: The Ultimate Cultural Exchange” public television series; “POPS” by Garland McLaurin will premiere its first season on ITVS’s digital channel and PBS.org in 2017; “Pixie Dust” by Damon Colquhoun and “Street Cred” by Sultan Sharrief are being shopped for distribution. At Friday’s reception NBPC Executive Director Leslie FieldsCruz also announced the formation of the Nonso Christian Ugbode Digital Media Fund, named after the organization’s late NBPC’s Director of Digital Initiatives who died earlier this year. The fund will provide support to digital media projects by creatives under 30. Ugbode’s mother Maryann Ugbode and siblings Munonyedi Ugbode and Nicholas Ugbode were in attendance. “Christian left a profound mark on the work of NBPC and the many producers who sought his advice and guidance as the media landscape changed from analog to digital,” said NBPC Executive Director Leslie Fields-Cruz.
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“This new fund ensures his legacy continues for generations to come.” The 360 Incubator + Fund was funded by the Corporation for Public Broadcasting, the NEA and the New York State Council on the Arts. Partners for 360 include WNET (lead station partner); ITVS; KQED; Writers Guild of America, East; Producers Guild of America/ Diversity Committee; National Minority Consortia; South Carolina ETV; POV; WGBH; WORLD Channel; Silicon Harlem; Third World Newsreel; and the International House. The National Black Programming Consortium (NBPC) is committed to enriching our democracy by educating, enlightening, empowering and engaging the American public. The nonprofit supports diverse voices by developing, producing and distributing innovative media about the Black experience and by investing in visionary content makers. NBPC provides quality content for public media outlets, including, among others, PBS and PBS.org and BlackPublicMedia.org, as well as other platforms, while training and mentoring the next generation of Black filmmakers. Founded in 1979, NBPC produces the “AfroPoP: The Ultimate Cultural Exchange” documentary series and manages the 360 Incubator + Fund, a funding and training initiative designed to accelerate the production of important Black serial and interactive content. www.newyorktrendnyc.com
ENDNOTES AUDELCO ANNUAL AWARDS CEREMONY AT SYMPHONY SPACE
Grace L. Jones, President of AUDELCO, Inc. comments, ”AUDELCO is a unique organization that goes beyond the Tony — it particularly recognizes and honors Black professional excellence and distinguished achievements in various categories of theatre arts in New York City and now for the past 43 years.”
On November 21, 2016, from 6:30 pm to 10:30 pm, AUDELCO’s 44th Annual Awards Ceremony “The Viv,” will take place in the 700 plus-seat Peter Jay Sharp Theatre in the Symphony Space Performing Arts Center located on the upper west side at 2527 Broadway, New York, NY 10025. Grace L. Jones, President of AUDELCO, Inc. (Audience Development Committee), for the past 11 years, will again meet and greet arriving guests and attendees to this ticketed Awards Ceremony and later in the evening, a bit past mid-show, grace the stage to offer a formal greeting and to emphasize the vital relevance of Black Theatre, its contribution to cultural legacy and the importance of supporting its sustainability. The AUDELCO Committee find today’s top talent, rising stars, outstanding production companies, plays and musicals written or directed and/or featuring artists of color including technical professionals and acknowledges and honors them. The AUDELCO Awards remains the only formally established awards presentation vehicle for the recognition of the Black Theatre community in various categories. (Former AUDELCO awardees included, Kerry Washington (AUDELCO’s first Rising Star); Samuel L. Jackson; Phylicia Rashad, Debbie Allen, Denzel Washington, Barbara
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the event with their individual indelible brand of entertainment. AUDELCO was founded, established and incorporated by (late) Vivian Robinson—hence the endearment — “The Viv” in 1973, to stimulate interest in and support of performing arts in Black communities in New York City. Toward those goals, AUDELCO publishes a quarterly newsletter—“Intermission,” and its Black Theatre magazine, “The Overture,” which is distributed at the Awards Ceremony, documents exciting works done by Black Theater artists.
Montgomery, Sanaa Latham and others). The nominees for the September 1, 2015 to August 31, 2016 season will be announced during the month of October. (Eligibility requirements and nominating guidelines can be viewed at www.audelco.org and prior years’ events on YouTube.)
and award-winning film, theatre, Broadway and TV star) and Obediah Wright (Creative Director and award-winning choreographer) will complement
”Black Theatre Standing on Solid Ground.” Mrs. Jones affirms, “AUDELCO applauds what others ignore”— and that Black Theatre matters! For ticket information and/or sponsorship or to support, contact Grace L. Jones or for Media, Rome Neal, Media Committee Chair, both at T: 212/368-6906, email audelco@ aol.com
“Black Theatre Standing on Solid Ground” is the theme of the 44th Annual Vivian Robinson/ AUDELCO Recognition Awards for Excellence in Black Theatre. Kenny J. Seymour (Orchestrator for the 2015 epic Broadway Musical Amazing Grace, composer, music director and producer); Alyson Williams (R&B vocalist, smash hit single “Just Call My Name,” dancer, actress) and George Faison (Broadway dancer and Tony award-winning choreographer of seven-Tony award-winning musical The Wiz) will co-host the evening’s array of excitement. Trent Armand Kendall (international entertainer
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