ONE LOVE Free Publication
Volume 8 Issue 7
JULY 2015
Since AUGUST 2008
ARIBBEAN
COMMUNITY • CULTURE • CONNECTIONS
COMMUNITY
Teclesha Blanchard Crowned Miss Caribbean Houston - Page 4
CARIBBEAN
DR Deports People of Haitian Descent Page 6
CONNECTION
Somebody Paid… Page 11
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The Publisher’s Thoughts
Reparation is Long Overdue to Caribbean Countries I never understood why my father did not want any of his children to become carpenters. That was his daily prayer. Himself a skillful trades-man! At the pinnacle of his profession, he built homes, designer doors and windows for “stoosh” people, something that we can now purchase for a few hundred bucks at Home Depot. Although I did anyway, he did not want me to touch his tools nor help him with his work. He would get highly upset. Point blank, my father did not want me to learn anything about carpentry. Oftentimes, he would redirect me to my books; as long as I had a book in my hand, he was fine. And his rationale was quite simple; carpentry was a back-breaking job. He did not want his children doing this laborious work. Equally, I never understood why my maternal grandmother did not want me to help her with the collection and preparation of any agricultural products. You see, she grew coffee, cocoa, and coconuts. Between picking this fruit, preparing it, and selling it, oh my, it was a daunting and back breaking task. Not work for the lazy or fainthearted. A daunting task! Yes indeed! For those who don’t know, the chocolate that you eat and the coffee that you drink, the preparation of the raw material to a sellable product was primarily a manual process at that time. One had to clean the beans (cocoa beans have a gooey jelly on it), place it on large plates to dry in the sun, and pray that no rain falls to delay the drying process. Drying dehydrates the beans leaving only the good oils in it. But, it takes some two to three months to develop to a good product. My grandmother’s rationale was simple too. She hated to see us drink the various chocolate drinks like Milo and Ovaltine, but as kids, we loved it over the natural cocoa tea. Today, I believe that my grandmother had a PhD in Reasoning; she just never attended school for it. She would oftentimes mumble, “Look at this! They would buy the cocoa beans from us for five cents a pound and return it to us in a can for five dollars an ounce.” These words did not resonate with me at the time. Of course, it was it back in the 1960’s. It does now. In hindsight, I have come to realize that the reactions of my father to not wanting us to become laborers, and my grandmother in not wanting us to soil our hands by picking coconuts and cocoa. They wanted “better” for us. They did not want us to have to endure the hardships they had to. The tireless days that runs into nights, only to repeat it-
self again. They did not want society to look down on us, as they were looked down upon for being people who worked with their hands. They felt that they were thought to be less smart than the ‘pencil pushers,’ the ones who worked in the office and had soft hands, not the calloused ones they had.
Then it was independence from the European chains. We always believed that we could manage our affairs. This was not a black and white people affair or a racism issue. Caribbean people always believed that they could handle themselves better on the World stage than have someone from Europe to do it for them. All they wanted for us was to do And independence was the answer. “better” than they did, and they were willing to sacrifice their lives so we But, independence did not return may have better lives than they did. the riches and wealth that was creat“Their frustration is rooted in their ed in the Caribbean using the sweat own daily battles -- to make ends and tears, or better yet, the free labor meet, to pay for college, buy a home, of Caribbeaners. Remember folks, save for retirement. It’s rooted in the the region was the jewel for Europe, nagging sense that no matter how namely Spain, France, England, hard they work, the deck is stacked Holland, and Denmark. against them.” (Obama, B. 2013) During that time, England valued Today, I can understand the reasons the Caribbean islands (major sugar why I was constantly redirected to producers) more than their colonies books instead to the fields. It must in America, modern day USA and have been their “3:00 am wake-call” Canada. Can you imagine that? to open their psyche and to do something different through my genera- They stripped the islands of their artifacts and precious minerals. The tion. artifacts are displayed in museums The slogan “work hard and you shall all over Europe, and we want them be greatly rewarded” did not seem back. true. It was more like “work hard and you shall die working hard.” But worse yet, our ancestors who That’s what happened to generation came to the islands as slaves and inafter generation in the Caribbean, dentured servants worked tirelessly and their standard of living did not in the fields, which allowed Europe move an inch; the wheels of prosper- to unjustly enrich itself. That’s not cool, and it’s not right! Today, Euity span slowly. rope is now rich because of the free In the post-slavery era, poverty labor of our ancestors. It was the was rampant. After slavery, people real “wailing and gnashing of teeth.” had to fend for themselves. In the (Matthew 13:42, 50) beginning of the 1900s, many migrated out of the country to make Now do not misinterpret my intent. better lives for themselves and their This is not a racism or slavery ischildren. Even in their new home- sues. That ship sailed years ago. It lands, they had to endure hardship is simply correcting a wrong which and indignity, working long hours was done. If you see from this peras babysitters, housekeepers, securi- spective, you would conclude the ty guards, farm workers, and drivers. reparation is long overdue. Doing the working that no one else wanted to do. In some cases, many Yes, “reparations,” as in compensaof them had multiple jobs. But to tion for the crimes of slavery and them, the sacrifices were worth it indigenous genocide at the hands of all, since they got to see their chil- former European colonizers—repadren prosper. Working hard allowed rations, as in reparatory justice for them to ‘move on up’ from sharing the horrific consequences of two of an apartment, to their own place, to the greatest crimes against humanibuying a home, to sending kids off ty in the history of this planet—the to private school and college. They 400 years of the African slave trade experienced discrimination like they and the systematic and calculated never did before, but that did not kill almost extermination of the indigtheir spirit. enous peoples of the Americas. (Rojas, D. 2014. TheNation.com) These folks knew that the only thing that would prevent their children It is defining challenge of our time. from being in the same shoes as they We have those who question the were was an education. Something rationale behind reparation. They they were denied in many cases. would consider it impractical and a There is an old saying ‘whatever is waste of time. Of course, these idin your head, no one can take it from iosyncratic thinking is not modern. you.’ And that is so true. So they made it a priority to make sure their “Today, throughout the Caribbean children pursued their education region, discussions of reparations without the encumbrances of work- are starting to alter the political ing for free or at low paying jobs. narrative, reformulating analysis of They sacrificed themselves on the economic history, linking the chalaltar of life for their children. What lenges of future socioeconomic dea generation!
Sylvanus Donaie, velopment with the need for reparatory justice—indeed, reshaping the very fundamentals of public discourse in the region.” (Rojas, D. 2014. TheNation.com) So just remember, if you are trying to jump on the “slavery done so long ago” boat, the educated powerful leaders in the Caribbean did not board that ship. So until then, One Love! Sylvanus Donaie, BA, BSEE, MTM, MPM, MBA
One Love CARIBBEAN P.O. Box 742291 Houston, TX 77274 281-769-2253
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ONE LOVE CARIBBEAN
JULY 2015
Teclesha Blanchard Crowned Miss Caribbean Houston
By Sylvanus Donaie Staff Writer
OLC: Teclesha Blanchard was crowned Miss Caribbean Houston at the first annual queen pageant, June 28 at the Stafford Civic Center in Stafford, Texas. She represented the island of St. Lucia.
Leanne Morancie – Ms. Dominica – 1st Runner-up
Texas Governor Signs Bill Deregulating Hair-Braiding Laws
Miss Caribbean Houston had a butterfly theme of which the ladies showcased their individual cultural heritage. It incited patriotism and nostalgia to the Diaspora and inspiration to friends of the Caribbean. It was hailed by the planning committee as a combination of beauty, pageantry and culture, and was well received by those in attendance. Eight ladies in the Caribbean Diaspora vyed for the honor of being Ms. Caribbean Houston. They represented the islands of Antigua and Barbuda, Saint Lucia, St Vincent and the Grenadines, Haiti, Jamaica, The U.S. Virgin Islands, Trinidad and Tobago, and Dominica. They competed in the categories of national wear, talent, swimsuit, evening wear, and interview questions. Teclesha hails from a rich Saint Lucian heritage which has invigorated her passion for people and their culture. She believes that it is not only imperative but a responsibility to be an active member in her community. She works as a case manager at IMPACT Early College High School in Baytown, Texas. She summarized her participation saying, “What I learn from the pageant was patience. I have to work with the other contestants, in that I have to deal with
Miss Caribbean Houston 2015, Teclesha Blanchard Credit: Your Caribbean Nation Association other people and oftentimes Chantelle Clarke – Ms. Jamaica reach out over to assist others Oneka Byron – Ms. St. Vincent with less experience.” & The Grenadines Celine Moore – Ms. Trinidad & Moreover, the pageant gave Tobago these dynamic ladies an oppor- Janae Pierre – Ms. U.S. Virgin tunity to have new life experi- Islands ences and perform on stage in front of an live audience. The Guests were also in for a spepageant sought to recognize the cial treat by none other than the ladies for their past achieve- world famous Calypso Rose, ments and encourage them to and they were not disappointed set new goals. with her performance. Leanne Morancie – Ms. Dominica – took the 1st Runner-up and Bethy Pierre – Ms. Haiti – took 2nd runner-up. The other contestant included: Tia Nelson – Ms. Antigua & Barbuda
One Love Caribbean, a co-sponsor of the event, congratulates the winner Miss Teclesha Blanchard on winning the coveted title, and all the young ladies and pageant organizers on putting on a fabulous crowd pleasing event.
Isis Brantley braids hair at the Institute of Ancestral Braiding in Dallas.—Isis Brantley Governor Greg Abbott signed specialty certificate, hair braidHouse Bill 2717 into law on ing instructor license, or hair June 8, 2015, deregulating nat- braiding specialty shop license ural hair braiding for the Tex- you will receive a prorated reas barbering and cosmetology fund of the license fee. The reprofessions. This new law took funds will be prorated based on immediate effect upon his sign- the number of months the current license or certificate has ing the bill. been held as of June 8, 2015, The enactment of House Bill the effective date of the bill. 2717 means individuals and We will post more information instructors who only provide about refunds on our website or teach hair braiding and spe- soon. cialty shops that only provide hair braiding services no longer TDLR is no longer accepting need a TDLR license to pro- braiding license applications. vide hair braiding services or to We will return the license fees to anyone who applies for a teach hair braiding. braiding license on or after If you currently hold a braiding June 8, 2015.
Mayor Annise Parker’s Take On U.S. Supreme Court Ruling On Gay Marriage
Jounen Kweyol to be Celebrated in Houston
By Andrea Jn Baptiste October has become the month of the worldwide celebration of Creole heritage and language. On Saturday, October 24, 2015 for the very first time Jounen Kweyol (Creole Day) will be celebrated in Houston. Members of the Houston community are invited to join the Creole speaking islands of Dominica, Saint Lucia and Haiti in the celebration of their heritage and culture. Attendees will be in for a special treat; the event will feature among other things, Creole Cuisine, cultural displays, performances, Music (Zouk,
Cadence, Kompa, Folk), Best National Dress Competition. ‘The celebration and preservation of our Creole Heritage, and the passing of those traditions on to future generations is important to us. We look forward to a great turn out, as we proudly celebrate Jounen Kweyol’ as stated by event organizer, Andrea Jean Baptiste. Members of the community are encouraged to wear their National Dress, Madras clothing, island colors to the festival. Kweyol is a French based dialect which reflects the influence of English, Spanish, African
languages and is spoken in some islands in the Caribbean. For vendor information and more call 281-705-5774. June 26, 2015 -- “At last! What a joyous, historic day for America, the LGBT community, individual families, the institution of marriage and the fight for equality. I used to think that I would not see this day in my lifetime.
Marriage is about love, commitment, and family. Couples who make that commitment deserve to be respected under law, with the full legal protections that accompany a marriage license. Finally, they are!”
In recent years, however, it’s been clear that personal hearts and minds, and the courts, were headed in this direction.
Mayor Parker and her partner of more than two decades, Kathy Hubbard, were married in January 2014 in California.
JULY 2015
ONE LOVE CARIBBEAN
Freddie McGregor and the Code Red Band at the JFH Gala
The Jamaica Foundation of Houston will be celebrating the 53rd Independence anniversary at the Bayou City Event Center on July 25, 2015. This year theme is “Proud and Free Jamaica 53.” The Keynote Speaker is Carroll G. Robinson, Associate Professor at the Barbara Jordan-Mickey Leland School of Public Affairs at Texas Southern University (TSU). Robinson is a former at-large member of the Houston City Council. He serves on The Board of Trustees for the Houston Community College. The Gala will feature Jamaican reggae superstar Freddie McGregor and the Code Red Band of South Florida. Freddy is one of reggae’s most durable and soulful singers. He holds an incredibly steady career that started all the way back in the ‘60s, when he was just seven years old. Since then, he’s spanned nearly every stylistic shift in Jamaican music, from ska and rocksteady to
Are You Sure You are Going to Get the Green Card? By Latania Mena Attorney at Law
Freddie McGregor Rastafarian roots reggae to lovers rock (his particular specialty) to dabblings in dancehall, ragga, and dub. McGregor was born in Clarendon, Jamaica. In October, 2002, Code Red Band was created by a group of individually talented Jamaican musicians residing in South Florida. Word soon got around that there was a “wicked” band playing in various reggae clubs and shortly thereafter everyone was scrambling to hear this band. Code Red is superbly talented and is one of the most sought after bands emerging out of South Florida. The mesmerizing sounds of this versatile band are hard to imagine and must be experienced to fully understand the loyalty of their many fans. Their deep reggae roots are obvious in the many ways their music tantalize the audience wherever they perform.
Code Red Band
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As Caribbean Nationals, we need to be more proactive and diligent about our immigration statuses. We must also encourage our family members and friends to seek the right information before taking actions that may result in undue hardships on the rest of the family. Many of our people enter the U.S. in one status or another, in search of a better life. Often times, to call the U.S. home while a green card application is pending with U.S. Customs and Immigration Services (USCIS). The hope is to build a life here and receive the green card when it is finally available. The dilemma often faced by these folks, is determining the additional steps they need to take once the green card application is finally processed, and an invitation to an interview at the U.S. embassy abroad is sent. I’ve touched on this topic many times before, but feel it is worth mentioning again.
tus: did you enter the U.S. without permission? Did you receive a tourist visa, visa waiver, student visa, work visa, and have you overstayed the time granted to you or violated the terms of the visa? If you answered yes to any of these questions, it would be wise to consult with an immigration attorney BEFORE you leave the U.S.
The second phase is determining whether you are able receive the green card without leaving the U.S., through a process called “adjustment of status”. Not everyone will qualify for this. If you are sponsored by a family member and your eligibility category makes you a “preference beneficiary” you might not be eligible to adjust status because of the illegal entry or the violation of the terms of the visa you were given. In other words, you must (with some exceptions) be in a valid visa status and have no visa violations, when the visa becomes available, to complete the process in the U.S.
It is imperative to determine the likelihood of receiving the green card before you attend the interview. It is imperative to determine this BEFORE you leave the U.S. Having an approved green card is no guarantee that you will receive one. USCIS will look closer to see if there is any reason they should deny you that green card, even on the day of the interview.
Equally important - you must not have any violations when you go to the embassy abroad to complete the process. Many persons believe this rule does not apply to them because their sponsors are U.S. citizens, or simply because they are scheduled for an interview, or they were “good, law abiding” citizens in the U.S. This is a very tricky area of immigration law, and getting legal advice on your case before you make a move, may save you from a pandora of headaches in the long run.
The first phase of the analysis must include your current sta-
If you are in fact not eligible to adjust status, you should re-
view your situation before you head to the airport with a small “grip” of summer clothes and a prayer. Consider the possible outcomes of the interview. Are you going to be returning to the U.S. in a week? Or will you be stuck in your home country for 10 months or 10 years? If you overstayed your visa or permission in the U.S. by more than 6 months, you may face a 3 or 10 year bar from re-entering the U.S. The bar is triggered by actually leaving the U.S., even if you are only leaving to complete the process of obtaining the green card. If you are likely to find yourself in this situation, you must evaluate if you are going to need a waiver for the unlawful presence, and if you meet the qualifying requirements. Again, this analysis is best done BEFORE you leave the U.S. to reduce any hardships to you and your family. You will also need to determine if you will require any additional waivers such as: for unauthorized employment, document or visa fraud, criminal convictions
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ONE LOVE CARIBBEAN
Jamaica Has Benefited Under Petrocaribe
JULY 2015
Dominican Republic Deports People of Haitian Descent
Jamaica has benefited from close to US$3 billion in concessionary financing and balance of payments relief under the PetroCaribe Energy Cooperation Agreement since its establishment in 2005.
Finance and Planning Minister, Dr. the Hon. Peter Phillips, says the funds assisted in stabilizing the country’s foreign exchange market and balance of payments accounts, and were the largest such provision to Jamaica over the period, “at terms unrivalled by any source.” He was speaking at a commemorative reception to mark 10th anniversary of the PetroCaribe Agreement’s signing on June 29, at the Petroleum Corporation of Jamaica’s Auditorium, Trafalgar Road, New Kingston. The PetroCaribe Agreement was established by the Venezuelan Government under the
L-R: Dr. Peter Phillips, Jamaica’s Finance and Planning Minister, and Maria Ortega Venezuelan Ambassador to Jamaica. leadership of late President, His for many persons, and advancExcellency Hugo Chávez, in ing the country’s development. response to the sudden increase “Areas which we have been able in international oil prices. to finance include: the expanPhillips said not only has its sion of our road network; the provisions to Jamaica served to financing of small and medium safeguard the country’s energy enterprises through the Develsecurity, but has also facilitated opment Bank of Jamaica (DBJ) funds for on-lending to under- and EXIM Bank; the modernization of our port and airport infratake social projects. structure; and providing working These projects, he pointed out, capital to public sector entities, have contributed “greatly” to as well as youth employment improving the quality of life programs,” he outlined.
Panama Wants Better CARICOM Relations
Panama wants to strengthen its relations with CARICOM and to achieve “new and better levels of understanding and cooperation.” This was disclosed by the President of Panama, Juan Carlos Varela Rodriguez, as he addressed the Plenary Session of the 36th Regular Meeting of CARICOM in Barbados.
President Varela told CARICOM leaders that the region was facing a major challenge from the illegal activities of criminal organizations, which were recruiting young people and causing violence in the poorest neighborhoods. They had become a threat to public security and social peace through their growing networks of drug and human trafficking and money laundering, among other criminal activities. Consequently, he stated that the negotiation of a Memorandum
Haitians just deported from Dominican Republic, at the border crossing in Malpasse, Haiti, June 17, 2015. Photo: VOA CARICOM called on the Government of the Dominican Republic to stop the “planned mass deportation of people of Haitian descent. In October 2013, the Dominican Republic’s Constitutional Court overturned the practice of granting citizenship to all persons born in the Dominican Republic. The court reasoned that Haitian farm workers in 1929 were “in transit,” which means that their children are not entitled to automatic citizenship. This ruling affected thousands of people of Haitian descendant born after 1929. They now face deportation from the Dominican Republic and return to Haiti. Ironically, many do not know anything of Haiti, not even the language.
L-R: Barbados’ PM Freundel Stuart and Panama’s President, Juan Carlos Varela of Understanding between CARICOM and the Joint Regional Communication Centre (JRCC) was a vital step in addressing this issue. He pointed out that the power of social networks to effectively communicate messages to a
variety of audiences was compounding the situation. In order to combat this, he proposed the signing of a historic agreement that would involve the sharing of secure information and intelligence to detect high-risk passengers.
Up until 2010, the Dominican Republic granted automatic citizenship to anyone born on Dominican Republic soil. But then, they narrowed citizenship criteria to children who were born to at least one parent of Dominican blood or whose foreign parents are legal residents. In 2014, the Inter-American Court of Human Rights ordered the Dominican Republic to repeal the constitutional decision and “to take all necessary steps to adopt all juridical measures in order to offer a more simplified
birth registration process, which can be accessed by a large group of persons.” Thus far, more than 40,000 people of Haitian descent have been denied identity documents, with the government analyzing the birth certificates of at least 16,000 individuals. Many are unable to validate their citizenship. As of June 19th, 2015, persons without regularized status have been deported while others have voluntarily left after a registration program for undocumented expired. Worse yet, the influx of Dominican Republic citizens to Haiti has the potential to create a human rights disaster, compounding the lingering effects of the catastrophic earthquake of January 12th, 2012, from which the country has not yet recovered. Haitian officials have accused the Dominican Republic authorities of using force. Jose Miguel Vivanco, the director of Human Rights Watch, said, “People are being detained and shoved across the border.” Interior Minister Ramon Fadul said, “We have nothing to hide because what we are doing is applying our laws on migration as every country in the world does and to do this we have done what was needed.
10039 Bissonnet St. Suite 337 Houston, TX 77036
(between Belfway 8 and Hwy 59) Evening and weekend appointments available.
JULY 2015
ONE LOVE CARIBBEAN
US TO REOPEN EMBASSY IN CUBA President Obama announced on July 1, 2015, the historic decision to re-establish diplomatic relations between Cuba and the United States of America, effective July 2015. The U.S. Department of State also notified Congress of its intent to convert the U.S. Interests Section in Havana, Cuba to U.S. Embassy, effective on the same date. President Obama affirmed that the two governments had agreed to develop “respectful and cooperative” relations based on international principles, including the promotion and encouragement of respect for human rights and fundamental freedoms for all. The U.S. Embassy will continue to perform the existing functions to include consular services, operation of a political and economic section,
Chief of Mission Jeffrey DeLaurentis will be the senior-most official in the new embassy and will serve as Charge d’Affaires ad interim.
The withdrawal of the coins will affect cash transactions only. Transactions using checks and electronic payment, such as debit and credit cards, and wire trans-
Fees, taxes or duties will be calculated to the exact amount required by law or by contract prior to the rounding of any cash payment.
13655 Bissonnet Street, Suite 205, Houston Texas 77083
y–S Tuesda 9 pm 10am to onday y and M a d n u S Close
BW-8
Bissonnet St
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Specializing in Produce West Indian Products
IN OUR KITCHEN
Highway 6
The ECCB has prepared a set of rounding rules, which will allow retailers and consumers to conduct cash transactions with little interruption. For cash transactions:
ment with the Cuban people.
U.S. Interests Section building in Havana, Cuba.
281-468-5390 |
fers, will not be affected due to the fact that transactions using those methods of payments can be settled to the exact amount.
The ECCB Monetary Council withdrew these coins from circulation based on the low purchasing power of the coins and the significant cost of producing and handling the coins.
BISSONNET ONE STOP CARIBBEAN MARKET
HOURS STORE aturday
As of 1 July, the Eastern Caribbean Central Bank (ECCB) will no longer issue one cent and two cents coins to the commercial banks operating within the Eastern Caribbean Currency Union.
• Only the total payment due will be subject to rounding up or down to the nearest five-cent increment. • Individual items will not be subject to rounding. • Cash payments in the exact amount due will not be subject to rounding.
2015 Gold Cup Jamaica v Canada July 11, 2015 Houston, United States
OPEN
ECCU Withdraws 1¢ and 2¢ Coin
Although the coins will no longer be issued, they will remain legal tender up to 30 June 2020 and thus can be used for purchasing goods and services or exchanged at financial institutions for face value.
implementation of a public diplomacy program, and promote respect for human rights. The U.S. Embassy will allow the United States to more effectively promote our interests and values and increase engage-
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Famous Escovitch Fish Jerk Pork and Chicken Steam Snapper Daily Lunch Specials
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ONE LOVE CARIBBEAN
JULY 2015
JULY 2015
ONE LOVE CARIBBEAN
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ONE LOVE CARIBBEAN
PHOTOS
JULY 2015
At JAGA 2015
JULY 2015
ONE LOVE CARIBBEAN
BIRTHDAYS IN THE DIASPORA
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AN INSPIRATIONAL MOMENT Encouragement from the Word of God
Somebody Paid… price for it. The food we eat everyday – somebody sweated, planted, reaped, shipped and marketed it; somebody prepared and served it. Somebody paid the price!
Camillus Jones Saint Lucia
Kelvin S. Moulton Jamaica
Alma Gaston Saint Lucia
Edith Mitchell St. Lucia
Virginia Fevrier Saint Lucia
Gena Davis Texas
Supa Neil Trinidad
Kiemesha Samuel Baytown/St. Lucia
Daisy Belle Romans Jamaica
Judy Foster Barbados
Teclesha Blanchard Baytown/St. Lucia
Letter to the Publisher Good afternoon I took this opportunity to commend you on last month’s Publishers Thought entitled “A Focus on our Genesis.” I must say, Sir, that it is a pleasure reading your column - The Publishers Thought each month. This month’s history lesson, as I call it, needs not only reading, but should be part of a series of lectures supported by these Caribbean organizations here in Houston and other areas. I find the four parts you highlighted as the undisputed facts: “They named them Caribs,” “They called them savages,” “They told us we were cannibals,” and “They assured us the natives were annihilated.” Your presentation was just breathtaking to me.
The ride in the bus, train or plane, the streets we walk on - somebody went before and paved the way; somebody paid. Someone risked their lives, went to jail, so we could be free to sit in the front of the bus. Our education - the privilege to study, learn and earn somebody fought the unjust system to make it possible, somebody spent the dollars, paid the tax or donated the funds for the scholarship.
Nerissa Coker Jamaica
I can attest to the facts, you stated, in all of these lies that Europeans tried to teach us, but thank the Lord for historians and researchers as yourself and many others including some Europeans, who are writing the real facts about our ancestors and their greatness in all civilizations on this planet. I have had the privilege of listening to many lectures on both Caribbean and African rich civilization that Europeans stole and destroyed.
Charmaine Bailey Staff Writer cbailey@olchouston.com As we celebrate America’s independence and the independence of many Caribbean nations, there is a heightened focus on the subject of freedom and all it entails. But when one really thinks about it, is there anything that is really free? Somebody always pays the price. A lot is taken for granted and often there is a sense of entitlement to the things, the privileges and the liberties that exist around us. But nothing is really free. Somebody paid the price. The freedom that is enjoyed in the United States of America or in any free country – someone fought and gave limb or life for it. The prosperity enjoyed in this country – many people over the centuries fought and worked hard to make it happen. “Free” public assistance or public services – free food, free lunch, - hardworking taxpayers pay for it every day - somebody pays the price; The sense of security we have at home, and the relative safety from criminal elements – law enforcement officers devote their time and jeopardize their own safety to secure it. Home with its comforts and modern conveniences - parents sacrificed and worked hard for them. The apparent freedom that exists in our insurance plan – both employer and employee pay a high
The freedom you have that you think is your right, Somebody struggled for it and even now still fights, Somebody challenged with courage and bravery And eventually won the fight against slavery So you can be free today, somebody died. Don’t take it for granted, don’t feel entitled, Instead be grateful for those who went before, Who paved the way and opened the door. There are folks who yearn for the blessings we’ve gained The life we have now… Somebody paid the price, somebody bore the pain Your precious and eternal soul – Someone died to save Christ paid with HIs blood, His precious life He gave. This He did not have to do, but He loves me and He loves you .. So that salvation is free to all. All of those who answer His call.
. Thank God for the many “somebodies” who gave their lives for a cause that was bigger than themselves, and won the many freedoms for the rest of us. “Greater love hath no man than this…” Charmaine Bailey is a speaker and a Christian Education Teacher. She studied Christian Education at Jamaica Theological Seminary and hold a BA Linguistics from the University of the West Indies.
I hope your readers will study this bit of our history and teach it to their children. Thanks for a job well done, Sir. Yours Truly Arthur Braham
Bethy Pierre – Ms. Haiti – 2nd runner-up, Miss Caribbean Houston
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ONE LOVE CARIBBEAN
ONNECTIONS In the Age of “Colorblindness”
JULY 2015
A Hard Day’s Work Deserves A Fair Day’s Pay
A Color of Justice
Terry Layne Staff Writer tlayne@olchouston.com On July 4th 2015, we will celebrate the 239th Anniversary of the birth of the United States of America. It is truly a time of celebration for a nation that has somewhat become a collage of many world cultures; since the country’s first “Independence Day” a little more than two centuries ago. And during its evolutionary journey, “America,” as it is endearingly known today; has become a sort of “ethnic quilt,” firmly bound together, under “an evolving national identity.” Clearly, the country is socially different today than it was 200 years ago. But in its evolutionary travel over time and up through present; America has apparently reached “a historical crossroad” of decision making. We have reached a juncture in history where “we the people” must choose between staying the course of social status quo, as it relates to social justice; or embrace rational changes already knocking at our doorsteps. This fundamental challenge to America was made by Michelle Alexander, a highly distinguished American attorney, pro-
fessor of law at Stanford University, and a passionate advocate for Civil Rights who conducted a bold and detailed study of the intersection of Race and the American Criminal Justice System. In her first book, “The New Jim Crow,” Ms Alexander makes a stunning, but undeniably convincing argument about how America systematically uses mass incarceration today, primarily of African American men to perpetuate a permanent social underclass, through a process of control which started some hundred years ago with the enslavement of Africans.
But while on face value it may look like an assault only on Black men; a more careful analysis clearly shows a greater destructive consequence of the practice on Black families as a whole. The impact of mass incarceration on women and children of African descent is easily observable across a broad spectrum of life in cities all across America. So, by several indicators in recent history, America must now choose one or the other: the traditional social system of trumping by skin complexions, having “white” being preferred over all other “colors;” vs one of egalitarianism, centered on “color blindness” where human beings all count as equals under the law. Within our recent past and even up to few weeks before our July 4th celebrations this year, we have seen several events of reference which triggered disturbing memories and passionate discussions about the darker side of American history; including the history of unconscionable treatment and brutal control of Black people by extortionate Whites.
Today, many people still wrestle with “making sense” of this horrific history; including the brutal abduction of tens of millions of African people; hundreds of years of forced free labor; and our present day practice of mass incarceration through a “racebased” system of criminal justice. This perplexity brings us to the crux of Michelle Alexander’s epic writing. In a nutshell, Michelle Alexander’s argument goes something like this. As she alleges in her premise, based on a network of laws, policies, and practices the Criminal Justice System essentially labels “people of color” as criminals or felons. Once somebody is convicted in court and labeled a felon; then the door opens for the “re-entry” of old forms of discrimination, once regarded as being illegal. They have now become all legal as it relates to convicted felons: discrimination in employment, housing, denial of voting rights, denial of educational opportunities, denial of food stamps, exclusion from jury service, and other forms of exclusion…all legal. Recovery and social rehabilitation from such this practice is almost impractical and near unattainable; except for a few. So essentially, what was known as the Jim Crow era was never ended; it was simply redesigned. By the way, Dr. Claud Anderson of “PowerNomics” fame supports this argument about systemic mass incarceration through an obviously racially skewed Criminal Justice System. He cautions that, Black people are not only perplexed; but that we have been put to sleep with “entertainment” by shrewd
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By Barak Obama President of the USA It’s been a good few days for America. On Thursday, the Supreme Court reaffirmed the Affordable Care Act. It is here to stay. And, Democrats and Republicans in Congress paved the way for the United States to rewrite the rules of global trade to benefit American workers and American businesses. On Friday, the Court recognized the Constitutional guarantee of marriage equality. With that ruling, our union became a little more perfect -- a place where more people are treated equally, no matter who they are or who they love. These steps build upon America’s steady progress in recent years. Out of the depths of recession, we’ve emerged ready to write our own future. Our businesses have created 12.6 million new jobs over the past 63 months -- the longest streak on record. More than 16 million Americans have gained health insurance. More kids are graduating from high school and college than ever before. But more work lies ahead, if we are to succeed in making sure this recovery reaches all hardworking Americans and their families. We’ve got to keep expanding access to affordable health care. Right now, 22 states haven’t expanded Medicaid -- even though, under the ACA, they can. We’ll keep encouraging those governors to do the right thing for their constituents. And we’re making sure people know all the ways that they can benefit from the ACA. Wednesday, I’ll go to Tennessee to meet Americans whose lives have been changed by this law, and to talk about how, instead of refighting settled battles of the past, we can move forward
together. We’ve got to keep making sure hard work is rewarded. Right now, too many Americans are working long days for less pay than they deserve. That’s partly because we’ve failed to update overtime regulations for years -- and an exemption meant for highly paid, white collar employees now leaves out workers making as little as $23,660 a year -- no matter how many hours they work. This week, I’ll head to Wisconsin to discuss my plan to extend overtime protections to nearly 5 million workers in 2016, covering all salaried workers making up to about $50,400 next year. That’s good for workers who want fair pay, and it’s good for business owners who are already paying their employees what they deserve -- since those who are doing right by their employees are undercut by competitors who aren’t. That’s how America should do business. In this country, a hard day’s work deserves a fair day’s pay. That’s at the heart of what it means to be middle class in America. As president, my top priority is to strengthen the middle class, expand opportunity and grow the economy. That’s why I believe in middle-class economics -- the idea that our country does best when everyone gets a fair shot, everyone does their fair share, and everyone plays by the same set of rules. It’s driven me from day one. It’s fueled our American comeback. And it’s at the heart of the fundamental choice our country faces today. Will we accept an economy where only a few of us do exceptionally well? Or will we push for an economy where every American who works hard can contribute to and benefit from our success? Will we invest in programs that
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JULY 2015
ONE LOVE CARIBBEAN
ISLAND STYLEE
ULTURE
JOKES | SATIRE | POEMS
ISLAND RECIPES THE ART OF CARIBBEAN COOKING
Caribbean Seafood CURRIED CRAB AND DUMPLINGS
SPICED COCOA-RUBBED KINGFISH Ingredients 1 lb kingfish steaks (Use tilapia as an option) 3 tbsp light brown sugar 1 tsp cocoa powder, sieved 1 tsp cayenne pepper 1 tsp ground turmeric ½ tsp onion powder ¾ tsp garlic powder large pinch ground nutmeg ¼ tsp ground black pepper ¼ tsp salt 1 tbsp vegetable oil 1 tsp butter 2 drop fresh lime juice pinch, ground cinnamon
Ingredients: 12 tbsp vegetable oil 1 small white onion, chopped 2 cloves garlic, chopped 3 tbsp curry powder 1 tsp ground turmeric 1 tsp ground cumin 2 cup water 1 green pepper, chopped 3 tbsp green seasoning 2 cup coconut milk 1 crab cut into large pieces 2 tbsp cooked brown crab meat ½ tsp. lime juice ½ plain flour Directions: Heat the oil in a pan and sauté the onion and garlic until soft. Add the curry powder, turmeric and cumin and cook over a low heat for a minute. Stir well. Add half the water and allow to cook gently for about 5-10 minutes.
CURRIED CRAB AND DUMPLINGS
Direction: Combine the sugar with cocoa powder. Stir in the cayenne powder, turmeric, onion powder, garlic granules, cinnamon, salt, black pepper and nutmeg. Dry fish with paper towel.
Add the green pepper and the green seasoning. Stir well. Add coconut milk and remaining water.
Rub fish steaks with the spice mix. Coat steaks completely. Heat the oil in a large frying pan at moderate heat. Allow steak to fry the fish for 2 minutes.
Add crab to the sauce and simmer for about 10 minutes. To make the dumplings, put the flour in a bowl and stir in water (small portion at a time). Knead dough until smooth. Allow rest for 10 minutes.
Flip the steak to fry the other side. Reduce heat and turn fish to allow sugar to caramelized. When steaks are cooked, add 3-4 tablespoons of water to the pan, cover with a lid and simmer the fish to 2 minutes. Add the butter and lime juice to the pan.
Roll dough into an inch circle then cut into 1 inch pieces. Added dumplings to curried mixture. Stir well. Allow to simmer. Add brown crab meat and the lime juice COCOA-RUBBED KINGFISH just before serving.
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Bake Good
Currant Roll Cake Coconut Drop
THE BADDEST OFFICER IN GUYANA Two month ago, the day after Guyana President David A. Granger took office, he sent police to find out what’s growing on at a large farm at Amelia’s’ Ward, Mackenzie, Linden and to talk with the farm’s owner. He sent Mattoo, the baddest officer on the force. He approached the farmer, “I need to inspect your farm for illegal grown drugs. This area full of weed.” The old farmer says, “Okay, but don’t go in that field over there.” The Police officer verbally explodes saying, “Mister, I have the authority of the Guyana Government, with me.” Reaching into his rear pants pocket and removing his badge, the officer proudly displays it to the farmer. “See this badge? I got it from President David A. Granger. He used to be the Commander of the Guyana Defense Force. Now he is the big cheese in Georgetown. This badge means I am allowed to go wherever I wish on any land in the country! No questions asked or answers given. Have I made myself clear? Do you understand?” The old farmer nods politely and goes about his chores saying, “I wouldn’t go there if I was you.” Later, the old farmer hears loud screams and spies the Mattoo running for his life and close behind is the farmer’s pit bull. With every step the bull is gaining ground on the officer. The officer is clearly terrified. The old farmer immediately throws down his tools, runs to the fence and yells. “Your badge! Show the dog your badge. Show him your badge. Tell him Granger sent you!” DONKEY CART LOGIC When Sammy, a street vendor in St. Georges Grenda, and his donkey cart couldn’t get close to where the business was, he lost earnings big-time. There was a way to get there in spite of the other men and their carts crowding the street - but it meant going the wrong way on a one-way street. Sammy was aggressive. He tried it. The policeman warned him the first time, then charged him the second time. He tried to tell the policeman that his donkey couldn’t read road signs, but the policeman, and later the magistrate, told him that he, the driver, was responsible. But Sammy was determined. After standing without hope of getting work one day, he decided to defeat the law with his logic. He got a few friends to help him tie the donkey’s legs, then he placed the donkey bodily in the cart. He then got between the shafts, effectively exchanging places with the donkey, and walked up the one-way street, pulling the cart. When the policeman challenged him, Sammy said triumphantly, “Don’t talk to me. Talk to the driver.”
I Know Why The Caged Bird Sings by Dr. Maya Angelou The free bird leaps on the back of the wind and floats downstream till the current ends and dips his wings in the orange sun rays and dares to claim the sky. But a bird that stalks down his narrow cage can seldom see through his bars of rage his wings are clipped and his feet are tied so he opens his throat to sing. The caged bird sings with fearful trill of the things unknown but longed for still and his tune is heard on the distant hill for the caged bird sings of freedom The free bird thinks of another breeze and the trade winds soft through the sighing trees and the fat worms waiting on a dawn-bright lawn and he names the sky his own. But a caged bird stands on the grave of dreams his shadow shouts on a nightmare scream his wings are clipped and his feet are tied so he opens his throat to sing The caged bird singswith a fearful trill of things unknownbut longed for still and his tune is heard on the distant hill for the caged bird sings of freedom. A City’s Death By Fire St. Lucian Derek Walcott Nobel Prize for Literature -1992
After that hot gospeller has levelled all but the churched sky, I wrote the tale by tallow of a city’s death by fire; Under a candle’s eye, that smoked in tears, I Wanted to tell, in more than wax, of faiths that were snapped like wire. All day I walked abroad among the rubbled tales, Shocked at each wall that stood on the street like a liar; Loud was the bird-rocked sky, and all the clouds were bales Torn open by looting, and white, in spite of the fire. By the smoking sea, where Christ walked, I asked, why Should a man wax tears, when his wooden world fails? In town, leaves were paper, but the hills were a flock of faiths; To a boy who walked all day, each leaf was a green breath Rebuilding a love I thought was dead as nails, Blessing the death and the baptism by fire.
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ONE LOVE CARIBBEAN
JULY 2015
COMMUNITY MARKETPLACE Mount Bethel House of Prayer in Houston 6818 Cullen Boulevard Houston, TX 77021
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Career Objective: Entrepreneurship Mr. Carlos Smith
By Terrance Layne Staff Writer On the heels of our recent celebrations of Caribbean American Heritage Month this past June, and on the toes of American Independence in July 2015, I found myself thinking about the number of migrant ethnic groups from all over the world converging in a process of adapting to our common capitalist market economy. Each group having its respective customs and distinctive language, will merge with others in Houston to create a collective human capital in this rapidly changing and highly competitive marketplace. Then it occurred to me that most of us all migrated to America for common reason: to find a rightful place in the “world of work.” By face value, we observe that a majority of workers will be absorbed into employment by small businesses and major corporations. But a select portion of job seekers will pursue the route of entrepreneurship, or “working for themselves.” Somehow with the growing numbers of new residents relocating to Houston, and adding to our well diverse community, it appears as if more and more people are seriously developing some type of business operation, as primary or secondary sources of income. To learn more about running your own business, I was motivated to hear from Mr. Carlos Smith, who has been successfully operating a business in the Insurance Industry for almost 35 years or more.
Mr. Smith is the CEO of Smith-Davidson Insurance Agency, located at 6200 Savoy Dr. Suite 528 in Houston, TX 77073, where he proudly provides a service of insurance protection for property and casualty. He explained that in the business of insurance, “property” refers to any possession above the land like buildings, cars, and things; and where “casualty” speaks to injuries, reputation, loss of income and the likeness. “Don Carlos,” as he is endearingly known to friends, was born in Panama to parents of Caribbean heritage (Barbados and Martinique). And as it goes with developing a business, Carlos Smith spoke candidly in his comments to aspiring candidates for entrepreneurship. “It all begins with God!” Being a man of strong Christian faith, Carlos believes that it was by divine design that mentors in business were “placed in my pathways.” Left up to self alone, “I would have missed my blessings!” Even though he had quietly aspired for a personal business long before getting started; it was due to having great mentors and a boldness to take risks that Mr. Smith took the plunge into business ownership. But in the end, owning my own business has been a gratifying experience for me, he reports. Given an adequate level of success, nothing beats being independent and self-directing. But in addition, operating a business requires a tremendous sense of responsibility to cli-
From Page 12 ...Color of Justice
design from the very beginning. Throughout history, he claimed that crafty designers use broad and ambiguous language to exact methods of excluding Black people from participating in social benefits and privileges as citizens dating back to our Constitution; and including present day laws, practices and policies. In many instances, it happens beyond public awareness; and by the time it becomes known, we must go through years of struggling to attain common civil rights laws or amendments to what has already been practiced as normal. So the importance of Michelle Alexander’s research, coupled by her passionate advocacy for civil rights, and her highly impressive backboard of scholarship, all come together to benefit present and future generations with a detailed history in crystal clear perspectives based on reliable data. The New Jim Crow is predictably a literary reference, which can be used at every level of pedagogy, as we move for-
From Page 12 ...Immigration
and alien smuggling. Several of these waivers can only be applied for outside of the U.S. Even if you qualify for any of the applicable waivers, your case will not be dispensed with in a week. In the least, it is likely to take several months to a year. The waiver applications are not adjudicated at the embassies and USCIS is not obliged to inform you of all the waivers you may need at your interview. You will not be interviewed for your entele and community; plus to family, staff, and self. It calls for sacrifices of long hours at work; including weekends, without vacations at times. Mr. Smith further recommends staying on top of your game as it relates to managing finances. This means creating and adhering to a highly disciplined system of money management; including budgetary discipline. Remember that everything relies on you, as the proprietor; particularly if you’re the sole proprietor. He urges entrepreneurs to create nest eggs from day one.
ward in making social changes for greater good. Consider, for example, that although the “War on Drugs” was initiated under then President Richard Nixon in June of 1971; it was really under President Ronald Reagan when we experienced a skyrocketing increase of America’s incarcerations of non-violent drug offenders from a documented 50,000 in 1980 to an overwhelming more than 2 million in less than 30 years. While these numbers are stunning when compared with worldwide prison populations; the racial demographics seem even more alarming. No other nation in the world incarcerates so many of its minority populations than the United States of America. In fact, America reportedly incarcerates a greater percentage of its Black population than South Africa did at the pinnacle of its system of apartheid. Some might question the value of Michelle Alexander writing a book of its type, even as we grap-
ple as a nation with “re-settling” from our recent stormy years of undeniable racial tensions. Clearly, the author’s objective is not one of color blindness (whatever that means). To the contrary, what she aims to create is a caring social consciousness among the different racial and ethnic groups within our country. The book is non-fictional and data driven for general public information. Clearly, it is an advocacy effort to bring about practical reforms to our system of social justice. Her hope is that minds would be changed about ways we each could contribute toward that end. Hopefully, a stage is now being set for a timely dismantling of practices where vulnerable citizen groups within the country can enjoy a true sense of being equal under the law. Obviously, we are not there yet. And perhaps, depending on any transformative gains attributed to the reading of her book, I hope it becomes a catalyst for the change we all anxiously await.
waiver applications; the decision on your case is based solely on the documents you submit to the service center assigned in the U.S.
immigration strategies in the fight to becoming lawful immigrants.
The road to a green card is often not paved with clear directions. You should weigh the implications of pursuing the green card and ultimately the steps you will have to take to get it.
The analysis and suggestions offered in this article do not create a lawyer-client relationship, is for information only, and are not a substitute for personalized representation that is essential to every case. Latania Mena is an Immigration Attorney and a Caribbean National based in the Southwest Houston, Texas.
Let us encourage our community to plan for and develop better
From Page 12 ...Obama
would help educate our children, maintain our roads and bridges, and train our workers for the high-paying jobs of the future? Or will we cut these programs, and decide to give more to the wealthiest Americans instead? To me, the answer is clear. Let’s invest in America’s future. Let’s commit to an economy that rewards hard work, generates rising incomes, and allows everyone to share in the prosperity of a growing America. Let’s reverse harmful cuts to vital programs, and instead
Until next time, walk good!
make the critical investments we need to grow our economy and strengthen the middle class. That’s what I’ll be talking about this week -- this choice, and these priorities. America is at its best when we look out for one another. We soar when we strive to do better for one another. That’s what I’m focused on and that’s what I’ll fight for every day for the next 18 months. Let’s get to work.
JULY 2015
ONE LOVE CARIBBEAN
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