The Impact of Political Rhetoric on Immigrant Communities: A Journey Through Time and a Call to Action
Let’s Start with Some Truth
Words have power. They can be used to elevate or destroy people. Repeated often enough, they have real-world consequences. We are seeing the damage and turmoil that the current political rhetoric is causing. This type of language isn’t anything new. It’s the same type of language that has often been used in the history of the United States by those seeking to gain power and control. Time and time again throughout our history, immigrant communities and minority groups have been at the receiving end of this rhetoric.
History Keeps Repeating History has shown us that these same narratives keep repeating. In the late 1800's, California saw an influx of Chinese immigrants making their way to America. Leaving behind everything, they arrived here looking for opportunities and a better way of life. They were met with fear, suspicion, and hate. This fear, often disseminated by those in power and the media, painted this group as a threat to Californians. The Chinese Exclusion Act of 1882 was enacted as a result. It
restricted immigration of Chinese into the US with a 10- year ban on Chinese laborers. The fear mongering often resulted in violence towards Chinese and Asian-born immigrants. Fast-forward to the 1940s, when Mexican immigrants were the main topic of discussion. During World War II, the Bracero Program was intended to be a win-win situation that brought in laborers during a labor shortage. However, the story changed after the war. These workers, who had been indispensable, were suddenly branded as "illegals" if they wished to remain. The term "illegal" became popular and is
still used often, which feeds prejudice and false narratives.
Not to be forgotten is the Know-Nothing Party of the 1850s, which specifically targeted German and Irish Catholics. The movement of this party was to “uphold traditional American ways” and they saw these groups as a threat to this idea. Their message was loud and clear. They were not welcome.
Media: The Double-Edged Sword
The media has often played a role in spreading these harmful narratives. We’ve
seen the newspapers and other publications and outlets disseminate prejudice and harmful banter. As the primary sources of information in the past, this resulted in the spread of fear and hate. Mexican laborers were cast as "illegal,” and Chinese immigrants were vilified.
Hate crimes, defined as a criminal act that is motivated by prejudice or bias against a person’s race, religion, ethnicity, national origin, sexual orientation, gender identity, or other protected characteristics, have been on the rise over the past decade, with spikes between
2020 and 2022, according to the Public Policy Institute of California. With the 2024 election ramping up, so is the damaging rhetoric. Statements like "Build the wall," "They're coming by the thousands," and even worse, that immigrants are "criminals" and "rapists." are being broadcast to the masses. These are hateful seeds that sprout into deeds, not just words. And those deeds? They have been devastating to minorities and immigrants.
The Reality We’re Facing Today
Today's conversation is just as divisive, and it’s having a real impact on people's lives. It's easy for politicians to sow fear with phrases like "Build the wall" and "They're coming by the thousands." Those comments are hurting real people who just want to live better lives.
In California, where immigrant populations are vital to the state, this attitude is especially striking. Farmworkers, who are already doing some of the toughest jobs out there, now have to worry about their safety and future. This isn’t just about politics; it’s about human lives. When leaders use dehumanizing language, it gives the green light to those looking for an excuse to act on their worst impulses. The hate spreads from the top, and we are seeing the results with the increase in hate and racially motivated crime.
Choosing a Better Way Forward
Just as words can destroy, words also have the power to heal and uplift. Politicians, the media, and yes, even regular people like us, have the ability to reject the rhetoric. We can push back against divisiveness and hate.
Wrapping It Up
Words have the ability to
By Jaime Harrison Word in Black
5 million Americans. The Biden-Harris administration also capped the
cost of insulin at $35 per month for seniors and acted to lower prescription drug costs. Over the last three years, we’ve seen Black unemployment go down, and new Black-owned small businesses are opening every day.
In every corner of our nation, the vice president has improved the lives of hardworking Americans. Trump certainly can’t say the same. But that’s nothing new for Kamala Harris. Let’s take a look at some of the work she has done before taking office:
As a young lawyer in California, she fought against a measure that would allow prosecutors the option of trying juvenile defendants as adults. During her tenure as district attorney of San Francisco, she made history when she officiated the first same-sex wedding in California after Proposition 8
was overturned, and created a groundbreaking program to provide first-time drug offenders with the opportunity to earn a high school degree and a pathway to employment. While she was attorney general of California, Vice President Harris defended the Affordable Care Act in court and took on big banks that were preying on vulnerable Americans.
Now when you consider her accomplishments, think about the fact that she is the first woman and first person of color to hold these jobs in California. She has spent a lifetime making critical decisions when all eyes were on her, and she has more than enough experience handling doubters who scrutinize her every move. The pressures of the presidency will be nothing new.
That is why we know she will
By Rosa I Evans / The San Bernardino American News
Libraries are cornerstones of our communities — and they need our help
By Georgia Jensen
From attending summer science demonstrations as a kid to volunteering as a high school student, the library has always been an important presence for me. When I was seven and my dad lost his job, my parents leaned on our community to help raise my sister and me. We got hand-me-downs from friends and food vouchers from our church — and the library became an even more central part of my life.
At least once a week, my dad would take us to the library, where my sister could get help on her homework, I could explore the children’s books and my dad could look for jobs. As it’s done for so many others, our local library stepped up to take care of us. Unfortunately, libraries are under political attack across much of the country.
Obsessed with “culture wars,” conservative politicians have been taking drastic measures to stop the distribution of what they call “age-inappropriate books” — which are often children’s books by and about LGBTQ+ individuals or people of color.
Last year Missouri enacted a rule defunding libraries that carry such content. And in order
to comply with a restrictive new library law in Idaho, some libraries have actually banned children and forced patrons under 30 to present an ID to enter.
All told, 17 GOP-led states are considering bills that would threaten librarians with prison time for lending books that lawmakers deem “obscene” or “harmful” to minors. And even in New York City, it took a massive public outcry to reverse Democratic Mayor Eric Adams’ devastating cuts to the library system.
When politicians target libraries, communities lose. Public libraries promote equality by championing free and open access to information. They not only allow individuals to access books but also movies, music and the internet.
A 2019 Gallup poll found that adults in low-income households visit their local libraries more than any other income group, which can help boost reading and literacy. By age 17, low-income students tend to lag behind their peers in reading by as much as four years, a disparity fueled by having less access to reading material — especially during the summer, when schools close. That’s why nearly all public libraries offer summer reading programs.
Libraries recognize and meet the needs of their patrons. In San Francisco, where homelessness is an ongoing crisis, the local library became one of the first in the country to hire an in-house social worker to provide expert help for its unhoused library users.
While legislation and programs aimed at fighting poverty remain stuck in Congress, libraries across the country already offer a variety of services to help society’s most vulnerable.
State Superintendent Thurmond Calls For Restrictions On Cell Phone Use In Schools
Thurmond commends many districts for starting the year with cell phone-free classrooms, encourages more to join statewide effort supporting students’ wellness, safety, and academic achievement by restricting phones.
SACRAMENTO – State Superintendent of Public Instruction Tony Thurmond today called for local educational agencies (LEAs) to join California’s statewide effort to restrict students’ cell phone use in schools, citing evidence of harm to students’ mental health and well-being, as well as a correlation between smartphone addiction and negative impacts on learning and academic performance.
This call-to-action echoes existing legislation that empowers California school districts to enact policies that restrict students’ cell phone use.
Assembly Bill 272 (Muratsuchi), which became effective January 1, 2020, affirms the right of school districts, county office of education, and charter schools to establish policies that restrict students’ cell phone use in schools.
“I want to commend those schools and districts who have chosen to start this school year by establishing clear limits on students’ cell phone use in schools,” said Thurmond. “As
Authorities Warn: There’s a COVID Surge in California
Bo Tefu and Antonio Ray Harvey | California Black Media
California is experiencing a COVID-19 surge this summer, experts warn, as numbers of infections increased for the third month this year.
State public health authorities attribute the summer COVID surge to more infectious subvariants that have emerged as the coronavirus evolves.
Dr. Elizabeth Hudson, regional chief of infectious disease at Kaiser Permanente Southern California, stated that subvariants of COVID-19 called FLiRT increased in recent months, particularly one named KP.3.1.1 that has become the most common strain in the country.
Dr. Peter Chin-Hong, an infectious diseases expert at UC San Francisco, said that the subvariant KP.3.1.1 seems most adept at transmission.
“The subvariant is the one that people think will continue to take over, not only in the United States, but … around the world,” Chin-Hong said.
According to data estimates by the Centers for Disease
Control and Prevention (CDC), the coronavirus in California’s wastewater has spiked for eight consecutive weeks. Hospitalizations and emergency room visits have also increased since the rise of the new subvariants. Over the last month, Los Angeles County experienced an average of 389 hospital patients per day that tested positive for the coronavirus.
The FLiRT subvariants such as KP.3.1.1. Made up over 2% of coronavirus samples nationwide, an increase of more than 7% last month.
The majority of the people who tested positive for COVID-19 complained of a sore throat and a heavy cough. Risk factors that can increase the illness include age, underlying health issues, and vaccine dosage.
Health experts stated that the demand for the COVID-19 vaccine has increased in Northern California. However, people are having a hard time getting the vaccine due to the increasing number of cases.
State Superintendent Tony Thurmond Addresses Hate in Schools Following Racist Incident in Culver City
Last week, Superintendent of Public Instruction Tony Thurmond denounced hate crimes in schools following a racist and homophobic incident that occurred at a Culver City school.
Invasion"
parents and educators, we know that excessive smartphone use has a negative impact on the well-being of our young people. Our responsibility to protect young people from harm includes establishing clear limits on their access to smartphones at school and, in doing so, supporting our kids’ healthy development both academically and socially.”
Many California districts are starting the year with districtwide cell phone bans, including Lincoln Unified in San Joaquin County and Roseville City School District in the Sacramento area.
Superintendent Thurmond will be available for comment regarding cell phones in schools between 9 a.m. and 2 p.m. today, August 13.
Members of the press who are interested in the Superintendent’s media availability should reach out to Liz Sanders, CDE Director of Communications, at 916-2682081 or esanders@cde.ca.gov. All other inquiries should be directed to communications@ cde.ca.gov.
The Impact of Political Rhetoric on Immigrant Communities: A Journey Through Time and a Call to Action...continued from page 1 significantly influence public opinion and, as we have seen, even legislation. The past has shown us that allowed to fester, political rhetoric can and will continue to divide and stoke fear among us. It’s time to “Stop the Hate.”
This resource was supported in whole or in part by funding provided by the State of California, administered by the California State Library via California Black Media as part of the Stop the Hate program. The program is supported by a partnership with the California Department of Social Services and the California Commission on Asian and Pacific Islander American Affairs. To report a hate incident or hate crime and get support, go to https://www. cavshate.org.
References and Further
Reading
Boundless Immigration: "Illegal Immigration is Not an
BU Pardee School of Global Studies: "The Anti-Immigrant Movement in the United States" Britannica: "Know-Nothing Party"
Ethnic Media Services: "With Escalating AntiImmigrant Rhetoric, California Farmworkers Fear the Future"
U.S. Department of Justice: "Hate Crime Statistics"
Public Policy Institute of California: "Immigrants in California"
Rosa I. Evans is a marketing strategist and founder of Tridyn Creative Media, specializing in branding and digital marketing.
A first-generation American from a Mexican immigrant family, she grew up in West Texas, where challenges of poverty and cultural duality shaped her empathy and resilience. Rosa is dedicated to empowering others with innovative tools for growth and success.
Inland Empire Philanthropist Reggie Webb Laid to Rest
Dr. Reggie Webb
Reginald “Reggie” Webb, a philanthropist and one of the most successful fast-food restaurant owners in Southern California, was laid to rest last month after a long battle with leukemia. He was 76.
According to California State University, San Bernadino , Webb owned and operated 16 McDonald’s restaurants, employing over 1,100 workers. His expertise in business and passion for community involvement led to the creation of Webb Family Investments and Cooperative Economic Empowerment Movement, which provided support for Blackowned businesses as a means to build and circulate capital within the Black community.
Webb once led the National Black McDonald’s Operator Association, chaired the National
Leadership Council, and was the founding chairperson of the Global Operator Leadership Council, representing McDonald’s franchisees worldwide.
Webb was a committed supporter of California State University San Bernardino Black Faculty Staff and Student Association Pioneer Breakfast, a program that raises scholarship funds for Black students, according to CSUSB. He also raised funding for the Inland Empire Concerned African American Churches’ annual Martin Luther King breakfast at Cal State San Bernardino.
He received the 365Black Lifetime Achievement Award in 2002 in recognition of achievements of importance that bonded the African American community.
At a press conference on Aug. 8, Thurmond joined the Culver City Unified School District (CCUSD), the County of Los Angeles Commission on Human Relations, other state officials and community leaders to urge students and families to support state-led efforts to end hate crime in their communities.
At the event, Thurmond referenced the Los Angeles County vs. Hate Initiative, a campaign that connects students to resources and programs that promote safety and anti-bias instate public schools. Recently, L.A. County officials worked with partners to expand programs and make resources available in all 80 school districts across the county.
“We must push back against hatred,” said Thurmond. “Especially when acts of hate occur in our schools, we must address them head-on.
In July, two boys were arrested at the Culver City school after officers found a broken classroom window and graffiti
in various areas of the school. The officers also uncovered hate speech against Black People and LGBTQ individuals. The two boys were arrested and later released to their parents, authorities stated. Police later revealed that the two boys reside in L.A. and neither one of them attended schools in Culver City. Triston Ezidore, a CCUSD board member, commended local government and school district officials for taking action to promote safety at public schools.
“This is what happens when elected officials at every single level of government together with everyday neighbors with our teachers, our students, our faith-based organizations, and community partners to tackle the very pressing issue of hate at our schools,” said Ezidore. Thurmond reinforced the State’s Education to End Hate initiative, a program that has allotted $20 million for school districts to implement antiracism and anti-bias initiatives in public schools. California school district superintendents, county superintendents, and charter school administrators can receive up to $20,000 for each approved proposal submitted to the state Department of Education.
Georgia Jensen speaks on the importance of libraries. Jensen is a Henry Wallace Fellow at the Institute for Policy Studies.
(Courtesy photo)
Bo Tefu and Antonio Ray Harvey | California Black Media
Bo Tefu and Antonio Ray Harvey | California Black Media
LA County Supervisor Holly J. Mitchell, Second District, speaks at the podium surrounded by local representatives, school officials, parents, students and the community on Thursday, August 8, 2024.
Kamala Harris: Imagining What Can Be, Unburdened by What Has Been
Craig J. DeLuz | Special to California Black Media Partners
OPINON (CBM) – As we enter the final 90 day stretch of what will likely be the most bizarre presidential election cycle in modern American history, the two leading candidates for president of the United States have staked out very interesting communications strategies.
Trump is being Trump. He remains true to his persona, with his supporters admiring his actions while his detractors only seeing flaws. On the other hand, Harris has deployed a cunning strategy of deceit and avoidance. And with the aid of her allies in the press, has been able to seamlessly shift her stance on key policy issues from immigration to healthcare without batting an eyelash. The most striking aspect of this strategy is the campaign’s
consistent mischaracterization of Donald Trump’s stances. Rather than engaging in a reputable and respectful exchange of ideas, the Harris camp has resorted to vilifying and maligning Trump, often resorting to gross exaggerations and blatant untruths. Despite Trump’s repeated assurances that he does not support cuts to social security benefits, Harris insists that he intends to slash these programs. She also fabricates claims that he seeks a nationwide abortion ban, disregarding his clear statements that he does not support such a ban and that the decision should be left to individual states. Additionally, Harris boasts about her tough stance on border security, despite over 10 million illegal crossings at the southern border during her
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Gov. Newsom Plans to Revoke Funding for Cities and Counties Delaying Encampment Sweeps
tenure as “Border Czar” in the Biden-Harris administration. This impulsive tactic not only damages the credibility of the Harris campaign, but it also displays a reluctance to engage in honest and meaningful discourse on pertinent issues.
Furthermore, Harris’ deliberate avoidance of media interviews and her reluctance to answer questions is an alarming and dubious tactic. Harris’ most recent sit-down interview was nearly two months ago on MSNBC’s “Morning Joe”, where she discussed the Roe v. Wade anniversary. Since then, the public witnessed Joe Biden’s cognitive decline on national television, an assassination attempt on Trump’s life, the Republican National Convention, Biden’s withdrawal from the presidential race, and Harris’ nomination as the Democratic candidate; all newsworthy events that were seemingly unworthy of commentary. In fact, the only question she has answered recently was when she would do an interview, to which she responded, “before the end of the month.” In an era where information is easily accessible and voters demand transparency from their leaders, avoiding the media is both counterproductive and undemocratic. By limiting her interactions with the media, Harris is cherry-picking her audience and attempting to control the narrative, instead of engaging in open and honest communication with all Americans.
However, the most concerning aspect of Harris’ communications strategy is her frequent reversals
on crucial issues. She was in favor of banning fracking before she was against it. Her stance on single-payer healthcare has been fluid and uncertain. And just recently, she launched a multistate ad campaign presenting herself as an immigration hardliner, committed to securing our southern border, despite previously claiming that it was already secure. On multiple occasions, Harris has changed her position, often depending on the political climate or her audience. This inconsistency not only undermines her credibility as a candidate but also raises doubts about her true convictions and capacity to lead with integrity.
In a political landscape dominated by polarizing rhetoric and partisan agendas, Kamala Harris has stood out with her carefully crafted communication strategy. As we enter the final days of the presidential election campaign, she with the aid of her friends in the media has managed to evade tough questions and sidestep potential controversies, painting pictures of herself and her opponent that she wants voters to see in clear defiance of reality. Through her campaign, Kamala Harris is truly “Imagining what can be, unburdened by what has been.”
About the Author
Craig J. DeLuz has almost 30 years in public policy and advocacy. He currently hosts a daily news and commentary show called The RUNDOWN. You can follow him on X at @ CraigDeLuz.
Ben Crump announces lawsuit against big pharma on behalf of Henrietta
Lacks family
By Aria Brent
Highly acclaimed civil rights attorney, Ben Crump and attorney, Christopher Seeger of Seeger Weiss announced on Aug. 5 they have filed a lawsuit on behalf of the family of Henrietta Lacks. The lawsuit is against Novartis Pharmaceuticals Corp., Novartis Gene Therapies Inc., Viatris Inc. and Mylan Pharmaceuticals. The lawsuit was filed regarding justice for the wrongful and unauthorized commercialization of Lacks’s cells, known as the HeLa cell line. For decades these cells have been used for the advancement and development of medical research and drug development without her or her family’s consent.
Legal representatives of the late Henrietta Lacks say her descendents should be recognized and compensated for the plethora of medical developments her “immortal” cells have given birth to via research.
Attorney Benjamin Crump has filed a lawsuit on behalf of the Lacks family, seeking compensation for the wrongful and unauthorized commercialization of Lacks’ cells. Courtesy photo
Biden admin wants to make canceling subscriptions easier
Ivana Saric
The Biden administration on Monday outlined new proposals to make it easier for Americans to cancel unwanted subscriptions. Why it matters: The initiatives are a part of a broader effort by the administration to eliminate the "unnecessary headaches and hassles" that consumers face, including by getting rid of junk fees.
"Americans know these practices well: it's being forced to wait on hold just to get the refund we're owed; the hoops and hurdles to cancel a gym membership or subscription; the unnecessary complications of dealing with health insurance companies; the requirements to do in-person or by mail what could easily be done with a couple of clicks online," according to a White House fact sheet out Monday. State of play: Several federal agencies are proposing rules that would combat "corporate tricks and scams like excessive paperwork, long wait times, and more" that companies use to stall consumers from canceling subscriptions, per the fact sheet. These include: A proposed Federal Trade Commission (FTC) rule would require companies to make
canceling a subscription or service as easy as signing up for one.
The Federal Communications Commission (FCC) will conduct an inquiry into whether similar rules should be applied to companies in the communications industry.
A new rule from the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau (CFPB) would crack down on customer service "doom loops" by requiring companies to allow callers to talk to a human representative with the press of a single button.
The FCC, Department of Health and Human Services, and Department of Labor are looking into similar rules for the communications industry and health plan providers, per the release.
Zoom out: A new rule from the Department of Transportation requires airlines to automatically issue refunds if flights are canceled or significantly changed and a customer chooses not to accept rebooking options.
The bottom line: "In addition to robbing hardworking families of their valuable time and adding frustration to our daily lives, these hassles cost us money," the fact sheet stated.
Ben Crump announces lawsuit against big pharma on behalf of Henrietta Lacks family...continued
and commercialization of HeLa cells are unethical, morally corrupt and unequitable without compensation to or the consent of the Lacks family. It declares that the profits made from the use of these cells should be given to the estate of Lacks.
“Black people have the right to control their bodies and their genetic material,” Crump stated. “The exploitation of Henrietta Lacks’s cells must be acknowledged, and justice must be served for her family. We will fight tirelessly to ensure that her legacy is honored and that her family receives the compensation they are owed.”
Back in Session, California Lawmakers to Decide More Than 1,300 Bills
After a monthlong summer recess in July, the California Legislature reconvened last week on Aug 5.
Gov. Gavin Newsom promised to take away state funding from cities and counties that delay implementing an executive order to clear out homeless encampments statewide and relocate occupants to shelters. Last week, the California Department of Transportation (CalTrans) worked with Newsom to clear several encampments in the Los Angeles area.
“I want to see results,” said Newsom at a
Newsom’s decision came after the United States Supreme Court overturned a decision by a lower court ruling that governments are not allowed to force people to leave encampments without shelter beds available. Over the last five years, California has spent approximately $24 billion to clear the streets and house people. The state has also invested $3.2 billion in grant funding for local governments to build shelters, clear encampments, and provide services to homeless people.
Lacks was being treated for cervical cancer at Johns Hopkins Hospital in the early 1950s and during a procedure, tissue samples were extracted from her cervix unbeknownst to her. It was found by medical experts that her cells were unique in comparison to typical cells due to their ability to reproduce indefinitely outside of the human body. This discovery led to the creation of the first immortalized human cell line.
The Newsom administration has pulled back a $10 million grant to San Diego to build small homes because the county is delaying clearing out encampments. However, the California State Association of Counties, representing all 58 counties, stated that it will continue to work with Gov. Newsom.
“Henrietta Lacks’s cells have fueled countless medical breakthroughs, from the development of the polio vaccine to advancements in gene mapping and in vitro fertilization,” said Seeger. “Yet, despite the monumental impact of HeLa cells on medical science, Mrs. Lacks’s family has had to fight for compensation and acknowledgment for their profound contribution.”
The lawsuit brings attention to the conscious decisions made by Novartis and Viatris
to commercialize Lacks’ cells and profit from it, all the while being well aware of the unethical harvesting of the cells. Novartis acknowledges Lacks story on their website, however they’ve continued to profit off the use of her genetic material without having permission to do so and without compensating her estate. Viatris and its subsidiary Mylan Pharmaceuticals have also heavily relied on HeLa cells for the development of medicine, the advancement of their research and the increase of revenue.
“Medical research has a long, troubled history of exploiting Black individuals, and Henrietta Lacks’s story is a stark reminder of this legacy,” Crump added. “It is time for these corporations to be held accountable for their unjust enrichment and to provide the Lacks family with the recognition and compensation they deserve.”
The lawsuit provides a singular cause of action for unjust enrichment, noting that the defendants’ ongoing use
On their plates are more than 1,300, bills they must discuss and decide before their Aug. 31 deadline.
Some of those bills are related to hot-button issues under increasing national scrutiny as the country approaches national elections in November, including Assembly Bill (AB) 1825.
Titled the California Freedom to Read Act, AB 1825 would prevent library review committees from banning material that deals with race or sexuality. This proposed law requires state public libraries to outline their policies for approving or rejecting books.
State public libraries will also have to establish a system that allows people to voice their concerns and objections regarding the books and policies.
According to the American Library Association, approximately 4,420 books were targeted last year nearly double the number of books since 2022.
“The number of titles targeted for censorship surged 65% in 2023 compared to 2022, reaching the highest levels ever documented by the American Library Association (ALA),” the
organization said in a statement. The Jewish Public Affairs Committee is one of the groups set to rally in Sacramento to support AB 1825 to expand disclosure agreements for school districts that use ethnic studies courses in the curriculum. State legislators backing AB 1825 include California State Sen. David Min (D-Irvine) and U.S. Rep. Katie Porter (D-CA-47). State legislators are also working on two bills that would tax online platforms such as Google and Meta and use the funds generated to support local journalism. They are AB 886 authored by Assemblymember Buffy Wicks (D-Oakland) and SB 1327 authored by Sen. Steve Glazer (D-Orinda). Other bills in the works include legislation that would ban legacy admissions at private universities such as Stanford. Authors of that bill, AB 1780, include California Legislative Black Caucus members Assemblymember Lori D. Wilson (D-Suisun City and Assemblymember Kevin McCarty (D-Sacramento). The Legislature has until Aug. 31 to vote on bills and pass them on to Gov. Gavin Newsom for approval. Newsom has until Sept. 30 to sign or veto proposed bills that reach on his desk.
Craig J. DeLuz
Bo Tefu and Antonio Ray Harvey | California Black Media
Two Million Preventable Deaths in the Past 20 Years
NNPA NEWSWIRE — Reducing the quality of life, psychosocial, and economic burden resulting from lack of access to high-quality, affordable healthcare is a primary concern of forty-two million African American voters. We will vote according to our health interests irrespective of political party.
By BlackPressUSA
The National Black Church Initiative Released the National Black Health Agenda Report to the White House, GOP, and the US Congress Requesting $2.25 Trillion in Additional Spending for African American Healthcare
Washington D.C.– The National Black Church Initiative (NBCI), a coalition of 150,000 African American churches, which constitute over 27.7 million churchgoers, are calling for the 118th US Congress to take action against the stark state of health amongst Black Americans. According to the Washington Post article titled, Black Communities Endured a Wave of Excess Deaths in the Past 2 Decades (tinyurl. com/4x7dyku9), America’s Black communities experienced an excess of 1.6 million deaths (not counting the COVID-19 deaths). Compared with their white counterparts during the past two decades. This is a devastating loss that comes at a cost of hundreds of billions of dollars, according to two recent studies by the JAMA Network that build on a generation of research into health disparities and inequity.
Rev. Anthony Evans, President of the NBCI, forcedly states, “The Black Church must stand up and use its 27.7 million votes to protect the health of Black people in this 2024 election.”
Since the 1985 Heckler Report, issued by then-Secretary of Health, Education, and Welfare Margaret Heckler, there have been only words and studies. With expert analysis, for the first time since her report, the National Black Health Agenda has moved to change those words into solid, concrete action, starting in 2025. We believe a $2.25 trillion down payment is a good starting point.
Reducing the quality of life, psychosocial, and economic burden resulting from lack of access to high-quality, affordable healthcare is a primary concern of forty-two million African American voters. We will vote according to our health interests irrespective of political party.
Our nation must ask the critical question: Do Black lives truly matter? Why is the United States unwilling to spend the necessary money to curtail and eliminate health disparities and death and dying after 500 years in this country? What is the central question here? Racism is the primary reason for the unfolding of this American tragedy. The Black Church demands that the US Congress does something to fix this problem immediately. Rev. Anthony Evans further states, “The Black Church is making this bold step forward in this debate. Our discussions over the last 30 years have all been about words, and the last time we checked- words did not heal anyone. This is why we are taking this extraordinary and powerful demand that the Congress of the United States pay attention to the value of African American humanity. The price tag is $2.25 trillion starting in 2025 over the next ten years. This country must finally make real the promissory note issued to African Americans it gave African Americans over 500 years ago!” Joseph L. Webster, Sr., MD, MBA, FACP Clinical Director, NBCI American Clinical Health Disparity Commission (ACHDC)
says, “At this pivotal moment in the survival of humankind as we know it, the ‘church’ again has stepped up to call upon the seat of Government to ‘heal the land.’”
This National Black Health Agenda proposed and hereby presented by the NBCI and its collaborative partners –CME Outfitters and the American Clinical Health Disparity Commission – is the first comprehensive Agenda explicitly designed to address the holistic HEALTH of African Americans in the United States of America. This National Black Health Agenda is not only timely, but it is both ‘morally correct’ and ‘fiscally responsible’ and deserves the full backing of all representative components of our government – including Congress and the President of the United States of America. Anything less than enthusiastic endorsement will be unpatriotic and a great disservice to today’s citizens and their children for future generations. Additionally, it will cost America over $250 Billion annually until the disparity gap is closed. Rev. Evans and the NBCI team are to be commended for this transformative document that, if implemented, will positively change the lives of millions and simultaneously change the ‘moral trajectory’ of this Republic back on a course that will truly make it not just a mighty nation, but a Great Nation.”
The Black Church will not allow this to happen without a fight. We will utilize our
moral power and authority by exercising the vote. If necessary, we will force this issue of the value of Black humanity at the ballot box in 2024. Over the next ten years, we will apply multiple strategies to awaken Congress to the urgency of this crisis.
Every leading expert in health disparities, including the Center for Budgetary Priorities, has said that this investment will strengthen our nation and produce huge savings. Dr. David Satcher, former director of the Health Leadership Institute and Center of Excellence on Health Disparities at Morehouse School of Medicine and the 16th Surgeon General of the United States, and Dr. Thomas LaVeist, Dean of the Tulane University School of Public Health and Tropical Medicine, both realized that an enormous investment into African American health is critical to the moral, economic future of our nation.
These two leading African American experts, who have a combined wisdom of over 100 years, have created a blueprint for our country to drastically curtail negative health outcomes and start us on a path to eliminating health disparities over the next 20 years.
They would also agree that the efforts put forth in this report by Rev. Anthony Evans and leading African American clinicians are a good start and a critical gesture for a strong beginning. Thus, 50 years of government reports and non-action on health disparities will have been turned into concrete action.
ABOUT NBCI
The National Black Church Initiative (NBCI) is a coalition of 150,000 African American and Latino churches working to eradicate racial disparities in healthcare, technology, education, housing, and the environment. The mission of NBCI is to provide critical wellness information to all its members, congregants, churches, and the public. NBCI, utilizing faith and sound health science and partners with major organizations and officials, reduces racial disparities in the variety of areas cited above.
NBCI’s programs are governed by credible statistical analysis, science-based strategies and techniques, and methods that work and offer faith-based, out-of-the-box, and innovative solutions to stubborn economic and social issues.
Outside Distractions Hurt Health Care Innovators for Black and Minority Communities
By Hazel Trice Edney
(TriceEdneyWire.com) - Heart disease, cancer, and stroke are among the leading causes of death in America. In each case, African-Americans are at least twice as likely to die than Whites according to private and public health experts.
1. Black adults are more than twice as likely to die of cardiovascular diseases, relative to White adults. American Indian individuals are 1.5 times as likely to be diagnosed with coronary heart disease, compared to White Americans, according to the American Heart Association.
2. Black people between the ages of 45 and 54 die of strokes three times more often than their white counterparts, according to the National Institutes of Health .
of health care innovators focused on decreasing racial health disparities. PHOTO: iStock/Hispanolistic
3. According to the American Cancer Society, African Americans have the highest death rate and shortest survival of any racial/ethnic group for most cancers. These statistics, among a string of others, prove that racial health disparities remain consistent across the U. S. and that Black and other people of color, including Hispanic and AIAN (America Indian and Alaska
Natives) fare worse than White Americans across a majority of health conditions. Therefore, private and public sectors must make concerted efforts to address this inequity head on if the gap is ever to close. In this regard, healthcare innovators have an important role to play in making strides
mitigates racial bias from their health monitors, quelling an issue that has long plagued Black and minority communities.
However, Masimo’s ability to continue innovating for patients is in jeopardy. An activist hedge fund, Politan Capital Management, is attempting to take complete control of Masimo’s board of directors.
Quentin Koffey, who heads the fund, aims to win two additional seats that are up for election in the company’s annual meeting, which would result in Politan having a controlling majority that determines all board decisions.
If Politan snags control of the board, Masimo will be led by a three-year-old hedge fund helmed by a vulture investor with no expertise or experience in the med-tech field. Politan has provided very limited information about its transition or leadership plans, leaving one to wonder how Masimo would fare in the months and years ahead. Masimo’s CEO and founder, Joe Kiani, says he will leave the company if booted from the board, and the COO and hundreds of engineers and managers said they would follow him out the door.
It's hard to imagine how patients will benefit from any future innovations developed by Masimo if the company loses its innovative leadership and wider team.
Politan’s “activism” detracts
from Masimo’s main goal of providing best in class med-tech products. This does not come as a surprise. A BCG analysis found that most companies lose between 4 percent and 25 percent of total shareholder return within a year of an activist attack.
Politan has made itself a major impediment to Masimo’s efforts to focus on what it should be doing best, which is innovating. A med-tech company should be primarily focused on creating new products to best serve patients, not a distraction from an activist hedge fund.
The rise in organizations and companies - public and private - speaking out about and attempting to address disparities is encouraging.
"The digital transformation in health care has a lot of opportunities to improve access and quality of care. However, in reality not all individuals and communities are benefiting equally from these innovations," says a study by NIH, the National Institute of Health.
The best way for them to effect change is to put forth innovations in the healthcare field that improve outcomes for all patients, including those that are historically underserved and disparately impacted. Med-tech companies must be encouraged to innovate free from outside nuisances that detract from that mission.
toward health equity. When medical advancements are made, communities of color must never be left behind in sharing the benefits.
When leading healthcare companies innovate, they in turn better serve patients’ needs. However, there are challenges that can curb a company's ability to innovate, including outsiders that prioritize themselves over improving healthcare.
Take what’s happening to the health technology company, Masimo, for example. Over the last three decades, the company went from a startup to one of the country’s largest suppliers of medical technology, including pulse oximeters. The company improved the way clinicians measure patients’ blood oxygen levels and developed a technology that significantly
Essential Access Health Announces Dr. Porsia Curry as Inaugural Vice President of Culture + People
Dr. Curry brings extensive experience as a diversity, equity, inclusion leader in California
LOS ANGELES — Essential Access Health (Essential Access) announced today that Dr. Porsia Curry, recent Head of Diversity, Equity, Inclusion, and Belonging for LA28, has joined the organization as its inaugural Vice President of Culture + People.
“Dr. Porsia Curry is a visionary DEI leader who brings extensive experience delivering strategic initiatives and policies that infuse and amplify diversity, equity, inclusion, and accessibility (DEIA) practices organizationwide,” said Essential Access Co-CEO Nomsa Khalfani, PhD. “Her work reimagines organizational culture and operationalizes equity in all areas of the workplace. We recognize that supporting the ability of our staff to thrive is mission critical and we are excited to have Dr. Curry onboard as we integrate our organization’s core values into everything we do, and continue to expand our work to ensure access to equitable and high-quality sexual and reproductive health for everyone, everywhere.”
“I am thrilled to join this dynamic team at an organization committed not only to expanding access to care but also fostering an internal culture of diversity, equity, inclusion, and accessibility,” said Dr. Curry. “Essential Access Health's dedication to integrating DEIA practices aligns with our mission to advance equitable sexual and reproductive health policies,
programs, and services for all. By embedding equity in our operations both internally and externally, Essential Access Health deepens our ability to lead with humility, promote anti-racism, and embody our values to ensure that everyone, everywhere can get the care they want and need, where and how they need it.”
As Vice President of Culture + People, Dr. Curry will serve as a member of the Essential Access Executive Leadership Team and direct all workplace culture initiatives and programs, including organizational development, people operations, DEIA, and internal communications. Dr. Curry brings to Essential Access 12 years of experience delivering programs and strategies that embrace equity, inclusivity and diversity in every area of operation. Prior to joining Essential Access, Dr. Curry was Head of Diversity, Equity, Inclusion, and Belonging for LA28, tasked with creating and advancing DEIB across the organizing committee for the 2028 Olympic and Paralympic Games. Previously, Dr. Curry spent nine years at the University of California, San Diego, serving as a Campus Diversity Officer and Center Director for the Equity, Diversity & Inclusion division. She is also a researcher focused on DEIAJ and workplace culture.
Every leading expert in health disparities, including the Center for Budgetary Priorities, has said that this investment will strengthen our nation and produce huge savings. Photo: iStockphoto / NNPA.
OP-ED: Project 2025: Jim Crow 2.0
In two years, we will celebrate our nation’s 250th birthday.
Our great country has survived a Civil War, two world wars, a Cold War, and a plethora of legislative and judicial fits and starts in our pursuit of a “more perfect Union.” We have endured some devastating Supreme Court decisions, Dred Scott, The Slaughterhouse Cases, and Plessey v Ferguson, to name just a few. We have survived some oppressive presidencies, Andrew Johnson, Rutherford Hayes, and Woodrow Wilson, tantamount among them.
Johnson attempted to nullify the impact of Abraham Lincoln’s Emancipation Proclamation. Hayes ended Reconstruction. Wilson’s policies towards federal civil service employment seem to be the foundation upon which a significant portion of Trump’s 2025 Project is built.
But eliminating civil service jobs is not the only devastating and oppressive policy proposed by Trump’s Project 2025. Project
2025 is a detailed plan to update the efforts of Johnson and Hayes to limit Black participation in our society, deny women freedoms over their own bodies, and deny association and nuptial rights to our LBGTQ+ community.
Trump’s Project 2025 is a radical agenda that would –among other things – eliminate the Department of Education, zero out federal funding to lowincome schools, and end the Public Service Loan Forgiveness (PSLF) Program. As Maya Angelou admonished, “When people tell who they are, believe them the first time.” The PSLF Program became effective in the first year of Trump’s Presidency and in his entire four years, only 7,000 public servants benefited from the program. In the threeand-one-half years of the BidenHarris Administration, nearly 1 million teachers, firefighters, police officers, and other public servants have received over $69 billion in student debt relief.
Trump’s Project 2025 would
also eliminate the requirements for the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission to collect racial data on employment, making it hard to determine where disparities and gaps persist. Further, the plan would end disparate impact liability, making it harder to bring a case of employment discrimination.
Trump’s Project 2025 would remove diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) from all federal laws and regulations and shut down DEI offices across the federal government. Project 2025 would make it harder to organize or be represented by a union. In sum, coupled with recent Supreme Court decisions on presidential immunity, the weakening of the Voting Rights Act, and the elimination of affirmative action, Trump’s Project 2025 represents less freedom for a growing majority of Americans and more favor for a privileged few. In short, Trump’s Project 2025 is Jim Crow 2.0.
Although Trump has repeatedly tried to distance himself from Project 2025, it is hard for him to do so when six of his former Cabinet secretaries, four individuals he nominated as ambassadors, his first deputy Chief of Staff, and 140 individuals who worked in his Administration all had a hand in crafting the document. And dozens more were contracted to
advise on Project 2025, including his former Chief of Staff Mark Meadows and longtime advisor Stephen Miller.
I remember when my parents were able to cast their first effective vote. I remember segregated lunch counters and “separate but (un)equal” schools. I do not want my grandchildren to grow up in a country like the one my parents and grandparents experienced.
During the stormiest days of the Revolutionary War, Thomas Paine, an English immigrant and critic of slavery, wrote in his little Pamphlet, The American Crisis No. 1:
“These are the times that try men’s souls. The summer soldier and sunshine patriot will in this crisis shrink from the service of their country; but he that stands by it now, deserves the love and thanks of man and woman. Tyranny, like hell, is not easily conquered; yet we have this consolation with us, that the harder the conflict, the more glorious the triumph.”
Thomas Paine’s words are as apropos today as they were in 1776. Storm clouds are forming, and current conditions are not conducive for fair-weather friends. Trump’s Project 2025 represents the reincarnation of “Jim Crow,” and defeating “Jim Crow 2.0” requires the participation of “soldiers and patriots” who are willing to fight in stormy as well as sunny times.
Chevrolet Celebrates Year 8 of “Discover the Unexpected” Internship Program, Partnering with HBCU Talent
NNPA NEWSWIRE — The DTU internship began on June 12 and concluded with a ceremony in Detroit on August 9. Upon completing the program, Chevrolet and the NNPA awarded each fellow $18,000 in scholarships and stipends, bringing the total amount awarded to $930,000, supporting 69 students from 23 unique HBCUs. To learn more about Discover the Unexpected, visit https://www.nnpa.org/ chevydtu/.
By BlackPress of America
DETROIT – Chevrolet recently hosted ten HBCU students from across the country for the closing activities of the “Discover the Unexpected” (DTU) internship program. Over the course of ten weeks, students engaged in an immersive experience focusing on marketing and communications, content creation, and the latest technological advancements in the automotive industry. During the program, the fellows collaborated with journalists from the National Newspaper Publishers Association (NNPA) and explored the 2024 Chevrolet Trax on a group curated road trip, covering the Major League Baseball Tribute to the Negro League Game at Rickwood Field in Alabama, the 2nd Annual Swingman HBCU All-star game held during MLB All Star Weekend in Arlington, TX, and other national and local stories. This experience was designed to enhance their professional skills, tackle innovative assignments, and document their journey on social media. This marks the eighth consecutive year that Chevrolet and the NNPA have partnered to host the DTU internship.
The 2024 DTU mentors and ambassadors, all HBCU alumni, provided invaluable professional insights and support throughout the program. Television host and actor Terrence Jenkins, also known as Terrence J, returned for his third year as an ambassador.
“College is a formative experience, and having opportunities and support during this time is invaluable. When utilized effectively, these opportunities can significantly impact future success,” said Jenkins. “As a proud HBCU graduate, I’m thrilled to return to DTU and work with Chevrolet and NNPA to inspire the next generation of talented communications, journalism, and marketing professionals.”
Steve Majoros, Chief Marketing Officer at Chevrolet, emphasized the brand’s dedication to the DTU program.
“It has been an honor to witness the growth of the DTU program over the years and to continue to provide support to HBCUs,” Majoros said. “Our new tagline, ‘Together Let’s Drive,’ reflects how DTU, Chevrolet and the NNPA play a role to provide mentorship and
real-world experience, helping students align with successful career trajectories. Each cohort always rises to the occasion to do its part making DTU an annual journey that’s best completed together. This program also helps us understand and connect with young, diverse consumers.”
Dr. Benjamin Chavis, NNPA President and CEO, also praised the program’s success.
“I am excited and humbled by the ongoing success and evolution of our partnership with Chevrolet for DTU,” Chavis said. “This program is life-changing for HBCU students, both professionally and personally, and it prepares them for future careers.”
The DTU internship began on June 12 and concluded with a ceremony in Detroit on August 9. Upon completing the program, Chevrolet and the NNPA awarded each fellow $18,000 in scholarships and stipends, bringing the total amount awarded to $930,000, supporting 69 students from 23 unique HBCUs. To learn more about Discover the Unexpected, visit https://www. nnpa.org/chevydtu/.
USBC Applauds Biden-Harris Administration's Historic $2 Billion Distribution for Discriminated Farmers
World /Political News
Washington, D.C. – August 13, 2024 – The U.S. Black Chambers, Inc. (USBC) applauds the Biden-Harris Administration for its landmark decision to distribute $2 billion to thousands of farmers who have faced decades of systemic discrimination by the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA). This critical payout, established through the Inflation Reduction Act of 2022, addresses a long history of inequities, finally providing much-needed support to Black farmers and other marginalized agricultural professionals who were unjustly excluded from essential federal programs.
For nearly a century, discriminatory policies at the USDA restricted access to federal subsidies, debt forgiveness, and other vital resources, disproportionately impacting Black farmers and perpetuating economic disparities within the agricultural sector. The historic $2 billion distribution marks a significant step toward correcting these injustices and demonstrates a renewed commitment to fairness and equity.
Despite nearly two years of delays and legal challenges, the Biden-Harris Administration’s decision represents a crucial victory for those who have long fought for acknowledgment and redress. This initiative will provide vital relief and
opportunities for many farmers who have been systematically disadvantaged.
Ron Busby Sr., President and CEO of U.S. Black Chambers, Inc., commented on the announcement: “This historic decision is a momentous achievement for Black farmers who have endured decades of systemic discrimination. The U.S. Black Chambers, Inc. has been at the forefront of advocating for equitable treatment and support for these farmers, and we are encouraged to see this administration’s commitment to addressing these long-standing issues. While this payout is a significant milestone, our work is not done. We remain steadfast in our advocacy for comprehensive debt relief and continued support for those who have been marginalized. This decision not only provides crucial financial assistance but also sets a powerful precedent for future policies aimed at promoting equity and justice in agriculture.”
The USBC continues to champion policies and initiatives that foster economic empowerment and fairness for Black entrepreneurs and farmers. This pivotal moment represents progress toward a more equitable future, and USBC is committed to further supporting the needs of those who have historically faced systemic barriers.
Vice President Harris is carrying the torch into our future ...continued from page 1
not back down when it comes to supporting the Black community. She’s not planning to coast on past accomplishments. Once she’s in office, she will continue fighting for policies that create equity and opportunity for Black Americans across the country and uplift our voices in every corner of the world.
ABOUT CHEVROLET
Founded in 1911 in Detroit, Chevrolet is now one of the world’s largest car brands, available in nearly 80 countries with nearly 2.7 million cars and trucks sold in 2021. Chevrolet models include electric and fuel-efficient vehicles that feature engaging performance, design that makes the heart beat, passive and active safety features and easy-to-use technology, all at a value. More information on Chevrolet models can be found at www.chevrolet.com.
ABOUT NATIONAL NEWSPAPER PUBLISHERS ASSOCIATION
NNPA is a trade association of the more than 200 African American-owned community newspapers from around the United States. Since its founding 79 years ago, NNPA has consistently been the voice of the black community and an incubator for news that makes history and impacts our country. As the largest and most influential Black-owned media resource in America, NNPA delivers news, information, and commentary to over 20 million people each week.
I can guarantee you that promises made by the vice president are promises kept. Because over the past three years, I’ve had the privilege of getting to know her well. She reminds me so much of the Black women who shaped my life. I see the strength and determination of my grandmother, who picked cotton and raised a family on next to nothing. I see the warmth of my mother who had me as a teenager and worked three times as hard to make sure I could be anything I wanted. And I see the brilliance of my wife who succeeds at literally everything she does.
The vice president embodies the best qualities of our community and our country. And she needs us now to rally around her and show her the same love and respect we show the women in our lives.
We’re already seeing that support through record fundraising numbers, droves of new volunteer signups and the unbelievable attendance at rallies. There’s renewed energy around this election. But we have to keep that energy going all the way through November because we cannot risk another four years of Donald Trump.
No matter what he says, Trump is not fighting for us. At best, he’s fighting in spite of us. We cannot let the world forget the division and violence that took place on his watch. His policies did not make Black communities any wealthier.
Trump’s rhetoric at the NABJ conference told us that not only
will nothing change if he’s back in the White House, but there is much more damage he can do. Thankfully, we have the power to stop him. We can usher in a new generation of leaders and an America that works for all of us. That starts when we elect Kamala Harris to serve as president of the United States. Jaime Harrison currently serves as the Chair of the Democratic National Committee. As the son of a single teenage mom, Jaime Harrison was raised by his grandparents in Orangeburg, South Carolina. Jaime knows what it’s like for a family to have to choose between paying the electric bill and putting food on the table, and what it feels like to go to sleep in a home with no heat, because the power was shut off. But thanks to a good public school education, the love of his family, and the support of his community, Jaime was able to earn a scholarship to Yale University and attend Georgetown Law. After college, Jaime came back home to Orangeburg to teach at his old high school, then worked to help empower disadvantaged kids to attend college. Jaime also served as an aide to legendary South Carolina Congressman Jim Clyburn. In 2013, Jaime was elected the first African American chair of the South Carolina Democratic Party, a position he held until 2017, when he was appointed by DNC Chair Tom Perez as an Associate Chair of the DNC. In 2020, Jaime ran for the U.S. Senate from South Carolina, building a national grassroots movement and setting a fundraising record for the most raised by a Senate candidate. Jaime and his wife Marie live in Columbia, South Carolina, where they raise their two young sons. This article was originally published on WordinBlack.com.
U.S. Congressman James E. Clyburn (SC-06)
By U.S. Congressman James E. Clyburn (SC-06)
Over the course of ten weeks, students engaged in an immersive experience focusing on marketing and communications, content creation, and the latest technological advancements in the automotive industry. Photo provided by Chevrolet.
Harnessing the Economic Power of the Black Community
By embracing diversity and the economic power of Black
values of justice, equality, and
by James S. Bridgeforth
n the intricate tapestry of the American economy, one thread stands out not only for its resilience but also for its potential to drive significant economic growth and social change. That thread is the African American economy — a force that not only supports its community but also bolsters the broader economic fabric of the United States.
The narrative of African American economic power is often overlooked or underestimated, overshadowed by persistent disparities and historical injustices. However, to truly grasp the impact and potential of this economic force, one must recognize its depth and breadth across various sectors — from entrepreneurship and consumer spending to workforce participation and investment.
African Americans represent a substantial consumer base in the United States, wielding immense purchasing power that influences industries ranging from fashion and entertainment to technology and healthcare. According to a report by Nielsen, Black consumers collectively have a buying power projected to reach $1.8 trillion by the end of 2024. This economic influence extends beyond mere consumption; it shapes market trends, influences product development, and drives innovation.
Moreover, the entrepreneurial spirit within the African American community is a cornerstone of economic vitality. Historically, Black-owned businesses have
played a pivotal role in local economies, fostering job creation, community development, and economic empowerment.
Today, Black entrepreneurs continue to launch enterprises at a higher rate than the national average, contributing to economic diversity and resilience.
Investments in education and skills development further amplify the economic impact of African Americans.
As more individuals from this community pursue higher education and specialized training, African Americans contribute to a skilled workforce that drives productivity and innovation across industries.
The growing African American presence in professions such as law, medicine, academia, and technology not only enhance these fields but also advance the nation’s overall economic competitiveness.
Furthermore, the economic influence of African Americans extends beyond domestic borders. In an increasingly globalized economy, cultural exports from the Black community — including music, art, fashion, and entertainment — have garnered international acclaim and economic success. These exports not only generate revenue but also promote American cultural influence worldwide, further solidifying the economic footprint of African Americans.
Despite these achievements,
challenges persist. Structural barriers, systemic inequalities, and disparities in access to capital continue to hinder the full realization of African American economic potential.
Addressing these challenges requires concerted efforts from policymakers, business leaders, and the broader community to foster an inclusive economy where all individuals can thrive.
To harness the full economic power of the African American community, strategic initiatives are essential. These include:
Promoting Entrepreneurship and Business Development: Enhancing access to capital, mentorship programs, and networking opportunities for Black entrepreneurs can foster a thriving ecosystem of businesses that drive economic growth and job creation.
Investing in Education and Skills Training: Increasing access to quality education, vocational training, and STEM programs can equip African Americans with the skills needed to excel in a rapidly evolving economy and fill critical gaps in the labor market.
Advancing Financial Inclusion and Wealth Building: Encouraging financial literacy, homeownership programs, and equitable access to banking and investment services can empower African Americans to build generational wealth and economic stability.
Fostering Inclusive Corporate Practices: Promoting diversity, equity, and inclusion within corporate environments can create pathways for African Americans to advance professionally, contribute to innovation, and drive corporate profitability.
Supporting Cultural and Creative Industries: Investing in Black-owned media, arts, and entertainment ventures can amplify diverse voices, celebrate cultural heritage, and stimulate economic growth through
California Inland Empire Council, Scouting America (CIEC) Kicks off its annual Scout Popcorn Sale to Support Local Scout Packs and Troops! individuals.”
Redlands, CA – August 9, 2024 -- California Inland Empire Council (CIEC) is excited to announce the launch of the annual Scouting America Popcorn Sale, which begins on Saturday Aug 10th and runs through Sunday Oct 20th. This yearly fundraiser not only helps support our local Scouts but also offers the community a delicious way to contribute to a great cause.
The Scouting America Popcorn Sale provides vital resources for Pack & Troop activities, community service projects, and leadership training. This year, Scouts will be selling a variety of gourmet popcorn flavors, including classic Microwave Butter, Salted Caramel, S’mores, White Cheddar, Kettle Corn, and traditional Popping Corn.
Local Sales: Be on the ‘look out’ as Scouts will be at stores across the San Bernardino and Riverside Counties from morning till evening.
"Participating in the Popcorn Sale is an invaluable experience for our Scouts," said Matt Bear, Scout Executive and CEO. "It teaches them important skills like goal setting, budgeting, and customer service while they work to support their goals and activities."
creative expression.
In conclusion, the economic power of the African American community is a formidable force that secures the financial outlook for the nation. Moreover, by leveraging this power through strategic investments, inclusive policies, and collective action, we can unleash untapped potential, drive sustainable economic growth, and create a more prosperous future for all Americans.
As we celebrate our achievements of African Americans and honor the many contributions to the nation’s economic landscape, let us also commit to building a more equitable and inclusive society— one where every individual, regardless of race or background, has the opportunity to thrive and contribute to the collective prosperity of our great nation.
By embracing diversity and harnessing the economic power of the African American community, we not only strengthen our economy but also uphold the principles of justice, equality, and opportunity upon which America was founded. Together, let us forge a path towards a brighter, more inclusive future where every individual has the chance to achieve the American dream.
Dr. James Bridgeforth holds a Ph.D. from The University of Southern Mississippi; he has served as an adjunct professor at Virginia Tech, the University of South Alabama, The University of Southern Mississippi and Westfield State University.
Dr. Bridgeforth is the author of Race, Gender and Faculty Advancement at American Colleges and Universities (2014), Examining the Campus Culture for African American Males at Predominately White Institutions (2018), and Multicultural Leadership in Higher Education (2020).
Support the nation’s leading Black news publishers
California Inland Empire Council, Scouting America (CIEC) Kicks off its annual Scout Popcorn Sale to Support Local Scout Packs and Troops!...continued
Upcoming Event: “Adventure Weekend” & Sheriff’s Rodeo is one of IE’s Largest Outdoor Event!
food when he replied, “You don’t pay me enough to buy bread for all these people!” (John 6:5-7, loosely translated)
“What can I possibly do?” wondered Philip. The need is so great, the numbers are so massive, the resources are so limited. The anxious guilt of inadequacy is so real. Many of us feel it when we’re listening to the latest unprecedented news or reading about all the horrors that are entirely precedented: another hospital bombed in Gaza, another Black woman fatally shot by police, another hurricane devastating a town, another wildfire devouring homes. "What can I possibly do?"
I’m not sure which is more overwhelming these days: the unprecedented or the precedented. I don’t know whether the harm caused by unfamiliar events or familiar events is quantifiably worse. I don’t think it makes a difference: harm is harm, devastation is devastation. And a significant impact of devastation is isolation. Caught up in pain or loss or stress or shame, we retreat into ourselves: reserving our emotional energy and mental bandwidth to deal with … everything … and sequestering ourselves against
Rev. Rachel Hackenberg is the publisher of The Pilgrim Press. Witnesses to Love...continued
further harm. Even when devastation stems from that spiral of inadequacy—when we are not the object of harm but instead a witness to harm—the inward pull can be strong. When we witness harm and the question panicking our spirit is, “What can I do?” When the only answer we have is, “Nothing I do can possibly be enough!” and inadequacy threatens to drown us. The way out is to witness love in action: Here is a boy with lunch that he’s willing to share. The way out is to show up for someone else. To pass the basket of loaves and fish. The way out is to be awed by love’s abundant breadth and depth. To pick up the leftovers. No matter how daunting the need. No matter how limited the resources. No matter how many others. When we are overwhelmed by the harms we witness, it is essential that we give witness to love. One person at a time. One action at a time. And because love’s fullness surpasses our understanding, the act of showing up in love can be the beginning of a miracle.
ABOUT THE AUTHOR
“Emergency Warning Message from God!”
“Alert! A deadly tornado is approaching; one that the world has never seen. If you are outside of My Protection, get under My Umbrella NOW or you will likewise perish.” [Psalm 91].
This is a very specialized, very particular warning to those living without Me. Get under My Umbrella NOW! For “I will keep you from all harm—I will watch over your life; I will watch over your coming and going both now and forevermore.”
Dates: Friday, Septembers 27th –Sunday, September 29th, 2024
CIEC Background: The California Inland Empire Council, BSA (CIEC) serves the vast Inland Empire of California. The service area comprises San Bernardino and Riverside Counties. People interested in joining scouting can go to IEscouts.org. The CIEC is headquartered in Redlands California with a corporate office and a Scout Shop. CIEC serves some of the most diverse communities in America. Scouts and their families come from a wide range of ethnic, cultural, and socio-economic backgrounds. Thanks to the support of our nearly 2,000 volunteers, we currently serve more than 5,000 young men and women throughout the communities in the nation’s largest county, San Bernardino and Riverside County.
“Scouting provides an invaluable opportunity for Scouts to challenge themselves, make new friends, and develop leadership skills,” said Matt Bear, Scout Executive and CEO, “We are incredibly proud of the positive impact our Scouting program has on the youth in our diverse communities, helping them grow into responsible, confident, and capable
For more information about the Boy Scout Popcorn Sale, please contact Soul Ruiz at (559) 593-2589 or Soul.Ruiz@ scouting.org.
Join us for an amazing weekend for the whole family. Stay the whole weekend overnight or just for the day. There is live music and entertainment, food vendors, booths, games and outdoor activities for the whole family. Open to the public. – More Info: https://IEscouts.org/AdventureWeekend/
Location: Glen Helen Regional Park 2555 Glen Helen Pkwy. San Bernardino, CA 92407
Witnesses to Love
13,000. That’s how many Palestinian children have been killed in Israel’s ongoing military campaign against Hamas, as estimated by UNICEF this spring.
1,195,070. That’s how many deaths in the United States have been attributed to COVID-19 since the start of the pandemic, according to the CDC as of midJuly.
1 in 5. That’s how many children live in food-insecure circumstances in this country,
based on the USDA’s 2022 numbers. 5,000. That’s how many people were hungry on the mountainside where they had come to watch Jesus heal the sick. 5,000. That’s how many hungry people Philip felt overwhelmed by when Jesus oh-so-casually asked him, “Where’s the nearest market to buy food for these folks?” 5,000. That’s how many people Philip was multiplying by the cost of
[Psalms 121:7-8]. “When you pass through the waters, I will be with you; and when you pass through the rivers, they will not sweep over you. When you walk through the fire, you will not be burned; the flames will not set you ablaze.” [Isaiah 43:2].
“I will command My angels concerning you to guard you in all your ways. On their hands, they will bear you up, lest you strike your foot against a stone.” [Psalm 91:11-12]. Get under My Umbrella NOW! There is no more time to waste. A deadly tornado is approaching. You’ve Been Warned! Do Not Delay! You know, throughout the Bible, tornadoes are associated with Divine Judgment and the Consequences of Disobedience. They serve as manifestations of God’s Wrath and a call for Repentance, as seen in the flood during Noah’s time and the plagues in Egypt. I plead with you, please, get under the Umbrella of God. Do it quickly, without delay, and do it without looking back knowing that the final days before the return of Christ will be the greatest period of distress in world history. Nothing before or after will be like it. If you take all the trauma of all the wars of all the ages and add to it the damage done by all the earthquakes, volcanoes, hurricanes, tornadoes, tidal waves, snowstorms, sandstorms, droughts, epidemics, and all the genocide from the beginning of time until the present. All of it together will not equal the suffering of the final months and years before the coming of
the Lord. As terrible as things have been, the worst is yet to come. Get under the Umbrella of the Almighty God NOW without delay. Because what is predestined to happen will happen soon and very soon. Matter of fact, it has already begun. Just look around you. I tell you; the night is far gone; the day is at hand: [Romans 13:12]. If you want to be saved from what is coming, you must ACT NOW! For the Bible says that perilous times will come, and those times are here. The days are numbered, and you need to be ready. [2 Timothy 3:1]. He who dwells in the secret place of the Most High, shall abide under the shadow of the Almighty. I will say of the LORD, He is My Refuge and My Fortress; My God, in Him I will trust. Surely, He shall deliver me from the snare of the fowler and from the perilous pestilence. He shall cover me with His feathers, and under His wings I shall take refuge; His truth shall be my shield and buckler. I will not be afraid of the terror by night, nor of the arrow that flies by day, nor of the pestilence that walks in darkness, nor of the destruction that lays waste at noonday. A thousand may fall at my side, and ten thousand at my right hand; but it shall not come near me. Because I have made the LORD, who is My Refuge, even the Most High, my dwelling place, no evil shall befall me, nor shall any plague come near my dwelling; For He shall give His angels charge over me, to keep me in all of my ways. I shall tread upon the lion and the cobra, the young lion and the serpent I shall trample them under under my foot. Because I have set my love upon God, therefore He will deliver me; He has set me on high, because I have known His name. I shall call upon Him, and He will answer me; He will be with me in trouble; He will deliver me and honor me. [Psalms 91: 1-15]. No weapon formed against me shall prosper, it won't work. God will do what He said He would do. He will stand by His word, and He will come through. He's not a man that He should lie. [No Weapon - Fred Hammond]. Get under the Umbrella of God NOW, a Deadly Tornado is approaching. Thus, saith the Lord!
By Lou K. Coleman
Lou K. Coleman
Rachel Hackenberg
Bloomberg Philanthropies Announces $600 Million Gift to Historically Black Medical Schools
By Stacy M. Brown, NNPA Newswire Senior National Correspondent
In a monumental move to address the underrepresentation of Black physicians in the United States, Bloomberg Philanthropies has announced a $600 million donation to the endowments of four historically Black medical schools. Officials said the donation is part of Bloomberg Philanthropies’ Greenwood Initiative, which aims to advance racial wealth equity and address systemic underinvestment in Black institutions and communities. Howard University College of Medicine, Meharry Medical College, and Morehouse School of Medicine will each receive $175 million, while Charles R. Drew University of Medicine & Science will receive $75 million. Additionally, Bloomberg said $5 million in seed funding will support creating a new historically Black medical school in New Orleans, the Xavier Ochsner College of Medicine. The historic investment will more than double the endowments of three medical schools, significantly boosting their financial stability and capacity to educate future Black physicians.
A recent study highlighted the need for such support, revealing that only 5.7% of U.S. physicians identify as Black or African American. This is despite Black Americans comprising 13% of the population. According to research, treating black patients by black doctors results in better health outcomes and more frequent medical care. For instance, Black patients are 34% more likely to receive preventative care if they see Black doctors. The four historically Black medical schools receiving funding graduate around half of all Black doctors in the U.S. but have been traditionally underfunded due to systemic inequities, including lower federal and state support. Since the early 1900s, discriminatory practices and the impacts of the Flexner Report have led to the
closure of 10 Black medical schools in the United States. The financial boost from Bloomberg Philanthropies should have a transformative impact.
Michael Bloomberg, the former New York City mayor, Democratic presidential candidate, and founder of Bloomberg LP, will formally announce the donation at the National Medical Association’s annual convention. “This gift will empower new generations of Black doctors to create a healthier and more equitable future for our country,” Bloomberg said. In 2020, Bloomberg Philanthropies granted $100 million to these same medical schools to reduce the debt load of enrolled students facing severe financial burdens exacerbated by the COVID-19 pandemic.
Valerie Montgomery Rice, president of Morehouse School of Medicine, noted that the 2020 gift relieved an average of $100,000 in debt for each student, significantly enhancing the school’s ability to fundraise and support its students.
Denise Smith, deputy director of higher education policy and senior fellow at The Century Foundation, emphasized the importance of such philanthropic gifts. She pointed to MacKenzie Scott’s donations to HBCUs in 2020 and 2021 as pivotal in sparking increased support from other large donors. “Donations that have followed are the type of momentum and support that institutions need at this moment,” Smith told the Associated Press.
Dr. Yolanda Lawson, president of the National Medical Association, expressed relief upon hearing about Bloomberg’s gift, especially in light of the Supreme Court’s recent decision striking down affirmative action and attacks on programs promoting inclusion and equity. “This opportunity and this investment affect not only just those four institutions but our country’s health and future,” Lawson asserted.
D.C. Attorney General sues StubHub for ‘junk
fee scheme’
By Megan Sayles AFRO Business Writer
D.C. Attorney General Brian
L. Schwalb has sued leading online ticket exchange and resale company StubHub, accusing the platform of deceptive pricing. The civil suit was filed in a D.C. trial court on July 31. Schwalb accused the company of engaging in “drip pricing,” a strategy where companies initially market a low price to attract consumers and later disclose additional fees during the purchasing process. The charges include fulfillment and service fees.
“For years, StubHub has illegally deceived District consumers through its convoluted junk fee scheme,” said Schwalb in a July 31 release. “StubHub lures consumers in by advertising a deceptively low price, forces them through a burdensome purchase process and then finally reveals a total on the checkout page that is vastly higher than the originally advertised ticket price. This is no accident—StubHub intentionally hides the true price to boost profits at its customers’ expense.”
The District houses several
Volunteers needed for recycling classes and events
with Riverside County Department of Waste Resources and help the earth by helping others become better recyclers and composters. Outreach volunteers are needed to assist with classes and events by interacting with the public, answering questions on outreach programs and distributing materials. The ideal volunteer enjoys meeting people, likes to learn new things and is passionate about the environment. The total volunteer commitment is attendance at the orientation and training meeting and ten hours of volunteer time donated each year while participating in the program. Opportunities to volunteer at classes and events exist across the entire county. Plus, the volunteers select the events, dates and times that work best for them. Bilingual volunteers are needed.
Outreach volunteers can also choose to attend extra training and volunteer more hours to become certified as a master composter. Once a volunteer reaches master composter status, the volunteer is allowed to teach classes on their own or work with schools and community gardens as a composting mentor. Outreach volunteers are integral to the success of recycling and composting programs and are recognized by the County annually for their dedication and hours worked. Orientation and training is scheduled for Saturday, August 24, from 8 A.M. to 12 P.M. at the Riverside County Department of Waste Resources, 14310 Frederick Street, in Moreno Valley. For more information or to register, potential outreach volunteers can visit http://www. rcwaste.org/volunteer or call 951-486-3200.
D.C. Attorney General sues StubHub for ‘junk fee scheme’...continued
During the testing period, the company randomly assigned customers to one of the two pricing strategies. Stubhub discovered that even when the final price was the same, consumers were less likely to buy tickets in the all-inpricing model. It subsequently implemented drip pricing.
The lawsuit also asserts that StubHub engages in dark patterns, including creating a false sense of urgency and high demand. According to the complaint, the company has sold nearly 4.9 million tickets to Washingtonians and for District events, amassing $118 million in hidden fees.
professional sports teams, including the Washington Commanders, Nationals and Capitals, as well as 41 entertainment venues and theaters. The attorney general asserts that the city has been disproportionately impacted by StubHub’s practices as visitors and residents spend more per capita on live entertainment than other major destinations, like New York, Los Angeles and Chicago.
“The District is home to one of the nation’s largest and most vibrant live entertainment scenes, and StubHub’s predatory tactics disproportionately harm District residents,” Schwalb continued.
“That is why today we’re suing to end StubHub’s exploitative pricing scheme.”
In the complaint, Schwalb claims the ticketing platform previously used an all-in-pricing model from 2014 to 2015, which advertised prices that included mandatory fees up front.
StubHub then conducted a study to compare the more transparent model against drip pricing.
The litigation follows the Federal Trade Commission’s 2023 announcement of a proposed rule that would prohibit hidden and bogus fees for resorts, concert tickets, hotel booking and more.
StubHub says the back-end fees help the company provide a secure ticket-buying experience. The platform charges a fee when consumers buy and sell tickets on the site. These fees can vary depending on the ticket price, time before the event and supply and demand.
“StubHub is committed to creating a transparent, secure and competitive marketplace to benefit consumers,” wrote StubHub in a statement to the AFRO. “We are disappointed that the D.C. attorney general is targeting StubHub when our user experience is consistent with the law, our competitors’ practices and the broader e-commerce sector. We strongly support federal and state solutions that enhance existing laws to empower consumers, such as requiring all-in pricing uniformly across platforms.”
Howard University College of Medicine
StubHub, an online ticket exchange and resale platform, is facing a civil lawsuit from D.C. Attorney General Brian L. Schwalb. The suit, filed on July 31, accuses the company of deceptive pricing practices. (AFRO Photo / Tierra Stone)
