President & Editor-in-Chief: Greg Hedgepeth Public Relations Director: Evelyne Del Billingslea Contributors: Trey Wade, Phelcia Price, Charis Tucker, Garrett Taylor, Whitney Wilson, Jermaine McNair Substantial U Executive Editor: Phelicia Price Substantial U Editor-in-Chief: Trey Wade Contributing Photographers: Greg Hedgepeth, Trey Wade, Whitney Wilson, Internet sources Print layout and web: Greg Hedgepeth Sponsorship Opportunities Greenville, NC Phone: 252.702.2073 info@substantialmagazine.com www.substantialmagazine.com Š Substantial Magazine 2015 All Rigths Reserved ISSN 0000-0009
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CONTENTS 5 From the Editor-in-Chief 8 Adding To Our Family 10 Growing Our SU Brand 12 The Journey To Justice 13 Perception 21 GET FED “Set Fire to the Rain� 25 "Still I Rise" Maya Angelou, 1928 - 2014 26 Community Policing 28 Substantial U Cover 29 Words From the SU Editor-in-Chief 30 #AllLIVESMATTER 31 Student Style Profile Mrs. Chasidy Thomas 32 An Interview with Jane White 33 Brand Yourself For Success 34 "Young servant leader" Christopher R. Battle "Visit www.substantialmagazine.com to find additional content, behind the scenes footage, additional interview questions, photography, and more great stories. " Substantial Magazine would love to get you involved. If you are interested in having SM tell your story, or interested in helping us celebrate the stories of others email us at info@substantialmagazine.com
14 The Disobedient Slaves
18 Mrs. Latina Shelley
22 Road to Redemption
supposedly flirting with a white woman in Mississippi in 1955. The very boy whose murder and open casket funeral galvanized the emerging Civil Rights Movement. Also in this folder was a newspaper clipping that read: $50 REWARD - Ran away from the subscriber on the 11th of this month, residing near Randallstown, Baltimore county, a N E G R O M A N named MOSES, about 35 or 36 years old and about 5 feet 8 inches in height, full-chested, very polite and talkative when spoken to, dark brown complexion and walks very lame in one leg and uses a cane and a thick soled boot. I will give $50 if lodged in jail or put where I can get him. DR. JAMES MAGRAW, Randallstown, Baltimore county.
Thoughts from the Editor-in-Chief Pt. 1 - "The Discussion" Someone asked me why I haven't joined the discussion as it relates to the civil injustice that is going on in our country right now, the disregard for black lives and disrespect of our voices. I sighed, and in that moment thought about my response, calculating just how in depth my reply would or should be. Looking back on the tragic events of 2014 made me ask myself, "Is this person asking me this question, because as a black man I should be outraged, as a former full time police officer I should be defensive or as a believer I should be mortified that we day in and day out deify Exodus 20:13. So in that moment I simply replied, "What discussion?" The perplexed look on his face meant I owed further explanation as to why I wasn't informed about these serious issues. I sighed yet again finding myself in my thoughts. A discussion is defined as an act or instance of discussing; consideration or examination by argument, comment, etc., especially to explore solutions; an informal debate. A discussion means listening as much as we talk, a discussion (pause to come back to the moment), I replied "oh I know exactly what's going on in the world." Knowing that response would again be followed by another question pulling me further into a conversation that I'm honestly not sure I'm ready to have. The question; so they're wrong right? I have to lay this out for you; in this moment I began to have a parallel conversation in my mind as I carry out the conversation in real time. A conversation that eventually will bring me to a crossroad. A crossroad labeled with a sign that points in one direction yet has two destinations. I sigh, as I search through a file cabinet of my thoughts to come across a black folder marked "APPROPRIATE". The very first thing in this folder was an image. In this image was a faceless black man who lay lifeless in a casket. The photo was of Emmett Till, a young teenage boy who was tortured and killed after
Real time: I say to my friend, "They" already knowing the answer, yet I still wait for the response of “Man! The police- and more importantly, white officers-are tripping killing all these unarmed black people.” I sigh, finding myself now sitting at an old wood table. On this table was an even older worn down book that was barely visible by the warm low glow of an oil lamp. The title was “The Slave Narrative”. The first page was the most powerful in that contained a very strong message. “If they find this book they will beat you. Even worse, if they find that you can read this book they may kill you.” See, in most southern states, slaves often suffered severe punishment for the crime of literacy. Most slave owners believed that teaching such skills was useless, if not dangerous. They assumed that slaves had no use for reading in their daily lives, and that literacy would make them more difficult to control, and more likely to run away. Real time: I say, “Man we have to look at each one of these incidents with open eyes. We have to first assess the Who, Why, When and where’s. Understand that no one deserves to be killed. Think about how these situations could have been avoided. And think about what sparked such rage for or by authorities that would warrant the death of any man”. I now find myself out on a city street. Beside me, in front of me, and behind me are brothers and sisters screaming to the top of their lungs “We Shall Overcome”. In that same moment are flashes of those same brothers and sisters being bitten by K9s, knocked down by high pressure fire hoses, beaten and drug away by their feet. Real time: I find myself slipping further and further into agreement as I listen to him describe to me in detail the various incidents that have taken place. Have we truly found ourselves facing the very same discrimination and hatred of our dark past? I sigh deeply, finding myself in Washington D.C., standing with 250,000 people listening to what will become one of the most famous speeches in American history. As I listen to the prepared remarks of King in the mist of all the chatter and ambient noises, clearly I hear:
“I have a dream that one day this nation will rise up and live out the true meaning of its creed: “We hold 5 Substantial | Jan. - Mar. 2015
these truths to be self-evident: that all men are created equal.” I have a dream that my four children will one day live in a nation where they will not be judged by the color of their skin but by the content of their character.” The inspiration that was
felt in that moment can’t be described in words, let alone summed up. I blink and now my environment has changed. I’m not sure exactly where I am at first, then I see him. I see him standing on his second-floor balcony outside his room at the Lorraine Motel in Memphis. Real time: I interrupt his briefing to say, “Let’s take a second to take race out of the picture”. The mystified look on his face meant that I owed further explanation as to why in all the details, we needed to take a look at anything further. His arms cross, his face scrunches and he prepares for my “opening statements”. If the police had choked out a white man, or killed a white kid would we be having this conversation? Would there be national media coverage, protests and riots? Hell, what if the police officers themselves were killed? I speak these names: Zemir Begic, Tyler Comstock, Henry C. Taylor, Roza Sakhina, Hans Arellano, Jordan Begley, Andrea Rebello, Kristofer Gagliardi, Edwin O. Roman-Acevedo, Christopher Smith, Justin Winebrenner, Michael Joe Naylor, Jason E. Harwood, Wenjian Liu and Rafael Ramos. He’s puzzled, I think more or less shocked that the names on the list are those of innocent White, Hispanic, Native-American, Bosnian, and Law Enforcement Officers that have too been victims. Oh, the first name that was mentioned Zemir Begic was beaten to death with a hammer by two black teenagers in St. Louis. I sigh, thinking now to myself that these moments are happening at the most inappropriate times. I’m running, tired, weak, and out of breath, but I’m still running. In my hand I’m carrying a book, having just a split second to glimpse the title “Chaos or Community”. It’s his book. The very man who tried all the time to interpret the black man to a cynical or uninterested white society. I recall now why I’m running as I in the moment recall what was taken from the read. The cries of Black Power and the riots are not the causes of white resistance, but the consequences of it. I’m running as if my life depended on it, and when I look back to see just why I’m running I'm confused. I'm tired of running; In fact I've given up. I'm tired and out of breath, but no longer running. I’ve been caught. Tied now to a tree, my book burns at my feet, my mouth gagged to mute what I believe would be my one tool that could release me. The mobs of faceless people confront me and in that instance why I was running is even more confusing. Real time: I say to my friend, “See it does matter as much. Why is it that their families shouldn’t grieve, be mad and incite violence? Why is America not having their discussions? Why isn’t the media feeding us their stories and the out¬comes of their violator’s trials?” I sigh, now back at my file cabinet of thoughts searching as I come across a red folder marked “IMPORTANT”. I open it to look through a series of images. One being a very
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intentionally shot photo of diversity, another an interracial couple, another a group of African American college graduates in caps and gowns, another a daycare of diverse children being cared for by white staff, another a black doctor caring for an elderly white patient, another the CEO of McDonalds, another of Oprah, another of President Obama and First Lady Michelle Obama, another of Maya Angelou, another of the cast of “A Different World”, and lastly another of “The Huxtable Family”. After the photos was a note that had scratched on it, July 2, 1964, August 6, 1965, April 11, 1968, the words Affirmative action, Equal Employment Opportunity, Public Assistance, Affordable Housing, The Initiative on Educational Excellence For African Americans… Real time: At this point I think it’s clear to you what I meant when I said this conversation would bring me to a crossroad labeled with a sign that points in one direction, yet has two destinations. My friend let’s out his own sigh (the very same sigh that I've let out throughout our conversation) which leads me to believe he too is having a parallel conversation in his mind as we carry out this one in real time. He says, “So you’re telling me that it’s OK that Michael Brown was killed, that Eric Garner was choked to death. That Rumain Brisbon who was dropping off lunch should have been shot on his front steps. You’re telling me that….. I sigh, finding myself back against the tree and my mouth gagged. At this point my book has been burned completely and the flames have gone out. I find myself no longer confused, but afraid. You see, that mob of faceless people where not all white; they looked like me. They were my people, and in that moment, it scared me. Have my people become so emotional scarred by the files marked APPROPRIATE that those marked IMPORTANT should no longer be read. Real time: My friend’s voice has become high pitched. His words more stern and his hands make gestures animating the importance of his opinion. I find that I haven’t really been paying much attention to my friend in his rant of why racism still exists. However, he is making such strong arguments. I sigh, finding myself in our current place and time; asking myself the question, “Have I been so fed the files marked IMPORTANT that I've neglected to see those that are truly appropriate. TO BE CONTINUED... Greg Hedgepeth President and Editor-in-Chief of Substantial Magazine.
“We are substantial and so is our purpose.”
D
EDICATED TO THE MIS-EDUCATION OF THE MINORITY PEOPLE
Substantial Magazine is joining the conversation about the current state of the urban community. Throughout issue no. 9 we will address the various events of 2014 and our contributors will join the discussion about justice, equality, and the value of life. #AllLIVESMATTER Join the conversation at facebook.com/SubstantialMagazine and post your comments about the state of the urban community.
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ADDING TO the Family SUBSTANTIAL MAGAZINE WELCOMES EVELYNE DEL BILLINGSLEA AS DIRECTOR OF PUBLIC RELATIONS Evelyne Del Billingslea is no stranger to Substantial Magazine nor is she to the job of Public Relations. As an ambitious entrepreneur Evelyne Del Billingslea founded Billingslea Media Group a boutique agency that focuses on providing media related services to small businesses and non-profit organizations. Specializing in Copywriting, Marketing, PR, and Event Management, Evelyne works closely with clients to help enhance their vision for their business. We are so excited to have her officially join the Substantial Magazine team and we are looking forward to her helping the Substantial brand reach regional and national influence. SM: How do you feel about being appointed? Evelyne: The Public Relations field can be brutal. It's difficult to establish yourself in a particular niche without compromising your ethics or efforts. To find a team that is so close to my vision as a Public Relations professional is an absolute dream come true. I am truly grateful to be able to step into this role. SM: What do you see for the future of Substantial Magazine and the SU brand? Evelyne: Substantial Magazine is still very much in the beginning stages in terms of our initiatives and goals. What started out as just a vision is slowly but surely transforming into a movement. As the Director of Public Relations, I look forward to seeing the brand grow into a highly recognized and highly reputable source of information that celebrates people who are committed to living 'substantially'. SM: What can people look forward to from you in this role? Evelyne: I am dedicated to making sure that people are aware of how passionate the Substantial team is in transforming the landscape of magazine publishing, and how it affect our lifestyles. We have the power to create an energy source that will create leaders in the future simply by delivering inspiring content and uncovering the blueprint for Substantial living. My role as Director of Public Relations will give me a platform to show stories and events that breathe new life into our communities. I look forward to collaborating with our team to take our brand to new heights. "We are Substantial, and so is our purpose!"
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What to expect from Substantial Magazine Substantial Magazine strikes a balance between inspiration and information, traditional and digital, community and family. Through creative photography and the written word we celebrate the stories of the minority community. Substantial Magazine, the premiere minority magazine in Eastern NC, motivates and educates on the importance of living a SUBSTANTIAL lifestyle.
“We are substantial and so is our purpose.� We do amazing things on our jobs, in our communities and through our arts. Our accomplishments and body of work is extraordinary. Substantial Magazine is the tool by which we "toot our own horns." Our community is sophisticated, unique and bold in all that we do. For that we exist to tell your story. A wise man once said "If I cannot do great things, I can do small things in a great way" that man was Dr. Martin Lurther King.
substance We want to share the future prosperity of the minority community through efforts such as increasing access to health care, job creation, revitalizing schools, and the development of underserved communities.
Not only do we want you to be substantial; we want you to dress the part. Find out about the latest fashion dos and donts. Look to Substantial magazine for fashion commentary, latest news about seasonal collections, and fashion tips/trends from our editors.
Look to this column to bring you the latest as it relates to financial advice and news. Substantial magazine will highlight raising entrepreneurs, successful business owners, and minority for and not for profits that are playing a substantial role in their commnities.
From spoken word, to the latest in hip-hop news. Substantial magazine is teaming up with the best in the business to bring you a diverse reader experience as it relates to the arts. Here we will also showcase creative work of our readers and freelance photographers.
take a closer look for yourself at www.substantialmagazine.com 9 Substantial | Jan. - Mar. 2015
GROWING OUR Substantial U Brand
SUBSTANTIAL MAGAZINE WELCOMES PHELICIA PRICE AS EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR OF THE "SU" BRAND As we continue to grow Substantial Magazine, its important that we build a great team that understands the potential and the value of the SU brand. Phelicia Price is a dynamic young leader whos passion is Student Development. Phelicia is CEO and Founder of PSP Image Consulting, LLC which is a personal and professional image firm. While working with diverse individuals and organizations her delightful personality and practical approach has been a valuable asset to her clients, helping them develop their own unique personal style and professional presentation. We are so excited to have her officially join the Substantial Magazine team as the Executive Director of Substantial U and we are looking forward to her helping the Substantial brand reach regional and national influence. SM: How do you feel about being appointed Executive Director of Substantial U? Phelicia: Being appointed the Executive Director of Substantial U is an honor and a privilege I do not take lightly. The Substantial brand is a multifaceted brand of excellence and I consider it a blessing to be tasked with such a vital role. SM: What do you see for the future of Substantial Magazine and the SU brand? Phelicia: Substantial Magazine and SU have come a long way in such a short time. The future is essentially becoming a household name synonymous with evolution, initiative and trust. The world is so different in so many ways than it was even just a decade ago and we will continue to evolve with it. When there is a need, from community service to community recognition, the Substantial brand will remain in the know and on the cutting edge. Trust is vital for any company and this one is no different; striving to maintain the highest standards. SM: What can people look forward to from you in this role? Phelicia: People can look forward to seeing me shine the lime light on the extraordinary young people living in their communities. Students are making a difference, transforming societies and effecting change. My role is to tell as many of these stories as possible through the varied platforms at my disposal. As the Executive Director of Substantial U another goal I have includes consistently find ways to assist and encourage the collegiate population as they segue from student to employee.
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Matriculating on a college campus can be like living in a bubble compared to life on the corporate side. Equipping students with the right tools to be successful is also key to the mission of Substantial U.
THE JOURNEY To JUSTICE
The media, more specifically social media has seemingly permeated every facet of our lives. In December, amid selfies and pictures of workouts and delicious dinner dishes, many social media users found pictures of people across the globe demanding justice. Such demands were brought on by a New York grand jury’s decision not to charge the officer involved in the death of Eric Garner, which came a week after a jury’s decision not to indict the officer involved in the death of Michael Brown. For weeks, people in communities from Los Angeles to New York participated in sit-ins, marches, and protests calling for justice. In our western culture, social injustice is often viewed from the lens of economic disparity (i.e. poverty or the lack of material goods), but in the most recent cases, social justice was broadly defined as the value of life. The widely covered examples of social action focused public attention on this critical issue. So now what? What else can be done to strengthen relationships that have been damaged in communities across the country? The following suggestions serve as helpful hints at moving the conversation forward.
Start at the Ground Floor
To achieve true social justice, the process must begin at the ground floor. When the root of the problem is not addressed often times temporary solutions are created. While such solutions may be deemed effective for a short period of time, they are not truly long term solutions aimed at fixing the systemic problems that plague our communities. At the ground level, a true understanding of the community culture must be established. Participants in this process must learn to communicate across racial and economic lines.
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Identify the Issues
During the “getting to know you” stage, it is inevitable that key issues will arise that could lead to social action. The individuals involved should research those issues further. It is imperative that a clear understanding of the root of the problem is known prior to taking steps to improve the situation.
Develop and Implement a Plan
Issues in the community may be vast. It is imperative for all parties involved to have a clear vision about what the problems are and solutions to address the problems. Developing a well thought out action plan helps to ensure the desired work will actually get done. A clear plan will help save time and money and will increase the chances that those involved will complete their tasks. The action plan should be a fluid document, meaning as the project continues it should be revisited, evaluated, and edited to ensure the goals of the community are being met.
Live Social Justice
Social justice has to become a lifestyle. The use of a collaborative approach to social justice involves understanding the issues of communities in need and creating appropriate solutions to meet such needs community. Everyone can play a part in making their lives and the lives of other better. The change could and should start with you!
By: Charis Tucker
taken the time to mentor this college bound kid on leadership skills and social responsibility? Could WE as a people have saved Michael Brown’s life if one of us had taken the time to let him know that small mistakes could lead to historical consequences? What if we stopped talking about how angry we were and instead put our thoughts into action?
"How people can be perceived based current events"
Rule #1 in public relations is to always think of your
audience when crafting your message. More so than ever, once a statement is made there is no turning back. Just ask former GOP staffer Elizabeth Lauten of the multitudes of regret she experienced after publicly making disparaging comments about Malia and Sasha Obama this past year. Because of a social media post gone viral, the former staffer ended up resigning from her very public post and went off quietly into the night. Although something may trigger a knee jerk reaction and make you want to scream and shout, the art of discretion is an absolute must when we have a public persona. My opinions are often very strong about stories that come across my desk, but bluntly blurting out how I feel would often result in the loss of friends, clients, and perhaps even a loss of respect from my peers and followers. I have also learned to take other peoples’ thoughts and concerns into consideration before saying something that may offend or alienate others. There are days when I sit there dying to press send on a blog post or status update, only to rethink my decision and slowly sink back into the corner questioning my decision. The younger me would look at a lack of vocal expression as weak or disloyal. This was the younger me that wrote stories and poetry about things that ruffled my feathers. The younger me would tell people to stop being chicken and say EXACTLY what was on their mind at the exact time and place they heard something that struck a chord with them. But the older me has learned that this isn’t always the best road for everyone to travel. As a mother, and an active member of my community I have learned that support is expressed in a myriad of ways. The incidents in Ferguson and New York left me with a barrage of emotions that I so desperately wanted to get out. My heart ached for the families involved in the death, destruction, and turmoil of the situation. As a mother, my heart ached for the family of Michael Brown. As a wife of a former law enforcement professional, my heart also ached for the families waiting for their loved ones to return home. I ached for the thousands of people across the country who hurt thinking of a loved one that they may have lost in a similar situation. And my brain wondered just what type of life Michael Brown led before his death. Had someone warned him that small infractions for young men often lead to devastating results? Had someone
You see, I have always talked to my kids about the consequences of the way they are perceived. I’ve always told them that although they are to celebrate their individuality that they mustn’t be surprised when they are unjustly targeted for being thought of as something other than who they truly intend to be. You have to be prepared to back it up when you demand respect. You have to be able to show the world that although you may sometimes do the “Nae Nae” and speak “Ebonics” with your friends, that you have also mastered World Languages, read sheet music, and can identify the constellations at first glance. You have to be able to show them
that when you take off the same hoodie that Trayvon Martin wore that you are not just a number, as they often view young black males. I also stress to them the fact that sometimes, like Trayvon, we are not given a chance to show the world who we are. It’s unjust. But it’s our lot in life. And unfortunately many people have not yet shared that dark truth with our kids. My interaction with our social ills is sometimes misunderstood. As a person who is very heavily involved in social media, I tend to stray away from politics, religion, and race relations. Instead, I choose to act on my feelings by mentoring, volunteering, and trying so desperately to prepare every “Michael Brown” I see for the cruel world in front of them. But my lack of putting my feelings on social display shouldn’t be confused with apathy. It’s simply my way of refraining from a distraction that could prevent me from straying away from my purpose. I don’t always have to be the loudest in the room. And I most certainly don’t have to be the one who starts the revolution, just as long as I am one to help further their cause.
By: Evelyne Del Billingslea
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Photographs taken from various sources via the web.
Mike Brown, Eric Garner: The Disobedient
Slaves
By: Garrett Taylor Taylor Made Publishing
On August 9, 2014, reports of an unarmed African American teen by the name of Mike Brown began flooding our newsfeed and airways. This struck an immediate tone with many Americans, especially those of color who have for decades been the targets of perceived racial injustices by the hands of individuals sworn to protect and serve. Day by day, more details of the story began to unfold. Witnesses on both sides began to tell their versions of the story which began to contradict others. Protestors in support of Mike Brown began to flood the streets in anger while supporters of the officer, later identified as Darren Wilson, began to send thousands of dollars in support of the man responsible for the death of the unarmed teen. Despite the appearance of an objective investigation, Officer Darren Wilson was later exonerated of all wrong doing by a grand jury and once again Black America was left to contemplate the bitter reality that another African American life would be laid to rest without vindication. Young Mike Brown would join an unfortunate group of Americans of color who’s bodies lay beneath earthen mounds while their souls cry out for justice. Young Mr. Brown’s spirit joins those such as 23 year old Amadou Diallo (shot 41 times outside his own apartment armed only with a wallet) to 7 year old Aiyana Jones (killed while resting in her own home), in its wait for the scales of justice to tilt in its direction. Before our rage could subside, the media thrust our attentions to yet another incident involving the death of an unarmed African American male at the hands of the police. Eric Garner, 43
year old father of six and grandfather of three was chocked by the hands of New York police officer Daniel Pantaleo. The incident that happened on July 17, 2014, garnered newfound attention as the grand jury decided not to convicted officer Pantaleo on December 3. Unlike Mike Brown’s death in which America was left to decipher between contradictory accounts, Garner was murdered in broad daylight and on camera. The world watched repeatedly via the 24 hour news cycle and through the constant chatter of social media, a man, utter his final words, “I can’t breathe” as Officer Pantaleo continued to apply a chokehold that ended his life.
react? Or are these young people merely casualties of their own misguided behavior? Police are merely trying to do their jobs and if these “thugs” would have only complied, then they would still be alive today. I present to you a third option…slavery.
If you ask most Americans about slavery, they will begin to tell you about the emancipation proclamation; the executive order given great emancipator President Abraham Lincoln in January 1, 1863 that presumably ended slavery in this country. Most Americans would be shocked to learn that slavery in this country never actually ended and in fact there are more slaves in America today Personally, these stories struck an than prior to 1863. To understand this, immediate cord with me. As a father of we have to refer back to the 13th amenda young African American male, I am ment. The Thirteenth Amendment to the constantly in prayer for his safety. I have United States Constitution abolished committed my life to building a slavery and involuntary servitude, except community in which he and his sister as punishment for a crime. The amendcan live in peace and one in which the ment still permitted labor as punishment constraints of the past have no bearing for convicted criminals. States respondon the promise of their futures. I was ed with what historian Douglas A. convinced that the collective efforts of Blackmon called "an array of interlocking not only myself, but countless others had laws essentially intended to criminalize bore righteous fruit and the dreams of black life” in his book Slavery by Another struggles of our elders had finally begun Name. These laws, passed or updated to take material form. These tales left a after emancipation, were known as Black bitter reminder that despite our advances, Codes. Blacks could be sentenced to the lives of African Americans seem to forced labor for crimes including petty matter little more today than they did theft, using obscene language, or selling when the first boat harboring African cotton after sunset. slaves landed on America’s shores. While we might like to think that the days To those of us who still remain hopeful of of the Black Codes are far behind us, I substantive change, were sent would argue that they are still very much scrambling for understanding. Why are here, however deceptively cloaked. To these atrocities still happening? Why see this, we need to look no further than are the lives of young men and women of our current drug laws. According to color still being marginalized in a nation the Bureau of Justice, two thirds of all that conversely offers so much hope and individuals in prison are there because promise to so many? Is it because the of drug offenses. Despite being only long standing underlying racist attitudes 12% of the population, African Ameritowards Blacks are influencing the police cans make up 60% of the total prison perception and therefore causing them to population. In an article Posted by PBS
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Photographs taken from various sources via the web.
“
The ultimate measure of a man is not where he stands in moments of comfort and convenience, but where he stands at times of challenge and controversy.” - Martin Luther King, Jr. Frontline, of the major racial/ethnic groups, the rate of drug use is highest among the American Indian/Native American population (10.6%) and those reporting mixed race (11.2%), followed by African Americans (7.7%), Hispanics (6.8%), whites (6.6%). The lowest rates are found among the Asian population. (3.2%). If we accept these percentages and weigh them against the national population numbers, there are approximately 11,759,993 White drug users in this country, compared to 3,164,450 Black and 3,654,449 Hispanic. We see, however a much different percentage of these respective drug users reflected in todays prison population.
has reduced some our most valiant citizens to becoming no more than revenue generators and slave catchers. Young people across this country have been reduced to commodities by the corporate elite. They have influenced our politicians to pass laws that criminalize so many behaviors that it is virtually impossible for any citizen to go a day without breaking at least one law. We then send our police officers, most of whom only want to make their communities safer, out to enforce the laws. While most police forces are honorable, we even see many in leadership positions within certain departments giving mandates to target certain individuals and groups.
Programs like New York's controversial and indubitably racist Stop and Frisk program show that despite the numbers, Blacks are overwhelmingly targeted by the judicial system. In addition, countless studies have shown that when they go before the court, Blacks are consistently sentenced more severely for the same crime as their white counterparts. In essence, America is still very much in the business of making Black Slaves.
While all of this may be mere conjecture, and the deaths of both of these individuals may be explained by little more than an officer’s hate or a lawbreakers hostility, we cannot continue to ignore the system in which reduces so many of our citizens to corporate commodities. We cannot continue to herald ourselves as the global protectors of justice and equality while we silently amass the largest slave population in the history of mankind. We cannot continue to deny the psychological affects of criminalizing a particular group has on not only that group, but all those who interact with them. The deaths of Mike Brown and Eric Garner not only highlights the harsh treatment many feel at the hands of law enforcement, but a collective rage against a national system that strips so many of our brothers, sisters, fathers and mothers of their basic humanity. We all should have wept at the loss of the life of a teenager who was taken so early in life, before he even had a chance to actualize his potential. We should have mourned the life of a father ripped away from his children and grandchildren. If you are reading this and that was not the case for you, I pray that you reassess your humanity.
Now, once we accept the premise that the USA is still very much in the business of slavery, then we have to identify where the plantations are. Most modern plantations are in your very own back yards without you even noticing in the form of prisons. The United States currently holds 25% of the world’s prison population. Many may not now that prisoners produce many of the goods we use in our daily lives. From coffee makers to underwear, that “Made in the USA” logo could very easily say “Made in Prison”. Privatized prisons are capitalizing on this trend and represent a new economic boom for the savvy investor. Ten years ago there were only 5 private prisons. Today there are over 100. Most of these prisons not only have prisoners producing goods, for some of the world’s largest businesses; they also have guaranteed occupancy provisions with states. Many states are contractually obligated to ensure that a minimum of 90% of the prison’s beds is filled at all times. Because of this, we see an uptake in the number of incarcerated individuals despite declining trends in actual crime rates. At this point, some of you may be lost as to what the prison industrial complex has to do with the deaths of Mike Brown, Eric Garner and the host of other unarmed men and women murdered by police throughout this country. It’s simple, if you have plantations that need slaves, then you must have slave catchers. The travesty of the modern prison state is that it
Garrett is an author, a Qualified Mental Health Specialist, Youth Advocate, and the Co-owner of Taylor Made Publishing. Contact him via email: garrett@taylormadenc.com Twitter: @gtoddtaylor Facebook: www.facebook.com/theequaljusticeinitiative Web: www.taylormadenc.com
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Latina Shelley
'Our Substantial Woman' Age: 36 Education: Bachelor’s degree in Business AdministrationManagerial and Organizational Development (University of Mount Olive-2012); Associates degree in Business Administration-Banking and Finance (Craven Community College-2001), Associates degree in Business Administration (Craven Community College-2001), Payroll Accounting Certificate (Craven Community College-2001), Associates degree in General Education (Craven Community College-2000) Hometown: Vanceboro, North Carolina Marital Status: Married Latina Shelley is a wife (7 years), mother of 2 (ages 5 & 17), an author, a business owner, and an advocate. Latina is passionate about helping women heal from past hurts and passionate about informing others about the dynamics of love and relationships. Latina is loving, funny, and an old soul. SM: Understanding you are a survivor of domestic abuse, please share briefly this history with our readers? Latina: I endured abuse at the hands of a man I thought I was in love with and whom I thought loved me. It didn’t start out as physical abuse. It started with verbal abuse…calling me names, belittling me, discouraging me, and embarrassing me. It eventually progressed to throwing things, punching holes in the wall to intimidate me, destroying my property, pulling me from a moving car, pouring hot candle wax on me as I slept, and climaxed to one of the worse incidents…the day he tried to set me on fire. We went back and forth trying to work on things for about 3-5 years and I stayed because I thought it would get better and I wanted my son to have both parents in his life. I eventually left when it was apparent things were not going to change and just how dangerous the situation actually was. I relocated to my own apartment, divorced him, and moved on. SM: What made you speak out in regards to these experiences? Latina: I finally gained the courage to speak out regarding my experience because God gave me the vision to establish permanent housing for female victims of domestic violence and their children. I knew this couldn’t begin to be accomplished until I started sharing my own story, healing from that past hurt, and showing others that there can be victory after being a victim. I guess in essence sharing my story became part of my healing. SM: Explain the importance of not only sharing your story but the importance of spreading awareness on abuse? Latina: I feel it’s important to spread awareness because so many women are suffering in silence. Also sharing becomes part of the healing process and then you take the shame
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factor out of it. Some people also don’t believe that what they are enduring is domestic violence because they are not being physically abused. This is why awareness is so important because not all abuse starts out as physical abuse, but that doesn’t negate the other types of abuse that can occur. People must be aware of this. There are several different types of abuse: verbal, mental, emotional, psychological, spiritual, and financial. SM: Tell us about some of your recent accomplishments? Latina: In May 2012 I graduated from the University of Mount Olive with my Bachelor’s degree in Business AdministrationManagerial and Organizational Development. In June 2013 I obtained the state business license and started my nonprofit organization Ladies of Purpose. I’ve had 3 fundraisers since establishing Ladies of Purpose last year. The most recent fundraiser was on October 11 at The Greenville Hilton with the theme “Victims to Victors”. Lynnette Taylor, WITN 7 news anchor woman, was our host for the evening. October is domestic violence awareness month and I wanted to use that as a platform to show there are female victims of domestic violence, like myself, that have overcome their situation to become victorious. I was featured as a guest on Lawyer Up, a new show starring Tyrell Clemons from the Clemons Law Firm. I have received several opportunities recently to come and speak at various churches, teen summits, and social groups about my testimony, domestic violence awareness, and regarding love and relationships. Also one of my biggest accomplishments to date- -I recently published my first book, Love Nuggets, with Taylor Made Publishing.
SM: You are the author of the book Love Nuggets. Tell us about this book and what motivated you to write it? Latina: Love Nuggets is a book that discusses practical tips for healthy relationships. I think this is key in the society we live in today and significant in relation to domestic violence as well, that we understand what healthy love should look and feel like. Love Nuggets are bits of love advice and love guidance. I wrote this book because I was consistently being asked for love advice. I thought why not write it all down as a useful tool to others. Also I am a very observant person. I have observed relationships and marriages being destroyed all because people don’t understand the art of love. They don’t take the time to understand the other person and their needs or maybe they don’t take the time to acknowledge the part they play in making the relationship work. I want to help people understand the elements of love and why it is so vital to love each other. SM: You are also the Owner-Operator of Ladies of Purpose. Tell us more about this organization and what sparked you to start it? Latina: Ladies of Purpose is a non-profit organization I started to provide permanent housing for female victims of domestic violence and their children. Our long term goal is to build or renovate a set of apartments where the women can come to live after leaving the local temporary domestic violence shelter. Center for Family Violence Prevention has several resources available here and has a domestic violence shelter, however it is only temporary. If women do not have the necessary resources to start over after leaving their abuser they stay stuck in the same cycle of abuse. I want to help end this cycle of abuse. Also I want to help spread domestic violence awareness by speaking with teens so they don’t become adult victims or abusers. SM: If you could change one thing as it relates to the minority communities prospective on dealing with abuse what would it be?
Latina: I wish I could change people’s awareness of the facts regarding abuse. Most people think that domestic violence is only physical, therefore they don’t address the other forms of abuse and thus suffer in silence. Also the minority community needs to understand that domestic violence has no particular face. Domestic violence happens to women (and men) of all different racial, economical, and cultural backgrounds. SM: What advice can you offer to someone who may read this article and be a victim and/or know someone who is a victim of abuse? Latina: I would simply say this- -get help. You don’t have to suffer in silence. There are people waiting to help you, but they can’t if they don’t know. You must open up and let someone know what is going on. You don’t have to be ashamed because this is not something you are doing to yourself, someone is doing this to you. There is hope. To the person that knows someone who is a victim of abuse, I would say please don’t give up on them. I know in my situation I left him and then returned to the abuse several different times before I left him for good. I am so grateful that my family and friends didn’t get frustrated and turn their back on me when I made the decision I had enough and I was ready to leave him and start over. Someone out there needs to know they are not alone. SM: Let's get to know Tina; what do you do to relax and get away from your busy days as an author, advocate, and business owner? Latina: I mostly relax by spending time with family and friends. Primarily I relax when I am with my husband and children. We laugh, watch movies, play games, or go out to eat. Outside of that I relax by reading books and going to church. There is a relaxation and release in my praise. SM: Name something you can't live without? Latina: Something I can’t live without…well honestly…God. Plain and simple, I absolutely cannot live without God, I can’t make it without my relationship with Him and the guidance provided by the Holy Spirit.
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SM: What's something you live by? Latina: Two things come to mind: “where I am now is not where I will always be”…I constantly remind myself of this because it’s all about forward movement and success. Also I love the quote
“be the change you want to see in the world” -Mahatma Gandhi. This reminds me that I can be the change agent in any situation. I have the answer to some of the world’s problems and it is up to me to be that change. SM: Briefly tell our readers why you are substantial? Latina: I am substantial because I have overcome so much and I’m still standing. God knew I was strong and turned my pain into purpose. I lost my mother when I was 18years old and 4 months pregnant with my son. I had to grow up really fast. I went from being a single parent, to an abused wife, to being a strong woman of God, business owner, author and happily remarried. My story is significant and I know God will use the things I’ve endured to bless someone else to make wiser decisions, to seek out healthy relationships, and to pay it forward by sharing their own stories. SM: Is there anything else you would like our readers to know about you, are there any current projects you are working on? Latina: Right now I am in the process of promoting my new book Love Nuggets. Anyone interested in ordering the book can do so at www.taylormadenc.com. Soon I will begin conducting Love Nuggets workshops. This will be an in-depth look into attributes of healthy love and relationships and it will offer a different perspective on marriages and relationships. Anyone interested in having me come speak to your group can contact me at latinashelley@gmail.com Also anyone interested in giving a donation to Ladies of Purpose can do so at www.ladiesofpurpose2013.com I will have some smaller fundraisers for Ladies of Purpose coming up next year as well. Facebook, Twitter and Instagram information for Latina Shelley Facebook (Ladies of Purpose Facebook page) https://www.facebook.com/ladiespurpose Facebook (Love Nuggets Facebook page) https://www.facebook.com/lovenuggetsauthor Facebook (Personal Facebook page) https://www.facebook.com/tinkabell78 Twitter (for Love Nuggets updates) @AuthorShelley | Twitter (for Personal & Ladies of Purpose updates) @LatinaShelley Websites: (Ladies of Purpose website) www.ladiesofpurpose2013.com | Website: (Personal website) www.latinashelley.com
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Get FED
How Finance and Economic issues fit into your Daily life.
“Set Fire to the Rain” The title of this blog article is inspired by a song with the same name from a sensational artist, Adele. She sings with unrestrained passion about her experience with a broken heart and how she coped. For the next 500 words; however, the fire is Ferguson, and rain is Katrina. I want to compare and contrast how we have coped with both and take a look at the economic impact that has been and potentially will be felt. A degree in economics, business or finance is not a prerequisite to understanding the basic impact of looting and arson. Business owners, in particular those that provide a product, keep a watchful eye on their merchandise and are keenly aware of the costs of creation, the price tag and the profit that will be made. That is how they make a living, how they feed their family. But when control is lost, order is nowhere to be found and individuals proceed to enter without caution to take all they can carry… Or when the office or store that an entrepreneur saved for years to have built is destroyed in mere minutes by the scorching flames of an enraged fire started by individuals with misplaced anger… Those statements could be completed differently in terms of the words chosen by various individuals; but, the sentiment would remain the same. Those things do not help a cause, they hurt it. What can go unrealized is the level of pain and the length of time the sting will linger.
shop in the area due to the risks, known and unknown. Pow! Now unemployment has increased dramatically which equates to less money going back into the community. Whack! Visitors are few and far between decreasing the amount of revenue from tourism. Smack!
Relief happens in a very different way in times of disaster when comparing a natural disaster such as Katrina and anti-social behavior similar to the rioting that took place in Ferguson. A community that has withstood a hurricane, tornado or flood will come together to rebuild. Not only will they come together, but they will inspire others as close as the next state and as far as a country across the ocean. Homes are rebuilt and businesses are restored. If aid doesn’t come quickly it is due to a lack of resources, not will power. These communities are financially negatively affected, yes, but the morale of the citizens and the speed at which they regroup is worlds apart from the response of other types of disasters.
Not all hope is lost, it never is. Countries rebuild so a town, city or state can do the same it just takes time. The Missouri Department of Economic Development’s Small Business Relief Program was put in place to respond to the immediate needs of businesses impacted on or after August 9, 2014, in St. Louis County. Along with those efforts, rebooting the economy starts with trust. Trust between citizens and trust between citizens and law enforcement. Relationship building on some level is at the core of any financial transaction and after so much violence and despair it is needed in Ferguson now more than ever.
The events that took place in Ferguson will potentially have a lasting impact there and the surrounding areas. My recollection of an event of this magnitude was the L.A. riots of 1992 after the Rodney King verdict. The City of Angels was still suffering financially a decade later. When a city becomes the target of rioting, which includes looting and vandalism and possible violence that is a big punch, a TKO. However, unlike the victims of a flood, there aren’t as many people trying to help them rise again. Even those that are will constantly be working against the additional blows that will keep the city down and destroy their economy. Business owners are afraid to rebuild and new businesses will think twice before setting up
Phelicia S. Price, MS is the Founder and CEO of PSP Image Consulting, LLC, as well as an Associate Faculty member at Ashford University teaching various topics within the discipline of economics.
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Road to Redemption A conversation with
Lester Howard By: Evelyne Del Billingslea
Special thanks to the Tipsy Teapot
Watching Lester Howard give a huge belly laugh as he hugs old friends, he would appear to be the guy that everybody loves. He is the neighborhood friend that everyone loves to see, and the budding entrepreneur that people love to support. But this wasn't always an accurate description of Howard. Although he now flashes a genuine smile and always offers words of encouragement, there was a time when Howard was the last person you wanted to see approach you at night. The 1980's brought nothing but trouble and turmoil for him as he engaged in gang violence, selling drugs, and eventually becoming an addict. Although some of the stories of his escapades back in the day are pretty gruesome, and sometimes embarrassing, Howard is not the least bit reluctant about sharing his story and detailing his road to redemption. Not many of us can say that we have looked death square in the eye. But Howard can recall several times where death seemed imminent. Originally from Charlotte NC, Howard spent most of his early 20's with gangsters, drug dealers, and other questionable characters. His old neighborhood of ‘Hidden Valley’ was a hotbed for dangerous activity. But even in the midst of the turmoil, Lester Howard always looked for the brighter side of things. As a child he had a generous heart; always wanting to help other people or lend a helping hand. He was the kid who brought home the stray dog, or brought home friends for dinner. He dreamed of being able to help homeless people by providing clothing, food, and helping them get off drugs. Ironically, his desire to help other people led to him being sort of a “mentor” for up and coming neighborhood gangsters. He gave them a sense of family, and gave them advice on how to navigate the streets. He taught them when to branch out into new activities and when to lay low. But not all of his “mentees” listened intently. Howard recalls that one of the worst moments he encountered during his days as a gang banger and drug dealer was discovering the death of one of his closest friends; a young kid whom he had taken under his wing. The young, but very successful gang member was found in a burned down house on a street in which he had worked for quite some time. Perhaps the result of jealousy for his quick street success, or maybe a run in with the wrong customer led to his demise. It was then that Howard realized that he had indeed failed his community thinking that he could continue his same activities, yet do something good at the same time. It was definitely time for a change. But old habits die hard. Howard would go on to serve multiple jail sentences, finally being released for the last time in 1995. His release from prison led him to Greenville NC to live with his mother. This time Howard vowed to do the right thing. His last stint in prison was a lonely one. The visits, letters, and encouraging words were few and far in between. This time around he would have to prove that he was worthy of someone else taking a chance on him. Relocating to Greenville was the best choice. It was in Greenville that he received a second chance at life. Having been a Muslim for many years, Howard had no interest in Christianity. As a young man he viewed it as “the white man’s religion”, and made it a point to
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mock Christianity whenever he could. One Sunday, as he kneeled on his prayer cloth reciting verses from the Quran, his nephew questioned him about why he was bowing on the prayer rug the way he did. For the life of him, Howard for once did not have an answer. Shortly after, a sermon at Phillipi Church of Christ led him to Christianity where we gave his life over to Christ. It was the answer to the gaping void that he had longed to fill, and it was the method to obtaining peace and hope for his life. Although the church brought him peace, there was still a part of the puzzle that was missing. As a man who spent a large amount of time ministering to others, encouraging them, and sharing motivational prose, Howard began to put his heart and soul into writing. Inspired by the hit series Def Poetry Jam, Howard linked up with a friend and they began to create poetry events in Eastern NC with a group called Spoken Serenity. His journey with Spoken Serenity led him to cross paths with a poet from Minnesota who gave him the name Zion. She suggested that people sought after him for wisdom, guidance and even shelter from life’s trials. The name Zion, derived from the Biblical City of God, was the perfect moniker for him. With the encouragement from an English professor at ECU, Howard wrote his first book in 2009. It was the first time that he experienced support from someone else outside of his immediate community. In this instance, his differences were embraced. He was no longer viewed as the “angry black man”, and instead viewed as someone with an incredible story to share with the world. The title of his first book came from a conversation that he had with God upon being released from prison. He recalls promising, “If you just give me one more chance…this time I will make good on the life that you’ve given me”. That promise was made during his final time behind bars, and upon his release “Zion” fought to regain his physical and spiritual strength, and later poured it all into his first book.
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His company Zion Promotions is the realization of a dream come true. Although he is thought of as a talented writer, Howard does not view himself as a performance artist when it comes to poetry. But his passion for the craft motivates him to promote those who are giants in their own right. Growing up with an aunt who worked in the theatre, Howard has a strong desire to promote independent artists who are chasing their dreams and looking for a platform in which to share their gifts. He works with poets, singers, musicians, comedians, and anyone else who has something to contribute to the arts and bettering the quality of life for our communities. “Our children need a vehicle and rather than bash their culture, I am simply trying to build and fortify the culture of poetry and the arts as a means to give them the same thing we had as children-Hope.” Zion Promotions hosts a monthly open mic/feature event in different venues in Greenville and surrounding areas, complete with live music, food and spirits. This November, the company will celebrate its four year anniversary, and will celebrate the event with a Poetry Slam at the Magnolia Arts Center. Howard hopes to expand into other regions like Raleigh and Charlotte with open mic performances, dinner theatre, workshops, and comedy shows. These days the man affectionately known as Zion works diligently on expanding his empire. He is currently working on a third book that appeals to his romantic side. The book is entitled “Erotic Soul Food: Recipes for Intimacy.” It will uncover the lost art of intimacy and ways to enhance the meaning of personal interaction, as well as topics from dating after divorce, to transitioning from being healed to being whole. Howard beams with pride as he discusses his vision for the future. This is the same man who had once stolen Christmas gifts from a family on Christmas Eve. The same man who had been shot 5 times, yet still carried on the same lifestyle. These days he gets his thrills from much simpler pleasures such as quality time with his 15 year old daughter talking to her about the lives of teenage girls. It is one of his biggest challenges, but one of his greatest achievements. His warm heart and encouraging words are like a warm cup of tea on a cold night. It’s familiar, and it’s comfortable. You get lost in the prose of his words. It makes you believe that there is love and hope in the world. It is also the fuel that keeps him going. In Zion’s world, there is nothing that is off limits. And his road to redemption is one that everyone is sure to follow.
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Still I Rise Maya Angelou, 1928 - 2014
But still, like dust, I’ll rise. Does my sassiness upset you? Why are you beset with gloom? ‘Cause I walk like I’ve got oil wells Pumping in my living room. Just like moons and like suns, With the certainty of tides, Just like hopes springing high, Still I’ll rise. Did you want to see me broken? Bowed head and lowered eyes? Shoulders falling down like teardrops, Weakened by my soulful cries? Does my haughtiness offend you? Don’t you take it awful hard ‘Cause I laugh like I’ve got gold mines Diggin’ in my own backyard. You may shoot me with your words, You may cut me with your eyes, You may kill me with your hatefulness, But still, like air, I’ll rise. Does my sexiness upset you? Does it come as a surprise That I dance like I’ve got diamonds At the meeting of my thighs? Out of the huts of history’s shame I rise Up from a past that’s rooted in pain I rise I’m a black ocean, leaping and wide, Welling and swelling I bear in the tide. Leaving behind nights of terror and fear I rise Into a daybreak that’s wondrously clear I rise Bringing the gifts that my ancestors gave, I am the dream and the hope of the slave. I rise I rise I rise.
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COMMUNITY By: Jermaine McNair
A
s I write these words there is a group of young black men and women outside of my apartment, in the parking lot commons area, arguing and fighting. I’m assuming the police are on their way as well. To add to that, I am still mentally processing what was to me a very offensive, although technically legal traffic stop that I experienced at the hands of my local sheriff’s department just one day ago. As a professional black male, 34 years old, with a criminal background and dread locked hair, I’d say I live at the center of this national debate of community policing in high crime areas. This discussion heats the pot of societal and institutional racism and we all get a taste and feel the sting of a soup that we thought had long since cooled down. This issue is still very hot to the touch. In all honesty, most of us in today’s society aren’t what I would call everyday walking racists. However, when placed in an intense situation, our reactions become forced and must then be based on limited information. Hasty reactions are never going to bear in them the deep thought and conversation that hindsight affords, because hasty reactions often rely on biases, cliches, and stereotypes that are deeply embedded in our society’s culture. I can’t think of a job that bears in it as many intense situations and forced reactions than that of a law enforcement officer. So, I find it very “of course” that if we examine our law enforcement and their forced reactions – even in all their bravery and service, we will find evidence of our own social prejudice and bias. Yes, those prejudices and biases are not just theirs, but ours. In times of desperation, where we must act hastily, we are likely going to violate some laws of civility. It is then, in my opinion, that the job of our judicial system is to remove the perpetrator – not to punish him or her, but because removing the perpetrator allows the situation to be healed and repaired. You remove the perpetrator of the act so the people don’t seek their own justice, which will lead to anarchy. Once law enforcement removes the person, then leadership can step
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in and help guide the situation towards improved conditions. In cases where the perpetrator is a law enforcement officer, it is still in the interest of civility to remove that person, so that the situation can be corrected. American justice has, in my opinion, been romanticized by stories of good versus evil, and we have looked on in school-girl-crush like daze, while our neighborhoods have become crime infested and militarized. The truth is that we have never answered the question of what to do in our inner city neighborhoods, accept send the police in. Now, I’d like to insert that we know this situation brings about intense encounters between community members and police. If these encounters warrant such extensive officer training for how to behave during stops, doesn’t it warrant training for community members to know how to respond in these situations? Or should they just get it from home? In high crime areas, the police are often viewed as a government issued rival gang – highly accredited barbarians, moving in the same fallacious spirit as the childhood playtime stories of Cops-and-Robbers and Cowboysand-Indians. This is just as much as the young male in the minority community has been commercialized and dramatized as a vile and threatening character, moving in the spirit of hip hop gang gods who lack respect for life. Unfortunately these cinematic themes are pre-scripted to clash. So, yes, if we are going to concentrate more police in our high crime areas, this does set the stage for a reality show with all the bad elements of a great fiction story, except the lives being lost are real. Unless we snap out of it, these age old themes of war gods versus demons are going to leave us all dead in the streets. I can’t agree with anyone who can look at these situations of torn police-community relations and defend it as right. These situations are wrong to a very high degree. As a society of civilized thinkers, our refusal to face our own ills is also our dare to live with the illness, thinking that it won’t spread and overtake us. This illness does threaten to overtake us as it overtook several of our US cities in the past year and in other not so distant times of social unrest.
POLICING N
ow, who’s to blame? I always say there is a huge difference between blame and responsibility. Blame is placing guilt after the fact, while responsibility is acceptance of the facts and the responsibility for what takes place from that point on. When everyone steps up to place blame on others for wrongs and then no one steps up to assume responsibility for change in the right direction, all we have done then is crucified a scapegoat, so that we don’t have to admit to our own social malfunctions and step up to put in the work. I assert that our society would benefit from improvements in the criminal justice process and the community policing relationship. As a person who strives to affect positive change and advocate for reform, I serve on my city’s Police Community Relations Commission helping to facilitate healthy engagement between my community and its police department. Striving to grow NC CIVIL into a leading civic organization, we are currently cultivating partnerships with our city police and a host of successful minority businessmen to serve as a community intervention segment that we believe is missing in the crime and punishment process for youth and young adult offenders. Where this process normally goes from arrest to jail, and then to judge, we hope to insert a point where our community element is brought in to help with local “focus deterrence” – an effort adopted by local city officials to offer counseling, guidance, and professional development alternatives to help young people get off of the prison track and into productive citizenship. We understand that our local law enforcement officers are not social workers and don’t have time in their job scope to make nice with all the neighborhood guys. We also understand that our young people must earn their civic standing. We stand with our young men to support that development as well as with our law enforcement officers and our city at large being willing partners for positive change. Won’t you join us.
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28 Substantial | Jan. - Mar. 2015
Words from the Editor-in-Chief
H
ere we are, in a brand new year with our goals for the Substantial Brand set higher than ever before. Last year we hit the ground running with the inaugural edition of Substantial University being released in June. Since then we have gained a very positive following of young and inspiring student leaders from around the country. This year it is my goal to take that momentum from all the positive response given and turn it into tangible connections! I want this portion of the publication to have a, “made by Substantial scholars, for Substantial scholars� feel. With so many young and bright minority-minds involved in higher-education today, we are doing ourselves a disservice by not speaking out, coming together, and making a positive impact that overrides the stereotypes of the more visible minority cultures. Last year we had a large wave of young minority leaders step up and protest in the #BlackLivesMatter and #AllLivesMatter campaigns. These events truly inspired me to want to connect with leaders of a similar caliber who are dedicated to bringing awareness to a worthy cause in their local area. I want to offer anyone who has a positive message to spread the opportunity to spread that message in our publication. In this edition of SU you will get a glimpse of what I am wanting to set as a standard for the editions to come. Messages from a strong young female leader who is spreading a positive message of faith amongst her peers, highlights on students who are reshaping old tradition and giving them a more modern appearance, and our awesome new Substantial U internship program that is set to roll out later this year! I truly hope everyone who thumbs through this edition feels like they are a part of our message. We want to give minorities a voice, a positive voice, a voice that will break barriers and build a better world for us all.
Always Substantial, -Trey Wade Editor-In-Chief of Substantial U
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O
#ALL LIVES MATTER
By: Trey Wade
n Christmas Eve of last year I posted a public service announcement of my personal Facebook page that included some of the following thoughts. In our first edition of this year, I want to add to those thoughts and start gaining traction in the right direction for 2015 and the years to come. “I DO NOT support a singular race over another, I DO NOT support a specific political party over another, I DO NOT support one social class over another. I DO support what is right over what is what is wrong. No man, woman, or child deserves to be robbed. Robbed of their families, robbed of their future, robbed for the opportunity to grow and make a positive difference in the world around them. I urge everyone to be mindful that an eye for an eye will leave the whole world blind. So if you want to see a difference, BE THE DIFFERENCE! The difference needs to be planted in each and every individual before these unfortunate events happen. Young individuals of ALL walks of life need to be surrounded and saturated with positive messages with the same aggressive approach that the vulgar and negative messaging is broadcast. If as a parent you say you are "fearful for your child's life" in today's world, then I challenge out to not only educate yourself and your child of what is going on, but to also be the positive role model in your child's life that will reduce their chances of finding themselves in unfavorable situations. To my fellow young men of all races, ethnicity’s, and backgrounds, I challenge you to have some pride in who YOU are and not who society has branded you to be. A MAN is supposed to be a leader, a MAN is supposed to be honest, a MAN is supposed to represent what he wishes the generations to follow him will be. This year I challenge EVERY AMERICAN to open their eyes to the bigger picture. To take a step back and realize that the world around you is a result from either your action or lack of action taken. I challenge you all to take a professional and purposeful stand against any act of injustice. My fellow people of color, I challenge you to be a positive influence to the generations that follow you. Live your life knowing that someone is always watching, someone is always listening, and someone is always believing in the message you are delivering through your actions. I Challenge You ALL To be SUBSTANTIAL!
Disclaimer: Substantial LLC. Does not support acts of violence or injustice towards any individual regardless of their race, religion, gender, or social status. The articles published are personal views of those who wrote them.
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FEATURING
Student Style Profile! Mrs. Chasidy
Thomas
Meet Chasidy Thomas, a senior at East Carolina University majoring in Business Education and Information Technology. She is a wife and mother from Oxford NC, who models and is constantly involved in the fashion industry by working, modeling, and supporting local designers and fashion business owners. She has worked with Mr. Joe Yancey, founder and owner of Joe Yancey Studios since 2009. When asked to describe his professional relationship with Chasidy here was his response: “There has been a very mutual and trusting relation between photographer Joe Yancey and fashion model Chasidy Thomas, the willingness to work together to produce the best of both talents. Starting to work together as far back as 2009 when Chasidy did her very first Photo shoot as a model. The beginning of something great and wonderful for them both. With over 12 photo shoots modeling for Joe Yancey Studio along with modeling for the launch of IJO Fashion website. Modeling for IJO Fashion Chasidy has been privileged to appear in posters in shopping malls, advertising banners and magazine prints.� Chasidy is substantial because she is always willing to do whatever it takes to get the job done, whether it is for herself or if she is selflessly helping and supporting others. She is relentlessly working whether she is in front a camera modeling, or behind the scenes working hard to make someone else look great. Joe Yancey Studio plans in the upcoming 2015 to expand into the fashion Industry introducing the new ijofashion.com website and IJO Fashion clothing line, inspired by Joe Yancey Studio. Joe Yancey Studio will also be looking for those fashionable models locally and abroad with a desire to model and their talents discovered. You can find more info about Joe Yancey and Chasidy White at: www.joeyanceystudio.com Facebook.com/JoeYanceyStudio Twitter.com/JoeYanceyStudio Instagram.com/JoeYanceyStudio
Photography and backstory provided by: Joe Yancey of Joe Yancey Studios
31 Substantial | Jan. - Mar. 2015
“Know who you are before you create anything else.” An Interview with Jane White
I
n today’s day and age, it is often overlooked how far we have come as minorities in the terms of expression amongst one another. Often we create internal barriers on the basis of “I am alone in my struggle” that slow and even prohibit progression in communication amongst those who we generally interact with on a daily basis. Each and every day, an unknown number of individuals wander aimlessly looking for an outlet, a safe environment where they can let their guard down and get a few things off their chest without being judged, a Kingdom in which they are respected as royalty. Ms. Jane White, a Durham North Carolina Native and a Junior English Education major with a minor in American Sign Language at the University of North Carolina at Greensboro, has worked to break the silence of minorities on her campus and one day campuses worldwide. When asked what inspired her to start Kingdom Women Ministries her response was,
“I grew up in a community where women had the same struggles, but no one would speak about them, causing cycles to flow from mother to daughter. The detrimental gravity of that silence is what inspired me to start Kingdom Women Ministries.” One of the most recent areas of growth for KWM is a new weekly event called “Girl Talks” which is an attempt to bring the ministry to a University Level. The inspiration for these outlet meetings came from Jane’s opportunity to speak at a similarly structured event over the summer months. “The focus is having women share their stories, and journeys through encouraging words, testimonies, songs and scripturesanything that will uplift the next woman on her walk and remind her that she is not alone. There’s always someone facing the same things you are.” Thought provoking activities and exercises are planned for each meeting that encourage women to think on a deeper level concerning their walks of Faith. Participants are all given the opportunity speak openly on sometimes what would seem an uncomfortable subject for a room of strangers without being incentivized or judged. Overwhelmed by the initial success, Jane said,
“By the second week tears were flowing and real bonds were being built. The group has become more 32 Substantial | Jan. - Mar. 2015
than I expected as my own walk has been encouraged, strengthened, and mended by the bond I have built with these beautiful women.” As many young minority entrepreneurs often are, White has frequently been “counted out” and even said to have shocked people with her age when sharing her story or looking to spread the ministry. Through faith and persistence KWN and their new “Girl Talks” have gained solid traction, reporting positive feedback and support from the surrounding community. Jane’s advice to others looking to start on their own endeavor is to “Know who you are before you create anything else”. Her personal ambitions are to continue her education and one day give back to those who will one day become our future, middle age children. “To teach” and give others resources that will empower others to know their self-worth is what she prides herself in. Kingdom Women Ministries is currently working on the official launch their interactive website, a mobile app, apparel, and their first full scale event “The Many Rooms of a Woman”… If interested, please take advantage of the following outlets to learn more and connect with Kingdom Women Ministries: Facebook: Kingdom Woman Ministries Twitter: @KingdomWoman Pinterest: Kingdom Woman Ministries Website: kingdomwomanministries.org Email: janewhite@kingdomwomanministries.org
Brand Yourself for Success
When I heard Jay-Z’s The Black Album I told everyone it was a classic and they had to go get it! What do you do after you see a good movie? You tell everyone you know to go see it! After experiencing great service and devouring an excellent meal at a restaurant, you encourage your friends and family to patronize that establishment. Before you know it, your friend who teased you about your Scandal addiction has started watching it too because you talked about it incessantly. Believe it or not that is called network marketing, key word being network. Subconsciously we all “market” the things we love to our networks every day. That alone should drive home the importance of growing your network and marketing what you love the most – yourself. The individuals in your personal network are most likely people you enjoy spending time with that you can rely upon and vice versa. Interestingly enough, those are also the qualities sought after by employers for new hires. Finding a commonality with someone and making a new “friend” or “acquaintance” is relatively simple. People do it all day every day over a love for animals, books, music or sports. You both realize no one loves the New York Giants as much as you two, a high-five is not far behind and now you’re kindred spirits. It may not be that easy to make a professional connection, but it does not have to be as hard as you think. A good place to start is attending networking events in your local area. Not everyone is a social butterfly and sparking a conversation with someone in a restaurant or in an elevator could be daunting as a neophyte to the world of professional networking. However, the great thing about networking events is that everyone in attendance is there to meet new people and make connections. This could serve as excellent practice so when you do find yourself in the elevator with an influential person, you will not freeze up and you will know what to say. When given the opportunity, do research on the individuals or companies attending these networking events. Creating a list that details who you want to speak with is a great first step in your networking plan. While conversing with those on your list, giving eye contact, speaking clearly and listening are important for a successful first impression. Exchange contact information at the conclusion of your brief time together and get ready to move to the next person. Remember the overall goal is to begin conversations that will be picked up at a later time. The networking event is just the first step in building a relationship. Be certain to make use of the cards you collect and contact those individuals. Mention something they said during your networking session. This will not only show you were listening but will assist them in remembering you as well. From here it is all about communication. Even in personal relationships, no one wants to do a favor for someone they never hear from. Keep that in mind in your professional relationships as well. Networking is not a hand-out; it is relationship building that is mutually beneficial. With these tips you are well on your way to becoming a successful networker. “Networking is an essential part of building wealth.” - Armstrong Williams Phelicia S. Price, MS is the Founder and CEO of PSP Image Consulting, LLC, as well as an Associate Faculty member at Ashford University teaching various topics within the discipline of economics.
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Christopher R. Battle “Young servant leader with a vision for college access and student success” Written and edited by Whitney Wilson
He’s not merely ECU’s 2014 Homecoming King, an ECU Ambassador and elected Elite Pirate; or just an acclaimed winner of the first ever Substantial University Award—he is Christopher R. Battle, a young black man who breaks the mold and has made more than a name for himself. I had the opportunity to steal a few moments of his time in order to glean some insight from him. Being a very articulate, eloquent and reflective young minority leader on his college campus—Mr. Battle seems to have a solid vision and roadmap for his success. Christopher Battle is a senior-year Rehabilitation Services major, reigning from Fayetteville, NC, who is set to graduate from East Carolina University in December 2014. He is an individual who is pioneering new things and ideas which are not given much attention, all the while defying the labels that are placed upon black American males in our society. He is essentially an anomaly. When faced with the question of whether or not he was indeed an anomaly—he took a moment of reflection and said briskly, “Well. I guess that I humbly am.” I took a moment to sit down with Christopher Battle to learn about whom he really is, and life according to his lens. Church and religion were not huge in Christopher’s family, but family was—and they would often attend church as a family. Christopher Battle acknowledges God as someone that He would thank for his family, and all of the recent opportunities that he has been presented with to serve his peers and to serve his community. His faith is something that he has rested upon for years, and what gets him through in life. “Tradition” is also big in his family, and many of his family members are fellow ECU Pirates as well. He was able to follow in his father’s footsteps by attending ECU. It was his family, who inspired him to actually attend the college, but it was the people that he surrounds himself with daily, that he said keeps him there. “There will one day be a time where I cannot help others,” stated Battle, “Service is an obligation of the heart.” When asked firsthand about the honor to receive the Substantial University Award, Christopher was thrilled—his face lit up with enthusiasm as he recanted the experience last month. “It was an amazing feeling.” He noted that even being considered for a nomination was great and that he was truly honored. Christopher was exhilarated when a friend phoned him to notify him of his nomination. A poll was created and distributed amongst the students on the campus of ECU, each participant able to nominate and vote for who he or she deemed worthy of the honor of receiving, essentially—a leadership and service award from the student-driven magazine. ‘ The caliber of the persons nominated is what prepared Christopher to feel even more honored to be sitting in that seat. Stageside other nominees. "It is a good feeling to know that other people see the things that you are doing,” Battle said. No matter the outcome of who was chosen as the winner, Battle said that the four of his peers were going to stick it out, and mentioned that they now talk regularly.
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When asked what the experience was like for him during the 2014 Substantial Awards, Battle stated that his best friend, who was seated behind him at the awards ceremony, told him that his name had been called to receive the award. Christopher demonstrated his surprise during our interview, stating how he had to give a speech on stage in acceptance of his award. He was nearly speechless, and was timid when it came to going up on stage to receive his award. “What most people do not know about me—is that I am very shy, I am not the most confident person, and my brothers can tell you that,” stated Battle. The crowd and his friends were chanting in his midst, “Say something!,” “Say something…,” and the words that spilled from his mouth were simply—“Thank you.” The only two words needed to express a sense of gratitude. “It was hard for me because I’ve never had to speak about myself before, and essentially say ‘why’ I was important.” Christopher exclaimed that it was a humbling experience. Battle praised the other nominees, stating that when he met Jamie Gorham (SP?), he instinctively knew that she would be a substantial competitor: “I knew how great she was,” he stated, as well as saying the same about his other peers Latoshia Bell (SP?), who started a group for girls on campus and Tyler (Last Name? SP?), the ECU’s Black Student Union president. “I knew the people that I was around. It was immediately like a family vibe.” Even though it was a competition, he still saw it as a chance for each of them to be able to uplift one another and members of their community with their platforms. Only days after receiving the Substantial U award, Christopher Battle experienced another emotional moment when he got wind of the elected decision for the ECU Homecoming King 2014, thus being crowned only days apart from receiving the Substantial U award. “Once again, I was left speechless,” he said heartily. “If you know me,” stated Battle—“I am a crier, because I am really grateful for those moments.” His humbling personality shined through as he told me more about his experience. “To me, it’s not really about getting the award, he said insightfully; “It is more of just seeing how people appreciate you and what you do.” When asked to describe the culture for minorities on his college campus, Christopher paused in a great silence of expectation, on the edge of his seat in thought. “ECU does a good job of having several different opportunities to celebrate your diversity and your differences,” Battle stated. ECU as a whole sees the value of one, but the power of all.” He stated that he believes the college sees the value in everyone’s differences on campus and the school has grown exponentially in terms of recognizing cultural diversity.
“As a whole we have work to do as a people,” stated Battle. “Not only on the outside looking in on the minorities, but we ourselves as minorities.” Battle stated, “We as a people have done a lot better with upbringing one another and being there for one another, realizing that at some point it may seem as though we do not support one another.” He summed it up with, “Our culture here [at ECU], however, is one whole.” Opportunities are present everywhere for advancement and growth on a college campus such as East Carolina University. Everyone encourages one other to strive toward success and pursue what they really love. There is also a strong sense of camaraderie simply because everyone is a Pirate. Battle went on to state that he has definitely matured a lot from his freshman year up until his senior year. “I thank ECU for a lot of that, honestly,” he said. Battle recounted his freshman year at college at a predominately white campus, and the experiences that he had while attending—knowing openly and seeing it outwardly: he was truly a minority in this space, and everyone else could see it too. He remembered upon the days when his family members seemed worried about sending him off to college alone. They would tell him stories of how their experience was growing up within a college setting back in the 1970s, and how they wanted a better experience for him. His close family then began to enlighten him, giving him pep talks before sending him off to college for the first time: “Just know that you will be at school, but you may be faced with certain issues and situations while at school. Be prepared for that.”
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Battle’s father is a former student who attended ECU, as well as his fathers’ brothers and sisters. His dad, as well as his aunts and uncles, were all faced with several hardships in their day, “which is probably why [his father] was unable to continue with his schooling,” stated Battle. “One thing that he [his father] did not see then, that I see now—is that there are endless opportunities for you to succeed, and it’s for all students.” Battle stated that his college “took a chance on him,” allowing him to serve the school in the capacity that he has thus far in leadership and professional development. He mentioned his fraternity as being a support system of men who have the same goals as he, allowing him to grow and become the man that he is today. Post-college Christopher plans to work in a university-setting in admissions or working with the office of student transitions in January, up until graduate school in fall 2015. “For me it’s all about students, and it’s all about college access.” Christopher attended a predominately black high school, where he stated that growing up he did not hear about many enrichment opportunities, advancements, or even news of available scholarships. “I did not hear about many opportunities to better myself and get outside of my own hometown,” said Battle. “I did not hear about individual and professional opportunities until it was basically too late,” he stated. There is an underlying verity that minorities are not typically notified as often nor as early, neither given identical or similar advancement opportunities as other cultures; that is unless it is a program or scholarship that is specifically tailored to recruiting minorities. Our students and children need more leaders in the public school systems who will be their advocate and essentially their resource in planning for their academic career. “If you want greatness I feel like you need to inflict that upon the people that you are around. Start early with your leaders. You have to give them that hope, that drive, that ambition,” said Battle, which is what inspires him to be an advocate for college access to all, while pursuing higher education and student affairs leadership. Growing up, his childhood role models were limited. Christopher aspires to be that role model in someone else’s life, which was such a rare find in his own life. “I didn’t have mentors and role models—they were few [limited],” he said. “I want to be the one mentor that I didn’t have,” said Battle. Ensuring that minorities are aware of the opportunities that are out there for them is very important to Christopher. It is all about making sure that every student, young and old, knows about college and the success that an education can bring. Making sure that blacks and other minorities know about their right to college access in order to transition into the workplace and thus into a rewarding career is important to him. “I want them to be the greatest that they can be,” he said. Battle aspires to take his expected master’s degree in Higher Education back to his community, instilling greatness in others and “to see our culture unfolding even more in order to make sure that we are rising as a people.” “As minority men, we feel as though we have to put a mask on, whether that is being tough, being rough or being ‘hard.’” Battle stated that “sometimes we as young black men even pretend that we are unintelligent.” His advice to those who are looking to follow in his footsteps is to take off the mask. Battle stated that he looks up to his friends for propelling him forward and fueling his desire to do more for the community and his peers, stating that he would not be here without them. “It is definitely not an ‘I’ thing for me.” When Christopher Battle wins at something he stated that he definitely feels like “We have won. It is definitely a group effort.”
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Find out how you can be in the next issue of Substantial Magazine. Have your story told, your thoughts read, and your photography seen. Learn how you can BE A PART. Visit www.substantialmagazine.com Email us at info@substantialmagazine.com Follow us on Twitter and Instagram @SubstantialMag Like Us on Facebook SubstantialMagazine Subscribe to us on Issuu.com SubstantialMagazine