The New Tri-State Defender - January 12-18, 2023

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January 12 - 18, 2023

VOL. 72, No. 2

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“I have a dream that my four little 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.”

– Dr. Martin Luther King Jr., March on Washington, 1963

Teen mayor of Earle, Ark. models Dr. King’s ‘content of character’

by Dr. Sybil C. Mitchell

Special to The New Tri-State Defender

What happens when a hopeful and ambitious seventh grader begins to imagine the possibilities for growth and revitalization in his small, impoverished hometown?

Eighteen-year-old Jaylen Smith answered that question on Dec. 6 when he won a mayoral runoff election for mayor in Earle, Arkansas. He was sworn in Jan. 1, becoming the

youngest African-American mayor in the nation.

Earle, with a population of about 1,800 residents, is on U.S. 64 about 30 miles northwest of Memphis. Seventy-two percent of the residents are African American. The poverty rate is 25.7 percent.

His election garnered a profile published in The New York Times.

Smith came to Memphis Monday (Jan. 9) as a special guest at “The 30th Annual Dr. Martin Luther King,

Earle, Ark. Mayor Jaylen Smith: “There are great challenges to overcome in Earle…. But there are great possibilities as well. God told me to run. It must be for some purpose He wants to accomplish.”

(Photo: Tyrone P. Easley/The New Tri-State Defender) Jr. Commemorative Awards Program for Outstanding Students/Community Role Models.”

Smith congratulated honorees and encouraged both students and role models to continue striving for greater achievements.

“Mayor Smith was here spreading good will from the city of Earle,”

said awards program founder Johnnie Mosley. “We invited him to come and give remarks to our honorees. He was so inspiring, to the students especially. But everyone was very impressed.

Mayor Smith is no ordinary 18-yearold.”

Tyler Lewellen, widely recognized as a young, gifted classical pianist,

received “Student of the Year” at this year’s Dr. King Commemorative Awards Program.

Lewellen found Smith’s words especially inspiring.

“Mayor Smith made a lasting impression on me because of the way he

SEE MAYOR ON PAGE 2

Crime data sobering despite declines in violent offenses

by James Coleman

Special to The New Tri-State Defender

State Sen. Raumesh Akbari (right) had the support of her twin sister, Raumina, and her niece on the opening day of the 113th Tennessee General Assembly. (Photos: Karanja A. Ajanaku/The New Tri-State Defender)

State Rep. Karen Camper, the House Minority leader, recites the Pledge of Allegiance along with family members and fellow legislators as the new legislative session got underway on Tuesday.

New legislative session opens with resolve amid watchful eyes

by Karanja A. Ajanaku kajanaku@tsdmemphis.com

NASHVILLE – The 113th Tennessee General Assembly was gaveled into session on Tuesday as members of the House and Senate were sworn in with family and supporters on hand and advocates of various causes making their presence known.

Republican Cameron Sexton, who represents District 85, which

includes Cumberland and Van Buren counties and Monterey in Putnam County, was re-elected House Speaker by the Republican super-majority.

“I know that we will fuss and fight and bicker and argue at times,” Sexton said after taking the speaker’s oath.

“There is nothing wrong with good, robust debate. We all have differences because we are all unique individuals with different backgrounds. …”

Sexton called for working togeth-

er for the betterment of Tennessee during the toughest challenges.

“We will only be limited by what we are unwilling to do,” he said.

With Tuesday set aside for the basics of getting the session underway, lawmakers old, young, new and seasoned greeted each other cordially, fielding questions from reporters before and afterwards about their focus over the next several months.

Rep. Karen Camper (D-Memphis, District 87), the House Minority

Leader, said her legislative efforts would include items associated with the Ford BlueOval City project in West Tennessee and ensuring access to opportunities.

“We got to think about transportation … how do we move people from Memphis … contracting, having access to small businesses….”

Camper expressed concern about streamlining and improving pro-

SEE 113TH ON PAGE 2

As 2023 begins, Memphis Police Chief Cerelyn “CJ” Davis Tuesday (Jan. 10) delivered a mixed-bag overview to Memphis City Council members about Memphis crime in 2022.

She delivered the update to the council’s Public Safety Committee, citing, among other things, a significant 16.2 percent drop in homicides compared to 202; 302 homicides in 2022, compared to 347 in 2021.

That was good news for a city that is consistently listed in various crime studies as among the deadliest in the nation.

“The focus is always on reducing violent crime. Property crimes are always a concern, but we want the city to be a safe city where we have less injuries to persons, less fatalities,” said Davis.

However, property crimes, particularly auto thefts, continue to vex owners and police alike.

SEE CRIME ON PAGE 8

Concerns reverberate about youth and crime at summit.

See Perspective, Page 4.

Op-Ed – Saving our legacies with a bottom-up approach See Page 3 Op-Ed – ‘We must focus on a collaborative public health approach’ See Page 8

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The New Tri-State Defender

MAYOR

CONTINUED FROM FRONT spoke and the way he carried himself,” said Lewellen. “We got the feeling that although he is only 18, he knows what he is doing. He specifically told us young people to listen to our parents, even if we don’t want to sometimes because they have our best interests at heart.

“I thought, ‘Wow, this guy is the mayor, and he still listens to his parents.’ That really gave us something to think about. As we get older, sometimes we might think our parents don’t really understand us. But Mayor Smith said parents do understand. They tell us things for our good. This

made me appreciate my parents even more.”

The teen’s election turned fresh eyes on the decaying, blighted town, once thriving with lumber mills, a shoe factory, a busy railroad depot, a supermarket, and a flourishing farm industry.

Now, much of the 3.25-sq.mile town stands a mere shadow of its former self.

But that’s all going to change, if you ask Smith.

“There is always work to do as the new mayor,” said Smith. “I have meetings, college, and so many other things that come with being the mayor. Things can change. I want to build more housing, affordable housing, and bring another grocery store. Transportation and public safety are also

January 12 - 18, 2023

NEWS

concerns.”

As an active member of his Earle High School Student Government Association, Smith saw firsthand what advocacy with government leaders could do.

“We made a difference in the community by advocating for senior citizens who had no access to transportation to the doctor or grocery store,” said Smith. “We went to the city council and spoke up for better housing and public safety. The Student Government Association drove me to the place where I am now.”

By the time Smith entered his senior year, he began wearing suits to school because “you have to dress like you’re going somewhere,” he said.

Otherwise, he was a typical

113TH

CONTINUED FROM FRONT cesses that affect people at the community level.

“How do we get more help for DCS (Department of Children Services). We have these careers for people that are so vital to our community, but you don’t pay them enough so they get overwhelmed, overburdened and then they leave, so we can’t keep good people.”

Rep. Antonio Parkinson (D-Memphis, District 98) said he was excited about building upon natural hair laws he championed and got passed in 2013 and 2015 and continuing a push “to give people an opportunity to get small businesses open and create more professionals.”

In addition, Parkinson said he was working hard in the areas of “family law, paternity, and making sure that both parents get an opportunity to be in their children’s lives. Making sure that those fathers that have been pushed out of the process are in the process and are in their children’s lives.”

His interests also include ensuring that healthcare workers are safe and enhancing penalties for gun crimes in and around hospitals.

Rep. Jesse Chism (D-Memphis, District 85) said his legislative focus this year is going to be more criminal justice reform.

“Specifically, trying to keep our young men and women out of prison for small amounts of marijuana,” he said.

“We have so many states that already have passed these kind of measures, and it frees up the law enforcement. It frees up taxpayer dollars, and we want to make sure that we’re being smart on crime instead of railroading our people into prison for crimes that are legal in other states.”

Asked about the prospect

Rep. Joe Towns Jr., (D-Memphis, District 99) confers ahead of the session. (Photos: Karanja A. Ajanaku/The New TriState Defender)

Rep. Jesse Chism

Sen. London Lamar

Rep. G.A. Hardaway of getting enough support for such legislation, Chism said, “I’ve been running similar legislation for the last four years.

So, I’ve seen the appetite grow over the last couple of years.”

On the Senate side, Sen. London Lamar (D-Memphis, District 33), is set on championing “kitchen table issues that really hit the homes of Tennessee families and bring relief. And when I think about relief, I’m thinking about economic justice, but also we need to do something around criminal justice reform.”

The new session brings an opportunity to “continue working on maternal health issues to ensure that women in the state, especially in the wake of this new abortion law, have safe and healthy pregnancies,” she said.

To be effective on those fronts will necessarily involve holding fellow legislators accountable to the oath of office all take regarding serving the basic needs of Tennessee fam-

Page 2

ilies, she said.

“Everything else is extra.

But what I want to tell everyone in the state is that we have gotten so partisan that people are voting not on issues that they actually care about but what political parties are and making sure they can defend what communities the most.

“And so that’s both a Democrat and Republican problem.

We need to come back to the center. We need to have more meaningful conversations, and we need to again make sure that everybody has strong schools, healthy families, and safe communities.”

Sen. Raumesh Akbari (D-Memphis, District 29) said in seeking to be effective in the Republican-dominated legislature, “I try and look for things that we can agree on, right? … Like we all want good schools. We all wanna have a good job. We wanna be in a safe community. Sometimes we disagree about how to get there.

“So I try and find those little narrow lanes, where we can plan agreement and move forward from there. … It is difficult. We are in a super mi-

high school senior. He attended senior prom and participated with friends in other senior activities.

Smith said he “prayed about running for mayor,” asked friends what they thought, and sought the counsel of family members.

“They told me to go for it,” said Smith. By the time Smith graduated in May, he was running a vigorous campaign for the office of mayor.

I knocked on doors,” said Smith. “Some people encouraged me because I was young with fresh ideas. Others said I was too young. And so, I asked, ‘What if it was your child or grandchild?’ They said they would support them.

I told them this was no different. Young people can change

things, and we have to start somewhere.”

Smith would later say his victory was the result of working harder than your opponents.

But also, there is something to be said for dreaming, too.

His hopeful outlook was contagious as he talked about bringing in a supermarket, building up the Earle Police Department into a 24-hour operation, and expanding public transportation.

In the Nov. 8 General Election, Smith faced four other candidates, but did not garner the required 51 percent majority of the vote. He handily won a Dec. 6 runoff.

There was great celebration in Earle among Smith’s family and supporters. National news outlets sought out the savvy,

young mayor-elect. There were regional news interviews focusing not only on Smith’s win, but on his vision for a revitalized, thriving Earle.

Even with the significant loss of population from more than 3,000 in the 1990s, to approximately 1,800 presently, Smith still feels that the one thing Earle has is potential.

“There are great challenges to overcome in Earle,” said Smith. “But there are great possibilities as well. God told me to run. It must be for some purpose He wants to accomplish.

I am excited about our future.”

Smith continues online studies at Arkansas State University Mid-South, while balancing his mayoral duties. He aspires to become a prosecutor one day.

nority. … Also, I attack problems, not people. Sometimes tempers flare up here, but if you focus on the issues and not on insulting people, I think you can build relationships that really are meaningful and important when you’re trying to pass legislation.”

For Akbari, this session, “It’s gonna be criminal justice reform, looking at getting increased funding to DCS and the Tennessee Bureau investigation for their employees who are grossly underpaid. I know infrastructure’s gonna be a big deal, looking at our highways and bridges. But really just trying to see what we can do for Memphis to improve public safety, to continue to monitor, increase education dollars and of course to continue to recruit businesses that are going to pay a living wage to our community.”

Rep. G.A. Hardaway

(D-Memphis, District 92) said he comes into the session again knowing that “my constituents need … a lot of everything.

So, I don’t concentrate on any one thing. … I’m concerned about everything. …

“It’s critical that we take comprehensive approaches to crime, to unemployment, to education, to healthcare, to housing. … And until we stop this pigeonhole to where one issue is addressed at a time, (we will) never solve anything because they all intersect at some point.”

He carried with him a stack of legislation, including one setting up a witness protection program, another involving title fraud, still another addressing blended sentencing that takes into account scientific research on brain development and one focused on affecting the driving privileges of those convicted in drive-by shooting

cases.

As the legislators worked through the order of the first day, constituents from different parts of the state with varied (some shared) interests, made their presence felt, some carrying signs.

Karen Spencer McGee, a Black Lives Matter Memphis activist, also known as “Mama Peaches,” was among the Memphis activists.

“Every time the changing of a guard happens, we need to know who is representing us,” she said, noting concern about “really racist … gun laws and things.

I come up here so I can agitate, educate, and organize …

“This is the year that we’re supposed to hold the government accountable and let the spirit of the elders lead.”

(Karanja A. Ajanaku is associate publisher/executive editor of The New Tri-State Defender.)

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The New Tri-State Defender

January 12 - 18, 2023

Page 3

NEWS

Ineffective solutions are made with top-down approaches that are made by decision-making authorities, without input, buy-in or trust from community members, who will be the recipients of the service.

Saving our legacies with a bottom-up approach bers and youth in the development of solutions, effective resources are lost.

by Dr. Bobbie Shaw-Hunter Special to The New Tri-State Defender

At Churches-Families And Communities Together (C-FACT) National Training Institute, research-based, cultural, and family engagement approaches are used to address the multiple factors that impact youth violence and promote positive youth development and well-being.

As executive director, I believe that effective and long-term solutions to youth violence include using bottom-up approaches. Bottom-up approaches incorporates including local community members to be involved in every decision that impact their lives and neighborhoods.

Ineffective solutions are made with top-down approaches that are made by decision-making authorities, without input, buy-in or trust from community members, who will be the recipients of the service.

Bottom-up approaches requires deep work with the community and a partnership that goes beyond the brief initiatives. This means getting to know the work that has been done, the needs, interest, and capacity of the community. This approach recognizes the strengths and power of reciprocal relationships and value the collective wisdom and remembrance of the well-being of the community.

Without including community mem-

Dr. Bobbie Shaw-Hunter

FamilyCentered and Engagement Approach to Decrease Youth Violence

According to an article by Kumpfer, K. L., & Alvarado, R. (2003) “Effective parenting is the most powerful way to reduce adolescent problem behaviors.”

Providing interventions for youths and placing them back into the same environments with poor risk factors and without increasing protective factors is ineffective, not transformative and youth violence continues.

The Center for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) defines Poor Family Risk Factors to include: • Authoritarian childrearing attitudes • Harsh, lax, or inconsistent disciplinary practices • Low parental involvement • Low emotional attachment to parents or caregivers • Low parental education and income • Parental substance abuse or crim-

inality • Poor family functioning • Poor monitoring and supervision of children However, to decrease youth violence, effective family engagement approaches with family protective factors must be incorporated.

Building Power Through Spiritual and Cultural Alignment Spiritual and cultural alignments mean having our youths to know and align themselves with a Spiritual Being, whom I call God by learning and appreciating the significance of their culture goals are important. These alignments connect us to our morals, beliefs, rules, values, language, literature music, social norms, and traditions. The life-living principles of Kwanzaa should not be relegated to once a year but aligned with all aspects of transformative processes.

An article in the Polling Matters, Religion and Wellbeing in the U.S.:Update by Frank Newport (February 2022) reported that the findings update a long line of studies confirming the connection between religion and wellbeing.

The following is from an article Practicing the Seven Principles of Kwanzaa

by Titilayo Bediako (December 2022). I believe in knowing and prac-

ticing these Kwanzaa principles with our youth.

The first principle of Kwanzaa is Umoja, which means Unity. Unity focuses on African Americans working together with their families and with their community to make life better for all their people.

The second principle of Kwanzaa is Kujichagulia. Kujichagulia means Self-Determination. Self-Determination means to believe in yourself and to be powerful in mind and in body.

It means to only do things that make a person strong, and not to do things that hurt yourself.

The third principle of Kwanzaa is Ujima, which means Collective Work and Responsibility. It means that African Americans work with each other. This includes sharing all the work and treating each other like sisters and brothers, whether we are blood relatives or not. This means to give your best and to do your part.

Ujamaa is the fourth principle of Kwanzaa, which means Cooperative Economics. This means to learn as much as we can in school to create our own resources, which include businesses, food, schools, books, computers, cars, bicycles, and all the things that a people needs to live and be happy.

Nia is the fifth principle of Kwanzaa, which means Purpose. Purpose

means to always have a reason behind everything we do. Purpose means to study about our ancestors who made great sacrifices, which included giving their lives so that life would be better for all African Americans. Our purpose as Black people should make life better for those coming behind us so they will be able to make their lives better from our examples.

Kuumba is the sixth principle of Kwanzaa, which means Creativity.

Creativity is all of the things we do that show our great talents and our ability to be great. This includes the way we learn, the way we dance, the way we draw, the way we comb our hair, and the way we give our best to everything we do to make ourselves better.

Imani is the seventh principle of Kwanzaa, which means Faith. Faith means to believe in ourselves, our parents, our mwalimus (teachers), other mwafunzis (students), and the Creator. Having Faith allows us to believe that we can and will give and do our best at everything we do.

When we have Imani and give our best, we create Black Excellence.

(Dr. Bobbie Shaw-Hunter is executive director of Church-Families And Communities Together (C-FACT) National Training Institute. Visit connectingfamilies@cfact4families. com; Email: cfact4families.com)

PERSPECTIVE The New Tri-State Defender, January 12 - 18, 2023, Page 4

Memphis Police Chief Cerelyn “C.J.” Davis speaks as a summit panelist.

Juvenile Court Judge Tarik Sugarmon.

Tennessee Department of Children’s Services Deputy Commissioner Darren Goods.

Memphis Allies Executive Director Susan Deason.

From a summit, concerns reverberate about youth and crime Calls for more resources, partnerships and a paradigm shift

by Dr. Sybil C. Mitchell

Special to The New Tri-State Defender

The intersection of youth and crime drew a cross section of nearly 400 community leaders and concerned residents to a South Memphis church for assessments and thoughts about problem-solving ways forward.

A multi-purpose meeting space at New Salem Missionary Baptist Church was jammed with attendees drawn to a Memphis-Shelby County Crime Commission summit that featured experienced panelists and shared concerns about young people committing serious – often violent – crimes.

The Jan. 7 forum tackled such issues as the lack of services and resources in the Department of Children Services, the extremely high recidivism of young offenders, the strong connection between poverty and gun violence, teaching anger management to young people, addressing mental health and trauma, the rising number of armed carjackings, and exploring more effective alternatives to locking up young people.

“We must find ways to change the trajectory of our children’s lives,” said Memphis Police Department Chief Cerelyn “CJ” Davis, who, among things, reiterated her ongoing advocacy for a holistic approach.

“We have not tracked recidivism among juveniles with the same intentional focus as adult offenders, but I can tell you that we pick up the same juveniles two to three times a month. Memphis police engaged with more than 2,000 juvenile offenders in 2022.”

By the end of the summit, one thing was abundantly evident: there is a sense that the solution to effectively address juvenile crime is complex, multi-faceted and achievable only through a greater investment of time and resources in troubled youth.

Three other panelists – newly-elected Juvenile Court Judge Tarik Sugarmon, Memphis Allies Executive Director Susan Deason, and Tennessee Department of Children’s Services Deputy Commissioner Darren Goods – addressed various aspects of dealing with troubled youth.

Each spoke briefly from their areas of expertise and about the challenges that Memphis and Shelby County residents face dealing with young people who are committing serious crimes.

“Juvenile Court is not a law enforcement agency,” said Sugarmon. “While we are seeking to change the behavior of young people, we must also change language and the way we refer to them. They are not ‘ju-

Lined up to speak at the summit.

A multi-purpose meeting space at New Salem Missionary Baptist Church was packed with attendees drawn to a Memphis-Shelby County Crime Commission summit that featured experienced panelists and shared concerns about young people committing serious – often violent – crimes. (Photos: Gary S. Whitlow/GSW Enterprises/The New Tri-State Defender) veniles’ and ‘delinquents.’ These are our children, our adolescents, our teens.”

He challenged attendees to take advantage of “important opportunities” to mentor and spend time with youngsters “Troubled young people need real connections with caring adults who are willing to work with them and guide them,” said Sugarmon. “Children who are not connected with the village just burn the whole thing down. Young offenders need volunteers and mentors who are willing to fill in the gaps left by lack of services and dysfunction in the home.”

Goods said DCS does not have the resources to provide adequate services to help children transition into young adulthood.

“Young people are automatically out of DCS custody when they turn 18,” said

The Rev. Norman R. Redwing.

Goods. “DCS kids generally end up going back to the dysfunctional environment from which they were removed. So many need help beyond their 18th birthday.”

Sugarmon agreed with Goods’ way of thinking.

“I would appreciate a way to keep youth up to the age of 25,” he said. “They need to continue in the services and programs.

They need interventions well past their 19th birthday.”

Sugarmon advocated more blended sentencing to help juveniles get back on the right track. Blended sentences allow young offenders to access both juvenile and adult services. In many cases, adult jail time can be avoided if the offender fully complies with the juvenile sentence.”

Deason touted the value of partnerships between private sector organizations and law enforcement.

“There is a tremendous staff shortage in the juvenile justice system across the state,” said Deason. “The private sector must forge an effective collaboration with law enforcement as an essential element to finding solutions to rising youth crime.”

She voiced an urgent need to “lift and give hope.”

“Our city is under siege. Our young people must learn new skills so they won’t return to the things that got them in trouble.

Young people are not getting the services and interventions they need before they are re-arrested. We can change that narrative.”

Goods said DCS is working to better use the resources on hand. Presently, 102 young people are in custody around the state; 59 are in a maximum-security facility, and 56 are in treatment for addictions to sex, drugs, and alcohol, according to the DCS chief.

Many had quite a bit to say when the floor was opened for questions and public comment.

“There is a saying in the village: ‘Nothing about us without us,’” said the Rev. Norman R. Redwing, founder of the Afrikan Heritage & Culture Village of Memphis.

He urged those who work with young offenders to be governed by the African-village principle.

And said, Redwing, “Bring young people to the table when you talk about juvenile crime, so they can talk about their brokenness. They can talk about whatever issues are not being addressed for them.”

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The New Tri-State Defender

January 12 - 18, 2023

Page 5

RELIGION

Year 30 for Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Commemorative Awards

by Dr. Sybil C. Mitchell

Special to The New Tri-State Defender Historic Union Valley Baptist was the setting last Sunday (Jan. 8) for the 30th Annual Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Commemorative Awards presentation, which was dedicated to Union Valley’s longest-serving pastor, Dr. Herbert O. Kneeland.

“Pastor Kneeland was always so supportive of everything we tried to do for the community,” said Johnnie Mosley, founding chairman of Citizens For Better Services (CFBS), sponsor of the awards program. “It was only right that we remember his contributions to the community. The doors of Union Valley were always open to us.”

Mosley also paid tribute to the late State Rep. Barbara Cooper, who often acted as advisor for (CFBS).

“Rep. Cooper has supported Citizens For Better Services from the very beginning,” said Mosley. “We honor her also for supporting our work, not only with her constituents, but also for families in need all over this city.”

The milestone event featured a stellar line-up of speakers and musical guests as “the year’s best” were recognized for contributions to their community and the city of Memphis.

“I can’t believe it’s been 30 years since we started,” said Mosley. “My father was one of the sanitation workers who went on strike back in 1968.

Dr. King came here to stand with the workers. This is the city where

Student of the Year awardee Tyler Lewellen. (Photos: Tyrone P. Easley/The New Tri-State Defender)

Certificates reflect jobs well done.

Dr. King was assassinated. I always wanted to do something to honor his spirit and his memory.”

There is never an admission for the annual awards program and salute to Dr. King.

“I wanted ours to be free and for everyone to be welcome. Featured groups and singers come here and donate their time and talent so we can keep the program free of charge. We are very proud of that.”

Student of the Year awardee Tyler Lewellen said it was an honor to be recognized.

“I have worked hard to keep my grades up,” said Lewellen. “But it’s great to be recognized for working hard in school.

“I have also been consistent in piano practice, as well as playing baseball. I feel being at Overton High has helped me to be a well-rounded person. I want to thank my parents for

always supporting me, and I want to thank Mr. Mosley for this honor.”

Other students received certificates for their academic accomplishments and citizenship.

Gospel singer Elizabeth King received the Lifetime Achievement Award.

“It was such a surprise to get that call,” said King. “I stopped recording back in 1972. I thought raising my children and grandchildren was more important. Now, everybody is grown, and I’m back in the studio working on my third LP. They called me back after 50 years. And I thank God for it.”

Kenon Walker, Duck Master at the Peabody Hotel, was honored as “Inspirational Person of the Year.”

“I have always wanted to inspire people,” said Walker. “I try to encourage and inspire others with my testimony of all the Lord has done for me.

Boxtown Community organizer Anthony Hardaway (right) surprised Johnnie Mosley with a large trophy for his work with the city’s underserved. Hayden Adams is holding a pillow that contained a medal inside, also for Mosley. “I had no idea that was going to happen. What a surprise,” said Mosley. (Photos: Tyrone P. Easley/The New Tri-State Defender) “I started acting when I was 13.

I worked as a tour guide at the National Civil Rights Museum for seven years and at Stax Museum for six years. The duck march allows me to use my talents as an actor and historian. I am so grateful for that.”

The full list of honorees:

* Principal of the Year – Kevin Meeks, Mitchell High School. * Teacher of the Year – Elicia Garcia Curry, Snowden School. * Student of the Year – Tyler Lewellen, Overton High School. * Choir of the Year – First Congregational Choir. * Rosa Parks Award – Shay Bader-Wallace, former executive director, Miss Memphis-Shelby County Scholarship Organization. * Missionary Cleola Mosley Humanitarian Award – Vickye Ford, community development director, Methodist South Hospital. * Lifetime Achievement – Elizabeth King, legendary gospel recording artist and Bishop Dickerson Wells, pastor, Bethel Church of God in Christ. * Dr. H.O. Kneeland Jr. Pastor of the Year – Bishop Brandon Porter, pastor, Greater Community Temple Church of God in Christ . * Community Leader of the Year – Chief Dale Lane, Collierville Police Department. * Golden Voice Award – Amir Lanfair, recording artist, student, Germantown High School. * Inspirational Person of the Year – Kenon Walker, duck master, Peabody Hotel.

A Christmas reflection …

At Metropolitan Baptist Church, the Christmas celebration included the presentation of “The Child King.” The Christmas cantata brought to life,“The story of the miraculous birth of Jesus, the Jewish Messiah.” – (Photos: Tyrone P. Easley/The New TriState Defender)

The New Tri-State Defender

January 12 - 18, 2023

ENTERTAINMENT

Page 6

Ben Jealous: Never Forget Our People Were Always Free TSD Newsroom Ben Jealous, a modern-day advocate for human rights and justice and the youngest person to serve as NAACP President and CEO, is the son of a White father and a Black mother whose ancestors include Robert E. Lee. He draws on lessons from his life, his family, and his work in his new book, “NEVER FORGET OUR PEOPLE WERE ALWAYS FREE: A Parable of American Healing.”

In his book, Jealous draws inspiring lessons and hope for restoring the country’s strength and unity from stories of his ancestors, both Black and White, as well as his partnerships with conservative leaders and Republican governors, including Jack Kemp, Newt Gingrich, and Bob McDonnell.

The book title, said Jealous, was inspired by a truth instilled by his maternal grandmother, Mamie Todd Bland, the family griot, who recently died at the age of 105. Her belief in the inherent freedom and value of Ben every human being Jealous was instilled by her maternal grandfather, Edward David Bland.

An African-American child enslaved by his White uncle, Edward Bland was a free man at the end of the Civil War and became an itinerant preacher of freedom – economic and political. He went on to help lead a movement that culminated in the creation of Virginia State University and secured the future of free public education for every child in the state, as well as serving in the state legislature.

Jealous shares that his commitment to human rights and healing was inspired by his White father. Abused as a child and later disowned by his own father for marrying a Black woman in 1966, Jealous’ “quietly courageous” dad created a 12-step program to help abusive, often violent men

“NEVER FORGET OUR PEOPLE WERE ALWAYS FREE: A Parable of American Healing” Amistad, an Imprint of HarperCollins; January 10, 2023; $27.99 Hardcover; ISBN: 9780062961747).

Black problems – despite staggering facts to the contrary. “The hidden victim of American racism is that it makes White suffering invisible,” says Jealous.

“The ultimate antidote for the insanity that is racism is to deepen our knowledge of self and understand our national and ethnic origins,” Jealous asserts.

Ben Jealous as a child with his grandfather. break the cycle of domestic abuse.

Throughout “NEVER FORGET OUR PEOPLE WERE ALWAYS FREE,” Jealous interweaves anecdotes of family, friends, mentors, colleagues, and strangers who have shaped his life’s mission and his faith in humanity.

Among his takeaways: Three Big Lies About Race Lie #1: It has always been this way. “To end racism, we must agree there is nothing permanent about it,” Jealous stresses. As he shows, the meaning of race has evolved from its roots as a synonym for tribe or nation to a label used to separate people into a caste system, with a chosen “superhuman” group at the top. Comparing politics

to physics, where something in motion returns to its original state, he has hope that America will return to a state where we recognize and celebrate our diversity.

Lie #2: Only White people have paid the price for desegregation. While, as Jealous acknowledges, it is true that some White men lost jobs when people of color were no longer barred from consideration, it is also true that Black Americans lost thousands of businesses – as well as safe places to raise their children – when the walls of segregation fell.

Lie #3: Racism only hurts Black people and people of color. Racism has created a national delusion that poverty, gun violence, and drug addiction are exclusively

He leaves readers with three big lessons: #1: We can end racism. Why? Because we ended slavery and indentured servitude.

Thus, the social caste system that was created to insulate them can be ended too. #2: The path to do that is to truly be like King. Following the example of The Reverend Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr., draw as wide a circle of compassion as possible.

Speak in the traditionally unifying American languages of aspiration, patriotism, faith, and love. #3: Build “uncomfortably large coalitions.” Black, Brown, Yellow, and White; Conservative, Moderate, and Progressive; Republican and Democrat; Christian, Jewish, Muslim, and atheist. We’re all Americans and we all need to work together to make our divided and wounded country whole.

COMMUNITY The New Tri-State Defender, January 12 - 18, 2023, Page 7

Faith Morris retires from the National Civil Rights Museum Will maintain ties to coveted Freedom Awards

By Dr. Sybil C. Mitchell

Special to The New Tri-State Defender

R4R’s race is billed as a rewarding way for families, friends, neighbors and colleagues to make a lasting impact on their community in the spirit of Dr. King’s vision. (Courtesy photo)

Healing, honor hope are targets for 2nd Annual Race 4 Reconciliation

by Brianna Smith-Herman Special to The New Tri-State Defender

The second annual Race 4 Reconciliation (R4R) will be Monday (Jan. 16) at 11 a.m. at AutoZone Park.

R4R is a community-focused event on MLK Day designed to showcase that the dream of unity is alive in Memphis. It is a gathering of people from all walks of life sharing goodwill and love for their neighbors.

R4R is on a mission to provide healing from the past, honor in the present and hope for the future through 5K and one-mile races. The event raises funds for local nonprofits that focus on literacy, vocational skills training, career and leadership development, and historical education on racial injustices.

Karin Conlee, executive director, said R4R isn’t looking to reinvent the wheel, but rather connect the resources to the people who are already succeeding in tackling the various issues facing our city.”

Lorenzo Herman, an event sponsor, said, “2022 was rough for the image of Memphis.

There was a cloud of gloom with all the attention focused on the crime…This event gives us, all of us, the power to reclaim the headlines and show that Memphis is indeed the most unified city in America.”

Building off the success of the inaugural event in 2022, R4R has seen an influx of support from both corporate sponsors and local grassroots organizations.

This year, the 2023 city partners are the National Civil Rights Museum; Leadership Empowerment Center, led by Innovation Church Pastor Marron Thomas; Peer Power Foundation, led by Cortney Richardson, and Memphis Soul Prize.

Additionally, R4R partnered with the University of Memphis and LeMoyne-Owen College and opened the event to faculty and students for free.

Dr. King popularized the notion of the “Beloved Community,” envisioning the concept as a society based on justice, equal opportunity, and love of one’s fellow human beings.

Fundamental to the concept of the Beloved Community is inclusiveness, both economic and social.

R4R’s race is a rewarding way for families, friends, neighbors and colleagues to make a lasting impact on their community in the spirit of Dr. King’s vision.

“We want to encourage business, education and religious institutions, as well as individuals, from across Tennessee to get involved in the 5K run/walk and one-mile family fun run,” said Conlee.

R4R’s request is a humble yet powerful one: “We are asking for your heart and your presence.”

The nonprofit organization has three key values: Inspire people to prove love works, build a movement of unity and partner together to educate and elevate all people.

Through these foundational building blocks, Race for Reconciliation’s races are set to transform Memphis.

Following the awards ceremony, there will be food and fun for the entire family.

“To everything, there is a season. Seasons change, everything changes, and it is time,” said Faith Morris, who has stepped away from the position of chief marketing and external affairs officer of the National Civil Rights Museum (NCRM).

After an announcement in early December, Morris’ last day on the job was Dec. 31. While now retired from her full-time post, she is maintaining her association with the NCRM. “I’m a Memphis girl at heart,” said Morris.

“I was away for over 25 years. I raised my family in Chicago. … I’m not running from Memphis. I’m moving back to Chicago. I will continue at the National Civil Rights Museum as the senior advisor to the president, but also work as managing director and producer of Freedom Awards.”

During her nine-plus years at the museum, Morris — “trying to do good in this city — worked to become “part of the fabric of the museum and to do what the museum needs to do in Memphis….”

Morris reflected on joining the museum in August 2013 and having the Freedom Awards put in her lap. The “baptism by fire” was “the beginning of a love affair with the museum.”

NCRM President Dr. Russell T. Wigginton praised Morris for “brilliant vision and leadership” in presenting the annual Freedom Awards events.

“The Freedom Awards inspire and motivate people to continue the work of justice and equity for all throughout the world,” said Wigginton. “Faith’s contributions in making our signature awards such a hallmark, both locally and globally, has been invaluable. We are pleased to have her continue that work with us.”

Morris praised the three presidents with whom she worked as unique and innovative administrators. Beverly Robertson brought her from Chicago, where Morris ran a successful branding and marketing firm.

“I was very fortunate to work under Beverly because she was both an employer and a mentor,” said Morris. “I learned so much from her.

But she left a year and a half after bringing me down to Memphis.

“I continued to lean on her as a valued advisor in my role at the museum. She has known me from a very small child. Beverly promised that great things were in store for me. I did come, and she was right.”

Robertson praised Morris as a tremendous asset to the museum.

“Faith is an awesome marketing professional who brought a wealth of knowledge, expertise, and national experience to the National Civil Rights Museum. She has elevated the presence of the museum and has secured some of the highest visitor numbers the museum has ever seen…We owe Faith a tremendous debt of gratitude for her work in advancing the mission of the museum and exposing thousands of visitors to this historic, iconic site.”

After nine-plus years at the National Civil Rights Museum, Faith Morris has retired as chief marketing and external affairs officer and returned to Chicago, where she raised her family. Her association with NCRM is going, including a leading role in the production of the annual Freedom Awards. (Courtesy photo) Dr. Terri L. Freeman, who served as museum president between Robertson and Wigginton, praised Morris as “one of the most skilled marketers I’ve ever worked with…. She understands the importance of storytelling.…

My work at the museum was made easier because she was so effective…

“She has great connections and was never afraid to use those connections to promote the mission of the museum. Faith has contributed in immeasurable ways to the increased promotion of the museum, and her absence will be palpable.”

Morris said in opening this new chapter of her life, her return to Chicago will be a new pursuit in getting back to what she knows best — agency work.

“I will not only continue as the senior advisor of the museum, but I will also be the curator and producer of the re-opening of Tom Lee Park…

“So, I’m not running away from Memphis.

Memphis will always be home. Memphis is my heart.”

It was a surprise …

Ernestine W. Akon got plenty of family support on a celebration of her 80th birthday at Perch 74, 813 Ridge Lake Blvd., last Saturday (Jan. 7). (Photo: Tyrone P. Easley/The New Tri-State Defender)

A Founders Day salute…

The Kappa Alpha Psi Memphis Alumni Chapter celebrated Founders Day at St. Paul Baptist Church in Whitehaven last Saturday (Jan. 8). Carl Cross (left), this year’s Founders Day co-chair, presented an award to the featured speaker, Downtown Memphis Commission President/CEO Paul Young. Young also is an announced candidate for mayor. (Photo

by Joe Westbrook)

The New Tri-State Defender

January 12 - 18, 2023

Page 8

NEWS

Youth violence: ‘We must focus on a collaborative public health approach’ to this matter

by Charlie Caswell Jr.

Special to The New Tri-State Defender

It is no secret we have an epidemic of youth violence shifting to a pandemic. This is the case I have been sharing for over 7 years, as I have worked with many stakeholders to try to help mitigate Adverse Childhood Experiences ACEs. ACEs are traumatic events that occur before a child reaches the age of 18. ACEs includes all types of abuse and neglect, such as, parental substance use, incarceration, and domestic violence. ACEs can also include situations that may cause trauma to a child, such as having a parent with a mental illness, or being part of a family going through a divorce. A landmark study in the 1990s found a significant relationship between the number of ACEs a person experienced and a variety of negative outcomes in adulthood, including poor physical and mental health, substance use, and risky behaviors. The more ACEs experienced, the greater the risk for these outcomes.

CRIME

CONTINUED FROM FRONT For the year, there were 1,357 arrests for auto theft.

Many of the thefts are committed by youthful offenders between the ages of 16 and 18, according to MPD Deputy Chief Information Systems, Joe Oakley.

That information added weight to a Memphis Shelby Crime Commission community forum on juvenile crime Saturday at New Salem Baptist Church.

Oakley said there were around 1,900 Hyundais and 1,800 Kia’s stolen last year, the top choices for thieves locally and nationally.

Davis added, “The whole trend is a nationwide trend as it relates to these vehicles that are easy to steal without having to break the steering wheel…(thieves) put wires together, (use) USB cords and all kinds of other conventional ways of stealing vehicles,” said Davis.

He said Infinitis were the third most stolen car brand, with 1,227 stolen.

Police said the culprits steal vehicles to joyride or used the vehicles in commission of another crime.

To help owners of these vehicle brands, the MPD asked local dealerships for help.

They eagerly provided steering wheel column locks that will be made available to owners.

“It’s kind of antiquated… used steering wheel locks, years ago. But they work,” said Davis.

A kill-switch, which remotely cuts power from the battery to the car’s computer also was mentioned.

“Any citizen who owns any car, especially a Kia or Hyundai could use a kill switch, the Club-like steering devices, after market alarm, anything that they can use to prevent their car from being stolen is great,” said Oakley.

He continued, “If they don’t have power, they’re not going to be able to override it (the kill switch). The car won’t start. It’s like a breaker in your home. If you have that breaker flipped up, there’s no power.”

While efforts to curb property theft have been largely stuck in reverse, the efforts to tackle violent crime have begun to have an effect, although

It is well known that we have a lot of people in silos doing some good work as we heard from MPD Chief CJ Davis, Judge Tarik Sugarmon of Juvenile Court, Susan Deason of Memphis Allies, and Deputy Commissioner- Juvenile Justice Darren Goods with State of Tennessee DCS. The meeting began with a video of youth who are confined in the juvenile justice system sharing their testimony, yet we lacked youth voices, as usual, on the panel. If we are ever going to get to the root cause of youth violence, as many of the citizens stated, we need youth voices at the table.

The room was packed as many concerned citizens came out to hear some solutions. And as we heard from many of the citizens, they had solutions they wanted to share.

MPD Director Chief Davis shared some of the concerns her department is faced with. Such as youth as young as 12 years old who are committing carjackings and the high rate of stolen vehicles. She shared how many of them go into the system and come right back out, and repeat the same

the effects often aren’t as noticeable to members of violence-plagued communities.

The police officials praised the wrap-around services provided to victims, as well as potential perpetrators. In addition to providing support for grieving families, the MPD works to prevent retribution killings by family members, friends, or gang members.

“We understood the maximum we were going to see

actions. She also shared how her officers are faced with many challenges as they seek to work with the communities to find answers.

Susan Deason, of Memphis Allies shared the vision of their new initiative under the umbrella of Youth Village.

They are pursuing collaborations with non-profits and other organizations around the City to provide identified youth with wrap-around services.

Some of these services are connections to Success Coaches, many of whom had rough pasts as well.

Judge Tarik Sugarmon, who is newly elected as a Juvenile Court Judge provided input received from youth who are in the Juvenile Justice system. He shared how his new team is working to address the trauma that many of the youths who are coming into the system have been through in their young lives. His understanding that it is not what is wrong with the young people, yet thinking about what happened to them, gave me some hope. My hope is that he will work to address some root causes of the violent and self-destructive be-

was about a 10 percent reduction in crime per year. We’ve been through our first full year of having this wraparound plan…that’s almost exactly what the number is…

“If we keep doing this, we will be able to see marked improvement, but it’s something we have to stick with and make sure that we fund; make sure that if you guys need more, or if there’s anything else you need along the way with that

havior of some of our young people.

Darren Goods, of DCS furnished us with information about a number of initiatives that they are working on with youth that are returning to society from Wilder Youth Development Center, a youth facility for many who have violent pasts.

What I left there with was not many answers. I heard many good citizens who have nonprofits, or visions to help, yet they lacked the resources or support to help make a real change.

Not many questions were asked by the people. Many statements were made about what many of them do or want to see done. People are upset and weary of all the crime and violence throughout Shelby County.

What I believe we must do is, focus on a collaborative public health approach to this matter. We all know that we can’t arrest ourselves out of this situation. We must invest more resources and time into our next generation.

Their communities need real investments that will provide for them better opportunities to be trained in

program, let us know. We’ll see what we can do,” said council member Jeff Warren.

Other violent crimes also dropped. Aggravated assaults fell by 9.7 percent, while rapes dipped 3.8 percent for the year.

“Aggravated assault could be a homicide, so to see reductions in the number of shootings also contributes to the reductions in homicides…

Our gang unit has been really active in various types

Charlie Caswell Jr. the right way. We need to create more jobs and mental health services for them. I can say the Crime Commission tried. They must become more intentional about how they seek to get community buy in.

Communities do not want people trying to do things to us, and they are searching for people who will do things with us. The Shelby County Board of Commissioners, of which I am a member of, will hold a Public Safety Ad Hoc Committee on Wednesday, January 11th 2023, at 12 p.m. as we present a plan that will bring more community stakeholders to the table to be a part of their own healing.

(Charlie Caswell Jr. is the District 6 representative of the Shelby County Board of Commissioners.)

of gang-related activities, as well,” said Davis.

Domestic violence problems persisted. In fact, like last year, the first homicide of the year was a result of domestic violence.

“The domestic violence situation is one that continues to be challenging. We try to make sure our officers are able to help mitigate some of those situations when they go out on those calls.

“Also…they can assess a

situation and make sure that an individual, if there was some history there, if the person is on some type of restraining order, that they address those issues and also have follow up with the appropriate person,” said Davis.

The violent crime dip also is attributed to a greater police presence in high crime areas.

For members of these communities, the extra show of force is welcome, the officers said.

The New Tri-State Defender

Shelby Truck and Trailer Repair is located at 500 Winchester Rd, Memphis TN. 38116. We are placing a notice with the intent to collect an overdue repair and storage bill. There is a 2001 black FreightLiner Century class truck that has a repair bill and storage fee due of $6,500. $1500 dollars to repair a bull gear and $5000 dollars in storage fee beginning on January 19, 2020. The vehicle was dropped off by a tow truck and the owner of the vehicle is Wayne W. Willis. The Vin number is 1FUJA3CG41PF24073. If the bill is not paid in full by January 27, 2023, we intend to auction the truck off

by February 24, 2023. We can be reached at 901-506-6696 and ask for Leroy Washington.

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SPORTS

The New Tri-State Defender, January 12 - 18, 2023, Page 10

Grizzlies find ‘a way’ to win against battling Spurs

By Terry Davis

Special to The New Tri-State Defender

With Memphis’ main man, Ja Morant, out for a second straight game, Memphis got what it needed from Jaren Jackson Jr., Tyus Jones and a cast of determined Grizzlies to beat the San Antonio Spurs and push their winning streak to a season-high seven games.

In the first of backto-back games against the Spurs at FedExForum, the Grizzlies (2713) won 121-113 and held on to a share of the lead in the Western Conference.

Subbing for Morant (thigh soreness), Jones Terry finished with 24 points Davis and 6 assists. Jackson, who has been on a tear on the defensive, recorded five blocks for the second straight gun and now has 79 for the season.

“He has had so many good stretches of protecting the rim,” said Memphis head coach Taylor Jenkins, responding to whether this is Jackson’s best defensive stretch.

“He had two blocks on one possession. I am very impressed with what he does. He sets the tone defensively. It is definitely a great stretch.”

Memphis’ power forward missed the first 16 games of the season and is a few games short to be considered for block leaders in the NBA. He is averaging 3.8 blocks per game and has had multiple blocks in 11 straight outings.

The Grizzlies used the same formula employed to defeat the Utah Jazz on Sunday: build a nice lead and work from there.

Subbing for Ja Morant (thigh soreness), Tyus Jones finished with 24 points and 6 assists. (Photos: Warren Roseborough/The New Tri-State Defender)

Oh brother: Tre Jones of the Spurs gets off this shot with his brother, the Grizzlies Tyus Jones, applying the defense.

They built separation (35-25) in the first quarter and lead by 11 points (72-61) at the end of the first half. Jackson had four blocks at the half.

In the third quarter, the Spurs (17-24) battled back, trimming the Grizzlies’ lead to three points (94-91) with 51 seconds left. Memphis was up by five (97-92) going into the fourth.

Determined, the Spurs pulled ahead by five (103-98) before the Grizzlies’ depth and experience enabled them to regain the lead (111-109) with 5:09 left in the game.

They did not trail again.

Memphis had seven players score in double figures. Desmond Bane connected on three of five shots from three-point

A force on defense with five blocks, Jaren Jackson Jr. scored 16 points and pulled in six rebounds. range to finish with 15 points. Jackson had 16 points and 6 rebounds. Center Steven Adams returned to the lineup and had 13 points and 15 rebounds.

Others in double figures: Dillion Brooks, 15 points; Santi Aldama, 13 points, and Zaire Williams had 11 points both off the bench.

Memphis outrebounded the Spurs 50-42.

The Grizzlies also had 26 assists.

“We were able to find some renewed energy,” Jenkins said. “Their bench got them going early. We just stayed the course. It is our third straight back-to-back, but no excuses. Our guys found a way.”

The Spurs were led by Tre Jones, the younger brother of Tyus Jones, with 18 points and seven assists. Josh Richardson had 16 points, five rebounds and five assists off the bench. Jakob Poetle and Romeo Langford each had 13 points.

Memphis will face San Antonio again on Wednesday night (Jan. 11), with tipoff set for 7 p.m. Morant did go through his pregame workout and may be in the lineup on Wednesday.

The Grizzlies remained tied with the Denver Nuggets for the top spot in the Western Conference.

Why the TSD education columnist is writing about an NFL football game

by Curtis Weathers

Special to The New Tri-State Defender

I know, I’m an education columnist. So, what does the “Monday Night Football” game between the NFL’s Buffalo Bills and Cincinnati Bengals have to do with public education? The answer: nothing!

However, I consider myself fortunate to have played the game of football at every level, including the National Football League. For eight seasons during the late 70s and early 80s, I was a linebacker for the Cleveland Browns.

Now I’m fortunate to have a platform where periodically I can share my thoughts about something very dear to me outside of public education. Thank you TSD! The football world was shaken to its core by the tragic injury to Buffalo Bills safety Damar Hamlin. After making a tackle, Hamlin fell to the ground and suffered cardiac arrest.

He was resuscitated on the field and rushed to the University of Cincinnati Medical Center (UCMC).

It was chilling.

On Monday (June 9), Hamlin himself said he returned to Buffalo “with a lot of love on my heart” to continue his recovery in a hospital there. The Associated Press reported that was discharged from UCMC Monday morning and flown to western New York, where he was listed in stable condition at Buffalo General Medical Center/Gates Vascular Institute.

His injury resonated deeply within

the NFL community and the sports community as a whole –fans, players, owners, and coaches.

EVERYONE! Professional football is a viCurtis olent and inherWeathers ently dangerous sport. Unfortunately, for better or worse, injuries are an integral part of the game. Still, the type of injury Hamlin suffered elevates the issue to an entirely different level.

My heart sank when Hamlin collapsed. I worried and experienced the same kind of emotions television viewers saw reflected by the players on the field. It’s like I was there with them, in real-time.

I felt my heart race as I became a bit emotional as well.

We sometimes forget how violent the game of football really is. We get caught up in the excitement of seeing our favorite players perform and in rooting for our favorite teams.

While what we witnessed earlier this week was rare, we players come close during the course of every game to suffering severe neck or back injuries, brain trauma, and/or an array of other debilitating, sometimes career-ending injuries.

I love the game of football! The American people love the game. Yet, an injury such as this should bring re-

According to brownsnation. com, Curtis Weathers’ play on defense and special teams contributed to Cleveland winning two AFC Central division titles and earning three playoff appearances from 1980 to 1985. ality freshly into view.

Over the years, team owners and the NFL Players Association (NFLPA) have made protecting players a top priority. The NFLPA has done an excellent job guarding those priorities.

I served as our team’s union representative for several years and it has not always been that way.

These days, 25 to 30 medical care professionals staff each NFL game.

Every stadium is fully equipped with personnel and medical equipment to deal with any medical emergencies.

The medical teams meet for over an hour before each game and follow strict protocols to ensure an injured player has the best medical attention

possible – especially when an injury causes a player to lose consciousness as did Hamlin.

I remember being hit once so hard that I lost consciousness. I laid there for a few seconds, regained consciousness, got back on my feet, and ran to the sideline. I got no particular medical attention. I played the rest of the game, wobbly at times, but I finished the game.

The NFL has come a long way.

Many NFL players do not experience the full effects of all the hits they endure until well after they have retired from the game.

The medical benefits and attention the NFL gives to its retired players are second to none and get better each time the league and players emerge from the bargaining table.

The glamour of pro football is such that many young boys dream of playing at that high level, making lots of money, and basking in fame. I work with teenage boys through my nonprofit, The Brotherhood. Many of the boys have NFL aspirations. And I’m sure they were not deterred by what happened to Hamlin. Trust me, their NFL aspirations are still intact. They see so much life and death drama in their lives regularly that for them, “this too shall pass.”

Where do we go from here?

Well, NFL owners will review the league’s response to the incident and identify areas in which they can improve preparations for football games.

The medical teams in particular will review every detail of their re-

Damar Hamlin watches from his hospital bed in Cincinnati as his Buffalo Bills teammates took on (and defeated) the New York Giants less than a week after he suffered cardiac arrest in the game against the Bengals.

(Twitter) sponses before, during, and after the incident.

The players union will do likewise and maybe prepare recommendations that might help prevent a recurrence.

Players and coaches will have plenty of discussions about what happened on that football field, but will resume business as usual in preparation for the next football game.

Heavens’ doors have been inundated with prayers for Demar Hamlin from across the land; thankfully, God heard our prayers. We’re still praying for him and his family, with a full recovery in mind.

And while we are at it, let’s pray that there is nothing like this to witness again on any football field at any level.

Amen!

(Follow me, TSD’s education columnist, on Twitter @curtisweathers.

Email me at curtislweathers@gmail. com.)