My Double Take: An innocent Milwaukee mother shot dead and 45 is making racist remarks!

Its been a long minute since that I written a double take on anything. But in the recent events of a triple homicide and also just today, 45 is up to some go back where you came from  remarks to OUR 4 US Congresswomen that are all minorities, was one of the disgusting and vile commentary out this man’s mouth! So yes, we are mad as hell! And as I speak on this date being hot, guess what? The heat is on.

First take: An innocent mother loses her life. Many of us in the community  had heard of the triple homicide that occurred in the city of Milwaukee in late June. The area was near 85th and Grantosa which is not far from my sister’s residence that this senseless murder happened. When word got out that the victims were dead by one shooters, one of the victims was a daughter of my Lay Minister from his first marriage. The victim was named Sonya Collins. And according to the reports, she was killed due to the fact that she was trying to protect her children. And the attacker, Oshonti Cannady at age 21 did the job not only on Sonya, but also on two other women at the scene. After that part of the week was dismal, many of us my church was just talking about the incident that was still fresh in our minds. But I kept thinking about the family and MANILY the father of the daughter that I know that had to be extremely hurt over the senseless loss of her daughter. Here’s the thing, Sonya was just 41 years old. She was a mother that once again was trying to protect her children. Her babies! As any mother (excuse me, REAL MOTHER) would do in any situation by standing and protecting her kids! And all that ended in a senseless manner. Oh yes, duirng the week at Church, yes we were talking about it. And yet many of us recalled how many on the congregation lost their loved ones in a senseless manner in the past. Me, I lost 2 cousins in 2002 and 2010. Both in the Summertime. In the months of July and August. We were rocked with grief and anguish. One of my cousins was just 21 years old that started his own business of a Ice Cream Parlor in the inner city of Milwaukee. And going to school to UW – Milwaukee. What lead to the killing at the time was his car. My cousin was driving a 1996 Chevy Lumina that he bought with his own money. And with that, a set of rims that was purchased. These were the rims that many were being targeted for killings and crimes. Unfortunately for my cousin, he was being chased at least 3 times for his car. In the early morning of late July in that year. Here it was a young black male, from a good family, educated, had a job of his own, and yes we do talk about the endangered species when it comes to our African-American Males! Weeks later in my church then, the attacker of my cousin was caught and was sentenced to more that 10 years in prison. And all of this was because of some car rims that many wanted in a criminal manner. In all GETTING CAR RIMS! 

My other cousin was a mother, whom was stabbed to death by her alleged boyfriend in August of 2010. And was so shocking for my youngest cousin, she saw the stabbing in a closet with grief and shock. This is one of my father’s nieces. And usually when we get together for family outings or meetings, it usually involves a Funeral. Am I alone that goes through this? When family members most gather for funerals to say goodbye to a member that was known or not known well? But many of us in the family are trying to change the concept in which gathering at funerals are not the always norm everytime. But getting to my cousin that was stabbed in 2010, we also felt the concern that her children will have to live with their Aunt and Uncle without their mother being around everyday. Weeks later, my cousin’s attacker was found and caught in the state of Illinois and was sentenced for the murder. All of this was 9 years ago in the hot summer of Milwaukee. 

Getting back of course: When I explained all this in church in early July, I told my Lay Member and as well as my UMM Men’s Church member (who also lost his nephew in the same day as Sonya Collins)  that the attackers are just “running and hiding.” But eventually will get caught. I made a prediction that they will get caught and will not get far. I made a prediction about this and held nothing back based on I know. Well guess what ladies and gentlemen, on July 13th, 2019 in the same day that Sonya Collins was laid to rest, her attacker was caught and captured. Sonya was murdered in late June. I said either a couple of weeks or a month that the capture would happen. I asked the family and the church this question: “What did I tell you?” I told them this would happen. Now since the capture that has happened let the true justice, and I mean “TRUE JUSTICE”  must commence and come into play. I got another say on this: I thinking that the sentencing part of this, Oshonti will probably get at 10 years to life in prison. Why I am saying all this on this blog full of nice things? Guess what, I’ve mentioned this before and yes this all comes to those like, we need to take back our neighborhoods, our cities, or Black Lives Matter. Oh of course that many will scream out the question of “What about black on black crime?” This example was and is still in the crawl of most white folks asking when a black male/female gets killed by white folks with badges and guns or by senseless attackers. And of course in our black community we always say that we need to do better for our people in all, but some of us get reality checked ourselves that incidents like this complex every single time. Sometimes we ask about “why blacks don’t celebrate the 4th of July” when we see or read about bodies in the street? And usually that about police brutality. But when one of our own do this, we kind of run and hide from the question. I’m speaking the truth to power. When this happens in all we need to hold ourselves very accountable in terms of US being killed by others. As for these murders, we can go to the government and continue to regulate and try to regulate NEW Laws, but many we need to do it ourselves! It starts with US!

Second Take: take a look of this mess from today. We’ve all seen it while working on the job.

Oh, and see this also:

Did anyone believe the B.S. and I mean the B.S. coming out of this so-called President’s mouth? This is supposed to be the leader of the free world that supposed to set an example of positive. But many should not be surprised that this fool of the leader had to call out 4 of our US Congresswomen of Ilhan Omar, Rashida Tlab, Ayanna Pressley, and yes Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez. All 4 of them had the message to “go back to where they came from”. And also this is sending shock-waves not just in the United States, but also the world. 3 of 4 Congresswomen are U.S. Citizens but Omar is an immigrant that became a citizen 19 years ago. So yes, Congresswoman Ilhan Omar is a U.S. Citizen!

“The newly assembled Squad” had a response in regarding 45 dumbfound remarks:

I need to ask, this why do we say to folks, “go back where you came from?” And second, why are we saying this in 2019?! This is all about the one thing that many are beginning to understand that #whitefear is in the minds of those who want to keep the United States of America all under the white rule. Under the White Supremacy that many of us non-whites are sick and tired of. What they are really saying that we should be running this country, not many of the minorities.

Let me be clear to the idiotic bigots that want this to happen. You are indeed playing yourselves!

Even the so-called president whom made the statement is playing himself with these remarks. And yet, you got many folks like him are nodding in agreement. “Go back where you came from” is nothing more than a racist code word by stating that “we don’t want you”. Or “You can’t be us because you aren’t one of us.” or “You’re not our type.” Or many other warning signs of fear that many of the 45 Supporters don’t even want to condemn the so-called president of the remarks he’s stated! Let’s be real: 45 or Trump doesn’t give a rat’s carcass about no minorities in the majority that doesn’t agree with him.

LOOK HERE! THESE ARE #FACTS! And many of us whom are born here in the United States aren’t going back to bow down to the conformity of others that doesn’t make sense! It didn’t make sense back then, or when it started and it sure is hell doesn’t make sense NOW! All this “Go back to where you came from” is dumb!

And oh, here is a flashback: Remember when Obama was in office? Remember when the right wing fans about telling him or commenting about him going back to Kenya? His father was Kenyan Born. Oh yes conservatives and Tea Party Baggers you should remember! And that includes this birther crap (take our country back) that wanted to see if he’s a Citizen, or a Christian (even though he went to Rev. Jerimiah Wright’s Church in Chicago) , or even all of this stuff that didn’t make sense that Obama should do during his 8 years in the chair. This “all going back” crap has been heard so many times from Black folks, Latino Folks, and many others that the so-called 45 President labeled the countries “Sh*tHole Countries”. Some of those so-called “Sh*thole Countries” are laughing the crap out of us. They are. And in fact, I don’t blame them! And when 2020 gets here and if this So-Called President gets reelected, you know that the joke will be on us United States Citizens. Matter of fact, the joke was on us since November of 2016 that many voted him over Hilary, who had EXPERIENCE! But no, the so-called “silent majority” in this country is dumb. The same silent majority that voted up for 45 and those whom are actively wearing those #MAGA hats has racial ties, believe it or not. THINK ABOUT IT!

I’ll bet many years ago used it as a weapon to make the minorities inferior because they didn’t fit the system. Oh really? There have been many times the American Flag was used as a weapon against those whom have been label inferior in this country as a symbol of oppression. That is true. Even though it looks good “on display” as I said in the past. But of course that the flag had oppression viewpoints on how it was presented to scare or to make those less than worthless. Yes I’m talking about black folks that were fighting to get a seat at the table. And were still fighting TODAY to get that chance.

CALLOUT! For all the folks whom assumed that black folks ran their course: NEWSFLASH! the folks have NOT ran their course. We’ve only just begun again.

This is why every 4th of July and every Juneteenth Day, as much as everyday I say these words: “THE STRUGGLE CONTINUES”. And this example is one of them!

Your turn, Class of 2019. A blog letter.

I almost forgot to do this, but this is for the Class of 2019. By now, you just completed your degrees, walked with your classes, heard the commencement speeches, and many of you totally admit that this was the last time you saw each other. This part is sad. But you have to stay in touch with your Alumni to keep up. For all of that, this is your blog letter.

Dear Class of 2019:

It’s me, Stephen. And you know who I am. First to the class of 2019, I say congratulations! You made it! Welcome to the club of the Alumni! Or for some of you, the Real World! I know the feeling of walking that stage and being admired of my educational accomplishments. But I have heard that you all had a tremendous year based on sports, academics and yes, getting to this point in your lives that will be remembered as long as you live. If you’re living, say amen.

Even though that this moment in your lives in your educational history is very sufficient, don’t be alarmed but many of you are probably influencing the next class or the next member in your families that is willing to go to that next level to be the best in your efforts. I’ve mentioned this before with a different class, but the reality is you established something that will be very influential. No matter if its your High School Diploma, Colleges Degrees of Associates, Bachelor’s, Masters, or Doctors, somebody is watching you and saying that “I’m going to do this!” My thing is: GO FOR IT! Do the thing that will get you famous with the pictures on the walls and comeback in 20 years to get another generation of graduates to hype them up for the next level. And most recently, we’ve seen elders up near 90 years old that had graduated years ago, and never received their diplomas that were in their 20’s 70 years ago! But the main purpose is that they lived longer to see this moment for those whom didn’t get a chance to see. But also saw it through their succeeding generation family members.

But I want to take a moment to reflect on your Graduation Ceremonies. Many of you had great ceremonies in which you weren’t dancing. Some of you did. And some of you almost got yanked off the stage. Some of you High School Valedictorians that graduated wanted to say your speeches that included some concerns about Sexual Acts of Harassment and other acts of concerns you wanted to say, was cancelled by the administrations of pulling your microphones away.  Even mentioning of names like Trayvon Martin or Tamir Rice. This crap of what you experienced was nothing of fear! The administrators of your schools were full of BS. They didn’t care. All they cared was like YET again: let’s talk about the good things, pomp and circumstance music, speeches, congrats, walk on the stage, tilt your tassel and go home.

WAIT A SECOND! I written about this before years ago about top seniors in High School almost got yanked off the stage for the concerns about the violence, sexual harassment, and many other FEARS that many will talk about after leaving school. My thing is, you should be concerned! This happens almost EVERYDAY in the real world! You read about it online, in the papers, the news, and yes you hear it from other folks whom have their problems in the families in school! But alas: it’s graduation season. I need to tell these so-called Superintendents, Educators, Secretaries, Principals, Vice Principals, Dignitaries, and yes so-called supporters who favored the yanking of speeches: YOU ARE SO STUPID! You’re all about the one-sided affairs. But not about concerns! When I heard about the students making their speeches about the violence and racial N-words this 2018-2019 school year and many others across the country: where were you administration? Were you listening to the students?! If you were NOT LISTENING to the kids and especially those whom were Seniors, there is something wrong with you! This is our future! This is our next leaders to might be better than us in which they will be in control of the game. And oh, you stripped their right to speak about the concerns. You all need to WAKE THE F//**+ UP! Yeah I said it! Many of you are worried about your wallets instead of your instincts! I thought “the schools” are a part of “the community.” When the community of Children and Youth are concerned about the world of Donald Trump insults on many occassions, and the violence of innocent people being harassed, bullied, killed,  or even traumatized about their classmates’ experience, WE THE SO-CALLED GROWN FOLKS need to LISTEN! They are our future! They are not just on Facebook, or their phones texting or playing Fortnite! And as far as the University Commencements are concern: When the graduates in were dancing around after hearing the names called, one of the folks put their hands on the graduates (black ones) and try to get them off the stage! REALLY?! I get it. Its a day full of joy. And yes the University had apologized to the graduates for the act. Lucky some of the HBCU’s (the Black Colleges) didn’t see that as a distraction or a problem!

Class of 2019: Word from one of my late church members: DON’T LET NOBODY STEAL YOUR JOY! If I had to come to a graduation and speak to most of you, I’m letting those words be the anchor. Not just for graduations or commencement services but everyday! Spoiler Alert: You’re going to put up with folks whom don’t care about your academics, your sports,  your music days in the choir or band, your family background, your heritage, your gender, your issues of whatever, religion, history, and etc. THEY WON’T CARE. It might seemed racist, sexist, shaming, in all. They will not care. Although they might acknowledge them, but many will not care about it! But I say this, be proud that you made it. Let the haters hate, sulk, lose, and suffer!

If they hate that you got a masters or a bachelors from a crappy school that they couldn’t pass, guess what? SORE LOSERS! Same thing with the High Schools. They couldn’t cut the mustard then and not now. That’s why they complain. That’s why they go on the blogs (not this one) Facebook, Twitter, Instagram and others piss and moan about guys like you making it. And here is a shocker, some of them could be your former classmates, and I dare say: your church members that never cared about you growing up, your other friends, and even this might hurt, your kinfolk family members. It’s a well known fact of hate!

Real talk 2019, always continue to be the best in all what you do! Be real in all what you do! And don’t let NOBODY or anything stand your way towards that goaline. You have made it this far. Keep going to that next level! Oh, one more thing: since many of you have your degrees, and got all that grad money and I’ve mentioned this before. Get involved with your school’s Alumni Associations. Get involved with them. Attend a board meeting, receive newsletters, email blasts, view social media posts about your class or school. Tour the school for an open house, attend a homecoming game. Just to clarify that Homecoming is really for the Alumni! And for those whom are way younger than 42: I was told to do this at 18, and I’m telling you here: Go to your reunions. And also, donate back to your schools that gave you love in the first place! Now a days if you have not heard, Alumni Groups or Alumni in general now wants to give back to their schools. And also, the schools want to reach out to the Alumni. Either way, GET INVOLVED!

Younger alums: I know that many of you will be busy with family and college. But the Alumni Committees needs to hear from you about what you want to see in your alum orgs. My advice, get to know your Alumni Committee. Get to know at least one member. Visit the schools, get the info that is current! Buy a T-shirt, form your own Alumni groups and events/reunions, and have the elder alumni to talk to you about why you should be a future Alumni Board Member. And like I said in many Graduation Blogs years ago, you might be on the stage in the future giving a keynote address to a future class that might be looking at you as an example while getting  or presenting an Alumni of the Year Award. Which would echo your work in the community.

In conclusion, 2019 you made it this far. Congrats to all of you. Like I said on the night of my father’s wake in March of  2017: Stay in the fight! And to quote Nipsey Hussle: The Marathon Continues!

Sincerely,

Stephen

Scratching my head all this time: The 4th of July Edition – Part III: The trilogy.

Hope many of us had another chance of celebrating the 4th.

Happy 4th by the way.

As in the 4th of July, you know America’s Birthday in all? And I’m sorry to say that many aren’t feeling the goodness in all in which many have came so far in advance of getting that American Dream that many continue to thrive for all this time. And yet, it’s still out there. So for this 243rd edition of the Birthday, it’s time to go deep into the thoughts of asking and yes to come clean. Oh, who am I kidding: with all the meltdown of Patriotism, 45 has this so-called celebration in DC, more black folks denouncing the holiday again but overlooking the good, Nike goes crazy with the Air Max Shoes with the Betsy Ross Flag on it, and everyday shenanigans that makes us Yanks really worried. And yet: I’m scratching my head again.

There is a difference betweeen the “Pledge” and the “Declaration”. Who knows the truth?

For real though, had many really paid attention to 45’s 4th of July Parade with Tanks, and other related copy cat stuff like North Korea?

DYI: (did you know) that in the original draft of the Declaration of Independence, there was this item? (courtesy of the Library of Congress) “he has waged cruel war against human nature itself, violating it’s most sacred rights of life & liberty in the persons of a distant people who never offended him, captivating & carrying them into slavery in another hemisphere, or to incur miserable death in their transportation thither. this piratical warfare, the opprobrium of infidel powers, is the warfare of the CHRISTIAN king of Great Britain. determined to keep open a market where MEN should be bought & sold, he has prostituted his negative for suppressing every legislative attempt to prohibit or to restrain this execrable commerce: and that this assemblage of horrors might want no fact of distinguished die, he is now exciting those very people to rise in arms among us, and to purchase that liberty of which he has deprived them, & murdering the people upon whom he also obtruded them; thus paying off former crimes committed against the liberties of one people, with crimes which he urges them to commit against the lives of another. ”

*This was an idea to strike the issue of slavery out of America. Our founding fathers had this idea in mind (even though more of them were slaveowners) before the states of Georgia and South Carolina had to intervene. And you wonder why asking!

This needs to be asked. We all heard the rendition of Frederick Douglass’ “What to the Slave is the Fourth of July?” Speech and yet no one read “The American Dream” by Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr? Yes! he wrote that in a sermon in 1965 for Independence Day. Who did not read this? By the way Douglass’ speech is really titled: “The Meaning of Fourth of July for the Negro.”

Who still watches the last 4th of July footage of President Barack Obama from 2016? Where he mentioned about “imperfections in our union”?

It’s a fact: there was no parties for the black folks in 1776 when the country was declared. So many had to ask, why the constant stuff like: “This is not my holiday. My holiday was Juneteenth Day.” And also state like, I don’t vote. What kind of ISH is this? And for the record, there were African Americans like Peter Salem and James Armistead Lafayette that fought along the sides of the Continental Army in which…..to gain their freedom. Including John Chavis, Lambert Latham, Oliver Cromwell, Prince Estabrook, just to name few Black Patriots of the era.

The late great Coretta Scott King once said: “Struggle is a never ending process. Freedom is never really won, you earn it and win it in every generation”. Agree or Disagree?

Who bought the Betsy Ross Kicks from Nike? $140.00 dollars worth?

CALLOUT: Ok. I like Old Navy. And Old Navy is celebrating it’s 25th Anniversary. And yes around this time, the store had all the flag T-Shirts out for the holiday, which was selling during the Memorial Day Weekend. But on Facebook,it was noted that they were selling the shirts in a Purple theme design signifying the silver anniversary on 4th of July. But I need answers: Why did Old Navy had to sell 1,994 shirts online and then when word got out, they were gone?! Somebody really tell me something and yet that is a something worth scratching my head for!

And also, when Old Navy got the purple shirts out, there was a message on the back that transcribed almost with the original pledge of allegiance. Without the words “Under God” on it. And many of the folks on social media went nuts. Why, sway?

It seems that some black folks do celebrate the 4th. And guess what, you know Malia Obama’s birthday is on the holiday, right? And she’s just now 21.

Who’s rocking the Essence Festival this weekend in New Orleans? For the 25th time in a row!

Of all the patriots past and present: who were or are the patriotic introverts in American History that defied the odds? No matter what time-frame, era, gender, race, creed, class, preference, or next generation status?

OK, many folks had to ask: with all this stuff concerning the 4th with fireworks, why not of that for Juneteenth Day? Better start now! We need Black Pyrotechnic Workers!

Milwaukee: last night began a new era in our “July 3rd before the 4th traditional fireworks.” The Milwaukee Brewers, American Family Insurance and other private businesses forged together to bring the now “Lakefront Fireworks”. When the fog was getting to be worse, it kind of cleared. But we had our show. So, how did they do? And also they will be back in July 2020. Ahead of the DNC Convention in the city!

In the first half of Summerfest, Pop Artist Lizzo (you know the one that dissed John Williams’ song Jaws being lazy) had a difficult spot with a member of the security squad member that racially encountered Lizzo’s hair stylist and another stylist after her first Big Gig Performance. And yet, it was Lizzo’s first coming off the heels of the 2019 BET Awards. My question is, has that Summerfest Security Guard Member been fired yet?! And will anyone book Lizzo in the future in Milwaukee? You know already that the city is segregated.

Speaking of the DNC: How are the ideas coming along, Milwaukee? We are about ONE YEAR this month away from welcoming the Democrats to the Brew City!

Speaking of Dream Teams: Which team right now in 2019 is a team that nobody is taking seriously but noticing? Oh, it has to be a U.S. Team.

Speaking of Dream Teams: Which team comes to mind as being a Super team that started the super teams and actually won more than one game and undefeated? Again, it has to be a U.S. Team.

Will the Milwaukee Streetcar be able to “extend the play” in terms of fares and sponsorship between now and 2020? And its still free to ride so far.

How will all U.S. Cities celebrate the 4th of July next year in 2020?

How did many of you played Mortal Kombat 11, the tower version with Jax Briggs, Sonya Blade, etc? Just in time for the 4th.

What is the one place in America that many haven’t gone but need to go?

Seriously asking: is every way the American way?

Seriously asking: Who in the living heck is #ADOS?!! Also known as American Descendants of Slaves? Word is that they don’t know enough knowledge and self hate of being black. And also, what is ADOS’s real agendas regarding the support and assistance of the African-American Community or the Black Community at large that is not very snobbish!

ADOS: Who IS This?!!!

Seriously asking: is there a thing called opportunity to earn your keep? In an American way?

Check this: how will the 4th of July historians really align themselves with the discussions of the 400th anniversary of the Trans Atlantic Slave Trade? Which was in 1619?

Should all black historians really align with the 4th in a sense of expressing their own truths to be self-evident that all men SHOULD BE created equal?

The one thing still remains, how will the struggle continue for the better now since the 4th and Juneteenth are now in the rear view? This is an everyday question.

Oh hold up. What up with this? You young Americans and world wide folks take notes on this flow of Hip-Hop!

Second question: for all the triggered folks in America, one of members of Chloe and Hallie will be featured in The Little Mermaid and the triggered folks got mad and pissed all because a black woman is getting the part of Ariel. And they got mad on the Fourth. Really?!

Speaking of being Patriotic: which UNSUNG figures in current American History seemed to be the most patriotic in terms of speaking out against racism, police brutality, white supremacy, and many other shameful acts? Hint: We are talking someone or somebody that is all flag waving celebrating and being very VERY conscious about the issues of America’s problems at hand at the same time!

And…..another thing, anyone noticed that “A Capitol Fourth” was way better than 45’s Celebration in DC? Yeah I said it! And I hate to say it that in the 18th Century, there were no runways and airports. SPOILER ALERT!

Which National Anthem rendition was and is still the best: Whitney Houston, Jimi Hendrix, or Beyonce?

Which America the Beautiful rendition was and is still the best: John Legend, Aretha Franklin or Ray Charles?

This needs to be asked black folks: so the 4th of July “is not considered our holiday” in all, but which holiday is? Oh, if it’s Juneteenth, the word is that many in the Black Community don’t celebrate that either as much as Black History Month. Most of that are facts!

Black folks, when we see our own dress up in Red White and Blue, why do we get upset? Look, many can do Red White And Blue as much as Red, Black and Green and Rainbows. If we can do those without those looks without any disdain, is that considered independent? Or in this case being your own person? Not to offend, but JUST SAYING! As they say, do you!

Which of us in the black community doesn’t mind celebrating the 4th or being greeted “Happy 4th”, but also celebrate Juneteenth Day? Who does BOTH?! This is for those whom are more independent than just being one-sided!

Every Black Family must decorate their houses for Juneteenth Day. Put out the official Juneteenth Day flag and display it. Can that be done? Oh….if those don’t like the Stars and Stripes for the 4th, fly the Juneteenth.

How many times that we were reminded to “Take your place” from the scene of Tyler Perry’s Madea’s Family Reunion? Not put you in your place, but TAKE YOUR PLACE! Just a reminder: Cicely Tyson’s character centered this statement!

When 2020 arrives: is respirations on the list FINALLY?!

When July 4th, 2020 arrives next year, are we going to act more Patriotic and actually VOTE?!! Forget about all the speeches that are anti this or that, what about just going to ballots and VOTE!

When July 4th, 2020 gets here, how many of will not rely on Facebook to sway our votes in a Patriotic manner?

When July 4th, 2020 gets year in a Patroitic manner are we just going to not do nothing or actually get something started to create things HAPPEN?

By the time July 4th, 2020 passes, 10 days later, will be the 2020 DNC Convention in Milwaukee. Will the DNC be Brew City Ready?

And the final question of this 4th of July…….when 2020 gets here are we still going to work towards freedom instead of painting it like a bad habit?

Until the next one: The Struggle (like marathon) Continues!

My Take: Juneteenth Day Does Matter Like The 4th of July. And it should matter!

Juneteenth Day 2019

For all those knowing it all, hear these words: “Juneteenth Day Matters Like The 4th Of July.”

I repeat: “Juneteenth Day Matters Like The 4th Of July.”

Saying it is the stone cold truth! And does matter because part of this is American History. And the second part of this is that it’s apart of Black History that many should know . Juneteenth Day or the June 19th is the day in American History that slaves were given news that they have been set free from the villainy of slavery. They were officially free 2 years after the signature of the Emancipation Proclamation that was adopted and in acted by President Abraham Lincoln in 1863. This was done also before his assassination by John Wilkes Booth around the 1860’s time frame. So yet, with all the hoopla surrounding the occasion, yes every American, and I mean EVERY AMERICAN no matter how woke, conscious or all patriotic flag waving american you are, every one should learn about this “black” version of Independence Day that it took nearly 90 years after 1776. Actually it was 89.

Classic Milwaukee Juneteenth Day Footage

But why does June 19th care? Why does it care to many of us African-Americans the most than the 4th of July and also why does it get many white folks upset about this day over the 4th? Especially on Facebook! I’m on the History Channel’s Facebook Page and I’m reading all these comments about Juneteenth that yes many didn’t know that it does exists and it should be taught in schools. However there are those (and white) had to be very stupid in a remarkable manner about well they should be glad that the slaves made it to America during the time-frame and trying to get freedom like the promise was uphold. Well let’s get to the punchline. THEY WERE NOT FREE! It was not enough! Even after the adoption of the Declaration of Independence the black folks were not totally free. At the time, the only way that the slaves were set free in all, is they had to serve in the Continental Army part of the Militia. And if they served during that term, they were given their freedom. That was one of the ways that the slaves, especially the male black slaves were set free the most. Oh, even the British did the same thing. They took the slaves already in America and some did join under the King to take up arms to get freedom. But keep in mind, this was the 1770’s and it took about 80 plus years to get this motion of freedom in the minds of the colonies.

When folks make some dumb remarks about Juneteenth and not understanding the full meaning behind it, this is why America currently is not that well educated. Its dumb idiots on Facebook that have not done their homework, or actually went to a Juneteenth Day festival or any Juneteenth Fundraiser or any Juneteenth Day anything to gain the knowledge and stories of why this matters like the 4th of July. What I’m saying here is not just for some idiots, even those whom disrupt problems can be a fool too at Juneteenth Festivals. Of course I’m talking about festival goers of color. When Milwaukee had it’s Juneteenth Day Parades and Festivals in the beginning, according to the historians, the festival was from Day to Night. Now It’s from Day to late afternoon to 6:00pm. And the main reasons why that many didn’t felt safe after the fights and mess up disruptions that fest goers saw first hand. Oh, of course again this is about the black folks. Way before the era of Woke and Conscious came out. But we know this.

Juneteenth Is Important – The Root.com

CALLOUT: The real issue is lack of knowledge, lack of education, lack of understanding and lack of advisement about Juneteenth!!!!!!

SPOILER ALERT! When the 4th of July comes, folks will be asking about Juneteenth. Just wait. Just wait until someone on your Social Media lists mentions it. I’m giving everyone an “Early Warning” right now and when the 4th comes many will unleash about the truth about 4th of YOU LIE stuff and many of the White Folks will get UPSET! Don’t believe me? Just wait on it. And also, don’t be surprised that many black folks celebrate the fourth and have reminders of Juneteenth EVERYDAY! I’m one of them. Yes, I’ll decorate my Milwaukee house with Red, White, and Blue which is my choice and yet after it’s done, back to reality. So I’m not afraid of the truth about the 4th and nor I’m not afraid that many of the ideals of Juneteenth Day had not reached the many foothills of this country!

What is Juneteenth?

On Juneteenth Day, there was talks about respiration on Capitol Hill. Danny Glover and Ta-Neishi Coates were testifying on why it’s necessary that Black Folks need that 40 acres and a Mule to solidify fairness and prosperity of the faults of America’s Slavery/Racial past. And some of that still exists today in different forms of 2019! This year of 2019 marks 400 years of the last Trans-Atlantic Slave Trade that came to Jamestown, Virginia in 1619. This is also called the “year of the return” in quoting our Ghana brothers and sisters in Africa. And also Ghana is “welcoming” some of us black folks here in the state back there to gain a greeting of being back home. And yes of course it’s same continent that sold their own into slavery in the first place. Black folks, as much as we love Africa, that part is the truth. If we want to learn about our people, yes we can talk about our folks whom were raped, beaten shackled, bought, sold, separated, and many other inhumane acts against our folks whom are our ancestors. And also yes we had black folks that tried to fight back against the slavery acts and even spoke out against the 4th of July being a sham. I’m referencing Frederick Douglass. And I wonder how the black historians will respond about 400 years after 1619 in 2019 on America’s Birthday on July 4th. That remains to be seen.

Juneteenth Day is like the last pitcher in Baseball. When the player comes to the mound, it’s the closer. It’s the “be all end all” of the previous era of slavery. So when you do the math: from 1619 to 1865, it’s about 246 years of oppression, malice and fear of slavery. Between the years, around the 157th year, this was I think 1776 came into play as being as the beginning pitch of a new game of Independence. So if we want to get back with fighting against the 4th, let’s go after August of 1619. That’s where it starts. The Independence Day factor was a build up in trying to break up the slavery acts and freedom. But again, it took 89 years to get to 1865.

I hope that many who acted a freaking fool on Social Media probably got a woke lesson. If not, then they are failing. They will fail, suffer, blame others on education, broke at a job, no relationship or divorce, get old, probably diagnosed with a deadly disease and die. But the fact of the matter is when they try to talk about it, they will just post a message and get likes plus comments. BUT THEY WILL NEVER ACTUALLY DO THE JOB!

Folks, you really want to learn Juneteenth? You better study up all day everyday. And yet you better start doing it right now. Don’t wait until the next Juneteenth, because many of you might be gone. You all better get on it RIGHT NOW! This is not a game and there ain’t no mulligans.

Henceforth: Juneteenth Day Matters like the 4th of July: in terms of Freedom and Independence!

Scrtatching my head all this time. The Post Memorial Day 2019 Edition.

While many of us were taking the day off from work and school, the infamous Memorial Day Holiday returned as well as the “unofficial”start of the 2019 summer season. You know that is when many will start to travel alot? Yeah that one. This is also the same Memorial Day when many of us in the black community will remind the country that it was black folks that made the holiday. Long history of that missed! And also, it appears that the sacrilegious saying again of “Happy Memorial Day” is dumb as a you know what.

But however, I’m scratching my head again.

Stop Saying Happy Memorial Day!

Like last year and this year and the year before that AND THE YEAR BEFORE THAT: WHY THE HELL ARE WE SAYING HAPPY MEMORIAL DAY?!! It’s not for the living! Stop it, new generation folks!

I need to ask this: does the African-American Community receives an honor on Memorial Day when many of our black servicemen died or KIA in battle? Even while serving when the country didn’t give them love previously?

The month of May is Military Appreciation Month, right? So which military member of any branch should be given love each day that HASN’T been appreciated?

Who’s ready for Rambo? Coming in September!

As the field of candidates grows for 2020, which of them really has a shot of getting after 45?

Well they tried, the 2018-2019 Milwaukee Bucks season was ended by the Toronto Raptors in the Eastern Conference Finals. So overall, how did the Deer do with a Central Division Title Win and a budding future?

HOLD UP: Is AEW Wrestling “REALLY THAT SERIOUS” wanting to go after WWE? On the heels of the Double or Nothing Pay Per View? By the way if I’m AEW in all, don’t go greedy in all taking out Vince. Just saying! Be your own brand and your OWN stuff.

Stop the press: who did not know that Assassin’s Creed III was out on the Nintendo Switch?! Anyone surprised?

Question: Are the Milwaukee Black Panthers really serious about disrupting the summer festivals just to protest the concerns of the city? Come on now.

Last year, Wolfenstein II was that combat game for the Nintendo Switch. So….which war game is next for the console?

For the old school gaming crowd: who has the Blast! Controllers with the HDMI plug ins? Why I’m asking this? It’s for the Atari folks at heart.

For the next month of June: Black Music Month, Pride Month, a Month set aside for Fathers, Juneteenth Day, Flag Day, The First Day of Summer………and oh, you know us men have to realize that it’s also Men’s Health Month? Wear light blue, gents!

Why many STILL ask those whom are single and no kids: “what’s wrong?” The real question is, why does it matter to you? Here’s some advice: Get your life! Switch your lanes!

Why many ask those whom are introverted that are “anti-social?!” Knowing its not the people, it’s really the connection.

North American Challenge: How many residents of #Toronto, Canada do not know anything about #Milwaukee? I’m not talking about sports here. Place your bets. Either American dollars or Canadian Dollars.

Hold up: Noah’s Ark is turning 40 years old in the Wisconsin Dells. Who’s parting while riding Black Anaconda or Raja or whatever waterslide they have?

It’s all over: Who still hasn’t seen Game Of Thrones?

For its 100th year, can the American Legion go to the inner city schools/events to assist them about black history war figures? Along with the Auxiliary, Riders and Sons? This is a serious question here. Not knocking the suburbs. I really need to see the African-American Legion posts at work on this!

How do we like the Deer District, Milwaukee?

Is the new Chevy Blazer that serious to sell?

Wisconsin: we turned 171 years old this week. How is the montage connection of Governor Tony Evers is doing after a year not dealing with Scott Walker?

How will Juneteenth Day 2019 turn up? Even in the year of the return?

Black Men/Women: when we are stopped by the police or had been stopped by the police, do we feel a sense of concern like they are going to get us? And could this be one of the reasons why an interest in Police work is not out of the question?

Old Town Road

Seriously folks, is Lil Nas X’s song “Old Town Road” really that disrespectful to country music? Even though black folks made the genre in the first place? Happy early Black Music Month.

And the Final question: Has EVERY American understood this? Be honest. I know we love our troops and veterans in all, but keep it real!

My Take: Kofimania! And it’s about time this happened.

Oh yes, wrestling fans: we just saw Wrestlemania 35 this past Sunday. And if you didn’t get a chance to see the event, you may want to not look at this blog post. Spoiler Alert! It concerns the WWE Championship Match. And the Belt, and the fights and a expected win to happen that did happen.

Where was I? Oh yes. We’re talking about Wrestlemania. The same Wrestlemania that we saw yes, Becky Lynch winning not one but two belts, a returning Roman Reigns beating Drew McIntyre, Women’s Tag Team Belts defended, a Universal Champion Crowned of Seth Rollins, and several others.

But the main part of Mania, was indeed the WWE Championship Match between Kofi Kingston and Daniel Bryan. Oh yes there were some close encounters in the match that went back and forth. It was pretty close! But after that move of Kofi’s with the side kick of the “Trouble in Paradise” and after the 3 count pin: HISTORY WAS MADE!

You hear alot about history being made at Wrestlemania, but this history was made was even better because Kofi was the first Black Wrestler out of Ghana to win the company’s coveted prize that many had before him. Yes, Kofi Kingston may have been “crowned” out of Jamaica. But he’s really from Ghana. BLACK MAN! He’s the first Ghanaian African wrestler to win the title. When Kofi got the strap, I like everyone else was like: it’s about time that the WWE crowned the Black Man a WWE Championship! Folks have been asking for years: when is the WWE going to have a black champion to represent the company? Over the years we had from the Nature Boy Buddy Rodgers to Bruno Samartino, Andre The Giant, Hulk Hogan, Randy Savage, Ultimate Warrior, Undertaker, John Cena, Daniel Bryan, Jeff Hardy, Bret Hart, Sgt. Slaughter, Kane, just to name a few. Most of the men listen were multi time WWE Champions, but none of them were of African-decent. Oh, yes we talk about The Rock winning the belt, but he’s the first third generation to win the title as a biracial competitor. Half black/Half Samoan. Since the WWE acquired WCW in 2001, they had used the old World Heavyweight Championship in transition during the reigns of Booker T (or King Booker) and Mark Henry when they won the title. But keep in mind, this was the WORLD HEAVYWEIGHT CHAMPIONSHIP. But not the WWE Championship.

Why does this matter? Why had the old commentators used the phrase “that the title is not about race?” Some say that race played a factor in this question, but I also say after all this time, it was about representation of how others see themselves. When Hulk Hogan and them were champions, yes many like them, but in the Black Community as we know now, Representation Matters. It clearly does matter in 2019 and yet the WWE had to respond to that change. This is the same company that year after year acknowledge about the life/work of Martin Luther King, Jr. every year on Monday Night Raw since it’s inception. And also every February, they acknowledge Black History Month, besides visiting the National Civil Rights Museum, they also acknowledge the likes of Ron Simmons, JYD, SD Jones, and many other notable black wrestlers that either won championships or were noted competitors.

Oh yes, Black Champions Matter. When WCW was still on the scene there was concerns about black wrestlers not getting noticed or being held back. We heard those stories out of “Hardwork” Bobby Walker and I believe Ice Train. Remember them? One of the shattered ceilings happened when Ron Simmons won the WCW Heavyweight Championship in 1992. That was the first time an African-American won the company’s top prize. Before the company folded in 2001, Booker T was crowned the World Heavyweight Championship in which was the second time a black man winning the strap. So even though that WCW had really well……SUCKED in dual times, but the company did something that the WWE did not done in their over 5 decades of existence. And even though it was brought up in the 1990’s toward the 2000’s, the story among the fans especially the Black Wrestling Fans still remained in tact. Yes over the years, the WWE has had Black Champions in other divisions: Intercontinental, Tag Team, European, US Championships (post WCW), Light Heavyweight, Cruiserweight, Men’s NXT, ECW, the previous Women’s Championship, Divas title, and yes the women’s belts of NXT, Raw and Smackdown. But in 2019 (also known as The Year of the Return) : this long story of Black Men winning the TOP Belt has been off the hook with Kofi’s win. And many state that this should have been crowned years ago. And yet, that Black NBA, NFL, MLB, Soccer, Rugby and other athletes can be marketable, the WWE must be marketable with it’s black grapplers to be. If LeBron James or Stephen Curry, or Laila Ali, Tiger Woods, Slone Stephens, Serena/Venus Williams, Kobe Bryant, Michael Jordan, Magic Johnson, Mike Tyson, Muhammad Ali, and a cluster of Black Athletes can be so marketbale of all their likenesses, endorsements why not wrestlers like R-Truth or Kofi Kingston, Shelton Benjamin, Ricochet, Bianca BelAir, or Naomi? And they are black! Plus also, the WWE this past February along with NXT, had celebrated their photoshoots with the attire in the recognition of Black Excellence in this year’s Black History Month. Matter of fact, that started with Kofi Kingston when he and The New Day along with former Raw Women’s champ Sasha Banks, and former Crusierweight Champion Rich Swann were posed in a group shot on Instagram and many of the white fans were upset because it incited racism. Really?! It’s not racism folks, it’s representation! There might be young black boys and girls looking at them for inspiration that they one day can be champions or be something great as they get older in life.

NOW: Enter The New Day. When this group was started, it was designed to get the three wrestlers, Xavier Woods, Big E Langston, and Kofi Kingston all black wrestlers to form their own club in order to get noticed. Many folks thought that it was going to be another Nation of Domination group or it’s version 2. But when the promos were happening full of the all black women’s choir and each of the three wrestlers were shown in the promos for the group’s debut. After the debut and promos the group started to do zany and crude humor segments. Wait a minute, you might have saw DX, or Edge and Christian do crazy stuff in all, but The New Day?! Three Black Men doing crude humor of BOOTY, Twerking, wearing Unicorn Horns, Rap Battles with The Usos, Lyrical battles with SWV, Christmas outfits, Thanksgiving Pilgrims outfits with 6-1 on the front, their wrestling gear that was mixed with their personal statements, even with Kente designs for Black History Month, Fila Track Suits, wearing pink and light blue mixing with their attire, having the word “WHO?” (as in next competitors to challenge), Big E bellowing the intros of: “AWWWWWWWWW (insert your city here)! Don’t you dare be sour! Clap for your world famous (something something) Champs (or event) and FEEL THE POWER!” Like a minister in church preparing you for the worship service or revival. Many of the black fans were like: “they are some minstrel show ish”. Minstrel show for those whom are not black, it’s kind of like performing before an audience that really doesn’t like your skin color as much but you do it regarding your ancestory’s acknowledgements. But through it all, the group’s ideas of humor along with Xavier’s trombone, pancake throwing, Booty O’s Cereal was somewhat coming along. The New Day started out of no direction and getting direction of what they wanted to do. Yes, the New Day before the group were Intercontinental Champs, U.S. Champs, Tag Team Champs and yes thanks to Kofi – the WWE Champion. So yes, black representation and changing the direction does matter. Even if you’re black. Even if you’re in the Wrestling Game as it’s demonstrated many times before.

And besides that, one of the members Xavier has a YouTube Channel called Up Up Down Down, where he and his teammates along with other wrestlers of the company get together out of their time away from the ring and promos to play video games. I checked out the YouTube Channel and I’m looking at the wrestlers and like: man they are still friends! I guess the entertainment side of things are one thing, but this thing says another. Besides video games, they also do other competitive sports of Axe Throwing, Pool, Bowling, just to name a few. And yes, there is a UUDD Championship Belt. No kidding.

Kofi has his shoe promotions out with Fila in the ongoing success of the New Day Colors even with the new shirt designs. 5 years ago, this happened:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=B4DZUOmxYUg And even with his segments called I Just Love Kicks on the UUDD Youtube Channel. Plus he’s been on the airwaves in talks about his wrestling career and family.

And Big E, does his job with the videos and promos along with his New Day faithful and other wrestlers. Previously he had done segments and interviews as a singles competitor in the past. And word on the street, is a Double Dare Segment with him coming out? And as a matter of fact: I want to see Big E do his UUDD promos. Come on Big E! I see you, bruh! I know that he’s done some funny segments way back when, BUT……what about coming up? Fill us in!

What does all this mean here? I know this is about Kofi and getting the strap. It also goes by saying that never overlook Black Competitors that might be on the rise coming up. And this being 2019, as known as the Year of the Return: for those who don’t know what that is, this year of 2019 marks the 400th Anniversary of the last slaves arrived in America back in 1619. Even though that many of the Wrestling Universe may not care about 1619, but guess what; it’s not a celebration. It’s a painful reminder that black folks were sold into the slave trade against their will and other aspects. And even though we’ve been talking 400 years, I feel as a black man, we should not make the same concerns of the next 400 years. Now what does that have to do with Kofi Kingston? Yeah many rooted for Kofi to win, but let’s not lose short sighted that many had to endure harsh realities of racism and discrimination to get this far. Just to think 11 years ago, Barack Obama was elected the first black U.S. President. And just to think in 2008, Kofi was getting his big break in the WWE: the very same WWE we know now also was in recruitment of searching for African-American wrestlers! And yet Kofi was one of them. Now look at him! Being a former Tag Team Champ, Intercontinental Champ, U.S. Champ, and now WWE Champion.

Finally as I close this, the next topic will be short and has nothing to do with Kofi. So every wrestling fan like to buy the merch, huh? Well that’s fine. But for all you younger wrestling fans: INVEST and I repeat Invest in WWE STOCK. Buy a share of the stock! Not just to sell and trade, but also to BUY!!!! Put that into a safe deposit box, and just forget it about it. Be a stockholder. Invest in a portfolio and save up more collateral! And goes for the AEW fans, Impact Wrestling, ROH and dozens of promotions that you follow all the time. All wrestling fans need to buy some stock. Instead of buying that replica Championship Belt that cost over $400.00, why not use that pricetag for some stock? Im just saying. If the WWE can put on all these clinics, health awarenesses, and historical ethinc and gender achivements. And they do it so wellWhy not use that community sense for fans or anyone investing in stock? Come on, fans!

But yes, in regarding the WWE Ship, It’s Kofi’s time. ITS ABOUT TIME! And it’s a time that many should believe that a Black Man’s time is definitely here and must defend well! And that really is a New Day that rocks!

Black History Month 2019: Under Review.

Well, it seems that Black History Month 2019 is about to be in the books. And apparently that this was one of the almost weird Black History Month Celebrations that has happened. Oh, yes it’s 93 years old. And it seems that many already forgotten that the occasion is not a racist celebration. And many had to be reminded that it does matter just like the various White stories we hear almost every day at work, school, or anywhere else. I said many times before that Black History is NOT American History. It may have some American elements in all, but it’s not only American. Black History is also celebrated in different world countries like Canada, the UK, France, Haiti, Jamaica, and others. It’s not just America alone!

So what were my moments that helped made Black History Month 2019 good?

Well, let’s start with the Oscars. No, I’m not going to go toe to toe and bash the Oscars in context. But I will say this: Regina King (aka Brenda Jenkins from 227) Black Panther walked with 3 Oscar W’s in the areas of Production Design won by Hannah Beachler who became the first African-American Female to win that category. Original Score of the movie won by
Ludwig Goransson (non-black), and also Best Costume Design by Ruth Carter. Oh, at long last after 30 years in the movie game: Spike Lee (YES THAT SPIKE LEE) after all this time, won an Oscar for directing as part of the win for the movie Black Klansman. This was Spike’s first Oscar Win and many thought that it was about time that he got one. Just to think, 30 years. Since the first movie that he directed: Do the Right Thing. And even though “Green Book” was highly undiscovered, the actor, however, Mahershala Ali became an Oscar Award Winner in getting the category’s Best Supporting Actor. Later on, Green Book won the best picture of the year and yes Octavia Spencer along with Mahershala were acknowledged.

For Music: I can name many: But Gary Clark, Jr won this one. If you have not picked up “This Land” at your Targets, Best Buys, Amazons, iTunes, or Google Play, your music collections in Black History Month was not saved! The album was supposed to be launched in March, but thankfully it was pushed back in February a week after his birthday on the 22nd. Yes, February 22nd was dubbed Washington’s Birthday, but I don’t think no one was thinking of that. Yes, this was the “This Land” album that had many folks buzzing since the video woke up all being shocked and surprised, with the black folks standing on the Confederate Flags. But it also dealt with the fact that racism is still an ugly feeling of hate on someone because of skin color. And many thought that Gary was separating the races in all. BULL CRAP! Many African-American Songwriters and musicians who were and mostly all Civil Rights Activists, Peace Activists and Social Justice Warriors all talked about how bad Racism/Discrimination is. So to those who were are want to be fans of Gary Clark, Jr. after he said the lyrics: “Run N***a Run, Run back where you come from”, you need to check yourself! He’s addressing the concern that many of you probably fear to talk about it at your group events full of black folks! And I’ll bet many of you, got Black Friends on speed dial! Don’t act surprised.

Here in Wisconsin: we had a debate about who should have been and chosen to be celebrated in the badger state’s Black History Highlights. The name Colin Kaepernick was on the minds of many. The Wisconsin GOP overwhelm didn’t add Colin Kaepernick’s name to the list of achievements due to his protesting of the NFL/National Anthem. Many called him being “too controversial.” And it gained national attention. However many in the Milwaukee area, where Colin was born decided to add his name to the City of Milwaukee’s Black History Month Segments in which many deemed well received as a good thing. Many also had agreed that other activists and civil rights leaders were deemed controversial, but many were praised for their work later on when they age or pass on. And yet, that was called out on being hypocritical. So yes, the City of Milwaukee accomplished a notion that the state’s GOP failed! And how DARE the Wisconsin GOP suggested to tell us whom to celebrate for our Month of Black History?! We don’t need NO ONE TELLING US whom to celebrate and highlight. No one! Also our new elected Lt. Governor Mandela Barnes was highlighted not only on the state level, but also in Milwaukee’s news outlets for Channel 6 and 12’s Black History Month’s Segments. Keep in mind, he’s the first African-American Lt. Governor in the state.

Another highlight of Black History Month in 2019 that I didn’t see coming: Solange Knowles, Beyoncé’s baby sister bought a social media website that many haven’t used in a while and also deleted years ago: BlackPlanet. You remember BlackPlanet where black folks and other folks logged in and getting all the info about who’s who? Way before Facebook and Instagram came in slightly after Myspace, and oh that’s where I met “Stacey Heskinson” and “Mary Lee” who were FAKES! Fake hookups! That is why I deleted my Black Planet Page is because of them and others like them who almost tricked me in giving money to them trying to get out of Nigeria. Yes, that’s the truth over 10 years ago. But since then, I stuck with those who know me and that lead me to Facebook, MySpace, Twitter, Instagram, and others that are not tricky. And I’m sure many who used BlackPlanet then had been tricked. So I’m not really looking forward to the reunion of the BlackPlanet party, but I will say that yes if any black folks still want to go to Black Planet and revive the username and password, be my guest. But happy that Solange bought the company though.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=GFbUqk3HSvE

Sidenote: even my denomination of the United Methodist Church had several Black History References from quizzes to Black Harry. Yes, black folks played a role in this and the tradition continues to this day as well as other denominations, non-denominational etc. Plus, several African-American Teachers decorated their classroom doors in honor of their Colleges, Fraternities, Sororities, famous figure in history, and many more! And the idea came from Facebook!

Back in Milwaukee, during the first week of Black History Month: MPS had a week of meetings, events, social plays and others in regarding “National Black Lives Matter Week”. And with the week in summary, also regarding the activities, that an idea to incorporate Black History in the school subjects everyday that many of the kids and teens can learn about other black leaders and legends other than Martin Luther King, Jr. other than Malcolm X, other than Rosa Parks, and etc. I don’t know about the other school districts, but WAKE UP! Black History is not just an “American Fad”. It’s for all to learn from. And on a side note, of course, we need to learn about our subject all the time every day like apps and tablets.  Also, one of our Milwaukee Municipal Judges Derek Mosley takes the time every February to summarize stories of Black History to social media. He’s been doing this for 10 years, and yet the summaries are still valuable for all to understand!  Follow him on Facebook!

However: I need to say something that I’ve been seeing a whole lot of #BlackHistory365 or #BlackHistoryEveryday or I’m black every month comments. I think we’re kind of missing the boat here. OF COURSE! We are supposed to summarize our culture everyday. But black folks, hear me out when I tell you at times, we DON’T hardly acknowledge our people EVERYDAY! We don’t do it like the other ethnics do all the time, everyday. The only time we acknowledge I think around celebrating our people is really around family reunions, weddings, anniversaries, the club, and yet also: funerals. But as far as more of everyday when many are not doing problems we skip over that for some reason. We go to work, school, or worrying about that thing in the Mall or stores! There was a comment asked about how can we celebrate our folks everyday and believe it or not, it was on the Stephen’s Spot Twitter Page. The answer was more like an opinionated thought of starting out basic and continue to build on the knowledge every time. Learn from those that have extended knowledge and to build your learning in summary. Of course, it’s hard to do, but ask this: If we can be so knowledgeable about Technology or the latest game, why can’t we be so knowledgeable about our history in the same context? Not just talking the talk, BUT ACTUALLY, WALK THE FREAKING WALK! Man, we can hashtag all we want, but that hashtagging better be in action! Which means also that you better not charge up your Black History in March or later months, but left it lying lifeless in February. That’s a foul ball.

And of course in Black History Month 2019, there were several problems of turmoil: Jussie Smollett of Empire was allegedly attacked in Chicago all to do with some thugs wearing MAGA attire, but apparently, it was beginning to be a rumored attack. And his character on the show is not going to happen in the last three episodes in this matter. And yes also: R. Kelly turned himself in after all this time being in the Hot Seat of this Child Molestation charges that many dodged for so long. And also recently during the Michael Cohen testimonies, the 45 administration brought in Lynne Patton whom she feels that 45 is not a racist. Well, welcome to tokenism! Have a seat next to Candace Owens about what she said about Hitler being a nice guy. STOP IT! Hitler was not a cool dude so let’s not be so petty or tap dance like a fool. And speaking of that in stupidity: the issue of Blackface reared its ugly head. Don’t get me started!

So how do we end Black History Month of 2019? We should end by stating that we always should acknowledge our ancestors that brought us knowledge and wisdom to carry forward. It’s been 2 years since my father’s passing, but I’m holding to the torch. It’s a hard job to grasp but I’m trying. Also, we need to be thankful that a month like this that started with Dr. Carter G. Woodson in 1926 that got us talking about us. Keep in mind, NO ONE was talking about us! Until Dr. Woodson heard the Black Civil War Veterans talking in the coal mines in the South. And we also end the #BHM2019 Celebrations by the ongoing efforts to give our black kids a voice. A black voice to tell them that many might not acknowledge them of their talents and being black, but still, prove them WRONG! I want to acknowledge our young black kings and queens that your time is coming. Be ready and willing.

CALLOUT: And a lesson to all of us that Black History Month SHOULD NOT BE underestimated by anyone! Even if you’re black yourself!

Our proud historical events and ideas are still out in interests. And yet many of us have to begin new chapters to extend the stories. Black History Month 2019 may be already in the archives, but yet the summaries and extended plays still go on all the time. Or if you’re like yours truly: you can do BOTH by celebrate Black History Month and summarize Black History every time. No, it’s not a mistake. Keep it in the middle!

And that alone needs no permission!

#BLACKHISTORYMONTH4LIFE!
And yet, the struggle continues.

My Take: Hands off Wisconsin GOP! Your version of a Black History Month Resolution is just whack.

Normally, I hate to interrupt my ongoing celebration of Black History Month of 2019, but recently today, I caught an ire of a story that nearly had my blood boiling. This is the article that many of us Black Wisconsinites had to read while encountering a thing called a Snow Day:

From the Wisconsin Public Radio Website:

Wisconsin lawmakers clashed Tuesday over a Black History Month resolution that names controversial athlete Colin Kaepernick, a former NFL quarterback.

According to Assembly Majority Leader Jim Steineke, R-Kaukauna, some Republican members of the state Assembly were concerned about Kaepernick’s inclusion in the resolution, which was drafted by the state Legislative Black Caucus.

The resolution text says it aims to “recognize the significant contributions people of African descent have made, to the foundation, growth and development of our country and state.”

It includes figures like Lucien H. Palmer, the first African-American to be elected to the Wisconsin Assembly, Violette Neatley Anderson, the first African-American woman to practice law before the United States Supreme Court and former Secretary of State Condoleezza Rice.

Kaepernick, former quarterback for the San Francisco 49ers, has been a lightning rod for political debate since he began kneeling during the national anthem preceding games in 2016 as a way to protest racial inequality in the United States. He has since left professional football, but remains a polarizing figure.

Assembly Speaker Robin Vos, R-Rochester, said it was unfortunate that the state’s Legislative Black Caucus chose to include such a divisive figure in their resolution.

“We’re in a new era, we’re trying to figure out ways to work together,” Vos said. “We would hope they would have more consideration to say, let’s look at finding ways to work together, rather than always looking at ways to drive us apart.”

Rather than vote on the resolution drafted by the state’s Legislative Black Caucus, Republican lawmakers attempted to bring up their own Black History Month resolution. That resolution omitted Kaepernick and Milwaukee Rev. Greg Lewis, and added Lt. Gov. Mandela Barnes and Vel Phillips, the first African-American to be elected to statewide office in Wisconsin. 

Chairman of the state Legislative Black Caucus, Rep. David Crowely, D-Milwaukee, called GOP lawmakers’ refusal to take up the caucus’ resolution a “slap in the face.” 

“The biggest issue that we have as a black caucus is people choosing to pick our leaders for us,” Crowley said.

The state Senate is expected to take up a Black History Month resolution Wednesday.

The office of Senate Majority Leader Scott Fitzgerald, R-Juneau, did not immediately return a request for comment about which resolution to the Senate would vote on.

https://www.wpr.org/wisconsin-lawmakers-spar-over-including-colin-kaepernick-black-history-month-resolution

Later on, in a 61-34 vote, it was almost that the vote went through, but later on afterward, the Wisconsin GOP removed Colin’s name because he was deemed as well: “too controversial.”

After reading this article, this was the stupidest thing I ever read. For the second time behind closed doors that the Wisconsin GOP who are mostly white are telling black folks what they can put into a resolution that makes them feel better. But when the name Colin Kaepernick appeared in the idea of the resolution, they all had those nightmares of him kneeling before the National Anthem. Oh, did they mention that Colin was born in Wisconsin? Yes, he’s from here! We’ve found this out when he torched the Packers. Colin Kaepernick is from Milwaukee. Grew up here. Liked Brett Favre and everything. And yes he went out west with his family after age 4 and also played ball in college and of course played in the NFL with the San Francisco 49ers until he went through Green Bay and en route to the Superbowl. And lost. And of course Colin got beat by the Packers 17-3 and the majority of the season just benched. Then the kneeling started. Everywhere he went and just kneeled during the National Anthem. Why?!! We know that he didn’t take any future offers with other NFL teams. But with all the Kneelings he was protesting, later on, was against police brutality. Not against the Flag or the Pledge! And the thing also VETERANS who saw his protesting also joined his cause. Even a Veteran named Nate Boyer who was a fan of the 49ers at first didn’t like Colin’s cause, but the two got together and talked about why was it necessary. Hell: EVEN President Obama commented that Colin’s protest was exercising his Constitutional Right as a citizen. And plus, Colin Kaepernick is a member of Kappa Alpha Psi Fraternity, Inc. A black fraternity that was founded in 1911.

So to the so-called Wisconsin GOP: in regarding your resolution to choose whom we should recognize during Black History Month in Wisconsin is indeed a “direct kick in the crotch.” That’s almost sound is like you telling us what we can do and what we can’t do just to stay in our lanes and keep quiet. That to me as a black resident of Wisconsin is flat out ridiculous and I dare say racist! Majority of you probably never had the ability to acknowledge the legality of Black Wisconsinites of the contributions we made here in all of the 170+ years that the Badger state has been in the union. Thusly, you haven’t known anything. Probably never attended a Black History Month or Juneteenth Day Festival or anything that pertains to the ongoing contributions of Wisconsin’s African-American Historical Aspects. For once, I’ll say in regarding not including Colin Kaepernick in “your” Black History Month Resolution is really stupid! You labeled him as a “controversial figure” all because of his protests of the Flag, his Pig Socks, the National Anthem and amongst others. And you label him as a controversial figure. You know who was a deemed a controversial figure that was deemed hated and many folks after about 50 years since his assassination is still admired: that’s right, Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Oh, I can name another controversial turned likable figure: Muhammad Ali, who had to relinquish his championship belt in boxing because he refused to join the military during the Vietnam War. But many liked him! Juan Carlos and Tommie Smith, whom in 1968 had the black fists raised and head bowed on the podium in Mexico City, And oh…..they were controversial, but many now are liking them after their gesture. And keep in mind that 1968, MLK was killed, along with RFK months later. Another controversial figure that stood up for civil rights for the female side of things: Fannie Lou Hamer, who stood up for the movement fighting for the right and encouragement to vote in the south then was beaten up for her act of protest along with her supporters. But most of her cause, she progressed forward. Even after she questioned the statement regarding the idea of black folks were being murdered for their rights to vote such as: “Is this America?” to a convention in 1964. And oh: Remember Rosa Parks, whom as we know refused to give up her seat on the bus in Montgomery, Alabama? Yeah, that one. And that was deemed controversial!

So what does of all this mean? I highlighted a few African-Americans most we know by reciting events, examples of protesting, and speeches. But THEY COLLECTIVELY were criticized for being controversial. But many years later are being admired as part of the movement and want to effect change. Even other men like Malcolm X, other women like Dorothy Height, and countless other African-Americans that fought for EFFECTIVE CHANGE!

What I hate to say that the GOP of Wisconsin does not give Zero F’s about black folks. And the population of the African-Americans in the state is roughly under 8%. While is ok to recognize the black leaders in the state for various contributions is fine, but to not recognize Colin Kaepernick and for the Activism/Philanthropy he has brought: such as Anti-Police Brutality, Youth Initiatives, Community Reform and Minority Empowerment, Health Reform and Nourishment, and Climate Change Awareness. And additionally, he donated $50,000 to two organizations here in Milwaukee a couple of years ago. So this guy as many looked at being un-Patriotic, in all, with the flag in all, looked controversial, but at least he’s doing something right to address the ongoing concerns of America’s dilemma dealing with racism and countless others. Even this biased BS crap in Madison of a controversial resolution of Black History Month!

Black History Month 2019 – The extension that matters.

So here it is yet again. For the 93rd time, Black History Month is back once more. A time that many will celebrate the traditional version of highlighting the celebrations and accomplishments of black folks and also the ongoing summaries taking about us every day.

And of course, there are those who are so, confused and racist, there are going to be some village idiots who might question again about why there is no “White History Month” that already plagues us every day with the lies buried until generations later will dig up and asking about the truth. Oh, there will be a spoiler alert that many will put out hashtags like #BlackHistory365 in all just stay engaged. Oh, they’ll be engaged with the hashtag for a while, but I’ll ask if you’re stopping the #BlackHistory365 thing by mid-July, then that makes you a hater. No, more like not being responsible. Not being responsible for what YOU put out and not keeping up with the responsibility that YOU put out every time. Yes, I am directing this to the Black Community and I mean it with love! The keyword in this is RESPONSIBILITY! You put it out, you be responsible for it!

So the ongoing asking question yet again: why February, why not every day? I wish we can summarize our history every day, but every day in the calendar year, we work, go to school, hang out at the mall, buying up Air Jordans or iPhones. Or maybe many of you are doing this right now: checking your social media boards about some meaningless and sometimes positive meme or some so-called story of positive vibes. Of course, we say we should study our history and stories every day, BUT WE DON’T do it EVERYDAY! And what I’m saying, is not very new! It’s not new!

I hear folks all the time that “they should teach this in the schools” speech, but to those who say that, guess what, maybe the majority of you mentioning this should become Black History/Multi-African History Instructors in the classrooms and study halls! Oh, did you realize that many teachers are quitting right now? Why is that? How many teachers in the Black History Category quit last year in 2018? How many actually resigned? If you are one of the many who quit, you need to have an explanation. Was it the kids, the teens, or the so-called grown folks that know so much?! Or was it some so-called street smart teacher that didn’t get far as much? Let’s be real.

It’s really interesting that many have to chose the angle about celebrating this way of every day all calendar year. Me personally, I prefer a balance. A balance between highlights and summaries. For many, yes you can still celebrate the highlights of Black History Month. Of course, who’s going to stop you? If you are Black and have been told to not celebrate you, they are flat out stupid! If you are Black and still celebrate Black History Month, and by contrast, SUMMARIZE black history daily or weekly or monthly then guess what, you’re safe. You can do it both ways. Not just wide left or wide right. It goes in the middle. Keep it balanced! Forget about what your friends say and I dare say your family thought to believe at one point, your own point of view stays. I’m talking to those who felt neglected and tricked. This is the truth that many should be following anyway.

Oh, and about the quote that Black History is American History? it’s whack! Not all Black History is American History. Not all Black History is Canadian History. And the same is with the UK, France, Germany, Egypt, South African, and many others that celebrate the history of African Decent citizens. Yes, the idea of a Black History Month Celebration by Dr. Carter G. Woodson did start in America. But let’s be realistic: When folks say, “Black History is American History” per se in a stupid manner, it’s really talking about African-Americans in general IN America. But that excludes the international folks who are not American. That’s why I say it’s a false statement. Not everyone who is black is American. When you talk about BLACK HISTORY, you are addressing the whole black audience, WORLDWIDE! Does this make sense? It should.

So yes, for the 93rd time, we will be once again educated and summarized on why this occasion matters. It does matter. Matter of fact: #BLACKHISTORYMONTHMATTERS Our race of people did and does matter. And will matter as long as folks are misguided or need the guidance of knowledge and truth. And even also, yet to be discovered. So yes, it’s time to bust out the centerpiece one more time for the occasion and summary and celebration for blacks, by blacks, and many others to look and seek. Black History Month is not a time to react to racism from those asking when there’s a White History Month. White folks: NOT TODAY! Or any other folks of color non-black, I’ve mentioned this years ago, you need to hype up your minority months. Just a thought.

Now, I don’t need no one’s permission: I got a Black History Month centerpiece to set up.

#BlackHistoryMonthMatters

Scratching my head all this time – the still getting used to 2018…..rr 2019 year.

With the still new year in motion, it’s already being bonkers. Of course today we are removed from the first Federal Holiday in honor of Dr. King. And yeah, New Year’s Day. But in all what has 2019 has done thus far, well not much except the inaugurations and the soon to be done 2018-19 NFL Season. And the disappointing Government Shutdown that plagued the 800,000 workers. Shameful! And like many before, I’m scratching my head again.

Black folks: what about this challenge? Can this happen?

I’m assuming that all of the Divine 9 January Founder’s Day “Days” have been accounted for?

So how’re those New Year’s Resolutions holding up? Like seriously?!

Did anyone act a fool on the King Holiday? Please say no!

So…Wisconsin, how about that new Governor Tony Evers, eh?

What will be missed about the Bradley Center? Besides the empty spot of rubble?

That one weekend in Milwaukee this actually happened on January 12th and 13th: no gunshots. Can we have every weekend or every day without no gun violence?

You know that the Milwaukee Bucks are dead serious of Basketball dominance in the East, right?

Why many conservatives want to test Cardi B? Like seriously?!

It just dawned on me. Not every music artist is “woke and conscious!!!!” Why is that possible?! And who is listening to them? – Regarding R.Kelly.

Since when did Cigna and Queen Latifah hook up for annual physical PSAs for 2019?

Of all the things wild today in Milwaukee, naming rights. Why Miller Park?

It seems that the Milwaukee Streetcar haters got excited about the vehicle being stuck in all this past week. But did they know that an incorrectly parked car caused the problem?! Stupid. And no, this is where you have to defend The Hop.

Is Killer Mike’s Trigger Warning show valuable right now on Netflix?

With now the NFL playoffs set, and Championship Sunday is clear, it either the #Rams or the same ol’ Tom Brady and the #Patriots. Who you really got? Spoiler Alert: There is a shocker.

So Gladys Knight is going to sing the National Anthem for the Super Bowl. And yes we know that the song had the Third Stanza of “No heirling or refuge for a slave” lyric. And many called her to be off-limits to black cards and cookouts. On the flip side, Gladys Knight has been on the forefront way before me, the millennials, generation z, all the so-called woke and conscious revolutionary folks, and even Colin Kaepernick and his girlfriend Nessa. So why we have to question her and her choice of singing the Anthem?! And making her sing the third stanza?! What kind of “ish” is that? Man, regardless of the decision she made and it’s none of our concern, respect the elders. I’m just saying!

Just recently, there was a Black Millionaire, named Robert F. Smith that donated to an HBCU, Morehouse College in Georgia, and many black folks on the Black Enterprise Facebook Page cried foul about this. Seriously, what is the problem?!!

Did many folks display the American Flag out on the MLK Holiday? Be honest.

You realize that January 31st will mark the 100th anniversary of the birth of Jackie Robinson? Watch 42!

Is Kamala Harris the one we want to see as President?

Black Folks: I need us to really explain the truth about what the Black Agenda is. What is it? Why does it matter to us in regarding those we put in office?

Spike Lee at long last will be a nominated for an Oscar. Are we happy about this?

Why is the coverage of Tommy Sotomayor still alive? Dude is STRAIGHT trash!!!!

With all the #SurvivingRKelly stuff still fresh in our minds, why reopen the pandora’s box with all the stuff happened to Michael Jackson? That will not fly right. Spoiler Alert.

In all fairness, what will it retake to reopen the Government for the Federal Workers that need their checks? And to STAY OPEN? And the WALL IS NOT THE ANSWER!

In my view, the House Democrats need to go rogue and nuclear. Around the Senate, around Mitch, around 45, around the Authority of the nation’s principals to get over the shutdown and back to work. Why is this not being proposed?!

Can the Marijuana users in all be very safe after going into the stores smelling so bad?! And the same on the roads?!!
CALLOUT: For all of the African-Americans in Wisconsin: If many had complained about the lack of qualified applicants of color, which is viable so, why many of us HAD NOT APPLIED for the jobs that the Evers Administration had displayed prior to him taking office?! They were displayed online for several weeks! We complain about this and that, and when the opportunity comes up, we go on empty. And also, what’s up the black caucuses’ in Wisconsin?! Why haven’t they been used as a resource in this? No, I’m not talking about the NAACP or the National/Local Urban Leagues. I’m talking about the Black Caucuses that many don’t tap into as much in the African-American Communities. We should know!
SECOND CALLOUT: White folks, why do you have to resort being triggered when it comes to a black man or a black woman who the phrase, “my black brothers and sisters” when addressing our concern of race? Or interracial marriage? This was brought up recently!

Update on the Shutdown: it seems that the workers are getting their checks on again and working. But why only 3 weeks until February 15th?

For all of us in the Midwest, you really believe that the Polar Vortex is not a joke?

The week of January 28th will highlight the 33rd Anniversary of the Challenger Explosion of 1986. Many of us were young when that day happened. I’m talking about us Generation X folks. Just to ask, who are the fools who think that the moon landing was fake back in 1969 which that nothing to do with this at all?!

So I hear that Valentine’s Day is rapidly approaching. Um….not many like valentines though. Who really does? With all the negativity of dating and folks being way too much about that one guy or girl! Or rumors.

And the FINAL QUESTION of the first Scratching My Head All The Time Blog Post of 2019: When that Covington High School student that was disrespectful just staring at the Navajo Elder on his turf, with a MAGA hat. What was his problem?! And you know that was out of bounds dealing with racism. And oh, the jury is still out on this matter after that Today show interview.

BONUS QUESTION: It seems that the hate on Terry Crews getting sexually assaulted way back when is getting a backlash. Usually from Black Men, even D.L. Hughley, and several others. When women get sexually assaulted or abused or inappropriately touched many of them and some men do go out and band together and raise hell on the dude that did the act. HOWEVER: when a Man gets sexually assaulted, no matter how long ago it was, he receives that laughing joke reaction, and gets humiliated by the male audience. Folks, when this happens in our society, what is the general common ground that stuff likes this goes on almost everytime, and it doesn’t get the same amount of respect that needed to be heard? I say this every June when Men’s Health Month comes around, with all the “Men need to go to the doctors to get checked out” speeches. BUT THIS is a health matter that Men need to be aware of and tackle with a strong Health and Wellness Foundation to improve. If this issue is bad for Men, what will it mean for the young boys who are running wild and stupid (due to DNA Samples) and many of them without setting them straight because of their dads, uncles, grandfathers, male cousins, and others are LIVING FOUL?! And women who sexually assault or abuse men, don’t get off that easily. You’re in this also!