Scratching my head all this time. In Black History Month 2017.

I did this last year in Black History Month. And it’s back again. So yep, it’s time to scratch the noggin and actually boil the questions. Oh yes, we know we’re in the era of that dude named Trump, and many of us might loose our minds. So now I ask, what’s next for the future of Black History Month? And many of us have been spoiled that it’s supposed to be everyday, but hardly: we black folks DON’T acknowledge our history EVERYDAY! WE DON’T. Yeah, we can do this after March and get all charged up, but might ask where was the energy during February? Hmm……It’s the same ole thing we encounter every time.

Are we still believing this statement? Be honest.

Why are those saying that it’s “National African-American History Month”, than “Black History Month?” Black History Month is now global, not just for the United States.

Is the whole thing about the 45th President saying that the word “black” is outdated true? Last I checked: BLACK is BLACK!

Someone stop me: when we black folks say we celebrate our people everyday or I’m black everyday, are we meaning this or just saying to get the monkeys off the back? Just be honest!

Someone stop me again: are we really teaching our children more about black history everyday? Be honest.

I asked this last year many times: Have you missed Obama?

Is Donald Trump really supporting black folks? Or should I say, those whom are on his side are black?

When was the last time that many took their kids to see a tomb of a famous African-American Figure than to see a  pair of Air Jordans at the mall?

When was the last time that many saw a famous African-American figure that was still dropping knowledge and took the kids?

How many more of the New England Patriots whom are black will not attend the White House?

Dang MSNBC! Why did you kicked off Tamron Hall?!

Is it just me, or is America wants to be driven by those in office whom do not have experience or just being dumb?

You do know that 2017 is a voting year, right?

Is the black media still on point?

I’m surprised that many in America didn’t know who James White was after the Patriots won the Super Bowl. Um, did anyone checked the Wisconsin Badgers for Reference?

How hard will “The Quad” on BET will go?

Is it just me, or what has gotten into BET with the added cussing in movies?

Had everyone seen Hidden Figures? Not Hidden Colors. HIDDEN FIGURES!

Should AFROPUNK make a Milwaukee Visit? Take my money.

When will President Obama release his memoir? If that happens TAKE MY MONEY!

Black Businesses: are you holding up well?

Was Maxwell out of bounds for his remarks about including whites for Black History Month?

Did The New Edition Story on BET really sparked new ideas for biopics?

Should all of the black Alumni of High Schools or Colleges rock dashikis for Black History Month? Primarily with the school colors we know?

Who still reads books? Mainly African-American Novels?

For my Black Introverts, are we good? Are we are still holding up to resist?

This year in Music Anniversaries: 30 years of Jody Watley’s Real Love, Whitney Houston’s I wanna dance with somebody under the self titled Album, Whitney. Kool Moe Dee’s How You Like Me Now made the cut, NWA and the Posse made it’s debut by the group itself. Even Michael Jackson’s Bad was good.

25 years of R.Kelly & The Public Announcement’s She’s Got That Vibe and Honey Love. Sir Mix-A-Lot’s Baby Got Back. EnVogue’s Funky Divas of Free Your Mind, Giving Him Something He Can Feel, My Lovin’and Give it up Turn it loose. Mary J. Blige’s What the 411? Whitney Houston and The Bodyguard Soundtrack.  Boyz II Men (ALL FOUR OF THEM) serenade the women with the single, End of the Road. Also, Prince with the Love Symbol Album premiered,  and Bobby Brown had the joint Bobby out with Humpin’ Around as a hot single. Just to name a few.

20 years of Missy Elliott’s Supa Dupa Fly, Puff Daddy and Family’s No Way Out, Aaliyah had The One I gave my heart to and Hot Like Fire, Timbaland/Magoo debuted Welcome to our World, Will Smith was back with Big Willie Style, The Notorious BIG’s last album before his death: Life after Death, and Michael Jackson had the album out called “Blood on the Dance Floor.” Just to name a few.

15 years ago: Ashanti and Tweet both debuted with their albums, Musiq Soulchild had “Juslisen”, Meshell Ndegeocello had the album, Cookie: The Anthropological Mixtape.  Plus Donell Jones had the joint Life Goes On, Will Smith was Born to Reign, Nelly had the joint Nellyville, Sean Paul had the Dutty Rock thing going, LL Cool J: 10,  Deborah Cox (one of my favorite black Canadian exports) had the album out called The Morning After, and Missy Elliott took us back in time with old school hip hop beats in Under Construction. Just to name a few.

And  10 years of Angie Stone’s The Art of War. Plus Timbaland took us a Shock Value favor with Keri Hilson singing hooks. What music are you celebrating….IN BLACK HISTORY MONTH?

This year in Movie Anniversaries: 10 years of I am Legend, Why Did I Get Married? and Black Snake Moan. 20 years of Men in Black, Soul Food, and Amistad. 25 years of Class Act, Mo’ Money, Bebe’s Kids, Diggstown, Malcolm X, and Trespass. 30 years of Beverly Hills Cop II, Leonard Part 6, Sign ‘o’ The Times, and Shaka Zulu.  What flicks are you celebrating….IN BLACK HISTORY MONTH?

This year in TV Shows that are Anniversary material: Martin. 25 years since WZUP, Martin Love the kids, get the steppin’, and many of the quotes that we know it like that. Also, Living Single debuted in the same year also of 1992. Plus, The Cosby Show ended the 8 year reign the same year.  Easy question: What shows are you celebrating in Black History Month?

Is Tyler Perry’s The Haves and The Have Nots show still rolling with new ideas?

Will TVONE continue to roll hard with shows and news?

We keep talking about the firsts in Black History. Who’s next?

I’m not easily fooled by the phrases, Black Future Month, or Black Conscious Month. Nope. Wanna know why?

I’m not easily fooled by this notion of blacks not referencing the ideals that Africans were sold by their own and America ate up the idea of slavery commodity. Wanna know why? (Hint: Part of it is the truth whether we like it or not.)

When will all schools acknowledge Black History? Not just in the cities.

When all those who hate the idea of Black History Month actually stop hating?!

When will all those who don’t like the thought of having a Black History Month actually read what Dr. Carter Woodson wrote about the miseducation portion of us not knowing our history?

And yet again, how will all of this be worthy for our children, especially our black children that need to know this? Not just in school, but in the homes, and certainly in other areas like the church and community centers?

I learned black history in the house, school, and church!

So, Happy Black History Month! or #HapppyBHM2017 whatever many prefer.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

My take: The Women’s March and yes Men, stop complaining. Let’s have our own March.

Oh did you see the TV?

The 58th Inauguration of the new Administration has passed to you know who, which looked like a ghost town in Washington. But yesterday after looking at the remains, the Women’s March was like a new Tornado that swept in the bare spots that were heavily empty. I mean it was a jam packed wall to wall March and protest. In Washington, it was close to over 500,000 plus that shut the city down! Washington wasn’t the only city: New York City, LA, Seattle, Indianapolis, Chicago, Milwaukee, Boise, and Madison all had these demonstrations. Even London, Sydney, and not really thought about: Antarctica! Yes even Antarctica was in this demonstration as well.

Yeah, the March was cool. All the females from Gloria Steinem, to Janelle Monae, the Mothers of the Movement, Alicia Keys, which featured Maria Hamilton, mother of Dontre Hamilton was killed at Red Arrow Park in Milwaukee in 2014. Even men like Michael Moore, Jidenna, and Maxwell all appeared.

Like I said: that was a jammed packed event not only for empowerment, but also directed at one man: Donald Trump. The same Donald Trump whom back in 2005 had the quote “grabbing them by the p*ssy” on a well known daily entertainment TALK SHOW of Access Hollywood! And many of the females at the time had on the same shirts or jeans with messages about “Donald can grab my ****** anytime.” REALLY!  Talk about Locker Room conversations. But many might know that it wasn’t all those who said it.

The turn up for the march of course went high of course. But online, the turn down of the march: MEN. As I was viewing the live feeds of the march on Facebook Live, there were men of course that were talking smack if you will about the march, there’s going to be a whole lot of sandwiches missing, back in the kitchen talk, or um some black dude on a black TV host Facebook page saying it should be stopped, and bringing up about America’s problems of overseas. WHAT!!!!

OK MEN: Settle down. It wasn’t our march. It didn’t address our concerns. And if I wanted a freaking sandwich, I’ll get it myself. Men: I’m sure we had our hatefest about this march of women hearing them roar.

But my question is: when are WE AS MEN are going to have our own march? Like for real.

When are we going to march about our concerns of immigration?

When are we going to march about our concerns of jobs and careers?

When are we going to march about our concerns of finance?

When are we going to march about our concerns of health – OOPS!  Many of us are scared about going to the freaking doctor to get checked, and having the females to take over. Really? We got reproductive things too!

When are we going to march about our concerns about VOTING RIGHTS and CIVIL RIGHTS?

When are we going to march about our concerns about our Fathers, Sons, Uncles, Nephews, Grandfathers, Male Mentors that need those connections to bond? SPECIFICALLY, BLACK MEN!

CALLOUT: Hey Fraternities: All of you. BGLO (Alpha Phi Alpha, Kappa Alpha Psi, Phi Beta Sigma, Omega Psi Phi, and Iota Phi Theta), Service, and many others. What are you doing to reach out to Men, especially young males in your communities? What are you doing also to reach out to men that want to join your frats for life that want to help your cause? Not just the young crowds, but also the SEASONED VETS?

When are we going to march about our concerns about housing?

What about the MALE concerns of education? Besides that High School Diploma, job and not actually going further. Specifically with our sons, and other male relatives? Is college on the mind also?

When are we going to march about our concerns about: racism, sexism, body shaming (heck we body shame like crazy everyday), gun violence, the phobias of transgender, homosexuality, bullying in all angles, etc. Being single. Even Introverts, Ambiverts, Extroverts? Oh I know what it is: “We men don’t get all sensitive. Don’t bring that up to make us look weak.” Hate to say it, but it’s all ready out there. Females, stop laughing.  And don’t go all MLK and the dream with that one line!

When are we going to march for our OWN male needs? No disrespect to the women whom feel that the equal thing should be on the table, but the fact of the matter is, when I see all these women’s meetings and seminars, or events, where are the Men’s meetings? For example: in the church there are more reps for females than males. There are female meetings but not male meetings. There are females in the church per se whom support the church in sense of programs and events, but the men don’t. Except when the men might have a their own fundraiser and a day on Father’s Day to set aside to support.

I ASK AGAIN: WHEN ARE WE: THE MEN ARE GOING TO MARCH FOR OUR CONCERNS?

If many of the Men, whom were watching the Women’s March in DC or in their Cities, did anyone of male folk actually steal some ideas?

Men, we need to get to work. Straight up. Enough about us on the things that we can’t touch, but what about the things that the women can’t touch, but we can to propel our concerns? Hmmm………..think about it.

And also: Educated!

 

 

 

Scratching my head all this time: The Barack Obama edition

For many of us, it’s the last leg for President Barack Obama and Family. He will always be a type of President that many will talk about for years to come.

HOWEVER: there are those who felt that he didn’t do enough or should have been more on the Black Community over the Gays, Women, and many others. Of course, we can talk about the times that the Republicans REFUSED to have the vote in, the ACA, jobs, and world issues. And of course we can talk about the many many times that some goober talked about “YOU LIE” and many other hate angles. Oh, including that Mitch McConnell said that he would be a one term president. We know that bullet was dodged.

So today, being that it’s the day that we celebrate Martin Luther King, Jr. And the hopes that many WILL learn besides the dream. King wasn’t always about I Have A Dream. More on that later. With today being for MLK, I’m shifting the focus on the past 8 years that America Had it’s Black President for real and for the yahoos, racists, haters, sellouts, and wackos who felt he didn’t deserve it: YES HE DID!

Who thought that the 8 years was so positive for Obama?

Did the Republicans really succeed badly when they decided to go against Obama?

Why did the “Blue Dog” Democrats had sold out?

They say that Obama was a socialist. REALLY?!

When was the day that Obama had to really defend himself?

Many of you must have forgotten that Barack got a Nobel Peace Prize, right?

Oh for the forgotten doors: Why so much has been asked what he had done? Another reason why Americans have some short memory spans. And I’m not talking about the older folks. Younger folks don’t remember much either. SAD!

So the soon-to-be President Donald Trump had Barack to produce his Birth Certificate and many had followed. You do realize that was a dumb move, right?

Why did Fox News feared Barack’s middle name “Hussein”?

Oh when the time that Osama Bin Laden was killed, were you  or anyone else cheering along with the President’s decision then?

For you: the Tea Party jack offs: Why so racist? Like really!

Has EVERY COLLEGE really had to dig deep about the degrees and jobs that Obama made a declaration to check on?

Has EVERY ORGANIZATION of Debt, or Credit Checks, really assigned themselves well after a few changes when OBAMA made that declaration?

Oh let’s talk education again: specifically community colleges. Have many of us realized that Community Colleges cannot be slept on? Also like science fairs for the kids?

For all you conspirators and jack offs: why making all this mess about him wanting to be killed?

For all you Michelle Obama haters: yeah those kept those so called “ape in heels”, or “she should act more First Lady Like” or like Wisconsin Rep. Jim Sensenbrenner said something about her having a big butt, or others making ridiculous comments about her outfits or just her in general  that weren’t as lady like: Do you ALL realize that you sounded so stupid after making those remarks, and many of you probably don’t have jobs now?

For all you Sasha and Malia Haters: you know that ignorance is a mitch, right?!

And folks, were we so overboarded when Sasha wasn’t at her father’s last speech?

And also: that time when Malia was at Lollapalooza in Chicago and yes she was being a normal carefree teen at 18. But did we really OVERREACT that much?  Yes, Malia will learn accountability as she grows up. 18 doesn’t mean much that well per se.

What about Malia taking a year off before starting college? Should all High School Graduates follow that same procedure?

Did the losers like John McCain and Mitt Romney actually learned their lessons after losing to Barack in 2008 and 2012?

Did Black Entertainment really rocked when Obama was in office?

Did Hip Hop really rocked when Obama was in office? So many Obama references in rap songs like crazy.

For all of the black media: BET, TVOne, Podcasts, Social Media sites, Newspapers, Radio Shows, Magazines, Blogs, Articles, and more: was all that appreciated of the JOLT of Confidence by our work to archive for the Obama-Biden Crew?

For all of the black businesses that printed up Obama T-shirts, hats, buttons, sweaters, jackets, in all: Can we do more of that even after Obama is not in office?

For all the black supporters that backed Obama since DAY ONE: did we really back him up other than hearing the speeches?

For all the black churches that invited Obama to speak: was it good?

For all of the Joe Biden haters: have you disregarded him too much?

Joe Biden was the huge F-ing deal as VP. Agree or Disagree?

Yes, Barack and Joe had the bromance thing going. We know. But others are asking why and how. Really?

Obamacare was the jolt for healthcare. Why are those wanting to kill it for those who want to be insured, get checked, pay less, etc?

For those whom are major confused: Obamacare and the Affordable Care Act are the same thing! Why is that so hard?

 

Did anyone of us got lucky when we can finally take pictures IN THE WHITE HOUSE?

Why do republicans as much want to erase everything that Obama did like he never existed? Hate does come into play.

CALLOUT: For all of my conscious, hotep, and sometimes not connectable black people: what was it that Obama wanted to do for us?

CALLOUT: For all of my conscious, hotep, and sometimes not connectable black people: what was it that Obama should have done for us besides well, being President of the United States?

CALLOUT: For all of my conscious, hotep, and sometimes not connectable black people: did we really partied that much in these 8 years?

CALLOUT: For all of my conscious, hotep, and sometimes not connectable black people that didn’t do enough: why are we mad now that Donald Trump is going in? EXPLAIN! Put down the Hidden Colors and Dr. Umar Johnson speeches for a moment. Just explain why.

CALLOUT: For all of my conscious, hotep, and sometimes not connectable black people that didn’t vote (as well as everyone else): REALLY?

For all the international folks, can you really remind us that Obama was the best thing that America had since Kennedy or Bill Clinton?

CALLOUT: For the international folks that hated Obama. Called him a monkey and all that mess, you realize that your racism is just as deadly as America, right? And you know who you are. Don’t front!

For the racists: You really think that Black Lives Matter was linked with Obama all this time?

About that 60% approval rating though. Really? Yeah really though.

For all the gun freaks: were you really that scared that Barack was coming for your Guns way after the gun issues were handed out? Oh, he Skeet Shooted at Camp David with a rifle. Hmmmm………..

For the misinformed that were way too misinformed about Obama: when will you get your facts straight? Besides him where he was born, got his education, his teachings, his first jobs, etc!

For the doubters: have you underestimated Obama by a slight margin?  Or should I say a big margin?

Who is getting Obama’s book when it comes out in the near future?

Anyone is still or will continue to donate to OFA and/or My Brother’s Keeper? And the female groups?

Did GM rocked the house after the bail out for jobs? Plus the jobs that bounced back to positive digits?

What group of folks are still hating on Community Organizers? Don’t front!

Will this President inspire those to run for office, especially of color?

Will the Obama-Biden Crew continue to be a force that no one can NEVER EVER overstep or deny

And the last question. After 8 years, one term in Illinois: Will you miss “the hell “out of President Barack Hussein Obama II? Admit the guilt.

2017: What do I want to see and don’t want to see!

So here we are.

Happy New Year!

Welcome to the blog story that is traditional.

Like Sgt. Hulka used to say in the movie Stripes: “before we proceed any further, we gotta get something straight.”

I’m going to be taking this blog to new heights. It’s not just going to be the same old song and dance. Nope, that is going to be one and done.  It’s going to more that just one blog story. No matter if you are in America or in freaking India, be ready. This blog thing will get real.  If I got to get my Periscope, or own video thing on here to help my stories, well: that’s what I have to do. What does all this mean? It means that I have to get better with  the idea of blogging. I have to. It’s not just that thing that needs to be done, it must be done to improve. To inspire and yes, to get to the point of view that I need to display.

Yes folks will walk tall, shoulders back, chin up, conscious up to the 10th level, and of course this is an idea that would be benefical. I thought about destroying this blog and ending a 10+ year streak, all because of other concerns of boredom or that same story. But wait…..this could be a benefit to help and inspire. While many might think that one story from a blog is all there is, think again.

Stephen’s Spot is not just about one blog. Or one picture. Or one anything. It can be revolutionary, inspirational, conscious, fun, life experienced, or just plain normal. It’s not a one dance show. It’s one in the million that can be experienced if many take the time to read more than one. Now, I know many are just now discovering the blog based on what I written back in 2014 or whatever. But if you (yes you) the reader actually like what I write here, in a sense of right now, thank you.

Knowingly I can’t control what others might read, but by me writing more, and thinking more, it will be fully objectionable for me to carry on. I’m in the age bracket of 40 years old, and yes this age bracket will indeed test my theory and summarize.

So guess what: you want Stephen’s Spot? I’ve give you Stephen’s Spot!

So for now: let’s start my New Year’s Tradition of Stephen’s Spot that doesn’t need a repeat: What do want to see and not want to see in 2017! 17 things by the way.

First Five I want to see in THAT YEAR OF 2017:

1) Time to work folks. If this is the year that you will get that real job, the time is now. No more wasting time by waiting on others. It won’t work. We need to have a Career Awareness Month. We need to have better job fairs, career expos, have a “seasonal vet” career fair for the mature folks. Not that watered down stuff that many are getting. Even if you still have that degree in display, that many will pass up. Gotta do better.

2) If you got to get yourself checked. Do it. You know where the doctors are. As well as the dentists, eye examination folks and more. Matter of fact some of them might be near you right now.  And while were at it, we need to for real get educated about the issues of health. I hear say, “you need to do this or that”.  or “you need a flu shot.” BEFORE ANY THAT HAPPENS: ASK QUESTIONS! Forget what you saw on Facebook, know that real stuff first!

3) 2017 means that the New Congress will take over. If any of the new members screw up, get on their case!

4) You know that 2017 is a voting year. Oh you didn’t know this? Pay attention! It’s not the presidential election, but maybe some of your county judges or school folks will be running on the ballot. Do better!

5) Speaking of the voting thing, this would be a time to get your voter registration checked and/or updated to get ready for the 2017 election.  I want to see this happen even more. Plus in the future like all these health months, why can’t we have a Voter Awareness Month?

Next Five I don’t want to see:

6) I don’t want to see no one complaining about the lack of this or that in the church. If you don’t have a certain something going in your church then make something happen!

7) I don’t want to see black folks putting other black folks down. No matter what happens we must continue to look in the mirror and raise up. Jobs, contributions, etc.

8) Never EVER OVERLOOK THIS – Black Queens: you say you love us Black Kings right? Here is a challenge that you might not think. Cater to us for ONE DAY at a restaurant, or maybe give us a day that we might enjoy. Think it over! Many of you got Brothers, Fathers, Uncles, Husbands, Boyfriends, Cousins, Neighbors, and many other male influences that you probably know that need that appreciation! You guys go all out for your thing and we’re in the seats. Why not us?

9) I don’t want to see credit checks on black folks no more. Matter of fact, not on anyone anywhere with credit checks!

10) I don’t want to see those who didn’t vote gloat. After all, most you don’t like Donald Trump after he won, well guess what: Elections have Consequences.

Five More things I want to see:

11) I want to see more of us reinvest in our Alumni Groups. Not just for the class reunions and everyone also shows up broke, mad, left out and uninformed.And by the way, if you see an Alumni Rep at your class reunion, don’t get no attitude about your daughter or son in college needing money and you think that your old High School has no money. That will not work!!!! Just dumb. Have you heard of Scholarships, like churches hand out every year?

12) I want see the results of us doing the work. Not just the partial results of patting on the back and say nice work. But also what did it took to get the results needed. And if your employer is celebrating a milestone of service (10, 20, etc), give him or her the due of respect. It’s the right thing to do.

13) I want us non scared and scared grown folks in the Black Church Groups to talk to our youth. Seriously talk to them. Some of them need us to come to them. I don’t care if they are in the schools shooting basketballs or at the community centers playing Madden. Or double dutching or learning a praise dance. Even tutoring!

14) I want to see more black folks in the communities whom think there is nothing there to do,  start something! Stop complaining!

15) And plus, here is a thought: I want to see ALL fraternities, and ALL sororities to recruit and meet up with seasoned vets that can help out. Especially those of the black fraternities and sororities. All of the Divine 9 folks: From the Alphas to the Iotas and from the AKA’s to the Sigma Gamma Rho’s: Have a day in which YOU need to go out to the seasoned vets of those whom are 40 ish that want to join up to support the groups you represent. And also don’t be so judgmental about those whom are at that 40’s range.  Best place to find us: either at our church events, alumni group meetings, etc.

Final two: want not to see and want to see.

16) Of all the things I don’t want to see: enough of the blame on Black Lives Matter that seemed violent or racist. For all you Blue Lives Matter, or copying off the Black Lives Matter Movement, you will suck. Instead of hating on Black Lives Matter at least go to a meeting or hear from those who lost a brother, or sister or a parent that was black. Take notes Blue Lives Matter.

17) Get lucky! Get lucky in all there is. We know what we need to do, and what to do this year. So why not get involved! And the time is right now!

Happy New Year!

 

 

 

Scratching my head all this time: before Halloween.🎃

Yo, what’s up with the bump in the night? You all know that Halloween is coming. Yes, I’m writing in the dark. Don’t judge me. But however, with the ghosts in and around my spirit, I had to bust this out like the Thriller jacket.

This one I have to ask:

Um….. I need to ask: who in the hell is Jackie Cooper?!!!

Um…for the female who thinks that blackfaces are not a problem: where have you been?!

This Trump supporter thought that racism ended before Obama came into office. Oh really?!

For the love of GOD America! Bill Clinton is not on the Ballot! Can we get this straight?! Jeez.
Why do many folks especially some black folks believe that racism doesn’t exist? Wake up folks!

You know that Election Day is coming right? Stop being scared and spooked!

So there are “Blacks for Trump” groups around, well can they explain the racial side of him?

It seems that those who were born in Milwaukee that left per se, still have bitter feelings about visiting their old stomping grounds. Here’s my question, did you actually helped your old stomping grounds before you left?  Or just a reminder that it via violence can happen anywhere?

Who REALLY has the upper hand in the World Series: Cubs or Indians?

So has the colors of Pink and Purple really sunk in this year? Being Breast Cancer and Domestic Violence Awareness month.

Who is really jealous of Tyler Perry all because of that Madea Halloween Movie? People get mad and still Tyler is making money. Which by the way to the HATERS: why are you mad at him? What is in your wallet? Your bank account? Yeah what’s up with that? (Crickets)

What is up the holidays that most of us don’t understand, and having this so called conscious mind that we need not mind doing? Halloween, Christmas, etc.

Yeah Church haters, I still hear all the negatives about all these ministers and members taking all that money and the cheating and such. Im not a minister. But AGAIN, where is the POSITIVE about Churches in general?! I don’t see nor hear that from you. Even on social media. Hmmm…….some of you must have forgot!

Yo Hoteps: are you really telling that truth, or just acting like it to get an impact? No need to get out the RGB for this one.

So some fool or goober in Madison during a Badger Football Game dressed like President Obama before Halloween with a noose and claim it’s free speech. You have no idea why racism is still alive. But however will this be added to “The Real UW” category? Knowing it will. Look for it.

With all this going, why do annual church conferences seem to skip over concerns that African-Americans knows very well? Explain.

Can we have no more email talk of Hillary?  Dang!

Why does it seems that those with “part time work” have “full time experience?”

Job Fairs to me in Milwaukee are getting whack. Yes, I said this! Where are the “Career Fairs” that matter?

So the Philadelphia 76ers said no to Sevyn Streeter’s just because of her “We Matter” Jersey. Oh why did they over react?

Remember 15 years ago that everyone dressed like a civil servant on Halloween? No Dracula. No Witch. None of that. And was still shaken from 9/11.

And I have one final question: Many think that Halloween is full of evil. Well you know that other holidays can have some evil components too right? Or even a particular day?
Have a delightful not so conscious Halloween!

A Stephen’s Spot Exclusive: Trauma: Informed Care. What my church learned from and what you need to know.

With all recent concerns about the recent shootings in Louisiana, Texas and Minnesota, and countless others the issue of Trauma is an ongoing concern and subject that lingers in our daily lives. Mainly it effects our children at a young age, and believe it or not, adults can have this effect as well.

For two days, my home church in Milwaukee had hosted two days about Trauma and yes, despite the turnout under 100 that came out, many more in Milwaukee should have came out based on the subject at hand.Yes this was a church event, and many have this disdain about churches and that pastor with that money and those hypocrites. But you know what, I’ll bet many should have given it a chance just to come out anyway. This is not just about “The Church”. This is about the community and the community that harbors!

It began with this statement: What is trauma is, and why do we speak about it.

One of the things I picked up that “Trauma is not an event.” It really isn’t. Trauma is not an event that you pick up on DirecTV or Online Streaming for a Facebook Challenge. It’s not some event in the making. Trauma is a real incident. A lifelong incident  that many have endured and still will endure. Mainly, our children will the ones have to face this concern because whenever things happen, and they are around, they will experience it and it might have a general effect on them for the rest of their lives. Almost like for those that left Milwaukee because of all the shootings. And they moved to Atlanta or Texas to get away from all that. Not very so. I’ll explain that further.

ACE’s was another topic. ACE’s is a acronym for Adverse Childhood Experiences, and it is “single greatest unaddressed public health facing our nation today.” Why it is unaddressed. Why has ACE’s has NOT been talked about in the discussions before. We viewed this video by Dr. Nadine Burke-Harris and there were highlight we summarized.

 

What we learned in summary: According to Dr. Burke-Harris, she summarized that those with the disorder, the population of those that have it is around the 67% area. 4 or more is around 12.8%.  The exposure of that with ACE’s with 4 or More might develop Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease or COPD at 2 1/2 times. Hepatitis: 2 1/2 times. Depression: 4 1/2. Suicidality: 12 times.  And some of the studies that those who have been exposed to ACE’s might be exposed more to develop heart disease or cancer. Either it could be bad behavioral habits, that negatively impact heart such as smoking, substance abuse, etc.  The High Doses of adversity affects Brain Functions, MRI Scan and DNA Structures, and yes the problem is treatable. And the final lesson of that is to get everyone involved.

We also summarized that the ACE’s Study from 1998 confirmed the negative impact of the ACE’s on health behaviors and health outcomes in adulthood. 10 areas have been highlighted that was summarized of primary of White, middle-class, and highly educated individuals: Emotional Abuse, Physical Abuse, Sexual Abuse, Emotional Neglect, Physical Neglect, Mother/Stepmother Treated Violently, Household Substance Abuse, Household Mental Illness, Parental Separation or Divorce, Incarcerated Household Member. The Philadelphia Urban Ace Study had indicators that ranged the following areas:

Witnessed Violence at 40.5%, Felt Discrimination at 34.5%, Unsafe Neighborhood 27.3%, Experienced bullying 7.9% and Lived in foster care 2.5%.

Overall the day back and forth, one of the highlights had opinated views in which teachers whom are black and white see the Trauma effects on students in schools. Also some of our youth members spoke about in the schools they attend that not many social workers are in the schools. They also talked about that some students hold the problems to themselves and don’t fully acknowledge the problems that were transpired. So the basis of trauma, in the sense as I indicated is all around us.

We concluded the first day with five phases we have to know about Trauma’s self care:

1. Physical
2. Emotional
3. Psychological
4. Spiritual
5. Social

We also must realize that Trauma, is associated with fear. This goes back to the Philadelphia ACE’s thing about Witnessing Violence, Unsafe in Neighborhoods and experienced the bullying. Does it sound familiar? Look what is going on now with all the shootings and killings of unarmed blacks. And the kids see this first hand. Again, does this sound familiar?
Day Two: The seminar continued with a male version of Trauma. My cousin, Vernon Drew a former MFD Firefighter recently present his viewpoints on hand. Why a male version? Trauma doesn’t discriminate and also this was a highlight for Men’s Health Month. He began with the statement: “There is trauma all around us. We see it everyday.”

How many times we see this? How?! We already know that.

Plus he said, that Trauma is a pure driven response.  Normally, they go up and down and they have to be identified.  We have to be aware. When Trauma happens, no matter what shape or form, we have this reaction to respond. A respond to action, a respond to identify and a respond to solve. We got to be aware at all times. Or just to “stay woke.”

He also identified four different Traumas, and I’m sure we have heard of this: Direct Trauma, Precarious Trauma, Countertraction Trauma, and PTSD. Is there a witness in the house that knows this? It should. But knowing everything else, it’s all connected. A combination of it if you will. My cousin also realized that we have to discuss it. And yes, he also said that we can run from the uses or concerns of Trauma, BUT WE CAN’T IGNORE IT! Just like any other concern of health, crime, or similar situation that we see and view every single day. There are those of us who run from doctors. We can’t ignore doctors! There are those of us who run from mental health. We can’t ignore the fact that Mental Health does exist. I know this is off topic, but there are those who run from being quiet like being introverted. Guess what: Introversion can’t be ignored. So stop apologizing for being quiet! What is one thing we can do, you ask? For a situation like this: Everybody must be trained. Even us must realize that the current system of the is broken. We must realize that in order to repair that system, we must be trained to understand and study why this happens alot. That goes for anything.

A major lesson in regarding about confronting the individuals who do wrong in all: We need to keep going. Another lesson from the discussion was that we need to talk to the children about this. The masses of the children that we know. And to plug in all of the knowledge that we know into them. I know it’s hard to do, and many of them don’t listen, but we need to make them listen! And you the parents who are asking “why is my son or daughter is like this?” Maybe you didn’t go hard enough.  Or not enough training. But seriously, WE ALL MUST be trained, alert, study, review, summarize, discuss and plan to confront the concerns of Trauma. Especially dealing with our own Children!

No one, especially those of us in the black community, must not take it for granted!

No matter if it’s your church, your business, your community organization, your homies, your girlfriends, your fraternity, your sorority or any group you pay your way, or if you just joined up like right now. I know many can run from it, or make a joke about it, but it can’t be ignored!

Let’s get to work.

Scratching my head all this time – The current situation.

I just had to do this. With all the elements of what’s going on, I’m putting out a scratching my head post, which is the current edition. Even though it’s post 4th of July in all, I’m going ahead with this.

Why can’t all cops be like Nakia Jones ?

Yes its true, blacks were slaves during July 4th 1776. But you know there were those unsung that wanted to get away in order to fight to get their freedom papers right?
Where are the real black patriots whom have “black patriotism for country and world” and being black at the same darn time? Even being a real truth teller? And black conscious? And unapologetic? 

Why there are some African-Americans whom look at the American Flag being “racist?”

When it comes to the issues, what is up being one sided? And you know what I’m talking about!

Is Wendy Williams that ignorant about the HBCU’s?

I know many had to go hard on Jesse Williams and his speech at the BET Awards. Had the haters sat down yet?

Will the church pastors talk about the recent events of the shootings? Even afterwards?

Have anyone, just anyone followed “my rules” for Summerfest 2016?

Summerfest 2017 will be so golden that they have invite all those that used to work there. Should they do that?

While many are continuing support for the slain officers in Dallas, Texas; many are still have not forgotten about Alton Sterling and Philando Castile. And will be funeralized this week. Does anyone see the pattern here?

You know that the Wisconsin State Fair got next, right?

For you bogus Credit Card pushers, why are you scamming folks?

Man listen: why folks on Youtube have to test Dick Gregory?

Question:why so many folks and you know them, post stuff on Social Media and most they think its true? KNOWINGLY some of that is FALSE!

Black folks: you know you could celebrate Juneteenth Day and the Fourth of July if you like, right?

What is the real concern about those asking about church folks who worship on Sundays, and then go out to eat at Red Lobster, a small family restaurant? What is wrong with that?

Scenario: You hate church. You can’t stand the preaching or the money. And go full postal on social media. Why can’t you go in person say what you got to say to the Pastor and the Church? Are you THAT scared?! That naive?! I dare you to try.

Is the Zika Virus that real serious?

Seriously, can someone school Sheriff David Clarke about this rant about Black Lives Matter? And no mention about the KKK. Shameful! Milwaukee, we are embarrassed by his half carcassed commentary.

 

Do many still fear Intelligent Black Men that want to do good, or many think that they’re all in one lump sum group that they are all the same as the bad folks?

Yo: what is up with the Jobs section in the Sunday Milwaukee Journal Sentinel being thin? I remember when it was thick!

Milwaukee Suburbans who hate the city: yet you hate Milwaukee, but post negative memes about the city and you don’t live there. EXPLAIN?

Will there be a Hits 3 and Hits 4 out of the vault of Prince?

United Methodists: does the BMCR still count?

Why those that used to go to church or never set foot in a church thinks that “all christians”are the same hypocritically, in which they are not? Almost many think that black people think the same, which is not new but a myth.

Why do folks on Social Media AT TIMES say they hate Church, but then turn around that they  comment:”you can go to any church you wish?” #VERYCONFUSED

They say violence is the same but the cameras are new. Agree?

Is it just me, or has this Summer season really flown by so fast?

Oh, Cleveland: are you really happy you got a title after a 50 year drought?

Why is Azealia Banks is still talking? Has she NOT learned her Twitter lesson?  GO SIT DOWN IN YOUR ROOM, LITTLE GIRL!

For all these younger conservatives like Tomi Lahren: Can you all go in the room in sit down after commenting about things you have no knowledge about? Black Panthers, etc.

Man, some of you officers need to turn in your badges and guns for all that mess about your KKK alignments. Can we have more officers like Nakia Jones who is so deep?

Think about this: Can us African-Americans wear the American Flag in our cause for Black Lives, and against the discriminations of us being black period?

Do we still think this example from The Fresh Prince of Bel-Air is a reality like right now?

Did the Second Independence Day Movie lived up to the hype?

Will Team USA be having an “American Summer” in Rio?

Americans: If you really think that Black Lives Matter thing is a terrorist group, you must be on that haterade. Why?

Huff Black Voices called out the so-called #AllLivesMatter mantra. #AllLivesDidntMatter. They did it 21 times. I’ve been saying and questioning: If All Lives Really Matter, Ask yourself why. Ask why, how, who, what, when, and where. Can those do that? Put up or shut up! #IfAllLivesReallyMatter

Does Laser Bond USA really work?

Ladies: I know this Irvin man or #MrStealYourGrandma is going on right now, but what happens when men look at #MsStealYourGrandpa? 

And the last question: And this is for Milwaukee: La La Brown and Kool Aid’s Killer is in custody. A possible lead is finally in play for Alexis Patterson. Is there a way to heal?

BONUS QUESTION: For all the folks who fly American Flags, or White Folks whom Fly the flag the most. One my local black radio stations WNOV in Milwaukee had a statement of flying the flag in regarding black folks. Can you GIVE A REASON why African-Americans (for those whom are still on the RGB tip and conscious and others) should fly the flag? On a shirt, lapel or houses.Break it down for us. And think before you answer. Yes, we are Americans. But provide this answer!

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

My Take: Roots Reboot and I like Snoop. But…….

For the 4 nights, the History Channel has been showing the revamped and still traditional version of Roots. The still saga of Alex Haley’s novel that has been read by generations of folks. If you are so way younger than me, you might not know what I’m talking about. Go to the library, or Amazon, or B&N Bookstore to get the book. Oh while you’re at it, buy the DVD’s.

For the four nights, we’ve seen all four parts of this thing, and even though that this wasn’t the original that came out after the year of my birth, the story of parallels with Kunta Kinte, Kizzy, Chicken George and others had not left. Us older cats we know the story like clockwork. Many of us can relate in some sort of way of the heartbreak of slavery, being separated from families, and being shackled, branded, whipped, controlled and many other horrible actions. We already know. But some of us, needed a constant reminder that these words of “The Struggle Continues”.  Does that ring a bell?

Now there are those had to argue that this reboot is not necessary. No need for it. But then again there are those feel is necessary because when the original came out, you millennials weren’t born! Sorry to say it. But now since you’ve gotten your firepower and advice from us proud Generation X Folks, you also have to be advised of this stuff is.  Some of you probably got the message. But others, have you?

I really hope that this “Roots Reboot” or the second format has you on your thinking skills that it’s not all glamour and glitzy. Many of our people had through pain and discomfort and split up from the ashes. This is no romance novel! This is a lesson that probably needed to be retold to every generation of black folks. Like what our grandparents and your great great greats have done for years! Don’t trip on this.

Now I know that many don’t like the reboot. Particularly one individual in mind: Snoop Dogg. Don’t get me wrong, I may like some of his swagger, and his younger cousin Sasha Banks is a great Women’s Wrestler, but here is one thing I have to say that his “opinionated commentary”, was for the birds.

Look here, you got a guy here had females with dog collars on for a show, blunts, gang past, making porn for flicks, oh don’t forget that when Pac and Suge Knight were examined after Las Vegas, everyone was like 20 years ago: Snoop better watch himself! This was way after Death Row records was very examined. Even after Tupac’s death.

But his recent rant is about the Roots reboot, and making a statement of protest. And some are saying that he’s thinking what everyone is thinking. All over Facebook and Social Media, I see this alot: WE’RE TIRED OF SLAVE MOVIES!!!!

CALLOUT: I need to ask and excuse my French: Who in the hell is WE?!! WE Who?!

I’m not on this so called “we” bandwagon here.

And alot of folks went after Roland Martin the way he after Snoop. If you missed what he said, go on his Twitter Time Line, or his Facebook Page. And folks called him a Coon. Wow black folks. I think the reason being, because Roland told the truth. Speaking of that, check this. Please check this!

 

In the words of Homer Simpson: “And that is that.”

Or was it? Some of the critics had to pop off at the mouth. Again!

And all the folks kept talking about these Hidden Colors movies that came out. Personally, I have not seen not one Hidden Colors movie documentary or whatever you call it. From what I’ve heard, it supposed to be this real truth documentary about what the history books or religion, or historical aspects didn’t tell you growing up. Are there other Black documentaries that tell you that?

Everybody on Facebook and Instagram or Twitter  is like: “watch Hidden Colors!” Or “Hidden Colors is the truth!”

Really?

If Hidden Colors is supposed to be this “truth of black viewpoints”, and if so vital, who funds the movie rights? Who funds “Hidden Colors” to be this “truth teller?”  And if “Hidden Colors is so cool right now, where I can I find it on Cable or Satellite? Like IFC? or some Independent Channel? Or matter of fact, has the AMC or Marcus Theaters, Black Owned Theaters, or a Budget Theater ever have SHOWN “Hidden Colors?” Don’t worry I’ll wait! Bring it.

The way folks parading around Hidden Colors online like a mean switch off the tree. That to me is like I’m being forced to watch it. Don’t call me a hater! For all you “Hidden Colors” fanatics that thrive on the flicks, I have an open REAL challenge for you: Provide me a CLEAR, CONCISE, and REAL SUMMARY about why I should watch it. Don’t give all the ghetto/slang opinionated thoughts! I’m too grown for that. Be real about it. Beat by beat. That is your homework assignment!

Everybody in the Black Community is saying like:

We are tired of slave movies!

I don’t hear the Jewish folks saying they are tired of the Holocaust. What do they say? Never forget. Sound familiar? I don’t hear none of our Chinese brothers and sisters hollering at what happened in June of 1989. Let me paint a picture for this: Tiananmen Square. Remember that? When that protest happened, and that one dude got ran over by a tank in Beijing? Hmm…….no complaints about that being forgotten. Everyone else has had problems with some sort of human erradication has never forgotten the pain nor feeling about the incidents. Even though it has not happened to them per se.

But when it come to our Black Concerns of Slavery or Black Dilemma, we’ve been told to forget about it. Get over it. Or in this case with Snoop: “F-Roots!” “F-Slavery!” “We need to show the positive stuff of what is going on with our people now!” I hate to say with all due resepct to Calvin Broadus, although it’s vital we need to show our black folks all the positive stories, WE SHOULD NEVER FORGET WHAT GOT US HERE! EVEN if it’s lynchings, slavery, racism, sexism or many other isms that is indeed slavery related! Paritially in the mini series, there were some Africans that did captured the folks and put them on the ships. Bet folks didn’t see that.

Again: same slogan of complaint, “We are tired of slave movies!” Guess what I’m tired of? Let me count the ways.

• I’m tired of folks whom look like me being the enemy.
• I’m tired of black women at times saying that all black men at Sh…..You know I don’t use that word.
• I’m tired of all the whining that most are getting out of Milwaukee because of the violence, but knowning that VIOLENCE IS EVERYWHERE!
• And I’m definintely tired of the whining of those who keep voting up for the candidate of choice and complain!
• I’m tired of folks especially telling black men to go to the Doctor! WE KNOW!
• I’m tired of those who feel to have this “High School Attitude” that they think they are still fresh like high school. Won’t work honey!
• I’m tired of the Extroverted folks ALWAYS getting on the case of the Introverted being quiet. And having to apologize for it.
• I’m tired of white folks telling black folks to “get over it.” When the talk of slavery happens. WHY?
• I’m tired of the almost 70% black women that are still single with a mean streak of saying there are no good black men.
• I’m tired of folks telling black folks that we aren’t enough. WE ARE ENOUGH!
• I’m tired of folks who pass up their lineage of history. Family History. Am I right black folks? We do it to ourselves sometimes!
• I’m tired of companies passing up applicants whom got all the credentials the right way, then hired the young hot chick or dude with NO EXPERIENCE!
• I’m tired of companies who don’t accept new talent but make it harder for those to apply!
• I’m tired of companies that don’t retain as much for seasoned vets that wants to learn and become viable! Like learning new technology over 40 without being kicked off.
• I’m tired of companies judging folks because of their credit reports!
• I’m tired of these job developers telling folks “you better not come back here if you can’t find a job” like 2004. Remember that Milwaukee Urban League?!
• I’m tired that single folks are getting the shock treatment of pressured being married.
• I’m tired of the old school traditional folks, thinking that distance education doesn’t work. It worked for me!
• I’m tired of looking at all the bad stats about Milwaukee on Facebook. Um, what is the solution?! I’ll wait!
• I’m tired of folks who don’t vote.
• I’m tired of Scott Walker and the republicans coming up with all these stupid laws to get us afraid.
• I’m tired of companies that don’t hire, or train, or retain African-American workers.
• I’m tired of the folks saying the chruch is full of hyprocrites. Have you checked your hangouts and jobs for hyprocrites? They got them too!
• I’m tired of all these Carjackings in Milwaukee now. Everytime I hear about these stories, reminds me of my late cousin Adrian Drew being killed all over again!
• I’m tired of these Animal Activists praising the memory of Harambe the Gorilla, but not the child that was not harmed.
• I’m tired of all the talk and no bark!
• I’m tired of all this stuff that single folks are lonely. We’re not!
• I’m tired of phone numbers calling you and they are scamming your money!
• I’m tired of folks whom should feel about looking at the movies that it’s all flashy.
• I’m tired of all the mess that our schools/colleges are getting into.
• I’m tired of all the mess that churches have to deal with. And I’m not talking about the what goes on the inside!
• I’m tired of those who think that Black Lives Matter is a farce.
• I’m tired of fake memes on social media that makes no sense. I went there!
• I’m tired of all the mess that neighborhoods and cities that must deal with violence and break ins!
• I’m tired what I can’t watch and read in my own home, but I’ll do it anyway.
• I’m tired of collection agencies harrasing folks for money.
• I’m tired of family members putting you down and thinking you’re sensitive!
• And the lasting thing I’m tired of: no love for ourselves. Yeah I said it!

That is what I’m tired of!

Even the devil getting busy in our minds to corrupt our communites!

Shall I go on?

Like my mother used to say I’ll give you something to cry about! Many are tired of all the slave movies. But I’m tired too. Of something else. Learn that, Snoop fans.

Folks have been saying also: what about the movies before slavery? You all better get onboard. I’ll bet many have been saying that for a long time. Which is nothing new. And I’ll bet there is a director, or producer, or writer that is somewhat is getting ideas to write about someone from that era that was before slavery. So is this will make thousands happy? Or in this case, will this be satisfied? Or better yet will all those whom are VERY CONSCIOUS will finally put their MONEY where their mouths are to support?

I got five words for that: Put up or Shut up!

Got it?

Fa’ Shizzle!

 

 

My take: The United Methodist Church NEEDS Black Lives Matter!

This probably might not set well with those of my demonination. But this will get an attention: The demonination of the United Methodist Church. Right now in Portland Oregon, there is the General Conference taking place and in this conference, like many will see monthly will talk about the decisions made to see where the direction of the UMC might go in terms of variety of topics, concerns, groups, or many other aspects. The actual defininton is as follows courtesy of the United Methodist Church:

The highest legislative body in The United Methodist Church. The voting membership consists of an equal number of clergy and lay delegates elected by the annual conferences. General Conference convenes every quadrennium (four years) to determine the denomination’s future direction. It is the only body that can speak officially for the denomination.

This we know mostly.

But this is not what I’m talking about.

The main concern of all of this, is what happened in the pause of the moment concerning this demonstration:

Yes, what you are looking at is a protest and demonstration of the actions of Black Lives Matter. Yes, the movement has now reached the door of the United Methodist Church. And I have to say, with all what’s going on with use of some of black UMC churches with some elements of the LGBTQI folks in the mix of concern, this is another conversation that the church MUST ADDRESS! We need to wake up!

Now there are those either in The United Methodist Church and outside of the Church are on the side of “Oh look the UMC Members got those BLM Gangsters in there conference. Very hypocritical. ALL LIVES MATTER!”

REALLY?!

I need to tell you so-called “All Lives Matter” vocal fans that when you mention that in a sense, don’t you dare EVER say or think that notion. Obviously, you really don’t know what ALL LIVES MATTER means yourselves. You probably might bust out all the “I got Black Friends” speeches, and again spar up the ol’ MLK Speeches about color and charcter. I’m going to bust heads open: Clearly many of you saying this or implying this and it doesn’t matter if you are UMC or not, you are part of the problem! Yeah I said it! And for far too long, black folks’ voices and concerns have been NOT heard, or spoken to address the situations of what is really taking place! Racism, Sexism, targeting those whom are innocent and Black, effects of Slavery,  the new Jim Crow, and those whom are refusing service due to being black. Think about it! And it happens in 2016. And a long time.

And don’t bust the comments of “black on black crime”please. It’s not here for it. Not once here also, there weren’t any commentaries of “white on white” crime. Which does happen by the way!

Here in Wisconsin for example, there are “alleged angles” that Black Churches in UMC were and are under attack  about subjects or concerns that were hitting the fan! Even also if the chrurch’s pastors who have served A LONG TIME, got the boot to make way for those whom are younger and appeal to the current era of worshipers.And sometimes it might take a black D.S. to do the dirty work. Even taking out mininsters who have all the credentials and acculades, and black and sometimes disabled are being shut down to be lay leaders. There are only a few BLACK United Methodist Churches in Milwaukee know about this too well similarly. One black pastor was ousted forcefully on inappropiate purpose due to the fact the church previously served, was in declining numbers per say and is now out of the UMC doing his own church. Other ministers probaly felt the shifts and left. And on a side note, I have a connection to these churches because again, I grew up United Methodist and one of the UMC Churches I go to has been in business since 1949 in Milwaukee. And at times, I hate to say that there was many times that the Wisconsin Conference (with all due respect on the nice things accomplished) has NOT had the back of these Black UMC’s! I believe it’s time from the TOP ON DOWN that the Bishops and many other districts NEED TO HEAR the concerns about the Black United Methodist Churches that is ongoing and hidden to talk at the table. And not to be left out of the talk period. The last bishop, whom was black, LISTENED to us Wisconsin UMC black folks of our concerns. Period.

And I say this unapologetically, as a 4th Generation Member of the UMC.

This mix of Black Lives Matter and the General Conference of the UMC appears to the haters like oil and water. But when those say “All Lives Matter” is nothing more than a mere smoke screen with White Supremacy. That’s right I said it! On the pic, there was a sign that read All #BlackLivesMatter, and below: it listed the items: Bisexual, transgender, poor, heterosexual, lesbian, gay, disabled, women, men, young, and children. Well, I have to say again, this might not sit well with the rest of the denominaton, but the talk of the concerns in our Black UMC Churches and Black UMC things  MUST BE ADDRESSED MORE! Just like the others.

I know we got the BMCR. And for many many years the BMCR has addressed the black concerns in and outside of the church. But I think NOW the BMCR and the high authority of the UMC must address the issues of Black Lives Matter as well as any other Black concerns that the high leadership of the UMC MUST LISTEN!

We are all suppose to eat, sleep, breathe, drink, pray, worship, spread the good news, and fellowship as God’s Children, right? We know we do. But many of us need to be reminded of that. And even though that many do follow that notion, some of us I hate to say need the “Come to Jesus meeting”. Even if you say “All Lives Matter!” in a sarcastic, anti-conscious and threating manner. But you know the All Lives Matter, MATTERS to God. Just my opinion.

For those that lead the fight or this new fight in the UMC, I say as a black man that is a member of the UMC, out of Wisconsin, 4th generation in all: that is what the fleek I’m talking about! My childhood Pastor said in a sermon, “Speak truth to power, and power must listen!”  Don’t hold back nothing but the butt naked truth! Let them know!

Mad respect to those who lead that protest. Mad respect to the Black Pastors and Associates that did this! I’m assuming that the spark from that Black Lives Matter demonsration will be the new fire that many United Methodist Churches of Color must pass along!

Enough with the sitting quietly and listen. But even silence, will spark also new voices to commence.

Like the pastor said at the end of the protest, “this is our church as much as it is their church.”

As it should be.

Can they get an Amen?

Read more about the protest here via the Reconciling Ministries Network and the United Methodist Church News.

 

 

 

Black History Month 2016: A 90th Anniversary Under Review

Here it is: the final week and days of “The centerpiece” of Black History Month 2016. But certainly it won’t be the last of Black History Month, or Black History. Ever.

For many days, yes we have reviewed the highs and lows of our historical perspectives, figures and events. Yes, black folks, we’ll continue to reference our history stuff everyday like many said.

But as a CALLOUT: I have significant warning here, not many of us will acknowledge our history of black stuff.

Like last year, I don’t really acknowledge the “National African-American History Month” name.  I keep it straight original about “Black History Month” always! And also, I don’t really acknowledge the “Black Future Month” or “New Black History” things in the BHM. I guess I’m a old school guy that has to me reminded of the ancestors things that got us here in the first place.

Like last year, I need to really ask this: How many of us will actually reference black history everyday? And the keyword is “ACTUALLY”. I hate to say this but to us Black Folks who might get mad at this blog, we will not again fully acknowledge our history everyday. We won’t! Unless if there is a new way of doing it. Yeah, we might have those Black 365 Calendars at home or work where black references are shown everyday, but chances are, we are not going to see them everyday! Why? We might miss them by not referencing each time. Look at our finances, look at our Social Media stats, look at the next line to get the new Air Jordans (which already happened recently at a store near you) dating, some protest downtown, or to see what is up with the soaps that feature some black characters acting a fool of impression to feel that sensitive side creeping up. Here is a rhetorical question, are we still going to learn about our historical figures everyday?! YES or NO?

Now this year, there have been some firsts in black history. Yes, I’m still saying first because I want to see the next line folks getting their stuff.

For this year of the #BHM of 2016:

First: Stacey Dash is a loser. Yeah I said it. She talked about we shouldn’t celebrate a Black History Month and we’re Americans in all. SPOILER ALERT: Black History Month is not cancelled again. We refreshed to learn about ourselves as black folks from the trials, the sacrifices and also the accomplishments. We also learned that there were the “black nobodys” whom were hunged, lynched or burned all because they were black! Hate all you want non-black folks, but that was one of our dark periods. Yes, we reflected on the MLK’s the Rosa Parks, those whom were Unsung and nameless. We have that right and the privilege to learn about our culture just as all of you non-blacks have the rights to talk about the immigrants that came over on boats to Ellis Island and others.

Second on the menu: After what Stacey Dash said on Fox News, the Because Of Them We Can Campaign stepped up and had some of the kids telling us and reminding us of why the occasion has been up all this time. And yes, the kids know that Black History Month didn’t begin with slavery! We need to get the language right! And they did a good job at it. If this can actually continue, can it be a sample of those that can actually do this with our black children?

Third on the menu: Blackish. If those whom doubt that Blackish is some Black show that don’t get gritty about black issues on the conscious level, stop sleeping! The most recent episode that was on TV was called “Hope”. If you haven’t seen the episode, you need to watch it. Especially those who feel that all blacks are the same speech. As a summary of the rundown, the episode  itself starts out in the home. Seeing young Dre as a child as being told to turn off the TV by Pops (Laurence Fishburne) while a certain event that shouldn’t be seeing by kids. Or asking the questions of who was this person or that person, and having the parents with books or a Walkman on stand by.  Many of us had our parents making us to go to our rooms when a subject concerning violence or hatred happens in a conversation.

We know this, do we?

However in the show, the family watches the CNN coverage. And yet the family still asks questions and gets concerned. Mainly with young Jack and Diane. Also, the scene shifts to Dre and Bow, in which she begins to be concerned. Dre suggests telling the truth. And the scene gravitates towards when President Barack Obama and First Lady Michelle Obama stepped out of the Limo and waving to the crowd. Even shaking hands. I’ll bet that got many concerned about them being wasted in a violent manner when they did that gesture. However as we know, that never happened. Later on, the older kids of Junior and Zoey were talking about the protest. Junior was all for going to the activity, but Zoey was starting to feel worried about the well being of her brother. He didn’t go alone by the way. Towards the end, the family still learned that even though things of protests, and keeping things shut off, they have managed and learned about the legality of telling the truth of the reasons to face the world of concerns. Overall this was a powerful episode. Even with the words Black Owned spray painted on the garage by Ruby!

Fourth on the Menu: I kept saying in the last few years, that Black History is not just American History. It’s now part of World History. For our Canadian Black Neighbors, they like last year are referencing their Black Accomplishments and figures. But the one thing stood out the most, was this courtesy of Canada’s Huffington Post story of Honoring their Black Historical Figures and Events. Click on the author’s Twitter pic link. Man, listen: This was so cool! Toronto’s landmark CN Tower was lit in the Red, Black and Green! That was off the chain!

I have a question though: Can America do this? Having some or all of the landmarks convert to the Red, the Black, the Green for one day! Or some of the Black Landmarks to the African colors in honor of Black History Month? Milwaukee, you better read this if you like LED Lights on display! For Toronto and the rest of Canada, this marks 20 years since they started Celebrating Black History Month in 1996. So guess what Americans, Black History Month is not just All-American History. It’s a staple of World History. Get it straight! But big ups to the Black Canadians for this. And like last year, keep telling your black stories! No matter what. No matter anyone tells you. Still share your black stories, refresh them everytime, and yes like us Americans we need to keep telling the kids about the reasons why the occasion of Black History Month, exists. Not African-American History or African-Canadian History or Afro-British History or Afro-Anything History. I still stay BLACK HISTORY MONTH due to the global scale!

This just in: Channing Dungey was named the new President of ABC Entertainment. A first for Black History.

Now again, there are those who might say: “Stephen, this Black History Month thing, that’s racist”. It’s not. You non-black folks tell your stories ALL THE TIME! And not once that any black person has stopped you from telling your experiences coming up. Even about various occasions of immigrants moved to America and worked very hard, and etc. We hear them all the time! But my folks were born here and ancestors were African related were shackled, branded, ripped apart, forced to learn new names and languages and still, being called the N-words no matter what we try to achieve for us! And that includes Degrees, Certificates, First Employee or Employees of Color doing this and that. Opening doors for greatness. And many, many, many objectives and purposes that Blacks have and are currently doing in all aspects. Even STILL rising up from the ashes of misguidedness! However again, there are those who feel that it’s racist, that it’s just separating the human race, and many other concerns. Even being “negropeanized”. Um, NO! And speaking of the “human race,” MESSAGE:  it was black folks that started the human race. We were the first of human civilization, of science, math, astronomy and others. African-Americans have been in wars of the U.S. more times in history, even making you dance, or play, or sing, all kinds of MUSIC! Even fashion. Making news in journalism, technology, political statements, activism, evangelism and many MANY MANY others! Black folks, we need to keep the reminders! Hit the refresh buttons. No validations necessary. Even though that the 90th Anniversary of Black History Month of 2016 is concluding, yes our references we seek and learn everyday still lingers! So no, the trials and tribulations will not be forgotten!

Everytime I pass by the old A.O. Smith building here in Milwaukee, I am reminded by of my grandfathers, Robert Burton Sr, whom was the first black welder in the City of Milwaukee. This was in an era when black folks were coming up to the north for jobs, and better opportunities to raise families, etc. The Milwaukee Urban League at the time was a link for him to get that job and get employed. (Wish still could be a factor today without the previous attacking at me from 2004) And still even though it’s becoming Century City Business Park, I am STILL REMINDED about the place and time that it was creating jobs in that area that wasn’t always the ghetto!

One of my late uncles, worked for Pfister and Vogel Tannery for nearly 20+ years. And was the first African-American Male to head one of their departments ever. Not making this up.

Plus also, this is for my Black UMC’s in the building. Us black folks know the full story of BMCR and the reasons for it. Now I’ve heard this in church though my former pastors that the first person that John Wesley anointed into Methodism, was black. And this was during the American Revolution when America was fighting for it’s freedom against the tyranny of Great Britain and King George. Even you non-church goers need to understand that.

Furthermore in this #BHM2016: The rise of Afro-Latinos.

Yes, for my Afro-Latino folks, you’ve been in the house. And there is no reason to be left out. Even though that this occasion is for all black folks, this does include you. I read about the success stories of Celia Cruz, Marcus Garvey, Roberto Clemente, Marta Moreno Vega, Arturo Shcomberg, Gina Torres, and even Soledad O’Brien (whom have some black in her). And many other Black Latino men and women that have made fabulous successes. Even those of Tatiyana Ali, and Charles Rangel. I am drawing this from the article via The Grio called “Taking Black History Month to the next level: Why Pan-African history is important” Plus Facebook. They also features, Juliana Pache, who is behind the hashtag of #blacklatinxhistory. This also reminds me of the stories my mother told me about some of the latin folks whom didn’t admit of having some of the African in them, but knowing there are latin folks that do have black in them. Part of that is in the history and should be acknowledged. The same with the Black Samoans, we know one and he’s “the people champ”. And I’ll go even further with Native Americans. Yes, remember those jokes about having Indian in your family, well some of that can be further with the truth. Research! I think it’s time for another DVD to come out with HBO in regarding the The Black List! Just to think that rocker Slash from Guns N’ Roses was in the series, and is part black.

Now usually I don’t agree with the #BlackFutureMonth mentality. But I’ll digress here. For you future kings and queens of the black community: I see you!!!! Even some of you read my blogs with your grown ups, but I see your talents. I see your young talents shine in dance, music, sports, technology, and most of all: education! When you grow up, do all you can to make the world a good place to live. But before you get to those big jobs in the future, and higher education of colleges, make SURE you listen to your parents (even though they might be strict at times), your teachers who might stay on your homework alot. Don’t try to get an attitude all the time, stay grounded with your books, keep dreaming and reach for your goals,  and most of all, don’t quit/dropout, and this for mostly the black boys: STAY OUT OF TROUBLE! PLEASE! If you find yourself in trouble, don’t do it on your own. Get help to get out, and stay out! And always acknowledge those who came before you. Without the past, NO FUTURE of anything!

And a final note: this is the last Black History Month Celebration concerning the First Family. Yes, it’s Obama’s last BHM as President. But guess what, his name should be in the books forever with Black History anyway. Now the “yahoos” will try to erase what this man has done during his White House rule, understand this: even though he’s been slighted in all, WE (and you haters of Obama will admit) will miss him when he’s gone!

Here is a pre-Leap Day Bonus: Formation:

Oh, I thought I was done. The talk about Beyonce’s Halftime Show at the SuperBowl and her without warning video was one of the highted spotlights of the month! No one saw it coming like SNL’s Skit of “The Day That Beyonce Turned Black.” And if you’re one of those who felt scared or that DUMB that Beyonce was about to join the Black Panther Party, HOW STUPID YOU WERE! Let’s see, The Black Panthers were in effect until 1982, Beyonce was just about a tyke when she was first born! So there was no way that she was “born” as a Black Panther! Of all those who got their undies in a bunch, it’s all those who claim that Blue Lives Matter were effected. Those who claim that with some law enforcement shootings or killings, they have to claim that Beyonce that was so responsible and had to apologize for her  well doing in this. For all those hyper sensitive per se fans of the Law Enforcement Community: Beyonce does not have to say sorry for what she did in the video. OH NO! Part of what Beyonce displayed in a sense of Formation, was partially doing this: “TELLING THE TRUTH!” For those who linked Sheriff David Clarke about his Beyonce commentary must be on the fritz! This is the same David Clarke that said that there is no Police Brutality in America. How so wrong he is! Dumb! Just admit Law Enforcement Community (aka Blue Lives Matter Fans) you’re just mad because that thing called the TRUTH and you can’t take the cake! Eat the freaking cake, yo! Get humbled. And this goes for those who think the word Formation is a bad word. So says the Google.

In addition, Kendrick Lamar once again woke up everyone. This time with the Grammys. Go back and research!

Here is a Mini #BHM2016 Callout: Chris Rock hosted the 88th Academy Awards, and for the first 20 minutes of the show, yes he went like “Bring the Pain” of 1996. Did he not? Or did he sold out as those probably claimed? Read the whole thing please.

This concludes my “Annual Review” of Black History Month 2016. But not of Black History overall. Besides, Black History Month Part II is coming in June, and a Black History Month Part III in July about Black Families is coming also. So get ready once more!

#BLACKHISTORYMONTH4LIFE

#THESTRUGGLECONTINUES

#ONTOTHEFUTURE