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Is the whole thing about the 45th President saying that the word “black” is outdated true?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.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Black History Month 2017: Now what?

Oh it’s time once again to go back to the learning tree.

For this: it’s once again that my centerpiece is set for Black History Month. No millennials, not black futures month, or a thing being conscious month. Black History Month is back again being 91 years old, and yes there many of us who think we know everything that is Black History. Or do we?

Like many years before, there are spoiler alerts: Stop me if you heard this one:

“I celebrate my people everyday.”

Or: “Every month is Black History Month.”

Or: “Black History Month begins January 1st and ends December 31st”.

Or: “I’m Black Everyday.”

Oh really? Hear me out.

How many of us in the black communities and classrooms, homes and churches and many others (including Social Media) do actually believe that when we say that, it’s almost we’re lying to ourselves?

Think about it. Years back on this blog again, I ask this same question:

What (in the H.E. Double Hockey Sticks) do we do everyday?

We are at work, school, in line to buy that new gadget, that line of weave, that line of new Jordans, that latest new single by J. Cole or a underrated rock band, or the list goes on and on! And the thing is, the age range is not a factor. You mean to tell me we can list all the sports records in Football and how the Atlanta Falcons CHOKED in the 51st SuperBowl(after beating Green Bay Twice), but can’t recite the reasons why black players couldn’t make the roster because of skin color? Or many of us love guns/militarism. Why wasn’t the US Military at the time had black servicemen who did their job for their country, but never got love for the country they served for?

I want to jump back to the quote of “celebrating our people everyday” and such.

If we really celebrate our people everyday, where are those who have NOT BEEN CELEBRATED?! Where are they at? How many of us who bleed that quote of celebrating us everyday never gave the flowers to those whom always been hidden every single time.  It’s always the front runners, the lead dogs, those that got the first divas for being out more than those that didn’t get one trophy for the hard work. And they have been grinding! What about those whom you got on your Social Media lists that has all those boat loaded accomplishments that you read about, but have this so-called opinion of them being so radical with actions or whatever and you don’t say nothing to be appreciative? Some of you may know where I’m going with this! But here’s the kicker. Many of us don’t hardly acknowledge it as much, while still being ALIVE!

5 years ago in February, Whitney Houston’s Funeral was taking place. And one of her former Bodyguards said something about giving flowers to those whom are living. That’s real talk. Every black man, and of course every black woman should be given their flowers RIGHT NOW for not only the appreciation of work, or a birthday, an anniversary, or being a good citizen or family member or friend, but still around.

CALLOUT: Especially us Black Males need that too! 

Many of us give flowers at a time of funerals. But that person lying in a casket or ashes in urns never got the chance to smell the roses while living. We need to recognize and check ourselves that yes, life is short. Anyone of us could be taken out for selfish or health reasons of anytime. That’s also real talk!

And about the phrase: “I’m black everyday or every month.”

Well duh! Of course many of us in the black community are black everyday! And I hope it’s not a diss towards Black History Month. I’ll admit that yes we got this pride of being a proud black man or a proud black woman. We got pride of recognizing our culture, our objectives, our purpose and our existence. We know.

However: I have to stress this, there are those of us whom are NOT proud of our heritage! Inner hate. Being ashamed. Being disregarded of not acknowledging the thought of having a prideful positive outlook of being black overall. Stop me if you have heard this before.

When black folks say “I’m black everyday”, I say: of course! And I dare say: what else?

• Are you black everyday and helping out your community?
• Are you black everyday and give back to your Alumni?
• Are you black everyday and providing a value of support in your families, churches, fraternities, sororities, neighborhoods, and your place of employment?
• Are you black everyday and giving back overall of the work after you somewhat post on Facebook, and other social media outlet?
• Are you black everyday and not dissing or shaming the culture that many of us made fun of when we were younger?
• Are you black everyday that after you have all those meetings and actually go over and review of what happened and how to make it better for the merrier?
• Are you black everyday (talking to the men) whom don’t do the domestic violence thing, or dissing the health needs, dissing the black women in a ego sense, or financial concerns?
• Are you black everyday, (talking to the women) who don’t diss all black men whom you think that they are dogs, ain’t all that like some thug, not being appreciated or loved, supportive, or not very extroverted like many of you, or who assumes that he has to make the same amount of cash, or whatever like many of you? As well as not dissing your needs of medical or finance?
• Are we black everyday, and not hating on our educational values?
• Are we black everyday and not hating on each other for clothes, money, what you don’t have, when forcing someone to speak, a certain game console, shoes, gadgets, food supply, or anything that is not worthy of being jealous?
• Are we black everyday and fighting against racism, the gangs, prostitution,  etc?
• Are we black everyday and do the Christian or religious related thing to things that matter and thinking it straight?
• Are we black everyday and having a goal to have a better value of our history and future?
• Are we black everyday and vote in every Election? Should have thought about that in November.
• Are we black everyday like we supposed to be black everyday ? Just asking.

MASSIVE CALLOUT: We need to be real!

Oh and white folks: look, don’t ask the same tired question about when is a “White History Month” going to happen. Clearly you guys got every month locked in on the freaking calendar. Stop playing with yourselves!

Later on before the month is out, I’ll be doing a review of what was I think stood out in #BHM2017.

But for now: My #BHM2017 centerpiece is displayed on the table while staying in the struggle.

 

A blog letter to: Us #Nerdland fans and Fans of Melissa Harris-Perry

We are indeed mad and pissed, #Nerdland fans.

Melissa Harris-Perry last week as we know is no longer working for MSNBC. As mad and pissed as she is with the layoff she should be. During her four years on the Network, we learned so much in which we were in the classroom with her. Even with her viewpoints on politics and of course her letters whom were addressed to. My thought of my blog letters here on Stephen’s Spot were an idea watching her, and is to help enlighten those readers who were and some needed thoughts to process. And for some, it worked. But as of we know the real “Letter to” is not just for me, it’s for those who have paved the way, and those yet to be. So consider this ” letter” goes to the person that started it: Melissa Harris-Perry.

Dear Us #Nerdland folks and fans of Melissa Harris-Perry:

It’s me Stephen.  A black man out of Milwaukee that likes the spirit of Nerdland.

By the way, Happy Black History Month.

This is a heartbreaker in which another of the crew had to be let go. For the last four years, we were given a chance and an opportunity to see and hear the words of Melissa Harrs-Perry. Of course that many didn’t like her style of dialogue of Saturday and Sunday Mornings.

Everytime we tuned in on MSNBC and to see what the topics were, we were in the classroom with her. Learning so much stuff that had our brains working for days. Weeks, Month, etc. Everytime we see Melissa Harris-Perry at work we see us trying to take notes, and to summarize for that test that is coming up on Mondays. No matter what she brought, there was one thing she had the most: unapologetically black nerd style viewpoints that will not be silenced to come.

Her show will be missed, not because of her, but really because of some idea of being pre-empted for the ongoing footages of seeing Donald Trump talking so much crap that really has to ask, why would MSNBC do this? Those business decisions which are causing black folks to get laid off, in the same year that President Obama is getting out is like we partied at the club with honor and all of a sudden, the light signals telling us that it’s time to go. Without warning!

This was like Black History Month in 2012 in Milwaukee. You guys know from 2012 in which one of our former Black Radio Stations 1290 WMCS was no more. Many of us were looking forward to hear the personalities of TJ Live and many others on the dial. But instead, we got Elvis. #Nerdland, we in the Black Milwaukee Community were pissed! And the thing is it happened without warning! And now, WNOV here in Milwaukee with 2 black radio personalities are the only ones the most anchoring the news and issues that many in Milwaukee don’t know about. And it’s a battle against those in Milwaukee that are “Conservative Controlled” of a Charlie Sykes, Vicki McKenna, and that dude over at 1130 WISN, Mark Belling. Many don’t know but we know what the deal is.

What will I take from MHP and well as her lessons that she indeed brought us a new fresh perspective that many in the conservative world would not touch. Here are some examples:

• Black Lives Matter
• The ongoing black victims of being shot by the police
• The Charleston Shooting
• The Harlem Shake that many got mad after Melissa told the real truth. Oh the big words. Yeah right!
• Her sorority of Delta Sigma Theta and it’s 100th Anniversary founding.
• The rise of black women and their contributions even in Maine!
• President Obama
• The issues of black men
• Michelle Obama
• Education
• Her book called Sister Citizen
• And most recent – Beyoncé and the Superbowl.

So why the hate?! Oh, I get it. She’s a black woman who spoke the truth! And it took a different kind of management to silence that. But I will say this: Melissa Harris-Perry is already employed as a Professor, but don’t be to surprised nor shocked, nor extra surprised that she will get another job to keep us the Nerdland Alumni informed. Everyone of us her who watched her show is a Nerdland Alumni.

About those meltdowns, those problems with taxes, MAN LISTEN: WE ALL HAVE MELTDOWNS! WE ALL HAVE TAX PROBLEMS! How many of us who will file taxes this year with problems? How many of us in the community or country have had MELTDOWNS of any kind that were BIGGER than Melissa’s? Don’t come at me with all the “Oh Melissa had a meltdown!” I call BS on that. When was your MELTDOWN? Back in High School? College? Your last job that had you going then cut your salary? Or matter of fact: What Meltdown have you had when your so-called Co Worker, or “Social Media Friends” posted something that they felt it was good, but made you upset or sad? Better think about that!

So Melissa writes in her last letter to her staff these words:

I have stayed in the same hotels where MSNBC has been broadcasting in Iowa, in New Hampshire, and in South Carolina, yet I have been shut out from coverage,” Harris-wrote in the memo. “I have a PhD in political science and have taught American voting and elections at some of the nation’s top universities for nearly two decades, yet I have been deemed less worthy to weigh in than relative novices and certified liars. I have hosted a weekly program on this network for four years and contributed to election coverage on this network for nearly eight years, but no one on the third floor has even returned an email, called me, or initiated or responded to any communication of any kind from me for nearly a month.

 

Plus this was the highlight of the argument:

I will not be used as a tool for [management’s] purposes,” the host wrote to her staff. “I am not a token, mammy, or little brown bobble head. I love our show, I want it back.”

 

And also from the MSNBC side of things yes, they did the recognition of the diversity of the company, but in the end, despite of that email, it’s apparent that Melissa Harris-Perry’s days of MSNBC and the Nerdland reign as of February 26th, 2016 was coming to an end. In the very same week that Milwaukee lost WMCS four years ago, in the last week of Black History Month. Is that shameful, I don’t what is.

#Nerdland: hear me on this as a Introverted Black Man: don’t beat yourselves up. Knowingly that there are those who wanted their wish. But I also say to those that be careful what you wish for! That is the one thing that many Americans  don’t really pay attention to! They don’t. And they don’t care. But the thing is there are more open doors and knowing that Melissa will walk in one of those doors to keep us Nerdland fans communicated. So yes, even though MSNBC had took MHP off the air, but have NOT took out MHP!

We’ll see this again. Who knows, she might go another network like TVOne or another spot where many might not expect that will change the game permanently. So we just got to keep our heads up, keep walking, tell the truth, educate us, re educate the masses on the real deal, be professional, be alert and yes #STAYWOKE.

Sincerely (with the Nerdland fists up),

Stephen

 

Black History Month Extra: The Olde Leap Day Tribute

Oh, what. You thought I was done, huh?

Well this is Leap Day 2016 and like many days, this is a extra bonus. I did this with the Olde to Sagittarius Poems, so I’m going to do this with the Black History Month thing. And trust me, it’s long waited to do this. So it’s time to do this on Leap Day in which many might forget about February 29th or so.

 

Listen up black folks: Black History Month is, was and our time to shine to start.

Without the use of our ancestors, we wouldn’t have a part to spark.

No matter we talk about the Pharaohs, Kings and Queens plus Presidents that ruled like a boss,

Never forget their triumphs and challenges that the purpose that caused.

As usual we must continue talk about the roots of Slavery, and the use of Civil Rights,

If we gonna be real about it, never ever give up those fights!

We can do, preview, summarize and examine our proud black history, with the honorable things up the latter,

For you non-black folks hating, and those side-eyeing, Our Black Lives INDEED Matter!

Continue to march on folks of color, we are done yet!

Sometimes we have to make that gamble to make the bet!

For the regular, irregular, educated, partially learned, the Conscious, the Semi-Conscious, the Brave, the REAL Activism, the REAL Evangelists,  the Introverted, Extroverted, Ambiverted, the Bold, the Beautiful, the rebel, the Handsome, the Rugged, the Strong, the Mindful, the Doers, the Energetic, the middleman, the middlewomen, the anchors, the straight, the techie, the religious, the freethinker, the gay, the tranny, the BiSexual, the mixed, the supporters, the secretive, The Singles, The Married, The Widowed, The Life Partners, the honorable, the distinguished, the grounded, the down to earth, the political, The American, The Canadian, The British, The French, The Australian Black, The Afro-Latino, The Italian, The Haitian, The Jamaican, the Jazz, the Gospel, the Hip-Hop, the Rap, The R&B, The Folk, The Rock, The Metal, The New Age, The Dance, The Vocal, The Opera, The Classical, The Old School, The New School, The Sporty, The Medical, The Dental, and many many others with the Black Fist in sight,

Strap on your seat belts no matter what you think, we taking this everyday flight.

For our Black men, women and children of our black community that has gone home to glory,

Us here on the planet, we will and must TELL your story.

So no need to ask permission, or asking for to be valid,

We should be out doing us anyway, from the time we come, and to be candid.

So as we close out the 90th Edition of Black History Month of 2016 and make way for beyond and 2017,

Never forget the lessons that were and were not peachy keen.

From the lessons, causes, joys, concerns, and missing pieces that us Black folks we need to flex,

As we continue to know about us, I ask this: there have been many many  firsts, who got next?

#BLACKHISTORYMONTH4LIFE

 

 

 

 

 

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

 

 

Black Introversion IV: We know their names, but we didn’t know about their Introverted skills.

With still being the month of Black History, we’re already in full swing about the ongoing learning stuff about our black figures and events that we know and soon to be known. With the rise of the introverts are on full swing, many folks whom were and are black have made or making great strides of political achievements, sports, activism and other fields of choice.

We know their names like I said, but they were and are Introverts! So who were they? Who are they?  Let’s go with it.

This introvert was apart of the Civil Rights Movement. She was as we know was one of the black women who sat on the bus and refused to be moved, but also working on as a Secretary of the NAACP and a Seamstress. Many  have called her the mother of the Civil Rights Movement: Rosa Parks.

This introvert was a megastar of millions. Entertained millions of fans! Made a breakthrough of new Videos, broke millions of records.  Even though was a bit shy, but when he was stage, he was at home: Michael Jackson.

This introvert is labeled as the “Greatest basketball Player in the World”. Won 6 NBA Championships, 2 Gold Medals, Multiple All-Star, did a video with Michael Jackson,  and many are still buying his shoes. Yes, I’m referencing Michael Jordan.

These introverts are for the Social Conscious folks. Yes you can introverted and be apart of the struggle. Since the on going review of the Black Panthers has been a hot button topic for the last 50 years, this may be a shock to those are or were apart of the movement. Recently, I watched the PBS special on the Black Panthers, and there as question that popped in my mind: Were any of the Black Panthers Introverted, or Introverts? I combed through the net by the use of articles in which I googled the idea question. And yes like many things that pop up online, I got my guess. In a book article called, Unrelated Kin: Race and Gender in Women’s Personal Narritives, a name appeared in the page online by the name of Gloria Abernerthy. Now I have not heard of this woman, nor her upbringing of her family or extended contributions to black history, but part of this was indeed with the Black Panthers. According to the book, the author(s), Gwendolyn Etter-Lewis and Michèle Foster described Gloria at first a “natural introvert” by the time she turned 17 years old. Around the same time she joined the Black Panthers in 1968. And even though she was one of the “comrade sisters” in her support of the programs and assingments in the Party, she like many other African-American women in the Black Panthers supported the organization with the roles provided.

Another Black Panther Party member that was on the introverted side, was one of the co-founders himself: Dr. Huey P. Newton. According the article Stephen Shames, whom was a Black Panther member himself, described Huey in his words at the time during the era:

Huey was more introverted. He was the intellectual. He liked to think about abstract concepts, the ideology of the Panthers. He was more the professor.

So after looking at the article, and more extensive summary of Huey Newton being this radical leader of the Black Panther Party, there was a side of him that was introverted with his thinking, his mind perspective, and also his well being of thought while leading one of the still well known, and sometimes understood Black Organizations in the history of America. Speaking of that, in between the movement,  he earned a Phd in Social Philosophy which also earned him the title of Doctor in 1980. Just two years shy of the Black Panther Party being disbanded. As a Introvert as described previously, Huey was a smart brotha! That knew his craft of activism in the era of Civil Rights, and his influence is often and reflected and reviewed today.

This introvert as we know is a first: First African-American President in the U.S. A One-Time senator from Illinois, Hawaii Born, Law Professor Educated, Picked two times, Married with 2 Daughters and I know whom we are talking about, that after 2016 is over, he’ll be missed: President Barack Obama.

Also, I am not a fan of this former NFL Running Back, and yes should have gotten the ball at the one at Superbowl 49. But in his preliminary interview Superbowl 48, NFL Network’s own and SB Champion, Deion Sanders (aka Prime Time) asked him these following questions in all:

 

Yes, that is the now former RB of the Seattle Seahawks, Marshawn Lynch. In the beginning he admitted that he’s not that shy per se, relaxed, kicked back kind of person. But he did say he was about that action. In a sense of the game. So maybe, I’m not assuming but I’ll believe that Marshawn might be an Introvert in his own right. I’m not saying that he is, but he seemed introverted in a sense of gathering thoughts in the footage. Which also led him to a Super Bowl Ring.

 

Whom else is introverted, and happy, face challenges everyday, and black? Reference Issa Rae. You know who she is right?  We see her shows on YouTube, and HBO. She also has a book out now called “The Misadventures of Awkward Black Girl” in which the book pens her experiences going through awkward situations of relationships, love, eating out alone, and learning to accept yourself. And yes, she is a Black Woman that is an Introvert. Even though I have not read the book, but heard of her, I guess I’ll be buying the book to see and to read from a Black Woman’s perspective on being an Introvert.

Going back to music again: we’re all familiar with Cab Calloway. The man gave us “Minnie The Moocher” a household single jam. We all seen him in the first Blues Brothers Movie. And also other films and shows. But in his autobiography, “Of Minnie The Moocher and Me” with author Bryant Rollins, the author describe that Cab had a “inward” personality:

He’s a very introverted man; he has all the love in the world to give, but for some reason in personal relationships he keeps a lot of it inside.

Hold up! Cab Calloway? Introverted?! Wow. Yes, he had his thing with the music, but when it came to relationships away from the stage, he was introverted to keep more things to himself. That blew me away! You just never know.

As I summarize this blog story, yes there are and were Introverts of Color, pertaining to African-Americans that were mostly listening, mostly thinking and less speaking, and even thought that yes there are some extroverted elements in Introverts, but they were still and are introverted, and their gifts mattered and influenced and continue to influence to inspire.

So yeah, black introverts had and have exist! Who knows? There might be more Black Introverted Men and Women that will support loud voices and causes in between of the movements, eras, generations and current state of affairs.

Oh, and one more thing: #BLACKHISTORYMONTH4LIFE with #IntrovertsUnite! 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

My Take: Formation.

Allow me to indulge you readers about the following word: Formation.

According to the dictionary, via Dictionary.com, the word Formation means in two definitions of:

1) The action of forming or process of being formed.

2) A structure or arrangement of something.

Let’s take a look at last night’s Superbowl Halftime Show. Yeah, the one that had most of White America upset. And yes, some black folks seething upset. Oh yes, stay mad. Stay pissed. But still, stay up and don’t be mad about what is being said here. Beyonce did her thing with a couple of the lady dancers dressing up in a Black Panther-esque like value.

May I remind everyone: It’s still Black History Month.

The song Formation from Beyonce was like a unknown blast out of left field. No one saw it coming. Not even me. The video of Formation in which featured her daughter Blu Ivy, walking around with pride with two other spoke bravery and pride. Speaking of that, it reminded me of the pride talk in which my late grandmother telling  my sister to always at the time keep your head up and walk like a queen. My late grandfather one said that pick your head up and act like you’re so-and-so! So yes, me and my older sibling had that “black pride” talk since we were teens and kids! Learn that black folks of now!

Just to add, it also speaks to the added ongoing concerns of African-Americans that still face and linger today. Mostly with race, violence, and politics in a unapologetic sense. As I like to call it, NO APOLOGIES NECESSARY! NONE!

We all know what they are. But as a I was reading all those so-called comments about Beyonce’s performance, I get it, some didn’t like it. However, being that the wake up calls are in full effect: it did provided a message that many in the country and the world are still sleeping on. From the echos of Hurricane Katrina, the Police, and a black boy in a hoodie standing before the officers with their hands up.

For the live version which was at the Super Bowl: Beyonce’s jacket/performance was in symbolic for three reasons: homage to Michael Jackson, whom we all know gave that kick butt performance of a Super Bowl Halftime show back in 1993. And also this year of 2016 is the 50th Anniversary of the birth of the Original Black Panthers that started in the same bay area as Super Bowl 50. Via Oakland. Reference 1966 dwellers and haters. And when the dancers made the X on the field, it was in symbolic tribute to Malcolm X. All that right there, another added element of surprise for Black History Month 2016 in the 90th year of the February tradition. And likewise, the ears will bleed yet again everyday with enjoyment and lessons. And by the way, the outfits were also a semi-throwback to the 1960’s when there were black women then were in in “Formation” on a college Football field. Real Recognizes Real! Even for Beyoncé being southern born.

Well in this case, press play here. But be warned: this video does contain explicit lyrics so be advised.

Just to add also, there is a clean version here.

Well I hope those who actually viewed the footage didn’t get really offended. Ooops. I spoke to soon. There were those who got offended. Ever looked at the Eventbrite events online lately? The ones you can make tickets for the events of your choice. Well guess what? There is an ad out online about protesting Beyonce at the NFL Headquarters next Tuesday in NYC. This is so laughable!!!!!! Are you protesters really that serious?!! What did Beyonce did to you? Oh, the real question is why were any of you yahoos per say were watching Super Bowl 50 in the first place? Oh that’s right, you’re football fans. The same ones who you root for every Sunday per season after church right? The ones that YOU go to the bars after you hear the Sermons, right? Those of you who own the bars, clubs, and those who “supports” the so-called Blue Lives Matter folks, right? The ones you probably gave Obama hell all 7 years because he’s black, right? The ones who openly profess your past concerns in dealing and hanging and working with African-Americans in your neighborhoods or jobs, right? The ones who scream ALL LIVES MATTER, right? The ones who had to agree with the anti comments of Rudy Giuliani on Fox News, RIGHT? REALLY?! The ones who complain about staying in church all day and the clubs all night, right? The ones got the satellites and TV always perfected before the games come on with the homestay right? And to those fans who messed up Denver after the Broncos won, right?

CALLOUT TO ALL: WAKE UP!

Many of you have no idea what the message behind the music was really about. Many of you never probably to oversee the objective of what the music is telling about. And many of you will never understand why this style of messaging is still around in the first place!

Some of you probably in a sense are saying: SAY IT, SAY IT, SAY IT! I’m going to say it alright. And it will be unapologetic speaking in my own right. Pay attention and take notes! I’m about to slay this!

First, let’s get the whole Black Panthers thing straight once and for all: The Black Panther Movement was and is NOT carried nor connected to the KKK. Get it straight! I’m assuming that many of you heard of Afeni Shakur, you know the mother of Tupac? Guess what, Afeni is a former Black Panther Member herself. How do you think Pac got so radical in his words in Rap music? Hello! Another shocker, I was looking on Twitter and an well know funk artist of Nile Rodgers, you know from Chic, displayed a pic of him helping out the Black Panthers when he was 16 years old. And still, he’s one of the best artist that came out of the 70’s. HELLO!

Second, even though that the Black Panther Party had their “angles”, they also helped out those of the needy in the Black Communities way back when. Yes, even I as a black man had to admit it. They might have been crazy, but they had a heart to give back. So to the all of the former ORIGINAL Black Panthers that were misunderstood but helpful, thanks.

Third this song/video was more like of a rally support for the current Black Lives Matter Movement. Also a way to tell us black folks that we may have those black like Afros, Jackson 5 like noses or whatever, we are beautiful. What that taught me and reminds me that I don’t have to change a da*n thing! God made me like this, and I’ll accept that. That also reminds me what I heard in church, WE ARE BEAUTIFUL! Have some pride in our steps when we walk. For all those who keep dragging your feet on the ground, pick your feet up! Walk like you got some sense! Pick your heads up like you’re so-and-so as my late grandfather told me as a young man growing up in Milwaukee. You females, many of you walk like queens and act on it. Tell those to who don’t, do the same thing of having that pep in their steps. No matter if you’re Introverted or Extroverted, and BLACK you got this! With brains and yes brawn. Even in Black History Month and Beyond. No matter if you are a janitor or street sweeper, or a Business Executive, Mechanic, Owner, or a Entry Level Photographer or whatever, use that to be the best what-some-a-jigger thing there is. Even if you are a student.

And for the record, I celebrate “The Centerpiece” of Black History Month and reference the lessons learned of Black History always. I can be conscious with that. Just a heads up to the Black Conscious folks who read this blog. Go ahead and share it. Just saying. I don’t do one. Or the other. I combine the two elements to make it plain all the time. And also challenge ALL BLACK FOLKS no matter what you’re conscious meter happens to be, is to do the same. The gauntlet is already down, but will you pick it up? Just asking.

And fourth, don’t be surprised that many will use this in their confidence rally cries moreover. Yes, there aren’t that many songs now that are in the movement currently, but I’ll say here, put FORMATION in a 21st Century Radical Playlist. There have been playlists before that concerned with the importance of the Freedom Movements in the past, but this should take the cake.

Fifth, apparently there is someone who is not in formation, but is cool with it. I was reading Sports Illustrated’s The Cauldron column online and apparently, one caucasian female has openly admit something here, and the use of being on the sidelines cheering. Kate Forristall written an excellent column about the Halftime Show while working a photo shoot at the Super Bowl. One highlight of this commentary was this quote: Spot on.

It’s time for us to stop singing along — to Formation, to Kendrick Lamar’s Alright, to any song that has the N-word or celebrates blackness in a way we will never understand. Our ancestors signed away that right when they signed their names to contracts that said they owned human beings or signed tabs in restaurants that didn’t allow “colored people.”

 

That right there, is a start. This was the most highlighted quote on the article. If those whom are well, so All Lives Matter-ish or All of us need this to shield this and that actually say this, and to admit the truth, then we might get somewhere. In sense of listening. Understanding. And most of all acceptance. And this goes for black folks also.

Final thought: Remember when Michael Jackson had the song, “They Don’t Care About Us?” In which many labeled that song to be anti-this and anti-that? And many went hard against Michael all because back then, in 1995, he was hitting hard against racism and many other factors that we all still facing today! Was Michael telling the truth? Or just kidding?

So yes, it’s time to get in Formation, Black Men and Black Women. In various fronts. And also: FORWARD, MARCH!

 

“Always stay gracious, best revenge is your paper.” – Beyoncé

 

 

 

 

 

 

FYI: The children are listening and responding about Black History Month.

We know this is bound to happen. The recent commentary of those who want to kill anything dealing with blacks or Black History Month reached the breaking point. We know those of Fox News, Stacey Dash, and list goes on and on. But apparently some young folks on the Because of them We Can Campaign had a little to say about the topic of this February tradition. And plus, in the words of those of now, it’s EVERYTHING! No Clapbacks, but just the smart truth.

Oh they say we need to teach the kids about Black History Month, and Black History or Black anything,  right? Well this is a start! Can we keep this up?

We know we gotta keep it 100, correct?

#BLACKHISTORYMONTH4LIFE

Scratching my head all this time: In Black History Month!

Usually I do this around in December. But in honor of Black History Month, I’m scratching my head about the weird and strange mess that I’ve heard, seen and commented on. Oh, yes. It’s go time for the #BHM2016!

Black folks when we see postings like this on social media, do we actually mean it? Be honest!  Really, be honest:

They say Black History Month started with slavery. Are they really that correct?

 

With all the channels on TV, from ABC to the Spice Adult Channels, why many have to hate on BET, and other Black networks in which the Black Community must be informed?

 

This is real silly, what is the commentary about a White History Month, knowing its all day every day, than Black History, Asian American History, Native American History, Hispanic Heritage, and Islander/Polynesian History months?

 

You do realize, there are Black Introverted Men and Women right living right now? Not all are loud and/or Extroverted!

 

You do realize that Carter Woodson’s idea of Black History Month, then Negro History Week was originally started in the coal mines as a thought to record our stories after hearing the Civil War Veterans spoke their commentary? By the way, he was a Sagittarius with a mission.

 

You do realize that Chess originated in Africa?

 

You do realize that many in the supporting cast of the movements of civil rights were unsung and black?

 

Those gadgets we use now, and inventions with components of everyday use; you know were made by Black inventors right?

 

We say, we need to teach our children more. I agree. But can us grown folks reteach or brush up on Black History before teaching the babies?

 

That statue on top of the US Capitol in DC, the same DC was partially designed by Benjamin Banneker. You know that was made by a black slave, right?

 

That White House though: you know it was Black built?

 

For all those wars though, it was African-Americans served the most right?

 

All that Rock, Rap, Soul, Gospel, Jazz, R&B, Pop, Punk, Metal, Instrumental, New Age, Blues, House, Folk, Dance moves and vocals were blueprints by black folks right?

 

When Marian Anderson sung Let Freedom Ring back in her day, it took FDR’s wife Eleanor to make that happen. You know that happened right?

 

For the Pyramids in Egypt, you know it was built by blacks right?

 

For all the #BlackFutureMonth recipients: you know who you are. And I’m not trying to hate, but you must realize that without the lessons and struggles of the past, there wouldn’t be a future. Are we on the same page with this?

 

You know that Black History Month is not all black consciousness, or not all #NewBlackHistory, Black HerStory, or not all #TheNewBlack? (Hint It’s all that with History!)

 

For all those that must have forgot: you know that Baynard Rustin was Gay and helped the March on Washington with Dr. King?

 

Speaking of Dr. King: you know he wasn’t just about “I Have A Dream”, right?

 

One positive note: Black History Month also empowers us to (in a everyday sense) doing #BlackGirlMagic, #BlackMaleBrillance or any Black Girl or Black Boy possible thing to grasp. Has this been done before to remind us?

 

You SHOULD KNOW: Black History Month is not all separating the human race or enforcing race baiting. Am I right?

 

You know that Black History Month should be in the curriculum in ALL SCHOOLS on ALL LEVELS, correct?

 

You better realize that Black folks originated the Human Race factor. Did you know that?

 

After reading this, many might say, we get it! Do you honestly really?

 

After reading this: you should realize that black folks are descendants from Kings and Queens. Is that correct?

 

I know many Americans (particularly white) are going to say, “You are American as me”. But there is that one flavor that black folks bring that are so different of African Descent to never forget. Is that real cooking or what? Its more American than many think!

 

After reading this scratching blog for #BHM2016: did you learn something about this?

 

And after reading this: you know you can celebrate Black History Month and Observe Black History at the same darn time, right? Plus also in the next four months you can celebrate Black Music Month like Black History in June? And the same for July when National Black Families Month comes around? Like Black History is more than American History but more really like World History?

 

And Black Folks: understand while celebrating this occasion, we are the beneficiaries of doing history, learning history, and preparing history. Can we still do this? No more cringing, nor getting all mad about the second month of the year. We are blessed (AND I MEAN BLESSED) to do this. Take part of this. And there are those whom are not here or not around that want us to be blessed in talking about US!

 

Now since this is the Black History Month version of Scratching my head this whole time, I hate to do it, but it needed to be said and done.

 

#BLACKHISTORYMONTH4LIFE

Black History Month 2016: 90 years talking about us and beyond!

Can I set up my Centerpiece, now?

Black History Month is back, yet again! Love it or hate it, it is a worthy celebration.

90 years ago, during the week of February 7th, 1926, Dr. Carter G. Woodson started something that was very real talk about the use of talking about us.  Us as in African-Americans in telling our stories, our commentary, our viewpoints, news and many others that others think that we shouldn’t. Personally, I’m glad we can talk about our stories. The idea of this is to not only tell the stories, but also review and store the conversations that we hold dear today! And pass on.

Black folks, we have come a long way. A mighty long way. And still a mighty long way to go.  For my folks, and non-black folks who had to go on these questions, we know what they are as under review:

• “Why can’t we celebrate this everyday?”
• “Why does it have to be about color?!”
• “I feel that Morgan Freeman is right about not having it, why can’t we have an American History Month?”
• “I know everything about Blacks. Why a month though?”
• “What about White History Month?”
• Or my personal favorite: Why can’t they teach this in the schools?”

Spoiler Alert: you will hear this again. And as embarrassing and annoying as is.

These questions like this to me kind of lacks laziness. It really does. And it’s being asked EVERY FREAKING YEAR! Folks, especially black folks, we ALREADY know the answers! Many of us WILL NOT celebrate our Black Historical stuff everyday. And yes, partially it is about color because of the misconceptions about black men and women when it comes to being loud, looking like thugs per say, don’t want no N*ggers working at the same company where many of the workers got their jobs though nepotisms. We know what Morgan Freeman said, but he had to realize that without the contributions he was brought up on, HE wouldn’t have the accolades he has now. And again, if AMERICA wants a so-called “American History Month” of any kind, then guess what: America has to EARN IT like the Declaration of Independence and many others. And it has to EARN IT the right way. Not the dictatorship way like evil empires. And not like the rant of Stacey Dash.

We say we know everything. WRONG! We don’t know enough half way.

One thing about Black History Month or Black History in general, it never ends. Everyday it’s always stories that are uncovered, and uncommented about Blacks that are still out there. How many black stories that are going to be uncovered for Black History Month in 2017? And to those who are still stuck on mush, can I be straight with you readers here again?

• Black History Month is not racist.
• It’s is NOT separating the uses of humanity.
• It is not hate.
• It is not self-hate.
• It is not degrading of others.
• And it’s not degrading anything.

Neither this so-called propaganda stuff. Get that out of the gutter. So for those who say its separating the human race, I call B.S. on that. I do. Without black folks leading the stampede, there wouldn’t be a Human Race of anything period! Let’s get the language right. No matter if you’re Generation X or Millennials. We all need to get the language right, period!

Plus, I need to say this: White folks, you have a month. Period. You have more months than the Hispanics, Asians, Samoans/Polyneisans, Islanders, and even us Black folks combined. So I want to know is, what is the haps? Don’t act like it’s not very questionable! Never try to ask that question that you already know. Just like all those channels from NBC, CBS, ABC, Fox, ESPN, and even those channels that have that exotic soft-core stuff. Um, HELLO!! STOP TRIPPING!

And as far as #BlackFutureMonth: I gotta say this. I know what that is. It’s about the upcoming players in the Black Community making waves, in which I kind of respect that in a truthful viewpoint. BUT, without the use of the past to learn from, there wouldn’t be a future of anything. Just a side note to you Internet Revolutionary Conscious folks.

CALLOUT: I can be conscious too. But just saying in a Introverted, Black Male type of fashion!

So yes, Black Future is upcoming, but it’s not truly historic, yet. It needs guidance. We need to understand that. We know that the use of #BlackLivesMatter is in full force. That is the current state of Black America right now in the era of President Obama. And yes dwellers, we know that there are those who are going to copy off the movement as a mockery. As in #AllLivesMatter. But don’t forget what I said last year about if all lives really matter.

Speaking of the schools: We all know that many of our public or private or charter school districts will only highlight MLK, I Have A Dream, Malcolm X, Rosa Parks and Harriett Tubman. REALLY?! Is that it? When I was coming up, We learned about them and Garrett Morgan, Lonnie Johnson, Guion Buford, Ronald McNair, and many others. Come on, y’all! I’m not putting the educators to shame on this. I’m putting the mindset of what is being summarized in the curriculum in shame. And of the record, I was raised by educators in the house and church! When I got to college, and along growing up,  I got the real eye opener of Black History Month that was NOT mentioned in the schools!

Since the Rise of the Introverts have began years ago, I often wondered who were and are the black introverts that contributed in black historical events? Well guess what Spotters, I will be doing this in Black History Month. I will be highlighting those who were or are introverted in which have made contributions and achievements. And the thing is, we know the names and recognized their crafts. But the thing is, we didn’t know that they were or are introverts. So this will be new. And it’s the kind of those introverts that probably got their movements supported through someone else. From marching, to activism, to sports championships, and even political angles of greatness. Even those who are the unsung. Those who haven’t have a high title, but still made a component of success in Black History.

So I ask again, can I set up my Centerpiece, now?

Let it commence.