Ray Coleman
MOST SECRET GOVERNMENT IN HISTORY DOES IT AGAIN?
Congressman Jesse Jackson, Jr., today said, "The Bush Administration may be the most secretive government in U.S. history. Today's revelation in USA Today that the National Security Agency (NSA) has been secretly `call-tracking' millions of American citizens, and has accumulated the largest domestic database in history, should give members of Congress and every American pause. USA Today reported that NSA's goal is `to create a database of every call ever made' in the United States. It should force us to reflect on what our government is doing to us. The President and others in his Administration give us assurances that no laws have been broken and no one's rights have been violated. But why should we trust the word of an administration that has shown itself to be so untrustworthy on so many other matters, including but no limited to, Iraq? -more-
ACLU Applauds House Judiciary Committee Vote to Renew the Voting Rights Act
WASHINGTON - The American Civil Liberties Union today applauded the House Judiciary Committee's near-unanimous decision, by a vote of 33 to 1, to advance the bipartisan and bicameral "Fannie Lou Hamer, Rosa Parks and Coretta Scott King Reauthorization and Amendments Act of 2006" (H.R. 9). H.R. 9 would renew key provisions of the landmark Voting Rights Act (VRA), which are set to expire in 2007. -more-
PHILLIS WHEATLEY LETTER SELLS AT SWANN GALLERIES
FOR $253,000 - AN AUCTION RECORD FOR ANY LETTER WRITTEN BY AN AFRICAN
AMERICAN
New York, NY (BlackNews.com) - A newly discovered Autograph Letter Signed by slave poet Phillis Wheatley - the first African-American to publish a book of poetry - sold to a private collector bidding by telephone for $253,000 (including buyers premium) this afternoon at Swann Auction Galleries. It is the highest amount realized at auction for a letter written by an African American, and possibly the highest price ever paid for a letter written by a woman. -more-
|
Ray Coleman |
ILLINOIS CANDIDATE INSPIRED BY AL SHARPTON, ROSA
PARKS, AND BARRACK OBAMA
Fairview Heights, IL (BlackNews.com) - Ray Coleman, an African-American candidate, who once served as a volunteer campaign coordinator for U. S. Senator Barack Obama, is running in the Democratic Primary March 21, 2006 for state central committeeman in the 12th congressional district in Illinois. Mr. Coleman reportedly found inspiration to continue his campaign by listening to the message delivered by Al Sharpton at the funeral services for Ms. Rosa Parks in Detroit, Michigan. -more-
Civil Rights Groups Call White House Response to Hurricane Katrina a Trojan Horse
Coalition Calls for Congressional Investigation into Bush Administration’s Waiving of Federal Civil Rights Laws in Wake of Hurricanes Katrina & Rita
Washington, DC – Leading the effort with nearly 60 other major civil rights and advocacy organizations, the Leadership Conference on Civil Rights (LCCR), the nation’s oldest, largest, and most diverse civil and human rights coalition, today called on the president to rescind efforts to gut federal civil rights rules, and on Congress to conduct an investigation into, and hearings on, these attempts. -more-
BLACK FARMERS TO RALLY IN KENTUCKY TO HALT THE WRONGFUL FORECLOSURE OF THE YOUNG FAMILY FARM
Despite Allegations of Racial Discrimination and USDA Negligence, Family to be Forced from Farm on November 1st
Join National Black Farmers Association president John W. Boyd and others at a rally to save the Young Family Farm, an active Black-owned farm for 100 years. -more-
TOM JOYNER, BLACKAMERICAWEB.COM ESTABLISH RELIEF FUND FOR FAMILIES, FRIENDS ASSISTING HURRICANE KATRINA VICTIMS
Dallas, TX (BlackNews.com) - Tom Joyner, the top ranked nationally syndicated radio personality and entrepreneur, announced today the creation of the BlackAmericaWeb.com Relief Fund. The organization, formed in association with his online community BlackAmericaWeb.com, The Tom Joyner Morning Show, and parent company REACH Media, will assist people who are helping those displaced by Hurricane Katrina. -more-
BAHIYAH WOMAN MAGAZINE - THE INTERNET'S PREEMINENT LIFESTYLE MAGAZINE GOES WEEKLY
With an international and loyal readership, stories
usually reserved for
mainstream media and beautiful images in black...
Chicago, IL (BlackNews.com) - Bahiyah Woman Magazine (BWM), the premier weekly lifestyle magazine for the spiritually conscious professional black man and woman goes weekly; and is now updated each Thursday. This little engine that would is taking the world of media by storm, and this season's perfect storm "Bahiyah" is again breaking new ground. -more-
 Arlene Gordon Oliver, Esq. |
THE NEW BANKRUPTCY LAW: WHAT AFRICAN AMERICANS SHOULD KNOW
Q & A with the National Bar Association's
Bankruptcy Law Section Chair Arlene Gordon Oliver, Esq.
On October 17, 2005, a new bankruptcy law, the Bankruptcy Abuse Prevention and Consumer Protection Act of 2005, will go into effect. This new law will have a great impact on consumers, as it will make it much harder for debtors to wipe out credit card debt. Instead the new laws could push for debtors to file Chapter 13, which means they will still be required to repay their outstanding debt over an extended period of time. Arlene Gordon Oliver, Esq. is a partner at Rattet, Pasternak and Gordon Oliver, LLP., a law firm in New York State specializing in bankruptcy. She is also chairperson for the Bankruptcy Law Section of The National Bar Association, which convenes for its 80th annual convention July 30-August 6, 2005 in Orlando, Florida. -more-
INTRODUCING THE NATIONAL BLACK BOYCOTT INFORMATION BUREAU (NBBIB)
A new web-based information center dedicated to enhancing awareness and support for boycotts organized by African Americans.
Denver, CO (BlackNews.com) - The National Black Boycott Information Bureau (NBBIB) serves as an online resource center designed to provide information regarding boycotts by Black Americans. Found online at www.nbbib.com, the main function of this website is to improve the effectiveness of boycotting as a strategy for social change by providing the key elements of communication and information! -more-
 (Left to Right) General James Monroe, MODCO Board of Directors, Dr. Rosalind Osgood, CEO of MODCO, Willie E. Gary, Attorney and Chairman of the Black Family Channel and Norman Taylor, Director of Economic Development for Broward County pose for photo during Youth Development Luncheon. |
WILLIE E. GARY, PROMINENT ATTORNEY AND CHAIRMAN OF THE BLACK FAMILY CHANNEL, SERVES AS KEYNOTE SPEAKER AT MT. OLIVE DEVELOPMENT CORPORATION YOUTH DEVELOPMENT LUNCHEON
Willie E. Gary Helps Raise Money for Children's Programs
Stuart, FL (BlackNews.com) - Willie E. Gary, prominent attorney and chairman of the Black Family Channel, recently served as the keynote speaker during the Mount Olive Development Corporation's (MODCO) Youth Development Luncheon in Fort Lauderdale, Florida. The luncheon raised funds for community programs designed to enrich the lives of children in South Florida. -more-
NATIONAL COUNCIL OF NEGRO WOMEN MOTIVATIONAL TOUR INSPIRES WOMEN TO FOCUS ON WELLNESS, SPIRITUAL AND LIFE SATISFACTION
National campaign recasts midlife as a time of renaissance and renewal.
Washington, DC (BlackNews.com) - Tomorrow Begins Today: African American Women As We Age is a multi-dimensional public education campaign sponsored by the National Council of Negro Women (NCNW), with a mission to inspire personal development and empowerment for African American women. This first-of-its-kind initiative inspires African American women to view their middle years as a time of renaissance and renewal. -more-
 Jam Donaldson, creator of HotGhettoMess.com |
Has Generation X embraced Afristocracy?
Washington, DC (BlackNews.com) - Controversial website says, Bill Cosby was right. HotGhettoMess.com bills itself as a call-to-arms of sorts to challenge the African-American community to examine how it is living and looking. With over 50 million hits, it is quickly becoming the new darling of the Internet.
The site, created by recent Georgetown University Law Center graduate, Jam Donaldson, features images of the African-American community at its worst. She considers the site constructive criticismthis site wags a shameful finger at those who bring us all down with their foolishness. -more-
DESCENDANT OF IDA B. WELLS CRITICIZES SENATORS WHO DIDN'T SIGN LYNCHING APOLOGY
 L to R: Senator John Kerry, Senator George Allen, Dan Duster (descendant of Ida B. Wells), Senator Mary Landrieu |
Chicago, IL (BlackNews.com) June 17, 2005- Dan Duster, the great grandson of Ida B. Wells, was one of the featured speakers at the press conference at the US Senate this past Monday, June 13. The press conference was to issue a formal apology to the descendants of victims of lynching for the failure of the Senate to enact any anti-lynching legislation.
Duster praised all of the Senators that signed the Resolution for the formal apology and gave special thanks to the Senators that initiated it; Senator Landrieu (D - Louisiana) and Senator Allen (R - Virginia). He then chastised the senators that didn't sign the resolution; "I am disappointed with the 25* senators that didn't sign, and I ask; why not?" -more-
 Attorney Roy Miller |
BLACK DELTA AIRLINES EMPLOYEE
POSSIBLY SHOT BY A WHITE EMPLOYEE
By Attorney Roy Miller
I'm an attorney in Macon, Georgia. I practice Juvenile Law. In 1994, I fought and succeeded at having the n-word removed from the dictionary. I am the first and only to do so. Struggling to become the man that God wants me to be and helping people are extremely important to me. I have authored the newspaper articles, Black America: A Cure For What Hurts, I Support Bill Cosby, but, Integration Has Been Cruel To Black America and Black America: We Scare Me. My strong faith in God has led me to write this article. I have love for all people of every race. I feel certain that I will come under attack from worldly connections to power; however, I know that God is the power source. Without God, connections have no power. I feel that this article is crucial for the safety of my client and the innocent public. God brought this situation to me and I can not look the other way. -more-
NABJ Expresses Dissatisfaction
Over Setbacks in Newsroom Diversity
Knight Foundation report shows progress has 'passed its peak'
WASHINGTON, June 2 /PRNewswire/ -- The National Association of Black Journalists expressed disappointment over a newly released Knight Foundation report that shows newsroom diversity is below its peak levels at most U.S. newspapers. The report states that newspapers have backed away from their commitment to having newsrooms reflect the demographics of the communities they are obligated to serve. -more-
BLACK RADICAL CONGRESS TO BE HELD IN ATLANTA AT GEORGIA STATE UNIVERSITY, JUNE 17-19, 2005
Atlanta, GA (BlackNews.com) - In honor of the celebration of 140th anniversary of Juneteenth, The Black Radical Congress is hosting its fourth National Congress at the Georgia State Student Center Friday, June 17 to Sunday June 19, 2005. The theme for this years congress is Confronting Empire: The Fight for Global Justice. The theme will be explored during interactive plenary sessions and workshops that focus on issues such as Fighting Militarism, Build Democratic Models, Revolutionizing Hip Hop as a Political Tool and Homophobia in Progressive Communities. -more-
THE MOST AFFLUENT AFRICAN-AMERICAN AND BEST MANAGED COUNTY IN THE COUNTRY...THE PRINCE GEORGE'S MARYLAND STORY
Mitchellville, MD (BlackNews.com) - The New York Times ran a story on June 14, 1992 in The New York Times Magazine titled "The New Black Suburbs" by David J. Dent, featuring Prince George's County, MD. The cover photo featured the Johnson family, Jack B. and Leslie Johnson with their sons Jack Jr. and Zachary outside their home in Paradise Acres, a predominantly Black upper-middle-class neighborhood in Mitchellville, which is located in Prince George's County, MD. -more-
THE MILLIONS MORE MOVEMENT:
THE POWER OF ONE
By Dora Muhammad, Managing Editor
Final Call Newspaper
Press conference held on May 2nd in the grand ballroom of the National
Press Club
Washington, DC (BlackNews.com) - It is the substance of things hoped for by generations of oppressed Black people in America. It is a tangible force that touched all those present yearning for the uplift of our communities. It is a moment that answered prayers in recognition of a greater common cause. It is the unity of Black leadership across ideological lines manifested in a coalition formed to launch the Millions More Movement. It is the Power of One. -more-
FAMED ATTORNEY WILLIE GARY AND HIS PARTNER CK HOFFLER FIGHT ON BEHALF OF FIVE-YEAR-OLD JAEISHA SCOTT, WHO WAS HANDCUFFED AND SHACKLED BY POLICE OFFICERS
Gary
and Hoffler Demand Change from the Pinellas County School District and
Police Department in Handling Children
Legal Team Condemn Civil Rights Violations and Police
Brutality
Stuart, FL (BlackNews.com) - Prominent attorney Willie E. Gary and his partner CK Hoffler of the Florida-based law firm of Gary, Williams, Parenti, Finney, Lewis, McManus, Watson and Sperando P.L., announced today that they represent five-year-old Jaeisha Scott, who was handcuffed and shackled by the St. Petersburg County Police Department after having a temper tantrum at school. Gary and his legal team plan to file a lawsuit that exposes the blatant cruel and unusual punishment suffered by their client. Gary and his legal team also call for the police department and the Pinellas County School District to undergo significant reform so that no other child will be handcuffed and shackled for behavioral challenges. In fact, Gary and Hoffler intend to appeal to police departments nationwide to address police brutality against children. -more-
Congressman Thompson Questions No-Bid Contract to College With Close Ties to Former Secretary Ridge
Washington, March 18 /PRNewswire/ -- Congressman Bennie G. Thompson, Ranking Member of the House Homeland Security Committee, sent the attached letter today regarding assertions that the Department of Homeland Security granted a no-bid contract to train intelligence analysts to Mercyhurst College, an Erie, Pennsylvania college with close ties to former Secretary Tom Ridge. -more-
Congressmen Dan Burton and Jesse Jackson, Jr. Urge Colleagues Not to Intervene in Television Ratings Business
Legislators Co-Author Letter Saying That Federal Regulation of the Ratings Industry is an Unnecessary Government Intrusion
NEW YORK, March 17 /PRNewswire/ -- Representatives Dan Burton (R, IN) and Jesse Jackson, Jr. (D, IL) today sent a joint (letter/memo) to members of Congress warning that Federal regulation of the television ratings industry is an unwarranted government intrusion that could possibly damage the accuracy of the ratings system. -more-
Jackson Secures "The Whole Thing" - $250 Million For Africa Relief
Today the House agreed by voice vote to include a Jackson Amendment for $250 million to the $82 billion Supplemental Wartime Appropriations Act (HR 1268). The Jackson Amendment included $150 million for food aid to the Sudan and increased by $100 million disaster relief and refugee assistance aid to Sudan and other parts of Africa. -more-
VICE-MAYOR ALICIA REECE LAUNCHES CAMPAIGN TO BECOME FIRST AFRICAN-AMERICAN FEMALE MAYOR OF CINCINNATI
Less Than Two Years After Race Riots Rock City, Reece Launches Historic Candidacy to Build a Progressive and More Inclusive City
Cincinnati, OH (BlackNews.com) - Vice-Mayor Alicia Reece, speaking to several hundred supporters in her own New Baptist Church, today officially announced her candidacy to become the city's first African-American female mayor only a few short years after race riots shook the city to its core. -more-
Jackson Will Urge $250 Million Increase in Aid to Sudan
Decries GOP Slashes in African Assistance
Congressman Jesse L. Jackson, Jr., a steadfast supporter of African aid, has introduced an amendment to restore Republican cuts in emergency food aid. Mr. Jackson's amendment would restore President Bush's request of $150 million for food aid in Sudan, and add $62 million for disaster assistance and $38 million for refugee assistance in Sudan and other African countries. Jackson called Republican attempts to slash emergency monies to Sub-Saharan Africa "disturbing and shortsighted". -more-
UNITED NEGRO COLLEGE FUND HONORS SAMUEL L. JACKSON AND LATANYA RICHARDSON JACKSON, HENRY AND BILLYE AARON AND NY CITY MAJOR MICHAEL R. BLOOMBERG AT 61ST ANNUAL AWARDS DINNER
Wal-Mart announces a $1.5 million gift
Left to right: Raymond V. Gilmartin (Chair of the Board--United Negro
College Fund); Henry Aaron; Billye Aaron; Michael R. Bloomberg (New York
City Mayor); Dr. Michael L. Lomax (President and CEO--United Negro College
Fund); Ruth Jackson (UNCF Distinguished Alumni Award recipient); LaTanya
Richardson Jackson; Samuel L. Jackson
New York, NY (BlackNews.com) - At a black tie gala at the Sheraton New York Hotel and Towers March 3, 2005, the United Negro College Fund held its 61st Annual Awards Dinner, where guests gathered to celebrate the contributions of outstanding individuals. During the event, Dinner Chair and newly appointed board member H. Lee Scott, Jr., President and CEO of Wal-Mart Stores Inc., presented a check for $1.5 million to support UNCF's 38 colleges and establish a scholarship program for students. -more-
Remembering Bloody Sunday:
Anniversary is Reminder of Importance of Voting Rights Act
Statement of Anthony D. Romero, executive director of the American Civil Liberties Union
Forty years ago today, television viewers saw 500 peaceful demonstrators in Selma, Ala., teargassed and beaten with billy clubs by police. The marchers were protesting the murder of a young unarmed black man and the continued disenfranchisement of blacks in the South. The brutal, unprovoked attack of them sparked national outrage, and was a catalyst of the civil rights movement. -more-
JACKSON THE ACCUSED PEDOPHILE
By Earl Ofari Hutchinson
BlackNews.com Columnist
The
week before Christmas in 2004, a smiling, ebullient Michael Jackson shouted
out to dozens of children that ranged in ages from 3 to 17, "I hope
you have a wonderful day, Merry Christmas, "I love you." The
children shouted back in unison, "We love you." Jackson couldn't
resist, and shouted back, "I love you more." Jackson's bubbly
childlike spontaneous display of affection was part of the loving, tender
image that the ex-king of pop has spent the past two decades cultivating. -more-
Congressman Jackson Fights for Smarter International HIV/AIDS Programs
March 2, 2005 - Congressman Jesse L. Jackson, Jr., called on the Bush administration to increase its support of international HIV/AIDS programs in sub-Saharan Africa. Jackson said, "Sub-Saharan Africa has been more severely affected by AIDS than any other part of the world." Today, during a congressional hearing on the international HIV/AIDS budget, Mr. Jackson continued his campaign to promote eradicating HIV/AIDS from the African continent. He encouraged Randall Tobias, U.S. Global AIDS Coordinator, to employ "the right dollars in the right direction" in the global fight against HIV/AIDS. -more-
Support Soars For New Voting Rights Amendment
H. J. Res. 28 Has 54 Original Co-Sponsors
Congressman Jesse Jackson, Jr., today introduced House Joint Resolution 28 for a third consecutive Congress. The resolution proposes to add a new affirmative individual 'right to vote' amendment to the U.S. Constitution. He introduced it with 54 original co-sponsors. -more-
Doing the Right Thing with Death
Jackson Applauds SCOTUS Death Penalty Decision
Congressman Jesse L. Jackson, Jr., cheered today's U.S. Supreme Court ruling abolishing the death penalty for juvenile offenders. "It was a giant step toward a more civilized and humane way of handling the uncivilized and inhumane practice of capital punishment. The U.S. has now left the company of such nations as Iran, Yemen, Saudi Arabia, Pakistan, Nigeria, Democratic Republic of Congo and China. I welcome the U.S. to the civilized world," Jackson said. -more-
BLACK FORMER TEXAS PRISON GUARD RESIGNS FLORIDA PRISON IN DISGUST
Tampa, FL (BlackNews.com) - In December of 2004, author and former Texas prison guard Tim Hampton made headlines nationwide for releasing his first book entitled 'Holding My Own' - a book he describes as a testimony of how he was able to avoid the corruption that so many guards in Texas prisons are persuaded to take part in. -more-
EMERGING BLACK LEADERS CONFERENCE
Rod Paige, Diane Wilkerson, Kwame Jackson
Boston, MA (BlackNews.com) - March 5-6, 2005, Tufts University will be hosting the first annual Emerging Black Leaders Symposium (EBLS). This event will host over 400 graduate and undergraduate students from New England, featuring such noted speakers as State Senator Dianne Wilkerson, former Secretary of Education Rod Paige and keynote speaker, Kwame Jackson of The Apprentice fame. -more-
WHY AFRICA AWARENESS MONTH?
(Tallahassee, FL) - Tallahassee and African Sister Cities Coalition, Inc. (TASCC), a public not-for-profit organization based in Tallahassee, FL, has launched a movement to promote the annual observance of Africa Awareness Month. Considering that February's African American History Month is currently ending, is it necessary to follow-up in March with Africa Awareness Month? Dr. Willie Butler, Assistant Professor at Florida A&M University and Founder of TASCC, would answer that question "yes." -more-
Congressman Jackson to Secretary of State Rice: Make Africa a Priority
Congressman Jesse L. Jackson, Jr., an outspoken advocate for African interests, continued his fight to make Africa a priority in U.S. foreign policy. During a congressional hearing, yesterday, on the foreign operations budget, Congressman Jackson pressed for and received a public assurance from Secretary of State Condoleeza Rice that Africa would be a "top priority" for the Bush administration and her State Department. -more-
BLACK MEMORABILIA & COLLECTIBLE SHOW TO BE HELD IN WASHINGTON, DC AREA
Washington, DC (BlackNews.com) - The Greater Washington, DC Black Memorabilia & Collectible Show will be Saturday, April 16, 2005, at the world famous Montgomery County Fairgrounds, 16 Chestnut Street, in Gaithersburg, Maryland located near the nation's capitol and easily accessible from Washington, DC, Maryland, Virginia, and other nearby states. -more-
Wal-Mart Awards $100,000 to Tavis Smiley Center for Professional Media Studies
BENTONVILLE, Ark., Feb. 25 /PRNewswire-FirstCall/ -- Wal-Mart Stores, Inc. (NYSE: WMT) today announced a grant for $100,000 to the Tavis Smiley Center for Professional Media Studies, further extending the scholarships for minority journalism students initiative the company launched to help increase diversity in the nation's newsrooms. -more-
BLOCKBUSTER VIDEO IS FRAUDULENT AND DECEPTIVE; NEW "NO MORE LATE FEES" POLICY CARRIES HIDDEN CHARGES
Customers charged purchase price for overdue videos.
BlackNews.com encourages Blacks to stay away from the company.
Newark, NJ (BlackNews.com) - Everyone has seen the Blockbuster Video television commercials that chant "No More Late Fees" and "It's Over". However, a recent law suit against Blockbuster by the state of New Jersey is indicating that Blockbuster still charges customers with hidden late fees. -more-
Tavis, We Challenge You: Produce the Covenant For Black America, Let's Debate It!
BLACK INDEPENDENTS CHALLENGE SMILEY TO DEBATE IN OCTOBER 2005
HARTFORD, CONNECTICUT -- Today, Tavis Smiley hosted a conference on the State of Black America in Georgia. We congratulate Mr. Smiley for holding the conference, and commend the effort to open this vital discourse. But this conference was flawed and lopsided because it only represented the viewpoints of the dominant civil rights establishment and traditional Black Democratic Party leaders. The conference did not represent the diversity of views of Black independents and Black Conservatives/Republicans. -more-
Juanita Young Continues to Face "Criminal Trespass" Charges; Next Court Date on March 2, 2005
Juanita Young, courageous fighter against police brutality, is scheduled for her next court appearance on Wednesday, March 2, 2005 at 10:00 AM, in Bronx Supreme Court, Part 60, 851 Grand Concourse (off 161st Street). Juanita is the mother of Malcolm Ferguson, a young Bronx man who was killed by the NYPD in 2000. She continues to face "criminal trespass" charges stemming from an illegal eviction engineered by her landlord and brutally carried out by officers from the 40th Precinct in June of 2003. -more-
NCOBRA, Tulsa and National Reparations Awareness Day
NATIONAL REPARATIONS AWARENESS DAY
1921 DESTRUCTION OF "BLACK WALL STREET"
The National Coalition of Blacks for Reparations in America (N'COBRA)
and the Tulsa N'COBRA Local Organizing Committee chose to focus attention
on the 1921 destruction of "Black Wall Street," known to Tulsan's
also as the Greenwood District, for N'COBRA's first annual National Reparations
Awareness Day, February 25, 2005. The refusal of the City of Tulsa and
the State of Oklahoma to pay reparations for their role in what some would
call a government supported massacre is an insult to the almost 300 African
Americans who were murdered and the hundreds more who were physically
injured and lost their homes or business. Activities on February 24 and
25, 2005 are designed to support the ongoing effort to obtain reparations. -more-
FREEDOM TO MARRY WELCOMES NEW COMMUNICATIONS DIRECTOR
"an exciting time of change - a diverse
community of voices"
New York, NY (BlackNews.com) - With debate over ending the exclusion of same-sex couples from marriage continuing across the U.S. including the recent landmark decision in New York, Freedom to Marry, the gay and non-gay partnership working to win marriage equality nationwide, announced yesterday the appointment of writer, editor and communications consultant Samiya Bashir to the position of Communications Director for Freedom to Marry. -more-
NBA Wives Honor Susan Whiting of Nielsen Media Research and Roberta Shields of The Ludacris Foundation
NEW YORK, Feb. 22 /PRNewswire/ -- The Fourth Annual NBA Wives Luncheon honored Roberta Shields, president of The Ludacris Foundation, and Susan Whiting, president and CEO of Nielsen Media Research as "2005 Outstanding Female Role Models." -more-
A CALL TO ACTION: 4TH ANNUAL EASTER DINNER FOR THE HUNGRY & HOMELESS MARKED BY 40 DAY HUNGER STRIKE TO RAISE AWARENESS
Atlanta, GA (BlackNews.com) - This year marks the 4th year that Hosea Feed the Hungry, founded in 1971 by civil rights icons Dr. Hosea and Mrs. Juanita T. Williams, has sponsored one of it's signature holiday dinner events on Easter Sunday. On March 27th at City Hall East, from 10am - 3pm, they expect to feed over 8,000 families and deliver Easter cheer and fresh hot plates of food to thousands of senior citizens living in local high-rises. There will be an estimated 15,000 homeless people on the streets of Atlanta this March, and add to that the people living in boarding houses, hotels and shelters, and living with relatives and the numbers increase significantly. -more-
THE NEED FOR EXPUNGEMENT
IN THE BLACK COMMUNITY
On March 26, 2002, CBS News reported in its nightly
news program "Eye on America" that since September 11th the
security industry has experienced a 20% boom. Corporate America performs
as many as 70,000 background checks a day on new and existing emplyees.
More astounding is that CBS news reported that as many as one out of seven
Americans have some form of criminal background. -more-
ROOT INC.
PRESENTS A STOP THE GUN VIOLENCE FUNDRAISING
EVENT AT NEWLY RENOVATED LAUREL RACE PARK
"Racing to Eradicate Gun Violence Day" will be held on February 26, 2005
Washington, DC (February 21, 2005) – ROOT, Inc. (Reaching Out to Others Together), in conjunction with Laurel Raceway, is excited to announce “Racing to Eradicate Gun Violence Day”, a fundraiser, silent auction and horseracing event in support of its public education program GUNS ASIDE. This unprecedented event will be held February 26, 2005, from 11:30 AM to 5 PM at the Laurel Race Park, Carriage Room, in Laurel, Maryland Trail Blazing Sponsorship Investment/Magna Entertainment Corporation, owners of Laurel Raceway, have pledged their commitment to GUNS ASIDE by hosting this newly established annual event and by contributing $5,000 to the cause, challenging other organizations and individuals to do the same. -more-
BLACKNEWS.COM PARTNERS WITH THE ASSOCIATED PRESS TO ENHANCE NEWS CONTENT
Dante Lee, the 23-year old founder of BlackNews.com
Long
Beach, CA - BlackNews.com, one of the leading online destinations
for African-American news, is announcing their partnership with the Associated
Press. -more-
Reggie Fowler Biography Statement
BLOOMINGTON, Minn., Feb. 16 /PRNewswire/ -- Today Reggie Fowler authorized release of a clarification to his biography. Fowler, 46, recently announced that he has signed a purchase agreement with Minnesota Vikings owner Red McCombs to acquire the NFL team. -more-
“Community” Radio Favors Peace, Not Justice; Rejects Ousted Black Host’s 2nd Appeal
On Monday, February 14th the Personnel Committee of WMNF, a listener-sponsored radio station in Tampa, Florida, upheld the staff’s decision to cancel “Straight Talk”, the weekly talk show hosted by black community activist Connie Burton. (see www.defendstraighttalk.com) -more-
Latest Federal Court Ruling a Blow Against All Journalists
ARLINGTON, Va., Feb. 17 /PRNewswire/ -- UNITY: Journalists of Color is deeply concerned that one of the basic tenets of our democracy, that of the freedom of the press, has been threatened by a federal appeals court decision that upheld a ruling against two reporters who have refused to divulge their sources. -more-
Reggie Fowler Signs Purchase Agreement for the Minnesota Vikings
If Approved by the NFL, Reggie Fowler Will Become
the
First African-American General Owner of a NFL Franchise
EDEN PRAIRIE, Minn., Feb. 14 /PRNewswire/ -- Reggie Fowler, 46, at a news conference today announced he has signed a purchase agreement for the Minnesota Vikings. Terms of the deal have not been disclosed.
The contract agreement will be reviewed by the NFL and voted upon by team owners within the next 60 to 90 days. "I'm excited to have the opportunity to purchase the Minnesota Vikings," Fowler said. "I look forward to the agreement being reviewed and approved by the NFL." -more-
NASCAR'S
"RACE 4 THE MIC" WINNER TO SING NATIONAL ANTHEM
Daytona Beach, FL (BlackNews.com) - NASCAR's "Race 4 the Mic" winner Monica Brown sang the national anthem before Bud Pole Qualifying for the Daytona 500 on Sunday, February 13. Brown, a sophomore at Claflin University in South Carolina, beat four other finalists in last week's competition held at North Carolina A&T State University. -more-
AMERICAN
LEGACY TURNS 10! MAGAZINE HELPS AMERICANS CELEBRATE BLACK HISTORY EVERY
DAY
New York, NY (BlackNews.com) - American Legacy, the magazine of African-American history and culture is celebrating its 10th Anniversary year with the publication of the Spring 2005 issue.
Rodney J. Reynolds, founder and publisher of American Legacy stated, "We are very excited about reaching this milestone in the life of the magazine. Our goal of creating a resource center for African-American history and culture is being realized." -more-
Support Grows for Cancelled Black Radio Host
While cancelled WMNF radio host Connie Burton proceeds through the Tampa
community station's internal grievance process, community support for
her reinstatement grows.
Community activists have picketed the radio station's office and Public
Affairs Director, Rob Lorei's home. (see sptimes.com - search for "Connie
Burton") Callers to Lorei's and other live programs on the non-commercial
station have protested the removal of Burton's "Straight Talk,"
a black working class talk show that has aired every Sunday from 9:00am
- 10:00am on 88.5 FM in Tampa for the last 9 years. Burton's supporters
can be seen distributing leaflets and gathering petition signatures on
street corners around Tampa, where she is well-known for her civic activism. -more-
The 2005 National Show Welcomes 6th Annual Supplier Diversity Connection Workshop
Registration for Workshop Now Open
WASHINGTON, Feb. 8 /PRNewswire/ -- The reach of cable's commitment to diversity further expands as the 6th Annual Supplier Diversity Connection Workshop returns to The 2005 National Show, the 54th Annual Convention & International Exposition of the National Cable & Telecommunications Association (NCTA), April 3-5, 2005, at the Moscone Center in San Francisco. -more-
Ossie Davis, Beloved Actor and Humanitarian, Remembered
Visitation and Funeral Service, Open to the Public, Set for Friday and Saturday
NEW YORK, Feb. 7 /PRNewswire/ --
WHAT: Funeral services for the late Ossie Davis, 87, noted writer, actor and activist, have been confirmed. In keeping with the spirit of his life and his concern for humanity, both his visitation and funeral are open to the public. -more-
Jackson On 2006 Budget: Bush Rewards Greedy, Cuts Needy
February 7, 2005 - Congressman Jesse Jackson, Jr., today said, "President Bush's 2006 $2.57 trillion budget is perpetuating a hoax, pulling a bait and switch, while reflecting a hypocritical religion. Just last week, in his State of the Union address, the President spent most of his time talking about reforming Social Security and winning the war in Iraq. Today he offered a budget that mentions neither. It's a budget that rewards the greedy and cuts the needy. -more-
FEDERAL REVENUES AT LOWEST EBB SINCE 1959, CAUSING BUSH BUDGET TO DRIVE DEEPER WEDGE INTO PUBLIC SERVICES
Wealthy Americans Band Together to Reject Their Own Tax Breaks
WASHINGTON - In remarks today at the National Press Club, Congressman Pete Stark (D-CA) and Congressional Black Caucus co-founder the Honorable Walter Fauntroy drove home what the historic shortfall in U.S. revenues means for regular Americans. A new report from the Center on Budget and Policy Priorities says that in 2004, federal tax revenues fell to their lowest level, measured as a share of the economy, since 1959. -more-
JACKSON
MOURNS THE LOSS OF OSSIE DAVIS
Congressman Jesse Jackson, Jr., today said, "It was with a heavy heart and great sadness that I received the word that Ossie Davis had died. We may never again see the combination of gifted and multi-talented entertainer, alongside political commitment and social justice activism. My prayers and thoughts go out to his wife of over 56 years, Ruby Dee. I was with them both recently at a New York event celebrating The Nation Magazine. -more-
New AIDS Organization Aimed at
Black College Students
L.I.F.E. AIDS: Leaders in the Fight to Eradicate AIDS
LOS ANGELES, Feb. 4 /PRNewswire/ -- In response to growing numbers
of new HIV infections among Black college students, the Black AIDS Institute
(The Institute) and the Magic Johnson Foundation have announced today
the formation of L.I.F.E. AIDS, (Leaders in the Fight to Eradicate AIDS),
an effort aimed at educating and mobilizing Black college students to
respond to the devastating effects of HIV/AIDS on Black communities. -more-
JACKSON EARNS 100% RATING FROM NAACP
The NAACP today congratulated Congressman Jesse Jackson, Jr. for being in the top 7% of the U.S. House of Representatives by receiving a 100% rating on 30 votes that were scored in the NAACP Legislative Report Card for the 108th Congress. -more-
JACKSON TO BUSH: EXPAND DEMOCRACY AT HOME:
ADD VOTING RIGHTS AMENDMENT & EXTEND
'65 VOTING RIGHTS ACT
Coming out of the Congressional Black Caucus (CBC) meeting at the White House with President Bush today Congressman Jesse Jackson, Jr., said, "The CBC very much appreciated the meeting with President Bush and we look forward to the next one. I urged the President to support adding a Voting Rights Amendment to the Constitution and to extend and strengthen - not weaken - the 1965 Voting Rights Act as a way of spreading freedom and democracy here at home. -more-
CHICAGO MUSEUM, USBE ONLINE PUBLISHER TO PARTNER ON NEW EXHIBIT
Chicago, IL - Career Communications Group, Inc. (CCG), publisher of USBE Online, has partnered with the Chicago Museum of Science and Industry to produce "Engineering the Future," a new exhibition that will showcase contributions made by African Americans to the field of engineering. -more-
New Senior Housing Center in Harvey Named for Representative Jackson
Congressman Jesse Jackson, Jr. was honored today in a ceremony celebrating the construction of a new 60-unit YMCA Senior Housing Center in Harvey. The Jesse L. Jackson, Jr. Senior Center, which will be constructed at the site of the former Dixie Square Mall, was funded through a $7,417,400 federal grant from the United States Department of Housing and Urban Development. -more-
Tom Joyner's 2005 Fantastic Voyage(R)
to Set Sail
More Than $1 Million Will Be Raised for Black Colleges
as New Ship to Embarks
on Caribbean Island Adventure
DALLAS, Jan. 24 /PRNewswire/ -- Tom Joyner, popular host of America's No. 1 urban radio program, has a couple questions for you: Would you prefer to be hovering over a smoky, hot grill on Memorial Day or partying all night long on one of the world's largest cruise ships in the middle of the Atlantic? -more-
JACKSON TO BUSH: "FREEDOM
AND DEMOCRACY BEGIN AT HOME"
Congressman Jesse Jackson, Jr., today congratulated our 43rd President, George W. Bush, on his ascendancy to the nation's highest office in the nation's 55th inauguration. However, Jackson also challenged the President to begin the spread of "freedom in all the world" by fighting for freedom and democracy at home - in the District of Columbia. -more-
FORD MARKS 5TH YEAR AS GOLD SPONSOR OF THE RAINBOW PUSH WALL STREET PROJECT
NEW YORK, NY, – Ford Motor Company, a committed supporter of the Rainbow PUSH Wall Street Project, returned this year as a sponsor of the 8th Annual event held Jan. 11-13. The theme for this year’s conference was "Beyond Diversity, Equity and Parity: A New Covenant." -more-
JACKSON: "DALEY THREATENS
AFFIRMATIVE ACTION NATIONALLY"
City Council Should Hold Hearings On Affirmative Action Abuse
The Tale Of A Goat, A Reyes, A Don And A Duff
Congressman Jesse Jackson, Jr., today said, "If Mayor Richard M. Daley does not take the bull by the horns and clean up the City of Chicago's corrupt and apparently often phony affirmative action program he could threaten the existence of affirmative action nationally. That's all this current batch of right-wing ideologically driven anti-affirmative action conservative Republicans needs to undermine affirmative action is for the most well known Democratic Mayor in the nation to be exposed as someone who is abusing, misusing and manipulating affirmative action to meet some `politically correct' affirmative action goals. I call on the Chicago City Council to hold hearings to correct the program before Congress or the U.S. Justice Department intervenes? -more-
JACKSON AN ORIGINAL CO-SPONSOR OF PARDON FOR JACK JOHNSON
Congressman Jesse Jackson, Jr. (D-IL), today said, I will again be an original co-sponsor of a bill introduced by Congressman Peter King (R-NY) expressing the sense of Congress that the President should grant John Arthur `Jack' Johnson - the first African-American Heavyweight Boxing Champion of the World - a posthumous pardon. -more-
Aflac Incorporated Pledges $1 Million in Support of the Martin Luther King, Jr. National Memorial Project Foundation
COLUMBUS, Ga., Jan. 17 /PRNewswire-FirstCall/ -- Aflac Incorporated announced a gift of $1 million toward the construction of a national memorial commemorating the life and work of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Aflac Chairman and CEO, Dan Amos made the announcement during his presentation of the Martin Luther King, Jr. Unity Award at the 19th annual MLK Unity Breakfast held at the Columbus Convention and Trade Center. -more-
LAUNCH OF ‘JUSTICE SUNDAY’ OBSERVANCE
CALLS
FOR VOLUNTEER SERVICE IN THE SPIRIT OF MLK Jr.
Support for Those Affected by Crime, Incarceration Would Become
a National Commemorative Event
PHILADELPHIA – Volunteer service to support individuals and families – especially children – affected by crime and incarceration is a fitting tribute to the memory of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. and should become a beacon of help for others as “Justice Sunday,” an extension of the national holiday commemorating King, says the religious affairs arm of a group of African-American justice professionals. -more-
BURGER KING CORPORATION AND ITS FRANCHISEES
ENCOURAGE YOUTH TO WRITE THE NEXT
CHAPTER IN HISTORY
Burger King Corporation marks its fourth consecutive
year of
celebrating everyday heroes during Black History Month
MIAMI, Fla., Jan. 10, 2005 - Burger King Corporation today announced it will present, for the fourth consecutive year, its Black History Month "Everyday Heroes" program. The 2005 BURGER KING Black History Month program, "Everyday Heroes: The Next Chapter," is a multilayered celebration consisting of the BURGER KING® Next Chapter essay writing competition, "Yes, You Can…" forums that will visit various high schools throughout the nation encouraging youth to aspire to greatness and "Know Your History/ Write Your Future" historical facts that pay tribute to African Americans who have made a positive difference in society. -more-
National Religious Affairs Group Announces
Kick-Off of ‘Justice Sunday’ Observance in Spirit of MLK Jr.
Support for Those Affected by Crime, Incarceration Would Become
a National Commemorative Event
PHILADELPHIA, PA – In a fitting tribute to the memory of Dr.
Martin Luther King Jr., the National Religious Affairs Association of
the National Association of Blacks in Criminal Justice will hold a service
in observance of ‘Justice Sunday’ this Sunday, January 16, one
day before the federal observance of Dr. King’s birthday. -more-
EARVIN "MAGIC" JOHNSON AND BELLSOUTH CORPORATION TO RECEIVE ONE OF KING CENTER'S HIGHEST HONORS
ATLANTA, Ga. ---NBA legend Earvin "Magic" Johnson and BellSouth Corporation will be honored by The King Center at its Annual "Salute to Greatness" Awards Dinner, at the Hyatt Regency-Downtown Atlanta on Saturday, Jan. 15, 2005. The annual dinner serves as the primary fundraiser for The King Center and is a part of a series of activities that comprise the King Holiday Observance. -more-
"N'COBRA SUPPORTS BLACK FARMERS DEMANDS FOR REPARATIONS"
The National Coalition of Blacks for Reparations in America (N'COBRA)
supports the Black Farmers & Agriculturalists Association in their
just demand for economic resources and return of nearly 14 million acres
stolen by the U.S. government and its agencies since 1920. Despite a flawed
1999 class-action lawsuit settlement, thousands of Black farmers have
still been denied due process in filing claims and receiving restitution. -more-
NEW REPORT: STATE OF THE DREAM 2005
UNDER BUSH, PEOPLE OF COLOR SLIDE
FURTHER FROM KING'S DREAM
Ownership, independence, access to wealth should not be the privilege of a few. President George W. Bush
Let us be dissatisfied until those who live on the outskirts of hope are brought into the metropolis of daily security. - Dr. Martin Luther King
After steady economic gains in the 1990s, Latinos, African Americans and
other people of color have actually lost ground since 2000, according
to United for a Fair Economy's newest report. -more-
The Cathy Harris Story - the Voice of Conscious Crying in the Wilderness
Cautious, careful people, always casting about to preserve their reputation and social standing, never can bring about a reform. Those who are really in earnest must be willing to be anything or nothing in the world's estimation, and publicly and privately, in season and out, avow their sympathy with despised and persecuted ideas and their advocates, and bear the consequences - Susan B. Anthony, Woman's Suffrage and Abolitionist
Courage is that rare trait that requires the unusual strength to do what is right - not what is popular in the face of personal harm and at great risk. Susan B. Anthony had the courage to guide thousands of women through that era of U.S. History when women were treated as second-class citizens despite the threats to her personal safety. Her leadership and courage led to the right for Women to have the right to vote. Courage was Harriet Tubman's only friend as she returned to the plantations of the antebellum south to free people who were scared to live and afraid to die.
Speaking truth to power and challenging a government infrastructure that thrives on the ignorance and fear of the people requires uncommon courage. That same spirit of determination, courage, and conviction are what keep and sustain Cathy Harris as a modern day Suffragist for human rights. She has fought and continues to fight for the rights of international travelers, many of whom are Black Women, who have been abused and violated by the U.S. Customs and Border Protection employees. -more-
POLITICS-U.S.: GONZALES FACES
STORMY
HEARING OVER 'TORTURE' MEMOS
By Jim Lobe
WASHINGTON, Jan. 4, 2005 (IPS/GIN) -- Led by a dozen retired generals and admirals, including a former chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff, human rights groups are urging the U.S. Senate to carefully scrutinise the role of White House Counsel Alberto Gonzales in devising detention and interrogation policies for the Bush administration's "war against terrorism" before confirming him as attorney general. -more-
Dymally Condolences on Death of
Shirley Chisholm
Assemblyman Mervyn Dymally has expressed his condolences upon hearing of the death of Shirley Chisholm, former member of the House of Representatives from Brooklyn and the first woman to seek the Presidential nomination of the Democratic Party, on Saturday. -more-
JACKSON COMMEMORATES
SHIRLEY CHISHOLM
Congressman
Jesse Jackson, Jr., today said, "I have nothing but good thoughts
and fond memories of former Congresswoman Shirley Chisholm who died yesterday
at age 80. Even as a small seven-year-old child I remember her running
for President in 1972. Even at such a young age I was aware that she was
the first African American to run for our highest office. She blazed the
trail for my father running in 1984 and 1988. She was an extraordinary
person who will remain a beloved and historic figure in American history. -more-
WE REMEMBER: Gospel EUR Editor,
Donald McIntyre, Passes
Donald McIntyre, the editor and force behind Gospel EUR has died. McIntyre, 45, died Sunday morning in Dallas, Texas, said his mother, Mrs. Betty Hornbuckle.
In speaking with his mother, who of course is grieving, we were able to get some information. Mr. McIntyre, who lived alone, was discovered in his apartment last Friday. When taken to a local hospital, it was determined that he was in a coma and had suffered brain damage and was only able to breathe through life-support. -more-
Dymally Condolences on Death of Robert Matsui
Assemblyman
Mervyn Dymally has expressed his condolences upon hearing of the death
of Representative Robert Takeo Matsui, who died Saturday of pneumonia.
“It was my great pleasure to serve with Bob Matsui in the Congress,” said Dymally. “He was a man of great integrity, a loyal American and effective representative of his constituents. He and his influence will be greatly missed by all Californians.” -more-
BLACKS
IN OHIO SAY SECRETARY KENNETH BLACKWELL IS RUNNING SCARED
Rev. Bill Moss, Rev. Jesse Jackson, and thousands of angry voters prepare to rally in Washington, DC on January 6
Columbus, OH - Rev. Bill Moss, who along with his wife, Ruth, are lead plaintiffs in a lawsuit filed in the Ohio Supreme Court against President George W. Bush, Vice President Dick Chaney, and Secretary of State for Ohio, J. Kenneth Blackwell, says that Secretary Blackwell is running scared. -more-
DIRECTV NOW OFFERS TV ONE ON TOTAL CHOICE® PROGRAMMING PACKAGES
DIRECTV is the First National Television Service
Provider to Offer TV One
to African American Viewers Nationwide
El Segundo, CA and Silver Spring, MD - DIRECTV, Inc., the nation's
leading and fastest-growing digital television service provider, announced
today the signing of an agreement with TV One, the new lifestyle and entertainment
channel targeting African American adults, making TV One available to
DIRECTV customers who subscribe to any TOTAL CHOICE® programming package.
In connection with the agreement, DIRECTV has become an equity investor
in TV One. -more-