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By Gloria Dulan-Wilson
Hello All:
All I have to say is that in May of 2012 I said the Supreme Court
injustices should have term limits. I made the case that most
were political appointees - and even after that regime is out of
office, they still continue to do their dirty work - witness the
Presidential selection between Al Gore and George Bush, where it was
clear that criminal acts had transpired in Florida, yet the Supreme
Court put Bush in office anyway.
And let's not forget the little matter of (in)Justice Roger B.
Taney, who, in the Dred Scott decision, said that a Black man had no
rights that a white man was bound to respect. That was back in the 1800s! These
turkeys have been trying to find a way to put Black people back on
the plantation for quite some time now. However, what they
didn't count on is the fact that in the 21st Century, we don't play
that.
The Voting Rights Act was Lyndon Baines Johnson's greatest
accomplishment. These red necks who were members of the solid
citizens of the solid south (and no doubt first cousins to Paula
Deen), got pissed off, left the Democratic Party and invaded the
Rep-ugh-blican Party in order to punish them (and us). They
packed the Supreme(?) Court with (in)justices during the Bush error
(uh, era) and really smacked us in the face when Justice Thurgood
Marshall had to step down because of health reasons, and they gave us
his exact opposite under very public and controversial hearing -
Uncle Thomas Clarence (do you wonder what that guy sees when he looks
in the mirror in the mornings?)
These are excerpts from an article that appeared in READER SUPPORTED NEWS, MAY 2012:
"Let
us remember the lesson of Bush v. Gore: once the Supreme Court veers,
it is all but impossible to get it back on track. We should have thus
learned that our Supreme Court can and likely has or will gut and
destroy our nation. But in Citizens United the Court (5/9 thereof)
upended nearly a century of prior actions -- no "stare` decisis" for
those 5. It backtracks when it's "reached" by interests other than the
parties of record in a case."
"Citizens United is the best
Supreme Court ruling money could buy. The justices will not prosper
while sitting, but think they will ever go wanting for something down
retirement road? Or their families or however else money can be funneled
to them? Now just imagine a President Romney nominating either one or
two new justices to the court. This is one of the most frightening
possible futures in American history. One or two more Scalias or
Thomases and Citizens United will seem tame by comparison to the bizarre
rulings capable of coming out of that potential court. For the sake of
this country's future as a Republic and a Democracy of and for the
people (minus Citizens United), President Obama must be reelected in
November."
"All
it takes to stop the Senate is to threaten a filibuster, without even
having to filibuster. What can you do to put the brakes on a deranged
and extremist Supreme Court? Pass a Constitutional Amendment? The SC
Justices are virtual kings, with minimal checks upon their increasingly
fascist behavior. With a stroke of the pen, these people could overturn
the Health Care Act, passed by both houses of Congress and supported by
the President. How come just five people can so easily stop the work of
the other two branches of our government? They can just swoop in, with
no Constitutional authority whatsoever, and select the President. "Get
over it!" Scalia said. The Supreme Court is the weak link in our
so-called democracy. I think two of them ought to be impeached (Roberts
and Thomas), and I think the Republican Party needs to be crushed for
the next several elections."
And a last (but not least) warning
to those of you who may be vacillating about the petition: "Thomas
Jefferson warned the people in 1816 about the SCROTUS (uh, SCOTUS). "To consider the
Judges as the ultimate arbitraters of all Constitutional questions (IS) a
very DANGEROUS doctrine indeed, and one which would place us under the
dispotism of an OLIGARCHY". People this country is in deep trouble!!"
I
recently wrote an article, which appeared in Our Times Press (Brooklyn,
NY), in reference to the rather odd decisions being handed down by the
rep-ugh-blican-dominated Supreme Court, and the fact that they don't
have term limits. Not only that, it's truly interesting and ironic that
the Supreme Court allows corporations to donate to political campaigns,
but non-profit organizations are not only not allowed to contribute,
they are not allowed to endorse or advertise in the behalf of the
President, or other candidates! Fearful of losing their funding,
organizations have been stymied - walking on eggs. They are being
bullied into science, under the guise of ethical practices, exacted
against them via the most unethical means possible - the threat of
punitiv, pseudo legal reprisals leveled against them. Americans are
being held hostage by the very people who were supposed to be the
protectors of their rights and liberties. What then does one need to do
in order to be liberated from this tyranny? Frankly, the petition
should have included a demand for term limits on the Supreme Court
Justices, starting with the current incumbents - no more that 12 years
for any one term.
Interestingly enough, no one has come up with
the idea of occupying the Supreme Court; but perhaps this is the time to
take them off the sacred cow list, since it is evident that they don't
hold Americans' lives and wellbeing sacred or important. In the
interim, if you want to prevent big corporations from disenfranchising
you and your neighbors, sign the petition, and pass it on.
As with everything else here, we have to maintain vigilence. It hasn't changed. We have to vote in every election like our lives depended on it, because, as you can well see, they do. These people mean us no good. And it's been evident down through the ages. The only way we get justice is when we stand up, together, united, and wrest it from their cold vampirish hands. They are counting on there being no more Thurgood Marshalls among us. They are betting on being able to get away with this scott free. They are assuming that we don't have the intelligence, the unity and the professional representation to make them back down and reverse this decision.
I'm betting that we not only do have what it takes and who we need, that there are a lot more people who are not necessarily African American, but who are American citizens, who are just as outraged as we are, who are likewise looking to make sure they go this far, and no further.
what benefit is a Supreme Court if it's a tool for the oppressor?
It is time for good men and women of consciousness in Congress and in the communities they purport to represent, call for TERM LIMITS for the Supreme(?) Court, immediately, if not sooner. They may well be the albatroses who push our country into fascism.
Now that you know, What will you do?
Stay Blessed &
ECLECTICALLY BLACK
Gloria Dulan-Wilson
Gloria Dulan-Wilson Blog/ ECLECTICALLY BLACK NEWS
For Eclectic Black People
VIP: Views . Interests . Perspectives
6.25.2013
Salute to President Nelson Mandela and Black South African Music
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By Gloria Dulan-Wilson
Last year in February, 2012, my friend, producer Sparkie Martin sent me this great clip of UMOJA
By Gloria Dulan-Wilson
Last year in February, 2012, my friend, producer Sparkie Martin sent me this great clip of UMOJA
| a South African musical that he was promoting. I couldn't stop playing the music over and over again. I absolutely love South African music - there is so much vibrancy, energy, rhythm, meaning - and even pathos - that you feel it right down in your very soul. I have included the YouTube clip in this blog in honor of both Black Music Month and President Nelson Mandela, and the brothers and sisters of South Africa, who are the very epitome of what that music is all about. . I hope you can hear it and it leads you to go on YouTube and view all six of the acts or log on to umojatheshow.com. They are so fantabulous.
President Nelson "Madiba" Mandela has been a personal hero of mine since I was in high school, which is when he was first incarcerated by the racist apartheid regime. We learned about his incarceration, the murder of Patrice Lumumba, and so many other atrocities taking place against those in Africa who were trying to throw off the colonizers oppresive yoke. Jomo Kenyatta and the MauMaus were also personal heroes of mine. Our history and social science teachers kept us well informed and up to date about Africa, in much the same way they did the racism we were suffering right here in the US. They wanted us to understand that it was all related, all the same oppressors, just geographical differences. The path between Africa and Blacks in America was a two-way street. (By the way: UMOJA is Swahili for Unity or Togetherness - Kenya and Tanzania gave refuge to those leaders who had to escape oppression to go back and fight again) With President Nelson Mandela so seriously ailing at this time, all of South Africa is on a LIFE watch, praying for the full recovery of this powerful man, their first President, also known as the father of Democracy in S.A. He's currently suffering from a lung ailment that seems to be resistant to treatment. He had been responding favorably to treatment, but suddenly returned to the hospital on Friday, June 21. We here in the US are also praying for his full recovery and continued health. President Barack Obama is scheduled to do a tour of Africa, starting with Senegal, to but it is hoped, under the current circumstances that they will re-arrange the schedule, and go to South Africa first, since it is unknown whether or not Mandela will survive long enough for the two iconic men to meet. President Obama has always considered President Mandela a p ersonal hero of his - as he is to many of us worldwide. (The President will also be going to Tanzania, however, there have been many, including yours truly, who wonder why he is not also visiting Kenya as well?)
in South Africa, for his defiant stand against Apartheid. During the 27 years of his torture and incarceration, the ANC (African Nationalist Congress) and the youth of South Africa, under his then wife, Winnie Mandela, continued their resistance and assault against the racist regime stared by Voervord in the 1940's. During this time, (actually starting with the Boer and British i nvasions) South African Blacks could no longer walk or live freely in their own land. They were subjected to harsh treatment, outright shootings by the so-called police, and had to carry passes with their photos and stamps showing they had authorization to be in a certain part of their own country!!!
having Mandela released in 1990. He became the first Black president in modern times of South Africa; however, instead of continuing the hostilities (as many of us kind of expected and wanted him to do - we kind of wanted revenge against the tyranny they had suffered - especially us Black folks here in the US), he put together a reconciliation plan which averted what surely would have been years and years of protracted blood baths. New Yorkers especially were instrumental in effecting a massive boycott of South Africa, helping the ANC bring the heinous regime to its knees. The brutal massacre of innocent students at Soweto, the Sharpville Langa Massacre; the production of Sara Fina, a musical drama which toured the US graphically depicting the atrocities they were enduring, and support of such celebrities as Harry Belafonte, Danny Glover, Michael Jackson and others, all brought the message home, that South Africa (and later Zimbabwe, SouthWest Africa, and other such oppressed areas) could no longer be allowed to exist. Artists and musicians were warned that if they performed in racist South Africa they would find their products boycotted - "Oh no, we won't perform in Sun City", was the chant of the day (unfortunately vocalist Millie Jackson didn't get the memo, and the consequences to her career were swift and dire.) Companies that traded with South Africa found that their products were not allowed in the US. Mayor David Dinkins, New York City's first Black mayor honored President Mandela with a reception and a ticker tape parade through Avenue of the Americas. It was the first (and only) time that an African head of state was given such an honor in New York City (or anywhere else, for that matter). The streets were lined with proud Africans, African Americans and Caribbean Americans who watched as the humble man waved and smiled his way through and into the hearts of New Yorkers. President Mandela only served one term as President of South Africa, and retired with his second wife, Graca Machel, serving only in the capacity as an advisor to those who succeeded him. At the age of 94, he has withstood rigors, hardship, challenges many half his age have not been able to stand up to. According to an international news publication: South Africa's president Zuma, has said Barack Obama will still meet Nelson Mandela, despite the national hero's failing health. The US President is due to meet his fellow Nobel peace laureate during a short tour of Africa, but the 94-year-old is critical in hospital with a lung infection. And today Mr Zuma said: "Madiba (Mandela's clan name) has been unwell for quite a while. There's nothing that's going to stop the visit because Mandela is sick. If you stopped that visit, people would ask questions. Obama is coming whilst Madiba is in hospital not well." Jack Hillmeyer, a spokesman for the US Embassy in Pretoria, told the Daily Telegraph: "Obviously the president and the first lady and everyone is keeping him their thoughts and prayers. We certainly will be watching and following developments but for now, we are continuing with preparations (for the visit)." This is the youtube clip. Hope you can view it. If not, log on to umojatheshow.com on YouTube Everybody, as you enjoy the music of South Africa, send out a prayer for President Nelson Mandela, his wife Graca, family and all the people of South Africa - pray that Our President, Barack Obama has a safe and successful visit to Africa, and that these two Icons have a chance to really exchange ideas and share the considerable wisdom, knowledge and understanding they have each amassed in their own right in their journey as leaders. AMANDLA!!!
Stay Blessed &
ECLECTICALLY BLACK
Gloria Dulan-Wilson
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6.23.2013
OHIO ON BLAST - BLACK FOLKS WILL NOT ACCEPT YOUR INSULTS OR YOUR RACIST IGNORANCE
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Why Did an Ohio
School Ban Braids and Afro Puffs
An Ohio school has banned
Afro puffs and twisted
braids for girls, according to the blog Black Girl With Long Hair.
Horizon Science Academy reportedly sent a note home to parents advising them that Afro puffs and ‘small twisted braids’ were no longer allowed to be worn by students.
(By the way, isn't she the most adorable little thing you've ever seen?)
The letter from school administrators, also posted online, notes the following: Afro-puffs and small twisted braids, with our without rubberbands, are NOT permitted.
The letter from the school says that the dress code helps create a “successful” school environment, although it is unclear how allowing a young girl to wear her hair naturally would be disruptive to any school environment.
Black Girl With Long Hair observed the following:
What do you think? Are Afro puffs and twists ‘radical’?
Now what kind of stupid question is that. And who defines "radical?" and who defines our culture, our beauty, our success, our intelligence? Where does anyone come off trying to drag Black people back to the negroness from which we struggled and emerged, kicking, screaming and breaking the physical, psychological, social and economic chains of ignorance and oppression, born of post slave mentalities and jim crow.
Don't ask us dumb questions, ask what the Black community plans to do about the assault on their intelligence and their progeny. Those are the kinds of questions to be answered. Not bogus pseudo-philosophical debates that waste time and energy.
THESE APPARENTLY ARE THE NAMES OF THE SCHOOLS IN QUESTION.
In light of the foregoing information, I think it behooves us individually and collectively, to make it clear to Ohio, and the rest of the meanstream Americans of like minds, that this is unacceptable, intolerable, and we're not going to allow it to go any further. That should they continue, this is the first salvo - we're not playing dumb games.
Now that you know, what will you do?
Stay Blessed &
ECLECTICALLY BLACK
Gloria Dulan-Wilson
By Gloria Dulan-Wilson
Hello All:
This was forwarded to me by a brother from Ohio, who was as outraged, as I'm sure you are, by the temerity and the gall of a school that actually sent a note home to Black parents about their children no longer being allowed to wear natural hair styles. Of course, I'm assuming that this is a Caucasian school - woe betide them if it turns out they're "Black," (or should I say, "negro").
My first question was: IS THE BUILDING STILL STANDING? Because I just know those Black parents showed up and laid waste.
My second question was: WHEN DOES THE FACULTY OR ADMINISTRATOR BEGIN DRAWING UNEMPLOYMENT: Because I just know that they were fired on the spot for racism, discrimination, and just plain stupidity.
Then I asked: WHERE ARE THE PICKET LINES FORMING, and WHEN DO WE OCCUPY THE SCHOOL and THE OHIO BOARD OF EDUCATION: Because I just know that those Black people in Ohio, whether they have kids in the school system or not aren't gonna take that kind of B.S.
My last question was: OKAY DO YOU WANT THE BLACK ORGANIZATIONS TO CONVERGE ON OHIO WITH PEOPLE FROM NEW YORK, NEW JERSEY, CONNECTICUT, MARYLAND, PENNSYLVANIA AND DC TO SEND THEM A SIGNAL THAT AN ASSAULT ON ONE GROUP OF BLACKS IS AN ASSAULT ON ALL - Because I just know that Black Americans, Africans, Caribbeans, South Americans are outraged at this insipid insult to who we are.
BUT SO FAR NOBODY'S GIVEN ME A DEFINITIVE RESPONSE. WAKE UP BLACK PEOPLE - YOU'RE TOO DAMNED QUIET - YOU REMEMBER THE SAYING, IF YOU GIVE THEM AN INCH, THEY'LL TAKE A MILE.
If they are trying to push this BULLSHIT: "that as Ohio goes, so goes the nation", and we buy into it, then we'd damned better make sure that Ohio goes and tells those schools that they are out of line, subjects to fines, and will be standing on the unemployment line.
We really need to contact native Ohioan, Don King, who is the king of natural hair, to see what he thinks of their definition of natural hair as a deterrent to success. I'm sure he'd have some interesting insights to share with the adelpated minds of the school's administration.
Don't you find it interesting that they wait until near the end of the school year to send out these notifications. There is the subtle assumption that anger will dissipate over the summer, and that with no faculty or administrators in the school there will be little that can be done to reverse the decision.
Au contrare: If we can elect a President in the so-called "battleground state," we can correct a school system that has apparently lost its mind. I expect Sherrod Brown, who we helped elect, to be part of the SANITY COMMITTEE because apparently the school has lost it's mind.
That Said, a brother who resides in Ohio, "cpohio," sent me a copy of YOUR BLACK WORLD that I'm sharing with you:
Saturday, June 22, 2013
Why Did an Ohio
School Ban Braids and Afro Puffs
Horizon Science Academy reportedly sent a note home to parents advising them that Afro puffs and ‘small twisted braids’ were no longer allowed to be worn by students.
(By the way, isn't she the most adorable little thing you've ever seen?)
The letter from school administrators, also posted online, notes the following: Afro-puffs and small twisted braids, with our without rubberbands, are NOT permitted.
The letter from the school says that the dress code helps create a “successful” school environment, although it is unclear how allowing a young girl to wear her hair naturally would be disruptive to any school environment.
Black Girl With Long Hair observed the following:
It’s unclear what the administration means by small twisted braids, but if they are referring to box braids they are banning a protective style that Black girls have worn for generations. Afro-puffs are essentially the Black version of the ponytail (when pulled back our hair puffs out instead of laying down), and yet the rules do not have a ban on ponytails for students of other ethnicities.The school has not released a justification for banning the hairstyles.
What do you think? Are Afro puffs and twists ‘radical’?
Now what kind of stupid question is that. And who defines "radical?" and who defines our culture, our beauty, our success, our intelligence? Where does anyone come off trying to drag Black people back to the negroness from which we struggled and emerged, kicking, screaming and breaking the physical, psychological, social and economic chains of ignorance and oppression, born of post slave mentalities and jim crow.
Don't ask us dumb questions, ask what the Black community plans to do about the assault on their intelligence and their progeny. Those are the kinds of questions to be answered. Not bogus pseudo-philosophical debates that waste time and energy.
THESE APPARENTLY ARE THE NAMES OF THE SCHOOLS IN QUESTION.
| Horizon Science AcademyCleveland (main location) | |
|---|---|
| Address | |
| 6000 South Marginal Road Cleveland, Ohio, (Cuyahoga County), 44103  United States | |
| Information | |
| Type | Public, Coeducational high school |
| Director | Cendrig Karatas |
| Grades | 9-12 |
| Color(s) | Burgundy and Gold |
| Team name | Dragons |
| Accreditation(s) | North Central Association of Colleges and Schools |
| Athletic Director | Jerome Lomurno |
| Website | http://www.horizoncleveland. |
| Horizon Science AcademyColumbus branch | |||
|---|---|---|---|
| Address | |||
| 1070 Morse Road Columbus, Ohio, (Franklin County), 43229 United States | |||
| Information | |||
| Director | Guray Taysever | ||
| Grades | 9-12 | ||
| Color(s) | Maroon and Gold | ||
| Team name | Hawks | ||
| Athletic Director | Thomas Edwards | ||
| Website | www.horizoncolumbus.org | ||
In light of the foregoing information, I think it behooves us individually and collectively, to make it clear to Ohio, and the rest of the meanstream Americans of like minds, that this is unacceptable, intolerable, and we're not going to allow it to go any further. That should they continue, this is the first salvo - we're not playing dumb games.
Now that you know, what will you do?
Stay Blessed &
ECLECTICALLY BLACK
Gloria Dulan-Wilson
6.22.2013
EVENT ALERT - Bobbi Humphrey and Roy Ayers at Keswick's West Oak Lane Festival June 22
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By Gloria Dulan-Wilson
Hey Everybody - you've got to check this out.
This was one of Mandrill's favorite festivals to perform for in Philly - in fact, they last performed for the West Oak Lane Festival in 2009 to a sold out crowd. In 2011 they performed at the Mann and were so popular, that the spirit in that event was so powerful, that the rain actually stopped so their show could go on. Lou always loved performing in Philly and said Philly was a "Mandrill" town.
Now that they've moved the West Oak Lane Festival indoors for the first time, at the world famous Keswick Theatre, in Glenside, the rain factor has been handled, so you'll have 6 hours of nonstop music, come rain or shine!! And no doubt the same kind of enthusiasm they showed Mandrill in 2011 will greet Roy, Bobbi, Carol, the Urban Guerrillas, and the Clef Club when they perform.
I'm sending this announcement out in advance of my Blog - Event Alert on www.gloriadulanwilson.blogspot.com, , because I know you don't want to miss one of the best shows and the kick off to summer.
For you brothers and sisters in New York, DC, New Jersey, Delaware, and Maryland it's a short bus ride (or drive) away for a whole lot of fun, soul, music, and infotainment.
For you in Philly, you got the Diva of the Flute - Ms. Bobbi Humphrey, and you got the Master of the Marimba (also known as the Xylophone) Mr. Roy Ayers - a winning hand already. Now, I'm not slighting the other artists - Philadelphia Homegrown artist Carol Riddick is fantastic in her own right, as are the Urban Guerrillas and the Clef Club's Senior Youth Band; but since these two are long time personal favorites of mine, you know I got to hype them. For me it will be something akin to a family reunion. Bobbi Humphrey was just honored at the Schomberg Library in Harlem for 40 Years in Music.
For, you, the audience it will be the best in entertainment and pure music.
So get ready for some Soul on Soul this Saturday at the Keswick Theatre
Stay Blessed &
ECLECTICALLY BLACK
Gloria Dulan-Wilson
Keswick Theatre – Official Site
West Oak Lane Festival at the Keswick
Roy Ayers, Carol Riddick, Bobbi Humphrey, Urban Guerilla Orchestra, Clef Club Senior Youth Band
Festival begins at 2:30 and runs until 9:30 PM
Jun 22 • 2:30pm
Price: $43The West Oak Lane Festival is moving indoors – to the Keswick Theatre! For one low general admission price of $43 enjoy over six hours of non-stop music and celebration. The West Oak Lane Festival at the Keswick is produced by OARC.
All proceeds benefit OARC, a 501(c)(3) non profit organization.
Roy Ayers, Bobbi Humphrey, Carol Riddick, Urban Guerilla Orchestra and The Philadelphia Senior Youth Band are coming together to celebrate “keeping communities alive,” at this year’s West Oak Lane Festival at the Keswick. This stellar mix of artists ranging from Jazz to R&B, and Neo-Soul will take to the Keswick stage, each with their own bands, for one day of non-stop music “for the community”.
“Everybody Loves the Sunshine,” vibraphonist Roy Ayers’, signature award- winning hit sums up Roy’s feelings for West Oak Lane as this will mark his fourth performance at the festival. Flutist, Bobbi Humphrey is looking forward to reconnecting with her Philly fans as she brings them back to “ Harlem River Drive.” And Philadelphia native and songstress Carol Riddick, who launched her career with Jill Scott will bring some neo-soul in the house. Urban Guerilla Orchestra will bring the audience to their feet can’t help but dance tunes. And finally, the Philadelphia Clef Club Senior Youth Band will showcase their superior talent as emerging jazz musicians and confirm West Oak Lane’s commitment to supporting youth in the community.
Listen to “Harlem River Drive” by Bobbi Humphrey:03 – Harlem River Drive(1)
Listen to “Everybody Loves the Sunshine” by RoyAyers: 08 – Everybody Loves The Sunshine
Show/Performer Schedule (Subject to change):
2:30 - Opening Remarks
2:50p -Urban Guerilla Orchestra
4:00p –Clef Club Senior Youth Band
4:45p – Carol Riddick
6:15p – Bobbi Humphrey
8:00p – Roy Ayers
The Keswick Theatre is nationally-recognized as the most acoustically-perfect listening room in the region.
6.19.2013
Conrad Tillard IS Running For City Council
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Rev. Conrad Tillard IS Running for City Council:
By Gloria Dulan-Wilson
This
is part of an indepth interview conducted with Rev.
Conrad Tillard, newly declared candidate for Bedford Stuyvesant's 36
Councilmatic District.The
interview took place at Peaches, Bed Stuy, Brooklyn, Wednesday, April
24, 2013.
*
You might say that Conrad Tillard is following the time honored saying of "better late than not at all." At least that's the word on the street from Brooklynites in Bed Stuy who thought they were facing a three way race for the soon to be vacated seat of Assemblyman turned City Council maven Al Vann. The race has now expanded to six since his entry into the fray.
Al Vann has had the enviable position of living his life in service to his constituency, and now having done an extremely great job, is preparing to step down - though not necessarily walking off into the sunset just yet. However, he is leaving some mighty big shoes to fill, and some great footsteps to follow Foot steps Rev. Conrad Tillard feels he is more than capable and prepared to fill. His opponents are none too happy about this "late entry into the fray."
Comments/complaints of "why now?" can be heard all over.
However according to the clergyman and former Nation of Islam leader, the Minister Conrad Muhammad, of Harlem's Muhammad's Mosque No. 7: "I watched and waited for the current candidates to come forth with platforms that would really speak to the needs of Brooklyn, Bedford Stuyvesant, education, and the youth. But there was so much lacking until it was frustrating. I have been attending all the meetings of relevance to issues that confront Bed Stuy, and they weren't there. I stood in solidarity with people in the community whose children had been gunned down; who had been raped or robbed; I was at Boys and Girls High school for the hearings on the possible closing of the school. They just weren't there, or any of the other several hundreds of meetings and events I've participated in over the past few years. Where have they been, and what is it that they now bring that will really address the issues that face Brooklyn over the long haul?”
Rev. Conrad Tillard IS Running for City Council:
By Gloria Dulan-Wilson
*
You might say that Conrad Tillard is following the time honored saying of "better late than not at all." At least that's the word on the street from Brooklynites in Bed Stuy who thought they were facing a three way race for the soon to be vacated seat of Assemblyman turned City Council maven Al Vann. The race has now expanded to six since his entry into the fray.
Al Vann has had the enviable position of living his life in service to his constituency, and now having done an extremely great job, is preparing to step down - though not necessarily walking off into the sunset just yet. However, he is leaving some mighty big shoes to fill, and some great footsteps to follow Foot steps Rev. Conrad Tillard feels he is more than capable and prepared to fill. His opponents are none too happy about this "late entry into the fray."
Comments/complaints of "why now?" can be heard all over.
However according to the clergyman and former Nation of Islam leader, the Minister Conrad Muhammad, of Harlem's Muhammad's Mosque No. 7: "I watched and waited for the current candidates to come forth with platforms that would really speak to the needs of Brooklyn, Bedford Stuyvesant, education, and the youth. But there was so much lacking until it was frustrating. I have been attending all the meetings of relevance to issues that confront Bed Stuy, and they weren't there. I stood in solidarity with people in the community whose children had been gunned down; who had been raped or robbed; I was at Boys and Girls High school for the hearings on the possible closing of the school. They just weren't there, or any of the other several hundreds of meetings and events I've participated in over the past few years. Where have they been, and what is it that they now bring that will really address the issues that face Brooklyn over the long haul?”
He
continued with confident solemnity:
“I searched my heart; I spoke with the Almighty, and I was told
that if it was to get done, I would have to be the one to do it.
I could not wait for someone else to do the job that has yet to be
done to make Bed Stuy whole. And that's why I'm entering; and
that's why I will win."
Anybody who knows his or her Bible knows it's not about when you enter, but why. It's not about whose backing you politically; it's about who the people feel will really work for them; and who has their backs spiritually, mentally, physically and visibly. Conrad Tillard has consistently been that person. Not just for the past three or four years; but for nearly three decades, since the 80's when he, as a college student, worked with the Reverend Jesse Jackson in his first campaign bid for the Presidency of the US.
"I've cut my teeth on the issues that drive our people, that matter to us most." Subsequent to Rev. Jackson's defeat in his bid, Tillard signed up with the Nation of Islam, and quickly became the right hand for Min. Louis Farrakhan in helping to reach out to constituents in Central Harlem. Later he formed an organization CHHANGE, that reached out to the Hip Hop Generation, and got them involved in being more responsible to their community via their votes and support for community organizations.
Not one to be pigeonholed, or put in a box of limitation, Rev. Conrad Tillard, has always put the people first, regardless of the opinions or consequences. This has made him both popular - someone to be reckoned with - and at times, a target of his detractors. Since his emphasis has always been on the people, communities, neighborhoods, where the people live, work, worship and play, you're more likely to find him out among the people, interacting, supporting, teaching and participating - whether it's fashionable or not, popular or not. He is comfortable in his community, whether it's behind the pulpit, in an audience, on a picket line, a panel, dealing with rap and spoken word artists; mediating gang activities, or participating in children's program activities.
When asked what some of his plans were for the future of Brooklyn's Bed Stuy community, he replied:
“I've been working with the communities of Brooklyn and Bed Stuy since coming to New York in 1989; when I first had my radio show on WBLS. I am more than familiar with the issues confronting Brooklyn,” Wanting to be clear that he has garnered the educational creds to go along with the street credentials, he stated: “I really need to illustrate my educational background. There are a generation of us who didn't join the nation of Islam from prison, but who were well educated. I came out of college in Philadelphia; first worked with Rev. Jesse Jackson when he ran for President. After that, I joined the Nation of Islam and worked as Minister Farrakhan's head of Muhammad's Mosque No. 7 in Harlem. So we were on college campuses; we were heavy students; we were the crème of the crop; and we joined the nation.”
Anybody who knows his or her Bible knows it's not about when you enter, but why. It's not about whose backing you politically; it's about who the people feel will really work for them; and who has their backs spiritually, mentally, physically and visibly. Conrad Tillard has consistently been that person. Not just for the past three or four years; but for nearly three decades, since the 80's when he, as a college student, worked with the Reverend Jesse Jackson in his first campaign bid for the Presidency of the US.
"I've cut my teeth on the issues that drive our people, that matter to us most." Subsequent to Rev. Jackson's defeat in his bid, Tillard signed up with the Nation of Islam, and quickly became the right hand for Min. Louis Farrakhan in helping to reach out to constituents in Central Harlem. Later he formed an organization CHHANGE, that reached out to the Hip Hop Generation, and got them involved in being more responsible to their community via their votes and support for community organizations.
Not one to be pigeonholed, or put in a box of limitation, Rev. Conrad Tillard, has always put the people first, regardless of the opinions or consequences. This has made him both popular - someone to be reckoned with - and at times, a target of his detractors. Since his emphasis has always been on the people, communities, neighborhoods, where the people live, work, worship and play, you're more likely to find him out among the people, interacting, supporting, teaching and participating - whether it's fashionable or not, popular or not. He is comfortable in his community, whether it's behind the pulpit, in an audience, on a picket line, a panel, dealing with rap and spoken word artists; mediating gang activities, or participating in children's program activities.
When asked what some of his plans were for the future of Brooklyn's Bed Stuy community, he replied:
“I've been working with the communities of Brooklyn and Bed Stuy since coming to New York in 1989; when I first had my radio show on WBLS. I am more than familiar with the issues confronting Brooklyn,” Wanting to be clear that he has garnered the educational creds to go along with the street credentials, he stated: “I really need to illustrate my educational background. There are a generation of us who didn't join the nation of Islam from prison, but who were well educated. I came out of college in Philadelphia; first worked with Rev. Jesse Jackson when he ran for President. After that, I joined the Nation of Islam and worked as Minister Farrakhan's head of Muhammad's Mosque No. 7 in Harlem. So we were on college campuses; we were heavy students; we were the crème of the crop; and we joined the nation.”
In
fact, Tillard's dedication to the African American community is quite
impressive, stemming from his days as an adolescent. He received his
BA from the University of Pennsylvania, in Philadelphia, PA. In
African American Studies in 1983, at a time when the colleges were
all but phasing the department out. and worked with Rev. Jesse
Jackson's bid for presidency through 1984. “I was one of the few
African Americans studying our history during that time. It was
deliberately being phased out of the schools as well as the colleges
and the universities. This was before (Henry Louis) Gates and that
crew came up with a different version of African American studies,
and it was more acceptable – I was really doing the unadulterated
research.” Additionally, Tillard posses an MA Divinity from Union
Theological Seminary; a ThM from Princeton.” He also has his degree
from Harvard Divinity School. Couple that with the 17 years of
discipline under the Hon. Louis Farrakhan, and you've got a force to
be reckoned with.
He
states: “The beautiful thing about life is that I've had
exposure to life at a lot of different levels – from the poorest of
the poor, to the elite. There are not a lot of people, in terms of
the human condition, that I cannot sit down and talk to. I have been
in crack houses, in prisons, in populations – not in the waiting
rooms, when I go I go into the populations. Gang meetings, but I've
also sat down with the elite of society. I've sat in classrooms, I've
sat in meetings; and so I really understand life in a broad way. All
my life I've been involved in issues of importance and concern to
African Americans. People ask how I'm going to attract white voters;
I don't think white voters are any different than anyone else. They
evaluate people's experience and credentials. And they just want to
know that a person can serve. My experience allows me to engage
people at every level of life.”
Rev.
Tillard may have come “late to the game” by politically correct
standards, and might not be part of the established "clubs" but he is just what the doctor ordered for the salvation of Brooklyn.
One
of the hottest topics in BedStuy is the threatened dismantling of
Boys and Girls High School, something which Tillard strongly opposes,
have recently hosted a hearing for the Education Department and the
Bed Stuy Community as to why the current mayor should back off. “I
would advocate for the end of mayoral control of our schools. To not
give our children a quality education is sentencing them to poverty
and jail and death. So it's a form of child abuse. And that's why I
will use the bully pulpit. I'm going to get in trouble with some
people in City Council, because I'm going tell parents, don't
complain about teachers alone; it's a partnership. It's not a baby
sitting service. You've got to work with the teachers to make sure
your children get an education. My wife and I both work in Bed Stuy.
My youngest son goes to school in Bed Stuy – little Barack -- and I
spend a lot of time volunteering my time at Boys and Girls High
School. The Bedford Academy, and the Community Stakeholders Board.
Emma Jordan Simpson and Bryan Favors, and the community and I work
together trying to improve the educational standards in District 16.
And I am the number one fan of Boys and Girls High School Basketball
team. Two years ago, when they won their first state championship,
working with Congressman Ed Towns, I made sure that the families had
a bus to go up there and celebrate the first state championship ever
in the history of Boys and Girls High School. We took two buses up to
Albany with the good help of Congressman Ed (Edolphus Towns, D.
Brooklyn, US Congress, Ret'd) and I made that happen.”
Tillard, likewise took a stand when Medgar Evers College
faced the threat of dismantling under Pollard, after 20 years of
successful progress under former Pres. Edison O. Jackson. He, along with the late, great activist Brother Jitu Weusi, Dr. Brenda Greene, Esmeralda Simmons and yours truly, were part of an ongoing coalition that early on identified the dangers of pollard and the super imposition of CUNY over Medgar Evers University. He volunteered the use of his Church hall for necessary strategic meetings.
He
advises Brooklyn's voters, from those residents who have been there a
life time to the newcomers to consider carefully the impact on the
future of the community if they don't carefully scrutinize the
candidates for this soon to be vacated seat. . To the youth who have not gotten involved because they
don't see the relevance to their lives, he stated emphatically: “WE
CAN'T BE GIANTS WITH GRASSHOPPER MENTALITIES! The person who
succeeds Al Vann is of major pivotal importance to us all. Everyone
takes their cue from that seat. We need visionary strong leadership.
That's what I offer; that's who I am.”
Now that you know, what will you do?
Stay Blessed &
ECLECTICALLY BLACK
Gloria Dulan-Wilson
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