HISTORICALLY BLACK: GEOFFREY S. FLETCHER



Geoffrey Shawn Fletcher
(born October 4, 1970)

Today's historically black feature again focuses on the African American contribution to the film industry. Today we will discuss Geoffery Fletcher, who is an African American screenwriter; film director, and distinguished professor at Columbia University-- as well as Tisch School of the Arts. Fletcher made history when he became the first African American to win an Academy Award for a his adapted screen play, written for the award winning film "Precious". Unlike the majority of my features, today's person of interest achieved greatness quite recently.

Often African American face opposition from their own people, primarily in the form of poor betrayal and representation. Not only did Fletcher so eloquently try to convey author Sapphire's "Push" ( the novel in with Precious is based ) message, but he also drew attention to the marvelous writing ability of African Americans working within the film industry. Geoffrey Fletcher is proof that even though no African Americans will win any awards this evening, we WILL be there next year. Fletcher is a commendable contributor  to the film industry--and our culture, which is why he is another reason black history should be celebrated year round(K*W)

kASUAL MUSIC!: NEW MUSIC FROM YUNG BERG!

NEW MUSIC FROM YUNG BERG FEAT. RAY J

SONG ENTITLED "AFTER THE CLUB"

TAKE A LISTEN!! http://db.tt/m7Pdgir

ENJOY KASUALLY!!!

kASUAL MUSIC!: NEW MUSIC FROM J.COLE!

NEW MUSIC FROM J.COLE

SONG ENTITLED "NOTHIN' LIKE IT"

TAKE A LISTEN!! http://db.tt/EQmd6p4

ENJOY KASUALLY!!!

HISTORICALLY BLACK: OSCAR MICHEAUX

Oscar Devereaux Micheaux
(January 2, 1884 – March 25, 1951)

In honor of the Academy Awards this Sunday, I've decided to feature prominent African Americans in the film industry. Speaking of the Oscars, today's post is about an Oscar. Oscar Micheaux was a writer, director, film producer and is honored as being the first African American feature filmmaker. Before Spike Lee, there was Oscar Micheaux.
Oscar Micheaux noticed the insatiable need for respectable roles for African Americans in a white dominated film industry. His used to films as a way to serve his community, by eradicating the negative stereotypes of African Americans portrayed in motion pictures. The majority of Oscar's films took place in the early 1900's at time where most white people had a really "dim" view of African Americans (still do). Oscar decided to create characters who were demonstrative of the complex individuals we really are. Oscar also looked to put an end to the perpetual misunderstanding between the two dominant races in the United States.

Oscar paved the way for many of the African American film directors, and producers whose films seem to pack a message. Melvin Van Peebles, Robert Townesend and Spike Lee have in a sense continued with what Oscar primarily tried to convey with his films. Even though African Americans only to seem win Academy Awards for stereotypical roles, there are still glimmering examples of hope in many promising filmmakers. Oscar Micheaux is a primary source of inspiration to African Americans in the film industry, and in our culture. Oscar is  a trailblazing pioneer in African American cinema, and another reason why black history should be celebrated year 'round(K*W)

kASUAL MUSIC!: NEW MUSIC FROM TREY SONGZ!

NEW MUSIC FROM TREY SONGZ FEAT.

 FYNCH MONEY 

SONG ENTITLED "FUCK EM"

TAKE A LISTEN!! http://db.tt/EQmd6p4

ENJOY KASUALLY!!!



HISTORICALLY BLACK: SAMUEL J. BATTLE

Samuel J Battle
 (January 16, 1883 -  August 7, 1966)

Today we will honor an African American pioneer in a field that wasn't originally sought after by black people. Samuel J. Battle, the first African American patrolmen of the New York City Police Department. "Big Sam" ( nicknamed this due to his large stature) Battle was sworn in on March 6th 1911--making next month the 100th year anniversary of this historic event! (mark your calendars)

Historically, African Americans have always resented law enforcement. On any particular day you can hear a person of color voicing their unsavory opinions about these people that are hired to protect and serve us. Our primary hatred toward the police began during times of oppression--at a time when the majority of police personnel were white. Now it seems as if our hatred has taken on a new form. As of today, people of color make up for most of the crime statistics; we seem to constantly be doing something illegal, thus the police remain the enemy. It just can't be a race thing, the police force is made up of many people of color. Now back when there wasn't anyone of color involved in major law enforcement, Big Sam prevailed.

Not only was Big Sam the first African American New York City patrolman, he also managed to achieve many other distinguished firsts. Battle became the first African American police sergeant in 1926, as well as the first African American police lieutenant in 1935. Ultimately, Battle became the first African American parole commissioner in New York City--in 1941. While Battle was commissioner, he exercised his power toward a humanitarian approach when he initiated rehabilitation programs for Harlem youths in the form of summer camps and extensive sporting activities.

Despite our notions of the current state of law enforcement in the United States, having a black man hold so many prominent promotions in law enforcement is most definitely commendable. With a name like Battle, this authorative individual had no other choice but to fight the good fight in referecne to earning African Americans a equal place in society. Sam J. Battle's legacy lives on through many of today's New York Finest who are of color. Battle is a legend in the state of New York, and a legend of heroic proportion to African American culture; which is why black history should be celebrated year 'round(K*W)

HISTORICALLY BLACK: CONSTANCE BAKER MOTLEY





Constance Baker Motley
(September 14, 1921 – September 28, 2005)

When I think of role models I think of a person who sets a respectable standard for someone to follow. We all need role models at one point or another--male and female. Today's feature is about prominent African American female who made history in America's judicial system and should be looked upon as a role model. Today we will honor Constance Baker Motley.

Motley was the person who wrote the original complaint for the legendary case of Brown v. Board of Education. A steady pioneer for African American women in politics; she was first African American woman ever to argue a case before the U.S. Supreme Court, in Meredith v. Fair. A case in which she won. Because of her high level of knowledge pertaining to the legal system, Motley was able to lend her expertise to--and involve herself in, the civil rights movement by pushing the issue of desegregation in the south.

The mid-sixties was quite the prosperous time for Motley. In 1964, Motley became the first African American woman elected to the New York State Senate. The following year—In 1965, she was elected to Manhattan Borough President—the first woman in that position. Her greatest honor came In 1966,when President Lyndon Johnson named her a federal court judge—making her the first female federal judge.

Attempted female Role Models take notes on Constance Baker Motley. Her vast career in politics more--more specifically the judicial system, is an overwhelming example of what a role model should embody. I'm not requesting that young and older women alike strive to be just like prominent women in our black history, but I urge them try and create their own history. Constance Baker Motley, a template for African American women to follow and another reason why black history should be celebrated year 'round(K*W)

MUSIC THERAPY

I can just post the word "Music", and nothing else and watch the comments flow in, that's how thought provoking the word "Music" is. Everyone has vivid memories and recollections concerning music. Music is heavily involved the process of life, music is life. For the sake of not wanting to look too radical-or just plain lazy, I won't just post "Music". Maybe next time.


Music is an consistent source of relaxation, a fixture in the hearts and minds of virtually everyone. Whether its rock and roll; jazz, country western, hip-hop or rhythm and blues you enjoy, music has the ability to either elevate or minimize your psyche. Music has a therapeutic essence to it. When you can't afford expensive therapists or psychiatric evaluations--on many occasions you can turn to music. Music is the ultimate upper when you're feeling down, and the quintessential downer when your feeling extra hyper. You know we all sometimes need that one song to slow down our sometimes hyper active state of being.


Try to imagine when you arrive home after a long day of work, school, or whatever particular series of events that drained your soul--and either there's no one to talk too or you don't feel like talking. You throw on your headphones, lay down, and scroll through your playlist to find the perfect song that sums up everything causing your mind's weariness or your racing heart. Trust me, there is always a song to summarize exactly how you're feeling. A break up, a loss of someone special in your life or just a emotionally draining day can all be expressed in a song. Word for word, this particular song paints a picture that's so familiar you could have composed it yourself.


I remember when I was a kid, I met this girl while playing in the sprinklers one summer afternoon. She wasn't my first crush, but was most definitely and early one. I sheepishly expressed my attraction to her by the monkey bars, and apparently boys weren't something she was too interested in just yet (I would later find out she would never discover that interest, but that's another story). Sad, but not too broken up-I went home and vibed with Ralph Tresvant about this "Candy Girl" who didn't want my "Popcorn Love". Feeling the New Edition references? Mr Telephone Man was one of my favorites.

I often listened to New Edition, and Boys II Men when I was kid, It wasn't until I was older that I resorted to Stevie Wonder for one of many choices in musical therapy. Sometimes you don't necessarily need to hear a song that you totally identify with, this only solidifies your mood--sometimes you need to alter your mood. There are sad, "I didn't get the girl" heartbreak songs and general break up songs. Then there's the energetic "Fuck the opposite sex" songs.

"I hate you so much right now" a lyric from the hatred fueled anthem by singer Kelis--my case and point.

Sometimes the transference of sad energy takes place when your listening to music. Your melancholy mood could be easily exchanged for self-empowering beats laced with lyrics infused with rage. I could have went home and threw on "ho's ain't shit" styled rap music on instead of New Edition-but for one I was 9, secondly, that brown eyed temptress wasn't that big of deal. Years and many girls later, I would have "Anti hoes'" music on max volume.

Its not all bad.

Music isn't always meant to complement unsavory moods. Sometimes you're feeling great; full of energy, and optimistic, you just need that song to make it all come together. Music can supplement your already cloud 9-eqsue feeling. I know we all have the radio, Pandora or even our mobile phones media player blaring as we prepare for a night of festivities. Singing in the shower for instance, is a very common form of music therapy and a suffice example of what I'm trying to convey.

Music has been my constant therapy beyond the aforementioned instance of rejection I received when I was 9. Whether I'm happy or sad, music seems to maintain its reliability. Music is my remedy and my therapist in a world that will without a doubt drive anyone crazy.

I leave you with Stevie. Peace!(K*W)

HISTORICALLY BLACK: WILLIE O'REE

Willie O'Ree
(born October 15, 1935)

Considered the "Jackie Robinson" of hockey, today's feature broke a distinct color barrier by becoming the first black man to play hockey for the NHL, today we will honor, Willie O'Ree. O'Ree was a Canadian-born black man who promoted from minor leagues to the Boston Bruins in place of an injured player. Although hockey is commonly known as sport dominated by white men, O'Ree managed to skate his way to hockey hall of fame history. O'Ree wasn't your average athlete. When I say this, I'm not referring to his race, I'm speaking in reference to the fact that O'Ree was 95% blind in his right eye and still managed to excel in his field.

Willie O'ree was another pioneer in the wonderful world of black history. I often speak on African American culture, but I would like to acknowledge that not everyone considered to be prominent components of black history are American. Willie O'Ree was indeed Canadian, and a black man. His ability to crossover to a world not frequently inhabited by black people is inspirational to say the least, which is why Willie O'ree is yet another reason why black history should be celebrated year 'round(K*W)

"TAKE A LOOK BACK" TUESDAY: DRU HILL

"TAKE A LOOK BACK" TUESDAY IS A WEEKLY FEATURE FROM THE KASUAL WORLD.


In the music industry, Tuesday is commonly known as the day that new music, more specifically new albums are released. Instead of taking a look at NEW albums, we will be taking a look back, at previously released albums, classic albums that we would run and buy (before digital downloads) and play until the CD (compact disc) skipped! These are the albums of yesterday, that are the topic of discussion, today...

Today's Album: "DRU HILL" by DRU HILL 

by King Riv (contributor)

I decided to keep it on the R&B side for this Tuesday's feature. Today I would like to discuss four crooners from B-more (Baltimore) that burst on the scene in 1997 with their first single “ Tell me" that’s right, I’m talking about Dru Hill.

Their self titled debut eventually went on to platinum status, making these four young singers famous and highly respected in the music world. The biggest hit off that album was “In my bed".

When I heard this track it immediately caught my attention. This song sounds like a dude who is just fed up with the BS. At this time, there was a lot of "man bashing" songs about how wrong MEN were. In my bed was one of the few songs where a female was the villain.

If this song were to debut in 2011, I think it would still make it top of the charts. Just when you think the song couldn’t get any bigger, the So So Def remix with Jermaine Dupri and Da Brat was released. JD put his brand of hip hop on that song and made it even hotter--and something you could two-step too. Around this year in music, almost any hit had either a Bad Boy or So So Def remix.

But let’s not stray away from this very well put together R&B album. One song in particular "Never Make A Promise" is a personal favorite of mine. The controversial video was the first video I saw that touched on the topic of sexual abuse from a parent. In the video the girlfriend of Jazz ( 2^nd lead vocalist of the group) is being abused by her own father. I later found out this video saved a young lady’s life. By watching this video, she found the courage to inform someone of the similar things going on her life.

If your into good; old fashioned R&B, I recommend Dru Hill’s first album. Hands down you will not be disappointed. POW!!!

King Riv

Kasual Contributor

http://twitter.com/kingriv

REST IN PEACE: MALCOLM X

Malcolm X
(May 19, 1925 – February 21, 1965)

I see so many people talking about hatred, constantly referring to someone as "hating on them". Hatred is not your boyfriend's ex-girlfriend, not "liking" your status, that's immaturity--infatuation even. Hatred is the fuel that brought various beacons of hope in our culture to their demise--Martin, Medgar, Malcolm and many others.  It is true; hatred is sometimes petty, but hatred is the jealousy that is embedded in the depths of our souls, dwells in our very core and consumes our conciousness. Hatred has caused people of the very same race to murder the man who was literally trying to uplift his people.

Self Hatred is something that is consitant within our race. Many African American stive to be everything else, besides African American. Blond wigs, blue eyes and skin whitening are said to be " beauty enhancers" but in all actuality are just forms of self hatred. Self hatred is why black men would kill another black man who's primary intetnion was to elevate our people beyond our downtrodden place on the social ladder through unity.

"Why do we hate ourselves?"

Malcom X's message was  a clear one. He continuously preached Black Unity. A whole nation of black people; of African Americans, working together toward a common goal. In order to achieve a consistent progression we must fully unite, and set aside our differences--which are minimal, and realize that with a combined effort, we will all go far. Malcolm X's death wasn't the end of our struggle, this is apparent. Malcolm X's death was an indicator of the progress, as well as the digression that our people are capable of. Here you have an African American man who was making tremendous progress for his people, and was killed by his supposed "brothers", there enlies the digression. We must deter from segregation, and set our sights on integration.

A great man died 46 years ago today. He accomplished so much before the age of 40. If Malcolm X didn't teach you nothing else, he taught you its never too late turn your life around. Young people we do have time, but still--it's not to be taken for granted(K*W)

Continue to rest in peace Malcolm.

PEACE!!!

HISTORICALLY BLACK: JUPITER HAMMON

Jupiter Hammon
(1711 - 1806)

 "If we should ever get to Heaven, we shall find nobody to reproach us for being black, or for being slaves." - Jupiter Hammon

Today's topic of discussion is about a pioneer of African American literature, Jupiter Hammon. Hammon was a Poet who became the first African American to be published in America, when his poem--entitled "A Evening Thought", appeared in print in 1760. Hammon was a slave from Long Island, New York. (I bet people forgot there were slaves in New York. There were slaves all over the United States, America was one big plantation). Jupiter's father was an exceptional man named Opium; who unlike the average slave, could read and write. His son thankfully inherited his fathers learning abilities.


On September 24, 1786 , Hammon delivered his famous "Address to the Negroes of the State of New York", which is also known as the "Hammon Address". The Hammon Address, was geared toward the plentiful African American population in New York State. This speech contains the aforementioned quote placed at the beginning of this article, which pertains to slavery and how African Americans should maintain a highly moral composure, in light of the utterly exasperating hardships they faced. Hammon believed by enduring these conditions with faith and honor, they would be guaranteed a place in Heaven. 


Hammon was also an advocate for the emancipation of slaves; but because slavery was so prominent in the United States, he urged slaves to focus on being righteous individuals instead of worrying about their freedom. Hammon challenged African Americans to examine their strengths and remain vigilant throughout the extremely trying times of slavery. Being forced into a life of hard labor and varied injustices was a poor way to live; but in the end It will all work out in our favor--if we retain our morals. Hammon was an exceptional man who climbed up from the depths of oppression and obtained sufficient knowledge, and was gracious enough to spread awareness amongst his brothers and sisters. Jupiter Hammon, another reason why black history should be celebrated year 'round(K*W)

HISTORICALLY BLACK: DON BARKSDALE

Don Barksdale
(March 31, 1923 – March 8, 1993)

I would consider myself an avid fan of Basketball. So because of my loyalty to basketball and since this is probably the biggest weekend in the NBA, I decided to write about prominent African Americans in reference to basketball. First, I spoke about Maurice Stokes--the first black NBA rookie of the year, then Larry Nance, an African American who was the first man to win the NBA slam dunk contest. Tonight on the eve of the NBA All Star game, its only right that I remind everyone of who the first African American NBA All Star was--his name was Don Barksdale.

I've noticed I have developed a habit of documenting African Americans that were the first to achieve a specific feat. In the future I will focus less on the ability to be first, but more on the person's impact. But Don Barksdale's particular impact was that he was a "first" on many levels. Aside from being the first NBA All Star--the former Boston Celtic, was the first African American All American. Barksdale was also the first African American Olympian, and Gold Medalist! Donald Barksdale was quite the pioneer for African Americans in sports. He was the primary force in establishing Basketball as OUR sport :). An NBA All Star, and another reason why black history should be celebrated year 'round(K*W)



HISTORICALLY BLACK: LARRY NANCE

Larry Nance

   

             

                  

This evening's "Historically Black" feature will be short and sweet! Tonight's article celebrates Larry Nance, this first winner of the NBA Slam Dunk Contest! The 6 foot 10 inch power forward made history in 1984, when he narrowly defeated the legendary Julius Erving--also known as DR. J. Congratulations to Blake Griffin for winning the Slam Dunk Contest this year, and it's only right we celebrate the 1st winner tonight!. Larry Nance, another shining moment in black history, and another reason why black history should be celebrated year 'round!(K*W)

HISTORICALLY BLACK: MAURICE STOKES

Maurice Stokes 
(June 17, 1933 – April 6, 1970)

In honor of the NBA All Star Weekend, today's article will focus on a the pioneer African American NBA basketball player, Maurice Stokes. Stokes played for Rochester Royals from 1955 to 1958. After a stellar first season of play, Stokes was named NBA Rookie of the Year, making him the first African American to do so. Throughout the next three years, Stokes continued to play extremely well; playing in the all star game three years in row.

On March 12, 1958 during n the last game of the 1957-1958 season, Strokes sustained a major head injury while driving to the basket for a close shot. The injury lead to him having a seizure; followed by a coma, in which he awoke from fully paralyzed. His basketball career was with out a doubt over. Followed by years of illness post this devastating injury, Stokes died from a heart attack in 1970,  he was just 36 years old. Due to his sudden illness, his basketball career was cut short and he was un-able to create the legacy he was destined too. He was an outstanding basketball player who was did not rise to his full potential, but due to his major in achievements in just three short years, he is still a reason why black history should be celebrated year 'round(K*W)

HISTORICALLY BLACK: ROBERT JOHNSON



Robert Johnson
(born April 8, 1946)


Today's article is in honor of an outstanding entrepreneur who has obtained major recognition through his business deals and contributions to African American society. This man im referring to is Robert Johnson, who aside from having the same name as my father, is an entrepreneur who has consistently displayed an abundance of business savvy for over the past 30 years. Robert Johnson is the first African American billionaire and first African American to be on listed on Forbes Magazine top richest persons list.

His most popular achievement undoubtedly came in 1980 with the creation of Black Entertainment Television; Other wise known as BET. Despite my reservations concerning the somewhat recent direction chosen by its controllers, BET serves as a major portion of our culture and was primarily effective in our societal advancement. BET is the first television station specifically geared toward black viewers, as apparent in the words assembled to create the acronym "BET". In 2007, BET could be found in over 65 million homes. Back in 2003, Johnson sold his business to VIACOM. No longer was BET black-owned, which could explain the choices in unsavory programming. In any event, Johnson became a billionare behind this monumental deal.

Robert Johnson launched many young careers, and provided a source of entertainment for our otherwise "overlooked" race. Johnson's aptitude for business financially propelled him in to history. When you recall the year Johnson managed to acheive this historical event, you would notice it was in 2001.  African Americans have been participating in high income careers for some time, but it wasn'tt until 2001, when Johnson was able to accumalate a billion dollars-closely followed by Oprah. We always knew Oprah would get there. Placing aside who he was as a man, Robert Johnson was an intregal peice of the furthering of our culture; which is why he,  and his creation BET, are relevant examples of black history, and why it should be celebrated year 'round(K*W)

HISTORICALLY BLACK: PIONEER AFRICAN AMERICAN MODELS

Dorothea Towles-Church

Today's feature will honor the African American pioneers of the modelling world. Over the years, the fashion industry has continuously portrayed their strict views of beauty. Blond hair, and blue eyes was the constant visual representation of perfection. Even white women with dark hair were sometimes overlooked on quest for a more bright, wholesome and affable approach to fashion.

Chuch at fashion show back in the U.S

One of first African-American women to break these strict racial barriers was none other than  Dorthea Towles Church. Church--primarily a Christian Dior model, had to relocate her modeling aspirations to Paris. In the 1950's racial tension was excessive, Europe was somewhere an African American could venture and taste true freedom, especially the freedom of expression. In Paris, there was little concern about race, but more time focused on the fostering of creativity.







Church enjoyed a long career in fashion, managing to showcase her beauty on magazine covers--along with the likes of Sara Lou Harris, who is credited as being the first African-America woman to be featured on a national magazine. The 60's ushered in a new breed of fashion as well as the introduction of the term "Supermodel". Supermodel Twiggy was one of the more domineering models of this time and gained world-wide popularity. But in 1965, the face of Donyale Luna--formerly known as Peggy Freeman, began to once again darken the American perception of beauty. Donyale became the first African American model to appear on the cover of a the British edition of Vogue Magazine in 1967.

Donyale

Naomi Sims

Following Donyale, there were many other prominent women who shouldered the struggle of incorporating women of color into the subconscious of American society. For instance, there was the gorgeous Naomi Sims, who is widely recognized as the first African American Super model. Before Campbell, there was Sims. Sims was a highly visual component and the obvious proof for the 1960's "Black is Beautiful" movement.





Then there was Pat Cleveland, Mounia, Beverly Johnson and Iman. All of these lovely ladies paved the way for the new generation of African American models and supermodels of today. Beverly Johnson in particular, contributed her own historic advances when she became the first African American  to appear on the cover of  Vogue and the French edition of Elle Magazine.


Beverly Johnson

Pat Cleveland


Much like the young models of today--the Eva Marcille's and the new generation the America's Next Top Model contestants all owe thanks to models like Tyra Banks, Naomi Campbell, Veronica Webb and much more; the Tyras and Naomis owe tribute to all the aforementioned women in this article, the pioneers. Because of these striking females, women of color world-wide have been able to excel in this particular genre of creativity which traditionally ignored the essential black or brown essence.





As of late, a lot of women currently in the public eye have done things to mask their true essence by reverting back to theory that; plastic surgery, blue eyes and blond wigs are all staples of being beautiful. Time has repeatedly shown that this is not true, and that shining examples of black beauty are all around us, and have been forever. Lets have faith in the African American models of today, in hopes that they strive to retain their essence, and lets toast to the relevance of the African American models of yesterday, because they are all the reason why black history should be celebrated year 'round.(K*W)

EL DEBARGE CHECKS INTO REHAB.

EL DEBARGE

Apparently El Debarge has checked himself back into rehab. Right before his big comeback tour, Debarge has chosen to take further action to better himself. The singer just released his first album in nearly 16 years, and recently stole the show at last years BET awards, singing some of his classic hits. On the eve of his two grammy nominations, he is once again in need of treatment concerning his drug addiction.

It shows great courage to be able to admit you have a problem, especially when you're in the spotlight. There is nothing wrong with taking a little time out to better yourself.

"I hate to disappoint my fans but it is necessary for me to take the time to work on me so that I may continue to share my music and my story with everyone."-EL Debarge

If only some of his peers would take notice of their own personal growth, and apparent drug issues and slow down--instead of spiralling downward into oblivion.(K*W)

kASUAL MUSIC!: SNOOP DOGG FEAT. R.KELLY - "PLATINUM"

SNOOP DOGG AND R.KELLY DOUBLE UP AGAIN FOR THE NEW TRACK "PLATINUM"

TAKE A LISTEN- http://db.tt/KRXxbY4

ENJOY KASUALLY!

kASUAL VIDEOS!: TREY SONGZ - "LOVE FACES"

FOR THOSE WHO HAVEN'T ALREADY SEEN IT, IT'S THE NEW VIDEO FROM TREY SONGZ "LOVE FACES"

ENJOY KASUALLY!!!

kASUAL MUSIC!: JAZMINE SULLIVAN "YOU BROKE ME DOWN"

NEW MUSIC FROM JAZMINE SULLIVAN! "YOU BROKE ME DOWN"

TAKE A LISTEN!!  http://db.tt/cFo3zVq

ENJOY KASUALLY!!!

HISTORICALLY BLACK: HIRAM REVELS

Hiram R. Revels
( September 1, 1822 - January 16, 1901)

An African-American Minister and Educator, Hiram Revels made history when he became the first black citizen to be elected to the U.S. Senate, from 1870-1871, representing Mississippi. Revels seat in the senate wasn't easily accessed--he faced much disapproval. There were many claims that Revels was not a U.S citizen because African-Americans were not considered citizens until 1868 (due to the 14th Ammendent ) just two years prior to the election. At the time, in order be a U.S Senator one has to have been a citizen for 9 years, and because African-Americans recently gained their citizenship, they believed Revels could not be appointed. Despite these convictions, Revels was revealed to be of mixed race, which was sustainable as an adequate argument--Revels prevailed and made history.

As a senator, Revels was a dedicated advocate of racial equality, constantly striving to widen recognition of the capability of African-Americans. Revels himself was quite the example of the capable African-American. Praised for his eloquence, and for being extremely vocal, he was well received throughout the duration of his 1 year term as senator. Two months before the expiration of his term, he resigned and took a job as the President of of Alcorn Agricultural and Mechanical College, now known as Alcorn State.

To date, Revels is 1 of only 6 African-Americans to hold a seat in the U.S Senate--1 of those 6 is now our President. In nearly 150 years, we've had only 6 African-American Senators! Now that's something to dwell on. Hiram Revels, a prominent member of society and member of an exclusive 6 person club of African-American Senators. Revels is inspirational, and yet another reason why black history should be celebrated year 'round(K*W)

HISTORICALLY BLACK: OSSIE DAVIS & RUBY DEE

Ossie and Ruby

Today is the second consecutive day that I have decided to feature two prominent African-Americans instead of one in my daily features--don't worry I won't run out. In honor of valentines days I've chosen to channel true love in the form of the late Ossie Davis and Ruby Dee. The African-American, Hollywood couple enjoyed 56 years of holy matrimony until Ossie's passing in 2005.


Ossie and Ruby met in New York City while performing in the Broadway drama "Jeb" at the Amsterdam Theater on broadway. Just three years later on December 9, 1948, the two were married.

These two individuals were an overwhelming symbol of black love. Their relationship is something that I can imagine wasn't perfect at times--who's is, but I am sure their bond was like no other. The love, compassion, and overall respect for each other's careers, was highly apparent. Before Will and Jada, there was Ossie and Ruby.

A quote regarding the two's pending burial arrangements:

"Cremation after a public ceremony, and then, into an urn. A special urn, large enough and comfortable enough to hold both our ashes. Whoever goes first will wait for the other. When we are united at last, we want the family to say good-bye and seal the urn forever. Then on the side, in letters not too bold-but not too modest either-we want the following inscription: 'Ruby and Ossie-In This Thing Together'"

They were indeed, in this thing together. Mr.Ossie Davis, and Ms. Ruby Dee are classic examples of longevity in references to their lengthy careers and to their everlasting love. In today's world, black couples don't seem to last more than a year, but Ossie and Ruby went the distance. These two lovebirds proved that true love does not get old, just becomes an unbreakable bond. Their love IS a template for generations to come and they are the legitimate reason for why, not only black history should be celebrated year 'round, but also, love(K*W)

HAPPY VALENTINES DAY!!!

ImaniLia, INC Prom Dress Giveaway Contest!!!

Harlem fashion designer, Imani Whyte, announces her first Prom Dress Giveaway for High School Seniors from her fashion collection, ImaniLia.

Are you a High School senior looking for a dress that will turn heads and demand attention of all when you step into the room?

If so, don’t waste another hour, another minute and participate in this year’s Prom Dress Giveaway contest sponsored by ImaniLia Inc!

The lucky winner will receive an exclusive dress by designer ImaniLia valued between $400- $600, enjoy a formal fitting, meet and greet with the designer, ImaniLia.

Participant Requirements:

• Be a High School Senior attending prom during the spring of 2011,

• Have a cumulative GPA (grade point average) of 2.5 (equivalent to 75% or higher)

• Submit a recommendation letter (from a non-relative); a recent copy of school transcript: a 300-word essay (personal statement and relative contributions or volunteer work in the community)

• Submit a creative piece (painting, writing, poem, dance routine, song/rap, etc.) explaining why the participant deserves to win an exclusive prom dress by IMANILIA, Inc.

• Submit all documents to ImaniLiaPromGiveaway2011@gmail.com by April 29th.

 If you, or anyone you know, are able to meet these requirements, feel free to participate!

The contest is open too young ladies in; New York, New Jersey, Philadelphia

ImaniLia, Inc and partners will announce the lucky winner on May 2 via Facebook, EMAIL and Imanilia.COM.

Every girl dreams of looking her best on that special night. I am eager to find a lucky girl and make her dream come true,” - Imani Whyte.