IN THIS ISSUE WOMEN’S HISTORY MONTH EDITION

March 2015 www.blacklensnews.com Vol. 1 Issue No. 3 Spokane’s Black Community News Source

MICHELLE OBAMA RECOGNIZES FIVE WOMEN OF THE CIVIL RIGHTS MOVEMENT Excerpted from First Lady Mi- any other group in this coun- chelle Obama’s speech on Feb- try. And while college gradua- ruary 20 honoring five women tion rates have risen for nearly who played important roles in the every group -– including Af- Civil Rights Movement: Carlotta rican American women –- the Walls LaNier, Charlayne Hunt- rate for African American men er-Gault, Sherrilyn Ifill, Janaye Ingram, and Chanelle Hardy has flatlined. And we all know that when students fall behind These women represent many in school, they fall behind in different facets and eras of the life. They are more likely to movement. They come from fall into unemployment and many different professional poverty and incarceration. backgrounds –- media, law, So like many of you, I be- activism, so much more. But lieve that education is the sin- there is something that con- gle-most important civil rights nects each of their stories, a issue that we face today. Be- common thread that animates cause in the end, if we really their lives, and that is their want to solve issues like mass hunger for and belief in the incarceration, poverty, racial power of education. Because some of them did it at tremen- education.Too many of our if they do, they aren’t connect- profiling, voting rights, and at some point in their jour- dous risk to themselves and young people attend crum- ing their dreams to the educa- the kinds of challenges that neys, these women understood to their families. And today, bling schools that don’t have tion they’ll need. shocked so many of us over that if they were going to reach thanks to their sacrifice, there the technology, or the col- the past year, then we simply their potential, if they were So today, too many of the op- are no angry mobs gathering lege-prep classes, or the col- portunities that these women cannot afford to lose out on the going to make a difference not outside our schools. Nobody lege counseling they need to potential of even one young just for themselves but for this fought for are going unreal- needs a military escort to get complete their education past ized -- today. And while we person. We cannot allow even country, they would have to to class. high school. one more young person to fall get a good education. should be proud that the high But that doesn’t mean that And too many of our young school graduation rate for through the cracks. Every woman on this stage our children don’t still face people can’t even envision a black students is improving, Continued on Page 11 graduated from college, and struggles when it comes to better future for themselves, or it is still lower than just about

REPORT: BLACK WOMEN IN THE UNITED STATES Black Women in the United States is an eighty-plus page political process to improve the quality of life for them- report, issued in 2014, that was developed by the National selves and their communities. Coalition on Black Civic Participation and the Black Wom- Drawing on data from the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the en’s Roundtable to assess the overall conditions of Black Department of Education, and the Department of Health women in the United States. and Human Services, the report focuses on both triumphs The Black Women’s Roundtable is made up of a diverse and challenges in Black Women’s health, education, wages, group of Black women civic leaders of international, na- economics, criminal justice, politics, technology and busi- tional, regional and state-based organizations and institu- ness. The authors conclude: “though, we find that on many tions. Together, the BWR membership represents the issues accounts, significant progress has been made since key his- and concerns of millions of Americans and families from torical markers such as the 1964 Civil Rights Act, Brown across the United States and around the world. v. Board of Education, and the onset of the War on Poverty, there are many areas that remain in need of dire national Through public policy forums, leadership training, civic attention and urgent action.” engagement and issue education campaigns, BWR pro- vides women with a voice and the skills training to use the To read the full report visit: http://ncbcp.org/resources/reports Page 2 March 2015 www.blacklensnews.com The Black Lens Spokane

ON MY MIND YOU SHOULD KNOW THOUGHTS FROM THE EDITOR (Or Things You Probably Didn't Learn In School) by Sandra Williams

Ain’t I A Feminist META VAUX FULLER (WARRICK) “It’s not the load that breaks you down, it’s the way you carry it.” -Lena Horne ARTIST Article and Art by Bertoni Jones I was born a feminist, I believe. If it was possible to see me Meta Vaux Fuller (Warrick) was an Af- in my mother’s womb, you probably would have seen a fierce rican American artist that was born the and determined embryo with my fist raised high in protest third of three children in Philadelphia, about some gender based injustice that was being visited upon PA, on June 9, 1877. She came from a me in utero, even before I had any understanding of what it prominent family of hair salon, cater- meant to be a woman. ing, and real estate holders. Meta (pro- I started at a young age fighting for equality. Challenging my nounced Mee-tah) grew up with other junior high school when I was forced to take Home Econom- well to do children, going to private ics instead of shop class because “girls needed to learn how to school, horseback riding, visiting muse- cook and sew for their husbands.” Challenging the pressure to ums and art shows. The artist Henry Os- use Miss or Mrs to identify myself, long before Ms was con- sawa Tanner was a regular family friend sidered acceptable. Challenging the hospital that would not who encouraged Meta to pursue the arts. submit my daughter’s birth announcement to the newspaper In 1893, while still in high school, one because I was not married to her father and I “needed to get of Meta’s sculptures was included in the his permission first.” World’s Columbian Exposition where Throughout my life I have proudly held up high the title of she was awarded a scholarship to the feminist, even as it seems to have lost popularity with much Pennsylvania School of Industrial Arts of the younger generation in recent years, and is used almost (now the University of the Arts College as a slur in some circles. I have worn the banner proudly, of Art and Design). defining what a woman is supposed to be by how clearly she After graduating from high school and articulates her support for what I consider feminist principles. college, Meta convinced her parents Women are strong and assertive. Women are leaders. Women that her artistic success would be found are change makers and change agents. Women are powerful, in Paris, and she left Philadelphia at the intelligent and articulate. Women are the foundation and the age of 22, arriving in France in October Bertoni Jones bedrock upon which so many of the insititutions that make up of 1899. Unfortunately, some things in this country have been built. I am woman, hear me roar! Paris were the same as America. Meta Later that year Meta made the difficult Sure, there are women that do not fall into those categories, was not allowed to stay at the Ameri- choice to return to Philadelphia only and in the sprit of inclusivity, I accept them and value them, can Girls Club of Paris because of her to return to a bigoted art community in but to be honest, for me, I felt that a REAL woman, a REAL “race”. Ultimately other accommoda- the US that rejected the very sculptures feminist, had to encompass these categories... and more. tions were made for her. which had just gained her recognition And then I spent that past few months at my mother’s side as In a turn of the century Paris world fa- and prominence in Paris. we cared for my father who passed away on February 7. My mous for the arts Meta immersed her- In 1907 Meta married Doctor Solomon mother- a nurse and a military wife, spent her entire married self in sculpture studies at the Academie C. Fuller, a physician who specialized life supporting my father. Moving when he moved. Living Colarossi and drawing classes at the fa- in Alzheimer and Dementia studies, and where he lived. Raising his children. Keeping his house. Du- mous Ecole des Beaux-Arts. She made they raised three sons. Three years later tifully cooking and cleaning and ironing and washing clothes. lifelong friends with W.E.B. Dubois in a warehouse fire destroyed sixteen years Never protesting for equal wages, never marching for equal Paris who encouraged her to bring the of Meta’s work and along with it much rights, never challenging systems of patriarchy, or systemic emotional themes of African people out of her spirit. and institutionalized oppression, in her sculptures. But it was in 1901 that Instead, my mother spent day after day and night after night her career would take a major leap when Starting over completely, Meta’s work dedicated and devoted to the man that she had lived with and she was introduced to Auguste Rodin, turned more towards subdued religious loved for over half a century. one of the world’s leading sculptors. and social themes. She would earn mod- est recognition, becoming the first Afri- I remember looking at my mom one night as she held my dad Rodin could care less about “color” or can American female artist to receive a in her arms, cradling him and telling him to “let go and let gender, and his open, honest approach government commission, and she would God if that was what he needed to do.” and I thought to my- with his student emboldened her. With sculpt, paint and write poetry well into self, “Sandy Williams, you have absolutely no idea at all what his help, by 1902, Meta was not only the her eighties. Meta Vaux Warrick Fuller real power is. Real strength. Real feminism.” most regularly featured American sculp- died in Framingham Pennsylvania on It is that kind of power and that kind of strength, my mom’s tor in Paris, she would also become one March 18, 1968. kind, that has held back the forces that are determinied to drive of the few women ever to put on a one Sources: Wikipedia.com, Encyclopedia.com, Now is Black people into extinction. And because of women like my woman show at the renowned gallery your time, The New England Journal of Medicine, mother, feminists like me, are still here to fight another day. L’Art Noveau in Paris. Jan. 21, 1954.

THE BLACK LENS NEWS SPOKANE The Black Lens is a local newspaper that is focused on the news, events, people and information that is of importance to Spokane’s African Ameri- can Community. It is published monthly on the first of the month by: Square Peg Multimedia, 9116 E. Sprague Avenue #48 Spokane Valley, WA 99206, (509) 795-1964, [email protected] Publisher/Editor: Sandra Williams Subscriptions: digital-$12/year; mail- $3/month or $30/year Deadlines:15th of the month prior to pubication. www.blacklensnews.com; Copyright (c) 2015 The Black Lens Spokane www.blacklensnews.com March 2015 Page 3 BLACK NEWS HIGHLIGHTS From Across the Country and Around the World National Women’s History Kamala Harris to Run for Black Media Group Files Project Honors Two African U.S. Senate from California; $20 Billion Lawsuit Against American Historians She Would be the Second Comcast And Time Warner Black Woman Senator

Delilah L. Beasley Darlene Clark Hine.

(www.nwhp.org) - March 2015 is the 35th Anniversary (PRNewswire -- AfricanGlobe.net) National Association of the National Women’s History Project, an organiza- of African American Owned Media (NAAAOM) and tion that is dedicated to recognizing the achievments of Entertainment Studios Networks, Inc., on Friday, Febru- women in all facets of life and “writing women back into ary 20, 2015, filed a $20 billion lawsuit against Comcast history.” Corporation, Time Warner Cable, Reverend Al Sharp- (TriceEdneyWire.com) - California Attorney General ton, Reverend Al Sharpton’s National Action Network, In celebration of the landmark anniversary, NWHP has Kamala Harris announced that she is running for the U.S. former FCC commissioner Meredith Attwell Baker, chosen nine women as its 2015 Honorees, including Senate seat being vacated by Barbara Boxer. two African American women, Delilah L. Beasley and NAACP, and The National Urban League for “conspiring Boxer, a Democrat, announced that she will not seek Darlene Clark Hine. to and engaging in racial discrimination in contracting re-election in 2016. She has been a member of the U.S. against 100% African American-owned media in viola- Delilah L. Beasley (1867-1934), a Historian and News- Senate since 1993. tion of the Civil Rights Act of 1866, 42 U.S.C. section paper Columnist, was the first African American woman If Harris wins the 2016 election, she would be only the 1981.” to be regularly published in a major metropolitan news- second Black woman to serve in the U. S. Senate. The paper and the first author to present the history of African The lawsuit states that Comcast and its proposed merger first was Illinois Sen. Carol Mosely Braun, who served Americans in early California. partner, Time Warner Cable, have engaged in long-term from 1993-1999. A total of nine Blacks have served in racial discrimination in contracting with 100% African Growing up in Ohio, Beasley started writing social col- the U. S. Senate since 1789, according to Senate.gov. American-owned media companies. Comcast, in partic- umns for black and white newspapers while still a teen- Harris said on her website, “I’m excited to share with ular, conspired with governmental regulators, including ager. After her parents’ deaths, she sought a career path you that I’m launching my campaign to represent the Baker, and non-media civil rights groups and so-called that would better support her younger siblings, working people of California in the U.S. Senate. From my first leaders, including Sharpton and the NAACP, to continue as a hairdresser, massage therapist, nurse, and maid for days as a prosecutor in Alameda County, to my work as such discrimination in connection with its 2010, $36 bil- many years. In 1910 she moved to Oakland California San Francisco District Attorney, to my current service lion acquisition of NBC-Universal. The suit further states where she immersed herself in the local black communi- as California Attorney General, I have worked to bring that of the over $25 billion spent annually by Comcast ty and again started writing articles in local newspapers. smart, innovative and effective approaches to fighting and Time Warner Cable on cable channel carriage fees In 1915 Beasley started writing a weekly column in crime, fighting for consumers and fighting for equal and advertising, less than $3 million is spent with 100% the Oakland Tribune. Her articles protested the stereo- rights.” Voters elected her attorney general in 2011. African American-owned media companies. types contained in the movie The Birth of a Nation. The 50-year-old Harris was born Oct. 20, 1964, in “I had no choice but to file this lawsuit,” said Byron Through a column called “Activities among Negroes,” Oakland, Calif. She is a graduate of Howard University Allen, Chairman and Founder of Entertainment Studios she campaigned for African-American dignity and and she is a member of Alpha Kappa Alpha sorority. She Networks. “Everyone talks about diversity, but diversi- rights. Highlighting activities of local churches, wom- also graduated from the University of California Hastings ty in Hollywood and the media starts with ownership. en’s clubs, literary societies, along with national politics, College of Law. She is the daughter of a Jamaican-Amer- African Americans don’t need handouts and donations; and achievements of black men and women, her column ican father and a Tamilian mother. Her father, Donald we can hire ourselves if white corporate America does aimed to give readers a positive picture of the black com- Harris, is professor emeritus in the Department business with us in a fair and equitable way.” munity and the capabilities of African Americans. of Economics at Stanford University. Her mother, Shy- amala Gopalan, MD, was a world-renown scientist and The lawsuit, filed in United States District Court, Central In 1919 Beasley self-published “The Negro Trail-Blazers physician who specialized in breast cancer research and District of California, can be accessed at http://bit.ly/ of California”, a groundbreaking book chronicling the treatment. She died in 2009. naaaom-complaint lives of hundreds of black Californians from the pioneer period through the early 20th century. Her book includ- ed an unprecedented amount of Black women’s history, Diversity protest at Oscars Kenyan doctors claim they focusing on the strong roles women played in their com- found anti-fertility agent in munities and featuring countless biographies of women cancelled; Selma Director to leaders. In the thirties, Beasley was the driving force Set Up Hollywood Meeting UN tetanus vaccine behind the passage of California’s first anti-lynching bill. (www.lifesitenews.com) Kenya’s Catholic bishops are She continued her column and was active in the commu- charging two United Nations organizations with steril- nity until her death in 1934. izing millions of girls and women under cover of an an- Darlene Clark Hine is an Author, Professor and pioneer- ti-tetanus inoculation program sponsored by the Kenyan ing scholar in the field of African American Women’s government. History. She received her B.A from Roosevelt University According to a statement released Tuesday by the Kenya in Chicago in 1968, a Master’s Degree from Kent State Catholic Doctors Association, the organization has found University in Ohio in 1970, and a PhD from Kent State an antigen that causes miscarriages in a vaccine being ad- University in 1975. While attending Roosevelt Universi- ministered to 2.3 million girls and women by the World ty in the sixties, Hine says it was “hearing black activists Health Organization and UNICEF. Priests throughout refer so often to history, seeing the black culture cele- Kenya reportedly are advising their congregations to brated by artists, and reading new works by black writers refuse the vaccine. that inspired her with the hope that someday she could change the very definition of “history.” (www.theguardian.com) A protest over a lack of diver- “We sent six samples from around Kenya to laboratories sity in the Academy Awards was called off at the last in South Africa. They tested positive for the HCG anti- Dr. Hine is considered an expert on African-American minute before the ceremony on Sunday, February 22, at gen,” Dr. Muhame Ngare of the Mercy Medical Centre history, particularly on black women’s history, having the request of Selma director Ava DuVernay. in Nairobi told LifeSiteNews. “They were all laced with edited or written 25 books. In 1990, her book “Black HCG.” But the government says the vaccine is safe. Women in White” received several awards, and was The L.A. chapter of the National Action Network (NAN), a civil rights group founded by Al Sharpton, had planned Health Minister James Macharia even told the BBC, “I named outstanding book by the Gustavus Myers Center would recommend my own daughter and wife to take it for the Study of Human Rights. Additionally she edited to stage a rally near the Oscars ceremony in Los Angeles, protesting against a lack of diversity among Academy because I entirely 100% agree with it and have confi- the first major encyclopedia on the subject of African dence it has no adverse health effects.” American Women in America. Award voters, who are predominantly white and male. But the LA chapter called off the protest“due to the re- Kenya’s government has launched an investigation into For more information about the National Women’s His- the Catholic Church’s allegations. tory Project or to read about all nine 2015 Honorees, quest of Ava DuVernay, who is helping set up a meeting” with leaders of the Academy visit www.nwhp.org. Page 4 March 2015 www.blacklensnews.com The Black Lens Spokane EVERYWOMAN THOUGHTS FROM By Oceana Jenkins Every tear That for too long And each throb of blood in Have restrained my my temple consciousness They beat down A GRANDMOTHER Not for myself No longer will I accept the me please.” But for everywoman master’s oppressed Frameworks Getting back to Basics The lady By Evelyn Anderton I am done self-policing looked at him The eruption in my chest I will not hate myself As I look back on my childhood, I remember with aston- A rhythm building anymore vividly the importance of good manners. In ishment on Until I melt But fill my existence my home, “Yes sir, Yes ma’am, thank you, and her face and Not yet strong enough In the divine force of Love excuse me” were words so easily uttered from said, “It is so To withstand the pain For my own liberation my lips. Every adult was addressed as Mr. or nice to see a and grief And for everywoman Accumulated in the Mrs. When I entered a room I always spoke, young man Memories and DNA I know that I will face and when I asked my parents for something I with man- ners, some- Of my feminine ancestors opposition always used the magic word “please”. The colonizing armies thing you do I would bless my food before I ate, and I ate ev- I rage Of my brothers and sisters not see very Between bloodthirsty Will pay a visit erything on my plate. Before I went to bed each often.” I was frustration night I would say my prayers. Every Sunday I so pleased to And consuming love First, peace talks; would attend Sunday school and church with- see him using I breathe An attempt at re-colonization out any questions. There was no such thing as his manners, Awakening knowledge I will not be persuaded children’s church. I had to sit and listen in regu- which are expected in our home. that Love There is no turning back lar service with the adults. It was never an issue Is the only tool the master to use my best manners and I did it with pride. It seems to be socially acceptable to give our Has not claimed Then threats and force children a pass on using good manners. I want- The banner I will fly As I declare myself an I learned at a young age that adults honored ed my children and grandchildren to understand As I rush into the fray independent children that showed them respect and used how important it is to learn good manners and Of the struggle Nation manners. They seemed to show a great deal of being polite. Good manners should be taught in For the freedom of United in solidarity with admiration for children when they heard them the home and it’s a lifelong lesson that a child everywoman those who speaking to adults in a respectful way. will take with them even after departing as an Have chosen Freedom Our liberation is of the mind I was recently shopping with my 7 year old adult. The words of our For everywoman grandson when we came upon an aisle that was Parents it is not too late. It is important to get foremothers For everyperson blocked by an older person’s shopping cart. My back to the basics of teaching our children the Eat like acid I cry, I work, I struggle, grandson approached the lady and said “excuse simple things in life, such as “good manners.” At the bars and tethers I love. The Black Lens Spokane www.blacklensnews.com March 2015 Page 5 PEOPLE SERVICES OUR COMMUNITY PROGRAMS GIRL ON FIRE: Conference Empowers Spokane’s Young Women of Color by Nicole Kidder them gain confidence in pursuing their dreams and taking on leadership roles On Saturday, Jan. 24, 2015, 48 young that contribute to their communities. women from across the Inland North- west descended upon a deserted Spo- “We chose the theme ‘Girl on Fire’ to kane Community College campus to help our area’s young women ignite discuss sisterhood, leadership and ed- their passion for education, social jus- ucation. The participants of the first tice and feminism,” explained Ran- Inland Northwest Female Summit dy Corradine, the Diversity Outreach (INWFS) spent the day examining Coordinator for the EWU Admissions how race, culture and gender influence office and organizer of the event. “The self-esteem and healthy relationships. planning committee brought together a variety of professional women from the Spokane Community College and East- Inland area to facilitate workshops and ern Washington University co-hosted lead identity discussions that examined the free leadership program for young Examining Feminism, Deconstruct- by admissions counselors from EWU, feminism, deconstructed stereotypes women in grades 8-12 and underclass- ing Stereotypes Whitworth and Gonzaga, as well as and highlighted women in leadership.” women at the local colleges and uni- Attorney Zaida Rivera, who works Ahyana King, assistant dean of Inter- versities. The conference sought to INWFS was created specifically for with the Northwest Immigrant Rights cultural Student Development at Whit- celebrate accomplishments so that the multicultural, first-generation and Project in Seattle, fired up the early worth. In one conference room, an in- girls felt motivated to excel in their low-income young women in the great- morning crowd with her inspiring key- timate group gathered around the table academics, social relationships and ca- er Inland Northwest. It is modeled after note address. In her role with NWIRP, to discuss “Lighting the S.P.A.R.K. of reer goals. The daylong event focused the successful male summit that takes Rivera works with low-income immi- Leadership.” After a frank conversa- on providing tools that would help place on the EWU campus, which will grant families in Washington to defend tion that inspired the girls to “find their be held this year on May their legal status. An alum of Gonzaga inner boss,” they enthusiastically set 16. “This is truly a pas- University and the University of Idaho out to develop a mission statement for sion project and commu- Law School, the first-generation high their own lives. nity effort,” Corradine school graduate credited her Span- Next door, another group of girls talk- said. “All aligned to the ish-speaking parents with instilling in ed about the negative connotations purpose of the summit her “the importance of education and surrounding feminism and how they and, as a result, we were an incredible work ethic.” can define the term for themselves. In able to recruit the pas- an evaluation, one participant noted that The morning session of the conference sion and commitment of offered participants their choice of local talent.” one of four 90-minute workshops led Continued on Page 10 NAACP CELEBRATES WOMEN LEADERS By Rachel Doležal, President Spokane NAACP February was a busy month for the Spokane many have demonstrated since the begin- NAACP. Many of our officers and commit- ning of my term. tee chairs served on the City of Spokane’s Although the National Association for African American History Month Commit- the Advancement of Colored People was tee to organize events sharing Black history founded by men and women, the election and culture throughout the 28 days of Black of female presidents for local and regional History Month. NAACP committees rolled oversight is rare compared to male execu- out their annual initiatives for reform in tive leadership. In fact, in over a century, criminal justice, education, health and oth- there has not been a single national woman er civil rights causes and shared these plans President elected to oversee America’s old- at the February 16th meeting. Citizens filed est civil rights organization. And yet, Black complaints with our office, ranging from women remain one of the highest demo- employment discrimination, unfair termi- graphics for individuals who are politically nation at work, racial profiling by police, to and socially engaged. I am proud to be one assault, and harassment in schools. of the few female Presidents in Spokane With so much added to our plates, it is a NAACP history and believe that my ap- small miracle we are entering March in pointment of seven men and seven women good health with energy to spare. to serve on the Executive Board fortifies our work with balance and stability. Undoubtedly, every NAACP officer and participant who has given of their time and Among the leading ladies of the Spokane resources deserves generous recognition. NAACP, my 3rd Vice President, Dr. Nai- In the spirit of March, which emphasizes ma Quarles-Burnley, hails from New Ro- the struggle and liberation of women, I chelle, New York. She went to law school would like to highlight the women officers in Washington, DC, and practiced law for and Executive Board members who con- seven years in Pittsburgh, PA. From her le- tribute their passion and expertise to our gal work, where she represented the poor- local civil rights work and thank the mem- est of the poor, to her service in prisons bers for their confidence in my leadership and overseas as a Monitor for Peace during as evidenced in their selection of me as South Africa’s first free and fair election of President and the ongoing support that so Continued on Page 10 Page 6 March 2015 www.blacklensnews.com The Black Lens Spokane YOUTH & YOUNG ADULTS DEONNA SMITH Brown Girls Can! Deonna Smith has big dreams. She has her sights set Deonna’s initial life goals had to do with financial on inspiring women “to reach further than they be- security, but she says that she “didn’t know the path lieved was possible.” Her goal is to start a non-profit to who I wanted to be.” Without mentors, she felt that organization that focuses on the needs of women of she didn’t really really know what direction to go in color called “Brown Girls Can”, that will work to and didn’t have a clear picture of how to be the per- break down the barriers to full inclusion for women son she wanted to be, “so I made it up as I went.” in society, and teach women how to be successful. A six month internship in Chile shifted Deonna’s fo- cus. She worked with an NGO whose mission was to The only way to break the cycle of poverty, Deonna the Black community, it will never be able to move help local people get micro loans to start their own says, is to address the root of the problem, “the illu- forward.” Deonna went on to say, “I grew up on the businesses so that they could beome financially inde- sion that we are inferior” and she feels that education east side of Spokane, but as a child I attended Jeffer- pent. She also taught English classes and computer is the key that will allow women of color to come son Montessori, and because of that I was surrounded literacy to single mothers. together to better their place in society. at a young age by people who thought nothing else but that they would be successful. It allowed me to Education has definitely been a key to Deonna’s suc- The experience in Chile inspired Deonna with a de- see how things could be – the possibilities that exist- cess. She says her parents always emphasized the im- sire to “solve the world’s problems.” Inequity, she ed. My Black identity suffered, but it propelled me to portance of education, but it wasn’t until she reached said, “has never sat well with me” A Poly-Sci degree, see that there were more options than what the aver- high school that she felt for the first time that she she felt, would give her skills that she could use and age Black child is presented with. I saw the inequity had some control in shaping her own destiny. Deonna tools that she could leverage to close the gaps of in- and I wanted more for myself” graduated from Lewis & Clark High School in 2011 equity that she had seen in Chile. and received an Act Six Urban Leadership Scholar- But, it was during her time as Gonzaga that Deon- And now Deonna wants more for the rest of the Black ship which gave her a full ride to Gonzaga Universi- na realized “my own people had problems,” and she community as well. “Imagagine if Oprah, Ruth Bad- ty, where she graduated in 2014 with a B.A. in Polit- switched from an international focus to wanting to er Ginsburg, Beyonce, Angela Davis & Hilary Clin- ical Science, International Relations & Spanish, and heal the Black community. She said she realized, “if ton all got together, what would their brian child be. a Minor in Womens and Gender Studies. all of the international and social capitol is leaving That’s what I want to do!”

HISTORICAL IGNORANCE ABOUT BLACK WOMEN By Jaclyn Archer which, I believe, is the biggest barrier I learned a lot from these women. real name), a white male, “that maybe to understanding and progress across Phillis Wheatley was the first Black there isn’t much in history books about racial and gender lines. People are both woman ever published, and the second Blacks or women because they just unwilling and unlikely to become al- published Black poet. Ida B. Wells was didn’t do as much.” I was incensed, but lies in a cause of which they have in- a journalist, newspaper editor, sociol- when I sought to conjure examples to sufficient or distorted knowledge. ogist, and an early civil rights leader counter his claim, I couldn’t think of during a time when most women in the many, certainly not any Black women. I was not completely let down by early United States couldn’t vote or even at- education. When I was in third grade Jonathan was never particularly sym- tend most institutions of higher learn- my teacher organized the entire Feb- pathetic to contemporary Civil Rights ing. They were persistent, humble, un- ruary social studies curriculum around efforts. He seemed to hold the atti- daunted, smart, and smashed the social Black History Month. We colored free- tude that the United States is basical- boundaries of their era. In many ways dom quilts, learned about the Under- ly post-racial and beyond any serious Phillis Wheatley and Ida B. Wells were ground Railroad, and during reading gender-based injustice. Unlike the precisely the type of women I wanted time, crowded around his chair as he members of my third and fourth grade to grow up to be—and still do. read a historical fiction novel about the classes, he had not been exposed to his- Civil War. Black History month was History class after third and fourth torical narratives which might have in- I’m not particularly well versed in the capped off with a production of a play grade, however, was a bit more typical. spired empathy for suffering or respect history of women of color. The history about Phillis Wheatley. She was my The Black History Month unit rarely for accomplishment. lasted more than a week, and during classes I took in elementary school and first theatrical role and my first black It would be easy for me to write off that time we focused primarily on Mar- high school didn’t touch on our strug- female role model. My fourth grade Jonathan as a bigot or chauvinist, but tin Luther King Jr., Rosa Parks, and oc- gles or accomplishments much, out- year I got to play Ida B. Wells. I think the failing lies in his education, casionally watched films about segre- side of Black History Month when the which was much like mine. Outside of The stories of these women, and many gated schools and drinking fountains. names Harriet Tubman and Rosa Parks others we learned about during Febru- Rosa Parks and Harriet Tubman, nei- were thrown around. ary, made an impression on my class- Outside of my performing class, no one ther of us were able to think of many mates as well. else knew who Wheatley and Wells prominent Black Women who weren’t Now that I’m in college, I’m doing were. In my mind, and in the minds of first and foremost entertainers. I had what I can to patch this hole in my edu- “Wow,” said Melinda, an earnest fourth my peers, these historical role models forgotten most of what I had learned cation; a hole which is problematic not grader with wide eyes. “I never knew were replaced by the only prominent when I was nine, and I suffered from only because I am a woman of color, all that. I’m so sorry your people had Black women that we knew; women the same historical blindness that Jona- but because ignorance of my past leads to go through that.” like Hallie Berry, Mariah Carey, and than did, mitigated only by my experi- to social blindness in my present. Hearing the stories of influential Black Beyoncé. ence of being a Black female. It is impossible for me to understand Americans had inspired her to empa- Years later, as a junior in college, I got I know all too well that we do not live the contemporary struggles faced by thy, and the whole class ended the Feb- into an argument with a friend about the in a post-racial society because just last me and women like me unless I un- ruary unit a bit more curious, open, and need for better representation of Blacks month the local news media reported derstand the historical context of these interested in the stories of those not and women in history curriculums. that the Ku Klux Klan had distributed struggles. It is this historical ignorance outwardly like ourselves. “I just think,” said Jonathan (not his Continued on Page 11 The Black Lens Spokane www.blacklensnews.com March 2015 Page 7 IN THE SPIRIT INLAND NORTHWEST MINISTER’S WIVES AND WIDOWS FELLOWSHIP The Women Beside the Men The Inland Northwest Minister’s Wives and for up to twelve months while they focus on Minister’s Widow’s Fellowship (INMWAMWF) their wellness. Fellowship members also work is a close-knit fellowship of six women in the with The Union Gospel Mission’s Crisis Center Spokane community that represesent a cross sec- for Women and Children, and African American tion of Christian Churches. Reach and Teach Health Ministry, which is a faith-based capacity building nonprofit organi- Founded by Dr. Leotta Jarrett in May of 2006, zation that was established to respond to HIV/ the Fellowship offers support for women who AIDS and other major health issues affecting are in the difficult and somethimes thankless role people of African descent and is dedicated to . of Minister’s Wife. But the Fellowship is much increasing health care awareness and knowledge more than a support group for the ladies, the among people of African descent and promoting purpose of the Fellowship, according to the cur- responsible health choices and practices rent President, Sister Willie L. Davis, is “to work Sister Willie L. Davis, President INMWAMWF Current Fellowship members include: First Lady in and around the city of Spokane trying to help Church of God in Christ (Rev. Ezra Kinlow Pas- and past President Doris Rhodes, Mt. Olive Bap- others find their way or if they have any needs, tor); and current President Sister Willie L. Da- tist Church (Rev. A.L. Rhodes Pastor); First to try and help.” vis, Morningstar Missionary Baptist Churh (Rev. Lady Etta Watkins, New Hope Baptist Church Walter J. Kendricks Pastor). The Fellowship has many contacts in the com- (Rev. Happy Watkins Pastor); First Lady Alisha munity where members give of their time. For Mitchel, Bethel A.M.E. Church (Rev. Lonnie The women of the Fellowship are dedicated to example, Field of Diamonds House of Blessing Mitchel Pastor); Sister Tina Singleton, Calvary service and being an example of Christ’s love. is a non-profit home located on the South Hill Missionary Baptist Church (Rev. C.W. Andrews “We serve as much as possible,” said Sister Da- that offers women and children a place to stay Pastor); Sister Faith Washington, Holy Temple vis, “like Christ our great example.

WORDS OF INSPIRATION: DAUGHTERS OF ZELOPHEHAD By Rev. Dr. Suzanne Johnson Cook as worthwhile as that of their uncles. Their claim Excerpt from: “Moving Up: Dr. Sujay’s Ten Steps to to a future was just as valid as anyone else’s and Turning Your Life Around and Getting to the Top” they were willing to go up to Moses and ask for In ancient Israel the property of a deceased person their rightful inheritance. They reached up to grasp was usually distributed according to law or tribal their rightful inheritance and God “caused the in- custom. Written wills were rarely used. The real heritance of their father to pass to them,” setting up and personal property of a father was normally di- a new precendent for future. vided among his sons. A larger amount, usually a These are the daughters of Zelophehad. They are double portion, went to the oldest son who assumed not the names you normally hear when you think the care of his mother and unmarried sisters. of famous women in the bible. They’re not Mary No sons available, no suffrage, women’s rights, or Magdalene and not Mary the mother of Jesus…not civil rights law. What’s a woman to do? Would the Ruth or Deborah and not Esther or Rahab, but rath- family legacy be transferred to an uncle by bypass- er Mahlah, Noah, Hoglah, Milcah, and Tirzah, five sisters who were united. United in going forward ing the rightful women heirs? Those sisters, even male heirs). They were to care for the home, but without a constituted voice, found their voice to not backward, being blessed not cursed, seeking not own the house. When Zelophehad died having more than that’s traditional, speaking up not stay- move up into prominence instead of down into ob- no son, the question that would have most probably scurity. The five collected themselves corporately ing quiet, moving up not staying down… You don’t resounded in the minds of male relatives was this: have to be a woman to look up to a woman. Anyone as one and stood before the most imposing male Which man would receive the inheritance? figure their culture had ever seen – Moses. can learn how to “be up” from those who show the No man would advocate for them. All that the men way. Zelophehad was a dad, a son, and a grandson, but had to go on was precedence. But the women had Dr. Suzan Johnson Cook was appointed by President Barrack he had no son. The story takes place in a time when more going for them- they had upward-moving Obama as the United States Ambassador at Large for Interna- male patriarchy and dominance ruled – what men boldness rooted in a legacy of faithful loyalty. “Our tional Religious Freedom. She was founder and senior pastor did, said, and wanted was all that mattered. Women father died in the wilderness, but he was not in the of Bronx Christian Fellowship Church in New York and is ed- were property whose primary worth was measured itor or co-author of several books, including the acclaimed, company of those who had gathered against the “Sister to Sister: Devotions For and From African-American in the birthing and raising of children (particularly Lord” they declared. Their family lineage was just Women”, and the best seller, “Too Blessed To Be Stressed.” Page 8 March 2015 www.blacklensnews.com The Black Lens Spokane business economics SPOTLIGHT: EVENTS!/ BY KAREN HERFORD kane in 2004 and earned a Business Degree from “You do Nothing” package that handles everything SFCC in 2009, as well as Hospitality degrees from from the engagement to the aisle; and 100% custom- Hyatt University and the University of Phoenix. She ized wedding proposals, providing people with 2-3 started in the hospitality industry over twenty years very unique proposal ideas that relate to them only. ago, working within the Hyatt Hotels Family, Marri- “I just adore creating ideas and unique looks that no ott, Wyndham and Red Lion Hotels. Most recently one else has seen. Helping each client feel as if their Karen was the Director of Sales and Event Planning corporate event or wedding or birthday celebration is for Catered for You, a locally owned full-service ca- not like everyone else’s.” tering and event planning company, before launching her own business. Events! By Karen Herford is a proud member of IN- PRO, the Spokane Valley Chamber and The Inland “The idea for my business is from over 20 years in Northwest Business Alliance. the industry and deciding to just finally get out there For more information contact Karen Herford at 509-216-7030 or and do it for myself. It’s been a long time coming.” [email protected] or visit the website at www.karenherfordevents.com. Events! By Karen Herford offers corpo- rate and social event planning services that Karen Herford, the owner of the Spokane based busi- include planning con- ness Events! By Karen Herford is a self-described ferences, meetings “people person and problem solver”, both strong as- and social networking sets for her company that offers corporate event plan- events. Wedding plan- ning and wedding planning services. ning services include Karen originally moved to Spokane from Dallas, a “Day of” wedding Texas in 1985. After a tour in the U.S. Army that package that handles took her Military Police Unit to Panama as a part of coordination for the Operation Promote Liberty and to Iraq as a part of entire day of the cer- Desert Storm/Dessert Shield, she returned to Spo- emony; a full service

BLACK ENTERPRISE WOMEN OF POWER SUMMIT 2015

The Black Enterprise Women of Pow- ership and management skills, and er Summit is a professional leadership small business issues, opportunities to conference designed especially for ex- network with executive women from ecutive women of color and 2015 will across the country, and enjoy restor- be a landmark year for the Summit as ative activities such as morning work- they celebrate 10 years of honoring, outs, golf clinics, one-on-one coach- acknowledging and uplifting female ing sessions, nightly entertainment, leaders of color through networking and much more. and empowerment. Sponsored by State Farm Insurance, More than 800 Mid to senior-level Chevrolet, Fedex, Intel, and Merril managers, HR officers, diversity of- Lynch, to name a few, the summit ficers, executives, and professionals. will feature powerful women from from across the country will attend the every walk of life, including Dr. Bev- 2015 Summit which will take place erly Daniel Tatum, President, Spell- March 2-5, 2015 at the Ft. Lauder- man College; Carla Harris, Managing dale Harbor Beach Marriott Resort & Director, Morgan Stanley; Mellody Spa and will gain access to and learn Hobson, President, Ariel Investments from industry leaders about how to LLC; Bozoma Saint. John, SVP & optimize their potential for profes- Head of Global Marketing, Beats sional advancement. Participate in Music; Dr. Dara Richardson-Heron, interactive workshops and sessions CEO, YWCA; Judy Smith, President that examine corporate trends, lead- and CEO of Smith & Company, The Black Lens Spokane www.blacklensnews.com March 2015 Page 9 OUR VOICES Measuring the Worth of Black Women Rachel Doležal, President Spokane NAACP Black women arrived on the shores of Kimani Gray, Kendrec McDade, Sean on her grandmother’s couch. The case while mainstream news media continues North America as mothers, wives, young Bell, and Jordan Baker (just a few names against Officer Weekley was dismissed to highlight only a few stories, and usu- girls and even infants. An ever-present I can quickly recall from memory). Their with no consequences. Where were the ally those of Black men, we have a re- force in the Black Freedom movement, experiences recall the brutal deaths of protests upon his acquittal? From age 7 sponsibility to give equal value and shed our foremothers fought in strong and mothers’ sons from the past, such as Ma- to 92, Black women have been assault- equal tears for the injuries and deaths of strategic ways to realize emancipation mie Till’s young son, Emmett. ed and killed by officers, without wide- Black women. Similar to the disparity in and equity for themselves and the Afri- spread marches or protests. value between Black men and women, as In the wake of the heart-wrenching death can American community as a whole. seen in disproportionate auction-block of Michael Brown, three Black wom- Among the eldest to be brutalized was purchase prices in the 1700’s, we have From the days of Black feminists like en linked this incident with the broader Kathryn Johnson. At 92, she was shot a disparity in valuing the lives of Black Harriet Tubman, who was a powerful scope of racist history and lynching in and killed by police who wrongfully men and women today, as seen in dispro- woman packing a gun and freeing her America through the phrase and hashtag: suspected her house as a drug site and portionate media attention and unequal people from slavery, to The Red Book #BlackLivesMatter. So successful were planted marijuana after the shooting to collective memory. and international anti-lynching cam- their efforts, that we are all now familiar cover-up their crime. paign of Ida B. Wells, to the Civil Rights with the phrase. If Ayiana Jones was born in the 1700’s Among our sisters slain in their 20’s are: & Black Power movements with Fannie in America, she would have been worth But history is repeating when we forget to Shantel Davis, Shereese Francis, Shelly Lou, Mamie, Ella, Rosa, Melba, Angela, about $200 at the age of 7, when she was remember the women behind the move- Frey, Tarika Wilson, Kendra James, and Assata and so many others, to modern killed. For Rekia Boyd, her value would ment. Ashley Yates, Alexis Templeton Rekia Boyd. A partial roll call for the times of Black feminists like Bell Hooks have been $600 back then, and the worth and Brittany Ferrell coined #BlackLives- lost lives of ladies in their 30’s would and Janet Mock, we have been reliable of 47-year-old Yvette Smith would have Matter and are among the women who include: Alesia Thomas, Tanisha Ander- and valuable to the Cause at every turn. been equal to Ayiana Jones. Priced at a have been the fire propelling the cause of son, Malissa Williams and Miriam Car- higher rate, Black men on average were So, why is it that our lives have consis- justice in the wake of this ongoing unjust ey. Most of these women died from bul- valued at about $800 in the 18th century. tently been valued less, from the auction loss of life. let wounds, but Alesia Thomas expired block in the 1700’s, to the media atten- after being kicked at least seven times in While we remember the names of our While it is uncomfortable to remember tion when we are kidnapped, assaulted or her abdomen and genitals by the police. sons and fathers, we should also memori- this horrific era of dehumanization, we killed in 2015? Where is the reciproci- Rekia Boyd was brutally killed at age 22 alize our daughters and sisters who expe- must recall the past to prevent history ty, acknowledgement and celebration of by a bullet to the back of her head. rienced beatings and bullets to the body. from repeating in another form. As Black Black women? At the young and tender age of seven, Ai- This entire paper could be filled with sto- women, our social justice imperative is We are up to our necks in holidays and yana Jones was shot and killed by police ries of our brothers and sisters who have to protect and support our sisters as much monuments celebrating men, but where officer Joseph Weekley while sleeping died at the hands of police brutality, but as we protect and support our brothers. is the day the nation takes pause to re- My dream is that the Black Family in member the birth or death of a Black Auction Block Purchase Prices America and globally will be liberated woman? We march, petition, and live our from external and internalized racism lives in support and connection with the and sexism altogether. struggle of our brothers. We make and wear Trayvon hoodies, #BlackLivesMat- Black women stand at the intersection of ter apparel, and “I Can’t Breathe” shirts, both oppressions, and when our lives are but who will memorialize us when we measured, the weight of our legacy will are gunned down by police, assaulted in attest that we are of equal value to Black our homes, or killed in a crossfire? men, white men, white women, and ev- We remember the first AND last names ery other person on the planet. Black life of our sons who have been killed: Tray- matters. Black men’s lives matter and von Martin, Ezell Ford, John Craw- Black women’s lives matter both collec- ford, Amadou Diallo, Eric Garner, Os- tively and individually, because all lives car Grant, Tamir Rice, Michael Brown, matter. Progressive Candidates Ignore Race Matters there are quite a few political action ly ignored race matters. Perhaps this will change. committees urging her to run. And like is because progressive politicians feel President Barack Obama, she released they will alienate part of their base if The progressive Senator Sherrod a biography (A Fighting Chance) just they talk about race. This makes War- Brown (D-Ohio) has articulated a pro- two years before the 2016 election that ren and the others not much different gressive agenda from the Senate for provides details of her hardscrabble that conventional politicians, ignoring more than a decade. He hails from childhood, her early pregnancy and the economic differences between Af- the swing state of Ohio, and many are marriage, and her struggles combining rican Americans and others. wondering why he doesn’t command work and family when she had a small the same kind of attention that Eliza- child. Men and women can relate to How would Elizabeth Warren deal with beth Warren does. While his ideas are her story, as well as at the ways she be- declining revenues for Historically solid he, too, has pretty much ignored came the guru for consumer rights and Black Colleges and Universities (HB- the issue of race. By Julianne Malveaux financial literacy. When senators would CUs)? Would she step in to close the not confirm her for the permanent posi- unemployment rate gap or the achieve- At the same time that progressives (TriceEdneyWire.com) - From every- tion in the Department of Treasury, she ment gap? Would she deal with the have been ignoring race, we have been thing I read – I like Senator Elizabeth ran for the Senate. Running for office housing discrimination that too many barraged with report after report that Warren (D-MA). Her progressive for the first time, and she won. African Americans face? Or would she race matters. Whether we are talking ideas are just what we need while Hil- hide behind the common progressive about those in kindergarten or in high ary Clinton is straddling the fence, and Warren has consistently articulated a refrain that when challenges at the bot- schools, African American students still cozying up with bankers. Warren progressive agenda focused on those tom are addressed, African Americans face stricter discipline (with some of says she isn’t running for President, but at the bottom, but she has consistent- are lifted up and their circumstance Continued on Page 10 Page 10 March 2015 www.blacklensnews.com The Black Lens Spokane GIRL ON FIRE NAACP WOMEN LEADERS Continued from Page 5 Continued from Page 5 the most valuable thing she took away from the summit was “be- Nelson Mandela, Naima has consistently demonstrated grace and humility in her acts of min- ing able to explore the line between femininity and strength and istry. After her extensive international work, she returned to the U.S. to help with rehabilitation how they are the same.” The session ended with the girls talking efforts in the wake of Hurricane Katrina. Her team worked on replacing roofs and rebuilding about how they can personally establish and defend women’s houses that had been gutted by the flood water. Since relocating to Spokane with her husband, rights. Dr. Lawrence Burnley, Naima has advocated for children with disabilities and is a founding member and officer of the Spokane County Special Needs PTA, the first of its kind in Washing- Meanwhile, participants in the adjoining rooms chatted about ton. Naima currently devotes her time to African American Reach and Teach Health (AARTH) ways to increase confidence and how cultural capital affects ed- as the Spokane Area Outreach Coordinator for the Affordable Care Act and consistently shows ucation choices, career paths and quality of life. love to her beautiful family. Her gracious presence is warmly received by all who meet Naima. Exploring Self-Esteem through Cultural Identity Dorothy Webster is the CEO of all things financial, and I count it a distinct honor to have her After listening to a live performance from local Spokane band experience on staff. Dorothy served as the Treasurer for Calvary Baptist, the Spokane Chapter Sessions during lunch, the participants broke into six Racial of The Links, Inc., and the WA State Minority Affairs Directors in addition to serving as the Identity Caucuses. Similar conversations took place throughout Treasurer of our local NAACP. Dorothy also holds past titles as the President of the Spokane SCC’s Student Union Building for nearly an hour and a half as Chapter of the Links, Inc., President of the WA State Minority Affairs Directors, and Chair of African-American, Native American, Latina, Asian Pacific Is- the Board of Trustees at Calvary Baptist. She is a former member of the Board for Providence lander, Multiracial and European American young women talk- Health Care, Girls Scouts of America, and the Red Cross. Ms. Webster taught at Pasco High ed about how cultural identity has and will impact their journey School and was the Financial Aid Director of Columbia Basin College. In addition to holding through life. prestigious executive titles, Dorothy has demonstrated her care and compassion in volunteer- ism. One example is when she volunteered her time to support victims of Hurricane Katrina In the African-American group, an eighth-grader from Gary and still is in touch with a young girl she has mentored since then. With strong roots in Ala- Middle School sat with three EWU students who are members bama’s Tuskegee University, Dorothy went to WSU to receive her Master’s Degree and then of the Black Student Union. Despite the age gap, the girls com- moved to the Spokane area. She is not only an asset to our branch in her financial and local miserated on the struggles of “not being black enough,” “never expertise but is also a beautiful woman to be around in every way. being fully engaged with one group” and “always trying to find someone to identify with.” The youngest member of the group, Our third officer in the President’s Cabinet, which includes the Vice Presidents, Treasurer, and who shared that she only knows her white culture because she Secretary of the Branch, is Secretary Ariel McMillan. Ariel is our youngest officer who brings doesn’t know her African-American dad, said, “Other black thoughtfulness and a gorgeous smile to all she does. Originally an East Coast girl, she spent girls don’t want to be friends because they say I act too white.” her earliest years in Boston and New Jersey then moved to Moses Lake and finally Spokane. She started college at Spokane Falls Community College, then went abroad to study cultural The facilitator led the young women in a discussion about how anthropology. Now at Eastern Washington University, Ariel is majoring in Communications to navigate these issues and ways they can find support. “Being with an intercultural focus. She hopes to graduate with a Leadership Certificate before continu- a woman of color, we have to become resourceful in finding al- ing toward her Master’s degree. Ariel plans to eventually finish her PhD in human rights and lies,” she advised. “We also have to pull off those layers society social justice. While a student, she has volunteered with Interfaith Hospitality, World Changers, tries to put on us – skin color, gender. When you know who you VBS, EVHS, SOCS, SCRAPS, Odyssey Youth Center, Starr Road Baptist, and the Black Stu- are, you stop looking for validation from others. Letting others dent Union at EWU. She splits her spare time currently between teaching English as a second shape us limits what we can accomplish.” language through Jacob’s Well refugee center and her role as the Secretary of the NAACP, all while studying and holding down a regular job. Ariel is an avid reader and brings a wealth of Around the corner, a group of 10 Latina students compiled research and lived experience to the table at the NAACP. We all look forward to helping this giant-sized Post-Its of stereotypes they encounter in the me- dynamic young woman reach her goals as she facilitates the important logistics of our NAACP dia. Words like beautiful, mother-homemaker and outspoken office operations. were quickly scrawled across the page. Another page labeled “Ashamed” listed cultural practices that make them feel embar- Also integral to our Executive Board are the Committee Chairs and Members At Large, who rassed. After listening to the girls share stories about wearing serve as decision-making movers & shakers. All three of our elected Members At Large are thrift store clothing and translating for their parents, the moder- beautiful, professional women: Dr. Gloria Baynes, Deborah Rose, and Wesley Gardner. Our ator shared a sentimental story about how much she misses her two extraordinary female committee chairs are: Regina Malveaux and Dorothy Webster (also madre’s tin-foil wrapped lunches now that she lives on her own. Treasurer). Without these seven dynamic women, the organization of the Spokane NAACP and the future vision for our work would not be the same. My loudest applause, biggest embrace, The girls also discussed the difficulties of growing up as a young and most sincere gratitude to Naima, Dorothy, Ariel, Jeanne, Deborah, Wesley, and Regina, for Latina in America. Many heads nodded around the room as they all you do and all you are to me, the NAACP, and the City of Spokane! talked about their parents not understanding what they are going through and how they feel like they must be a constant bridge of communication and culture for their parents. The conversation ended on a lively note with the girls shouting out all the things PROGRESSIVE CANDIDATES IGNORE RACE they are proud of about their culture. Surrounding the words Continued from Page 10 faith, familia, food and fiestas were upbringing, hard-working them, regardless of age, handcuffed and ex- myth that he is racially biased. I don’t agree and sacrifice. pelled from school), while teachers rely on with position, or the way he dealt with it their sociology classes to justify keeping in the State of the Union address when he A Stirring Snapshot of Success white kids in school for the same infractions. had nothing to lose by dealing with race or The daylong empowerment event concluded with a Professional Conversations about disproportionate rates of simply saying the words “African American” Career Panel discussing their pathways to success as women of incarceration, and racial disparities in the ap- or “Black”. Race still matters in our nation. color. “We wanted these young women to see successful women plication of the death penalty are rarely raised What national leader has the courage to say and what that looks like,” Corradine said. in Congress unless members of the Congres- it? Warren, Clinton and Brown have more sional Black Caucus bring it up. Progressives leeway than President Obama, but they have A recurring theme from all the panel members was the advice should not talk about race matters exclusively, as much fear as President Obama does for to know and celebrate yourself. “Having a strong sense of self but they exhibit a pathetic myopia when they addressing a key national issue. means that you don’t have to prove who you are,” shared recent- fail to talk about race at all. ly elected Pend Oreille County Prosecutor Dolly Hunt. There is significant excitement about the role African American Democrats will hold their Senator Elizabeth Warren will play in the Tennille Jeffries-Simmons, who is the youngest person to hold noses and vote for Elizabeth Warren, or if 2016 election. Maybe she will garner enough the Chief Human Resources Officer position for Spokane Pub- they are Clinton loyalists, they will vote her delegates to force a roll call, or at least the lic Schools, discussed the struggle she experiences as an Afri- instead. Indeed, Elizabeth Warren has as opportunity to nominate Senator Clinton. can-American woman to fight the perception that she earned her much a change of winning a presidential con- Maybe she will have a chance to address the job because of affirmative action rather than hard work. She en- test as I do, but her committees will challenge nation in one of the prime-time spots during couraged the girls to continue pushing forward even when they the Clinton positions on domestic public the convention, just as President Obama did have doubts and to be willing to make mistakes but pick them- policy. If she is able to get Senator Clinton to in 2000. Certainly her name will be whis- selves up and then make a new plan. alter her positions on just a few matters she pered or even shouted as she gains popular The event concluded with the guest panel sharing their favor- will have done her job. support. But if she is unwilling to talk about race, she will not have met the expectations ite quotes. Among them was KREM 2 reporter Frances Wang’s Still, like President Obama, the matter of of some in the African American community. preferred quip, “You can’t compare yourself to someone else’s race is off the table. The President addresses highlight reel because you don’t know what’s going on behind race gingerly, mainly because as an African Julianne Malveaux is an author and economist based in Washington, DC. the scenes!” American President he must debunk the The Black Lens Spokane www.blacklensnews.com March 2015 Page 11 MARCH EVENTS

MARCH 3 MARCH 7 MARCH 12, 13, 14 Ladysmith Black Mambazo Awadagin Pratt It’s Time for a Revivial Northwest Bach Festival - Thematic Trans- Theme: Alpa & Omega- formations The Beginning and the End Preachers: Thursday - Rev. Earon Davis, Morning Star Friday- Rev. Dwayne Washington, Holy Temple Saturday - Rev. Boris Rhodes, Mt. Olive 7pm - 12th & 13th 6pm - 14th An all-male South African a cappella singing Awadagin Pratt, an international award-winning Morning Star Missionary Baptist Church group that celebrated 50 years in 2014.. pianist, will present Thematic Transformations. 3909 W. Rowan Ave, Spokane, WA A no-host wine bar with award-winning Barris- For more information call 509-244-3237 7:30 pm ter wines will be open. Concert Conversations at 7:10 pm with Artistic Director Zuill Bailey. $39-$49 MLK Center Bing Crosby Theater 7:30 pm 901 W Sprague Ave Spokane, WA 99201 $35, $18/students 2015 Dinner & Barrister Winery Tickets available online at 1213 W Railroad Avenue www.bingcrosbytheater.com Spokane, WA 99201 Silent Auction

April 18, 2015 19th Annual African American 5:30pm-7:30pm Graduation Ceremony Spokane Convention Center Centennial Lobby Ballroom Saturday, April 25 1-3pm Tickets: $40 per person Cataldo Hall, Gonzaga University All proceeds will be used to continue and expand services RSVP online at http://bit.ly/1JnUZKV or visit the facebook page offered to area families at The Martin Luther King Jr. Family Outreach Center. For more information contact: [email protected] Contact: (509) 455-8722 or [email protected] Please send information about upcoming community events to [email protected].

HISTORICAL IGNORANCE MICHELLE OBAMA Continued from Page 6 Continued from Page 11 Because who knows where the next great leader is going to come hateful propaganda in Post Falls and Spokane Valley. I also know that gender-based op- from, right? Who knows what mind will produce the next bold idea pression isn’t behind us because it was reported that seven transgender women have been that will change the world? And I know the promise is out there, be- murdered in the United States since January 1 of this year, most of them women of color. cause I’ve seen it with my own eyes. I am aware of this information because my own self-interest and the scope of my social It’s on us to lift up our young people as parents and preachers, as passions have motivated me to keep abreast of this kind of news. For people like Jona- neighbors, as teachers. It’s on us as advocates and policymakers to do than, however, the activities of the local Klan, the murder of transgender women, or the everything we can to give our kids the resources they need. But here’s accomplishments of Black women outside of the entertainment industry may never find the thing -- it is also on the young people themselves to summon that their way into his textbooks, newsfeeds, or social media threads. And as far as he is con- hunger every single day. cerned, there is no reason to seek this information out. So to all the young people here today who are listening, I just want It is because of this day-to-day lack of awareness by Jonathan and so many others like you to take these stories to heart. Listen to them. And I want you to him that a recognition of the history of women of color is so important. With insufficient translate the victories that these women won into habits in your own or distorted information about their history, Black women are at risk of not understanding lives. That means going to class every day -- every day. No matter their own struggle, and thus how best to rise above it. They may even come to buy into what obstacles life may throw your way, go to school. Go to the bad the myth that Black women haven’t done much to deserve recognition in the annals of school that you have. Go to school. It means reaching higher and history, or similarly aren’t doing much today. Furthermore, without voices to lift up the understanding that completing your education past high school is an history of Black women, people like Jonathan will never have their understanding of absolute necessity today to achieve your dreams. history challenged, or their grasp of current social struggles broadened. If you’ve got a friend who’s not coming to school, who isn’t trying their However, if we, as Black women, not only seek out our own histories, but share that best, talk to them. Urge them to reach higher for themselves so that history as educators, inheritors, and members of its lineage, we will not only empower they can join you on a college campus one day. Then all of you can ful- ourselves, but we will also bring awareness to potential allies in our ongoing struggle for fill your potential and help carry forward the dreams of all those who justice. have come before you. To read the full text of the speech visit: www.whitehouse. gov/briefing-room/speeches-and-remarks; video on the www.whitehouse.gov blog. Page 12 March 2015 www.blacklensnews.com The Black Lens Spokane

YOU ARE INVITED TO JOIN WORD OF FAITH CHRISTIAN CENTER

GOD’S HARMONY WASHINGTON STATE UNIVERSITY GOSPEL CHOIR

EASTER SUNDAY - APRIL 5, 2015 10AM Plus Miracle & Healing Service!!!

Word of Faith Christian Center 4001 N. Cook, Spokane 509-891-5253

Miracle & Healing Service You Are Welcome to Join Us. We will be Praying for the Sick to be Healed! Is anyone among you sick? Let him call for the elders of the church, and let them pray over him, anointing him with oil in the name of the Lord. And the prayer of faith will save the sick, and the Lord will raise him up. And if he has committed sins, he will be forgiven. Confess your tres- passes to one another, and pray for one another, that you may be healed. The effective,fervent prayer of a righteous man avails much. James 5:14-16