I n t h e FREE S p i r i t o f G a b r i e l , N a n , N a t T u r n e r, The Richmond J o h n B r o w n , M a r y B o w s e r, E l i z a b e t h Va n L e w & John Mitchell Jr.

Bimonthly Newspaper ofEFENDER The Richmond Defenders for Freedom, Justice & Equality Vol. 4, No. D4, Issue 28 Circulation: 16,000 copies July - August 2008 Nat’l anti-war forces unite to demand ... ‘NO WAR ON IRAN!’ Special to the Defender

Representatives from a broad range of major anti-war coalitions, which in the past have national and regional anti-war coalitions and local not always worked together. These included Act organizations have issued a strong condemnation Now to Stop War & End Racism (A.N.S.W.E.R), of any military attack, sanctions or internal Troops Out Now Coalition (TONC), United for interference in Iran. Peace and Justice (UFPJ) and U.S. Labor Against In additon, several organizations are calling the War (USLAW). Dozens of statewide and for intensifying protests to press the issue. local networks were also represented. Responding to a call by Rostam Pourzal, U.S. the newly formed National president of CASMII, and Assembly to End the Iraq Defenders Phil Wilayto, editor of War and Occupation, more The Richmond Defender than 400 anti-war activists endorse call for and organizer of the gathered June 28 and 29 in 2007 People’s Peace Cleveland, Ohio. Aug. 2 protests Delegation to Iran, held The stated goal of against attack a workshop on Saturday, the conference was to June 28, to draw attention mobilize the anti-war on Iran. to the increasing threats movement for one day of See page 5 against Iran. mass protests next spring They also drafted a Photo by Phil Wilayto with the single demand resolution calling on the of an immediate withdrawal of all U.S. forces National Assembly to declare its unequivocal Members and supporters of the Defenders’ Sacred Ground Historical Reclamation Project appeal to passing motorists to help save Rich- from Iraq. opposition to: mond’s “Burial Ground for Negroes.” The June 14 vigil was one of many But the conference also adopted a resolution (1) any military attack on Iran, by the U.S., being held at the Gabriel Marker on East Broad Street overlooking the opposing any military attack on Iran after Israel, or any other country acting at the behest VCU parking lot that now covers the Burial Ground. representatives of the Campaign Against of the U.S.; Sanctions & Military Intervention in Iran (2) the imposition or continuation of (CASMII) and the Richmond-based Defenders sanctions, whether economic or military, against Struggle heats up to for Freedom, Justice & Equality led an effort to Iran; and broaden the new network’s mission. (3) any attempt by the U.S. government or reclaim Richmond’s’ Both groups are affiliates of the Virginia any of its agencies to interfere with or influence Anti War Network (VAWN), which endorsed the the internal political process in Iran. African Burial Ground effort to raise the issue of Iran at the conference. Addressing more than 30 workshop Although some 70 percent of the U.S. public participants, Pourzal answered the main U.S. By Ana Edwards now favors withdrawal from Iraq, there has been lies – that Iran is attempting to develop nuclear no national anti-war conference or mobilization weapons, that it is a military threat to the United It was a chance encounter that just may have saved Richmond’s oldest in the U.S. this year, in part because activists and States and Israel, that it sponsors terrorism and Black cemetery. other people of conscience are distracted by the that it is a source of instability in Iraq. Richmonders Shanna Merola and Kenneth Yates were downtown this November presidential elections. Wilayto discussed how activists can more past May, visiting the parking lot that covers Richmond’s “Burial Ground for In this context, it was significant not only that forcefully raise the issue of an attack on Iran in Negroes.” The 1.6-acre site lies just north of East Broad Street, between the the Cleveland conference took place, but that it their ongoing work. entrance to I-95 and the CSX railroad tracks. included among its speakers leaders of most of the See IRAN on PAGE 5 See BURIAL on PAGE 7 HUD vouchers fail Dove Court Immigration raids spread fear tenants - next up: Gilpin & fightback throughout Virginia By Phil Wilayto By Phil Wilayto with Gilpin Court, the 783-unit complex the area of the building. Richmond police So much for housing vouchers. that sits on what has become prime real May 7 started out as just another officers were not involved in the raid. The Richmond Redevelopment & Housing estate, just north of rapidly gentrifying workday at the new Federal Courthouse Thirty-three workers were arrested: Authority, or RRHA, was hoping that its Jackson Ward. under construction at 7th and Broad streets 29 men and four women. They were from renovation of the Dove Court public housing The problem is – as housing advocates in downtown Richmond. Mexico, Guatemala, Honduras, El Salvador community would be a model for future across the city have pointed out – there’s “We were just standing there working,” and Nicaragua – all countries that have renovations. The 59 units in the Highland not enough low-income housing in the city a construction worker across the street at seen poverty rates skyrocket in the current Park complex are to be replaced with 64 to move people into before their public the Performing Arts Center told Channel global economic slowdown. townhouses that would then become the core housing homes are torn down. 12 News. “Next thing you know, one guy Richmond’s Channel 8 reported that of a new “mixed-income” community. Not even with vouchers. just yelled ‘police!’” the arrested workers were held in the new You know, break up the “concentrations Case in point: as of late May, almost That’s when federal agents from the courthouse’s own recently completed of poverty” and spread them out among two dozen Dove Court families were still Department of Immigration and Customs detention cells. middle-class homeowners. struggling with finding landlords willing to Enforcement (ICE) jumped out of vans and Immigrant rights workers in the area It’s so much easier than actually accept their Section 8 housing vouchers. surrounded the seven-story courthouse, associated with the Virginia Immigrant addressing the issue of poverty itself. One of those was Mitzi Styles, president grabbing anyone who ran. People’s Coalition (VIPC) immediately If it works, RRHA could move on to of the court’s tenants’ council. Meanwhile, State Police officers were went to work, trying to contact the redeveloping other communities, starting See RRHA on PAGE 3 on the streets keeping traffic moving in See RAIDS on PAGE 4 ”If a race has no history, if it has no worthwhile tradition, it becomes a negligible factor in the thought of the world, and it stands in danger of being exterminated.” — Dr. Carter G. Woodson, 1933, “The Mis-Education of the Negro” Page 2 The Richmond Defender July - August 2008

THE DEFENDERS regional & national news for Freedom, Justice & Equality National conference PO Box 23202, Richmond, VA 23223 Ph: 804-644-5834 Fax: 804-332-5525 takes stock of Black Left E-mail: [email protected] Web site: www.DefendersFJE.org By Ana Edwards

Not too many years ago, leftist forces played and of the need for national Black Left forces The Defenders for Freedom, Justice & a leading role in the Black Liberation Movement. to help provide political direction to the many Equality is an organization of Richmond- Organizations on the front lines of heroic struggles, formations that could respond most strategically area residents working for the survival such as the Black Panther Party and the Detroit and effectively to these and other attacks. of our community through education and Revolutionary Union Movement (DRUM, In particular, participants said, the failure of social justice projects. promoted an anti-capitalist, pro-socialist view in contemporary Black liberation formations to We started out in June 2002. Many of their communities. Photo by Barry Carter us had relatives in the Richmond City Jail or effectively defend the victims of the Gulf Coast In an attempt to revive that tradition in a way Particpants in the Southern Route of the state prisons and were concerned about the disaster demonstrated the need to reassess the that’s relevant to today’s struggles, more than Longest Walk 2 cross into Virginia from physical conditions of these institutions. overall state of the struggle for black liberation. 80 people came together for the “2008 National North Carolina. As we worked around these issues, Growing support by the Black masses for the Gathering of the Black Left: Black Left Unity we learned more and more about the possible presidency of Barack Obama also means connections between jails, jobs, poverty, Conference,” held May 30 through June 1 at the Native walkers declare: that organized analysis and response to his campaign racism, sexism, class, war and political Sonja Haynes Stone Black Culture and History and policy platforms are critical to ensure that the representation. We began to organize Center on the University of North Carolina campus “All Life is Sacred, needs of the Black, working poor and otherwise around these issues as well. in Chapel Hill. politically and economically vulnerable people of Save Mother Earth’ We now have a bimonthly newspaper, The goal was to develop a process for activating a weekly radio program and a Web site. this country become a part of the public debate. united responses to issues and crises affecting the They left San Francisco on Feb. 11. They Our members meet twice a month to In other words, building Black Left Unity national Black community. plan to arrive in Washington, D.C., on July 11. discuss issues and plan actions. We are is an essential part of the struggle to achieve and The key points of discussion at the conference They are Native Americans and supporters affiliated with Blacks United for Action, the maintain African-American self-determination. Virginia Immigrant Peoples Coalition and were 1) making the Gulf Coast a key battleground re-enacting a historic spiritual cross-country From this conference emerged a structure based the Virginia Anti-War Network. for the Black liberation movement; 2) building a walk conducted in 1978. upon regional representative groups to act as the If you agree with the principles below national Black united front; 3) developing a “We conduits for information between local communities The goal of the “Longest Walk 2” and want to work to make these ideals a Charge Genocide” campaign; and 4) evaluating the and a national “continuations committee.” Within is to awaken other Native Americans reality, we invite you to join us. Together, priorities of the Black Left in the current electoral we can make a real difference in the life of three months of the conference, local report-back and the general public to the ills facing period. our community. meetings are to be convened to share the goals of Native Americans today, the threats to the Conference endorsers and planners cited the the conference and get feedback for moving the environment and to inspire people to work Gulf Coast disaster, the police murder of Sean WHAT WE BELIEVE: Black Left Unity process forward. for “peace, for justice, for healing of Mother Bell in New York City and the Jena 6 crisis in To learn more about the Black Earth, for the healing of our people ....” We believe in Freedom. Louisiana as examples of a recent intensification Left Unity conference, please visit The Walk’s Southern Route, which passes of the national oppression of Black people, www.WeChargeGenocide.org. through Virginia, is being led by American We believe that all people must be Indian Movement (AIM) co-founder Dennis free to develop to their full potential as Organizations participating in the conference: human beings. We must be free from J. Banks, elders and some of the original hunger, from preventable diseases, from African American Institute for Public Policy, Alternate Roots, AYINET-USA, Black Radical Congress, Black 1978 Walkers. homelessness, from ignorance. We must Workers for Justice, Black Workers League, Boston Rosa Parks Human Rights Coalition, Critical Resistance, Once in D.C., participants will hold a be free to work and to provide for ourselves Defenders for Freedom, Justice & Equality, Fight Imperialism Stand Together (FIST), Freedom Road series of events, including a pipe ceremony, Socialist Organization, Fruit of Labor, Grupo Afro Descendiente, International Longshore Workers Union and our families. We must be free to pursue presentation of a Manifesto to Congressman our education and to develop ourselves Local 10, Junebug Productions, KUUMBAReport Newsletter of Harambee Radio Online, Labor Community culturally and spiritually. We must be free Strategy Center, Malcolm X Grassroots Movement, Miami Workers Center, Million Worker March Movement, John Conyers, a water ceremony by the from fear of the arbitrary use of police Mississippi Workers Center for Human Rights, National Reparations Congress, National Coalition of Balcks Reflecting Pool and a Pow Wow and concert. power and from the physical and cultural for Reparations in America (N’COBRA), North Carolina Public Service Workers Union - UE 150, Peoples For more information, photos and video Organization for Progress, Philadelphia Black Political Party, Reconstruction Party Organizing Committee, attacks of white-supremacist organizations. Rosa Parks Student Association, Sarah Lawrence College Katrina Solidarity Club, Southern Anti-Racist clips about the Walk, visit: www.longestwalk. Women must be free from physical, cultural Network, Troops Out Now Coalition, Unity & Struggle, US Human Rights Network and Workers World Party. org. and emotional oppression. Children must be free from dangers like lead poisoning, asthma and sexual exploitation. Our youths Faith Conversations must be free both from police harassment If you were homeless how would you ... URGENT State of Emergency!!!!! and the mindless violence of the streets. make your morning tea? We must all be free from unjust wars fought Communities and Families are in Crisis! in the interest of the wealthy few at the pick up your mail? expense of the struggling many. Where is the Faith Community? cut down on your electric bill?

We believe in Justice. Please Join the Faith Community in reduce waste? tuck in the kids? We believe that every human being “Reaching Common Ground” has the right to life, liberty and the pursuit on Building Better Communities, find your quiet place? of happiness. And we believe that these Strengthening Families and Saving Our Youth rights are meaningless unless we also On July 24, 2008 Homeward will conduct the have the right to a job at a living wage, to Tuesday, July 29, 2008 from 9:30 am - 1:30 pm decent housing, to adequate health care, second annual summer census of the people to a meaningful education. We believe that at the Baptist General Convention, 1214 W. Graham St. in our community living while homeless. all people have the right to stand equally before the law, to equal and fair treatment Guest Speaker By partnering with individuals to conduct surveys by the police, by the court system and in Dr. John W. Kinney and becoming part of outreach teams you can help jails and prisons. And we believe that the Dean of the School of Theology of Virginia Union University Homeward gather the data that is used to prevent and death penalty is the ultimate exercise in injustice. end homelessness in the greater Richmond region. Fellowship and Continental Breakfast begins at 9:30 a.m. We believe in Equality. The Forum begins at 10:00 a.m. Visit www.homewardva.org or call (804) 343-2045 to learn how you can become a Summer Point-in-Time We live in the richest country in the world. But it’s a country that owes its tremendous Registration is free, but required to ensure Count Volunteer. wealth to the barbaric oppression of Black adequate lunch for all participants. Call (804) 231-3338 labor on a historic scale, as well as the You make our census count. theft of American Indian and Mexican or e-mail [email protected]. lands, the cruel exploitation of Asian labor Marie F. Coone Rev. Junius Gash and the labor of waves of poor European [email protected] Questions? [email protected] immigrants. This country does not belong (804) 231-3338 (804) 222-6264 to the wealthy few who have claimed it for This program is supported by a grant from the Richmond Behavioral Health Authority their own. As human beings, we all have an Prevention Services and the Virginia Department of Mental Health, Mental Retardation & Working to Prevent and End Homelessness equal right to its resources. As descendants Substance Abuse. of those whose blood, sweat and tears paid cruelly for its development, we have a right to collective reparations. And as people who struggle every day with ongoing inequality, we have the right to affirmative action. We believe that for any one of us to be The Richmond Defender free, we must all be free. We believe that Don’t miss for any one of us to have justice, we must [ ] One-year individual subscription -- $15.00 all have justice. We believe that equality for [ ] One-year institutional subscription -- $25.00 anyone is impossible without equality for a single [ ] One-year prisoner or inmate subscription -- $7.50 everyone [ ] I would like to learn more about the work of the Defenders. As members of The Defenders, we pledge ourselves to defend our community, Name ______its men, its women and especially its issue! children, from all forms of oppression. Address / City / State / Zip ______We pledge to fight for a world where all people can live in dignity, freedom and Please make checks or money orders payable to: Defenders Publications, Inc. peace. Return with payment to: The Richmond Defender, PO Box 23202, Richmond, VA 23223 July - August 2008 The Richmond Defender Page 3

NEWS U CAN USE community news

Free summer meals

Did you know that children between the ages of one and 18 can receive free meals during the summer months? From June 16 through Aug. 29, the Richmond Depart- ment of Parks & Rec serves breakfast, lunch and dinner to children at more than 120 locations through its participation in the U. S. Department of Agriculture’s Sum- mer Meals for Kids Program. No registra- tion is required, and all meals are free. For a location near you, call (804) 646-5752. Photos by Phil Wilayto Food-buying co-op Richmond’s mayoral candidates, from left: Paul Goldman, Robert J. Grey Jr., Dwight C. Jones, William J. Pantele and Lawrence E. Williams Sr. accepting members Jones, Pantele endorse ‘1-1 replacement’ at mayoral candidates’ forum The Earthlings Co-op is a Richmond club that It was the first joint public appearance by expected: the quality of schools and bus Pantele were the only candidates to directly collectively purchases organic and natural food products with an eye to buying healthy all five candidates for the office of Richmond’s service, affordable housing, public safety answer a question posed by the editor of The foods at reasonable prices. The co-op is now mayor — and they got an earful. and problems associated with the city’s new Richmond Defender: Where do you stand on accepting new members. For information, log More than 100 people attended a form of government in which the mayor is the demand for one-to-one replacement of onto http://earthlingsco-op.info. “Listening Forum” held June 19 at Plant elected in an at-large contest. existing public housing? Zero in Manchester. Co-sponsored by the Comments by the candidates were Both candidates endorsed the concept. Financial workshops Richmond Crusade for Voters and the mostly of a general character, although Future Crusade candidate forums are Coalition for a Greater Richmond, the event’s former mayoral aide Paul Goldman upheld scheduled for June 15, for Richmond School The Virginia Society of CPAs will present format allowed the audience to ask questions his reputation as an “idea man” by daring to Board candidates, and Aug. 19, for City two free financial workshops this sum- and make comments concerning the issues actually offer specific proposals. Council candidates. A second mayoral forum mer for the general public. “Exercise Your they felt were most pressing for the city. On the other hand, Delegate Dwight is planned for September. The Crusade is to Financial Future” (11 a.m. - 1:30 p.m., Thursday, July 17) will explore budgeting, Many of the issues were important, if Jones and City Council President William make its political endorsements on Sept. 16. saving, insurance strategies, retirement planning, money management, financial planning and more. “Buy Smart, Borrow ‘Tambour de Guine’ UPAL offers classes Smart” (11 a.m. - 1:30 p.m., Thursday, Aug. 14) will address topics such as & Elegba in concert at new Community renting versus buying, mortgage basics, at Dogwood Dell Training Center choosing the right home, tax implications, home equity and rental and vacation prop- Want to jump up and clap your hands? How to save someone suffering a erty. Both workshops will be held at the Want to celebrate heritage and life itself sudden cardiac arrest. How to identify Richmond CPA Center, 4309 Cox Road and deal with mold in your home. How in Glen Allen. Complimentary lunch. Free, with traditional drummers, dancers and but register online at www.FinancialFit- singers? to prepare for emergencies and organize a ness.org or call (800) 341-8189. Then be sure to be at Richmond’s Family Survival Kit. Dogwood Dell amphitheater on Thursday, These are some of the topics that will be Another chance to review July 10, when the Elegba Folklore Society addressed at a series of classes offered by United Parents Against Lead National, Inc., City’s Draft Master Plan presents a special concert titled “African Dr. John W. Kinney the organization known for educating the Dance, Music & the Oral Tradition.” On Monday, July 7, the public will get public about and combating lead hazards. The free concert will feature dance, another chance to review changes in Dr. Kinney to ask, The classes will take place at the newly Richmond’s Draft Master Plan, which cov- music and folklore of the Manding cosmol- opened UPAL / Community Training Center, ers proposed changes to the city’s down- ogy of West Africa, with choreography by ‘Where is the faith town area. A public hearing is scheduled located at 4809 Old Warwick Road in Mohamed Dacosta and Kadiatou Conte of for 6:30 p.m., 5th floor conference room, community?’ Richmond. (Zip code 23224.) Richmond City Hall, 900 East Broad St. A Guinea and Elegba’s own artistic director, Sudden Cardiac Arrest, or SCA, is when copy of the revised plan is available online Janine Yvette Bell. Noted inspirational speaker Dr. John W. the heart suddenly and unexpectedly stops at www.richmondgov.com/departments/ A centerpiece of the program will be Kinney, Dean of Virginia Union University’s beating. Blood stops flowing to the brain communityDev/DownTownMasterPlan. the premiere of Ms. Conte’s “Tambour de aspx, and at the city’s public libraries. For Samuel DeWitt Proctor School of Theology, and other vital organs. If not treated within more information, contact Brooke Hardin, Guine.” Hear stories and folktales, enjoy is scheduled to address a July 29 forum in minutes, death usually results. City of Richmond. Call (804) 646-6310 or the dancing and listen as the “Manding Richmond called “Faith Conversations.” Each year, more than 200,000 people in e-mail [email protected]. Diali” or griot, plays his 12-string kora, a The four-hour event, which will include this country die of SCA. Up to 50,000 of harplike instrument made from a cut gourd a panel discussion and “open dialog,” is de- these deaths could have been prevented. Beating the summer heat partially covered with cow skin. signed to further involve leaders of the faith UPAL’s one-day “Disaster Preparedness” Richmond’s hot and humid summers can “No matter your age or your back- community in addressing the many pressing class will cover Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation be brutal. You can protect yourself by ground, the spirit and openness of the issues facing Richmond-area residents (CPR), Automated External Defibrillator (AED) drinking lots of water and avoiding pro- Elegba Folklore Society will enchant you, The forum is scheduled to start at 9:30 and first aid as they relate to SCA. longed exposure to the heat. The elderly says Ms. Bell. “In a way that perhaps you a.m. at the offices of the Baptist General Con- Successful participation in the class will with heat-related issues can contact the vention of Virginia, 1214 West Graham Road city’s Adult Protective Service Unit at will expect or in a way that is totally spon- result in a two-year certification. (804) 646-7367. For information regarding taneous, your energy will blend beautifully in Richmond. It is one in a series of events This class is scheduled for 9 a.m. - 4 p.m., cooling services, contact the Department with ours, closing the gap between per- called “Reaching Common Ground,” which July 15. It is sponsored by the American Safety of Social Services Fuel Assistance Office former and audience.” aims to “identify and solve problems and en- and Health Institute and is partially funded at (804) 646-7046. In the event of a heat- The concert, part of Richmond’s Festival of hance service delivery intended to bring posi- by the National Institute of Environmental related emergency, call 911. the Arts, is scheduled to begin at 8:30 p.m. The tive changes to the City.” Health Sciences (NIEHS). Tenant-landlord issues? Dogwood Dell amphitheater is located in Rich- Previous forums have dealt with issues UPAL is also offering a two-day class mond’s Byrd Park, at the south end of the Boulevard. such as parenting and financial fitness. titled “Mold Remediation Training.” Topics Counselors at the Virginia Department of For more information, call the Elegba The series is funded by grants from the include learning what is mold; water damage Agriculture & Consumer Services answer FolkloreSociety at (804) 644-3900 or visit Richmond Behavioral Health Authority and and mold; health effects; site assessment and questions about landlord-tenant problems Friends of Prevention Coalition, with support monitoring; proper PPE; APR and proper fit and other consumer issues through the www.efsinc.org. Consumer Protection Hotline: (804) 786- from local nonprofits and religious organiza- testing; remediation techniques; and hands- 2042 in Richmond and (800) 552-9963 in tions. on activities. the rest of Virginia. For information about RRHA (Continued from page 1) Attendance is free, but participants are This class is scheduled for 9 a.m. - 4 the rights and responsibilities of both ten- “I’m not happy about the situation,” urged to register by July 15. p.m., July 16 and 17. Training is presented by ants and landlords, go to the Department of Styles told the city’s daily newspaper, “and For more information, contact forum the International Chemical Workers Union Housing & Community Development’s Web conveners Marie F. Coone at (804) 231-3338 site (dhcd.virginia.gov) for a handbook with a lot of my people in the community are not Center (ICWU), in partnership with the information about the Virginia Residential happy about the situation. We’re moving by or the Rev. Junius Gash at (804) 222-6264. Community Action and Response Against Landlord & Tenant Act. For information force, not by choice.” Toxics Team (CARAT), a special initiative about your own case, call the Consumer The tenants have until July 24 to leave replacement” is the only sane basis for any of the Coalition of Black Trade Unionists Protection Hotline or the Virginia Lawyer their homes so the buildings can be torn renovation of public housing in Richmond. (CBTU). It is partially funded by NIEHS. Referral Service at (804) 775-0808. down. Before you tear down one low-rent To register for the classes, call Queen ‘Medical Respite’ open RRHA officials say that, if it comes to housing unit, you have to build or find one Zakia Shabazz at (804) 308-1518 or (804) it, the authority would temporarily move the to replace it. 475-3198. Participants may also register The Daily Planet Medical Respite is tenants into other public housing, then move Otherwise, all you’re doing is evicting on site on the day of the class, but space is a 20-bed center designed to provide them again to permanent homes once they find the poor. limited so preregistration is encouraged. convalescent care for up to 30 days for individuals who have been discharged someone willing to accept their vouchers. from hospitals but lack appropriate living Styles said she’s not leaving Dove Court Want to reach tens of thousands of Richmond voters at a fraction of the cost of the arrangements to support their recu- for another RRHA complex. other publications? Then think about your ad appearing in 16,000 copies of THE peration. Open since July 1, the center The Dove Court residents may have found RICHMOND DEFENDER! Full-page ads are only $1,000. A 1/2 page, $500. A 1/4 provides a much-needed service to men housing by now, but the difficulties they had page, $250. 1/8 of a page, just $125. 1/16th? $62.50. And a business card-sized and women experiencing a health crisis don’t bode well for the hundreds of families while homeless. For information contact, ad is only $35. For full color, add just 25%. Discounts are available for multiple ads. call (804) 329-1751. in Gilpin Court. DON’T DELAY, CALL TODAY! (804) 644-5834 That’s why the demand of “one-to-one Page 4 The Richmond Defender July - August 2008

cops, courts & prisons immigration news: ‘there are no borders in the workers’ struggle’ Virginia and Texas the Wilder Transition Committee. Seventh District Representative on the Mayor’s When it comes to fairness in the criminal Neighborhood Roundtable, the parallel RAIDS (Continued from page 1) justice system, the state you don’t want to be structure Wilder set up to try (in our opinion) families of the arrested workers. They compared to is Texas. to undermine City Council. quickly learned that some of the workers But Virginia has now joined the home of Michael T. Byrne — Owner of Richbrau had been taken to jails in Virginia Beach, far George W. Bush as the only states to have Brewing Company, the Shockoe Bottom from their families. In some cases, they were carried out 100 executions since 1976, when business that in November 2006 refused able to locate the workers and arrange for the death penalty was reinstated by the U.S. entry to a Sikh business executive because legal representation. They also began raising Supreme Court. he refused to take off his turban, a religious donations of food, diapers and baby formula Virginia reached that grisly milestone requirement for men of his faith. Served on the to assist the families who were now without June 25 when Robert Stacy Yarbrough was Richmond Police Chief Search Committee in their primary breadwinner. put to death by lethal injection. The 30-year- 2005 when Chief Monroe was chosen. There was also a political response. old prisoner was executed at Greensville Mike Herring — Richmond Common- Members of VIPC, other area human rights Correctional Center in Jarratt for the 1997 wealth’s Attorney. groups and family members of some of slaying of 77-year-old Cyril Hugh Hamby. Jeff Neal - Northside business owner those arrested quickly called a meeting to A moratorium had been imposed by Gov. and a former president of the Brookland Park organize a protest, which took place just two Timothy Kaine while lawsuits challenging Area Civic Association. days after the raid outside the new federal execution by lethal injection worked their Former Wachovia Bank President James courthouse. More than 40 people took part, way through the courts. Kaine says he Cherry will serve as a consultant to the including members of the VIPC, Richmond personally believes the death penalty to be Search Committee. Cherry, who now lives in Students for a Democratic Society, Virginia morally wrong, but nevertheless lifted the North Carolina, chaired the 2005 committee. Anarchist Federation, People United and the moratorium in April after the U.S. Supreme Photo by Phil Wilayto Defenders. Court ruled that the method of lethal injection A sign at the Richmond protest con- Visiting Va. prisoners Among the speakers was Defender Ana used in dozens of states is constitutional. demning the May 7 ICE raid in which 33 Edwards, who compared the ICE raids to the Virginia prisoner Kevin Green was immigrant workers were arrested. Building state prisons in Buchanan and slavery-era practice of deliberately breaking executed in May. Percy Walton, convicted of Wise counties in western Virginia brings up Black families . The contractor for the courthouse project three murders, was scheduled for execution jobs, tax money and even increased political “This tactic of separating families is is D.C.-based Tompkins Builders, Inc., June 10, but the governor commuted the representation to rural Republican areas. an old tactic,” Edwards told the protesters. which is owned by Turner Construction. sentence to life without parole, citing It also means that many Richmond-area “They did it during slavery to make profit Immediately after the raid, Turner issued a Walton’s mental state. The decision also families can’t afford to visit their loved ones. and to demoralize people. They did it to the statement saying that those arrested were not came after Kaine’s office was deluged with That’s why the prisoner advocacy group Native Americans to assimilate people and employees of either Turner or Tompkins, but objections from death penalty opponents. R.I.H.D.(Resource Information Help for the take away their values. Here we are again had been hired by subcontractors. Two other Virginia prisoners, Christopher Disadvantaged) offers a nonprofit transpor- in present times where the ICE raids repress ICE apparently waited to carry out the Scott Emmett and Kent Jermaine Jackson, tation service for families with friends and workers and families.” raid until the courthouse was nearly finished. are scheduled to be executed in July. relatives incarcerated in faraway Virginia The speakers at the protest were repeatedly The $104 million building is scheduled to Texas reinstituted its own death penalty in prisons. interrupted by passing motorists who honked open this summer. 1976. Since then, it has put to death 406 people. The package deal includes round-trip their horns while giving a thumbs-up sign. As of Defender press time, it still is Virginia resumed executions in 1982. transportation from Richmond to Keen Nearly every passing city bus driver - not known whether the families of those Mountain, Red Onion and Wallens Ridge, almost all of whom were African-American, arrested ever received their relatives’ last Police chief search plus a one-night hotel stay. expressed their support in some way. paycheck. team still searching The next trip is scheduled for the week- end of July 19-20. Departure time is Friday The Executive Search Committee at midnight, from Fairfield Commons Mall PW County residents air grievances Richmond Mayor L. Douglas Wilder on Nine Mile Road. Pick-ups and drop-offs announced on June 26 is still looking for a are available at no extra charge from Amtrak, The past few months have seen federal circumstances,” he would have to postpone his visit. replacement for former Police Chief Rodney Greyhound, Asian Bus and the Richmond In- raids on undocumented workers in Richmond, The organizers decided to go ahead with Monroe, who left the city earlier in June to ternational Airport. Leesburg, Harrisonburg and Amelia County, their plans and were able to arrange for a take the Top Cop position in Charlotte, N.C. The cost of transportation is $85. (This is a among other places. But the epicenter for the representative from the independent Mexican Longtime leading Officer David McCoy slight increase, due to higher gas prices.) Hotel immigrant rights struggle in Virginia is still Human Rights Commission to hear the is presently serving as Interim Chief. rates at Keen Mountain are $50 for a single Prince William County. testimony, which they also planned to forward In response, the county-based human rights to Bustamante. These are the committee members chosen room (one queen-sized bed) or $75 for double group Mexicanos Sin Fronteras (Mexicans On the day of the hearing, hundreds of people by the mayor: occupancy (two queen-sized beds). The Red Without Borders) decided to raise the struggle crowded into the large hall. Dozens testified Eva Teig Hardy — Executive Vice Onion and Wallens Ridge rates are $60 for a to a new level. They planned a public hearing publicly about the abuses they had suffered or President for External Affairs and Corporate single and $90 for double occupancy. June 10 on immigrant grievances and invited a witnessed since the county passed a draconian Communications at Dominion. (You know A $50 nonrefundable deposit is required, representative from the United Nations to come anti-immigrant resolution in October. Dominion – its subsidiary Dominion Virginia with the balance to be paid by July 11. and listen. Since the hearing, Mexicanos Sin Fronteras Power is raising our electricity rates by 18 R.I.H.D., founded and directed by Lillie Jorge Bustamante, the UN Special has been continuing the hard work of informing percent.) Previously served on Wilder’s Branch-Kennedy, meets on the third Wednesday Rapporteur on the Human Rights of Migrants, the immigrant community about their rights. Human Services Committee. Secretary of of every month from 5 to 8 p.m. at Wesley Memo- agreed to attend. (A rapporteur is someone Donations to support the work of Mexicanos Health and Human Services under Gov. rial United Methodist Church, 1720 Mechanics- appointed by a deliberative body to investigate Sin Fronteras may be sent to the organization at Gerald L. Baliles. ville Turnpike in Richmond (zip code 23223). an issue.) PO Box K, Woodbridge, VA 22194. Sharon Burton — Richmond school- For more information, call R.I.H.D. at But at the last minute, word came from the For more information, visit MSF’s Web site teacher and community activist. Served on (804) 562-2123 or log onto www.rihd.org. UN representative that, due to “unforeseeable at www.mexicanossinfronteras.org.

Who are today’s immigrants? Why do they You’ve just invested in a nice piece of artwork. come here? And what are they learning Now, who’s going to hang it on your wall? GPSERVICES from the Black community? Certified, Licensed & Insured Listen to an interview with Commercial Installation Plumbing l A/C & Heater Repair / Installation MEXICANOS SIN FRONTERAS Art Floor Installation & Repair l Painting & Wall Repair COORDINATOR Gutter Cleaning & Repair l Small Electrical Problems Residential - Corporate - Institutional All Types of Home & Commercial Improvements RICARDO JUAREZ Licensed - Insured - Guaranteed (Inside & Out) on DefendersLIVE! Richmond, Virginia 804.247.3731 RICHMOND, VA l 804-837-4669 l FAX: 804-282-4444 archived on www.DefendersFJE.org Web: www.home.earthlink.net/~commart

Virginia Public Service Now you can read RIHD, Inc. is a nonprofit group with the mission & purpose to reduce Workers Union r i h D crime; assist & improve the existence The Defender of‑all disadvantaged people, with UE Local 160 in pdf form & listen RESOURCE a “special” inference on at-risk INFORMATION youth, incarcerated people and ex-  Demanding an end to discrimination against public employees. to archived programs HELP FOR THE offenders, through “smart legislation”  Demanding our right to collective bargaining, better wages, from the DISADVANTAGED & self-help rehabilitation advocacy. benefits & working conditions.  Demanding an end to the plantation mentality. Monthly Public Mtg DefendersLIVE! PO Box 55 5 pm - 7 pm 3rd Wednesday Wesley Memorial United Methodist Church radio show. Highland Springs, “The Members Run This Union!” 1720 Mechanicsville Turnpike Phone: (888) 868-6466 Web site: www.vaue160.org www.DefendersFJE.org VA 23075 Richmond, VA 23223 July - August 2008 The Richmond Defender Page 5 from the anti-war front Bush speech Join the disrupted at Defenders Monticello Shouting “Impeach Bush” and “war criminal,” anti-war protesters in Charlottesville, AUG. 2 Va., repeatedly interrupted President George to demand: W. Bush as he welcomed new U.S. citizens at a July 4 Independence Day Celebration and Naturalization Ceremony. At least six activists ‘NO WAR were physically evicted from the ceremony by police as more than 100 other protesters held signs and banners along a nearby highway. ON IRAN!’ No arrests were reported. Those opposed to Photo by Phil Wilayto the president noted the irony of Bush speaking Activists from a wide range of struggles participate in a group reading of a letter (Time & location at a ceremony where people swear allegiance from Iranian Capt. Habib Ahmadzadeh to U.S. Capt. Will Rogers, commander of the to be announced.) to the Constitution, while at the same time ship that shot down Iran Airbus 655. The reading was broadcast internationally by he is severely limiting the very civil liberties the Iranian English-language television channel Press TV. The Defenders for Freedom, Jus- guaranteed by that document. Even more ironic tice & Equality have endorsed a call was the fact that the ceremony took place at Activists commemorate 20th anniversary for a NATIONAL DAY OF PROTESTS Monticello, the former slave plantation mansion ON AUG. 2 to oppose any war on of President Thomas Jefferson, the man who of U.S. downing of Iranian civilian airbus Iran. wrote the Declaration of Independence while July 3, 2008, was the 20th anniversary of A highlight of the evening was a group The call, by StopWarOnIran.org, exploiting the free labor of captive Africans. the day a U.S. warship shot down an Iranian reading of a letter written by Iranian Capt. states “The U.S. occupation of Iraq The protest received international news civilian airliner, killing all 290 passengers. Habib Ahmadzadeh to U.S. Capt. Will and Afghanistan is hated by the peo- coverage. Participating organizations included Iranians have never forgotten this disaster, Rogers, who commanded the Vincennes when ple there. These wars have no support RVA4Peace, AfterDowningStreet.org, Augusta but few in the United States remember it. it shot down the airbus. The letter, written at home and are ruining the domestic Coalition for Peace & Justice, Code Pink and That’s probably why a modest program held on the 10th anniversary of the disaster, asks economy. Instead of pulling out, the Bush administration is preparing for members of MoveOn.org. in Richmond, Va., to commemorate the event penetrating questions that probe the U.S. still another war — this time against attracted a film crew contracted by Press TV, military mindset that led to the tragedy. Iran. This must be stopped!” the Iranian English-language international The letter was read in parts by 12 The demands for the protests in- television channel. activists representing African-Americans, clude “U.S. out Of Iraq, Money for hu- The program, held by the Defenders Iranian-Americans, labor unions, veterans, man needs, not war!” for Freedom, Justice & Equality at Asbury environmentalists and the anti-war movement. To date, this is the first attempt to United Methodist Church, had two purposes: Also on the program was a screening of coordinate a national day of protests to commemorate the day the USS Vincennes the movie “Bam 6.6,” which tells the story, against threats of a military attack cruiser shot down Iran Airbus 655 over the through the eyes of two U.S. tourists, of the against the Islamic Republic of Iran. Persian Gulf, and also to rally the public to 2003 earthquake in the Iranian city of Bam. When the Aug. 2 date was an- oppose any military attack against Iran. Close to 50 people attended the program. nounced at the Defenders’ July 3 public program on Iran, 10 activists as are many working people. The anti-war volunteered to help organize a protest IRAN (Continued from page 1) movement itself is in a less active mode in in Virginia. Defender editor The next morning, after a floor debate, mid- to late summer, with many activists Any of our readers who would like to help distribute leaflets, send interviewed by Press TV the conference participants overwhelmingly taking time off for needed rest. We believe adopted the resolution on Iran. They also that the possibility of an attack on Iran is e-mails, make phone calls, help with banners and signmaking or volunteer- Richmond Defender Editor Phil Wilayto agreed to encourage their constituent credible and serious.” groups and members “to incorporate A post-conference report issued by Jerry ing for any of the many other tasks that was recently interviewed by Press TV, the go into building a protest are urged to Iranian English-language international television these demands into any future protests.” Gordon, Marilyn Levin and Jeff Mackler, It was also agreed that copies of the members of the Assembly’s Administrative contact the Defenders at (804) 644- channel. 5834 or DefendersFJE@hotmail. On July 2, Wilayto participated in a resolution on Iran be included with any press Committee, stated that 405 people had discussion on the channel’s Four Corners release about the results of the conference. attended the two-day event. More than half program. The subject was the U.S. downing Two other resolutions were also came from the Midwest. Just over a third Board Member, ILWU Local 10. of Iran Airbus 655 on July 3, 1988. The U.S. adopted – over the objections of most of the were from Ohio. A Saturday night cultural performance government has never apologized for its conference organizers: that the network’s Speakers at the conference included was presented by progressive hip-hop artist killing of 290 civilians, a tragedy it called an name be broadened to the National Assembly Elliott Adams, President, Veterans for Son of Nun. accident. Speaking from Washington, D.C., to End the Iraq and Afghanistan Wars and Peace; Riham Barghouti of Adalah-NY: While the speakers included many people Wilayto took the occasion to apologize on Occupations, and that the struggle of the the Coalition for Justice in The Middle of color, the participants themselves were behalf of the people of the United States. Palestinian people for self-determination be East; Brian Becker, National Coordinator, overwhelmingly white. The following day, he was interviewed again, a central focus of the network. A.N.S.W.E.R. Coalition; Leslie Cagan, Also, the one-person, one-vote rule in Richmond, just before the Defenders’ public “Our motivation in attending the National Coordinator, UFPJ; Colia followed in decision-making meant that one meeting commemorating the airbus disaster. conference,” Pourzal said, “was our concern Lafayette Clark, Richard Wright Centennial activist working alone would have as much The D.C. interview can be seen at: that the Bush administration might misread Committee; Donna Dewitt, President, South voting power as a representative of a national www.presstv.ir/Programs/player/Default. the conference’s focus on bringing troops Carolina AFL-CIO; Jesse Diaz, Organizer, organization, thus diluting the voice of the aspx?id=62403. back from Iraq as indifference in the anti-war May 1, 2006, immigrant rights boycott; existing national coalitions. movement regarding an attack on Iran.” Jerry Gordon, Steering Committee, USLAW; For more information on Iran and the President George W. Bush now has less Larry Holmes, Coordinator, TONC; Jonathon threat of war against Iran, visit CASMII’s As of July 7, the Iraq War than seven months before he leaves the Hutto, Co-Founder, Appeal for Redress and Web site at http://www.campaigniran.org. White House, and he and Vice President author, “Anti-War Soldier.” had cost Richmond Dick Cheney evidently feel the window of Also, Marilyn Levin, Middle East taxpayers $331.1 million, opportunity for an attack on Iran by the U.S. Crisis Coalition; Jeff Mackler, Coordinating an amount that could have or Israel is closing. Committee, National Assembly to End the SOUREH magazine of paid for 2,160 units of “Some in the anti-war movement may Iraq War and Occupation; Fred Mason, Iran covers 2007 People’s affordable housing. * feel that the threat of a new war is remote,” President, Maryland AFL-CIO and Co- Peace Delegation Wilayto said. “But in the past, the month Convenor, USLAW; Jorge Mujica, Chicago of August has presented an attractive time March 10 Coalition; Jeremy Scahill, author, Accounts of the 2007 People’s Peace Was it worth it? frame for the U.S. government to implement “Blackwater: The Rise of the World’s Most Delegation to Iran have been published in the * www.costofwar.com unpopular policies. Congress is not in Powerful Mercenary Army;” Cindy Sheehan, current issue of Soureh, a well-established session in August and students are dispersed, Gold Star Families for Peace (by videotape); and influential Iranian magazine. L y n n e The reports, many taken from the pages Conflict Resolution Workshop for Teen Trainers S t e w a r t , of The Richmond Defender, are available in Plowshare Peace Center a t t o r n e y Farsi, the national language of Iran, on the The oldest peace group in Virginia Teenagers from grade 8 through age 20 are invited to and 30-year magazine’s Web site: www.iricap.com. become part of the Richmond Youth Peace Project’s v e t e r a n The English translations are at: www. Silent peace vigils; Workshops & speakers; Death conflict resolution team. Learn nonviolent conflict reso- of civil iricap.com/magentry.asp?id=6894 lution and leadership skills. penalty vigils; Darfur; New River Voice & Richmond Defender distribution; Lobbying; Truth-In-Recruiting liberties and In addition to other venues, the current Apply for a free, two-day workshop to be held civil rights issue is now available on all Iran Air flights. September 27 & 28, 2008. For more information call Mail: PO Box 4367, Roanoke VA 24015 d e f e n s e The Peace Delegation was co-sponsored (804) 232-1002 or e-mail [email protected]. Office: 1719 Grandin Road, Roanoke VA 24015 work; and by The Richmond Defender and the Virginia (540) 989-0393 [email protected] C l a r e n c e Anti-War Network (VAWN). For more www.plowshareva.org T h o m a s , information on the delegation, visit VAWN’s Executive Web site at: www.vawn.org. Page 6 The Richmond Defender July - August 2008

In our opinion Obama & the politics of change

It would be hard to overestimate the historical importance of Barack Obama’s winning the Democratic Party nomination for president. After an unbroken succession of 43 white male presidents, we may see – this January – a Black person in the “White” House. In a very real sense, this is a realization of one important aspect of the Civil Rights Movement – the basic democratic right to political representation at the highest levels of govern- ment. For that, we should all be celebrating. Even so, The Richmond Defender will not be endorsing Barack Obama for president. Yes, he’s better than Republican presidential candidate John McCain. We applaud Obama’s stated willingness to sit down with the leaders of other countries and talk face-to-face. We appreciate his lack of the swagger and imperial ar- rogance that has made George W. Bush such a hated figure both at home and around the world. And yes, we too hope for real “change” in the country. But we can’t bring ourselves to endorse a candidate who, in the end, will also swear to defend the Empire. Or rather, defend the interests of those few wealthy and powerful (white) men who control the Empire. Take Cuba – which these ruling-class figures would dearly like to do. Barack Obama, who is 46, says he has never known a day in which Cuba has had freedom. Really? What about the day the Cuban people, under the leader- ship of Che and Fidel, rose up and overthrew the hated, brutal, U.S.-backed regime of Fulgencio Batista? Wasn’t that a day of freedom? What about the day the Cuban Army and civilian militias Letters to the Editor repelled a CIA-backed invasion at the Bay of Pigs? No free- dom there? What about the thousands of Cuban soldiers, doc- need their institutions, monuments and that remind the state of Virginia, the tors, translators and support personnel who volunteered Burial Ground No. 1 to go to Angola and help defend the revolutionary gov- people to be complete. Please respect U.S. and the world of the crimes against ernment there against the invading troops of apartheid Just wanted to say that this tragedy their right to do so. humanity committed by the U.S. on the South Africa? you sent word about is much like one We thank you in advance for road to its development as a so-called “When Africa called, Cuba answered.” I have addressed in a novel set in defending the following principles democracy with institutionalized Were those the actions of people who live under a dicta- Ireland, when in about 1890 the British torship? with regards to the Burial Ground: racism that continues partly because it Then there’s Obama’s pledge to, as president, immedi- paved over a sacred site on an island 1. No reopening of the parking lot. refuses to acknowledge and deal with ately begin the withdrawal of U.S. troops from Iraq – and rede- off the west coast of Ireland. They 2. No “upgrading” of the parking lot. the truths of its history. ploy them to Afghanistan. paved over horse hoofprints embedded No, Mr. Obama, the demand is for “No war in Iraq or Af- 3. No division of the site into a This plan to pave over the ghanistan – Bring the troops home NOW!” in rock, believed to belong to the horse parking lot and a small memorial area. historical burial ground of African And then there’s the backpedaling on even that pledge. of a saint/monk. It’s too disrespectful 4. Reclaim the entire site and — in slaves and descendents is a Now the promise is to “listen to the commanders on the for words. consultation with Richmond’s Black continuing human rights violation, ground.” I wish you the best with this fight. But that’s exactly what Bush says he is doing. community — devise a plan to properly as it represents an attempt to destroy So where’s the “change?” M. Sayres. memorialize the Burial Ground. in whole or part the identity, culture Then there’s the speech he gave before the American and history of an oppressed people Israel Public Affairs Committee, AIPAC, at its recent national SPOKANE, WA With much respect, convention in Washington, D.C. It basically came down to “Is- whose lives were taken, shortened, rael Yes, the rights of Palestinians No.” Burial Ground No. 2 Dr. Joceline Clemencia violated and denied human rights as And when the Israeli military recently carried out bellig- a fundamental part of the historical erent war maneuvers and threatened to launch massive air Director [Editor’s note: The following e-mail, attacks on Iran, Obama refused to criticize Israel or even urge Instituto Kultural Independensha development of the U.S. sent to VCU President Eugene Trani restraint. (Cultural Institute Independence) I doubt that you would support the So much for the right to self-determination. and Slave Trail Commission Chair CURACAO, CARIBBEAN paving over of the burial ground in But, foreign policy aside, he’s got to be better on domestic Delores McQuinn, is reprinted here Arlington, Va., of those who fought issues, doesn’t he? with the permission of the author.] Well, if Barack Obama is for the working man and woman, and died in many of the unjust U.S. why is it that his biggest single financial contributor is the Wall Burial Ground No. 3 wars carried out to dominate other Dear Mr. Eugene Trani and Ms. Street investment firm of Goldman Sachs? These folks are no countries and governments throughout friends of working people. What do they know that we don’t? Delores McQuinn, [Editor’s note: The following e-mail, Why has Obama picked as his top economic adviser Ja- sent to VCU President Eugene Trani, the world. son Furman, a supply-side proponent famous for declaring Coming from a still-colonized is reprinted here with the permission We call on you to stop this atrocity that it would be “damaging to working people” if Wal-Mart were country — Curaçao, Caribbean of the author. Saladin Muhammad can and to honor the dignity of those whose to raise its wages and benefits? territory occupied by Dutch colonial- be reached at PO Box 1863, Rocky lives were taken against their will to Why, when questioned in a Fortune interview about his Mount, NC 27802.] promise to renegotiate NAFTA to protect workers and the en- ism and US imperialism — we live and build this country. vironment, did he answer, “Sometimes during campaigns the experience every day what it means Dear Mr. Trani, Stop the paving of the African rhetoric gets overheated and amplified.” to exist but not to be, as slavery and Burial Ground. It’s no secret the U.S. is heading into rough economic wa- As president of a university, a place colonialism made sure the Afrikans ters. The subprime mortgage crisis and related problems have of higher education, you of all people Saladin Muhammad expanded and expanded until they are threatening the very brought here during the Holocaust of should be on the side of preserving Black Workers For Justice foundations of the economic system. The major banks are the Transatlantic Slave Trade, the worst posting record losses. The dollar is still falling in the world cur- historical landmarks, especially those ROCKY MOUNT, N.C. rency markets. Auto plants are shutting down. Even Starbucks crime humanity has known, would not is closing 600 stores and laying off 12,000 workers. remember their history, their culture, Whoever is the next president will be ordered by the ma- their languages, their spirituality, their jor financial institutions to enact a draconian cost-cutting regi- traditions or their strength. The Richmond Defender men. There will be more cutbacks and layoffs and higher taxes A Richmond, Va.-based community newspaper published bimonthly by and user fees for the working class and working poor. And An oppresive education system as always, the blows will fall hardest on the most oppressed, and controlled media deny the right Defenders Publications, Inc. including the Black community. of knowing and the right to preserve Editorial Board: Ana Edwards, Queen Zakia Shabazz, Phil Wilayto So if you were a rich person, who would you rather have to the children of these Afrikans. As Editor: Phil Wilayto Writers: Breanne Armbrust, Ana Edwards, carrying out these unpopular measures? A right-wing white Matthew Freeman, Jamilah LeCruise, Queen Zakia Shabazz, Phil Wilayto guy like John McCain, or the country’s first Black president? an institute engaged in rebuilding Spanish Article: Cristina Rebeil Photographers: Garrie Rouse, Phil Wilayto Some have suggested that Obama may be getting set up self-worth and creating a society with Production: Ana Edwards, Angela G. Jones to take the fall – turn the sinking ship over to a Black captain justice and respect, we want to appeal Tech Support: Ana Edwards Advertising: Phil Wilayto so he can take the blame for the coming disaster. Circulation: Lillie Branch-Kennedy, Barbara Brown, Herbert Brown, Rain Burroughs, We don’t think so. to your sense of respect and ask you to Christie Burwell, Annie Coleman, Bill Conkle, Joann Davis, Ana Edwards, Audrey Fisher, We don’t think the rich and powerful one percent of the do everything in your power to prevent Sue Frankle-Streit, Matthew Freeman, Lorraine Giles, Bryan Gorman, Stewart Graham, population that really runs this country has any intention of the Burial Ground in Virginia, where Martha Johnson, Angela G. Jones, Janis Jones, Jamilah LeCruise, Nancy Lyall, seeing their system go down the tubes. They will fight for its Jumaane Mali, Essie Miller, Donnell Newton, Bryan Ogilvie, Sean O’Hern, Joyce Pritchard, survival with every ounce of strength they can muster. our ancestors are, from turning into Dieyah Rasheed, Kevin Sabio, Josh Schweizer, Queen Zakia Shabazz, trouble, Phil Wilayto In other words, they will be ruthless in trying to make the a parking lot, considering that when rest of us pay the cost of saving their system. Subscription rates: $15/year. $7.50 for prisoners, $25 for institutions. people lose that which is sacred to Checks or money orders payable to: DEFENDERS PUBLICATIONS, INC. They just need someone in charge who might be able to them, they lose themselves. It is in the blunt the anger a bit. interest of the whole community for We welcome letters, while reserving the right to edit for clarity, length and style. So yes, we too will cheer if the United States elects its first To submit a letter to the editor or an item for the Community Calendar or to place an ad, contact: African-American chief executive. the Afrikan people as well as others to But we won’t have any illusions about what will follow. know they are part of a society where The Richmond Defender And, more than ever, we will need an independent, deter- the individual can feel protected and PO Box 23202, Richmond, VA 23223 l Phone: 804.644.5834 l Fax: 804.332.5225 mined, mass popular movement to defend the interests of the E-mail: [email protected] l Web site: www.DefendersFJE.org working class and oppressed peoples. cared for. The Afrikan community in Then, we can hope for some real change. Virginia, like all other communities, Unless otherwise noted, all contents of The Richmond Defender are copyright (c) 2008. July - August 2008 The Richmond Defender Page 7

BURIAL (Continued from page 1) Burial Ground lies. According to Councilwoman McQuinn, OP-ED: Burial Ground stirs Merola is a fine art photographer who had the first stage of this investigation will be to included photos of the parking lot in a collection of review the research conducted by local author mixed feelings for Black Richmonders photographs displayed at the Valentine Richmond and historian Elizabeth Cann Kambourian that History Center, where she is a guest curator. The confirms the existence of the Burial Ground. By R.J. Fields exhibit was of Black historical sites in Richmond Kambourian’s work has been used many [Editor’s note: The following piece includes that had been paved over or forgotten. times before — often without credit — since quotes from Black Richmonders explaining their Yates is a sound experimenter with the Hz she first presented it in the mid-’90s. thoughts and feelings about the city’s “Burial Collective. While researching a book she was writing, Ground for Negroes.” For various reasons, some When the two saw some people with Kambourian came across an old city map drawn asked not to be quoted by name.] clipboards walking around the area, they in 1780 and then revised in 1809 by the original “The paving over of the Burial Ground is became curious and asked what was going on. cartographer, Richard Young. like sweeping under the rug what has happened The people checking out the site said they There, on the site now occupied by the VCU to us for years and years.” were “planners” with Virginia Commonwealth parking lot, is a plot labeled “Burial Ground for Those were the words of an educator at University. They said they were surveying the Negroes.” In the center of the site is a symbol Virginia Commonwealth University. It’s also the site in preparation for VCU’s “upgrading” of for the city gallows. the parking lot. Her research was accepted by the DHR sentiment of several other Black Richmonders The university’s plans have been known for to support the Defenders’ application for interviewed about how they feel about VCU’s some time. Matthew Freeman, a member of the the establishment of the Gabriel Marker. plans to “upgrade” the parking lot that now Gabriel House collective on the city’s Northside, (Kamborian served on that project’s advisory covers Richmond’s oldest Black cemetery. R.J. Fields alerted the Defenders last year that information about committee, along with Dr. Douglas R. Egerton, “The site needs to be memorialized,” said mount and people struggle to navigate their the plans had been posted on VCU’s Web site. author of “Gabriel’s Rebellion,” and Dr. Haskell Ricky Brown, 48, a communications specialist. daily lives. What wasn’t known was that VCU had S. Bingham, a great, great, great, great-grandson “The way the site is being treated is parallel to “I think a lot of things have arisen in since repurchased the parking lot site (it owned of Gabriel and the family’s oral historian.) the way other issues in the Black community people’s lives, living people’s lives that it once before, but had sold it to a Cincinnati The next step, according to Councilwoman are easily dismissed. I would like to see people supercede this issue,” said the VCU educator. real estate outfit) and was planning to start the McQuinn, will be to work with the James River treat the site like they do the Confederate “I don’t know if it’s a priority. I think the “upgrade” in June. Archaeological Society or other experts in the cemetery: tend it and keep it up like you love priority for a lot of people is paying their rent, Alarmed, Merola and Yates called for a protest field to determine the best location for an initial the people there.” gas prices and their children — keeping them near the Burial Ground, under the Gabriel Marker survey. Finally, McQuinn says, there will be a “You don’t see them paving over Hollywood safe and giving them a good education.” on East Broad. (The Defenders led the effort in Town Hall-type meeting at which a report and Cemetery or any place Confederate soldiers Dr. Maya Corneille, 30, a psychologist 2004 to erect the state highway marker near the recommendations will be presented. are buried,” added another Richmonder. “But and researcher, agreed. “I think we [the Black Burial Ground, where the great slave rebellion A key issue at stake is the size of the area when it has something to do with Black people, community] are more focused on cleaning up leader Gabriel was executed on Oct. 10, 1800.) to be preserved. The actual lot that includes the they just do whatever they want.” our immediate pressing issues,” she said. “There The noontime protest, on Monday, June 2, parking lot measures 1.6 acres. The city map that Whether people want to recognize it or are so many things in Richmond that are in your was small, maybe a dozen people. Merola and Kambourian discovered seems to indicate that not, Black people played an important part in face, like the violence. You turn on the news and Yates were joined by Matthew Freeman, Jackson the entire lot was the site of the Burial Ground. the creation of Richmond and the country as a you see which Black man got shot today and Ward businessman Dawoud Shakur, members After trying unsuccessfully to interest city whole. However, it is the means under which which Black man was arrested.” of the Defenders, the Sacred Ground Historical officials in her findings, Kambourian presented Blacks’ contributions were made — slavery These are the things — the shootings, the Reclamation Project and a few others. her research at a public meeting held at the Black — that has something to do with the lack of arrests, the possibility of losing a public housing But the action was effective. It received History Museum and Cultural Center of Virginia respect for, and dismissal of, their part in U.S. community — that get reported on. They are broad media coverage, moving several public in Richmond’s Jackson Ward. One of those history. the most accessible. “The things that affect our officials and representatives of nonprofit present was Janine Bell, founder and artistic Slavery, being a divisive and painful aspect daily lives,” as Dr. Corneille put it. organizations to speak out against repaving the director of the Elegba Folklore Society, who is of this country’s foundation, presses portions “People don’t know about this issue [the site. These included Dwight Jones, chair of the also a member of the Slave Trail Commission. of American society to gloss over the subject Virginia General Assembly Legislative Black Bell invited Kambourian to make a presentation Burial Ground],” Epps said. all together, and with it the role of Blacks in “Maybe they don’t know,” added the VCU Caucus; William Pantele, president of Richmond to the commission, and also decided to America. City Council; Delores McQuinn, Council Vice educator. “I haven’t seen or heard about it on incorporate the site in Elegba’s annual Night Kyle Epps, 22, a visual artist and President and chair of the city’s Slave Trail Walk Along the Trail of Enslaved Africans. the news or in any mainstream media outlet. community activist, said he believes that Commission; Robin Poulton, president of As a result, the site already ranks as an All the information I have on it came from “slavery is linked to my life … and is directly Virginia Friends of Mali; representatives of the important gathering place for large numbers friends and word-of-mouth.” connected to the lives of Black Americans preservationist group ACORN; and more. of people meeting to remember and honor Dr. Corneille was asked if she thought today. But do people want to admit that?” Most of these made their statements Richmond’s Black ancestors. the preservation of the Burial Ground was an Slavery is a shameful part of America’s opposing VCU’s plans during a June 3 outdoor Reclaiming the Burial Ground also was vigorously important issue. program marking the start of the second phase taken up by former City Councilman Sa’ad El-Amin, past. That shame, unresolved, still resides in “Not really,” she said. “I feel we have of archaeological work being conducted on the who founded the Slave Trail Commission in 1998. the present. And that shame, for Blacks and bigger issues in Richmond. But do I think it is site of the former Lumpkin’s Jail, an equally It should not be forgotten that it was whites, leads many to simply want to move something we should ignore? Definitely not. historically significant site a few blocks south public outcry that stimulated the current on, to forget about the initial horrors of U.S. Society as a whole recognizes sites like this and of Broad Street not far from the Burial Ground. apparent progress in the reclamation of this history. They want to move on without making gives respect to the dead. So of course the site Several of those speaking out against the important site. Public participation and an open reconciliation of the past, and slavery in should be recognized and memorialized as such. “upgrading” plans called for a meeting with community-driven process will serve a project particular, a priority. The original problem was turning the site into a VCU President Eugene Trani in order to convey like this best. While the last several generations of Blacks parking lot the first time, not repaving it.” their concerns. The Slave Trail Commission is scheduled have not experienced the root pain of chattel “Make recognition of what it is,” said The following day, Delegate Jones, to meet again on July 10 at 4 p.m. in the slavery, many African-Americans continually Robert Wilson, 26, an actor. Councilwoman McQuinn and Council President East District Center, 725 N. 25th Street in taste slavery’s lasting bitter fruits: disparities Still, despite differences of opinion on the Pantele met with VCU representatives and Richmond’s Church Hill neighborhood. Aside running the gamut from higher unemployment priority the site should receive, most agree that Kathleen Kilpatrick, director of the Virginia from continuing to send letters and e-mails to rates to health care inequities to segregated and the history of the site should be memorialized. State Department of Historic Resources (DHR) VCU President Trani, this meeting provides the poorly funded schools to lower salaries for the The form of such a memorial is still unclear, to discuss the issue. next opportunity for input. same work and higher rates of incarceration but the sentiment is that something must go up As a result of this meeting, VCU and the Significantly, outgoing Richmond Mayor L. for the same crime. and that the history of Blacks in Richmond and Slave Trail Commission on June 6 issued a joint Douglas Wilder – a well-paid VCU employee This list of disparities within the fabric of this country cannot continue to go ignored. statement agreeing that work on the parking lot and promoter of the U.S. National Slavery American society is not definitive. All of these “Drive down Monument Avenue,” said would be “suspended” while an investigation Museum based in Fredericksburg, Va. – has things have roots in the past that await honest Dr. Corneille. “There is only one story being is conducted to determine exactly where the refused to comment on this issue. acknowledgment, recognition and recon- told. We [Black people] were here. Ignoring ciliation. But our story and putting parking lots over our Advertise in the Defender! for that to ancestors, which is symbolic of Richmond’s Volunteers needed! happen, the interaction with the Black community, makes 16,000 copies distributed issues of the it seem Richmond is not for us.” through a network of more than 275 sites, to help distribute the Defender in your past have to “You can’t deny history at all,” ended plus door-to-door & event distributions school, neighborhood or workplace. be a priority in Epps. “Trying to deny history only leads to the people’s lives same thing happening again.” FULL PAGE: $1,000 - 1/2 PAGE: $500 today. 1/4 PAGE: $250 - 1/8 PAGE: $125 All it takes is an hour or two However, A native of Kinston, N.C., R.J. Fields now 1/16 PAGE: $62.50 - BUSINESS CARD: $35.00 every two months, and a desire to help. that task is less lives in Richmond. He has taught at Virginia likely as the Commonwealth University and John Tyler For full-color ads, add $25% Please call (804) 644-5834 consequences Community College. He writings appear in Discounts for multiple ads of the past Sotac and Urban Views magazines. Affordable Health Programs • Dental Plans $19.95/mo 'cause it's not about where you've been, but where you're going • Medical Plans $29.95-$59.95/mo ‘cause it’s not about where you’ve been, but where you’re going Average Girl Magazine LLC Rebekah L. Pierce, Publisher P.O. Box 4971 [email protected] Midlothian, VA 23112 Sign up today. (804) 274-8976 www.averagegirlmagazine.com Average Girl Magazine LLC Rebekah L. Pierce, Publisher P.O. Box 4971 [email protected] Midlothian, VA 23112 800-301-0252 (804) 274-8976 www.averagegirlmagazine.com Use your benefits tomorrow. THE DEFENDER COMMUNITY CALENDAR - July / August 2008

The Richmond Defender is published DOGWOOD DELL – A special concert titled Virginia Union University’s Samuel DeWitt Proc- on the first Friday of every other month, “African Dance, Music & the Oral Tradition.” tor School of Theology. (See story on page 3.) Important Dates in starting with the January/February issue. Dance, music and folklore of the Manding Free, but preregistration is urged. Information: Information for the Community Calendar cosmology of West Africa, with choreography Contact forum conveners Marie F. Coone at Black History must be received by the Friday before the by Mohamed Dacosta and Kadiatou Conte (804) 231-3338 or the Rev. Junius Gash at (804) July 1, 1889 - Frederick Douglass named U.S. publication date. Please include the name of Guinea and Elegba’s own artistic director, 222-6264. Janine Yvette Bell. Premiere of Ms. Conte’s Minister to Haiti. of the event, the event sponsor, contact Sat., Aug. 9 – FILIPINO FESTIVAL - “Celebrat- “Tambour de Guine.” 8:30 p.m., Dogwood Dell information, time, date, place and any ing the unique culinary and cultural heritage July 4, 1900 - Trumpeter Louis “Satchmo” amphitheater in Byrd Park, at the south end of of the Philippine Islands. Flavorful cuisine with Armstrong, jazz pioneer, born. admission cost. We do not normally list the Boulevard. Information: Elegba FolkloreSo- oriental and western influences. Tropical drinks July 6, 1957 - Althea Gibson wins women’s singles events held on a weekly basis. ciety at (804) 644-3900 or visit www.efsinc.org. and desserts. Internationally-oriented dances title at Wimbledon, becoming first African-American Be sure and call ahead to make sure the Fri., July 11 - SMALL BUSINESS WORKSHOP & music. Beer, bands, exhibits, children’s kid- to win tennis’s most prestigious award. information listed is current. – For owners and prospective owners of small dieland, vendors.” 9 a.m., Our Lady Of Lourdes July 11, 1905 - W.E.B. Dubois and William Monroe Note: Listing of an event does not necessar- business. Presented by SCORE, a “nonprofit Parish, 8200 Woodman Road. Information: Trotter organize the Niagara Movement, which ily imply an endorsement by this newspaper. association dedicated to educating entrepre- www.filipinofestival.org. demanded abolition of all race distinctions. neurs and the formation, growth and success Fri., Aug. 15, and Sat., Aug. 16 - 18th ANNUAL To place a display ad with more informa- of small business nationwide.” 8 a.m. - 4:15 July 15, 1867 - Maggie Lena Walker, first DOWN HOME FAMILY REUNION – Sponsored tion, or for events with an admission charge p.m., Capital One Town Center Building, 15000 woman and first African-American to become by the Elegba Folklore Society. Information: president of a bank, born in Richmond. of more than $10, please contact our Capital One Drive. Information: (804) 771-2400, (804) 644-3900 or visit www.efsinc.org. advertising department at (804) 644-5834 or ext. 131. July 16, 1862 - Anti-lynching activist Ida B. Sat., Aug. 16 – COMMUNITY MARCH – Noon, Wells Barnett born. e-mail [email protected]. Tues., July 15 – SCHOOL BOARD CANDI- Oliver Hill Way Courthouse/Richmond City Jail. DATES’ FORUM – Sponsored by the Richmond July 28, 1868 - 14th Amendment granting Sponsored by the prisoner advocacy organiza- Crusade for Voters. For time and location, call Blacks full citizenship rights becomes law. tion R.I.H.D. Information: (804) 562-2123 or WASHINGTON, D.C. (804) 908-7400. e-mail [email protected] or InMa- July 29, 1895 - First National Conference of Col- ored Women Convention is held in Boston. Fri., July 25 – Sun., July 27 – THIRD ANNUAL Sat., July 19 – MOTIVE8’S 7TH ANNUAL [email protected]. Website: www.rihd.org. “CITYWIDE” RECOGNITION DAY CELEBRA- Aug. 2, 1924 - James Baldwin, author, born WASHINGTON AFRICAN DIASPORA FILM Sat., Aug. 16 – TOWN HALL MEETING – Top- TION - “Objective: To bring unity in the com- SERIES - National Museum of Women in the ics: Virginia Prison System Awareness and Aug. 5, 1962 - Nelson Mandela, South African munity through positive partnership building. Arts, 1250 New York Ave., NW, Washington, Restoration of Felon Voting Rights Application freedom fighter, imprisoned. We will offer free food and drinks, live enter- D.C. Sponsored by TransAfrica Forum’s Arthur & Filing Assistance. 1 p.m., Wesley Memorial tainment, educational speakers, health care Aug. 9, 1936 - Jesse Owens wins fourth gold R. Ashe, Jr. Foreign Policy Library, ArtMattan United Methodist Church, 1720 Mechanicsville services, employment services, a fashion show, medal at Summer Olympics in Berlin. Productions and National Museum of Women in Turnpike. (Zip code 23223) Sponsored by sack race, moon bounce, three youth and adult the Arts.$9 per program. Information: http:// the prisoner advocacy organization R.I.H.D. Aug. 11, 1921 - Alex Haley, author of “Roots,” born. raffles and more.” Noon - 8 p.m., Byrd Park transafricaforum.org/pdf/filmseries2008.pdf Information: (804) 562-2123 or e-mail On- Aug. 21, 1831 - Nat Turner leads slave revolt in Shields Lake. Information: www.motiv8s.org. [email protected] or InMateRe- Southhampton County, Va. RICHMOND - Ongoing Sun., July 20 – SYMPOSIUM ON THE CIVIL [email protected]. Website: www.rihd.org. Aug. 23, 1926 - Carter Woodson, historian, RIGHTS MOVEMENT – Library of Virginia. Through Aug. 31 – TELL ME WHERE YOU’RE Tues., Aug. 19 – CITY COUNCIL CANDIDATES’ author, inaugurates Negro History Week. MARCHING, TELL ME WHERE YOU’RE Mon., July 21 – UNVEILING & DEDICATION OF FORUM – Sponsored by the Richmond Cru- Aug. 27, 1935 - Mary McLeod Bethune founds BOUND – Photography of former Richmond THE CIVIL RIGHTS MEMORIAL – Capitol Square. sade for Voters. For time and location, call (804) the National Council of Negro Women. 908-7400. slave sites, including “Manchester Docks, Thurs., July 24 - “MONEY IN POLITICS: THE Aug. 30, 1800 – Gabriel’s Rebellion in Rich- Lumpkin’s Jail and the Negro Burial Ground or, PUBLIC’S RIGHT TO KNOW” - “David Poole, Sat., Aug. 30 – HAPPILY NATURAL DAY - “A mond is delayed by a terrible thunderstorm and rather, the asphalt parking lots and empty fields executive director and founder of the Virginia family-oriented, grassroots festival dedi- then betrayed by two enslaved Africans. that now cover these landmarks.” By guest Public Access Project, will discuss the VPAP cated to social change, cultural awareness curator and photographer Shanna Merola. Val- and demonstrate how to use the system that & holistic health.” entine Richmond History Center, 1015 E. Clay tracks money in Virginia politics. The VPAP Web Music, lectures and St. Tues.-Sat., 10 a.m.-5 p.m.; Sun. noon-5 site also maintains a list of lobbyists and has workshops. Ginter Water is the Gift of Life p.m.; closed Mon. Admission: $10; $5 mem- election results dating back to 1997. Co-spon- Park Elementary bers. Valentine Richmond History Center, 1015 sored by the Society of Professional Journalists School. Hosted by Stay Healthy by drinking E. Clay St. Information: (804) 649-0711; www. and the League of Women Voters of Virginia.” the Universal Negro richmondhistorycenter.com. Noon - 1 p.m., Library of Virginia, 800 W. Broad Improvement As- Pure Artesian Water Through Jan. 9, 2009 – BATTLE FOR THE St. Information: (804) 692-3592. sociation & African “From Nature’s Hands to Yours” Communities CITY: THE POLITICS OF RACE 1950s-1970s -- Sunday, July 27 – COMMUNITY FORUM ON League in collabora- “With stunning imagery and artifacts, the History RICHMOND’S AFRICAN BURIAL GROUND Available for your tion with Camp Diva. Center revisits citywide conflicts over integra- – Sponsored by the UNIA-ACL Prosser-Truth Information: (804) Home or Business tion, civil rights, urban planning, transportation, Division No. 456. (Time and place to be an- 687-8157; e-mail: and political representation, the outcomes of nounced.) which affected Richmond’s physical and social hndsupport@gmail. landscape.” Information: See above item. Tues., July 29 - FAITH CONVERSATIONS - A com or visit http:// forum designed to further involve leaders of the happilynaturalday. Tribe of Shabazz RICHMOND - Events faith community in addressing the many press- com/sponsorpro- ing issues facing Richmond-area residents. posal.pdf. Thurs., July 10 – ELEGBA IN CONCERT AT Featured speaker: Dr. John W. Kinney, Dean of Order yours today! Call 804.308.1518 MEDITERRANEAN BAKERY & DELI Now, more than ever, It pays to advertise in Chop Arabic & Greek Suey products The Richmond “We Buy Books” Halal meat available Books 1317 W. Cary St. Great deli selection Defender! specializing in art, photography, Richmond, VA 23220 architecture, philosophy Call ahead & 16,000 copies! More than & modern firsts (804) 497-4705 pick up for lunch 280 distribution sites! [email protected] USED & RARE BOOKS WWW.CHOPSUEYBOOKS.COM 9004 Quioccasin Road, Richmond 804-754-8895 The best rates in the area! 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