Confederate Monuments and a Lesson in History

Lighting The Road To The Future

Up Close Data with K. Zone Michelle Page 7

“The People’s Paper” August 1 - August 7, 2015 50th Year Volume 14 www.ladatanews.com

A Data News Weekly Exclusive Confederate Monuments and a Lesson in History

Mayor Landrieu Calls for Removal of Confederate Monuments Page 2 Special Dollars & Sense First Lady Minority of the Banks Black Press Shut Out Page 5 Page 10 Page 2 August 1 - August 7, 2015 Cover Story www.ladatanews.com

Confederate Monuments and a Lesson in History Mayor Landrieu Calls for Removal of Confederate Monuments How Will this Reshape Telling the Story of the History of New Orleans

With the recent debate surrounding the Confederate Flag in South Carolina, New Orleans is now at the center of a debate about what to do with four public monuments attached to the Confederacy. Above, groups gather to protest the statue erected in Lee Circle, memorial to Confederate General Robert E. Lee.

By Edwin Buggage ried and colorful history; questions have arisen about people has come through leaving their mark; becom- what aspects of the City should we observe, recognize ing one of the many ingredients in the gumbo that is and celebrate . When you look back at nearly three cen- called New Orleans . History of a City: A Matter of Perspective turies you see a City that’s dealt with the challenges Today in an age that we see history being revisited As New Orleans gets ready to celebrate its 300th of rebuilding a City after fire, war, and disasters, both and revised to reflect a larger reality and hearing the Anniversary in 2018, where it will look back on its sto- natural and man-made . It is a City that many different voices and perspectives of those who were once voice-

Cover Story, Continued on next page.

DATA NEWS WEEKLY P.O. Box 57347, New Orleans, LA 70157-7347 | Phone: (504) 821-7421 | Fax: (504) 821-7622 INSIDE DATA editorial: [email protected] | advertising: [email protected] Terry B. Jones Contributors Art Direction & Production CEO/Publisher Edwin Buggage MainorMedia.com Jazelle Hunt Cover Story ...... 2 Commentary . . . 8. . Edwin Buggage Editorial Submissions Terry B. Jones datanewseditor@ Editor bellsouth.net State and Local News . 4 In The Spirit . . . 9. . Melanie Mainor Calla Victoria Advertising Inquiries Marc Morial datanewsad@ Executive Assistant Special Feature . . . . . 5 Dollar & Sense . . 10. Julianne Malveaux bellsouth.net Distribution June Hazeur James Washington Data Zone ...... 6 National News . . 11. On The Run Accounting Shantella Y. Sherman Courier Services Please call 504-309-9913 for subscription information or to obtain a back issue of the paper ONLY. Dated material two weeks in advance. Not responsible for publishing or return of unsolicited manuscripts or photos. www.ladatanews.com Cover Story August 1 - August 7, 2015 Page 3

Cover Story, Continued from previous page.

L to r : Pierre Gustave Toutant-Beauregard was a Southern military officer, politician, inventor, writer, civil servant, and the first prominent general of the Confederate States Army during the American Civil War. Jefferson Finis Davis was an American politician who was the President of the Confederate States of America during the American Civil War. General Robert E. Lee was an American soldier best known for commanding the Confederate Army of Northern Virginia in the American Civil War from 1862 until his surrender in 1865.

less a controversy has arisen from 1960’s at which time he was arrest- and the Rise of White William Pitt Kellogg, and General a lost cause, instead it commemo- those who feel these voices are not ed and dragged by his heels down a Supremacy James Longstreet, Commander of rates a victory that was seen by valid and is an example of politi- flight of stairs . In the 1993 incident To put this story in context one the militia and police force in the many White New Orleanians as the cal correctness gone too far . With he was arrested and was placed in must understand what was going battle, took refuge in the federal de facto, if not official, end of Recon- the recent debate surrounding the a chokehold by members of the on at the time . Below is an excerpt customhouse, a building that the struction . To those on the losing Confederate Flag in South Carolina, NOPD . Today he stands as a hero from Chris Cook’s Blog, “Lagniappe White League was rightfully wary side of the Democratic takeover of New Orleans is now at the center of widening the lanes of democracy and Other Perspectives,” also while of taking by force . Three days later, government after Reconstruction, of a debate about what to do with in New Orleans with an express- reading you may see historical par- federal troops arrived in New Or- the Black citizens who saw their four public monuments attached way, school, Charity Hospital was allels . leans and the White League capitu- civil rights disappear in successive to the confederacy . Should they be renamed and a statue was erected The “Battle” of Liberty Place lated . As with the Lost Cause move- redrafts of the state constitution; removed and what will that mean in his honor of his contribution to was essentially a coup in which the ment’s later reinterpretation of the monument memorializes the moving forward? the history of New Orleans . White League of New Orleans de- General Robert E . Lee’s surrender beginning of Jim Crow . In regards to the issue of Con- posed the State’s Republican Gov- at Appomattox, the White League Landrieu Proposes federacy and it’s symbols there are ernor by force . The 1872 election found a way to interpret their sur- Confederacy, Racism, Removing City Monuments advocates on both sides of this is- cycle, like many during the period, render to federal forces as a moral History, Healing and that Celebrates sue who have strong opinions, but was one fraught with accounts and victory . Accepting Change Confederates, but Does the question we must ask ourselves allegations of voter fraud and intimi- The 1880s and 1890s were a pe- New Orleans is a City filled Removing a Monument is how do we write our history and dation at the polls . In the guberna- riod of celebration for Confederate with reminders of the Confederacy Erase a History of who determines what is important? torial contest, both the Republicans heroes and ideals, as their 1865 de- one can just look at the Confeder- Oppression and Exclusion? And does the removing of monu- and Democrats declared their side feat became a distant memory after ate Memorial Hall that opened its Recently, New Orleans Mayor ments erase the memories or re- the victor (though it is hard to imag- the end of Federal Reconstruction . doors in New Orleans on January 8, Mitch Landrieu has called for the dress things in a way that leads to ine a legitimate Democratic victory The cultural and political movement 1891, and since that time has been removal of four of the City’s most any resolutions? Ultimately, the at a time when a significant percent- referred to as the Lost Cause of the commemorating the military his- well-known monuments that’s con- larger question as it relates to his- age of the Black vote was needed Confederacy redefined the Civil tory and heritage of the South . The nected to the Confederacy: Statues tory is how do you paint a complete to win office), creating a stalemate War experience, and in doing so museum is the oldest in Louisiana of Confederate Generals Robert E . picture of times past with everyone that drug on for two years . In rural erased from the public conscious- and houses one of the largest col- Lee and P .G .T . Beauregard; a statue at the table determining how it will Louisiana, branches of the White ness the defeat of the Confederacy lections of Confederate memora- of Jefferson Davis, the President be presented? League perpetrated the Colfax and and emphasized victory over Black bilia in the United States . of the Confederacy; and an obelisk In the age of expanded and in- Coushatta Massacres to ensure the politicians and the federal imposi- Also of note when one think of commemorating the Battle of Lib- stant access to information it is vital recognition of Democratic Candi- tion of civil rights protections . In history and historical figures one erty Place, a bloody confrontation that educating people is a valuable date John McEnery . Rather than 1889, the United Confederate Vet- must not trap them in a static mode instigated by ex-Confederates look- tool in assessing and redressing a pursuing such outright violence, as- erans Organization was founded in of judging them and their views for ing to overthrow the State’s Recon- past to move towards a better fu- sassination, and mayhem to claim New Orleans, growing steadily into these things are dynamic and evo- struction government; a battle that ture . So as opposed to a caricatur- the election, the White League a large, national organization by the lutionary in nature and shaped by led to the end of Federal Recon- ing of the Confederates and those in New Orleans organized an im- turn of the Twentieth Century and many forces both external and in- struction in New Orleans and the who served as just a bunch of racist promptu army on the morning of becoming a strong force for rede- ternal . So when we look, view them beginning of Jim Crow Laws that and the Union Army and northern- September 14, 1874 to seize the fining the South’s relationship with through the lens of history we see made racial segregation the law of ers as believing in social equality government of Louisiana itself . The the Civil War . Monuments were a more complete picture of their the land . for Blacks is both shortsighted and battle was reminiscent of the Civil also constructed on a grand scale . evolution and their contributions to The latter re-emerged as a sym- historically inaccurate; history is War, with units of the White League Tivoli Circle became Lee Circle; history . bol of controversy in 1993 when a not simply as Black and White as engaging a defensive, racially in- Jefferson Davis (who was temporar- One can just look at George rededication ceremony led by for- that and we must mature as a nation tegrated State Militia and Metro- ily interred in Metairie Cemetery Wallace, the former Governor of mer Ku Klux Klan Leader, David and accept this fact . politan Police Force . Hours into the after his death in New Orleans) and Alabama who became a symbol Duke, prompted a counter protest fighting, the White League was able P .G .T . Beauregard were commemo- of segregation in the south during by local Civil Rights Icon and Civic A Brief History of to flank their opponents and seize rated with statues as well . But the the Civil Rights Movement who Leader Rev . Avery Alexander, who Confederate New Orleans the Cabildo (still the seat of gov- 1891 monument to Liberty Place is is well known for attempting to inte- during Reconstruction ernment at the time) and Arsenal . different: it does not honor a gallant Cover Story, Continued grate the cafeteria at City Hall in the The Republican Governor Elect, warrior or statesman who served on page 10. Page 4 August 1 - August 7, 2015 State & Local News www.ladatanews.com 7/25: New Orleans Peace Keepers Launched Peace Campaign RushCard Initiative Supports Six Nonprofit Big Dreams Community Organizations Nationally

The Peace Keepers launched their “Peacekeepers Ground Zero for Peace Program” in New Orleans on Saturday, July 25 at the Saint Roch Community Playground, 1800 St . Roch Avenue . The program fea- tured remarks from members of the Peace Keepers and concluded with hundreds of community members walking into the designated “ground zero” neighborhood and engaging young people to create a more peaceful community . Their peacekeeping work will continue throughout the summer . The event is part of RushCard’s “Keep the Peace” initiative, an annual program that supports nonprofit, community-based organizations and coalitions across the country that have developed unique and successful models for reducing violence in their neighborhoods, especially among young people . Six “Keep the Peace” grant recipients have been chosen this year in the cities of New Orleans, Chicago, Bal- timore, Cincinnati, Los Angeles and New York . Each organization will receive $25,000 to help support and expand peacekeeping efforts and create opportunities to empower Pictured Above is Russell Simmons, founder of the Rush Card sponsor Miami’s Mayor Carlos Jimenez & Brandon Okpalobi, C.E.O. of Dibia young people in their communi- of the New Orleans Peace Keepers Peace Program. The event is part Athletic Development and Dibia DREAM ties . “Keep the Peace” is a program of RushCard’s “Keep the Peace” initiative, an annual program that supports nonprofit, community-based organizations and coalitions across under Rise to Thrive, RushCard’s the country. community outreach initiative . New Orleans native and St . and engineering via a partnership Augustine alumnus, Brandon Ok- STEM NOLA . palobi, was recently honored by the Brandon Okpalobi was award- City of Miami for his community ed the Youth Sports Ambassador Data News Weekly is Hiring outreach through his non-profit Award by Miami’s Mayor Jimenez, organization Dibia D .R .E .A .M . (De- for leadership and service to chil- Data News Weekly Newspaper, The People’s Paper, velopment through Recreational dren in the community . This is an Education for Athletic Minds) . The amazing accomplishment for Ok- is hiring for two positions in our New Orleans Office. organization hosts sports camps palobi whose two organizations throughout the country, and in Ber- are still in their infancy . The parent muda . Okpalobi brings his Essence company Dibia Athletic Develop- Sales Manager/Retail Ad Manager of Sports Camp to New Orleans an- ment is only four years old, while

About the Job nually to coincide with the Essence Dibia D .R .E .A .M . is not even one- Data News Weekly News- • Prospect and develop • Minimum 5 years print and Our company provides Festival . His successful 2015 Es- year old yet . Expect greater things paper is the leading African sales leads for print and digital sales and manager a competitive salary, sence of Sports Camp hosted over from Mr . Brandon Okpalobi who’s American media company digital product lines experience and an environment in New Orleans, publishing • Drive online and cross • Self-starter, capable of ex- a weekly newspaper. Ad- that encourages per- 80 kids exposing young minds to company motto is “Dream Big and platform advertising sales ecuting within all phases ditionally, its website under sonal and professional of sales cycle athletic prowess, life skills, science Conquer!” ladatanews.com is the most growth. We are an read Black website in the • Identify, create strategies, • Strong relationship build- equal opportunity em- region. develop influential con- ing and client service tacts, and help close new background ployer. digital products We are currently seeking a • Strong organizational, If you are interested strong leader to proactively communication and pre- in a rewarding career, • Increase overall revenue manage broad aspects of sentation skills email a cover letter the advertising division. You opportunities in both print • Team player and leader will be working in a positive and online and resume to: ter- team-oriented atmosphere • Develop a team sales at- • Understanding of Ana- rybjones@bellsouth. which has a modern press, mosphere lytics and ad serving net or mail to: Data leading website and award- technology News Weekly, c/o Terry winning newspaper. Our ideal candidate will pos- • Strong motivational Jones, Publisher, 3501 sess the following education, skills Napoleon Avenue, Responsibilities include but New Orleans LA 70125 more photos not limited to: • Recruit talent skills and experience: more stories more data www.ladatanews.com Special Feature August 1 - August 7, 2015 Page 5

Legacy of ‘First Lady of the Black Press’ Still Relevant Today

Ethel Payne with President Lyndon B. Johnson

“First Lady” of the Black Press Ethel Payne

With 40 years of tireless journal- By Jazelle Hunt nant filter today remains a White- ism and a legacy honed at a Black- NNPA National controlled media .” owned newspaper, Payne earned Correspondent Ethel Payne was poking holes in that filter at a time when the White her reputation as the “First Lady of WASHINGTON (NNPA) – majority fought against the tide of the Black Press .” When James McGrath Morris set sustained agitation to secure civil “When The New York Times or out to write his latest book, he didn’t and human rights for all . At the Chi- The Washington Post would report President Richard M. Nixon and Ethel Payne know how timely it would be . When cago Defender, Payne was the eyes on the passage of the Civil Rights Eye on the Struggle: Ethel Payne, and ears of the Civil Rights Move- Act of ‘64 or the Voting Rights Act of the White media was going to raid tell them our story . I like to expand The First Lady of the Black Press ment, reporting from its front lines ‘65, the tone of the articles was that the Black press for the best report- that…we tend to teach the Civil hit shelves, Essence magazine had in the Deep South, press conferenc- these were munificent gifts being ers, offer them jobs at much higher Rights Movement focused on its just released its Black Lives Mat- es at the White House, and iconic given to a disenfranchised people,” pay . And if you’re raising a family, leadership,” he said . ter issue . The Justice Department rulings at the Supreme Court . In Morris said . what are you going to do?” Morris “Ethel Payne was part of the had closed its investigation into 1953, she became the third Black “Whereas, if you opened up the recounted . lesser-known group, she’s in the Trayvon Martin’s murder, with no person to join the White House Afro American or the Pittsburgh “Many of the best reporters were second, third tier of the Civil charges . Mainstream media was Press Corps, and was known for Courier or Chicago Defender, what lured away . But also, importantly, Rights Movement . I see younger scrambling to report on police vio- persistently prodding President you were seeing was coverage of the economic basis of the Black people…waiting for somebody lence and systemic racial ills, and Dwight D . Eisenhower on Jim Crow the fact that these were victories, press was undercut . Because when else to come and lead them . But Black Americans took much of this laws and desegregation efforts . hard-won victories by people who the White press refused to cover these movements come from ev- coverage to task for its racist, shal- In the ’50s and ’60s, she jetted laid their lives on the line . Nothing Black communities – high school eryday people .” low, or negligent portrayals . around the globe for international was being given . In fact, [Payne’s] tournaments, weddings, gradua- Morris, a former journalist who “We get these events filtered stories such as Black soldiers in coverage often highlighted the in- tions, obituaries – there was an eco- also taught high school history for through the mainstream media . Vietnam and the Nigerian Civil adequacies of these pieces of legis- nomic reason for [Black papers] .” a decade, has been writing biogra- The mainstream media is still War, becoming the first Black wom- lation .” Further, another side effect of phies and narrative nonfiction for very White . I don’t mean they an to be a fulltime foreign corre- In the early ‘70s, Ernest Green, integration and the Civil Rights many years . In searching for a new don’t hire people of color…it’s a spondent . Yet, she always returned a member of the Little Rock Nine, Movement is that subsequent gen- subject, he stumbled upon Payne’s perspective issue . The fact the for on-the-ground coverage of mo- made a quip to Payne about what erations do not get a thorough and name, which was unknown to him media had a debate over the use ments that would become history, desegregation would do to such true education on Black history, at the time . With a little more re- of the word ‘terrorist’ [for Dylann such the start of the Montgomery coverage . or how the Movement happened . search, he was startled to find that Roof] in South Carolina is an indi- bus boycott and the desegregation “He said to her that the suc- Payne said as much at a speak- few historians had taken a deep cation,” said Morris . of Little Rock, Ark .’s Central High cesses she and others made with ing engagement at her childhood look at her contributions to journal- “So what I found is that Ethel School . the Civil Rights Movement were church, [Greater] St . John A .ME . ism and the Civil Rights Movement . Payne’s story, her perspective, her In 1972, Payne joined CBS and going to put the Black Press out of Church . “For me, [this book] has been form of journalism 50 years ago, became the first Black woman com- business . Obviously, that was too “She told her audience that, ours the greatest experience of my life . still has relevance today . Because mentator at a major network . In strong of a determination, because was a generation who laid their It’s been really an honor, for me as while we may have made leaps in 2002, she was memorialized on a there’s still a viable Black press, but lives on the line to send our kids Special, Continued on page 9. terms of segregation…the domi- postage stamp . his bigger point was right in that to college, but in doing so forgot to Page 6 August 1 - August 7, 2015 Data Zone www.ladatanews.com

Happy Birthday to Eliott Gray! Photos by Terry B. Jones

Elliot Gray celebrated his 64th birthday with his girlfriend Vickie Williams and lots of friends and family . It was held at his home in New Orleans East on Saturday, July 18th . This is an annual event . It was a huge success with a large crowd in attendance and Data was also there!!!

Visit www.ladatanews.com for more photos from these events www.ladatanews.com Data Zone August 1 - August 7, 2015 Page 7 Up Close with K. Michelle

“make you understand why you do this tour with Ms . Banks and being with [job], because it really gets to be a lot .” another female artist who speaks up It’s no wonder K can’t get enough of about music and feminism, and isn’t Nola, mentioning that with the musical afraid to have an unpopular opinion . culture, loving vibes, and genuine peo- It wouldn’t be jumping the gun to ple, it was the city that she was most expect a collaboration between these excited about performing in besides two artists in the future, as they’ll be her hometown of Memphis, TN . spending a lot of time on the road to- In her Reality TV life, K . Michelle is gether while K . Michelle is “currently known as a big voice in a petite pack- working on getting her third album age who isn’t afraid to speak up and underway”, she told Data . It’s also pos- keep it real . She has starred in hit Real- sible that fans of K . Michelle’s TV mu- ity TV series Love and Hip Hop Atlanta sical “Rebellious Soul”, will be getting and later was given her own show on a part two, as K shared with Data that VH1, K . Michelle: My Life . she was considering putting another The reality TV star and R&B art- musical in the works . ist even ventured out and took on a Interestingly enough, K . Michelle scripted roll in a musical based on her has thrown her hat into the ring as album and directed by ex-boyfriend a business owner as well, as she ex- Idris Elba . In addition to starring and pected to open a new bar and lounge executive producing her own reality in Atlanta in the next three months . TV show, K . Michelle let us in on a Puff Bar and Lounge will be the new secret that she has another TV proj- hottest venue on Edgewood, right ect coming up that she’s also execu- next to Harold’s Chicken . Accord- tive producing called Player’s Court . ing to K, she designed the bar to In this upcoming reality TV series, resemble her perfect world and her K . Michelle will team up with view- idea of a “girlcave” . You can expect ers who are looking for help hunting this new Atlanta nightlife hotspot to down and busting their cheating part- feature a Motown feel, accompanied Singer and reality TV star K. Michelle ners in the act . She also gave us the by K . Michelle’s signature Jack Dan- scoop about an hour-long scripted iel’s Honey cocktails and menu items cooked with the sweet and succulent By Melanie Mainor enough to give us the scoop before “dramadey” in the works with Kevin whiskey as a part of her sponsorship Data News Weekly Contributor getting ready for her concert that eve- Hart and Jesse Collins . ning at the House of Blues . K made it Even with all of her TV projects un- with the company . Needless to say, this BET and Jack Daniel’s Tennessee a point to express her love for her New derway, K is still focusing on her mu- Memphis sweetheart has a lot of proj- Honey teamed up to bring Honey Jam Orleans fan-base, recalling that all of sic and getting ready for her upcom- ects in the works, but even with such a to the Big Easy and Data News Weekly her Nola shows are completely sold ing tour with artist Azealia Banks . hectic schedule carves out time to take had the chance to sit down with the out . When asked what was it she loved The tour will take off September 15th it easy in the Big Easy . concert’s headliner, R&B singer and about performing in New Orleans, she and hit 20 cities across the U .S . Simi- Before wrapping up, K mentioned reality TV star K . Michelle . answered “the fans” without hesitation . lar to K . Michelle, Azealia Banks is an how much she was looking forward The Memphis singer was attending For K . Michelle, it’s the realness of artist known for being outspoken and to the intimate setting at the House of a meet and greet with BET’s Honey the fans here that she likes the most often considered controversial and K Blues and getting some quality time Jam contest winners and was gracious stating that her New Orleans fans seemed very excited about going on with some of her favorite fans .

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Real Talk for Real Times... 1639 Gentilly Blvd. New Orleans, LA 70119 (504)942-0106 www.wbok1230am.com Page 8 August 1 - August 7, 2015 Commentary www.ladatanews.com

To Be Equal The 2015 National Urban League Conference

In a moment of perhaps the communities . As in years past, our for the highest office in the land Stage with celebrity-filled sessions greatest social and economic up- nation’s most influential community not only listen to our concerns, but and local entertainment; a college heaval in a generation, thousands leaders, top policy makers, political be a part of its discussion and of- fair with colleges, universities, and of people from all walks of life and and business leaders, and so many fer up their unique strategies and scholarship organizations; and a manner of profession will convene more, will join in our continuing ef- solutions for consideration to the marketplace of local small busi- in Fort Lauderdale, Fla . to do more forts to make a real difference for very people who may one day move nesses . than recite our country’s familiar lit- our cities . them into that coveted White House In a nod to these modern times any of challenges; more than march Following a long-standing tradi- at 1600 Pennsylvania Avenue . and this generation’s methods of Marc Morial and raise our voices in rightful and tion of major-party presidential can- The chance to engage in thought- mobilizing around issues of social President and CEO outraged unison; and more than didates addressing the conference, ful dialogue and interact with na- justice in the digital era, the Na- National Urban League debate within the narrow confines the National Urban League counts tional leaders and luminaries is one tional Urban League, in partnership of our individual communities . For several 2016 presidential hopefuls of many unique opportunities be- with Digital Grass, is hosting “Tech- “You can holler, protest, march, four power-packed days, we will dis- – Republicans and Democrats alike ing offered at the conference . The Connect: Hack-A-Thon for Social picket and demonstrate, but some- cuss and debate the state of our cit- – as invited guests . The candidates, National Urban League has also Justice,” presented by Comcast body must be able to sit in on the ies . We will become the architects including former Secretary of State developed quality programs, events NBCUniversal . The two-day hack-a- strategy conferences and plot a of new solutions to old, entrenched Hillary Clinton, Vermont Sen . Ber- and forums to inform and inspire at- thon is a call to action for tech-savvy course . There must be strategies .” problems and well thought out nie Sanders, former Florida Gov . tendees and motivate them to con- innovators to design original appli- – Whitney M . Young, National strategies to save our embattled cit- Jeb Bush, former Maryland Gov . tinue empowering themselves, and cations to alleviate the most press- Urban League President, 1961-1971 ies . Martin O’Malley and retired neuro- by extension, their communities ing social issues of our day, particu- America faces tremendous chal- This year’s National Urban surgeon Dr . Ben Carson, will share and the nation . larly in the areas of education, jobs lenges today and tomorrow . As a League Conference theme, “Save their respective visions for a more The Expo Hall will feature hun- and justice . nation, we are experiencing what Our Cities: Education, Jobs + Jus- equitable and inclusive America in dreds of exhibitors; a career and net- There are many reasons to reg- may be the most intense focus in tice,” is a unique opportunity for the candidates’ session, “Off to the working fair; a Health Zone where ister and become a part of this sin- decades on economic inequality, mission-oriented conversation and Races: The 2016 Presidential Candi- attendees can enjoy workshops and educational equity, racial justice – action on policies and issues affect- dates’ Plenary .” get free health screenings for the Commentary, and injustice . ing African Americans and urban It is vital that those contending entire family; an Empowerment Continued on page 9.

For Centuries, Black Lives Did Not Matter

flaw . We still live with the legacy leave the stage because the protest- cators . movement is much needed . Their of enslavement, when Black folks er’s chants drowned him out . Can- In the wake of Michael Brown’s pressure to stop police brutality has were other people’s property . Black didate Hilary Clinton was not pres- massacre, Ferguson elected two pushed police departments to use folks aren’t property now (unless ent, and some objected to that, but new Black members for the city video cameras, and made it possible they are the much-exploited convict she either missed the opportunity council . Now, Andre Anderson, an for us to see the repugnant behav- laborers), but unequal treatment is to engage, or was spared embar- African American man from Glen- ior of State Trooper Brian T . Encin- not just historical – it still happens . rassment if she emulated O’Malley dale, Arizona, has been appointed ia, who roughed up Sandra Bland That’s why the Black Lives Matter and Sanders stance . interim police chief . Ferguson is because she would not put out her movement is so important . Both O’Malley and Sanders have under pressure to do better . What cigarette after being pulled over or The Black Lives Matter Move- scrambled to clean up their acts, about the rest of our country? failure to signal a lane change . Julianne Malveaux ment was a constructive outgrowth backtracking and owning the “mis- If Michael Brown’s killing was Don’t tell me that White lives NNPA Columnist of the Trayvon Martin murder, takes” they’ve made in dealing with the impetus for Ferguson voters to matter . That’s not new information . It ought to be unnecessary for an furthered by the protests that hap- the young activists that have taken go to the polls, that’s a good thing, Whose faces are on our money? activist movement to hinge on the pened in the wake of a Missouri the lead in protesting police brutal- though it shouldn’t take that . If the Whose statues grace legislative principle of the equivalency of life . grand jury’s failure to bring charges ity and asserting the importance of Black Lives Matter Movement does buildings? Who leads the over- In the worlds of Democratic presi- against Darren Wilson, the murder- Black lives . To clean up their acts, the same thing nationally, the Dem- whelming majority of Fortune 500 dential candidates (don’t get me er of 18-year-old Michael Brown . As all of the candidates need to listen ocratic nominee has a better chance companies? Who dominates our leg- started on the Republicans), there multiracial crowds proclaimed, to leaders of the Black Lives Mat- of winning in November 2016 . If the islative bodies? Our African Ameri- is a compelling need to point out “Black Lives Matter,” it seemed ter Movement instead of talking at Black Lives Matter movement is can president, supposedly the most that Black Lives Matter and White that, across the board, people were people the way politicians are most not treated respectfully, it is likely powerful person in the world, is ill lives matter . The problem with stat- acknowledging the existence of in- likely to do . that many voters will stay home . treated by Congress, often for ra- ing the obvious is that White lives stitutional racism . Too bad Demo- If they listen they might hear Young voters rushed to the polls in cial reasons . We live in a racist and have always mattered, and institu- cratic presidential contenders can’t the frustration that young folks 2008, riveted by candidate Obama’s patriarchal society where the value tional racism has structured a less- do the same . feel when the police stop them for optimistic “Yes we can” mantra . of Black life is too-often diminished . er value for Black lives . Martin O’Malley and Bernie simply walking while Black . They Will they come out for White Dem- That’s why, Martin O’Malley, there Asserting that Black Lives Mat- Sanders, the two candidates whose might hear the despair some will ocrats, no matter how progressive, is a special need to assert that Black ter is to rebut the inherent supposi- entries into the race may have share when, even while fully pre- who don’t respect their movements Lives Matter . Those who would be tion that Black lives do not matter . pushed Hilary Clinton to the left, pared, they find few opportunities and their ideas? president ought to embrace that Black lives have been devalued faced protestors at the progressive for employment, and too many The video showing the brutal- concept, instead of denying it . since the development of our Con- Netroots Nation conference earlier doors slammed in their faces . They ity involved in the vicious arrest stitution when it counted enslaved this month . Instead of acknowledg- might understand that Blacks have of Sandra Bland, the Prairie View Julianne Malveaux is author and people as three-fifths of a person . ing the legitimacy of the Black Lives a different reality than Whites do, A&M University alumnae who died economist based in Washington, DC. She can be reached at www. To proclaim that Black Lives Mat- Matter movement, both candidates and it shows up in terms of eco- in jail earlier this month, makes it juliannemalveaux.com ter is to rebut this constitutional were prickly . Sanders threatened to nomic, educational, and social indi- clear that the Black Lives Matter www.ladatanews.com In the Spirit August 1 - August 7, 2015 Page 9

Untested Faith is Untrusted Faith

that cannot be trusted .’ It’s writ- sequence of faith fortification and confirms His covenant, which He follow other gods and worship and ten in Deuteronomy 8 and I don’t not a collapse of your belief that swore to your forefathers, as it is bow down to them, I testify against remember what point the minister God has it handled . today .” Deuteronomy 8: 17-18 . you today that you will surely be was trying to make at that time, but In Deuteronomy, Moses is try- Maybe we should all review destroyed .” Deuteronomy 8:19 . my notes froze me and wouldn’t ing to tell otherwise ignorant Is- that covenant thing . That’s what Faith that is not tested cannot let me continue . I have since been rael that even though this group I’m talking about here . God ex- be trusted . Yeah . I said it . Can God moved to think this is not only a was not around for his miracles pects when the going gets tough, trust you? That’s a question for you spiritual lesson but also one of life’s and wonders, God is insistent that our expectancy should be that and God . So when the going gets James Washington more poignant ones . I remember you still trust Him . Your faith will God will provide . He will . And tough for you, please do not rely on Guest Columnist going to the doctor after receiving determine your actions and your even if He doesn’t, He can . That your belief that you can figure it all one of many treatments for prostate actions will tell God if you really test, whatever you’re going out . If the truth be told, you prob- The old saying is when the go- cancer and the attending physician believe He has your back . Moses through, becomes a testimony to ably got yourself into that mess . At ing gets tough, the tough get going . was somewhat surprised that not cautions not to be seduced into God’s glory . He demands it of us least allow God to get you out of it . The operative word here is tough . only was my wife still with me, but thinking that what you have and just as He demanded it of the Is- But first you have to know and be- My question for you is what hap- we were and continue to be fabu- what you achieve is because of raelites . Plus, we got a new cove- lieve He can . Then you can ask Him pens when you insert the dynam- lously happy . So from my point of your own efforts . Not true! “You nant . Jesus sealed the breech and for anything and expect He will pro- ics of faith into any given situation? view, I guess you could say at many may say to yourself ‘My power the war is won . All we got to do vide it for you . The reason for the question is that levels that test has given me a tes- and the strength of my hands is fight the good fight, endure the I must have been taking notes in timony about my relationship with have produced this wealth for battles of life from the perspective May God bless and church one Sunday and I came my wife . Perhaps God has provided me .’ But remember the Lord your Moses wanted Israel to take with keep you always, across them in my bible recently . I you with a test or two to see if you God, for it is He who gives you the it into the Promised Land . “If you wrote ‘faith that is not tested is faith understand that testimony is a con- ability to produce wealth, and so ever forget the Lord your God and James, jaws@dallasweekly .com

Commentary, Continued from Special, Continued from page 3. page 8. ladatanews.com

gular, unprecedented opportunity . Besides the unmatched professional and civic engagement, business development and net- working opportunities, this conference is stronger, more more photos an author, to do a book that matters,” Mor- inclusive and more ris said . “I’ve had the privilege of learning reflective of the diver- more stories that race really matters, but I didn’t know sity of thought around it because I was able to stay removed from the areas of economic more data it . That, to my mind, is Ethel Payne’s gift to and social justice as me .” the number of voices

Payne’s personal papers and journals are and opinions added to Mailboxes by MARK housed in Washington, D .C . with the Li- the discussion grows . brary of Congress’ Manuscript Division and The benefit of your the Moorland-Spingarn Research Center at presence is another Howard University, and in New York at the noteworthy addition Schomburg Center for Research in Black to this conference that Culture . only you can decide to Eye on the Struggle: Ethel Payne, The include in what prom- First Lady of the Black Press is available at ises to be an enriching Custom mailboxes, your design—You pay for the bricks or maybe you have bricks already. major book retailers . Signed copies can be and inspiring experi- You provide the mailbox to be inserted. I will provide the cement, wood for framing , mortar and nails, etc. purchased via www .jamesmcgrathmorris . ence . com/eyeonstruggle .html . I look forward to Prices vary according to design. CALL MARK—504‐723‐7318 “She went as a reporter to the front lines meeting you in South of the Civil Rights Movement…to report Florida . back to African Americans…to activate Marc H. Morial, for- them,” Morris said . “The more people learn mer mayor of New Orleans, is president about Ethel Payne, I think they too will feel a and CEO of the Na- sense of power .” tional Urban League. Page 10 August 1 - August 7, 2015 Dollars & Sense www.ladatanews.com

Minority Banks Shut Out of New Tax Credit Awards

munities in the U .S . the 2008 economic downturn, is the ability of Black communities to re- By Shantella Y. Sherman “The absence of a single minority bank raises much concern,” said cover without the critical support of Members of the National Bank- Michael Grant, president of the Na- Black banks . Black-owned financial ers Association, including heads of tional Bankers Association stated in institutions have historically under- several Black-owned banking insti- a press release on July 10 . “In 2009, girded those businesses denied tutions, recently alleged charges the General Accounting Office is- funding through traditional sources of racial discrimination against the sued a report detailing the dispar- because of the neighborhoods in Department of Treasury’s Com- ity in NMTC awards to minority which they provide services . munity Development Financial In- entities . The numbers have actually “The NMTC Program has great stitutions Fund (CDFI Fund) . The gotten worse, not better .” potential to be part of a comprehen- banks were overlooked for up to A 2009 study by the Government sive economic solution in America’s $3 .5 billion in allocations in New Accountability Office indicated that inner-cities, most of which still have Markets Tax Credits (NMTC) pro- only about 9 percent of minority en- not recovered from the Great Re- vided by the fund . tities were successful when apply- cession,” said Preston Pinkett, CEO The NMTC program, designed ing for NMTCs, while non-minority of City National Bank and chairman to spur economic development in entities had three times the success of the NBA . “But the groups best distressed communities across the rate, winning 27 percent of the time . percent of the $450 billion NMTCs neighborhoods in America for over equipped to make those invest- U .S ., recently awarded 76 commu- According to the GAO, although issued over the past 12 years has 100 years, and we think the CDFI ments, minority banks, have largely nity development institutions, but the program is highly competitive, gone to minority banks,” Doyle Fund should review the program to been shut out of the NMTC pro- did not do the same for any of the minority entities have less than a Mitchell, CEO of Industrial Bank of ensure that applications by minor- gram .” nation’s minority banks, despite one in three chance of any other Washington, D .C . said . ity and other small CDFI banks are The National Bankers Associa- their reputations of deploying capi- type of entity to receive an award . According to the CDFI Fund evaluated on criteria that reflects tion was founded in 1927 and is a tal in the most underserved com- “By our estimates, less than two records, only six awards (less than their position as regulated institu- trade association for the nation’s 177 8 percent) have gone to minority tions operating in distressed areas,” minority and women-owned banks controlled entities of any kind, and he said . (MWOBs) . Its members include those groups received only $165 Minority banks have had even banks owned by African-Ameri- million, under 5 percent of the total lower success rates than minor- cans, Native-Americans, American¬ dollar amount of allocation .“ ity entities overall . Of particular Indians, East-Indians, Hispanic- Some of our banks have been concern, as the nation continues Americans, Asian-Americans and deploying capital in the poorest to grapple with the after effects of women . “LikeAbra‐Ca‐Da‐Bra Magic We’ll GetBail Bonds You Out” later apologized in the late 1970’s versial or could be Federal Court ANYWHERE announcing he was a born again divisive . And we as Christian . He said that he once a progressive, plu- Criminal Court ANY TIME sought power and glory; he real- ralistic society can ized he needed to seek love and for- face our collective Municipal Court ANY PLACE giveness . In 1979, Wallace said of past and heal and re- his stand at the schoolhouse door: build together . But “I was wrong . Those days are over, to simply remove Traﬃc Court and they ought to be over .” these things that we This was also the case with Gen- deem as uncomfort- eral P .G .T. Beauregard who after able reminders do the war was involved in politics that not erase the past . was sympathetic to the Civil Rights New Orleans Mayor Mitch Landrieu, calling for While some of what of African-Americans . He became the Confederate monuments to come down. it represents may SERVING the New Orleans Area & an advocate of Blacks to exercise be reprehensible, Beyond for 15 years their right to vote and was also some can be used as critical of Jefferson Davis and other a tool for remember- The competent and very capable agents Confederates . ing history and not at Abra ‐Ca‐Da‐Bra Bail Bonds will be repeating it, so as op- The Puzzle of History and posed to removing there to get your friends and love ones Putting All the Pieces them maybe with out of JAIL. For all your Bail Bonding Together to Create so much rebuilding an Entire Picture going on new monu- needs Call us FIRST. We are discrete History is something that is not ments may be a bet- fixed in time . It is a record of things reminder of America at its worse . ter alternative . Something that will and we keep your business where it that’s happened over time . And But let’s not forget that under the build on the history of a City and should be, with YOU. yes there was a time when people American flag things have not al- all of its people and their contribu- opposed full enfranchisement of ways been fair and we have amend- tions, to continue to put new pieces Phone us at 504‐376‐4060 “We will African-Americans . In addition to ed and legislated our way to open- into the puzzle to create a full and laws and customs that showed this ing the doors of democracy to all . complete picture of the City and come to YOU” country at its worse . Those things Sometimes it is easier to forget where it’s been and where it is go- that represent the Confederates the things that are less than favor- ing as we prepare for the 300th An- and what they did are a horrible able or that is upsetting, contro- niversary of New Orleans . www.ladatanews.com National News August 1 - August 7, 2015 Page 11 DATA CLASSIFIED Call 504-821-7421 to On 50th Anniversary, Medicare place your classified ad.

and Medicaid Still Vital Job Opportunity Freelance new guidelines, but many live in By Jazelle Hunt Writers non-expansion states and will likely NNPA National Wanted remain uninsured because of it . Correspondent “There still remains some signifi- Data News Weekly, “The As Medicare and Medicaid turn cant gaps in coverage for low-income People’s Paper, is looking for freelence writers to 50 this week, the nation takes a look adults and these disproportionately join our team print and at the impact of two of the most sig- impacted Black Americans,” Ar- digital team. We want nificant government programs ever tiga said . “We’re seeing now, with to hear from you if you launched . recent data, declines in uninsured are a working journalist, or an aspiring journalist Medicare serves roughly 52 mil- rates since implementation of the who has 2 years or more lion Americans as of 2013, about 10 ACA, and those declines have been of newspaper or PR percent of whom are Black . The larger for Blacks and Hispanics rel- writing experience. We program is part of the Social Secu- ative to Whites, suggesting already need writers who can rity Act and was created to provide a beginning of some narrowing of cover New Orleans news stories, ranging from health insurance for seniors regard- these coverage gaps . But they still local high school sports, less of income or health status . remain more likely to be uninsured community events, City Today, Medicare covers seniors, than Whites .” Hall and entertainment. permanently disabled people of all Lawmakers and experts assert Experience in print is necessary, experience in ages, and people with Lou Gehrig’s that Medicaid and Medicare are be- digital and social media disease (ALS) or end-stage kidney coming too inclusive and expensive are encouraged. disease . to sustain . Fraud, abuse, and waste “Medicare in the African Ameri- have also become a real problem . Compensation is can community [has] been a lifesav- These widespread scams charge competitive and great er,” said Karyne Jones, president for services that aren’t actually pro- story ideas will be and CEO of the National Caucus vided and pocket the federal funds; appreciated. and Center on Black Aging . “With- authorize unnecessary services, out it, a very large majority of Black or bill necessary ones incorrectly; If you are interested, please email your resume seniors wouldn’t have any health just think, you have no medical cov- children, and that Black families or administer services to someone and 3 writing samples to: care . As a result of … all of those erage, you have no health care? So are much less likely than Whites other than the beneficiary – some- terrybjones@bellsouth. institutional things that occurred, your life expectancy and the dignity to have high wages or insurance times even after the person is de- net and datanewseditor@ we didn’t have jobs in the ‘40s and of your life is zero . This is a pro- through their employer . ceased . The misuse consumes ad- bellsouth.net. ‘50s and even ‘60s that provided [re- gram that is crucial .” “Medicaid has really played a ditional billions in taxpayer money tirement] health care programs or While policy analysts and politi- pivotal role in helping to fill this gap each year . insurance programs . So it’s a bless- cians agree that Medicare has been in coverage,” Artiga said . “And then There are also concerns about We can’t wait to ing .” one of the nation’s most effective also, when we’ve done focus groups insufficient access to specialty hear from you! The wealth gap is one of the public programs, the logistics of or interviews with families, we real- care through the program, and the primary reasons Medicare is so in- the program are very confusing for ly hear over and over about the raw already-strained availability of care strumental for Black seniors . While both beneficiaries and health care impact Medicaid has on their lives, providers particularly in rural ar- most beneficiaries are White, and providers . in terms of providing a sense of fi- eas . most have modest fixed incomes, There’s also the prevalent belief nancial security, feeling protected Both sides of the political aisle Black beneficiaries often have little that the program is slowly spiraling from high medical costs…and abil- believe the systems need to change to no retirement funds compared to out of control . ity to focus on other areas of life .” – progressives favor tighter securi- White people . According to the Kai- The Kaiser Family Foundation Originally intended for children, ty accountability on the current sys- ser Family Foundation, 95 percent reports that the program’s $505 bil- pregnant women, parents on pub- tems, while conservatives advocate This space can be of White beneficiaries had retire- lion allotment was 14 percent of the lic assistance, the disabled, and a complete overhaul . ment savings, close to $90,000 on last year’s federal budget . The pro- impoverished seniors, the Afford- Although the programs have average . Meanwhile, the average gram regularly overspends its limit, able Care Act (ACA) has further both done a great deal to address amount saved by the 81 percent of and will only get more expensive; expanded the program to cover health care access gaps, Artiga said yours for only $80 Black beneficiaries who had per- the cost of health care rises each low-income people regardless of that government-sponsored health sonal retirement funds was more year, millions of Baby Boomers are whether they have children . coverage is not a cure-all for ending than $10,000 . retiring, and the smaller number of The ACA tried to require all disparities . Still, the programs have Further, pensions have weak- younger workers and payroll taxes states to cover these citizens and achieved measurable positive out- ened over the last decade through from dwindling wages will not be offered to fully fund the expansion comes over the past 50 years . Call Now! state deficits and penny-pinching enough to support the Boomers . with federal dollars, as states contin- “You don’t want to live in a coun- corporate policies . Medicaid – Medicare’s equiva- ued to administer the program . In- try where you continue to see an “There was a time when, if you lent program for low-income Ameri- stead, the Supreme Court ruled the increase of poor, unhealthy people . worked for a place for a long, long cans – is even more contested in its expansion mandate unconstitution- That drags on the entire system,” time, after you retired you could 50th year . al, and made it optional for states . Jones said . “I can’t believe that still have some insurance with that According to Samantha Artiga, As it stands, 19 states have rejected this country still believes that your 504-821-7421 company . Those days are gone,” policy analyst for the Kaiser Fam- the idea, including almost the entire health should be only as much as Jones said . “You can imagine what ily Foundation, the racial disparities South (except Arkansas, Kentucky, you can afford . Medicare and Med- it’s like to work all your life without that make Black seniors reliant on and West Virginia) the region with icaid stand at the beginning of us coverage – as you get older, those Medicare are the same ones that the highest concentration of Black at least acknowledging our own chronic diseases start kicking in . make Medicaid so vital for Black Americans in the nation . More than humanity . I’m hoping that not only And if you’ve not caught them ear- families and individuals . She points half of all non-elderly Black people do they expand the benefits, but ly or been able to maintain them, out that Medicaid covers more than still without insurance as of March that they recognize that a healthy they’re worse as you get older . And half of all Black children and Latino are Medicaid eligible under the America is a prosperous America .”