Lighting The Road To The Future Look Like A Star! Fashion Page 7

“The People’s Paper” February 24 - March 2, 2018 52nd Year Volume 43 www.ladatanews.com

A Data News Weekly Exclusive

Page 2 Newsmaker National News Three Black Doctors Remembering Share their Path to Lerone Bennett, Jr. Success Page 4 Page 11 Page 2 February 24 - March 2, 2018 Cover Story www.ladatanews.com The Movie Black Panther Inspires a Community to Greatness

“Black Panther” starring Chadwick Boseman, Lupita Nyong’o and Michael B. Jordan, surpassed box office expectations during its opening weekend. Black Panther is a vibrant, empowering allegory hidden beneath the cloak of a comic book movie, where most of the characters are Black, large and in charge.

By Edwin Buggage for that matter, there is great hysteria over this film Nyong’o, Michael B . Jordan, Angela Bassett and For- Data News Weekly Editor and its cultural impact . In its first week it’s made over est Whitaker . 200 million dollars at the box-office domestically and Across the country, civic groups, businesspeople, Black Panther Strike Box Office Gold with its international receipts; it jumps to an estimated fraternal organizations and families have come out to Black Panther,” Disney/Marvel’s African-oriented 369 million . see this movie that for many is more than just a film comic book adaptation, has taken the movie industry The film is directed by the young African-American about a superhero, but about promoting positive Black by storm breaking box office records for a film with a Director and Screenwriter Ryan Coogler and it has a images on the big screen and in the everyday exis- primarily Black cast . All over America and the globe stellar cast that includes; Chadwick Boseman, Lupita tence for African-Americans and the African Diaspora .

Cover Story, Continued on page 3. DATA NEWS WEEKLY P.O. Box 57347, , 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 & Edwin Buggage CEO/Publisher Production Jade Myers MainorMedia.com Edwin Buggage Delaney George Cover Story ...... 2 Fashion . . . . . 7. . Editorial Submissions Marc Morial Editor datanewseditor@ Kay Coles James Cheryl Mainor bellsouth.net Newsmaker...... 4 Commentary . . . 8. . Flint Mitchell Managing Editor Anthony Bean Advertising Inquiries datanewsad@ Calla Victoria Kimani Hamilton State & Local News . . 5 Health ...... 9 . Stacy M. Brown bellsouth.net Executive Assistant Dr. Kevin Williams Distribution June Hazeur Environmental On The Run Data Zone ...... 6 National News . . 11. Protection Agency/ Accounting Creative Commons 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 February 24 - March 2, 2018 Page 3

Cover Story, Continued from page 2.

This film is a source of pride and has for some raising the hopes of future Hollywood projects that can have uplifting stories about Blacks proving they can be both a critical Why It Can’t Be Real and commercial success .

Community Goes to the Movies to be Inspired By Anthony Bean On the heels of the release of the Data News Weekly Guest of Disney/Marvel Studios “Black Columnist Panther”, local Attorney Juan La- Fonta, gave back to the community I had to stop looking more by treating inner-city kids and local than fifty years ago for a su- families to a red-carpet premiere of perhero that looked like me . the film at the AMC Palace Elm- In the era of Black is Beauti- wood Theater . ful I couldn’t settle for a White Partnering with several organi- Superman, Batman, Fantastic zations that included non-profits, Four, etc . You get the picture . churches and community pro- I had to satisfy my appetite by grams thousands showing up for opening a community theater this event . “I wanted the young where I can find or write heroes you go into the movie theater, people in attendance to see other New Orleans native Brandon Okpalobi runs Dibia Dream, Inc. recently, consistently in plays . More re- tell her not to get it twisted, professionals; I also wanted them he took a group of kids in Miami to see the film and is also sponsoring cently, there’s only been two this is only a movie . Just kid- to see they’re strong Black people a group of kids in New Orleans to see the film as well. other movies that got me out ding fellas . It’s a beautiful doing things that are impacting the of the house and into the mov- thing . Speaking of beauty, the community in a positive way . Be- ie theater . It was “Django Un- sceneries are breathtaking . cause too often the focus is on the chained” and “GET OUT!” Up The Costumes are creatively negative things such as murdering, until then, those have been the African with a hint of urban killing; the things that are destroy- only films to satisfy my appe- America . The ships are shaped ing our community and that is not tite for Black excellence . I have like African masks, and the wa- who we are as a people,” Juan La- caught the 6 episodes of Black terfalls are mind-blowing, and Fonta told Data News Weekly . Panther, the animated series Black People are in charge all The premiere was filled to ca- on BET many time . So, I was the way . My only regret is that pacity . On hand was Data News quite familiar with the theme . Wakanda isn’t real . It only ex- Weekly’s Glenn Jones who spoke to So, all the hype surround- ists in Marvel Universe . The Rapper and Activist Dee-1, whose ing Black Panther, the movie ending was different also, the brand of spiritually uplifting hip- couldn’t help but catch my at- movie credits started rolling hop is a breath of fresh air in an in- tention . It was the talk at my and the audience thought the dustry where images of Black men school, theater, and at the gym . movie was over, so they ap- are often stereotypical and glorify- I couldn’t escape the hype . All plauded and was heading to ing the most antisocial aspects of the while I’m loving it . The last the exits when the final scene the Black community . “This film time I saw my people get this came back on, people who al- is about our heritage, we are here hype was voting our first Black ready left their seats, are now tonight because this symbolizes President into office, Barack standing in the aisles to catch Black excellence at its finest .” He Obama . Being in the entertain- the ending . When the scene says of the film and the people who ment business and a purveyor ends, people were still stand- came out and braved for hours in of my people’s true image I ing around, wondering if that’s a long line to see this film and that Local Attorney Juan LaFonta, gave back to the community by treating understood the importance of really the end, end . I thought defy stereotypes . inner-city kids and local families to a red-carpet premiere of the film at getting my people excited, that that was interesting . I was sit- the AMC Palace Elmwood Theater. Cumulus Radio, who is a Com- means, they will come out in ting with my guests watching munity Partner of Data News Week- Kings and Queens, but also are 10-year-old son Jamie Jones Jr . to support of you . When I pulled the credits roll when I couldn’t ly, was also on hand for the event . leaders, inventors and belonging see the film . Jones is a dedicated up to the theater on Premiere help but wonder . This is a big 102 .9 Radio Personality Downtown to a strong family unit . Due to the father who in addition to raising his Night for the Black Panther, budget movie . They had spare Leslie Brown telling Glenn Jones on current political climate, we felt it son plants the seeds of greatness in the lines were around the cor- no expenses . The script was the red-carpet of the significance of was important for our youth to see children every day in his role as an ner . The only thing I can say good, the acting was excellent, Black Panther the movie in inspir- a positive representation of them- art teacher . He takes great pride in was, (In my Esther Rolle voice) and the overall presentation ing a community of young people, selves .” He says that this is more being a father and an example for Damn, Damn, Damn . This bet- is worth the price of a ticket . “As a Black woman with a Black than simply about entertainment his young son and others . “I felt ter be good! But I couldn’t help but dream son and Black daughter they need but educating and inspiring the great because it was Son and Fa- “Black Panther” opens on that someday we will, as Black to see more positive role models .” youth after they watch the film, ther’s Day . It was a nice to see an a short re-telling of the his- people market our own image . “There are many hidden messag- African-American Marvel Charac- tory of the fictional country I heard this movie alone will Dreaming Big es within the movie and we will ter in a leading role because there of Wakanda, an African nation gross a billion dollars world- New Orleans native Brandon dissect those messages after the are very few,” says Jamie Jones Jr . that sealed itself off from the wide . And to think, all this Okpalobi runs Dibia Dream, Inc . film with our DREAM Scholars .” A precocious and intelligent world upon discovering its money will go to Disney/Mar- an organization dedicated to giv- young man who is an honor stu- technological advantages and vel Entertainment Company . A ing back to the youth . He splits Black Panther and dent at his school and skilled drum- was left undisturbed as the rest White-owned Conglomerate . time between the City of his birth Inspiring the Next mer; he says of the film, “If you of the world was colonized by Wouldn’t it be more powerful and Miami Florida . Recently, he Generation really pay attention to the movie, Western European powers . if the Black child will know took a group of kids in Miami to While many like those involved it was not only about fighting the Sorry fellas, but in this mov- this was designed with them see the film and is also sponsoring in community outreach like Juan bad guys, it showed proud African ie, Black women rules . There’s in mind and most importantly, a group of kids in New Orleans to LaFonta, Brandon Okpalobi and women dressed in African clothing, Black girl magic throughout, the profits stay Black? One day see the film as well . “We felt it was others across the country wanted and many of the Blacks attending So, talk to your lady before I hope! Go see Black Panther . important for the youth of color to give back; for some, it was a fam- dressed in traditional African cloth- to see a movie where people who ily affair . In the case of Jamie Jones Cover Story, Continued look like them are portrayed as Sr ., a local educator who took his on page 5. Page 4 February 24 - March 2, 2018 Newsmaker www.ladatanews.com Three Black Doctors Share Their Path to Success

By Jade Myers Johnson, said that when he attend- Data News Weekly ed Xavier the curriculum was not Contributor as simple as he imagined it would be, but as a result, he pushed his Only 5 percent of U .S . Physi- pride aside and took advantage of cians are Black . On Feb . 15th, resources that Xavier provided him, three of them shared their journey to help him to stick to a medical ca- to entering the medical profession reer . after writing the new book: “Pulse “Use all of the mentorship, all of of Perseverance: Three Black Doc- the teachers that are here to help tors on Their Journey to Success .” you, use them as your resources,” Award-Winning Journalist and Johnson said . New York Times Magazine Writer, Madhere told the audience that Nikole-Hannah Jones returned to it is unfortunate that despite hav- Xavier University to moderate the ing a medical degree, people tend panel along with the three doctors to make false and stereotypical as- who she assisted in editing the new sumptions about him because of his book . appearance and he hopes that one- “When I grew up learning about day that changes . our history of Black people, the “Any trials that you go through, history of the struggles we had to just know that your goal is still at- overcome one of my motivating fac- Xavier University President Emeritus Dr. Norman C. Francis greets three alumni medical physicians whose tainable, push no matter what hap- tors was realizing that I was stand- new book chronicle their journey. They are from left to right: Dr. Pierre Johnson, Dr. Maxime Madhere, and pens and just know that if you are ing on the shoulders of giants,” Dr. Joseph Semien Jr. (Photo by Jade Myer not doing well that the support is here for you,” Madhere said . said Dr . Maxime Madhere, one of Among the guests in the audi- the physicians who co-authored the ence were current and former book . Xavier Presidents, Dr . C . Reynold All three of the doctors are Verret, and Dr . Norman C . Francis . Xavier graduates . In 2015, Hannah- Francis, who served as President Jones chronicled in “A Prescription of the university for 47 years, said for More Black Doctors” how a that he enjoys seeing Xavier’s mis- small, private university like Xavier sion being carried out . Xavier’s cur- is number one in producing Black rent President Verret added that students who attend and gradu- if Xavier can help build successful ate from medical school . This year students, other colleges can too . the university announced that once “When I see Xavierite’s doing again, it retained the ranking that it what they do, it reaffirms what Xavi- once held from 2011-2017, accord- er stands for, and it’s so fulfilling be- ing to data compiled by the Associa- cause it’s not about the brochures tion of American Medical Colleges . being sent out, but it’s about what Dr . Joseph Semien Jr . and Dr . we see being done, like these three Pierre Johnson are Board Certified doctors,” Francis said . OB/GYN’s and alongside Mad- Verret said that he hopes Xavi- here, a Double Board Certified Car- er’s achievement can be a model for diac Anesthesiologist, they spoke to the rest of the country . the audience about the importance “Xavier is not just for certain of sharing the obstacles they expe- students, but it is for the nation . rienced on their path to success . What we are telling the nation is Semien, a New Orleans native, ad- that this is possible . If we can do it, mitted that he once found himself we should be doing it for every stu- involved in the violent and drug in- dent,” Verret said . fested streets of Inner-City New Or- The visit inspired current stu- leans and that he hopes that shar- dent Deja Gantt, a Biology Pre-Med ing stories like his may encourage Major attending Xavier, who said individuals who may be in similar that it was beneficial for her to at- situations, to reach for higher . tend this event because it is not “Don’t let your past define you often that she hears about success and your future, and don’t accept stories like these in the media . failure as an option . You are going “Seeing African-Americans re- to go through trials and tribula- gardless of gender, knowing that I tions but keep pressing forward,” can be where they are one day, this Semien said . event also showed me that success Johnson and Madhere, also is attainable if the hard-work is put shared their journeys at the event . towards the goal,” Gantt said . www.ladatanews.com State & Local News February 24 - March 2, 2018 Page 5

Rep. Richmond To Homeland Security Chairman: Hold Hearing on Mass Shootings “We need to hold a hearing to explore these mass shootings as the domestic terrorism they are...”

Data Staff Reports hearing and take a comprehensive look at this issue . There are peo- In a letter to House Homeland ple out there with the knowledge Security Committee Chairman Mi- and expertise we need to prevent chael McCaul (R-TX-10), Rep . Ced- tragedies like this and we should ric Richmond (D-LA-02) demanded hear from them . We should hear that the Committee, of which he’s from sheriffs and police chiefs a member, “live up to its name and who can offer real solutions . We mission” and hold a hearing that should hear from researchers explores mass shootings as the who have studied this issue in “domestic terrorism they are,” as depth and government agencies well as solutions that would help charged with public safety . We stop them . The letter was sent in should hear from survivors of the wake of the school shooting at these tragedies, principals from Stoneman Douglas High School in these schools, managers from Parkland, Fla ., which left 17 people these movie theaters and music dead . It’s one of the deadliest school venues, and pastors from these shootings in U .S . history . churches . We should hear from Rep . Richmond wrote, “As gun violence prevention groups Members of Congress, there is like Giffords, Everytown, and the no greater responsibility we have Brady Campaign . We should even than trying to protect our nation . hear from the National Rifle As- As we saw this week with the at- sociation if that is what it takes tack at Stoneman Douglas High Rep. Cedric Richmond (D-LA-02) to get to a place of action . All of School, we have failed . Once these people should be invited to again, one person with a gun has Dear Chairman McCaul, thought were safe or sacred . There have seen mass shootings take the a hearing so that we can develop shocked the nation and shattered As Members of Congress, there have been so many of these mass lives of more than 400 fellow citi- real solutions . What we can’t do is a community . It is time that the is no greater responsibility we have shootings that we have to dis- zens while they lived their everyday continue to do nothing . Committee on Homeland Security than trying to protect our nation . As tinguish which church or which lives . We have seen 12 people killed We should be willing to take lived up to its name and mission . we saw this week with the attack at school shooting we are talking as they watched a movie, 59 people a comprehensive look at how to As a Member of the Homeland Stoneman Douglas High School, about . That is unconscionable . killed as they listened to music, and prevent these tragedies . We know Security Committee, which you we have failed . Once again, one Virginia Tech, Sandy Hook El- 50 people killed as they danced . We there are common sense steps with chair, I call on you to hold a hear- person with a gun has shocked the ementary, Mother Emanuel, Pulse have seen multiple shootings spe- bipartisan support that we can take . ing to explore these mass shoot- nation and shattered a community . Nightclub, First Baptist Church, cifically targeting children as they We should pick that low-hanging ings as the domestic terrorism It is time that the Committee on Las Vegas . Though we know these went to school and people of faith fruit . These shootings were car- they are and figure out what we Homeland Security lived up to its tragedies by the name of the place as they prayed . What we have not ried out by real people, with real can do to stop them .” name and mission . As a Member in which they occurred, families seen is a real response from Con- guns, firing real bullets, that did of the Homeland Security Commit- across the country know them by gress or this Committee . That has real damage to bodies, took real Full text of the letter is below: tee, which you chair, I call on you the names of the loved ones whose to end . We have to do better . Fail- lives, and caused real terror in to hold a hearing to explore these lives were taken . These were trag- ing to respond and better protect communities across the country . February 16, 2018 mass shootings as the domestic ter- edies on both a national scale and a people makes us, at best, enablers The people of America deserve rorism they are and figure out what personal level . And all of them have of these tragedies . real action to prevent them from Chairman Michael T . McCaul we can do to stop them . been made even deeper tragedies Protecting our children is a happening in the future . The very Committee on Homeland Security In the last decade, we have by a failure to act to prevent the priority everyone in Congress least we can do is hold a hearing . H2-176 Ford House Office Building been shocked time and time again next one . shares . It is time for us to prove If we are not willing to even do Washington, DC 20515 by mass shootings in places we Since I’ve been in Congress, we that . So I call on you to hold a that, why are we in Congress?

Cover Story, Continued from page 3. gone from the silver screen there is emphasis need to be placed on our work that needs to be done in com- everyday heroes who work tireless- ing to show support . It also showed ing up with solutions that plague ly to make the community better . follow us on how the use of technology can ei- the African-American community . This sentiment is also echoed ther destroy or make the world a This is something that one great by Juan LaFonta, who is planning better place; this is something we film, however, well-produced can an event for the summer that will should all think about .” solve . focus on anti-crime measures with Jamie Jones, who is in the trench- its goal of lowering the murder rate Positive Role Models: es educating young people every in New Orleans . “It’s important Fantasy vs. Reality day speaks to this point, “I think that our young generation recog- This film is undoubtedly monu- Black Panther is a great film that nize that there are superheroes mental and is helping spark a dia- can inspire our community as well amongst them every day; lawyers, log about images of non-Whites as others about the positive attri- doctors, policemen, the list goes on @DataNewsWeek onscreen and its larger impact on butes of our community .” And while and on”, and it’s even more impor- combating negative stereotypes . he is excited that the film is getting tant that our families spend quality But in truth when this film is long rave reviews Jones feels that more time together in today’s society .” Page 6 February 24 - March 2, 2018 Data Zone www.ladatanews.com

Kids Reign at the “Black Panther” By Edwin Buggage

In our cover story, we told you about the groups of kids that were treated to a day at the movies to see the smash hit, and the tremendously uplift- ing blockbuster “The Black Panther” . Pictured are more photos from the day of fun here in New Orleans . We can all agree, that this was an amazing way to brighten these kids’ day, and we say Thank You on their behalf to Juan LaFonta, and Brandon Okpalobi for taking time and mak- ing the way for them to have that experience www.ladatanews.com DataFashion Zone February 24 - March 2, 2018 Page 7 You Look Like a Star!

Delaney George Columnist

There once was a time when your favorite celebrities would endorse the hottest beauty products to get you to buy them . In today’s world of beauty, your favorite singer could be the producer of your favorite lipstick . Celebrities are taking over the world of fashion and beauty by creating more brands than ever before . Brands like Fenty Beauty and Kylie Cosmetics have recently gained major buzz in the beauty community and are both owned and founded by two headlining celebs . Rihanna, a well-known megastar re- leased “Fenty” her own cosmetics line that @Makeupshayla wears Kim Kardashian’s KKW Cosmetic Line is a must have with the beauty community . Many critics have lifted the megastar’s brand up to gatekeepers like MAC and Sephora and Fenty still takes the cake . Re- ality stars like Kim Kardashian and sister Kylie Jenner have also released their own cosmetic line, reeling in millions from the beauty industry . Although of the same bloodline, the two brands have obvious dif- ferences and cater to two different types of makeup connoisseurs . Have you ever seen your favorite celeb- rity and said “hey, I want her look” or “I wonder what she uses”? It’s possible they’ve made just what you’re looking for . For more information on these brands email Delin- key@yahoo .com Rihanna’s Fenty Beauty Campaign Kylie Jenner’s Cosmetic Campaign for Kylie Cosmetics

Visit www.ladatanews.com for more photos from these events

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Real Talk for Real Times... 1639 Gentilly Blvd. New Orleans, LA 70119 (504)942-0106 www.wbok1230am.com Page 8 February 24 - March 2, 2018 Commentary www.ladatanews.com

To Be Equal Black Panther is the Superhero – and Heroines – We Deserve

Robin Hood in the 1920s, to Luke al impact . Representation of women about something other than a man . given the freedom to be . Skywalker in the 1970s to Harry and people of color in film also has Only half of all films pass this test . When the first Black actress Potter in the 2000s, the movies have been an issue as long as there have Screenwriter and novelist Nikesh to win an Academy Award, Hattie always provided inspiration and been films . Actor and playwright Shukla proposed the Shukla Test, McDaniel, faced criticism in the role models for young people and a Dylan Marron a few years ago in- which determines “two ethnic mi- 1940s for accepting roles that re- source for fantasy and imagination . troduced a web series entitled “Ev- norities talk to each other for more inforced negative stereotypes, she Most of these figures, as one ery Single Word,” which highlights than five minutes about something retorted, ““Why should I complain might expect, have been white and the shockingly small amount of dia- other than race,” and New York about making $700 a week playing Marc Morial male . logue spoken by actors of color in Times critic Manola Dargis de- a maid? If I didn’t, I’d be making President and CEO That is why the blockbuster su- mainstream films . The entire Har- vised a variation, the DuVernay $7 a week being one .” Thankfully, National Urban League perhero film Black Panther, which ry Potter series – more than 1,200 test -- named for African-American the world of Wakanda is light-years opened this week, is such a signifi- minutes of film – includes precisely film director Ava DuVernay -- asks from the plantations where McDan- “The film serves as a breath cant milestone . 5 minutes and 40 seconds of what whether “African-Americans and iels’ “Mammy” character bowed of fresh intellectual air, especially Few films have been more joy- Marron calls “POC talk time .” In other minorities have fully realized and scraped to Scarlett O’Hara . I’m amid today’s sociopolitical climate . ously anticipated, with advance 2015 and 2016, we took the Acad- lives rather than serve as scenery thankful that our children have the It is the power of representation in ticket sales breaking records . The emy of Motion Picture Arts and Sci- in white stories .” opportunity to see themselves on its best form . It is empowerment on character, created for Marvel Com- ences to task for the woeful lack of Black Panther doesn’t just pass screen as kings and queens, war- a higher level . It is inspiration to a ics by Stan Lee in 1966, already had diversity among Oscar nominees . these tests, it shatters the very pre- riors, scientists, artists and most different degree . It is black excel- generations of fans . Its A-list cast Too often, even when women cepts on which they rest . The sig- importantly, the heroes of their own lence exemplified that will leave au- and crew include a number of Acad- and people of color do have signifi- nificance of a powerful, intelligent, stories . diences yearning to inhabit Wakan- emy Award and Golden Globe win- cant roles in film, negative stereo- wealthy and resourceful Black hero Marc Morial is President and CEO da forever .” Film critic Tonja Renee ners and nominees . Setting aside its types are reinforced . The Bechdel cannot be overstated . The women of the National Urban League. You can connect with the Nation- Stidhum cultural impact, Black Panther has Test, named for cartoonist Allison of Wakanda, Black Panther’s fic- al Urban League on Facebook: As long as there have been mov- been hailed as one of the best-acted, Bechdel who popularized it, deter- tional African kingdom, are the true https://www.facebook.com/ National.Urban.League, Twitter: ies, there have been movie heroes . best-directed, best-created super- mines whether a work of fiction force behind the throne, and are https://twitter.com/naturban- From Douglas Fairbanks’ swash- hero movies of all time . features at least two women char- as complex, varied and layered as league or on Instagram: https:// white male characters usually are www.instagram.com/naturban- buckling heroes like Zorro and But let us not set aside its cultur- acters who speak to each other league.

We Need Educational Equality in Our Schools This Black History Month, Let’s Take Back the Fight for Education Equality

tion equality . I’ve fought for it all my it’s painfully obvious that educa- school . Too many kids today don’t or elected, chances are your child life . tion in America remains very un- have that chance . Instead, anti-re- goes to or graduated from a great My own battle started in 1961 equal . Too many schools are failing form forces block them from going school . But if you live in a poor ur- when I joined 25 other Black stu- their students . Schools that squash to better-performing schools . ban neighborhood, your child is dents to integrate a segregated ju- children’s dreams beat down their Who are the anti-reformers? much more likely to go to a failing nior high school in Richmond, Vir- hopes, and diminish their expecta- A determined cartel of teacher school, a school where more than ginia . And it hasn’t stopped since . I tions have created a crisis in the unions, education bureaucrats, and half of all students can’t read or fervently believe all children—no black community . Today, in many career politicians . They make a lot write well, have low math scores, Kay Coles James matter their race, religion, income, large U .S . cities, more than half of of money from the current system face the daily threat of bullying and President, The Heritage age, or address—have an equal all African American students never in the form of union dues, salaries, violence and won’t graduate . Foundation right to receive an excellent educa- graduate high school . and political contributions . And Do these sound like “equal Frederick Douglass . Condo- tion . All children deserve to get they view any attempt to change terms” to you? leezza Rice . Martin Luther King, That’s more than opinion . It’s the tools they need to make their that system as a threat and any- I say—no more! The crisis of fail- Jr . Clarence Thomas . Ida B . Wells . the law of the land . In the landmark dreams come true . But high school one seeking to advance education ing schools has afflicted too many Shirley Chisholm . Brown v . Board of Education rul- dropouts typically don’t have them . equality as their enemy . Americans for too long, and it will All of these leaders will receive ing that ended school segregation, As a result, it’s much harder for Just ask U .S . Secretary of Educa- never end so long as we continue to renewed national attention during Chief Justice Earl Warren wrote, “It them to get a job, much less earn tion Betsy DeVos . Testifying before deny every child their equal right to this Black History Month . And all is doubtful that any child may rea- what those who do graduate make . Congress, DeVos explained her an excellent education . have something else in common: sonably be expected to succeed in They’re also more likely to commit goal is “ensuring that every student And so I call on all caring Ameri- their emphasis on education . life if he is denied the opportunity of crimes and be victimized by crime . has an equal opportunity to receive cans to join me in this fight . It’s a None of these leaders would an education . Such an opportunity, Far too often, the dreams they once a great education .” But rather than part of our heritage as a people— have been able to achieve the re- where the state has undertaken to had turned into nightmares . be hailed for seeking the equality and of our inalienable rights as citi- markable victories or overcome provide it, is ‘a right which must I was fortunate . Even though I promised decades ago, she’s being zens of this nation . the incredible obstacles they faced be made available to all on equal was kicked, punched, and stuck attacked by those who want things Kay Coles James is President of without an education . terms .’” with pins during the integration to stay just as they are . The Heritage Foundation. You can follow Kay on Twitter @KayColes- I share their passion for educa- Nearly 65 years later, however, battle, I was able to attend a better If you are wealthy, connected, James. www.ladatanews.com Health News February 24 - March 2, 2018 Page 9

Ask Dr. Kevin Debunking the Myths Around Sickle Cell Disease it is a genetically inherited condi- diagnosed through a simple blood Myth! Until the 1990s, SCD was options to those in need . tion (passed down from parent to test . In developed countries, like considered a life-threatening condi- One way to help address this is child) . For a child to inherit SCD, the U .S ., babies are now routinely tion as many children born with the to encourage participation in clini- both parents must carry the sickle screened at birth to determine if disease did not live to adulthood . cal trials . To date, there have been cell trait (or have the disease) and they carry the trait or have the dis- In developed countries, like the several challenges in securing the each must pass the sickle cell gene ease . U .S ., this is no longer true, with the adequate participation of African- to the child . People with Sickle Cell Disease majority of children living to adult- Americans in clinical trials, which A person with the sickle cell abuse pain medication. hood, thanks to advances in SCD has been one of the key barriers to By Dr. Kevin Williams trait will automatically develop Myth! Studies have shown that care . the development of new SCD medi- Chief Medical Officer, Sickle Cell Disease. there is no increased substance However, the life expectancy cations . Pfizer Rare Disease Unit Myth! Sickle cell trait is different abuse in patients with SCD . The of someone with SCD in the US is Hopefully, this article has helped from SCD . Just because a person most common symptom of SCD is only between 40 and 60 years, com- to clear up some of the more com- Sickle Cell Disease is a “Black” carries the sickle cell trait does not excruciating, debilitating pain that pared to average U .S . life expec- mon misperceptions about SCD . Disease. mean they will have the disease . often does not respond to over-the- tancy of 78 .74 years . There is still By increasing awareness and pro- Myth! It’s true that in the U .S . What’s the difference? When a per- counter medications and needs much more work to do to improve viding education about this disease, more than 90 percent of people son has only one copy of the sickle opioids to provide relief . Over time, the outcomes of people with SCD we aim to improve the care of those living with SCD are of African de- cell gene, he or she will have sickle the body becomes used to the opi- in the US and worldwide, particu- affected . scent . In fact, SCD occurs in one cell trait . Someone with SCD will oids—ultimately leading to high larly in underdeveloped countries . out of every 365 African-American have two copies of the sickle cell doses being required to manage Although the disease was identified Dr. Kevin Williams is the Chief Med- births . However, it’s not exclusive gene . SCD pain . This need for high doses more than 100 years ago, there are ical Officer for Rare Disease at Pfizer. He pursued medicine after to this patient population . SCD is A person with sickle cell trait of opioids (which may not even pro- still very few medicines available to being inspired by his father’s work also found in people of Indian, Mid- can, however, pass the disease on to vide complete relief from the pain), help patients or address SCD symp- as a general practitioner in his hometown of Baton Rouge, Louisi- dle Eastern, Hispanic, and Mediter- his or her child, if the other parent has unfortunately led to the percep- toms . While there has been recent ana. Dr. Kevin is passionate about ranean ethnicities . also has the trait . That’s why testing tion that these patients are “drug- progress in this area, more still raising awareness and increas- needs to be done . At Pfizer Rare ing understanding of Sickle Cell Sickle Cell Disease is conta- for sickle cell trait or disease is in- seeking .” Disease in the African- American gious. credibly important . Sickle Cell Dis- A baby born with SCD will die Disease, we are working tirelessly community. You can follow Pfizer Myth! You cannot “catch” SCD— ease (and sickle cell trait) can be before reaching adulthood. to bring safe, effective treatment on Facebook and Twitter.

Cumulus Radio and Data News Weekly Present TRI-CENTENNIAL BLACK FACTS

MAROONS FRENCH CODE NATCHEZ SPANISH SPANISH NOIR REVOLT ARRIVE CHANGES were Africans In 1724 France imposed Maroon villages were The 1764 arrival of An- A French Creole attempt who had escaped from a set of laws called the centers of trade and mar- tonio de Ulloa, the first to overturn Spanish Rule in the Americas, (Black Code) riage between Enslaved Spanish Governor of Loui- failed and a new Span- mixed with the Native to control the lives of people and native tribes. siana, led to the demise ish Governor banned the Americans, and formed colonists and Africans in In 1729 the powerful of the French Code Noir trade of Native American independent settlements. . The Code Noir Natchez Indians and their replacing it with a Spanish slaves, although there Between 1780 and 1784, resulted in a far higher Maroon allies massacred model regulating Black- was no movement toward a group of Maroons led percentage of Blacks French plantation owners White relations. Ulloa abolition of the African by Jean Saint Malo resist- being free people of and liberated hundreds upset the French Creole slave trade, Spanish Rule ed re-enslavement from color (13.2%) in Louisi- of slaves in an attempt Community of New Or- introduced a new law their base in the swamps ana compared to 0.8% to force the French out leans when he permitted called “coartación,” which east of New Orleans. in other areas. They were of their land. French the marriage of a White allowed slaves to buy When captured, St. Malo on average exceptionally authorities created a Spaniard and a Black their freedom and that of was hanged in Jackson literate, with a significant military force of Choctaw Slave. The new governor other slaves. Square. number of them owning and Enslaved Blacks who also perturbed the local businesses, properties, eventually conquered the White population when and even slaves. Natchez and recaptured he restricted the com- the freed slaves. mon practice of whipping slaves in the City of New Orleans because the cries of whipping victims both- ered his wife.

This week’s Black Facts are provided by Plessey And Ferguson Foundation Page 10 February 24 - March 2, 2018 State & Local News www.ladatanews.com Play Aims To Tell An Authentic History of Civil Rights Movement

By Kimani Hamilton agement at Tulane University and Mitchell said he wrote the play Data News Weekly serves as Vice President of the Lou- because he believes that this gen- Contributor isiana Children’s Research Center eration does not understand the sig- for Development and Learning . nificance of Black History . He was His concern that this modern As a W . K . Kellogg Foundation inspired to write this play to affect generation was still not being Community Leadership Network change among young people . taught true Black History is what Fellow, Mitchell said he wrote “If they knew their history, led Flint Mitchell to decide to his first play as part of his fellow- maybe they would be engaged . write a play that teaches the true ship . In “The Other Black His- Moreover, learning their history struggles of people of African de- tory,” Mitchell makes an effort in school is unlikely because the scent in the United States . As part to educate viewers on authentic history that is taught is revision- of Black History Month events Black History rather than the ist,” he said . Mitchell defined his across the City, Mitchell’s play revised version of history that is play as non-revisionist history – a “The Other Black History” will learned in schools . Mitchell said history that does not romanticize debut on Feb . 22-24, 2018 at 7:30 Playwright Flint Mitchell’s “The Other Black History” is a Civil Rights he believes that history classes in colonialism and disparages people p .m . and Feb . 25, 2018, at 3 p .m . play staring Oliver Thomas (above) about a formerly incarcerated public schools “whitewashes” the of color or minimizes their worth at the Ashé Power House Theater, schoolteacher who is serving as a two-day detention monitor of four truth, romanticize the brutal facts, and contributions . After viewing students. In the play, he teaches students about racial justice and how on 1731 Baronne St . to face adversity. (photo by Flint Mitchell) and excludes Blacks’ positive con- this play Mitchell said he wants “I have a theory that those too tributions to the United States . viewers to take away new knowl- young to remember or know the “The Other Black History” is a This lesson begins with slavery and He said he knew it would be chal- edge, the courage to face oppres- Civil Rights Movement, are likely Civil Rights play about a formerly ends with the Civil Rights Move- lenging to persuade the govern- sion, and an understanding of the not to be civically engaged (i .e ., incarcerated schoolteacher who is ment . Mitchell, a native of Lake ment, school districts, and schools need for narrative change . vote, etc .) because they have no serving as a two-day detention mon- Charles, La . said he first started to teach what is accurate . He hopes Tickets purchased after Feb. idea of the struggle their ancestors itor of four students . In the play, writing in his late-twenties . He is an the play will enlighten citizens on 16 are $20 and can be pur- went through to gain them the right he teaches students about racial Adjunct Instructor in Public Health basic and controversial American chased at http://bit.ly/TheO- to vote,” Mitchell said . justice and how to face adversity . Program Implementation and Man- facts . therBlackHistory2018.

Jazz & Heritage Foundation Presents Educational Workshops for Teens Learn Audio Engineering, for Concerts and Recording Studios

Data News Staff Edited from the Country Music Associa- Report tion Foundation . To participate, students and their Applications are open now for parents or guardians must submit an two new instructional workshops in application using this online form . A Music Production for teenagers pre- brief essay written by the student is sented by the New Orleans Jazz & required . Heritage Foundation . Enrollment in both workshops One workshop will teach the Fun- will be limited to 20 students . We will damentals of Audio Engineering in a continue to admit new students on recording studio environment . The an ongoing basis as long as space is other will teach the Basics of Stage available . Production and Mixing Sound in the The workshops are part of an context of a live event such as a con- ongoing effort by the New Orleans cert or festival . Jazz & Heritage Foundation – the Both workshops will be monthly, nonprofit that owns Jazz Fest – to in- on Saturday afternoons, and will take crease Arts Education Opportunities place simultaneously at the Jazz & for young people . They expand on Heritage Center starting Feb . 24 . the growing repertoire of classes the The workshops are open, free Foundation presents in the state-of- of charge, to students between the the-art education facility the founda- ages of 13 and 17, and are made Jazz Heritage, possible with support by a Grant Continued on page 11. www.ladatanews.com National News February 24 - March 2, 2018 Page 11 DATA CLASSIFIED Call 504-821-7421 to The Black Press Remembers “Before the place your classified ad. Mayflower” Author, Freedom Fighting Journalist Lerone Bennett Jr. Job Opportunity Freelance By Stacy M. Brown Times . “He was the guiding light Writers (NNPA Newswire for the editorial vision of EBONY . Wanted Contributor) Lerone was not just essential in the formation of EBONY’s historic tra- Data News Weekly, “The Perhaps no other voice—or jectory, he was a pillar in the Black People’s Paper, is looking for freelence writers to pen—captured the real life of Afri- community .” join our team print and cans and like Le- The Griot reported: “In addition digital team. We want rone Bennett Jr ., the former editor to being remembered as an editor to hear from you if you of EBONY and Jet magazines who for these two magazines, Bennett, are a working journalist, or an aspiring journalist died on Wednesday, February 14 at a graduate of Morehouse College, who has 2 years or more the age of 89 . is known for his books, many of of newspaper or PR Chicago Sun-Times reported which cover the Black experience writing experience. We that, Bennett suffered from vascu- in America and the civil rights need writers who can lar dementia . movement .” cover New Orleans news stories, ranging from Among his many hard-hitting Bennett’s footprints are cement- local high school sports, and compelling works was the ed at the International Civil Rights community events, City exposé, “Before the Mayflower: Walk of Fame in Atlanta and he Hall and entertainment. Veteran journalist Lerone Bennett Jr. died on February 14, 2018 from A History of Black America,” in advanced vascular dementia. He was 89. (Environmental Protection once served on President Bill Clin- Experience in print is Agency/Creative Commons) necessary, experience in which Bennett traces Black history ton’s Committee on the Arts and digital and social media from its origins in western Africa, Humanities . The veteran journal- are encouraged. through the transatlantic journey deporting slaves in order to create contributions .” ist and historian also served as an and slavery, the Reconstruction pe- an all-White nation, the book, con- Bennett counted as an elegant early adviser to the Smithsonian’s Compensation is riod, the Jim Crow era, and the Civil cludes that the president was a rac- scholar and freedom fighter who National Museum of African Ameri- competitive and great Rights Movement . ist at heart—and that the tragedies used the power of his pen to awaken can History and Culture . story ideas will be The book was later re-issued five of Reconstruction and the Jim Crow millions of people to the true histo- In a tweet, the Rev . Jesse L . Jack- appreciated. more times and ultimately included era were the legacy of his shallow ry of African people in America and son Jr ., praised Bennett’s work . life in the 1990s . moral vision . throughout the world, said NNPA “A classmate & biographer of If you are interested, please email your resume Bennett would go on to pen at “Smart man and great author . President and CEO Dr . Benjamin F . Dr . King, during the turbulent 60’s, and 3 writing samples to: least 10 books, including the eye- His book [about Lincoln] changed Chavis Jr . his was a pen that mattered . As his- terrybjones@bellsouth. opening, 2000 book titled “Forced my life,” said comedian Sinbad . “Bennett’s journalistic genius torian, author of ‘Before the May- net and datanewseditor@ into Glory: Abraham Lincoln’s “Before the Mayflower’ educated will be missed, but his contributions flower’, editor of Ebony magazine, bellsouth.net. White Dream,” which, for some, me about the need to research our to documenting the struggles and the most read voice of the freedom shattered centuries-old myths true history .” triumphs of Black men, women and struggle, his impact will long be felt about America’s 16th president’s in- Others too expressed their sad- children will continue to be cher- and remembered,” Jackson tweet- We can’t wait to volvement in the freedom of slaves . ness and profound gratitude for ished by generations far into the ed . hear from you! A description of the book on Am- Bennett . future,” Chavis said . “The NNPA From its official Twitter account, azon .com said: “Beginning with the “I am personally saddened by salutes the living legacy of Lerone the NMAAHC tweeted, “it is with argument that the Emancipation the death of Lerone Bennett Jr . We Bennett Jr . with a commitment to great sadness and profound sense Proclamation did not actually free have lost another great journalist pick up his pen and put it into the of loss that we share the news of the African American slaves, this dis- who will be sorely missed,” said hands of today’s freedom fighting death of Lerone Bennett Jr ., a gifted senting view of Lincoln’s greatness Dorothy R . Leavell, the chairman of publishers, editors and journalists .” historian and journalist .” surveys the president’s policies, the NNPA and editor and publisher Bennett worked for EBONY for On Twitter, Bernice A . King speeches, and private utterances of the Crusader newspapers in Chi- nearly 50 years, after starting at Jet called Bennett a beloved and bril- and concludes that he had little real cago, Illinois and Gary, Indiana . in 1951 and then moving to the sis- liant man . This space can be interest in abolition .” “We knew him as the conscience ter publication in 1953 . By 1958, he “If you haven’t read his books, I Pointing to Lincoln’s support for and voice of EBONY and Jet maga- was the executive editor . encourage you to . Even if you have, the fugitive slave laws, his friend- zines and through the many books “Lerone worked side by side I encourage you to . Truly one of ship with slave-owning Senator he published . The world is richer, with my father in establishing EB- a kind historian & scholar,” King yours for only $80 Henry Clay, and conversations in because of his work here on earth ONY’s voice,” EBONY CEO Linda tweeted . “Grateful for what he’s which he entertained the idea of and we are grateful for his many Johnson Rice told the Chicago Sun- meant to my family .”

Jazz Heritage, Continued from page 10. new classes for beginners – and pro- viding free instruments . Call Now! tion opened in 2015, the George and “We put all sorts of audio technol- This space can be yours for only $80

Joyce Wein Jazz & Heritage Center . ogy in the building with the goal of “Since the Jazz & Heritage Cen- turning it into a hub of education – ter came online, we have continu- not just in Music Performance, but in CALL NOW!!! ally increased our educational pro- the technical side of music as well,” gramming to make this incredible Marshall added . “By adding these 504-821-7421 resource available to more young new workshops – and holding them 504-821-7421 people in our community,” said Don in the same building at the same time Marshall, Executive Director of the – we’re taking another step in that di- Jazz & Heritage Foundation . “First, rection .” we doubled the size of our Flagship Both workshops will be from 3 Program, the Heritage School of Mu- p .m . to 5 p .m . on these dates: Febru- sic, from 50 to 100 students per week . ary 24, March 24, April 21, May 26, ladatanews.com Then we doubled it again by adding June 23, July 21 and August 18 . A TIME TO REFLECT ON THE PLACES WE’VE BEEN. AND WHERE WE’RE GOING.

During Black History month, we remember the past in order to create a prosperous future. We salute and acknowledge the innovations, accomplishments and culture of African-Americans. From scoreboards to boardrooms and from concerts to congress, you are making differences that can be felt every day. Toyota salutes those who are driven to succeed because determination can lead to elevation.

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