March 1999

-THE 21st CENTURY-MAKING THE CONNECTION!-

Wolverine Founders OBSERVER L A W DAY Morris Brown Student Bar Association in the Legal Studies Department organized its Day March first annual “Law Day” held on March 9, 1999. Our theme this year was “Blacks And Takes The Law.” Our purpose is to spread the word in the Adanta University Center, and Î5* 1999 throughout the community about the many ways that the law affects black people. We presented a student symposium on Blacks And The Law which was held First in the Legal Studies Department By William H. De Sousa Sheppard, J.D., LL.M. CHAIRPERSON, MBC LEGAL Place... STUDIES DEPARTMENT s we reflect on some of the writ­ Again! ten expressions of AMorris Brown students regarding legal mat­ he staff of the ters of the Wolverine Ob­ Wolverine Observer server, it is important to note has every reason to that there is a widespread be proud...the pub­ misconception that the per­ lication was awarded “First centage of black lawyers in Place, Outstanding College American has significantly Newspaper” in the Senior increased since the Civil College Division at the re­ Rights Movement. This per­ cently concluded 48th An­ ception exists because of the nual Southern Regional expansion of various educa­ Press Institute convention tional opportunities; the and competition at Savan­ greater visibility of black nah State University. The judges; increased visibility of pubheation also won first and black lawyers in movies and second place “Outstanding on television; and more re­ Senior College Feature cently, the high visibility of Writing.” This is the third lawyers like Johnnie Cochran, award since the réintroduc­ and Cheryl Miller, a member tion of the pubheation in the Charles Hamilton Houston (1895-1950). Courtesy of President Clinton’s im­ fall of 1996. of Charles H. Houston, Jr., and Moorland-Spingarn Research Center, peachment defense legal Morris Brown’s other usu­ Howard University, Washington, D.C. (see historical spotlight) team. ally successful pubheation at Prior to the Civil Rights this annual competition, Movement, the percentage of The Brownite Yearbook, black lawyers was less than received “Honorable Men­ More Black one percent. Today, the per­ tion” as it was the lone entry centage of all minority law­ CONTINUED ON PAGE 2 Lawyers Needed yers in America is less than two percent. Among para­ legals and legal assistants, By Karon A. Daniel MBC - COLLEGE RELATIONS the percentages are beheved Valentine's Dag is... to be the same. Raw numbers (See story on page 5) may have changed, but the Founded on Service, percentages of black legal pro­ Grounded in Excel­ fessionals in this country has lence, and Anchored remained constant. in Tradition. Misconceptions about the Founders Day gives us pause actual number of black law­ to honor the legacy of the yers are present in the larger men and women whose col­ CONTINUED ON PAGE 2 lective vision became the Morris Brown College we features know today. Pictured are ‘ founders Stewart Wiley (top), v Benton’s Corner John Wesley Gaines (middle), ▼ Campus News and the first president of the ▼ City News board of trustees, Bishop ▼ Campus Organizations William F. Dickerson. Classifieds ▼ Editorials ▼ Entertainment Important ▼ In My Opinion ▼ Open Letter v Politics Dates to ▼ Religion News ▼ Sports Remember ▼ Views & Expressions Mrs. Priscilla Jenkins, Director for the Center For A Global Workforce and Community Service - See Page 12 - (second from left) enjoying conversation of memories with senior residents of Friendship Towers, ▼ Wholistically Speaking Southeast Atlanta during the "Intergenerational Valentine's" celebration day with Morris Brown. 2 The 21st Century-Making the Connection! MARCH 1999 MBC Wolverine OBSERVER Legal Studies Historical Spotlight

of killing blacks who “despite the handicaps of ignorance, Blacks and the poverty and oppression were steadily adding to their wealth and education.” The Death Penalty new method of control was By Juanita B. Hodges the “judgement and imposi­ MBC LEGAL STUDIES MAJOR Faggot” explains however, tion of capital (death) sen­ that this “alleged propensity” tences on black defendants According to Stephen B. for sex crimes by African by all white juries.” Bright, visiting lecture in Law Americans was unheard of in Beginning in the 1920’s, the at Harvard and Yale Law the United States during number of African-Americans Schools, and director of the slavery or prior to 1830. Ida killed as a result of court im­ Southern Center for Human B. Wells, a contemporary of posed death penalties ex­ rights in Atlanta, the death Frederick Douglass, and ceeded the number killed an­ penalty is a “direct descen­ leading 19th century black nually by lynching. In the dant of lynching and other anti-lynching advocate dem­ 1930’s, all white juries con­ forms of racial violence and onstrated in her writings and victed and sentenced more oppression in America.” The lectures that the real reason people to death than at any death penalty is part of a for lynching was white fear other time in American his­ criminal justice system which and resentment of black edu­ tory. More than two-thirds of can be used to eliminate those cational and economic ad­ those condemned to death society feels are useless, or vancement. were poor, black defendants who are seen as a threat to its The next phase of lynching often represented by ill- social, economic and political of blacks began after the Civil prepared court appointed at­ existence...the majority of War, and the formal abolition torneys. high schools, two-year and these people, however, are of slavery as a result of the Whether or not an African- First Place four-year colleges and uni­ poor and black. enactment of the 13th American is put to death in versities participated in the The excuse used to justify Amendment to the U.S. Con­ this country is heavily influ­ CONTINUED FROM PAGE 1 event. Milton Coleman, the lynching of black men in stitution in 1865. The re­ enced by the race of the vic­ in the Senior College Division Deputy Managing Editor of the south up until the mid- moval of slavery as a forced tim. After an analysis of 28 of the yearbook competition. The Washington Post, gave 1900’s was the accusation labor system forced many studies of death penalty sen­ The two-day event, Febru­ the keynote address at the that black men were rapists white southerners fearful of tencing, the U.S. General Ac­ ary 25-26, featured a host of awards luncheon. Both Har­ of white women. Walter blacks’ advancement to find counting Office reported in workshops, seminars and ris and Coleman gave tips on White, author of “Rope and ways to control skilled, free 1990 that the “race of the vic­ networking activities for fu­ how to succeed in the field of black labor in the market­ tim was found to influence ture journalists. The opening journalism and urged stu­ place. Stewart Tolnay’s the likelihood of being remarks were made by Cable dents to consider journalism “Festival of Violence” details charged with capital murder News Networks’ co-anchor, careers. how waves of black lynching or receiving the death pen­ Leon Harris, who was also Congratulations are ex­ CONTINUED FROM PAGE 1 peaked in periods of economic alty.” Those who murdered awarded the Louis R. Lautier tended to all participants community, and in the black depression due to southern whites were found to be more Award for Career Achieve- who contributed to our community as well. In fact, whites fears of competing likely to be sentenced to death ment. Students from over 20 success. some of my well-intentioned with free black workers for than those who murdered colleagues here at Morris jobs. blacks. “African-Americans Brown, and at other institu­ To make matters worse, it who are accused of killing tions of higher education have was just one year after the whites are 19 times more The MBC sometimes advised students 13th Amendment was ratified, likely to be executed than not to go to law school... that white terrorist organiza­ whites who kill African- Wolverine OBSERVER Newspaper ’’because there are too many tions such as the Knights of Americans. This report came needs more advertising lawyers.” the White Camelia and the after the U.S. Supreme The state of Georgia is an Ku Klux Klan came into exis­ Court’s 1971 decision in Fur­ support from the business sector example of the dearth of black tence. These groups also used man v. Georgia, where the of metro Atlanta. lawyers throughout the na­ lynching to instill fear in free Court acknowledged that the tion. There are 159 counties African-Americans. These death penalty was “unconsti­ in Georgia, however, outside blatant public killings of tutionally” applied to blacks. When you advertise with of a five-county Atlanta met­ blacks coupled with a lack of Afterwards, the Court rein­ ropolitan area, the approxi­ legal protection resulted in stated the death penalty in the Wolverine OBSERVER mate number of black lawyers more that “two million” Afri­ 1976. In 1987 the Court con­ in other locations in the state can-Americans migrating cluded in McCleskey v. Kemp you are advertising to our future include: 20 in Savannah; 6 in north beginning in the 1890’s that the victims of race and business leaders and therefore Columbus; 3 in Griffin; 3 in where northern whites the imposition of the death Augusta, and 5 in Macon. A greeted them with further penalty was “statistically” your future buyers. similar pattern exists in every mob lynching.” Following the significant in the whole state in the union. 1908 riot in Spring, Illinois, (criminal justice) system. It is important, therefore, to the NAACP and other anti­ Despite dramatic racial dis­ carefully examine the facts lynching proponents began to parities in death penalty The Morris Brown College Wolverine OBSERVER regarding the presence of lobby Congress in 1921, 1935 cases, Congress in 1994 re­ is Published Monthly by Morris Brown College, 643 Martin L. King Jr. blacks in the legal profession and 1940 for an anti-lynching fused to include the Racial Dr., NW, Atlanta, GA 30314-4140 (404) 220-0308 - (404) 220-0312. All before making important ca­ bill. This growing “debate Justice Act in the 1994 crime contents are Copyright 1998, Morris Brown College Wolverine OB­ reer decisions. In this way we and outcry led southern bill (which provides the death SERVER. All rights reserved. The opinions expressed by editors and contributing writers are not necessarily those of Morris Brown College avoid many of the pitfalls and states to abandon the lynch­ penalty for at least 60 of­ or it’s Board of Trustees. The students of MBC Wolverine OBSERVER misconceptions of popular be­ ing rope”...and to replace fenses). This Act would have have the right and responsibility to report news of student interest, and liefs. lynching with another method CONTINUED ON NEXT PAGE to editorialize on issues of student relevance. The MBC Wolverine OBSERVER newspaper is not responsible for unsolicited manuscripts or photographs. All material will be considered for publication and must be typewritten double spaced, and contain the Morris Brown College was founded in 1881 by leaders of the writer’s name, address, and telephone number for verification unless North Georgia Conference of the African Methodist Episcopal approved otherwise by the Director for Student Activities. Please en­ Church. It is the only institution of higher learning in the state of close a self-addressed, stamped envelope to guarantee return. Georgia founded by African Americans. It is a private, coeduca­ Deadlines for articles or announcements is TWO weeks prior to the tional Liberal Arts College engaged in teaching and research in publication deadline (1s' week of the month). ADVERTISEMENTS: the Arts, Humanities, and Social and Natural Sciences. The Col­ Deadline is at 3:00 p.m. during the prior week of publication - call for lege IS A MEMBER OF THE ATLANTA UNIVERSITY CENTER (AUC), THE rate card. DISTRIBUTION: Free in the MBC campus community and WORLD’S LARGEST CONSORTIUM OF AFRICAN AMERICAN PRIVATE HIGHER metro-Atlanta. SUBSCRIPTIONS: Call for rate. Reproduction or use, EDUCATION INSTITUTIONS. without written permission, of editorial or graphic content in any manner is prohibited. The 21st Century-Making the Connection! MARCH 1999 MBC Wolverine OBSERVER 3 Charles Fate off H. Houston: Crack Mothers A Tribute and Babies By Tonya McAlpine MBC LEGAL STUDIES MAJOR was encouraged and inspired by his parents who saw to it By Terri L. McCoy MBC LEGAL STUDIES MAJOR Charles Hamilton Houston that he attended the best is someone to whom we owe a schools available. He excelled According to Dorothy Rob­ great tribute. He was a at the prestigious Amherst erts’ article “Punishing Drug unique black pioneer who College and Harvard Law Addicts Who Have Babies: fought hard for African- School, always graduating at Women of Color, Equality and Americans to enjoy the same the top of his class. After a the Right of Privacy,” in the constitutional rights as tour of duty in America’s seg­ May 1991 issue of the whites. regated Army, Houston be- “Harvard Law Review,” said Born in the late 1890’s, “women increasingly face during the period in which criminal charges for giving the Supreme Court in “Plessy birth to infants who test posi­ v. Ferguson” established the tive for drugs. Most of the “separate but equal” doctrine. women prosecuted are poor, Houston chose not to become black and addicted to crack what their rights are regard­ scription drugs are not simi­ a victim of segregation, but cocaine.” Is this matter a ing the custody of their chil­ larly criminalized. committed his life to tearing family issue? A public policy dren while they are incarcer­ Since 1989, law enforce­ down laws that justified it. issue? Or a criminal offense? ated. Courts may conclude ment officials in South Caro­ Though born into a deeply Should crack addicted preg­ that a mother’s lack of contact lina have targeted a particu­ segregated America, Houston nant women’s parental rights with her minor children while lar class of pregnant women was blessed with talent, vi­ be terminated, or should re­ she is incarcerated be inter­ at public hospitals who test sion and determination. He habilitation services be pro­ Charles H. Houston preted as abandonment. If positive for illegal drug use, vided? And who is deciding considered abandoned, chil­ mostly crack cocaine. Afri­ came convinced that the task the fate of African-American dren of crack addicted moth­ can-American women who Death Penalty of securing constitutional children and their mothers ers are placed in foster care or went to public hospitals for required courts to hold a dis­ rights for black Americans who are eight times more put up for adoption and a prenatal care or to deliver ba­ parity hearing to determine if and “fighting for men who likely than white women to go natural mother’s parental bies have been arrested for race was a factor before a could not strike back” should to prison for their conditions, rights are forever terminated. passing drugs to their babies death penalty could be im­ not be left up to white law­ even though a greater per­ In “Santosky v. Kramer, the through the umbilical cord. posed. Bright observes that yers. He took on the major centage of white women are United States Supreme Court Some have been taken away today, “African-Americans task of developing Howard arrested for the same reasons discusses the serious conse­ in chains and shackles, while and other minorities continue University Law School as a but not incarcerated? quences of termination of pa­ still bleeding from delivery. to be excluded as judges, ju­ laboratory for black lawyers Studies have shown that Af­ rental rights. “Termination As a consequence, women rors, prosecutors, lawyers and trained in civil rights litiga­ rican-American women in denies the natural parents who must rely on public law enforcement officials in tion. One of the students he particular, are, when com­ physical custody as well as health care while pregnant the criminal justice system. recruited and trained there pared with white women the rights ever to visit, com­ are shying away from seeking Although African- was Thurgood Marshall. “over-arrested, over-indicted, municate with, or regain cus­ prenatal care for fear of ar­ Americans make up only 12% Marshall later followed Hous­ under-defended and over­ tody of the child.” rest. of the population, they make ton as General Counsel of the sentenced.” When crack ad­ The courts of Florida (see The Supreme Court in up nearly 80% of the U.S. jail NAACP and after Houston’s dicted pregnant women are Jennifer Clarice Johnson v. “Santosky” goes to say that and prison inmates. With the death he successfully argued arrested there are no voca­ State of Florida, and the “the fundamental liberty in­ growing black prison popula­ the landmark Brown v. Board tional or rehabilitative serv­ courts of South Carolina, terest of natural parents in tion—as a result of manda­ of Education before the U.S. ices in jails and prisons to Cornelia Whitner v. State of the care, custody and man­ tory “three strikes” sentenc­ Supreme Court in 1954. This help mothers do better when South Carolina) have ad­ agement of their child does ing programs—convicted fel­ case overturned the “separate they are released. Each state dressed these issues. This not evaporate simply because ons also lose their right to but equal” doctrine of “Plessy” has jurisdiction over matters critical issue has also been they have not been model vote. This in turn makes which had been the law of the related to family and criminal examined by courts in at least parents, or have lost tempo­ them ineligible to serve on ju­ land for 50 years. Marshall law, and the issue of how to 30 states. Except for South rary custody of their child to ries, as most jurors are chosen went on to become the first handle crack addicted preg­ Carolina, courts have ruled the state...even when blood from lists of registered voters. African-American justice of nant women who pass crack consistently that criminal relationships are strained, (See Marc Mauer’s article on the U. S. Supreme Court. on to unborn children through prosecutions of predominately parents retain a vital interest “disenfranchisement”). The According to the late Judge their umbilical cord has been black, crack addicted, preg­ in preventing the irretriev­ American death penalty sys­ A. Leon Higginbotham, one of addressed in the courts of nant women was unconstitu­ able destruction of their fam­ tem is the “least affected by Houston’s protegees, and for­ Florida, Texas and South tional as a violation of the ily life.” We are left to won­ the Civil Rights Movement mer Chief Judge of the Carolina. The criminalization equal protection clause of the der whether the situation of that brought changes to many United States Court of Ap­ of substance abuse, and the Constitution. The unconstitu­ crack addicted pregnant other institutions in the last peals for the Third Circuit, advent of mandatory sen­ tionality argument was suc­ women who give birth to 40 years. The U.S. Supreme “without “Brown” there would tences for non-violent drug cessful because it has been crack addicted children will Court’s decision in McClesky have been no civil rights related offenses is one of the determined that pregnant be treated as a public health “upheld racial disparities in movement, no civil rights act, reasons for an escalating white women who are drug problem or as a problem for death penalty cases that and no voting rights act. growth in the African- and alcohol users, or who are the police. would not be allowed in any Without Houston, there American female prison addicted to medically pre­ Terri L. McCoy is a senior other area of American life would have been no “Brown.” population. During the past scribed recreational or pre­ from Augusta, GA. such as housing, employment Tonya McAlpine is a senior ten years, the number of and education.” at MBC from St. Louis. women incarcerated in As politicians continue to She is the External Vice America has increased 300%; rally around “get tough on President of MBC’s SGA, 80 percent of these women crime” programs, as the Chair of MBC’s Student are mothers of two or three American job market contin­ Senate, and Captain of the minor children, and sole cus­ ues to be reduced by down­ Legal Studies Department todian of their children at the ^faring tMni sizing, as skilled workers are Mock Trial Team. time of arrest. The over­ replaced by electronic tech­ whelming majority of these ■ nology, and as America builds BLACK women are African-American more and more prisons and who were unemployed or un­ the Model United Nations Team jails, what fate will befall Af­ HISTORY deremployed at the time of rican-Americans as a dispro­ arrest. Offenses that used to competing in Cambridge, England. portionate number of them CONTINUED get probation are now draw­ are sentenced to death? ing prison time, and sen­ Juanita B. Hodges is a tences are harsher. MBC senior from Florida. Many mothers do not know 4 The 21st Century-Making the Connection! MARCH 1999 MBC Wolverine OBSERVER

Hospitality Law: A Growing Industry Overlooked

By Korin Tanksley as “hospitality law.” seeable, and require the use of legal promised and paid for. It involves LEGAL STUDIES MAJOR Hospitality law, although an old professionals. elements of contract law, employment area of the law, is also in some ways Within the last decade, there has issues, tourism, hospitality proce­ If you have ever had a flight or car relatively new. It has been an impor­ been a drastic increase in the amount dures, and regulatory rules to ensure reservation cancelled, then you are tant area in the legal profession since of public traveling. People no longer that customers have a safe and com­ probably familiar with some of the the beginning of the 14th and 15th travel just for an occasional family fortable experience. inconveniences that can occur when centuries of England. The need for a vacation or gathering. They travel on A knowledge of hospitality law has traveling. At times, you may have set of laws specific to the travel in­ a regular basis for business and proven to be a useful resource for the wondered if any one was held ac­ dustry became evident with the de­ pleasure. public. By setting guidelines for the countable when you were affected by regulation of the travel industry that Whether you are travelling locally industry to follow, these laws pro­ flight cancellations, overbooking, or occurred in the U.S. in the 70’s. or internationally, it is important mote public confidence and ensure delayed performances causing you to When the federally ordered deregula­ that you have a general understand­ that the public receives adequate miss important plans. In all of these tion process was complete, the travel ing of your rights as a traveler, and treatment. Whether commuting to situations whom should you blame? industry needed specialized legal that is exactly why hospitality laws your place of employment, home or And, how would you gain compensa­ guidance to resolve travel issues. were created. Hospitality laws in­ retreating on a family vacation, the tion? The legal profession has an Unknown to many of us, every day volve the liability of airlines, cruise ability to understand hospitality laws area of law specifically designed to there are lawsuits filed because of lines, railroads, bus and rental car are a necessity. address these issues. It is referred to mistreatment by someone repre­ companies, hotel and travel agents as Korin Tanksley is a Junior from senting the travel industry. Most of well as recreational establishments Florida. the time these situations are unfore­ for failure to deliver travel services Are Athletes who use drugs above the law? By Paxton Baety in sports is not new. The use of drugs tests were limited because of inade­ athletic professions don’t test for LEGAL STUDIES MAJOR in sports dates back to 800 B.C. in quate technology, and athletes quick­ some illegal drugs. The NBA, for ex­ Athletes are special individuals. Greek societies. Writings from the ly learned how to beat the system. ample, does not test for marijuana. They compete in front of crowds time of Plato reveal that the value of In 1983, drug testing strategies Why aren’t athletes prosecuted for sometimes numbering in the millions, a victory in the ancient Olympics was took an important step forward when drug use in the same way regular doing so under enormous pressure to the equivalent of nearly half a million analytical procedures were signifi­ citizens would be for violating the win. They are under tremendous dollars. The first reported athlete cantly refined. The introduction of law? In a recent NFL draft, Warren pressure to be the best, the fastest or death due to drugs was in 1886 when gas chromatography and mass spec­ Sapp, then a defensive lineman at the the strongest. To win is to be the a cyclist, Linton, died from an over­ trometry allowed accurate results to University of Miami, tested positive king of the world; to lose is to be an dose of Trimethyl. In the 1960 Olym­ be consistently obtained. This new for marijuana. The result? He unmentioned competitor. Unrelent­ pics, Danish cyclist Kurt Jensen col­ technology resulted in the now fa­ dropped from a top five pick in the ing pressure drives these people, lapsed and died from an ampheta­ mous scandal of the Pan American first round draft to a mid-round draft therefore, many of them may decide mine overdose. Drug use was report­ Games in Caracas where numerous pick in the first round. No jail time, to do whatever is necessary to win. edly rife at the 1952 Helsinki Games, athletes tested positive for prohibited no sanctions. Also, Michael Irvin was Sometimes this means gaining their and to a lesser extent at the 1956 drugs,, and many others left the slapped on the wrist for his ordeal competitive advantage through the Melbourne Olympics. games without competing rather than with cocaine. If these were ordinary use of drugs. The international sports commu­ be caught. citizens who were caught using these Why do athletes use drugs? There nity began to speak out against the What happens to athletes when same drugs, they would be subjected are a number of factors, the most harm that drugs were causing. The they get caught? In 1988 at the to very harsh federal and state crimi­ common may be an athletes dissatis­ first significant international anti- Seoul Olympics, Ben Johnson tested nal penalties set up by the lawmak­ faction with their athletic progress. doping development occurred in 1960 positive for a banned anabolic steroid ing bodies of this country. In the opinion of professional sports when the Council of Europe, a group and was stripped of his gold medal Credit, however, must be given agent and attorney Robert Byce, “If of 21 western European nations ta­ and suspended for two years. This where it is due. When athletes vio­ the difference between an athlete bled a resolution against the use of might sound like a suitable punish­ late drug policies they are punished making a million dollars a year, or doping substances in sports. Govern­ ment for an athlete caught up in this by their respective leagues. Irvin $300,000 a year is the use of drugs, ments, national, and international situation, but what would happen to was suspended for four games, and 90% of the time the athlete may feel sporting organizations continued to a regular citizen if they got caught Sapp had to do drug rehab and coun­ the tradeoff is worth the risk.” An­ implement anti-doping initiatives with drugs. My extensive research seling. The question is was this other reason for the use of drugs by throughout the late 1960’s and on this subject has not turned up any enough? Are our athletes truly above athletes may be unrealistic qualifying 1970’s. Drug testing became a more evidence of an athlete being prose­ the law? standards of performance. common feature of high-level sport­ cuted, or having to answer charges Paxton Baety is a MBC junior liv­ Contrary to popular belief, drug use ing competition. Drug testing pro­ that were drug related after they ing in Atlanta. grams, however, did not guarantee tested positive for a drug that is ille­ their effectiveness. Accurate drug gal. The irony of it all is that some Aviation Law: What You Need to Know traveling by air. In this article, we commodate the needs of the air trav­ less that baggage was insured. Air­ By Bryant Hill and Julius Jigget hope to tell you a little of what you eler and aircraft operators. line liability for accidental death is MBC LEGAL STUDIES MAJORS need to know about aviation law. Today, there are many agencies and also limited, especially in interna­ As Morris Brown College students Before beginning our discussion, we corporations (public and private) in­ tional flights. from all across the nation, we travel must first define “aviation law” and cluding the Department of Transpor­ Several agreements regulate inter­ back and forth to school and home look at its history. Aviation law is tation (DOT) and the Federal Avia­ national aviation activities. The several times a year. Some of us the law that governs or regulates the tion Administration (FAA) that are Warsaw Agreement set forth a uni­ travel by car, bus or train, but for the activities of aircraft and those associ­ involved in aviation activities. These form code regarding liability to pas­ most part we tend to travel by air. ated with it. The laws of aviation are agencies use aviation law to regulate sengers for loss of goods. This When we travel by air we put our based on an ancient legal system; yet, airline employees and the rights and agreement was amended by the property, our trust and even our lives much that is new has been added. obligations of consumers who utilize Montreal Agreement that addressed in the hands of those responsible for From the early mail flights in 1911 to airline services. Actually, when we liability for loss of life. The United piloting the plane. Generally, as con­ the Department of Transportation purchase an airline ticket, we are States is a signatory to these agree­ sumers we don’t know much about Act in 1966, the law of aviation was signing a contract that affects the ment, and must adhere to them. this industry and the law that gov­ developed. From then on, aviation value of our fives and our property. The next time you purchase an air­ erns it. In fact, we are probably un­ law in the U.S. has evolved over the Such a contract provides us with a line ticket, please read the terms of aware of our rights when it comes to years from basic legal systems to ac­ fixed amount for loss of baggage un­ this contract carefully.

Morris Brown College is the only Historically Black College or University in the nation where you can earn a Bachelor’s degree in law and legal assistance. For more information call Kim Thomas, President, Morris Brown Student Bar Association at 404- 766-5314, or Professor Lemoine Pierce, Faculty Advisor at 404-220-0297. The 21st Century-Making the Connection! MARCH 1999 MBC Wolverine OBSERVER 5 Not Just for the Young at Heart By Eddie L. Buggs CENTER FOR A GLOBAL WORKFORCE AND COMMUNITY SERVICE Who says Valentine’s Day is just for young lovers? Residents at Friend­ ship Towers proved Valentine’s Day is for the “young at heart.” Morris Brown College’s Community Service Department provided an evening of entertainment, fun, and dancing for the seniors at Friendship Towers in Southwest Atlanta. With music melodies from the 50’s through the 90’s, the seasoned seniors at Friend­ ship Towers showed Morris Brown College students and staff they still have pep in their step. While most college students were preparing for a weekend of romantic Valentine’s tra­ dition, members of Alpha Kappa Al­ pha Sorority, Inc., Golden Key Na­ tional Honor Society, and Phi Mu Al­ pha Music Fraternity were dancing the night away while having fun with the seniors at Friendship Towers. The seniors gave the college students and staff members a brief lesson in “Dance 101, with their rendition of the cha-cha-cha and the Soul Train line” giving everyone an opportunity to celebrate a “Intergenerational Valentine’s” evening. Ms. Jessie Benton, President of Friendship Tow­ ers Residents said, “We enjoy events that bring the younger generations around, it allows us to share our years of wisdom and feel appreci­ ated.” This is the second year the college sponsored this event for the residents of Friendship Towers. Karlston Washington said these pearls of wis­ dom, “Events such as this causes one to realize that youth is not only physical but instead a mental application.” 6 The 21st Century-Making the Connection! MARCH 1999 MBC Wolverine OBSERVER POLITICS: Disenfranchisement, Race and Democracy Too Many Citizens, Especially Black Men, Have Lost the Right to Vote

By Marc Mauer ment have sometimes suggested that alty, as it imposes a basic loss of lib­ ASSISTANT DIRECTOR OF THE SENTENCING these laws guard against voter fraud erty. But offenders do not forfeit all PROJECT IN WASHINGTON, D.C. and protect the “purity” of the ballot other rights, except where the exercise Jamie Fellner is associate counsel of Hu­ man Rights Watch in New York City. Fulton box. Perhaps this might be relevant of those rights interferes with the safe County Daily Report - October 1998. Provided for offenders convicted of electoral and orderly functioning of a prison. by American Lawyer News Service. fraud. But it seems rather unlikely Inmates do not, for example, lose the that a car thief who has completed his right to communicate with their loved illions of Americans will sentence would present any threat to ones outside prison or to read newspa­ be going to the polls in next the voting process. Furthermore, the pers. It is hard to imagine that permit­ weeks’ elections, but Law­ restrictions on voting by ex-felons ting inmates to vote by absentee ballot Mrence Tyrone Hill is a 51- clash with long-standing notions once a year would pose an undue bur­ year-old computer programmer in New of justice—that once offenders have den on prison operations. Mexico who once served time in paid their debt to society, they are Voting disenfranchisement violates prison. He has the unfortunate dis­ free to resume normal lives in the any sense of proportionality of pun­ tinction of hving in one of 14 states community. ishment. In those states that disen­ where ex-felons lose their voting rights Even denying the right to vote to franchise offenders for life, a person for life. So even though he has had an prisoners is problematic. Since the whose crime requires one year’s proba­ unblemished record since his release of conviction and incarceration, we can vast majority of prisoners will be re­ tion is disenfranchised just the same from prison in 1986, Hill will not have expect that 30 to 40 percent of the next turning to the community someday, as a person whose crime mandates life a voice in the election. generation of black men will be disen­ it is clearly in the public interest that without parole. In addition to the se­ Hill’s disenfranchisement results franchised for some or all of their they develop strong ties to the com­ riousness of the crime, the broad na­ from a complex set of state laws that adult lives. govern whether felons can vote in The racial impact of disenfranchise­ Given current rates of conviction state and federal elections. Georgia ment laws is a function not just of and all but four states deny prisoners criminal convictions, but of public pol­ and incarceration, we can expect that 30 the right to vote, and 32 states, in­ icy choices as well. While crime rates to 40 percent of the next generation of black cluding Georgia, also prohibit felons on today are not dramatically different men will be disenfranchised for some probation and/or parole from voting. than they were 25 years ago, harsh Most remarkably, in 14 states, felony sentencing and drug policies have or all of their adult lives. convictions can lead to life-time disen­ vastly expanded the criminal justice franchisement. system. The inmate population of munity. Surely participation in the ture of disenfranchisement laws also electoral process—a cornerstone of precludes any effort to relate loss of Today, for Americans, voting is democracy—can only enhance prison­ the vote to the nature of the crime— ers’ sense of commitment and respon­ such as tampering with the electoral right, not a privilege, and one possessed by all. sibility to society. process. As with any right, it should not be restricted Contrary to the arguments of some Some observers have suggested that proponents, losing the vote is not an the practical impact of these laws unreasonably. We should be particularly inherent aspect of punishment. Im­ be relatively modest since many of wary when the harm to basic prisonment itself is a profound pen­ CONTINUED ON NEXT PAGE democratic rights is compounded by severe racial disparities. Is alcohol taking you In Georgia, a felon’s voting rights are 200,000 in 1972 has swelled to 1.2 restored upon completion of his million today, giving the United States away from your or her sentence, according to a spokes­ an overall rate of incarceration that is family? Call person in the Secretary of State’s Of­ second only to that of Russia. Drug fice. But in Virginia, for example, an policies and practices have dispropor­ Helpline Georgia 18-year-old who makes a one-time tionately affected African-Americans, drug sale to an undercover police offi­ thus contributing to their higher rates 24 hours a day for cer and is placed on probation will be of felony convictions and incarceration barred from voting forever. and, hence, their higher rates of disen­ free confidential In a new study by The Sentencing franchisement. Project and Human Rights Watch, we Disturbing Implications information. ANYMORE estimate that 3.9 million Americans, The loss of African-American votes or one in 50 adults, is either currently is particularly disturbing given the or permanently disenfranchised as a historical context of disenfranchise­ result of these laws. That number in­ ment laws. While these laws have an­ cludes 134,800 felons in Georgia, or tecedents in earlier conceptions of about 2.5 percent of the state’s adult “civil death” as the appropriate pun­ population. ishment for certain crimes, they took Among the disenfranchised, 1.4 mil­ on new significance in the South in the lion are ex-offenders who have com­ post-Reconstruction period when many pleted their sentences. In most states, states tailored disenfranchisement only gubernatorial action can restore laws to increase their impact on Afri­ the voting rights of ex-felons. In Vir­ can-Americans. Legislators of the day ginia, out of an estimated 200,000 ex­ were quit blatant in their efforts to offenders, only 400 have regained the thwart black voter participation right to vote in the last two years. through felony disenfranchisement The racial impact of these policies is laws and other ostensibly race-neutral even more dramatic. Lawrence Ty­ restrictions such as poll taxes and lit­ rone Hill is one of nearly 1.5 million eracy requirements. African-American men who are disen­ With the exception of the felony dis­ franchised, representing 13 percent of enfranchisement laws, all vestiges of the black male population of the Uni­ those racially motivated restrictions ted States. In Georgia, 66,400 black have been eliminated. But now, whe­ men are disenfranchised, or 10.5 per­ ther through indifference or intent, HELPCLINt cent of the adult black male popula­ current pohcies are resulting in more tion. minorities’ losing their voting rights In seven states, we estimated that every day. one in four black men is now perma­ Any modern rationale for barring nently disenfranchised as a result of a felons from voting is difficult to de­ 800-338-6745 felony conviction. Given current rates fend. Supporters of disenfranchise- The 21st Century-Making the Connection! MARCH 1999 MBC Wolverine OBSERVER 7 CAMPUsWf

By Tejan Muata Racquel Watson, junior art student felt like it was a big, beautiful dream. never occurred. May God bless you at MBC, received a once in a lifetime In this experience I learned so much all.” opportunity to study abroad in Cor­ more than art. I learned about me, Using her newly acquired skills and tona, Italy for the summer of 1998. and how to appreciate the rich cul­ knowledge, she plans to proceed with An honors student, Ms. Watson is the ture of other countries.” many new creations. “The influence first student ever to be chosen from Ms. Watson received numerous fi­ of Italian art will forever influence MBC and one of only a few students nancial gifts from MBC, CAU, and my work. I plan to be an advocate of in the entire Atlanta University Cen­ many members of the Atlanta and study abroad programs for the re­ ter to be a part of this extraordinary Las Vegas communities. Ms. Watson mainder of my life,” Ms. Watson said. program. said, “Thank you, thank you, thank After her graduation from MBC Ms. She said, “From the moment I ar­ you. Without the help of so many Watson plans to study abroad for two rived in Italy until my departure I generous people my trip would have or more years. Racquel Watson First MBC Student Goes to Italy Study PROGRAM ►

disenfranchised CONTINUED those affected come from demographic groups with low rates of voting partici­ pation in any case. This may or may not be true, but in a nation that pro­ duces one of the lowest rates of voter participation in the industrialized world, it seems rather senseless to perpetuate policies that contribute to the weakening of democracy. These Are Alternatives Alternatives to disenfranchisement laws would not be difficult to imple­ ment. There is clearly no rationale for depriving felons of the vote after they have completed their sentences. To the extent that legislatures wish to disenfranchise those currently incar­ cerated, they should identify the SPRINT PCS ALL-NIGHTER PLAN crimes for which such a penalty is rea­ $24.99 FOR 570 MINUTES sonable and proportionate, and require that such a penalty be imposed by a judge as part of a criminal sentence. Stop by your local Sprint PCS Center and sign up for our “all-nighter” plan for At the national level, Congress could just $24.99 a month. It comes with a total of 570 clear minutes. And require that states permit those con­ victed of felonies to vote in federal just think, you won’t need to share a phone with your roommate. elections. This would remedy the bi­ • You'll get 70 minutes to use anytime plus 500 free night zarre situation whereby an ex-offender ¡SPRINT PCS can vote for president in West Virginia PHONE and weekend minutes until the year 2000. (i: Directory but not in Virginia. 4-: Features 5 SONY When our nation was founded, the • Voicemail, Caller ID, Call Waiting and Three-Way franchise was restricted to a self-selec­ ted group of wealthy white men. The Calling are included. United States prides itself, and right­ fully so, on the extension of the vote to • It’s the only phone you’ll need on campus. those originally relegated to the politi­ cal sidelines the poor, blacks, women, — • Only Sprint PCS built an all-digital nationwide network illiterates. But we continue to pursue an extreme pohcy when it comes to ex­ from the ground up for a new level of clarity. offenders—a pohcy that is far out of line with those of other nations. No other country bars ex-offenders from voting for life or has such a significant percentage of its citizens who cannot Sprint. The clear alternative to cellular.5“ Sprint PCS vote as a result of felony convictions. Today, for Americans, voting is a right, not a privilege, and one pos­ To find out more or to order your phone, call 1-800-480-4PCS, visitwww.sprintpcs.com or stop by one of the locations below: sessed by all. As with any right, it should not be restricted unreasonably. Sprint PCS Centers: We should be particularly wary when ROSWELL the harm to basic democratic rights is CUMBERLAND Sandy Springs Crossing Akers Mill Square compounded by severe racial dispari­ 6690 Roswell Rd. 2951 Cobb Pkwy. NW ties. Do we really want to function as Suite 1100A (770) 955-8940 a democracy—when we maintain laws (404) 843-9990 and practices that virtually guarantee Offer may be combined with Sprint residential long-distance promotions and may not be used in conjunction with certain other promotions, discounts and contests $24.99 per Month rate plan includes 0 local minutes the exclusion of a significant portion of a month good anytime, and 500 minutes a month to be used nights and weekends. $24.99 Offer valid on Sprint PCS Phones7“ purchased on or after August 5. 1998. Limited-time offer Calls that begin in one calling period and end in another calling period will be charged in their entirety at the initial calling period rate For customers who activate service on $24.99/'5"0 Offer identified service plans, rates will be valid until the African-Americans from participation year 2000. Offer may not be continuously available if service is deactivated or other service changes are requested by customer. Customer must meet credit requirements tor service activation on identified service plan Service requires a phone compatible with the Sprint PCS Network. All-nighter hours vary by market. Please confirm your All-nighter hours with a local Sprint PCS representative Add an additional 10 cents per minute in democratic life? for domestic long-distance charges Airtime charges apply when accessing Voicemail from your Sprint PCS Phone. $24.99 Offer benefits do not apply when roaming off the Sprint PCS Network. Offer subiect to withdrawal without notice. ©1999 Sprint Spectrum L.P. All rights reserved. Sprint, Sprint PCS and the diamond logo are registered trademarks of Sprint Communications Company. L.P.. used under license Sprint Permission to reprint article granted by Marc Personal Communication Services is a registered service mark of Sprint Communications Company, LP, used under license. Sprint PCS Phone is a trademark of Sprint Communications Company. LP.. used under license. Mauer and Fulton County Legal Reporter 8 The 21st Century-Making the Connection! MARCH 1999 MBC Wolverine OBSERVER Trees Give Life

Service amalgamated with Trees Atlanta to celebrate Arbor Day. The morning proved brisk and bright as students, staff, faculty and volunteers gathered to plant over fifty trees throughout the new beautified cam­ pus’ of Morris Brown College and Interdenominational Theological Center. “This project enlightened me on the importance of tree, which are rich in heritage and also enhance the beauty of our campus.” Said Jamilia Lawson, freshman at MBC. These two sites were chosen through a continuation celebration of 1998’s Arbor Day Project. Erskine Alexan­ der, senior MBC, stated “Serving on FREE TAX HELP this project allowed us to not only gain skills and knowledge about what gives year. VITA (Volunteer Income Tax us life, but also learn about commun­ Volunteer Assistance Program) provides FREE ing with nature. I will always keep a tax help in the community. Atlanta watchful eye on the trees I planted University Center Accounting stu­ and will help nurture, just as God has Income Tax dents at Morris Brown, Morehouse planted me at Morris Brown, which in and Spelman College helped people By Eddie L. Buggs turn nurtured me.” in the community with basic tax re­ CENTER FOR A GLOBAL WORKFORCE Assistance AND COMMUNITY SERVICE If you didn’t have a chance to par­ turns, particularly those with low ticipate in Arbor Day Celebration 1999 Morris Brown College, in collabora­ and limited income, individuals with ‘Trees Give Life’ was the rallying don’t worry, Arbor Day Celebration tion with the Internal Revenue Serv­ disabilities, non-English speaking cry that was heralded on Saturday, 2000 will be next year February so ices (VITA Program), served as the and elderly taxpayers. There was no February 20, 1999 as The Center for look for our announcements and come Tax Preparation site for the third charge for the service. a Global Workforce and Community help us ‘Give Life’ to the world!!

pus over the next few months as we prepare for the new millennium. These “The Dawn of a New Era at are Promotion and Tenure; Faculty Governance; Gender Equity; Profes­ Chicago State University, Dr. Cross sional Development; Academic Free­ Morns Brown” caused that institution to grow faster dom; Trends and Issues in Higher than any other college or university Education; and The Place for Histori­ in the Midwest as evidenced by the cally Black Colleges and Universities sharp increase in the number of de­ in Higher Education. We also look for­ grees they offered. Additionally, she ward to the opportunity of sharing was directly responsible for the com­ ideas and technology with our col­ pletion of more than $33 million leagues throughout the city of Atlanta, dollars worth of new construction the state of Georgia, and the South­ throughout the entire campus. Need­ eastern region of the United States. less to say, we are extremely honored to have an individual of her statue serve as the new president of our college. In addition to naming Dr, Cross as the new President of the College, ESTABLISHED 1935 the Faculty Council voted in the Fall 643 Martin Luther King Jr., Drive of 1998, to install a Chapter of the Atlanta, Georgia 30314-4140 American Association of University (404) 220-0312 (404) 220-0308 Fax: 220 0393 Professor (AAUP). We felt that the timing was right for us to proceed in PUBLISHER that direction because of the rich Morris Brown College background and strong resume of ex­ ADVISORIMANAGING EDITOR periences our new President would bring to the table. During its first Carvel Bennett (Director of Student Activities & meeting in January of 1999, the Coun­ Student Publications) cil voted to approve the following slate of officers for the Chapter. These offi­ CONSULTANT cers are Dr. Joe B. Brown Jr., Presi­ Johnnie B Bates, Jr. dent; Mr. Robert Adams, Vice Presi­ (Bates & Bates identity Developments Graphics) dent (membership); Dr. Edward Hunter Jr., Treasurer; Ms. Patrice EDITOR-IN-CHIEF Prince, Secretary; and Dr. Robert Lee, Miquiel Banks Parliamentarian. BUSINESS MANAGER Dr. Dolores E. Cross As the inaugural Chapter of the Essex Agee By Dr. Joe Brown Jr. periences to positively impact the cul­ AAUP with forty-three new members CHAIR OF HPER AND PRESIDENT ture on campus by increasing student out of a faculty of one-hundred, we are ADMINISTRATIVE ASSISTANT OF THE AAUP CHAPTER AT MORRIS BROWN success rates; improving the quality of looking forward to developing a strong COLLEGE SPORTS EDITOR life throughout the entire campus for working relationship with the new ad­ r. Dolores E. Cross was re­ stu-dents, faculty, staff, and other ad- ministrative team of the College. We CONTRIBUTING WRITERS cently named the fifteenth min-istrators. It is generally felt that will do everything in our power to help Karon Daniels her presence alone will positively im­ Dr. Cross foster a more harmonious Michael Ralph ■ pact the academic community within environment throughout the campus Carvel Bennett President of Morris Brown the Atlanta University Center cam­ community for the constituents we ______College in the city of At­ puses as well as the greater Atlanta serve. PHOTOGRAPHER lanta, Georgia. In her role as the first Metropolitan community at large. There are several goals or issues the Spurgeon Dennis, Jr female President of the 118 year old While serving as the President of Chapter plans to address for our cam­ Historically Black College, she is ex­ pected to utilize her broad range of ex­ Consultation, Logos, Stationery Packages, Corporate Identity, Newsletters, Calendars, Direct Mail Design, Advertisements, Annual Reports, Illustrations, Newspaper & Magazine: Layout Design & Production, Copywriting, Camera Services, Product Package Designs, Book Covers, Typesetting, Brochures, Business Cards, and Printing Services.

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3013 RAINBOW DRIVE. SUITE 112. DECATUR. GEORGIA 30034-1644 TM 404 212 8080 10 The 21st Century-Making the Connection! MARCH 1999 MBC Wolverine OBSERVER A walk Like so many great Hickman Student to reflect writers before them... THE SEA provides inspira­ Center - just a walk on beino a tion. The Morris Brown dele­ gation to the 1999, 48th An­ For those of you who think Hick­ Enter by signing up in the Student nual Southern Regional Press man Student Center is not worth Activities Department. winning Institute of Savannah State walking to, here’s “What’s New in Spades Tournament, April 12-16 the Recreation Room For You.” - calling all “real” card players. University, take a break at Every Wednesday night is Movie If you have any ideas for new ac­ contender Tybee Island. Night in the Student Lounge/TV tivities or questions, please call Mr. Room. We show the hottest new video Darrien Simmons, the new Rec­ releases for your entertainment. This reation Coordinator at 404-220- event is FREE to all MBC students 0312/0153. Visit our Student Activi­ with proper ID. ties Department. Be on the lookout for the Pool All of this and more to come...and Tournament, March 22-24. If you all you have to do is just walk down feel like you have the skills, then put to Hickman Student Center. your pool stick where your mouth is.

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Start your career off on the right foot by enrolling in the Air Force Officer Training School. There you will become a commissioned Wolverine OBSERVER newspaper advertising Manager, Essex Agee (I.) officer in just 12 weeks. From the start you'll enjoy great pay, collects sea shells with Brownite Yearbook Editor, Monica Spann. complete medical and dental care, 30 days of vacation each year, plus the opportunity to travel and see the world. To discover how high a career in the Air Force can take you, call 1-800-423-USAF, or visit our website at www.airforce.com

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Miquiel Banks, Editor for the Wolverine OBSERVER (I.) discusses the beauty of ocean with Advisor, Carvel Bennett. The 21st Century-Making the Connection! MARCH 1999 MBC Wolverine OBSERVER 11 First Annual D.A.L.E. Fund MORRIS BROWN COLLEGE AEROBATHON WOMEN'S WEEK 1999 MBC Women of Power- Power, Opportunity, Wellness, Enlightenment and Reaffirmation COMMUNITY NEWS order to promote and educate the public about leukemia and bone mar­ Morris Brown students...participa row transplant. ting in the first annual D.A.L.E. The event was sponsored by WSB- Fund AEROBATHON. The Aeroba- TV Channel 2, Jazz Flavors 104.1 Sunday, March 21, 1999 thon is one of the activities the FM, Life South Community Blood D.A.L.E. Fund used to raise money in Centers and Morris Brown College. Event/Description Time Opening Ceremony in Art Oollery 3:00 p.m. Women of Morris Brown - READING Pauline Morgen White W IN LEGAL STUDIES Tuesday, March 22, 1999 By Lemoine D. Pierce, M.Ed. Freedom: Racial Politics & Pre­ MBC ASSISTANT PROFESSOR OF sumptions of the American Legal Event/Description Time LEGAL STUDIES Process. Oxford University Press, N.Y. 1996. (ISBN 0-19-503822-3) The following readings in legal Women's Forum 11:00 o.m. Anthony Lewis, Gideon’s Trum­ studies and legal history are available pet. Vintage/Random house N.Y. "Celebrating Women Of POWER" in the Legal Studies Department at 1964. (ISBN 0-679-72312-9) Morris Brown College, and at the Rob­ Genna Rae McNeil, Groundwork: ert W. Wooddruff Library at Clark Charles Hamilton Houston & The Speaker: Honorable Judge Hatcher / Atlanta University: Struggle For Civil Rights. Vender's from Women's Businesses J.N.D. Anderson, Islamic Law (Foreword by Judge A. Leon Higgin­ In The Modern. Greenwood Press botham) University of Pennsylvania Publishers, Westport, Connecticut . Press, Philadelphia 1983. (ISBN 0- Wednesday, March 23, 1999 1959. (ISBN 0-8371-8451-7) 8122-1179-0) Mary Frances Berry, Black Resis- Ralph Nader, No Contest: Corpo­ tance/White Law: A History of rate Lawyers & The Perversion of Event/Description Time Constitutional Racism In America. Justice In America. Random House, MBC Women of POWER - 5K 5:30 pm Allen Lane/Penguin Press, New York, N.Y. 1995. (ISBN 0679-429727 1994. (ISBN 0-7139-9102-x) Huey P. Newton, War Against walk/run Robert D. Bullard, Dumping In The Panthers: A Study Of Repres­ Dixie: Race, Class & Environ­ sion In America. Harlem River, N.Y. mental Quality. Westview Press, 1996. (ISBN 0-86316-246-0) Wellness Day culminating with Boulder 1990. (ISBN 0-8133-7954-7) Jeremy Rifkin, The End of Work: "Lock-in at the stadium" 8:00 p.m. James E. Falkowski, Indian The Decline of The Global Labor Law/Race: A Five-Hundred Year Force. G.P. Putnam, New York 1995. History. Praeger, New York, 1992. (ISBN 0-87477-824-7) Friday, March 25, 1999 (ISBN 0-275-94318-6) Dorothy Roberts, Killing The Black Lois Forer, A Rage To Punish: Body: Race, Reproduction & The Time The Unintended Consequences of Meaning of Liberty. Pantheon Books, Event/Description Mandatory Sentencing. W.W. Nor­ N.Y. 1997. (ISBN 0-87477-824-7) "Reaffirmation" 5:30 p.m. ton & Co.. New York, 1994 (ISBN 0- Dorothy Roberts, Killing The 393-03641-3) Black Body: Race, Reproduction & Picnic on the Green Lawrence M. Friedman, A His­ The Meaning of Liberty. tory of American Law. (Second Edi­ Pantheon Books, N.Y. 1997. (ISBN tion) Touchstone/Simon & Schuster 0-679-44226-x) N.Y. 1985. (ISBN 0-671-52807-6) J. Clay Smith, Jr., Emancipation: MORRIS A. Leon Higginbotham, Jr., Race The Making Of The Black Lawyer - & The American Legal Process: 1844-1944. (Foreword by Justice BROWN Vol. I: In The Matter of Color: The Thurgood Marshall.) University of COLLEGE Colonial Period. Oxford University Pennsylvania Press, Philadelphia Press, N.Y. 1978. Vol. IL: Shades of 1993. (ISBN 0-8122-3181-3) 12 The 21st Century-Making the Connection! MARCH 1999 MBC Wolverine OBSERVER4 Campus ORCAHIZATIOHS

Student - KEEP THESE DATES IN MIND - Support Services Going the Is Doing It! Distance for Morris By Shawnna Hayes-Tavares modern ballet dance from the sound­ track of Rosewood. These students or those of you who don’t are talented beyond belief and are know, Student Support Serv­ representative of the next generation Brown College ices, a federally-funded pro­ of African-American excellence. Fgram housed in Jordan Hall is doingThe students also attended it for the students! The month of Jomandi’s production of ‘Sisters’ at February was exciting. Counselors the 14th Street Playhouse. The play Crystal Davis and Brian Clemmons was an excellent depiction of the tri­ conducted workshops on time man­ als and tribulations of Black women agement for freshmen and study in a racist, sexist society. It was per­ skills for sophomores. Ollie Wood formed with humor and sensitivity. and Shawnna Hayes-Tavares pro­ Don’t miss out on next month’s ex­ vided individual tutoring and clinics citing activities including: A civil 118th FOUNDERS DAY Convocation in our Basic Skills Lab. rights tour for TRIO Programs par­ For cultural enrichment in celebra­ ticipants in Birmingham, Alabama Thursday, March 25, 1999 tion of Black History Month: a “Night and a tour of slave quarters in South John H. Lewis Gymnasium of History” was held; the Africa Carolina. Imagine standing where 11 a.m. Sogaye dancers performed; students our ancestors stood when they were displayed their talents with singing being auctioned into the horrible and poetry reading; Tomell Brown state of slavery; also mingle with Morris Brown GALA sang his original composition; brothers and sisters from the Gullah Friday, May 14, 1999 Gwangi Dorsey performed a poetry culture. HYATT Regency Hotel reading; Dmetria Coakley led us in Good luck on your mid-terms March our national anthem; Sahar Coleman 11-12! We’ll see you at the “I sur­ (Time to be announced) sent chills through our bones with a vived the mid-terms party!” National ALUMNI Luncheon Saturday, May 15, 1999 versity. Mrs. Lewis is the wife of HYATT Regency Hotel TRIO Marcellus Lewis, Sr., alumni of Clark College, and mother of three off­ 11:00 a.m. Programs spring, Marcellus, Jr., Drew, and Quiana. Mrs. Lewis previously MBC BAND Spring Concert worked 12 years as an Instructional “Tribute to Dr. G. Johnson Hubert” Welcome Coordinator for the Health Profes­ sions Magnet Program in Atlanta Sunday, May 16, 1999 Pubhc Schools to promote career Rialto Center for Performing Arts Mrs. Joyce awareness for students who wanted to pursue careers in health science. 7:00 p.m. Lewis Moving from the high school level to college level provides a wider base of COMMENCEMENT Exercises rs. Joyce Lewis recently students to serve as a resource to Monday. May 17, 1999 joined Trio Programs as the share information. Opportunities Assistant Director of Up­ will be provided for students to inter­ Morris Brown College Campus Mward Bound Math-Science. Mrs.act with career professionals in sci­ (Location and time to be announced) Lewis is a native-born Atlantan who ence and math. Students will be bet­ earned a Bachelors degree in Biology ter academically prepared for college from Clark college and a Masters de­ while learning is made interesting gree in Pubhc Health from Yale Uni­ and fun. Ministering to Others Through Song By Thomas Williams decided to act upon that vision. The group was recognized during Phoenix City, AL; Columbus, GA; Even though many have decided its dynamic performance on Thurs­ Spartanburg, SC and Covington, GA. It was the first Thursday in Novem­ to terminate their membership, the day, February 11, 1999 at a Joy The group is highly acclaimed for ber. Viola Hill Auditorium in Foun­ choir consisted of about 120. Now, Night revival Service held in Co­ its performance in the contemporary tain Hall. The group known as Pas­ the choir is at about 35. However, chran Lounge during Religious Em­ gospel area and it has a variety of sion for Christ (PFC) met to have these 35 are elite, talented, and most phasis Week. That was PFC’s “debut” songs which include traditional gos­ their first rehearsal. There was of all spiritual people - there are only on the campus of Morris Brown Col­ pel and a cappella - with emphasis on much enthusiasm, anticipation, and 13 of the original members who were lege. The group meets twice a week contemporary gospel which includes excitement in the atmosphere. Un­ a part of Passion for Christ Choir for rehearsals at the John H. Lewis song from Kirk Franklin & The der the direction of Jon-Michael since November remaining. The Gym, downstairs in the Multipurpose Family, The NU Nation, John P. Kee McKinney, a MBC Sophomore, Edu­ other 22 are the new energy group. Room. Passion for Christ has one and New Life Community Choir, cation Major, and member of Phi Mu And, the choir continues to gain the sole purpose: To praise God and to Hezzekiah Walker & The Love fel­ Alpha Sinfonia Professional Music interest of many college students. minister to others through song. lowship Crusade Choir and many Fraternity of America, Inc., Kappa Passion for Christ Choir is pre­ Recently, the St. Mark AME more. Beta Chapter, the first rehearsal was dominately Morris Brown College Church family presented the Debut Don’t be shy come by and sit in on a a success. students, with the exception of a Concert of Passion for Christ on Sun­ rehearsal one day. No audition is re­ God gave him the vision of a dy­ Clark Atlanta University student. day March 7, 1999, which turned out quired. To gain membership or to namic ministry of young people back There are plans to add people from to be a success. Not only will PFC have the Passion for Christ Choir in the Fall of 1997. And it wasn’t un­ Georgia Tech, Georgia State, and perform here in Atlanta and possibly perform, you should contact Kandace til then that he decided to act upon various high schools in the near on campus again, but the choir has Paige at 770-593-0358. that vision. Even though many have future. plans to travel to other cities such as The 21st Century-Making the Connection! MARCH 1999 MBC Wolverine OBSERVER 13 Religious Emphasis WEEK

By Mark B. Cisco and senior high school students to MBC College Chaplin our campus during religious week. We intend to nurture this relation­ orris Brown College, ship by providing enriched learning Department of Campus experiences for students of the faith Ministry observed Re­ community prior to coming to ligious Emphasis Week college. M from February 7-12, I wish to personally thank the fol­ 1999. The theme for the week was lowing organizations for supporting “The Church, College, and Commu­ Religious Emphasis Week: the nity: Working Together to Meet The Queens of Morris Brown College, Challenges of the New Millennium.” Edmonds Leadership, Phi Beta The events and activities for the Sigma Fraternity, Alpha Phi Alpha week included Morning Prayers co­ Fraternity, and Student Government ordinated by Maiciah Young; Kick-off Association. Vespers Service led by Pastor Ellis We rejoice for the blessings of God. Washington of St. John AME Church Columbus, GA, and Bishop Donald G. K. Ming, Chairman, Board of Trustees; Health and Healing Work­ shop conducted by Dr. and Mrs. Marvin Crawford of Morehouse School of Medicine; Interfaith Com­ munity Workshop conducted by a panel composed of the United Na­ tions of Islam, Hodari Hamilton (MBC student), Mr. Chekibe Hole­ man of Wilkes Hall, and Mark Cisco, College Chaplain. A prayer luncheon was held on Wednesday, February 10 from 12:00 p.m. until 1:30 p.m. in Cunningham Auditorium. The keynote speaker for Dr. Dolores E. Cross, President, MBC. Campus Ministry Staff. the prayer luncheon was the pastor of

Mark B. Cisco, College Chaplain. Allen Temple AME Church and can­ didate for the office of Bishop, Dr. Preston W. Williams. On Thursday, February 11, a cam­ pus-wide convocation was held in Cunningham Auditorium. The Rev. Robert Eckert, Pastor, Coppin Memo­ rial AME Church, Chicago, IL, chal­ lenged his audience to embrace di­ versity. And later that evening in Cochran Lounge, a spirit-filled re­ vival was led by Evangelist Delores Westmoreland. Evangelist Westmo­ reland, in her sermon, challenged the students to “press on” even in the midst of problems and difficulties. The week’s events and activities concluded on Friday, February 12 at 7:00 p.m. with a gospel concert. Over seven choirs and groups participated in the concert. Some of the choirs were Clark Atlanta University Inspi­ rational Voices of Faith, Georgia State University Voices of Praise, State University of West Georgia Gospel Choir, New Life Inspirational Gospel Choir of the Atlanta Univer­ sity Center, Charles Westmoreland Chorale, and the Morris Brown Gos­ pel Choir, among others. President Cross’ vision of the “Learning Tree” - Pre-college, In College and After College were re­ flected in most of the Religious Em­ phasis Week events. We invited young people including secondary Dr. Dolores E. Cross Ms. Morris Erown College, President Cross, Dr. Small, Dr. Eckert, Chaplain Cisco. 14 The 21st Century-Making the Connection! MARCH 1999 MBC Wolverine OBSERVER VIEWS&EXPRESSIONS Gotta get the money, gotta get the power, keep your eye on, the Final Hour!

people use the two terms inter­ is skills and resources, education is a difference. Money can be spent By Michael Ralph changeably so much that we forgot and training. If someone were to give or lost. Or, the value of the dollar CONTRIBUTING WRITER the difference. Well, for the purpose him $200,000.00, it could be gone in can even depreciate. The monetary of clarification, allow me to use this three minutes because he may buy a value of currency in each country is s we struggle to put our­ example. If a person is homeless and luxury car and have to walk home the very different. But economics is sim­ selves in a better position hungry, most people would immedi­ first time it breaks down. ply the way that people relate to each as a people, it seems like ately say, “He’s homeless because he In order for us to empower our­ other to share resources and that can there is not enough money is broke and if he had some money he selves we must be clear on what we remain the same throughout time. to initiate the projects that we can would be alright.” But the truth is need. We need land in order for us to Too often we are led astray by stres­ imagine. However, there are more that a homeless person does not ac­ determine the way that we want to sing money over economics. You can significant factors influencing our tually need money, he needs to be in live. In addition, we need some type either buy a shirt or know somebody condition that are related to money a better position. If he had some land of training and education that is pre­ who designs clothes and someone else but not actually dependent upon it. and knew how to farm or hunt, he paring us to serve ourselves. We who makes them and have your What stifles projects is not usually fi­ would already have his own food. cannot afford to waste time buying wardrobe custom made. We can ei­ nance but a lack of education and If he knew how to sew, he could cre­ everything that we need; instead, we ther buy groceries or know someone economic organization. ate his own wardrobe. If he knew can begin to create. who farms and receive their produce I am amazed that most people a thing or two about carpentry, he In addition to proper education, we directly. Parents can either spend do not realize the difference between could cut down trees and build his need greater economic organization. money on hiring private tutors for money and economics, but I guess own house. So what he really needs Not finance but economics and there their children or contact a college campus where students need com­ munity service hours and develop a partnership. Economic organization stems from the drive to satisfy mutual needs. If we really believed that we are family, we would treat each other that way and less money would exchange hands while we still satisfied our needs. Morris Brown College attracts thousands of students from all over the world. If you plan to travel some­ where, there should be no reason why you have to waste money on a hotel if GOLDEN KEY NATIONAL HONOR SOCIETY we understood the value of econom­ ics. You could lounge for free and get BENEFITS OF MEMBERSHIP a home cooked meal out of your next vacation. Only we can save ourselves. It is Ac ademic Recognition time that we really begin working to­ Top 15% of All Juniors and Seniors gether. In the “Final Hour” it will not More than 250 Chapters in the United States, Australia and Canada matter how much money you have, Reception Honoring New Members but what kinds of relationships we Personalized Certificate have created with each other. There is not enough money in the world to Pins, Charms, Medallions and Honor Cords Available solve all of our problems but there are enough people in enough differ­ Career Assistance ent areas for us to help each other. Career Assistance Reference (400+ companies) Corporate Recruitment Programs

Scholarships Close Two Undergraduate Awards at Each Chapter Nine $10,000 Graduate Scholar Awards Literary & Art Contests One Eye Student Scholastic Showcase Submitted by Tonya Lynch

Publications n African proverb CONCEPTS Annual Magazine states, “Before you get married keep Key Notes Semi-Annual Newsletter both eyes open and after you marry Leadership Opportunities close one eye.” Chapter Officer Positions Before you get involved and make a Regional Conferences commitment to someone don’t let lust, physical beauty, desperation, International Convention immaturity, ignorance, pressure from others or a low self-esteem make you Chapter Activities blind to warning signs. Keep your Best of America eyes open and don’t fool yourself that Community Outreach you can change someone or that what you see as faults aren’t really that If you have any questions about your lifetime membership, please contact the headquarters important. at 1-800-377-2401 or visit our Worldwide Web page at http://gknhs.gsu.edu. Golden Once you decide to commit to some­ one, over time their flaws, vulnerabil­ Key representatives will be happy to provide information about your member benefits. ities, pet peeves and differences will become more obvious. If you love Golden Key International Headquarters -1189 - Atlanta, GA 30306-4624 your mate and want the relationship CONTINUED ON NEXT PAGE The 21st Century-Making the Connection! MARCH 1999 MBC Wolverine OBSERVER 15 African American Newspapers Must Survive

By Tiffin! Barnes Americans to move to industrial twenty years later several reported tablish uniform policies and views CONTRIBUTING WRITER centers in search of work. It urged circulation above 200,000. that affected African Americans. support of the war and it also led in In the decades following World War By 1979, there were more than 350 Most African American newspapers the flight for integration of African I, the number of African American African American newspapers, maga­ of the period were concerned mainly American into the American life. newspapers increased steadily. zines and bulletins that were issued with antislavery crusade. The best Editors, notably John Murphy of Every African American community on a regular weekly, monthly, or known newspaper was the first one, the Afro-American, Robert S. Abbott felt the need for its own newspaper to quarterly basis. Only two newspa­ Freedom’s Journal, started by Sam­ of the Chicago Defender, Robert L. perform the services that few white pers, Atlanta World and The Chicago uel Cornish and John Russwurm in Vann of the Pittsburgh Courier and newspapers could perform. Such as, Defender, were published daily. The 1827. It was short lived, but 24 P. B. Young of the Norfolk Journal The Informer in Houston, The Eagle African American world produced a newspapers emerged during Pre- and Guide, seemed to have had the and The Sentinel in Los Angeles and journalistic business that repre­ Civil war. capacity to combine an effective edi­ The Call in Kansas City. Therefore, sented, an investment of more than African American newspapers of torial policy with a shrewd business several news gathering agencies were $35 million and provided employment the twentieth century became the sense to make their newspapers an established, the most important was for more than 10,000. medium through which the yearning important institutions in the African Claude Barnett’s Associated Negro There is a need for the African of the race were expressed. During American world. By 1920, several of Press. The editors organized the Ne­ American Press. They must continue World War I, African Americans them had reached a weekly circula­ gro Newspaper Publisher’s Associa­ the message of hope and pride for Af­ newspapers encouraged African tion of more than 100,000, while tion and together they sought to es­ rican Americans.

As early as the 70 s African American newspapers have African Americans are very sophisticated people, treat them been on a decline - subscriptions and single sales are lacking. that way in presentation - educated, blue and white collar jobs, Why? Their consumer interest stories aren't attracting the business owners, world travelers, and consumers of a vast younger generation and many times older (24 and up) gen­ number of products - networking within the community and eration either, lack of advertising, poor editing, graphic design promoting the importance of receiving and reading a RE­ of the newspaper needs updating (masthead and layout). VISED, highly educational and informing newspaper. In this It is time for a change and it's a challenge. Competing with day and time being multi-cultural wouldn't hurt. The tips TV, radio and the W.W.W. in this computer age is a challenge above are just a few brief things for thought. within itself, not to mention the big daily newspapers. To the African American consumer in the city or suburbs, African American newspapers must redefine their niche in don't wait until its gone and ask what happen to my commu­ the communities they serve - get out and ask the readers/ nity paper (college newspapers included) - it's 1999 you have consumers what they like. Well prepared research material is to do your part - support your favorite African American the key starting point for answers. Marketing the newspaper newspaper by subscribing to one today or at least buy one to the community and advertisers in an upbeat, professional and then write the editor and tell them what you think. manner. Johnnie B Bates Jr. Consultant/Graphic Designer

One Eye CONTINUED to grow and evolve, you’ve got to learn how to close one eye and not let By Essex Igyan every little thing bother you. You STAFF WRITER and your mate have many different expectations, emotional needs, val­ ues, dreams, weaknesses and you polish every marble, could you prepared or remain scared. One way strengths. You are two unique indi­ uzuzonc complete the task in a weekend, a to get prepared is to use the law and vidual children of God who have de­ T<_i ii iu_i month - a year? Well, computer pro­ science of “unity.” You know, to­ cided to share a life together. Nei­ magine life without the luxury of grammers are being asked the second gether we stand, divided we fall. The ther one of you are perfect, but are electricity, safe drinking water, question, with a few exceptions, in­ following is a list of quotes, facts and you perfect for each other? Do you telecommunication, ATM, credit stead of marbles they must sort information about Y2K: bring out the best in each other? Icards, heat, or transportation (air/ through billions of lines of computer -Citicorp, the largest bank in Amer­ Do you compliment and compromise rail/bus). At the turn of the century - code, there are no jobs sat stake - ica, will not be Y2K ready until 2051. with each other or do you compete, January 1, 2000 - life may proceed civilization is the prize. -“The threat is...now inescapable. compare and control? What do you without the previously mentioned The Clinton scandal has gotten The world’s banks are dependent on bring to the relationship? Do you conveniences. When the millennium more press than Y2K ever will. In computers that cannot be fixed in the bring past relationships, past hurts, bug bites, civilization as we know fact, in the midst of the single-most brief time remaining before the crash. past mistrust, past pain? You can’t may come to a screeching halt. damaging threat to our society, our But any bureaucrat who admits this take someone to the altar to alter About 50 years ago computers were government has adopted a “hands- publicly could trigger a panic bank them. You can’t make someone love in their infant stage. To save time off’ approach to solving this problem. run. NO ONE WITH ENOUGH IN­ you or make someone stay. If you and money, computer programmers In laymen’s terms this deliberate FLUENCE TO CREATE A WORLD develop self-esteem, spiritual dis­ made a reckless mistake. They de­ carelessness means “every man for WIDE BANK R UN CAN AFFORD cernment and “a life” you won’t find cided to drop the first two digits of himself.” DO THE WORDS MAR­ TO TELL THE TRUTH...!” yourself making someone else re­ the year, 1 and 9. Hence, 1957 be­ TIAL LAW RING ANY BELLS? Log Gary North, Remnant Review 1997. sponsible for your happiness or re­ came 57, 1958 became 58 and so on the internet, locate a search en­ -This problem is global; any repair­ sponsible for your pain. Manipula­ forth. The digits 19 were understood gine, type Y2K or millennium bug in ed system that interacts with an old tion, control, jealousy, neediness and by mainframe computer systems. the “search” box and read. system may become contaminated. selfishness are not the ingredients of On January 1, 2000 these and other Have we become so accustomed to -“And he causeth all, both small and a thriving, healthy, loving and lasting computer turnover to “00” or 1900. “our way of life” that we reject the re­ great, rich and poor, free and bond, to relationship. Seeking status, sex and This problem is referred to as the ality of global disaster the millen­ receive a mark in their right hand, or security are the wrong reasons to be Millennium bug or Y2K. nium may bring. Many of us believe in their foreheads; and that no man in a relationship. Since 1996, programmers have in the biblical prophecy known as might buy or sell save he that had the What keeps a relationship strong? been working day and night to fix “THE RAPTURE” but close our eyes mark, or the name of the beast or the Communication, intimacy, a sense of this accident waiting to happen. If to the potential of the millennium number of his name. Here is wisdom. humor, sharing household tasks, on Friday, your boss gave you a box bug. Right now you may be thinking Let him that hath understanding some getaway time without business of marbles, polish, and a rag, with “I’m about to graduate in two years, I count the number of a man; and his or children, daily exchanges (a meal, instructions to polish the marbles by can’t waste my time worrying about number is six hundred threescore shared activity, a hug, a call, a touch, Monday, you could easily complete this Y2K thing.” This thing doesn’t and six. (666)” a note), sharing common goals and the task — right? How about if he care about our plans — it doesn’t care Revelation 13:16-18 interests, giving each other space to took you to the Grand Canyon, filled about how it will effect our lives. It -“Out of Chaos...Order - The New grow without feeling insecure. it with marbles, and demanded that has no feelings. We can either get World Order” 16 The 21st Century-Making the Connection! MARCH 1999 MBC Wolverine OBSERVER ------c/ tyflews------Daewoo Motor America Making The Grade On College Campuses Across America

By Barry Landon the automobile distribution arm of (DCAs) and went to South Korea for Why is Daewoo investing so much to EDLEMAN WORLDWIDE Daewoo Group in the U.S., launched orientation and training. While there, “woo” and educate college kids about its three-car line of stylish, well-built the DCAs learned about the company their cars? The company is investing ATLANTA, GA—Sixteen U.S. college and economical models—the Leganza, and its diversified product line and in the college market with the goals of newspaper editors and reporters— Nubira and Lanos. toured Daewoo’s state-of-the-art auto­ developing a positive, hfelong relation­ representing universities including DMA has already invested over $10 mobile manufacturing facilities. ship with today’s young adults - both Yale, DePaul, UCLA and Clark At­ million on its colleg marketing pro­ Daewoo further invested in its col­ as potential purchasers and as poten­ lanta University - were recently in gram. The 16 college journalists, who lege marketing program by making its tial employees, starting in its DCA South Korea at the invitation of Dae­ embarked on their crusade in Decem­ line of U.S. car models available for program. woo Group. They were there to find ber, were the second such group to purchase by DCAs at up to 50% off the Daewoo Motor America, Inc. is the out firsthand why the company’s un­ visit Daewoo’s corporate hometown in retail price. Approximately 800 DCAs subsidiary of Korea’s Daewoo Group. precedented automotive marketing recent months. But that’s just the tip took advantage of this special offer. Founded in 1967 by Mr. Kim Woo- program has motivated thousands of of the iceberg - since last summer But its not just DCAs who are find­ Choong as a small textile exporter, students on hundreds of campuses to Daewoo has provided all-expense-paid, ing Daewoo to be college oriented. The Daewoo has grown to become a global market and/or purchase one of the week-long trips to almost 2,000 college company has introduced special finan­ company with 1997 sales of $71.5 bil­ first new car models manufactured by students on some 400 U.S. campuses cing programs and an insurance refer­ lion placing Daewoo 18th in a recent Daewoo for American consumers. who signed up for positions as inde­ ral service specifically geared to the Fortune 500 ranking of global compa­ Daewoo Motor America, Inc. (DMA), pendent Daewoo Campus Advisors needs of college students purchasers. nies.

— Korean automaker investing heavily on unique car marketing program — Dangerous Web Site targeted Seducer at African Americans By Tiffini Barrens electrical discussions area called computer ownership use, but the Reprinted from Christopher ‘Society of Voices’ on a radio station’s numbers that captured Kenyada’s at­ News Notes he African American Web Wed site. tention was the fact that 64 percent surfer belongs to one of the Participants talked about problems of African American with household Some Americans spend nearly as fastest growing user group facing Atlanta’s Black community incomes of $75,000 and above had much on gambling as they do on gro­ on the Web. By 2003, it’s expected and possible solutions. “We started computers in their homes. ceries. And not only at gaming tables more than 14 million African Ameri­ to think we had so many talents and “A lot of people just think the Web and racetracks, but on state sanc­ cans will be online. Launching on since we’re all local, maybe we should is a lot of high-tech geek talk. They tioned lotteries as well. After four Martin Luther King Jr. Day, black­ do something,” Mr. Kenyada says. don’t see any connection to their his­ years, Joyce B., a 45-year-old house­ famlies.com is the newest Web site “So I stared a column called ‘Mr. tory, music, or poetry from the old wife, had won $30 and owed about hoping to tap into the growing user Kenyada’s Neighborhood’ on the ra­ days,” said Mr. Kenyada. “As we tell $50,000. “The ads said all you need is group. The site comes from Cox In­ dio station’s site.” people what exists, more people will a dollar and a dream. It was more teractive Media, part of Cox Enter­ Later Kenyada decided to build his log-on. like a dollar and a nightmare.” prise, which owns The Atlanta Jour­ own Web site, one aimed at the Afri­ The new Cox Interactive site (http: Gambhng is the fastest growing nal Constitution. Based in Atlanta, can American community that would //www.blackfamihes.com) is designed major addiction, especially among the site is part of a grass-roots elec­ provide phone numbers, Web links and filled with information, enter­ teens. Debt is the hallmark of the tronic community springing up and other types of support. The site tainment, health and parenting tips. compulsive gambler. A study of 400 across the country. (http://www.kenyada.com) narrowed Brand manager for the site, John Gamblers Anonymous members A quick Yahoo! search shows 140 its focus to South DeKalb County and Pembroke, says it is designed to be a showed that they owed an average of sites targeted at the African Ameri­ two basic issues; computer literacy resource for African American adults. $10,000 each. More than half admit­ can community, but only two which and teen pregnancy prevention. Mr. However, Pembroke says not solely ted to stealing to finance their gam­ are based in Atlanta aim to provide a Kenyada says the focus has recently for black parents, if you are a single bling. Two-thirds had considered variety of resources. narrowed to computer literacy. adult, you are still part of a family suicide. One year ago, Richard Kenyada an There are many statistics demon­ and we address a variety of issues For years, bingo nights and raffles electrical engineer in Decatur, who, strating the black community lags that would be of concern to single have been a fund-raising mainstay along with a group of friends ran an behind its white counterparts in adults as well. for houses of worship faced with steadily rising costs. The Catholic Church, for example, views gambhng as a morally neutral activity—until it Health Briefs interferes with providing for the real needs of those gambling or the people HEART DISEASE is a big problem for women. who depend on them. ATLANTA—Heart disease, not breast becca Reeves at The DeBakey Heart disease in women include obesity, high Recently, many church leaders cancer, is the leading killer of women Center at Baylor College of Medicine blood pressure, high cholesterol, smok­ have reduced or eliminated their de­ in the United States. in Houston. “Following menopause, ing, a lack of exercise, and poor diet. pendence on gambling income, be­ “Most women do not experience estrogen levels change. This is why Eating a balanced diet where less than lieving that they may have contrib­ heart disease until after menopause many doctors encourage women to go 30 percent of the calories come from uted unintentionally to addictive be­ because the hormone estrogen protects on hormone replacement therapy”. fat is very important. havior. As one churchgoer said, “Per­ them up until that point,” said Dr. Re­ Some of the risk factors for heart haps the real problem is that gam­ bling has become a habit for parish­ ioners.” For help or information call: Gam­ blers Anonymous (www. gamblers anonymous.org) at 213.386.8789, or HONDA Campus Allster Challenge check your local phone directory for a local chapter or, the National Council it tde Quiz Team competing in Washington, D. C. on Problem Gambling (www.nep gambling.org) at 800.522.4700. The 21st Century-Making the Connection! MARCH 1999 MBC Wolverine OBSERVER 17

Road Dawgs - Don’t Be Saprize- The Alliance Strictly catered to all the west coast Opening 1999 riders - 3/23 Maxi Priest - So What If It BURNING Rains - 4/20 ized cats, birds, fish, flowers, manda­ IDEAL - Ideal - Debut album from Ted Gordon las, and designs. Gordon draws his in­ PATIENCE Houston, TX’s finest. R&B in its pur tricate and vividly colored line draw­ est form. - 5/10 Now thru May 29, 1999 ings with felt markers, colored pencils, By Stephanie Lee and pens on pieces of cardboard, fab­ COMPANY This exhibition will be comprised of ric, backs of posters, and paper. He ATLANTA—History and poetry approximately 40 works from the local considers all of his images to be varied meet passion love in the Alliance HIGH collections of Charles Locke and Carl self-portraits. Gordon’s work has been Theatre Company’s sensual produc­ Mulhs, as well as our own permanent exhibited on both coasts and is in both tion of BURNING PATIENCE, writ­ MUSEUM collection. Known for his compulsive European and American collections, ten by Antonio Skarmeta. Alliance style and singular theme of the human including the Collection Annexe at the Associate Artist Peggy Shannon di­ OF ART face in infinite variety, Brut Art Museum in Lausanne Swit­ rects this tribute to the famous poet Gordon began drawing in 1954, creat­ zerland, the Smithsonian’s National Pablo Neruda. (Downtown) ing compulsive “doodles” or line Museum of American Art, and the Mu­ BURNING PATIENCE will be drawings which were mostly carica­ seum of American Folk Art. Gordon presented from March 4 to April 4, EXHIBITIONS tures of the human visage and figure. currently resides in Laguna Hills, 1999. Performances are Tuesday- Later works include images of styl­ California. Friday at 8:00 p.m., Saturday at 2,30 p.m. and 8:00 p.m. and Sundays at 2:30 p.m. and 7:30 p.m. There is a special audio described matinee on Saturday, March 13 at 2:30 p.m. Burning Patience take place in the small fishing village of Isla Negra. Chile, from 1969-1973. Mario, the village postman, enlists Moms Brown College’s his only client, revered poet and na­ tional hero Pablo Neruda, to tutor him in love and metaphors to win the Wolverine OBSERVER heart of a beautiful young woman, Beatriz. In addition, Mario must gain the trust and respect of Beatriz’s disapproving mother, Rosa. Amid the Newspaper needs passion and friendship, attempts to get Neruda elected as the President of Chile flames dangerous fires. more advertising support Burning Patience features a bi­ lingual cast of talented actors. Play­ ing the love sick postman Mario Jimenez is Atlanta actor Michael from the business sector Schneider. Denise Casano (Beatriz) comes to Atlanta from New York. Frank Corrado (Pablo Neruda) is an accomplished stage ac­ of metro Atlanta. tor. Actress VIVIS will reprise her role as Rosa which she performed in the Sacramento Theatre Company’s production. Performing guitar for the show is Moises Rodriquez — a graduate of the New York School of Music. Rounding out the cast as the Policeman is Atlanta actor Peter When you advertise Ganim. Tickets to Burning Patience may be purchased at the Woodruff Arts Cen­ ter Box Office or by calling 404-733- with the Wolverine OBSERVER 5000. Tickets may also be ordered onhne at www.alhancetheatre.org. Discount rates for groups of 10 or you are advertising to our future business more are available by calling 404- 733-4690. A limited number of $15 RUSH tickets may be purchased, in leaders and therefore person only, at the Box Office on the day of performance. your future buyers. Virgin Urban -1999

DEDICATED TO EDUCATING THE LEADERS OF TOMORROW Releases 643 Martin Luther King Jr. Dr. Atlanta, Georgia 30314-4140 By Jasmine/Aimee/Mel C-BO - The Final Chapter- Get ready for the real - 3/9 To place an ad or for more information call 404 220 0308 BET - Best of Planet Groove- 1st in a series of “Best Of...” compilations with BET - 3/23 Gang Starr - Full Clip: A Decade Of Gang Starr - 3/23 18 The 21st Century-Making the Connection! MARCH 1999 MBC Wolverine OBSERVER HIGH MUSEUM (Downtown) CONTINUED BLACK HISTORY “I Made This Jar...” The Life and Works of the Enslaved Washington, African-American DC-based label. Potter, Dave Dark City May 16-July 31, 1999 Records, inks Dave is one of a small number of identified African-American craftsmen who worked in the Edgefield District major distribu­ of South Carolina during the antebel­ lum period. “I made this jar..."iea- tion deal with tures 25-30 pots turned by Dave and includes a few vessels by other potters from the Edgefield District in order to Tommy Boy document further Dave’s historical and aesthetic place among his peers. Music Highlights of the show come from the collection of the McKissick Museum, ATLANTA, GA - Dark City Records, as well as additional pubhc and pri­ a Washington, DC-based record label, vate collections. has secured a major distribution deal The exhibition interprets Dave’s through Tommy Boy Music. The la­ works within the context of the relig­ bel’s premiere act, rap trio Section 8 ious, pohtical and cultural climate of Mob, will be the first group to release the period, 1810-1870 and addresses an album on Dark City Records. issues of identity, hteracy and creativ­ ity. Dave was both a potter and a L-to-R: Po, Montana poet, inscribing verse onto his enor­ mous vessels. This show explores the impheations of his poetry in addition to his pottery, asking and answering questions in an attempt to give the artist pro-per rec­ ognition for his important contribution NOTICE: Due to an obscene ¡ester which was not acceptable and very dis­ to American ceramic history. “I made respectful to his African American brothers and sisters - Midnight (a group member) - was deleted from the photograph. Dark City/Tommy Boy wake up it's 1999 - no more. this jar..." The life and works of the enslaved African-American potter, Dave was organized by the McKissick Museum of the University of South Carohna. Racial divide in TV Viewership Benton’s Steve Harvey Show - Touched by an Angel - Monday Night Football - The Jamie Corner Foxx Show - ER - 60 Minutes ABSURDITY By TiHini Barrens most apparent in show rankings for By Michael Ralph he racial divide between TV each group. The common ground has Some of these differences are Question: Would a political system built viewers appears to be slowly expanded in the last two years. strongly hnked to programming narrowing, but there is still a strategies at the various networks. on our exploitation really want us to con­ From October to December, six shows sizable chasm between blacks and “ER”, “60 Minutes,” “Monday Night For example, when UPN and the WB trol our destination? non-blacks regarding program tastes Football,” “Touched by an Angel,” began, they targeted urban audi­ Would a people who prosper from and viewing patterns, a new survey “NYPD Blue” and the “CBS Sunday ences by offering several series with making us poor ever really turn their lives shows. Movie” ranked among the Top 20 mostly black casts, creating ready­ made TV enclaves. “That’s certainly around and what for? Overall African Americans watch shows for blacks and whites. In fall more TV than non-blacks, but there, 1997, only four shows overlapped. is the case,” said TN Media’s Stacey Why would someone who gets up by too, the margin of difference is In 1996, only one show, ABC’s Lynn. “Both the WB and UPN have holding you down ever try to turn the smaller than a year ago. The study “Monday Night Football,” fell into been programming full steam ahead world around? by TN Media, a media buying firm, both Top 20’s. for that audience...there are many more options than there used to be. Should a people who separate church said in the fourth quarter of 1998, Still, the popularity of shows in black households watched 40 percent black and white homes is wildly dif­ Audiences go where they feel they and state ever control our fate? more TV than non black homes every ferent. In black homes, WB’s “Steve can connect.” Even though I pose the question, should week, 70.4 hours compared with 50.2 Harvey Show” was the top-ranked Indeed, seven of the Top 10 and 12 there even be a debate? hours. Whites make up 96 percent of series, but was No. 127 with white of the Top 20 shows among black If we party together, why can't we build non-black TV households. The year viewers. No. 2, “The Jamie Foxx viewers last fall had black casts or before, blacks watched 43 percent Show” on WB, was No. 120 in white black leading characters. However, organizations? more TV a week than non blacks. In homes, “ER” was NO. 1, but No. 15 in that was fewer than the previous fall, Are we scared to build ties with Black 1994, that figure was 51 percent. black homes, and “Friends” was No. when 17 of 20 favorite black shows people in other nations? The difference in viewing habits is 2, but No. 88 with black viewers. had black casts or leads. The 21st Century-Making the Connection! MARCH 1999 MBC Wolverine OBSERVER 19 HARLEM Renaissance

By Michael Ralph ground lyrical superstar, Mos Def, what we mean because we live the ill? / Creatin’ crime rates to fill the CONTRIBUTING WRITER collaborates with prophetic lyricist truest lie / I asked him why we follow new prisons they build / Over money Talib Kweli to shape a vision for the the law of the Bluest Eye / He looked and religion there’s more blood that n the early 1900’s, Black peo­ future of Black edutainment. Blend­ at me and thought about it and was spills / The wounds of slaves in cot­ ple around the world were in­ ing the political analysis of two street like, “I’m clueless, why?” / My ques­ ton fields will never heal / What’s the spired by the Pan African vi­ soldiers with the understanding tion was rhetorical, the answer was deal? / A lot of cats who buy records Ision of Marcus Mosiah Garvey gained by years of serious study, this horrible / Our morals are out of are straight broke but my language who worked to see all of his universal they be recitin’ my quotes / displace brothers and sisters return "At exactly what point do you start to realize that life While R&B singers hit bad notes we “Back to Africa.” Taking steps to se­ rock the boat of thought / That my cure his dream Garvey purchased a without knowledge is death in disguise. man Louis’ statements just provoked ship and dubbed it the “Black Star - Talib Kweli (Black Star) / Caught up in conversations of a Line.” Though Garvey’s objectives personal worth / Brought up through were never fully accomplished, two duo proves that music does not have place, it’s got our lives full of sorrow / endangered species status on the brothers have recently emerged in to choose between being hype or edu­ So tomorrow’s cornin’ later than usual planet earth / Survival tactics means late September 1998 to regain control cational, true emcees do both. Run­ waitin’ for someone to pity us / While bustin’ gats to prove you’re hard / of the ship and direct this voyage on a ning through the darkness like we find the beauty in the hideous / Your firearms are too short to box metaphysical plane. thieves in the night, these brothers They say money’s the root of all evil with God / Without faith all of that is Spreading wisdom with every sec­ carry the truth to light our path, but I can’t tell / You know how many illusionary / Raise my son no vindi­ ond of song, Black Star is at the fore­ “Give me the fortune keep the fame pesos, francs and cowrie shells / Dol­ cation of manhood necessary. ” front of hip hop’s resurrection Under­ said my man Louis I agreed know lar bills? Or is it the mindstate that’s Even beyond the activism embed­ ded in every verse, Black Star helps us to transform the way we currently view ourselves as Black people. On the sixth track they kick a genuine tribute to the original mother of all humanity with “Brown Skin Lady.” The first verse provides an overview of the inner beauty that makes Afri­ can women so extraordinary and in the second verse Talib Kweli encoun­ ters a sister so magnetic that he is forced to share what’s on his mind and in his heart, “I don’t give many compliments but I am confident / I used to have a complex about getting too complex / You got me willin’ to try, look me in the eye / My head is still in the sky since you walked on by / I can’t lie, got my imagination flick­ erin’ like hot flames in shotbeT'Scenes / You make me want to ride a Col­ trane to a Love Supreme / My brown lady, create environments for having brown babies / 1 know it sounds crazy Xationaf Tfonor Society but your skin’s the inspiration for co­ coa butter / You provoke a brother / We should get to know one another / I discover when I bring you through my people say, “True!" / All I can say • Academic Recognition is all praise due I thank God for a beauty like you. ” With these warriors on the scene, keep your chin up and head to the • Career Assistance sky for that Black Star on the hori­ zon, illuminating a path towards the new Black Nation. In the words of • Scholarships Marcus Garvey’s great granddaugh­ ter, Makeda Garvey, “It warms my heart to know that we share a vision • Publications for peace, prosperity, and mental liberation.” • Leadership Opportunities Today, for • Chapter Activities Americans, Information Tables voting is March 24, 1999 a right, not Induction Ceremony a privilege, April 9, 1999 and one SCHOLARS REST A URANT possessed by all. “Scholastic Achievement and Excellence“ 20 The 21st Century-Making the Connection! MARCH 1999 MBC Wolverine OBSERVER SPORTS Inner City Youth, M&M Products and Morris Brown

By Norma F. Stanley

Atlanta-based M&M Products Com­ pany, the makers of Bump Patrol—the razor bump solution, partnered with Atlanta University’s Morris Brown College this basketball season, and of­ fered a chance for inner city youth from throughout metro-Atlanta to wit­ ness the talent, teamwork and tenacity it takes to play collegiate sports. The company invited adult mentors and their charges from Big Broth- ers/Big Sisters, Atlanta Boys Club, East Point Youth Association and various elementary, middle and high school students to come out and enjoy the home games of the Morris brown Wolverines during the Southern Inter­ collegiate Athletic Conference (SIAC). The team’s head coach is former Har­ lem Globetrotter Coach Russell Elling­ ton.

L-to-R: Members of the Morris Brown Wolverines and their coaches, Second Assistant Coach Derek Thompson, Head Coach Russell Ellington and First Assistant Coach Wally West. Baseball at MBC? Losing A Friend and By Addison M. Ford CONTRIBUTING SPORTS WRITER Coach!!! es it is true, baseball is back at Morris Brown College. By Addison M. Ford After having a not so good CONTRIBUTING SPORTS WRITER Yseason in 1997 and not even having enough players to have a season in hree years ago, Coach George 1998. Head Coach Earl Bryant and Ragsdale was hired along the 1999 baseball team will try to put with other coaches to rebuild Morris Brown Baseball back on track Tthe football program here at Morris in the SIAC. With a number of play­ Brown Col-lege. Being assigned to ers returning from his 1997 team and coach the running backs his first two some dedicated players he picked up years and offensive coordinator his at practice secessions in 1998, Bryant last year, Ragsdale put his all into his has a nucleus for building a good job. team. Bryant, known for his high After enduring two losing seasons motivation and disciplinary actions at 3-8 and one winning season at 6-5, looks forward to putting a high qual­ Ragsdale is now leaving MBC to become the running back coach and Coach George Ragsdale, Residence Hall ity team on the field for the 1999 sea­ Director and Football Coaching Staff son. The team this year will be com­ possible offensive coordinator at peting at the club level for filling it's À Norfolk State University. The move Ragsdale's were stunned to hear one year probationary period before Coach Earl Bryant, Baseball Coach and for Ragsdale was a financial move about his departure. becoming a sanctioned team in 2000. Football Coaching Staff and it gives him a chance to coach Known for being more of a friend against his alma mater, North than a coach, Ragsdale will be greatly Carolina A&T. After being at MBC missed not only on the football field for three years, Ragsdale built a great but in the campus life of his players relationship among his players like as well. Best wishes to Coach no other coach at MBC. Players of Ragsdale and his new team !!!

1 ' Ä •JUUII ¿Ji i JI l/

Í i Seniors Last Home Game L-to-R: Beverly Arnaud, Darlene Hadden, Shantel Reddick, IBM Kasha Doomes, Shawanda Harrison, Asst. Coach Rovetta ai 1 Edwards and Coach Phillip Wallace. Hr Ji TheMBC Wolverine OBSERVER thanks the A UC campus community and metro- Atlanta community for their readership support.

(Advertisers are always welcome.) Look for the Wolverine OBSERVER Newspaper every month* at these locations:

Cascade Plaza Nations Bank (Kroger) - cascade Brannen's Sports 2 Friends Bookstore First union - Cascade Capitol City Bank - west End Nations Bank - cascade Capitol City Bank - stone Mtn. ingles - Cascade First Union - West End Publix - Cascade South Trust - west End Cascade Cleaners Nations Bank - west End Cub Foods - Greenbriar Wachovia Bank - west End Life's Essentials Atlanta Metro College Kroger - Greenbriar Flipper Temple ame Church Citizens Trust Bank - Greenbriar Morehouse College Medu Bookstore - Greenbriar Spelman college Georgia State university Clark Atlanta university Kroger-College Park woodruff Library Nations Bank - college Park Big Bethel ame Church Wachovia Bank - College Park Citizens Trust Bank - So. DeKalb Mall wolf camera - cascade Winn-Dixie - So. DeKalb Mall Capitol City Bank - cascade Kroger - Wesley Chapel Kroger - cascade ‘The MBC Wolverine Observer is not published June, July, August. The months of April/May will be a combined issue for 1999.

DEDICATED TO EDUCATING THE LEADERS OF TOMORROW 643 Martin Luther King Jr. Dr. Atlanta, Georgia 30314-4140 22 The 21st Century-Making the Connection! MARCH 1999 MBC Wolverine OBSERVER Benton’s denial From being a maid, to having a maid. Without them there would be nothing, that will always From having no money, to being well paid. not even a world. Corner From the rub board, to the washing be there We ve grown bitter inside and hate our even if we don’t machine. friends, BLACK GLANCE From the nasty ghetto, to spotless Whereas we used to love everyone when Submitted by Tonya Lynch Glance Back. and clean, but How far have we life began. I say to you again, How far really come? have we really come? I saw a man today. We’ ve come from being good, to being From singing old songs and fighting for How Far Have We Realy Come? He greeted me with that better. rights, knowing look. By Antonio McDaniel We use to have pride and stuck together. Now bragging to friends and just fighting The one that says Now it is nothing to kill your brother, slap to fight. I am surprised but From the dirt roads, to the paved streets. your dad, and cus your mother. We spend our lives dealing drugs for so happy to see you. From the back of the bus, to the front seat. We find popularity in pimping a girl. wealth, To know that I am not the only one Struggling out here. I tried to respond in kind But he didn’t look back The Center For A Global to see my Workforce and Community Black Glance.

I wanted to tell him. Service I wanted him to know. I share in his loneliness Presents the frustration & rage. At a society that doesn't know us, doesn’t see us, doesn’t hear us. So we acknowledge each other with the

Black Glance.

That reassuring expression of love and acceptance that says though we Thursday, April 15, 1999 may never meet again our souls shall always be 10:00am — 2:50pm connected. But he didn’t see me. That’s how it usually works. Hickman Student Center We must often retreat into our expected roles too quickly to see the Cunningham Auditorium

Black Glance. M Business Dress Attire Is Recommended So eager to please others ❖ Please Bring Resumes For Recruiters that we miss the

Black Glance.

Too ashamed to acknowledge our need for each other that we overlook the

Black Glance.

But we know. We know it’s there because the

Black Glance

has a life of its own. An existence outside of ignorance self hate racism The 21st Century-Making the Connection! MARCH 1999 MBC Wolverine OBSERVER 23

Hurting our fellow man, destroying GOD ANSWERED: Your hair is the texture of lamb's wool. gas out here talking about their gun rules/ their health. Such a humble little creature is he. But still afraid to use the most powerful tool We’ve come from old strapped sandals to Why did I make you black? T am the shepherd who watches them. of them all/ The brain is often trained to the Nike Shoe, Why did I make you black? I am the One who will watch over thee. hate through the use of cocaine/ Things We don't care about each other, but it’s all Get off your knees and look around. aren’t the same/ Nor will they ever be/ about you. Tell me, what do you see? You are the color of midnight sky. I m a grown man ain’t nobody gone take We use to not have a quarter, not even I didn’t make you in the image of darkness, I put the stars' glitter in your eyes. care of me/ While the reasons behind my a dime, I made you in likeness of ME! There is a smile hidden behind your pain. actions may never make sense/ The al­ We had to earn what we got and bust That's why your cheeks are so high. mighty God is constantly throwing hints/ I our behinds. I made you the color of coal from which just have to be wise enough to understand Today we think we re "The Man”, telling beautiful diamonds are formed. You are the color of dark clouds formed, what he is saying/ That’s why I keep pray­ people to check their self. I made you the color of oil, the black gold when I send My strongest weather. ing/ To keep myself from decaying/ Where we ll give anything in life for that keeps people warm. I made your lips full so when you kiss the Sometimes I may do devilish things/ But I money's wealth, one that you love, they will remember. have to for the time being/ Until the fat We have not morals great nor small, I made you from the rich, dark earth that lady sings/ The end is near and some don’t We care nothing about nothing, not can grow the food you need. Your stature is strong, your bone structure even know it/ You had your opportunity anything at all. thick to withstand the burdens of time. only to blow it/ I hope I get my chance to Is life for us ending or has it ever begun? Your color’s the same as the black stallion, evolve into a better man/ That seems to I ask this one more time. The reflection you see in the mirror... a majestic animal is he. be the only way to see my grandmother How far have we really come? The image that looks back is MINE. I didn't make you in the image of darkness. again/ I wonder to myself/ Why don’t I made you in likeness of ME! good things happen to "Da KID’’?/ Is it be­ A Poem for Thought Up Until Then cause I’m always doing a bid/ Sometimes All the colors of the heavenly rainbow can I want to close the lid on the jar of life/ By RuNell Ni Ebo By Da KID be found throughout every nation. But deep down inside I know that would be trife. Lord, Lord But when all of those colors were blended, Perhaps the next man won’t understand Why did You make me Black? you became my greatest creation. because he’s not in my shoes/ Plenty nig­ Why did You make someone the world wants to hold back? Black is the color of dirty clothes, the color of grimy hands and feet. Black is the color of darkness, the color of tire-beaten streets.

Why did You give me thick lips, a broad nose and kinky hair? Why did You make someone who receives the hatred stare?

Black is the color of the bruised eye when someone gets hurt. Black is the color of darkness, Black is the color of dirt.

How come my bone structure 's so thick, my hips and cheeks high? How come my eyes are brown and not the color of daylight sky?

Why do people think I’m useless? How come I feel so used? Why do some people see my skin and think I should be abused?

Lord just don’t understand. What is it about my skin? Why do some people want to hate me and not know the person within?

Black is what people are listed when others want to keep them away. Black is the color of shadows cast. Black is the end of the day.

Lord you know my own people mistreat me and I know this just ain t right. They don’t like my hair. They say I'm too dark or too light. Lord don’t You think it s time for You to make a change? Why don't You re-do creation and make everyone the same?