Lighting The Road To The Future Insecure’s Amanda Seales on Confronting Data Zone Injustice Page 6 “The People’s Paper” September 29 - October 5, 2018 53nd Year Volume 22 www.ladatanews.com

A Data News Weekly Exclusive

Urban League of Louisiana’s New President and CEO

Page 2 Newsmaker State & Local Let’s Elect James Clyburn as New I Am Not Speaker of the House My Hair! Page 4 Page 10 Page 2 September 29 - October 5, 2018 Cover Story www.ladatanews.com Judy Reese Morse President and CEO of Urban League of Louisiana Data News Weekly Exclusive Interview with New Leader of Historic Civil Rights Organization

Edwin Buggage be chosen and excited to be working with our Editor, Data News Weekly teams in New Orleans and in Baton Rouge . I look forward to working with our many part- ners, but most importantly the people who Introducing Judy Reese Morse: benefit from the services and programs of President and CEO of The the Urban League in Louisiana .” Urban League of Louisiana For eight decades The National Urban Centers of Excellence League have been on the frontlines fighting In her role as President and CEO, Morse the righteous fight for justice and equality leads and oversees the work of three Cen- for African-Americans . Its local affiliate the ters of Excellence focused on the core mis- Urban League of Louisiana, has had a long sion of the Urban League of Louisiana: eq- and storied history of great leadership . uity, social justice and advocacy, economic And now a new name can now be added and workforce development and education to this list as they’ve recently named Judy and youth development . “The work this Reese Morse, its President and CEO . organization does is very impactful, and I Coming from a family dedicated to ser- plan to build on that .” vice, she is the daughter of Freedom Rider Continuing she says speaking of their and Local Civil Rights Icon Claude Reese . dedication to uplifting the community, “We She comes to the Urban League with a ca- work with partners in workforce develop- reer of more than two decades of service ment to create opportunities that are sus- to others . Before joining the Urban League tainable, so our residents can take care of of Louisiana, Morse served for eight years their families .” in city government in three roles: Deputy Speaking of their upcoming job fair Mayor/Chief of Staff, Deputy Mayor/City- Morse says, “We are having an event at wide Initiatives and Deputy Mayor/Chief the Hilton Riverside on Sept . 26, 2018 from Administrative Officer from 2010 to 2018 . 10AM to 4PM where individuals can come Prior to joining city government, Morse out and meet with prospective employers . worked at the state level as Chief of Staff But this is only one of many events we have in the Office of the Lieutenant Governor throughout the year . We are making a long- from 2004 to 2010 . She’s also spent over a term investment in attempting to empower decade working in Washington DC before our people .” returning to Louisiana . “It is an honor to serve as President and Civil Rights Legacy and the CEO of the Urban League of Louisiana . I Fight for Equity and Equality have had a lot of great professional experi- Judy Reese Morse grew with a freedom ences in my career, but this is very special,” fighter inside her home and has carried on says Morse of her new post . “I am grateful to this legacy, not with sit-ins but advocating

Cover Story, Continued on page 3. Judy Reese Morse, President and CEO of Urban League Louisiana.

DATA NEWS WEEKLY P.O. Box 57347, New Orleans, LA 70157-7347 | Phone: (504) 821-7421 | Fax: (504) 821-7622 INSIDE DATA editorial: [email protected] | advertising: [email protected] Terry B. Jones Contributors Art Direction & Edwin Buggage CEO/Publisher Production Brandon Brown Pubinator.com Edwin Buggage Cover Story ...... 2 Data Zone ...... 6 Jared Braud Editorial Submissions Editor Kimani Hamilton datanewseditor@ Cheryl Mainor Kelsey Green bellsouth.net Newsmaker...... 4 Commentary . . . 8. . Managing Editor Stacy M. Brown Advertising Inquiries Jeffrey L. Boney datanewsad@ Calla Victoria Julianne Malveaux bellsouth.net Executive Assistant Benjamin F. Chavis, Jr. Distribution State & Local News . . 5 National News . . 11. June Hazeur The National Fried On The Run Accounting Chicken Festival Courier Services Please call 504-309-9913 for subscription information or to obtain a back issue of the paper ONLY. Dated material two weeks in advance. Not responsible for publishing or return of unsolicited manuscripts or photos. www.ladatanews.com Cover Story September 29 - October 5, 2018 Page 3

Cover Story, Continued from page 2. for access to opportunities that fos- ganizations that worked around is- people help the Urban League of ties . We have an amazing culture . “Urban League has benefitted ter equity and equality . sues of equity .” Louisiana in its mission, “We are We need to build a city and state from great leadership from Erika “Claude Reese is my father and Talking about a solution-based a membership organization, hav- where people are coming from oth- for 5 years,” giving praise to the I love him dearly beyond whatever approach, Morse says, “Much of ing people join is always a good er places and want to live here, or work of McConduit . Continuing I can say in words,” she states with this speaks to the issues of fair- strong start . There are 3 ways if they are from here want to stay, she says, “I tell you what she’s done pride and admiration . “Both as a ness and justice . With the solu- people can help in the mission . or if they leave they want to return . everyone should be very proud of . daughter and an individual for the tions lying in how the govern- For a nominal amount they can I see something very exciting and She left the organization financially sacrifices he made for African- ment, business and not-for-profit join the Young Professionals, they dynamic, a time where everybody sound . She also left it with a stron- Americans in this city and in this sector can work together taking can join the Guild if they are over in the state know prosperity can ger brand and partners with a focus state . He often said, ‘Until all of us a look at the disparities that ex- 40, or if they had some experience be an option for everyone . And on education and that was needed are saved, none of us are saved .’ He ist and address them by working and want to put some of that to this goes beyond your race or ge- after Hurricane Katrina . She cre- would say it all the time and it stuck towards equity that will lead to use to advocate for the various is- ography that you have a chance to ated many new initiatives and with me and it forces you to think equality . This would mean ev- sues we work on .” be prosperous . I think the future is brought in new corporate sponsors . about others .” eryone can start out in the same Noting that anyone can become a very exciting .” She’s left the organization of very

Judy Reese Morse is the daughter of local Civil Rights Leader Claude Reese. Speaking of her father and his influence on her she says, “He often said, ‘Until all of us are saved, none of us are saved.’ Morse says there are 3 ways people can help support the mission He would say it all the time and it stuck with me and it forces you to of the Urban League of Louisiana. “For a nominal amount they can think about others.” join the Young Professionals, they can join the Guild if they are over 40, or if they had some experience and want to put some of that to use to advocate for the various issues we work on we also welcome that as well.”

The core mission of the Urban League of Louisiana is advocating for equity, social justice, economic and workforce development and education and youth development. “The work this organization does is very impactful and I plan to build on that,” says Morse. L-R. Son Trey Morse, father local Civil Rights Icon Claude Reese, Judy Reese Morse and husband Chuck Morse.

Continuing speaking of her fa- place, and from there we can have member and that in December they Passing the Torch of solid footing .” ther and his influence on her she an opportunity to build the future will hold a public meeting and are Leadership: The Sky is Speaking of NUL President says, “My father, Claude Reese where more of our people can inviting people from the community the Limit for the Urban Marc Morial she says, “We also was a Civil Rights Freedom Rider prosper .” to hear what the Urban League of League of Louisiana and its benefit from having the National and Member of the New Orleans Louisiana are working on for 2019 . Mission of Creating Equity President that understands the city Branch of Congress of Racial Equal- Partnerships and She says that working with part- and Fighting for Justice because this is not only his home, ity (CORE) . He did several freedom Empowerment ners in the community is also a way Judy Reese Morse is inheriting but he was the mayor for 8 years . I rides and sit-ins at lunch counters in The National Urban League and to learn how the organization can an Urban League of Louisiana that’s have had many conversations with the fight for desegregation . Grow- its affiliate, the Urban League of fine tune its focus on issues that im- been built up and reaching new him and he has pledged his full sup- ing up with my father I definitely Louisiana is an organization that pact the community . “We take the height under its prior President port of my leadership and things I understand the struggle for Civil has its fingers on the pulse of the opportunity talking with our mem- and CEO Erika McConduit . In addi- want to bring to the Urban League Rights and how important it was issues that affect the African-Amer- bers to listen and learn . This cre- tion, Judy Reese Morse has been in of Louisiana . I feel we are in a very and more importantly how impor- ican community and has recently ates channels so that we are engag- constant contact with Nation Urban special place at a very special time tant it still is today .” expanded its reach to others in ing and amplifying their voice and League President, Marc Morial, and our organization and it has a lot Speaking about today’s Civil need . This is work that cannot be contribute to the narrative .” who is also the former Mayor of to build on and with all the talented Rights Movement she says, “To- done without its many partners and Continuing she says speaking New Orleans . These amicable re- people we have as well as our Board day Civil Rights is about equity . people in the community who join optimistically about the future of lationships are something that will of Directors . With all these pieces I learned a lot about this when I the organization . the city and state, “We have the po- help the Urban League of Louisiana in place I believe the sky is the limit worked in city government, the A fact not lost on Judy Re- tential to make our city and state a reach new plateaus in its mission for what we can do .” work I have done with national or- ese Morse when asked how can greater place with more opportuni- according to its new President . Page 4 September 29 - October 5, 2018 Newsmaker www.ladatanews.com OP-ED: Jim Clyburn for Speaker of the House

By Benjamin F. Chavis, Jr. recently led the fight to defend the President and CEO, NNPA Affordable Care Act . In 2002, Jim was elected Vice Washington, DC — No one ques- Chair of the House Democratic tions the fact that for the past six Caucus . He was elected Chair in decades, African-Americans have 2005, Majority Whip in 2006, and overwhelmingly supported and Assistant Democratic Leader in voted for Democratic Party can- 2010 . In every capacity he has been didates for the United States Con- inclusive and selfless . In addition, gress . In the upcoming 2018 mid- as Whip, he chaired the House term elections, African-Americans Democratic Task Force on Hurri- by the millions will once again cast cane Katrina, shepherding numer- the clear majority of their votes for ous bills into law, contributing to Democratic Party candidates for the rebuilding of New Orleans and governors and members of the U .S . the Gulf Coast . Senate and U .S . House of Represen- Today, as Assistant Leader, Cly- tatives . burn has earned the respect of The mission of the National Democrats on Capitol Hill as well Newspaper Publishers Association as throughout the country . Jim (NNPA), representing the Black also has helped to raise significant Press of America, is to report the amounts of money for numerous news and to be an advocate for free- Democratic candidates . dom, justice and equality for Black Every August Jim and his wife, America and for all others who Emily – whom he met in jail dur- stand in opposition to racism and ing one of his SNCC incarcerations economic inequality and cry out for – host a Health Fair, Food Bank, a better quality of life . Back-to-School bash and Scholar- Last week, during the Congres- Congressman James E. Clyburn (D-SC) ship Banquet for families and com- sional Black Caucus Annual Legis- munities along the I-95 corridor . lative Conference in Washington, for outstanding service and com- our collective editorial opinion college student fighting for equal This year they awarded $250,000 DC, the NNPA awarded Congress- mitment to equality and justice . about the interests of the 47 million rights and fair treatment along- in cash, laptops and software pack- man James E . Clyburn (D-SC) our From time to time, it is our man- African- Americans who strive to side John Lewis in the Student ages to 127 needy, college-bound 2018 National Leadership Award date and responsibility to express empower, sustain, protect, and care Non-violent Coordinating Commit- students, resulting in a total of $4 .9 for our families and communities . tee (SNCC), of which they were million in student aid their Founda- It is, therefore, appropriate for founding members . I have known tion has awarded to students over me to support and express, on be- Clyburn since those transforma- more than 30 years . This effort by half of the 220 Black-owned news- tive days in the 1960’s when young the Clyburns precedes Jim’s out- YOUR SON HAS ASKED papers and media companies af- student leaders of SNCC and the standing congressional service . filiated with the NNPA across the Southern Christian Leadership In conclusion, in America’s 233 A CALCULUS QUESTION nation, that Congressman Jim Cly- Conference (SCLC), led by Dr . years as a republic, we have never burn should be the next Speaker of Martin Luther King, Jr ., advanced had an African-American Speaker of the House of Representatives . the enactment and fulfillment of the House . The time has now come YOU DON’T During this time of renewed civil rights . for serious consideration . The mid- civic and political fervor for a more Clyburn served as Chair of the term elections are only a few weeks progressive, inclusive and diverse Congressional Black Caucus (CBC) away . We will be voting in record UNDERSTAND democracy in the United States, it Foundation’s Annual Legislative numbers and after the November 6, is past-due time that Jim Clyburn Conference for both Sessions of the 2018 elections results are reported, should be given the opportunity to 104thCongress . In the 105thCon- there will be new opportunities and lead the U .S . Congress as Speaker gress, he was unanimously elected responsibilities to reorganize the of the House . Chair of the CBC . newly elected U .S . Congress . AT ALL Clyburn is uniquely qualified to As CBC Chair, Jim successfully African-Americans continue to be the Speaker and his timely el- led the effort to desegregate the be a major determinative compo- Do you: evation to this historic and vitally U .S . Court of Appeals for the 4thCir- nent of the current resurgence of important position will help put to cuit . Clyburn successfully engaged the Democratic Party and are key (A) Create a diversion. rest the widespread notion that the the GAO to conduct a study of res- to winning and maintaining a new Democratic Party takes African torations and preservation needs majority in the U .S . Congress . Sim- (B) Look up the answer on your phone but pretend you knew it. American votes for granted . at Historically Black Colleges and ply put, we are very tired of hearing, Given the current increased Universities, which led to compre- “Wait your turn .” It is our turn . We (C) Hire a tutor. For yourself. racial divide and regional polariza- hensive legislation to preserve and demand respect and accountability tions in this regressive era of Presi- restore historic buildings on HBCU for our longstanding and solid sup- dent Donald Trump, there is no campuses across the country . The port of the Democratic Party . Elect When it comes to being a parent, there are no perfect answers — just being there better prepared member of the U .S . House recently appropriated an- Jim Clyburn Speaker of the House . is enough. So don’t worry, you don’t have to be perfect to be a perfect parent. There are thousands of teens in foster care who will love you just the same. Congress than Jim Clyburn, with other $8 million to continue this his base in rural and urban South effort . He has helped the caucus Dr. Benjamin F. Chavis, Jr. is Presi- Carolina, to help lead the House of develop legislation to restore the dent and CEO of the National 888.200.4005 AdoptUSKids.org Newspaper Publishers Association Representatives forward . protections of the Voting Rights Act (NNPA). He can be reached at Jim began public service as a and expand access to the ballot, and [email protected]. www.ladatanews.com State & Local News September 29 - October 5, 2018 Page 5

Climate Change Impacts State, African Americans Most, Experts Say

By Jared Braud vis said . Environmental Justice is Data News Weekly now a part of social justice in keep- Contributor ing with Dr . King’s vision, Chavis explained, because humanity now Climate change is one of the requires the well-being of all com- biggest problems facing the planet munities and that is part of the so- today . The State of Louisiana is at cial struggle . ground zero when it comes to cli- The HBCU Climate Change Con- mate change . Louisiana has had ference carries as its motto: “Fighting nearly 2,000 square miles disappear For Our Lives .” The city pledged to along the coast in recent years . Rac- do its part under a new administra- ism also plays a role in the changes tion, Cantrell said, by placing pallets to communities, because residents within the neutral ground around the who live in vulnerable places are of- City of New Orleans . These pallets ten people of color . The Deep South restructured for plant materials that Center for Environmental Justice will receive water and retain it to re- has been working to solve this issue duce flooding . since it started in 1992, particularly Experts say it will take more than looking at the ways in which cli- just activists and officials to address mate change affects communities Environmental Justice . It’s not just of color in the South . the work of environmentalists, but “We recognize that we not only all citizens must get involved in this rebuild our homes, but we must fight . “Fighting for our lives is not a bring people along to be able to “Dr. Robert Bullard, Dr. Benjamin Chavis, and another speaker show that the past affects the future by cel- front,” Bullard said . touch those who have been impact- ebrating the life of Damu Smith. ed,” said Mayor LaToya Cantrell on post-Katrina rebuilding, as she Climate Change Conference . addressed this matter at the 6th An- “We must use this opportunity to nual HBCU Climate Change Con- make a difference and use our edu- ference, held jointly by Dillard and cation as liberation,” Bullard said . Xavier from Sept . 20th-23rd . Xavier’s President C . Reynold Cantrell made her remarks on Verret described Bullard as being Sept . 20th at Xavier revisiting how one of the first people to coin the many citizens of New Orleans still phrase “environmental injustice .” remain affected by Hurricane Ka- Bullard’s 1990 book, “Dumping Di- trina . Recently, Ninth Ward resi- xie,” explains how citizens, mainly dents sued Actor Brad Pitt’s Make citizens of color, suffer from poor it Right Foundation for selling them health from waste dumped near poorly constructed sustainable their communities . People most im- homes that have begun to decay pacted must be in the room when and become overrun with mold . In decisions are being made, Bullard many cases, businesses often buy said . Residents living in low-lying residents out of their homes, gen- communities have a higher chance trifying neighborhoods . And other of being diagnosed with certain industrial companies have been the illnesses that affect the heart and source of excess waste dumpling lungs, Bullard’s work notes . excess from chemical plants next to NNPA President, Dr . Benjamin low-income communities of color . Chavis, Jr ., received the Damu The community will need to band Smith Award, named after this together to let corporate interests peace activist, at the conference know that this problem will no lon- and told stakeholders that injustice ger be ignored, Cantrell said . Her is not something to be taken lightly . administration will work with com- Smith was the Founder of Black munity advocates to ensure these Voices for Peace and the National practices end, she said . Black Environmental Justice Net- African-Americans are 30 per- work . Chavis explained that injus- cent more likely to be exposed to tice was created out of greed and air within their communities and 75 that others should not make a profit percent of African-Americans live at the expense of human life . near industrials plants, above the “If Dr . King were here today, he US average, said Robert Bullard, would ask what qualifies as envi- the Director of the Environmental ronmental injustice,” Chavis said . Justice Resource Center, and a Pro- “As one of his famous quotes goes, fessor at Texas Southern Univer- ‘A threat to justice anywhere, is a sity, who co-facilitated the HBCU threat to justice everywhere,’ Cha- Page 6 September 29 - October 5, 2018 Data Zone www.ladatanews.com Actress Inspires to Confront Injustice Wherever it Appears

By Kimani Hamilton of the school, Seales said, and she was Data News Weekly Contributor successful at doing so . They asked her to take a year off, but Amanda did not Just like every other girl, a young let that stop her . She attended college Amanda Seales had big dreams for her- somewhere else . self . Her plans for her life may not have “So, when you’re in school you wan- turned out the way that she expected, na curate your experience to the best but little did she know that what she of your ability because this is going to thought would break her, actually made set you up when you get out of here her the woman that she is today . in so many ways other than just what “I went to school in New York at you’re learning in class,” Seales said . SUNY Purchase for Undergrad for Act- “It’s also teaching you how to decide ing and I was asked to leave the con- what’s best for you and how things servatory at the end of my freshman work for you when people in the space year,” said Actress, Amanda Seales, as around you aren’t necessarily thinking she spoke to the students at Xavier Uni- about you that way .” versity of Louisiana on Sept . 19, 2018 . Her story didn’t end there . She Seales currently stars as Tiffany DuBois received her master’s from Colum- on HBO’s Insecure . bia University in African- American Many African-Americans remember studies, which shaped the work she the isolation and racism they have ex- does today in media . The actress de- perienced in school, and for Seales it cided to tell her story to the students was no different . She attended the Act- at Xavier because she was very close ing Conservatory at SUNY, Purchase, a to allowing her life to be determined Liberal Arts College in New York . The by people who do not have her best school only chose 25 applicants out of interest in mind . She said she wanted 2,500 applications a year, she said . When students to know that they are not Seales first got to the school, they actu- the only ones who have issues with ally had lowered the number and there their professors . Seales reminded were only 20 students in her first-year them that they have power and re- acting class . sponsibility . They are among a group “I was the only Black woman in my of individuals who are privileged to class and I was 18,” Seales said . get an education because not every- This was her dream school . At that one has that opportunity, she said . time, it was the second-best acting Actress, artist, musician, comedian and podcast hostess Amanda Seales. “There’s a reason why they say school in the nation . Julliard was the knowledge is power . Because once you first . She was a straight-A student for have it, you are now a step ahead of any- the first three semesters . To make their body else,” Seales said . “And with power program more exclusive, every year the comes great responsibility .” school would cut students from the pro- Her conversation impacted the audi- gram, she recalled . ence and encouraged them to be the Seales described a time in class where change that they wanted to see on cam- her teacher made the class line up in pus, in the community, and in the world . two rows and choose to be an animal . “Always standup for what you believe A young Black man in her class chose in . Always support each other . Especial- to be a lion . When he began to imitate a ly in the Black community,” said Kelsey lion, Seales said she recalled the instruc- Green, Miss Xavier 2018-2019 . tor started laughing . The teacher then “Xavier University is one of the most made a racist comment toward the Af- prominent HBCU’s in the nation and we rican-American student . Seales remem- have a reputation to keep up with, so we ber not feeling accepted in this place . have to lift each other up,” Green said . “It’s all well and good for us to com- Seales visit stirred students to want plain and then leave, but the problem is to take a stand and make a change . Stu- Actress Amanda Seales of HBO’s Insecure has intimate chat about her journey that when we complain and leave, not with Xavier students on Sept. 19, 2018 (Photo by Kimani Hamilton) dents said they will not only just listen only have we done ourselves a disser- to Seales’ words, but they will work to vice, we do a disservice to the people Complaints mean nothing if there is create a movement,” Seales said . make their campus and this community we’ve left in our wake,” Seales said . no change being made . Seales reminded She had other tough lessons while a better place . Before landing a role on Insecure, the students that everything is not all in school . Another young man told an “I realize that we all have the ca- Seales played roles on Freedomland, just about them . instructor that Seales was listening to pacity to call out injustice in our Cop and a Half, and Ladies Book Club . “There’s actually action that you have her headphones while she was in class . lives and we can’t afford not to,” said She hosted truTV’s Greatest Ever and to take in order to see reaction . There’s The instructor took that as an opportu- Cleopatra Singleton, a Political Sci- was a co-host on MTV’s Hip Hop POV . actually moves that you have to take to nity to get the young actress kicked out ence major at Xavier .

Visit www.ladatanews.com for more. www.ladatanews.com Data Zone September 29 - October 5, 2018 Page 7 New Orleans’ National Fried Chicken Festival Highlights

Photos Courtesy of The National Fried Chicken Festival

There’s nothing like fried chicken, and nobody does it bet- ter than we do in New Orleans . That’s what makes the National Fried Chicken Festival such a fan favorite to attend . Besides mouth-watering chicken, fried every way you can think of, the festival also included a fantas- tic stage with music to rock to while attendees enjoyed the de- licious food . We can’t wait for next year’s festival, because you know, where there is good food and good music, Data will always be there!

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

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Real Talk for Real Times... 1639 Gentilly Blvd. New Orleans, LA 70119 (504)942-0106 www.wbok1230am.com Page 8 September 29 - October 5, 2018 Commentary www.ladatanews.com

The Pernicious Power of Patriarchy

ing every aspect of our lives . was still seeking apology after two Patriarchy places men at the decades . Note to Thomas: take the center of life and women at the phone from your wife when her periphery . It suggests that women Privileged white male meds are not working . do not matter . It allows for the In any case, Thomas is on the subjugation of women when they culture allows a man who Supreme Court because white attempt to enter public spaces that men chose to disregard the word have previously been earmarked should not have been elected of a Black woman — a decision as “male” spaces . that then-Senator Joe Biden says Julianne Malveaux NNPA Columnist Thus, there were no restrooms President to denigrate he now regrets . Thomas was con- for women legislators in the U .S . firmed by the narrowest margin House or Senate, even as women women on a regular basis . in history 52-48 . Our nation, these United States, entered those spaces . They were Here we go again . is founded on the principles of rac- only created when women demand- We are ‘fat,’ ‘dogs’ and ‘liars . By the time this is published ism and patriarchy . They are reflect- ed them . Of course, restrooms are the matter of 45’s Supreme Court ed in our very constitution, where just a minor manifestation of the he- nominee Brett Kavanaugh may be enslaved persons were counted as gemonic patriarchy that rules our resolved but the issue of pernicious a fraction of a person and only men nation . patriarchy will not be . of property were allowed the right A great picture of our nation’s posed Anita Hill as she reviewed was attacked in the vilest of terms, Regarding Kavanaugh, he has to vote . The filthy inequality at the racist patriarchy was the visual of her experiences with now Supreme accused of nonsense like “erotoma- been accused by Dr . Christine Bla- foundation of this nation has now doughy and dissipated white men Court Justice Clarence Thomas . nia,” and even recently harassed Commentary, Continued bubbled up and boiled over, pollut- interrogating the amazingly com- Though Hill was persuasive, she by Thomas’ unhinged spouse who on page 9.

Vote 2018 – America is on the Ballot their racist views and bigotry in then have the ability to appoint peo- “We are called to be the con- All elections, especially local ways that have not been blatantly ple to other key positions, as well as scious of this nation,” said Rev . Bar- elections, are too important to over- seen in America since the days of enact laws that will undoubtedly af- ber . “Our vision has to be bigger look and ignore . the Civil Rights struggle . fect the quality of life of everyone, than Trump . We have to come to- The National Newspaper Pub- The current administration has including those who didn’t vote . gether to change the course of our lishers Association (NNPA), which shined a light on the darkness of The detrimental outcome of nation . You better know who you represents over 200 Black-owned racism and bigotry that has long Black people choosing to com- are when you are under assault . We media companies across the U .S ., been ignored and swept under the pletely disengage from the political cannot fail to be who we are . We has been focused on registering 5 Jeffrey L. Boney rug in this country . The divisive process and choosing not to vote is must vote .” million, new Black voters before the NNPA Newswire Contributor rhetoric and activity that this cur- a costly one . A non-vote is still rel- Again, Black people need not midterm elections and is working rent administration has boldly en- evant and just as powerful as if a downplay the significance of these collaboratively with other national couraged, has now trickled down vote were actually cast . President upcoming midterm elections in organizations relative to increasing The 2018 midterm elections to many cities and states across this Donald J . Trump understood that, November . While the races for Black voter turnout . are nearly upon us. country, which is why voting in lo- and expressed his sincere gratitude Congress and the various gover- It is time for Black people to dig The United States of America, in cal and state elections is so impor- for a great majority of Black people norships across the country are ex- in, get in the fight and embrace 2018, is at a major crossroads and tant . choosing not to come out and vote tremely important, there are many their precious right to vote, which there is too much at stake to simply “All politics is local” is a popular in 2016 . down ballot races that are even was paid for with a hefty price . ignore the importance of this criti- political saying that is most often Over the past few decades, the more important and should not More importantly, the fight to pro- cal election . associated with former Democratic number of Blacks choosing to stay be ignored, as they will impact the tect those precious voting rights is If ever there was a time to vote, House Speaker Thomas P . “Tip” home and not vote, coupled with daily lives of Black people for years still being fought on a daily basis by that time is now . And while there O’Neill, Jr . When you think about the Black vote being constantly tar- to come . those who understand the struggle will be many candidates whose the phrase in itself, it makes sense geted by voter suppression tactics, Whether it is the judge who has to make a difference through poli- names will appear on ballots across that the things that impact you the has contributed to the election of the power to sentence your loved tics and public policy . It is not the this country, it is actually the future most take place on the local level . many individuals who have not had one to a lengthy prison sentence time to embrace non-voting . It is not of the United States of America that Taxation without representa- the best interest of African Ameri- or the judge who is responsible the time to make a conscious deci- is the most important thing on the tion is a horrible position to be in . cans in mind . for dealing with a lawsuit or the sion to stay at home and avoid cast- ballot this November . The President of the United States, This November, Black people judge who has the power to deter- ing a ballot in 2018 . These important midterm elec- whoever that elected person may must take voting and politics seri- mine what your child support pay- It is time to VOTE, because tions are shaping up to be some be, plays an important role in what ously if they are going to see collec- ments and visitation rights look like America is on the Ballot in 2018! of the most important elections in affects Black people, but the presi- tive changes in their communities, through the family court – one or Jeffrey Boney is a political analyst modern times . The results of these dent can only do so much . All of the in their social status and in their more of these Black women could for the NNPA Newswire and Black- PressUSA.com and the associate midterm elections will not only de- key decisions and pieces of legisla- daily lives . very well be elected in a position editor for the Houston Forward termine the makeup of Congress, tion that impact Black people on a At the recent Congressional that will impact your life in some Times newspaper. Jeffrey is an award-winning journalist, dynam- but they will also shape the overall daily basis are made by individuals Black Caucus Annual Legislative shape, form or fashion in the very ic, international speaker, experi- future of this country . who are elected by regular citizens Summit, Reverend Dr . William Bar- near future . enced entrepreneur, business de- ber challenged the attendees at the The same applies to all of the oth- velopment strategist and founder The current president has single- at the local, county and state lev- and CEO of the Texas Business Al- handedly emboldened the worst el- els of government . Those who are annual Phoenix Awards Dinner to er important local and state races liance Follow Jeffrey on Twitter @ ements of society to openly express elected to office by regular citizens, step up and vote . across the country . realtalkjunkies. www.ladatanews.com State & Local News September 29 - October 5, 2018 Page 9

Walmart Associates in Louisiana To Receive Approximately $3.84 Million in Cash Bonuses Louisiana bonuses are portion of more than $200 million earned nationwide in Q2

NEW ORLEANS – Sept . 21, sales and customer service goals . “Our associates’ dedication to tive momentum of the U .S . busi- efits, and provide a one-time cash 2018 – Recently, more than 915,000 In total, associates across Loui- their job and community is why ness, which has enabled a posi- bonus for eligible associates of up Walmart U .S . hourly associates re- siana earned $3 .84 million in Q2 customers always come back to tive local impact across Louisiana to $1,000 . Walmart also recently ceived a share of more than $200 bonuses . Walmart,” said Jim Winchester, through associate bonuses, wage announced a commitment to train million in cash bonuses based on These bonuses come on the Walmart regional manager . “They increases and innovation and im- and develop one million associ- their stores’ Q2 performance . The heels of the best performance are constantly working to improve provement to stores, among other ates over the next five years and bonuses were included in associ- for Walmart U .S . in more than 10 the retail experience for custom- investments . introduced a new education ben- ate’s Sept . 6 paycheck . years-- with comp sales growth ers and their hard work is why In January, Walmart announced efit for associates, which includes Walmart associates earn quar- (excluding fuel) of 4 .5 percent Walmart continues to be the top plans to increase the starting free college credit for on-the-job terly bonuses as part of an overall -- along with an increase in cus- retailer in the nation .” wage for all hourly associates in training and options for associates incentive plan designed to reward tomer traffic of more than two The recent strong sales and the U .S . to at least $11, expand to earn a college degree without associates whose stores achieve percent . traffic figures build on the posi- maternity and parental leave ben- incurring student loan debt .

Commentary, Continued from page 8. Can I call the name of Recy Tay- If we women were honest, we #MeToo is the tip of the iceberg and complicity wrong . lor, the young Black woman who would say that we have all co- because it fails to deal with race sys- Tearing down the walls of perni- sey Ford of sexual assault form was walking home from church signed patriarchy in the interest tematically, but also because it man- cious patriarchy means attacking more than 35 years ago, when both and raped by a gaggle of white of keeping it moving . We have de- ages the evident and personal, not the very foundation of our nation . were teens . She disclosed her ac- men who thought her body their flected the sexist comments that the institutional . When we attack patriarchy, we also cusations in a letter that California right? Can I remind us of the Texas come our way, even as we cringe In addition to being #MeToo attack the racism that is also part Senator Dianne Feinstein received gubernatorial candidate, Clayton from them . We smile at men that women, we are mothers, sisters, of our foundation . Many have lined in July, but did not share with the Williams, who said that if rape was we abhor because they may have daughters, and wives (hello Julie up to support Dr . Christine Blasey FBI until later, mainly because inevitable, a woman should “lay decision making power in their Chen Moonves), so some of us Ford . How many are equally willing Ford asked for confidentiality . back and enjoy it”? Ann Richards hands . We dress up or dress want to justify patriarchy for “our” to attack the pernicious racist patri- Ford has requested that the FBI beat him, but that wasn’t quite the down depending on the occasion men . Our sons, husbands, cousins, archal roots of our nation? investigate her assertions, yet the point . The point was that some man and the way we have to play the brothers “didn’t mean it” and could Julianne Malveaux is an author Senate Judiciary committee is still thought that rape was inevitable game . We know the system is not be that bad . and economist . Her latest book fast-tracking their vote on Kavana- enough to “enjoy .” slanted against us, we know we Wake-up call — if they violated “Are We Better Off? Race, Obama ugh . The outcome, while neces- Privileged white male culture still have to play, and we decide a woman, they were THAT bad . If and Public Policy” is available via sary, is not the bottom line . The is- allows a man who should not have when we choose to blow the whis- they raped a Black woman and you www .amazon .comfor booking, sue is the way that racist patriarchy been elected President to denigrate tle, a whistle we could blow every turned away from the accusation, wholesale inquiries or for more info makes some offensive and illegal women on a regular basis . We are single day . you are wrong, you are horribly visit www .juliannemalveaux .com behavior acceptable . “fat,” “dogs” and “liars .” Privileged white male culture He bragged about grabbing allows and encourages excessive women’s genitals, and our society drinking and obnoxious behav- is so poached in pernicious patriar- ior toward women . It is excused chy that 52 percent of white women because “boys will be boys .” But (and 41 percent of all women) still which boys? Black boys, even when voted for him . They thought he was accused of “reckless eyeballing,” joking because, for too many wom- are fair game for lynching! White en, patriarchy has so seeped into boys on rampages are excused for our consciousness that the abuse of assault, rape, and attempted rape . women is a joke .

KEITH BROWN Owner 9860 Lake Forest Blvd, 70127 Office (504)241‐0110 Cell (504) 723‐5652

ladatanews.com Page 10 September 29 - October 5, 2018 State & Local News www.ladatanews.com Social Campaign Takes On Discriminatory Hair Standards

By Brandon Brown CMS . They ruled that discrimina- Data News Weekly tion must show is bias based on Contributor unchangeable traits such as skin color, and that hairstyle does not fit After Faith Fennidy, an 11-year- under this category . old African-American girl, was The effects of these discrimina- removed because of her ethnic tory policies have proven to be ad- hairstyle from Christ the King El- verse for African-American women . ementary School, her Xavier Uni- The “Good Hair Study,” conducted versity big sisters decided to show in 2016 by Perception Institute, her that she is not alone . In Septem- found that African-American wom- ber, Xavier student leaders took en “perceive a level of social stigma to social media to promote confi- against textured hair,” and also dence in an intrinsic aspect of Af- “experience high levels of anxiety rican-American culture: hair . The more than White women” when it #IAmNotMyHair Campaign set comes to their hair . out to promote pride for African- Policies at schools and jobs that American girls and women who target African-American hair deters may have experienced discrimina- confidence . Angela Onwuachi-Wil- tion or negative stigmas either at lig, a Professor at the University of school, a job, or anywhere else . California, Berkeley said, “banning “If they see that we’re proud of these hairstyles essentially tells who we are no matter the skin tone, Black girls and women… that the hairstyle, or hair texture, they’re hair they were born with is faddish, going to be like, ‘oh I can be like extreme, distracting, and unprofes- them,’” said Kelsey Green, Miss sional .” Xavier 2018-2019 who is leading the Under the hashtag, dozens of Xavier Campaign under #IAmNot- Xavier women have posted pictures MyHair is to set a positive example and stories about their struggle to for these young girls . embrace their hair and the culture “It would be good to show her behind it . Many students said they that Xavier University, full of di- also see the hashtag as an expres- verse Black women, has her back,” sion of liberation from oppressive Green said . perceptions towards African- The campaign has been used American hair . Since women before by African-American women make up more than 70 percent of to assert that hair does not define Xavier’s student body, they feel their value . This month it was used it is important to show solidarity by Actress Sanaa Lathan to pro- with students who have been dis- mote her 2018 Netflix Film Nap- criminated against across Ameri- pily Ever After released this month . ca . Their stories explain instances In the film, her character shaves of discrimination and negative off her hair and begins a journey stigmas, but more importantly, of self-acceptance . On social me- how they have overcome these dia, Xavier women have used this experiences and learned to love hashtag to set an example in cultur- and accept themselves . al pride for Fennidy and for other “It’s about voicing that your young African-American girls and hair does not define your beauty boys recently disciplined at schools and doesn’t dictate over the other because of their hairstyles . qualities within yourself,” said Policies against African-Ameri- Mizani Ball, a Mass Communica- can hairstyles, such as locs, twists, tion senior . She also said #IAm- and braids, are often banned for Photos courtesy Kelsey Green NotMyHair teaches African-Amer- school children . At the start of this ican girls to love their hair which school year, in Florida, 6-year-old leads them to loving themselves Clinton Stanley Jr . was prevented for who they are . from attending class because of ever, in many cases, the schools However, these policies are not company calls an “extreme hair- The hashtag proves that women his dreadlocks . In 2017, a Massa- are privately owned and are legally exclusive to schools, they are also style .” Even the United States Navy have the freedom to wear any hair- chusetts school instructed twins allowed to keep their policy . Some apparent in corporate job environ- banned dreadlocks for women, but style without consideration for what Deanna and Mya Cook to remove schools rescind or suspend policy ments . In 2016 in Mobile, Ala ., the ban finally ended this year in is expected of them, they said . “For their “distracting” braids . The stu- after backlash, as the case of Dean- Chastity Jones was told by Catas- July . a long time, Black women have dents’ parents typically argue that na and Mya, and the students are al- trophe Management Solutions that The United States Equal Em- been told what to do and how to do these policies unfairly discrimi- lowed to return to school . In other they would not hire her unless she ployment Opportunity Commission it,” said Amenze Omoruii, a senior, nate against African-Americans, schools, as was the case of Clinton cut off her dreadlocks . In 2012, filed a racial discrimination lawsuit Psychology, Pre-Medicine major . which is against federal law, and Stanley Jr, the disciplinary action Six Flags denied employment to on behalf of Chasity Jones against “So #IAmNotMyHair basically advocated that the schools should stands, and the student must enroll 21-year-old Markeese Warner due CMS, but the Federal District symbolizes that it is our choice,” change their hair policies . How- in a different school . to her dreadlocks, a style which the Court in Alabama ruled in favor of Omoruii said . www.ladatanews.com National News September 29 - October 5, 2018 Page 11 DATA CLASSIFIED Call 504-821-7421 to Bill Cosby Sentenced to 3 to 10 Years place your classified ad.

in Prison, Files Notice of Appeal Job Opportunity Freelance By Stacy M. Brown with Cosby in which the actor would Writers NNPA Newswire Contributor waive his Fifth Amendment right and Wanted sit for a civil deposition . The then-Dis- Bill Cosby arrived at the Mont- trict Attorney agreed that whatever Data News Weekly, “The gomery County, Pennsylvania court- Cosby said in the deposition would People’s Paper, is looking for freelence writers to house in a black SUV surrounded by be sealed and could never be used to join our team print and his publicists and attorneys . He left prosecute him . digital team. We want in a prison van, escorted by sheriff’s Camille Cosby recently filed a to hear from you if you deputies . request for a full investigation into are a working journalist, or an aspiring journalist His lawyers immediately filed a O’Neill with the Pennsylvania Judicial who has 2 years or more notice of appeal . Conduct Board at the state’s capitol of newspaper or PR Judge Steven T . O’Neill sentenced in Harrisburg . writing experience. We the fallen comic to as many as 10 “In light of Judge O’Neill’s con- need writers who can years in state prison . Cosby, 81, could tinuing unethical conduct, I have cover New Orleans news stories, ranging from be released after serving a minimum retained a former prosecutor based local high school sports, of three years . in Harrisburg, Brian W . Perry, to community events, City “You have no right to it,” O’Neill facilitate my efforts to uncover the Hall and entertainment. told Cosby’s attorney Joe Green, truth regarding the longstanding Experience in print is necessary, experience in when asked that his client remain and ongoing feud between Castor digital and social media free on bail pending appeal . “This is and the judge,” Camille Cosby said are encouraged. a serious crime,” said the judge, who Judge Steven T. O’Neill sentenced the fallen comic to as many as 10 in a statement last week . earlier had designated Cosby a sexu- years in state prison. Bill Cosby, 81, could be released after serving a “Mr . Perry will provide the Ju- Compensation is al violent predator which means he’ll minimum of three years. dicial Conduct Board with recent competitive and great have to undergo a lifetime of monthly written communications from Mr . story ideas will be counseling and report quarterly to Wyatt and Cosby’s wife, Camille, Cosby was found guilty in April of Castor that contradict the judge’s appreciated. authorities . also pointed to an NNPA Newswire three counts of aggravated indecent claim that there is no grudge,” Ca- Because of the sexual violent pred- exclusive story earlier this month assault for the drugging and sexual mille Cosby said . If you are interested, please email your resume ator designation, Cosby’s name also that revealed that tapes used to help assault of Constand, a former Temple “For example, an email from and 3 writing samples to: will appear on a sex-offender registry convict Cosby were doctored . University employee, at his home in Mr . Castor references Judge terrybjones@bellsouth. sent to neighbors, schools and vic- After reading the NNPA News- Montgomery County more than 14 O’Neill as ‘A judge with an enor- net and datanewseditor@ tims . wire story, Cosby hired a forensic years ago . mous potential bias [who] did not bellsouth.net. Additionally, after having already firm in Northern Virginia to review He was the first celebrity to be disclose that possible bias to the paid the victim in the case, Andrea recordings of phone calls with Cosby criminally convicted of sexual abuse lawyers to give them the option Constand, $3 .4 million in a civil settle- provided by Constand’s mother, Gi- since the start of the #MeToo move- to seek a new judge,’” she said, We can’t wait to ment, the sexually violent predator anna . The recordings were used as ment, the national movement that specifically referencing an email hear from you! designation can also be used against evidence in both of Cosby’s trials . has resulted in numerous celebrities Castor sent to the Washington In- him in several defamation lawsuits However, Wyatt and Camille and powerful individuals, like former former on March 27th . that are pending against him . Cosby said the firm found that the re- NBC “Today” host Matt Lauer, movie Camille Cosby’s statement contin- Prosecutors had asked for a five- cordings were indeed doctored . mogul Harvey Weinstein, and many ued: to 10-year sentence . In a statement from Camille Cos- others, losing their careers . “One week prior to my request Cosby’s spokesman Andrew Wy- by, read by publicist Ebonee Benson President Donald Trump has for investigation, Bill Cosby filed a att told reporters that the sentence on Tuesday, Cosby’s wife said they also been accused of sexual mis- motion demanding that the judge continues the “lynching of a legacy .” also presented the findings to Mont- conduct and his Supreme Court provide a full accounting of his long- “This has been the most racist and gomery County, Pennsylvania detec- pick, Brett Kavanaugh is set to face standing feud with and bias against This space can be sexist trial in the history of the United tives who investigated Bill Cosby . at least one of his accusers when he Bruce Castor, the former DA of States,” Wyatt said . “Dr . Cosby has “They found that they were unable appears before a Senate committee Montgomery County . been one of the greatest civil rights to authenticate the tapes,” Camille on Thursday . “The motion explained that Mr . leaders in the United States for over Cosby said in her statement . Cosby, who declined to address Cosby retained a former FBI agent yours for only $80 the last 50 years . He’s also been one Cosby said her husband’s legal the court during sentencing and also to investigate the relationship of of the greatest educators of men and team would immediately file for relief didn’t testify during either of his tri- Messrs . Castor and O’Neill after re- boys over the past 50 years . on the basis that Steele used falsified als, has vowed to continue to fight his cently being tipped off about their “This wasn’t pointed out in court evidence to win the conviction . conviction . feud in an unsourced tabloid [Radar to the jurors or allowed in because of “The right to a fair trial is of utmost His attorneys as well as many Online] article . The former agent dis- Call Now! the racist and sexist mass media was importance,” Camille Cosby said . other legal experts have said there covered that, in 1999, when Messrs . attacking and denouncing Dr . Cosby “The prosecutor has the respon- are numerous grounds for a higher O’Neill and Castor were running whenever his lawyers even hinted sibility to protect the innocent… … court to consider overthrowing the against each other to become DA, that racism and sexism was present .” Gianna Constand surreptitiously and verdicts against him . Mr . Castor ordered a female prosecu- Wyatt continued: illegally recorded a conversation with Among O’Neill’s rulings that Cos- tor whom Mr . O’Neill had dated to “All three psychologists that testi- my husband, which the former Dis- by’s team believe are questionable visibly support Mr . Castor during a 504-821-7421 fied against Dr . Cosby were white trict Attorney Bruce Castor said was is the contentious relationship the key debate .” women who make money off of ac- illegal,” she said . judge has had with former District At- After Bill Cosby was led away in cusing Black men of being a sexual “Steele used illegal recordings in torney Bruce Castor, who previously handcuffs on Tuesday, Wyatt said his predator and it’s no accident that both trials .” declined to file charges against Cos- boss was holding up well . Prosecutor Steele worked so closely Wyatt called it a persecution . “I’m by because he said Constand wasn’t “Bill Cosby is fine . They prosecut- with anti-Black and anti-Male activist not saying Mr . Cosby is Jesus, but we credible and there wasn’t evidence to ed Jesus, and look what happened to groups who tried to extort $100 mil- know what this country has done to support a prosecution . him,” Wyatt said . “[Cosby] believes lion from Dr . Cosby in 2014 . Black men for centuries,” he said . Castor also made an agreement in God, and he will be OK .” T:7.875”

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