Change, Hope, and the Audacity to Run for President

Change is not something that people readily accept, and when it impacts on the top job in the nation, well, you’re only as effective as your last voting choice. How relevant is it to how the next president is chosen, then? For all practical purposes the world now knows who Barack Obama is, and his intent. Who would have thunk it to think that a man of color in such a short time has positioned himself to seek the top job of the land? Running on a platform of challenging change, he is doing much more than turning heads. Is it his year? Witness his winning a Grammy for his book, The Audacity of Hope. Give more meaning to him winning eight straight primaries along the way to a total of 21 states proves to some extent that his popularity is much more than a lark. People indeed, are clamoring for change and believe in his quest. Check out the opinion polls, talk shows, and political pundits who are steadily jumping on the band wagon. You will see much more than hope for those looking for perhaps a new lease on life. Changing allegiances to represent the wishes of constituency is another welcomed sign. Audacity in my opinion is a moot point when you have some willing to defy unprecedented gall.

In these un-united states, it’s surely an oxymoron that he purports to unify the nation and do away with status quo. How? Better yet, WHO is this guy with a name that eschews common wisdom in the naming rights of all mothers who endeavor to be different? In an earlier correspondence I asked the question: Is Amerikkka ready for a darker shade of pale in the White House? I will readily admit that in the last two presidential elections my vote was non-existent, and like everybody else I’m fed up with the Bushes. I surmise that this is the chance in history to have an African-American president. Am I remorseful for not adequately casting my lot at the time to make a difference as it pertain to race and ethnicity? I have mixed emotions, but I DO support the fact that change is inevitable and for the first time in quite a spell we have someone willing to bring it about. Voting just because a Black man is in the race is not all folly, especially if you have mindsets that feel that it would be just another ‘achievement’ to add to the coffers of Black history lore. We people of color need and should demand more than just rhetoric and technical jargon while you run for president, Barack Make it real for us and provide substance to the promises of change.

We all know how Bill Clinton charmed us for those 8 years he spent on Capitol Hill, now comes Hillary with a new set of initiatives and reasons attempting to sway constituency to her side. In another day and time, I certainly would vote for Hillary, but not this time. Nosiree! I want to see history made and with a viable agenda for Obama to come true and translucent. I opined in that earlier note that “it was always easy to stifle and' retard my vote in lieu of voting just because I was registered Democrat, and (it) was expected to do so unequivocally. Today is a new one, and I’m encouraging all young folk to support this beacon that wants to give light anew. Do it because you believe that he is the best choice to unify this nation. Along the way as I scrutinize this race in earnest, I've refrained apologetically to those that may have a different persuasion, but I want them (young folk) to understand the power of the polls. As I close Barack, you go on with your bad self – continue to have as much audacity as it takes to gain a good footing on the pedestals of preeminence. I salute you and will pray for your deliverance!

A Meaningful Contribution: A Tribute to Dr. Asa Hilliard III (1934-2007)

The African-American academic Diaspora has lost another giant. It doesn’t take much for me to give definition to the vast amount of content that has had meaning to our daily existence as people of color. In all of us we can usually finger a few that have contributed to your development in mind, body, and spirit. Asa Hilliard was one of those people for me. He was an educational psychologist and a leading proponent of Afrocentric studies in public schools. He died Aug. 13 in Egypt, where he was on an annual Africentric historical study tour with students. He had complications of malaria and died in Cairo. Since 1980, Dr. Hilliard had been the Fuller E. Callaway Professor of Urban Education at Georgia State University. He previously had spent 18 years on the faculty of San Francisco State University, where he became dean of education. I met him during his visits to Atlanta from California. I was an inquisitive student that wouldn’t take no for an answer and he was always there, diligently answering all of my questions.

In the span of a 50-year period, I’m sure I can come up with a few other names to add to a list of prominent people that have influenced me -- and my memory is long. There was the librarian during the adolescent years of my elementary education, Mrs. Kimbro, who first introduced me to the power of knowledge and all of the aspects of reading; and in Junior and Senior High School Henry Mott and Quentin North respectfully, gave lip service in ways where the chalkboard was rendered obsolete because they demanded absolute undivided attention, and expected application where needed. In the armed services no matter where I was stationed there always were distinguished officers that I gleaned valuable information from; but during my college years in Atlanta at Morehouse that was special. It was there that I first met Dr. Benjamin Mays, who at the time had already retired from the 'House, and had been elected president of the Atlanta Public Schools Board of Education, where he supervised the peaceful desegregation of Atlanta's public schools. He published two seminal autobiographies, Born to Rebel (1971), and Lord, the People Have Driven Me On (1981), of which I still consort to today.

But Asa Hilliard stood out. He truly exemplified a man among men and an erudite scholar to boot. When I was feeling sorry for myself, and exhibited little respect for the man I was destined to become, it was Asa who taught me what self-respect meant in an Afrocentric pedagogy; we fought tooth and nail against unequal treatment within the Georgia University system during sit-ins, where my fellow students including a young incorrigible Samuel L. Jackson acted out a part that would rival any of his movie trailers; it was Asa Hilliard who reined us in and gave us a methodology to fight the establishment better; and when I needed to see first hand how my ancestors lived, it was Asa Hilliard who organized one of the first Africentric tour of Egypt – I was one of many who benefited from that inaugural trip. Subsequently I was personally introduced to Molefi Asante (http://www.asante.net/biography.html) and many of the leading African American Studies scholars and members of the 1974 Morehouse Chapter of the National Council for Black Studies were able to embrace the philosophies of such activists as Maulana Karenga, James Stewart, Leonard Jeffries www.africawithin.com/jeffries/leonard_jeffries.htm and Wade Nobles. It was Asa Hilliard who instigated it all. Yes, meaningful content is being in the right place to be filled to the brim with knowledge that feed the soul to know who you are, where you come from, and where we as a united front should be going.

I was able to validate my meaningful content with what I learned by embracing and implementing a set of innovative training guides known as the "African-American Baseline Essays." (http://www.pps.k12.or.us/depts-c/mc-me/be-af-ss.pdf) The essays developed by educators in Portland, Ore., viewed ancient black Egypt as the birthplace of the philosophical, mathematical and scientific theories that formed civilization. And I used them as guidelines teaching and mentoring to youths through the years. Without Dr. Hilliard, these important educational tools wouldn’t be what they are to curricula nationwide in our school systems. His visits to South Florida in general, and to the Miami-Dade Public School System in particular should be assessed and appreciated with the utmost of pride as he helped generate change in how Black children looked at Black history.

My tribute to Dr. Asa Hilliard is a reminder that inherent knowledge should go much deeper for long lasting testaments in being educated the right way. And if I was allowed to lay on your tombstone these words -- "Mr. Hilliard, you left me much, and gave me more incentive than you’d ever know...the Lord called you home while you were doing what you did best. I will miss the southern comfort of your unique interpretive analysis in academia -- where you made African studies and minority achievement your chief concern during a long career as a writer, consultant and lecturer. Rest on my Brother, and know that you will be missed!"

Straight Talk - Brotha To Brotha

This is the first installment of a new feature called Straight Talk - Brotha To Brotha. One of the things I've always wanted to see not only in the literary world, but also in society, where the brothers would bond more and play the role of models for their communities. They tend to step warily and not reach out as much as they should. Albeit, the African American male writer though are bridging gaps and telling poignant stories in another medium to get the job done. Men has made gargantuan strides over the last 20 years and is now beginning to bear fruit. Still a female dominated litany, publishing houses are always looking for men who write and can emote. Nowadays, male themes are prevalent and the male point of view is all-important now that the urban fiction market is garnering story lines from da hood! I feel that strong characters should be the mantra for any writer to excel.

To illustrate this, my feature this month is none other than Vincent Alexandria, writer extraordinaire, and consumate businessman. Mr. Alexandria commands respect relative to his out going personality and penchant for a no nonsensical style, which has a way of reverberating to his books. His upcoming new release, BLACK RAIN is a long anticipated novel that will be one of the summer's best efforts. I spoke to him recently as he shared a few poignant questions about he and his work:

• In your opinion, what is the one crucial thing the publishing industry should do immediately concerning AA literature?

Give it the same exposure and payments they do their other authors with proper placement in all the bookstores. Don't put us in an African American section, but place us in our genre.

• It's an old saying that you won't get rich as an author, but what are the gems that you've gleaned from panning the industry?

I learned the business and the respect of my peers. I love to write and I only want to be remembered 50 to a hundred years from now for a great story. I do want to be very comfortable as far as the money goes. Being rich causes problems. Just pay off all my bills. That's my goal. (LOL)

• Who is the one author you admire(d) most, past or present?

Chester Himes. He died broke and did not get notoriety until he moved to Europe. He only got recognition as a genius in America once he died. I want my roses while I'm still alive. Donna Hill is my hero. She has written over 50 books and still writes for the love of it. She my friend and mentor and I respect her totally. She got me into the game. Walter Mosley is the reason I write mystery. He is a genius.

• What would you like to tell us about BLACK RAIN, your latest book?

It has to be one of my greatest books. I really had fun the entire writing process. My mom died before the book was published so that really bummed me out. But I know she is watching done on me saying. "Job well done."

• Let's talk about what has become your signature - The Brother 2 Brother Literary Symposium. What is its mission, and what do you envision for its future?

I envision a national tour and that we will affect literacy and be a asset in Black children graduating from high school and attending college. I want our community to be literate and dreams realized by all in our community. We promote reading and literacy and give away free books at the event. I'm looking forward to our Houston 5th Anniversary February 1-2, 2008.

• What does the future hold for Vincent Alexandria within the next 3-5 years?

I want to have at least two of my book into films and be co-directing the movie and co-producing and have at least 15 books to my title including my children books. I will be married to my girlfriend who is also an author and Brother 2 Brother Literary Symposium will be a nationally known event.

Romer, Where Have You Been?

Okay, go ahead and give it to me. It's been awhile since I bombarded you the usual wit, wisdom, and words from the Jackal! I humbly apologize, and hope that your seat on the bandwagon is still warm and comfy. I took a few minutes off to take care of pressing problems and issues that demanded my immediate attention. First though, I'm recuperating from back surgery...as a matter of fact, I spent the whole day on my birthday (July 30) flat on my back. No fun there. I experienced a new meaning of pain. I also was able to spend quality time with my family, and in he process rededicated my life to Christ! Oh what a marvelous feeling to be on the right side of the street!! I wasn't able to get any writing done, but a few manuscripts managed to find their way in my peripheral vision for editing. I submitted an essay to author, Vernice Berry's request for manuscripts for an anthology project, entitled "WHAT DO YOU BELIEVE: REFLECTIONS ON A HIGHER POWER." I'm really excited about this way beyond the fact that I'm a contributor. Just to be in the near vicinity and in the company of the other writers committed to this project is awesome and mind-boggling!

It is so important to take some time off for the family, in spite of the daily grind that life demands without time management procedures. I was without my 'puter for a couple of weeks, and I need not go into the angst that this rendered me. School is out, I have the grandkids jockeying for position, and it's hot as hell in paradise! Miami in the summer gives new meaning to sweat, South Beach notwithstanding. I'm back on track. The time spent off the pad gave me so much to think about, and themes to write on, including so many things to write and talk about that have happened in the world. The opinionated views of the Jackal are legendary, if not controversial at times! And you all know that I always have an opinion, right? I have missed writing but at the same time I feel refreshed with a new lease on life.

In the meantime the embattled (embittered?) Barry Bonds finally put the naysayers temporarily in place by surpassing Hank Aaron, but for how long? Conjecture and doubt alone will usurp his achievement with accusations of a tainted accomplishment. But what's the fuss?! Hell, people cheat every single day that the world turns for that extra-added advantage -- so go figure! Nevertheless, I'm still committed to writing my first book of fiction, as well as the first of three volumes of my essays, and a book of original poetry. Pray for me, and DO keep some of that midnight oil burning while I continue to give it to you -- Verbatim!

Independence For What, and Freedom For Whom?

Here we are in a world filled with ups and downs, uncharted emotions abound with no whim and fancy for the much-maligned Third World. Independence Day was yesterday, and here I am one day removed on July 5^th 2007 pondering the thought if others feel as I do -- chagrined and challenged. With bombs bursting in the air and star spangled banners waving eloquently and equivocally, twenty four hours have passed and I wonder if anyone has thought how free we really are. Modern day slavery is being waged unmercifully without regard to righteous intent and impunity is impartial to justice. Darfur and the Sudan are screaming in our ears for intervention and we ignore the children being forced into all kinds of atrocities. You’d think that people of color would learn the advantages of collective cohesiveness to rise above the social injustices that has held us bondage after more than 400 years of subservience. Are we really free, and independent of what?

Have you ever read the Declaration of Independence? Part of which reads: “…It’s evident that all men are created equal.” They were hardly speaking of us, and we embrace this holiday like we were married to it. It sickens me to see grown men in our streets shooting up firecrackers, sparkles, and other fireworks for misplaced celebratory practices without regard for looking at the bigger picture. The money, mind you, could be spent on more viable things of worth in lieu of some frivolous day that is meaningless when the celebrants are not cognizant of tangible circumstances for valued venues. The sobering thought of just how much we take for granted here in the States is mind-boggling when other parts of the world struggle to even survive on a daily basis. What does Independence Day mean to me?

It means nothing to me when I’m not able to look far beyond my immediate peripheral vision and realize that something is amiss. I don’t do fireworks, don’t barbeque, gave up pork years ago, and glad that Amerikka has given up a day of work less 364 other days with reminding you that you are not totally free. Moreover, you’re certainly not free when you’re still punching someone else’s time clock and not working for yourself. What price freedom? Everything, when living in a country that doesn’t see you as an equal and racism is institutionally entrenched. Think about this intrinsically, and stop following the bandwagon! Don’t sell me a bill of goods and pretend that we’re not responsible to help those that are not fortunate enough to have a spoon, no less a silver one. Give it to me real…simple, straight with no chaser, and realize that you ARE your brother’s keeper. Think about those that are not truly liberated, and free yourself!

He Said He Would - And He DID It!

Much can be learned from young Barrington Irving. Yes, he's that brash and confident young fellow who took on all the naysayers and proved them wrong...who had nothing but hopes, prayers, and a lot of adrenalin flowing in the right direction. By now, you should know his story. I was there from the beginning when he first attempted to get the ear of those who would listen. Mr. Irving, an aerospace student, built his airplane from more than $300,000 donated over a period of time for parts. He left attempting to become the youngest pilot to circumnavigate the globe, and is believed to be the first of his age and race to do so. To boot, he has earned private and commercial pilots licenses, while founding Experience Aviation, a non-profit organization to encourage other minority youths to become motivated and interested in flying.

Contributions flew in from those that believed, yours truly included, but there were plenty people who doubted and formed skeptic views. As I watched and dried the tears that clouded my eyes, I prayed that this would truly come to fruition. I mentor to young black boys that needed to see this, and needed to be in the number that was on hand to see him off. I wanted them to know that they too, can dream, and should let nothing deter them from using diligence to measure success.

I watched the throng that braved the high wind and cloudy skies on his landing and knew that admiration, pride, and a sense of belonging was inherent in all. I had butterflies and was antsy myself awaiting his arrival. Opa Locka airport is but a stone's throw from my mother's back yard and in the front of my visionary goals for my boys. The new millennium has not been kind to young boys of color. They needed something to point to decry the ill-will permeating their communities. Now, Barrington has given them a new lease and yet more time to commune and endeavor for the same type of success. Rising to the occasion, stepping up to the plate, and advocating change are subjects that have been prevalent in my mind, and this event is par for the course - and welcomed! Thank you, Barrington Irving for believing and making a possible dream yours. Young minds are apt to follow!

Roots - Still Deep After 30 Years!

I remember the talk about a man researching his familial beginnings back in 1976 and shrugged if off thinking it was another individual going the genealogy route looking for legitimacy. Six months later toward the latter part of that year I found out that one, Alex Haley, indeed was serious and had documented through travel, porous research, and due diligence in producing a seminal tome worthy of the literary world’s penchant for proof positive. Roots, was the name of the book and everything documented therein helped to create the legacy of a man on a mission! I grabbed a copy of Reader’s Digest to start my journey with this arduous quest. Reading the excerpts I was hooked, and over the years I’ve read the book twice, including having seen numerous reruns of the mini-series that captivated us, and further sealed the phenomena that commanded our apt attention.

Reader’s Digest played a major role in the transformation of this epic to fruition. Commissioned to write a groundbreaking article on his family, it proved to be the forerunner for an all expense paid trip to Africa tracing his family’s history from one generation to another, culminating into the nearly 700-page product destined to become a bestseller and Pulitzer Prize winner. Despite subsequent problematic issues surrounding Haley not being a Historian, along with lack of written records, legitimate sources, and reliable documentation, Roots effected the life of many and impacted race consciousness in a country that needed it most.

Speaking of Reader’s Digest, and to commemorate the 30-year anniversary of the first printing of Roots, they have published a collection of Haley’s important works detailing ordinary folk accomplishing extraordinary feats from 1954 t0 1991. The book, “Alex Haley", and subtitled, "The Man Who Traced America’s Roots” should be on the shelves as you read this piece. I found this collection to be quite informative, and gave spotlight to stories of people overcoming great odds to achieve success. Our trials and tribulations being Black in America are full of superlative initiative when the sum of all the parts equals total effort.

The book has four sections – Stories of Triumph, Race and Resilience, The Search Begins, and The Legacy. In them, you find Mr. Haley delving deep in bringing the blood, sweat and tears of protracted struggle to the fore. Along the way you will meet up close and personal, Mahalia Jackson, Wilma Rudolph, et al; Harlem, USA, the little ‘city’ that could; and a few other gems worth your time. The latter two chapters are purely good journalism ditties where the author gives insight on the steps preparing the search, and revealing poignant revelations that helped build and begat the legacy.

I enjoyed this book because it establishes the foundation for understanding the book Roots just that much better. Moreover, it forced America to look at race for a better reason for reconciliation…accessible regardless of creed, color, and ethnicity. Salute Alex Haley posthumously if you will, but know that he delivered an amusing, intuitive, and majestic work for the ages!