Welcome to the Monday, February 3rd episode of Black Westchester presents Elevation Nation with Tasha Diaz featuring special guest Former Congressman Jamaal Bowman.
Join Tasha Young every Monday at 6 PM ET for transformative conversations about elevating our relationships – with ourselves and others. Through powerful discussions, expert interviews, and real-world insights, Elevation Nation explores the journey of personal growth and authentic connection.
The Municipal Housing Authority for the City of Yonkers (“MHACY”) is soliciting proposals from qualified firms for Security Guard Services for MHACY at various sites as specified in this Request for Proposals (“RFP”). This RFP package contains submission requirements and terms and conditions and other pertinent information for submitting a proper and responsive proposal. This RFP is the only information provided to prospective bidders (hereinafter “Responders” or “Respondents”) and is available online starting February 14, 2025, at www.mhacy.org.
A site tour will take place on February 25, 2025, starting at 1-8 Schroder Street, Yonkers, NY at 10am. The
RFP questions deadline is February 27, 2025, at 3:00 PM Eastern Standard Time (EST). Any and all questions must be emailed to procurement@mhacy.org by the deadline. No telephone calls and/or written communication sent via mail will be accepted.
Proposals must reach MHACY no later than 3:00 PM (EST) on March 6, 2025, Late submissions will be
handled in accordance with the provisions in Form HUD-5369B. Proposals will be evaluated on the criteria stated in the RFP. Negotiations may be conducted with contractors who have a reasonable chance of being selected for the award. After evaluation of the proposal revision, if any, the contract will be awarded to the responsible firm(s) whose qualifications, price, and other factors are considered the most advantageous to MHACY.
MHACY reserves the right to reject any proposals and waive any irregularities or informalities if it is
in MHACY’s best interest to do so. MHACY reserves the right to cancel this RFP or to reject, in whole or in
part, any proposals received in response to this RFP, upon its determination that such cancellation or rejection is in the best interest of MHACY.
MHACY is an Equal Opportunity Employer and does not discriminate based on race, sexual orientation, color, national origin, sex, religion, age, disability, or family status. MHACY solicits and encourages the participation of minorities and small businesses in procurement.
Contact, related to this procurement, with members of MHACY’s Board of Commissioners, or MHACY’s
During the procurement process, officers and/or employees other than the contact person shown above could disqualify a proposal.
I remember speaking on a panel once, and someone asked me, “What would you cook for your wife?” I smiled and said, “I do cook, but the best thing I can make for her is a salad.” The ladies in the audience laughed, but I was dead serious. If you love someone, you make your kitchen a place of health, and you present to the one you love food that’s alive, vibrant, and nourishing. It’s not just about filling a plate—it’s about feeding the body and soul with God’s bounty.
For many in the Black community, salads have long been seen as side dishes, diet food, or something you grab when you’re “trying to eat better.” They’re often overlooked in favor of heavier, heartier meals that feel more familiar and comforting. But it’s time to change that mindset. A good salad isn’t just rabbit food or an uninteresting pile of greens—it can be a powerful tool in the fight against chronic diseases like diabetes, high blood pressure, and heart disease, which disproportionately affect African Americans.
By rethinking what salads can be, we’re not just adding a healthy option to our plates—we’re taking a step toward reclaiming our health, our culture, and our future. When you prepare a salad full of fresh, colorful, nutrient-dense ingredients, you’re showing love—not just to yourself, but to your family and your community.
The Silent Threat of Chronic Illness in Our Community
Chronic diseases like hypertension, diabetes, and heart disease are taking a heavy toll on the Black community. According to the CDC, African Americans are almost twice as likely to be diagnosed with diabetes and face higher rates of heart disease and stroke compared to other racial groups. These health issues are deeply rooted in a mix of factors—historical, socioeconomic, and dietary. But one thing is clear: what we eat plays a major role in our health outcomes.
We come from a rich culinary tradition rooted in nutrient-dense, plant-based foods, but modern diets filled with processed ingredients, excess salt, and unhealthy fats have steered us away from that legacy. It’s time to reconnect with those roots, and believe it or not, a good salad can be a powerful part of that journey.
A well-crafted salad isn’t just a bowl of greens—it’s a nutritional powerhouse. Leafy greens like collards, kale, and spinach are packed with vitamins A, C, and K, essential for immune support, healthy skin, and strong bones. Add in colorful vegetables like bell peppers, tomatoes, and carrots, and you’re loading up on antioxidants, fiber, and minerals like potassium and magnesium, which help regulate blood pressure and support heart health.
Worried about getting enough protein? You’ve got plenty of delicious, plant-based options. Legumes like black-eyed peas, chickpeas, and lentils provide protein and fiber that keep you full and help manage blood sugar levels. Nuts and seeds like almonds, sunflower seeds, and walnuts not only add protein but also healthy fats that support brain health and reduce inflammation.
By embracing salads as more than just a side dish, we’re not only honoring our cultural heritage but also taking simple, meaningful steps toward reducing the risk of chronic diseases that disproportionately affect our community.
Salads Aren’t Just “Diet Food”—They’re Soul Food, Too
For too long, salads have been boxed in as bland, diet food—something you eat when you’re trying to lose weight, not something you enjoy. But this couldn’t be further from the truth. A salad doesn’t have to be just iceberg lettuce and a sad tomato slice drowned in dressing. Think bold, vibrant, and flavorful. Imagine a salad packed with spicy collard greens, roasted sweet potatoes, black-eyed peas, avocado, and a tangy vinaigrette. Add some grilled salmon or jerk-seasoned tofu on top, and you’ve got a meal that’s not just healthy, but soulful and satisfying.
Salads can be a reflection of our culture and heritage, filled with the flavors and ingredients we know and love, but in a way that nourishes our bodies and protects our health.
A Weapon Against Chronic Disease
A well-made salad is more than just a meal—it’s a medicine. Leafy greens like kale, spinach, and collards are packed with fiber, antioxidants, and essential vitamins that help lower blood pressure and reduce the risk of heart disease. Adding in colorful vegetables, lean proteins, whole grains, and healthy fats gives your body the nutrients it needs to fight inflammation, regulate blood sugar, and improve heart health.
But here’s the thing: it’s not just about what you eat—it’s about how you eat. Salads encourage mindful eating, helping you slow down, savor your food, and tune in to your body’s hunger signals. This approach not only improves digestion but can also help with weight management, a key factor in preventing chronic diseases.
Our community deserves better health outcomes, and it starts with small, sustainable changes. Rethinking salads isn’t about giving up the foods we love—it’s about finding new ways to enjoy them. It’s about recognizing that we have the power to take control of our health, one meal at a time.
In 2025, we have to be conscious enough to change our mindset and how we look at food—not just as something to fill us up, but as a key part of our overall health, wellness, and even mental clarity. The foods we choose affect more than just our physical health; they influence our energy, mood, and how we show up in the world every day. A vibrant, nutrient-rich salad isn’t just feeding your body—it’s nourishing your mind and spirit.
Now, am I telling you to eat a salad every day? In a perfect world, yes! But I know that’s not realistic for everyone. The goal of this article isn’t to push salads as the only solution—it’s to make you aware that being conscious of your health is a daily activity. It’s about making small, intentional choices, whether you’re cooking at home or ordering at a restaurant. Swapping out heavy, processed foods for fresh, nutrient-dense options even once or twice a week can make a big difference over time.
It’s not about perfection; it’s about progress. Every healthy choice you make adds up and brings you one step closer to better health. So next time you plan a meal, don’t just think about filling your plate—think about fueling your body and mind. Because when we nourish ourselves with care and intention, we’re not just fighting disease—we’re honoring our roots, investing in our future, and building a healthier, stronger community, one bite at a time.
The Case for Consolidation and Vocational Education
Mount Vernon’s public school system is facing a critical juncture. With the steady expansion of charter and private schools, enrollment in our public schools is projected to decline even further. As these alternative education options continue to grow, they pull students—particularly those from families with greater resources or higher-achieving students—out of the public system. This shift threatens to further strain our district’s budget and resources. To navigate these changes, we must adopt a new mindset in how we do business and how we provide the best educational advantages for the children of Mount Vernon.
Many of Mount Vernon’s schools are severely underutilized, with some buildings housing only 200 students in spaces designed for 2,000. Maintaining these facilities is not only inefficient but also drains resources that could be better used to enhance educational outcomes. Moreover, many of these buildings are in critical need of repair, adding further strain to the district’s budget.
From my understanding, the primary issue isn’t whether schools should be consolidated, but rather which schools should be closed—and the emotions surrounding these decisions. Unfortunately, budgets don’t account for emotions. The facts are straightforward: Which schools are performing and which are not? Which schools have low capacity relative to the high cost of upkeep and maintenance, and which schools are more sustainable? These are the metrics that should guide our decisions.
This process needs to be as transparent as possible. It’s not productive to argue over the name of a school slated for closure—that’s immature and distracts from the bigger picture. If the name of a beloved school holds historical or emotional value, move the name to one of the schools that will remain open. The focus should be on ensuring the best educational outcomes for our students and using resources wisely, not preserving buildings for sentimental reasons.
Consolidating schools is a practical step to streamline operations and reduce costs. But consolidation alone isn’t the solution. We must use this opportunity to reinvest in our students by establishing a vocational training academy that addresses both the educational and economic needs of our community.
A Vocational Training Academy: Preparing Students for Real-World Success
As someone who worked in law enforcement for 33 years, I can say with certainty that crime and violence are often byproducts of poor education, lack of work skills, and limited employment opportunities. Contrary to what some politicians in Mount Vernon might admit, our city faces significant crime and social challenges. One effective way to combat these issues is by graduating students with the vocational skills necessary to secure good-paying jobs or even start their own businesses.
Not every student in Mount Vernon will choose a traditional college path—and that’s perfectly fine. In fact, it’s essential that we recognize and celebrate diverse career aspirations. A vocational training academy would provide students with direct pathways into high-demand, recession-proof careers in fields like electrical work, plumbing, HVAC, and construction, as well as public service roles such as police, fire, EMS, and corrections.
Recent data paints a stark picture of the current labor market. The U.S. is projected to be short 550,000 plumbers by 2027. Employment of electricians is expected to grow twice as fast as the average for all occupations through 2032. These shortages spell immense opportunities for those willing to pursue these careers. By offering vocational training in these fields, Mount Vernon’s students can position themselves at the forefront of industries that are not only in demand but also essential to the nation’s infrastructure and growth.
We don’t have to look far for successful examples of how vocational training can transform a school system. Queens Technical High School in Long Island City offers programs in Electrical Installation, Plumbing, Pre-Engineering Electronic Technology, and more. Similarly, Thomas A. Edison Career and Technical Education High School in Jamaica, Queens, provides specialized training in Automotive Technology, Medical Assisting, Mechanical Engineering, and IT. Chelsea Career and Technical Education High School in Manhattan focuses on Information Technology and Graphic Design, preparing students for careers in technology and the arts. These schools have shown how integrating vocational training into the high school curriculum can create graduates who are job-ready and equipped with valuable skills.
These are not just jobs—they are careers that offer stability, good wages, and opportunities for advancement. Graduates in these fields can earn from $75,000 to over $100,000 a year, often without the burden of college debt. By equipping students with industry-recognized certifications and hands-on experience, we can ensure that they graduate ready to enter the workforce with confidence and competence.
A vocational academy wouldn’t just benefit individual students; it would strengthen the entire Mount Vernon community. Graduates would fill essential roles in our local economy, contributing to community safety, infrastructure, and public services. This, in turn, would attract businesses and families to the area, fostering economic growth and revitalization.
Moreover, by keeping more students within the public school system, we can stabilize enrollment numbers and secure the funding necessary to continue improving our schools. This approach addresses the threat posed by charter and private schools head-on by offering something unique and invaluable—an education that leads directly to meaningful, well-paying careers.
A New Era for Mount Vernon’s Schools
Mount Vernon has the chance to transform its public school system into a beacon of innovation and opportunity. By embracing consolidation and establishing a vocational training academy, we can provide students with the skills they need to succeed while strengthening our community as a whole.
But let’s be clear—the only way something good can happen is if the community of Mount Vernon stops the adult gang-banging. Instead of continuing the fight for control, we need to fight to do right. This isn’t about political power plays or personal agendas—this is about the future of our city and the future of our children. We must come together, put aside differences, and focus on building an educational system that serves every student and strengthens the entire community.
This isn’t just about saving money or competing with charter schools—it’s about reimagining what education can be in Mount Vernon. It’s about offering our students and families real choices and real opportunities. It’s about making our public schools not just a place of learning, but a cornerstone of community growth and prosperity
Westchester County will be holding police officer civil service examinations for the first time in four years. Tests for Police Officer and Police Officer (Spanish Speaking) will be given on Saturday, May 3rd, or Sunday, May 4. The deadline to file to take the exams is Tuesday, February 24th.
County Executive Ken Jenkins said the Department of Public Safety and the Department of Human Resources will be sharing information with a variety of organizations to help ensure a diverse pool of applicants. These include community-based groups, houses of worship, non-profit agencies, local colleges, libraries, and employment centers.
“The ongoing effort to increase diversity in our police departments begins with ensuring that a diverse applicant pool takes these exams'” CE Jenkins shared. “Police departments are more effective when they reflect the communities they serve. My dad was a police officer and I know from his experience how rewarding this career can be.”
The exams, to be administered by the Department of Human Resources, will result in a list of eligible police officer candidates for the Westchester County Department of Public Safety, the cities of Rye and Peekskill, and all towns and villages in the County.
Among the requirements to take the test:
The exam applications and more details about requirements are available at www.westchestergov.com/hr. A link to a study guide can also be found in the exam announcements.
“I urge any Westchester resident interested in a police career to take advantage of this opportunity,” Public Safety Commissioner Terrance Raynor said. “These exams only come around once every four years. Don’t miss out on the chance to have a fulfilling career where you can make a difference every day in the community where you serve.”
Westchester County only accepts applications for civil service exams online. Candidates can apply through the website or by scanning the QR code in the exam announcement.
Applicants seeking to take both Examination # 60-012780, Police Officer, and Examination # 60-012790, Police Officer (Spanish Speaking) must submit a separate application and application fee for each examination number. That is the only way to appear on both eligible lists resulting from these examinations.
Due to an anticipated high volume of applicants, candidates may be assigned to take their test either Saturday, May 3, 2025, or Sunday, May 4, 2025. Candidates’ exam admission notice will indicate when and where their test is being given.
The Westchester County Department of Human Resources administers the Police Officer examination used to fill vacancies in the Department of Public Safety Services, the cities of Peekskill and Rye, and the towns and villages within the county. The Police Officer exam is usually given once every four years. The cities of Mount Vernon, New Rochelle, White Plains, and Yonkers each hold their own separate examination.
A Test Guide to the Police Officer examination “Entry Level Police Officer Series” is available on the New York State Department of Civil Service Web site. Download the test guide, or it is available in hard copy form and can be obtained at the Westchester County Department of Human Resources Office.
Westchester County welcomes your interest in pursuing a career in law enforcement.
On Thursday, January 30th, Yonkers Mayor Mike Spano announced his endorsement of County Executive Ken Jenkins in the special election scheduled for February 11, 2025. Jenkins, who has been serving as County Executive since January 6, 2025, following the resignation of George Latimer, is seeking to continue his leadership for the remainder of the term.
“I have had the privilege of knowing and working alongside Ken Jenkins for nearly 30 years,” said Mayor Spano who announced he will not run for Westchester County Executive in 2025 on Tuesday, November 12th. “His dedication to public service and his commitment to the residents of Westchester County and the City of Yonkers are unparalleled. Ken has consistently demonstrated strong leadership and a deep understanding of the issues that matter most to our communities. I am proud to endorse him for County Executive.”
Ken Jenkins has a long history of public service in Westchester County, including serving as Deputy County Executive from 2018 to 2025 and as Chair of the Westchester County Board of Legislators from 2010 to 2013. He has been instrumental in various initiatives aimed at improving the quality of life for residents across the county.
“I am honored to receive Mayor Spano’s endorsement,” said Jenkins. “Our collaborative efforts have led to significant advancements in Yonkers and throughout Westchester County. Together, we have worked on projects that enhance economic development, public safety, and environmental sustainability. I look forward to continuing this partnership and serving the residents of Westchester County.”
The special election on February 11 will determine who will serve as County Executive for the remainder of George Latimer’s unexpired term, ending December 31, 2025. Early voting is available from February 1 through February 9 at designated locations throughout the county.
County Executive Ken Jenkins Westchester will face off with Republican challenger Christine Sculti in the special election.
For more information on early voting locations and hours, please visit the Westchester County Board of Elections website.
For decades, Black leaders have championed Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) as a means to correct systemic inequalities. Yet, after more than 50 years, DEI has failed Black communities while reinforcing White power structures. If DEI was truly about dismantling systemic oppression, why have White women been its greatest beneficiaries while Black families and generational wealth continue to fall further behind?
The Trump administration recently moved to dismantle federal DEI programs, prompting strong opposition from Black leaders who have rushed to defend these initiatives. But the harsh truth is that DEI has never served Black people the way it has benefited White women. Rather than dismantling systemic barriers, DEI has acted as a Trojan horse for preserving White supremacy, giving White women disproportionate access to economic, career, and leadership advantages—while Black Americans remain locked out of true progress. For Black women, this realization is particularly disheartening, as their emotional labor and advocacy have long been manipulated to push agendas that have done nothing to build Black wealth or strengthen Black families.
A 2020 report from Catalyst exposes the unequal benefits of DEI—White women, due to their proximity to White men in corporate and social spaces, have leveraged DEI policies for their own advancement. Meanwhile, Black communities, the very people DEI was supposedly designed to uplift, have seen little to no systemic change.
A 2022 McKinsey & Company study found that 63% of DEI leadership roles are held by White women—not Black women, not Latina or Indigenous women. This reveals a stark reality: DEI has become an extension of White feminism, solidifying White women’s place in corporate America while using Black women as the face of the movement. Meanwhile, Black professionals are left tokenized, sidelined, and without real decision-making power, proving that DEI has been more about optics than actual systemic change.
For over 50 years, affirmative action and DEI programs have overwhelmingly benefited White women—gaining them the highest increases in income, executive positions, and economic mobility. Meanwhile, the racial wealth gap for Black Americans has barely moved and, in many cases, widened.
A recent Federal Reserve report highlights a persistent issue: while the average White family’s wealth continues to grow exponentially, Black families remain systematically locked out of homeownership, high-paying jobs, and financial security. If DEI initiatives had truly been successful, Black economic empowerment would be a reality, not a topic still up for debate. Instead, the enduring wealth gap indicates that DEI has done little more than uphold existing power structures, offering only the illusion of progress.
Reflecting on the period since the Obama administration, the economic disparities have become even more pronounced. According to inequality.org, over Obama’s presidency, median Black wealth never returned to even its modest $10,700 from before the Great Recession. By 2013, it had dropped to just $1,700 — virtually nothing — even as white wealth rebounded.
Imagine if, over the last 50 years, Black communities had concentrated on building generational wealth through business ownership, land acquisition, and economic self-sufficiency, rather than investing hope in the unfulfilled promises of DEI. Where would we be today? How much stronger would our families, communities, and financial institutions be if we had prioritized ownership over optics? The time spent on ineffective initiatives could have been directed toward creating genuine power, not just symbolic inclusion.
With DEI under attack, Black leaders have rushed to defend it—but why? If the past 50 years have shown us anything, it’s that DEI has not delivered real economic or structural power to Black communities.
Trump’s decision to gut DEI programs should not be seen as the death of Black opportunity—because DEI was never the solution in the first place. If DEI had worked, Black wealth wouldn’t still be a fraction of White wealth. If DEI had worked, Black professionals wouldn’t still be fighting for equal pay and fair treatment in the workplace while White women continue to reap the majority of the benefits.
Black leaders must stop defending a system that has failed us and instead refocus on strategies that build real economic power. It’s time to pool our $1.5 trillion in spending power to support Black-owned businesses, banks, and institutions, ensuring that our dollars circulate within our communities before benefiting outsiders. We must move beyond symbolic “diversity” initiatives that primarily serve White women and White families and start demanding direct economic investment in Black communities, reparations, and land ownership opportunities—the true keys to closing the racial wealth gap.
Beyond economics, Black leadership must also prioritize education and workforce development. Instead of pushing our children into an outdated system that leaves them in debt with useless degrees, we should be guiding them toward skilled trades like plumbing, electrical work, engineering, technology, AI, and cybersecurity—fields that create long-term stability and generational wealth.
The end of DEI isn’t the end of Black progress—it’s an opportunity to fight for something better. The real question is: Will we finally demand real power by building our own institutions, or will we keep begging for a seat at a table that was never meant for us?
Mount Vernon native Clarence “Divine” Maclin is a 2025 Academy Award nominee for Best Adapted Screenplay of Sing Sing, a prison drama film based on the real-life Rehabilitation Through the Arts program at Sing Sing Maximum Security Prison, that centers on a group of incarcerated men involved in the creation of theatrical stage shows through the program. (see trailer below).
Sing Sing received three nominations. Abraham Alexander and Adrian Quesada were nominated for Best Achievement in Music Written for Motion Pictures (Original Song), Colman Domingo was nominated for Best Performance by an Actor in a Leading Role and Clint Bentley, Greg Kwedar, Clarence Maclin, John Divine G Whitfield nominated for Best Adapted Screenplay.
When he was 29, Maclin was sentenced to 17 years at the Sing Sing Correctional Facility for robbery. During his incarceration, Maclin participated in the Rehabilitation Through the Arts program. Since his release, Maclin has worked as a youth counselor, creative arts specialist, and gang intervention specialist at Lincoln Hall Boys Haven in Somers, New York. He made his feature film debut in Sing Sing, portraying a younger version of himself. Maclin’s performance has received critical acclaim. For the role, Maclin earned nominations for Best Supporting Actor at the 30th Critics’ Choice Awards, 34th Gotham Awards, 40th Independent Spirit Awards, 29th Satellite Awards, and 78th British Academy Film Awards; he won the Gotham. He later was nominated for an Academy Award for Best Adapted Screenplay for the film, alongside co-writers Clint Bentley, Greg Kwedar, and John “Divine G” Whitfield, an Academy Award nomination for Best Adapted Screenplay for his writing contributions to the film.
Ricardo ‘Kasheem” Gunn and Clarence “Divine” Maclin appeared on Black Westchester presents The People Before Politics Radio Show Episode 310 on Sunday, August 1, 2021 (see video below) to discuss the Art of Escape – Two of Mt. Vernon’s OGs Talk About the Role of Art in Going from Soldiers to Survivors.
Plot of the movie:
Divine G, incarcerated at Sing Sing Correctional Facility for a crime he did not commit, discovers a sense of purpose through participation in a small theater group made up of fellow inmates. These inmates are part of the Rehabilitation Through the Arts (RTA) program, which aims to use theater as a form of rehabilitation. Under the guidance of theater director Brent Buell, Divine G emerges as the star playwright and performer, highly respected for his emotional depth and acting talent. While pursuing his passion for theater, Divine G is also determined to prove his innocence and regain his freedom.
As the group prepares for their new production, Divine G takes part in recruiting new members, including a gruff and aggressive inmate named Divine Eye played by Maclin, with a difficult personality. Initially, Divine Eye is dismissive of acting and performance, considering it a pointless and disingenuous pursuit. In contrast, Divine G views theater as a transformative and therapeutic process that helps individuals connect with their inner selves. The two men clash further when they disagree on the genre of their next play. Divine G advocates for another drama to challenge his acting abilities, while Divine Eye pushes for a lighthearted comedy, a choice supported by the majority of the inmates. Their rivalry intensifies when Divine Eye auditions for the only dramatic role in the comedy, frustrating Divine G, who sees it as hypocritical and is puzzled by this decision from Divine Eye.
Over the following weeks, the inmates engage in acting exercises led by Buell, designed to help them tap into their emotions. Divine G excels effortlessly at all the acting exercises, demonstrating vulnerability and inspiring his peers, while Divine Eye struggles, unable to connect with his emotions or the art of acting. However, after a heart-to-heart conversation where the two open up about their personal lives, Divine Eye begins to open up and take the program more seriously. His acting skills gradually improve, earning the respect of the group, including Divine G and Buell.
The RTA group eventually performs a sample of the play for the prison’s board of executives to gain approval for their production. Despite a chaotic and mixed performance, the board approves the play, surprising the RTA group.
Divine G’s world is shaken with grief and sadness when a fellow inmate, Mike Mike, with whom he had bonded, passes away due to a brain aneurysm. At a clemency hearing, Divine G delivers a passionate speech about how acting has changed him for the better, only to be blindsided when the interviewer questions whether he is simply acting at the present moment that he is delivering this parole hearing. Divine G’s parole is denied, while Divine Eye’s hearing is approved and he is granted release.
During a dress rehearsal, tensions rise as Divine G suffers a breakdown, having lost hope that the RTA program will make any difference in helping them. Frustrated and disillusioned, he attempts to fight Divine Eye and walks out of the performance, effectively exiling himself from the group.
In the following days, Divine G isolates himself. Divine Eye eventually reaches out and the two reconcile. Divine G apologizes for his outburst and Divine Eye reassures him that he is always welcome back in the group. The play is a success and Divine Eye is soon released from the facility, becoming a free man.
Divine G successfully passes his parole hearing and is released a year later. Divine Eye waits outside to greet him and the two share an emotional reunion before driving away together, hopeful for the future. The film closes with real-life footage from the RTA program at Sing Sing, featuring the real actors who portrayed themselves in the film, performing in past productions when they were still inmates at the facility.
Maclin’s story and transformation prove that your worst mistakes does not have to dictate your future. He is an inspiration for younger generations!
The Senate confirmation hearing for Robert F. Kennedy Jr. as HHS Secretary exposed an uncomfortable truth: many of our elected officials appear more committed to protecting the status quo than addressing America’s deepening health crisis, particularly in Black communities.
Throughout the hearing, senators repeatedly attacked Kennedy for citing government studies that challenged conventional narratives. When Kennedy pointed out that 66% of American children now suffer from chronic conditions – up from just 2% during his uncle’s presidency – the response wasn’t concern about this alarming increase but criticism of his proposed solutions.
During his Senate confirmation hearing for HHS Secretary, Robert F. Kennedy Jr. exposed a troubling reality about America’s dependence on pharmaceutical drugs. Despite representing only 4.2% of the world’s population, the United States consumes half of all pharmaceutical drugs globally and generates 70% of pharmaceutical industry profits. This stark disparity emerged during a discussion about youth medication, triggered by Senator Blackburn’s revelation that Tennessee alone spent $90 million on ADHD medications for 417,000 children in a single year. Kennedy highlighted how 15% of American youth are prescribed Aderall or other ADHD medications, with even higher percentages on SSRIs and benzos. Most alarming was his citation of research showing pharmaceutical drugs as the third leading cause of death in America, after heart attacks and cancers.
This over-medication trend, affecting both children and adults, exemplifies a healthcare system that prioritizes drug-based interventions over addressing root causes of health issues. The fact that Americans consume such a disproportionate share of global pharmaceuticals while experiencing worse health outcomes than other developed nations raises serious questions about our approach to healthcare. This testimony challenged the prevailing narrative that more medication equals better health, suggesting instead that America’s pharmaceutical dependency might be contributing to, rather than solving, our national health crisis.
Most telling was Senator Warren’s aggressive defense of pharmaceutical companies during the hearing. While claiming to be tough on Big Pharma, she demanded Kennedy commit to never taking compensation from lawsuits against drug companies for four years after leaving office, even though such litigation could address corporate wrongdoing. The exchange revealed a startling priority: protecting pharmaceutical companies from legal accountability rather than addressing how these companies profit from chronic illness rather than prevention.
When Kennedy refused to rule out holding pharmaceutical companies accountable through litigation, stating, “I’m not going to agree to not sue drug companies,” Warren suggested he was positioning himself to “kill off access to vaccines and make millions of dollars.” This remarkable moment showed how deeply pharmaceutical industry protection runs in Congress, even among those who claim to be industry critics. This dynamic is particularly devastating for Black Americans, who face disproportionate rates of chronic disease and often become trapped in cycles of expensive pharmaceutical dependence, with little recourse when medications cause harm. The fact that a leading progressive senator worked to shield drug companies from legal accountability rather than ensure they face the consequences for potential wrongdoing speaks volumes about why our healthcare system remains broken, especially for the most vulnerable communities.
Robert F. Kennedy Jr.’s comparison of American and European food standards—highlighting that U.S. foods contain 10,000 chemical additives compared to Europe’s 400—was met with dismissal rather than alarm despite its disproportionate impact on Black communities. Due to food apartheid, many Black families rely on ultra-processed foods filled with artificial dyes, preservatives, and endocrine-disrupting chemicals—many of which are banned in Europe—leading to alarming health disparities. Black children face higher rates of obesity (24% vs. 16% in White children), type 2 diabetes (twice as likely), and asthma (15%, the highest of any racial group), while food dyes like Red 40 and Yellow 5 have been linked to hyperactivity and attention disorders. Yet, the U.S. continues to allow these harmful additives, prioritizing corporate profit over public health. With studies also linking chemical-laden diets to early puberty, metabolic disorders, and cognitive impairments, addressing this crisis requires systemic change—stricter regulations, equitable food policies, and access to clean, nutritious food for all communities, not just the privileged few.
The hearing’s most revealing moments came when Kennedy emphasized the need for prevention through better nutrition and environmental protection. Rather than engaging with these critical issues, senators repeatedly redirected the discussion to defending pharmaceutical interventions and the current healthcare system—a system that continues to fail Americans. The U.S. spends more on healthcare than any other nation yet achieves some of the worst health outcomes, particularly for marginalized communities.
Kennedy presented a stark critique of America’s healthcare system, particularly how it fails low-income populations. He pointed out that while Medicaid costs have increased by 60% over four years, access and quality of care for the poorest Americans—the program’s original focus—have actually declined. Many Medicaid recipients struggle with high premiums, high deductibles, and narrow provider networks, where top doctors and hospitals refuse to accept them. Kennedy likened the ongoing cost-shifting between the government, corporations, insurers, and families to “rearranging deck chairs on the Titanic,” as healthcare spending reaches 20% of GDP. He stressed that 90% of healthcare spending is directed toward managing chronic diseases, which disproportionately affect lower-income Americans, particularly Black communities. Without addressing the root causes—such as poor nutrition, environmental toxins, and lack of preventive care—the system remains unsustainable, leaving the most vulnerable populations trapped in a cycle of declining health despite skyrocketing spending. In his view, the expansion of Medicaid, while well-intentioned, has paradoxically resulted in poorer Americans being “robbed” of quality healthcare despite massive increases in spending.
Perhaps most disturbing was the resistance to Kennedy’s calls for “gold standard science” and transparency in health research. When he cited documented cases of research fraud and conflicts of interest within health agencies, senators seemed more concerned about maintaining institutional authority than addressing these legitimate concerns.
The exchange between Senator Raphael Warnock of Georgia and Kennedy revealed a telling moment about institutional resistance to reform. When questioned about his criticism of the CDC, Kennedy cited a 2003 Congressional oversight investigation that found the agency’s immunization safety office had “put institutional self-interests and pharmaceutical profits ahead of the welfare and health of American children.” Rather than addressing this documented finding, Senator Warnock dismissed it and continued pressing Kennedy about his rhetoric, sidestepping clear evidence of systemic issues within the agency he was defending. This moment exemplified how elected officials often prioritize protecting institutions over acknowledging their documented failures. That Warnock, who represents Georgia—the very state where the CDC is headquartered—ignored a Congressional report exposing serious flaws within the agency highlights how deeply entrenched resistance to reform has become, even when presented with official government findings.
This reluctance to confront systemic issues is especially troubling given the severe health disparities in Georgia, where Black residents face disproportionately high rates of chronic illness and poor health outcomes. In Georgia, hypertension affects 42% of Black adults, compared to 31% of White adults, and Black Georgians are twice as likely to die from diabetes-related complications. The state also has one of the highest maternal mortality rates in the nation, with Black women nearly three times more likely to die from pregnancy-related causes than White women. Additionally, heart disease and stroke account for nearly 40% of deaths among Black adults in Georgia, exacerbated by limited access to quality healthcare and preventive services. Rather than addressing these urgent issues, the exchange between Warnock and Kennedy reflected a broader pattern in American politics—where defending institutional authority takes precedence over holding agencies accountable for failures that disproportionately harm marginalized communities. This refusal to confront reality helps explain why America’s healthcare system remains broken despite overwhelming evidence of its flaws.
For Black Americans, who have historically suffered the most under the U.S. healthcare system, the senators’ defensive posturing was particularly troubling. Black communities face disproportionately high rates of diabetes (13% vs. 8% in White Americans), heart disease (more than 60% higher mortality rate than White Americans), obesity (49% vs. 42% in White Americans), and hypertension (56% vs. 48% in White Americans)—largely due to systemic factors such as food apartheid, limited healthcare access, and environmental racism. Yet, rather than address these root causes, the hearing focused on preserving the systems that perpetuate these disparities. Instead of implementing policies that promote equitable healthcare, nutrition access, and preventive care, lawmakers prioritized industry interests over the health of Black Americans, further entrenching the cycles of poor health outcomes and medical neglect.
The message was clear: challenging the profitable status quo – even with documented evidence of its failures – is considered more problematic than the devastating health outcomes it produces. This political theater plays out while Black Americans continue to face shorter lifespans, higher chronic disease rates, and poorer health outcomes.
Kennedy’s emphasis on prevention, environmental health, and holding pharmaceutical companies accountable represents a direct challenge to a system that profits from illness rather than wellness. The hostile reception to these ideas suggests many of our elected officials prefer managing disease to preventing it – a preference that continues to have deadly consequences, particularly in Black communities.
As chronic disease rates continue to soar and Black Americans continue to bear the heaviest burden of our failed health policies, the hearing demonstrated why real change seems so elusive: those in power appear more interested in protecting industry interests than pursuing genuine health solutions.
As a holistic practitioner, I’ve seen how addressing root causes—what we eat, lack of exercise, environmental toxins, and food quality—can transform health outcomes. Kennedy’s approach suggests he would bring this broader perspective to national health policy, potentially transforming a system that has particularly failed Black Americans and other marginalized communities.
The Senate’s decision isn’t just about a single nominee, despite how politics and the media may frame it. It isn’t about Trump, Democrats or Republicans. It’s about whether we are willing to take a broader, more comprehensive approach to America’s health crisis—one that considers all factors affecting human well-being, from nutrition and environmental exposure to healthcare access and systemic inequalities. This moment could be a crucial turning point toward meaningful, systemic change for communities that have long suffered under the current system.
Whether Kennedy wins confirmation or not, his hearing has elevated a crucial dialogue about the need for a more holistic approach to public health. For those of us who understand health through this broader lens, particularly in communities most impacted by our current system’s failures, this represents a significant moment in the fight for true health equity.
When it comes to improving our health, many of us imagine strict diets, costly supplements, or exotic foods that feel far removed from our everyday lives. Yet, some of the most powerful tools for better health are already in our kitchens, embedded in our traditions, and accessible to all. The onion, a humble and unassuming ingredient, is one such tool. For Black Americans, who face disproportionately higher rates of chronic illness, the onion offers more than just flavor — it provides an opportunity to take control of our health through simple, intentional choices.
Black Americans are disproportionately affected by chronic conditions like heart disease, diabetes, and certain cancers. These disparities stem from systemic inequities, limited access to affordable, nutritious foods, and underlying genetic predispositions. While there is no single solution to these challenges, the onion is a nutrient-dense, affordable food that can make a real difference when incorporated into a balanced diet.
One of the most pressing health concerns in the Black community is heart disease, the leading cause of death among Black Americans. High blood pressure, often called “the silent killer,” is a significant risk factor. Onions are rich in quercetin, a powerful antioxidant that lowers blood pressure, reduces inflammation, and improves cholesterol levels (1). For those seeking ways to support cardiovascular health, adding onions to their diet is an easy, affordable, and effective step.
Diabetes is another condition that disproportionately affects Black Americans, with nearly 15% of the community living with this disease (2). Onions have shown promise in helping regulate blood sugar levels. Sulfur compounds in onions, such as S-methylcysteine, improve insulin sensitivity and help stabilize blood glucose levels (3). For those managing diabetes or at risk of developing it, onions can provide natural support in maintaining better control of blood sugar levels.
Cancer is yet another health disparity faced by Black Americans, who are more likely to develop and die from certain cancers, such as colorectal and prostate cancer (4). Onions are packed with compounds like organosulfur molecules and flavonoids, which have been studied for their cancer-fighting properties (5). These compounds may slow the growth of cancer cells and promote the body’s natural ability to eliminate harmful cells. While onions alone are not a cure, their protective properties can complement a healthy lifestyle and reduce the risk of certain cancers.
In addition to fighting disease, onions are vital in supporting overall wellness. They are rich in vitamin C, which strengthens the immune system, and contain antimicrobial properties that help the body combat infections (6). In the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic and other health crises, supporting immune health has become more critical than ever, especially for Black Americans who have been disproportionately affected by severe illness.
Beyond their nutritional value, onions offer an affordable solution in the face of economic inequality, which has limited access to healthy foods in many Black communities. Onions are inexpensive, widely available, and versatile, making them a practical choice for any budget. Whether sautéed in collard greens, simmered in gumbo, or sliced fresh into a salad, onions are a staple that elevates both flavor and nutrition in traditional dishes.
Incorporating onions into our diet is also a way of honoring our cultural heritage. African American cuisine has long relied on onions as a base for many iconic dishes, connecting us to the flavors and traditions of our ancestors. By embracing onions, we celebrate our roots while prioritizing our health, meaningfully blending the past with the present.
The onion may seem like a small addition to our plates, but its impact on our health can be profound. For Black Americans, who deserve long, healthy, vibrant lives, small changes like eating more onions can serve as an empowering step toward greater well-being. Health disparities require large-scale solutions, but we must not overlook the everyday choices we can make to protect ourselves and our families.
The next time you slice an onion for Sunday dinner or caramelize one to add depth to a dish, remember that you are doing more than cooking. You are nourishing your body, supporting your health, and contributing to a legacy of wellness for future generations. Let’s reclaim our health, one onion at a time.
Food is medicine. And the onion, in all its humble glory, deserves a place on every plate.
The publication provides coverage of local events, politics, culture, and issues particularly relevant to African American residents. With a commitment to amplifying Black voices and perspectives, Black Westchester Magazine aims to inform, empower, and connect its readership through in-depth reporting and community engagement.
© 2021 tagDiv. All Rights Reserved. Made with Newspaper Theme.
