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Barack Obama Announced Plaza At Obama Presidential Center Will Be Renamed in Honor of John Lewis

AJ Woodson
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Barack Obama Announced Plaza At Obama Presidential Center Will Be Renamed in Honor of John Lewis

On Wednesday, July 17th, the fourth anniversary of his passing, former President Barack Obama announced that the plaza at the Obama Presidential Center will officially be named in honor of John Lewis. 

“John Lewis loved this country so much that he dedicated his life to making it better. And he inspired generations of Americans, including me, to try and live up to his example…Michelle and I are proud to honor John’s legacy at the Obama Presidential Center, where the John Lewis Plaza will provide a space for visitors to gather for years to come,” wrote Obama. 

Conceptual rendering of the John Lewis Plaza.

Representative John Lewis stands as one of the most enduring and inspirational icons of our time. As a teenage activist in Troy, Tennessee, a young leader in the American Civil Rights Movement, and as a United States representative, John Lewis demonstrated fearless leadership in the face of adversity throughout his life. His story is one of many that made the Obamas’ journeys possible, and his legacy continues to inspire all of us here at the Obama Foundation and people around the world working in the pursuit of more just and fair societies.

“In his relentless pursuit of equality, Representative Lewis is an example of how through our continued collective efforts we can bring lasting change home. On what would have been Representative Lewis’ 84th birthday, join us in remembering his legacy, his impact on the Obama Foundation, and how we will honor him at the Obama Presidential Center.”

The Obama Presidential Center will also honor Lewis through the John Lewis Plaza. The Plaza will act as a hub on our campus, serving as the entry point for the Forum,  Museum and Library buildings and as a space for visitors to gather. 

“John believed in the power of ordinary people to do extraordinary things. His life was a testament to this notion and he would be a fierce advocate for the training and support needed to inspire the next generation of leaders to follow in his footsteps.”  – Michael Collins, Trustee, John R. Lewis Estate

John Lewis was one of the youngest (and most radical) voices at the March on Washington

The 1963 March on Washington for Jobs and Freedom is commonly known as the seminal moment of the Civil Rights Movement. Organized by Bayard Rustin, the March was led by Dr. Martin Luther King Jr., James Farmer, Whitney Young, A. Philip Randolph, Roy Wilkins, and Rep. John Lewis. As one of the youngest leaders to help orchestrate the March on Washington and the chairman of the Student Nonviolent Coordinating Committee, Representative Lewis’ speech represented the potency of young Black leadership and their refusal to back down in the face of oppression. 

“To those who have said, “Be patient and wait,” we have long said that we cannot be patient. We do not want our freedom gradually, but we want to be free now! We are tired. We are tired of being beaten by policemen.  We are tired of seeing our people locked up in jail over and over again. And then you holler, “Be patient.”  How long can we be patient?  We want our freedom and we want it now.” – Rep. John Lewis, March on Washington Speech, 1963 

The words of Representative Lewis on that momentous day continue to reverberate with thousands of young people who have turned hope into action through their work as community leaders, global activists, and elected officials. The stories of giants like Representative Lewis will be told in several exhibits at the Obama Presidential Center Museum. When the doors open in 2025, visitors will see how progressive change in our nation has come about and how that change inspired the leadership of President and Mrs. Obama.

One of the formative moments in the legacy of Rep. John Lewis is his leadership and participation in the 1965 March from Selma to Montgomery, Alabama. In a non-violent protest, hundreds of young men and women joined together to walk 54 miles in their pursuit of voting rights for Black Americans in the South. The protest, which led to Bloody Sunday, stands as a defining moment of the Civil Rights Movement and a testament to the strength and power of courageous leaders, working to uphold the rights of each and every individual citizen. 

​To mark the 50th anniversary of the Selma to Montgomery march, President Obama and his family joined Rep. John Lewis at the Edmund Pettus Bridge, during which President Obama gave a speech underscoring the sacrifice of those who marched in 1965 and our continued responsibility to fight for justice: 

“You are America. Unconstrained by habit and convention. Unencumbered by what is, ready to seize what ought to be. For everywhere in this country, there are first steps to be taken, there is new ground to cover, there are more bridges to be crossed. America is not the project of any one person. The single most powerful word in our democracy is the word ‘We.’ ‘We The People.’ ‘We Shall Overcome.’ ‘Yes We Can.’ That word is owned by no one. It belongs to everyone. Oh, what a glorious task we are given to continually try to improve this great nation of ours.” – President Barack Obama, speech on the 50th Anniversary of the March from Selma to Montgomery, 2015

When the Obama Presidential Center opens, these words will be mounted on the facade of the Museum Building, giving visitors the opportunity to see and remember those words, and the work of Rep. John Lewis and so many others.

John Robert Lewis was a politician and civil rights activist who served in the United States House of Representatives for Georgia’s 5th congressional district from 1987 until his death in 2020.

National Action Network (NAN) Executive Vice President and General Counsel Michael Hardy, Esq. Has Passed.

AJ Woodson
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National Action Network (NAN) Executive Vice President and General Counsel Michael Hardy, Esq. Has Passed.

REV. AL SHARPTON AND NATIONAL ACTION NETWORK (NAN) ANNOUNCE THE PASSING OF LONGTIME EXECUTIVE VICE PRESIDENT AND GENERAL COUNSEL MICHAEL HARDY, ESQ.

“It is with profound sadness that civil rights leader Rev. Al Sharpton announces the passing of his longtime attorney, confidante and brother in the movement, Attorney Michael Hardy. From the infancy of National Action’s Network inception in 1991 to the present day, he had an enormous impact on the evolution of the organization. For over thirty years, Attorney Hardy stood beside Rev. Sharpton as a brilliant legal counselor and steadfast friend who was a legal architect behind some of the most important civil rights cases of our time. Even while seriously ill, he walked with NAN until his very last step. While memorial service arrangements have not been formalized, many in the movement pause today to acknowledge Michael’s memory and to thank a higher power that he was such a great human being. We are praying for his widow, Dr. Robin, and his family,” Sharpton shared in a statement sent to Black Westchester. 

I first met Mr. Hardy while covering the defamation trial against Rev. Al Sharpton, Alton Maddox and C Vernon Mason in Poughkeepsie, November 18, 1997-July 13, 1998. I was covering the trial daily for The Daily Challenge Newspaper and Mr. Hardy was representing Rev Al in the case brought by Dutchess County prosecutor Steven Pagones. It was the first trial I ever covered and Mr. Hardy as well and Alton H. Maddox Jr. made sure I understood what was going on during the trial and made themselves available to quotes and interview often. The case stemmed from Pagones claims the Rev Al Sharpton and the two legal advisors to Tawana Brawley, defamed a former prosecutor by accusing him of raping the teenager.

The last time I saw Mr. Hardy was when Damon and I attended the Independence Party Convention in New York City. Hardy was a big supporter of the Independence Party and Open Primaries. Again he allowed me to pick his brain. He was a wealth of information. I would see him at several event afterwards in passing but this would be the last time I had a conversation with him.

Michael A. Hardy, Esq. has been a practicing attorney since 1988. He is admitted to the Bar of the State of New York, each of the New York State Federal Districts, The Second Circuit Court of Appeals and the Supreme Court of the United States. In 2008, he officially assumed the position of General Counsel to the National Action Network. He is one of the Founders of the National Action Network. He has been involved in Movement politics and the fight for a more perfect union since 1981.

Thousands Converge on DC Protesting Netanyahu’s Visit To Congress. [Video]

AJ Woodson
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Thousands Converge on DC Protesting Netanyahu’s Visit To Congress. [Video]

Thousands of protesters gathered on Wednesday within sight of the US Capitol building, denouncing Israel’s war in Gaza and Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu hours before he was set to address members of Congress (see video of the mass protest below).

Stay tuned to Black Westchester for coverage of the mass protest at the Capitol from those in attendance as well as coverage from those who attended the protest that took place in front of the Westchester County Clerk’s office at 4PM in White Plains.

What If We Work Together To Make Harris Our President In 2024? By Christiana Best – Giacomini Ph.D

Black Westchester
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What If We Work Together To Make Harris Our President In 2024? By Christiana Best – Giacomini Ph.D

(Now that Joe Biden has bowed out and endorsed VP Kamala Harris we republish this story, originally published in the December 2022 issue of Black Westchester Newspaper)

The world is fixated on whether Joe Biden should run for reelection –particularly since he just celebrated his 80th birthday. The argument always begins with whether he is physically or mentally fit to run and all the media agree that he is fit today, but there are many who are concerned that at 82 years it will be asking too much of him. Still, during the COVID – 19 crisis and the war in Ukraine, his administration managed to get a $1.2 trillion bipartisan infrastructure package and a $1.9 trillion relief package passed. The Biden Administration has appointed 41 federal judges, many of whom are women and people of color. He suspended federal executions. He rejoined the international Paris Climate Accord and signed an executive order that overturned the ban on openly transgender members in the U.S (United States) military.

When Biden took office, the unemployment rate was at 6.3 %; currently, it is 3.6%, an impressive record in my book. With that said, there is a growing inflation rate – a surge of over 13%, a 30 – year high, while wages rose just 8%. Americans are paying more for groceries; their 401(k) has decreased; and, as of November 25, 2022, the average rate for a 30-year fixed mortgage is 7.32% – up from 5.5% in August. The immigration issue continues to be unresolved with both the left and right sides of the political aisle dissatisfied. After 3 years in office, some respond with a nod to the question of whether Biden should run in the 2024 election, but others say no. Biden himself has refused to answer the question definitively.

My question as a democrat is, if not Biden, then who? The most obvious answer is Vice President Kamala Harris. When the pundits explore the issue of a Harris candidacy for the presidency, many arguments against a run are raised. Some posit that she is dishonest; to which, I call on them to show me an honest politician. Others point out that she did not make it to Iowa in the 2020 primary. However, when we look back at the top 3 democratic candidates who made it to Iowa – Pete Buttigieg with 26.2% of the votes, Bernie Sanders with 26.1%, and Elizabeth Warren with 18.06 – it should be noted that Biden came in fourth with 18.06%. Similarly, he ranked fifth in New Hampshire.

It was not until South Carolina that the Biden campaign got revived thanks to Representative Jim Clyburn’s endorsement –otherwise known as the kingmaker in South Carolina. Is America ready for a female president? Whenever a woman runs for president in the United States, she is often seen as challenging the sociopolitical order and as a result, demonized. The first woman to do so in this country was Victoria Woodhull, an advocate, and a businessperson who owned a weekly newspaper and a brokerage firm. Woodhull ran in 1872 as a member of the Equal Rights Party fifty years before white women could vote. The first Black woman to run for President was Shirley Chisholm in 1972, one hundred years after Woodhull. By this time, Representative Chisholm had spent four years in Congress as the first Black congressperson. While she got support from Black women, Chisholm was not supported by Black men, white men, or white women. Since Woodhull and Chisholm, several women have run for President including Hillary Clinton, Elizabeth Warren, Amy Klobuchar, and Kamala Harris. All four of these women and others, such as Stacey Abrams, may want to run as the democratic presidential candidate in 2024.

However, given that Kamala Harris is currently serving as the Vice President, why isn’t the democratic party putting its full force behind Harris? There are many reasons. Some people question her competency. Others claim she is not a natural-born citizen because her parents were not born in the United States. Is any of this true? After all she would be running against Donald Trump. When Trump ran for President and won in 2016, he was not as qualified or competent as Harris, who was a district attorney, California’s attorney general, and senator prior to her current position as Vice President. Regarding her citizenship, from my understanding, the constitution stipulates that to be president you must be a natural-born citizen which means you must be born in the United States and its territories; Kamala was born in California. America, it is time to come into the light and adopt an intersectional framework and move beyond racism and misogyny and join the rest of the world such as Great Britain, Germany, India, Chile, Switzerland, and several other countries with female heads of state. Do not get me wrong, I do not contend that Vice President Harris is perfect but who is? If all women and people of color were held to the same standard as white men, many of the female candidates above would be considered overqualified for the job of the presidency. We need to work together for a better future. Calling all the kingmakers – or rather queenmakers – to give Kamala a chance. Support her, endorse her, and vote for her. The stakes are too high, not to do so!

PBP Radio Ep402 – Biden Bows Out, GOP Convention, Kamala Harris For Pres & Mamaroneck Mayor Alleges Corruption

AJ Woodson
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PBP Radio Ep402 – Biden Bows Out, GOP Convention, Kamala Harris For Pres & Mamaroneck Mayor Alleges Corruption

This Sunday at 6 PM, tune in to “People Before Politics” on Black Westchester with hosts Damon K Jones and AJ Woodson. They’ll dive into the latest news from a Black perspective, tackling the tough issues that matter to our community.

What ripple effects did the Republican Convention create? Joe Biden has stepped down and endorsed VP Kamala Harris for president. Plus, don’t miss the Mayor of Mamaroneck shedding light on potential corruption involving the former mayor.

Get ready for hard-hitting analysis and unfiltered truth as Damon and AJ break down the political landscape. From national headlines to local concerns, “People Before Politics” brings you the conversations you need to hear.

Join us this Sunday at 6 PM for an hour of eye-opening discussion. Black Westchester’s “People Before Politics” – where your voice matters.

Black Westchester presents the People Before Politics Radio Show every Sunday night 6-8PM, streaming live on Facebook, X (formerly Twitter), LinkedIn, Instagram and YouTube and archived on BlackWestchester.com. Giving you that Real Talk For The Community since 2014.

To support the Black Westchester and the People Before Politics Radio Show, that provides the News With The Black Point Of view and gives you the real talk for the community for free, make a donation via PayPal at www.PayPal.me/BlackWestchesterMag. In the words of Ray Charles, “One of these days, and it [might not be] long, You’re gonna look for [us], and [we’ll] be gone.” Support independent, Black-free media!

As always, you can follow us on Facebook, Instagram, LinkedIn, and YouTube

Contributions and Donations can be made via PayPal.

Who will you be voting for President, Kamala Harris, Donald Trump or another democratic candidate? Let us know in the comment section and tell us why you are supporting the particular candidate!

Mamaroneck Mayor Sharon Torres Exposes Alleged Corruption in WESTHAB Housing Project, Shaking Westchester County Village

DAMON K JONES
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Mamaroneck Mayor Sharon Torres Exposes Alleged Corruption in WESTHAB Housing Project, Shaking Westchester County Village

At a recent village board meeting, Mamaroneck Mayor Sharon Torres ignited intense debate over the proposed Hunter Tier lot affordable housing development, raising serious concerns about the project’s approval process. This controversy unfolds against a backdrop of longstanding scrutiny faced by predominantly white communities in Westchester County for their lack of affordable housing.

Mayor Torres presented a series of emails and communications dating back to 2021 that suggested a potentially unethical relationship between village officials and the preferred developer, Westhab (WAB).

Key points raised by Mayor Torres included:

  1. As early as July 2021, WESTHAB had identified the Hunter Tier lot as their preferred site, well before the RFP process began.
  2. The RFP was allegedly tailored to favor WESTHAB, including language that gave preference to developers who had previously worked in the village.
  3. Emails revealed that some village officials were eager to push the project through before changes in board composition.
  4. WESTHAB was involved in the process from site selection through to the present, raising questions about fairness in the bidding process.

Mayor Torres emphasized that while affordable housing is a critical issue, the process for this particular project appeared flawed and potentially unethical. She stressed that these concerns were not an argument against affordable housing itself, but rather about the integrity of the approval process.

“Every single person on this board, and that includes me, we do understand there’s a crisis with affordable housing,” Mayor Torres stated. “That’s not what’s under fire here. It’s whether or not the process for this RFP was ethical, unethical, or even worse.”

The revelations have added to existing community divisions over the project. Many residents had previously expressed concerns about the speed and transparency of the development process, often contrasting it with the pace of other village priorities.

This situation is particularly sensitive given the history of affordable housing issues in Westchester County. For years, predominantly white communities in the county have been under scrutiny for their lack of affordable housing options, leading to accusations of exclusionary practices and even legal challenges. The current controversy in this village highlights the ongoing struggle to balance the need for affordable housing with concerns about proper procedures and community input.

As the controversy unfolds, Mayor Torres promised to share more information as it becomes available. The situation highlights the challenges faced by local governments in addressing housing affordability while maintaining public trust and following proper procedures.

The village board will likely face increased scrutiny and calls for transparency as they navigate this contentious issue in the coming weeks and months. Mayor Torres’s outspoken stance on this matter suggests a potential shift in the village’s approach to the Hunter Tier lot development and possibly future affordable housing projects. It also underscores the broader challenges Westchester County communities face in addressing longstanding affordable housing deficits while ensuring fair and transparent development processes.

UN Court Condemns Israel: Occupation Ruled Illegal, Demands Immediate Withdrawal

DAMON K JONES
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UN Court Condemns Israel: Occupation Ruled Illegal, Demands Immediate Withdrawal

In a landmark decision, the International Court of Justice (ICJ) has declared Israel’s occupation of Palestinian territories unlawful. The court, the United Nations’ highest judicial body, called for an immediate end to Israeli settlement construction and a swift conclusion to the 57-year occupation.

The non-binding ruling, delivered on Friday, criticized Israel’s policies in the West Bank and East Jerusalem, including the expansion of settlements, annexation of land, and discriminatory practices against Palestinians. The court’s 15-judge panel stated that these actions render “Israel’s presence in the occupied Palestinian territory unlawful.”

Israel, which has long viewed UN institutions as biased, did not send legal representation to the hearings. However, it submitted written comments asserting that the court’s intervention could hinder peace efforts and fails to address Israeli security concerns.

The decision comes amid heightened tensions in the region, with Israel engaged in a devastating military campaign in Gaza following a Hamas attack in October 2023. In a separate case, the ICJ is also considering allegations of genocide against Israel in its Gaza operations.

Palestinian officials welcomed the ruling, seeing it as a vindication of their long-standing complaints about Israeli occupation. The Palestinian Foreign Minister had previously accused Israel of apartheid during court hearings in February.

The territories in question – the West Bank, East Jerusalem, and Gaza Strip – were captured by Israel during the 1967 Middle East war. Palestinians seek these areas for an independent state, while Israel considers the West Bank “disputed territory” and has annexed East Jerusalem, a move not recognized internationally.

Over 700,000 Israeli settlers now reside in these areas, with the current Israeli government actively supporting settlement expansion. The international community largely views these settlements as illegal or as obstacles to peace.

While the ICJ’s ruling is not legally binding, experts suggest it could further isolate Israel internationally and strengthen calls for boycotts and sanctions against the country. It may also encourage more nations to recognize Palestinian statehood.

ICC Arrest Warrant Requests

In a dramatic escalation, ICC prosecutor Karim Khan announced in May that he had requested arrest warrants for Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, his defense chief, and three Hamas leaders over alleged war crimes. Khan stated there were reasonable grounds to believe these individuals “bear criminal responsibility” for war crimes and crimes against humanity committed during the ongoing conflict in Gaza.

Background and Implications

The territories in question – the West Bank, East Jerusalem, and Gaza Strip – were captured by Israel during the 1967 Middle East war. Palestinians seek these areas for an independent state, while Israel considers the West Bank “disputed territory” and has annexed East Jerusalem, a move not recognized internationally.

Over 700,000 Israeli settlers now reside in these areas, with the current Israeli government actively supporting settlement expansion. The international community largely views these settlements as illegal or as obstacles to peace.

While the ICJ’s rulings are not legally binding, and the ICC faces challenges in enforcing arrest warrants, these developments could further isolate Israel internationally and strengthen calls for boycotts and sanctions against the country. They may also encourage more nations to recognize Palestinian statehood and increase pressure for a resolution to the long-standing conflict.

As these legal battles unfold on the international stage, the world watches to see how they will impact the Israeli-Palestinian conflict and the prospects for lasting peace in the region.

Unlocking Opportunities with AI Education – By AI Erik

AJ Woodson
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2
Unlocking Opportunities with AI Education – By AI Erik

So, one of the reasons why I wanted to write this article is to talk about the importance of unlocking opportunities via Artificial Intelligence (AI). According to recent statistics white families hold a medium wealth of $287,000 while black families hold only $45,000. Hispanic families $61,000 and Asian families have the highest median wealth of $553,000. In the next six to seven years the job market is expected to undergo a dramatic transformation. It’s projected that 97,000,000 jobs will be created and most of those jobs will be driven by advancements in technology and particularly Artificial Intelligence (AI). Also note that 85,000,000 existing jobs may be lost due to automation from Artificial Intelligence. This is one of the reasons why I try to get people to learn Artificial Intelligence (AI), so they can understand this is going to affect the job market in future jobs heavily.

So as far as Black and Hispanic communities I think it’s a must that we learn to embrace AI and educate ourselves so we can have careers that could be a pivotal Strategy to bridge the wealth gap. So being that white households currently hold a disproportionately large share of the nation’s wealth, initiatives to increase representation in high growth high paying AI related jobs are essential for us to be a part of. If Blacks and Hispanics can secure a significant portion of those 97,000,000 new jobs that’s coming and at least aim for 30 to 35%, it could mark a substantial step forward towards a new economic equality.

I want to give you an example on how Artificial Intelligence (AI) can enhance us by trying to close the wealth gap. By 2045 there’s going to be $500 billion that’s going to be generated from Gen. AI and that wealth creation can cost black households in the United States $43 billion each year. Black people make up 13% of all households in the U.S.A  but we only get back 5% of the share of U.S.A household wealth. Now the problem with that is by 2045 five $100 billion will be generated from Gen. AI and  $70 billion of that will go to or is projected to go to black households. But because we’re not getting the 13 percent like we’re supposed to be getting, we’re only going to get out of that $70 billion, $27 billion. That means $43 billion is going to go to who? and that’s yearly. So, one of the things we have to do is figure out why are we only getting back 5% when we make up 13% and then we have to understand Artificial Intelligence (AI) is going to be very important and it’s going to play a major role in us trying to close this wealth gap.

So in conclusion the need for Artificial Intelligence (AI) education training is not just about staying current with technological trends, it’s a crucial tool for economic empowerment by empowering our kids for the future job markets and strive for significant representation in AI roles that’s right now under represented from our communities. We can leverage these opportunities to improve our economic standings and work towards closing the wealth gap. That’s the whole thing for me, trying to close this wealth gap. We have to invest in AI education, it is an investment that is more equitable and prosperous for all.

AI Erik

AIErik.com

PBP Radio Episode 401 – Celebrating Life & Legacy of Herman Keith

AJ Woodson
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0
PBP Radio Episode 401 – Celebrating Life & Legacy of Herman Keith

Black Westchester presents the People Before Politics Radio Show Episode 401 with Damon K. Jones and AJ Woodson.

The Honorable Herman Keith’s legacy as Westchester’s first African-American County Legislator cannot be overstated. In an era fraught with challenges, he shouldered the immense responsibility of breaking barriers and paving the way for future generations of Black leaders in local politics. His unwavering dedication and perseverance in the face of adversity opened doors that had long been closed, forever changing our county’s public service landscape.

Mr. Keith’s life was a testament to resilience’s power and representation’s importance. His groundbreaking election and subsequent years of service not only transformed the political arena in Westchester but also inspired countless individuals to pursue careers in public service. The sacrifices he made, the challenges he overcame, and the progress he championed have left an indelible mark on our community’s history.

A pillar of strength in Westchester County and his beloved Yonkers, the Honorable Herman Keith leaves behind a legacy that transcends his years in office. His tireless advocacy, dedicated public service, and commitment to equality have set a standard of excellence that will continue to guide and inspire for generations to come… (read more)

Black Westchester presents the People Before Politics Radio Show every Sunday night 6-8PM, streaming live on Facebook, X (formerly Twitter), LinkedIn, Instagram and YouTube and archived on BlackWestchester.com. Giving you that Real Talk For The Community since 2014.

To support the Black Westchester and the People Before Politics Radio Show, that provides the News With The Black Point Of view and gives you the real talk for the community for free, make a donation via PayPal at www.PayPal.me/BlackWestchesterMag. In the words of Ray Charles, “One of these days, and it [might not be] long, You’re gonna look for [us], and [we’ll] be gone.” Support independent, Black-free media!

As always, you can follow us on Facebook, Instagram, LinkedIn, and YouTube

Contributions and Donations can be made via PayPal.

Cannabis and Holistic Black Healthcare Educational Seminar

Black Westchester
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Cannabis and Holistic Black Healthcare Educational Seminar

On Tuesday, July 9th, 2024, at 7:00 PM EST, Sustainable Processing Solutions hosted a groundbreaking Healthcare Leadership in Cannabis Educational Seminar, shedding light on the intersection of cannabis and holistic Black healthcare. Held online via Facebook Livestream, the event featured a panel of distinguished speakers, including the Honorable Tremaine Wright, Chairwoman of the New York State Office of Cannabis Management Cannabis Control Board; Sephida Artis-Mills, National President of the United Empowerment Party; Ashley Wynn-Grimes, RN, Founder of Cannabis Nursing Solutions; and Kebra Smith-Bolden, RN, Founder of CannaHealth. Although Mount Vernon Mayor Shawyn Patterson-Howard was unable to join due to a last-minute conflict, the seminar provided rich insights and valuable perspectives.

Co-moderated by Paul Presendieu, Co-Founder of Sustainable Processing Solutions, and AJ Woodson, Editor-In-Chief of Black Westchester Magazine, the seminar served as a progressive dialogue on the crucial role of cannabis in holistic Black healthcare.

Chairwoman Tremaine Wright opened the discussion with a powerful statement on patient care: “This is about patient care and addressing the needs of our people. How do we allow people to care for themselves and do the things that are best suited for them and their own success?” Chairwoman Wright emphasized the need for a patient-centered approach in healthcare, especially within Black communities.

Sephida Artis-Mills highlighted the cultural barriers and stigmas surrounding cannabis in Black and Brown communities. “In Black and Brown communities, the stigma culture surrounding cannabis is a barrier to residents being able to see cannabis through the understanding of medicinal benefits. The way cannabis could be recommended for multiple conditions shows the multifaceted value it brings to healthcare,” Artis-Mills stated, underscoring the importance of education and awareness in shifting perceptions.

Kebra Smith-Bolden, RN, addressed the lack of accessibility to medical cannabis services in Black neighborhoods. “When we speak of communities of color, according to the National Institute of Health, a lot of medical cannabis services are not in Black neighborhoods, and therefore are not readily accessible. I started CannaHealth to place these services directly in communities of color in Connecticut through practitioners that look like them,” said Smith-Bolden. Her initiative, CannaHealth, aims to bridge the gap and provide essential healthcare services within these communities.

Ashley Wynn-Grimes, RN, focused on health equity and community awareness. “The conversation as a whole is about health equity, and being able to become aware as a community on what it means to be healthy. What am I eating, is it nourishing my body and do I have access to alternative treatments for true healing? Black and Brown people were tested on to build our healthcare system, resulting in a lack of trust in services combined with trauma from the war on drugs,” Wynn-Grimes shared, highlighting the historical context that continues to impact trust in the healthcare system.

The seminar successfully fostered an informative and engaging discussion on the critical intersection of cannabis and holistic healthcare in Black communities. Sustainable Processing Solutions’ event not only raised awareness but also encouraged a deeper understanding of the multifaceted benefits of cannabis in promoting health equity. 

For more updates on future seminars and events, stay tuned to Black Westchester Magazine and Sustainable Processing Solutions.

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