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Obesity Crisis: 4 in 5 Black Women At Risk – The Hidden Epidemic in America’s African American Communities

DAMON K JONES
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Obesity Crisis: 4 in 5 Black Women At Risk – The Hidden Epidemic in America’s African American Communities

Global adult obesity rates have steadily increased in the past few decades, more than tripling from 5% to 16% from 1990 to 2022. This trend is particularly pronounced in the United States, where the average obesity rate is much higher at 34%. However, this national average masks significant disparities across regions, states, and demographic groups.

The U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) data, updated as of September 2023, reveals stark differences in obesity rates nationwide. Every U.S. state and territory had an obesity rate of over 20% in 2022, meaning more than one in five adults in the U.S. was obese. The Midwest (35.8%) and South (35.6%) regions had the highest rates, followed by the Northeast (30.5%) and West (29.5%).

West Virginia recorded the highest obesity rate in the United States at 41%, followed by Louisiana and Oklahoma at 40%. These states, characterized by high rural populations and poverty rates, are often home to many food deserts, or areas where access to fresh and healthy foods is limited, leading residents to rely more on fast food and other nutritionally poor options.

The obesity epidemic disproportionately affects the Black community, making it a crucial conversation within this population. According to the CDC, non-Hispanic Black adults have the highest age-adjusted prevalence of obesity at 49.9%, compared to 45.6% among Hispanic adults, 41.4% among non-Hispanic White adults, and 16.1% among non-Hispanic Asian adults.

The Office of Minority Health provides even more detailed statistics on how obesity affects African American populations:

  1. African American women have the highest rates of obesity or being overweight compared to other groups in the United States. About 4 out of 5 African American women are overweight or obese.
  2. In 2018, non-Hispanic blacks were 1.3 times more likely to be obese as compared to non-Hispanic whites.
  3. In 2018, African American women were 50 percent more likely to be obese than non-Hispanic white women.
  4. From 2015-2018, non-Hispanic black females were 2.3 times more likely to be overweight as compared to non-Hispanic white females.
  5. People who are overweight are more likely to suffer from high blood pressure, high levels of blood fats, diabetes, and LDL cholesterol – all risk factors for heart disease and stroke.
  6. In 2018, African Americans were 20 percent less likely to engage in active physical activity as compared to non-Hispanic whites.

These statistics underscore the urgent need for targeted interventions and discussions within the Black community. Factors contributing to higher obesity rates among Black Americans include:

  1. Socioeconomic disparities: Black Americans are more likely to live in low-income areas with limited access to healthy food options and safe spaces for physical activity.
  2. Cultural factors: Traditional cuisines and food practices may contribute to higher caloric intake and less emphasis on certain nutritional aspects.
  3. Stress and discrimination: Chronic stress related to racial discrimination can lead to hormonal changes that promote weight gain.
  4. Limited access to healthcare: Reduced access to preventive care and nutrition education can hinder early intervention and management of weight-related issues.
  5. Targeted marketing: Fast food and sugary beverage companies often disproportionately market their products to Black communities.
  6. Lower rates of physical activity: As indicated by the Office of Minority Health, African Americans are less likely to engage in active physical activity.

The CDC data also showed disparities in age and education level when it came to obesity prevalence. Young adults were half as likely to be obese compared to middle-aged adults. Adults aged 18–24 years had the lowest prevalence of obesity (20.5%), while adults aged 45–54 had the highest (39.9%). Additionally, adults without a high school diploma were the most likely to be obese (37.6%) compared to 35.9% of adults with a college education and 27.2% of college graduates.

Addressing obesity within the Black community requires a multifaceted approach that includes:

  1. Culturally sensitive health education programs
  2. Improving access to healthy foods in underserved areas
  3. Promoting physical activity through community initiatives
  4. Addressing systemic racism and its impact on health outcomes
  5. Encouraging open conversations about health and wellness within Black families and communities
  6. Developing targeted interventions for African American women, who are mainly at risk

By recognizing the unique challenges faced by the Black community and tailoring interventions accordingly, progress can be made in reducing obesity rates and improving overall health outcomes. The stark disparities highlighted by the Office of Minority Health emphasize the urgency of this issue and the need for comprehensive, culturally appropriate strategies to combat obesity in African American populations.

My $64,000 Nightmare: racial bias, disrespectful service, and fraud at the Marriot Opus Hotel in White Plains

DAMON K JONES
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My $64,000 Nightmare: racial bias, disrespectful service, and fraud at the Marriot Opus Hotel in White Plains

As a 33-year veteran of law enforcement, a nationally recognized civil rights advocate, and a four-time honoree on City and State Magazine’s prestigious Power 100 list, I’ve dedicated my life to public service and fighting for equality. My work has earned me numerous awards and accolades, acknowledging my contributions to social justice and community empowerment. With this background, I’ve grown accustomed to being treated with a certain level of respect and dignity.

However, with a complete understanding of America’s racist DNA, I recognize what racism looks like in its many forms. My recent 3-month stay at the Marriott Opus Hotel in White Plains, New York, reminded me that this society will judge you by your color before your accomplishments. This experience not only undermined my dignity but also highlighted the systemic issues that continue to plague our hospitality industry and society at large.

It’s crucial to understand the context of our stay. My family and I were not on vacation; we were displaced due to extensive flood damage. As many know, seeking temporary accommodation in a hotel is customary during such home repairs. We chose Marriott for its long-standing reputation for service and comfort. Little did we know that the Marriott Opus in White Plains would not only fail to provide the expected sanctuary during our time of need but would also tarnish the brand’s reputation in the process.

Despite my accomplishments and status, my wife’s 19-year reputation as a Detective, and my daughter being a Nurse Practitioner, being in a vulnerable situation due to our home crisis, I found myself subjected to a series of degrading incidents during our stay at this supposedly luxury Marriott Bonvoy property. From the moment we checked in, my family and I were treated as second-class citizens. Despite being long-term guests and spending a substantial amount of 60 thousand for room and board for two rooms and approximately 4 thousand in the lounge on food and drinks, we faced a series of incidents that can only be described as shocking and demeaning.

Imagine being told, after a month-long stay, that you and your family – including a 3-year-old grandchild – need to vacate your room due to overbooking, only to find out later that rooms were indeed available.

Following an incident related to room occupancy, my daughter discovered that her Marriott Bonvoy points had been removed from her account. My wife reached out to the hotel manager to address this sudden deduction of points. The hotel took this action even though our daughter’s name and credit card were registered for her room. Adding to our frustration, the manager refused to meet with my wife to discuss the matter in person.

But the indignities didn’t stop there. One evening, a billing dispute involving my daughter’s friend erupted in the hotel lounge. The contention centered around charges for extra drinks and a questionable $99 service fee. The hotel, in a breathtaking display of avarice, had the audacity to charge a $99 service fee based on the most ludicrous of pretexts. Vanessa Perez, seemingly determined to squeeze every possible dollar from our party, reclassified our 3-year-old grandchild – a toddler, mind you – as a full-fledged adult.

This wasn’t just a mistake; it was a calculated move to artificially inflate our party size from 5 to 6 “adults,” conveniently justifying an additional service charge. The sheer absurdity of counting a child who can barely read as an adult for billing purposes would be comical if it weren’t so infuriating.

Their actions sent a clear message: in their eyes, we weren’t valued guests to be treated with respect and understanding. We were walking dollar signs to be exploited, and when we dared to question their tactics, we became problems to be silenced rather than customers to be served.

This incident wasn’t just a dispute over a bill. It was a glaring example of the systemic disrespect and racial bias that permeated our entire stay at this so-called luxury hotel. It laid bare the ugly truth that even in 2024, even after spending tens of thousands of dollars, a Black family can still be treated as second-class citizens the moment they dare to stand up for themselves.

In a shocking display of poor judgment, Lounge Management, Kathleen Bischoff called the police – an action I found particularly annoying given my 33-year background in law enforcement and my wife being a 19-year Detective in Mount Vernon. The management’s intent seemed clear: publicly embarrassing my family and friends. This scene played out in front of other guests, adding to our humiliation. Eventually, after this unnecessary spectacle, they agreed to adjust the disputed amount.

The hotel’s Malicious behavior continued beyond our initial encounter. The day after our dispute, I was shocked to find an unauthorized charge on my credit card. The hotel had attempted to bill me for the remaining balance of my daughter’s friend’s disputed bill – the very same issue we thought had been resolved the previous night.

This underhanded attempt to recover their alleged losses by charging an uninvolved party was both unethical and fraudulent. When confronted, Lounge Manager Kathleen Bischoff claimed it was “policy” to charge the remaining balance to my room, despite my lack of involvement in or responsibility for the previous night’s disputed bill.

I informed Bischoff that if she wished to involve the police again, as she had done the night before, I would press charges against the hotel for fraud. Only after this threat did Bischoff agree to credit the unauthorized amount back to my account.

These incidents alone would be deeply troubling, but they paint a disturbing picture of systemic disrespect and dishonest practices. The hotel seemed too willing to manipulate our charges for their benefit, escalate minor disputes to law enforcement, and then attempt to charge unrelated parties for their mistakes covertly.

Amid the whirlwind of issues we faced, one incident stood out as a stark reminder of the subtle yet pervasive nature of racial bias. On an otherwise unremarkable day, my wife approached the front desk, her smile ready and greeting prepared – a simple courtesy most of us extend without a second thought. What she received in return was far from the professional welcome one expects at a luxury hotel.

The white female employee behind the desk didn’t bother to speak. She didn’t smile. She merely lifted her chin in a curt nod, a gesture so dismissive it felt like a slap in the face. In that moment, my wife wasn’t a valued guest who had contributed thousands to the hotel’s coffers. She wasn’t a professional woman deserving of basic respect. In the eyes of this employee, she was, apparently, someone unworthy of even the most basic verbal acknowledgment.

The incident might seem minor to some, a blip in the grand scheme of things. But for us, it was a painful reminder of the microaggressions Black people face daily. It begged the question: Would a white guest have received the same treatment? Or was this employee’s behavior rooted in the insidious assumption that a nonverbal grunt is an appropriate way to address Black patrons?

What made this interaction all the more glaring was its stark contrast to the professional demeanor exhibited by other staff members. It stood out like a sore thumb, a blatant deviation from the standard of service we had come to expect. This disparity only served to underscore the likely racial undertones of the encounter.

This incident may not have been the most egregious in the tapestry of our troubled stay at the Opus Hotel. Yet it was perhaps the most insidious – a quiet, everyday reminder of the battles we still face, even in spaces where we’ve paid handsomely for the privilege of occupancy.

But what truly keeps me up at night is the nagging question: Would a white family, similarly displaced by a home disaster, have been subjected to this same treatment? I think we all know the answer. The complete lack of accountability or correction from management, despite our significant financial investment in their establishment and our challenging circumstances, speaks volumes about their priorities – and it’s undoubtedly not customer service or compassion.

As a Black man who has dedicated his life to public service, I’ve always believed in the power of speaking up against injustice. That’s why I’m sharing my story. It’s not just about one bad experience but a systemic issue that plagues our society. It’s about the subtle (and sometimes not-so-subtle) ways in which people of color are made to feel unwelcome, even in spaces where they’re paying customers, even when they’re seeking refuge from a personal crisis.

To the management of Opus Hotel and Marriott Bonvoy, I say this: Your actions have consequences. Your failure to address these issues impacts my family and erodes the trust of an entire community. We deserve better. We demand better.

Luxury hotels should provide more than just upscale amenities; they should offer an experience that makes every guest feel valued and respected, regardless of their race or length of stay. Unfortunately, my family’s experience at the Marriot Opus Hotel in White Plains, New York, fell far short of this standard.

And to my fellow travelers, especially people of color: Be vigilant. Don’t let the promise of luxury fool you. Our dignity is not for sale, and no amount of thread count on your sheets or room service can compensate for being treated as less than human, especially when dealing with personal hardships.

My experience at Marriot Opus Hotel was more than just a series of unfortunate events. It was a stark reminder that even in 2024, even as a respected professional, even as a paying customer in need of compassion, the color of my skin can still dictate how I’m treated. It’s a sobering reality, but we must continue fighting against it.

As for me, the Marriott Opus Hotel in White Plains, New York, has lost my business forever. Even driving past the building now leaves a bitter taste in my mouth—a stark reminder of the harsh realities that persist in America. No matter what a Black person might achieve in this country, the specter of discrimination looms large, echoing the poignant words of Jay-Z: Sill N*

I urge others to find different hotels in White Plains until Marriott Opus demonstrates a genuine commitment to treating all guests equally, regardless of their race or circumstances. Thread counts or amenity lists don’t measure true luxury and hospitality—they’re defined by how you make people feel. They’re about being treated as a valued human being, irrespective of the color of your skin or the crisis you may be facing.

It’s high time for Marriott, and indeed the entire hospitality industry, to realize that in 2024, excellent service means more than just a comfortable bed—it means creating an environment where every guest feels genuinely welcome, respected, and valued. Anything less is not just poor service; it’s a perpetuation of the systemic biases that continue to plague our society.

Platinum Elite Member's… by Damon K Jones

The Power of Mindset: Unlocking Consistency in Health and Wellness

DAMON K JONES
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The Power of Mindset: Unlocking Consistency in Health and Wellness

In the journey towards health and wellness, the role of mindset cannot be overstated. Many individuals find themselves in a cycle of enthusiasm followed by disillusionment. They start new diets with vigor, join gyms with determination, and download meditation apps with hope. Yet, more often than not, these efforts fizzle out, leaving them back where they started – or sometimes even worse off. The missing piece in this puzzle of personal well-being isn’t necessarily knowledge or resources but something far more fundamental: mindset.

Our mindset – the established set of attitudes and beliefs through which we view the world and ourselves – plays a pivotal role in determining our consistency in focusing on health and wellness. It acts as the foundation upon which all our efforts are built, influencing everything from our daily choices to our long-term perseverance. In this article, we’ll not only explore how mindset impacts our approach to physical fitness, nutrition, and mental health but also provide practical strategies to cultivate a mindset that fosters lasting wellness.

The Mindset-Wellness Connection: Understanding the Psychological Foundations

At the core of the mindset-wellness connection lies a fundamental psychological concept: self-efficacy. This concept, developed by psychologist Albert Bandura, refers to an individual’s belief in their ability to succeed in specific situations or accomplish tasks. In the context of health and wellness, high self-efficacy translates to a strong belief in one’s capacity to maintain a healthy lifestyle, overcome obstacles, and achieve wellness goals.

Research has consistently shown that individuals with high self-efficacy are more likely to:

  1. Set challenging health goals
  2. Persist in the face of setbacks
  3. Recover more quickly from lapses in healthy behaviors
  4. Experience less stress and anxiety related to health challenges

A prime example of this principle in action is the case of Sarah, a 35-year-old marketing executive who struggled with maintaining a consistent exercise routine. Despite multiple attempts to establish a regular gym habit, Sarah found herself giving up after a few weeks, convinced that she “just wasn’t cut out for fitness.”

After working with a health coach who focused on mindset training, Sarah began to challenge her limiting beliefs. She started by setting small, achievable goals and celebrating each success, gradually building her self-efficacy. Over time, Sarah established a consistent exercise routine and found herself more resilient in the face of obstacles, such as busy work periods or minor injuries.

Another crucial aspect of mindset in health and wellness is the concept of growth versus fixed mindset, popularized by psychologist Carol Dweck. Individuals with a growth mindset believe their abilities and health can be developed through dedication and hard work. In contrast, those with a fixed mindset view their health and fitness levels as static, unchangeable traits.

A growth mindset in health and wellness manifests as:

  • Viewing setbacks as learning opportunities rather than failures
  • Embracing challenges as a chance to improve
  • Persisting in the face of obstacles
  • Seeking out new strategies and information to enhance health

Consider the contrasting experiences of two individuals embarking on a weight loss journey:

John, who approaches the challenge with a fixed mindset, sees his initial struggles with portion control as evidence that he’s “just not good at dieting.” He quickly becomes discouraged and reverts to his old eating habits.

On the other hand, Lisa, who cultivates a growth mindset, views her initial difficulties as part of the learning process. She researches different strategies, experiments with meal planning, and gradually develops better eating habits. Even when she experiences setbacks, Lisa sees them as valuable feedback rather than personal failures.

These psychological foundations – self-efficacy and growth mindset – form the bedrock upon which consistent health and wellness practices are built. By understanding and actively cultivating these mindset elements, individuals can dramatically improve their ability to maintain focus on their well-being over the long term, empowering them to take control of their health and wellness journey.

Physical Fitness: Overcoming Mental Barriers to Consistent Exercise

When it comes to physical fitness, the battle is often won or lost in the mind long before it reaches the body. Many individuals struggle not with the actual act of exercising but with the mental hurdles that precede it. These can include:

  1. Perfectionism: The belief that if a workout isn’t “perfect” or doesn’t meet certain arbitrary standards, it’s not worth doing.
  2. All-or-nothing thinking: The tendency to view exercise in extreme terms, leading to cycles of intense activity followed by complete inactivity.
  3. Negative self-talk: Internal dialogue that undermines confidence and motivation.
  4. Fear of judgment: Anxiety about how others might perceive one’s efforts or appearance while exercising.

To overcome these mental barriers and establish consistency in physical fitness, consider the following mindset shifts and strategies:

  1. Embrace the concept of “non-zero days”: This approach, popularized on social media platforms, encourages individuals to do something, no matter how small, towards their fitness goals every day. This could be as simple as a five-minute walk or a few stretches. The key is to maintain momentum and build the habit of daily movement.
  2. Reframe exercise as a form of self-care: Instead of viewing exercise as a punishment or obligation, shift your perspective to see it as an act of kindness towards yourself. This mindset change can transform exercise from a chore into a rewarding part of your day.
  3. Focus on process goals rather than outcome goals: Instead of fixating on losing a certain amount of weight or achieving a specific body shape, set goals related to the process of exercise itself. For example, aim to be active for 30 minutes a day, try a new form of exercise each month, or consistently attend three fitness classes per week.
  4. Use visualization techniques: Spend time each day visualizing yourself successfully engaging in physical activity. This mental rehearsal can boost confidence and motivation, making it easier to follow through with actual exercise.
  5. Practice self-compassion: When setbacks occur (and they will), respond to yourself with kindness and understanding rather than harsh self-criticism. This approach, advocated by psychologist Kristin Neff, has been shown to increase resilience and promote long-term behavior change.

Case Study: The Power of Mindset in Physical Fitness

Consider the experience of Mark, a 40-year-old accountant who had been sedentary for years. Initially, Mark’s attempts at exercise were sporadic and short-lived. He would start a new routine with enthusiasm, only to give up after a few weeks, convinced that he was “too out of shape” to make real progress.

The turning point came when Mark began working with a fitness coach who emphasized mindset alongside physical training. Together, they worked on:

  • Identifying and challenging negative self-talk
  • Setting small, achievable goals to build confidence
  • Celebrating every effort, regardless of intensity or duration
  • Developing a growth mindset towards physical fitness

Over time, Mark’s attitude towards exercise shifted dramatically. He began to view each workout as an opportunity for growth rather than a test of his worth. He learned to appreciate the process of becoming fitter, focusing on how exercise made him feel rather than how he looked.

Six months into his mindset-focused approach, Mark had established a consistent exercise routine that included bothstrength training and cardiovascular activities. More importantly, he had developed the mental resilience to maintain his habits even during stressful periods at work or when facing minor setbacks.

Mark’s story illustrates how a shift in mindset can be the catalyst for lasting change in physical fitness. By addressing the mental aspects of exercise alongside the physical, individuals can overcome the common pitfalls that derail consistency and build a sustainable, enjoyable fitness practice.

Nutrition: Cultivating a Healthy Relationship with Food

Nutrition is an area where mindset plays a particularly crucial role. Our eating habits are deeply intertwined with emotions, cultural conditioning, and ingrained beliefs about food and our bodies. To establish consistency in healthy eating, it’s essential to address these underlying mindset factors.

Common mindset obstacles in nutrition include:

  1. Restrictive thinking: Categorizing foods as “good” or “bad” leads to cycles of deprivation and overindulgence.
  2. Emotional eating: Using food as a coping mechanism for stress, anxiety, or other emotions.
  3. Short-term focus: Prioritizing immediate gratification over long-term health benefits.
  4. Lack of self-trust: Relying excessively on external rules or diets rather than internal cues of hunger and satiety.

To cultivate a mindset that supports consistent, healthy eating habits, consider the following approaches:

  1. Practice mindful eating: This involves paying full attention to the experience of eating, including the tastes, textures, and sensations of food. Mindful eating can help break unconscious eating patterns and foster a more balanced relationship with food.
  2. Adopt an abundance mindset: Instead of focusing on foods to avoid, shift attention to the wide variety of nutritious foods you can enjoy. This positive framing can make healthy eating feel like an opportunity rather than a restriction.
  3. Develop food flexibility: Move away from rigid rules about “allowed” and “forbidden” foods. Instead, aim for balance and moderation, allowing all foods in appropriate portions and contexts.
  4. Connect eating habits to personal values: Reflect on how your food choices align with your broader life values, such as health, environmental sustainability, or cultural heritage. This can provide deeper motivation for consistent healthy eating.
  5. Cultivate body respect: Work on accepting and respecting your body as it is while still pursuing health. This approach, advocated by the Health at Every Size movement, can reduce the stress and negativity often associated with eating and body image.

Case Study: Transforming Nutrition Through Mindset

Let’s examine the journey of Elena, a 28-year-old teacher who had struggled with yo-yo dieting for years. Elena’s relationship with food was characterized by strict periods of calorie counting and “clean eating,” inevitably followed by episodes of binge eating and guilt.

Elena’s transformation began when she started working with a nutritionist who specialized in intuitive eating and mindset coaching. Together, they focused on:

  • Identifying and challenging Elena’s restrictive beliefs about food
  • Practicing mindful eating techniques
  • Exploring the emotional triggers behind Elena’s eating patterns
  • Gradually introducing a wider variety of foods without judgment

Initially, Elena found it challenging to trust her body and let go of the rigid rules she had followed for so long. However, as she continued to practice mindful eating and self-compassion, she noticed significant changes:

  • Her cravings for “forbidden” foods decreased as she allowed herself to eat them in moderation
  • She became more attuned to her body’s hunger and fullness cues
  • Her energy levels stabilized, and she felt more satisfied with her meals
  • The mental energy she had previously devoted to obsessing over food was freed up for other aspects of her life

After six months of this mindset-focused approach, Elena had developed a much healthier and more relaxed relationship with food. She no longer felt the need to follow strict diets, instead trusting herself to make balanced choices most of the time. Importantly, when she did overeat or make less nutritious choices, she was able to do so without guilt and easilyreturn to her usual habits.

Elena’s experience demonstrates how addressing the mindset components of nutrition can lead to more sustainable and enjoyable healthy eating patterns. By moving away from restriction and towards a more flexible, mindful approach, individuals can achieve consistency in their nutrition without the stress and deprivation often associated with traditional diets.

Mental Health: Fostering Resilience and Emotional Well-being

Mental health is intrinsically linked to our overall well-being, yet it’s often neglected in discussions about health and wellness. Cultivating a mindset that prioritizes mental health is crucial for maintaining consistency in all aspects of wellness.

Key mindset challenges in mental health include:

  1. Stigma and shame: Societal attitudes that discourage open discussion and help-seeking for mental health issues.
  2. Perfectionism: The belief that one should always be happy or mentally “strong.”
  3. Avoidance: The tendency to ignore or suppress difficult emotions rather than addressing them.
  4. Lack of self-awareness: Difficulty in recognizing and understanding one’s own emotional states and triggers.

To foster a mindset that supports consistent mental health practices, consider these strategies:

  1. Normalize mental health care: View caring for your mental health as equally important as physical health check-ups. This might include regular therapy sessions, meditation practice, or stress-management techniques.
  2. Cultivate emotional intelligence: Work on identifying, understanding, and managing your emotions. This skill can significantly improve resilience and overall well-being.
  3. Practice self-compassion: Treat yourself with the same kindness and understanding you would offer a good friend. This approach has been shown to reduce anxiety and depression while increasing life satisfaction.
  4. Adopt a growth mindset towards mental health: View challenges and setbacks as opportunities for learning and personal growth rather than as personal failures.
  5. Prioritize social connections: Recognize the importance of social support in maintaining mental health. Make consistent efforts to nurture meaningful relationships.

Case Study: Building Mental Resilience Through Mindset Work

Consider the case of Alex, a 32-year-old software developer who struggled with chronic stress and anxiety. Alex initially viewed his mental health challenges as a personal weakness, often pushing himself to “power through” difficult periods without seeking help.

Alex’s journey towards better mental health began when he started working with a therapist who specialized in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and mindfulness techniques. Their work focused on:

  • Identifying and challenging Alex’s negative thought patterns
  • Developing a regular mindfulness practice
  • Creating a toolbox of coping strategies for managing stress and anxiety
  • Gradually building self-compassion and self-awareness

At first, Alex found it difficult to prioritize his mental health, often feeling guilty for taking time for self-care. However, as he continued to work on his mindset, he noticed significant improvements:

  • He became more aware of his emotional states and triggers
  • He developed the ability to respond to stress more flexibly rather than reacting automatically
  • His relationships improved as he became more emotionally available and less irritable
  • He started to view self-care as a necessary part of his overall health rather than an indulgence

After several months of consistent practice, Alex had developed a much more resilient mindset. He had established a daily meditation routine, was regularly using CBT techniques to manage negative thoughts, and had become more open about his mental health journey with friends and family.

Importantly, when Alex faced periods of increased stress or anxiety, he now had the tools and mindset to address these challenges proactively. Instead of seeing them as personal failures, he viewed them as opportunities to apply and refine his coping strategies.

Alex’s experience illustrates how a shift in mindset can transform one’s approach to mental health. By moving from avoidance and shame towards openness and proactive care, individuals can build the resilience needed to maintain consistent mental well-being practices.

Integrating Mindset Work Across Health Domains

While we’ve explored mindset in relation to physical fitness, nutrition, and mental health separately, it’s crucial to recognize that these areas are deeply interconnected. A holistic approach to health and wellness requires cultivating a mindset that supports consistency across all these domains.

Here are some strategies for integrating mindset work across your health and wellness journey:

  1. Practice holistic goal-setting: When setting health goals, consider how they impact all aspects of your well-being. For example, a goal to improve cardiovascular fitness might also include considerations for nutrition and stress management.
  2. Develop a personal wellness philosophy: Reflect on your values and beliefs about health and wellness. Create a personal statement or set of principles that guide your decisions across all health domains.
  3. Cultivate body-mind awareness: Regularly check in with both your physical sensations and your emotional state.This practice can help you recognize how different aspects of your health influence each other.
  4. Embrace the concept of “keystone habits”: Identify and focus on habits that have a positive ripple effect across multiple areas of health. For example, improving sleep quality can positively impact physical recovery, nutrition choices, and mental clarity.
  5. Practice gratitude: Regularly acknowledging the positive aspects of your health and wellness journey can boost motivation and resilience across all domains.

The Journey Towards Consistent Wellness

Cultivating a mindset that supports consistency in health and wellness is not a destination, but an ongoing journey. It requires patience, self-compassion, and a willingness to continually learn and adapt.

Remember that setbacks and challenges are not failures but opportunities for growth and refinement of your approach. By focusing on developing a resilient, growth-oriented mindset, you create a strong foundation for lasting health and wellness practices.

As you move forward on your wellness journey, consider these final thoughts:

  1. Consistency trumps perfection: Small, consistent actions over time lead to significant results.
  2. Your mindset is trainable: Like any skill, a wellness-supporting mindset can be developed and strengthened with practice.
  3. Health is multidimensional: True wellness encompasses physical, mental, and emotional well-being.
  4. Self-awareness is key: Regularly reflect on your thoughts, beliefs, and behaviors related to health.
  5. Community matters: Surround yourself with supportive individuals who encourage your wellness journey.

By integrating these mindset principles into your daily life, you can unlock the power to maintain a consistent focus on your health and wellness, leading to a more balanced, fulfilling, and vibrant life. 

PBP Radio Episode 406 – From Grief To Action: George Floyd’s Uncle Selwyn Jones On Civil Rights & Community Change

AJ Woodson
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PBP Radio Episode 406 – From Grief To Action: George Floyd’s Uncle Selwyn Jones On Civil Rights & Community Change

Black Westchester’s People Before Politics Radio Show Episode 406 with hosts Damon K. Jones and AJ Woodson. Our special guest this week is Selwyn Jones, co-founder of the Hope929 Organization and uncle of George Floyd, discussing the death of George Floyd, civil rights, criminal justice and joining The Sonya Massey Rally on Saturday, August 3rd in front of the Chicago Police Headquarters and much more!

Since May 2020, Selwyn has been on a nationwide journey, connecting with families affected by police violence and supporting their causes. His organization, Hope929, is dedicated to advancing civil rights and fostering positive change in honor of George Floyd’s memory.

Selwyn’s commitment to transforming communities for the better has led him to speak at prestigious institutions like Harvard University. Join us to hear how he’s channeling his personal grief into powerful activism.

Check out the podcast, “Setting It Straight With Selwyn Jones” every week on Apple, Spotify, and iHeart

Black Westchester presents the People Before Politics Radio Show every Sunday night, 6-8PM, simulcasting 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

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Stay tuned to Black Westchester for more on this developing story!

George Floyd’s Uncle Joins March For Sonya Massey In Chicago

AJ Woodson
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George Floyd’s Uncle Joins March For Sonya Massey In Chicago

A rally for Sonya Massey was held Saturday, August 3rd at the Chicago Police Department headquarters in Chicago.

Many activists said they were sending a message that they’re tired of having to repeat, demanding justice for the lives lost to police brutality.

Bodycam footage of Sonya Massey being murdered in her home by former deputy sheriff Sean Grayson was released in late July and has renewed calls for more reform within law enforcement. Activists and families of black men and women killed by police joined together in front of the Chicago Police headquarters to show their support for Sonya Massey. 

The uncle of George Floyd, Selwyn Jones, joined Saturday’s rally. He’s spent the last 4 years pushing for more progress. He said Sonya Massey is another example that shows changes are needed across the United States.

“My nephew’s death was bad, but to see them knock on that door and to see this lady was obviously in a mental crisis, and to take advantage of her, it’s just absolutely horrible to me,” Jones shared with ABC News.

Jones co-founded the Hope929 Organization, a charity focused on promoting civil rights and creating change in honor of his nephew George Floyd. On a mission to make communities a better place for all, he has traveled the country since May 2020, connecting with the families of other victims of police violence and helping in their struggles. Having spoken at Harvard University this year, Selwyn is continuing to channel grief into activism.

To save and preserve lives, he has also been rallying support in different states for the passage of The Medical Civil Rights Act. It was approved by government officials in Connecticut last year and establishes the right to emergency medical care during any police interaction. He has been relentlessly advocating to make communities safer for all our children everywhere.

Speaking at the event last Saturday to CBS News in Chicago Selwyn told the reporters:

“Sonya Massey’s situation was absolutely horrendous. My nephew’s murder was bad but for them to take advantage of her, and murder her in her own home, it just has to stop.”

Selwyn hopes to see more reform to policing, his family is calling on Congress to finally pass the George Floyd Justice in Policing Act, and hopes to see more mental health screenings for officers.

Selwyn Jones will be appearing on Black Westchester’s People Before Politics Radio Show Episode 406, on Sunday, August 18th, 6-8pm

AIPAC’s Millions: Should Politicians Receiving Pro-Israel Funds Register as Foreign Agents?”

DAMON K JONES
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AIPAC’s Millions: Should Politicians Receiving Pro-Israel Funds Register as Foreign Agents?”

The American Israel Public Affairs Committee (AIPAC) has become a powerful force in U.S. politics, raising significant questions about foreign influence on American democracy and policy. AIPAC’s roots and current activities have sparked debates about whether it should be required to register as a foreign agent.

Historical Context:

AIPAC’s origins can be traced back to a time of heightened scrutiny over foreign influence in American politics. In the 1950s and early 1960s, both President Dwight D. Eisenhower’s administration and later, Attorney General Robert F. Kennedy’s Department of Justice (DOJ) demanded that the American Zionist Council (AZC) register as a foreign agent.

In response to this pressure, the AZC rebranded itself as AIPAC, maintaining the same leadership but seemingly evading the registration requirement. This transition appeared to lower the issue’s priority on the political radar.

Notably, AIPAC’s founder, Isaiah Kenen, had previously registered twice with the U.S. Department of Justice under the Foreign Agent Registration Act (FARA) as an agent for Israel. Before leading AIPAC, Kenen headed the American Zionist Council and served as the chief information officer for the Israeli Ministry of Foreign Affairs.

AIPAC’s mission is explicitly to promote the interests of Israel, which critics argue fits the definition of a foreign agent under FARA. The Act requires organizations that promote or lobby on behalf of a foreign government to register and account for their finances and activities.

Recent Developments:

AIPAC has significantly expanded its political influence by forming two new political action committees (PACs):

  1. AIPAC PAC: A conventional PAC that has become the largest pro-Israel PAC in the U.S., contributing nearly $2.8 million to candidates.
  2. United Democracy Project (UDP): A super PAC that has spent over $24.2 million supporting favored candidates.

The impact of these PACs has been substantial, with 207 out of 212 AIPAC-backed candidates winning their primaries.

Campaign Contributions:

OpenSecrets data reveals significant contributions from pro-Israel groups to various politicians:

  • President Joe Biden has reportedly received $5,688,069 from pro-Israel groups and individuals throughout his political career.
  • Vice President Kamala Harris has reportedly received $244,495 during her political career.

New York politicians have been significant recipients, with pro-Israel groups reportedly donating $21,144,419 between 1990-2024. Top recipients include:

  1. Charles Schumer (D-NY): $1,725,324
  2. Eliot Engel (D-NY): $1,618,904
  3. Ritchie Torres (D-NY): $1,571,087
  4. Hakeem Jeffries (D-NY): $1,367,247
  5. Nita Lowey (D-NY): $998,509
  6. Lee Zeldin (R-NY): $916,834
  7. Kirsten Gillibrand (D-NY): $846,273
  8. Elise Stefanik (R-NY): $592,164
  9. Gregory Meeks (D-NY): $523,141
  10. Steve Israel (D-NY): $523,119

Critics argue that these substantial donations are influencing policy decisions related to Israel and the Middle East, prioritizing foreign aid over domestic social issues. They contend that this level of foreign influence threatens democratic processes, particularly in states like New York, where contributions are significant.

Hakeem Jeffries (D-NY), who is the Minority Leader of the House of Representatives, is the #4 highest politician in the House; according to opensecrets.org, Jeffries has accepted $1,367 247 of Pro Isreal lobby money and is featured on the AIPAC website’s front page.

New York’s Muslim community, approximately 745,000 strong, faces a complex political landscape. Many who traditionally vote Democrat may feel conflicted about the party’s leadership, particularly when figures like House Minority Leader Hakeem Jeffries, who received over $1 million from AIPAC, are prominently featured on pro-Israel websites.

This situation raises questions about representation and advocacy for Muslim interests in the Democratic party. Recent polling data adds another layer to this issue. A Siena poll from January 2024 found that 45% of New York state residents opposed sending additional military and economic aid to Israel, while 43% supported it – a significant shift from October 2023, when 57% supported additional aid. In New York City, opposition is even higher, with 53% against aid and only 35% in favor. The poll also revealed that a majority of Black respondents, Latino respondents, and self-described liberals opposed aid to Israel. This changing public opinion, especially among key Democratic constituencies, contrasts sharply with the positions of some party leaders, potentially leaving many Muslim voters feeling unrepresented and unsure where to turn for political support that aligns with their views on Middle East policy.

The impact of these PACs has been substantial, with 207 out of 212 AIPAC-backed candidates winning their primaries. This includes support for candidates who reject the legitimacy of the 2020 presidential election but pledge unconditional support for Israel.

Recent Congressional races have highlighted AIPAC’s growing influence:

  • In New York’s 16th Congressional District, progressive Rep. Jamaal Bowman reportedly lost his reelection bid to a challenger backed by significant spending from AIPAC-affiliated groups. The United Democracy Project (UDP), an AIPAC-funded super PAC, allegedly spent nearly $15 million in this race, making it one of the most expensive House races in U.S. history.
  • Rep. Cori Bush faced a challenger whose campaign reportedly received substantial funding from pro-Israel groups, including AIPAC and Democratic Majority for Israel (DMFI), with estimates of $9 million from AIPAC and half a million from DMFI.

The organization’s influence on U.S. foreign policy, particularly regarding aid to Israel, remains significant. Israel receives over $3.8 billion in annual aid from the U.S., largely due to AIPAC’s lobbying efforts. Critics argue that this level of aid, facilitated by AIPAC’s influence, may not align with the interests of average American taxpayers, especially given unresolved domestic social issues.

Some critics argue that challenging U.S. aid to Israel or criticizing Israeli policies is often met with accusations of anti-Semitism, a framing they believe is adopted by some mainstream media outlets and political figures. They contend this has created an environment where open debate on U.S. foreign policy in the Middle East is stifled, potentially affecting various groups, including some black clergy, who may feel hesitant to speak out against civilian casualties. These critics also point out that such framing overlooks the complex history of the region, including the fact that Jesus Christ was a Palestinian Jew, a point they feel is often overlooked in discussions about the Israeli-Palestinian conflict.

This situation has led to concerns about the impact on democratic processes and the interests of American citizens, particularly in how it affects open dialogue on foreign policy and the use of taxpayer funds. The changing public opinion, especially among key Democratic constituencies, contrasts sharply with the positions of some party leaders, potentially leaving many voters, including Muslims and others, concerned about the conflict, feeling unrepresented and unsure where to turn for political support that aligns with their views on Middle East policy.

The debate over AIPAC’s status and influence continues to intensify. Critics argue that the substantial financial support from AIPAC to both Democratic and Republican politicians – sometimes referred to as “AIPAC Democrats” and “AIPAC Republicans” – raises questions about the priorities of these elected officials. They contend that when millions of dollars are spent to support a candidate, it may compromise their ability to represent the interests of average American citizens. These critics argue that while billions in aid are sent to Israel, many pressing domestic social, economic, and community needs go unaddressed.

On the other hand, supporters of AIPAC argue that strong U.S.-Israel relations serve American interests and that their lobbying efforts are a legitimate part of the democratic process. They maintain that aid to Israel and addressing domestic issues are not mutually exclusive.

The question remains: Given AIPAC’s history, mission, and current activities, should it be required to register as a foreign agent under FARA, as originally intended by past administrations? As AIPAC’s political role continues to expand, the need for transparency, accountability, and open debate on these issues becomes increasingly crucial for the health of American democracy and the equitable allocation of taxpayer resources.

This ongoing controversy underscores the complex relationship between campaign finance, foreign policy, and domestic priorities in American politics. It challenges voters, policymakers, and watchdog organizations to critically examine the influence of lobbying groups on the democratic process and to consider what reforms might be necessary to ensure that the interests of all Americans are adequately represented.

Public Notice: Mount Vernon NAACP Branch Announces New Meeting Location

AJ Woodson
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Public Notice: Mount Vernon NAACP Branch Announces New Meeting Location

The Mount Vernon NAACP Branch is announcing a change to the location for its General Membership meetings. Effective immediately, meetings will be held at Macedonia Baptist Church, located at 141 South 9th Ave, Mount Vernon, NY.

General Membership Meetings will take place at 7:00 p.m. on the 3rd Thursday of each month through December 2024. The specific dates for the upcoming meetings are as follows:

– August 15, 2024

– September 19, 2024

– October 17, 2024

– November 21, 2024

– December 19, 2024

For further information, contact us at 914-297-7228 or email us at naacpmountvernon@gmail.com.

About the NAACP – Founded in 1909, the NAACP is the nation’s oldest and largest civil rights organization. Our mission is to secure the political, educational, social, and economic equality of rights in order to eliminate race-based discrimination and ensure the health and well-being of all persons.

**Contact:**

Mount Vernon NAACP Branch #2161

Kathie J. Brewington, Branch President

Phone: 914-297-7228  

Email: naacpmountvernon@gmail.com

Mount Vernon Celebrates Rai Benjamin Wins Semifinals At Olympics Watch Party

AJ Woodson
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Mount Vernon Celebrates Rai Benjamin Wins Semifinals At Olympics Watch Party

Mount Vernon’s Rai Benjamin wins semifinals, advances to Olympics 400-meter hurdles finals

Mount Vernon residents gathered in the theater at The Doles Center (250 South Sixth Avenue) with pride and enthusiasm to cheer on Class of 2015 Mount Vernon High School graduate Rai Benjamin moved even closer to the 2024 Paris Olympic medal podium, after winning his semifinal heat in the 400-meter hurdles on Wednesday. Benjamin won his heat of the 400-meter hurdles with ease and jogged through the finish line.

“I am ecstatic to see Rai compete in another Olympics and wish him the best of luck in the finals on Friday,” said Acting Superintendent Dr. K. Veronica Smith. “It’s wonderful to see the community come together and support him in such a big way. I hope Rai knows that the city of Mount Vernon will always be here to support him in all of his endeavors and that we are immensely proud of all that he has accomplished thus far. Go win gold!”

“He handled the rounds extremely well. We are extremely proud of him advancing to the finals. The Olympic stadium is electric. I know the finals are going to be challenging. However, if he stays focused he should do exceptionally well,” Benjamin’s former MVHS Coach Marcus Green shared with Black Westchester from Paris.

The 27-year-old Mount Veronite is a medal contender once again, winning the last semifinal heat of the day and finishing with a top time of 47.85 seconds to secure a spot in Friday’s 400-meter finals on Friday at 3:45 p.m. Eastern Time.

“This is just something we’re not used to seeing,” four-time Olympic medal-winner and NBC Olympics analyst Ato Boldon said. “You’re not supposed to be able to run 47.8 seconds and take essentially half the race off like Rai just did. Phenomenal.”

During the event, spectators from all over Mount Vernon watched as each of the 100 and 400-meter relays played on the big screen. The last heat of the event was Rai’s turn. Benjamin spent the majority of the race at the front of the herd, earning first place and qualifying for the finals on Friday, August 9, 2024, at 3:45 p.m., where he will compete for the gold medal. Watch live on NBC and Peacock TV. 

“This is the first time I’ve actually sat in the stadium and watched him race internationally. Around me were Germany, Australia, Great Britain, and a few other countries. It was really something to see a kid (now a man) from Mount Vernon pop out of the tunnel on the world stage and spin around to take it in for a second before performing the way he did. I’m very proud of the young man he has become on and off the track!” Coach Green shared.

Benjamin was also part of the gold medal-winning men’s 4×400-meter relay team in the Tokyo Olympics. The opening-round qualifier of the 4×400-meter relay is scheduled for 5:05 a.m. ET. The four-man relay team has not yet been announced.

Yocasta Jimenez – The Hip-Hop Therapist

AJ Woodson
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Yocasta Jimenez – The Hip-Hop Therapist

I first met Yocasta Jimemez, KMSW (better known in the community as Yogi) when she put together a Small Business Pop-Up Shop in the Galleria Mall to help promote small Black and Brown businesses for Black History Month. I invited her on our radio show, People Before Politics Radio to discuss it and immediately knew I wanted her to be one of the Westchester Women, we would spotlight in our March 2021 Women’s Month Issue.

Ms. Yogi is also known as The Hip-Hop Therapist. She is the President and Founder of Teens Under Construction, Inc. (TUC) She believes in incorporating Hip-Hop Culture into TUC to unite our community through cultural communication which helps provide youth engagement and educational growth.

TUC is a mentoring and counseling organization, serving at-risk youth ages 15-24. Ms. Yogi has a passion for the work she does. She loves working with young people and educating people about effective ways to engage youth to provide them with the ability to obtain success.

As a teen mom and high school dropout, she personally knows the difficulties associated with being an at-risk youth. Her experiences has afforded her the ability to reach the youth in unique ways by incorporating music and other urban tools.

“My love for the work and the teens has demonstrated success as we currently have over 20 clients in different colleges and trade programs,” Ms. Yogi shared with Black Westchester. “Within the next 2 years. we hope to extend our services to an independent living program where we will have the ability to house displaced youth and/or youth that have aged out of care in addition to providing initial services.”

After the first 2 years, she hopes to maintain the position of executive director and continue to influence the culture of the business. It is extremely important to her that the youth continue to be the organization’s focus and that it never loses a culture of acceptance, understanding, and nurturing.

“I have chosen this because I see the needs in many communities,” she continued. “I have personal experiences that have led me to want to improve the quality of life of others. Through my experiences as a licensed social worker, I have had the ability to complete research that has proven that despite the trauma and other negative life-changing factors, an individual can prove to be successful after encountering nurturing, loving of supportive people in their life. It could have been a teacher, counselor, friend, mate or any other form of support and empathy. At TUC we serve as that person and place of nurturing and support.

She started TUC in 2014 (the same year Black Westchester was created) but the idea had been brewing since she was 13 after a stint in juvenile detention where they were treated poorly. Yocasta is a survivor and is proof you do not have to allow your past to define you.

She is the epitome of the bible verse, 2 Corinthians 4:8:

“We are hard pressed on every side, but not crushed; perplexed, but not in despair; persecuted, but not abandoned; struck down, but not destroyed,” 2 Corinthians 4:8-9 perfectly epitomizes her life.

She has been broke but never broken, she was homeless and incarcerated. “I was a fighter,” she shares. She had a lot of anger and her family frequently frowned on her behavior and she was often left out of family events. She was a teen mom and a high school dropout but that is not the end of her story, she is also a Fordham University graduate. Now she uses her experiences to reach the youth, letting them know she understands where they are because she has been there. She got a second chance to make something of herself and now she pays it forward, dedicating her life to at-risk youth who many have given up on, letting them know they are not alone. She is there for them. TUC has allowed her and others to offer various programs, music production CPR, a Drop-in center where food and workshops were provided, fashion/shopping days, bubble soccer at Galleria Day, the TRUTH Program (Teens Recounstucting Under True Hip-Hop) where she provides social-emotional learning to youth in group homes and incarcerated.

“I got my GED, enrolled in Westchester Community College and dropped out like 4 times. The 4th time was the charm. I figured things out, made it to Fordham and I graduated top of my class. Now I am a LMSW. Through my struggles, I triumphed and now I’m here to help our youth do the same,” she shares with Black Westchester.

She also offers a 6-week Hip-Hop Therapy curriculum and how it can be implemented in other institutions and organizations. TUC offers Social-Emotional Learning (SEL) and Global Cultural Communication.

SEL is the process of developing the self-awareness, self-control, and interpersonal skills that are vital for school, work, and life success. People with strong social-emotional skills are better able to cope with everyday challenges and benefit academically, professionally, and socially. From effective problem-solving to self discipline, from impulse control to emotion management and more, SEL provides a foundation for positive, long-term effects on teens and young adults.

Global Cultural Communications: Hip-Hip is a global cultural communication style including the pillars of music, art, and dance. Slam poetry, beatbox, and beat making have become worldwide ways young people and adults use to express their thought, feelings, ideas, values, knowledge, and wisdom in urban, rural, suburban and other environments. Hip-hop music has served as a powerful voice and form of expression for young Black audiences and has evolved into a culture with its own language, style of dress, and mindset.

“We pride ourself on incorporating Hip-Hip Culture into our organization to engage youth and reinformece youth development and empowerment,” the Hip-Hop Therapist shared.

She could have easily allowed her past to be an excuse, but instead she used her combined experience to inspire the youth. She is truly an unsung hero, if you didn’t know now you know. Black Westchester salutes and proudly salutes and proudly celebrates and feature Yocasta Jimenez aka Ms. Yogi, The Hip-Hop Therapist.

This is Her-Story!

The article originally appeared in the March 15, 2021 Women’s Month Issue and is reposted because she is exactly the unsung shero Black Westchester had in mind to spotlight when it was created ten years ago. We also post today, Wednesday, August 7, 2024, in celebration of Ms. Yogi’s Birthday!

For more on Ms. Yogi and Teens Under Constriction visit their website and follow them on IG, Facebook, Twitter (X), YouTube, and LinkedIn.

Commemorating the Peekskill Riots 1949-2024 By Jelle Simons

AJ Woodson
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Commemorating the Peekskill Riots 1949-2024 By Jelle Simons

If you’re looking to be inspired and learn more about who Paul Robeson was and the history of the Peekskill Riots, save these two dates on your calendar: 9/12/24 and 9/15/24. To commemorate the 75th anniversary of the Peekskill Riots, there’ll be two captivating performances by Grammy Award winner Mark S. Doss, entitled “Here I Stand” – after the seminal book of the same title written by Paul Robeson years after the riots.

In 1949, Peekskill, New York, became the unexpected epicenter of a turbulent chapter in American history. The world-famous African-American, singer, artist, and civil rights activist Paul Robeson was scheduled to perform a concert in the area. The concert, set for August 27 at Lakeland Acres near Peekskill, turned violent as a local mob attacked concert-goers with rocks and baseball bats before Paul Robeson even arrived. Despite the chaos, local police arrived hours later and provided minimal intervention. Thirteen people suffered serious injuries, Robeson was lynched in effigy, and a burning cross was visible on a nearby hillside.

Paul Robeson was not a man to be silenced; six days later, he returned to perform in Peekskill, drawing a crowd of 20,000 attendees. Despite the presence of anti-Robeson protestors outside the venue, the concert proceeded as planned. Although Robeson performed without incident, the aftermath of the concert was far from peaceful. Fueled by racist, anti-Semitic, and anti-Communist sentiments, protesters attacked concertgoers, many of whom were African American and Jewish. 150 people were injured in the violence, many of them seriously.

Within a few days, hundreds of editorials and letters appeared in newspapers across the nation and abroad by prominent individuals, organizations, trade unions, churches, and others. They condemned the attacks and the failure of the police to protect the concert-goers. Despite these condemnations, the mainstream press and local officials overwhelmingly blamed Robeson and his fans for “provoking” the violence. 

Over the years, the so-called Peekskill Riots have gradually faded from memory, especially in Peekskill itself, where there are no signs, plaques, or monuments commemorating this important historical event. Robeson’s iconic legacy has also been obscured from history. In 1950, the State Department revoked his passport, preventing him from traveling abroad to perform, which severely limited his career opportunities. Domestically, he was blacklisted, resulting in the cancellation of his concerts and the refusal of venues to book him. Additionally, the FBI and other government agencies kept him under constant surveillance and pressured organizations to dissociate from him. In 1958, he had his passport returned after the U.S. Supreme Court ruled that the State Department could not deny citizens the right to travel based on their political beliefs. However, for Robeson, this ruling came too late. The systematic campaign of repression, coupled with widespread media smear tactics, marginalized and silenced one of the greatest artists of the 20th century and a trailblazer in the American Civil Rights Movement.

This year marks the 75th anniversary of the Peekskill Riots. That’s why several residents of Peekskill and its surrounding areas have joined forces in the Robeson in Peekskill Project, a grassroots initiative that aims to commemorate and highlight the Peekskill Riots, not only as a painful yet significant chapter in Peekskill’s history but also as a reminder that freedom of expression is a fundamental right of every American citizen. Committee chair Wendy Tialo: “Paul Robeson is a towering figure in American history. He was an All-American football star and graduated as the valedictorian from Rutgers University, where he was the only African-American student on campus and the third to enroll. Robeson was also the first Black actor to play Othello on Broadway and to take on a lead role in the film. As the highest-paid entertainer of his time, he was a globally celebrated bass-baritone who performed musical theater and operatic repertoire in 26 languages. At one point, Time magazine named him the most famous African American in the world. This alone is reason enough to honor his iconic artistic legacy. Additionally, the Peekskill Riots were a momentous event that shook the nation and are seen by many as the beginning of the American Civil Rights movement. We hope that the Robeson in Peekskill Project will foster a deeper appreciation of Robeson’s impact and inspire future generations to stand up for justice and equality.”

On Thursday, September 12, the Robeson in Peekskill Project will host the Robeson in Peekskill Gala Dinner at the Hollow Brook Golf Club in Cortlandt Manor, NY, the very site where Paul Robeson’s first concert was scheduled to take place in 1949. This event marks the first time an occasion honoring Paul Robeson will be held at this location. This fundraiser will feature a concert by Grammy Award-winning bass-bariton Mark S. Doss and Pegasus: the Orchestra. Doss will perform “Here I Stand,” a mesmerizing tribute to Paul Robeson that showcases the wide range of spirituals, folk songs, and classical masterpieces linked to Robeson’s rise to stardom.  On Sunday, September 15, Mark S. Doss will return to Peekskill to perform “Here I Stand” once again, this time at a community concert held at the Paramount Hudson Valley Theater in Peekskill.

For more information about the events and to purchase your tickets, please visit https://www.robeson-in-peekskill.org/75th-anniversary-events

Paul Robeson singing “Old Man River” at the Sept. 4, 1949 concert in Peekskill. New York Daily News Archive/NY Daily News via Getty Images

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