Will the REAL Englewood residents please STAND UP!

Wow, these last two weeks was another whirlwind since my last post. I attended meeting after meeting and before I knew it was Saturday!  As stated in a previous post, I participated in the Peace Rally mentioned in my previous blog with fellow resident Rashanah Baldwin, a few Deborahs and although it was a great cause I felt like....What's next?

We had all these bikers, social clubs, and other groups who soon after the rally, dismantles and head home which I am sure is outside of Englewood. So is the purpose of these marches to show a strong presence to the community?


As we walk, we stop and talk to a few young men who stated the killing will never stop regardless of how many marches we do. I must admit, this was a bit dishearten, however, the individuals marching seem to be empowered and the community did appreciate seeing us unified.

Then on Monday the 13th, Governor Quinn held a anti-violence hearing to discuss the solutions to this violence problem. I was quite shocked to see the room nearly empty at the KKC auditorium...Do no one have solution to offer this commission that is working closely with the state?   "Now if this was a funding meeting that auditorium would have been packed", I exclaimed passionately to the commission and attendees!!

Its sadden me that we cannot come together as a community to combat this issue...One thing was certain, the voice of the Deborah Movement was heard LOUD & CLEAR! I recommended several solutions such as extending hours of the 300+ churches in Englewood until 10pm in order to serve as a safe community haven for our youth!

I also suggested that residents should volunteer for 1-2 hours at this safe havens to create an atmosphere of serving. We have to start viewing our community as a village/ecosystem where we function as one...I think a block by block plan that will mandate a duty day for each block is another simple yet sound solution. 

As the Green Regional Leader for National Block Club University (NBCU), I see firsthand that our communities could be safer if we serve on our own blocks first. We all LIVE ON A BLOCK, we just need to get to know and respect our NEIGHBORS, even the ones who are considered an outcast from society!! 

I think we can at least start in 60621 with the block by block plan then move forward to other zipcodes!! That's the way we function at NBCU....Will you serve for your block's duty day??  I am asking for the REAL RESIDENTS OF ENGLEWOOD TO STAND UP & SET AN EXAMPLE!!

Ok, let me calm down...On Wednesday I attended a productive Asset Based Community Development workshop. This meeting was for residents only and discussed how we can begin viewing our community and its residents as assets. So many people see the needs of Englewood and overlook the endless opportunities here...When I say Englewood can be the new Brooklyn, I mean we can function as a borough, where everything we want is within our community. Like Brooklyn, Englewood could be enriched with cultural events and gatherings. Like Brooklyn residents, we will rep it in all we do and be proud of where we live!

I am seeing this vision steadily becoming so clear...All we need to make this a reality is to have the REAL Englewood residents STAND UP, become engage and believe that Englewood encompasses culture, peace, and great number of gifted people throughout this community! We just need to STAND UP & BE SEEN!!

There is a lot happening here that is never reported, which is why I blog!  I will continue to spread the GOODNESS here...Speaking of which....

I am so proud to report that Docs & Dialogue is moving speed ahead for the Fall/Winter with our next event scheduled for October 2nd at P.E.A.C.E. Center from 2pm-4:30pm...The film/topic will talk about the Rise and Fall of the Black Woman...Is the attack on the Black Woman the root to the problems in our community??? I am certain that this topic is bound to spark some great dialogue...Register here!

Come out & support this grass root project lead & created by residents of Englewood!! Look like a few of us did STAND UP!!

Hope to see you there!

Season are Changing...Why aren't we???

So as the seasons changed literally in one weekend from Summer to the Fall Season, one of my favorites actually! However, I hate to report that the news coverage of violence did not change...

We are only in the 1st week of "regular" school and it has already been reported that a young student at Bowen was shot and killed.  This story really hit home as the father was someone my husband knew personally when he lived here in Englewood.

As stated in the tribune,"An Englewood native, Jackson, 45, said he has done volunteer work with the anti violence group CeaseFire Illinois and was involved with at least one other group geared toward helping youths."  He like myself was a advocate for PEACE and still could not avoid this devastating outcome.

It seems to me that more folks are really becoming fed up and finally ready to TAKE ACTION!  It seems like every time I look around there is an event taking place with the "Stop the Violence" theme...I just don't understand with so many campaigns, marches, rallies, why things are not changing similar to our seasons?? 

Well, I am no expert but I strongly feel whatever you focus your attention on becomes your reality.  Sadly, everyone seems fixated on the violence, which is only inviting to become your reality.

I INVITE PEACE & THEREFORE THIS BECOMES MY REALITY!!  I WILL CONTINUE TO CELEBRATE, WELCOME, CREATE, & BE THE PEACE I WANT IN MY REALITY!!

Case in point, in the midst of an area where people dare to drive through, there some senstational fun events happening in Englewood too! The Black Ensemble Theater is here at KKC from September 10th-26th....This is a perfect for the family, I am definitely trying to check this out! 

Also, as I envision Englewood become the "New Brooklyn of Chicago", on September 25th we will have "Hollywood in Englewood!!"

Imagine Englewood If...will host Englewood youth models while they "hit the runway" on Saturday, September 25, 2010, at the 3rd annual youth fundraiser of 'Imagine Englewood if . . .!'

The theme is "Hollywood in Englewood. . . Where Stars Walk," and the young models will showcase the designs of Chi-Vas White, Englewood native and creator of ONELLW Athletic Clothing. They will also receive certificates of recognition for their contribution to the event’s success. Come out and support our youth and Imagine Englewood If...

PLACE: True Vine Missionary Church (Lower Level)

ADDRESS: 6720 S. Stewart Ave., Chicago, IL 60621

TIME: 4:00 to 8:00 p.m.

DONATION: $10

There has been joy, peace, and love happening all over the community that is simply under reported!! Like today, September 12th there is a peace rally taking place at 3pm...I am heading out soon! If you read this today here is the link: Englewood Peace Rally

I have never been a big "rallier" if that's a word but I am always willing to connect with others who want to help save our communities! Speaking of folks ready to save our communities, the sisters of the Deborahs are always hard at work.  From press conferences, to in house visit to victims of violence, marches, etc., the Deborahs are an ACTION driven movement!  Tomorrow, September 13, 2010, the Deborahs we will be in support of one of our Deborah Stister who will testify for the Anti Violence Commission taking place at KKC 6301 S. Halsted from 4pm-9pm. 

This is a very important hearing because the goverment is calling on the community!  WE NEED TO STAND UP WHILE FOLKS ARE LISTENING!!!

“Violence is a community problem, and it needs a community solution,” Governor Quinn said. “The members of the Illinois Anti-Violence Commission will help us improve Illinois’ existing anti-violence programs and find new, workable solutions to save lives and rebuild neighborhoods.”

Read more here:  http://www2.illinois.gov/antiviolence/Pages/default.aspx

I know I am tired of talking about this problem and ready to work on some solutions!! Lets work collectively implementing some tangible solutions!!

Well that's all for now...I have a busy week ahead of me!

As always TAKE ACTION to CREATE the LIFE YOU truly DESIRE!!

Celebration of Peace & Life in Englewood!!

Wow, last week was such a fun-filled Saturday in Englewood!! There was plenty of cultural & peaceful events happening  however, we received no media coverage??? 

Now as soon as we rally, march & stomp after a violent crime occurs in Englewood, we can't keep the media away....but I guess the celebration of PEACE is not considered newsworthy...oh well it is to me, so I will report it!!

I started off the day at Hamilton Park Cultural at 513 W. 72nd Street at the Family Fun Fest.  This was a jam packed event that entailed a live tap dance performance from the South Chicago Hoofers Club a senior tap dance group...amazing right! Then it there was a dynamic drum dialogue drumming workshop with extraordinaire, Zahra Baker.  The day proceeded with community conversations around health, art, and more!

Then, I was able to host another Docs & Dialogue during the event.  We did a encore showing of the "must see" shockumentary: "A War For Your Soul." As I have proudly blogged about before, the “Docs & Dialogue” series is a grass root project created by myself and several other residents of the Englewood community.  See, people always forget that 30% of Englewood are working/middle class residents who are able to relate to all classes of people and many of us are the ones working together to make a greater impact in our community.

 

We was ready to TAKE ACTION because, many of the safe spaces in the community are closed on Saturday, so we decided to create this monthly series that showcase documentaries that entail some shock value. Each of the “shockumentaries” viewed at the past events focused on culture, hip hop, entertainment, community, history and then is followed up with a candid dialogue amongst the attendees.

The series was designed for the youth; however, the community as a whole as fully embraced this powerful project! I am loving every minute of it and is honored to that we are being asked to take Docs & Dialogue to other neighborhood!! What a feeling!!

Hats off to Cordell & Donte Payne, Keith Harris, Simone Yancy, Corrinn Cobb, Antoine & Samaiya Butler who have assisted in making this project such a success!! Stay tuned for So Fresh Saturday/Docs & Dialogue appreciation party soon!!

If you still think Englewood lacks culture well you are sadly mistaken!! Another great event last Saturday, was at Culture Connection located 400 W. 71st. Street (71st & Stewart, a few block west of the Dan Ryan), the only cultural retail store in Englewood. The store celebrated their 1 year anniversary. The vibe was chilled, great music, vendors and networking....What a great feeling to celebrate peace enjoy the whole day in my neighborhood!!

Last night I attended the last committee meeting for the Englewood Back to School Parade 50th Anniversary taking place tomorrow at 11am!! It was great to observe and listen to all the support and hardwork that goes in to make this a peaceful & fun community event! I am excited to assist with these efforts and network with others who are really serious about adding value to our community!! Stop by Odgen Park located at 64th & Racine if you can anytime from 10am-4pm!!

Watch the parade from 55th & Halsted until it ends in Ogden Park with a celebration!! Again, a celebration of peace & support for the students going back to school!! Oh how I love being a part of a united front to make a change in our communities...We have to be the GAME CHANGERS!!

Well until next time, TAKE ACTION to create the life you truly desire!!

Is Summer Over for Englewood??

Well, the summer is quickly coming to an end and for most of the students here in Englewood summer ends this weekend! Over 20 schools in the Englewood community have been cast as Track E (All year round schools) and start Monday, August 9th.

This may be viewed as a good or bad thing...Bad because its more time these students are subjected to a flaw system...Good because this means less kids off the street...All in all there are a few great events and activities for kids in the neighborhood to do, but the issue is getting the word out to the blocks!

For example when I am promoting for Docs & Dialogue, I make sure I hit the streets! This is when the real dialogue happens and you hear the concerns and interests of the residents.

Speaking of which Docs & Dialogue was another cultural phenomenal held July 24 at Culture Connection! Culture Connection is a hidden cultural treasure here in Englewood that is a black owned business! I was in awe that the youth who attended Docs was expose to the art, poster, clothing that are all culturally bound!

Just another experience in Englewood that was enriched with culture and networking with socially conscious folks...I love it!!

In the last weeks, Englewood welcomed thousands of students to clean up the vacant lots for national service day.

July 30, 2010 (CHICAGO) (WLS) -- College students are teaming up with local leaders to help bring a positive change to Englewood.

The students, who are from all across the country, are taking part in a service program called "Lots of Change." They spent the day cleaning vacant lots. After they finished, students took part in a rally at Sherman Park.

Mayor Daley was also there to discuss efforts to attract residents, resolve community problems... And to also express his gratitude to the two-thousand volunteers.

"I just want to thank you for the inspiration. Now, it's up to this community to be inspired. They see you come in here, and you volunteer. And now it's up to all the residents in this community to keep this park clean," said Mayor Daley.

Friday was a service day for the volunteers who are part of the International Campus Ministry Conference.The event was a response to President Obama's national call to service.

http://abclocal.go.com/wls/story?section=news/local&id=7585026

In other news, Terina Crenshaw-Hodges founder of Stay Environmentally Focus'd recently held a Community Solution Forum which focus on combating violence collectively with other organizations. This is actually what is a need a collaborative forum with folks working collectively....

Way to go Terina, she also spearheaded the "New Heritage Station Community Garden" site...link here for more info click the link or the preview the video:  http://www.chicagotribune.com/topic/wgntv-new-englewood-garden-july14,0,5039767.story?track=rss-topicgallery

Here are a few more feel GOOD family fun events happening in Englewood during the month of August:

• August 7th-9am-5pm-Unity Olympics at Ogden Park 65th & Racine
• August 21st-10am-4pm-2nd Annual Family Fun Festival @Hamilton Park Cultural Center 513 W. 72nd St.
• August 21st-2:30pm-4pm-Docs & Dialogue @Hamilton Park Cultural Center 513 W. 72nd St.
• August 21st-6pm-Midnight-Customer Appreciation Party @Culture Connection 400 W. 71st (71st & Stewart)
• August 28th-10am-3pm-Back to School Parade starting at 55th & Halsted ending at Ogden Park

Wow...what a fun filled summer and these are only a few of the events happening!! Stay tuned for more updates...As always TAKE ACTION to CREATE the life you truly desire!!

How valuable is the life of a young black youth???

In the last few weeks, Englewood has been all over the news which is nothing new, but its some of these stories came to close to home. We all heard the story about the cop who was gundown with his own gun at 61st & Racine, this story receive huge media coverage. (Photo below)

I am not shock as this is a huge story however, I find it shocking that when a young black male is killed it may be a quick account then its on to the next newsworthy event.

Do we not value our youth's life to the point we treat their deaths as roadkill or are we desensitized to the point that its the norm?

Well I am starting to feel that way, after hearing about a 16 year old boy from my block was recently gun down. There was brief coverage then the story fell to the waste side like many of stories of youth shootings.

This was a sad case where one brother rob someone and the victim came back with the vengeance and didn't care who in the family he got...he was determine to kill someone. I found out later from the streets that the young male was robbed for only about $350...is this what a young black male life is valued at?

I typically use this blog to highlight feel good stories, but this was just too close to home to not talk about. RIP "Ant Ant" your life is highly valued to me and to your love ones you left behind...

The Deborah Movement Presses On!!!

So as I spoke about before the Deborah Movement which was created under the umbrella of the Black Star Project is moving full speed ahead!! The Black Star Project is well known in our community for mentoring, tutoring, advocacy of education, the black family and other issues that plagued our community.

The Deborahs is a spiritually driven, woman based movement that has gained national and international attention. The movement is growing to the point that there are chapters on the north, south, west, & south suburbs. A Deborah Movement recently developed a chapter in Gary, IN as well as New Jersey who have already started their own chapter. So there is much progress & great energy amongst the women in this movement and it is a honor to be a part of such an active movement!

Well now we are ready to developed a solid operational plan and what better why to start the discussion then to invite a legend from the Black Panther Party. Wanda Ross the Chief Developer of the Breakfast program of the panthers graced our presence June 30th at the offices of Black Star and I must say the wisdom and direction she shared was exactly what the Deborah Movement needed to hear! Pointed out that "saving the world" is a lifetime commitment and in order to make a real change in our communities we must be in it for the long haul! Other advice that hit home is listening to the wisdom of our elders, one the short falls of the panthers was that many were young & dismissed the advice our elders or labeled them as too slow...This was a wake up call for me! Not that I don't listen to my elders but in this day & age us Generation X'ers feel it our time make a difference & later for the baby boomers.

After this discussion, I welcome our baby boomers with open hands especially as we developed our operational plan! Ms. Wanda Ross & other activist Ms. Helen Sinclair gave the Deborahs a since of hope to keep moving, as they both are 60 or older and still fighting the fight for justice & power for our people. So far with the many projects I am juggling I can say that this journey is truly a well worth "training" that will be vital as I progress in life.

Link here to a recent interview with fellows Deborahs by Marc Sims: http://www.youtube.com/user/VPChicago#p/u/8/oUAKTCfgUkY

The Deborah Movement Is in Action

Actions of the Deborah Movement

1) Friday, July 9, 2010 - Join the Deborahs with Father Michael Pfleger and the Faith Community of Saint Sabina on the corner of 7900 south and Cottage Grove (800 east), one of the most violent corners in Chicago, for "An Evening of Prayer" at 7:00 pm. Deborahs should arrive at 6:45 pm. Deborah Cynthia Flowers serving.

2) Saturday, July 10, 2010 - Join the Deborahs at Operation PUSH with Rev. Jesse Jackson, Sr., for a national back-to-school pep/prep rally at 950 East 50th Street in Chicago, Illinois at 9:45 am. Deborah Sister Afrika Porter serving.

3) Saturday, July 10, 2010 - Join The Deborah Movement as they usher for Professor Michelle Alexander and her book The New Jim Crow at Hartzell Memorial United Methodist Church at 3330 South King Drive, Chicago Illinois at 3:30 pm. Twenty-five (25) Deborahs will usher this event. This event is open to all Deborahs, to all women and all people. Deborahs Barbara Sanders and Ladell Johnson are serving.

4) Saturday, July 10, 2010 - Join South Suburban Deborahs at a funeral for Pierre Walker, a resident of the south suburb, who died in a swimming accident, at his funeral service, 10:00 am, St. Bethel M.B. Church, 1303 Fifth Avenue, Chicago, Heights, Illinois 60411. Funds are needed to bury Mr. Walker. Deborah Doris Williams serving.

5) Midnight, Sunday Night, July 11, 2010 - Join The Deborah Movement as they walk a midnight prayer patrol through one of the most violent districts in America. On Wedneday of this week, a police officer was killed two blocks from this patrol route. We need at least 6 Deborahs to walk from 59th and Woods to 59th and Halsted. We will meet at about 11:45 pm on Sunday night, July 11, 2010 at 59th and Woods to begin this midnight march. Deborah Shirley Hill is serving. Please call Dorothy at 773.285.9600 for more information.

6) Saturday, July 17, 2010 - Join the Deborahs for a "Peace and Victory March" beginning at Troy (3133 west) and Lawrence (4800 north) in Chicago, Illinois at 12:30 pm, to bring about awareness of youth violence, to put an end to the silence in the community and to find the killers of Lazarus Jones. There is a $10,000 reward for information leading to the conviction of the killers. Please call 312-742-4410 or Armitage Baptist Church at 773-384-HOPE with information. Deborah Pamela Hester-Jones and the North Side Deborahs are serving.

You should have a Deborah Movement in your community and in your city! Call 773.285.9600 to begin the process of organizing a Deborah Movement in your city.

Its time for a MOVEMENT!!!

I received several emails and heard many of the news reports publicizing the violence in  and the overall death rates in Chicago. I believe last weekend it was reported that over 54 people were shot.  As I work & partner with many groups and organizations it pains us all to hear about our children dying but we keep pressing on.

One of my goals and even my recent status on FB was to stop wasting time trying to STOP VIOLENCE we can use our time to CREATE PEACE!! If we continue to focus on the shootings, the murders, and the violence overall we will continue to get violence! Anything you focus or give attention to can easily become a reality. So I continue to focus on PEACE, LOVE, EDUCATION, HAPPINESS, etc...which is becoming the reality of my world and others who interact with me.

This is the reason I am in awe with the So Fresh Saturday Project. These youth driven events are captures the essence of PEACE, EDUCATION, ART while embracing & teaching our youth! I couldn't ask for a better opportunity to CREATE PEACE then to host a event at the PEACE Center. The PEACE Center is a safe haven in Englewood located at the 6455 S. Peoria. The people who run the center are dedicated to providing our youth a "safe space" in the root of a crime ridden community. I was honor to host Docs & Dialogue here to showcase the Willie Lynch Letter & another powerful film, "A War for your Soul".

During this event we surprisingly had many young black males which was perfect for the topic. We open with a creative young poet LS (photo left) and dive right in a discussion lead by Social Justice professor of KKC, Fred Douglass Dixon (photo above) who wasted no time speaking about the social injustices that faced the our young black males which is directly related to our past experiences.

 

By the end of the second short film, our young leaders spoke one by one about how the film made them feel empowered and destined to break the Willie Lynch curse. Honestly, hearing these comments almost brought tears to my eyes! We always say if we can touch 1 or 2 of the kids who attend Docs & Dialogue we are content! I can proudly say this was accomplished!!

Our guests included several African American adult males who offer the young males their contact info in order to keep in touch as a mentor or just another point of contact if the boys needed it. One resident of Englewood is a well known filmmaker & producer (photo below) offer his services to any one who is interested in pursuing a career in the film industry. This is what I am talking about!!

Connecting resources, educating, dialogue that embraces critical thinking, creative expression and just an overall safe space is the true essence of So Fresh Saturdays...We are grateful for all who shared these great moments in creating a PEACE environment for our future leaders...










Our next Docs & Dialogue is July 24th, due to feedback from our youth we will showcase a documentary that exposing the music industry. What are all these symbols, signs, and references to demonic entities...Is this a trend or is there any truth to these conspiracies theory??? We will see....