BHM edition Global Eyes Magazine 2015

gggggloballoballoballoballobal eeeeeyyyyyesesesesesManitoba African and Caribbean Quarterly Magazine

4THQUARTERFebruary 2015

PEACE

BlacBlacBlacBlacBlackkkkkHistoryHistoryHistoryHistoryHistoryMonthMonthMonthMonthMonth20152015201520152015

Robert Falcon Ouellette

Keisha Booker

GUEST ARTST AND MINISTER KAY MORRIS

Andre Hylton

SHERLINE CROSS - DOLLMAKR

Global Eyes Magazine February 2015 2

Reflection

Gimme That Ole Time Religion

SHERROD CHESTER

Looking through my personal lensone can emphatically argue thatdiversity and inclusion in the workplacecan be viewed as a new “paradigmshift” in which there are no barriers inplace to define an individual or group.In my opinion, fostering a diverse andinclusive workplace reflects a culturewhere every individual is accepted,regardless of race, ethnicity, religion,disability, gender, sexual orientation,age, economic status or other factors.

Employers do have a personalresponsibility to foster and promote adiverse and inclusive workplace bypromoting values that attract a widerange of talents while providing thenecessary means to successfullyintegrate new employees into theworkplace. All individuals, includingAboriginal people, members of visible

minority groups and persons with adisability would be appreciated fortheir unique contributions. In manyspectrums this mandate is not alwayssupported in our society. As a matterof insight, employment promotionsshould be granted based on merit,equity and fairness; availability of asafe forum for employees to sharetheir ideas on building a diverse andinclusive workplace; and, creatingand supporting employee groups fornetworking and mentoringopportunities. Employers can alsoannually communicate theircommitment to diverse and inclusiveworkplaces by challenging attitudinalbarriers, supporting learningactivities, and ensuringaccountability for hiring a diversework force.

Employees also have amandate to respect and showappreciation for the core values ofboth the workplace and each other.Furthermore, employees shouldcontinue to demonstrate respectfulworkplace behaviours and celebratedifferences through socialactivities, including potlucks andinformal learning events.

When employers andemployees strive to achieve adiverse and inclusive workplace,the organization’s culture isenriched, and can better reflect andserve the general public. Myquestion is very simple, can we allsafely conclude that our workplacereflects the values of diversity andinclusion in a wholesome manner?

It was an ole time religion rock ofage’s gospel concert with choirs thatrocked the house down and guestartistes and Minister Kay Morris thatsummoned the conservative PastorDeborah Olojuku to her feet dancingsolo to the uplifting sounds of musicand workship. Sister Morris let it beknown that she was not an entertainerbut a Minister and she ministered to thepeople with inspiring and entertainingsongs and choruses. Held on February 21, 2015 at theImmanuel Church of God, the 2015flagship event attracted more than 300people who packed the Church topartake of the sumptuous feast for thesoul. The program comprises of toprated choirs such as World VillageGospel Choir, All Nations Full Gospel

Choir, Winnipeg Adventist Choir andthe Immanuel Gospel Singers. The lovely Keisha Bookerdelivered a beautiful solo and thecommunity poet in residenceBancroft Williams made it clear inhis poem “Our colour is black andwe’re not going back”.”, and noblack history event would becomplete without the drummingfrom the Motherland, which KBFujumelody ably provided. AndreHylton, talented gospel singerperformed a couple solos and thenjoined Rhonda Thompson and MsMcLeod as backup singers for theheadliner Guest artist, the energeticKay Morris. There were a lot clap hands,smiles, head shaking and a general

atmtosphere of goodwill all around.It was an enjoyable evening.

Global Eyes Magazine February 2015 3 3

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IN THIS ISSUE Did you know p4Bring back our girls p5Briefs p5 Pilgrim Baptist pictorial7Kwanzaa p10Pilgrim Baptist Church p11Leg Up BHM Awards - p13Healthwise 14

Global Eyes is an independent magazine quarterly publicationdevoted to promoting cultural awareness of the African andCaribbean communities of Manitoba and highlighting theissues and concerns of these communities. It also aimsat promoting cultural diversity and appreciation. ItsIt features articles ranging from the achievements of local, national and international personalities and general informationthat are of interest to the African/Caribbeancommunity. It offers editorials with African/Caribbean sensibilities and letters to the editor. TheMagazine is produced under a volunteer editorialcommittee that assists with proof-reading, publicity anddistribution.

Mail cheque/Money Order to: Global Eyes Magazine (GEM)671 Rathgar Avenue,Winnipeg, ManitobaR3L 1G6


GLOBAL EYES

MAGAZINE

Neil Pitamber,

Lara Badmus, LLB

ACanadian-Guyanese writer, poet

GEM’s RegularContributors

Distributed to local businesses, and inWinnipeg and via email to individualsin Manitoba and former Manitobans invarious parts of the world.

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Editor: Beatrice Watson DIDDIDDIDDIDDID YYYYYOUOUOUOUOU KNOKNOKNOKNOKNOWWWWW?????

Winnipeg LawyerTIMES ARE A CHANGING

When you shop at ForestPeople Crafts you arehelping forest people supportthe crafters’families. We’reon the 2nd Floor #226 of TheFork’s Market, One Forks

THANK YOUWINNIPEG FOR 25GREAT YEARS ANDMORE TO COME

Capoeira is a Brazilian martial art thatcombines elements of dance, acrobaticsand music, and is sometimes referred toas a game. It was developed in Brazilmainly by African descendants withnative Brazilian influences, probablybeginning in the 16th century. It isknown by quick and complex moves,using mainly power, speed, and leveragefor a wide variety of kicks, spins, andhighly mobile techniques; at heart is theginga, the back-and-forth, foot-to-footmovement that serves as the startingpoint for such leverage. Capoeira usedin genuine self-defense situationsincorporates many sweeps and lowmoves, whereas when played as a gamethere is more emphasis on high moves,demonstrations of acrobatics, fullcartwheels (called au) for evasion, andflips or other exotic techniques bymestres (masters), and performing anentertaining match for the audience

A quilombo is a Brazilian hinterlandsettlement founded by people of Africanorigin including the Quilombolas, orMaroons. Most of the inhabitants ofquilombos (called quilombolas) wereescaped slaves and, in some cases, laterthese escaped African slaves would helpprovide shelter and homes to otherminorities of marginalised Portuguese,Brazilian aboriginals, Jews and Arabs,and/or other non-black, non-slaveBrazilians who experienced oppressionduring colonization.

******


Briefs

Congratulations to Barbadian bornKamau Braithwaite who authorednumerous books, taught at HarvardUniversity, New York University andUniversity of the West Indies and alsoserved in Ghana’s Ministry of Educationfor being honoured with the 2015recipient of the Poetry Society ofAmerica’s highest award.Mr. Kamau is the recipient of theprestigious the Frost Medal presentedannually for distinguished lifetimeachievement in poetry. The Poetry Society of America (PSA)the oldest in America was founded in1910 to create a public forum for theadvancement, enjoyment, andunderstanding of poetry. Through its manyprograms, contests, and awards, the PSAworks to build a larger audience for poetryand to encourage a deeper appreciation ofthe art.

THE CARIBBEAN SONSHINES BRIGHTER YET

Abdou Sarr a 17 year old Ottawa HighSchool student seemed to have struck goldwith an App “Celestial” he designed tocalm nerves. The App shows panoramicviews of calming settings – oceans,beaches, blue skies with matching sounds.

The App allows users to selectthrough different modes to helpthem sleep, relax or focus.Launched on Sunday March 9,2015, the App, which costs $1.19per download has already becomeone of the top 10 paid apps on theiTunes chart and reach No. 1 onthe health Chart. Sarr toldreporters he started working onthe App at 13 but he did not owna Mac. Once he got his Mac hetaught himself how to create theApp. Bravo.

BLACK STUDENT STRIKES GOLD

2015 BLACK HISTORY MONTHCOMMMITTEE

BHM HITORY LESSON ACTIVITIES -ARTS AND CRAFTS

REGGAE SINGER

Children showing off what they learned about their history

Nadia Thompson, Mavis McLaren, RhondaThompson,-Wilson, Pastor C. Layne, Pastor Dr.Brian Archer, Victor Vaughn, Shondell Babb,Tionne Shell, Joni Phutik Pastor S. Olukoju,Pastor M. Chambers, Jacqueline Sumter,Donna Jacques and Roland Headley.


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Editorial - Take One

Olukoju

Winnipeg’s BlackHistory MonthCommitteeprovided anexciting array of

activities this year. Each year seemsbetter than the last and for those whodo not make the time to attend,you’re missing a lot and you may bedenying your children orgrandchildren the opportunity oflearning about Black History withother children in a fun and excitingway. The Black History MonthCommittee which is made up of ahandful of people work hard to puttogether the best program they canwith the resources they have and allyou need to do is to show up andenjoy. This year’s Committee was

chaired by Nadia Thompson, whohas been part of the Committee andlearned at the feet of MavisMcLaren and the Late Wade KojoWilliams and she is very energeticand with her Committee areconstantly pushing the envelope toinclude more youths and cater tothe needs of seniors as well.Congratulations to all the membersincluding, Nadia Thompson, MavisMcLaren, Rhonda Thompson,-Wilson, Pastor C. Layne, PastorBrian Archer, Victor Vaughn,Shondell Babb, Tionne Shell, JoniPhutik Pastor S. Olukoju, Pastor M.Chambers, Jacqueline Sumter,Donna Jacques and RolandHeadley. As a Community we owethese people a debt of gratitude. All

of the events were well attended butthere could be more. We all have topush ourselves to support events that areorganized for our enjoyment andeducation to make it work andworthwhile. The two flagship BlackHistory Month events the GospelConcert and the Annual Banquet werewell attended with more than 400attendees at the Gospel Concert.

Participants at the Black History Lesson andYouth Debate

Our deepest condolence to all thosewho have lost loved ones during thisperiod. These passings rip our heartsout but it is also a reminder that weare not guaranteed tomorrow so liveyour life to the fullest now. Enjoy thebreath of life, speak your peace, love,laugh and cry if you will from ourhearts to your hearts.Special respects are paid to:

Condolences

Huggins family for the loss ofAtleath HugginsJones Family for the loss ofMatthew JonesHolder family for the loss of OnyxHolder ArjoonChishimba family for the loss ofWilliam K ChishimbaOlukoju and Olarundare familiesfor the loss of their fatherMay their souls rest in eternalpeace


The book is a“slave narrative”by author,Lawrence Hill, aCanadian ofmixed race. Thetelevision serieson CBC is basedon the book. It isundoubtedly awork of fact,skillfully crafted

into fiction, as Hill apparently has nofirsthand knowledge of the events thatoccurred in the 1700’s - the1800’s; therelevant period for his historical novel. This work is somewhat different frommany others of the same genre, such asthe age-old “Roots” and the more recent“The Butler”; and refreshingly so. Readon, to learn how.The main character, Aminata Diallo, an11 year old girl who was snatched fromher roots in her Malian village in 1775and shipped to Carolina, defies the oddsand rebels against “slavery mentality”.Extremely bright, proud and highlyintelligent, Aminata endures a life ofhard labour on an indigo plantation; aself-taught woman of numbers, she

proceeds into book-keeping for hersubsequent owner, while heedingthe occasional call to deliver babies– a skill she learned as a young girl,observing her mother “catch”babies.Undoubtedly, she personifies thetriumph of will power andeducation over a lowly estate. Sheachieves mastery of the “masters’tongue” and her oratory and literaryskills not only save her but spiralher into honorable recognition. Shefulfills her destiny as a master storyteller when she completes herautobiography during her final daysin London, England.I love how book reviewer, Kevin LeGondre, summarises this work ofart:“The Book of Negroes is a colossalachievement for the ingenuity withwhich fact and fiction interminglewithout any glib concessions tomelodrama. The evils of the slavetrade are the bare bones of this bookbut the fortitude and sheer strengthof spirit of the protagonist providethe real flesh, resulting in aheartrending yet inspiring story”. Lara Badmus, Winnipeg Lawyer

A NEW TWIST TO THE SLAVE NARRATIVE

Congratulations toPastor DeborahOlukoju for winningthe Prime MinisterVolunteer Award forthe Prairies. She isflaked by her husnabdSunda (lef abd PMStephen Harper andtwo friends fromWinnipeg.Award

BREAKING NEWS

POLITICAL REALITY

Donovan Martin, candidate in the2014 municipal elections in theOld Kildonan Council Wardshared his experience at the BlackHistory Lesson Event held at theJamaica Hall. He spoke aboutwhat it takes to run a successfulcampaign. He also spoke about thecompromises one is called to makewhich he took a principledposition against. However onreflection Martin realize that life isabout compromises. He believeshe is better prepared. He wasdrawn into municipal politicsbecause of a personal problemwith “driving on the sidewalk”which was not addressed to hissatisfaction, so set out to get intoCity Hall and take care ofbusiness. Getting into City hall orany political office requires a lot ofsupport which unfortunately, hedid not receive especially from hiscommunity. The Community needsto do more.

The funny guyAbdulla Husseinwas the moderatorfor the debate. Hekept the audiencein stitches as hekept the debate ontrack

Abdulla Hussein


Regulars

Global Counsellor

Letter to my children

Dear Global Counsellor,

I am a 28 year African Canadian maleengaged to a beautiful African Canadianwoman to be married in late summer. Ilove her more than anything and we’vebeen together for a long time practicallysince high school. There is no questionin my mind that we were meant for eachother but I have done something that I amnot proud of. I was out with a group ofguys the a few weeks ago and there werea bunch of girls throwing themselves atus and we were having a good time withthem and this one girl had a temporaryattraction for me and we started hangingout dancing and moved away from thegroup. I told her that I have a girl andeverything but one thing led to anotherand we made out eventually. Now I amriddled with guilt. I feel anger at theJezebel and blamed her in my mind formy weakness which I know is wrong. It’sme and why did I allow myself to betraymy soon to be wife and is this the type ofhusband I would be. Would I be like my

father who was cheater and hurt mymother so badly, something I swore Iwould never do. Now I am doubtingmyself and wondering what my nextstep would be. Should I tell myfiancée, should I talk to someone likea counsellor because this has shakenme to the core? What should I do?Messed up

Dear Messed upOkay so you made a mistake, you’refeeling guilty and this brings upinsecurity that about your inheritanceof cheating gene from your dad. Diginside and ask why you allowedyourself go down that route, whatwere you trying to prove, what wereyour thoughts. Are you feeling a bitof jitters about getting married feelinga little apprehensive trapped? Is itfear of cheating so you want to doyour cheating now before marriage?

What would happen if you confess toyour finance? What would be gained?You will feel some sort of release andshe will be left with doubts, fears, andchaos unhappiness. I do not think youshould burden her with thisinformation, if you are sure it is not adeeper issue of wanting out or changingyour mind about the marriage. Acceptresponsibility for what happen, forgiveyourself and do some thinking aroundwhat actions you would take to makesure this does not happen again. Thisis about you. You need to deal withyour own issues around infidelity,forgiving your father and knowing thatyou are not him. Drop that narrativeand embrace who you know you are. Ifyou believe in God go to God andsurrender your worries and make adecision to move forward with moreconfidence. You can do it.

My dear children.We’ve come a long way on the road tofreedom but not far enough. There areso many inequities still to battle manyof which stand as the silent guardsthat reach out and give that little pushback to where we were. Racism in alarge part has gone under and like theiceberg we see the little peak abovethe water like a watch tower of themountain below. It is difficult toverbalize some of the microaggressions that assault us on a dailybasis because they are so subtle. Itcreates an uneasiness that has no namebut those who feel it know what I amtalking about. The march to freedomis not over and we are not there. Themarch continues. During BlackHistory Month, we take pause toreflect on where we’ve been and

where we need to go. Getting agood education is one of the keysto future success and moreimportantly becoming the masterand mistress of your own destinyin the crowning glory. Mychildren to ensure the success ofour race we need brains, brawnand skills. My mother used to sayonce you have a trade you will notgo hungry. People always need atradesperson, to build a house, runtheir electricity, do their plumbing ,create stuff, make a dress, design ahouse, a yard, fix a car, alawnmower or plant food forothers to eat. You have to think ofbecome a producer rather than aconsumer, an n employer rather

than an employee. Being anemployee no matter how qualifiedyou are, you are at the mercy of theemployer and they let you know thatin no uncertain terms. You have totoe the line. Think outside the boxand think. You are limited only byyour thoughts

“Sometimes, I feeldiscriminated against, but itdoes not make me angry. Itmerely astonishes me. Howcan any deny themselves thepleasure of my company? It’sbeyond me.” Zora NealHurston

I kinda don’t do guilt. I gave it upfor Lent years ago.

Greg Boyle


CREATIVE EXPRESSIONS

NEIL PITAMBER

LAVA VENT Wouldn’t say ‘insomiac’Just a bit allergic to sleepCouldn’t say ‘amnesiac’I’m just nervous to repeatAll the things I tend to think about outloudI have the rage of one contained in a cloudOn a field of dreams destroyed by aploughWhere jagged teeth meet an empty houseCome around but not when easily arousedA psychadelic body mummified in ashroudAnd a neon exit sign marked ‘No WayOut’...Not MethuselaStill the rings around my eyesShould give some indicationSo long I’ve been awake I canSee Mars on the rise...

NOVENTISShe laughed when I said ‘I’m a farmer’’Planting lies and hoping to sew truth...(Not quite handsome for a country boyBut somehow rugged and very cute!)’I thought her ways were more ofWind than wineBut, as usual, I learned with time...Upon receipt of her invitationThen suspected a foundationHad been set (but sat unrevealed)She said, ‘I meant to tell you, Neil’’I’m going to be moving far awayYou may write to me if you feel like—’With results like stabbing air andExpecting blood with a pocket knifeShe, away, and I moved on sinceWisest to tatooed brows and painted smilesAnd eyelids with pupils that dilateShimmering like fresh snow when they blinkI fell to ashes - no pheonix roseNow admit to feelingindisposedBut you were long agoAnd his part of me no longerpines within...

Well al yu know thatwe celebrating blackhistory month inFebruary. I was veryfartunate to attendone a de secssions,whey dem young put

on a debate bout Martin Lurther andMalcom X bout who was a betterleader. Well boi buddy de place was ina uproar when dem young people fulla education mek dem points boi. I

WAS SOOOOO please to see deelders there supporting de youngfolks. When I went back home Ifeel good that we futha is in goodhands because of all de negativitywe hear bout de youths of today andde mouthing these ones surely havesome POSITIVE VIBRATIONS andI dam well proud of them and deresults of de secsssion was propa. Sherrod Chester

GAFFIN WID BUDDY


February air blew harshly againstthe exposed skin of my neck, instantlyfreezing me. Once more, I adjust theclasp of my shoulder strap as I half-halfheartedly wrap the scarf around mythroat. Winnipeg. A sight to behold;frigid winter, Slurpee capital and deathchampion. Its ashy streets blanked byfrothy ice, eerily complimented bystatuesque buildings spewing maliciousgases against the pale white of thewintry sky, a side dish offeredalongside the fast-paced environmentof the downtown bus shack. It felt awkward, to pause and takenotice of all these people trying to be inconstant motion, busily living lifethrough the shadow of theirtechnologies, selling their souls tolanthanide metals rather than eachother. It was a pitiful sadness thatalmost made me want to smile, I was adevil’s advocate at heart; the purpose ofit all was to be happy, but it onlyseemed as if things were getting faster,with no time for things like life orhappiness –inconsequential in thegrand scheme of things they say. Italways seemed to be pushed to theside, ‘If I do this, and I get that then I’ll

be happy’ an equation that neverseemed to equate to its answer,its momentary briefnessconstituting infinite events thatmost believe will make aneverlasting contentment withinthem.The bus came distributing thepeace without discrimination toevery foot that stood tapping withimpatience to get to theirdestination. The rush of peoplefilling in with no order northought for their elders -it was aplace of civilized barbarians. Itwas a wonder that indigenouscultures of living in isolation,matted with earth spirit are seenas unearthly beings. Look at thismarvelous creation. Press this,order that all within the span ofminutes –getting all the heartsdesires. Yet we find ourselveswanting more and so we pressfaster, binging until our souls areoverflowing baskets of toys. Weopen our feeds, scrolling throughthousands of emotions,becoming immune to our

defining characteristics –the sentientbeing.But, the truth was. We are afraid. Longago when we stood on the ancientplains of the land of the sun, we didnot care for this idolized lack ofpigment, but rather the truth for ourcommunities, from where we standwith our flock and deities. Now weconstituent suits and ties for theformality of eloquence disregardingformal etiquette that is found in thesilence of our moralconsciousness

The Sentient - Short shortstory

Lookingthrough mypersonal lensone can arguethat diversityand inclusionin theworkplace is a

new “paradigm shift” in which thereare no barriers in place to define anindividual or group. I believe thatfostering a diverse and inclusiveworkplace reflects a culture whereevery individual is accepted,regardless of race, ethnicity, religion,

disability, gender, sexualorientation, age, economic statusor other factors.

Employers are responsiblefor fostering diversity andinclusivity in the workplace andthey can do so by by promotingvalues that attract a wide rangeof talents while providing thenecessary means to successfullyintegrate new employees intothe workplace. All individuals,including Aboriginal people,members of visible minoritygroups and persons with adisability would be appreciated

for their unique contributions. Thisidea or mandate is not always supportedin our society. As a matter of insight,employment promotions should begranted based on merit, equity andfairness. Employers should also create asafe space for employees to share theirideas on building a diverse and inclusiveworkplace; and they shouldf encourageand create, employee groups fornetworking and mentoringopportunities. Employers can alsoannually communicate theircommitment to diverse and inclusiveworkplaces by challenging attitudinal

Editorial/Opinion Column - Sherrod Chester

.RuthMesgna is aphilanthropist,humanitarianand an activevolunteerprimarilyinvolved withgenderequality,communitydevelopmentandindigenous andnon-indigenousunderstanding and dialogue promotingbetween peoples of Canada. She has apassion for education namely science,literacy, and theater.

continud on p11


barriers, supporting learningactivities, and ensuringaccountability for hiring a diversework force.

Employees also have a mandateto respect the core values of boththe workplace and each other.Furthermore, employees shouldcontinue to demonstrate respectfulworkplace behaviours and celebratedifferences through social activities,including potlucks and informallearning events.

When employers andemployees strive to achieve adiverse and inclusive workplace, theorganization’s culture is enriched,and can better reflect and serve thegeneral public. MY question is verysimple, can we all safely concludethat our workplace reflects thevalues of diversity and inclusion ina wholesome manner

“I dream of the day when my fivechildren can go anywhere in this city and Ido not have to fear for their safety,” saidFalcon Ouellette guest speaker at the 2015Black History Month Annual CommunityAwards Banquet held at the JamaicanCultural Centre on February 28, 2015. Erudite son of the Red Pheasant FirstNations whose father left the family whenhe was young, Ouellette said he grew upknowing what it means to live in poverty. Afraid that poverty could also be the fateof her two sons, Ouellette said his motherbegan imagining a better and brighter futurefor them. She began serious contemplatingof how to ensure a better future for herchildren and saw a good education as theticket out but she had no money. She was aworking poor. However, through somecreative financial manoeuvres that bumpedup her salary on paper she was able toborrow $15,000 from the Bank and theytold her to come back if she wanted more.With that money she enrolled Ouellette inone of the the best private schools in Canada– Stradcona Tweeds Muir“No one was going to judge me. What theysaw was a student. My marks were goodand even better than some of the privilegedchildren who attended the school.” After a few years “my mother said to me,it’s time to have more experience. I’msending you to France.”“I’m not interested in going to France” I toldher “I want to go to South Africa” Ouellettesaid because he was impacted by two bookshe had read that came out from South Africawhich he encouraged the audience to read –I Cry my Beloved Country by Alan Patonand The Power of One by Bryce Courtenay,That’s where I went. “When I arrived in South Africa in 1994there was a protest going on and two peoplewere killed. A lot was happening then” hesaid and added “I settled in Natal Durbanthe home of the Zulu people and I attendedHilton College, the best Private School in

South Africa. Changes werehapping in South Africa”Ouellette said he observed a lot offear there. He said White folkswere afraid and they’d say thingslike “we aren’t even sure that thesepeople are human beings.” Theywere afraid of Mandela and whathe was going to do. Change wascoming. Ouellette said he sawpeople lined up for two days to vote. “As indigenous people we share acommon experience with Blackpeople. We have been fighting foryears... we live in a divided city andthere is opportunity for a new vision”he said adding “we need change and weneed more people to vote.” He recalled that it was in 1957Indigenous people were given theright to vote but acknowledged thatJim Crow laws are still in force andit affects us in Canada. “Your votecounts. One vote can make adifference.”Stepping into the political mode,Ouellette urged the audience to tell theirfriends, everyone they know to go outand vote when the time comes.“Change is coming now. Do not beafraid. We can work together”Ouellette speech resonated with thecrowd and even more so when he

said that their adopted daughter isbiracial a mixture of Aboriginal andJamaica. He said he has to get to knowthe Jamaican community a little betterso his daughter will know herhistory and culture. Ouellettereceived a standing ovation.

I HAVE A DREAM SAYS ROBERT FALCON OUELLETTE

Sherrod Chester


- “Until the philosophy which holdsone race superior and anotherinferior. Until the colour of a man’sskin is no more significant than thecolour of his eyes. Until there’s nomore First Class or Second Classcitizen of any nation. Until thatday... ‘Bob Marley -War” As a two-time Liberal candidatewho has always been very active inthe West End, and a strong advocatefor the environment, child care andother issues, I am proposing that wesee the article in Maclean’sMagazine titled Winnipeg is themost racist city in Canada” as anopportunity to look at ourselves onthe issue of racism. My experienceliving in Toronto for five years,Vancouver one year, and now inWinnipeg since 1999 is why I amoptimistic that we can overcomecolour and class issues successfully. We all know what we need to dowithin ourselves to be moreaccepting of our neighbours, friendsand associates. I am sure many of ushave enjoyed the kindness andcompassion of people outside of ourrace and ethnicity. So, what’s missing one could ask?Music. I believe the city needs tohave more entertainment throughoutthe year. Folklorama and the varioussummer festivities are clearexamples of how we can bridge ourdifferences and come together inharmony. I guarantee you that if thearticle’s author, Nancy Macdonald,was to focus more on the ways inwhich diverse peoples in Winnipegcome together and interact with oneanother during the summer the storyline would have been different. ‘Actions speak louder than words.

Talk is cheap. For those of us whoare interested in uniting ourcommunity and the GreaterWinnipeg area - take a look what Iam doing in the West Endneighbourhood: Block parties on Lipton Streetevery Canada Day. This will beour 3rd year organizing this event;.Organizing the longest street salestretching from Portage Avenue toNotre Dame and a perfect way tomeet’n greet your neighbours.Dancin’ in the street. Kids playingfreely with other neighbours’ kidssome for the first time in fiveyears. Barbequing and eatingalways bring many smiles.- Established the CRIG’s list(Community ResidentialImprovement Guide) - neighbourshelping neighbours. The listconsists of folks who have skils tosell or share in the neighbourhood,and want to help others. Travelling to close proximityfarms and get fresh produce todistribute to local senior homes inthe West End. Every Christmas Iprovide a very special treat, singingwith the Seniors in a ChristmasSing-a-long in the West End. So here’s the question that needsto be asked, ‘From my actions, doyou think that I am discriminatedagainst in any way, shape or form? Here’s something to ponder -after eight months of lobbyingCity Hall on numerous occasions,making a nuisance of myself to allmedia houses for the official namechange from ‘Garbage Day’ to‘Recycle Day’, producing arecycling documentary, it was notuntil Matt Cundill of Power97agreed with the idea before others

embrace the name change. My wish is that one day when ideasare presented, that theywill beexamined on its merit and not one’spolitical persuasion or colour of skin. The ultimate measure of a man is notwhere he stands in moments of comfortand convenience, but where he standsat times of challenge and controversy.Martin Luther King, Jr. Yes We Can - Barack Obama

MELLISA YAW: THER SECRETLIFE - A COLLECTION OF SHORT

STORIES

Winnipeg is full of talent but oftenthey leave for greener pastures in the big

city, so did MelissaYaw, graduate ofUniversity ofWinnipeg and FortRichmond HighSchool, who recentlypublished her firstnovel “The SecretLife” which is acollection of shortstories dealing withdeception, masksand denial. Yaw

tackles these tough issues with maturity.Mental health is a theme that runs througha lot of the stories. Asked whether sheherself struggles with mental illness, Yawsays no, but people close to her - closefriends have some of these issues andthat’s why she was inspired to write thebook. Part of the procoeeds from the saleof the book goes to support the work ofmental health charities. You can find TheSecret Life on Amazon, Chapters andMcNally Robinson’s bookstores.

This is a great read, well writtenand fast moving. The cover was designedby Yaw’s cousin, Bahia Watson. Congratsto both. Pick up your copy today.

BUILDING BRIDGES - DON WOODSTOCK


In our results-orientedsociety it’s difficult to letgo of the conditioningthat there has to be a goalor a reward at the end of

the rainbow. Competition reignssupreme even if we are competingagainst ourselves. It could be aboutbeing the top of the class; having themost sales or simply having theprettiest home in the neighbourhood.Yoga teaches us non-striving.When we were children, we playedjust for the fun of it. Wouldn’t it benice to adopt that same attitude when itcomes to our practice? The beauty ofyoga is that there is no goal. Yoga issimply the practice of coming to themat consistently. The by-product ofthe practice is the benefits we gain.Benefits such as reduced physical painor anxiety, a more flexible body andthe ability to concentrate.Whatever the reason we come to yoga,whether it be: relief from physical or

emotional pain, because the doctorsaid it was good for us, or justwanting to know what all the fuss isabout. Try practicing without anagenda. Not trying to conquer aparticular pose or master a breathtechnique. Simply arrive at your mat,open and willing to experiencewhatever arises. No pressure, noexpectation. In yoga, we call thisbeginner’s mind. Discover howliberating this can be and take a pageout our kids note book, just do it forthe fun of it. Give no results yoga ashot and when you do, share yourexperience with a friend.

If you would like a yoga ormeditation class for your communityorganization or would like to attendRoslyn’s classes at Serene YogaStudio you can contact her [email protected] or visittheir websitewww.sereneyogastudio.com

Lifestyle Health Welness Yoga and Results

Donovan Martin Jr. performed thetask of emcee at the Black HistoryLesson Event held at the Jamaica Halland he was awesome. He is wellspoken, confident and could read well.Good job.

What is better than the gift ofeducation! You can help schoolchildren in Jamaica get aneducation through a fundraisingprogram started here in Winnipeg.

The fundraising program hopesto raise $20,000.00 (CAD) toassist as many families as possibleto send their kids to school. The Education project will beacccepting donations of schoolsupplies, including backpacks andrunners. Joining the cause is AnitaJacobson with Epicure. The themeof Epicure’s summer conference is“Inspire Good” by helping youthadvance their education and livesAnita feels we are improving theworld of tomorrow. In addition, Epicure’s nextincentive trip is to Jamaica “Afundraising party has been set upon my website, just go towww.AnitaJacobson.MyEpicure.comand shop, at the checkout you justneed to select the JamaicaEducation Fund for the hostessand then the orders willautomatically be applied to thefundraiser.” There will also be an I-tal/Jamaican Cookbook coming outlater this spring as a fundraiser forthis project. The book will be fullof mouth-watering Jamaican foodsand drinks. For more information on theproject go the facebook page:https://www.facebook.com/pages/Jamaica-Education-Fundraiser/969458533066480You can also email Sonia [email protected]

Donovan Martin Jr coolest MC

Fundriaising effort tosend children to school

Man a gaff a yaard

Dr. Ali Karimbrought greeetings toBlack History AnnualCommunity AwardsBanquet on behallf ofthe the Council forCaribbeanOrganizations of MBInc. Dr. Karim is thecurrent Chair.


HEALTHWISE

Let your food bemedicine and yourmedicine be food.Hippocrates

TUNE IN TO RAS RICOI SELASSIE AT CKUW

95.9 FM - RADIO TOAWAKEN THE MIND

CAULIFLOWERDressed UpLow Carb Delight

Ingredients:1 large head of Cauliflower cutinto bite size pieces (approx 6cups)6-8 strips of bacon cooked andcrumbled (Cooked in oven at400° for 20 mins)6 Tbs chopped Chives

1/2 cup Mayonnaise1/2 cup Sour Cream2 cups Colby JackCheese ( may usecheddar)8 oz container slicedmushrooms

MethodPreheat oven to 425°In a large pot boil water and cookCauliflower for 8 - 10 minutes,drain and let cool.In a large bowl combine sourcream, mayo, 1/2 of crumbledbacon, 3 tbs chives, 1 cups ofcheese,mushrooms andcauliflower and mix well... placein baking dish and cover withremaining 1 cup of cheese andrest of bacon crumbles. Bake for15-20 minutes until cheese ismelted. top with remaining 3 T

Gem of Wisdom

Layered Salad Cake in aPan

1 head iceberg lettuce1/4 cup chopped purple onion1/2 cup chopped celery1/2 cup chopped green pepper1/2 cup chopped, fresh mushrooms12 oz. package frozen peas, thawed2 cups real mayonnaise2 Tablespoons sugar or honey1/4 lb. grated cheddar cheese (I likeextra sharp)1 lb. lower-sodium bacon, fried,cooled and crumbled

MethodRemove core fromhead of lettuce. Cuthead into quarters.Carefully seperate thelettuce layers. Put halfof them in the bottomof a 9 x 13, glass cakepan. Top with half of the onion,half of the celery, half of the greenpepper, half of the mushrooms, andhalf of the frozen (thawed) peas.Combine the mayo with the sugar.Spread half of the mayo mixtureover the salad. Top with half of thecheese and half of the bacon.Repeat with another salad layer,starting with lettuce and endingwith bacon. Cover cake pan tightlywith foil. Place in refrigerator andchill for at least 12 hours and up to24 hours. Cut into 8 to 12 squarepieces. Salt and pepper to taste.Serve.

If you drive a car you know of theimportance of regular tune up andwhat would happen if you fail to doso Things fall apart. Well yourrelationship is no different. Sometimes we get careless aboutour relationship and think everythingis okay because no one’s complaining.This could not be further from thetruth. Your relationship needs regulartune up if it is to function properly.You want to keep each other engaged,fall in love again and again with eachother. The worst thing you can do ina relationship is to take each other forgranted . How to keep your relationship aliveand tuned up:1. Show appreciation andcompassion for each other i.e.if yourpartner is a bit grouchy sometimeshave compassion instead of matchinghis or her mood. Ask how you canhelp, it can surprise you how simplegestures of kindness can workwonders;2. Have regular date nights,invest in your relationship even if youhave to spend a few dollars inbabysitting fees. You are the corefactor in a relationship and if the coreis strong the family is strong. 3. Surprises are always fun andappreciated. A chocolate bar, a singlerose or a love poem you wroteyourself while at work and thinkingabout your partner.4. Go for regular walks together andmake sure you hold hands, the energyfrom your hands mingle together tocreate a peace, calm and lincreasedemotion. This is not for show. Thereis something energetic about holdinghands. Try it often.5. Make time to have meaningfulconversations and joke with eachother over a cup of tea or a glass ofwine. These simple tune ups will keepyour relationship fresh and positivelyhappier.


Leg Up

CONGRATULATIONSTO BHM AWARDRECIPIENTS

Victor Vaughn (R)presents award to Greg

Gaskin

Roland Headleypresents award toJohn Williams (r)

Clyde Heerah

Dr. Brian Archer presents award to Laurise Sterling (r)

Ken Opaleke (l) receives award fromRhonda Thompson

Tionne Shell receives awardfrom Pastor Layne

Emaline Jackson receives award fromMavis McLaren

Laurise Sterling, ReligionCyntha Paton Wahl EducationClyde Heerah - MusicLois Patterson - Community ServiceTionne Shell - YouthGregory Gaskin - Community ServiceJohn Williams - MusicKen Opaleke - Education

Emaline Jackson - LifetimeAchievement Award Anna Tynes accepted Pilgrim BaptistChurch’s - Long Service AwardShondell Babb accepted Lois Patter’sAward and ... accept Cynthia PatolWahl’s award.

Anna Tynes receives award from JaeSumter

NadiaThomson, Chair of 2015 BHMCommittee


There was a fierce but friendlydebate between two teamscomposed of young men and womenabout two dominant historicalpersonalities when it comes to BlackHistory and the Civil RightsMovement in the United States ofAmerica that engage ourimagination. As Blacks we love andrespect both men but the questionalways comes up about whosestrategy was more effective inbringing an end to Jim Crow Lawsof segregation and systemic racism.

BE IT RESOLVED THAT Martin Luther King’s Leadership Style wasmore effective than Malcolm X

The event was well attended and bythe look of pride on the faces of theseniors in the room, you know theywere impressed by the eloquence ofeach of the debater. They were allwell prepared and delivered theirarguments with conviction andpassion. On the Martin side, the main pointdriven home was that violence begetviolence and Martin prevailedbecause he is the one with thegoodies, a holiday in his name and a

revered place in history. On theMalcolm side, the argument was thattalk is cheap and if there was not aviolent reaction to the violencemeted out against Blacks we mighthave still been marching for peaceand nothing to show for it. There were no winners or losers. Itwas not that kind of debate. Thedebate provided an opportunity foryouths to express their opinions andsharpen their critical thinking skillsand so they were all winners.

Michael Archer, 2nd Year, Bachelorof Commerce student at U of M.

Sappfyre McLeod, Founder:Bridges Building Bridges,NGO to help youths.

Ruth Mesgna(see p10).

Matthew Wheeler is a FinancialEducator for World Financial Group anda member, Truth & Life Worship Centre

Lulu Lipumba, U of M sudent of Economics- Tanzanian

Albert Hallonda, Kenyan, BusinessManagement student at U of M

Taffi, Science and Actuarial Mathematicsstudent at U of M - Zimbabwean

OPPOSING TEAM MEMBERS

BHM edition Global Eyes Magazine 2015

Documents

Transcript of BHM edition Global Eyes Magazine 2015