HOUSTON, Dec. 21 /PRNewswire/ — The Black Broadcasting Network (BBN), an African American owned and operated Cable Network by Pioneers, Entertainment Attorney Ricky Anderson and Yusef Muhammad, is now available on Verizon FiOS TV Video on Demand (VOD).
BBN is available nationwide (from New York to Los Angeles) on Verizon FiOS TV. The 24/7 network targets an under-served urban 18-34 demographic. BBN programming will focus on popular entertainment and a variety of program genres featuring African American and Latino artists, casts, comedians, producers, filmmakers and athletes. Genres include the latest in movies, music, music videos, independent films, black college sports, reality shows, comedy, and current affairs.
“We are excited about our affiliation with Verizon FiOS TV,” says Attorney Ricky Anderson, Black Broadcasting Network’s Chairman/CEO. “This day established our existence in Broadcast Cable. The Network will focus on programming that is appealing, interesting, entertaining and culturally relevant to urban viewers today.”
Black Broadcasting Network targets the underserved viewers through its unique programming niche. Notable programs include coverage of popular Black College Sports, the Premier Basketball League, Ringside Boxing, Films and an exclusive library of original productions. BBNs strongest competitive advantage is a non-traditional approach, to be where the audience is–on multiple platforms including linear, VOD, broadband and mobile.
“Black Broadcasting Network is the dominant source of programming for Black Audiences and the newest addition in Black Television. BBN attracts today’s urban audience – an audience who not only creates popular culture, but maintains it as an integral part of their identity,” says Yusef Muhammad, President/COO of Black Broadcasting Network. “BBN offers an outlet for Indie producers to showcase their talent across multiple platforms.”
About Black Broadcasting Network
Black Broadcasting Network (BBN), America’s newest 24-hour, cable channel, is created specifically for today’s hip, urban viewer. We deliver a mix of movies, sports and original programming, providing our audience with the latest in black films, music, comedy, and positive urban lifestyle programming. Our viewers will get programming they can’t find anywhere else, appealing to a hipper, younger audience while delivering current and modern entertainment they crave. www.blackbroadcasting.com
NEW YORK, Dec. 17 /PRNewswire/ — Today ESSENCE magazine announces its third annual ESSENCE Black Women in Hollywood Luncheon to be held during Oscar Week on March 4, 2010 at the Beverly Hills Hotel. Honoring four extraordinary women making a significant impact in Hollywood, this star-studded event commemorates ESSENCE magazine’s annual Hollywood issue and will pay tribute to a special milestone in 2010; the 40th Anniversary of ESSENCE magazine. The esteemed honorees for the 2010 event include: Queen Latifah (Power Award), Zoe Saldana (Star to Watch Award), Mary J. Blige (Songstress of the Year) and Gabourey Sidibe (Best Breakthrough Performance).
“Our annual Black Women in Hollywood Luncheon is taking on special meaning in 2010 as we are celebrating the 40th Anniversary of ESSENCE magazine by paying homage to phenomenal women throughout the year,” said ESSENCE editor-in-chief Angela Burt-Murray. “We are proud to carry the ESSENCE legacy into the future by honoring the accomplishments of such brilliant performers as Latifah, Zoe, Mary J., and Gabourey, whose incredible talent and sheer grit are serving to change the face of Hollywood.”
Queen Latifah is not only a celebrated television and film actress, but also a gifted musician, as well as an established author and entrepreneur. As a one-woman entertainment conglomerate, Latifah’s rise has been nothing short of remarkable–landing her a place in history as the first hip-hop artist to be given a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame in 2006. That same year, her work in the critically-acclaimed musical, Chicago, garnered her an Oscar nomination for Best Supporting Actress, a Golden Globe nomination and a SAG Award nomination for her groundbreaking portrayal of Mama Morton. Following Chicago, Latifah starred in Disney’s box office hit Bringing Down the House, in which she also acted as executive producer. For her work in the HBO film Life Support, in which she was both the star and executive producer, she won both a Golden Globe and SAG Award. Receiving her breakthrough role in Spike Lee’s Jungle Fever followed by a noteworthy starring role in Set it Off, Latifah has gone on to star in box office favorites such as Hairspray, Mad Money, The Secret Life of Bees, Last Holiday and Beauty Shop, just to name a few. No stranger to the small screen, Latifah’s first television series, Living Single, was enormously successful and remains in syndication. Her production company, Flavor Unit Entertainment, is currently co-producing the sports-driven romantic comedy, Just Wright, in which she will also star.
Zoe Saldana has shown she can hold her own in major blockbuster productions and has proven herself to be an amazing Hollywood star on the rise. After landing her first leading role as a ballet dancer in the film Center Stage, her turn as a leading lady in both the college-set drama Drumline and romantic comedy Guess Who followed shortly thereafter. Over the past decade, Saldana has grown into stand-out performances in popular films such as Avatar and Star Trek and continues to demonstrate the versatility necessary for longevity in Hollywood. Saldana has much to look forward to in 2010 having recently wrapped several films including Takers with Matt Dillon and Hayden Christensen; action adventure The Losers opposite Idris Elba; and comedy Death at a Funeral with Chris Rock. In addition, Saldana is set to reprise her role as Uhura in the upcoming untitled Star Trek sequel set for 2011.
As one of the greatest singers of our time, Mary J. Blige‘s accomplishments are beyond impressive. A multi-faceted mogul and philanthropist, with a career spanning 15 years–including nine Grammy awards, eight multi-platinum records, and over 40 million albums sold–she has lent her tremendous talent this year to the official soundtracks for two powerful films with original songs: “I Can See in Color” from Precious: Based on the Novel Push by Sapphire and “Stronger” from the Lebron James documentary, More than a Game. “Stronger” tells a moving story and Blige performs it beautifully and authentically–exploring issues surrounding people standing by one another through the difficult times. And, “I Can See in Color” is a raw, passionate and emotional tale of both pain and promise, which has been attracting considerable attention and speculation as a serious contender for an Academy Award. Blige not only contributed as an artist but also co-executive produced the soundtrack to Precious through her music, TV and film company, Matriarch Entertainment. Additionally this year, she made star turns in Tyler Perry’s I Can Do Bad By Myself, 30 Rock, and Entourage. Co-owner of the successful beauty line, Carol’s Daughter, Mary is an entrepreneur and entertainer, as well as a dedicated philanthropist. Through FFAWN (Foundation For The Advancement Of Women Now) Mary’s mission is to inspire women from all walks of life to gain the confidence and skills they need to reach their fullest potential. Blige is currently set to release her ninth studio album, Stronger with Each Tear, featuring the single, “I Am.”
Gabourey ‘Gabby’ Sidibe has wowed the public and taken the industry by storm with her compelling breakthrough role as the title character in Precious: Based on the Novel Push by Sapphire, which is garnering serious awards buzz. With the film winning numerous prestigious awards, including the Sundance Film Festival Audience and Grand Jury Awards, it’s been a whirlwind year for the young actress, who was a student pursuing a degree in psychology when she was cast in Precious. A native New Yorker, Sidibe is the daughter of R&B/gospel singer Alice Tan Ridley. Next up for Gabourey is the Showtime pilot The C-Word opposite Laura Linney for director Bill Condon and the film, Yelling to the Sky.
The ESSENCE Black Women in Hollywood Luncheon is an annual event to honor African-American women, who through their work in Hollywood–both in front of the camera and behind-the-scenes–have helped to change and inspire positive images of Black women in television and film. The red-carpet celebration, which simultaneously exudes old-Hollywood glamour and modern style, also commemorates ESSENCE magazine’s annual Hollywood issue.
The inaugural event, which took place in 2008, honored Jada Pinkett-Smith (Power Award), Ruby Dee (Legend Award), Suzanne de Passe (Visionary Award) and Jurnee Smollett (Star to Watch Award), and hosted A-List stars including Will Smith, Tom Cruise, Katie Holmes, Kerry Washington, Star Jones and more. In 2009, celebrities such as Terrence Howard, Samuel L. Jackson, and Queen Latifah, to name a few, were on hand to fete honorees including Halle Berry (Power Award), Diahann Carroll (Legend Award), Gina Prince-Bythewood (Visionary Award), and Taraji P. Henson (Star to Watch Award), with a posthumous honor given to Eartha Kitt.
Sponsors for the ESSENCE Black Women in Hollywood Luncheon include presenting sponsor Lincoln, as well as partner sponsors COVERGIRL Queen Collection, MasterCard Worldwide and is supported by Moet & Chandon.
About Essence Communications Inc.
Essence Communications Inc. (ECI) is the number one media and communications company dedicated to African-American women. With a multi-platform presence in publishing, live events, and online, the Essence brand is “Where Black Women Come First”. The company’s flagship publication, ESSENCE magazine, is the preeminent lifestyle magazine for African-American women; generating brand extensions such as the Essence Music Festival, Women Who Are Shaping the World Leadership Summit, Window on Our Women (WOW I & II) and Smart Beauty I, II & III consumer insights, the Essence Book Club, Essence.com, and ventures in digital media (mobile, television and VOD). For 39 years, ESSENCE magazine, which has a brand reach of over 8 million, has been the leading source of cutting-edge information relating to every area of African-American women’s lives. Additional information about ECI and ESSENCE is available at essence.com.
PLEASE NOTE: I am not personally endorsing Yahya Bandele’s teachings or his documentary. I just want to present his point of view here to provoke further thought on the subject. If you have heard of Yahya Bandele prior to now, I would love you to share your thoughts.
Dec 18, 2009 – Yahya Bandele doesn’t shout through a bullhorn on busy urban street corners. Nor, does he hurl insults at white passersby who have been taught all their lives of a white Christ. Though an imposing figure at 6′ 3″ and over 300 pounds, Bandele is a gentle giant. He has spent almost all of his waking moments since 2006 putting together a documentary that has turned Christianity on its ear. Yahya Bandele whose name means “YAH’s [God's] gift born away from home”, has published a DVD entitled, Hebrew or the So-Called Negro?
This groundbreaking DVD answers the question, who are these people called Negroes in the Americas. And it examines whether these people are actually the descendants of the lost tribes of Israel. Ironically, this DVD is one of the most popular items listed on Amazon.com in of all categories–Judaism.
This DVD lays out the evidence that the so-called Negroes are the lost children of Israel proclaimed in the Bible. Says Bandele, its author, “We are living in the last days of mankind as we know it. This land we call America is in the eye of the hurricane for it is also the creator of this storm. The soul of the so-called Negro lays buried in the grave of ignorance and is void of the truth of Yah’s [the Creator] word.”
Born Mark Copeland and once a sought after collegiate football star, Copeland passed up a promising football career to become a Baptist preacher. Unfulfilled because of all the religious hypocrisy he witnessed firsthand by fellow ministers of the faith, Copeland wrote and published a book in 2002 called The Prostitute in the Pulpit. After writing that book, Copeland vowed to never again set foot in a Christian Church and instead pursued his faith on his own. It was then that Copeland had what he calls his Damascus Road experience. The Creator gave him a new name and showed him that he and the people who looked liked him were the “Children of the Book”. Yahya Bandele was then given a new mission by the Creator–to bring the knowledge of the truth to the so-called Negro first and then to the world.
According to Bandele, “We have embraced a world that has embraced demons and the doctrines of demons. And unless we are able to see this truth, the world is doomed.” The Hebrew or So-called Negro DVD has generated much light and much heat for it tackles very controversial subject matter. But it does so in a very spirited yet scientific way. This DVD examines in a very systematic way the historical and prophetic linkage of the so-called Negro with the lost children of Israel as declared in the Scriptures.
Unlike many Black Hebrew groups around the country, Bandele and his network of believers, called COFAH, (www.cofah.com) preach love and truth. Bandele himself is amused by the “angry Black Hebrews” who cast aspersions on others and seem to advocate violence. Bandele calls them “angry, rebellious brothers, lacking in the knowledge and love of the Father through our MessiYah.”
Hebrew or the So-Called Negro is a must-see for anyone interested in exploring the scriptures from a different point of view. Bandele dares anyone to view this DVD and still feel the same way about Christianity. Hebrew or the So-Called Negro is available on Amazon.com. Bandele also does a weekly online radio show on Blog-Talk Radio that discusses America and the so-called Negro in prophecy.
Contact him now for his prophecy concerning President Barack Obama.
This book was released a few months ago. I’m just reading about it and wanted to share the information with you, too.
(Atlanta, GA) – Growing up, Justin C. Hart had always admired those who walked with significance and encouraged others, now it is his turn to do the same through his authorship of his debut fiction novel, Liquid Sunshine; a Story About Love, Life, and Finding the Will of God. Liquid Sunshine Hit #1 on Amazon’s Inspirational Bestseller List and Hit #5 on Amazon’s Spirituality Bestseller List on the day of Hart’s highly anticipated Amazon launch in September, beating out such books as Become a Better You by Joel Osteen and Battlefield of The Mind by Joyce Meyer.
As you know, the competition is heavy for authors nowadays, however Hart has separated himself from his competitors by not only talking the talk, but also walking the walk. Abstinent (with a purpose) for over 5 years, he acknowledges that his real life testimony is more powerful than the words written his book. Hart shares his enthusiasm about his accomplishment by stating, ”Dreams still do come true. This bestseller achievement was an experience that I will never forget. At the least, I hope to be a significant figure in the eyes of other African American young adults. I want them to know that they too can use their stumbling blocks as stepping stones, just as I have done.”
As a young adult leader at his church of approximately 6,000 people, Hart feels confident at being an author and inspirational speaker also. While promoting abstinence to singles of all ages, he continues to put his love for God first in all that he does. “It is evident when reading this book that the Author (Justin C. Hart) has a sincere compassion for others, especially men,” states his Author Coach Donna Fareed (Warfield) the Amazon Best Selling Author of Whatever Floats Your Boat. “It will challenge the reader to look at life from a different perspective. I would highly recommend this reading.”
The title Liquid Sunshine is a symbolic expression derived from taking the trials throughout life (rain) and merely perceiving them as growth from the Lord (sunshine). This love story touches many “hot topics” such as sex before marriage, physical and sexual abuse, abortion, prayer, honesty, forgiveness, direction, purpose, and most importantly, obedience. This insightful and self-examining novel will soon become a hit amongst college students, young adults, and young adult ministries nationwide. “Justin Hart crafts an intriguing and heart touching story that will keep you turning the pages and wanting more,” says Johnson Bowie, the Young Adult Pastor of Victory World Church in Norcross, GA.
On the day of his September 2009 Amazon launch date, Hart was absolutely thrilled as he celebrated with family, friends, and associates. Being the positive African American writer that he is, he has been busy preparing for speaking engagements and book signings in Atlanta, GA, Los Angeles, CA, and especially in his home city of Newport News in Hampton Roads, VA where the storyline takes place.
Upcoming events for Hart include local book signings, Conference Speaker at Greater Zion Baptist Church Family in Compton, CA, and an Inspirational Youth Speaker for Dr. Martin Luther King Day in Atlanta, GA.
This press release is a little dated, but I still think the information is relevant.
Epilepsy Foundation Raises Awareness of Epilepsy during National Epilepsy Awareness Month!
WASHINGTON, D.C. — This November, the Epilepsy Foundation encourages the African-American Community to help dispel the myths and misperceptions about the condition during National Epilepsy Awareness Month by talking about epilepsy. More than 350,000 African-Americans have epilepsy—another 24,000 will be diagnosed this year. Yet, epilepsy remains one of the most misunderstood of all medical conditions within the African American Community.
Epilepsy, a neurological condition, characterized by seizures, affects nearly 3 million Americans, but is especially prevalent within the African-American Community. For many African-Americans living with epilepsy, access to appropriate care is but one of the numerous problems they face. In addition to the issues of medical care they are subject to discrimination imposed by people who don’t know the truth about epilepsy.
“We are encouraging Africans-American living with epilepsy to share their stories during National Epilepsy Awareness Month,” said Eric R. Hargis, president and CEO of the Epilepsy Foundation. “Talking about epilepsy will empower those impacted by the condition to speak out without shame and educate those that don’t understand the condition.”
During November, the Epilepsy Foundation is using social networking Web sites like Facebook, Twitter, and the Foundation’s own eCommunities to educate people about epilepsy and demonstrate the power of personal stories. Parents, friends, family and caregivers are encouraged to talk about epilepsy by “tweeting” what epilepsy means to them, updating their status on Facebook with a message about epilepsy or creating a 60-second video sharing their personal story of epilepsy.
“As a person with epilepsy and living out my dreams, any chance I get to talk or attend an event, I’m willing to do it. It’s an honor to be in the situation that I am in, to help spread awareness and to help anybody in any way that I can,” said Jason Snelling, Atlanta Falcons running back. “I’ve been part of the National Epilepsy Walk and the Epilepsy Foundation. I enjoy speaking out and trying to spread awareness for something that is really put on the back burner. It’s something that a lot of people deal with every day.”
Snelling is one example of the many celebrities raising awareness of epilepsy by talking about their personal experiences. Rock star, Prince, recently revealed that he experienced seizures as a child and was picked on frequently. He said as a result he decided to be as flashy and loud as he could be. Distinguished actor, Danny Glover and Baltimore Ravens corner back, Samari Rolle both have shared their personal stories of epilepsy.
With programs and services ranging from summer camps to legal services and employment support, the Epilepsy Foundation is working to ensure that people with seizures are able to participate in all life experiences. Resources are available to educate first responders, caregivers, school nurses, seniors, youth and parents about the condition.
In 1969, November was declared National Epilepsy Awareness Month as a part of a nationwide epilepsy public education campaign. Since that date, the observance has been recognized in most years by a White House message from the President. In 2003, the U.S. Congress passed a formal resolution declaring November as National Epilepsy Awareness Month.
About Epilepsy
Epilepsy is a serious neurological condition that affects more than 3 million Americans and 50 million people worldwide. The condition produces seizures, which can range from a momentary disruption of the senses, to short periods of unconsciousness or staring spells, to convulsions. A seizure happens when a brief, strong surge of electrical activity affects part or all of the brain. When a person has two or more unprovoked seizures, they are considered to have epilepsy. Currently there is no cure for epilepsy; however, more than half of people with epilepsy are able to control seizures with existing treatment options.
About the Epilepsy Foundation
The Epilepsy Foundation, a national non-profit with affiliated organizations throughout the United States, has led the fight against epilepsy since 1968. The Foundation’s goals are to ensure that people with seizures are able to participate in all life experiences; and prevent, control and cure epilepsy through services, education, advocacy and research, so not another moment is lost to seizures. For additional information, please visit www.epilepsyfoundation.org.
I knew while I had Capt. Ann’s attention that I wanted her to share some advice to keep women safe when leaving their homes. It’s so easy to take your surroundings for granted. We’ve all been guilty of it at some point in time, but it only takes a moment, ladies.
Take heed and read below…
LOCK YOUR DOORS IN ALL NEIGHBORHOODS
Affrodite: Do you have advice for women about protecting themselves in general?
Capt. Young: I think they still have some of these programs. I think they call them Lady Beware where the officers from the area station will go out and give community talks to women about how to protect themselves. When you leave the house, you know, sometimes we are preoccupied, putting on makeup and lipstick and not looking at their surroundings and people just jump in the car. Lock your doors. Even if you’re just going a few blocks…if you stop at a light, guys can just run in.
Affrodite: Yes, would you say that’s regardless of neighborhood? I know I’ve been in many cars where the door’s locked because they believe they’re in a bad neighborhood.
Capt. Young: Yes, regardless of neighborhood. I make it a habit, no matter where I am, I lock the doors. Especially if you’re not familiar with the neighborhood, someone will come up and say something like, ‘Hey ma’am, do you have the time? Do you have a cigarette?’ and as they’re leaning in, your door’s unlocked.
STAY WITH YOUR GROUP
Affrodite: What about young women going out at night? Going out with the girls.
Capt. Young: Well, that’s another story. Remember Natalee Holloway that was on the high school trip out to Aruba and ended up missing? You go out with the girls because you want to stay with the girls. Don’t leave with the boys. You stay with the girls. That’s why you all went out. She left her friends. That’s violation. You don’t know these guys. You’re on an island, you don’t know anything, you don’t know anybody. It’s heartbreaking for the family. When you go out with your girlfriends, stay with them no matter what. No matter how cute or fine the guy is.
CARRY MACE
Affrodite: Is it helpful for women to carry mace or pepper spray? Have you run into cases where that has been effective?
Capt. Young: That’s good. It’s very effective. Mace is probably better. In fact, [carrying mace] is probably more effective than a gun only because if you don’t know how to shoot the firearm, you can’t guarantee you’ll be able to shoot it in that circumstance. Mace is going to be a good close contact defense. I don’t care who they are, mace reacts the same on everyone. They can’t see. They can’t talk, and that will give you an opportunity to get away.
More with author Nika C. Beamon and her book “I Didn’t Work This Hard Just To Get Married” from my interview with her and book review coming soon to affrodite.net!
A new book helps black women develop a positive self-image and combat the feeling of worthlessness that plague them and deal with their loneliness which is exacerbated during the holidays when they dwell on not having a significant other.
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
New York— Dec 03, 2009 – Loneliness and singlehood don’t have to go hand in hand during the holidays.
While research shows the common belief that suicide rates and depression increase during the winter months is untrue, 2007 data from the US Department of Health and Human Services Office of Minority Health shows many Americans frequently psychological distress. In the African American community, 3.7 percent of all blacks over the age of 18 have feelings of sadness; 1.9 percent feel hopeless, 1.3 percent feel worthless and 6.8 percent believe everything is an effort.
The numbers for African American women over 18 these numbers are even worse with 4.7 percent feeling sadness; 2.5 percent feeling hopeless; 1.7 percent feeling worthless and 7.9 percent feeling everything is a task. So, there is little doubt that being single during the holidays doesn’t help with these emotions.
A new book helps black women develop a positive self-image and combat the feeling of worthlessness that plague them and deal with their loneliness which is exacerbated during the holidays when they dwell on not having a significant other.
In I Didn’t Work This Hard Just to Get Married, through lively and revealing interviews with women from various walks of life, Nika Beamon explores the challenges and issues affecting single black women. Single women like Actress/Comedian Kim Coles, Cheetah Girls creator Deborah Gregory, Interior Designer Sheila Bridges, etc candidly discuss aging without a man and confronting the feelings of loneliness they’ve faced. The book speaks directly to the black woman’s experience, addressing unique challenges such as income discrepancies between genders, the high rate of male incarceration, and the Baby Momma Syndrome. The women discuss the false expectations they face from men, from families, and from friends. Moreover, the book speaks to all women facing the prospect of another holiday or year without a spouse; a fact that many compound their feelings of emotional distress.
Written in the best tradition of girlfriend talking to girlfriend, the book delivers tales of lessons learned, hard times and good times, told by women who found ways to achieve their dreams by defying convention. Their conclusion: Singlehood, whether temporary or permanent, and though often challenging, is a fulfilling state; a life which doesn’t have to be lonely simply because you are single.
“… Though written from black women’s perspectives, this book has appeal for all women looking for a fresh take on being single.– “
Booklist Magazine, April 2009.
“What an incredibly liberating and inspiring collection of stories…about learning to be comfortable in your skin and what u got -and that we are not alone in our journey. Thank you Nika for this gift.”
Terrie M. Williams
Author, Black Pain: It Just Looks Like We’re Not Hurting
“This is an exciting book that fully explores the option of single status and the lives of the women who choose it… Nika Beamon gives women making life choices a window into the thought processes of other women who have made similar choices. It is an important addition to work on the lives and options of African American women, and it is an absorbing read.”
Dr. Julianne Malveaux
President, Bennett College for Women
(Friday, November 13, 2009) NBC Nightly News “Celebrities Making a Difference” special week long series. Country singer Tim McGraw talks about his charity founded with wife Faith Hill to help communities in need and it’s special focus in the aftermath of Hurricane Katrina with NBC’s Amy Robach.
Faith Hill and husband Tim McGraw (Larry Busacca / Getty Images)
Tim McGraw and wife Faith Hill have long been giving back to charitable organizations but were looking for a way to make a direct impact. Raised with similar values where neighbors helped each other out, together they founded Neighbor’s Keeper in 2004. Concerts called “red and water shows” are among the many ways the organization raises funds to assist communities with affordable housing, recreational activities, and more. In light of Hurricane Katrina in 2005, Tim describes a special focus they took on via Neighbor’s Keeper to help children deal with the trauma of the natural disaster through art therapy.
The embed code provided on msnbc.com does not work with my WordPress page so I’m placing the link to the interview for you to watch below. Continue to read my reaction, and I encourage you to comment with yours.
NOTE: If the links do not work, go to the Making a Difference website and you’ll find links to each celebrity about 2/3 down the page under a heading “Celebrities Making A Difference.”
Amidst the current controversy swirling around Tiger Woods and his wife Elin, it’s nice for me personally to turn the focus back for a moment to a celebrity couple who are in the news for doing something positive- Tim McGraw and Faith Hill. As this special series closes out with Tim McGraw, I’m inspired by his willingness to leverage his notoriety in a positive light through giving back. Neighbor’s Keeper gave $1 million to Sister Judith Brun’s art therapy and family counseling program in Baton Rouge. Seeing the children’s artwork as they process something horrific touched my soul in the already soft spot I have for Hurricane Katrina.
I recognize it probably makes business sense for all of these celebrities to do some charitable work, but watching the featured interviews with Tim and the other celebrities from the week allowed me to see how much passion they had for their specific causes. As Tim reminds us, charity begins at home.
This is nothing but another bad hustle, unfortunately from an ex-gang member. I feel similarly to this as I did about the Lower Ninth Ward tours in New Orleans (see article “Refugees to Evacuees to Tourist Spectacles, more of my post-Katrina anger“). Total exploitation of people. Watch this news clip.
If you saw it, the reporter, Leanne Suter from ABC 7 in Los Angeles, mentions that this guy has negotiated a cease fire from 3 gangs already to help ensure safety…between the hours of 10am and 1pm. I heard the first part and had hope. Then, I heard the rest and was like, wtf?? Heaven forbid a tour run past 1pm.
Whether it creates jobs, opens communication, is “non-profit” (I’m not sure I buy that it’s truly a by the book non-profit) or otherwise, I think this is all around bad idea.
Official proclamation from President Obama… He’s receiving some harsh criticism regarding the fight against AIDS. It’s a big issue to tackle, but necessary. To me, time will tell.
A PROCLAMATION
Washington, DC (November 25, 2009) — Our Nation joins the world in celebrating the extraordinary advancements we have made in the battle against HIV and AIDS, and remembering those we have lost. Over the past three decades, brave men and women have fought devastating discrimination, stigma, doubt, and violence as they stood in the face of this deadly disease. Many of them would not be here today, but for the dedication of other persons living with HIV, their loved ones and families, community advocates, and members of the medical profession. On World AIDS Day, we rededicate ourselves to developing a national AIDS strategy that will establish the priorities necessary to combat this devastating epidemic at home, and to renewing our leadership role and commitments abroad.
Though we have been witness to incredible progress, our struggle against HIV/AIDS is far from over. With an infection occurring every nine-and-a-half minutes in America, there are more than one million individuals estimated to be living with the disease in our country. Of those currently infected, one in five does not know they have the condition, and the majority of new infections are spread by people who are unaware of their own status. HIV/AIDS does not discriminate as it infiltrates neighborhoods and communities. Americans of any gender, age, ethnicity, income, or sexual orientation can and are contracting the disease.
Globally, there are over 33 million people living with HIV. While millions have died from this disease, the death rate is slowly declining due, in part, to our Nation’s global effort through the President’s Emergency Plan for AIDS Relief (PEPFAR) program. However, HIV remains a leading cause of death worldwide. Women and children around the world are particularly vulnerable due to gender inequalities, gaps in access to services, and increases in sexual violence. While the statistics are distressing, new medications and scientific advancements give us reason for hope.
Tackling this disease will take an aggressive, steadfast approach. My Administration is developing a national HIV/AIDS strategy to bolster our response to the domestic epidemic, and a global health initiative that will build on PEPFAR’s success. We will develop a strategy to reduce HIV incidence, improve access to care, and help eliminate HIV-related health disparities. We have already ensured that visitors to our shores living with HIV are not marginalized and discriminated against because of their HIV status. We have also secured the continuation of critical HIV/AIDS care and treatment services. Today, we recommit ourselves to building on the accomplishments of the past decades that have dramatically changed the domestic and global HIV/AIDS landscape.
NOW, THEREFORE, I, BARACK OBAMA, President of the United States of America, by virtue of the authority vested in me by the Constitution and the laws of the United States, do hereby proclaim December 1, 2009, as World AIDS Day. I urge the Governors of the States and the territories subject to the jurisdiction of the United States, and the American people to join in appropriate activities to remember those who have lost their lives to AIDS, and to provide support and comfort to those living with this disease.
IN WITNESS WHEREOF, I have hereunto set my hand this twenty-fifth day of November, in the year of our Lord two thousand nine, and of the Independence of the United States of America the two hundred and thirty-fourth.
In honor of World AIDS Day, I have posted several videos as well as a wealth of resources, at the end of this post, with links to articles/news about HIV/AIDS on this blog as well as organizations and news from around the globe.
Whether or not you wear a red ribbon, do something as simple as joining a Facebook group focused on HIV/AIDS awareness and prevention. The more we raise awareness on HIV and AIDS the greater our chances are for ending this worldwide epidemic.
Prime Minister Gordon Brown delivers a message of support for World AIDS Day 2009.
The miraculous power of AIDS medicine to give people the opportunity of a future where once there was no hope. (RED)
Share your stories, events, resources by commenting on this post. The further we reach out to our brothers and sisters around the world, the stronger our fight to bring an end to the spread of HIV/AIDS.
50% of your donation (less Pay Pal fees) will go to Emerge Global charity (http://emergeglobal.org/). The other 50% funds the sweat equity I put into my work for your enjoyment. My hope is that one day I will be able to donate 100% to charity.
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