African American Interests

In Search of the Holy Long Tail: African-Americans and Web 2.0

Author: My Black Networks, LLC
Dateline: Fri, 10 Oct 2008

freeNewsArticles Story Summary: “AUSTIN, Texas, Oct. 10 (SEND2PRESS NEWSWIRE) -- My Black Networks, LLC announced today a new portal site -- The MyBlack(TM) Urban Vertical -- with a core mission to address the fragmented state of data that is culturally relevant to its target markets. My Black Networks (MBN) defines itself as an ecosystem of informational web sites targeting unique segments of the African, African-American and Caribbean communities or the African Diaspora”



A R T I C L E:

AUSTIN, Texas, Oct. 10 (SEND2PRESS NEWSWIRE) -- My Black Networks, LLC announced today a new portal site -- The MyBlack(TM) Urban Vertical (MyBlackNetworks.com) -- with a core mission to address the fragmented state of data that is culturally relevant to its target markets. My Black Networks (MBN) defines itself as an ecosystem of informational web sites targeting unique segments of the African, African-American and Caribbean communities or the African Diaspora. MBN seeks to fill a service gap while expanding networks and empowering communities.

MyBlack NetworksCurrently, social media and networks that target blacks tend to focus primarily on casual topics such as entertainment, dating, celebrity news and gossip. And, while MBN recognizes this market is satisfying a consumer demand, they have chosen to respond to other niche markets that are somewhat ignored by mainstream media and are seeking online resources consistent with more serious pursuits such as: business, finance and health.

The first phase of the launch includes unique web sites for 20 cities with large African-American populations. Each site includes the MyBlack(TM) brand and offers relevant national and local news; a black-owned business directory; small business resource center; a wealth-building section; an events section; and special interest areas for lifestyle, health and romance. Each city's site is accessible from the portal and is also connected to a shared social networking platform.

Eventually, MBN plans to expand to include over 200 major cities around the globe from within the U.S., Africa, Brazil, Canada, the Caribbean, and Europe.

MBN's primary objective is to facilitate targeted vertical search by employing vertical branding of relevant content. In the future, they hope to partner with a vertical search engine or to create their own.

When asked what MBN intends to do after reorganizing the Web, Elbert McQuiller, co-founder, shrugs and replies, "Watch the tail wag the dog."

"Long tail" is a reference to a phrase coined by writer Chris Anderson in his October 2004 article in Wired Magazine. The hotly-debated premise of Anderson's article is that the Internet has lowered the cost of distribution to the point that it now makes sense for merchants to address the demand of niche groups for more tailored goods and services.

For more information, visit: www.MyBlackNetworks.com.

All trademarks acknowledged.


###


Copyright © 2008 by My Black Networks, LLC and Send2Press® Newswire, a service of Neotrope® - all rights reserved. Information believed accurate but not guaranteed. Sourced on: freeNewsArticles.com.

Story Title: In Search of the Holy Long Tail: African-Americans and Web 2.0
• REFERENCE KEYWORDS/TERMS: My Black Networks LLC, , , MyBlack Urban Vertical, African American Interests, , , .

IMPORTANT NOTICE: some content which is considered "old" or "archival" may reference an event which has already occurred; some content possibly considered "advertorial" may also reference a promotion or time-limited/sensitive offering, and in all of these instances certain material may no longer be valid. For notably stale content, you should directly contact the company/person mentioned in the text (My Black Networks, LLC); this site cannot assist you with information about products/services mentioned in the news article, nor handle any complaints or other issues related to any person/company mentioned or promoted in the above text. Information believed accurate but not guaranteed as of original date of story [Fri, 10 Oct 2008 10:43:11 GMT].

USE THIS CONTENT FOR FREE: To use this content in your newspaper, broadcast outlet, news portal, blog/ezine or similar, free of cost, CLICK HERE to learn how.
African American Interests

Community Leaders Assemble for Intensive Training Focused on Voter Protection

Author: National Coalition on Black Civic Participation
Dateline: Tue, 29 Jul 2008

freeNewsArticles Story Summary: “WASHINGTON, D.C., July 29 (SEND2PRESS NEWSWIRE) -- Anticipating the largest voter turnout in history - and ensuing problems at the polls - the National Coalition on Black Civic Participation (NCBCP) left no stone unturned during a three-day Operation Big Vote Training Academy held in New Orleans last week to train field organizers on voter registration, mobilization, and voter protection.”



A R T I C L E:

Participants included representatives from A. Philip Randolph Institute, Coalition of Black Trade Unionists, Black Youth Vote!, and affiliates of the National Urban League

WASHINGTON, D.C., July 29 (SEND2PRESS NEWSWIRE) -- Anticipating the largest voter turnout in history - and ensuing problems at the polls - the National Coalition on Black Civic Participation (NCBCP) left no stone unturned during a three-day Operation Big Vote Training Academy held in New Orleans last week to train field organizers on voter registration, mobilization, and voter protection.

NCBCP"Our job is to make sure each voter has an opportunity to cast a ballot that counts on November 4," executive director and CEO of the NCBCP, Melanie L. Campbell, told over 60 community organizers from 14 states. "This intensive training is designed to prepare us for any challenges that may arise in the coming months."

Lawyers, seasoned organizers, and technology experts conducted training sessions that ranged from best practices in nonpartisan voter education, volunteer recruitment, and voter protection; to integrating new technology tools and minding your health during this rigorous campaign. Participants also learned the capabilities of the NCBCP's voter information hotline, 1 866-MYVOTE -1.

"Bringing together an intergenerational mix of some of the hardest working public servants in the country created an opportunity for the seasoned veterans to teach the young people how to mobilize on the ground, while the youth taught veterans how to organize online," Campbell added.

Sharon Hanshaw, executive director of Costal Women for Change in Biloxi, MS, said she learned a lot from the training and believes the campaign addresses the real concerns of workers on the ground.

"We will continue to registering new voters, however, the larger focus of the Unity '08 Black Campaign is to make sure voters verify their names on the voter rolls, locate their polling place in advance, and know their rights at the polls before they go cast their ballot," Hanshaw adds.

Participants in the training represented a number of labor and nonprofit organizations, including several executives from A. Philip Randolph Institute, Coalition of Black Trade Unionists, and local affiliates of the National Urban League, all major Unity '08 Black Campaign partners. Other partners include American Urban Radio Networks and UniverSoul Circus.

The NCBCP's Unity '08 Black Campaign is a non-partisan civic engagement initiative designed to inoculate, motivate, and mobilize Black voters to participate in the 2008 election.

Founded in 1976, the NCBCP is a nonprofit, nonpartisan organization dedicated to increasing African American participation in civil society. Current initiatives of the organization include Operation Big Vote, Black Youth Vote!, Black Women's Roundtable, and Voices of the Electorate. The NCBCP has trained and engaged African American leaders and community activists in overcoming institutional barriers that have hindered the growth of Black communities politically, socially and economically.

For more information call 202-659-4929 or visit www.ncbcp.org.


All trademarks acknowledged.

###


Copyright © 2008 by National Coalition on Black Civic Participation and Send2Press® Newswire, a service of Neotrope® - all rights reserved. Information believed accurate but not guaranteed. Sourced on: freeNewsArticles.com.

Story Title: Community Leaders Assemble for Intensive Training Focused on Voter Protection
• REFERENCE KEYWORDS/TERMS: National Coalition on Black Civic Participation, , , Operation Big Vote Training Academy, African American Interests, , , .

IMPORTANT NOTICE: some content which is considered "old" or "archival" may reference an event which has already occurred; some content possibly considered "advertorial" may also reference a promotion or time-limited/sensitive offering, and in all of these instances certain material may no longer be valid. For notably stale content, you should directly contact the company/person mentioned in the text (National Coalition on Black Civic Participation); this site cannot assist you with information about products/services mentioned in the news article, nor handle any complaints or other issues related to any person/company mentioned or promoted in the above text. Information believed accurate but not guaranteed as of original date of story [Tue, 29 Jul 2008 14:11:40 GMT].

USE THIS CONTENT FOR FREE: To use this content in your newspaper, broadcast outlet, news portal, blog/ezine or similar, free of cost, CLICK HERE to learn how.
African American Interests

Black Unity Family Commemorates King Assassination with Letter to Fellow Americans

Author: National Coalition on Black Civic Participation
Dateline: Fri, 04 Apr 2008

freeNewsArticles Story Summary: “WASHINGTON, D.C., April 4 (SEND2PRESS NEWSWIRE) -- In commemoration of the 40th anniversary of the assassination of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr., The Black Unity Family, a diverse, nonpartisan coalition of groups and individuals co-convened by Dr. Dorothy I. Height, Dr. Joseph E. Lowery, Dr. Barbara Williams-Skinner and Melanie L. Campbell, released the following 'Letter to Fellow Americans:'”



A R T I C L E:

WASHINGTON, D.C., April 4 (SEND2PRESS NEWSWIRE) -- In commemoration of the 40th anniversary of the assassination of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr., The Black Unity Family, a diverse, nonpartisan coalition of groups and individuals co-convened by Dr. Dorothy I. Height, Dr. Joseph E. Lowery, Dr. Barbara Williams-Skinner and Melanie L. Campbell, released the following "Letter to Fellow Americans:"

Where Do We Go From Here?

"We are caught in an inescapable network of mutuality, tied in a single garment of destiny. Whatever affects one directly affects all indirectly.... Now is the time to make real the promise of democracy...." Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr.

Dear Fellow Americans:

On this, the 40th anniversary of the assassination of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr., we, a diverse, nonpartisan, intergenerational coalition of African-American groups and individuals, have come together so that our voices will be clearly heard.

Our community has a great stake in this presidential election, and issues that we are most concerned about must be addressed.

We share with all Americans a call for the prompt ending of the war in Iraq, universal health care, access to quality education, affordable housing free from predatory lenders, quality jobs and economic stability.

Our particular domestic and global priorities include: re-creating a high-wage economy, transforming underserved schools, increasing funding for historically Black colleges and universities, restoring communities devastated by Hurricanes Katrina and Rita, reconstructing a Supreme Court committed to justice for all, sustaining strong enforcement of civil rights laws and rebuilding urban and rural infrastructures.

We also call for expanding HIV/AIDS research, the recognition of workers' rights to organize, entrepreneurial opportunity, environmental justice, criminal justice reform, the reduction of disproportionately high incarceration rates, and support for the growth and development of Caribbean and African nations. These are critical human rights issues.

Our churches have been our moral foundation and prophetic witness for justice and equality since slavery, holding up a mirror on areas where the nation falls short of these virtues.

We strongly uphold the right to religious freedom of expression as reflected in our churches and other faith institutions.

Our unpaid labor, creativity, blood, sweat and tears helped build America. Today, we seek to work with Americans of all faiths, races and ethnic backgrounds to heal long-standing wounds in our nation.

Let us all join together to realize Dr. King's vision of social, racial and economic justice for all - for the love of our children and for future generations.

The Black Unity Family (Partial list. For a full list go to www.ncbcp.org )

Maya Angelou
Barbara Arnwine
Vanita Banks
Cora Masters Barry
Lezli Baskerville
Julian Bond
Donna Brazile
Clayola Brown
Khephra Burns
Melanie Campbell
Rev. Suzan Johnson Cook
Johnnetta B. Cole
Prof. Kimberly Crenshaw
Felicia Davis
Al Dotson
Thomas W. Dortch
Rev. Gerald Durley
Michael Eric Dyson
Hazel Edney
DeAnna Evans
Ralph Everett
Isaac Farris
Danny Glover
Dennis Hayes
Hon. Glenda Hatchett
Dr. Dorothy I. Height
Gerald Hudson
Rev. Jesse Jackson
Benjamin Jealous
Keith Jennings
Jeff Johnson
Oscar Joyner
Maulana Karenga
Martin Luther King, III
Bishop Eddie Long
Evelyn Lowery
Rev. Joseph Lowery
William Lucy
Julianne Malveaux
Darryl Matthews.
Bishop E. Earl McCloud, Jr.
Terry McMillan
Barbara McKinzie
Bishop Vashti McKenzie
Brenda Girton Mitchell
Rev. Judith C. Moore
Marc Morial
Constance Newman
Charles Ogletree
Kevin Parker
Rev. Tyrone S. Pitts
Steve Phillips
Kevin Powell
Lois A. Rice
Elsie Scott
Rev. Al Sharpton
Beverly Guy-Shefthall
Yvonne Scruggs-Leftwich
Bev Smith
Jane E. Smith
Rev. T. DeWitt Smith, Jr.
Hon. Calvin Smyre
Charles Steele
Beverly Daniel Tatum
Susan L. Taylor
Rev. Regena Thomas
Cicely Tyson
Iyanla Vanzant
Rev. C. T. Vivian
LaKimba DeSadier-Walker
Ronald Walters
Shelley Wynter
Rev. Barbara Williams-Skinner
Terrie Williams
Richard Womack
Hon. Andrew Young



NOTE TO MEDIA: The following BUF representatives are available for interview. Contact Edrea at edmedia @dogonvillage.com:

Susan L. Taylor
Melanie Campbell
Professor Charles Ogletree
Barbara Arnwine, Esq.
Dr. Joseph E. Lowery
William "Bill" Lucy
Kevin Powell


National Coalition on Black Civic Participation / Black Unity Family

###


Copyright © 2008 by National Coalition on Black Civic Participation and Send2Press® Newswire, a service of Neotrope® - all rights reserved. Information believed accurate but not guaranteed. Sourced on: freeNewsArticles.com.

Story Title: Black Unity Family Commemorates King Assassination with Letter to Fellow Americans
• REFERENCE KEYWORDS/TERMS: National Coalition on Black Civic Participation, , , Black Unity Family, African American Interests, , , .

IMPORTANT NOTICE: some content which is considered "old" or "archival" may reference an event which has already occurred; some content possibly considered "advertorial" may also reference a promotion or time-limited/sensitive offering, and in all of these instances certain material may no longer be valid. For notably stale content, you should directly contact the company/person mentioned in the text (National Coalition on Black Civic Participation); this site cannot assist you with information about products/services mentioned in the news article, nor handle any complaints or other issues related to any person/company mentioned or promoted in the above text. Information believed accurate but not guaranteed as of original date of story [Fri, 04 Apr 2008 01:00:35 GMT].

USE THIS CONTENT FOR FREE: To use this content in your newspaper, broadcast outlet, news portal, blog/ezine or similar, free of cost, CLICK HERE to learn how.
African American Interests

JENA 6 LATEST UPDATE: Neo Nazi-Klu Klux Klan Groups Threaten Jena 6 Families and Black Residents

Author: The New Black Panther Party
Dateline: Mon, 24 Sep 2007

freeNewsArticles Story Summary: “WASHINGTON, D.C. - Sept. 24 (SEND2PRESS NEWSWIRE) -- Malik Shabazz, Esq., Attorney and leader of the New Black Panther Party for Self Defense, announced today that members of the New Black Panther Party will begin patrolling the streets of Jena, Louisiana this week to protect the Jena 6 families and Black Jena residents against open and imminent alleged threats from Ku Klux Klan and other White supremacist advocating violence.”



A R T I C L E:

New Black Panther Party for Self Defense to Organize Coalition to Secure and Protect Jena 6 Families and the Streets of Jena

WASHINGTON, D.C. - Sept. 24 (SEND2PRESS NEWSWIRE) -- Malik Shabazz, Esq., Attorney and leader of the New Black Panther Party for Self Defense, announced today that members of the New Black Panther Party will begin patrolling the streets of Jena, Louisiana this week to protect the Jena 6 families and Black Jena residents against open and imminent alleged threats from Ku Klux Klan and other White supremacist advocating violence.

(c) Send2PressDr. Shabazz announced that the New Black Panther Party was spearheading a coalition entitled The Security and Protection Committee of the Jena 6 (SPC-Jena 6) which would include several organizations and volunteers from around the nation that will coordinate and protect against Neo-Nazi and Ku Klux Klan groups operating in that part of Louisiana. This coalition will include: the New Black Panther Party for Self Defense, the Millions More Movement, the Black Muslims, volunteers from the local Jena Community, and National Civil Rights Organizations. The coalition will coordinate and lead an all volunteer effort that will man shifts and provide personal security for the Jena 6 families as well as local residents under the threat of Klan intimidation in the wake of the successful September 20th mass demonstration in Jena and around the U.S.

Recently, several White Supremacist websites posted the names, addresses, and phone numbers of the Jena 6 families, urging White Citizens to "do Justice to the Jena 6." Several families of the Jena 6 have received threatening and harassing phone calls by racist white supremacists and other Klan types groups while hanging nooses have subsequently appeared in areas also occupied by confederate flags. Sadly, the Jena police department and the county Sheriff have announced that they would not provide protection for the families of the Jena 6 under threat.

Malik Shabazz, Esq. stated, "Black leadership, we have a moral and ethical obligation to secure the safety and security of the Jena 6 families and the Black residents of Jena, Louisiana. The New Black Panther Party, the Millions More Movement, and other volunteers from civil rights organizations will spearhead a nationwide call to provide security, patrols units, and protection for the families and residents over the upcoming months. This threat is real. The September 20th protest, which we were aided in organizing, has created a resentment and backlash in certain quarters of Jena's white community. In the spirit of the Deacons of Defense, we intend to exercise our full range of legal rights of defense and protection to ensure that this very real threat of violence is neutralized. I want to be clear; in the name of God we as Black Men will not stand idly by and be weak in this hour. FREE MYCHAL BELL!!! FREE MYCHAL BELL!!! AND FREE THE JENA 6."

The New Black Panther Party has the experience to handle this assignment, as witnessed in Jasper, Texas in 1998 when the New Black Panthers chased the Klan from Jasper following the beheading of James Byrd Jr. The Millions More Movement, a coalition of activist organizations that was inspired by the Million Man March of 1995 and the Millions More Movement of 2005, also brings an array of well seasoned organizers. Attorney Malik Shabazz, the leader and attorney for the New Black Panther Party is also the President of Black Lawyers for Justice (BLFJ) and a national Co-Convener of the Millions More Movement. The New Black Panther Party (www.newblackpanther.com) is in 36 Cities across America, including Africa, England, and the Caribbean. All were active in organizing the September 20th March.

For information on how to join the Security and Protection Committee for the Jena 6 (SPC-Jena 6) contact us by phone at (202) 397-4577 or on the web at www.blacklawyers4justice.org or www.blackpowermovement.org

For more information, contact:
National offices
+1-202-397-4577
newpantherparty @ aol.com
www.newblackpanther.com



###


Copyright © 2007 by The New Black Panther Party and Send2Press® Newswire, a service of Neotrope® - all rights reserved. Information believed accurate but not guaranteed. Sourced on: freeNewsArticles.com.

Story Title: JENA 6 LATEST UPDATE: Neo Nazi-Klu Klux Klan Groups Threaten Jena 6 Families and Black Residents
• REFERENCE KEYWORDS/TERMS: New Black Panther Party, , , Protection Committee for the Jena 6, African American Interests, , , .

IMPORTANT NOTICE: some content which is considered "old" or "archival" may reference an event which has already occurred; some content possibly considered "advertorial" may also reference a promotion or time-limited/sensitive offering, and in all of these instances certain material may no longer be valid. For notably stale content, you should directly contact the company/person mentioned in the text (The New Black Panther Party); this site cannot assist you with information about products/services mentioned in the news article, nor handle any complaints or other issues related to any person/company mentioned or promoted in the above text. Information believed accurate but not guaranteed as of original date of story [Mon, 24 Sep 2007 19:55:00 GMT].

USE THIS CONTENT FOR FREE: To use this content in your newspaper, broadcast outlet, news portal, blog/ezine or similar, free of cost, CLICK HERE to learn how.
African American Interests

Sons of Confederate Veterans, Inc. Statement on NAACP

Author: Sons of Confederate Veterans, Inc.
Dateline: Tue, 19 Jun 2007

freeNewsArticles Story Summary: “COLUMBIA, Tenn. - June 19 (SEND2PRESS NEWSWIRE) -- According to reports in the national press, the NAACP is suffering financial problems and is closing some operations, including all regional offices, and is making staff reductions of 40-percent. SCV Commander-in-Chief Christopher M. Sullivan issued the following statement (continued).”



A R T I C L E:

COLUMBIA, Tenn. - June 19 (SEND2PRESS NEWSWIRE) -- According to reports in the national press, the NAACP is suffering financial problems and is closing some operations, including all regional offices, and is making staff reductions of 40%. SCV Commander-in-Chief Christopher M. Sullivan issued the following statement:

"The NAACP has steadily become a political fringe group, whose views are far beyond the mainstream. Because they have repeatedly taken extreme political positions they have become a distorted caricature of their original purpose.

"Recently, the leadership of the NAACP and their political allies like the NCAA have stridently used their remaining clout to attempt to harass Southern businesses and universities in states like South Carolina and Mississippi.

"As they are now learning to their detriment, these positions have become so shrill and discredited that ordinary people are no longer interested in supporting such outrageous posturing.

"Since 1991 when the NAACP passed resolutions condemning Confederate symbols, leading to historic distortions and faulty condemnation of Confederate soldiers and leaders alike, the SCV has been diligent in opposition to what we believe has been a flawed program and unfortunate direction of the NAACP. Our contention has apparently been shared by many who have supported the NAACP in the past.

"We of the Sons of Confederate Veterans extend an invitation to work together in unison to appropriately honor the thousands of blacks who served in Confederate military units.

"We, in SCV, would welcome a friendlier and more cooperative rhetoric by all concerned. shrill language of hatred and extremism exhibited by the NAACP in the past has harmed the cause of tolerance and benefits no one. The SCV supports a mutual goal toward bringing greater unity and respect for all Americans.

"We stand ready to meet with and discuss meaningful and responsible ideas with the new leaders of the NAACP.

"What better time than now as the NAACP faces new perspectives?"



###


Copyright © 2007 by Sons of Confederate Veterans, Inc. and Send2Press® Newswire, a service of Neotrope® - all rights reserved. Information believed accurate but not guaranteed. Sourced on: freeNewsArticles.com.

Story Title: Sons of Confederate Veterans, Inc. Statement on NAACP
• REFERENCE KEYWORDS/TERMS: black confederate soldiers, , , Sons of Confederate Veterans, African American Interests, , , .

IMPORTANT NOTICE: some content which is considered "old" or "archival" may reference an event which has already occurred; some content possibly considered "advertorial" may also reference a promotion or time-limited/sensitive offering, and in all of these instances certain material may no longer be valid. For notably stale content, you should directly contact the company/person mentioned in the text (Sons of Confederate Veterans, Inc.); this site cannot assist you with information about products/services mentioned in the news article, nor handle any complaints or other issues related to any person/company mentioned or promoted in the above text. Information believed accurate but not guaranteed as of original date of story [Tue, 19 Jun 2007 19:08:00 GMT].

USE THIS CONTENT FOR FREE: To use this content in your newspaper, broadcast outlet, news portal, blog/ezine or similar, free of cost, CLICK HERE to learn how.
African American Interests

Does the News Media Patronize the Black Community? asks United Voices for a Common Cause

Author: United Voices for a Common Cause, Inc.
Dateline: Tue, 28 Nov 2006

freeNewsArticles Story Summary: “LOS ANGELES, Calif., Nov. 28 (SEND2PRESS NEWSWIRE) -- Recognizing the need for another effective medium, H. Lewis Smith, author of 'Bury that Sucka' (ISBN: 1413792693), is the founder of a new non-profit organization, United Voices for a Common Cause, Inc. The organization pledges and holds true to not use the n-word as they strive toward cultural integrity and mutual respect for all Americans and to offer uncompromising resistance to social forces and structures which deny or limit their ability to do so.”



A R T I C L E:

LOS ANGELES, Calif., Nov. 28 (SEND2PRESS NEWSWIRE) -- Recognizing the need for another effective medium, H. Lewis Smith, author of "Bury that Sucka" (ISBN: 1413792693), is the founder of a new non-profit organization, United Voices for a Common Cause, Inc. The organization pledges and holds true "to not use the n-word as they strive toward cultural integrity and mutual respect for all Americans and to offer uncompromising resistance to social forces and structures which deny or limit their ability to do so. It is their intent to promote racial harmony, self-respect, pride and dignity affirming the highest of standards and values for the African American communities." In light of the "Kramer" Richards episode, UVCC is concerned about a developing climate in America and how the news media is possibly linked to it.

H. Lewis SmithMichael "Kramer" Richards has been broiled, skewered and dragged over the coals for his horrendous display of racial epithet unmatched in recent times. The African American community, justifiably so...was immensely appalled at such audacity. However, one can't help but to wonder whether or not Richards has-through the news media-conveniently become a sacrificial lamb to ease and relieve the guilty consciousness of an institutionalized, systematized deeply rooted apathy that happened to erupt through him.

*(Photo Caption: H. Lewis Smith)

At some point white America must face up to black America and ask, since this word is so offensive, "Why is it so casually used by African Americans?" Is this a slight of hand reversed discrimination? Isn't this a classic example of a double-standard? These are questions that should be openly asked and needs to be asked. White America is a simmering teapot that is about to boil over and it will have nothing to do with being a racist. Often times what is misconstrued as racial discrimination is nothing more than a reaction reflective of human nature. Many whites are fearful of being labeled a racist and is therefore allowing their pent-up emotions to build and it is building to a boiling point. As sensitive of an issue the n-word is...it needs to be openly dealt with.

On that note, black proponents of the n-word retort would be as follows: Refusing to be held accountable for any of this brouhaha, the black n-word apologist will rattle off and try to justify their use of the word that they are taking the sting out of it, desensitizing it, will go so far as to apply the acceptance of the ghetto vernacular saying that by replacing "er" nigger with "a" nigga makes a difference and that nigga implies affection, love and endearment.

Proponents of the neo-revisionist use of nigga contend they have "reclaimed" the word and robbed it of its racist connotations. There are many prominent black Americans who support the usage of this word. For example, Ron Dellums, an American politician once said that "it's time for somebody to lead all of America's niggers."

Daman Wayans, has applied for a trademark of the name nigga to use on a clothing line and other marketable items. Comedian, turned activist, Dick Gregory is a proponent of the word and years ago he entitled his autobiography...Nigger. During a panel discussion at the Summer Television Critics Association tour in 2005, Aaron McGruder, creator of the popular comic strip, Boondocks, defiantly used the word with the explanation that everybody does it.

Harvard professor Randal Kennedy authored a book entitled Nigger, received rave reviews (from the news media) for his pro stance on usage of the word. Someone by the name of Tyrone, who refuses to say what race he is, owns a website called niggaspace.com and it is supported by thousands upon thousands of young black members many of whom are under 18 years of age.

Rapper, 50 cents, uses the word nigga more than 180 times on his CD Grow Rich or Die Trying. And he is just one of many rappers who repeatedly recites the word on their CDs. So why is it so surprising as to what came up and out of Michael Richards' mouth? Granted he said more than just the n-word, he went way over the line with his racist acidity rhetoric. The black community was victimized with his comments, but as irony would have it, Richards' too, is a victim and yes the country as a whole is a victim. Victims of a terrible negative destructive energy that vibirates from this word, holding an entire nation hostage.

At some point black America must become accountable. At some point the news media must become multilateral in covering the news scene. There are many African Americans who are simply fed up with the actions of the black propronents use of the n-word and this never, ever gets into the news. There are movements afoot to ban and abolish the n-word in the black community...it goes unreported.

H. Lewis Smith suggests that by referring to one another as niggers (nigga) the black American community are in fact unknowingly debasing and victimizing themselves, NOT keeping their heritage alive, as some may think.

In order to combat problems of racial discrimination, abuse and prejudice, which will never truly disappear, Smith reflects in Bury that Sucka on how we can achieve a better understanding of the detrimental effect the casual use of this word is having on both the individual and society as a whole.

H. Lewis Smith is the Founder/CEO of UVCC, the United Voices for a Common Cause, Inc. (http://www.theunitedvoices.org) a non-profit organization founded for the purpose of, promoting cultural integrity and mutual respect for all Americans. Mr. Smith is also the author of "Bury that Sucka, A Scandalous Love Affair With the N-word" (ISBN: 1413792693) www.burythatsucka.com.



###


Copyright © 2006 by United Voices for a Common Cause, Inc. and Send2Press® Newswire, a service of Neotrope® - all rights reserved. Information believed accurate but not guaranteed. Sourced on: freeNewsArticles.com.

Story Title: Does the News Media Patronize the Black Community? asks United Voices for a Common Cause
• REFERENCE KEYWORDS/TERMS: United Voices for a Common Cause, , , Michael Richards racism, African American Interests, , , .

IMPORTANT NOTICE: some content which is considered "old" or "archival" may reference an event which has already occurred; some content possibly considered "advertorial" may also reference a promotion or time-limited/sensitive offering, and in all of these instances certain material may no longer be valid. For notably stale content, you should directly contact the company/person mentioned in the text (United Voices for a Common Cause, Inc.); this site cannot assist you with information about products/services mentioned in the news article, nor handle any complaints or other issues related to any person/company mentioned or promoted in the above text. Information believed accurate but not guaranteed as of original date of story [Tue, 28 Nov 2006 18:36:00 GMT].

USE THIS CONTENT FOR FREE: To use this content in your newspaper, broadcast outlet, news portal, blog/ezine or similar, free of cost, CLICK HERE to learn how.
African American Interests

Blacks for Economic Security Today – Black Group TV Ads Blast Cardin and Ford as Bad for Black Voters

Author: Blacks for Economic Security Today
Dateline: Fri, 03 Nov 2006

freeNewsArticles Story Summary: “WASHINGTON, D.C. - Nov. 3 (SEND2PRESS NEWSWIRE) -- Blacks for Economic Security Today (BEST) have released two television advertisements designed by black voters to reach black people. The two ads blast Maryland Senate Candidate Ben Cardin and Tennessee Senate Candidate Harold Ford as bad news for black voters. The ad calls out Cardin for his dismal voting record for blacks as well as his taking for granted the black vote in Maryland.”



A R T I C L E:

To view: www.besttrustfund.org

WASHINGTON, D.C. - Nov. 3 (SEND2PRESS NEWSWIRE) -- Blacks for Economic Security Today (BEST) have released two television advertisements designed by black voters to reach black people. The two ads blast Maryland Senate Candidate Ben Cardin and Tennessee Senate Candidate Harold Ford as bad news for black voters. The ad calls out Cardin for his dismal voting record for blacks as well as his taking for granted the black vote in Maryland.

Send2Press PhotowireThe Ford attack calls into question why hard working blacks in Tennessee should vote for a candidate who rarely even votes. The ad equates the Congressman's lack of voting with not understanding the soft bigotry that blacks have to deal with on a regular basis in their jobs. The ad shows that black voters have to work twice as hard to get ahead while Ford works half as hard and feels entitled to become a Senator.

The ads can be viewed at www.besttrustfund.org. The two ads are the first in a series of four, according to BEST.

The Cardin spot states:
    For 20 years Ben Cardin had been promising and promising. It's a fact. Ben Cardin has failed us. But we all know that. We thought this time would be our time. But there they go, another backroom deal to cut us out and they expect us to fall in line. Cardin hasn't delivered! As a matter of fact, in congress, Cardin votes to keep money out of the hands of black families and black owned businesses. He just voted against a Minimum Wage increase for black working families. And he even voted against lowering our gas tax. Now how's that for a one two punch?

The Ford spot highlights his no show tendencies:
    Harold Ford is out of touch with hardworking Blacks in Tennessee. We work long hours at tough jobs missing time with our families. We have to put up with so much in the work place like soft bigotry. Harold Ford is not like us. He doesn't even bother to show up to work. And believe it or not he made the top 5 in Congress as having the worst voting record. Even Members of Congress in rehab have a better voting record than Ford and vote 98% of the time more than Harold. When he decides to show up to work and actually work and vote he's not keeping money in the hands of hard working black families in Tennessee. No Show Harold Ford now thinks he should get a promotion; well we think differently.

Both ads bear the identifier, "Paid for by Blacks for Economic Security Today Trust." BEST is a newly organized PAC whose mission is to amplify the truth about tax hikes on the backs of the African American growing middle class. BEST also works to foster stronger black families, achieved through issue advocacy campaigns.


###


Copyright © 2006 by Blacks for Economic Security Today and Send2Press® Newswire, a service of Neotrope® - all rights reserved. Information believed accurate but not guaranteed. Sourced on: freeNewsArticles.com.

Story Title: Blacks for Economic Security Today - Black Group TV Ads Blast Cardin and Ford as Bad for Black Voters
• REFERENCE KEYWORDS/TERMS: Blacks for Economic Security Today, , , bad for black voters, African American Interests, , , .

IMPORTANT NOTICE: some content which is considered "old" or "archival" may reference an event which has already occurred; some content possibly considered "advertorial" may also reference a promotion or time-limited/sensitive offering, and in all of these instances certain material may no longer be valid. For notably stale content, you should directly contact the company/person mentioned in the text (Blacks for Economic Security Today); this site cannot assist you with information about products/services mentioned in the news article, nor handle any complaints or other issues related to any person/company mentioned or promoted in the above text. Information believed accurate but not guaranteed as of original date of story [Fri, 03 Nov 2006 15:09:00 GMT].

USE THIS CONTENT FOR FREE: To use this content in your newspaper, broadcast outlet, news portal, blog/ezine or similar, free of cost, CLICK HERE to learn how.
African American Interests

ABFE Announces the Inaugural Class of Connecting Leaders Fellows

Author: Association of Black Foundation Executives
Dateline: Fri, 07 Oct 2005

freeNewsArticles Story Summary: “NEW YORK, NY - Oct. 7 (SEND2PRESS NEWSWIRE) -- The Association of Black Foundation Executives (ABFE) recently announced the names of ten fellows who will participate in the 2005-2006 Connecting Leaders Fellowship Program. This fellowship is the cornerstone of ABFE's multi-year initiative to develop the next generation of leaders in philanthropy and to significantly increase philanthropic resources that are targeted to meet the challenges of Black communities.”



A R T I C L E:

10 Emerging Leaders from across Philanthropy Selected for Year-Long Fellowship in Professional Development

NEW YORK, NY - Oct. 7 (SEND2PRESS NEWSWIRE) -- The Association of Black Foundation Executives (ABFE) recently announced the names of ten fellows who will participate in the 2005-2006 Connecting Leaders Fellowship Program. This fellowship is the cornerstone of ABFE's multi-year initiative to develop the next generation of leaders in philanthropy and to significantly increase philanthropic resources that are targeted to meet the challenges of Black communities.

"Our members felt it was imperative to take the lead in promoting the professional development of people likely to have both personal and professional interests in the well-being of Black communities," said Tim Russell, a senior manager at Sara Lee Corporation in Chicago and chair of ABFE's Board of Directors. "As part of our strategic plan, we recognized that, in order to get more philanthropic leaders to understand the individual role that they must play, there has to be more development, more training and in turn we expect more philanthropic resources directed towards improving Black communities."

The 2005-2006 class includes: Tonya Allen (Skillman Foundation); Andrea Anderson (The Aspen Institute Roundtable on Community Change); Susan Taylor Batten (The Annie E. Casey Foundation); Rudy Guglielmo (Arizona Community Foundation); Rahsaan Harris (The Atlantic Philanthropies); Obiel Leyva (The San Francisco Foundation); Toya Randall (Grand Victoria Foundation); Erika Seth (Donor to Associated Black Charities -MD); Phillip Thomas (Woods Fund of Chicago); and Akilah Watkins (The Community Foundation for Greater Atlanta). Each fellow will receive mentoring supports from seasoned leaders, a professional development stipend, and leadership coaching during the fellowship year.

ABFE is the oldest affinity group of the Council on Foundations. Since 1971, ABFE has promoted sustainable philanthropy in Black communities and encouraged Black leadership and participation within organized philanthropy.

Our activities include:

* Championing diversity in grantmaking institutions

* Forging strategic partnerships

* Recognizing and celebrating innovative philanthropic leadership

* Sponsoring lectures and workshops.

For more information about ABFE, log on to our website at www.abfe.org.


###


Copyright © 2005 by Association of Black Foundation Executives and Send2Press® Newswire, a service of Neotrope® - all rights reserved. Information believed accurate but not guaranteed. Sourced on: freeNewsArticles.com.

Story Title: ABFE Announces the Inaugural Class of Connecting Leaders Fellows
• REFERENCE KEYWORDS/TERMS: , , , , African American Interests, , , .

IMPORTANT NOTICE: some content which is considered "old" or "archival" may reference an event which has already occurred; some content possibly considered "advertorial" may also reference a promotion or time-limited/sensitive offering, and in all of these instances certain material may no longer be valid. For notably stale content, you should directly contact the company/person mentioned in the text (Association of Black Foundation Executives); this site cannot assist you with information about products/services mentioned in the news article, nor handle any complaints or other issues related to any person/company mentioned or promoted in the above text. Information believed accurate but not guaranteed as of original date of story [Fri, 07 Oct 2005 13:28:00 GMT].

USE THIS CONTENT FOR FREE: To use this content in your newspaper, broadcast outlet, news portal, blog/ezine or similar, free of cost, CLICK HERE to learn how.
African American Interests

Hip Hop and Business Worlds Collide to Motivate Urban Youth

Author: Evans Food Group
Dateline: Fri, 29 Apr 2005

freeNewsArticles Story Summary: “CHICAGO, IL - April 29 (SEND2PRESS NEWSWIRE) -- Bad Boy recording artist Chopper, a.k.a. Young City of the worldwide platinum rap group 'Da Band,' recently signed on as the spokesperson for Rap Snacks Pork Skins and Cracklins, a new product line being launched by the Chicago-based Evans Food Group and Rap Snacks, Inc., headquartered in Philadelphia. 'Making The Band's' (MTV) Chopper and Kwame Jackson from 'The Apprentice' (NBC) join forces to promote new line of Rap Snacks and entrepreneurship through multi-city promotional concerts.”



A R T I C L E:

"Making The Band's" (MTV) Chopper and Kwame Jackson from "The Apprentice" (NBC) Join Forces to Promote New Line of Rap Snacks and Entrepreneurship Through Multi-City Promotional Concerts

CHICAGO, IL - April 29 (SEND2PRESS NEWSWIRE) -- Bad Boy recording artist Chopper, a.k.a. Young City of the worldwide platinum rap group "Da Band," recently signed on as the spokesperson for Rap Snacks Pork Skins and Cracklins, a new product line being launched by the Chicago-based Evans Food Group and Rap Snacks, Inc., headquartered in Philadelphia.



Caption: Business expert Kwame Jackson, from NBC's "The Apprentice"



Caption: Bad Boy recording artist "Chopper" a.k.a. Young City.

On Saturday, April 30th, Chopper makes his very first promotional stop in St. Louis to promote the product and his forthcoming single and album (Bad Boy South). He will perform at The Vault. Joining Chopper will be Kwame Jackson from NBC's first season of "The Apprentice." Jackson, a successful business owner and highly sought-after speaker, will co-host the concert series in an effort to promote entrepreneurship among the urban youth expected to attend the events. Jackson recently closed a $3.8 billion deal through his real estate company.

Rap Snacks, Inc. is a 10-year-old company headed by business man James Lindsay. Since 1994, Rap Snacks, Inc. has used popular rap stars and hip, positive phrases to sell chips to urban markets. Last year, the company reported sales of 3 million bags of chips per week, thanks to retail outlets and independent distributors in cities across the nation.

Chopper's photo is featured on bags of Rap Snacks Pork Skins and Cracklins, which are available in a variety of flavors. Also featured on the bags are motivational messages like "seize every opportunity," and "be who you are without shame." The new line of Rap Snacks Pork Skins and Cracklins is available in stores now.

Chopper gained popularity on P. Diddy's hugely successful MTV reality show "Making the Band." He went on to become the only artist to land a deal with the Bad Boy South record label.

More information: www.evansfood.com.

###


Copyright © 2005 by Evans Food Group and Send2Press® Newswire, a service of Neotrope® - all rights reserved. Information believed accurate but not guaranteed. Sourced on: freeNewsArticles.com.

Story Title: Hip Hop and Business Worlds Collide to Motivate Urban Youth
• REFERENCE KEYWORDS/TERMS: , , , , African American Interests, , , .

IMPORTANT NOTICE: some content which is considered "old" or "archival" may reference an event which has already occurred; some content possibly considered "advertorial" may also reference a promotion or time-limited/sensitive offering, and in all of these instances certain material may no longer be valid. For notably stale content, you should directly contact the company/person mentioned in the text (Evans Food Group); this site cannot assist you with information about products/services mentioned in the news article, nor handle any complaints or other issues related to any person/company mentioned or promoted in the above text. Information believed accurate but not guaranteed as of original date of story [Fri, 29 Apr 2005 11:45:00 GMT].

USE THIS CONTENT FOR FREE: To use this content in your newspaper, broadcast outlet, news portal, blog/ezine or similar, free of cost, CLICK HERE to learn how.
African American Interests

Demanding Accountability: Youth Visit State Representatives to Prepare for BYV! Leadership Conference

Author: ncbcp.shtml
Dateline: Mon, 14 Mar 2005

freeNewsArticles Story Summary: “WASHINGTON, DC /Send2Press Newswire/ -- In an effort to leverage the historic youth voter turnout in 2004, a cadre of young activists across the country have identified issues important to them and are visiting state representatives to discuss how they will address those issues. The task is a pre-conference assignment for the Fifth Annual Black Youth Vote! (BYV!) Civic Leadership Conference, Hip Hop Activism: Revolutionizing Black Power, April 7-9, at the National Education Association in Washington, DC.”



A R T I C L E:

WASHINGTON, DC /Send2Press Newswire/ -- In an effort to leverage the historic youth voter turnout in 2004, a cadre of young activists across the country have identified issues important to them and are visiting state representatives to discuss how they will address those issues. The task is a pre-conference assignment for the Fifth Annual Black Youth Vote! (BYV!) Civic Leadership Conference (www.bigvote.org), Hip Hop Activism: Revolutionizing Black Power, April 7-9, at the National Education Association in Washington, DC.



"Learn by doing," charged Earl O'Neal, a board member of the National Coalition on Black Civic Participation (NCBCP), parent organization for BYV!. "You successfully registered and mobilized thousands of new voters across the country, now its time to hold those elected officials accountable."

Acting on the charge, Steven Waddy Atlanta BYV! coordinator, recently accompanied ten students from the Atlanta University Center to meet with Georgia committee chairs, local state representatives and senators.

"Just seeing the shock on the faces of legislators once they found out who requested to speak with them made many of the BYV! participants giddy with anticipation on how they could influence the next legislator on their list," said Waddy.

According to conference manager, Nancy Harvin, the assignments will be used as case studies during a series of workshops designed to train the youth to identify local issues that affect their community, equip them with the tools necessary to make change, and teach them to develop an action plan to execute locally and nationally.

Speakers include BET's Jeff Johnson aka "Uncle Jeff," Dr. Maya Rockeymore, author of "The Political Action Handbook: A How To Guide For The Hip Hop Generation," and members of congress, among others.

Sponsored by the NEA and State Farm Insurance, conference highlights include a Thursday morning legislative briefing on Capitol Hill, and a debate, "Is Hip Hop the Next Civil Rights Movement?," at the National Council of Negro Women Headquarters, that evening. Moderated by radio personality, Mark Thompson, this intergenerational dialogue will examine the impact of youth activism during the civil rights era and address the influence of hip hop on the political system.

"The Black youth electorate, many voting for the first time in 2004, felt the power of voting. The conference will prepare them to leverage that power and have an impact on their communities," says Melanie L. Campbell, executive director and CEO of the NCBCP.

Recently profiled in Black Enterprise Magazine (Feb. 05), BYV! is a coalition of organizations committed to increasing the political and civic engagement of Black youth under the age of 35. The NCBCP is a 501(c) 3 nonprofit, nonpartisan organization dedicated to increasing African American participation in civil society.

For more information visit http://www.bigvote.org or call 202.659.4929.

###


Copyright © 2005 by ncbcp.shtml and Send2Press® Newswire, a service of Neotrope® - all rights reserved. Information believed accurate but not guaranteed. Sourced on: freeNewsArticles.com.

Story Title: Demanding Accountability: Youth Visit State Representatives to Prepare for BYV! Leadership Conference
• REFERENCE KEYWORDS/TERMS: , , , , African American Interests, , , .

IMPORTANT NOTICE: some content which is considered "old" or "archival" may reference an event which has already occurred; some content possibly considered "advertorial" may also reference a promotion or time-limited/sensitive offering, and in all of these instances certain material may no longer be valid. For notably stale content, you should directly contact the company/person mentioned in the text (ncbcp.shtml); this site cannot assist you with information about products/services mentioned in the news article, nor handle any complaints or other issues related to any person/company mentioned or promoted in the above text. Information believed accurate but not guaranteed as of original date of story [Mon, 14 Mar 2005 14:39:00 GMT].

USE THIS CONTENT FOR FREE: To use this content in your newspaper, broadcast outlet, news portal, blog/ezine or similar, free of cost, CLICK HERE to learn how.