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By Joe W. Bowers, Jr. | California Black Media Partners

Polls closed for in-person voting at 8 p.m. on June 7, the final day of the Statewide Direct Primary Election.

Vote-by-Mail ballots must be postmarked by the US Postal Service on or before June 7 and received no later than seven days after Election Day to be counted. The last day for county elections officials to certify election results is July 7.

The top two vote-getters in the primaries regardless of political affiliation advance to the November Election — whether one candidate receives the majority of the votes cast in the primary election. Only candidates running for State Superintendent of Public Instruction or candidates for voter-nominated offices in special elections can win outright by getting a majority of the vote (over 50 %) in the primary election.

County elections officials will be conducting the semifinal official canvass of votes at least every two hours until completed and providing the results to the Secretary of State.

Preliminary results are available for the 145 statewide elections being held to fill state and federal offices.

California Black Media (CBM) reports that 68 Black candidates are running in 45 of the elections. That is 31% of the races. Blacks make up 5.8% of California’s population.

This is a list of statewide races and Black candidates running.

Governor – Gavin Newsom (D) is projected to advance to the November General election and will face Brian Dahle (R). Black candidates failing to advance were Shawn Collins (R) in 6th place, Major Williams (R) in 8th place, Woodrow “Woody” Sanders III (No Party Preference) in 23rd place and Serge Fiankan (No Party Preference) in 26th place.

Lt. Governor – Angela E. Underwood Jacobs (R) is in second place and should advance to face incumbent Lt. Gov. Eleni Kounalakis in November.

Secretary of State – Incumbent Dr. Shirley Weber (D) the only Black candidate in the contest is leading by a wide margin over six opponents.

State Controller – Malia Cohen (D) the first African American woman to serve on the board of Equalization is running in second place behind Lanhee Chen (R).

Superintendent of Public Instruction – Incumbent Tony Thurmond has an overwhelming lead over his six opponents. He is below the 50% majority to win outright. Ainye E. Long, the other Black candidate is in second place but has a very narrow lead over the 3rd place and 4th place candidates.

California Insurance Commissioner – Incumbent Ricardo Lara (D) leads his eight challengers. His Black opponents are Vinson Eugene Allen (D) in 5th place, Jasper “Jay” Jackson (D) in 7th place and Veronika Fimbres (Green Party) running 8th.

US Senator – Two separate US Senate contests are on the ballot. One is the regular election for the full six-year term beginning January 3, 2023. The other is a special vacancy election, to complete the unexpired Senate term of Vice President Kamala Harris. Sen. Alex Padilla (D) who was chosen by Gov. Newsom to replace Harris leads the vote in both contests.

In the full-term contest, Padilla is ahead of 22 opponents. Black candidates not advancing to the November ballot are John Thompson Parker, (Peace and Freedom Party) running in 9th place, Akinyemi Agbede (D) in 11th place, Myron L. Hall (R) running 12th, Daphne Bradford, (No Party Preference) is 23rd and Deon D. Jenkins (No Party Preference) is 26th.

Candidates Hall is running 7th and Bradford is running 8th in the partial/unexpired term contest.

The Black candidates running for 17 US House seats are:

District 3 (Yuba) -?Kermit Jones? (D) is ahead of three other opponents and will advance to the General Election. This district leans Republican.

District 4 (Napa) -?Jimih L. Jones (R) is running in 5th place. Rep. Mike Thompson (D) is leading in this race.

District 6 (Fair Oaks) -?Tamika Hamilton (R) is in second place. Karla Black (R) is running 6th. This is a solid Democratic district. Rep. Ami Bera (D) is leading in this race.

District 8 (Vallejo) – Cheryl Sudduth (D) is running a distant 3rd. Rep. John Garamendi (D), a current member of Congress, is leading in this race.

District 9 (Stockton) – Jonathan Madison?(R) is in 5th place. This congressional district leans Democratic. Josh Harder (D), a current member of Congress, is leading in this race.

District 12 (Oakland) – Barbara Lee (D) a current member of Congress representing District 13 (Oakland) is leading. Democrat Eric Wilson (D) is in 4th place.

District 25 (Riverside) – Brian E. Hawkins?(R) is running second to Rep. Raul Ruiz (D). This is a solid Democratic district.

District 27 (Santa Clarita) – Quaye Quartey? (D) is in 3rd place. Rep. Mike Garcia (R) is leading in this race.

District 30 (Burbank) -?Ronda Kennedy?(R) is in second place with a narrow lead over G “Maebe A. Girl” Pudio. Rep. Adam Schiff (D) is leading in this race.

District 32 (Sherman Oaks) – Aarika Samone Rhodes (D) is in 5th place. Rep. Brad Sherman (D) is leading in this race.

District 36 (Torrance) – Joe E. Collins III?(R) is running second to. Rep. Ted W. Lieu (D). This is a solid Democratic district

District 37 (Los Angeles) – Sydney Kamlager? (D) is in the lead. Jan C. Perry? (D) is in second place and ?Daniel W. Lee? (D) is running 3rd. Rep. Karen Bass (D) currently represents this district.

District 39 (Moreno Valley) – Aja Smith?(R) is running second to Rep. Mark Takano (D). This is a solid Democratic district.

District 42 (Long Beach) – William Moses Summerville? (D) is in 7th place. No current member of Congress was on the ballot for this race.

District 43 (Los Angeles) – Incumbent Maxine Waters?(D) is in the lead.?Allison Pratt?(R) is in 3rd place and Jean M. Monestime (D) is running in fourth place.

District 44 (San Pedro) – Morris Falls Griffin? (D) is in third place. Nanette Diaz Barragan (D), a current member of congress, is leading in this race.

District 49 (Carlsbad) – Nadia Bahia Smalley? (D) is in 6th place. Mike Levin (D), a current member of Congress, is leading in this race.

Black candidates running for two State Senate seats are:

Senate District 16 (Bakersfield) – Gregory Tatum (R) is in 4th place. This a new district predicted to be a tossup for the Republicans and Democrats on the ballot.

Senate District 28 (Los Angeles) – Lola Smallwood-Cuevas (D) is in the lead. Cheryl C. Turner (D) is in second place. Kamilah Victoria Moore (D) is running 4th and Jamaal A. Gulledge (D) is in 5th place.

Black candidates running for 19 State Assembly seats are:

District 6 (Sacramento) – Incumbent Kevin McCarty (D) is the vote leader and will be advancing to the November General Election.

Assembly District 10 (Elk Grove) – Eric M. Rigard (R) is in third place and Tecoy Porter (D) is running 4th. This is a solid Democratic district. No incumbent was on the ballot.

Assembly District 11 (Vallejo) – Incumbent Lori D. Wilson (D) is the vote leader advancing to the November General Election. This is a solid Democratic district.

Assembly District 12 (Marin) – Ida Times-Green (D) is in 4th place. This is a solid Democratic district. No incumbent was on the ballot.

Assembly District 18 (Oakland) – Incumbent Mia Bonta (D) ran unopposed for re-election.

Assembly District 20 (Alameda) – Jennifer Esteen (D) is in 4th place. Her opponents are two Democrats and a Republican. No incumbent was on the ballot.

Assembly District 21 (San Mateo) – Maurice Goodman (D) is running in 6th place. He ran against five Democrats and a Republican. This is a solid Democratic district. No incumbent was on the ballot.

Assembly District 30 (San Luis Obispo) – Jon Wizard (D) is in 3rd place. He ran against three Democrats and a Republican. This is a solid Democratic district. No incumbent is on the ballot.

Assembly District 36 (Imperial) – Marlon G. Ware (D) is in a distance 3rd place. He is unlikely to advance to the November ballot.

Assembly District 39 (Palmdale) – Andrea Rosenthal (D) is in 3rd place. She had one Republican and two Democratic rivals. This is a solid Democratic district. No incumbent was on the ballot.

Assembly District 41 (Pasadena) – Incumbent Chris Holden (D) ran for re-election unopposed.

Assembly District 47 (Palm Springs) – Jamie Swain (D) is in 4th place. She is unlikely to advance to the November ballot.

Assembly District 55 (Los Angeles) – Incumbent Isaac G. Bryan (D) is in the lead. He will advance to the November General Election.

Assembly District 57 (Los Angeles) – Reggie Jones-Sawyer (D) ran unopposed for re-election.

Assembly District 60 (Moreno Valley) – Corey A Jackson (D) is in second place. He has three opponents. This is a solid Democratic district. No incumbent was on the ballot.

Assembly District 61 (Inglewood) – Robert Pullen-Miles (D) is leading this race. Tina Simone McKinnor (D) is in second place and James Arlandus Spencer (R) is running 3rd. This is a solid Democratic district. No incumbent was on the ballot.

In a special election to fill Assembly District 62 seat opened when Autumn Burke (D) resigned, McKinnor is leading Pullen-Miles.

Assembly District 65 (Compton) – Incumbent Mike Anthony Gipson (D) is leading in his re-election bid.

Assembly District 69 (Long Beach) – Al Austin II (D) is running in 2nd place and Janet Denise Foster(D) is in 3rd place. Four Democratic candidates are running for the seat. No incumbent was on the ballot.

Assembly District 79 (La Mesa) – Incumbent Akilah Weber (D) is leading in her bid for re-election against two Republican opponents. This is a solid Democratic district.

SACRAMENTO –  Recently, Senate Republican Leader Scott Wilk (R-Santa Clarita) released the following statement after Legislative Democrats passed the primary 2022-2023 Budget Bill:

“With an almost $100 billion surplus, rising gas prices, and skyrocketing inflation, the best relief Legislative Democrats came up with is a $200 refund that gets to you months down the road. That’s $16.66 per month, which for the record, won’t even cover your gas taxes paid this year,” said Leader Wilk.

“The White House is seriously weighing a federal gas tax holiday. We all know the quickest way to help Californians is by suspending the gas tax, but instead we are stuck with the supermajority’s months-long squabble and broken promises.”

This budget, contrary to today’s rhetoric, is not the state’s final spending plan but merely a placeholder to meet the constitutional deadline of June 15 for passage of the state’s budget. It lacks details on many critical spending proposals and does not reflect negotiations with Governor Newsom. Senate Republicans voted against the fake, placeholder budget.

According to a recent Cal Tax Foundation report, despite a massive projected surplus of $97.5 billion this year, legislative Democrats have no shame and have introduced $194 billion in new legislation and fees. Read the CalTax report here.

Last month, Senate Republicans delivered a specific list of budget priorities and outlined their full budget priorities to address affordability and homelessness. Click here to read the full budget request letter.

–FULL Gas Tax Holiday – The state should immediately suspend the gas tax to reduce the cost of fuel for families suffering from record-high prices. The revenues should be backfilled by the General Fund so that transportation projects will not be impacted.

–Lower Costs for Renters – To help offset rising rental costs, California should increase the renter’s tax credit to $1,000 for spouses filing joint returns, heads of households, and surviving spouses. It should also include a $500 tax credit for other individuals to provide temporary assistance for one of California’s most significant problems.

–California Student Tax Credit – To assist students with the rising costs of housing, transportation, or other school expenses, California should offer up to several thousand dollars in student tax credits per year for eligible students.

–Address Mental Health and Substance Abuse Needs – The state should invest $10 billion to build the facilities needed to address the related crises of mental health, substance abuse, and homelessness.

–Invest in Water Storage – The state must invest the $2.6 billion necessary to fully fund the already voter-approved Sites Reservoir that will provide water storage for 1.5 million homes per year.

–Prepare for Wildfires – The state needs to remove the red tape and roadblocks stalling wildfire prevention and treatment projects.

YUCAIPA, CA — After 18 weeks of grueling training and coursework, 28 graduates from Crafton Hills College’s (CHC) 106th Fire Academy were recognized during a commencement ceremony inside the Finkelstein Performing Arts Center on May 20.

Academy Chief Mike Alder kept his remarks about the 106th Class brief yet heartfelt. He shared the “Big Four” with the graduates and audience: remember the importance of your immediate and fire families; remain humble and nice; always be optimistic and have a positive attitude and have vision and be demanding.

“Understanding and living these principles as a public servant is how you can leave the place better than you found it,” Alder said. “(This) is the greatest job in the world, and you are all better people than you were four months ago. We wish you all the best.”

Tradition and honor were key highlights of the hour-long ceremony. There was a moment of silence for fallen military personnel and first responders and a plaque presentation celebrating the group’s accomplishments.

Alder recognized the support of the academy staff and its five squad leaders: Branden Christensen, Andrew Shade, Indiana Palmer, Ryan Lopez and Andrew Martinez.

Shade addressed the class and spoke about the hard work that went into becoming a program success story. He talked briefly about the long hours away from home and the importance of supporting one another.

“There was a 22-year age gap from oldest to youngest,” he said. “But the one thing we had in common was every one of us had no idea what we were doing, and if you faked it too well, you might have to end up giving a graduation speech.”

Each cadet was recognized by staff before and during the celebration. Many were given individual scholarships and honors during the ceremony. The most inspirational cadet award went to Jaden Teel, and Shade received the highest academic achievement and instructor award.

Before the cadets were released, academy leaders held one last dismissal ceremony.“All fight. No quit!” shouted the cadets together before throwing their hats into the air.

CHC’s 107th Academy begins in August. To learn more about the CHC Fire Academy, visit craftonhills.edu/fireacademy.

By Edward Henderson | California Black Media

On June 6, Los Angeles Mayor Eric Garcetti signed a proclamation making Juneteenth an official holiday for city employees.

Although President Joe Biden signed a bill declaring Juneteenth a federal holiday last year, cities and states still have the power to decide which holidays they will officially observe.

Mayor Garcetti’s signing is one among many commemorations of Juneteenth nationwide as a growing number of states and municipalities officially honor the historic holiday long celebrated in African American communities across the United States.

“We need every Angeleno to learn the full story of our past, no matter the ugliness of some of its chapters, and that means recognizing the lasting legacy of slavery in our country,” Garcetti said at the signing ceremony.

History of Juneteenth

The holiday is recognition of June 19^th, 1865, the day Union soldiers notified enslaved African Americans in Galveston Bay, Texas that they were free under the Emancipation Proclamation.

Two and a half years earlier, enslaved and free African Americans gathered in churches and private homes across the country to mark what was known as “Freedom’s Eve” on Jan. 1, 1863. They were awaiting news confirming that President Abraham Lincoln had signed the Emancipation Proclamation that ended slavery in Confederate States.

Anticipation heightened and celebrations began as the news spread of the 13^th Amendment, the constitutional modification that established the abolishment of slavery. Union soldiers began their march to spread the news throughout plantations and cities in the South.

However, not everyone in Confederate territory would immediately be free. Even though the Emancipation Proclamation was signed into law in 1863, it could not be implemented in places still under Confederate control. As a result, in the westernmost Confederate state of Texas, enslaved people would not be free until much later.

In Galveston Bay, freedom finally came on June 19, 1865, when some 2,000 Union troops arrived. The army announced that the more than 250,000 enslaved black people in the state, were free by executive decree. That momentous day came to be known as “Juneteenth,” by the newly freed people in Texas.

The post-emancipation period known as Reconstruction (1865-1877) marked an era of great hope, uncertainty, and struggle for the nation. Formerly enslaved people immediately sought to reunify families, establish schools, run for political office, push radical legislation, and even sue slaveholders for compensation.

A California 2022 Juneteenth State Proposal 

On May 19, California State Senators Steven Bradford (D-Gardena) and Sydney Kamlager (D-Los Angeles) introduced Senate Concurrent Resolution (SCR) 109, which would recognize Juneteenth an official holiday statewide this year. Nine other members of the California Legislative Black Caucus are co-sponsors of the resolution.

For the past three years, Gov. Newsom has issued Juneteenth proclamations commemorating the holiday and declaring it “Juneteenth National Freedom Day: A Day of Observance” in the State.

SCR 109 urges “the people of California to join in celebrating Juneteenth as a day to honor and reflect on the significant role that African Americans have played in the history of the United States and how they have enriched society through their steadfast commitment to promoting unity and equality.”

California joins Texas (1980), Massachusetts (2007), New Jersey (2020), New York (2020), Pennsylvania (2020), Virginia (2020), Washington (2021), Oregon (2021) and Delaware (2021) recognizing Juneteenth as an official state holiday giving state employees the day off from work.

“By making Juneteenth an official state holiday, California would demonstrate its commitment to celebrating the emancipation of all slaves,” Assemblymember Akilah Weber (D-San Diego) said in a statement.

“Juneteenth is an important and special annual celebration for Black culture, resilience, and achievement,” Weber continued. “Designating this date as a paid state holiday mirrors the federal holiday commemorating the end of slavery in the United States.”

A Snapshot of Juneteenth Events in California

Here are a few highlighted Juneteenth 2022 events in California.

Sacramento

CALIFORNIA LEGISLATIVE BLACK CAUCUS PRESENTS

JUNETEENTH: A DAY OF REMEMBERANCE

State Capitol – West Steps

From 12: 30 p.m. to 2 p.m. on Monday, June 20, the California Legislative Black Caucus will hold will host a lunch celebrating Black freedom with family, friends, food trucks, and more festivities. The CLBC is calling on all Californians to support AB 1655, which will permanently make Juneteenth a state holiday in California.

SACRAMENTO JUNETEENTH FESTIVAL 2022

William Land Park

Sacramento Juneteenth Incorporated will produce this year’s festival June 17-19, 2022, in William Land Park. This year’s theme will focus on systematic economic injustices. They will partner with several local organizations to highlight and expose the systems and laws that perpetuate the continued economic injustices inflicted on communities of color. Events include a gospel concert, live entertainment, vendors, and more.

You can find more Sacramento Juneteenth events here

Los Angeles

LEIMERT PARK RISING (JUNE 19-20)

4395 Leimert Blvd., Los Angeles 90008

Leimert Park Rising is a collaborative effort to build a more cooperative Leimert Park Village through arts, culture and commerce. Taking place from noon to 8 p.m. on June 19-20, the annual Juneteenth Celebration is a family friendly event for all ages with craft vendors, food trucks, and multiple stages featuring live music and DJs. Free admission.

You can find a more comprehensive list of Juneteenth events in the Los Angeles area here.

East Bay

PAN AFRICAN WELLNESS FEST IN OAKLAND

Lake Merritt Ampitheater

Afrocentric Oakland is hosting a two-day event, The Fam Bam & Pan African Wellness Fest, at Lake Merritt Amphitheater on Lake Merritt Boulevard on June 18 and 19 from 11 a.m. to 8 p.m.

The festival will focus on holistic wellness and feature local wellness providers offering meditation, yoga, Tai Chi, spoken word, self-defense lessons, connections to mental health services, and more.

The organization will also present “Black Excellence Awards” and provide fun activities for children.

JUNETEENTH-IN-BERKELEY

Alcatraz-Adeline Corridor

Juneteenth-in-Berkeley, held annually in June on Father’s Day, in south Berkeley’s five-block Alcatraz-Adeline corridor has been produced by Berkeley Juneteenth Association, Inc., a non-profit, serving the community since 1986. They rebranded as Berkeley Juneteenth Cultural Celebrations to pursue and sponsor more cultural events throughout the year.

You can find more Juneteenth events here.

San Diego

JUNETEENTH A Summer Celebration of Culture

The Jacobs Center (404 Euclid Ave) Saturday June 18, 2022, 10am-5pm

Community Actor’s Theatre and Common Ground Theatre two of San Diego’s most prestigious African American Theatres are hosting this majestic outdoor event at the Jacob’s Center in Market Creek Plaza. Come out and treat yourself to a time filled with history music dancing story telling reflection vendors and physical art on display! All Are Welcome!

You can find more San Diego Juneteenth events here.

Inland Empire

JUNETEENTH CELEBRATION OF FREEDOM

June 18^th San Bernardino Valley College 12pm-6pm

“Come out and Celebrate Juneteenth Celebration of Freedom, we will have vendors, live performances, speakers, kids’ zone, spade and domino tournaments, food vendors, cook offs, resources and much more. This will be a one-of-a-kind Juneteenth event to hit our city, we are going educate the community on the history of Juneteenth and its origins, make sure you come out you do not want to miss this event. This is a free event. A day of fun and entertainment.”

Oxnard

JUNETEENTH FESTIVAL CELEBRATING ARTISTIC AND FINANCIAL FREEDOM

Oxnard College and 5^th Street Downtown

Art enthusiasts and community-based organizations in Oxnard are marking Juneteenth this year with a two-day event celebrating art and artists while promoting financial freedom.

Artist Milton “510” Bowen, an Oakland native, is headlining the festival that will be held at various locations in Ventura County’s largest city, about 60 miles north of Los Angeles.

June 17 • 6PM – 8PM

Private Artist Reception and Pre-Sale

99Three FM Radio Station, Oxnard College

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June 18 • Noon – 4PM

Milton 510 Collection Exhibition and Public Sale

Open Door Studio – 329 W 5th St, Downtown Oxnard (Next door to Carnegie Art Museum)

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June 18 • 10 – 5PM

Juneteenth Celebration

Oxnard Plaza Park (Downtown Oxnard) – 500 S C Street, Oxnard 93030

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Contra Costa

2022 LET FREEDOM RING East Contra Costa County JUNETEENTH CELEBRATION

Sunday, June 19th, 2022 @ 12:00 pm – 5:00 pm Waldie Plaza

“As we strive to celebrate and honor the diversity of all Contra Costa County cities and their history, Juneteenth is a celebration to be held with as much respect as 4th of July celebrations go forth. Last year, we hosted an amazing event in the historic Waldie Plaza in Antioch that consisted of a full program with entertainment and speakers from throughout our community, and an array of vendors including a full COVID Vaccine clinic by Kaiser Permanente. The event was a success, and we are now looking to continue to grow the event.”

Beverly Jean Earl was born October 15, 1953, in San Diego, CA, the fourth child of Willard and Luteal Earl, and was later joined by 4 more siblings. Beverly began her Christian journey in kindergarten at Laurel Bible Chapel. She received her education at Central Elementary, Woodrow Wilson Jr. High, John Muir High School, graduating from Cajon High School, San Bernardino, CA after moving to San Bernardino, CA in 1969.

1969 was also the year Beverly met john Wesley Welsh and the beginning of a blessed union welcoming 4 beautiful children, Laura, Fred, Raquel & Darrin. August would have been the 53rd anniversary of their beginning.

1982, Beverly began her community service with Catholic Charities in Colton, CA, she quickly discovered that the existing food program did not meet the needs of the community and her limited resources were the root cause to expand the community services program that was much needed. So to build her program she needed to grow her resources, and did so by taking grant-writing classes on the weekends at Cal-State San Bernardino to get the resources she needed. Now with the knowledge of grant writing she began searching for grants and found grants for food programs, rental assistance, mortgage assistance, utility assist ace, gasoline vouchers, burial assistance and much more in grants exuding 60 million.

The growth of the Catholic Charities community service program helped so many families and touched so many lives. She also started a meal-feeding program at the St. Bernadine Church on Fifth Street in San Bernardino, and later to feeding needy families and the homeless Thanksgiving dinners at the Branding Iron on S. E St. San Bernardino.

Beverly could still see more need in the community and the Catholic Charities 92411 Homework Center was opened along with a community garden. Both were successful increasing her volunteer and community support.

Those in need of help knew coming to Catholic Charities that there would be someone there who would welcome them, and their needs would be met. Beverly welcomed everyone showing them kindness and compassion for the situation they were going through, and she made sure they were completely satisfied with the services they had received.

May 26, 2022, after 40 years of dedicated service to the communities of San Bernardino and Riverside Counties Beverly Jean Earl ended her service after a job well done as a good and faithful servant when her body could go no more; this is just a fraction of what she accomplished.
Beverly will be remembered by those she served for her overwhelming kindness, her beautiful smile and was respected by all who knew her.

Beverly was preceded in death by her father Willard, mother Luteal, Brother Willard Jr., Sister in law Helen, Sister Vera Louise, granddaughter Mariyah, nephews Tyrone & Gregory.

Leaving he legacy of love and precious memories with John Welsh, San Bernardino, CA, 2 daughters; Laura (William) Fox, Victorville, CA, Raquel ( David) Walker, San Bernardino, CA 2 sons; Fred ( Heather) Welsh, Tolleson, AZ, Darin ( Daisha Stewart) Welsh, San Bernardino, CA, 3 chosen daughters; Kim Carter, San Bernardino , CA Alejandra Diaz, Hesperia, CA, Juan Arangue, San Bernardino, CA 1 aunt Maxine Gray, San Diego, CA, 5 sisters; Patricia Pointdexter, Las Vegas, Nevada, Helen (Charlie) Huston, Adelanto, CA, Phillis Earl, Phoenix, AZ, Earlene (Mike) Mena, Las Vegas, Nevada, Diane (William) Kirkland, San Bernardino, CA, 2 brothers; George Earl, Bloomington, CA, Brian Earl, San Diego, CA. 15 grandchildren; Brittney, Shelby (Steviesha Nichols), Shaylee (Kwesi Akuffo), Matthew, Maurice, Maddie, Freddie, Arterean (Beulah) Brittney (Gerald), Davian, Darrin Jr., Donavon, Dominique, Dallas, Douglas, 5 great-grandchildren; Reggie, Shaleah, Mekhi, Micah, James David.

Chosen daughters; Alejandra Diaz, Catholic Charities, Kim Carter, Time for Change Foundation, Juana Arangure, Catholic Charities.

LOS ANGELES, CA—- African American and Latinx boys from Southern California, Northern California and Phoenix convened at California State University Los Angeles this past weekend for Kappa Alpha Psi Fraternity, Inc.’s Inaugural Western Province Kappa League Conference.

The youth were housed in the South Village dorms from Friday to Sunday and participated in a series of team-building activities and workshops led by industry experts. New York Jets safety Jovante Moffat, sports agent Harrison Gaines, referees and former NFL players discussed careers in sports. Credit Union of Southern California hosted an interactive financial literacy workshop. Acclaimed actor and National Kappa League Spokesperson John Marshall Jones talked to the attendees about media training. Greg “Olksool Ice-Gre” Lewis, the first A&R Director for Kanye West’s GOOD Music, spoke about hip hop lyrics, messages and images. San Bernardino Unified School District Chief of Police Joseph Paulino and California State University Los Angeles professor Dr. Nana Lawson Bush V were also among the esteemed speakers. Additionally, college students shared insight about campus life.

The Kappa Leaguers bonded immediately upon meeting members from other chapters, engaging in various athletic activities and as well as the Cup Stack Challenge and Shark Tank competitions.

Shannon Faulk, Western Province Guide Right Chair, said the conference achieved its mission. “The Kappa League Leadership Program and this conference was to demonstrate that no generation exists in isolation or on its own island,” he said. “There is an obligation to leave a little behind to those who need our wisdom as men. The African American and Brown communities depend on the strength of its men and we are here to do our part in developing strong young leaders.”

Conference Chair Anthony Lee described the conference as an example of Black men uniting to train young men for leadership. “We were able to share valuable information and conduct team-building activities to bridge the gap across generations,” he said. “Events like this help our community to remain relevant and thrive as the world around us changes.”

Kappa League is a part of the fraternity’s Guide Right program that celebrates its 100th anniversary this year. Guide Right is the oldest, most successful mentoring program led by African American men in the United States. The program has impacted more than 500,000 young lives.

The Western Province Kappa League Conference was sponsored by GRAD Foundation, Western Province of Kappa Alpha Psi Fraternity, Inc., San Fernando – Santa Clarita Alumni chapter of Kappa Alpha Psi, National Kappa League, California State University Los Angeles, Airwave Communications, Snapchat, Faithful Central Bible Church and PennyMac.

By Edward Henderson | California Black Media

Efforts continue in California to raise awareness and encourage youth to become fully vaccinated against Covid-19.

As of June 9, the California Department of Public Health (CDPH) reported 1.4 million cases of COVID-19 among youth aged 5-17, which accounted for 15.5% of all cases in the state. There have been 46 deaths among children in this age group. For children below five years old, 293,607 confirmed cases have been reported and 25 deaths.

Now that the federal government has lifted age restrictions on who can receive vaccinations, community organizations have partnered with healthcare providers and public health advocates serving California to host events across the state encouraging young people to take the shot. They are reminding the young people about the importance of protecting themselves and family members from spreading the deadly disease.

On May 21, the Akoma Unity Center in San Bernardino hosted an event titled ‘Spring into Wellness.’ Participants enjoyed activities like complimentary yoga in the park, Zumba and Capoeira lessons, a petting zoo and crafting activities. The event also featured a live DJ, complementary food and fun activities for youth to participate in. The vaccination clinic at the event, sponsored by the CDPH and delivered by SnapNurse, a health care staffing agency, delivered over 20 doses of the Pfizer vaccine to children, teens and adults.

On June 3, the Summer Movies in the Park Pre-Show Family Fun event took place at Alec Fergusson Park in Rialto where vaccination rates are amongst the lowest in the state. Currently, only 58% of Rialto residents have been fully vaccinated. The event was attended by over 250 people and featured a complimentary dinner and gourmet kettle corn. It featured a variety of activities held to engage children, including face painting, balloon twisting, bouncy houses, bubble blowing and a photo booth. Informational resource booths were available for attendees and another vaccination clinic, also sponsored by the CDPH delivered over 20 doses of the Pfizer vaccine.

On Saturday, June 4, about 70 miles away in Inglewood, CDPH and Vaccinate All 58, a governor’s office initiative created to respond to COVID, hosted ‘The Family Reunion: A Day of Fun for the Whole Family’ in Inglewood. Families came out and participated in an array of fun activities offered along with various health services. Children received Marvel Comics-inspired coloring books featuring the adventures of superhero duo “Vaccine” and her big brother “Booster.” Stepyourgameup.org, a virtual realty mobile gaming service, provided a 50-foot video game arcade hosted by a hip-hop -inspired character, “Homeboy the Clown,” who led children in a spirited dance and exercise session. Throughout the day, the street DJs of KJLH 102.3 radio free station and Guy Black provided music.

Some of the health services offered included eye examinations and eyesight evaluation. Martin Luther King Jr. Community Health Center also provided free, safe and effective vaccine and booster shots to families along with preventive care health screenings like blood pressure and temperature readings. Fifty-dollar Amazon gift cards were awarded to lucky participants who visited three of the health vendors.

Across California last week, COVID-19 deaths leveled at one the lowest points since the pandemic began with a weekly average of one death on June 7. That same day, the CDPH reported a weekly average of 13,742 cases.

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SAN BERNARDINO, CA— San Bernardino County Superintendent of Schools (SBCSS) held two events to recognize educators throughout San Bernardino County.

“Throughout the pandemic, educators played a critical role to steadfastly serve the most vulnerable students within our learning community,” said County Superintendent Ted Alejandre. “While we did our best over the past two years to virtually share our gratitude for their efforts, we felt a celebration was in order to honor all of our teachers and paraeducators for their extraordinary service amidst the most trying of circumstances.”

In partnership with the San Bernardino County Teachers Association and the California School Employees Association, SBCSS held the first Educators of the Year celebration on May 24 in Apple Valley to celebrate educators in the desert and mountain communities of San Bernardino County.

The second event took place May 31 in Rancho Cucamonga to recognize educators in the area.

1100 San Bernardino County teachers and paraprofessionals, including nurses, braille specialists and speech language pathologists, were recognized during the two celebrations. Educators were honored for the roles they played in innovating new ways to deliver instruction and overcoming challenges COVID created.

For more news and information, visit the SBCSS Newsroom and follow us @SBCountySchools on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram and YouTube. #transforminglives.

By Antonio Ray Harvey | California Black Media

During the early 1990s, Ward Connerly, then-President of the California Civil Rights Initiative Campaign, was the leading African American supporting Proposition (Prop) 209, the ballot initiative that outlawed Affirmative Action in California in 1996.

Well, he’s back.

This time, Connerly, now 82, he is speaking up in opposition to reparations for Black Californians. He is making his objection as the state moves closer than any government in United States history has ever come to providing comprehensive restitution for slavery to Black Americans who are descendants of enslaved people in the American South.

On June 4, Connerly tweeted that Prop 209 could stop any form of reparations for Black Californians from happening.

“It is (Prop) 209 that will prevent our Legislature and Governor from doing something so ridiculous as to compensate some of us based on the color of our skin or being the ancestors of slaves,” Connerly posted.

Last week, the California Task Force to Study and Develop Reparation Proposals for African Americans submitted its first “interim report” to the State Legislature. The 492-page, 13-chapter report details the committee’s findings thus far covering a range of historical injustices against Black Americans in general with specific citations of systemic discrimination in California.

There are chapters dedicated to examining enslavement, housing segregation, unequal education, racial terror, political disenfranchisement, among other wrongs.

The final report is due July 2023.

Connerly, who has established himself as a national crusader against race-based preference rules, is one of the first high-profile figures in California to speak out against the task force’s efforts to make amends for historical harms committed against Black Americans.

Chris Lodgson, a member of the Coalition for a Just and Equitable California (CJEC), one of seven “Anchor Organizations” sanctioned by the task force to host “listening sessions,” organized to engage the public, responded to Connerly’s post, stating “a conservative businessman from Northern California made an unjust comment.”

“In my gut, I believe you’re wrong. You underestimate the people of California. Also, just because someone might be resentful of something doesn’t mean you don’t do it (to correct) the harms,” Lodgson tweeted on June 6.

“You make a good point that we should carefully consider, and I will,” Connerly replied to Lodgson.

The task force is currently considering five forms of reparation awards: compensatory damages, restitution, rehabilitation, satisfaction, and guarantees of non-repetition.

The five remedies for human rights violations were pioneered by the Inter-American Court of Human Rights (IACHR). The IACHR is an “autonomous judicial institution” whose focus is the application and interpretation of the American Convention on Human Rights, the organization states on the Organization of American States (OAS) website.

On March 30, the task force decided in a 5-4 decision that lineage will determine who will be eligible for compensation. The panel then quickly moved to approve a framework for calculating how much should be paid — and for which offenses — to individuals who are Black descendants of enslaved people in the United States.

An expert team of economists was appointed to calculate the damages listed in the interim report and determine what constitutes harm and atrocities for the descendants of enslaved and free Black people who were in the U.S. in the 19th century.

The expert team includes Williams Spriggs (former Chair of the Department of Economics at Howard University. He currently serves as chief economist for the AFL-CIO), Dr. Kaycea Campbell (Chief Executive Officer for Ventana Capital Advisors and Associate Professor of Economics, Los Angeles Pierce College) and Thomas Craemer (Public Policy Professor at the University of Connecticut).

William A. “Sandy” Darity Jr., the director of the Samuel DuBois Cook Center on Social Equity at Duke University, and Kirsten Mullen, a writer, and lecturer whose work focuses on race, art, history, and politics, are also members of the panel of experts.

The panel recently reported that a “conservative estimate” of two million African Americans in California have ancestors who were enslaved in the United States. According to the US 2020, there are about 2.6 million Black Californians in a state that has a total population of nearly 40 million residents.

During a task force meeting on Feb. 23, Erwin Chemerinsky, the dean of the University of
California Berkeley’s law school suggested that the panel establish lineage-based criteria instead of a race-based standard because it could be easily challenged and overturned in court because of Prop. 209.

“If reparations are given on the basis of race that anyone who meets the definition of being Black is entitled to reparations because all have suffered from the legacy…I don’t think it could survive a challenge under Proposition 209,” Chemerinsky told the task force.

Chemerinsky continued, saying, “If it is in education, if it’s in contracting, or if it’s employment, then anything that is deemed as preference on the basis of race is, per se, impermissible.”

Since it first convened on June 1, 2021, the task force was aware of the challenges it would face during its two-year journey and after its charge is completed. Task force member and attorney Don Tamaki brought this to the panel’s attention in December 2021.

“The report is going to get criticized, scrutinized, and really taken apart,” Tamaki said then.

“It just doesn’t make sense that someone should benefit for something that happened to their great, great grandfather or great, great grandmother. I don’t feel responsible for intergenerational debts,” Connerly’s tweeted on June 4. “Now, the CA Legislature wants to rewrite history & have us believe that CA was a northern representation of Mississippi.”