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Rialto Celebrates the Grand Opening of Its Newest Transit-Oriented Development, Metro View Apartments

RIALTO, CA – Last week marked a monumental occasion as the City of Rialto proudly unveiled its latest affordable housing development, Metro View Apartments, located at 164 W. Bonnie View Drive. The grand opening ceremony signified a significant stride forward for the community and its residents, ushering in a new era of accessibility and opportunity.

National CORE, the nonprofit sponsor of Metro View Apartments, brought this transformational vision to life, demonstrating an unwavering commitment to providing quality housing solutions for individuals and families in need.

“Metro View Apartments embodies the values of our community – a place where caring, responsibility and respect intersect to create a brighter future for all. National CORE’s intimate knowledge of this housing development project has been invaluable, and we are proud to partner with them in this endeavor,” said Mayor Deborah Robertson.

The state-of-the-art facility promises to be more than just a place to live; it is a beacon of hope and opportunity for its future residents. With its modern amenities and prime location, Metro View Apartments is poised to become a hub of activity, fostering a sense of community, and belonging for generations to come.

To commemorate this historic milestone, residents, dignitaries, and stakeholders joined in the festivities, which included speeches from city officials, guided tours of the facility, live entertainment, and refreshments.

“We are thrilled to unveil this remarkable addition to our city,” said David N. Carmany, City Manager. “The grand opening of Metro View signifies our commitment to enhancing the quality of life for our residents and fostering a vibrant community spirit. With this project, lives are being changed for the better. We look forward to the memories and experiences that will be created within these walls for generations to come.”

National CORE President Michael Ruane expressed his enthusiasm for the project, stating, “Metro View Apartments represents a significant step toward addressing the critical need for affordable housing. We are proud to have partnered with the City of Rialto to make this vision a reality and remain dedicated to serving the housing needs of individuals and families throughout the region.”

Advocates Weigh in on California Black Caucus Reparations Package

By Antonio? ?Ray? ?Harvey? |? ?California? ?Black? ?Media?

On February 21, the California Legislative Black Caucus (CLBC) held a press conference at the State Capitol organized to introduce a package of reparations legislation the lawmakers call “a starting point” to atone for the state’s legacy of discrimination.

All 12 members of the CLBC were present to explain their efforts to rectify the damages caused by the systemic discrimination against Black Californians detailed in the 1,100-page report by the first-in-the-nation California reparations task force.

The nine-member panel submitted the recommendations on June 28, 2023.

CLBC chairperson Lori Wilson (D-Suisun City) said it may take three to seven years to pass legislation aimed at implementing the task force recommendations.

The package the CLBC members presented consists of 14 legislative proposals, each designed to address different aspects of systemic racism and inequality.

One proposal by Assemblymember Cory Jackson (D-Riverside), ACA 7, seeks to amend the voter-passed initiative, Prop 209, that prohibits considering race, color, sex, or nationality in public employment, education, and contracting decisions. This amendment would allow the governor to approve exceptions to the law to address poverty and improve educational outcomes for African Americans and other marginalized groups.

Sen. Steven Bradford (D-Inglewood) discussed legislation aimed at compensating families whose properties were seized through eminent domain as a result of racism and discrimination.

The package of bills includes a measure proposed by Assemblymember Reggie Jones Sawyer (D-Los Angeles), Assembly Bill (AB) 3089 to formally acknowledge California’s history of slavery and discrimination, requiring lawmakers to issue a formal apology.

Additionally, a proposed constitutional amendment, ACA 8, sponsored by CBLC chair, Lori Wilson aims to ban involuntary servitude, particularly within the state’s prison system.

Reparations advocates and social justice groups from statewide organizations shared their support and criticism of the 14-bill reparations package with California Black Media (CBM).

A Coalition for a Just and Equitable California (CJEC) stated that the CLBC’s package does not address direct-cash payment, which, for that group’s leadership, is a non-negotiable component of any proposed compensation package.

“Our coalition’s unwavering commitment has been to pursue lineage-based reparations, encompassing direct monetary payments/compensation, state recognition of descendants as a protected class, and the establishment of the California American Freedman Affairs Agency through Senate Bill (SB) 490,” CJEC member Chris Lodgson outlined in a statement.

Lodgson continued, “We believe these vital components are imperative and a necessary first step toward true Reparations. As we’ve communicated to elected officials directly for some time, we believe any Reparations package must be targeted explicitly and exclusively to California’s 2 million Black American descendants of person enslaved in the U.S. (American Freedmen).”

Media present at the news briefing persistently questioned Wilson and other CLBC members about direct payments.

Wilson mentioned that the budget deficit California is currently facing has become consideration in discussions about compensation. A Legislative Analyst’s Office report released  Feb. 20, estimates that the state’s budget shortfall could expand to $73 billion by May.

“In regard to direct-cash payments to individuals we will continue to have that discussion as we navigate the next few years,” Wilson said. “As noted, we’re halfway through a legislative session. We have about three months of the legislative process in each house (Senate and Assembly) to work through these existing bills. In the next session, we have two years, and during that two-year session, we will consider of the fall concluding additional payments whether they are direct-cash payments or direct payments to communities,” Wilson said.

The Alliance for Reparations, Reconciliation, and Truth (ARRT), a collaboration of California’s leading Black power-building and justice groups, supports seven of CLBC’s 14 reparations bills with proposals that include the restoration of property, establishing the property tax assistance for Descendants of enslaved persons program, a formal apology for human rights violations and crimes against humanity, amending the California Constitution to prohibit involuntary servitude for incarcerated persons, and prohibiting discrimination based on natural and protective hairstyles.

“The California Legislative Black Caucus reparations package marks a historic and meaningful moment in time. ARRT encourages lawmakers to pursue an even more expansive and definitive action to fulfill the reparations principles as recognized by the United Nations,” stated James Woodson, AART co-founder and Executive Director of the California Black Power Network. “Reparative justice must be impactful, transformative, and enduring, thus paving the way toward atoning for the wrongdoings deeply imprinted in the state’s history and healing this democracy.”

ARRT is a collaboration between the Black Equity Collective, the California Black Power Network, Catalyst California, Equal Justice Society, and Live Free USA, Live Free California.

Former members of the California reparations task force have partnered   with AART: Loyola-Marymount clinical psychologist professor Dr. Cheryl Grills, Oakland-based civil rights attorney Lisa Holder, Chair of the Department of Geography at the University of California Berkeley professor Dr. Jovan Scott Lewis, and Oakland-based attorney Donald Tamaki.

“We absolutely are (in support of direct-cash payments),” Woodson told California Black Media. “I think we got to have it all. There were multiple harms that were caused and one of them was financial and that needs to be compensated for cash payments. And there are also systemic harms that were created. We need to change laws. We need to change how rules work because a lot of it flows out of anti-Black racism. We have to have everything because if you leave anything out it’s not for reparations.”

Sources shared with CBM that there will be a series of listening sessions with the CLBC to help educate Californians about the reparation bills and the workings of the legislative process.

The members of the CLBC are Assemblymember Lori D. Wilson (D-Suisun City); Sen. Steven Bradford (D-Inglewood); Assemblymember Akilah Weber (D-La Mesa); Assemblymember Isaac Bryan (D-Ladera Heights); Assemblymember Mia Bonta (D-Alameda); Assemblymember Chris Holden (D-Pasadena); Assemblymember Mike Gipson (D-Carson); Assemblymember Corey Jackson (D-Riverside); Assemblymember Reggie Jones-Sawyer (D- Los Angeles); Assemblymember Tina McKinnor (D-Inglewood); Assemblymember Kevin McCarty (D-Sacramento); and Sen. Lola Smallwood-Cuevas (D-Los Angeles).

The Honorable Leondra R. Kruger Recognized by the California State Legislature

SACRAMENTO, CA – Pasadena native, and longstanding California Supreme Court Justice, the Honorable Leondra R. Kruger was recognized by Assemblymember Chris Holden and the California Legislative Black Caucus (CLBC) as the 41st Assembly District’s Unsung Hero for her outstanding achievement and positive impact on the community.  An Unsung Hero is defined as a person who makes a substantive yet unrecognized contribution — a person whose bravery is unknown or unacknowledged.

“Justice Kruger is a true trailblazer and someone that future generations can look to as an example of hard work, discipline and all-around excellence,” said Assemblymember Chris Holden.

The California Legislative Black Caucus established the Black History Month Unsung Hero Award to recognize individuals who have contributed selflessly to their respective districts. Justice Leondra R. Kruger received her bachelor’s degree with high honors from Harvard College and received her J.D. from Yale Law School. She then went on to serve as a law clerk to Judge David S. Tatel of the United States Court of Appeals for the D.C. Circuit, and to Justice John Paul Stevens of the United States Supreme Court. In November of 2014, she was appointed to the California State Supreme Court, confirmed by the Commission on Judicial Appointments on December 22, 2014, and sworn in by the Governor on January 5, 2015.

“By enduring all that it takes to become the second African American woman and third youngest person ever to be appointed to the California Supreme Court, she is paving the way for upcoming young and diverse leaders and showing them that they are capable of more than they ever imagined,” said Holden.

Black History Month Event Celebrates the Long Relationship Between Black and Jewish Communities

WASHINGTON, D.C. — Bass Public Affairs (BPA) and The King for America Foundation hosted the first in a series of events focused on celebrating the long-shared history of collaboration between the African-American and Jewish American communities. Under the banner of the Yahweh Project BPA hopes to remind Black and Jewish communities of the historic achievements that resulted from their unified efforts.

The Black History Month luncheon, held at the National Press Club in Washington, DC, featured a discussion led by Rev. Dr. Nathaniel Thomas, senior pastor at Forestville New Redeemer Church in Forestville, Maryland. Dr. Thomas cautioned against Black Americans being misled by antisemitic misinformation from the past and present. “We have a number of groups pouring into our black churches to educate pastors in a way that is anti-Israel,” said Dr. Thomas. “We don’t need indoctrination, we need education.”

The Yahweh Project serves as a resource not only for pastors but also for educators, students, and anyone seeking a deeper understanding of Black and Jewish collaboration. In light of the increasing prevalence of antisemitism in the United States, dialogue centered on democracy and intentional efforts to foster unity on college campuses, in the media and in popular culture are imperative.

“After the horrific attacks of October 7th, we were deeply troubled by the antisemitic rhetoric emanating from some corners of the black community,” said Dee Dee Bass Wilbon, a partner at Bass Public Affairs. “Our mission is simple. We want to remind America that after Reconstruction, during the turn of the 20th Century, and amid some of the darkest days of the Civil Rights Movement, Jewish Americans marched, bled and died for the cause of justice on behalf of African Americans.”

“We are grateful to advance the goals of the Yahweh Project with initial support from the Ken and Frayda Levy Foundation and additional support from Cliff and Laurel Asness,” said Dr. Alveda King, founder of King for America.

Upcoming events include roundtable discussions at Historically Black Colleges and Universities, ecumenical forums with faith leaders, and a media campaign featuring ads in Black press outlets. For more information, visit BassPublicAffairs.com/theyahwehproject.

Aqila Augusta Celebrates Black History Month: Showcasing Iconic Natural Black Hairstyles Through the Years

MEMPHIS, TN – Aqila Augusta, a former nurse turned entrepreneur, is proud to share a special list for Black History Month titled “Celebrating Black History Month: Iconic Natural Black Hairstyles Through the Years.” She aims to honor the rich cultural heritage and diversity of black hairstyles while highlighting their significance throughout history.

“Edge Entity is more than just a brand; it’s a symbol of empowerment and confidence,” says Aqila Augusta. “We are committed to helping individuals reclaim their natural crown and rebuild their self-esteem through our innovative products.”

The list features a showcase of iconic natural black hairstyles spanning decades, highlighting their cultural significance and evolution over time. From the iconic afro, symbolizing black pride during the Civil Rights Movement, to the intricate artistry of cornrows and the spiritual significance of locs, each hairstyle tells a story of resilience, creativity, and pride within the black community.

Other featured hairstyles include twists, Bantu knots, the frohawk, big chop, natural curls, faux locs, and the teeny-weeny afro (TWA), each representing a unique expression of self-love, cultural heritage, and individuality. Here they are explained.

  1. Afro: Popularized during the 1960s and 1970s, the afro became a symbol of black pride, identity, and empowerment during the Civil Rights Movement.
  2. Cornrows: Originating from Africa, cornrows are braided close to the scalp in rows, often intricately styled and adorned with beads or other accessories. “Also, a crazy fact about cornrows: they were used during slavery as maps or guides for runaways to help them navigate paths to escape,” says Augusta.
  3. Twists: Twists are a versatile hairstyle where sections of hair are twisted together to create a rope-like appearance, offering a low-maintenance yet stylish look.
  4. Locs (Dreadlocks): A hairstyle where hair is intentionally matted and knotted to form rope-like strands, locs are often associated with spirituality, cultural identity, and rebellion against societal norms.
  5. Bantu Knots: Originating from the Bantu people of Southern Africa, Bantu knots are small, coiled buns formed by twisting sections of hair, often worn as a protective style or as a precursor to voluminous curls.
  6. Frohawk: A variation of the afro, the frohawk features a strip of hair left untouched down the middle of the head, while the sides are shaved or styled closely to the scalp, creating a Mohawk-like effect.
  7. Big Chop: A bold statement of self-love and acceptance, the big chop involves cutting off chemically processed or damaged hair to embrace one’s natural texture and start afresh.
  8. Natural Curls: Embracing the natural texture of black hair, whether in loose curls, coils, or kinks, celebrates individuality and authenticity without the need for chemical straightening or heat styling.
  9. Faux Locs: Offering the look of traditional locs without the commitment, faux locs are created using extensions or braiding hair, providing versatility and style without the long-term commitment.
  10. TWA (Teeny Weeny Afro): A chic and low-maintenance style, the TWA showcases the beauty of short, natural hair, allowing for easy styling and versatility while embracing one’s natural texture.

These hairstyles not only reflect the diversity and creativity within the black community but also serve as a means of self-expression, cultural heritage, and empowerment throughout history.

Originally from New Orleans and now based in Memphis, TN, Aqila Augusta embarked on her entrepreneurial journey after experiencing her own hair loss struggles. As a mother and a Hurricane Katrina survivor, Aqila’s determination led her to create her own hair growth formula after numerous failed attempts with existing products. Drawing upon her nursing background and extensive research, she founded Edge Entity, a brand dedicated to providing high-quality hair care solutions for men, women, and children worldwide.

For more information about Aqila Augusta and Edge Entity, please visit edgeentity.com and follow them on social media @Edge.Entity.

Join Aqila Augusta and Edge Entity in celebrating Black History Month and embracing the beauty of natural black hairstyles.


About Edge Entity

Edge Entity is a leading provider of high-quality hair care products, founded by Aqila Augusta, a former nurse and entrepreneur. With a mission to empower individuals to embrace their natural hair, Edge Entity offers a range of innovative solutions, from hair growth formulas to shampoos, conditioners, vitamins, and moisturizers. Their commitment to quality and customer satisfaction has made them a trusted brand among men, women, and children worldwide.

 

 

California Black Caucus, Attorney General Rob Bonta Back Bill to Address Maternal Mortality

By Tanu Henry and Joe W. Bowers Jr. | California Black Media 

On February 12, Attorney Gen. Rob Bonta joined members of the California Legislative Black Caucus in Sacramento to announce they are backing a bill written to address the high maternal mortality rate among Black women.

The legislation, Assembly Bill (AB) 2319 – aims to ensure the successful implementation of SB 464, or the California Dignity in Pregnancy and Childbirth Act of 2019 (Act).

This act which took effect in 2020, mandates that all physicians in the state undergo implicit bias training every two years and requires hospitals to inform patients about their rights.

If the Legislature votes to approve it and Gov. Newsom signs it into law, AB 2319 will “provide clarity” on who qualifies to offer anti-bias trainings; designate state authorities to implement and enforce accountability measure; improve equity and inclusion; increase transparency around implementation; establish penalties for violators; among other provisions.

“It is a tragic reality that race continues to be a factor in maternal health and infant mortality rates not just in California, but across this country,” said Bonta.

“Together, we have made so much progress, and we must continue to address healthcare bias head-on. Today’s legislation does just that; it is designed to make transformational change in a system that has historically failed our mothers and babies, especially those of color,” Bonta added.

In California, ever year, Black women account for about 5% of pregnant women but make up an estimated 21% of pregnancy-related deaths, according to California Department of Justice.

Assemblymembers Lori Wilson (D-Suisun City) Chair of the CLBC: Mia Bonta (D-Oakland), chair of the Assembly Health Committee; Corey Jackson (D-Moreno Valley); and Mike Gipson (D-Carson) attended the news briefing at the State Capitol about AB 2319.

“As a Black Mother and as Chair of the California Legislative Black Caucus, the fight to improve these outcomes is personal to me “I look forward to collaborating with our Attorney General Rob Bonta, Assemblymember Dr. Akilah Weber and other stakeholders to push this accountability measure across the finish line as we seek to make strides in improving Black maternal health outcomes throughout California,” said Wilson.

HBCU Caravan brings the college experience closer for Chaffey Joint Union High School students

ETIWANDA, CA – High school senior Anthony Johnson knows he wants to go to college but isn’t sure where he would like to land. Meeting with recruiters from 20 Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs), which had gathered Wednesday, February 7, at Etiwanda High School, gave him some long-distance options he hadn’t thought of. And for his father, Brenton Johnson, it was music to his ears.

“I think (Anthony) wants to stay around here. I get that. But learning to be independent is such a big part of what you get from college. I would love for one of these schools to take him in, get him his degree, and send us back a man,” Brenton Johnson said.

Judging from the results of the HBCU Caravan, several Chaffey Joint Union High School students will be starting their college journeys at schools such as Florida A&M, Grambling, Alabama State, Morgan State and Talladega College. By the end of the two-hour recruitment fair, 51 students had received on-the-spot acceptances, and $867,600 in scholarships had been awarded.

The Caravan was coordinated by Joshua Kirk, Director of College Readiness & Access for the state’s second-largest high school district, in partnership with Dr. Theresa Price, founder of the National College Resources Foundation. Kirk, himself a graduate of an HBCU (Southern University), was instrumental in building a guaranteed-enrollment partnership between the District and Florida A&M earlier this year.

“It’s such a great opportunity for our students to explore all sorts of different opportunities as they begin this incredible journey into adulthood,” Kirk said.

Tirrell Hamilton, a recruiter and alumnus from Florida A&M, said events such as the Caravan and the 25th Black College Expo in Los Angeles on February 10 can open students’ eyes to the bigger value of the college experience. “I tell kids all the time, college is not a destination. It’s a place to prepare you for the rest of your life,” he said.

For Anthony Johnson, that’s beginning to resonate. Speaking with a recruiter from Texas Southern University, the Colony High School senior asked about the college’s computer science program and fitting in as a student there. “This is good,” he said afterward. “I’m learning a lot about the HBCU community.”

Dr. Mathew Holton, Superintendent of the Chaffey District, said he appreciated the support of the National College Resources Foundation and the 20 colleges and universities that participated in the event.

“For many students, it’s not just about opening a door to a new opportunity. It’s finding out that door even exists. The HBCU Caravan is showing our students just how many opportunities, how many doors, are out there waiting for them,” Holton said.

Lon Weind, Director of Admissions Recruitment at Talledega College, described it as a win-win for students and for schools such as his – a small college of fewer than 800 students.

“They probably wouldn’t know all that we have to offer,” Weind said, adding that through recruitment fairs and programs such as the HBCU Caravan, “we have a lot of students from California.”

That’s what it’s all about, said Dr. Price, who founded the National College Resources Foundation to inspire students to attend college.

“I realized that many students were told they weren’t college material, so I said to myself, ‘What can I do about it?'” she said.

California Black Women’s Health Project Kicks Of 30th Anniversary Celebration

By Tanu Henry and Joe W. Bowers Jr. | California Black Media 

Last week, the California Black Women’s Health Project (CABWHP) announced that it is kicking off its 30th anniversary with special programs throughout 2024, and a continuing commitment to fighting for equity and pushing policies that help Black women and girls lead healthier and more fulfilling lives.

“Over the past 30 years, we’ve worked to support Black women and girls who are too often overlooked and neglected in the healthcare system and other systems that claim to serve us,” said Sonya Young Aadam, CEO of CABWHP, in a statement.

“Despite ongoing challenges, we will continue to unapologetically advocate for the improved health and well-being of Black women and girls across California from San Diego to Sacramento, Aadam continued.

CABWHP began anniversary celebrations with a fundraising drive under the theme Giving F.O.R.W.A.R.D. (For Our RIGHTS, WELLNESS, ADVOCACY, RESOURCES, and DESCENDENTS). The organization also hosted a fireside chat honoring its past five CEOs of the organization.

All proceeds from the drive will be used to “strengthen operations and support existing programs focused on training, educating, and building the capacity of Black women to become health advocates and activists,” according to a CABWHP press release.

“We know that it takes collective community efforts to address gaps, and we remain committed to fighting against inequities,” Aadam said.

For more information on CABWHP’s work and 30th anniversary events visit CABWHP.org.

 

“Sudden, Unexpected, Destruction With Devastating Force is On the Horizon Get in the Ark NOW!”

By Lou K. Coleman| WSS News Contributor

While people are saying, “Peace and safety”, destruction will come suddenly… [1 Thessalonians 5:3]. Do not be deceived. Sudden, unexpected, destruction with devastating force is on the horizon. Get in the ark NOW! For the most dangerous of all delusions is that there is plenty of time to prepare. NOT! Look around you. Are we not living in days similar to Noah? The end is near! Get Ready, Get aboard! Get into the safety of God’s ark before it’s too late!

Out in the open wisdom calls aloud, she raises her voice in the public square; on top of the wall she cries out, at the city gate she makes her speech: “How long will you who are simple love your simple ways?

How long will mockers delight in mockery and fools hate knowledge?  But since you refuse to listen when I call and no one pays attention when I stretch out my hand, since you disregard all my advice and do not accept my rebuke, I in turn will laugh when disaster strikes you; I will mock when calamity overtakes you—when calamity overtakes you like a storm, when disaster sweeps over you like a whirlwind, when distress and trouble overwhelm you. “Then they will call to me but I will not answer; they will look for me but will not find me, since they hated knowledge and did not choose to fear the Lord. Since they would not accept my advice and spurned my rebuke, they will eat the fruit of their ways and be filled with the fruit of their schemes. For the waywardness of the simple will kill them, and the complacency of fools will destroy them, but whoever listens to me will live in safety and be at ease, without fear of harm.” [Proverbs 1:20-33].

Get into the Ark, NOW!  “The end of all things is at hand” [1 Peter 4:7]

Los Angeles City Council Declares Shirley Weber Day

By Tanu Henry and Joe W. Bowers Jr. | California Black Media 

On February 14 last week, Valentine’s Day, the Los Angeles City Council honored California’s first Black Secretary of State, Dr. Shirley N. Weber, with a heartfelt gesture of appreciation.

As part of its Black History Month celebration, the 15-member council declared February 14 “Shirley Weber Day” in Los Angeles.

“We celebrate the homecoming of an undeniable force who emerged from the streets of South L.A. to the epitome, showing strength and grit,” said Councilmember Curren Price, who represents the city’s 9th District where Weber grew up.

Price introduced the resolution to honor Weber earlier this month, which acknowledged the Secretary of State for her “lifelong commitment to service within the realm of civil rights, voting rights, public safety, protections for those with disabilities, food insecurity and legislation on education.”

Councilmember Heather Hutt, who represents the 10th District, called Weber “an extraordinary woman who has made history and she really continues to inspire us all.”

Latricia T. Mitchell, NAACP Los Angeles President, congratulated Weber and praised the city council for its decision.

“Her unwavering dedication to the California dream, where hope, opportunity, justice, and fairness thrive, serves as an inspiration to all,” wrote Mitchell in a statement. “With unwavering integrity, she consistently prioritizes the needs of the public over any political agenda, fulfilling her responsibilities with utmost commitment.”

Weber, born in Hope, Ark, in 1948, moved with her family to Los Angeles as a young girl. She grew up in the Pueblo Del Rio housing projects and earned her undergraduate, master’s and PhD from UCLA.

Weber, a former Assemblymember who represented the 79th District in San Diego, thanked the councilmembers, recognized how growing up in L.A. contributed to her success, urged the audience to help build communities where young people can be motivated, feel supported and thrive.

Weber also remembered her parents.

“My only regret in life is that my parents are not here to see what they did, what they made, and see the contributions they made not just to my life, but to the life of California,” she said. “I always pay tribute to them.”