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By Tanu Henry, Antonio Ray Harvey and Joe W. Bowers Jr. | California Black Media
Less than half of the Black students enrolled at California State University (CSU) campuses graduate.

That troubling statistic was one data point in an announcement released by CSU during its Graduation Initiative symposium Oct. 2023 in San Diego.

Overall, the data painted a positive picture of student performance at CSU, but the Black student graduation rate at 47% stuck out as a dim spot.

The difference in graduation rates between students from historically underserved backgrounds and their peers remains an ongoing challenge for the CSU system. For example, the graduation rates for all historically underserved students and Pell Grant recipients increased by one percentage point each over the last year.

“We recognize this important opportunity to engage and collaborate with our larger community to narrow equity gaps so that all students have an opportunity to earn a life-changing college degree,” acknowledged Jennifer Baszile, CSU associate vice chancellor of Student Success & Inclusive Excellence. “This work is a moral imperative for the CSU, and it is essential for meeting California’s need for a thriving, diverse workforce.”

The report indicated that four-year graduation rates remain flat for the 23-campus system.

On the upside, the data reveals that CSU undergraduate students are earning their degrees at faster rates than ever before and are now graduating an average of one semester earlier compared to when the Graduation Initiative 2025 was initiated.

The information released shows that the CSU’s systemwide four-year graduation rate for first-year students remains at 35%, nearly doubling the rate (19%) at the launch of the initiative in 2015.

The improved outcomes, combined with enrollment increases, have contributed to an additional 150,000 bachelor’s degrees earned. But as CSU looks past the year 2025, its administrators plan to devise strategies to improve outcomes for all students, with a particular focus on Black student success and other historically underserved groups.

By Manny Otiko | California Black Media

The San Bernardino Branch of the NAACP is calling on the City of San Bernardino to investigate a racial incident that occurred last week.

During the public comments section of a council meeting on Oct. 18, Amy Malone, a Black resident of San Bernardino was interrupted by racial slurs from a commenter who was viewing the meeting remotely.

The anonymous commenter told Malone to “go back to Africa” and called her the N-word. She was also called a “bitch.”

Malone was shocked by the comments and insisted that they be addressed immediately.

“You should apologize for what just happened,” said Malone to the city council members present.

The local branch of the NAACP also reacted to the incident, calling it “disgusting.”

“It is with a heavy heart that we must deal with racial insults being tossed at the Black community on 10/18/23 as they cautioned the mayor and council not to hire Mr. Charles Montoya as City Manager because of his public legal issues cause from being fired by the Mayor and Council from Avondale, Arizona,” wrote Chache Wright, NAACP San Bernardino Branch President.

“A letter signed by Mayor Kenneth N. Weise (Avondale, AZ) lists these five alleged reasons for Montoya termination. 1. Montoya did not live in Avondale as required by his employment contract. 2. Demanding funds from the city he was not entitled to according to his contract. 3. Failing  to make timely payment on a loan he had borrowed against his retirement account. 4. Receiving tuition reimbursement payments beyond what his contract allowed. 5. Refusing to repay vehicle reimbursement funds that he was paid in error,” the NAACP statement continued.

Before she was interrupted, Malone was expressing her objections to the hiring of Montoya because of past misconduct and his questionable professional past. She was one of several residents who opposed his hiring because of his checkered employment history. According to some of the protestors, Montoya also has a history of filing lawsuits against previous employers.

According to news reports, Montoya clashed with Avondale board members and raised concerns about nepotism prior to his dismissal. He was terminated for not living within the city limits. However, his attorney argues that the city unlawfully terminated him without giving him adequate time to address the problem.

Montoya said he was fired out of spite. During an appearance at the meeting, he said he had no regrets about his decision. The case is currently proceeding to federal court.

Despite these concerns, the city council approved Montoya’s hiring. Montoya has previously worked as a city manager in California and Arizona.

A statement posted on the city’s website says that the official recording of the meeting has been edited to remove the offensive language.

“The racist comments made during the October 18, 2023, City Council meeting by individuals connected remotely through Zoom were offensive and unacceptable, and the City of San Bernardino condemns what happened in no uncertain terms,” according to the statement.

“The city apologizes to anyone who heard what was said. Our community will not tolerate this type of hateful language in our public meetings, or anywhere. The city is working to identify the individuals who made the comments. The City Clerk and her staff, along with our IT department, are working with the San Bernardino Police Department on this. We have identified all the IP addresses that were in the queue at the time and are working to identify those that were involved. SBPD is investigating this as a violation of California Penal Code 403.”

The offensive comments are part of a phenomenon known as Zoom bombing, which gained prominence during the coronavirus pandemic when many groups and businesses were forced to conduct most meetings via the videoconferencing platform. When these meetings were not properly secured, unauthorized individuals could join the chat and make inappropriate comments.

The San Bernardino NAACP says it plans to file a formal request for an investigation into the hate incident and the hiring of the city manager with the city. It will also share that request with State Attorney General Rob Bonta and the U.S. Department of Justice.

“The NAACP Legal Redress Committee is currently in the process of compiling relevant information and plans to transmit this information to the appropriate authorities next week, accompanied by their official request,” Wright concluded.

By Joe W. Bowers Jr. | California Black Media

From 10 a.m. to 7 p.m. last Saturday, the 18th annual Taste of Soul family festival took place on Crenshaw Boulevard, known as the Mecca of Black culture and business in Los Angeles. This event is recognized as the largest one day ‘free’ street festival on the West Coast.

Founded in 2005 by civil rights activist and CEO/Executive Publisher of the Los Angeles Sentinel, Danny Bakewell Sr., the Taste of Soul festival has grown from attracting 15,000 attendees to drawing crowds of nearly 350,000 visitors annually, including families, politicians, and celebrities.

U.S. Senate candidate, Congressmember Barbara Lee (D-CA-12) was among the local and state politicians at the Taste of Soul either campaigning or attending to constituents.

Reflecting on the festival’s evolution, Bakewell said, “This has far outreached my wildest dreams. I wanted a place in our community where Black people could come out and share all the things our culture represents.”

Bakewell emphasizes that while the event is rooted in the Black community, everyone is welcome.

The Taste of Soul festival has grown to be a significant economic catalyst for the local community, contributing to the revitalization of South Los Angeles by showcasing the very best the community has to offer.

This year’s Taste of Soul celebrity chair was the stand-up comedian and actress Tiffany Haddish. Joining her as event chairs were Mayor Karen Bass, LA County Supervisor Holly Mitchell, LA City Councilmembers Marqueece Harris Dawson (8th District), and Heather Hutt (10th  District). Festival Co-Chairs were Councilmember Curren Price (9th District), Assemblymembers Reggie Jones-Sawyer (D-Los Angeles), Issac Bryan (D-Ladera Heights), and Mike Gipson (D-Carson), LAUSD Board Member George McKenna, CBS/KCAL 9 Anchor Pat Harvey, and the Law firm of Ivie, McNeil, Wyatt, Purcell, and Diggs.

At the festival, Bass said, “This is the best block party in town. It was a wonderful gathering and celebration of the community. It is peaceful. Everybody has a good time. We’re supporting local businesses, especially restaurants. So, it’s a boon to the economy.”

Food is a major attraction of the festival. Out of the 300 local, ethnic, and international vendors that took part in the festival, over 100 were food vendors. These included some of the finest chefs in the world, with soul food being the main attraction among the dishes being offered.

The event offered live performances on four stages dedicated to Gospel, R&B, Jazz, Dance, and local artists. Among featured musical acts were the Whispers, the Delfonics Experience, and Switch. A new addition to the festival was Tiffany Haddish’s ‘She Ready’ Comedy Lounge & Beer Garden. The proceeds from ticket sales go to Haddish’s ‘She Ready’ foundation for youth impacted by foster care and to sponsor Mother’s in Action to support their initiatives.

Additionally, the festival provided a platform for social & healthcare resources, fun pavilions promoting social awareness, exhibits showcasing local and international visual artists, and curated events for children.

The Taste of Soul festival stands as a vibrant celebration of Black culture in Los Angeles that brings people together from all walks of life.

ATLANTA, GA— Lights, camera, action! Awakened Lounge and All Things Authentic is excited to share a sneak peek of their latest production, Jubilee Amor, coming to a screen near you in 2024. This past weekend, the cast and crew had a blast shooting behind the scenes footage and we can’t wait to see the final product!

The talented cast and crew, led by the amazing Naomi K. Bonman, Writer and Director; Lillie Mae, Producer and Casting Director; and Quintin LaFrench Cammack, Assistant Director, worked tirelessly to create a romantic drama that will have you on the edge of your seat. The story follows a former playboy and a strong woman as they navigate jealousy, tragedy, and self-discovery to find true love.

They are also thrilled to announce their incredible cast, including Nieashia Eyvette, Maurice Leggett, Tiffany Walter, Ray A Kendrick, King Judah, Lillie Mae Jones, and Akilah Khari Duncan. With such a talented team, we know Jubilee Amor The Movie will be a hit!

And to all the brands out there, they are currently accepting brand placement opportunities for the film. Send an email to namaste@theawakenedlounge.com to inquiry more about brand placement.

SAN BERNARDINO, CA— In an effort to increase the peace and decrease the violence and to restore hope in the City of San Bernardino, the San Bernardino Pastors United, will be having another Community Block Party. The purpose of the gathering is to let the community know that the church community is here for them, and to let the community know that hate will not define us, and love conquers all, “Better Together: Growing Stronger.”

On October 28, 2023, 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. all roads lead to Due Season Fellowship located at 1024 N G Street, in San Bernardino, Calif. Bishop Daniel Frazier, of DSF will be the host church and will bring a short inspirational word. Local area churches: Ecclesia Christian Fellowship, His Neighborhood Church, Life Changing Ministries, Victory Outreach Church, Kingdom Culture Worship Centre, The Way World Outreach, Cruz Chacon Foundation, Young Visionaries, The Pal Center, United Way, and many others will come together to be a blessing to the community.

SBPU is expecting hundreds to be attendance, to receive Free food, free groceries, resources, job referrals.  We are asking the community to join us as we bring:  “Healing, Change, and Progress” to the City of San Bernardino, for more info call 909-534-1383 or 909-238-6891 or email sbpastorsunited@gmail.com. Thank you for showing that San Bernardino is still Strong.

SAN BERNARDINO, CA— San Bernardino City Unified School District’s (SBCUSD) San Bernardino High School crowned a new Mr. and Miss Cardinal City and Court.

The Mr. and Miss Cardinal City pageant is the brainchild of Bilingual School Outreach Worker and Pageant Director Jaime Rios, who wanted to bring positive attention to both San Bernardino High School (SBHS) and the entire San Bernardino community, as well as build confidence and inspire positive values in the young men and women of SBHS.

Mr. and Miss Cardinal City and Court

Mr. Cardinal City 2023–2024: Alejandro Davalos

Mr. Cardinal City 2023–2024 First Runner Up: Carlos Robb Godoy

Mr. Cardinal 2023–2024 Second Runner Up: Nicholas Virgen

Miss Cardinal City 2023–2024: Danielle Francesca Villanueva

Miss Cardinal City 2023–2024 First Runner Up: Stephanie Dominguez

Miss Cardinal City 2023–2024 Second Runner Up: Dalia Aracely Mendoza

Special Pageant Awards

Mr. Photogenic: Oswaldo Diego

Miss Photogenic: Kayanna Aaliyah Marie Walker

Mr. Congeniality: Angel Ramon Jauregui

Miss Congeniality: Lisa Mariah Morfin

Mr. Cardinal People’s Choice: Alejandro Davalos

Miss Cardinal People’s Choice: Wendy Madariaga

Mr. Cardinal Contestant with the Highest GPA: Salvador Gaeta (4.65 weighted G.P.A.)

Miss Cardinal Contestant with the Highest GPA: Stephanie Dominguez (4.48 weighted G.P.A.)

Mr. Cardinal Contestant Best in Interview: Alejandro Davalos

Miss Cardinal Contestant Best in Interview: Danielle Francesca VillanuevaPrior to the pageant, all contestants had to volunteer many hours of community service. Winners commit to attending a wide variety of community events and providing many additional hours of community service to benefit the SBCUSD community.

Mr. Cardinal City Alejandro Davalos (center) and his court, Carlos Robb Godoy (left) and Nicholas Virgen (right)

Celebrating 30 Years of Empowerment with our Presidential Gala, we, the Southern California Black Chamber of Commerce, mark a milestone anniversary, awarding local community leaders on November 18, 2023, at the Embassy Suites Ontario, Ontario, California.

The SCBCOC proudly commemorates three decades of unwavering commitment of advocacy for economic growth for over 200,000 businesses and entrepreneurs. Established in 1993, the organization has been a driving force in fostering a vibrant and resilient business community, making significant strides in the pursuit of economic equality and social progress.

Our 30th Anniversary, Presidential Gala will be celebrated on November 18, 2023, from 6:00 – 9:00 PM, at the Embassy Suites Ontario, Ontario, California. From humble beginnings, we have grown into a formidable organization. The SCBCOC stands at the forefront of economic empowerment by fostering opportunities for businesses across the nation.

Throughout the years, with 15 chapters, SCBCOC has provided invaluable resources: mentorship programs, workshops, networking, as well as funding opportunities. Additionally, our organization has actively engaged in policy advocacy, ensuring that the voices of businesses are heard, and acknowledged at local, state, and federal levels.

“We are immensely proud to reach this milestone,” said Richard Wallace President of the SCBCOC. “Over the past three decades, we have witnessed the transformative impact of our efforts in the lives of countless entrepreneurs, fostering an environment of growth and prosperity. As we move forward, we remain committed to breaking barriers, and building a future where opportunities are boundless for every business owner. We invite all stakeholders, partners, and supporters to join us in celebrating this momentous occasion on November 18, 2023, from 6:00 – 9:00 PM, at the Embassy Suites Ontario, Ontario, California.”

To learn more about the Southern California Black Chamber of Commerce and our Presidential Gala, please visit www.blackchamberofcommerce.org/30-years-of-service.

SAN BERNARDINO, CA—- For the first time, at the San Bernardino County Government Center, Fifth District Supervisor Joe Baca, Jr. hosted another successful College and Career Day. The event gathered over 200 students from the Colton Joint Unified, Rialto Unified, San Bernardino County Superintendent of Schools, and San Bernardino City Unified, school districts.

Supervisor Baca, Jr. stated, “The significance of this event reaches far beyond today. It’s about planting seeds for our community’s future. Offering pathways for our youth to explore diverse career and educational possibilities enriches not just individual lives but fortifies our community’s backbone.”

This enriching event featured interactive workshops, panel discussions, and opportunities for direct networking, empowering students to connect with San Bernardino County Departments, San Bernardino County Fire, Arrowhead Regional Medical Center, San Bernardino County Sheriff’s, and other professionals in their fields of interest. The initiative has seen consistent growth and serves as a valuable asset for students from Bloomington, Rialto, Colton, and San Bernardino.

“In hosting this event at the Government Center, we’re not only providing educational and career guidance but also issuing an invitation for civic participation. Our youth, in particular, are given a firsthand look at public service as a viable career path, to provide for their families” elaborated Supervisor Joe Baca, Jr.

The Office of Supervisor Joe Baca Jr. is committed to providing our young people with the resources necessary for them to succeed in their academic and career goals.

SAN BERNARDINO, CA— San Bernardino City Unified School District’s (SBCUSD) Sierra High School has been recognized as one of America’s Healthiest Schools.

The Alliance for a Healthier Generation is a Clinton Foundation-funded organization that is dedicated to health and wellness in public schools. It has awarded the distinction to Sierra this week for its dedication to supporting the health and well-being of students, staff, and families. Sierra is one of 781 schools across 36 states in the U.S. honored this school year.

As a continuation high school, Sierra serves students who are behind in high school credits or who may need a flexible educational environment because they are employed or fulfilling family obligations, making it even more vital that the campus meet most of the needs of its 470 students, according to Principal Hector Murrieta.

“Being honored as one of America’s healthiest schools is a testament to our unwavering dedication to promoting the well-being of all our students,” said Murrieta. “We believe in nurturing the whole student in a customized, personal way.”

Murrieta expressed pride and gratitude for Sierra’s recognition, emphasizing that this achievement is the result of collective efforts made by teachers, staff, students, families, and the entire community.

Sierra High School prioritizes student mental and emotional well-being. The school takes a proactive approach to address mental health concerns, implementing programs that focus on stress reduction, mindfulness, and coping strategies. With help from key partners like Loma Linda University School of Behavioral Health, the school offers on-campus counseling services and support groups, creating a nurturing environment where the emotional well-being of students is as important as their academic success.

America’s Healthiest Schools is an annual recognition program that celebrates schools for implementing policies and practices to promote health and well-being. Sierra was recognized for demonstrating remarkable efforts to prioritize the essential health needs of its school community and exceeding best practice standards in three of the nine evaluation topics.

The three topics Sierra excelled in were:

• Strengthening Social-Emotional Health & Learning—Supporting the social-emotional, mental, and behavioral health of students
• Improving Nutrition & Food Access—Promoting and increasing healthy eating and food access through school nutrition programs and nutrition education
• Implementing Local School Wellness Policy—Advancing health-promoting practices through implementation of the district’s wellness policy

Healthier Generation’s list of America’s Healthiest Schools remains one of the country’s longest-running, nationwide recognition programs honoring schools for achievements in supporting the whole health of students, teachers, and staff.

“This year, Healthier Generation continues to meet districts, schools, and educators where they are, recognizing it takes a considerable degree of effort to serve as a model of best practice in whole child health for students, teachers, staff, and community,” said Kathy Higgins, Chief Executive Officer at Healthier Generation. “We commend America’s Healthiest Schools for demonstrating resilience and adaptability amid challenging times for our nation’s schools.”

SAN BERNARDINO, CA—- League of Women Voters, San Bernardino celebrated their 48th annual Citizens of Achievement and Civic Engagement Ceremony honoring community leaders and organizations on a beautiful Sunday, October 8, 2023, at the Sterling Natural Resource Center in Highland, CA.

Honorees included Francine Cepeda Blacksher in recognition for being the founder of Pacific Islander Graduate Recognition Program; Dr. Jenna Cortez-Aguirre for her work with St. Mary’s Ballet Folklorico of Redlands; Kristin Malaby for starting So Cal Trash Army clearing trash from the mountain recreation areas; Dr. Enrique Murillo, Jr., founder of Latino Education & Advocacy Days (LEAD) and appointment by President Joe Biden to the United States Advisory Commission on Advancing Educational Equity, Excellence, and Economic Opportunity for Hispanics of all age groups; Ratibu Shadidi (William “Bill” Henry Jacocks) posthumously for his community activities, civic engagement, social activism, and advocate of “Kwanzaa Consciousness;” High Desert Pearls for advocating social justice including campaigning in the high desert local schools to increase voter participation, registration, and education; Inland Empire Children’s Book Project main focus of volunteer work includes giving books to children ages 0-18 (donations and volunteers are always welcome); and Westside Action Group, unofficially known as WAG to reduce racial inequities in employment, education, government, etc. in the City of San Bernardino.

At the conclusion of the program, the League was honored with recognition from Mayor Helen Tran & Council members along with community leaders.

To make a difference in elections and public policy, consider joining the League of Women Voters at: https://my.lwv.org/california/san-bernardino-area/join-lvwsb