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Volume 6, Issue 19 www.earlharvey.com September 27, 2018

2 Black Professionals News • September 27, 2018
2018 MARIAN ANDERSON AWARD TO BE PRESENTED TO QUEEN LATIFAH
20th Anniversary Gala and Concert to Honor Award-Winning Singer,
Rapper, and Actress
Philadelphia Mayor Jim Kenney announced that Queen Latifah will
receive the 2018 Marian Anderson Award on November 20 during the
eagerly anticipated 20th Anniversary Marian Anderson Award Gala and
Concert at The Kimmel Center for the Performing Arts. Queen Latifah, a
true renaissance woman, is a musician, television and film actress, label
president, author and entrepreneur. She has won a Grammy Award, an
Emmy Award, a Golden Globe Award, three Screen Actors Guild Awards,
two NAACP Image Awards, an Academy Award nomination and accu-
mulated sales of over two million records. Queen Latifah’s artistic talent
is matched by her commitment to philanthropic causes making her a
perfect choice for the Marian Anderson Award, an honor created to
celebrate critically acclaimed artists who have excelled in their field and
have contributed to society in a positive and singular manner.
“We are pleased to honor Queen Latifah with the 2018 Marian
Anderson Award,” Mayor Kenney said. “She has been a pioneer for
The Black Professionals News Black Friday Initiative to Support Black Owned Businesses
My name is Earl Harvey, I am the Publisher of The Black
Professionals Newspaper (BPN ) in Philadelphia and the Atlantic City
Times in AC. Our newspaper was created to provide affordable
advertising opportunities for small businesses and non-profits that service
the black community. I am a marketing consultant and I know most small
businesses have limited budgets for advertising and marketing which is
badly needed to grow their businesses. We also provide website design
and email marketing in addition to print advertising.
I am working with a group of Philadelphia businessmen to develop
strategies to improve our communities. I have developed a concept called
Black Friday which will be a spin off from Black Friday, the biggest
For a list of participating businesses or to sign up a business visit ibuyblack.org
Earl Harvey, The Black Professionals News
Publisher
P.O. Box 44303 (BPN)
Philadelphia, PA
19144 Advertising • Marketing • Special Events www.earlharvey.com
women in the music, film and broader
entertainment industry, and exemplifies Marian
Anderson’s spirit and message of empowerment.”
“The Marian Anderson Award has become an
impressive cultural hallmark of the Philadelphia
arts community since we created it twenty years
ago,” said Award founder Governor Ed Rendell.
“Its distinguished honorees, coupled with its
extensive support for young artists, add greatly to
Philadelphia's national reputation as a place Queen Latifah
where the arts are respected and encouraged.”
The Marian Anderson Award takes place at the Kimmel Center with
the Gala Concert held in Verizon Hall. For information about attending
the Gala Dinner, please call 215-893-1837.
Visit www.marianandersonaward.org and kimmelcenter.org for ticket
information and details about the organizations.
shopping day of the year. Instead of just one shopping day, I propose that
the community support black owned businesses every Friday. Of course
we encourage supporting our businesses every day of the week, but for
now if we can do a special promotion to drive customers to our
businesses just one day a week, we hope it will grow from there.
At the end of the test period we will aggregate participation provide a
report and hopefully launch Black Friday as a City Wide Community and
Economic Development Initiative. The purpose is to grow the businesses
and hopefully they will create jobs for the community, please join us!
To volunteer call 267-244-3860 earlharvey@aol.com
For a list of participating businesses ibuyblack.org
For more information or to
purchase a card contact
Earl Harvey 267-244-3860
earl@earlharvey.com
Phone
267-244-3860
earl
@earlharvey.com

AARP Report Finds More Men Embrace Role of Caregivers
Earl Harvey, 63, a Philadelphia-based publisher, cares for his mother in
Atlantic City. Photo by Eric Prine.
By Hilary Appelman
Earl Harvey moved into his 87-year-old mother’s Atlantic City home
five years ago to help get her medical and financial situations in order.
He knew that while his mother, who has dementia, did not need to be
institutionalized, she couldn’t live alone. So Harvey, 63, a
Philadelphia-based publisher who works from home, and whose three
children are grown, became her full-time caregiver.
“When my father died, he told me, ‘Take care of your mother,’ ”
Harvey said. “I’m an only child, so my mother is my responsibility.”
Harvey is one of a growing number of men caring for family
members. A 2015 national survey conducted by AARP and the National
Alliance for Caregiving found that 40 percent of family caregivers of
adults were men. More than half of those 16 million men were the
primary caregiver.
Louis Colbert, who has run a support group for caregivers at
Philadelphia’s Pinn Memorial Baptist Church for the past 12 years, said
seven of the group’s roughly 30 members are men.
“One man with five kids told me he never changed a diaper until he
had to change his wife’s diaper,” said Colbert, who is vice president of
operations at the Philadelphia Corporation for Aging, the largest of the
state’s 52 Area Agencies on Aging. Along with his siblings, he took care
of his mother until her death, three years ago.
Colbert has observed that caregivers tend to join the support group
when “they’re stressed out and don’t know what to do, where to turn.”
Raising sensitive topics.
Meeting monthly, his group provides a light meal, conversation and
expert speakers on topics such as how to care for loved ones after they
are discharged from the hospital.
Some issues are difficult. Harvey recalled helping his mother with
personal tasks like bathing and grooming.
“The first time I bathed my mom, she said, ‘You’re not bathing me!’ ”
he said, laughing. “I said, ‘I don’t want to do it, either!’ After a while you
get used to it and just do it.”
Barry J. Jacobs, a clinical psychologist with Crozer-Keystone Health
System in Springfield and author of AARP Meditations for Caregivers,
said men are less likely to seek support, either in person or online. They
may feel they are letting their loved one down by asking for help.
Fred Lewis, 89, of Philadelphia, has been caring for his wife, Carrie,
Terri Matthews Hosts Inaugural Next Level Vision Series Tour in Philadelphia
Co-Hosts include Social Influencer Jade Kendle of Lipstick N Curls,
Guests include Philadelphia’s Top Leading Professionals
Terri Matthews, CEO of ORI HomeCare, Author and founder of
Jaden’s Voice is launching, “The Next Level Vision Series Tour,”
beginning in Philadelphia on Sunday, October 7, 2018 at 1pm in the
XIV87 Event Space located at 1268 S. 26th Street in the heart of
Philadelphia with additional cities to roll out in 2019.
Next Level Vision Series is an interactive event designed to catapult
women into their Next Level of Greatness. Joining Terri Matthews is
social Media Maven, Jade Kendle of Lipstick N Curls; Dr. Wesley
Proctor, Non-Profit Expert; Diona Nicole of Diona Nicole Design Studio;
Jessica Lili of Urban Philly Professional Network; Albert Soler Esq. of
Black Professionals News • September 27, 2018 3
Earl Harvey, publisher Black Professional News
since she suffered a stroke three years ago. The day that he needs more
help will come, Lewis said, but “I haven’t reached that point.”
Jacobs said he tells caregivers, “Let’s figure out a way to do this in a
smart and strategic way so you can do this as long as you can.”
The 2015 survey found that many male caregivers want more training
in medical and nursing tasks, such as injections or wound care.
Ray Landis, advocacy manager for AARP Pennsylvania, said that’s
one of the goals of the state’s Caregiver Advise, Record, Enable (CARE)
Act. The law requires hospitals to share more information with family
caregivers.
To find a local support group, caregivers can go to eldercare.gov and
enter their zip code. AARP’s caregiving site (aarp.org/caregivers) has
information and resources, as does aarp.org/pa. Videos featuring male
caregivers, including the support group in Philadelphia, can be found at
aarp.org/home-family/caregiving/info-2017/celebrate-male-caregivers-
studios.
The need for caregivers is enormous and growing, Jacobs said. “We
need everyone stepping up, and that has to include men.”
Hilary Appelman is a writer living in State College, PA.
For more resources about caregivng National Alliance for
Caregiving, Philadelphia Corporation for Aging
aarp.org/caregiving/ local.aarp.org/philadelphia-pa/
Soler Legal, LLC and Megan McKeown of Main Line Accounting. On
October 7th, these proven industry professionals will join together to
help eradicate the barriers which prohibit forward progress in
business and professional success.
Attendees will receive tangible business-related resources, practical
business strategies, step-by-step how to’s as well as vision board
supplies, refreshments, giveaways and much more! To register for the
Next Level Vision Series, visit terrimatthews.eventbrite.com
This Next Level Vision Event is sponsored by Diona Nicole Design
Studio, Feng Shui Naturals, and Curl Biz Products.
To learn more visit: terrimatthewsonline.com onthespectrum.tv
jadensvoice.org
 4 Black Professionals News • September 27, 2018
Small Business Owners are Invited to Join IBUYBLACK Discount Card Initiative
We are inviting black business owners to join a network that will
PROMOTE your business and bring you NEW customers – AT NO
COST TO YOU! The iBuy Black Card – is a discount card that will be in
the hands of shoppers looking to support Black businesses. We have sold
over 3000 cards to the public, and our goal is to eventually issue 10,000
cards. Shoppers pay $10.00 for the iBuy Black Discount Card because
they want to support small businesses. This wonderful program will help
grow your business, create jobs in our community, and raise funds that
will be reinvested in our community.
Best of all, it’s easy for you to participate in the iBuy Black Card
network! Here’s how it works: 1. Joining the network is FREE! We just
ask that you provide a small discount or benefit to our cardholders. 2.
The nature of the discount you provide is up to you – 5% - 10% totally
up to you! Just remember, you will be getting new customers. 3.
Participating businesses will be promoted by the Philadelphia
Community of Leaders (PCOL) and all of our partners. 4. Sign up for
Support Black Owned Businesses Make Dollars Make Sense
Economists say the average dollar earned by blacks stays in our
community for 6 hours. Compare that to the white community. Dollars
circulate in the white community for 17 days! Some laugh at our
spending habits -- then they harvest our dollars like locusts in a field of
corn. They don’t care that strong black businesses are good for the
ENTIRE community. Considering the potential to lower crime and
violence, ALL people should make a point of supporting black
businesses. According to Brian Williams, MBA and Founder of
purchaseBlack.com, “If we spent nine cents of our collective dollar with
black owned businesses we could employ every single man, woman and
child within the black community”. More jobs will lower crime and
violence. We should heed the advice of Rev. Leon Sullivan and take
charge of the dollars that flow through our pockets. The power is in our
Can't find the latest copy of BPN ?
Read The Black Professionals News and
Atlantic City Times online at earlharvey.com
free online ibuyblack.org . Shoppers love discounts. And our members
love to BUY BLACK
We will send you promotional materials, include you in our network,
and promote you in the media, in social media ads, and in business
showcases. This is a great opportunity to grow your business! Please call
Earl Harvey 267-244-3860 to learn how to register your business.
Sponsored by Kenny Gamble, Philadelphia Community of Leaders.
Pastor Alyn Waller, Enon Tabernacle Baptist Church. Sarah Lomax,
CEO, WURD Radio. Earl Harvey, CEO, Black Professionals News. Ali
Salahudin, African Genesis Institute Joel Wilson, president and CEO of
JCW Consulting and Gary Shepard , 3rd Floor Media.
Pick Up Ibuyblack discount cards at the following locations: African
Cultural Art Forum, 221 S 52nd St., Philadelphia, PA 19139, Amatullah's
Treasures, 6303 Lansdowne Ave., Philadelphia, PA 19151 and
Maxamillion's Gentlemen's Quarters Barber Parlor, 2035 Chestnut St
Philadelphia, PA 19103
hands. A broad coalition of Philadelphia leaders have united and
developed the iBuy Black Discount Card to address this problem. Our
goal is to recruit 10,000 consumers to purchase the iBuyBlack Discount
card for just $10.00. In return shoppers can expect discounts and benefits
when they present the card to businesses who join our network. Network
businesses will get new customers, community recognition, and free
promotion within our extensive network. Want to join this movement and
spend your dollars wisely? Purchase your iBuyBlack Discount Card
today by calling Earl Harvey 267-244-3860 Business people, want to add
new customers and show your support for this movement? Join our
growing network email earl@earlharvey.com. For a list of participating
businesses ibuyblack.org
Volunteers invited to join us for an exciting
new initiative to support Black Owned
Businesses. Come out and explore hidden
treasures located in our
business districts and commercial corridors
To volunteer and for more information
call
Earl Harvey 267-244-3860
email earl@earlharvey.com

Future of Democratic Party lies in moving to the moral center
By Jesse Jackson
A new generation of Democrats, such as New York congressional
candidate Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez, is challenging the party's
establishment, writes Jesse Jackson, and the party's goal should be to
embrace the
A new generation of Democrats, such as New York congressional
candidate Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez, is challenging the party's
establishment, writes Jesse Jackson, and the party's goal should be to
embrace the "moral center."
The media is now reporting on the debate among Democrats and
activists about what the party should stand for, and how it will win
elections.
Establishment Democrats are said fear that the populist reform
energy represented by Bernie Sanders and rising star Alexandria
Ocasio-Cortez (who upset Rep. Joe Crowley, the fourth-ranking
Democrat in the House, in a New York City primary) will turn off the
moderate, upscale, white suburban Republicans who they believe are
appalled by Trump and the key to taking back the Congress.
A Wall-Street-funded group known as the Third Way — which might
better be known as the Wrong Way since it has been wrong about every
major issue facing the country over the last years, championing
disastrous corporate trade deals, deregulation of Wall Street and the Iraq
War among other calamities — even convened a small gathering, “
cohosted” by a billionaire real estate developer to map out how to
counter what the media describes as the left.
The very terms of this debate are misleading. Ideas that have broad
public support, such as tuition-free college, are labeled “left.” Ideas that
offend philosophical conservatives, such as subsidies to big oil
companies, are tagged as on the right, championed by Republicans.
We’d be wiser to focus on common sense and basic principles. When
Dr. Martin Luther King spoke forcefully against what he called the
“triple evils” of “racism, economic exploitation and militarism,” he was
criticized for weakening the cause of civil rights, for getting out of his
lane by talking about economic inequality and against the Vietnam War.
KIMMEL CENTER ANNOUNCES INNOVATIVE AND STAR-STUDDED NEW LINEUP
INCLUDING THE DELIGHTFUL FAMILY DISCOVERY SERIES FOR 2018/19 SEASON
PACKAGES AND SELECT PERFORMANCES ON SALE NOW
Lineup includes Alvin Ailey American Dance Theater, Rennie Harris,
Joan Baez, American Girl Live, Anderson Cooper and Andy Cohen, Tom
Segura, and the Philadelphia Premiere of National Geographic Live!
The Kimmel Center for the Performing Arts is excited to announce a
fantastic new lineup to the 2018/19 season including the entertaining
Family Discovery Series. Tickets for most shows are on sale now. This
incredible lineup joins the already announced Broadway Philadelphia
season that includes the Philadelphia premiere of Hamilton; and the
2018/19 Jazz Season.
This thrilling new lineup offers something for everyone, from
Broadway to comedy, dance to music. Comedian, actor, host, and writer
Hasan Minhaj will have audiences roaring with laughter in his show
Before The Storm. The fiery comedian Kathy Griffin returns with her
Laugh Your Head Off World Tour to talk about everything in the
pop-culture landscape from President Trump to the Kardashians. Actor
and comedian Tom Segura will bring his stand up after two, wildly
successful, Netflix specials; and comedians Kristin Hensley and Jen
Smedley will joke about all aspects of being a mom in iMomSoHard.
Returning this season is the Alvin Ailey American Dance Theater after a
sold-out engagement at the Kimmel Center’s Merriam Theater in 2017.
The Kimmel Center’s Resident Company PHILADANCO will feature
works from two longtime PHILADANCO resident choreographers,
Milton Myers and Christopher Huggins, in the performance
Choreographers on the Move. Rennie Harris also returns in Funkedified
to celebrate funk music and street dance of the 1970s. The dynamic duo
of AC2: Anderson Cooper and Andy Cohen will offer an evening of
unscripted, uncensored, and unforgettable conversation.
Black Lives Matter activist and podcast host DeRay Mckesson will
engage with audiences about culture, social justice, and politics. Ira Glass
Celebrate Fall at The Old School Party sponsored by AARP
@ Philly's Platinum Grille 7719 Crittenden St @ Mermaid Lane in Chestnut Hill Friday,
October 26th. Calling All Scorpios FREE ADMISSION for Scorpios with ID, all others
$10.00 at the door. Free parking, cash bar. Call
Platinum Grille to reserve your table 215-247-2312, or call Earl Harvey 267-244-3860
Ain't No Party Like a Scorpio Party 8:30 pm to 2:00 am
Black Professionals News • September 27, 2018 5
He responded, “I’m against segregation
at lunch counters, and I’m not going to
segregate my moral concerns.” Cowardice,
he taught us, asks the question “Is it safe?”
Expediency asks, “Is it politic?” Vanity asks,
“Is it popular?” Conscience asks, “Is it
right?”
We are a nation faced with great perils.
Inequality has reached new extremes and, Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez
AP Photo/Mary Altaffer
even with the economy near full employment,
working people still struggle simply to stay afloat. Big money corrupts
our politics and distorts our government. We are mired in wars without
end — 17 years in Afghanistan and counting — and without victory or
sense. We have a president who believes he profits politically by
spreading racial division, appealing to our fears rather than our hopes.
This is the time for citizens and for true leaders to move not left or
right, to the expedient or the cautious, but to the moral center. Affordable
health care for all isn’t left or right, it is the moral center. Jobs that pay a
living wage, affordable housing, public education, college without debt,
clean water and air, action to address catastrophic climate change that
literally may endanger the world — these are not ideas of the right or
left. They are the moral center.
Holding to the moral center has its own power. Opposition to slavery
started as a minority position, but its moral force was undeniable.
Integration seemed impossible in the segregated South, but its moral
force could not be denied. In this time of troubles, I believe that
Americans in large numbers are looking for leaders who will embrace the
moral center, not the expedient, the safe or the fashionable. They are
looking for champions who will represent them, not those with deep
pockets.
That may be the final irony. The most successful political strategy
may well be not to trim to prevailing opinion or compromise with
entrenched interest but to stand up forcefully for what is right.
is the creator, producer, and host of the popular public radio show This
American Life. He will deliver a unique talk and share lessons from his
life. Plus, the iconic and world-renowned singer Joan Baez embarks on
her final North American tour, Fare Thee Well.
“The 2018/19 season welcomes groundbreaking new productions and
returning favorites to the Kimmel Center Cultural Campus,” said Ed
Cambron, Executive Vice President of the Kimmel Center for the
Performing Arts. “Our dynamic programming continues to offer
unforgettable experiences that appeal to the diverse interests of our
region, including our Family Discovery Series, our long-standing jazz
series, the new National Geographic Live! speaker series, and much
more.”
FREE AT THE KIMMEL
La NOCHE is the Kimmel Center’s FREE monthly, Latin music,
dance-party experience. The Kimmel Center’s own house band, La
NOCHE, performs led by Cuban percussionist Arturo Stable and dance
leader, Kevin Ngo.
Sittin’ In is also a FREE monthly event at the Kimmel Center. It
introduces audiences to new cutting-edge artists, drawing everything
from straight-ahead jazz to freestyle hip hop and all points in between.
In addition, the Kimmel Center’s FREE PNC Grow Up Great
programs will continue in the 2018/19 season. Grow Up Great is for
young music lovers, ages 3-5 years old. Each month, Grow Up Great
introduces children to the vibrant worlds of jazz or musical theater.
Tickets to select shows are on sale now. Tickets can be purchased by
calling 215-893-1999, online at www.kimmelcenter.org, or at the
Kimmel Center Box Office. Group sales are available for groups of 10 or
more and can be purchased by calling 215-790-5883. See
kimmelcenter.org for more information.
 6 Black Professionals News • September 27, 2018
BLACK IMPACT: CONSUMER CATEGORIES WHERE AFRICAN AMERICANS MOVE
MARKETS Neilsen Consumer Reports
Black consumers are speaking directly to brands in unprecedented
ways and achieving headline-making results. Throughout 2017, popular
brands witnessed the power of Black Twitter and the brand impact of
socially conscious Black consumers. Through social media, Black
consumers have brokered a seat at the table and are demanding that
brands and marketers speak to them in ways that resonate culturally and
experientially—if these brands want their business. And with African
Americans spending $1.2 trillion annually, brands have a lot to lose.
DIVING INTO THE DOLLARS SPENT
Black consumers and consumers of color alike are making
considerable contributions to the overall market—in some cases
representing more than 50% of the overall spending in key product
categories. For example, half of the total spend ($941 million) on dry
grains and vegetables in the U.S. in 2017 came from consumers of color.
And Black consumers represented $147 million of the total spend in this
category, which has recently made advances in product creation to meet
the demands of their diverse buyers.
Mainstream manufacturers across other industries are also seizing the
opportunity to create specific products that appeal to diverse consumers.
Not so surprisingly, African Americans have cornered the ethnic hair and
beauty market, ringing up $54 million of the $63 million total industry
spend in 2017. But marketers should find it interesting that Black
consumers aren’t just spending on products created specifically to appeal
to them. In fact, in terms of sheer dollars, African Americans spent
considerably more money in the general beauty marketplace last year.
Black shoppers spent $473 million in total hair care (a $4.2 billion
industry) and made other significant investments in personal appearance
products, such as grooming aids ($127 million out of $889 million) and
skin care preparations ($465 million out of $3 billion).
African Americans make up 14% of the U.S. population but have
outsized influence over spending on essential items such as personal soap
and bath needs ($573 million), feminine hygiene products ($54 million)
and men’s toiletries ($61 million). Nielsen research also shows Black
consumers spent $810 million on bottled water (15% of overall spending)
and $587 million on refrigerated drinks (17% of overall spending).
Luxury, non-essential products such as women’s fragrances ($151
million of a $679 million industry total), watches and timepieces ($60
million of $385 million in overall spending) and even children’s cologne
($4 million out of $27 million) also play well to an audience that’s keen
on image and self care.
“Our research shows that Black consumer choices have a ‘cool
factor’ that has created a halo effect, influencing not just consumers of
color but the mainstream as well,” said Cheryl Grace, Senior Vice
President of U.S. Strategic Community Alliances and Consumer
Engagement, Nielsen. “These figures show that investment by
multinational conglomerates in R&D to develop products and marketing
aampmuseum.org 215 574-0380
that appeal to diverse consumers is, indeed, paying off handsomely.”
Companies should take notice of even the subtle shifts in spending,
because black consumer brand loyalty is contingent upon a brand’s
perception as authentic, culturally relevant, socially conscious and
responsible. In fact, 38% of African Americans between the ages of 18
and 34 and 41% of those aged 35 or older say they expect the brands they
buy to support social causes, 4% and 15% more than their total
population counterparts, respectively. Moreover, Black consumers’ brand
preferences are increasingly becoming mainstream choices, which
illustrates that the investment in connecting with Black consumers can
often yield sizeable general market returns. For instance, sizable Black
spend in health and beauty categories has contributed to a diversification
of product offerings that appeal not only to Black consumers, but to the
general market as well.
WHAT’S AT STAKE?
Black consumers account for a disproportionate amount of product
sales in a number of fast-moving consumer goods categories. Again, with
$1.2 trillion in spending power, African-American consumers are an
important population for smart brands that want to grow market share
and brand preference. More importantly, the data suggests that Black
consumer spending already significantly affects the bottom line in many
categories and industries, and brands can't afford to lose favor or traction
with this segment without potential negative impact.
The enormous buying potential of Black consumers has put a
spotlight on many popular brands' ability to navigate the nuances of
culturally relevant and socially conscious marketing. African Americans
are more likely than non-Hispanic white peers to interact with brands on
social media or to use social networks to support companies and brands
(44% more likely). As the almost nuclear power of social media collides
with an increasingly educated, affluent, tech-savvy black consumer base,
there's never been a more critical time for companies to build and sustain
deeper, more meaningful connections with black consumers—not only to
grow their relationships, but to protect them.
“When it comes to African-American consumer spend, there are
millions, sometimes billions of dollars in revenue at stake,” said Andrew
McCaskill, Senior Vice President, Global Communications and
Multicultural Marketing, Nielsen. “With 43% of the 75 million
Millennials in the U.S. identifying as African American, Hispanic or
Asian, if a brand doesn’t have a multicultural strategy, it doesn’t have a
growth strategy. The business case for multicultural outreach is clear.
African-American consumers, and all diverse consumers, want to see
themselves authentically represented in marketing, and they want brands
to recognize their value to the bottomline.”
Nielsen, a leading global information & measurement company, provides
market research, insights & data about what people watch, listen to &
buy. nielsen.com
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Black Economic Development
by Jim Clingman
I often use the phrase, “Our history is our future,” to express the fact
that everything we need to do today, vis-à-vis economic empowerment,
has been done before by African Americans in this country. Just look
back at what Black people built in Mound Bayou, Mississippi, Durham,
North Carolina and Tulsa, Oklahoma’s Greenwood District. Take a closer
look at what Booker T. Washington was doing with his National Negro
Business League; read about Black entrepreneurs in Cincinnati and
Philadelphia during the early 1800’s, and you will see the economic
future of African Americans is, indeed, grounded in our history.
I wonder why it takes us so long to do what we know is right. In the
context of the economic well-being of African Americans, most of us
know what “we need” to do. Yet we seem content to discuss,
“intellectualize,” meet, and complain about how unfair the system is. For
those “we need to…” folks out there, if you see the need, do the work.
One thing most of us know is that economic empowerment and
business development—vertical business development—are vital to our
economic prosperity. Naturally following the development of businesses
is the support of those businesses by consumers. To illustrate that point, I
am reminded of what a friend once told me: “Production minus sales
equals scrap.”
In the 1800’s there were many flourishing Black owned businesses.
In spite of the worst brand of slavery ever perpetrated on a people, Black
businesses survived and grew. Economic growth was a reality, even in
the face of the racial prejudice that existed, because we were determined,
and we stuck together.
In 1853, a convention was held in Rochester, New York, to discuss
“Afro-American Economics.” Slogans like “Buy Black” and “Double
Duty Dollars” began at conventions like this one, all over the country.
What happened to us since that time? Have we drifted so far from our
heritage and from the things that benefit us as a whole? Have we become
so selfish and so self-centered that we have completely lost sight of our
values toward one another?
Businesses are the foundation of a true community. Our current 2.4
million Black owned businesses, compared to the 45 million of us, are
but a drop of water in the ocean, especially when you factor in the rela-
tively meager annual revenues those businesses take in. We must change
Black Professionals News • September 27, 2018 7
that.
Our time should be devoted to starting and supporting business
ventures, rather than complaining about how difficult things are out there
and how the “Arabs” and Asians dominate our neighborhoods when it
comes to business ownership. We must find common ground to move
beyond the stagnation and complacency in which we have been mired for
so long. Organization, unity, and mutual support are the keys to our
economic freedom.
Cooperative economics among African Americans is an idea that has
been around for hundreds of years. It could not be resisted during the
early years of American history, and it cannot be resisted today. It is up to
us to take advantage of that fact as we move forward. It is time to make
individual commitments to “do” something rather than sit back and “let
someone else do it.” It is time to stop complaining and blaming someone
else for our plight. It is time for us to give up that lame excuse, “There is
no use trying to change things, because we are never going to get
together anyway.” I don’t buy those tired words, and I hope you don’t
buy them either. All we have to do, instead, is buy from one another, for
the benefit of us all. The precedent exists; look at it and learn from it.
My primary example of seeing a need and doing the work (although
there are several during my lifetime that I could share) is my current
work for our people: THE One Million Conscious and Conscientious
Black Contributors and Voters (OMCCBCV). Our historical grounding is
found in the words of Marcus Garvey: “The greatest weapon used against
[Black people] is disorganization.” Thus, we are organized, united, and
unapologetically determined to contribute to the economic elevation of
our people. We saw the need and set out to do the work; and we will
continue that work as we learn from our past and strive for a better future
for our children. If you would like to join us, go to
iamoneofthemillion.com Next week, part two of this article will give a
deeper look at why and how the system in which we live has caused
some of us to be complacent. It will also offer a way to change our
situation.
James E. Clingman, writes frequently about African-American
economic empowerment, and also teaches a class on black
entrepreneurship at the University of Cincinnati
New York City Chapter
The National Action Network New York City Chapter
EDUCATION COMMITTEE &
MEN’s AUXILIARY
Honors the Late Dr. Carlos E. Russell
Distinguished Educators’ Forum
at
Brooklyn Borough Hall
209 Joralemon St, Downtown Brooklyn
on
Black Solidarity Day!
Monday, November 5, 2018 | 5:30PM
Keynote Speaker & Student of the Late Dr. Russell
THE REV. DR. AL SHARPTON
Light Refreshments Will Be Served
Come Out and Celebrate the Life & Legacy of Dr. Russell!
Directions:
Trains: 2,3,4, or 5 to Brooklyn Borough Hall
Join NAN every Saturday at
9:00am Saturday Morning
Radio Rally Broadcast Live on WLIB 1190 AM
FOR FURTHER INFORMATION
CONTACT NANED AT: nanedcommittee@gmail.com
Dr. JM Cody, Chair Education Committee
O. Rogers, Chair Men’s Auxiliary
William Griffin, President, NYC Chapter
Stephan Marshall, Co-Liaison to the President/CEO of NAN
8 Black Professionals News • September 27, 2018

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 10 Black Professionals News • September 27, 2018
AARP discovers veterans charity fraud
All charity scams are deplorable, but those pretending to raise funds
to support our nation’s veterans are particularly shameful. Last week, the
Federal Trade Commission, along with state charities regulators,
announced a major takedown of fake veteran charities.
Americans like to be patriotic and celebrate those who fight for our
country. Sometimes it’s with memorials or parades, or sometimes we
donate money. But with that last option, people have to be careful since
not every organization is honest about where that money goes.
Charity scams usually promise to provide needed help and services to
veterans like employment and mental health counseling or care packages,
but never deliver on that promise. What is worse, the fake charities are
tricky to spot because they often having convincing names and can be
found online, over the phone, in the mail, door-to-door, and even in retail
stores.
“Unfortunately, fake charities divert money to scammers,” states
Jacklyn Isasi, AARP Pennsylvania Communications Director. “This not
only hurts our charitable citizens, but also hurts legitimate charities who
go unfunded and our veterans who go unserved.”
Here’s what you should watch out for:
HOW IT WORKS
Fake charities use the same techniques as trusted charities to reach
you—in person, by mail, over the phone, online, by text, or by e-mail
so be mindful across communication channels.
The name of the fake veteran charity may closely resemble the name
of a real charity.
The fake charity might ask you to wire money, donate by gift card or
PCOL Cultural Committee iBuyBlack BUSINESS BUS TOURS PRESENTS
iBuyBlack POP UP MARKET PLACE AND COMMUNITY FAIR DAY
SATURDAY, October 13, 2018 10:00AM – 4:00PM
iBuyBlack Home-based and Internet-based Business Owners,
iBuyBlack is a 501c Organization founded April 2017, in Philadelphia,
PA by participants of PCOL, Philadelphia Community of Leaders. The
goal of iBuyBlack is to support Black Owned Businesses to improve the
Economic Development within the Black Community. We do this
through our Black business directory, Community Meetings, Business 2
Business Network Group, weekly radio show, conference calls and our
Annual Juneteenth Music Fest and Parade.
We are pleased to announce our third, quarterly iBuyBlack Seasonal
Business Bus Tour which is taking place on Saturday, October 13, 2018
at Church of the Advocate from 10AM to 4PM. We had a successful
Spring and Summer Tour, and this our Fall tour will be a Pop Up Market
Place and Community Fair Day . The Church of The Advocate is a
historical landmark for the progressive role it took in the Civil Rights
give cash—these are all red flags!
WHAT YOU SHOULD KNOW
Real veteran charities need your support, and they, like us, lose out
when a scammer steals our donation and diverts resources away from
legitimate organizations.
Scammers will put pressure on you to act quickly, before you have a
chance to think through your decision or do any research – this is another
red flag!
WHAT YOU SHOULD DO
Before making a donation, learn more about the charity by visiting
www.ftc.gov/charity. You can also use websites like
www.charitynavigator.org to search specific charities and check out their
ratings.
When you do donate to a charitable organization, do not ever wire
money, pay with cash, or use a prepaid card. Instead, pay with a credit
card or check and keep a record of your payment.
If you are approached in person and asked to donate, ask the solicitor
for identification and details about the charity, including its full name and
address, and how they will use the funds. If the person cannot furnish this
information, do not feel pressured to donate. You can always ask
literature and opt to donate online at a later time – after you have
confirmed the legitimacy of the charitable organization.
If you suspect a fake charity and want to alert your community, or if
you want to receive alerts about emerging scams in your local
community, join the AARP Fraud Watch Network. The AARP Fraud
Watch Network is free and available to all ages. aarp.org
struggle of Blacks in America. We are in collaboration with the church to
highlight these historical event.
Some of the other highlights of the day are: Two free, one-hour
business workshops, entertainment, a children’s arts and crafts court
a $5.00, one-hour “Sanctuary and Mural tour” of The Church of the
Advocate, foods, products, services based business vendors.
The Fall Pop Up Tour will showcase Black Owned Businesses
throughout the Philadelphia PA, New Jersey, and Delaware Regions that
currently operates at home and or online businesses while keeping our
dollars circulating in our communities.
We are offering YOU an opportunity to Sponsor this wonderful event.
All donations are tax deductible.
No offering is too big or small but for those sponsoring $300 or more
will also be offered the following: entry to the Pop Up Market Place and
Community Fair Day, a vendor’s table, listed as a sponsor in promotional
materials, listing via social media and radio promotions, recognition at
the event, two iBuyBlack cards. Make payment by Check, Money Order,
or PayPal.
On the For line write: iBuyBlack Business Bus Tours 10/13/18
Sincerely, Valerie Susan McLoyd, Coordinator and iBuyBlack Business
Bus Tours Committee. iBuyBlack.org
“Lest We Forget” Museum of Slavery
“Lest We Forget” Museum of Slavery established in 2002 owned and
operated by J. Justin and Gwen Ragsdale, a husband and wife team
Formerly located in Port Richmond has relocated. Our new address is
5501 Germantown Ave, Philadelphia, PA 19144 (Church St Entrance –
Across from Uncle Bobbie’s Coffee House)) at the Germantown Historic
Society.
Lest We Forget Museum of Slavery contains an unparalleled private
collection of slavery artifacts that include iron shackles, Bill of sale slave
documents, segregation signs, Jim Crow objects and so much more. “Lest
We Forget” Museum of Slavery is the only area museum with
actual items from the Trans-Atlantic Slave Trade that tell the story of how
different “Coming to America” was for enslaved Africans. To be able to
view up close and touch such rare items truly brings history alive.
The collection and presentations are tailored to the age of the
audience and appropriate for both youth and adults. The Museum is open
Tue. – Sat. 10a – 6p Sun. 12p-5p. BY APPOINTMENT
Call/Text 215-205-4324 or Book A Tour on website lwfsm.com
In addition to their brick and mortar location the Ragsdale’s also
provide a Traveling Slavery Museum which includes a cross-section of
their exclusive collection. They exhibit at Schools, Universities,
Churches, Camps, Conferences, Seminars, Family Reunions, Etc. For a
Traveling Slavery Exhibit Quote call Gwen Ragsdale 215-205-4324.

Donald Gardner Memorial Celebration
Thursday, October 11, 2018 6:30 PM—9:30 PM, and Friday, October
12, 2018 6:30 PM—9:30 PM The Philadelphia Clef Club of Jazz &
Performing Arts In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be given to
the Philadelphia Clef Club of Jazz and Performing Arts, 736-738 S.
Broad Street, Philadelphia, PA 19146.
Philadelphia lost another great cultural leader this week with the
passing of Donald Gardner, who died on Tuesday, September 4, 2018, at
the age of 87.
Gardner’s legacy spanned eight decades starting in 1947 as a singer
and songwriter. His biggest hit was “Need Your Lovin,” which rose to
number four on the R&B charts in 1962 and was later recorded by Otis
Redding, Tom Jones, and Jackie Wilson among others. After releasing his
third album, he created his own group, The Three Bachelors, renamed
The Sonotones. He later joined Dee Dee Ford and created an
unforgettable duo. Don not only enjoyed success in the United States but
also abroad where he toured with several artists. His success continued as
a solo artist as well as partnering with Baby Washington in the 1970s.
He remained in music as an artist and repertoire (A&R) manager into the
1980s.
ASIAN AMERICAN CHAMBER
The Asian American Chamber of Commerce of Greater Philadelphia
(AACCGP) is proud to announce its 12th Annual Award Banquet that
will be held on Thursday, October 11, 2018 from 5pm-9pm at the
Sheraton Philadelphia University City Hotel. AACCGP aims to bring
together a diverse group of Asian American business owners, CEOs,
government officials, and members who are all dedicated to our mission.
Tickets to the banquet are available at $75/person, $135/pair, and $650
for a table (for tickets). The banquet will include a 10 course Chinese
Banquet style dinner will be catered by Michael Chow's Sang Kee
Noodle House
The Awards Banquet will highlight individuals and businesses that
have showed their dedication to promote economic growth and job
creation. Our 2017 awardees and speakers included Gene Barr, President
& CEO of PA Chamber of Business and Industry, Jay S. Sidhu, CEO of
Customers Bancrop, James Wang, President Asian Bank, Kenny Poon,
Black Professionals News • September 27, 2018 11
Since Jazz was his first love, it was
only natural that he became a member of
the Board of the Philadelphia Clef Club
of Jazz and Performing Arts (PCC),
eventually becoming Board president
before joining the management of the
newly built arts center in Philadelphia
(1995). The PCC was Don’s passion
since its mission is to preserve the legacy
of jazz and help young jazz musicians
hone their skills and continue the legacy
of musical excellence. During his time
with the Philadelphia Clef Club, he
served in a number of positions
including Executive Director, President, Donald Gardner
Operations Manager, and the Facilities Manager. He shared his talent,
wisdom, and vision with his musical family at the PCC every day
possible despite declining health.
Owner Chinatown Square/Tango/TeaDo, Jane Guo, Owner Dim Sum
House/Jane G's, Dan Tsao, New Mainstream Press, Dr. W. David
Medina, PHD, Medina Kenpo Karate, James Zhang, Sino-American
Business and Travel Association and Philadelphia Chinatown
Development Corporation.
At our 12th Annual Awards Banquet, the AACCGP will acknowledge
and celebrate: the Asian American Executive of the Year, Outstanding
Asian Businesses of the Year as well as our Special Keynote Speaker
David Cohen, Senior Executive Vice President, Comcast Corporation
and the Master of Ceremony captivating us through the night.
We would like to extend a special thanks to sponsors who are making
this possible, Harrah's Philadelphia, PHLDiversity, The Chamber of
Commerce for Greater Philadelphia and Jefferson Health. If you would
like join us as a sponsor please contact us at
aaccgp@asianchamberphila.org
12 Black Professionals News • September 27, 2018
JANET JACKSON STATE OF THE WORLD TOUR STOPS AT HARD ROCK HOTEL &
CASINO ATLANTIC CITY TUESDAY, OCTOBER 2 AT 8 PM
Janet Jackson announces that her State of the World Tour will be
making an exclusive stop at Hard Rock Hotel & Casino Atlantic City this
fall. Celebrated as one of the most influential entertainers of the modern
era, Janet Jackson will perform at Hard Rock Live at Etess Arena on
Tuesday, October 2 at 8 p.m.
With more than160 million records sold worldwide, Janet Jackson
stands as one of the best-selling artists of all time with a string of hits that
have left an indelible impression on pop culture.
The world-renowned music icon, and youngest member of the
Jackson family has an unmatched artistic career that has spanned over
decades and has won her 6 GRAMMY® Awards, 2 Emmy Nominations,
a Golden Globe Award, a nomination for an Academy Award along with
dozens of American Music Awards, MTV Video Music Awards and
Billboard Music Awards.
Tickets to witness Janet Jackson ranging from $75.00 to $250.00 go
on sale this Friday, August 10 at 10 AM. For more information and to
purchase tickets, please visit hardrockhotelatlanticcity.com.
The Philly Pop's Presents Heather Headley's Broadway My Way
Ron Colvard, Conductor Verizon Hall, Kimmel Center for Performing
Arts OCTOBER 12th 2018
Tony and Grammy winner, R&B hitmaker, and international singing
sensation Heather Headley comes to Philadelphia for a one-night-only
show with The Philly POPS BIG Band at the Kimmel Center.
Heather is the original Nala from The Lion King on Broadway, the
Tony-winning star of Aida and the Laurence Olivier Award nominee for
her star turn in The Bodyguard musical. She’s a Grammy winner and
Billboard chart topper for her R&B and Gospel albums. She has recently
toured with Andrea Bocelli — POPS audiences saw her last December at
the Wells Fargo Center.
Heather also performed at July 3’s POPS on Independence with the
full POPS orchestra and July 4’s POPS on the Parkway with the BIG
ATLANTIC CITY COMEDY FESTIVAL RETURNS TO JIM WHELAN
BOARDWALK HALL OCTOBER 6-7
9th Year Celebration Includes Headliners Mike Epps, Sommore,
Earthquake, Jay Pharoah & More!
The 9th Annual Atlantic City Comedy Festival has been announced to
take place at Jim Whelan Boardwalk Hall on Saturday, October 6th and
Sunday, October 7, 2018. Scheduled headliners for the festival include
Band. These free, large-scale Salute Series shows
previewed this special show at the Kimmel Center
on October 12.
Complementing Heather’s performance will be
Broadway giant and Philadelphia native, Hugh
Panaro. Hugh is famous for his portrayal of The
Phantom in The Phantom of The Opera on
Broadway and for his role as Jean Valjean in a
Walnut Street Theatre production of Les
Misérables—a role which earned him the Heather Headley
Barrymore Award. Hugh will sing several pieces,
including solos and duets with Heather. phillypops.org
comedian/actor Mike Epps, Sommore, Earthquake, Jay Pharaoh and
many others (see below for full list of comedians). The festival debuts
top comic stars for two brilliant back-to-back nights of laughter. Shows
take place at 8pm, featuring 5-6 comedians on the bill nightly.
THE 9TH ANNUAL ATLANTIC CITY COMEDY FESTIVAL
SCHEDULE: Saturday, October 6th, 2018, Sommore, Bruce Bruce
Earthquake, Guy Torry, Buck Wild. Sunday, October 7th, 2018
Mike Epps. Rickey Smiley, Lavelle Crawford, Jay Pharoah and Tony
Robert.
Fans may gain access to the pre-sale by signing up for the festival
newsletter at www.ACComedyFestival.com and by following the
Atlantic City Comedy Festival Facebook page at
www.facebook.com/AtlanticCityComedyFestival/ for exclusive event
updates and promo codes.
Tickets for the festival are on sale to the public and can be purchased
via Ticketmaster.com or by calling 800-745-3000, or visiting the
Boardwalk Hall Box Office, powered by Atlantic City Electric.
Admission for each night of the festival will be sold separately.
Since its inception in 2009, the Annual Atlantic City Comedy Festival
has drawn a crowd of over 50,000 fans to witness the comedy industries’
finest. In a city renowned for its nightlife entertainment, the Atlantic City
Comedy Festival has established itself as paramount dual-day
extravaganza.
For more Atlantic City Comedy Festival information, please visit
ACComedyFestival.com. .njcrda.com.
MOTOR CITY LIVE: A MOTOWN
TRIBUTE HARD ROCK HOTEL &
CASINO
Motor City Live: A Motown Tribute will feature live performances
every Sunday. The show features music from The Four Tops, The
Supremes, The Jackson 5, The Temptations, Smokey Robinson, Stevie
Wonder, Marvin Gaye, The Marvelettes, plus many more.
“Motor City Live is a highly entertaining theatrical presentation that
ignites images and remembrances of a musical era gone by, when music
and lyrics told stories, shared feelings, and touched lives in a very
special way,” said director Allen Valentine.
hardrockhotelatlanticcity.com.

A Tracy Chapman lyric serves as the foundation for social change
UNSILENCED: Behind The Wall
In response to the “Me Too.” Movement’s original purpose of
creating a range of opportunities that offers healing for survivors of
sexual violence, Tomorrow’s Girls & Women, along with For Women
Collective will answer Tarana Burke’s call to “speak to the needs of a
broader spectrum of survivors.”
“Tarana has challenged all individuals, regardless of identity, to
tackle the necessary work of inviting survivors to acknowledge their
trauma, and more importantly, to cultivate joy,” states Debra
Powell-Wright, founder of the For Women Collective ensemble. “Our
group was created to use artistry as a means to be messengers of
sometimes difficult conversations. We want to be a portal, a safe space
for the healing process to begin.”
In recognition of Domestic Violence Awareness Month,
UNSILENCED: Behind The Wall will be a multi-genre,
multi-generational gathering on Saturday, October 27, 2018, featuring
guest speakers, performances, and a signature highpoint, the “Purple
House adopts Cruz resolutions designed to acknowledge multi-culturalism
The state House of Representatives today unanimously adopted two
resolutions introduced by Rep. Angel Cruz, D-Phila., aimed at bringing
awareness to Pennsylvania’s cultural diversity.
House Resolution 1016 designates Sept. 15 through Oct. 15 as
“Hispanic Heritage Month” in Pennsylvania while H. R. 1017
commemorates October 2018 as “Indigenous Peoples’ Month” and the
week following the second Monday in October as “Indigenous Peoples’
Week,” in Pennsylvania.
“Indigenous people are the foundation of this Commonwealth and
Dawkins: House passes bill protecting domestic abuse victims from gun violence
Rep. Jason Dawkins, D-Phila., applauded the passage of H.B. 2060,
which is designed to strengthen the Protection from Abuse Act and
convictions of misdemeanor crimes of domestic violence that require
relinquishment of firearms.
“This bill will help protect victims who need it most,” Dawkins said.
“Allowing abusers to have so much time to turn in their firearms only
puts victims at more risk of harm. We need to shorten that window.”
H.B. 2060 would require court-ordered abusers to surrender their
guns within 48 hours in protection-from-abuse cases, rather than the
Black Professionals News • September 27, 2018 13
Passion Fashion Show.” The
program will begin with Tracy
Chapman’s 1988 song, Behind The
Wall, which speaks to a story of a
neighbor hearing the sounds of
ongoing domestic violence, and
then, one night, silence. After the
panel discussion, the program will
transition into a celebration of life.
Pat McLean-Smith, founder of Tomorrow’s Girls and Women states,
“We will raise our voices, speak our minds, and stand our ground.” With
Tarana’s blessing of this program under the Me Too umbrella, we will
welcome men, women, and children to join us as we each serve as
physical reminders to our friends and family members that we will no
longer be silent. Being a survivor is our super-power! Contact:
Debra Powell-Wright mzwrightnow@msn.com
our nation, so it is important to always remember their sacrifices and
honor their contributions,” Cruz said.
Cruz noted that Latinos are the largest minority ethnic group in the
U.S. today, with about 900,000 residing in Pennsylvania in 2016.
“Unfortunately, in today’s climate and throughout history, the
contributions of minorities have often gone unnoticed in our country. My
resolutions ensure that we recognize Pennsylvania’s rich history of
diversity.”
current period of 60 days. The defendant would also be prohibited from
turning over their weapons to a family member or friend and instead
would be required to relinquish them to a proper holder such as law
enforcement, an authorized gun dealer or an attorney.
H.B. 2060 now moves to the Senate for consideration.
Rep. Dawkins also previously introduced H.B. 2097, which similarly
offers protection to domestic abuse victims by proposing a statewide
notification system to alert victims and law enforcement when abusers
purchase firearms.
For more information contact
Bruce Davis
Executive Director NJFNP, Inc.
BruceD1061@msn.com
 14 Black Professionals News • September 27, 2018
AME Church and Black Banks Launch New Partnership for Black Wealth
All denominations invited to join black banking movement
By Hazel Trice Edney triceedneywire.com
The Black church, among the most prosperous institutions in
America, has long led movements for the spiritual, social and civic uplift
of Black people. When the Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. was
assassinated on April 4, 1968, he had just launched the Poor People’s
Movement, which quickly fizzled after his death.
With this historic backdrop, the African Methodist Episcopal Church
– with a legacy of leadership in its own right – has announced an
innovative economic partnership with Black-owned banks across the
country. The partnership aims to be a catalyst to spur business
development, homeownership and wealth in the Black community.
“We are now pleased to announce a partnership with the presidents of
the nineteen (19) Black banks in the United States, with the goal of
increasing Black wealth,” said Bishop Reginald T. Jackson, president of
the Council of AME Bishops. “This initiative will strengthen Black
banks across the United States and increase their capacity to lend to small
businesses, to secure mortgages, to provide personal lines of credit, and
to offer other forms of credit to AME churches and our members. This, of
course, includes enabling members and their families to become
homeowners.”
Bishop Jackson made the announcement during a press conference
held during the 2018 Council of Bishops and General Board Meeting in
Atlanta. The specific details of a memorandum of understanding are
being formulated and will be announced this summer. But the goals are
as follows:
Increase deposits and loans with Black banks;
Increase Black homeownership to over 50 percent nationwide. This
means 2,000,000 more Black homeowners than now exist; and
Grow the number of Black businesses from 2.6 million to 4 million
and total gross receipts from an average of $72,500.00 to $150,000.00.
“The spirit in which you all have shared the commitment to the
community, to the banks and to what we can do together is outstanding,”
responded Preston Pinkett, III, chairman and CEO of the City National
Bank of New Jersey and chairman of the National Bankers Association.
African American Homeownership Falls to 50-year Low
After fair housing legislation was passed in 1968 during the Civil
Rights era, the black homeowership rate increased for 30 years and
reached nearly 50 percent in 2004, but all those gains have been erased in
the last 12 years.
The homeownership rate for black households ended 2016 at 41.7
percent, near a 50-year low, according to the U.S. Census Bureau. Black
homeownership hasn’t been this low since the time when housing
discrimination was legal.
Equally troubling to advocates is a widening gap between black
homeownership and other major ethnic groups. The black
homeownership rate is now 30.5 percentage points lower than
non-Hispanic whites (72.2 percent) and 22 percentage points lower than
the national homeownership rate of 63.7 percent. It is also 4.6 percentage
points lower than the Hispanic homeownership rate, the group with the
next-lowest homeownership rate among the major ethnic groups, at 46.3
percent as of year-end 2016.
The falling homeownership rate has deep social implications for
future African American communities and neighborhoods, according to
advocates.
“Homeownership is the number one way for African Americans to
build wealth,” said Ron Cooper, president of National Association of
Real Estate Brokers (NAREB). “There are so many other things tied to
it.”
NAREB is an African American-led group that was founded in the
1940s to promote black homeowership and recently set a goal of creating
2 million new black homeowners within five years. Cooper
acknowledged that target is highly ambitious.
“We lost a trillion dollars worth of wealth that we must regain,”
Cooper said. “For America in general, if 2 million black homeowners
bought homes, that raises the economy. America does well.”
Cooper said NAREB has been advocating for policies changes that
would boost access to conventional Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac loans.
He pointed to Pew Research Center studies reporting that blacks
accounted for less than 4 percent of the conventional loan applications in
2015, and blacks were denied conventional loans at much higher rates
than other ethnic groups. He also said the standard credit-scoring systems
are “antiquated” and “unfair” to minorities.
One of the problems contributing to the low homeownership rate for
African Americans is fear. African Americans were a primary target of
predatory lending a decade ago. In many cases, African Americans
refinanced with exotic loan products, draining out all of the equity in
“Thank you for your
willingness to step outside
of the norm to do
something that I would say
is extraordinary here in
America and extraordinary
in the world.”
Pinkett says the
church-bank partnerships
are already beginning
around the nation. “It is
safe to say that this kind of
commitment; this kind of
demonstration will go a
Bishop Reginald Jackson, president, Coun-
long way in supporting our
cil of AME Bishops
banks and the banks to be PHOTO: Klarque Garrison/
able to support the Trice Edney News Wire
community…With God’s blessings, we will accomplish great things.”
“This partnership grows out of an initiative formed in Washington,
DC in 2015, called Black Wealth 2020 which is providing an economic
blueprint for Black America,” Jackson said.
The principals agreed that the key to the success of the partnership
must be mutual respect for Black spending power and mutual support of
Black businesses.
“We hear about Black folks have a trillion dollars in spending
power," said Ron Busby, president/CEO of the U. S. Black Chamber, Inc.
and co-founder of Black Wealth 2020. "But that's usually White folk
talking about our dollars and how can they get their share of it. We came
together to say how can we deal with Black wealth, the gap of it and
really to move our agenda forward inside our own community."
Busby pointed to the USBC's new AP called the USBC Mobile
Directory with 109,000 Black-owned businesses in order to help
consumers make targeted purchases inside the Black business
community.
their homes. After housing values crashed, they lost their homes to
foreclosure in even greater numbers.
“African American people are not applying for home loans,” Cooper
said. “We believe that is a problem with the devastation that the
downturn caused.The devastation and what was seen in the community,
African American people were just afraid. They were victimized.”
A Complicated Problem
The reasons for the decline in the black homeownership rate are
many and complicated, however. Various studies have shown that
African Americans as a group, compared with whites, have lower credit
scores, lower incomes and lower education levels. The lower
homeownership rates contribute to these social problems because blacks
are denied a primary wealth-building tool. A Pew study determined that
the wealth of white households was 13 times greater than that of black
households in 2013, up from eight times the wealth in 2010.
It could potentially take a generation to boost back the black
homeownership rates, said Rolf Pendall, co-director of the Metropolitan
Housing and Communities Policy Center at the Urban Institute. Pendall
also said black households continue to face illegal discrimination and
subtle forms of “legal” discrimination that have shut them out of the
housing market.
“It is going to take a lot more than simply making it easier for people
to get mortgages to really overcome the long history,” Pendall said. “It is
a 75-year history, more than that, hundreds of years of a legacy of
discrimination.You can’t just undo that by making mortgages easier to
get.”
The homeowership rate has been on a declining trend generally for
the past dozen years, particularly among the two youngest homebuying
generations. This is especially true among black households, where
young people also aren’t buying homes at the rate their parents did.
Pendall said he doesn’t agree that African Americans are less eager to
own homes today, however.
“If people think that African Americans don’t want to own homes,
that is a misconception,” Pendall said. “Instead, it is because they can’t
access homeownership.”
Source: Scotsman Guide.
The National Association of Real Estate Brokers, (NAREB), is a Real
Estate Professional trade organization. We have local chapters across the
country who embrace our ideals and mission of “promoting democracy in
housing”.nareb.com

LITTLE GIANT CREATIVE PRESENTS A DREAM DEFERRED
The creative marketing agency engages artists, data scientists and
citizens to tell the story of redlining and its devastating impact on
marginalized communities throughout Philadelphia
LITTLE GIANT CREATIVE LLC, the premier creative marketing
agency for multicultural, innovative and purpose-driven, consumer
brands and products in the mid-Atlantic region, announces the opening of
A Dream Deferred: PHL Redlining, Past, Present, Future on September
20, 2018 at the historic, former Northern Savings Fund building (600
Spring Garden Street) in Philadelphia. This multilayered project
contextualizes the issues of systemic racist practices such as redlining in
Philadelphia and features—among other programming—a multimedia
exhibit that articulates the intersectionality of urban development and
social inequalities via tactile, interactive experiences that inform, engage
and inspire audiences with various points of entry. The exhibit closes on
November 17, 2018.
Funded by the Knight Foundation’s Cities Challenge, A Dream
Deferred coalesces historic and contemporary data, visual storytelling
and touch screen technology to impart a nuanced perspective on how
real-life practice, e.g. racist and classist public and private policy, affect
real people. Though focused on Philadelphia, these repercussions are
PABJ 2018 Awards & Scholarship Gala and PABJ Pioneer celebration
Join us for an amazing evening on Saturday October 27th for the
2018 Philadelphia Association of Black Journalists Awards &
Scholarship Gala.
Enjoy a salute to some of the best in the business along with PABJ
pioneers, a silent auction and a delicious menu designed by Chef Nai.
We will honor people whose work highlights critical issues,
champions diversity and empowers people in Black communities
throughout the region. We will start with a dinner reception and silent
auction then celebrate with an Awards Ceremony & salute to PABJ
pioneers.
The reception is at 6pm. The formal program begins at 7:30 sharp.
This year's PABJ honorees include: Vincent Thompson III,
Mediaman Communications and WURD Radio host; Leslie Foster,
6abc/Action News assignment manager; Angela Dodson, former New
AACC to host second annual young professional leadership conference
Michael Banks, President and CEO of the African-American
Chamber of Commerce of PA, NJ & DE, today announced that from
Friday, October 19 to Saturday, October 20, the AACC will host its
second annual Level Up Summit.
Titled Building the Leaders of the Future, the conference aims to help
young professionals in the Delaware Valley and southeastern
Pennsylvania gain the skills necessary to move up in their careers or
launch their own business ventures.
“For the second year in a row, we are excited to host a conference
that gives an amazing group of young leaders a platform to use their
voice and inspire their peers,” Banks said. “At the AACC, we are
committed to investing in our future leaders and ensuring that a 21st
century chamber of commerce is not only diverse in age, but also ideas.”
The conference will kick-off with an opening reception the evening
of Friday, October 19 hosted at the Saxbys HQ. The day-long conference
will take place Saturday, October 20 at the Annenberg School for
Communication and topics include: The Roadmap to Being Successful in
Black Professionals News • September 27, 2018 15
evident in major cities throughout the nation and showcase the depth of
discrimination as evidenced by the impact on everything from how
individuals and communities accumulate generational wealth, to access
to higher education, income disparity and urban development.
“This initiative, and our work, has always been about unearthing,
exploring and addressing broken history, providing culturally connective,
relevant and contemporary ways to engage about these issues and using
empathic methods to discuss inequity and the uncomfortable history
behind it,” says Meegan Denenberg, Co-Founder of Little Giant Creative
LLC. “A Dream Deferred provides a platform outside of traditional
social justice and academic eco chambers for incontrovertible data about
redlining and other discriminatory practices to be presented and
understood by people from various backgrounds and effect change.”
The exhibition will be on display in a building owned by Arts +
Crafts Holdings, an investor and igniter of creative communities, and an
Little Giant Creative partner that reimagines historic buildings and the
urban spaces between them, to create “place” and a canvas for the
entrepreneurs and makers. contact Julian Thomas
(Julian@toldbythomas.com)
York Times and Essence magazine editor; Lorene Cary, Art Sanctuary
founder and best-selling author; Glenn Ellis, medical ethicist, researcher
and radio host; Evon Burton, Philadelphia FIGHT Community Health
Centers marketing and outreach supervisor
Celebrate the PABJ pioneers on this 45th anniversary of PABJ
PURCHASE EARLYBIRD TICKETS FOR $70 UNTIL SALES AT
ON OCTOBER 21st @ 7pm. PURCHASE STUDENT TICKETS $35
(YOU CAN DONATE STUDENT TICKETS). NO TICKETS SOLD AT
THE DOOR.
PARKING: There may be some metered and unmetered parking
available on surrounding blocks. Also click this link to use the
Philadelphia Parking Authority parking guide and locator:
philapark.org/locator/ phillyabj.org
Philly; Accessing Capital; Financial Wellness; Doing Business with the
City; Leveraging Social Capital and Boosting your Network; and more.
Banks added, “There are countless young professionals in our region
who are eager to learn more on how they can get ahead and stay ahead.
This conference provides an affordable alternative to achieve this goal.
“We must remember that there is no equity without access. If
vulnerable communities cannot afford to take advantage of leadership
opportunities, then we are not truly paving the way for the younger
generation.”
Those interested in learning more or attending the conference can
visit aachamber.org/levelup. They can also meet the panelists and
workshop leaders for the conference on Wednesday, September 12 at the
AACC’s Young Professional Launch Party. The launch party will take
place from 6 p.m. to 9 p.m. at the Walnut Street WeWork Rooftop, 1430
Walnut Street, Suite 200. More information on the launch party can be
found here. aachamber.com
16 Black Professionals News • September 27, 2018
2018
Sumi Tonooka Trio Jamaaladeen
Saturday, September 15, 2018 Tacuma
Saturday, November 17, 2018
Philadelphia Clef Club Community Big Band
Saturday, December 15, 2018
736-38 South Broad Street
Philadelphia, PA 19146
215.893.9912
info@clefclubofjazz.org
clefclubofjazz.org
CONCERT
SERIES
Bobby Zankel and
the Warriors of the
Wonderful Sound
Saturday, October 20, 2018
ALL SHOWS ARE ONE SHOW ONLY. SHOWS BEGIN
AT 7:30 PM. TICKETS ARE $20 FOR EACH SHOW AND
CAN BE PURCHASED AT OUR BOX OFFICE, OR AT
CLEFCLUBOFJAZZ.COM.