Seguranca

Up Against the Wall Continued. . ..

2010-02-24T16:41:00.000-05:00

Up Against the Wall: The Biggest Sale of the Season

2010-02-24T16:38:00.000-05:00

Up Against the Wall, one of the few clothing stores that current Howard University students can say has been on Georgia Avenue throughout their Howard career, shut down last week. The location was not filling its quota and business has been down for a while. The empty spaces are reminiscient of the brightly colored, often funky, brands that have been the staple of many students' wardrobes.

There are other locations open in the District and elsewhere.

Throwback: Incubus

2009-12-07T10:16:00.002-05:00

"How do you do it, make me feel like I do. . . it's better than I ever knew."

Incubus - back to a time when music was music. When lyrics had a purpose and didn't spout some temperamental angst that is improperly placed.

I miss those days - and here is a piece of the past: Stellar, Acoustic Version

Why I Say Gay Marriage Should Be Allowed

2009-11-06T00:14:00.005-05:00

The answer, I suspect, is that many people think of "marriage" as a religious rather than a legal term. If Christians suddenly started celebrating their birthdays as "bar mitzvahs," it would probably upset some Jews, who would see it as insulting. If atheists started wearing crucifixes to signify their atheism, it would surely perturb some Christians, who might see it as blasphemous. The real flash point about the word "marriage" is that some people strongly associate the word with their religious understandings, and those understandings most definitely do not embrace same-sex relationships. Thus, even if they are willing, as good citizens, to grant gays and lesbians "all the rights married people have," they can't stand the thought of seeing a "sacred" word, and concept, brutalized.

Read more at: http://www.huffingtonpost.com/geoffrey-r-stone/same-sex-marriage-and-the_b_347593.html&cp

Yes, Mr. Stone. A main misconception about the drive for gay marriage is the fact none of the opposition tends to know what they (LGBTQ) people want it for!

The beginning of the widespread media coverage of their plight consisted of controversy over the misconception of the origin of the AIDS virus. There were many articles published that implied the perception that the homosexual community was a large demographic of those affected by AIDS. In addition, it was because of their non conventional ways that they were at greater risk than any other subculture. In my research, though, I find that there is some rational truth embedded in the hoodoo.

For example:

In summary, this model illustrates how AIDS could have developed in homosexual men as a result of an interaction of known or likely biologic effects generated by repeated exposures to specific infectious and noninfectious environmental factors. Numerous reports now document the specific environmental and biologic features that were regarded as important in the 1983 model, which appears-with minor updating-below.

Let's be real and uncensored for a moment - with gay men, there is often the chance of anal sex. Just as with heterosexual sex, there is the potential for the sex to be protected or not protected. I can imagine that there is some misunderstanding of getting STDs through heterosexual sex only, or even just through vaginal intercourse rather than through a usually not spoken of orifice. However, it has been proven that among the different types of bodily excrement, urine is the one that can be considered safe to consume or to even deal with after it comes from the body. Feces, which come from the bum, are filled with different sorts of bacteria and viruses that are quite harmful to man.

Wikipedia will serve it's purpose now:

The main pathogens that are commonly looked for in feces include:

* Salmonella and Shigella
* Yersinia tends to be incubated at 30 °C (86 °F), which is cooler than usual
* Campylobacter incubated at 42 °C (108 °F), in a special environment
* Aeromonas
* Candida if the person is immunosuppressed (e.g., undergoing cancer treatment)
* E. coli O157 if blood is visible in the stool sample
* Cryptosporidium
* Entamoeba histolytica

Not to say that the female vagina isn't equally putrid - it can be at times, but fecal matter is far more dangerous.

Tangent. Obviously.

Nevertheless, there was a lack of safe sex practice - okay, understood.

If the demographic is basically underground, there is no forum to speak on progressive issues.

The next issue in widespread media in relation to the LGBTQ community involved the military.

Note: I do understand that the prevalence of homophobic action was and is an issue, however, to make this short and sweet, let's just move on with that understanding.

President Clinton mandated the "Don't ask, Don't tell" rule. My ex-girlfriend was in the army and was removed from such due to this rule. A rule that, in my opinion, was unfairly inflicted upon her. The military is a universal structural engine - to ensure that the citizens of the country have a way by which they can be taken care of financially as well as reinforce and maintain the self-discipline that they should have been taught when they were a child.

(After the lack of sexual activity in BCT, the troops have almost no way to expel sexual energy - why not engage in some team and muscle building exercise in one! JOKE JOKE JOKE)

Currently, President Obama professes to be on the war path to allow LGBTQ peoples equal rights in the military. With this strategic move, the rest of the country has no choice but to follow. This was expressed with the dislike of Black Americans in the early part of the 20th Century. It was not until the American military began to integrate their troops that the entire country followed suite and warmed up to the idea of equality for Black Americans.

Now, we have the issue of allowing the institution of marriage being open to members of other orientations and lifestyles. The institution of marriage always will be and still is a political institution in this imperial society we live in. From the royal families of Europe partaking in their incestuous rendezvous and the ancient Kemetians differentiating who their own royal family was allowed to marry - the institution of marriage has proven to be one of the main deciding factors in the make up of many social environments and hierarchies. Along with this institution, marriage has been brought to the level of allowances for those partaking in it. From death rights to tax allowances to the granting of citizenship to monetary spousal benefits - marriage has proven to be a money- and life- making business.

Here is where we find the true reasons why it is important to allow the LGBTQ community to have their simple title that the diluted demographic is holding onto oh so dearly.

Gay homeowners spend 50% more than their heterosexual counterparts, for one.

"I'm thinking down the road. Washington state could be one of the next states to allow same-sex marriage, and when they do, I want to have these images in my portfolio," he says. "Eventually I think it's going to be a great market, especially here in Seattle where gay couples tend to be dual income professionals."

- for two.

Although gay couples tend to spend more modestly, they tend to spend more. Just not where some may want them to spend (although that is at the fault of those who are homophobic), for three.

Just think:

you've been living with Sally/Tyrone for x years. Over the course of these decades, Sally/Tyrone and you have been estranged from your families due to your lifestyle and you two are the happiest people in the world. You both are living your lives, going on lavish vacations with your gay and gay-accepting friends. The both of your assets and overall worth and wealth grows immensely.
But, alas, Sally/Tyrone finds out they have cancer. They go into a state of being brain dead. There is a 10% chance of recovery and there is but one question - does Sally/Tyrone stay on life support or does the plug need to be pulled?

Then there comes the hierarchy of relevant parties: the patient (if sound, which Sally/Tyrone is not), a surrogate that the "sound" patient designated, the spouse, and the next of kin - going down that line.

You and Sally/Tyrone, however, are not married. You live in Bofunk, Mississippi - gay marriage and/or civil unions are banned by law, as many other states in your surrounding area. .

Sally/Tyrone and you have amassed a sick amount of wealth - investments, properties, stocks. Their father (who acted as if the both of you never existed for the past x decades) decides that he wants to use the money to get out of his debt and retire himself. You have no power over this. Your life-long partner, the light in your eye, is pulled off of life support and you are forced to deal with the consequences of a situation you had no control over.

THAT is inhumane.

Point Blank Period. Everyone is human. We should all be allowed to have the same rights despite the religious or historical implications of whatever terminology it entails.

Question - is it hurting you?

Did it hurt the white folks when we were integrated and we began to invite our innovation into their companies at corporate levels?

Thank you.

My case is stated and validated.

"When you represent freedom and you fight for peace"

2009-10-30T01:40:00.003-04:00

I moseying around BBC when I found this little tidbit.

I am a Heath Ledger fan, I will admit. I might not exactly trust his music choice though.

This group, however, No Fixed Abode - is dope.

August 29, 2005

2009-08-29T13:01:00.003-04:00

"We believe that kids and adults often times are self-medicating because it is cheaper to get marijuana than it is to pay" for prescription medication, he said.
Bell says many area residents probably suffer from untreated or undiagnosed post-traumatic stress.

August 29, 2005 - the city of New Orleans, Louisiana, was hit by Hurricane Katrina. Soon after was Hurricane Rita. In between the two, the levees were obliterated in strategic places and a lot of other stuff happened that never got on the news. Over these four years, I've said my piece in closed forums, but I feel that I am going to end my part in the conversation once and for all (unless, of course, I deem it necessary to educate some ignorant soul) and state my case.

I, personally, am not from New Orleans. I have been there numerous times - my father used to live there many years ago; nevertheless, my experience is not of a direct New Orleans resident. My experience is that of a graduating senior in Baton Rouge with close ties to New Orleans, as majority of the residents of Baton Rouge do.

Some people may not know this, but I was not born in Baton Rouge, much less in Louisiana. Because of my family ties, BR has been a part of my life for longer than I can remember. I did not have an official address there until my high school years, though. Regardless, 'home' for me and those who I know who are born and raised natives is Scotlandville, Baton Rouge, Louisiana. Home of the Fina stations, the Square, 'Jiggas,' and annoying trains from the surrounding plants that will slow down your whole day if you aren't fast enough to catch it before it blocks another crossing.

When Katrina descended upon us (BR) we lost power for a few weeks (some places for a month plus), trees were obliterated, houses were obliterated by trees, and all of the regular Hurricane occurrences took place. One thing that I, personally, was not used to was the aftermath. There was a terrible influx of people coming from the southern region of the state. People from New Orleans, Metarie, St. Bernard Parish, and all of the other surrounding parishes flocked to Baton Rouge, Lafayette, Shreveport, and every other place where they had family and possible bed to sleep in.

One of my most distinct memories of that time is sitting around the radio in the house. Everything was extremely quiet outside. The wind was the only music to be heard. People had their doors open and some were barbecuing their previously frozen meats in hopes that they would not have to deal with spoiled food- the community was obviously a community. The radio, however spoke of the waves of people coming into Baton Rouge whether passing through or dropping their anchor. I remember my father saying that he had to go stock up on gas for his and my step mother's trucks, but not fully understanding why he would do that - 'gas stations always have gas,' I thought.

Boy! was I naive. The sudden onslaught of people not only rendered the gas stations inefficient, but people began to 'clown,' as one would say. What began as incredible lines twirling around the gas stations and down the streets turned into angry people and all sorts of atrocities that the residents of Baton Rouge couldn't believe. I vaguely remember reports of people being assaulted in the lines and people stealing from one another. Walmart, what I would consider the equivalent to a shopping mall to a Southerner, among other places was sold out of just about everything. People began to riot, I do remember, at different Walmarts (I think the one by Cortana was the one on the news) and caused the chain to close at 8 p.m. rather than stay open 24-hrs like they usually do. The city was overrun with people that were somewhat foreign to it and disrupted the economical balance on a scale that, at that time, I couldn't comprehend. All that I knew was that it was bad. As reports say, Baton Rouge had the third highest number of evacuees, but I beg to differ simply because there are people who chose not to give information upon immediately settling and what is not factored in is those who stayed for a short amount of time, still taking resources from the city.

I also remember a member of my extended family in BR whose family was living in New Orleans. She took them in out of family obligation, as so is Southern custom (there were 8-12 of them in total), and I can still remember her complaining in a conversation to someone else that they (the NO family members) were making no effort to get a job (although all employers offered priority to New Orleans residents) and were at the house most of the day drinking and smoking (although they did cook everyday they were there). There lie the problem with many of the evacuees that came - they took everything but gave almost nothing. Given many of them settled in Baton Rouge, it has been known as the sister to New Orleans for many years as the residents have extremely close family, business, and cultural ties; nevertheless, many of the NO residents were used to doing nothing constructive towards accepted American society and they continued to do such. However, this isn't going to be entirely a rant...so I'll get on with the facts.

Not only were the evacuees given employment priority, around 10,000 students flooded the East Baton Rouge Parish Schools. Hear this - just EAST Baton Rouge Parish, not Baton Rouge cumulative. Scotlandville Middle, which was closed down for the typical reasons, was reopened for some 800 New Orleans students who needed an education in lieu of disaster. My high school, Scotlandville Magnet High, was one of those high schools. The New Orleans residents did go through a lot, I must admit - being promised a paid graduation package and, at the last minute, the administation oblivious to that promise, among other isolated and widespread things. Many of them were living in trailers, in shelters, and some were fine - their families were well prepared and they transitioned like any person moving from one city to another. Disheartening to many Baton Rouge residents, however, was the attention pressed towards the New Orleans students. I, personally, was graduating senior at the time. My personal sentiment was that with the commotion of the storm and the aftermath, many opportunities that I could have had by way of scholarships and pre-college training was put to the side. Not that I am complaining that those who were in more need than I were being attended to, but it is a fact that this was the case at many schools that did not increase their staff (when I say increase staff, that is to say counselors and administrators, not instructors).

Another large part of the turmoil was the level of crime that came along with the aftermath of the storm. Aside from the riots at various markets, malls, and shops, there was an obvious spike in crime in Baton Rouge. Now, BR isn't the safest place to be at all times - there is a lot of 'hood beef' that takes the bulk of crimes. In high school, for example, metal detectors were brought in when we (Scotlandville) played Glen Oaks (our rivals) due to the fact that there was a high probablity of violence occurring. I have vivid memories of being at a party or even school function where the biggest worry was someone from Glen Oaks coming and starting something that would cause the function to be shut down. Regardless, if there wasn't enough going already, when the New Orleans residents came there was more 'hood beef' to behold. Baton Rouge residents were determined to keep 'their city.' There were more issues caused by BR residents trying to assert their dominance over their own turf than NO residents trying to impose in addition to the already heightening hood beef at the time. It came to the point where negativity was expected. It was not completely like that - at my high school, for example (perhaps because we were seniors and didn't care about petty things as much) my social circle made jokes but very rarely were their confrontations dealing with the difference in background much less violence. All that mattered is that we all graduated.

I tried to stay in touch with a few of those evacuees that came to our school - many I have fallen out of touch with at some point or another. One in particular, I remember, returned shortly after graduation. He told me that it wasn't the same - he was going to leave and go to either Houston or Atlanta. He said that every time one would dial 9-1-1, the National Guard would come rather than NOPD. He was fearful for his safety - martial law was in full effect (whether or not it was legal at the time or not and whether or not it was for the reasons that the news/Nagin reported) and the South's legacy of racism (which had already reared its hideous face in one way or another) was thick in the Bayou air.

A family member of mine went to work with the rebuilding effort, she returned with mold spores in her lungs from the waste that had accumulated in the air and water after the various plants has been flooded and destroyed and the sewers had overflowed. The Lower Ninth Ward was a cesspool of bacteria and waste. Driving in New Orleans for months thereafter was eerie. There was no light but the Bayou moon and stars to guide you. No street lights, city lights (in most places), no house lights, no other cars, and few animals rustling save the birds in the day.

Everyone knows what comes after this - the predominantly white area was rehabilitated first, the Black area was left longer - was allowed to fall under more depreciation. Primarily white contractors bought up the predominantly Black-occupied land, gentrifying the area at a rate and in a way that was and is so dastardly but, at the same time, completely legal. Many residents that tried to return were not allowed to and were even further outraged when they learned that their homes would not be recovered due to whatever excuse was given at the time.

This brings me to the quote at the beginning of this post:

"We believe that kids and adults often times are self-medicating because it is cheaper to get marijuana than it is to pay" for prescription medication, he said.

Bell says many area residents probably suffer from untreated or undiagnosed post-traumatic stress.

Undiagnosed or untreated mental illnesses due to this disaster - Post traumatic stress disorder or Post traumatic slave syndrome? The article is saying that marijuana is the choice self-medication for these victims. Marijuana, however, has been used by the Black community for years upon years. Not to mention William Jefferson and George Washington (among others) with their own hemp farms. It can be easily grown and it is generally cheaper in the South. During the time of Katrina, one half of an ounce would cost as little as 20 US.

I'm saying this to say that although officials are just now paying attention to some of the so-called issues of the Black community, they are in complete ignorance of the context of many other these things. 'It's due to the trauma of Katrina and displacement,' they say with a false sense of authority. 'Bullshit!' as my Daddy would say, who tends to have a more informed sense of authority. I feel that Black Americans tend to self-medicate themselves with marijuana specifically not only because it is a part of the healing culture of the world but also because it is something that provides so little negative repurcussions especially in comparison to the drugs that they will be prescribed for those same ailments that they smoke for.

The marijuana use, the drug trafficking, the drug involvement as a whole has nothing to do with Katrina in the least - it, just like the people who have no socially acceptable jobs, people who have hood beef, and a government that cares nothing about a demographic until they are put in the international spotlight (cite partitioning of Africa, Civil Rights Movement, the Presidency of Barak Obama, the stealing of oil from Africa), is a part of a larger cycle that has been going on longer than 500 years, much to the history-maker's dismay.

Katrina is but a chapter in this book of pain that Diasporic peoples have engraven in their DNA and genetic code. It is but another more real understanding of this relatively new concept of racism that did not exist in 'the beginning' (and no, I'm not talking about the Bible's beginning, I'm talking about the real beginning), it is an example of injustice that is more fresh in the minds of our generation - it also something that is being forgotten in this Obama administration.

Melting pot this, American society that - reality is that everyone on this earth came from Africa. Reality is that there are some that don't look like their ancestors anymore. Reality is that there is a jealous animosity that manifests itself in different conscious and unconscious ways. Reality is that Coonery is alive and kicking and biting and permeating your skull. . .. whoa...tangent - back to reality..

Katrina - yes - Katrina is a horse that is dead. STOP BEATING IT. Things happen. All of this 'remembrance' is for those who didn't know before figure out what they still don't know and will not understand. If your grandmother died, would you want to relive her death year after year after year? In the news? In magazines? In classes at school? I wouldn't. So why do that to those hundreds of thousands that lived through Katrina and Rita and the millions that were directly affected by the same?

Personally, I don't think it's very nice or fair, to beat a dead horse that is.

Despite such, my heart still goes out to those who I was connected with before, during, and because of the storm. My heart goes out to my family members that suffered and those who I don't know that suffered as well. My efforts are still strong to dispell myths of the truths of the situation and I trust that they can heal from this despite the media's unrelenting need to regurgitate painful things just because they have nothing better to fill their news slot with.

Summer 2009

2009-07-03T12:19:00.004-04:00

Hello Bloggers!

I have been out of commission for a while - the life of a student has got to me in the most intriguing ways. I am currently Co-Editor of Photography of the Howard University Hilltop as well as a misused intern for an unnamed paper. On the daily, I am the student coordinator for the Commissioner's Camp: Summers of Success.

Through all of these things, I have found that photography and images are an integral part of life. . .

In Costa Rica, I found that outside life isn't what the government wants it to be from a firsthand perspective. It was the visual realization of the fact that Imperialist governments come into so-called 'third world countries' with over abundant resources . It has the largest percentage of protected areas in the world at a whopping 25% - that is, 25% of Costa Rica is made up of national parks and protected areas.

Businesses are able to secure tax exemption statuses due to the fact that the government wants to generate outside revenue. This allows all sorts of people to come through and overrun the population with things that are completely unlike the inherent culture. It disturbs me to see Asian Cuisine here. It makes no sense whatsoever.

The most desirable jobs are those which bring them in constant contact with tourists and the resorts there - whew! Perhaps because I have never been to an all-inclusive resort I am so overwhelmed with annoyance at the separation between the actual country and the resort. The only way that one would know that you were in Costa Rica is because of the beach, the Costa Rican workers, and . .. no - that's it. The weather is comparable to any tropical area. It makes me want to cry - I wanted to practice my almost non existent Spanish, but the people who worked there and that I ran into were more interested in learning English.

I find that discouraging - the fact that many of the people that live in places other than America are more comfortable with learning and accepting customs and traditions from America rather than preserving their own culture and identity.

Other than that, I have not encountered anything out of the ordinary. Michelle Obama came to our school for a cameo appearance at a high school graduation. It was, among other things, a regurgitated mess. I'm sure she has the same exact speech in different variations for the same occassions. It was broadcasted but in the same respect, I don't feel any further motivated or moved. While I do understand that there are only so many minutes in a day and being such an important person (so-called) you have to prioritize your time and energies. With that being said - why hasn't Barack Obama been to Howard University (one of the premiere HBCUs) since he's been elected the leader of this country? Perhaps this is my own sentiment that no one else shares, but I feel as if he should pay homage where it is due. It is not a problem of him being a "Black President" in the respect of catering to "his people," but more so also because he is a beacon of light to all of America (whether it be a flourescent light or one of those new energy saving bulbs) to let it be known that he is a person of cultural understanding and loyalty. Yes, he is half white and yes, he is half Black, and yes - he identifies as Black. However, he is also a President of Change. In that respect, in my opinion, he should have been present at one point or another at all of the universities in the D.C. area. No Question.

Giving younger children something to look at - 'Oh! He visited a college - I can't wait until I can get to college so I can meet really important people' and giving those who may have not made an effort to go to college when they were at the 'ordinary' age some sort of motivation (that is, if it's the Black President that rocks their boat).

Perhaps I am just one of the many who is overlooking the fact that he is one of the busiest men in the world, but I do feel that some things can be taken care of especially since this man has a contract with William Morris (as well as Ms. Rice) and if has the AUDACITY to charge people to hear him, then he can have the grace and humility to be a decent icon towards the youth of America. The same youth that will be figuring out his health care coverage when he's old and decript.

[sigh]

America..... what are we to do.

In other news,

I'm in Lousiana - getting ready to go to New Orleans to cover Essence Fest. My travel and housing plans are sooo unstable but I will trust in the powers that be and believe that everything will work out for the best.

I'll be posting a few images as I see them - I'm armed with the D40 this time. If anyone has a camcorder it would be nice to lend it to me!

It's cold out here, but a fiery pit is churning over there.

2008-11-24T20:32:00.006-05:00

Piracy, according to the United Nations Conventions Law of the Sea of 1982, consists of any criminal acts of violence, detention, or depredation committed for private ends by the crew or the passengers of a private ship or aircraft that is directed on the high seas against another ship, aircraft, or against persons or property on board a ship or aircraft.

According to Webster, piracy is an act of robbery on the high sea.

In Somalia, Africa, there has been a surge of what the media has dubbed 'pirate attacks.' The extent of these attacks is limited to the sea, but they set high hopes for what they set out to attain in the waters. The so-called attacks have plagued the Somalian coast and the Gulf of Aden since the beginning of the early nineties, with an extensive history and a purpose, these Africans are a perfect example of resistance to the imperial advance.

The individuals called pirates now are the remnants of what used to be the warriors of Somalia's Siad Barre government. After being ousted from power, Siad Barre was driven to the southern regions of the country, where he and his supporters stayed until the early nineties. Since then, Southern Somalia has been affected the worst in the country as far as being stricken by war, poverty, and famine. Siad Barre's regime is the last cohesive governmental unit Somalia has known. Economist and Associate Professor of Economics at George Mason University, Alex Tabarrok, comments:

Somalia continues to provide a unique test of the theory of anarchy (competitive governments) promoted by David Friedman, Murrary Rothbard and others (I just thought that was interesting, but I don't care to elaborate).

In early 2006, a conflict snsued between an alliance of Mogadishu warlords known as the Alliance for the Restoration of Peace and Counter-Terrorism, or ARPCT, and a militia loyal to the Islamic Courts Union, or ICU, seeking to institute Sharia law in Somalia. Foreign troops were brought in for intervention with much protest. The general feeling that among all of the possible troops to send in, the Ethiopians were the least likely to present an image of hope. Ethiopia and Somalia's history, which is rocky in more places than one, created an even bigger problem and a harder drive for the Islamist forces who are opposed to the transitional government.

Nevertheless, the clans that fell into the south after the breaking up of Somalia's government are now wreaking havoc in the surrounding seas. What initially began as a domination of a means of survival in a poverty-stricken land grew into a mulit-million dollar operation. The over 90 different ships that have been affected have brought international attention to the so called pirates for many reasons. Their most recent acquisition, however, has heightened their perceived threat. The Sirius Star, an oil tanker owned by Saudis, is reported to hold 110 million dollars worth of crude oil in the cargo.

The amazing thing about this situation is that, despite all of the fear that people are allowing to circulate in reference to the groups, the truth is quite obvious.

Daybad spoke to the BBC Somali Service via telephone from the Sirius Star, which is being held off the Somali coast.
He said that the ship's crew were being treated humanely.
"They are fine. We are treating them according to the charter of how you treat prisoners of war," he said.
"They are allowed to contact their families. The crew are not prisoners, they can move from place to place, wherever they want to, they can even sleep on their usual beds and they have their own keys."

"The only thing they are missing is their freedom to leave the ship," he added.
Daybad said that "no company" had yet made contact with the pirates, only people claiming to be intermediaries.
"These are people who cannot be trusted. We don't want to make contact with anyone who we can't trust," he said.
"We captured the ship for ransom, of course, but we don't have anybody reliable to talk to directly about it."
Daybad said that once genuine negotiations began they would seek "the usual asking price" but denied reports that they had been asking for a ransom of up to $25m (£16.6m).
"That doesn't exist, there is nothing of the sort and we are warning radio stations and other people about broadcasting these unreliable stories," he said.
Daybad said the pirates were fully aware of the consequences of their actions, but the lack of peace in Somalia and the plunder of its waters by foreign fishing trawlers had driven them to piracy.
"Our fish were all eradicated so we can't fish now so we're going to fish whatever passes through our sea because we need to eat.

Daybad refers to a Saudi pirate who spoke with the BBC.

There are now European Union ships patrolling the area to ensure the safety of tankers travelling in the area. Arab forces are joining together to devise a strategy to alleviate the issue and quiet the perceived naval disturbance.

Somalia, despite all of this, has the lowest HIV rate in all of Africa. Their dedicated observance of Islamic law has contributed to the statistic. In addition, their history is intertwined with that of the Sub-Saharan African Kingdom of Aksum who was once ruled by the very same Queen Sheba who loved King Solomon, creating Menelik.

It is clearly obvious that there is an international misunderstanding of what is going on. As a result of the imperialist influence on the culture, situation, and environment of the Somalis, they have been driven to theivery as a means to an end. Although the area has always been quite arid and a poor place for vegetation, the rich cultural history, intelligence, and overall potential of any people (especially an African people) should never be underestimated.

They are aware, clearly as they have publicly stated, that they are completely aware of what they are doing, just as the young Black warrior deep in the trenches of the trap is aware of his lifestyle. However, pragmatically, the progessive spirit that could have been applied to a greater good with efficient solidarity, is being used for simple survival. While there are others who have their entire lives handed to them for being born into the families they are born into, there is no compassion and understanding for others who do not fall into that demographic.

Yes, he may be in jail for murder, but is he not your brother? Was he not socialized to limit his alternatives and to endure his environment. Was his prison not fashioned especially for him and his own? I do not feel that the so-called Arab world, especially not Egypt (You're African, whether you like it or not, imbecile!), should be devising plans to better themselves. They should recognize the threat that a lack of Eastern cohesion brings.

It's not about getting along, it's about getting by. If your brother is going to eat, then you will too. There will be a few battles, but that is necessary in the case of difference of personality in this new day of individualism and singularity. Scratches and bruises create strength, the lack of knowledge of difference begets weakness. Africans, with their so-called 'rites of passage,' should be more aware of such concepts than most.

It's cold out here, but a fiery pit is churning over there. There is so much internal strife in African-descended groups that it is mind-bending. And to think that the original environment of these people fostered brotherhood, humility, and love. . . . .

Support the Somalis, I say. Not because of their main focus, but because of what they represent. Because of the truth that they display and because of lesson that they teach. No, it is not right to steal from others. But, similarly it is not just to attempt to colonize an area, fail, and leave it to fend for itself after the interference (covert and overt) has created such a state of chaos that life itself is a question every day.

Understand your brothers, I say. Know why and sympathize. Right is right and wrong is wrong, but rationalizing and contextual comprehension surpasses such things.


From November Photojournal

"The town's residents are more concerned about the apparent dumping of toxic waste than piracy.
You know, our problem is not piracy. It is illegal dumping.
These problems have been going for sometime and the world knows about it. The Americans have been here in the region for a long time now - they know about the pollution.
Instead, no, the world is only talking about the pirates and the money involved...
"Meanwhile, there has been something else going on and it has been going on for years. There are many dumpings made in our sea, so much rubbish. It is dumped in our seas and it washes up on our coastline and spreads into our area.
"The people who have these symptoms are the ones who wake early, before it is light, and herd their livestock to the shore to graze. The animals are sick from drinking the water and the people who washed in the water are now suffering.
We are people who live in a very remote town and here, we are isolated; we only rely on God.
This town is close to the sea. It is a very old town which has a mixture of Somali clans. It is not big but it has a well-knit community.
Our community used to rely on fishing. But now no-one fishes. You see, a lot of foreign ships were coming and they were fishing heavily - their big nets would wipe out everything, even the fishermen's equipment. They could not compete.
So the people here began farming and keeping greater numbers of livestock. Like in any other Somali town, all one can do is rely on oneself.
But now we have these medical hazards.
What can we do about it?

- Ex-Somali Army Colonel Mohamed Nureh Abdull.

Election Day Photo Collage

2008-11-06T22:08:00.003-05:00

On Tuesday, the entire Journalism department of Howard University took part in a mass coverage of the historic election day. For some, the day began before the sun rose. For others, the day did not end until well after the blaring horns went to bed and the celebratory bottles stopped popping.

For me, the day began early and ended early. I and one of my colleagues were on assignment n Maryland. Our story was a young Metropolitan resident whose birthday was also on election day. We were to document her experience.

Personally, I feel that I could have done more. But, under the circumstances (of which we choose not to discuss), I did an exceptional job. :)

Ras Tafari the First

2008-10-24T23:19:00.003-04:00

The other day I received an assignment that took me on a journey to the realm of the religious. The Ras Nieland Bynoe, a resident of Pennsylvania, was involved in a court case against UPS for firing him for his refusal to cut his hair and locks. The EEOC stepped in to aid in the lawsuit. Similarly, a few years ago, eight Rastafari children were disallowed an education for months simply because they didn't comply with the dress code of their local public school in Lafayette, Louisiana. The ACLU stepped in to aid in the legal process and the students were eventually allowed back into school.

Now, from an American standpoint, if one wants to practice a religion in the United States, even if it is Scooby-Dooism, they should be allowed to. Furthermore, if the said Scooby-Dooism is widely, and even internationally recognized as a followed practice with veritable foundation, then, I would only assume as an objective American, that the principles of Rastafari are recognized and respected. Especially if Mormons and the like are allowed to practice and even be recognized (while they are breaking the law with their polygamy and statutory rape practices), then something as profound as the Philosophy of Rastafari should be recognized as well.

Please note, I am not Rastafari, but I do respect it to the fullest extent possible.

Rastafari are a good people. They rely on wisdom and the experiences of their forefathers, as well as the immeasurable teachings of Haile Selassie I the First, the Conquering Lion of Judah, the Most High, as they would say. He was born on the rear end of the 1800s, being crowned King of Ethipoia in 1930. It was he who held Ethiopia strong. After the Italians invaded and began to wreak chaos, he was strong in his efforts to save his people, reaching out to different powers in his exile.

It is said that he looked down upon the Rastafari because he himself was not. (In fact, as a young child, Ras Tafari (Haile Selassie) had locks) He actually showed them reverence and honor. This speaks towards the nature of the Rastafari - accepting, but steadfast in their own endeavors.

One misconception that unnerves me is the one that Rastafari are pot heads who don't do anything but bang on drums and smoke marijuana. One of the first Rastafari that I have met was a lawyer. I always had a large amount of respect for him (not that I don't respect others, but it is hard to gain respect from me on another level); watching him speak in his ever-clean business suit with his locks wrapped up into a towering cloth matched carefully with his suit. He always spoke with such contemplated dignity, as did the elder Ras that I always happened to see at the same time as he.

Their belief in self-sustenance drives them to reach far beyond what the general conception puts upon them. In that instane - they are beyond the regular person's comprehension. Visuals defy the ears and the mind, leaving the typical ignoramus to be lost in a complex trying to decide what sort of stereotype does this individual fit. None, buddy! They have learned how to function in 'Babylon,' or in an imperialistic society. Therefore, they do not need this society to exist, as most do. With their philosophy, they have succeded in fulfilling their purposes. They have built up their communities, and they have sustained themselves in ways many groups have not. They are to be revered.

It is also a comforting thing to know that, as a female in their culture, I will be treated with the uptmost respect. I must say, coming into an area and being referred to as 'Empress' is a far more comforting thing than being referred to as 'Sister.' It's not that I don't feel that we are all in the same family, but, as Ras Sizzla Kalongi said, we are all kings in this jungle. We are all Kings and Queens, Emperors and Empresses. I feel that if we verbally remind one another, then perhaps we will act accordingly. But that is another conversation for another time.

Blessed.

America Get it Together

2008-10-22T20:46:00.003-04:00

Howard Homecoming is finally over.

The Hubub of females scantily clad and males with false jewels has died down and we students are left with nothing but the mess and relief from getting through midterms without breaking down.

After shooting Yardfest, I developed a new appreciation for Howard. AJ and Angie Ang were present, as well as countless other Howard alumni. It made me feel proud to see that there were individuals who came back - who were happy to come back. And they, as I see this in motion I understand, have returned to Howard to pull what they can out of it.

Although to her students, Homecoming has lost its flair and pizzaz, it, like all other Howard events, was not created for us (the students). As a matter of fact, there is nothing that is publicly televised in the past three years that I've been here that has been directly for the students. The Jena 6 rally - for the media, Homecoming - for the alumni, and the list goes on and on and on. I see that Howard, as I have been told numerous times, is definitely the place where the saying is so true - "If you can make it at Howard, then you can make it anywhere." The things that one has to deal with (inefficient wifi, lack of punctuality in paid transportation, a campus police force that would rather spend money on segways rather than the call boxes located at various places around the campus that have been broken since before I stepped foot in the District) are beyond imagination, and are definitely not a part of the facade most colleges have built up.

I passed a group of people on the yard today. They were all Howard students, and two of the people were instructing the others on how to give a tour. I decided to peek in.

Wow.

"And if they ask about whether or not there is any air conditioning in the Quad [the all girls' dorm], then say that there isn't. But then talk about the sisterhood and the bonding that goes on."

Right.

Yes Howard.

The story of Africans in America.

Let's make sure that everything is recognized, even if it is separate and unequal, but make sure you elaborate on the core African values - values that stemmed from the systemic racism that Howardites are to be bred to mature out of. (It's one thing to go through a rite of passage when all of those involved are focused on the progression of the whole, but it's anothing thing when there are alterior motives and the perception is perpetuated for insane reasons)

Ok Howard. Get it together.

In addition, while reading the BBC today, I saw an article in relation to our dear Barak.

Obama: McCain will 'endanger' US

Tee - hee hee.

Please read that.

I have this to say:

I support Barak Obama. Honestly, if I had my way, Cynthia McKinney would be in his place. However, one has to play with the cards they are dealt.

Barak Obama is a very positive individual. He seems to be in complete conjunction with the poor and downtrodden of America. He seems to have come from where the 'true American' has come from, financially fighting his way through law school and the like. I remembered that it stuck with me that he was just paying off his college loans. His wife is (excuse my Blackness) da realest thang that ever hit the fan. His family is an exemplary nuclear construct, and, oh! Yes he did step off the campaign path to tend to his WHITE grandmother. Isn't he just the best choice, the savior for the American people to pull them from the depths of this mess that imperialistic endeavors have brought upon us?

While he may be great and all that other hooplah, he is still very young. He is still somewhat inexperienced. And, honestly - we still don't know what he is capable of incapable of. Furthermore, he has not had the time to publicly solidify his ties to any particular people, methodologies, or any determining factor that would allow his true past to steer the American people's perception.

I feel as if anything affiliated with the so-called 'American Dream,' or an Imperialist Fantasy (as it truly is) is not to be trust one hundred percent. It is to be treated with caution, and absolute hesitancy.

As my friend would say, "it sounds sweet, but don't bring me lies and fairy tales."

A Taste of Georgetown/SA's AIDS Issue

2008-10-15T17:29:00.003-04:00

On Saturday, I went to Wisconsin Ave to witness the fifteenth annual Taste of Georgetown. It was a one day event showcasing the thirty best and most luxurious restaurants of the D.C. Metropolitan area. There were hamburger joints, cupcake shoppes, a wine pavilion, and other various types of foods of other cultures. The demographic of individuals was made up of mostly younger white people, complemented with tourists and sprinkled with darker folk here and there.

There was a live jazz band as well as free Pepsi for everyone.

Overall, the event was a success. There were a lot of people circulating for the few hours that I was there. This leads me to believe that the homeless people the proceeds go to will be very enthused.

Yes, the proceeds will go towards homeless people. That's what the site says, at the least. And so, I wonder, why is it that these homeless people were incognito? Where are all of the representatives for this endeavor that they are taking on? And furthermore, why is it that there are no events like this in the Black community.

Of course, we have our festival days, we have our weekend markets, but an event displaying the culinary talents of our community's best (and actually benefiting the community as well)? I would imagine a greater attendance, a greater selection, and better quaility.

The Black community has strengthened the food market for centuries upon centuries. It has introduced staples that are forsaken necessities at the present. The world's first drug, sugar, was introduced on account of the interaction with those of African descent. It was then manufactured, marketed, and capitalized upon by Europeans, pragmatically, of course.

While this issue is relatively unimportant on many levels, the umbrella issue of the capitalization of things and practices that were originally African or were developed by Africans by Europeans is an argument to behold.

BBCNEWS reports that in South Africa, the new Health Minister, a European-descended woman named Barbara Hogan, called for a renewed global effort against HIV/AIDS. Not only did she refute former Ssouth African President Thabo Mbeki's claim that AIDS was not a result of HIV, but she also refuted her predecessor, Manto Tshabalala-Msimang, who felt that the introduction of common drug cocktails was not beneficial to the eradication or maintenance of the sickness.

Dr Tshabalala-Msimang earned the nickname "Dr Beetroot" for advocating healthy eating, as an alternative to ARV drugs.

So, apparently, her predecessor is relatively connected to traditional African remedies, and possibly a rejector of Western innovation - nothing to be ashamed of.

However, I do find it quite shameful that, despite the fact that there has been a treatment developed by doctors (who were affiliated with the Nation of Islam) that causes the AIDS condition to regress to a simple HIV status, there has been no effort to incorporate these tactics into the areas who are more than willing to undergo even human testing (since it is already done with or without their knowledge).

I find it amazing that of the myriad of things that Europeans could take and capitalize on to the fullest extent (personally, if I was the ruler of an African country, and America gave me the means to decrease death in my region, I would be indebted to them forever), they choose not to expound upon life. This, however, is also a testament to their need for control - if the solution did not come from that which it is necessary to help, then what is the use for a scientific revolution to begin?

The Nicheren Diashonin teaches that individuals must respect everyone's humanity equally. We must be aware of one another's needs and be prepared to fulfill them. We must treat another not as our child, our mother, or our lovers, but as we treat ourselves. This level of karmic understanding is fundamental to the progression of people and is crucial as the years push on. Things are not going to get better, they are going to either worse or maintain themselves.
If anything, it is time that we begin to focus on the future of those that we love - selfless loves and respect is key to harmony and balanced cohabitation. Simplicity through human emotion, for lack of a better word.

Manifest Destiny 3000

2008-10-09T12:05:00.005-04:00

In America, one tends to find themselves at the whim of these people who are called the 'elite' and the 'upper class.'

I, myself, can't seem to fathom that in any way. I tend to find myself at a loss for words at times due simply to the fact that Americans are becoming less and less lax on vocalizing their critical issues, but, deeper within that dynamic, so-called 'African Americans' and those associated with such are becoming more and more lax on the issues that they choose to critique.

Going through the BBC today, I found an article written about a man named Simon Schama, a historian from Europe.

The distinguished historian Simon Schama argues that Barack Obama's emergence as presidential candidate represents a profound change in the American psyche.

I had to laugh. Loudly.

I continued.

The new attitude to race is the result of a generational shift that began with the civil rights movement, and has now affected not only the "baby boomer generation" born in the 1950s but their children as well, he says.

Forgive me for being a bit cynical, but that sounds like a bit of malarkey to me.

For a long time, it has been accepted that the progression made in the Civil Rights Movement of the 60s came as a direct result of the efforts of Black individuals who thought more of their people and their situation rather than their selves. Hundreds have been lynched, sprayed, and all that other good marketable stuff for the simple enjoyment of the first 'humane' (if they so happened to consider us humans on their own level on all planes) right - the right to do anything within moralistic bounds.

There are many of us that are aware of the fact that this is not so - it is not entirely the efforts of our predecessors, but more so a sacrifice on the part of the imperialists to ensure their shadow's reach into the nations of the East. At the time, Africa was forming Westernized structure and began to have a stake in the international arena. Africa and her allies would never have thought twice about anything that came from the U.S. if their policies towards the African descendants changed. Imperialist concern was not the advancement of Africans, Africa, or African Americans. Imperialist concern was of imperialist nature.

Manifest Destiny 3000, if you will.

Ensuring proper treatment of Africans within the system (of America) emitted a facade of understanding towards Africans and Africa. However, this was never the case - the ultimate goal is the progression of the imperialist state and its constituents. Therefore, America allowed the Civil Rights Movement to go on and be recognized.

Even more despicable, the most influential and culturally beneficial individuals were, as a result of not being a necessity to the imperialist state and being a detriment in the least, removed fromthe public arena permantently.

All of this to ensure that imperialism thrives.

And so, upon reading the words of Schama, I find myself laughing. The mentality of Americans change? No. Never that.

The mentality of imperialist adjusting to fit the new time and state of things? Yes. I can believe that.

America's main priority is to cease Middle Eastern Oil dependency. Oil is the result of millions and billions of years of compression and heating of organic material - Africa is the one of the oldest, and virtually untapped resources left in the world. Imperialist nations have been saving her for their dessert - to quench the thirst of the evil doers and to be lackey to the beast, seemingly helpless and without a spot of sense in the world.

AfriCom's initiative is beyond intelligent, it's almost ingenious, within an imperialist context, of course. Stealing the oil and other natural resources from a continent (not a third world country, or a nation, but a CONTINENT) for the betterment of a few individuals' pocket is not on my list of things to be remotely a part of.

However, whilst this is the move for the day, Barak Obama is attempting to win over the hearts and minds of the American nation as well as the respect of the international community.

It's basically like this: Woo Hoo - let's make sure we have a Black face on this white plan (that Bush began) so that we can effectively dastardize everything that African descendants could possible make at this point (after we've drained the world of almost all of its resources).

Barak signaling a change in American mentality? Not a chance.

Barak signaling a new era imperialist endeavors and methodology? Seems more like it.

Not to say that he isn't truthful, positive, or honestly progressive, I just don't feel that they imperialist nation cares.

African ReColonization 2000

2008-10-01T12:29:00.005-04:00

I was going through the BBC today and I saw today's Africa headliner -

US Africom 'has no hidden agenda'

Hmmm.

I read further.

Now, I was once told by an intelligent individual that the US has some dirty tricks up their sleeves in terms of Africa at this point and time. From what I understand, the US (President Bush) has been trying to secure military command posts at various places in Africa.

While America has been occupied with Obama and McCain and their lackeys, Bush has been running around Africa (Benin, Ghana, Liberia, Rwanda, Tanzania) in an effort to strengthen relations between America and the countries as well as prepare for the proposal of Africom.

Bush, upon returning to the states, delivered a speech in which he said

"Americans should feel proud, mighty proud, of the work we're doing in Africa. At every stop, I told people that the source of all these efforts is the generosity of the American people. We are a nation of compassionate and good-hearted folks. We recognize the extraordinary potential of Africa. In schoolchildren waving flags on dusty roadsides, to nurses caring for their patients at busy clinics, to artisans selling their products in scorching heat, we saw people who have been given great challenges -- and responded to them with clear eyes and big hearts."

Hmmm.

According to All Africa,as well as this speech, President Yayi of Benin has incorporated a 'George W Bush Day" as part of an awareness initiative for malaria in his country.

Okay - so basically Africans in the Diaspora are beign blinded by the prospect of possible equality whilst their Motherland is about to relive colonialization once again.

This is a spirit worthy of America's support. It is more powerful than any partisan quarrels here in our nation's capital. And having given our word, we must not turn back now. Congress needs to make America's commitment clear by fully and promptly funding our development programs. And presidential candidates of both parties should make clear that engagement with Africa will be an enduring priority of the United States.

This man is quite smart, I must say.

Back to Africom - Africom is the US African Command Unit. According to Bush, the purpose behind it is that Africa is usually answering to other Command Units like the European Command or the Pacific Command, so it would be more beneficial to Africa to have their own personal satelittes of hell. It seems as if the African states that are for it are looking for the monetary benefit and the services that America will offer. Very much so neglecting the reality of the history of relations with Europe and her children. Africans have expressed dislike for the proposal, citing that it would militarise their society.

Morocco, Algeria, South Africa, and Libya have refused to hold command centers on their soil. That comes as a sigh of relief to myself - atleast I know that there are Africans who are not influenced by the broken promises of the US government. This is also the one time that the Nigerian's cockiness will be of practical use to them because they, too, have opposed the placement of a base on their soil. Nigeria is the cheif oil producer in West Africa.

Going deeper into the depths of the BBConline, I found a post by a Liberian expressing his views. This young man let it be known that it was not the choice of the majority of the people of Liberia to endorse AfriCom's presence.

President Ellen Johnson-Sirleaf's offer to America to host Africom's base was not reflective of the country's will. She should have had it approved through parliament. Accepting it would not have been the wish of ordinary Liberians.

The other posts express the same thing - the US is trying to counterbalance China's international weight, cease dependence on Middle Eastern Oil (and suck Africa's), and to gain an ally while they are losing all of theirs.

Personally, I feel that Africa needs to unite in the midst of all of this internation turmoil. The issues that will soon arise will be monetary and in terms of energy. Africa has the means to take care of herself if she so desires - planting certian crops that will replenish themselves, ceasing the inter-African warfare to band together as a barrier against the Western powers who are now utilizing the hotbed they've been waiting for. Africa needs not to give in - Africa needs to remain some sort of unadulterated hope for us here in America. Some thing to be developed by our own people in our own fashion. American interference will be a disaster.

Lamenting the Sign of the Times

2008-09-26T13:04:00.004-04:00

Last week, I ran into an issue with my entire existence here at Howard. It's still bothering me, but it's also turning into something bigger than I could have imagined.

On the first budget meeting that I attended for the Howard University Hilltop newspaper, I received a story - choose an event that happened to at Howard in the past. Not that hard, one would imagine.

I made my way easily around the campus, finding one treasure after another - people who have been around this campus since before I even knew it existed and have very educated and culturally/contextually relevant opinions. There was the individual in the Moorland-Springarn Research center who was a part of the Consciousness Movement. The animation in her face as she spoke of the happenings of the past drew me in further to the joy and cooperative understanding and knowledge that was once harbored in the university. Through her and a few others I got a greater understanding of what Howard use to be just a few decades ago.

From what I understand, Black-affiliated religions have been an intimate friend to Black institutions over the years. Many of the greatest HBCUs have been the direct product of Black religious institutions, as well. Morris Brown, just to name one. . .

Religion has been a part of the Black agenda in some way or another even before it became fashioned into a form of social control for an alternative agenda. Before there was religion, there was spirituality. It was the way in which the Ancients communicated with their surroundings and, even more importantly, communicated with each other. The Ancients believed in maintaining a relationship with those who came before them. They, as Dr. Gregory Carr once explained, believe that there is a cycle that we as people go through. Firstly there is coming into existence, then leaving existence, then reaching ancestorship, then moving into the rest of the cycle once again. Of course, it's far more contextually complex than that, but that'll do for now.

I said that to say that the absence of religion in American public schools proved fatal, as so said by the testimony of many around the country and the world.

In continutation of my story, my editor and I agreed on a topic - a situation that occurred in 1994 with Brother Abdul Khallid Muhammad of the Nation of Islam and Brother Malik Shabazz. (I'll let you go look that up) Now, there was a lot of media hype about what was said. However, the words were taken out of context. Cultural, personal, and just plain ol' outta context!

The Honorable Minister Louis Farakhan himself, in an interview with Barbara Walters (It was a showing of 20/20), only blatantly shunned the brother's choice of words. Brother Farakhan called Khallid's words "harsh." Interesting, no?

Either way, Howard University has disallowed any peoples from speaking on their campus on the behalf of the nation.

Ho Hum Howard.

The 'savior' of Black education and intellectual thought.

Where art thou?