The sales clerk pulled the Juneteenth display down, so I could purchase the last shirt in the store.  I was frantic because two other women were searching for shirts for their children's school programs in Chicago. While my heart swelled with pride that this holiday is finally gaining wide appeal in the mainstream, I wondered … Continue reading Juneteenth Celebration Educates Our Youth By Cassiette West-Williams

During this Juneteenth celebration, we envision the sights, sounds and smells of the 1865 emancipated slaves dancing in the streets of Galveston, Texas. Juneteenth is both sorrow and joy. It is delayed freedom and triumph. Our ancestors stepped upon the shores of the unknown. What they brought with them was a plan of survival and … Continue reading How Jim Crow, Black Church, Great Migration and Civil Rights Shaped Our Ancestors By Mae Catherine Godhigh

As the NBA finals approach this month between the Golden State Warriors and the Boston Celtics, several players have emerged as a catalyst for their team’s success. Jayson Tatum, Jaylen Brown, Marcus Smart, and Al Horford for the Celtics have consistently stepped up their play, especially against the top-rated Miami Heat. For Golden State, familiar … Continue reading The Resurgence of Klay Thompson By Mark Hollis

Many of you have likely never heard this song, penned by Eugene McDaniels and recorded by Les McCann in 1969. I strongly urge you to search it online and listen. Here’s one stanza that always gives me the chills:“Where’s that bee, where’s that honey? Where’s my God, where’s my money? Unreal values and class destruction, … Continue reading Compared To What? By Mark Lampkin

The longer I live the more I understand, that what is often referred to as being political, actually has more to do with doing what is morally correct. Right-wing politicians implore us to not make these latest mass shootings political.  And their favorite talking point is “guns don’t kill people, people kill people;” and “a good … Continue reading The Struggle Continues… By Sherry Cannon “Connecting the Dots”

The 40th Annual YWCA Women’s Recognition Day selected Doris Symonds of Peoria to receive the 2022 YWCA Mission Award. The Mission Award is given to an individual, business or organization demonstrating significant dedication to achieving the Mission of the YWCA “to eliminate racism, empower women and promote peace, justice, freedom and dignity for all”.  Doris … Continue reading Doris Symonds Receives 2022 YWCA Mission Award

Strawberries are in season now, just in time for Juneteenth! Check out this easy-to-make strawberry pie. You’ll wow all your guests with a delicious dessert while honoring the resilience of our enslaved ancestors at the same time. Usually coupled with traditional African American foods, red foods and beverages are typically seen on Juneteenth holiday tables … Continue reading TASTY GARDEN GOODNESS By Candy Webb “A Tradition in Red for Freedom Day – Juneteenth Strawberry Pie”