Brother Jesse Blog

This Week With Jasiri X: Dr. King's Advice to President Obama on Afghanistan

2009-11-25T07:13:00.002-06:00

This Week with Jasiri X Episode 26 tells the story of the connection between Afghanistan and war, leading to her intimate yet volatile relationship with the United States. Afghanistan (HerStory) is produced by Kai Roberts and directed by Paradise the Arkitech of X-Clan. Click below to view!

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=p7E_IHZTTCY

Dear Naysayers: You can't make chess-like moves with a checkers-like mind

2009-11-24T07:05:00.007-06:00

by Jesse Muhammad

It's Tuesday morning.

Another day has presented itself for you to do something extraordinary.

Another day to do something unique. Another day to not wait for a miracle, but to be the miracle.

You have mentally rehearsed your agenda for the day. Maybe you have a huge million dollar deal to close. Maybe there is a deadline you have to meet by the close of business. Or you procrastinated all last week until now your workload has piled up. But you're ready to tackle the tasks at hand. You're on the verge of releasing a new book or unveiling a new initiative in your company.

You look in the mirror and say "Man, I am great".

No matter how large the problems may seem, you're focused. You're confident. You know it can be done today.

Then it happens.

A naysayer from inside or outside of you creeps in to impact your excitement. From within, the naysayer comes in the form of fear, doubt and even low self-esteem. Outside it could be a negative text message, a draining email, gossiping conversation or a phone call with so-called constructive criticism. All of a sudden you become stagnate. Your energy is diminished. Your fire has went out and you haven't even left your house yet.

What happened? The naysayers got the best of you.

But today you choose to ignore the naysayers because you're operating on another level. You're playing chess while the naysayer is still playing checkers. Your thoughts are not the same. Your moves are not the same. Your objectives are not the same. The boards may look the same but tactics and strategies are different. It's chess not checkers to some of us.

The great ones know how to use the naysayers as fuel and feed off the obstacles in the road ahead. So we would like to dedicate this blog to all of the naysayers. We can't hear you because we're too busy achieving greatness. Make history....Become a L.E.G.E.N.D. (Let Every Goal Evolve Not Die)

Will you join us naysayers?

You can't make chess-like moves with a checkers-like mind.

Four lessons on Afghanistan

2009-11-24T06:54:00.003-06:00

BY A. AKBAR MUHAMMAD

President Obama, on Afghanistan, take your lesson from history.
The axiom: “Those who fail to learn the lessons of history are doomed to repeat them.”

Both the world and the American people are now asking, what is the U.S. strategic interest in Afghanistan and is it vital to America's security? Is a military victory possible? What do the people of this region want? Can America and the West tell them what kind of leadership or government they should have?

Are the Taliban or Al-Qaeda—with no air force, navy and tanks—able to impose their rule on millions of people in the Afghan/Pakistani region, who don't want them?

The American political leadership needs to “wake up and smell the coffee” and take a lesson from history. There are four historical references that the Obama administration should consider as they try to handle Afghanistan.

First Lesson: France, when it occupied French Indochina (Vietnam) from 1887 until the revolts of 1946, led by Ho Chi Minh. The French should have learned that there is no stopping a people who are determined to liberate their land from any foreign occupation, especially under an inspired leader, whose inspiration led them to fight for freedom to the bitter end. Read a brief review of the French's final battle at Dien Bien Phu against General Vo Nguyen Giap, the most distinguished leader next to Ho Chi Minh in the liberation war.

Second Lesson: Algeria, where the French never thought a rag-tag band of Algerians in their determination to be free could force France to leave this most valuable piece of real estate on the North Coast of Africa. Never did the French think that the Algerian soldiers they brought to Indochina to fight for France would become so inspired by the Vietnamese struggle, that they would bring that inspiration home in their liberation struggle to rid Algeria of its occupier—The French!

Read this full article at:Four lessons on Afghanistan

***Bonus!Below is a Speech by Martin Luther King, Jr. against the Vietnam War. Audio. This speech was released by Black Forum records, a subsidiary of Motown, and went on to win a Grammy in 1970 for the Best Spoken.**

Today is National Day of Reading: Turn off the PC and the Blackberry for a while...pick up a book!

2009-11-21T05:47:00.004-06:00

by Jesse Muhammad

I once read a quote that asks, "Is man or woman who can read but doesn't, any better than the man or woman who can't read at all?"

That is definitely something to think about. In a time where we're so addicted to our laptops, Blackberry phones, Palm Pre handhelds, text messaging, YouTube videos, music, movies, sports and television, picking up a book has almost become a lost art.

According to survey from PubTrack Consumer, Americans spend a mere average of 3.9 hours a week reading books but spends 15 hours a week online and 12 hours watching television. Americans also spend 4 hrs a week reading magazines and newspapers.

The PubTrack survey also notes that forty-five percent of Americans over the age of 13 read a book in 2008 and one in three of them were over the age of 55. The average age of a book reader is 44, but one in three readers is over the age of 55. American women are more likely to be book readers than men.

According to a 2008 Harris Interactive poll, one in five Americans (20%) say they have not purchased any books in the past year. Groups ages 18-31 said they have less time to read.

Here is staggering statistics posted by self-publishing consultant Dan Poynter several years ago.

1/3 of high school graduates never read another book for the rest of their lives.
42 percent of college graduates never read another book after college.
80 percent of U.S. families did not buy or read a book last year.
70 percent of U.S. adults have not been in a bookstore in the last five years.
57 percent of new books are not read to completion.
70 percent of books published do not earn back their advance.
70 percent of the books published do not make a profit.

I think you get the message.

This is why I am supporting the efforts of the Conversations Book Club led by Cyrus Webb and Shadow Play Entertainment in their call for a National Day of Reading on November 21. Between the hours of 10:00am and 6:00pm, their calling people to host Reading Parties in all 50 states. Here is a complete list of what is happening in your state to observe this day: Reading Parties In All 50 States

I am going to observe this day by finishing a book a recently purchased titled "The 50th Law" by 50 Cent and Robert Greene. Pretty good book so far!

Procrastination: "The Thief of Time"

2009-11-21T05:12:00.003-06:00

by Deric Muhammad

Leadership is a lot like waking up in the morning; the earlier you get started, the more you are likely to get accomplished.

Did you know that Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. was only 26 years old when he led the Montgomery Bus Boycott in Alabama? He had been studying for his mission since he was 15 years old. Too often we look at accomplished leaders in our society and are amazed by their abilities, but we have no idea how early they got started.

Nelson Mandela was expelled from a South African college at the age of 22 for participating in a protest. Huey P. Newton was only 23 when he co-founded the legendary Black Panther Party. Tiger Woods appeared on television in a golf putting competition against talk show host Bob Hope when he was only two years old. Venus and Serena Williams started playing tennis so early that they turned pro at the age of 14. Entertainers like Michael Jackson, Beyonce’ Knowles and even Lil’ Wayne started working on their crafts as children. These individuals are not all considered “leaders” in the traditional sense, but they all lead in their respective fields and they all proclaim that they did not become great overnight. True greatness takes time and the longer it takes for you to get started the longer it will take for you to start shining.

I am merely trying to highlight a principle and encourage young people to stop associating being young with “playtime” and leaving leadership to the older generation. Most real revolutionary changes that have taken place around the globe have been spearheaded by young people. Che Guevara and Fidel Castro led the Cuban revolution while in their twenties.

One of the greatest educational crimes committed against young people in America is that leadership (and personal finance) is not taught in public schools. Leadership development must become a priority in our communities if we truly want to invest in the future of this country. Here are a few leadership tips that, as a young person, have helped me to be effective.

Vision- This is first element of leadership. You must know where you want to go, what you want to accomplish and who you want to become. The sooner you figure it out the faster you will get there. Too many young people enter college without knowing what discipline they want to master. Living without a vision can be compared to driving blindfolded. You’ll end up wherever the vehicle takes you. Life is your vehicle. Take of the blindfolds and get where you are going. A.S.A.P.

Purpose- Find your purpose in life. Nobody was put here on Earth without a purpose and true happiness comes from fulfillment of that purpose. If you are not afraid to pursue what you love and do well you will become successful and fulfilled. Set trends, don’t follow them- There is entirely too much “swagger jacking” among the youth of today.

Start Now!- In Japan, when a mother wants her child to be a mathematician she starts reading Math books aloud to her baby while it is still in her stomach. That makes all of us late starters. You are never too young to get started on the road to greatness.

The “And What?” Factor- You must be courageous. Too many human beings are absolutely paralyzed with fear of what others will think of them. You can never become a leader by listening to and following the crowd. Figure out what is right then do it. Find out the truth and then tell it. Be bold about your vision and take charge. Work hard until you succeed and then look back at your critics and say, “and what”!

Read or Do Not Lead- All great men and women are avid readers. Physical size and strength no longer represents the ultimate power. There are leaders who rule the world from wheelchairs, because they have developed mind over matter. In sports it is the huge guys who make the plays on the field and the court, but it is often the puny guys who write the checks. Which would you rather be?

EAVESDROP- Find someone who is successful at what you want to do and study them closely. Don’t be afraid to ask them to mentor you and go to work for them for free if you need too. Knowledge is priceless. Study them intensely, but always keep in mind the question “how can I do this better”.

Farrakhan: Black America must change to survive

2009-11-18T15:14:00.002-06:00

By Richard B. Muhammad-Editor-in-Chief

CHICAGO | Mosque Maryam (FinalCall.com) - The leader of the Nation of Islam began a major lecture series, “The Time and What Must Be Done,” by using scripture, current events, social conditions and, at times humor, in a poignant warning about the need to change to avoid divine chastisement as an old world goes out and a new reality begins to come into existence.

The Honorable Minister Louis Farrakhan stressed November 15 that change was mandatory, and no one would be exempt from a universal change on the horizon.

“When you use the definite article ‘the,' it's a particular time, no other time like it, it's ‘The Time.' Today I would like to give you a capsule of the time, which is a period between two events, the beginning of this world is the first event and the end of this world, which is the second event,” he said. “When it says what must be done, there is no other choice. It is an absolute necessity that when you know The Time, you have to make up your mind to act in accord with the time or you will be destroyed from the face of the earth.”

Read the full article at: Farrakhan: Black America must change to survive

Follow The Final Call Newspaper on Twitter! @TheFinalCall

Ashahed Muhammad of The Final Call sits down with the former Mayor of Detroit Kwame Kilpatrick in an exclusive interview

2009-11-16T15:46:00.004-06:00

Ashahed Muhammad of The Final Call sits down with the former Mayor of Detroit Kwame Kilpatrick in an exclusive interview; this is the first time he has spoken publicly since being removed from office.

Read the FULL interview at: http://www.finalcall.com/artman/publish/Perspectives_1/article_6576.shtml

Here is a video snippet of Brother Ashahed's Interview with the former Mayor of Detroit, Kwame Malik Kilpatrick.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ylRx2w1y9MI

Silent Night (Do Rappers Watch the News?) by Jasiri X

2009-11-16T12:17:00.002-06:00

After you finish reading about the next rapper who is going to jail next, take a moment to watch the latest hip-hop jewel dropped by Jasiri X. People really should start paying attention to this brother.

Episode 25 asks the burning question-With so much going on all over the world, how come nobody's rappin about it? Silent Night (Do Rappers Watch the News?) was produced by Religion and Directed by Paradise the Arkitech of X-Clan.

Click below to watch!

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8v2Ju74i2dU

My Monday Morning Jab: FORCE X DISTANCE=WORK

2009-11-16T12:12:00.002-06:00

by Deric Muhammad

As salaam alaikum (Peace Be Unto You). I once read a book about a Black Panther revolutionary who loved Monday mornings. He loved Monday mornings because he believed they represented a new beginning for him; an opportunity to do this week what was undone last week. I sort of adopted this thought pattern from that book without knowing it. I feel like every Monday morning has a "starter pistol" for an alarm clock. Ready, set, GO!!!

Too often we take off after the sound of the pistol not knowing exactly where we are GOING. This is why we must start every day in prayer in meditation for GUIDANCE. Our travels must take us in the direction of our purpose. If you do not know what your purpose is in life, pray hard for such a revelation. Once you find your purpose then you must find your function within that purpose. Once you find your function you must get busy and master your craft. Mastery takes WORK!!!

There is absolutely no way around it. This means that we must be willing to practice, study and endure the grueling grind of task mastery when no one is looking. I once read where the Honorable Minister Louis Farrakhan said that he wished that his students could see him in his role as a student when no one is looking. He spent hours upon hours practicing his radio broadcasts in the 70's. He spent hours upon hours practicing his violin, beginning at 3am every day in preparation for a performance.

Read this full blog by Brother Deric at: My Monday Morning Jab: FORCE X DISTANCE=WORK

Houston elected officials support "Raising Boys" documentary project led by Deric Muhammad

2009-11-14T15:02:00.003-06:00

Pictured (L-R) Houston City Councilman Jarvis Johnson, Texas State Representative Sylvester Turner, Deric Muhammad and Houston City Councilman at-Large Ronald Green

All three local elected officials came out to pledge their for support this very important project, "Raising Boys" documentary. They attended the Houston premiere on November 5 at the Angelika Theater and expressed their appreciation for the project. Councilmember Johnson was recently re-elected to the historic District B council position and Councilmember Green led all comers in the Houston race for City Controller. He is involved in a run-off election to be held December 12. Rep. Turner has been a State Representative for some 20 years. His district covers the historic Acres Homes, America's largest Black community.

(above photo by Nataura Brown)

Reposted from: Brother Deric Blog

Related article:
"Raising Boys" documentary premiere honors single mothers in Houston; national tour coming soon by Deric Muhammad

Grassroots + Netroots: Emcee ZIN announces Brother Jesse as his weekly news commentator for the Sound of Soul Radio Show

2009-11-13T20:49:00.009-06:00

For Immediate Release
November 14, 2009

Emcee ZIN announces Brother Jesse as his weekly news commentator for the Sound of Soul Radio Show

(Houston, TX- November 14, 2009)--Emcee ZIN has been a one man media powerhouse on the airwaves. Dedicated listeners of his Sound of Soul (S.O.S.) Radio show, on Houston's KPFT 90.1 FM, love his mission of enlightening the ears and souls of the people. The show airs every Wednesday from 1:00pm - 3:00pm CST.

ZIN has decided to add more to his conscious radio arsenal by announcing award-winning journalist and blogger Jesse Muhammad as his weekly news commentator. The news segment, "The Word with Brother Jesse", launched in November and can be heard every Wednesday within the first 30 minutes of the show.

"The collaboration of S.O.S. Radio and Brother Jesse fortifies the bond between written media and audio," says ZIN. "We will now be able to begin to merge as well as broaden the information, music, and technology presence of both of our institutions; while servicing the people with high quality radio programming."

"I am honored to have this opportunity to collaborate with ZIN in this capacity. The time is now for us all to pool our resources and intellectual properties to build powerhouses," says Brother Jesse.

Brother Jesse is providing energetic commentary on impactful news stories from his writings in The Final Call Newspaper along with other pressing global, national and community issues.

"The lack of cohesiveness in the world of African-centered media offers mainstream conglomerates and others outside of our community the opportunity to tell our story and benefit off of our resources," says ZIN.

The show can also be heard on 89.5 FM Galveston or via live audio streaming at www.kpft.org.

About Sound of Soul Radio

Sound of Soul (S.O.S) Radio was launched in 2005 by Emcee ZIN to enlighten the ears and souls of the people. Considered Houston's #1 source for conscious radio, S.O.S. Radio airs every Wednesday from 1:00 - 3:00pm CST on KPFT 90.1 FM Houston and 89.5 FM Galveston. The show brings hip-hop, soul, and news commentary. For more information visit www.soundofsoul.net

About Jesse Muhammad

Jesse Muhammad, affectionately known as Brother Jesse, is a Staff Writer for The Final Call Newspaper, the only remaining Black-owned national weekly. He is also an award-winning blogger including the 2009 Black Weblog awards Blogger of the Year. Visit his website at jessemuhammad.blogs.finalcall.com

In 24 hrs, I will be homeless in Houston for a cause. Can you spare some "CHANGE"?

2009-11-13T18:21:00.002-06:00

by Jesse Muhammad

Thanks to your support, I was able to exceed my goal of raising $324 for the Houston SleepOut in less than a day. Donations for the homeless are still coming in. I have now raised over $650! You all are amazing.

Team 1800, led by Noah Rattler, is the top fundraising team so far with $3,182.00 as of November 13 at 6:30pm CST. We want to hit the $3500 mark as a team before 7pm CST tomorrow. This is for a good cause!

Big or small, you can make a contribution today at: http://www.firstgiving.com/brotherjesse1800

Again, November 14th, we will SleepOut overnight in Sesquicentennial Park in Houston in support of the homeless epidemic from 7:00pm - 7:00am. You can volunteer, donate, or become a sponsor, but it is our hope that you take that extra step, and become a member of our team, The 1800.

Big or small, you can make a contribution today at:http://www.firstgiving.com/brotherjesse1800

The Honorable Minister Louis Farrakhan Speaks Live via Webcast: "The Time and What Must Be Done"

2009-11-13T17:33:00.002-06:00

NATION OF ISLAM LIVE WEBCAST

The Honorable Minister Louis Farrakhan's lecture series, "The Time and What Must Be Done" begins live via webcast on Sunday November 15, 2009 @ 10am CST

Please attend a Mosque or Study Group in your city or get an online front row seat at http://noi.org/webcast/

** Pre-Order: The Time And What Must Be Done -Pt. 1**
Pt. 1 of The Honorable Minister Louis Farrakhan's Lecture Series
Mosque Maryam - Chicago, IL, November 15, 2009 Click here to Order CD/DVD media

Pick up the latest edition of The Final Call Newspaper: "Tragedy in Texas"

2009-11-12T18:03:00.006-06:00

Don't let a week go by without picking up your personal copy of The Final Call Newspaper, published by the Honorable Minister Louis Farrakhan and the Nation of Islam.

In this week's edition, FCN Senior Correspondent Askia Muhammad reports on the tragic Fort Hood shooting that has stun America. Askia Muhammad writes in part:

"...Nidal M. Hasan is accused of going to the base readiness facility, shortly after noon where soldiers were waiting to see doctors to prepare for their deployments into the battle zones. There he allegedly opened fire with two pistols, committing what is believed to be the largest mass shooting on a U.S. military facility.

Maj. Hasan was said to be a devout Muslim who prayed daily at a mosque near the Walter Reed Army hospital where he trained and practiced medicine until his transfer to Fort Hood this summer. Muslim leaders, military and government officials all expressed condolences and offered solace to the families of the victims and to the survivors, while condemning the alleged actions as criminal and anti-Islamic."

To read the full article log on to: Fort Hood shooting stuns America

Also in this edition, Assistant Editor Ashahed M. Muhammad provides an in-depth look into the shooting death of Imam Luqman Ameen Abdullah. Read his coverage at Activists, family demand justice in death of imam slain by FBI

The Honorable Minister Louis Farrakhan weighs in on the Cause and Effect of Violent Society. Read here: Cause and Effect of Violent Society

You can read these articles and more at www.finalcall.com.

Motivation~Ryan Leslie in the lab....It's not a game. What drives you?

2009-11-11T19:01:00.003-06:00

by Jesse Muhammad

This post may shock some people because I don't post many music related blogs outside of Jasiri X. But I had to share this one. Well it's not new to most people since it has nearly 2,000,00 views! Lol!

First let me admit, I don't keep up with music like I used to and the people I listen to in my i-pod is a very narrow list. So anyone "new" on the scene, I am out of touch. Case and point Ryan Leslie. I had not heard his music nor did I know his story.

But last night on Twitter I posed the question: "What was the last album you bought or downloaded that was great from start to finish". I got countless responses and one of my Twitter friends(@md20737 ) shot me this video of Ryan Leslie in the lab making his song "Addiction". This brother is talented. He was working until the sun came up.

Since I am a lover of autobiographies and reading the story behind people's glory, I was inspired by seeing this video. Watch and ask yourself, are you willing to sacrifice sleep to create something great? Get in your own "lab" and produce.

Reginald Gordon, Brother Jesse, and Durce Muhammad to speak at Hope Academy in Houston on November 12

2009-11-11T17:59:00.004-06:00

In August, Hope Academy opened its doors for the first time. According the the official website (www.hopeacademyeagles.org), it is a coeducational HISD Charter High School that targets young people grades 9 through 12 who are experiencing academic difficulty, behavioral challenges, and other issues that have not allowed them to have success in a traditional school setting.

On Thursday, November 12 at 10:30 am, I will have the honor of speaking before the entire student body along with Reginald Gordon and Durce Muhammad.

Reginald Gordon is the founder of Operation OG1 Outreach and will be the headline speaker of the day. His program is reforming people inside and outside of the prisons. Durce Muhammad is an educational consultant who delivers top-notch seminars for teachers and administrators. Both men also speak inside the Keaton State Jail every week.

Hope Academy serves young men and women who are considered a high risk for failure academically as well as in life, addressing many issues and obstacles they face which put them at a tremendous disadvantage in the pursuit of a normal, healthy adult life.

The administration at Hope Academy is Dr. D. Z. Cofield (Superintendent), Amber Wilson (Principal), Raymond Whitley, Jr. (Director), DaShuna Littles (Counselor), Rita Spivey (Registrar) and Michael B. Chambers (Business Manager).

Watch Hope Academy profiled on the HISD Network below! Stay plugged in for highlights from our speaking engagement.

What’s Next For Hip-Hop? The End Of Its American Colonization

2009-11-11T10:07:00.004-06:00

by Cedric Muhammad

With all due respect to Lil’ Wayne’s imminent departure from us – while a tragedy for his family and boost to the story line for the second season of my third favorite show, ‘Tiny and Toya’ on BET – it is hardly a crisis for Hip-Hop, as a culture or industry.

Unfortunately, it only earns an honorable mention on Hip-Hop’s long incarceration report. Despite headlines now, just ask Slick Rick and Shyne how soon we forget about you.

Hopefully T.I. and Wayne emerge from prison ready to lead a world of young people.

No, we have to move beyond celebrity worship and gossip to figure out this one.

So, put on your futurist hat. Get your Nostradamus on. Pull your crystal ball out. Cast lots if you will. If you like ouija boards, fine. What the hell, they are not for me, but this is Hip-Hop – anything goes.

Let’s look at the future together to find out where we are headed, as an industry and culture. As always we need to know that next big thing.

While some may disagree, I feel the music is in good hands with the South as caretaker. I, for one, like the basic formula – hypnotic beats, melodic choruses, old flows and new slang each month.

I don’t expect this to change any time soon. The Louisiana, Florida, Georgia, and Texas corridor will continue to run this, with toleration of periodic bursts of hotness from New York, Chicago and Los Angeles.

I sit in D.C. – the top of the South - and enjoy it all with the option of a go-go remix.

So I don’t look to a revolution in sound just yet.

In addition the day of the music crew as planet and satellite is over. No more eras of threes - whether Wu-Tang, Death Row, and Bad Boy on one hand, or Ruff Ryder, Cash Money, and Roc-A-Fella on the other.

To read the full article or comment log on to: What’s Next For Hip-Hop? The End Of Its American Colonization

Have you read Cedric Muhammad's newly released book The Entrepreneurial Secret? Click the banner below to read more and be empowered.

"Raising Boys" documentary premiere honors single mothers in Houston; national tour coming soon by Deric Muhammad

2009-11-10T11:43:00.009-06:00

Review by Jesse Muhammad

The day had finally arrived.

On Thursday, November 5, I attended the Houston premiere of this highly anticipated project by Deric Muhammad and producer Lawrence Moody of Moody Entertainment. The "Raising Boys" documentary.

To walk up to the Angelika Theater and see the the name "Raising Boys" in lights was inspiring. A red carpet was laid out for attendees to take photos in front of the official banner. The welcoming table had bottled water with "Raising Boys" labels and I watched as people rushed in not to miss one second.

The emcee for the opening program was our mother Mavis Jackson, who is also a member of the cast. Following her welcome, we heard from co-sponsors, Houston Council Member Jarvis Johnson and Ricky Anderson of the Black Broadcasting Network (BBN). One of the lower level aisles was lined with 200 gifts bags for single mothers from a Mary Kay representative.

Deric Muhammad gave a little background about the documentary and then it was show time. Before we got half way into "Raising Boys", you could hear women crying in the audience. Tissue was being passed. Even the men had a serious look in their eyes, including myself. We watched as Alicia Jackson, Malaika Gardner, and Mavis Jackson shared their personal stories of single motherhood.

(Mavis Jackson and son Deric Muhammad)

This was coupled with the testimonies of Alicia's two sons Jeremy and Jacobi; their father is in prison. They miss him. Jacobi cried in the film, and shed the same tears while sitting in the audience this night. His tears caused people around him to cry too. Attorney Sadiyah Evangelista broke down the impact of the criminal justice system in the documentary.

As I watched the documentary, while sending out Twitter messages, I was impacted deeply myself. I have a personal connection to it because Deric is my older brother and his story is our story. To listen to him, my mother (Mavis) and my sister (Alicia) openly share our struggles as a family, reminded me of why this documentary is so needed.

It is a must see for single mothers. No, it's a must see for everyone. Along with all of the single mothers in the audience, I saw State Rep. Sylvester Turner, Council Member and City Controller hopeful Ronald Green, Yusef Muhammad of the BBN, Olympic Silver Medalist Nia Abdallah and more. A special shoutout to my Twitter connect Kim of Shuddup.com, who flew in from Atlanta to see the premiere.

I will be posting video testimonies soon. To see more photo highlights visit my Facebook Photo Album at: "Raising Boys" Documentary Photo Gallery

-Advertisement-

Virtue Today Magazine: How to find Happiness and Heal from abuse....a must read edition!

2009-11-09T22:34:00.005-06:00

by Jesse Muhammad

There are soooo many magazines on the shelves throughout the country and it's hard to find one that is unique, fulfilling and is not saturated with half-nude or sex-related ads.

Well before you give up on the search, I ask that you give this magazine a try.

But it's really more than a magazine, it's a movement. A movement of virtue. Yes, virtue. It's called Virtue Today Magazine and it is the brainchild of publisher Audrey Muhammad.

This is not a lightweight word (virtue) nor is this a lightweight magazine. It's seriously about elevating the standard amongst our women and girls.

Ok, I won't start "preaching" (smile). But I have enjoyed reading every edition and I even had the honor of being a featured columnist in the special President Obama edition.

This issue of Virtue Today is called the "Healing issue". The cover features Erykah Badu. Would you like insight on how to find your purpose? How can you heal from abuse and move forward with your life? Would you like keys to achieve this and more? This issue is for you!

For more about Virtue Today log on to: www.virtuemag.com

Also, below is the official logo of the new Virtue Today Magazine's "Protectors of Virtue" Campaign. This is a campaign against domestic violence and child abuse. Support people like Audrey Muhammad. She is making a difference one edition at a time.

Stop the violence and abuse towards women.

Part 7 of Black Women in America Raising Boys : "I’m not too proud to say..I need a lifeline"

2009-11-09T21:36:00.003-06:00

by Callie Robinson Lee

My name is Callie Robinson Lee, I’m a native of Cincinnati, Ohio. My birth family, long deceased, hailed from the South, mainly Montgomery, Alabama. I am writing this on November 4, 2009 on the occasion of my youngest son, Bruce Lee’s, 18th birthday.

I am the mother of three Black sons born and raised in the inner city. My oldest son is Damien and my middle son is AJ. Suffice it to say, we are the entire family, the sum total to one another. I don’t know of any other family in my neighborhood who has no extended family, nowhere to send the kids for the Summer, for a break, etc.

I was always at the wheel, so to speak. My boys needed uncles, grandfathers, MEN in their lives like air and water. As young adults they still manage to remain outside of the prison system and off street drugs.

If I can have one wish, I wish above anything else to precede my boys crossing over. I’m not morbid, I’m unafraid and I’m a realist. I, like many other good parents, do not want to bury one of my seeds. I humbly say that I feel I have a covenant with our Creator regarding my sons living on past my time. So we try not to live recklessly, tempting the Father with blatant disregard knowing that God is Holy and requires obedience. No one is perfect but thankfully we have Grace. ALL of us human beings have that. What wonderful news! It gets better.

With Hope and Faith, our paths do sometimes cross with exceptional human beings like the people involved with this watershed film, ‘Raising Boys’. Social media has given me/us the ability to contact people quickly who do positive things, who can tell the Brothers and Sisters we need a “hand up“.

I’m not too proud to say…I need a lifeline, a support group to get on my feet in the workforce and use the same skills I used as a diligent mother. I remained academic from my childhood beginnings and I passed the value of education on to my sons as it was told to me by the “old folks”.

Anyway, I feel in my Spirit I have a lot of LIVING to do! There are so many places I have never visited even in the U.S., not to mention abroad. I know I’m not by myself on this topic because many are forced to postpone vacations. When we meet, and we will, I love to laugh. A merry heart does good like a medicine and my smile is genuine. The evil forces that be probably thought I would be a casualty, a victim after this long journey in the wilderness.

And Still I Rise…

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Related articles:

Part 1 of Black Women in America: “Raising Boys” by Malaika Gardner
Part 2 of Black Women in America: "Raising Boys" by Jordannah Nathan
Part 3 of Black Women in America: “Raising Boys” by Alisha Muhammad
Part 4 of Black Women in America: “Raising Boys” by Mavis Jackson
Part 5 of Black Women in America: “Raising Boys” by Attorney Sadiyah Evangelista
Part 6 of Black Women in America: “Raising Boys” by Alicia Jackson
DOUBLE DUTY: The Black Woman's Struggle Raising Boys Alone
"Raising Boys" Documentary Houston Premiere November 5

S.H.A.P.E. Community Center celebrates 40 years of service in the community! Reunion weekend Nov. 13-15.

2009-11-09T13:03:00.003-06:00

By Jesse Muhammad

The S.H.A.P.E. Community Center is a landmark not only in Houston but the country. We call it the "United Nations of the 'Hood" because it has hosted every type of leader and organization you can think of. Everyone is welcomed by its founder Deloyd Parker, who has been an example of true leadership, which is service to the people.

This is why it is only fitting that I dedicate this space on my blog to their upcoming 40th Anniversary Reunion Celebration on November 13-15, 2009. For the full schedule of events please read their flyer below and to learn more about the S.H.A.P.E. Center Log on to: http://shape.org/

On November 14, I will be homeless in Houston. Can you spare some "CHANGE"?

2009-11-08T12:17:00.004-06:00

by Jesse Muhammad

"On Saturday, November 14, I will be homeless."

I put this same message out on Twitter a few days ago. Before I could explain what I meant, people started sending out Twitter prayer requests for me and offering my family to stay with them until I got back on my feet. Within that short amount of time, I saw a glimpse into why it's important to serve others daily. Once I told them I wasn't "really" going to be homeless, one friend said "You shouldn't be surprised by our love for you, because you give so much."

Well I am asking all of my blog readers, Twitter friends, Facebook connects and email companions to join me in this effort for those who are truly homeless.

With over 10,000 people chronically homeless in Houston, the Houston SleepOut aims to raise funds and awareness for this serious issue.

On November 14th, I will SleepOut overnight in Sesquicentennial Park in support of the homeless epidemic. Please join me in supporting this worthy cause by donating any amount, large or small. Proceeds benefit Search Homeless Services.

I am a member of Team 1800, started by my PVAMU classmate Noah Rattler, who has dedicated himself to this cause greatly. This annual event is the direct result of his 1800 mile walk from Houston to Los Angeles in 2007. Yes, 1800 miles! He wanted to raise awareness around homelessness in the United States, and the Houston SleepOut is a way to continue this effort.

My goal is 18 people to give $18 = $324. It's doable!

Click here to take a stand for the homeless! Donate! : http://www.firstgiving.com/brotherjesse1800

[Video] Watch Noah Rattler discuss his amazing 1800 mile journey!

Click here to take a stand for the homeless! Donate! : http://www.firstgiving.com/brotherjesse1800

"On the Hill" with Akilah

2009-11-08T00:10:00.006-06:00

by Akilah N. Muhammad, Howard University student

With shouts of “H.U.!! You Know!!” in the atmosphere all I could do was take a deep breath and bask in the pride of being a Howard Bison about to experience another fabulous Homecoming with this years theme being Rhythm: The Pulse of the People.

“This is like the biggest event in DC. I love just being amongst my black people and seeing the black love” said rap artist and DC native, Wale.

Starting October 16th with Midnight Madness and ending on October 24th with the legendary Step Show, 2009 Homecoming did not disappoint. There were more than enough activities to attend the week of homecoming despite it being the same week as midterms.

The main events included an International Showcase, an R&B show, where Musiq Soulchild and Laura Izibor rocked the house, an amazing poetry cipher with poetry legends such as Shihan, Sunni Patterson, and Georgia Me impressed the crowd, and a wonderful celebrity basketball game in which Pooch Hall aka Derwin Davis from the hit T.V. show The Game, Omarion, and Melyssa Ford were the main attraction.

There was a comedy show, Fashion show I and II, Yard fest, the Homecoming Parade, and the Homecoming football game. The Steve Harvey Morning Show even aired its show live from Howard University’s’ Cramton auditorium on Friday the 22nd at 6am with a pretty full audience. I attended this event and laughed hysterically as Steve Harvey cracked jokes on people in the audience during the question and answer period. At the morning show there was a raffle to win free housing for a year and tickets to different homecoming events. I enjoyed myself thoroughly taking pictures with celebrities and jamming to all of the performances at the Yard fest. Among some of the performers were Fabolous, Wale, Audio Push, Melanie Fiona, and the legendary group Cameo. Tarajee P. Henson, a Howard Alum, served as the grand marshall for the homecoming parade which took place on the morning of Saturday October 24th.

After asking several students about the Step show I received nothing but raving reviews! The AKA’S with their insane asylum theme and Alpha Phi Alpha with a comedic “Coming to America” theme took the trophy and won 3,500! I enjoyed my time at the events so much that I ended up taking over a thousand pictures, ran out of card memory of 8 gigs, had to delete pictures, and refill my camera batteries twice!

The crazy thing is I did not even attend half of the events due to getting ill on Friday night but it felt like I had a full week of action. Alumni, visitors, family and celebrities come from all over the country and the world to experience a homecoming at Howard University. Ludacris said it best in his song Pimpin all over the world, “jump in the car and just ride for hours, Makin sure I don't miss the homecoming at Howard.”

By the way, Ludacris was also present this year at the Homecoming Parade. We tell people all the time to come to a Howard University Homecoming if you want to experience a “Real” Homecoming! You won’t regret it! H.U.!! You Know!!

Do you see anything wrong with these signs?

2009-11-07T20:06:00.005-06:00

I first received a message on Facebook from Paradise Gray about the marquee of the company Pecora Flooring in the Pittsburgh area. He was asking us all to put in a call to the store to express our displeasure with some reportedly racist words. I went to Twitter to the page of Jasiri X because I knew he would have the picture posted. And I was correct. Above is a snapshot of the marquee taken on November 8, 2009 and posted on Twitpic at http://twitpic.com/ooug7.

The headline reads: "zoo has african lion, white house has a lyin african". This is obviously an attack on President Barack Obama.

Paradise Gray and Jasiri X posted the number to the company online. I called around 8pm cst and as expected the voicemail was full. Guess the Twitter army moved in on them like Joe Wilson.

But wait.....this wasn't the first time this type of sign was spotted. Check out this protester below at a rally.

Some people feel like it's a waste of blog space to post these things but I disagree. The uninformed masses need to be informed. Those who think we're in a post-racial America need to wake up. Those of us who care to, should follow the advice of the Honorable Minister Louis Farrakhan and keep Pres. Obama and his family in your prayers.

Those who want to respond to this marquee, let's accept responsibility to build our own community. The honeymoon is over. The time is now!

Photos: FCN's Ashahed Muhammad on the grounds in Detroit at demonstration for slain Imam Luqman Abdullah

2009-11-07T12:24:00.006-06:00

Final Call Assistant Editor Ashahed M. Muhammad is continuing his in-depth investigation into the shooting death of Imam Luqman Abdullah at the hands of FBI agents. Bro. Ashahed journeyed to Detroit, Michigan to be on the grounds at a demonstration at the McNamara Federal Building on Nov. 5, 2009

These are several of his impactful photos from the demonstration. Follow story developments on Bro. Ashahed's blog at: ashahed.blogs.finalcall.com and also www.finalcall.com.

Related reports by Ashahed M. Muhammad: