Judith Jamison's Last Hurrah!

Judith Jamison started out at Alvin Ailey Dance Theater as a dancer. Upon Mr. Ailey's pasting, she became it's artistic director which spans 20 years. This is the last season Ms. Jamison will be the director and is switching gears within the company to take it into the next 20 years. I remember being moved by the piece, "Cry" which is a solo dance number designed to encompass the life of every Black Woman. Mr. Ailey chose Ms. Jamison to dance in the role and not seeing the original production. I was so taken aback by Ms. Jamison's training of future " Cry" solo dancers that I immersed myself into the music(provided by Alice Coltrane and Laura Nyro) and choreography. I'm proud to say that in the vast volumes of dances that the company, "Cry" is my number one favorite.

Charles Sebree-Artist,Sculpter,Dancer and Playwright

Charles Sebree was a multifaceted artist whose medium filtered into serveral creative forces. Born in Chicago and longing for an education in the arts, after surviving on the streets since the age of fourteen, he would continue his art lessons. What sets Mr. Sebree aparts from the multitude of artists is that he did it all. From set designer, costume designer, playwright and et al to only satisfy himself. His paintings had numerous influences such as Picasso, Klee and of course Modilgliani (whose work is heavily influenced through out his work). Unfortunately, his artwork did not receive the recognition it deserved. It's important to note that Mr. Sebree lived his life as an openly Gay Man, without convictions or thoughts of not knowing any other way to approach his life during a time when homosexuality was not acceptable.Mr. Sebree lived the rest of his years in Washington D.C. where he died from cancer in 1985. What brought me to this great artist is a picture in a book I read a few months ago, showing Mr. Sebree and others outside a cafe in Paris. I wanted to learn more about this man and his persona. Mr. Sebree was truly a creative spirit which should reside in all of us.

Congratulations President Barack Obama

President Barack Obama received the Nobel Peace Prize today in Norway. President Obama work and leadership for this nation is evident with the selection of this young President. The voting members of the Nobel Organization chose a person with deep committments to world peace on numerous issues across the board. President Obama is the leader of the free world and he works tirelessly to provide safety for all mankind. Let's take some time today and thank President Obama for this wonderful achievement.

Brother/Sister Plays at the Joseph Papp Theater

It's rare when a new play moves your heart and mind in so many directions that relates to a believable story based in the Bayou of Louisana during modern day times. The Brother/Sister plays is a trilogy whose foundation is on the acts of love, betrayal and heartache. Tarell Alvin McCraney is the young writer of this trilogy titled,"In the Red and Brown Water" and parts two and three titled,"The Brothers Size" and "Marcus: or the Secret of Sweet". Mr. McCraney is a true wordsmith and collector of befitting songs in the rhythm and blues genre to carry his point across. The language was magical and extraordinary. You sensed that we use this vernacular everyday and just don't know how to put it together into complete sentences. Mr. McCraney has created a spectacular musings of life in the back waters of the Bayou and how words or wording can spin a delightful tale or two. He is also the writer of the acclaim, "Wig Out", which was presented off Broadway in New York City last year. Do run and see this great modern day play and tell your friends when it comes to your town.

Jacob Lawrence at the Museum of Modern Art

Jacob Lawrence was presented in the entryway of a gallery at the Museum of Modern Art in New York City. I don't know if this startled me or just completely threw off my game. Inasmuch, I didn't expect to see the famed, "Migration Series" put into a small space and the curators and/or staff at MOMA assumed this presentation would be an afterthought of some kind. One of this countries best artists and best African American artist is just presented in such a disparging light. The Phillips Collection in Washington, DC showed this series in it's entirety and the layout was incredible. MOMA just stacked the paintings on top of one another with no rhyme or reason. How could this be? Did MOMA just acquire these paintings and said,"Let's just put them anywhere without press, media or engagement from the public." Shame on you!!!

Mr. Lawrence is a well respected artist of great stature and prominent standing in the community. Let's show MOMA that we care about our people and our artists. Write, call or visit and let the staff know this is wrong on so many levels!

Dreamgirls at the Apollo Theater

Dreamgirls, one of my favorite musicals is touring the United States for a short period of time. The musical landed in New York at the famed Apollo Theater located in the heart of Harlem. I know many people have seen the movie and saw Jennifer Hudson win a Oscar for best supporting actress in 2008 for her performance as Effie. But, did you know back in the early 80's this was the biggest musical on Broadway in New York, starring Jennifer Holiday in the titled role of Effie. Dreamgirls is a story loosely based on the Supremes and their rise to stardom in the early 1960's. The music,intrigue, drama, costumes and love lives of the three young women was somehow made into a sucessful Broadway production.
The new production stars Moya Angela in the role of Effie and Syesha Mercado in the role of Deena Jones along with Adrienne Warren as Lorrell. These talented women front a fantastic new production of the storied life in the music industry and African American performers trying to catch a break. The new production carries the Beyonce Knowles song, "Listen", which would astonish purist, but take a seat and just listen to the song and know that somehow it just fits the musical genre for today's audience. If you're ready for something old and something new, check out this production and you won't be disappointed.

Elizabeth Catlett--Artist

Elizabeth Catlett is an African American artist who is now a Mexican citizen. Her work spans many genres; from sculpture, lithograph and printmaker. One of my friends is in the process of buying a print of Frederick Douglass, one of several versions from Ms. Catlett. The piece symbolizes hope and despair of Mr. Douglass' face. I can wait to see this great piece of artwork on his wall. Proudly displayed and well worth the cost. My friend tells me now is the time to buy her work, since she is in her 90's and still producing great pieces. I will never forget being introduced to Ms. Catlett's work at Spelman College in Atlanta, Georgia. It had a profound effect on me and my life. The sculpture was small but powerful. It exuded the nature of a mother and daughter brought together by their common and maternal bond. If by chance you come upon an Elizabeth Catlett drawing, lithograph or sculpture buy it. You will never regret the purchase.

Mark Bradford-Artist

Mark Bradford is a contemporary artist who scavenges material from the streets and transforms into mural size art. Mr. Bradford's art comes from underrated communities in the great state of California (where he is from) and lets the world know what belies a community in need of financial and economic resources. Mr. Bradford has received numerous grants and participated in a number of respected art shows around the world. Recently, in New York City, Mr. Bradford and Kara Walker put up a small scale show for the Sikkema Jenkins Gallery in Chelsea. The work presented by these two talented African American artists showcased the updated versions of what they are working on in their respective studios. The presentation was incredible. Mr. Bradford continues to explore themes in a collage format, which is informative as well as imaginative.

James Baldwin-Quotes

James Baldwin was one of my heroes growing up. I truly enjoyed each book or essay written by this prolific author. But, I was thinking thoughout his life, he has given us an inmeasurable amount of quotes from the life he led and the time or era during which he wrote. Here's a list of my favorites:

"Love does not begin and end the way we seem to think it does. Love is a battle, love is a war: love is growing up."

"Love him and let him love you. Do you think anything else under heaven really matters?"

"The most dangerous creation of any society is the man who has nothing to lose."

"People can cry much easier than they can change."

"Education is indoctrination if you're white - subjugation if you're black."

"Everybody's journey is individual. If you fall in love with a boy, you fall in love with a boy. The fact that many Americans consider it a disease says more about them than it does about homosexuality."

"I want to be an honest man and a good writer."

"I love America more than any other country in this world, and, exactly for this reason, I insist on the right to criticize her perpertually."

"I am what time, circumstance, history, have made of me, certainly, but I am also, much more than that. So are we all."

"To be a Negro in this country and to be relatively conscious is to be in a rage almost all the time."

"The only thing that white people have that black people need, or should want, is power and no one holds power forever."

"People who treat people as less than human must not be surprised when the bread they have cast on the waters come floating back to them, poisoned."

Those are a few of my favorites, in his loving memory-Mr Baldwin has changed my life for the better and continues to inspire my very thoughts and actions

Chris Ofili-Artist

Chris Ofili's art is full of African vibrancy and throught provoking stances on the beauty of the Continent of Africa.  Born in Nigeria and living in London; he's also,the winner of the prestigious Turner Prize.Mr. Ofili's work once ignited a media frenzy at the Brooklyn Museum because the image of the Madonna has dried elephant dung attached to the canvas. His recent show at the David Zwirner Gallery in Chelsea is titled, "Afro Margin" runs until October 24, 2009. This show has eight pencil drawings of various states of objects influenced by the artist. Run don't walk to see this great show in a beautiful space.

The August Wilson Center for African American Culture

August Wilson was an incredible playwright, who chronicled African American lives in his native Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania. Some of his plays, Fences, Ma Rainey's Black Bottom, Jitney and the last one, Radio Golf produced in 2005. The winner of two Pulitzer Prizes and the first African American to have two shows running simultaneously on Broadway.

The Pittsburgh community opens the The August Wilson Center for African American Culture tonight. This facility boasts 65,000 square footage where an educational center, seven galleries and a 500 seat theater will keep the public coming for years.

New York Fashion Week-Spotlight on Stephen Burrows,Tracy Reese, Edward Wilkerson of Lafayette 148 and Patrick Robinson of the Gap

Spring 2010 is ready to be unveiled at the New York Fashion Shows beginning later this week. You can count on the multitude of American designers to interpret active sportswear with varying degrees. But, my focus is on Mr. Stephen Burrows who designs his private label collection,  Ms. Tracy Reese who designs the Tracy Reese collection and Plenty, Mr. Edward Wilkerson who designs Lafayette 148 and Mr. Patrick Robinson who is the executive vice president of Gap North America and designs the men's and women's collection along with Gapbody.

Tracy Reese designs the namesake collection that features very feminine clothes that have unusual prints and intricate patterns. The Plenty line of clothes are trend driven for the young lady that likes to be above the fray. Recently, The First Lady Michelle Obama grace the cover of People magazine wearing a pink shift dress that Ms. Reese designed. Ms. Reese is a discipline of color and fabric and sees the world of women's clothes filled with a myriad of color and style that fits the life of a full size woman.

Mr. Stephen Burrows is the iconic African American designer that ruled the 1970's disco loving era. His jersey and crepe creations kept the women dancing into the wee hours of the morning. Mr. Burrows continues to intrigue us with color blocking and fluidity in his designs. If you're out flea marketing, pick up his designer's duds, because you will not be disappointed. But, in the meantime, look at his new and well edited collection for spring.

I remember when Patrick Robinson was designing the Giorgio Armani Collectione in Milan many years ago and thinking how incredibly proud it was to see an African American designer doing great work overseas. Numerous design jobs later, Patrick is at the helm of the greatest American Sportswear company in the world, the Gap. The last four years at the Gap has proven  to be a huge task for Mr. Robinson. He continues to prevail in this arena and has taken the Gap sportswear program to Europe to show on the runways. For all purposes the Gap is a barometer of the trickle down theory that goes hand in hand in the fashion world. Meaning, what you see from many designers on the runway is watered down for the public. Patrick has put the trendiness back into the Gap's sportswear program and continues to help the company evolve.

Edward Wilkerson of Lafayette 148 epitomizes the softness and luxuriousness of fabrications for this women's collection. The fluidity of the lines for woman who wants a stylish ensemble for work is a constant at Lafayette 148 who's vision is informed by Mr. Wilkerson. Edward's work came into focus for me during his tenure at Donna Karan. Transforming the workday womens wardrobe is a mainstay for Ms. Karan, and Edward did a great job for the label. At Lafayette 148 his work stands alone for all to see, and what a immense collection of wares.

I feel a flutter in my heart during Fashion Week in anticipation of seeing what's new or not new.  I can't wait for the shows and as always will keep you up to date on these four amazing designers.

Bayard Rustin-Activist,Community Organizer and Proud Black Gay Man

Bayard Rustin has been running through my mind as of late. Mr. Rustin,who was openly gay at a time when it wasn't acceptable in the American public eye, should be celebrated for his body of work for the cause of Civil Rights in this country not his sexuality. Bayard introduced Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. to Gandhian nonviolence made him a pioneer in the movement. Bayard travelled to India to attend a conference on Gandhi's nonviolent techniques in 1948 brought about a come in his life. Bayard committed to this cause and proceeded to clean up his community and share his vision.  Rustin's visionary advocacy and commitment to pacifism captured King's attention in the 1950's. I find that many homosexuals are vilified for their sexuality, which continues to overshadow their jobs and their healthy contributions to society. It's time you people got with the program, it's time you people recognize your own judgemental attitudes and continue to check yourself before casting judgement and it's time you people own up to our strengths in what we as Gays bring to the table.

Rustin's life has been put on celluloid, "Brother Outsider: The Life of Bayard Rustin", which weaves the story of  Mr. Rustin's complex life during a time of revolutionary change in America. The film description is as follows, "Long before Martin Luther King, Jr. became a national figure, Bayard Rustin routinely put his body-and his life-on the line as a crusader for racial justice". Although, Mr. Rustin's private life was much more complex then you would imagine, he never compromise his spirit and determination for civil rights.

Mr. Rustin influenced my life in many ways and shall continue to do so. We should celebrate Bayard Rustin's life everyday for what he started and we should finish in our lifetime.

Lorna Simpson-Artist

Lorna Simpson is an extraordinary artist. Whether you think it has a feminist bent or racial overtones towards Black Women. Ms. Simpson continues to explore sexual idenity that relate to the body and communication through relationships. You as the viewer will have to decide.  Her works often pair isolated details of the human figure often accomplanied with text. I saw her work at the 2002 Whitney Biennial and the piece that the curators picked was incredible. The art piece titled, "Easy to Remember" captured the moving lips of Black Men and Women stacked on top of one another. This image forshadowed the muted voices of Black Men and Women in this country. First of all, it was great to see an African-American artist at the Biennial and secondly, Ms. Simpson video piece stood out in the show.

Ms. Simpson has appeared in a number of projects involving differents artist mediums such as; The Black List DVD-which showcases numerous African Americans discussing their occupations and giving advice, groups shows at the Brooklyn Museum and Guerilla Girls.

Steve McQueen--Artist/Film Director

Steve McQueen is a British Artist who grew up in London and studied art and design at Chelsea College of Art and Design.  Mr. McQueen did a limited stint at the Tisch School in New York. McQueen's  films are done in black and white and are fairly minimalistic. His first film titled, "Bear" has two men (including Mr. McQueen) exchanging a series of glances which might infer a flirtation.  He won the Turner Prize in 1999 submitting three films. Amongst the entries, The Prey which focuses on a tape recorder drifting into the air while the sound of tap dancing playing in the background), The Deadpan (Mr. McQueen is presented in the film as a Buster Keaton character where a house collapses around him leaving a window frame of Mr. McQueen) .In 2008, Mr. McQueen presented his film, "Hunger" about the last six weeks of the Irish Republican hunger striker Bobby Sands. This story presents mankind in a situation where the mind and the body is taken to the extreme limit.At  presitigous Venice Biennial, McQueen represented the British government in their provided pavillion with his film, "Giradini" which was a tribute to the surrounding pavillion provide by the Italian government in Venice for artist from around the world.

Van Jones---Leading the Way Towards Greening Our Planet

Van Jones, environmental activist, has been in the media recently for sheding light on green initiatives. President Obama has set aside monies dedication to different communities around this great country of ours and Mr. Jones would like the African-American community to take advantage of this money. Greening our communities is an intricate part of redeveloping and saving our homes and environments from the harmful effects of waste not deteriorating fast enough for consumers. This creates jobs within our communities and fosters a village of hope and pride. My community needs green sustainable solutions to propel people to recommit to developing a clean environment, not only for ourselves, but our children as well. Mr. Jones organization: Green For All, runs a campaign on the numerous ways that your community can become a green solution. Let's join this incredible campaign and let's get going!

Arthur Ashe Kids Day at Flushing Meadow Park

It's U.S. Open time in New York City and that means the entire city plays tennis or look like they have been on a tennis court for the next two weeks. But, the opening of the Grand Slam event is Arthur Ashe Kids Day helded traditionally on the Saturday (August 30, 2009) at Flushing Meadow Park in Queens, New York marks the start of the tournament. This encompasses numerous activities for children and their parents to participate in such as; the obstacle course, speed zone,"beat the pro" and my personal favorite the concert. This year's concert will feature singer, Jordin Sparks and a slew of tennis pros including Serena Williams. I remember when Arthur Ashe and his wife started this joyous day. Being tutored in tennis by the late and great Mr. Ashe was a momentous occasion in my life and I shall never forget hitting the tennis ball across the net and having a serious volleying session with Mr. Ashe. This is a very special day for me and I hope many of you attend the festivities and the tournament. I'll be there routing for my favorite players.

Woodstock--Celebrating the Blackness

Jimi Hendrix, Richie Havens, Carlos Santana and Sly and the Family Stone performed for the thousands of attendees at Woodstock in upstate New York. But, did you know that unaccounted African-Americans stood out in the rain celebrating hippie liberation, sex, drugs and Rock and Roll with the rest of the brood. We were included in that mix. My older brother was a participant and thoroughly enjoyed the activities. He seem to regal in the fact of new found spiritually and faith which somehow manifested itself into his chosen profession of Reverend/Pastor.

As radio stations around the country continue to play music from the historical concert, to my surprise the Black Musicians are getting alot of airplay. Jimi Hendrix initial vocal then the gutsy guitar rendition of "The Star Spangled Banner" at the conclusion of the concert brought the house down and shall forever be remembered. Then the inclusion of Sly and The Family Stone and their song, "I Wanna Take You Higher" with the standard call and response presented a church revival at Woodstock.

The director Ang Lee movie about Woodstock hits the theaters this week. I would love to hear the soundtrack and hopefully there is a fair representation of races in this movie. We'll see!

Kalup Linzy and Shaun Leonardo--Artists

The artists Kalup Linzy (look at an older post of his work at the Studio Museum in Harlem on my blog) and Shaun Leonardo are tearing up the art scene around the world. Shaun has appeared in numerous installation videos of Mr. Linzy for many years. Their collaboration of the song by Hunter and Jenkins which was banned from the radio in the 1930's is cleverly played out by these two incredible artists. The name of the song is called, "Lollypop". Watch the video and comment. I think we seriously need to revive this musical genre for our present day audience.

Maxwell--Black Summers' Night

Maxwell has been away from the music scene for seven years. This CD celebrates the return of the smooth soul singer with a knack for seducing the fairer sex and providing music to commit consensual acts between adults. The new CD is named, "Black Summers' Night". I've been listening to this spectacular CD all day long and can't seem to let it go without commenting on the great singing and arrangement of the songs. In particular, "Bad Habits", "Love You" and "Pretty Wings". These three songs are in constant rotation on my Ipod. To my understanding this is the first of the trilogy of Cd's to be released this year. I can't wait for the follow ups to arrive and be inundated with the musical sounds of Mr. Maxwell. Welcome Back and please try not to stay away so long!

Black Out on Fire Island, Cherry Grove

The Black Out on Fire Island is celebrating its 7Th year on the famed Cherry Grove side of the island from August 7th thru 9th. This event is for African-American gays and lesbians and their friends to see and visit this ferry boat getaway and enjoy the festivities of the beach. In continuing this tradition the host committee has decided to make it a 3 day weekend event. There will be parties, beach contests and numerous vendors hawking their goods. The Pines side of the Fire Island with be hosting a party at Sip-n-Twirl on Saturday from 7-10pm,(featuring DJ Lina giving old school and her interpretation of the heyday of the Sound Factory)- giving people enough time to catch the last ferry leaving the Pines at 11pm. This party will be hosted by the Brothers of Reflections and appropriately themed "Sunset". Let's enjoy this spectacular event together. See you there!

Happy Birthday!!! President Barack Obama

Today is President Barack Obama's birthday. There are so many birthday wishes that i want to bestow upon you, such as the passing of your Health Care Plan, Judge Sotomayor's confirmation this week, the end of the two wars we are in, the recognition and passage of the Gay Marriage Act, the recovery of our out of control economy and lastly but not the very least-to your good health and prosperity.

Naomi Sims--Model Pioneer is Dead at 61

Naomi Sims, appearance as the first Black model to be on the cover of Ladies Home Journal in November 1968 was groundbreaking for models of color. Ms. Sims provided entry into the rarefied world of fashion and it's historical whites only club. But, with her beautiful dark skin and keen features, Ms. Sims broke all molds. Ms. Sims would retire from modeling and become a business entrepreneur, specializes in women of color cosmetics and wigs. Ms. Sims had cancer and left this earth with a shining moment and great appreciation. She will be missed.

Peggy Cooper Cafritz Loses Her Vast African Art Collection in a Fire

Peggy Cooper Cafritz the vast collector of African and African American Art and founder of the Duke Ellington School of the Arts in Washington D.C. mansion was burned down along with the most impressive collection of Black Art assemble in the world. Ms. Cafritz relishes the chance to collect up and coming Black Art and show the world that this appreciation was worthy of collecting. Recently, Ms. Cafritz has shown her collection to the readers of O Magazine. Along with a well written article stating her purpose for collecting Black Art and the numerous organizations she's help promote. The article in the Washington Post stated," that Ms. Cafritz would start over and collect what she loves". What a brave and fascinating woman. I can't wait to see what her eye catches along the very long path towards great art collecting.

Grace Jones at the Hammerstein Ballroom

Grace Jones--the seductress, the chanteuse, the elaborately wacky actress, the disco era loving goddess and the mother of androgyny has landed in New York City for one night. The famous Hammerstein Ballroom is hosting Ms. Jones--performing some of her greatest hits and acting out some of her famous antics and aggressions that we all love and appreciate. I can't wait. The New York Times reviewed the show but take a listen to Williams Blood:

E. Lynn Harris

E. Lynn Harris was an openly gay writer of a particular genre that brought to light the life of the closeted black gay men for millions of black women readers. His audience dutifully waited for every novel to arrive at the bookstores in anticipation of learning how to spot that elusive Closeted Black Gay Man depicted in his storyline on the subway, in the grocery store or at the gym. I remember many years ago my book club invited Mr. Harris to do a reading of his first novel. We waited with bated breath to edit, revise, counter attack and attest the poorly written piece of material that would go on to sell to millions of readers. Well, he arrived at our chosen destination and was greeted enthusiastically by my peers and then we dove head first into the book and Mr. Harris with all of his wit/humor finally shot back to us, "Write your own DAMN novel". We laughed and applauded loudly to this comment and this sealed our friendship with Mr. Harris. Since then I've seen Mr. Harris at various events around the country and enjoyed his company. It's a great loss to the community as a whole and to the devoted readers of his books who looked forward to the next episodes of his characters and their exploits. Dead at the age of 54 is too young to leave this earth. I shall never forget his quick wit and wonderful spirit.

Dr. Henry Louis Gates, Jr.

Dr. Henry Louis Gates, Jr. noted historian, Harvard University Professor, literary critic, writer, educator, scholar and public intellectual was arrested for disorderly conduct outside his home in Cambridge, Massachusetts. The numerous news/media reports are alleging racial profiling because of the white officer's conduct towards the disturbance. An unidentified neighbor called the police when he/she noticed two black men trying to get into the front door of a house. The house in question is Dr. Gates-he found that the front door was jammed and went around to the back of the house and let himself in and proceeded to alleviate the problem with the front door. The police arrive, Dr. Gates shows two forms of ID, including one with the Professor's address and an exchange of words took place-following an arrest.

Racial Profiling happens quite often to African-American Men and Latino Men in the United States. The concept of the police or law enforcement authorities pulling over someone that fits a description of a Man of Color is both appalling and disrespectful to the decency of human beings. I fully understand the protection of a community-but, to not have a full and complete description of a person except the color of his skin--it not a valid way of approaching the subject. The police will have to further train their personnel to insure that this doesn't happen.

How do we as Black Men change an inbred preception of what a criminal should look like? How do we mend racial attitudes that are prevalent in this country? Just because we have a Black President in the White House--the challenges of the Black Man has not changed a great deal.

Dr. Gates is becoming "yet again" the poster child for racial profiling. Why must we go through this again?

Soul Summit Music Festival at Fort Greene Park in Brooklyn

The Soul Summit Music Festival at Fort Greene Park in Brooklyn have been giving the neighborhood an additional boost for the past few summers. It was a pleasure in arrive late Sunday afternoon with a few friends and enjoy the love, camaraderie, music and people from across a multitude of backgrounds that had a great time. The weather was perfect in the park. The African drummers were alive and different dancers mock challenging themselves in a circle of admirers. The dance hustlers were converging in back of the DJ's and the main dance floor was packed to an appreciative audience. Fun was had by all. The next outing is August 2, 2009 from noon-8:30pm. Don't miss it!!!

Emory Douglas at the Newsmuseum of Contemporary Art

Mr. Emory Douglas was the Minister of Culture of the Black Panther Party from 1967 until the group fazed out in the 1980's. During this time Mr. Douglas was the well known graphic design artist that ignited the famous posters of the Black Panthers. The New Museum put a great collection of posters that Mr. Douglas produced. the film captures the present day Black Panthers talking about the images and major players in the party. The reoccurring theme is the vast amount of social programs that the Black Panther Party provided for the black communities around the country. Do you know the Black Panther Party was the first organization to sign on and commit to sponsoring the Gay Movement in 1969? I was quite impress with many of their service programs designed to feed and educate children in many of our inner cities. The museum itself is kind of sterile and the presentation was flat but effective. Also, the powerful black women who served numerous roles in the movement was incredible to see. Fashion played a huge part in the look and feel of this organization. These images of militant chic was commonplace in his work before the fashion and style communities picked up on the relevant fashion choices of the members of this party. I call them Style Icons, the after thought of this group imposing a fashion point of view before their time, was somewhat of a coupe. Mr. Douglas work has travelled the world and is now on view at the Newsmuseum here in New York City until October 2009.

Soul Power- Documentary

This movie contains the footage of the legendary concert following the Muhammad Ali vs. George Foreman fight in Kinshasa, Zaire. The Rumble in the Jungle was slated to be the return of Ali to the forefront of professional boxing. The concert that followed was beyond extraordinary. The live acts included, James Brown, Bill Withers, B.B. King, Sister Sledge and numerous other acts that included dance troupes and the impressive Don King (pre-hair shock). Soul Power the movie is in theaters now. Do pay attention to the fashions and fashion choices of the most powerful acts in 1974. The razzle dazzle of 70's fashion is being reinterpreted by many of our current designers.

HAPPY BIRTHDAY- NELSON MANDELA

Saturday is Nelson Mandela Day worldwide-which have its main celebration in South African. On this auspicious day Mr. Mandela has ask that people around the world should volunteer their time for just about a hour in their communities. Mr. Mandela is turning 91 years old. We wish Mr. Mandela a big HAPPY BIRTHDAY and here's to many more.

NAACP's 100th Year Anniversary

The NAACP is celebrating their 100Th Anniversary on Thursday. This organization is one of the oldest and most influential on civil rights in the United States. The mission of NAACP is to ensure political, educational, social and economic equality for all persons and to eliminated racial hatred and discrimination. In the 1960's the NAACP pressed for civil rights legislation under President Kennedy(after his assassination- President Johnson persuaded Congress to pass the civil rights bill) to end racial discrimination in employment, education and public accommodations. This bill was passed in July 1964. Then this followed by the Voters Rights Act of 1965-which provided federal oversight in the areas of this country where voter turnout was low. Today, the NAACP is looking towards the future with our youth leading the way-in forms of technology, voter registration and volunteerism. Benjamin Todd Jealous is the new head of the NAACP and the New York Times did a question and answer format with Mr. Jealous. Take a look at the article. President Barack Obama will be the headline speaker on Thursday evening. Let's all give a big birthday kiss to this outstanding organization-because without the numerous political stands, we wouldn't have the many opportunities today.

NAACP: 100 YEARS - BOLD DREAMS, BIG VICTORIES

Black in America-Soledad O'Brien for CNN

The Black in America series continues on CNN hosted by Soledad O'Brien during the month of July. If you miss the first(four part) series, you could easily go on YouTube and discover what it's like being Black in America during the 21st Century and whether our past has eclipsed our future. The first part truly brought tears to my eyes, concerning the plight of Black America. There is still a long way to go. Let's hope that the road is much easier than before. Ms. O'Brien interviews numerous African Americans from many walks of life and suffice it to say the encounters are both memorable and educational. My life has been enriched with the quality of work and exposure this series has made forth. The next installment starts the end of July, don't miss the opportunity to get insight to the ongoings of everyday Americans that make up fairly 12% of the population in this country and walk away with a firm understanding of what it is like to be Black in America.

Negritude at EXIT ART

Wikipedia defines Negritude as "a literary and political movement developed in the 1930's by a group that includes former Senegalese President Senghor, Martinican poet Aime Cesaire and the Guianan Leon Damas. The Negritude writers found solidarity in a common black identity as a rejection of French colonial racism. They believed that the shared black heritage of members of the African diaspora was the best tool in fighting against French political and intellectual hegemony and domination." Negritude has influenced the Harlem Renaissance and paved the way for Black writers such a Langston Hughes, Richard Wright and Lorraine Hansberry. At EXIT ART gallery in New York City, the exhibit has music, art, poetry, film, performances, stories and discussions. This exhibit was conceived by Papo Colo and produced by Papo Colo, Tania Cypriano, Rose Rejouis, Franklin Sirmans and Greg Tate. If you are in New York City, do stop by the gallery and view some of the mini exhibits and performances.

Yonka Shonibare MBE-Artist

What strikes me as somewhat odd is the juxtaposition of Mr. Shonibare work. On the one hand--the beautiful African textiles(Dutch wax cotton) used in the colonial manner of style and then there is the headless mannequins representing life without much of a thought process. The Brooklyn Museum in New York City is exhibiting this intriguing work of the British artist with a Nigerian background. Shonibare's artwork explores contemporary African identity and its relationship to European colonialism through painting, sculpture, installation and moving image. The Brooklyn Museum shows his work on two floors. The first floor opens with the headless mannequin with ocelots and then you proceed towards the back for the video screening of dancers and actors in period costume acting the parts. Followed by the headless mannequin's seated a table holding a discussion. Finally, another video showcasing the actual implementation of the project at the Brooklyn Museum. The fourth floor shows the most of the exhibit and blowed up pictures of the life of Dorian Gray along with notable pictures depicting the a day in the life of a Dandy. Shonibare not only explores racial inequalities and economic strife, but he let's the viewer decide was it worth the invasion of European, American and Asian societies into Africa? You decide.

Nick Cave-Artist/Dancer

He's a dancer, fabric sculptor and performance artist. He danced with Alvin Ailey in New York City. Mr. Cave is best known for his Soundsuits: wearable fabric sculptures that bright, whimsical and moves with the body to create a swirling effect to the viewer. His suits are made of found materials such as twigs, sisal, plastic buttons, beads, feathers, sequins and human hair. His current showing is at the Yerba Buena Center for the Arts in San Francisco California,called" Meet Me at the Center of the Earth". If you're in San Fran go and see the show. What a truly amazing artist that we should support.