BHM edition Global Eyes Magazine 2015

gggggloballoballoballoballobal eeeeeyyyyyesesesesesManitoba African and Caribbean Quarterly Magazine
4TH
QUARTER
February 2015
PEACE
BlacBlacBlacBlacBlackkkkk
HistoryHistoryHistoryHistoryHistory
MonthMonthMonthMonthMonth
20152015201520152015
Robert Falcon Ouellette
Keisha Booker
GUEST ARTST AND MINISTER KAY MORRIS
Andre Hylton
SHERLINE CROSS - DOLL
MAKR

Global Eyes Magazine February 2015
2
Reflection
Gimme That Ole Time Religion
SHERROD CHESTER
Looking through my personal lens
one can emphatically argue that
diversity and inclusion in the workplace
can be viewed as a new “paradigm
shift” in which there are no barriers in
place to define an individual or group.
In my opinion, fostering a diverse and
inclusive workplace reflects a culture
where every individual is accepted,
regardless of race, ethnicity, religion,
disability, gender, sexual orientation,
age, economic status or other factors.
Employers do have a personal
responsibility to foster and promote a
diverse and inclusive workplace by
promoting values that attract a wide
range of talents while providing the
necessary means to successfully
integrate new employees into the
workplace. All individuals, including
Aboriginal people, members of visible
minority groups and persons with a
disability would be appreciated for
their unique contributions. In many
spectrums this mandate is not always
supported in our society. As a matter
of insight, employment promotions
should be granted based on merit,
equity and fairness; availability of a
safe forum for employees to share
their ideas on building a diverse and
inclusive workplace; and, creating
and supporting employee groups for
networking and mentoring
opportunities. Employers can also
annually communicate their
commitment to diverse and inclusive
workplaces by challenging attitudinal
barriers, supporting learning
activities, and ensuring
accountability for hiring a diverse
work force.
Employees also have a
mandate to respect and show
appreciation for the core values of
both the workplace and each other.
Furthermore, employees should
continue to demonstrate respectful
workplace behaviours and celebrate
differences through social
activities, including potlucks and
informal learning events.
When employers and
employees strive to achieve a
diverse and inclusive workplace,
the organization’s culture is
enriched, and can better reflect and
serve the general public. My
question is very simple, can we all
safely conclude that our workplace
reflects the values of diversity and
inclusion in a wholesome manner?
It was an ole time religion rock of
age’s gospel concert with choirs that
rocked the house down and guest
artistes and Minister Kay Morris that
summoned the conservative Pastor
Deborah Olojuku to her feet dancing
solo to the uplifting sounds of music
and workship. Sister Morris let it be
known that she was not an entertainer
but a Minister and she ministered to the
people with inspiring and entertaining
songs and choruses.
Held on February 21, 2015 at the
Immanuel Church of God, the 2015
flagship event attracted more than 300
people who packed the Church to
partake of the sumptuous feast for the
soul. The program comprises of top
rated choirs such as World Village
Gospel Choir, All Nations Full Gospel
Choir, Winnipeg Adventist Choir and
the Immanuel Gospel Singers.
The lovely Keisha Booker
delivered a beautiful solo and the
community poet in residence
Bancroft Williams made it clear in
his poem “Our colour is black and
we’re not going back”.”, and no
black history event would be
complete without the drumming
from the Motherland, which KB
Fujumelody ably provided. Andre
Hylton, talented gospel singer
performed a couple solos and then
joined Rhonda Thompson and Ms
McLeod as backup singers for the
headliner Guest artist, the energetic
Kay Morris.
There were a lot clap hands,
smiles, head shaking and a general
atmtosphere of goodwill all around.
It was an enjoyable evening.

3 3
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IN THIS ISSUE
Did you know p4
Bring back our girls p5
Briefs p5
Pilgrim Baptist pictorial7
Kwanzaa p10
Pilgrim Baptist Church p11
Leg Up BHM Awards - p13
Healthwise 14
Global Eyes is an independent magazine quarterly publication
devoted to promoting cultural awareness of the African and
Caribbean communities of Manitoba and highlighting the
issues and concerns of these communities. It also aims
at promoting cultural diversity and appreciation. Its
It features articles ranging from the achievements of local,
national and international personalities and general information
that are of interest to the African/Caribbean
community. It offers editorials with African/
Caribbean sensibilities and letters to the editor. The
Magazine is produced under a volunteer editorial
committee that assists with proof-reading, publicity and
distribution.
Mail cheque/Money Order to: Global Eyes Magazine (GEM)
671 Rathgar Avenue,
Winnipeg, Manitoba
R3L 1G6

4
GLOBAL
EYES
MAGAZINE
Neil Pitamber,
Lara Badmus, LLB
A
Canadian-Guyanese writer, poet
GEM’s Regular
Contributors
Distributed to local businesses, and in
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To receive Global Eyes by mail please
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All contents are (c) 2014 and may not
be reprinted without the express or
written consent of the author or Editor.
Editor: Beatrice Watson DIDDIDDIDDIDDID YYYYYOUOUOUOUOU KNOKNOKNOKNOKNOWWWWW?????
Winnipeg LawyerTIMES ARE A CHANGING
When you shop at Forest
People Crafts you are
helping forest people support
the crafters’families. We’re
on the 2nd
Floor #226 of The
Fork’s Market, One Forks
THANK YOU
WINNIPEG FOR 25
GREAT YEARS AND
MORE TO COME
Capoeira is a Brazilian martial art that
combines elements of dance, acrobatics
and music, and is sometimes referred to
as a game. It was developed in Brazil
mainly by African descendants with
native Brazilian influences, probably
beginning in the 16th century. It is
known by quick and complex moves,
using mainly power, speed, and leverage
for a wide variety of kicks, spins, and
highly mobile techniques; at heart is the
ginga, the back-and-forth, foot-to-foot
movement that serves as the starting
point for such leverage. Capoeira used
in genuine self-defense situations
incorporates many sweeps and low
moves, whereas when played as a game
there is more emphasis on high moves,
demonstrations of acrobatics, full
cartwheels (called au) for evasion, and
flips or other exotic techniques by
mestres (masters), and performing an
entertaining match for the audience
A quilombo is a Brazilian hinterland
settlement founded by people of African
origin including the Quilombolas, or
Maroons. Most of the inhabitants of
quilombos (called quilombolas) were
escaped slaves and, in some cases, later
these escaped African slaves would help
provide shelter and homes to other
minorities of marginalised Portuguese,
Brazilian aboriginals, Jews and Arabs,
and/or other non-black, non-slave
Brazilians who experienced oppression
during colonization.
******

5 5
Briefs
Congratulations to Barbadian born
Kamau Braithwaite who authored
numerous books, taught at Harvard
University, New York University and
University of the West Indies and also
served in Ghana’s Ministry of Education
for being honoured with the 2015
recipient of the Poetry Society of
America’s highest award.
Mr. Kamau is the recipient of the
prestigious the Frost Medal presented
annually for distinguished lifetime
achievement in poetry.
The Poetry Society of America (PSA)
the oldest in America was founded in
1910 to create a public forum for the
advancement, enjoyment, and
understanding of poetry. Through its many
programs, contests, and awards, the PSA
works to build a larger audience for poetry
and to encourage a deeper appreciation of
the art.
THE CARIBBEAN SON
SHINES BRIGHTER YET
Abdou Sarr a 17 year old Ottawa High
School student seemed to have struck gold
with an App “Celestial” he designed to
calm nerves. The App shows panoramic
views of calming settings – oceans,
beaches, blue skies with matching sounds.
The App allows users to select
through different modes to help
them sleep, relax or focus.
Launched on Sunday March 9,
2015, the App, which costs $1.19
per download has already become
one of the top 10 paid apps on the
iTunes chart and reach No. 1 on
the health Chart. Sarr told
reporters he started working on
the App at 13 but he did not own
a Mac. Once he got his Mac he
taught himself how to create the
App. Bravo.
BLACK STUDENT STRIKES GOLD
2015 BLACK HISTORY MONTH
COMMMITTEE
BHM HITORY LESSON ACTIVITIES -
ARTS AND CRAFTS
REGGAE SINGER
Children showing off what they learned about their history
Nadia Thompson, Mavis McLaren, Rhonda
Thompson,-Wilson, Pastor C. Layne, Pastor Dr.
Brian Archer, Victor Vaughn, Shondell Babb,
Tionne Shell, Joni Phutik Pastor S. Olukoju,
Pastor M. Chambers, Jacqueline Sumter,
Donna Jacques and Roland Headley.

6
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Editorial - Take One
Olukoju
Winnipeg’s Black
History Month
Committee
provided an
exciting array of
activities this year. Each year seems
better than the last and for those who
do not make the time to attend,
you’re missing a lot and you may be
denying your children or
grandchildren the opportunity of
learning about Black History with
other children in a fun and exciting
way. The Black History Month
Committee which is made up of a
handful of people work hard to put
together the best program they can
with the resources they have and all
you need to do is to show up and
enjoy. This year’s Committee was
chaired by Nadia Thompson, who
has been part of the Committee and
learned at the feet of Mavis
McLaren and the Late Wade Kojo
Williams and she is very energetic
and with her Committee are
constantly pushing the envelope to
include more youths and cater to
the needs of seniors as well.
Congratulations to all the members
including, Nadia Thompson, Mavis
McLaren, Rhonda Thompson,-
Wilson, Pastor C. Layne, Pastor
Brian Archer, Victor Vaughn,
Shondell Babb, Tionne Shell, Joni
Phutik Pastor S. Olukoju, Pastor M.
Chambers, Jacqueline Sumter,
Donna Jacques and Roland
Headley. As a Community we owe
these people a debt of gratitude. All
of the events were well attended but
there could be more. We all have to
push ourselves to support events that are
organized for our enjoyment and
education to make it work and
worthwhile. The two flagship Black
History Month events the Gospel
Concert and the Annual Banquet were
well attended with more than 400
attendees at the Gospel Concert.
Participants at the Black History Lesson and
Youth Debate
Our deepest condolence to all those
who have lost loved ones during this
period. These passings rip our hearts
out but it is also a reminder that we
are not guaranteed tomorrow so live
your life to the fullest now. Enjoy the
breath of life, speak your peace, love,
laugh and cry if you will from our
hearts to your hearts.
Special respects are paid to:
Condolences
Huggins family for the loss of
Atleath Huggins
Jones Family for the loss of
Matthew Jones
Holder family for the loss of Onyx
Holder Arjoon
Chishimba family for the loss of
William K Chishimba
Olukoju and Olarundare families
for the loss of their father
May their souls rest in eternal
peace

7 7
The book is a
“slave narrative”
by author,
Lawrence Hill, a
Canadian of
mixed race. The
television series
on CBC is based
on the book. It is
undoubtedly a
work of fact,
skillfully crafted
into fiction, as Hill apparently has no
firsthand knowledge of the events that
occurred in the 1700’s - the1800’s; the
relevant period for his historical novel.
This work is somewhat different from
many others of the same genre, such as
the age-old “Roots” and the more recent
“The Butler”; and refreshingly so. Read
on, to learn how.
The main character, Aminata Diallo, an
11 year old girl who was snatched from
her roots in her Malian village in 1775
and shipped to Carolina, defies the odds
and rebels against “slavery mentality”.
Extremely bright, proud and highly
intelligent, Aminata endures a life of
hard labour on an indigo plantation; a
self-taught woman of numbers, she
proceeds into book-keeping for her
subsequent owner, while heeding
the occasional call to deliver babies
– a skill she learned as a young girl,
observing her mother “catch”
babies.
Undoubtedly, she personifies the
triumph of will power and
education over a lowly estate. She
achieves mastery of the “masters’
tongue” and her oratory and literary
skills not only save her but spiral
her into honorable recognition. She
fulfills her destiny as a master story
teller when she completes her
autobiography during her final days
in London, England.
I love how book reviewer, Kevin Le
Gondre, summarises this work of
art:
“The Book of Negroes is a colossal
achievement for the ingenuity with
which fact and fiction intermingle
without any glib concessions to
melodrama. The evils of the slave
trade are the bare bones of this book
but the fortitude and sheer strength
of spirit of the protagonist provide
the real flesh, resulting in a
heartrending yet inspiring story”.
Lara Badmus, Winnipeg Lawyer
A NEW TWIST TO THE SLAVE NARRATIVE
Congratulations to
Pastor Deborah
Olukoju for winning
the Prime Minister
Volunteer Award for
the Prairies. She is
flaked by her husnabd
Sunda (lef abd PM
Stephen Harper and
two friends from
Winnipeg.Award
BREAKING NEWS
POLITICAL REALITY
Donovan Martin, candidate in the
2014 municipal elections in the
Old Kildonan Council Ward
shared his experience at the Black
History Lesson Event held at the
Jamaica Hall. He spoke about
what it takes to run a successful
campaign. He also spoke about the
compromises one is called to make
which he took a principled
position against. However on
reflection Martin realize that life is
about compromises. He believes
he is better prepared. He was
drawn into municipal politics
because of a personal problem
with “driving on the sidewalk”
which was not addressed to his
satisfaction, so set out to get into
City Hall and take care of
business. Getting into City hall or
any political office requires a lot of
support which unfortunately, he
did not receive especially from his
community. The Community needs
to do more.
The funny guy
Abdulla Hussein
was the moderator
for the debate. He
kept the audience
in stitches as he
kept the debate on
track
Abdulla Hussein

8
Regulars
Global Counsellor
Letter to my children
Dear Global Counsellor,
I am a 28 year African Canadian male
engaged to a beautiful African Canadian
woman to be married in late summer. I
love her more than anything and we’ve
been together for a long time practically
since high school. There is no question
in my mind that we were meant for each
other but I have done something that I am
not proud of. I was out with a group of
guys the a few weeks ago and there were
a bunch of girls throwing themselves at
us and we were having a good time with
them and this one girl had a temporary
attraction for me and we started hanging
out dancing and moved away from the
group. I told her that I have a girl and
everything but one thing led to another
and we made out eventually. Now I am
riddled with guilt. I feel anger at the
Jezebel and blamed her in my mind for
my weakness which I know is wrong. It’s
me and why did I allow myself to betray
my soon to be wife and is this the type of
husband I would be. Would I be like my
father who was cheater and hurt my
mother so badly, something I swore I
would never do. Now I am doubting
myself and wondering what my next
step would be. Should I tell my
fiancée, should I talk to someone like
a counsellor because this has shaken
me to the core? What should I do?
Messed up
Dear Messed up
Okay so you made a mistake, you’re
feeling guilty and this brings up
insecurity that about your inheritance
of cheating gene from your dad. Dig
inside and ask why you allowed
yourself go down that route, what
were you trying to prove, what were
your thoughts. Are you feeling a bit
of jitters about getting married feeling
a little apprehensive trapped? Is it
fear of cheating so you want to do
your cheating now before marriage?
What would happen if you confess to
your finance? What would be gained?
You will feel some sort of release and
she will be left with doubts, fears, and
chaos unhappiness. I do not think you
should burden her with this
information, if you are sure it is not a
deeper issue of wanting out or changing
your mind about the marriage. Accept
responsibility for what happen, forgive
yourself and do some thinking around
what actions you would take to make
sure this does not happen again. This
is about you. You need to deal with
your own issues around infidelity,
forgiving your father and knowing that
you are not him. Drop that narrative
and embrace who you know you are. If
you believe in God go to God and
surrender your worries and make a
decision to move forward with more
confidence. You can do it.
My dear children.
We’ve come a long way on the road to
freedom but not far enough. There are
so many inequities still to battle many
of which stand as the silent guards
that reach out and give that little push
back to where we were. Racism in a
large part has gone under and like the
iceberg we see the little peak above
the water like a watch tower of the
mountain below. It is difficult to
verbalize some of the micro
aggressions that assault us on a daily
basis because they are so subtle. It
creates an uneasiness that has no name
but those who feel it know what I am
talking about. The march to freedom
is not over and we are not there. The
march continues. During Black
History Month, we take pause to
reflect on where we’ve been and
where we need to go. Getting a
good education is one of the keys
to future success and more
importantly becoming the master
and mistress of your own destiny
in the crowning glory. My
children to ensure the success of
our race we need brains, brawn
and skills. My mother used to say
once you have a trade you will not
go hungry. People always need a
tradesperson, to build a house, run
their electricity, do their plumbing ,
create stuff, make a dress, design a
house, a yard, fix a car, a
lawnmower or plant food for
others to eat. You have to think of
become a producer rather than a
consumer, an n employer rather
than an employee. Being an
employee no matter how qualified
you are, you are at the mercy of the
employer and they let you know that
in no uncertain terms. You have to
toe the line. Think outside the box
and think. You are limited only by
your thoughts
“Sometimes, I feel
discriminated against, but it
does not make me angry. It
merely astonishes me. How
can any deny themselves the
pleasure of my company? It’s
beyond me.” Zora Neal
Hurston
I kinda don’t do guilt. I gave it up
for Lent years ago.
Greg Boyle

9 9
CREATIVE EXPRESSIONS
NEIL PITAMBER
LAVA VENT
Wouldn’t say ‘insomiac’
Just a bit allergic to sleep
Couldn’t say ‘amnesiac’
I’m just nervous to repeat
All the things I tend to think about out
loud
I have the rage of one contained in a cloud
On a field of dreams destroyed by a
plough
Where jagged teeth meet an empty house
Come around but not when easily aroused
A psychadelic body mummified in a
shroud
And a neon exit sign marked ‘No Way
Out’...
Not Methusela
Still the rings around my eyes
Should give some indication
So long I’ve been awake I can
See Mars on the rise...
NOVENTIS
She laughed when I said ‘I’m a farmer’
’Planting lies and hoping to sew truth...
(Not quite handsome for a country boy
But somehow rugged and very cute!)’
I thought her ways were more of
Wind than wine
But, as usual, I learned with time...
Upon receipt of her invitation
Then suspected a foundation
Had been set (but sat unrevealed)
She said, ‘I meant to tell you, Neil’
’I’m going to be moving far away
You may write to me if you feel like—’
With results like stabbing air and
Expecting blood with a pocket knife
She, away, and I moved on since
Wisest to tatooed brows and painted smiles
And eyelids with pupils that dilate
Shimmering like fresh snow when they blink
I fell to ashes - no pheonix rose
Now admit to feeling
indisposed
But you were long ago
And his part of me no longer
pines within...
Well al yu know that
we celebrating black
history month in
February. I was very
fartunate to attend
one a de secssions,
whey dem young put
on a debate bout Martin Lurther and
Malcom X bout who was a better
leader. Well boi buddy de place was in
a uproar when dem young people full
a education mek dem points boi. I
WAS SOOOOO please to see de
elders there supporting de young
folks. When I went back home I
feel good that we futha is in good
hands because of all de negativity
we hear bout de youths of today and
de mouthing these ones surely have
some POSITIVE VIBRATIONS and
I dam well proud of them and de
results of de secsssion was propa.
Sherrod Chester
GAFFIN WID BUDDY

10
February air blew harshly against
the exposed skin of my neck, instantly
freezing me. Once more, I adjust the
clasp of my shoulder strap as I half-
halfheartedly wrap the scarf around my
throat. Winnipeg. Asight to behold;
frigid winter, Slurpee capital and death
champion. Its ashy streets blanked by
frothy ice, eerily complimented by
statuesque buildings spewing malicious
gases against the pale white of the
wintry sky, a side dish offered
alongside the fast-paced environment
of the downtown bus shack.
It felt awkward, to pause and take
notice of all these people trying to be in
constant motion, busily living life
through the shadow of their
technologies, selling their souls to
lanthanide metals rather than each
other. It was a pitiful sadness that
almost made me want to smile, I was a
devil’s advocate at heart; the purpose of
it all was to be happy, but it only
seemed as if things were getting faster,
with no time for things like life or
happiness –inconsequential in the
grand scheme of things they say. It
always seemed to be pushed to the
side, ‘If I do this, and I get that then I’ll
be happy’ an equation that never
seemed to equate to its answer,
its momentary briefness
constituting infinite events that
most believe will make an
everlasting contentment within
them.
The bus came distributing the
peace without discrimination to
every foot that stood tapping with
impatience to get to their
destination. The rush of people
filling in with no order nor
thought for their elders -it was a
place of civilized barbarians. It
was a wonder that indigenous
cultures of living in isolation,
matted with earth spirit are seen
as unearthly beings. Look at this
marvelous creation. Press this,
order that all within the span of
minutes –getting all the hearts
desires. Yet we find ourselves
wanting more and so we press
faster, binging until our souls are
overflowing baskets of toys. We
open our feeds, scrolling through
thousands of emotions,
becoming immune to our
defining characteristics –the sentient
being.
But, the truth was. We are afraid. Long
ago when we stood on the ancient
plains of the land of the sun, we did
not care for this idolized lack of
pigment, but rather the truth for our
communities, from where we stand
with our flock and deities. Now we
constituent suits and ties for the
formality of eloquence disregarding
formal etiquette that is found in the
silence of our moral
consciousness
The Sentient - Short shortstory
Looking
through my
personal lens
one can argue
that diversity
and inclusion
in the
workplace is a
new “paradigm shift” in which there
are no barriers in place to define an
individual or group. I believe that
fostering a diverse and inclusive
workplace reflects a culture where
every individual is accepted,
regardless of race, ethnicity, religion,
disability, gender, sexual
orientation, age, economic status
or other factors.
Employers are responsible
for fostering diversity and
inclusivity in the workplace and
they can do so by by promoting
values that attract a wide range
of talents while providing the
necessary means to successfully
integrate new employees into
the workplace. All individuals,
including Aboriginal people,
members of visible minority
groups and persons with a
disability would be appreciated
for their unique contributions. This
idea or mandate is not always supported
in our society. As a matter of insight,
employment promotions should be
granted based on merit, equity and
fairness. Employers should also create a
safe space for employees to share their
ideas on building a diverse and inclusive
workplace; and they shouldf encourage
and create, employee groups for
networking and mentoring
opportunities. Employers can also
annually communicate their
commitment to diverse and inclusive
workplaces by challenging attitudinal
Editorial/Opinion Column - Sherrod Chester
.Ruth
Mesgna is a
philanthropist,
humanitarian
and an active
volunteer
primarily
involved with
gender
equality,
community
development
and
indigenous and
non-
indigenous
understanding and dialogue promoting
between peoples of Canada. She has a
passion for education namely science,
literacy, and theater.
continud on p11

11 11
barriers, supporting learning
activities, and ensuring
accountability for hiring a diverse
work force.
Employees also have a mandate
to respect the core values of both
the workplace and each other.
Furthermore, employees should
continue to demonstrate respectful
workplace behaviours and celebrate
differences through social activities,
including potlucks and informal
learning events.
When employers and
employees strive to achieve a
diverse and inclusive workplace, the
organization’s culture is enriched,
and can better reflect and serve the
general public. MY question is very
simple, can we all safely conclude
that our workplace reflects the
values of diversity and inclusion in
a wholesome manner
“I dream of the day when my five
children can go anywhere in this city and I
do not have to fear for their safety,” said
Falcon Ouellette guest speaker at the 2015
Black History MonthAnnual Community
Awards Banquet held at the Jamaican
Cultural Centre on February 28, 2015.
Erudite son of the Red Pheasant First
Nations whose father left the family when
he was young, Ouellette said he grew up
knowing what it means to live in poverty.
Afraid that poverty could also be the fate
of her two sons, Ouellette said his mother
began imagining a better and brighter future
for them. She began serious contemplating
of how to ensure a better future for her
children and saw a good education as the
ticket out but she had no money. She was a
working poor. However, through some
creative financial manoeuvres that bumped
up her salary on paper she was able to
borrow $15,000 from the Bank and they
told her to come back if she wanted more.
With that money she enrolled Ouellette in
one of the the best private schools in Canada
– Stradcona Tweeds Muir
“No one was going to judge me. What they
saw was a student. My marks were good
and even better than some of the privileged
children who attended the school.”
After a few years “my mother said to me,
it’s time to have more experience. I’m
sending youtoFrance.”
“I’m not interested in going to France” I told
her “I want to go to SouthAfrica” Ouellette
said because he was impacted by two books
he had read that came out from SouthAfrica
which he encouraged the audience to read –
I Cry my Beloved Country byAlan Paton
and The Power of One by Bryce Courtenay,
That’s where I went.
“When I arrived in SouthAfrica in 1994
there was a protest going on and two people
were killed.Alot was happening then” he
said and added “I settled in Natal Durban
the home of the Zulu people and I attended
Hilton College, the best Private School in
SouthAfrica. Changes were
happing in SouthAfrica”
Ouellette said he observed a lot of
fear there. He saidWhite folks
wereafraidandthey’dsaythings
like “we aren’t even sure that these
people are human beings.”They
were afraid of Mandela and what
he was going to do. Change was
coming. Ouellettesaidhesaw
peoplelinedupfortwodaystovote.
“As indigenous people we share a
common experience with Black
people.We have been fighting for
years... we live in a dividedcityand
thereisopportunityforanewvision”
hesaidadding“weneedchangeandwe
needmorepeopletovote.”
He recalled that it was in 1957
Indigenous people were given the
right to vote but acknowledged that
Jim Crow laws are still in force and
it affects us in Canada. “Your vote
counts. One vote can make a
difference.”
Steppingintothepoliticalmode,
Ouelletteurgedtheaudiencetotelltheir
friends,everyonetheyknowtogoout
andvotewhenthetimecomes.
“Change is coming now. Do not be
afraid. We can work together”
Ouellette speech resonated with the
crowd and even more so when he
said that their adopted daughter is
biracial a mixture ofAboriginal and
Jamaica. He said he has to get to know
the Jamaican community a little better
so his daughter will know her
history and culture. Ouellette
received a standing ovation.
I HAVE A DREAM SAYS ROBERT FALCON OUELLETTE
Sherrod Chester

12
-
“Until the philosophy which holds
one race superior and another
inferior. Until the colour of a man’s
skin is no more significant than the
colour of his eyes. Until there’s no
more First Class or Second Class
citizen of any nation. Until that
day... ‘Bob Marley -War”
As a two-time Liberal candidate
who has always been very active in
the West End, and a strong advocate
for the environment, child care and
other issues, I am proposing that we
see the article in Maclean’s
Magazine titled Winnipeg is the
most racist city in Canada” as an
opportunity to look at ourselves on
the issue of racism. My experience
living in Toronto for five years,
Vancouver one year, and now in
Winnipeg since 1999 is why I am
optimistic that we can overcome
colour and class issues successfully.
We all know what we need to do
within ourselves to be more
accepting of our neighbours, friends
and associates. I am sure many of us
have enjoyed the kindness and
compassion of people outside of our
race and ethnicity.
So, what’s missing one could ask?
Music. I believe the city needs to
have more entertainment throughout
the year. Folklorama and the various
summer festivities are clear
examples of how we can bridge our
differences and come together in
harmony. I guarantee you that if the
article’s author, Nancy Macdonald,
was to focus more on the ways in
which diverse peoples in Winnipeg
come together and interact with one
another during the summer the story
line would have been different.
‘Actions speak louder than words.
Talk is cheap. For those of us who
are interested in uniting our
community and the Greater
Winnipeg area - take a look what I
am doing in the West End
neighbourhood:
Block parties on Lipton Street
every Canada Day. This will be
our 3rd year organizing this event;.
Organizing the longest street sale
stretching from Portage Avenue to
Notre Dame and a perfect way to
meet’n greet your neighbours.
Dancin’ in the street. Kids playing
freely with other neighbours’ kids
some for the first time in five
years. Barbequing and eating
always bring many smiles.
- Established the CRIG’s list
(Community Residential
Improvement Guide) - neighbours
helping neighbours. The list
consists of folks who have skils to
sell or share in the neighbourhood,
and want to help others.
Travelling to close proximity
farms and get fresh produce to
distribute to local senior homes in
the West End. Every Christmas I
provide a very special treat, singing
with the Seniors in a Christmas
Sing-a-long in the West End.
So here’s the question that needs
to be asked, ‘From my actions, do
you think that I am discriminated
against in any way, shape or form?
Here’s something to ponder -
after eight months of lobbying
City Hall on numerous occasions,
making a nuisance of myself to all
media houses for the official name
change from ‘Garbage Day’ to
‘Recycle Day’, producing a
recycling documentary, it was not
until Matt Cundill of Power97
agreed with the idea before others
embrace the name change.
My wish is that one day when ideas
are presented, that theywill be
examined on its merit and not one’s
political persuasion or colour of skin.
The ultimate measure of a man is not
where he stands in moments of comfort
and convenience, but where he stands
at times of challenge and controversy.
Martin Luther King, Jr.
Yes We Can - Barack Obama
MELLISA YAW: THER SECRET
LIFE - A COLLECTION OF SHORT
STORIES
Winnipeg is full of talent but often
they leave for greener pastures in the big
city, so did Melissa
Yaw, graduate of
University of
Winnipeg and Fort
Richmond High
School, who recently
published her first
novel “The Secret
Life” which is a
collection of short
stories dealing with
deception, masks
and denial. Yaw
tackles these tough issues with maturity.
Mental health is a theme that runs through
a lot of the stories. Asked whether she
herself struggles with mental illness, Yaw
says no, but people close to her - close
friends have some of these issues and
that’s why she was inspired to write the
book. Part of the procoeeds from the sale
of the book goes to support the work of
mental health charities. You can find The
Secret Life on Amazon, Chapters and
McNally Robinson’s bookstores.
This is a great read, well written
and fast moving. The cover was designed
by Yaw’s cousin, Bahia Watson. Congrats
to both. Pick up your copy today.
BUILDING BRIDGES - DON WOODSTOCK

13 13
In our results-oriented
society it’s difficult to let
go of the conditioning
that there has to be a goal
or a reward at the end of
the rainbow. Competition reigns
supreme even if we are competing
against ourselves. It could be about
being the top of the class; having the
most sales or simply having the
prettiest home in the neighbourhood.
Yoga teaches us non-striving.
When we were children, we played
just for the fun of it. Wouldn’t it be
nice to adopt that same attitude when it
comes to our practice? The beauty of
yoga is that there is no goal. Yoga is
simply the practice of coming to the
mat consistently. The by-product of
the practice is the benefits we gain.
Benefits such as reduced physical pain
or anxiety, a more flexible body and
the ability to concentrate.
Whatever the reason we come to yoga,
whether it be: relief from physical or
emotional pain, because the doctor
said it was good for us, or just
wanting to know what all the fuss is
about. Try practicing without an
agenda. Not trying to conquer a
particular pose or master a breath
technique. Simply arrive at your mat,
open and willing to experience
whatever arises. No pressure, no
expectation. In yoga, we call this
beginner’s mind. Discover how
liberating this can be and take a page
out our kids note book, just do it for
the fun of it. Give no results yoga a
shot and when you do, share your
experience with a friend.
If you would like a yoga or
meditation class for your community
organization or would like to attend
Roslyn’s classes at Serene Yoga
Studio you can contact her at
sereneyogastudio@mymts.net or visit
their website
www.sereneyogastudio.com
Lifestyle Health Welness Yoga and Results
Donovan Martin Jr. performed the
task of emcee at the Black History
Lesson Event held at the Jamaica Hall
and he was awesome. He is well
spoken, confident and could read well.
Good job.
What is better than the gift of
education! You can help school
children in Jamaica get an
education through a fundraising
program started here in Winnipeg.
The fundraising program hopes
to raise $20,000.00 (CAD) to
assist as many families as possible
to send their kids to school.
The Education project will be
acccepting donations of school
supplies, including backpacks and
runners.
Joining the cause is Anita
Jacobson with Epicure. The theme
of Epicure’s summer conference is
“Inspire Good” by helping youth
advance their education and lives
Anita feels we are improving the
world of tomorrow.
In addition, Epicure’s next
incentive trip is to Jamaica “A
fundraising party has been set up
on my website, just go to
www.AnitaJacobson.MyEpicure.com
and shop, at the checkout you just
need to select the Jamaica
Education Fund for the hostess
and then the orders will
automatically be applied to the
fundraiser.”
There will also be an I-tal/
Jamaican Cookbook coming out
later this spring as a fundraiser for
this project. The book will be full
of mouth-watering Jamaican foods
and drinks.
For more information on the
project go the facebook page:
https://www.facebook.com/pages/
Jamaica-Education-Fundraiser/
969458533066480
You can also email Sonia at
Sonia.Lemoine@shaw.ca
Donovan Martin Jr coolest MC
Fundriaising effort to
send children to school
Man a gaff a yaard
Dr. Ali Karim
brought greeetings to
Black HistoryAnnual
CommunityAwards
Banquet on behallf of
the the Council for
Caribbean
Organizations of MB
Inc. Dr. Karim is the
current Chair.

14
HEALTHWISE
Let your food be
medicine and your
medicine be food.
Hippocrates
TUNE IN TO RAS RICO
I SELASSIE AT CKUW
95.9 FM - RADIO TO
AWAKEN THE MIND
CAULIFLOWER
Dressed Up
Low Carb Delight
Ingredients:
1 large head of Cauliflower cut
into bite size pieces (approx 6
cups)
6-8 strips of bacon cooked and
crumbled (Cooked in oven at
400° for 20 mins)
6 Tbs chopped Chives
1/2 cup Mayonnaise
1/2 cup Sour Cream
2 cups Colby Jack
Cheese ( may use
cheddar)
8 oz container sliced
mushrooms
Method
Preheat oven to 425°
In a large pot boil water and cook
Cauliflower for 8 - 10 minutes,
drain and let cool.
In a large bowl combine sour
cream, mayo, 1/2 of crumbled
bacon, 3 tbs chives, 1 cups of
cheese,mushrooms and
cauliflower and mix well... place
in baking dish and cover with
remaining 1 cup of cheese and
rest of bacon crumbles. Bake for
15-20 minutes until cheese is
melted. top with remaining 3 T
Gem of Wisdom
Layered Salad Cake in a
Pan
1 head iceberg lettuce
1/4 cup chopped purple onion
1/2 cup chopped celery
1/2 cup chopped green pepper
1/2 cup chopped, fresh mushrooms
12 oz. package frozen peas, thawed
2 cups real mayonnaise
2 Tablespoons sugar or honey
1/4 lb. grated cheddar cheese (I like
extra sharp)
1 lb. lower-sodium bacon, fried,
cooled and crumbled
Method
Remove core from
head of lettuce. Cut
head into quarters.
Carefully seperate the
lettuce layers. Put half
of them in the bottom
of a 9 x 13, glass cake
pan. Top with half of the onion,
half of the celery, half of the green
pepper, half of the mushrooms, and
half of the frozen (thawed) peas.
Combine the mayo with the sugar.
Spread half of the mayo mixture
over the salad. Top with half of the
cheese and half of the bacon.
Repeat with another salad layer,
starting with lettuce and ending
with bacon. Cover cake pan tightly
with foil. Place in refrigerator and
chill for at least 12 hours and up to
24 hours. Cut into 8 to 12 square
pieces. Salt and pepper to taste.
Serve.
If you drive a car you know of the
importance of regular tune up and
what would happen if you fail to do
so Things fall apart. Well your
relationship is no different.
Sometimes we get careless about
our relationship and think everything
is okay because no one’s complaining.
This could not be further from the
truth. Your relationship needs regular
tune up if it is to function properly.
You want to keep each other engaged,
fall in love again and again with each
other. The worst thing you can do in
a relationship is to take each other for
granted .
How to keep your relationship alive
and tuned up:
1. Show appreciation and
compassion for each other i.e.if your
partner is a bit grouchy sometimes
have compassion instead of matching
his or her mood. Ask how you can
help, it can surprise you how simple
gestures of kindness can work
wonders;
2. Have regular date nights,
invest in your relationship even if you
have to spend a few dollars in
babysitting fees. You are the core
factor in a relationship and if the core
is strong the family is strong.
3. Surprises are always fun and
appreciated. A chocolate bar, a single
rose or a love poem you wrote
yourself while at work and thinking
about your partner.
4. Go for regular walks together and
make sure you hold hands, the energy
from your hands mingle together to
create a peace, calm and lincreased
emotion. This is not for show. There
is something energetic about holding
hands. Try it often.
5. Make time to have meaningful
conversations and joke with each
other over a cup of tea or a glass of
wine. These simple tune ups will keep
your relationship fresh and positively
happier.

15 15
Leg Up
CONGRATULATIONS
TO BHM AWARD
RECIPIENTS
Victor Vaughn (R)
presents award to Greg
Gaskin
Roland Headley
presents award to
John Williams (r)
Clyde Heerah
Dr. Brian Archer presents award to Laurise Sterling (r)
Ken Opaleke (l) receives award from
Rhonda Thompson
Tionne Shell receives award
from Pastor Layne
Emaline Jackson receives award from
Mavis McLaren
Laurise Sterling, Religion
Cyntha Paton Wahl Education
Clyde Heerah - Music
Lois Patterson - Community Service
Tionne Shell - Youth
Gregory Gaskin - Community Service
John Williams - Music
Ken Opaleke - Education
Emaline Jackson - Lifetime
AchievementAward
Anna Tynes accepted Pilgrim Baptist
Church’s - Long ServiceAward
Shondell Babb accepted Lois Patter’s
Award and ... accept Cynthia Patol
Wahl’s award.
Anna Tynes receives award from Jae
Sumter
NadiaThomson, Chair of 2015 BHM
Committee

16
There was a fierce but friendly
debate between two teams
composed of young men and women
about two dominant historical
personalities when it comes to Black
History and the Civil Rights
Movement in the United States of
America that engage our
imagination. As Blacks we love and
respect both men but the question
always comes up about whose
strategy was more effective in
bringing an end to Jim Crow Laws
of segregation and systemic racism.
BE IT RESOLVED THAT Martin Luther King’s Leadership Style was
more effective than Malcolm X
The event was well attended and by
the look of pride on the faces of the
seniors in the room, you know they
were impressed by the eloquence of
each of the debater. They were all
well prepared and delivered their
arguments with conviction and
passion.
On the Martin side, the main point
driven home was that violence beget
violence and Martin prevailed
because he is the one with the
goodies, a holiday in his name and a
revered place in history. On the
Malcolm side, the argument was that
talk is cheap and if there was not a
violent reaction to the violence
meted out against Blacks we might
have still been marching for peace
and nothing to show for it.
There were no winners or losers. It
was not that kind of debate. The
debate provided an opportunity for
youths to express their opinions and
sharpen their critical thinking skills
and so they were all winners.
Michael Archer, 2nd Year, Bachelor
of Commerce student at U of M.
Sappfyre McLeod, Founder:
Bridges Building Bridges,
NGO to help youths.
Ruth Mesgna
(see p10).
Matthew Wheeler is a Financial
Educator for World Financial Group and
a member, Truth & Life Worship Centre
Lulu Lipumba, U of M sudent of Economics
- Tanzanian
Albert Hallonda, Kenyan, Business
Management student at U of M
Taffi, Science and Actuarial Mathematics
student at U of M - Zimbabwean
OPPOSING TEAM MEMBERS

BHM edition Global Eyes Magazine 2015

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