BASHY'S TUNE - BLACK BOYS

Constructive emcee, Bashy, is presenting a positive image of black boys with his pioneering tune, simply titled Black Boys.
The song is dedicated to brothas making movements towards success.
More specifically, Bashy gives props to Dizzee Rascal, So Solid Crew, Jermain Defoe, Swiss, Trevor Nelson, Sway, Kodjo, Steve Sutherland, his Father and many others.

The self-proclaimed 'social/street commentator' also puts aside his past issues with Wiley by stating "….that's why no matter what we had, I still gotta' shout out Wiley. He built a scene. Amongst us black boys he built a dream".
The fact that he mentions Wiley (credit where credit is due right?) shows Bashy's maturity as a person and an artist.

Don't worry ladies; Bashy doesn't forget the sistas, as he mentions a few "ebony dimes" like Sade, Ms Dynamite, Keisha White and others.
Also Bashy tells me a remix dedicated to us sistas, is on the way and will feature Ms Dynamite.

When asked what inspired Black Boys, Bashy explains "We don't celebrate our black people's successes and I've had enough of it".

Positive praise for black boys (and girls too) is rare, it is more likely that black boys are associated with negativity and are often stereotyped as hooligans and gun wielding thugs.
So hearing such lines as "no we ain't hooligans, just young and talented Nubians," was a refreshing delight to my ears.

The song also coincides with Black History Month which is celebrated every October in the UK.

A big shout out to Bashy, because music isn't just about who can move the most units (someone enlighten 50 Cent), it's also about sending out a message and Bashy's got it locked.

You can vote for Black Boys on MTV Base– get voting people because this song is worth it!

BLACK HISTORY MONTH 2007

October is Black History Month (BHM) in the UK and there are many events/activities that will be taking place, to enable us to reflect and learn about the contributions of the black community, celebrate their achievements and discover black history.

There are loads of things to do this month, get involved and you’ll be spoilt for choice. For more information visit your local council’s website or click here.

Happy Black History Month!

REV. JESSE JACKSON VISITS UK TO DISCUSS ECONOMIC EQUALITY

Civil rights activist Reverend Jesse Jackson, Diane Abbott, Lee Jasper, Doreen Lawrence and many other key BME figures graced the Economics of Colour conference in Westminster last week.

The conference was part of the Economics of Colour five day tour which is being headed by Rev. Jackson up and down the UK. The event commemorated the 200th anniversary of the abolition of slavery conference whilst also launching Equanomics UK, a 1990 Trust initiative which is “committed to equality through economics”. The initiative aims to “strive to change the face of equalities and provide an even playing field for all deprived members of society, through combined efforts of the grassroots, the private sector, educational institutions and political organisations”.

The conference began with a presentation showing BME (black minority ethnic) key figures such as Nelson Mandela, Angela Davies, Gandhi, Maya Angelou, Tupac Shakur and Bob Marley – just to name a few. Each figure received a round of applause and cheers as the audience stood in admiration and pride.

Tony Benn, former MP and Cabinet Minister was the first to deliver a speech and he told the audience “treat people as you wish to be treated yourself,” he then went on to say that all the great religions teach us this.

Dipen Rajyaguru from the Hindu Council UK urged that the BME community needed to “mobilise their votes” and Rajyguru called for unity in order for us to gain economic justice and empowerment.

Tahir Alam from the Muslim Council UK also called for unity and collaborative working.

Simon Woolley of Operation Black Vote declared “I am a proud descendant of a slave,” he then went on to say “to me they weren’t slaves that was my family”.

Diane Abbott who recently celebrated 20 years as an MP, touched on the issue of gang/gun crime and how it is not an issue specific to black youth but an issue that concerns disaffected, alienated poverty stricken youth. Abbott also discussed the failure of schools to black children and the desperate need for political and economical advancement of the BME community.

Rev. Jackson was last to speak and he delivered a gripping speech in which he informed the BME community that we must not “self-degrade”. The two times presidential candidate also said “in Britain we are not beggars and borrowers, we are buyers, menders, investors and builders” and we need to demand “economic power because we spend”.

EVENT: RISE FESTIVAL

Superstar artists such as Kelis, Jamelia, K'naan and one of Naija's finest – 2Face; graced the Rise festival with their presence at Finsbury Park.

For those of you who have had your eyes and ears glued to the ground, the Rise festival is a free anti-racist music event held every summer (since 2000) by the Mayor of London. The festival aims to stand against racism, fascism and promote London's diversity.

Other activities at the festival were a fair ground, children's play area and exhibitions (where you could get some freebies).

Not even the dodgy English weather could stop the thousands of people who came to watch the performances, eat some good food, enjoy the activities and the atmosphere whilst supporting a good cause on the 15th of July.

Along with the main Rise festival stage there were also six other stages which included an African Village stage (which saw the likes of 2Face), a Mela Stage (which exhibited Asian artists and culture) and an Underground Stage where unsigned artists could do their thang.

Unfortunately for me I didn't get to witness much of the other stages but what I did see at the main Rise stage was definitely worthwhile. Despite being in the pouring rain when the UK R&B hottie Jamelia began her performance, the crowd received her very well – jumping and bubbling whilst Jamelia sang her tunes which included her smash hits "Thank You" and "Superstar". Jamelia was lovely; I enjoyed her performance and judging from the crowd's cheers I'm sure they did too.

A shout out needs to go to the DJ (don't know his name - my bad) who played all the hot old school and new school jams, keeping us entertained in between performances; especially when Kelis was taking forever (don't worry she made it up to the festival goers in the end).

The boss Kelis was announced to come on stage TWICE – the second time was by Choice FM's tag team Kat and RB ("Ooh we love you RB, watch you everyday on MTV" - sorry I couldn't help myself) but still we were waiting for like a gazillion years. So when the eccentric singer finally came on stage, I was screwing but that didn't last long as my fowl mood was soon lifted by Kelis' hyped, refreshing and entertaining performance. After singing what felt like 50 songs that I wasn't familiar with, Kelis then sang all my tunes including "Bossy", "Lil Star", "Millionaire", "Trick Me" and "Milkshake" (at which point the crowd was sooooo crunked - Lil John would have been put to shame). Kelis is quite a performer - my girl was doing the tic toc, bum flicks and dropping it like it was hot; at one point I was questioning her sanity but I guess that's Kelis for you.

Sadly after Kelis' performance my legs had given up and I made my way home, without witnessing the Dustyfoot Philospher aka K'naan. However the Rise festival was still a nice event, if you missed out then that's a shame but there's always next year.

EVENT: INSPIRE

As a lover of poetry and music immediately this event captured my interest when it was brought to my attention (thank you Jadine and Serena). Inspire is a weekly open mic night dedicated to the arts (poetry, rapping, singing, comedy, dancing – I'm sure you get the picture).

So Thursday evening the girls and I made our way to NIA Bar in Camberwell, showing up early of course (cause Doyin doesn't like standing and I wanted good seats) and yes we managed to get the BEST seats in the hizzhouse, right up front (thank you Floetic Lara)!!!!!

The NIA bar (formerly known as the Cube) is a great comfy setting (especially when you have such great seats); it was definitely a nice mellow vibe. The bar fitted in with my student price range (£1.50 for soft drinks you know) and so did the free entry; so it was all good.

Now as for the actual event, WOW…I was blown away. The hostesses Floetic Lara and Lyrical Healer were just amazing hitting us with the neo-soul flavours, they were so warm, welcoming and soooo talented. The performers were great and varied; there was deep poetry from Realitie, thought provoking Hip Hop from J The Exodus, a beautiful piece was played to us by Pipes with his flute and I can't remember anymore names but everyone was fabulous!

Inspirational is an understatement because this event more than inspired me, I was touched and moved beyond belief. Inspire gets 5 out of 5 stars from me, I will definitely be going again and if anyone wants to come down as well the info is below.

INSPIRE (FREE ENTRY) @ NIA BAR – 58 CAMBERWELL CHURCH STREET, LONDON SE5 and it starts at 7pm (for open mic sign up) or 8pm-11pm for the actual show and there's a DJ till late. Oh yeah remember it's on Thursdays and for more info here is Inspire's myspace www.myspace.com/inspireevents

STEREOTYPING BLACK YOUTH......AGAIN

I discovered an article on the Telegraph newspaper website today which I thought I would bring to your attention. The article detailed the tragic murder of a man in which police believe witnesses are keeping quiet. However a poem was left on lampposts and bus stops that allegedly names the killer (who is said to be a black male) and how he disposed of the murder weapon. The article then goes on to say that the author of the poem “uses street slang which suggests he may be black himself”.

I hear so many people - young, old, from a variety of races and backgrounds that use “street slang” frequently; in fact it seems to be a fashion trend. So it amazes me that the Telegraph came to the ill-informed and stereotypicl conclusion that because the poem was written in "street slang" this “suggests he may be black”.

Click here to view the article.

BNP ARE "BIG LOSERS"

Many candidates from the neo-Nazi BNP party failed to win seats during local elections; despite there being 750 candidates this week. The BNP also lost seats that they had previously occupied, reports Black Information Link.

Click here to get the full story.

LACK OF BLOG POSTS

Hi people!

Sorry about the lack of posts, it's just I have gone into hibernation as my exams are just round the corner (wish me luck)! As soon as my exams are over I will be back to posting regular blog entries. However whilst I am gone there are websites such s The Voice, Black Information Link and New Nation; that will provide you with information in regards to "Black Youth Empowerment".

Thank you for your participation, it is much appreciated and if like myself you have got exams coming up then I wish you the best of luck.

Take care, HRH Dee xxx

BLACK CHRISTIAN LEADERS DENOUNCE PM'S COMMENTS

Black Christian leaders are saying the Prime Minister’s comments about black communities do not recognise the work the community (especially black churches) are doing to tackle criminal gangs, reports Inspire Magazine.

Bishop Joe Aldred, the Secretary for Minority Ethnic Christian Affairs for Churches Together in England, said: “I’m not sure where the Prime Minister has been, or who he’s been talking to, if he thinks black communities have not been denouncing the gangs and gang activity".

Bishop Aldred went on to say "what we need is better support for those initiatives working with young people, parents, schools, and community groups, to help to give (particularly to our young boys) some sense of a better code of behaviour, aspiration, and a sense of belonging.”

Clicke here to read more.

PRIME MINISTER PINPOINTS BLACK YOUTH

PM Tony Blair is reported to have quoted a black pastor of a London church out of context by saying "when are we going to start saying this is a problem amongst a section of the black community" in a speech he made yesterday.

Mr Blair said the recent violence should not be treated as part of a general crime wave, but as specific to black youth. He said people should forget political correctness and stop "pretending it is not young black kids doing it".

After his speech Tony Blair answered questions (in regards to the reasons behind this "proplem that is specific to black youth") and went on to say he thinks "it is to do with the fact that particular youngsters are being brought up in a setting that has no rules, no discipline, no proper framework around them."

Community leaders are angered by the Prime Minister's comments as they believe that Mr Blair is ignorant and is failing to provide support for black led efforts to tackle the problem.

Keith Jarrett, chair of the National Black Police Association, whose members work with vulnerable youngsters, said: "Social deprivation and delinquency go hand in hand and we need to tackle both. It is curious that the prime minister does not mention deprivation in his speech."

LONDON MAYOR BLAMES RAP MUSIC, TV AND FILMS

This is London reports today that the mayor of London, Ken Livingstone "launched a tirade" against violent films, tv and gangstan rap because he considers them the reason why Britain is so violent.

He claims the current spate of violence in Britain and society's moral breakdown was due to some rap music. The Mayor went on to suggest that metal detectors should be installed in all schools to stop youth knife crime.

Click here to read the article.

BLACK FATHERS TO BLAME?

The Telegraph newspaper website writes that the National Union of Teachers (NUT) urged Black fathers to take greater responsibility for their children's education to stop teenage boys turning to gun crime and gang culture.

The NUT claim many black boys had an "anti-academic" disposition but it was up to schools, parents and the pupils themselves to turn this situation around.

The issue of rap artists glamorising gun crime crept into the article also and it was stated that “many Afro-Caribbean parents themselves who have children at school have been socialised in a culture of low expectations and low aspirations".

To read the Telegraph article please click here.

I would just like to ask whether this is the “demonising” of black youth (males in particular) or do black youth have a problem with education and crime that other youth don’t? Or possibly is this a cultural problem – are black fathers to blame?

BARONESS AMOS' OBSERVATION ON SLAVERY

I found an interesting article by Baroness Valerie Amos, Leader of the House of Lords and she was recently voted the most powerful and influential black woman in Britain. In the article she gives her observations on slavery. To read the article click here.

BLACK BRITISH HISTORY BOOK

Black British History has been documented in a book titled "The Oxford Companion to Black British History" and it was reviewed in the Independent newspaper today. The book has been described as "essential reading for anyone who wants to understand the long and fascinating history of black people in the British Isles". Click here to read the review or click above to buy the book.

VIOLENCE AGAINST MUSLIMS

The British National Party (BNP) and other neo-Nazi groups are threatening violence against Muslims over plans to build a mosque, Black Information Link reports on their website today. Click here to read more.

"RACISM: A HISTORY"

A programme titled “Racism: A History” which examines the impact of racism in the 20th century was aired yesterday on BBC Four at 9pm.

The insightful programme discussed various issues such as slavery, stereotypes of black people in the media, African-Americans, colonisation, South African apartheid, Government legislation, Enoch Powel’s “Rivers of blood” speech, the civil rights movement in America, Race riots in Britain, the National Front movement, the tragic Steven Lawrence murder and the McPherson report.

The programme showed disturbing images of lynched and burnt black people in America and discussed their experiences of racism. “Racism: A History” also discussed that the humiliation and suffering of African-American’s was mirrored in Africa due to colonisation.

King Leopold was discussed also during the programme who realised the immense wealth of Africa, he deceived people by claiming to want to “educate and civilise” Africans. He created a 90,000 strong army to enforce his cruel regime. One of Leopold’s lieutenants wrote “the only way to civilise the Africans is by the whip”.
Colonisation led to an enormous loss of human life where the population of Africa was slashed from 20million to 10 million.

Dr Bambi who spoke on the programme talked about Human zoos where Africans where put on display like animals.

The Congolese genocide where 10 million people died which is greatly ignored nowadays despite the large loss of life, was voiced on “Racism: A History”.

Viewers were also enlightened about the origins of racism as a term. We were told that the word racism came about with the Nazi’s horrific treatment of the Jews.

The programme also talked about the current state of the world, how inequality still persists as those in India and Africa are living in poverty. It was said that in the United States most African-Americans are also living in poverty with the unemployment rate too times higher for black people than whites.

Lee Jasper, Senior Policy Advisor on Equalities for the Mayor of Greater London also featured on the programme in which he said: “We are still seeing an impact on black people’s lives due to racism.”

YOUNG BLACK BRITAINS ENSLAVED BY SELF-PITY

Journalist Brendan O’neil writes a piece for the Guardian comment is free section today and it is titled “Enslaved by self-pity”.

He believes that “the idea that black people are 'emotionally scarred' by slavery is borderline racist".

He then went on to write:
Young black Britons risk being enslaved by self-pity thanks to the dodgy deterministic arguments of various community workers, commentators and officials. Click here to read more.

SLAVERY APOLOGY CAUSING DISPUTE

Some members of the black community have been demanding an apology for Britain's involvement in the slave trade, and last week the Mayor of London did apologies which was published in this weeks issue of The Voice.

The Mayor writes in the paper:

The British government must formally apologise for it. All attempts to evade this are weasel words; delay demeans our country.

Some members of Britain agree however there are those who feel today's Britain doesnt have to apologise for the slave trade because it happened 200 years ago. One of those people is journalist, Mick Hume who explains his opinion in this article (click here to read).

At the commemorative event I attended on Saturday, lecturer Dr Hakim Adi (a guest speaker at the event) when asked about a slavery apology, he replied: "If Tony apologised would you believe him?" he then called the Prime Minister, Tony Blair "a here today and gone tomorrow politician".

COMMEMORATIVE EVENT FOR ABOLISHMENT OF SLAVE TRADE ACT

Tomorrow marks the 200th anniversary of the abolishment of the slave trade act in Britain and BBC London, the British Library and the Roots initiative held a commemoration event yesterday in aid of the anniversary.

The Passage of Time – Uncovering the Untold Histories of the Transatlantic Slave Trade included lectures, discussions, performances and activities that took place at the British Library.
At the start of the occasion we were introduced to singer Juwon Ogunbe who welcomed us with music by former slave turned composer Ignatius Sancho. One of the songs Ogunbe performed was titled Kate of Aberdeen. I was surprised at the powerful voice the small singer had and he belted out the songs superbly.

Actors Patrick Robinson and Jan Lower brought to life the writings of Thomas Clarkson and Olaudah Equiano with their performance.

Middlesex University lecturer and Historian, Dr Hakim Adi presented a lecture titled An Examination of the Wider Historical Context of the Abolition of the Transatlantic Slave Trade. He stated in response to the heavy media coverage about abolitionist William Wilberforce that “Africans themselves played a leading role in the abolishment of slavery”. Dr Adi gave an example of Olaudah Equiano. He also discussed how the 1807 abolishment act didn’t end slavery, even after the 1830’s when slavery itself was made illegal “Britain’s meddling” in Africa did not cease - he gave the example of colonialism. Throughout the event Dr Adi stressed that “we are our own liberators”.

Peter Herbert, a barrister and chair of the Society of Black Lawyers, addressed The Legacies of Slavery for Contemporary British People. Herbert touched on the use of the word n*gger within the black community and he said it was “not possible to celebrate such a word”.
In fact a member of the audience said she found the use of the word “black” just as offensive as n*gger because it “shows that you look at colour first” and she would rather be called “African”.

Those present where invited to document their thoughts on the Slave Trade and its Abolition in a commemorative book.

The event ended with a debate chaired by BBC London’s Dotun Adebayo. The question of “What Should the legacy of the Anniversary be?” was discussed by a panel of Dr Hakim Adi, Peter Herbert, Esther Stanford of the African reparation movement UK and assistant comment editor at The Guardian, Joseph Harker.
The audience added ideas such as a slave trade museum in London being built, a black current affairs programme on TV, a commemorative coin, killing African debt and empowering black youth.

Black youth was a subject raised throughout the event in fact one person in the audience voiced that they (the adults) should pledge to black youth to make Britain a better place. There was also focus on education as many felt that the education system and media do not present the whole picture of black history which often left black youth clueless.

I asked Paulette Harris-German, Roots Project Coordinator BBC London/Arts Council England what inspired this event and she stated: “It is important to acknowledge the contribution of Africans to this country in an artistic as well as academic way.”

Natasha Tannis, 31, teaching assistant, from Clapton stated: “Today has been a truly inspirational day; it has been a real eye opener into what happened in the history of black people. As a black mother I truly believe education is important for our young people and we need to educate our children and teach them about black history.”

The debate was recorded and will be broadcast on radio tomorrow on the Sunday Night Special with Dotun Adebayo and Valley Fontaine from 8pm to 10pm on BBC London 94.9FM.

ABOLISHMENT OF SLAVE TRADE COMMEMORATION

If you are wondering why there has been an upsurge in articles and media coverage about the slave trade then you definately need to read this post.

This sunday marks the 200th anniversary of the British Parliament's abolition of the slave trade act in 1807. However the 1833 Slavery Abolition Act outlawed slavery itself throughout the British Empire and slaves did not gain their final freedom until 1838.

Deputy Prime Minister John Prescott said Britain is to hold an annual commemoration day to remember its role in the slave trade, as well as the fight to end it. He told The Guardian daily that he expected the day would be sometime in June and said it could provide an opportunity for the country to consider how it could help modern day Africa. Prescott also stated: “Like the Holocaust, we are learning to talk about the slave trade more openly and more honestly."

The Archbishops of Canterbury and York are asking people to take time this coming weekend to reflect on the horrors of the transatlantic slave trade and use the anniversary of the Act for its abolition as a springboard for taking action to tackle the impact of the trade's legacies today, including examples of human trafficking and oppression across the globe.

Events are being held this weekend to commemorate the abolishment, in fact tomorrow I will be visiting the “Passage of Time – Uncovering the Untold Histories of the Transatlantic Slave Trade” event held at the British Library in conjunction with the BBC.

Other events that are taking place can be viewed by clicking here.

PRIMARY SCHOOL KIDS TALK SLAVERY

The Observer newspaper asked children at a Primary school in Hertfordshire about their views on the transatlantic slave trade.

To read what the 10 and 11 year olds had to say please click here.

RACIAL EQUALITY IN BRITAIN?

In the wake of the commemoration events being held this weekend (200th anniversary of the abolishment of the slave trade act in Britain), the Times journalist, Alice Miles has written an article about racial equality in Britain.

Here is an extract from her column:

The Queen will attend the service at Westminster Abbey to mark the bicentenary of the Act for the Abolition of the Slave Trade, 1807. Have you ever seen her with any black advisers? Have you seen many of them around the Prime Minister? Parliament has come up with myriad ways to commemorate the anniversary of this Act of Parliament, including a whole section dedicated to it on its website, copies of ancient parchment and what have you, but it doesn’t even officially collect figures for the ethnicity of its MPs today.

To read more please click here.

"CHAINING BLACK YOUTH TO THE VICTIM CULTURE"

Writer and lecturer Neil Davenport poses the question of: "Are the commemorations of the abolition of the slave trade helping to foster fatalism amongst young black Britons?" in his article titled "Chaining black youth to the victim culture".

The following is an extract from the article:

Nearly everyone today is encouraged to identify themselves as victims of some sort. But black youth are encouraged by anti-racists to identify themselves as perma-victims, both then (slavery) and now (all-pervasive racism). The upshot is that some black teenagers develop a fatalistic approach to their chances in study and their chances in the world beyond. ‘As a black person I don’t think I’ll ever be allowed to get on’, is a common refrain amongst some of my students. This worrying development hasn’t gone unnoticed. During the spate of shootings involving teenagers in south London last month, one veteran black community leader told BBC London News that ‘it must be acknowledged that black people don’t have it as bad now as it was in the past’.

The lecturer also writes (in regards to the commemoration events that are being held this weekend in aid of the British 200th anniversary of the abolishment of the slave trade act):

The cruellest irony of this weekend’s commemorations is that it is young black people who will lose out. Aside from fostering dodgy notions that black people are objectively driven by the hand of history, by what happened to their ancestors hundreds of years ago, a process is underway whereby the perma-victim label becomes corrosively internalised.

To read the entire article please click here.

STEREOTYPING BLACK YOUTH

I have just read something which further illustrates the representation of Black and ethnic minority youth in the media, on this website Operation Black Vote and I urge you to read the article.

BLACK AND ASIAN YOUTH REPRESENTATION

Sociology lecturer, Dr Claire Alexander from London School of Economics (LSE) university was a guest speaker at my sociology lecture this week.

Dr Alexander was talking about her research in the fields of race, ethnicity, masculinity and youth. The bubbly lecturer discussed her two books The Art of Being Black (1996) and The Asian Gang (2000).

The Art of Being Black explores how young Black Britons create their cultural identities. Dr Alexander rejects the common tendency to view black communities in terms of conflict and the book was based on her participant observation of Black British youth aged 18-25.

The Asian Gang depicted Asain youth identies and confronted myths of Bengali "gangs" whilst being based on the lives and experiences of Bangladeshi/Muslim youth aged 14-19.

Dr Alexander stated that in her books she wanted to explore the representation of Black and Asian youth, the stereotypes attributed to them and the actual experiences of these young people.

Media representation was an aspect she touched on. Dr Alexander said that Black and Asian families were often portrayed as having something wrong with them. For example she states that Black families are seen as too matriarchal due to absent fathers whereas Asian families are seen as too repressive with strict parents.

In fact this can be seen in the media today, as with the recent heavy reporting of gun crime and stabbings in the Black community has led to politicians, journalists, sociologists and ordinary members of the public including those within the Black community blaming absent fathers.

Another interesting point Dr Alexander raised that may be relevant in the current state of media representation of Black and Asian youth, is the concept of “folk devils” and "moral panics” (Stan Cohen).

These terms refer to the media portraying images to the public that demonise certain groups and this allows controls to be implemented to keep these “folk devils” restrained. For example the media portrayal of black males as muggers during the 1980’s led to moral panics amongst the public which then led to a disproportionate amount of black males being subjected to the stop and search policy.

Dr Alexander’s talk about media representation, stereotypes and moral panics led me to question whether these issues can shed light on the present representation on black youth in the media. The recent incidents of "black-on-black" crime has received heavy media coverage, whilst figures do actually show gun crime has decreased as a friend of mine - JR has illustrated in his blog "GunLondon".

Therefore the question I would like to ask is with the current heavy reporting of violent crimes in the Black community, are we witnessing “folk devils” and "moral panics"?

OPINION ON RECENT STABBINGS

Journalist Jackie Ashley expresses her opinion on the recent stabbings of Kodjo Yenga and other youngsters in today's issue of The Guardian newspaper. Ashley believes "the war against teenage violence is winnable".

She reports: "I suspect, though I cannot prove, that there is a racist tinge to the reaction of the majority. People think, but don't say, well, it's only black on black, or Asian on Asian for that matter. It is one gang of uncivilised young thugs against another (though Kodjo was neither a gang member nor a young thug). Keep out of their way, and these murders will continue but won't touch us. When the people involved are young and white, another defence mechanism kicks in: "Well, it happened outside a pub/nightclub in the small hours. If you're not young, male and drinking in the wrong place, this won't touch you."

To read more click here.

STABBED BLACK YOUTHS

Last week Wednesday saw the fatal stabbing of 16 year old Kodjo Yenga.

The Guardian reported on Friday that a post-mortem examination found that Kodjo, of Portland Road, west London, died from a single stab wound to the heart. Schoolchildren gathered and chanted "kill him" as the teenager was attacked in Hammersmith Grove on Wednesday afternoon, witnesses said.

Seven young males, all black and aged between 13 and 21, have been arrested over the murder.

Then Saturday saw another knife murder as 15 year old Adam Regis died from a single stab wound to the chest. The youngster from south-east London was the nephew of the British Olympic silver medal-winning sprinter John Regis. The police continue their hunt for "two hooded youths".

Many newspaper articles, forums and blogs are now drawing comparisons with these two terrible incidents and the three fatal shootings of black teenagers during February 2007 and are discussing the issue of “black-on-black crime”.

In fact the news has crossed the British border, with an Australian radio programme reporting that the fatal assault on Adam was the fifth gun or knife attack on a black teenager in London in six weeks, and has reinforced concerns about a growing "knife culture" in the capital.

An article I read in The Times this morning reported issues surrounding the death of Adam Regis by informing that 59% of people accused of knife robberies are black, as are 41% of people accused of knife crimes in general.

Communities secretary Ruth Kelly has played down the view that such violent attacks are widespread by stating while the deaths were tragic, similar crimes were not "sweeping the country". "Even though they are more prevalent than we'd like, [these are] still relatively isolated incidents which cause extraordinary grief and agony in particular communities."

Today on Choice FM radio station deejay Masterstepz called for parents to keep an eye on their kids and for youngsters to change their ways.

However the black community is going to need much more reassurance and assistance from the government, as a vast amount of people feel the issue of what has been dubbed “black-on-black crime” is getting out of hand.

Personally I'm tired of reading people pointing the finger, talking about what should be done without acting on and implementing their solutions and/or trying to play down such awful deaths; which may be "isolated incidents" however human life is being wasted. We need less talk and much more action.

Click here to read more about the tragic deaths of Kodjo and Adam.

FEMINISM AND ANTI-RACISM HAND IN HAND

The not widely acknowledged involvement of Feminists in the abolition of the slave trade was unmasked on the website, Black Information Link this week.

The website highlighted the link between anti-racism and feminist movements in Britain. This revelation coincides with the 200th anniversary of the abolishment of the slave trade act in Britain.

To read more click here.

FEMINIST GROUP SUPPORTS ETHNIC MINORITY WOMEN

The Fawcett Society recently launched a campaign to erase the “dual invisibility” of ethnic minority women. The society staes: “The needs and experiences of ethnic minority women have long been overlooked in public policy leading to persistent disadvantage in all areas of ethnic minority women’s lives.”

The feminist group dates back to 1866, when feminist Millicent Fawcett began her lifetime's work leading the campaign for women's votes. Nowadays the society aims to “close the gap between women and men”.

To read more about the campaign click here.

NOT SO ACKNOWLEDGED BARONESS VALERIE AMOS

With this week’s revelation of the 50 most influential and powerful Black women in the New Nation weekly black newspaper, I was busy spreading the word; however much to my surprise a lot of people were clueless.

When discussing the fact that Baroness Valerie Amos topped the list and was described in the paper as the most influential and powerful Black woman in Britain, I encountered quite a few puzzled faces.

Many people also knew little about Baroness Patricia Scotland of Asthal QC (Queen's Council) who came in at number two. It’s funny how everybody knew who Naomi Campbell is, though she only came in three places below Baroness Amos.

Baroness Amos is the first black woman cabinet minister and joint first black woman peer and the appointed Leader of the House of Lords, for those of you who want to know more please click the link above.

Baroness Scotland on the other hand is Minister of State for the criminal justice system and offender management. In fact this Sunday evening those of you who watched BBC Parliament would have seen her discussing Black Youth and Criminal Justice during a Home Affairs Committee session.

50 POWERFUL BLACK WOMEN

The New Nation, a weekly black newspaper published in Britain is celebrating their new women’s supplement launch, The F Word today.

The newspaper has revealed in this week’s issue (out today) the 50 most powerful and influential black women in Britain; in order to commemorate the launch.

The list features women from the varied fields of politics, business, entertainment, law, sport, music and medicine.



One of the Britain’s first black female judges, Constance Briscoe appears in the list. She is also well known for her powerful and critically acclaimed autobiography, Ugly which documents her life of child abuse and was an instant bestseller.

The first black female newsreader, Moira Stuart is also on the list. She regularly features on BBC television channels and is one of Britains "best-loved TV personalities".

Grammy-nominated group Floetry, who have conquered the US music industry (which very few British artists have been able to do) also appear on the list.

Sociologists such as black feminist Bell Hooks have described black women as being likely to suffer dual discrimination because of their ethnicity and sex. In some cases black women may suffer triple discrimination when class as well as ethnicity and sex are considered. Bell Hooks has written many books on race and representation, click here to view a selection.

I personally have found that black women, in fact ethnic minority women in general do not appear to have a voice and are rarely featured in British media and when they are it tends to be for negative reasons. So it is nice to see 50 black women receive positive recognition.

To find out more about the New Nation’s compiled list buy this weeks issue or click here.

DISNEY'S FIRST BLACK PRINCESS

Finally the Walt Disney Company presents a Black heroine, Princess Maddy as it was announced this week will be added to the lucrative Disney Princess line, which has generated $3 billion in global retail sales since 1999. Disney Princesses are the fastest-growing brand for the company’s Consumer Products division.

The Black fictional character will star in an animated musical fairy tale called “The Frog Princess,” which will be set in New Orleans and Walt Disney Studio’s first Black Princess will be the central star.

Princess Maddy will join eight other Disney Princesses, two of which are Middle Eastern Princess Jasmine (who was the first non-white Princess introduced in "Aladdin"1992) and Native Indian Princess Pocahontas ( "Pocahontas" 1995).

The Walt Disney Company has just recently started production on the musical fairy tale and the film is set for release in 2009.

Walt Disney Studios Chairman Dick Cook on Thursday at its annual shareholders' meeting, which also took place in New Orleans stated: "The film's New Orleans setting and strong princess character give the film lots of excitement and texture". The choice of a black princess is part of a long-term marketing strategy to give Disney characters as much "diversity" as possible.

Singer-musician Alicia Keys is reportedly desperate to lend her voice to Princess Maddy, however no announcements have been made in regards to who will voice the lead character.

It’s about time Disney got in touch with reality and reflected the multicultural world that we live in and I would like to know who YOU think should voice the character Princess Maddy?

(Click here and here to read more)

POLICEMAN USES "BRUTAL FORCE" AGAINST BLACK WOMAN

Pc Anthony Mulhall, of South Yorkshire Police, was removed from public duty this week as he was captured on CCTV footage (pictured above) using "brute force" when he struck a young black woman from Sheffield, Toni Comer "as hard as I was physically able" while arresting her.

He claims to have hit Toni Comer, who was 19 at the time, to subdue her so she could be handcuffed.

However the CCTV footage shows the violent truth in which Ms Comer falls down some stairs, whilst PC Mulhall falls on top of her and then she is pinned to the ground by Mulhall, another PC and two of the nightclub staff. PC Mulhall can be seen to deliver five punches to the young lady while a foot then appears to be placed on her body before she is dragged away with her trousers by her ankles. The footgae can be viwed here.

Chief Superintendent Ali Dizaei of the National Black Police Association called for an investigation by the Independent Police Complaints Commission, saying that it was "absolutely" a concern that race may have been an issue. But he also said that, while the video looked "appalling" at first glance, it was acceptable for officers to use force of the kind seen if it was necessary to stop the person being arrested from harming themselves or someone else.

Shami Chakrabarti, director of Liberty, said: "These images turn the stomach and raise serious questions about police misconduct.

Liberal Democrat home affairs spokesman and MP for Sheffield Hallam, Nick Clegg, said: "The violence in this footage is shocking, especially as it took place as several officers were holding down one woman."

To read more about this incident click here.

In regards to this issue the debate of whether the media are playing "the race card" or Ms Comer is actually a victim of "racial and/or police brutality" is being discussed, for example on Skynews Weblog with someone (who I am quite sure doesn't even know Ms Comer) claiming she "is a nasty piece of work and deserved the treatment she received".

Hannah Pool who writes for The Guardian presents a "black woman's perspective" on the incident and surrounding issues (clik here to read).

RACE ROW CONTINUES

Patrick Mercer's comments (which some people regard as racist) has caused an upsurge in articles, blogs and forums discussing the issue of race in Britain.

On the Times Online Janice Taylor discusses and gives her opinion in her article "Look closely. We're all goin colour-blind" by affirming that race relations in Britain are better than they were for the older generation (to read more click the link above).

The Independent's website also has an article written by Robert Verkaik which discusses another two incidents which have fuelled the current race row, which is titled "Leading British institutions gripped by racism rows".

SACKED TORY FRONTBENCHER & RACE ROW

Conservative frontbencher, Patrick Mercer was sacked yesterday over remarks that racial abuse was a normal part of army life; he claimed it is normal for a member of an ethnic minoritiy in the army to be dubbed a “black bastard” and that he "came across a lot of ethnic minority soldiers who were idle and useless, but who used racism as cover for their misdemeanours". Although Mercer still has a position in Parliament as a backbencher he now has less power but will still serve his constituents.

Mercer’s statements infuriated ethnic minorities who accused him of racism. Whether his comments are racist is being debated in various blogs and forums however it is certain that his comments do not help the bridging of the gap between the ethnic minority community and the Conservative party.



Although Mercer has apologised and claims to have been misinterpreted and states: “I am very sorry if I have caused offence to the fantastic people who I commanded, many of whom were black and ethnic minorities”, the wider issue of the relationship between ethnic minorities and the Conservative party (which is not viewed as very open to ethnic minorities and also women) still persists. An article on the Guardian website discusses this further (click here to read).

THE LAST SLAVE ON CHANNEL 4

Channel 4 will air The Last Slave, a programme where British born, David Monteith traces his ancestry back to Africa tomorrow evening at 8pm. The programme coincides with the 200th anniversary of the abolishment of the slave trade in Britain this year.

A memoir kept by David’s great, great, great grandfather, Archibald Monteith enables him to trace his background to Nigeria, Western Africa. Archibald was taken from his native African home to become a slave in Jamaica and he was one of the very few that were able to document their life story.



The Last Slave depicts David’s touching journey and reminds viewers of the harsh reality of the African slave trade and he explains: "I think the biggest way that Archie's story affects me is just to think that but for an accident of birth that could have been me. I'm black he was black, at that time you were probably a slave. That could have been me. And that thought goes through my head a lot".

The programme also reveals some shocking truths about slavery, how some Africans willingly sold others sometimes their own relatives as slaves. To find out more make sure you catch the programme tomorrow on Channel 4 at 8pm or click here for more information.

GHANA’S GOLDEN JUBILEE

Today Ghana celebrates its 50th anniversary of independence from British colonial rule and the Black Cultural Archives (BCA) has launched an exciting heritage programme to join in the festivities. The BCA were awarded a £49,000 Your Heritage grant from the Heritage Lottery Fund (HLF) and they have also received support from London Borough of Lambeth.

BCA’s Ghana Jubilee will host exhibitions, lectures, oral history projects held by elder Ghanaians, youth events and family workshops in order to explore how Ghanaian and Ghanaians in the UK have impacted on British heritage.



BCA are collaborating with the Ghana High Commission and a range of institutions and community groups in London, including the British Museum, Royal Geographical Society and the School of Oriental and African Studies to deliver its Ghana Jubilee programme.

His Excellency Mr Annan Arkyin Cato Ghana High Commissioner to the United Kingdom said: "I am pleased to lend the support of my Office to the work of the Black Cultural Archives as it seeks to enrich the cultural landscape by disseminating Black heritage in the UK. I am hopeful that the contacts between the Ghana High Commission and the Black Cultural Archives will deepen and become even more productive and enriching during Ghana's Golden Jubilee celebrations."

Paul Reid - Director, Black Cultural Archives said: “BCA’s Ghana Jubilee season is a primeopportunity for our audiences to reflect on the legacy and structures of hope put in place by Independence movements in the late 50s and early 60s. We seek to enable communities to unite to commemorate Ghana’s landmark anniversary through our diverse programme of events. From March through to August 2007, BCA will create a variety of forums for independence memories, creative and intellectual expression and visual testimony.”

ANTI-SLAVERY MARCH

It was reported today that campaigners dressed in yokes and chains, have started a 250 mile walk in order to apologise for the African slave trade and to end modern day slavery. About 20 people are taking part in the walk from Hull (home of William Wilberforce – abolitionist). This year marks the 200th anniversary of the abolition of slavery and this march highlights the debate of whether Britain should apologise for its involvement. Although the Prime Minister Tony Blair did issue a statement of “deep sorrow” some members of the black community expect a proper apology. However there are others that think an apology would be pointless.

What do YOU think?

AMAZING GRACE

This movie portrays the harsh reality of the campaign to stop the slave trade during the 19th Century in Britain, by focusing on the life of abolitionist William Wilberforce. Two characters that are depicted in the film are Olaudah Equiano (played by Youssou N'Dour) and William Wilberforce (played by Ioan Gruffudd). The UK release date is the 23rd of March.



History behind the film:

Equiano was just 11 when he was stolen from Nigeria and brought to America to become a slave. Equiano became capable of reading and writing English as his owner educated him. Eventually Equiano was able to buy his own freedom with £40 he had saved up. Once he resided in London he got involved with the abolitionist movement.
William Wilberforce, who is the leading character in the film, was a British politician and abolitionist who lead the parliamentary campaign against slavery.

To view the Amazing Grace trailer http://www.amazinggracethemovie.co.uk/

BAN THE N-WORD

February is Black History Month in the USA and Ebony Magazine has launched a campaign to “convince everyone –White and Black –that, in the future, no one should use the ‘N-word’ in any form or fashion, or for any reason.”

N*gger is a racial slur used to insult and degenerate black people. Although in present times the use of the word is frowned upon by society, it was commonly used before the civil rights movement of 1954.

Ebony is not the first to start such a campaign, as Ban The N-word (BN-W) was set up in 2004 and aims to: “Put an end to the widespread acceptance and use of this insulting, derogatory, degrading, demeaning, malicious, venomous, debilitating, and self-defeating word.”



BN-W dismisses claims that the use of the N-word amongst black people is a form of endearment. They deem the use of the word as “a passively slick form of psychological, social, mental, and spiritual abuse. It’s unfathomable, but many people have actually become immune to hearing the N-word – not good at all.”

BN-W presents their argument by making reference to other derogatory words such as kike, hooknose, wetback, spic, honky, cracker, paleface, peckerwood, blue-eyed devil, dago, wop, greaseball, guinea, chink, slant-eyes, and gook and the organisation highlights that no one refers to themselves in such a way. Also the organisation pinpoints the fact that the above words are not prominently featured on TV, radio, songs etc unlike the word N*gger.

American comedian Paul Mooney although formerly an advocate of the N-word; has stated he will no longer use the word and other people shouldn’t either, the comedian remarked: "I'm gonna stop using it. I'm not gonna use it again and I'm not gonna use the 'B word.' And we're gonna put an end to the 'N word.' Just say no to the 'N word.' We want all human beings throughout the world to stop using the N-word”. He also stated: "It's not an equal opportunity word and it's not a very nice word."

Rap artists like N.W.A (N*ggaz With Attitude) advocate the use of N*gga instead of N*gger. The use of N*gga has become a trend amongst black and non black youth, due to the mainstream popularity of Hip Hop.

Those who advocate the word’s use claim there is a difference between N*gga and N*igger. For example rapper Tupac Shakur once stated: “N*ggers was the ones on the rope, hanging off the thing; n*ggas is the ones with gold ropes, hanging out at clubs."

RACIST GUNMAN GETS LIFE

Racist gunman John Laidlaw, 24, was sentenced to life today. The BNP (British National Party) supporter promised to “kill all black people.”

He shot office worker Sheridan as she waited on a tube platform by mistake, as he was actually aiming for Evans Baptiste, 22, who is black. He then ran off through the station firing bullets and terrifying commuters.



30 minutes before this incident Laidlaw attempted to kill social worker Abu Kamara, 44, in Islington after he was merely brushed by a bag. He then pulled out his gun and shot father of three, Abu Kamara in the neck.

Laidlaw’s victim Sheridan was not seriously wounded however Abu Kamara still has the bullet stuck in his neck as Doctors fear removing it may leave him paralysed.

Laidlaw was found guilty of three counts of attempted murder and has to serve a minimum sentence of 15 years.

Innocent victim Abu Kamara stated: “This has left me mentally messed up.”

This incident illustrates that gun crime is not a problem specific to the black community, it involves everyone. It also shows how easy it is to obtain a gun and it raises the question of where are these weapons coming from.

PEACE MARCH

Yesterday’s peace march organised by Pastor Nimms Obunge, of Peace Alliance was attended by thousands as a protest against gun crime.

Members of the public, faith leaders, senior police officers and community group representatives walked two miles from Peckham to Brixton.

Lee Jasper, chief executive of the Independent Advisory Group to Operation Trident commented that the march had restored black people’s pride.

Alex Emaviwe, 20, who was present at the march stated in the London Paper: “I’m here because I want to stand together with my brothers and sisters.”

GUN CRIME SUMMIT

Prime Minister Tony Blair and home secretary John Reid hosted the gun crime summit today at Downing Street. Those who attended included senior police officers and community leaders.
At the meeting Tony Blair said he believed new legislation would be part of the solution to the gun crime problem. He stated that he acknowledged that there had to be various community efforts, however he also added that if the law wasn’t toughened up then this could send out a message of "complacency".
Mr Reid told the summit: "We will review the age sentencing element and look at bringing in a gang and aggravating element in any offence when it comes to sentencing.

However some of the community leaders present did not agree that tougher legislation was the answer.



Pastor Nims Obunge, head of the church group Peace Alliance, said: "Legislation is not the way forward. We may be raising urban child soldiers.”

Pastor Obunge also hosted a “Peace March” From Peckham to Brixton this evening. The march was backed by London Mayor Ken Livingstone, MPs, the police and leaders of all faiths. Pastor Obunge stated: “The message the community is sending out is, ‘Enough is enough’. These people are killing Londoners and it has to stop now.”

These two events have been held as a response to the fatal shootings of five Londoners (three school boys and two men) which have taken place this month alone.

Soul singer and What not to wear host, Mica Paris has personally suffered from the effects of gun crime as her brother Jason Phillips, 21, was killed in 2001. She stated: “We have to go out onto the streets and rescue our kids and bring them back home”, she then went on and said “You have to teach them right and wrong. Whatever you have to do to give them a moral structure, you have to do it.”

U21 England and West Ham footballer, Anton Ferdinand wrote in the London Paper about his experiences of growing up in Peckham and how he was saved from “the gangs clutches.” The Peckham born footballer remarked: “If I can fulfil my dream coming from the estate, so can they if they follow the right path.”

LONDON GUN PLAGUE

This month has seen the fatal shootings of four Londoners, three of which were in their teens and of Afro-Caribbean ethnicity. James Smartt-Ford, 16, was shot and killed at Streatham ice rink on the 3rd of February. Michael Dosunmu, 15, was murdered in his home in Peckham on the 6th of February. The third teenage killing was of Bill Cox, 15 who was also shot in his home in Clapham on the 14th of February.



The deaths of these black youngsters have catapulted the issue of gun crime in the black community to a national level. Amid claims of this recent wave and a drastic need for solutions, a lot of people are unaware that the black community has been fighting this battle for a long time. Trident was set up by the Metropolitan Police in order to tackle gun crime in the black community almost a decade ago (in 1998). It deeply puzzles me that it is only now the Government has felt the need to intervene, especially at a time when gun crime is actually on the decrease.

Deputy chair of the Metropolitan Police Authority, Cindy Butts was quoted as saying that there was “…..an over-representation of gun crime in black communities.” Possibly this ordeal could be viewed as a moral panic elevated by the media.

Tony Blair remarked "It is about a specific problem within a specific criminal culture to do with guns and gangs, which doesn't make it any less serious, incidentally, but I think it's important therefore that we address that actual issue."
Tony is considering lowering the age of the five year compulsory sentence for carrying a gun to the age of 17, whilst the current age is 21. He has also stated that he is thinking about criminalising gang membership and there will be a summit held tomorrow (22cnd Feb) at Downing Street to further discuss gun crime.

The Conservative party leader, David Cameron responded to the problem by focusing on family values and absent fathers, who he claimed needed to play a part in bringing up their kids.

Sir Menzies Campbell, leader of the Liberal Democrats gave a more profound statement by stating “All young people should feel they have a stake in society - effective schooling, more engaged youth services and better community support are all needed to help young people escape the cycle of deprivation and gang culture."

In your opinion what are the causes of gun crime and what are your suggestions for tackling this problem?