LaSheba Baker's Blog

Dear Reader,

I would like to say thank you for your support of my blog for the past six years. I have decided to retire the Sankofa Newsletter Blog at this time to focus on new endeavors. The blog will continue to be online to serve as a resource for learning and intellectual curosity. But no new posts will be uploaded. Publishing this blog helped me grow and expand my knowledge base. I hope by sharing the information that it helped you grow as well.

The birth of this blog started by a chance conversation with a young lady in 2019. I arrived one morning to a retail chain store and gathered items to purchase. While the cashier checked me out, she asked permission to know my opinion about current socio-political events occuring in the United States. And how it would specifically effect the African American population. This unknown (to me) young lady posed very good questions and I was impressed with her search for knowledge. I answered her questions using different sources and my opinion on the matter. When I finished my explanation she said that she understood the subject better now. She ended by saying: “The Lord sent you to tell me that.” Then she added: “Where are you on social media? Why aren’t we hearing this?” I told her I was not on social media. But I have an email list that is sent to friends about pertinent news articles. I indicated would be happy to add her to the recipent list. She gave me her email address.

As I left the store, I found it interesting no other customers had entered until our conversation was over. For a few days after, I continued to think about that conversation. I had already planned to start a blog in the future that would talk mainly about science and my own research. I thought it was best to publish it once I was accepted to PhD college level studies. I began to question my plan. I prayed and asked the Lord his will for the situation. The Lord’s response to my spirit was loud and clear: “Start the blog now!” So I did. I recognized my encounter with that young lady in the store was not by chance, it was providence.

The word Sankofa originates from the Twi language of the Akan tribe of Ghana, West Africa. The formal definition of the term means: “it is not taboo to fetch what is at risk of being left behind” or more simply put “go back and get it.” The Akan people believe the past and the future are eternally intertwined and any pursuit of knowledge must demonstrate this philosophical understanding. Thank you for being a part of my sankofa journey. And thank you for allowing me to play a small part in your own sankofa journey.

Wishing each of you all the best!

LaSheba

“Danny Gokey – Haven’t Seen It Yet (Acoustic)”
Danny Gokey on YouTube

Culture, History, & News

Ancient Babylon

The ancient city-state of Babylon was located in Mesopotamia between the Tigris and Euphrates Rivers. The city was known for wealth, power, and its pursuit of the arts. Their king introduced the world to the Hammurabi Code: a set of written cuneiform laws set in stone for the public to view. After falling into apostasy, the Israelites were punished by the Lord and taken into captivity to Babylon. While Israel was in exile, the divine wisdom of Daniel would elevate him to a position of prominence in this foreign kingdom. Babylon has a reputation in the Christian Bible as a spiritual place of materialism and ungodliness.

“After falling into apostasy, the Israelites were punished by the Lord and taken into captivity to Babylon.”

According to the short book: Babylon: A History From Beginning to End by Hourly History (2018): the king encouraged higher learning in many areas. The Babylonians were polytheistic, similar to the Assyrians: “[King] Hammurabi encouraged the pursuit of art, science, music, mathematics, literature, and astronomy, and the center of the city was dominated by a mighty ziggurat, a stepped pyramid…” (p. 12). “The Assyrians and Babylonians worshipped many of the same gods, and Marduk, the god who brought order out of chaos, was one of the most revered” (p. 24). 1

Ziggurat of Ancient Mesopotamia
“The Babylonians were polytheistic, similar to the Assyrians.”

The Israelite exiles in Babylon were to serve a prophetic sentence of seventy years for their apostasy. A young Daniel was among this group of Israelites. He and three other youths (Shadrach, Meshach, & Abednego) were chosen by the king to be advisors. Daniel (whose name was changed to Belteshazzar) had the divine wisdom to interpret dreams and Babylonian kings would often seek his counsel on matters of state. Even in a foreign land, that worshipped other gods than the monotheistic Israelites, the Lord allowed Daniel to rise to a position of power. The Bible states: “Then this Daniel was preferred above the presidents and princes, because an excellent spirit was in him; and the king thought to set him over the whole realm” (Holy Bible KJV Daniel 6:3). Later, jealous rivals would plot against Daniel and have him thrown into a den of lions. The Lord intervenes by sending an angel to protect him from harm.

“Later, jealous rivals would plot against Daniel and have him thrown into a den of lions.”

Babylon began as a small port town and grew into one of the most powerful city-states in the region. It also gained great enemies in the form of other nations, such as: the Assyrians, Hittites, Elamites, Persians and Macedonians (northern Greece). Babylon would eventually be conquered by Cyrus the Great, the King of Persia and Alexander the Great of Macedonia. 2

“Babylon began as a small port town and grew into one of the most powerful city-states in the region.”

The polytheistic Babylonians would be introduced to Christianity in the first and second centuries C.E. In the year 638 C.E., Muslim rule would weaken Christianity in the Mesopotamian region. By the mid-seventh century, the Babylon of old no longer existed. It was subjected to the rule of the Rashidun Caliphate. 3 The city’s reputation would live on through Biblical scripture as a spiritual place of materialism and ungodliness.

Bibliography

(1, 2, 3) History, Hourly. Babylon: A History From Beginning to End (Mesopotamia History) Kindle Edition. October 29, 2018.

*Reposted article from the June 2023 Edition.

“Daniel: The Writing on the Wall | Daniel 5 | King Belshazzar | Nebuchadnezzar eating grass”
GIDEON Films on YouTube

“The Story of Daniel in the Bible | Courage in the Lion’s Den | Bible Stories”
Bible Stories in Black on YouTube

“Book of Daniel Summary: A Complete Animated Overview”
Bible Project on YouTube

“A day in the life of an ancient Babylonian business mogul – Soraya Field Fiorio”
Ted-ed on YouTube

“THE BOOK OF DANIEL | Full Christian Movie – Starring Lance Henriksen, Robert Miano”
Pinnacle Peak Christian Movies on YouTube

Art/Film/Literature News

China Cry

Sung Neng Yee (later known as Nora Lam) was coming of age in 1950s China. It was a pivotal time as communist beliefs began to move through the nation. The movie: China Cry (1990, PG-13, running time 1 hour 46 minutes) is based on the true story of her life. She was a teacher who was subjected to political persecution for her personal convictions and religious beliefs. The movie’s foreword about the events of this time-period states: “It happened a decade before China’s Great Cultural Revolution and some thirty years before the bloody history of Tiananmen Square.” A very good movie to watch!

*Reposted article from the January 2025 Edition.

“China Cry (1990) | Full Movie | Julia Nickson-Soul | Russell Wong | James Shigeta | France Nuyen”
Vision Video on YouTube

Business/Non-Profit/Inspirational News

God Ordained Spouses

How do you know if the person you are dating is your potential spouse? Ask God! Shanique Beckford Ministries and Wisdom Speaks Life provide excellent instruction and guidance on the topic of God ordained spouses (their videos are posted below). Remember, it is better to be in the will of the Lord for your life and marriage than to be unequally yoked in a marriage chosen by your own natural understanding. Instead, be obedient to the supernatural wisdom of the Lord Almighty. Obedience is better than sacrifice.

To have a God ordained spouse does not mean your marriage will be free of trials. But what it does mean, is the Lord approves of your union to glorify his kingdom and expose the enemy Satan. Whom the Lord loves and approves, he chastises and also blesses. Watch these inspirational videos for more insight on the topic!

*Reposted article from the November 2024 Edition.

“Do I Choose My Own Spouse or Does God Choose for Me?”
Shanique Beckford Ministries on YouTube

“My Testimony: I Caught My Fiancé In Bed With Another Woman. Signs I Ignored…”
Wisdom Speaks Life on YouTube

“What Actually Happens When You Meet Your SOULMATE?”
Love with the Robertsons on YouTube

Book Review

An Interview with Farida Nabourema

The short book: An Interview with Farida Nabourema (2021, 16 pages, kindle edition) by Dwayne Wong (Omowale) is a two part interview the author conducted via email with Farida Nabourema for the Huffington Post (2017). Ms. Nabourema is a Togolese writer and activitist who provides her perspective on politics and corruption in her homeland. She makes intelligent observations about military dictatorship rule, colonalism, democracy, and the future of Africa. A great read!

Book Quotes:

“Togo has a very peculiar story. It is a land of refuge of several tribes who fled persecution from all over the places in West Africa.”

“I have always felt like we Africans who have voluntarily migrated to the United States were able to do so because those who were forced to settle there as slaves fought for their liberation…”

“We are fighting for the freedom of our people from all form of oppression and democracy is a tool to reach that freedom.”

“Is your country at risk of becoming a dictatorship? Here’s how to know | Farida Nabourema”
Ted on YouTube
March 2019

News Videos (6)

“Texas braces for impact of Medicaid funding cuts and new rules”
KPRC 2 Click 2 Houston on YouTube
July 4th, 2025

“ICE to issue $8M in fines to 3 Colorado businesses for illegal employment practices”
FOX 31 Denver on YouTube
April 30th, 2025

“Details on the “Alligator Alcatraz” immigration detention center”
CBS News on YouTube
July 1st, 2025

“Supreme Court allows Trump to deport migrants to third countries”
NBCLA 4 on YouTube
June 23rd, 2025

“U.S. court clears deportation of migrants to South Sudan”
CGTN Africa on YouTube
July 4th, 2025

“Trump floats possibility of deporting American citizens”
New York Post on YouTube
July 1st, 2025

Thoughts About Ethnicity

The world is a diverse place of people, languages, beliefs, and ethnicity. Russia has more than 120 ethnic groups, the Philippines has more than 180 ethnic groups, and Nigeria has more than 250 ethnic groups. But what is ethnicity?

According to the book, Introduction to Sociology 2e (2015): “Ethnicity is a term that describes shared culture- the practices, values, and beliefs of a group. This culture might include shared language, religion, and traditions, among other commonalities (p.227).” 1 Ethnicity can also involve the belief in a common ancestry. And it can differ among the same race or nationality.

“Ethnicity can also involve the belief in a common ancestry.”

“Historically, the concept of race has changed across cultures and eras, and has eventually become less connected with ancestral and familial ties, and more concerned with superficial physical characteristics” (p. 226). 2 As previously mentioned on this blog: 1.) race has several elements, 2.) racism exists as a system of power, 3.) racism has roots as a war strategy in the Transatlantic Slave Trade (maritime approx. 1482 C.E – 1850 C.E), and 4.) being the same race as the dominant power group in society grants automatic benefits of cultural capital and social rewards. But it does not make these individuals immune from personal hardships, nor does it mean they all will engage in acts of discrimination. Although, it is recognized others will.

“However, once aboard the Transatlantic slave ships, the human cargo began to have their cultural identities replaced with the label of “African Slave.”

We must remember that ancient Africa was a diverse continent made up of multiple nations, languages, cultures, and ethnic groups. However, once aboard the Transatlantic slave ships, the human cargo began to have their cultural identities replaced with the label of “African Slave.” You were no longer a Bantu, Igbo, or Akan. For example, France and Germany are on the same continent of Europe, but they are recognized as different nations with their own cultures. The continent of Africa also had several different nations in antiquity. Today, the large continent of Africa maintains its cultural diversity with its 54 nations.

“The new population of Africans, to a land that would later become the United States, created their own traditions, such as “jumping the broom” to celebrate weddings…”

The multiple ethnic groups of enslaved Africans brought to the Americas, were forcefully amalgamated into a single ethnic Black population. Those who survived the Middle Passage sea voyage were typically “seasoned” in the Caribbean islands and then distributed through-out the Western Hemisphere. They had to adjust to tragic standards of inhumanity in these foreign lands. These circumstances created a new singular ethnicity in most New World regions. This Black population intermarried, engaged in slave revolts together, and began to create their own cultural identity, while being shackled in a hostile nation.

The new population of Africans, to a land that would later become the United States, created their own traditions, such as “jumping the broom” to celebrate weddings, spiritual hymns sung in the cotton fields to teach about being a runaway slave, and amazing food created from the scraps thrown to them from the enslavers. As time progressed, generations of their offspring would continue to define their culture through music, art, literature, intellectualism, and culinary expertise. Just to name a few.

“Some people of the same race can have a different ethnicity.”

African Americans, who are the ancestral survivors of enslaved Africans, have little knowledge about their early ethnic origins due to enforced historical amnesia. However, the DNA testing company African Ancestry, allows individuals to trace their origins. They claim to have the largest African genetic database. Based on your results, they can match you to similar genetic sequences, that have a probability of being your same ethnic group.

Ethnicity on its own is not testable. But biology can be tested and population genetics can infer ethnicity. The company states its results can trace a genetic family line backwards of 500-2000 years. This testing method can assist individuals in search of their ethnic origins. Some people of the same race can have a different ethnicity. For example, these ethnic differences can be seen in the nations of Nigeria, Russia, and the Philippines.  

“While on vacation some years back, in Reykjavik, Iceland, I had lunch at a Haitian-Icelandic fusion restaurant near the old harbor.”

Nationality is related to a people within the same geographical area who share a similar culture and common historical identity. If they are a recognized nation on the world stage, their citizens can travel abroad with a passport that designates their nationality (the nation to which they belong). People can have dual citizenship or surrender their nationality for another one.

But what can be quite enjoyable is when ethnicity, race, and nationality blissfully collide-especially in the kitchen! While on vacation some years back, in Reykjavik, Iceland, I had lunch at a Haitian-Icelandic fusion restaurant near the old harbor. The restaurant owners were a husband and wife team. The fish stew served was a generous portion and very flavorful. There I was, an African American eating Haitian fusion cuisine in Iceland. And loving every bite of it!

Bibliography

(1, 2) Griffiths, Heather and Keirns, Nathan. Introduction to Sociology 2e. Openstax. April 24, 2015. Houston, Texas. https://openstax.org/books/introduction-sociology-2e/pages/11-1-racial-ethnic-and-minority-groups 

For Additional Reading

Thought Co.: Understanding the Difference Between Race and Ethnicity (2021)

https://www.thoughtco.com/difference-between-race-and-ethnicity-2834950

Note: 1.) The African Ancestry DNA company was previously mentioned in the August 2019 Edition, to view the full edition click here. 2.) The article “Thoughts About Ethnicity” was first published in the March 2022 Edition, to view the full edition click here. 3.) Correction: I misremembered the restaurant as Jamaican fusion but it was actually Haitian fusion cuisine. I found their business card and have added this correction to the repost article.

Videos (5)

“ITALO-AMERICANS vs. ITALIANS IN ITALY”
Tia Taylor on YouTube

“TAKING MY ITALIAN HUSBAND TO BERTUCCI’S!”
Carlo and Sarah on YouTube

“Wifey tries 𝐍𝐈𝐆𝐄𝐑𝐈𝐀𝐍 snack, 𝐂𝐇𝐈𝐍-𝐂𝐇𝐈𝐍!”
Ling and Lamb on YouTube

“Sky Houston Talks Retracing Our African Roots with Dr. Gina Paige”
Majic 102.1 on YouTube

“DNA GPS tracking – How to find geographical origins from DNA”
Eran Elhaik on YouTube

Carnival Dance Show
Indonesia

Culture, History, & News

National Fibroid Awareness Month

Fibroids are uterine tumors that effect women of child-bearing age. Some women with fibroids are asymptomatic, while others struggle with pelvic pain, heavy menstrual bleeding, and infertility. July is National Fibroid Awareness Month and what better time than this to discuss this important women’s reproductive health issue.

“According to U.S. national estimates, African American women have higher rates of fibroids and are twice as likely to have a hysterectomy for the condition, compared to European American women.”

Typically, fibroids are noncancerous tumors that will effect two-thirds (66%) of women by the time they reach the age of 50 years old. 1 According to U.S. national estimates, African American women have higher rates of fibroids and are twice as likely to have a hysterectomy for the condition, compared to European American women. The reason for these racial disparities remains unclear, but research has identified some risk factors, such as: Vitamin D deficiency, obesity, genetics (family history), stress, and early age onset of menses. 2 It has also been indicated that fibroids have more receptor sites for the hormones of estrogen and progesterone than normal uterine muscle cells usually do. 3

“Some women may also chose homeopathic medicine for alternative treatment methods.”

The treatment plan for fibroids depends on whether a woman has symptoms, the size and amount of tumors, and the desire to maintain fertility. The surgical options include hysterectomy or myomectomy. There is a growing option of minimally invasive procedures, such as uterine fibroid embolization (UFE). Some women may also chose homeopathic medicine for alternative treatment methods. Dr. Christine Adams, M.D.-Ph.D. in her book: Homeopathic Medicine: The Complete Guide to Homeopathic Medicine and Treatment of Common Disorders (2014, 181 pages, kindle edition) discusses natural ingredients to treat the disorder.

The future research trend is for a more inclusive approach to different racial populations and risk factors. According to Dr. Erica Marsh, M.D. a lead researcher at Michigan Medicine: “Research has taught us that if you’re not included, then you’re not represented. We want to make sure research is inclusive and reflective of everyone affected by this disease.” 4 The current preventative measures is to reduce risk factors as appropriate (healthy weight and diet), identify if fibroids are in your family history, maintain a yearly gynecological wellness check-up, and seek early intervention if diagnosed with fibroids. Take care of yourself!

Bibliography

(1, 2, 4) Mostafavi, Beata. “Understanding Racial Disparities for Women with Uterine Fibroids.“ Michigan Medicine: The University of Michigan. August 12, 2020. Accessed online on June 27, 2023: https://www.michiganmedicine.org/health-lab/understanding-racial-disparities-women-uterine-fibroids

(3) Mayo Clinic Staff. “Uterine Fibroids.” Mayo Clinic in Rochester, Minnesota. September 21, 2022. Accessed online on June 27, 2023: https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/uterine-fibroids/symptoms-causes/syc-20354288

*Reposted article from the July 2023 Edition.

“Erin Gets Diagnosed With Fibroids (It Got Real Episode 1)”
Clevver Style on YouTube

“Pregnant with Fibroids”
Spears Fam on YouTube

“Shrink FIBROIDS (Little Known Scientific Fix) 2023”
Ken D Berry MD on YouTube

“Dialogue with the Doctors: The Latest in Fibroid Treatments”
The White Dress Project: We Can Wear White on YouTube

*Disclaimer: Sankofa Newsletter does not provide medical advice or treatment. Articles are for informational purposes only. Consult your physician/health care provider for any questions or concerns.

Art/Film/Literature News

Destination: Planet Negro

In the mood for a little sci-fi, social commentary, and a dose of political satire? Then watch Destination: Planet Negro (2013) and get all three aspects in one unique and funny film. The premise involves three explorers (and Strom) who in 1939 take off for the planet Mars to establish a black colony. They unknowingly experience a time travel wormhole and actually land in modern-day Kansas City, Missouri. Let the culture shock begin. This is a great film to watch for laughs, intelligent stimulation, and then more laughs. Be sure to watch pass the end credits as there is a final entertaining scene.

*Reposted article from the April 2020 Edition.

“DESTINATION PLANET NEGRO by Kevin Wilmott – Official Trailer”
Film Is Now Movies on YouTube

“Destination Planet Negro (Free Full Movie) Kevin Willmott”
Popcorn Flix on YouTube

Business/Non-Profit/Inspirational News

Husband and Wife, Founders of #1 Black Doctor-Owned Vitamin Company, Tap Dr. Jay Barnett as Brand Spokesman

“ Black News.com: Husband and Wife, Founders of #1 Black Doctor-Owned Vitamin Company, Tap Dr. Jay Barnett as Brand Spokesman to Advocate for a Healthier Black Community”
June 20th, 2025

ProBLK Health Vitamins

The husband and wife duo, Darian McDaniel and Dr. Karleena Tuggle-McDaniel, are entrepeneurs in the health vitamin industry. Their company ProBLK Health Vitamins seeks to improve the health of African Americans and reduce health disparities. The couple has partnered with Dr. Jay Barnett, a mental health advocate, to push their mission even more forward. According to Black News.com: “With Black Americans experiencing some of the worst health outcomes in the country—including higher rates of vitamin and mineral deficiencies, chronic illness, and untreated mental health conditions—this partnership is about action, awareness, and access.”

“HOW PROBLK HEALTH STARTED”
ProBLK Health Vitamins on YouTube

Book Review

Beautiful Foolishness

Ling and Lamb offer helpful tips for a happy marriage and peaceful home in their book: Beautiful Foolshness (2025, 209 pages, kindle edition). They share experiences with financial difficulty, goal setting, and having a social media presence. They discuss being in an intercultural marriage (Ling is American & Lamb is Nigerian) and how they learn from each other.

The book alternates between the views of each spouse and every chapter ends with a list of key takeaways. A very good and uplifting read!

Book Quotes:

“Each marriage has a unique love language.”

“I feel like I manifested Ling even before I came across her…I used to pray for my marriage. I used to bless my future wife even before I knew who she was.”

“Our response to other people’s opinions of our marriage is, Don’t project your martial beliefs on us.” 

“Asking Hubby if he still loves me?”
Ling and Lamb on YouTube Shorts

“Did you marry someone who’s 𝐍𝐎𝐓 your type physically?!”
Ling and Lamb on YouTube

News Videos (6)

“Debate underway in the Senate on Trump’s big bill, but overnight voting is delayed”
12 News on YouTube
June 30th, 2025

“Trump, Ice And The National Guards”
ATLAH Worldwide on YouTube
June 9th, 2025

“Marines arrive in LA as city prepares for ‘No Kings’ protests”
ABC 7 on YouTube
June 14th, 2025

“Cuban-Americans worried, divided by Trump policies”
KTVU Fox 2 San Francisco on YouTube
May 27th, 2025

“Trump Voter Cries After ICE Takes His Workers”
The Majority Report with Sam Seder
June 13th, 2025

“LA Protests: Senator Padilla’s removal triggers political divide”
ABC 10 on YouTube
June 13th, 2025

June 19th, 2025

Happy Asian American, Native Hawaiian, & Pacific Islander Herit

Fire on the Beach: Recovering the Lost Story of Richard Etheridge and the Pea Island Lifesavers
by David Wright & David Zoby (335 pages, 2002, hardcover)

Fire on the Beach

Discover a valuable gem of information on Richard Etheridge and his all Black crew of surfmen in the U.S. Life-Saving Service (LSS) on Pea Island, North Carolina. Fire on the Beach: Recovering the Lost Story of Richard Etheridge and the Pea Island Lifesavers (335 pages, 2002, hardcover) by David Wright & David Zoby is an excellent book. The authors did an exceptional amount of research to provide many historical details on the topic. I am very appreciative of their work.

“He fought against the southern Confederacy during the American Civil War (1861-1865).”

The book is divided into three sections about Richard Etheridge’s life. The first part focuses on his early life as a slave in North Carolina and his Union Army enlistment into 36th U.S. Colored Troops (USCT). He fought against the southern Confederacy during the American Civil War (1861-1865). The book also pays homage to the 54th Massachusetts Colored Volunteer Infantry Regiment featured in the movie Glory (1989). The second part is an introduction to the Life-Saving Service (LSS) in North Carolina. The LSS was an early forerunner to the U.S. Coast Guard Service. The third part reveals the life of a surfman with all its challenges and the heroism of the Pea Island crew.  

“The Black Pea Island surfmen would go on to to rescue the crew of the E.S. Newman amid extremely hazardous conditions.”

The historical details cover the experiences of Black Civil War soldiers (e.g. lower wages compared to White soldiers, racism on the battlefield & in the military ranks, and their ability to liberate other slaves, including their wives, children, and other family members.) There are highlights of the Reconstruction period (1865-1877) and how the advances of African-American freedmen, fell victim to anti-Black socio-political sabotage to maintain racism as the status quo. The Black Pea Island surfmen would go on to to rescue the crew of the E.S. Newman amid extremely hazardous conditions. On March 5th, 1996 they were rewarded for their ingenuity and brave rescue of the E.S. Newman with the Gold Life-Saving Medal, given posthumously by the U.S. Coast Guard.  

“African Americans are the ancestral survivors of these people who fought against the inhumanity of chattel slavery when they could and the best they could.”

Unfortunately, half-truths and racist tropes still exist today about the plight of enslaved Africans in America. African Americans are the ancestral survivors of these people who fought against the inhumanity of chattel slavery (1619-1865, 246 years), when they could and the best they could. That part of the story needs to be told more often. And this book does a good job revealing that side of the story. African Americans participated in their own liberation from chattel slavery when they could through various means: as run away fugitives, plantation slave revolts, lawsuits, and enlistment into the Union Army during the American Civil War.   

“But there is recognition of a common thread of similarity when people feel entitled to own other people.”

Finally, I remember many years ago the artist formerly known as Prince claimed unfair dealings in the music industry was a form of slavery. He even wore the word “Slave” on his face in public. This is not a comparison of chattel slavery to unfair contractual dealings. Because these two issues are very different. But there is recognition of a common thread of similarity when people feel entitled to own other people. So, when statements are made to degrade the dignity and plight of enslaved Africans due to ignorance, racist half-truths, or attention-seeking behavior, remember these people had a nation and laws working against them while living in a foreign country. A lot of food for thought. I appreciate the outstanding research done in this book to help restore the dignity of these remarkable people. And tell their side of the story.

Book Quotes:

“Hurricanes and nor’easters could rise up from the Atlantic with no warning, stunning and destroying whole fleets at once.”

“And the black troopers put their confidence in their officers. One, First Lieutenant James Backuss, was excused from the fight because of lameness…but he disobeyed orders to stay with the men and lead them into battle. It was men liked Backuss who exemplified what was best about the white officers.”

“Blacks made up about 11 percent of the Union Army when the fighting ended. By the fall, with the large numbers of white volunteer regiments demobilized, the percentage of USCT jumped suddenly to 36 percent of the active forces.”

*Reposted book review article from the May 2024 Edition.

Sink or Swim: African-American Lifesavers of the Outer Banks by Carole Boston Weatherford
(96 pages, 1999)

*Note: I have already read Sink or Swim: African-American Lifesavers of the Outer Banks by Carole Boston Weatherford (96 pages, 1999) for young readers. To view this book review in the August 2020 Edition, click here.

For Additional Reading

1.) Outer Banks Coastal Life: Richard Etheridge: An Outer Banks Hero (2018) 
https://outerbankscoastallife.com/richard-etheridge-outer-banks-hero/

2.) The Outer Banks Voice: New Bridge Dedicated to OBX Hero Capt. Richard Etheridge (2018)

https://www.outerbanksvoice.com/2018/02/21/new-bridge-dedicated-to-obx-hero-capt-richard-etheridge/

3.) Country Living: The 35 Most Beautiful Lighthouses in America  
https://www.countryliving.com/life/travel/g2422/the-30-prettiest-lighthouses-in-america/?slide=35

Videos (5)

“What is Juneteenth? History behind holiday celebrating the end of slavery”
ABC 7 News Bay Area on YouTube
June 19th, 2020

“Juneteenth: What You Need to Know | History”
History on YouTube

“Celebrating Black History Month on the Outer Banks – Richard Etheridge”
Roanoke Island Festival Park on YouTube

“Glory 1989 Trailer”
Militarist on YouTube
Starring Denzel Washington, Morgan Freeman, & Matthew Broderick

“Prince – The Holy River”
Prince on YouTube

Culture, History, & News

Sami Blood

What does it mean to assimilate into a more dominant culture? Are you allowed to retain your own cultural identity or adopt the customs of another group? Amanda Kernell explores these questions in her first feature film Sami Blood (2017). The film introduces two sisters, Elle-Marja and Njenna, who are Sami students at a government school in 1930s Sweden. During this time in history, the school was established to assimilate Sami children into the more dominant Swedish culture and was also a period of systematic racism against them.

“Sami Blood has amazing views of nature and a good story line of how the sisters cope with discrimination and racism.”

The Sami are an indigenous population that are semi-nomadic reindeer herders found in Sweden, Finland, Norway, and Russia. They also have a beautiful old song tradition known as Joik. Today in Sweden, many Sami have retained their cultural pride and have acquired political representation in the Sami Parliament.

Sami Blood has amazing views of nature and a good story line of how the sisters cope with discrimination and racism. You should definitely watch this film! It is available for rental on YouTube with English subtitles. Filmmaker Amanda Kernell is herself of Sami ancestry and speaks openly about her own older relatives who deny their ethnic origins. See the interview video of her at the end of this post.

*Reposted article from the May 2019 Edition.

“Sami Blood – Official Trailer”
Madman Films on YouTube
2018

“Sami Blood: Amanda Kernell director – interview”
Brave New Hollywood on YouTube
2017

“Amanda Kernell: SAMI BLOOD”
Mark Gordon Center Stage on YouTube
2017

Art/Film/Literature News

Two Zions

The diplomatic meeting between Jerusalem and Sheba took place over three thousand years ago. The documentary: Two Zions: The Living Legacy of the Queen of Sheba and King Solomon (2015, 58 minutes) directed by Cheryl Halpern explores the meeting between King Solomon (Jerusalem) and Queen Makeda (Sheba). Both Ethiopian Orthodox Christians and Ethiopian Jews have cultural and religious connections to this historic encounter.

It is important to remember the Black race was not absent in antiquity and not absent in biblical history. William Dwight McKissic, Sr., provides biblical and spiritual identity to the African diaspora in his book: Beyond Roots: In Search of Blacks in the Bible (1990 & 2017, 76 pages). He reminds the reader: 1.) “Ethiopia is the oldest Christian country on the face of the Earth…” (p.50). 2.) “The Bible was translated from Greek to Geez, the native Ethiopian language, in the fourth and fifth centuries by Syrian and Ethiopian scholars…” (p.66). 1 

“There is the possibility of Jerusalem Jews being a part of the queen’s returnee royal entourage home.”

Most Ethiopians claim the Queen of Sheba as their own. Through her son Menelik, believed to be fathered by Solomon, established a legendary Ethiopian-Solomonic dynastic rule. There is the possibility of Jerusalem Jews being a part of the queen’s returnee royal entourage home. The Bible speaks of her: “And when the queen of Sheba heard of the fame of Solomon concerning the name of the Lord, she came to prove him with hard questions” (1 Kings 10:1 KJV Holy Bible). This queen and the land she ruled was the biblical inspiration for my own name.

“We must remember, the population migrations of these ancient nations involved trade partnerships, conquest, and inter-marriage (especially arranged political marriages between nations), in a region of the world composed of various people of color groups.”

Ethiopia is not alone in its claim to the Queen of Sheba. There is some geo-historical rivalry with Yemen who also claim this queen. However, it is quite possible her ancient kingdom included both present day Ethiopia and Yemen. We must remember, the population migrations of these ancient nations involved trade partnerships, conquest, and inter-marriage (especially arranged political marriages between nations), in a region of the world composed of various people of color groups. These population migrations occurred among the ancient world, just as it occurs today.

The documentary explains very well the royal relationship between Jerusalem and Sheba. It addresses something I already suspected about the queen’s returnee royal entourage home. It confirms her son, Menelik, after meeting his father Solomon had Jerusalem Jews in his entourage home to Sheba. Per the film: “From each tribe [of Jerusalem Jews] they sent their first born and one thousand people” (time-stamp 20:45). 2 The Bible establishes diplomatic missions involved the exchange of gifts. It states: “And king Solomon gave unto the queen of Sheba all her desire, whatsoever she asked, beside that which Solomon gave her of his royal bounty. So she turned and went to her own country, she and her servants” (1 Kings 10:13 KJV Holy Bible). A good film to watch!

The film is available for rental on Amazon, to view click here.

*Reposted article from the September 2024 Edition.

Bibliography

( 1 ) McKissic, William D. Beyond Roots: In Search of Blacks in the Bible. United States: Renaissance Productions, 2017. p. 50 & 66.

( 2 ) Cheryl Halpern. Two Zions: The Living Legacy of the Queen of Sheba and King Solomon. HQ Creative Studio, 2015. https://www.amazon.com/Two-Zions-Living-Legacy-Solomon/dp/B08FR8PG8W

“Two Zions: The Living Legacy of the Queen of Sheba and King Solomon (Trailer)”
HQ Creative on YouTube

“Pnina Tamano-Shata, first Israeli-Ethiopian woman MP, speaks with @EHochenberg and @AmiKaufman”
i24 News English on YouTube
November 2017

“Zionism is not the same as Judaism | Quotable”
AL Jazeera English on YouTube
October 2023
Rabbi Yisroel Dovid Weiss، Activist and Spokesman for Neturei Karta, talks to Al Jazeera

Business/Non-Profit/Inspirational News

Jupiter’s Foodie Adventures

Go on a food adventure with JL Jupiter as he explores East Coast restaurants: Aunt Vonda’s Kitchen Table, Date Night at Girasole Ristorante, and an Epic Seafood Dinner at Star Fusion.

“Lamb Cheesesteak, Teriyaki Lamb Chops, Turkey Wings at Aunt Vonda’s Kitchen Table”
JL Jupiter on YouTube
February 2025“Date night at Girasole Ristorante in Atlantic City”
JL Jupiter on YouTube
October 2023“Epic Dinner, Seafood Mac n Cheese and more at Star Fusion!”
JL Jupiter on YouTube
December 2019

Book Review

Anne of Green Gables: Recipes from Avonlea

The story of Anne of Green Gables by Lucy Maud Montgomery (originally published in 1908) is a beloved children’s classic book. It was my favorite book and film during childhood. The 1985 Anne of Green Gables film series starring Megan Follows is available to watch on Amazon Prime and Gazebo TV. At this time, I have not seen the newer movie versions and remain a bit partial to the 1985 version.

The Anne of Green Gables: Recipes from Avonlea (A Literary-Inspired Cookbook) is a collection of literary inspired recipes to bring the rustic charm of Green Gables to your table. There are recipes for raspberry cordial, tea cakes, and roasted chicken with easy to follow instructions. “Cooking is more than just preparing meals-it’s a way to bring warmth, tradition, and a sense of home to those we love” (p.90).

“Anne of Green Gables- Official Trailer”
Sullivan Entertainment on YouTube
Starring Megan Follows (1985)

News Videos (6)

“Trump pushes false claims of ‘white genocide’ in South Africa in Oval Office meeting”
ABC News on YouTube
May 21st, 2025

“Trump misuses Congo photo to claim white killings in South Africa”
USA Today on YouTube
May 22nd, 2025

“This area of South Dakota voted for Trump by roughly 70%. Here’s what they think now”
CNN on YouTube
April 17th, 2025

“WSJ Editor Explains Why U.S. Sidelined Israel Before Trump’s Mideast Trip”
WSJ News on YouTube
May 12th, 2025

“Musk has been backing neo-Nazi parties around the world”
Senator Bernie Sanders on YouTube
January 2025

“Candace Owens TURNS ON Trump After She Was Threatened With ARREST”
African Dispora News Channel on YouTube
May 8th, 2025
Ms. Vicki Dillard, Political Commentator

Happy Birthday Sankofa Newsletter!Thank You for the Support! (6 Years Old This Month)

“Happy Happy Birthday To You Afrobeat Happy Birthday Song -Bino and Fino Kids Songs / Dance”
Bino and Fino on YouTube

Culture, History, & News

Anti-Racism Educator

Jane Elliot is an anti-racism activist and educator who unexpectedly rose to fame after she conducted a “Blue eyes-Brown eyes” exercise on her third-grade students in the 1960s. It was the day after the assassination of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. and she wanted to evaluate her students understanding of racism and discrimination. Her exercise showed that the children began to discriminate based on eye color as to who was inferior and superior in the classroom. Once known by the public, the exercise received both positive and negative reviews. To date, Ms. Elliot has spent forty years teaching anti-racism accountability to various audiences. She has a particular skill at confronting other White people about the system of white supremacy (also known as racism).

It is important to provide a definition and according to PBS Learning Media Lesson Plan: “…white supremacy refers to an entire system designed to maintain white economic, legal, political, and social privilege…”1 Essentially, it is a system of oppression that allows preferential treatment of a dominant power group over other groups in a society, based on caste-like beliefs related to skin color. Those with the same skin color of the dominant power group are automatically the beneficiaries of cultural capital. However, this association to the dominant power group does not make these individuals immune from personal hardships in the system of racism, nor does it mean they all will engage in acts of racial discrimination. Although, it is recognized others will.

Mrs. Elliot’s anti-racism method provokes accountability in the system of racism. It gives privy to include White-on-White conversations about racism, that may otherwise be concealed in mixed company.

Reference

( 1 ) PBS Learning Media Lesson: Understanding White Supremacy

https://thinktv.pbslearningmedia.org/resource/iml04.soc.ush.civil.lp_whsup/understanding-white-supremacy/.

*Notice: Repost article from the June 2020 Edition.

For Additional Reading

PBS Frontline Introduction: Jane Elliot  A Class Divided 

Introduction

“Jane Elliott – When whites get confronted about White supremacy”
A.R.K. Truth on YouTube

“White People Scared -from Jane Elliott”
Millie Millie on YouTube

“Musk has been backing neo-Nazi parties around the world”
Senator Bernie Sanders on YouTube
January 2025

Art/Film/Literature News

G20

U.S. President Danielle Sutton (Academy Award Winner Viola Davis) attends the Group of 20 Nations Summit (G20) for heads of state in South Africa. She faces off with terrorists in the action packed Amazon Prime film: G20 (running time 1 hour 50 minutes, 2025). This film has a very entertaining storyline and raises some important questions about the power of artificial intelligence (A.I.) and cryptocurrency. I really enjoyed the performance of Derek Sutton (Anthony Anderson) as a father and the U.S. First Gentleman. The actors who played the South African intelligence officers also had good performances. The real G20 Summit is scheduled for November 22nd, 2025 in Johannesburg, South Africa.

“G20 – Final Trailer”
Prime Video on YouTube
April 2025

Business/Non-Profit/Inspirational News

Hello Spring

The spring season is here! It’s a great time to get fresh ideas for recipes, decor, gardening, and book recommendations. Below are videos from YouTubers I enjoy watching to inspire you! Happy Spring!

“VLOG! cozy & productive reading vlog, new books, errands, road trip, & new recs!”
Karla Espinosa on YouTube

“SPRING AT HOME | carrot cake muffins, recipe book & harvesting spring blooms”
Marigold Manor on YouTube

“Diligent Home Cooking Routine | A Table Full of Spring Breeze | Cook with me”
Honeyjubu on YouTube

“Girl’s Weekend at Chateau Elan | girls weekend full of dinner, bottomless brunch + wine tasting”
Alicia B Gettys on YouTube

Book Review

Need to Know

Vivian is a wife and mother of four children who works as a CIA counterintelligence analyst. She has developed an algorithm to help discover a Russian sleeper cell inside the United States. As she gets closer to the identity of these deep cover Russian spies, her own life and family become targets in the book: Need to Know by Karen Cleveland (304 pages, 2018).

The book has good writing and pacing which allows the reader to easily engage with the storyline. The characters are believable in their actions and the exploration of their “vulnerabilities” are well played out. It’s my first time to read this author (who is actually a former CIA analyst) but it will not be the last. A very good read!

Book Quotes:

“The Russians weren’t lucky. They were thorough.”

“God, it all comes down to money.”

“It’s the sleeper cell. I think I’m close to breaking in.”

News Videos (8)

“Massive Power Outage in Europe. What Caused it? | Vantage with Palki Sharma | N18G”
Firstpost on YouTube
April 29th, 2025
Cyberattack? Nation Wide Power Outage in Spain, Portugal, & Southern France

“Trump’s global tariffs: Which countries will be hardest hit?”
Global News on YouTube
April 2nd, 2025

“Harvard sues Trump administration over funding freeze”
FOX 13 Seattle on YouTube
April 22nd, 2025

“Highlights from Cory Booker’s record 25-hour Senate speech against Trump’s actions”
Associated Press on YouTube
April 2nd, 2025
U.S. Senator Cory Booker of New Jersey

“‘F–k you’: Nancy Mace posts shocking video of foul-mouthed argument with constituent in supermarket”
New York Post on YouTube
April 20th, 2025
U.S. Representative Nancy Mace for South Carolina (1st congressional district)

“LIAR!: MAGA Town Hall OFF THE RAILS As People ARRESTED | The Kyle Kulinski Show”
Secular Talk on YouTube
March 31st, 2025
U.S. Representative Victoria Spartz for Indiana (5th congressional district)

“Is the US descending into fascism? Interview with Professor Jason Stanley”
DW News on YouTube
April 3rd, 2025

“Donald Trump & Elon Muskrat’s Grand Scam…..”
King Kong Consciousness on YouTube
Dr. Umar Johnson, PhD gives a Pan-African worldview & political analysis of the current state of affairs in the USA

“Pan-Africanism is a nationalist movement and ideology that emphasizes the unity and solidarity of people of African descent, both on the continent and in the diaspora, advocating for their self-determination and common interests”. -AI Web Generated Definition 

Culture, History, & News

Star Wars

The movies and books of Star Wars has become a cultural phenomenon with many enthusiasts. The diverse species of characters and futuristic adventures make for an entertaining experience. The documentary, Star Wars: The Legacy Revealed (2007) provides social commentary of the films’ effect on culture with parallels to history, politics, and mythology.

“She turns out to be a Jedi and that’s very much a journey she has to take herself.”

Princess Leia is the twin sister of Luke Skywalker and a member of the rebel alliance that challenges the new tyrannical government. The documentary highlights her journey from princess to worthy adversary. Filmmaker Peter Jackson comments on her: “She’s not just a love interest as a lot of princesses in these stories tend to be. She actually has her own story, her own mythology. She turns out to be a Jedi and that’s very much a journey she has to take herself” (at time mark 33:10). This character description shows the complexity of Princess Leia.     

“Due to the war, there is water scarcity and the outside world is deemed radioactive.”

The scifi film Pumzi (2009) by filmmaker Wanuri Kahiu takes place thirty-five years after World War III in an East African community. The film title means “breath” in Swahili. The protagonist, Asha, is a curator of the virtual national history museum. She lives in a homogeneous society that has authoritarian undertones. Due to the war, there is water scarcity and the outside world is deemed radioactive. The community forbids dreaming and it relies on kinetic energy to produce water for the population. One day, Asha makes a ground-breaking discovery that threatens life in the community.        

The characters Princess Leia and Asha have some similarities in their struggles. Both are facing a transition from an assigned role (princess, curator) to the forefront of leadership. Their autocratic societies force a decision upon the heroines to challenge or submit to the status quo. Whatever shall they do? Watch both films at the end of this newsletter to find out.

*Reposted article from the May 2021 Edition.

For Additional Reading

1.) Disney: A Star Wars Movie Timeline of Every Film in Order of Release

2.) Wired: Kenyan Sci-Fi Short Pumzi Hits Sundance with Dystopia (2010)

3.) Forbes: Would It Be Ethical to Colonize Mars? (2015)

4.) Air Force Magazine: What’s a Space Weapon? The Answer Can Be Complicated (2020)

“Star Wars: A political analysis”
War of Ideas on YouTube

“SCI FI SHORT FILM: Pumzi from Director Wanuri Kahiu”
Phathon on YouTube

“Star Wars: The Legacy Revealed” HD | Mythological Documentary”
Holonet on YouTube

Art/Film/Literature News

A Culture That Signs

The deaf community has a rich and vibrant culture that includes people from various walks of life. Meet featured people from this community through their film, dance, and family life. The short film: The Silent Child features a young girl learning sign language for the first time. Antoine Hunter is a professional dancer who founded the Bay Area International Deaf Dance Festival. The Vich Family make fun and funny YouTube videos about marriage and family life.

The movie: The Silent Child (2017) introduces a young child, Libby, who has grown silent in a distracted and busy family. On the surface it appears her silence is related to being deaf, but a closer look reveals troublesome family dynamics. The arrival of Joanne, a teacher, awakens her to the power of sign language and true friendship. According to the movie: “90% of deaf children are born to hearing parents.”

Antoine Hunter is a professional dancer and Oakland, California native. He founded the Bay Area International Deaf Dance Festival and emphasizes the importance of the deaf community’s history, culture, and language. He states: “Dance was a way to communicate with people.”

The Vich Family posts humorous YouTube videos about marriage and family. Arthur and Amanda are both deaf and parents to three hearing children.

Watch the videos below to learn more about this extraordinary cultural community!

“Why Do You Love Me?”
The Vich Fam on YouTube Shorts

“Feeling the music: Dancing while deaf | All Good”
Localish on YouTube

“The Silent Child | Oscar® Winning Short Film”
NITV Shorts on YouTube

Business/Non-Profit/Inspirational News

Scholarship Winner

Chase Matthews is a South Fulton, Georgia high school senior and scholarship recipient. She has earned $6 million in scholarship offers and acceptance to 155 colleges across all 50 states. She intends to become a pharmacist and entrepreneur. Congratulations to this talented and inspirational young lady!

Blacknews.com: Black Teen from Georgia Earns $6M in Scholarships, Accepted to 155 Colleges (March 2025)

“Georgia teen accepted to 155 colleges in all 50 states totaling $6 million in scholarships”
Action News Jax on YouTube
March 28th, 2025
Ms. Chase Matthews

Book Review

The Way Home

Kardea Brown is a former social worker turned television cook. Her book: The Way Home: A Celebration of Sea Islands Food and Family with over 100 Recipes (2022, 304 pages, kindle edition) is part memoir and part cookbook. It has recipes for traditional Southern cuisine and “New Gullah” nouveau dishes. She shares her Gullah-Geechee culture and cuisine for all to enjoy! A very good read!

Book Quotes:

“I always enjoyed watching cooking shows in much the same way as some people like to watch soap operas.”

“52% of the Africans who became Gullah came from Angola and the Congo.”

“One consistent crowd-pleaser was Swamp Water, which was basically spiked sweet tea, lemonade, and ginger beer.”

“Kardea Brown’s Gullah Red Rice | Delicious Miss Brown”
Food Network on YouTube

News Videos (7)

“Bernie Sanders, AOC bring ‘Fight Oligarchy’ tour to the Valley”
12 News (KPNX-TV, NBC) Arizona on YouTube
March 21st, 2025

“Bernie Sanders responds to Musk’s controversial remark about entitlements”
CNN on YouTube
March 11th, 2025

“Rep. Crockett sets the record straight after a stark warning from AG Pam Bondi on Tesla backlash”
MSNBC on YouTube
March 23rd, 2025

“Marjorie Greene TRIGGERED By British Reporter Over Embarrassing Scandal”
The Damage Report on YouTube
March 27th 2025

“Musk has been backing neo-Nazi parties around the world”
Senator Bernie Sanders on YouTube
January 2025

“How Irish Trump Supporters Celebrated St. Patrick’s Day with an Anti-DEI Parade”
The Daily Show on YouTube
March 20th, 2025

“Elon Musk Cold Open – SNL”
Saturday Night Live on YouTube
March 1st, 2025

*Synopsis: Anita Moncrief is a former employee of ACORN and an American whistleblower. She testified before the Joint House Oversight Committee & Judiciary Committee about corruption at the non-profit. She also alleges collusion between the U.S. Department of Justice and particular lawsuits across the country. Her statement to the U.S. House Committee on Oversight & Accountability (2009) includes the following: “ACORN has shown itself to be a thoroughly corrupt organization that cannot be reformed and whose activities are detrimental to minorities, the poor and America as a whole.”

Generally speaking, illegitimate organizations can occur on the political left or the political right. They could also be front organizations for criminal activity, foreign national groups, and/or terrorism. If they choose to target the legitimate complaints of communities of color or the poor, the situation could turn exploitative very quickly.

The testimony of Anita Moncrief remains relevant today as allegations circulate that the U.S. Department of Justice (DOJ) has engaged in collusion with Big Tech social media companies for political weaponization. If true, this sets a dangerous new precedent for the country. And harkens back to the infamous era of FBI director J. Edgar Hoover.

Power of the Whistleblower

Anita Moncrief is a former employee of the Association of Community Organizations for Reform Now (ACORN). This non-profit was founded in 1970 with a mission to assist the poor and marginalized communities of color. Ms. Moncrief describes herself as idealistic and eager to join ACORN. Later, she would discover corruption at the non-profit, that in turn, would lead her to become a whistleblower. She worked with the New York Times to expose ACORN. She also testified before the Joint House Oversight Committee & Judiciary Committee in December 2009.

“They put a Black face up there, in the time of crisis, to make it look like it was an organization run by Black people. But it never was.”

ACORN was accused of voter fraud, grant fraud, and misconduct. Ms. Moncrief alleges collusion between the Obama administration and the U.S. Department of Justice (DOJ). She states: “I am calling for two things: 1.) A congressional investigation into the activities of ACORN, Project Vote, the Obama administration and its relation to the DOJ in these Section 7 lawsuits across the country…” (time-stamp 4:24). 1  She discusses the tactics used by the non-profit: “They put a Black face up there, in the time of crisis, to make it look like it was an organization run by Black people. But it never was” (time-stamp 7:58). 2  At the committee hearing she states: “What happens is, ACORN allows for people to kinda blur the line, in order to get the job done, or help the movement…There are some offices where people are genuinely trying to help the poor. But usually, those people do not last long and they end up leaving ACORN. The ones that stick around tend to become jaded and would give that type of advice” (time-stamp 1:36:15). 3   

“The more we learn about the organization, the less it looks like a grass roots community organization, and more like a criminal enterprise. A nation wide criminal enterprise.”

The Joint House Oversight Committee & Judiciary Committee (2009) held a hearing about ACORN’s activities. U.S House Representative Ted Poe (Republican, Texas, District 2 109th-115th (2005-2019) states: “The more we learn about the organization, the less it looks like a grass roots community organization, and more like a criminal enterprise. A nation wide criminal enterprise” (time-stamp 28:45). 4  U.S. House Representative Lamar Smith (Republican, Texas, District 21 100th-115th (1987-2019) states: “For years ACORN has been the subject of allegations of fraud, misconduct, and criminal activity. ACORN has been investigated for voter registration fraud in over a dozen states. It’s employees have been charged with 50 different counts of election related fraud” (time-stamp 2:08). 5  The committee also expressed concern about the FBI and IRS hesitancy to investigate these allegations.  

Anita Moncrief demonstrates courage with the decision to become a whistleblower. Generally speaking, illegitimate organizations can occur on the political left or the political right. They could also be front organizations for criminal activity, foreign national groups, and/or terrorism. If they choose to target the legitimate complaints of marginalized communities of color or the poor, the situation could turn exploitative very quickly. Her statement to the U.S. House Committee on Oversight & Accountability (2009) includes the following: “ACORN has shown itself to be a thoroughly corrupt organization that cannot be reformed and whose activities are detrimental to minorities, the poor and America as a whole.”

She warns about social media and the potential for global ramifications.

She provides a prophetic warning for the public in 2011 about the potential for global ramifications: “And this is going to sound crazy. Because I tell people all the time, they think social media and Facebook and Twitter are just for fun. But after Iran and the things that happened in 2009. People should realize it is life-changing” (time-stamp 11:59). 6

The testimony of Anita Moncrief remains relevant today as allegations circulate that the U.S. Department of Justice (DOJ) has engaged in collusion with Big Tech social media companies for political weaponization. If true, this sets a dangerous new precedent for the country. And harkens back to the infamous era of FBI director J. Edgar Hoover. Happy Women’s History Month!

     

Bibliography

(1) “Anita Moncrief, ex-Acorn worker, speaks on Voter ID” YouTube video, 5:55. “Michael Openshaw,” December 15th, 2011.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=r6cOyD0uCPg

(2, 6)“WI-CFL 2011 Annual Conference – Anita Moncrief ACORN Whistleblower” YouTube video, 18:11. “Crye55,” May 4th, 2011. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=344zseAQhQM

(3, 4, 5) “Allegations Against ACORN” CSPAN video, 2:04:03. The House Judiciary and Oversight and Government Reform Committees. December 1st, 2009. https://www.c-span.org/video/?290347-1/allegations-acorn

*Notice: This updated repost article: “Power of the Whistleblower” was first published in the August 2024 Edition. Anita Moncrief was also featured in the Special Edition: A Nation in Apostasy? (May 2022).

For Additional Reading

1.) CSPAN: Allegations Against ACORN (December 2009)

“Republican members of the House Judiciary and Oversight and Government Reform Committees talked about recent allegations against ACORN and congressional bans on federal funding for the organization.”-CSPAN 

2.) HuffPost: Opinion: The Business Of Black Death And A $6 Million Mansion (April 2022)

“Ferguson activist Darren Seals tried to warn the rest of America that the Black Lives Matter organization was not the sacred cow everyone believed it to be.”–Stephen A. Crockett Jr.

3.) CNBC: Mark Zuckerberg says White House ‘pressured’ Meta to ‘censor’ Covid-19 content (August 2024)

“Zuckerberg said it was ultimately Meta’s decision to take down any content, but he noted he believes that the alleged “government pressure was wrong.”-Arjun Kharpal

Videos (2)

“WI-CFL 2011 Annual Conference – Anita Moncrief ACORN Whistleblower”
Crye55 on YouTube
April 30th, 2011

“ACORN Forum Part 2”
GOP Oversight on YouTube
December 3rd, 2009
Joint House Oversight Committee & House Judiciary Committee Forum on Acorn Misconduct Allegations

*Synopsis: Anita Moncrief is a former employee of ACORN and an American whistleblower. She testified before the Joint House Oversight Committee & Judiciary Committee about corruption at the non-profit. She also alleges collusion between the U.S. Department of Justice and particular lawsuits across the country. Her statement to the U.S. House Committee on Oversight & Accountability (2009) includes the following: “ACORN has shown itself to be a thoroughly corrupt organization that cannot be reformed and whose activities are detrimental to minorities, the poor and America as a whole.”

Generally speaking, illegitimate organizations can occur on the political left or the political right. They could also be front organizations for criminal activity, foreign national groups, and/or terrorism. If they choose to target the legitimate complaints of communities of color or the poor, the situation could turn exploitative very quickly.

The testimony of Anita Moncrief remains relevant today as allegations circulate that the U.S. Department of Justice (DOJ) has engaged in collusion with Big Tech social media companies for political weaponization. If true, this sets a dangerous new precedent for the country. And harkens back to the infamous era of FBI director J. Edgar Hoover.

Power of the Whistleblower

Anita Moncrief is a former employee of the Association of Community Organizations for Reform Now (ACORN). This non-profit was founded in 1970 with a mission to assist the poor and marginalized communities of color. Ms. Moncrief describes herself as idealistic and eager to join ACORN. Later, she would discover corruption at the non-profit, that in turn, would lead her to become a whistleblower. She worked with the New York Times to expose ACORN. She also testified before the Joint House Oversight Committee & Judiciary Committee in December 2009.

“They put a Black face up there, in the time of crisis, to make it look like it was an organization run by Black people. But it never was.”

ACORN was accused of voter fraud, grant fraud, and misconduct. Ms. Moncrief alleges collusion between the Obama administration and the U.S. Department of Justice (DOJ). She states: “I am calling for two things: 1.) A congressional investigation into the activities of ACORN, Project Vote, the Obama administration and its relation to the DOJ in these Section 7 lawsuits across the country…” (time-stamp 4:24). 1  She discusses the tactics used by the non-profit: “They put a Black face up there, in the time of crisis, to make it look like it was an organization run by Black people. But it never was” (time-stamp 7:58). 2  At the committee hearing she states: “What happens is, ACORN allows for people to kinda blur the line, in order to get the job done, or help the movement…There are some offices where people are genuinely trying to help the poor. But usually, those people do not last long and they end up leaving ACORN. The ones that stick around tend to become jaded and would give that type of advice” (time-stamp 1:36:15). 3   

“The more we learn about the organization, the less it looks like a grass roots community organization, and more like a criminal enterprise. A nation wide criminal enterprise.”

The Joint House Oversight Committee & Judiciary Committee (2009) held a hearing about ACORN’s activities. U.S House Representative Ted Poe (Republican, Texas, District 2 109th-115th (2005-2019) states: “The more we learn about the organization, the less it looks like a grass roots community organization, and more like a criminal enterprise. A nation wide criminal enterprise” (time-stamp 28:45). 4  U.S. House Representative Lamar Smith (Republican, Texas, District 21 100th-115th (1987-2019) states: “For years ACORN has been the subject of allegations of fraud, misconduct, and criminal activity. ACORN has been investigated for voter registration fraud in over a dozen states. It’s employees have been charged with 50 different counts of election related fraud” (time-stamp 2:08). 5  The committee also expressed concern about the FBI and IRS hesitancy to investigate these allegations.  

Anita Moncrief demonstrates courage with the decision to become a whistleblower. Generally speaking, illegitimate organizations can occur on the political left or the political right. They could also be front organizations for criminal activity, foreign national groups, and/or terrorism. If they choose to target the legitimate complaints of marginalized communities of color or the poor, the situation could turn exploitative very quickly. Her statement to the U.S. House Committee on Oversight & Accountability (2009) includes the following: “ACORN has shown itself to be a thoroughly corrupt organization that cannot be reformed and whose activities are detrimental to minorities, the poor and America as a whole.”

She warns about social media and the potential for global ramifications.

She provides a prophetic warning for the public in 2011 about the potential for global ramifications: “And this is going to sound crazy. Because I tell people all the time, they think social media and Facebook and Twitter are just for fun. But after Iran and the things that happened in 2009. People should realize it is life-changing” (time-stamp 11:59). 6

The testimony of Anita Moncrief remains relevant today as allegations circulate that the U.S. Department of Justice (DOJ) has engaged in collusion with Big Tech social media companies for political weaponization. If true, this sets a dangerous new precedent for the country. And harkens back to the infamous era of FBI director J. Edgar Hoover. Happy Women’s History Month!

     

Bibliography

(1) “Anita Moncrief, ex-Acorn worker, speaks on Voter ID” YouTube video, 5:55. “Michael Openshaw,” December 15th, 2011.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=r6cOyD0uCPg

(2, 6)“WI-CFL 2011 Annual Conference – Anita Moncrief ACORN Whistleblower” YouTube video, 18:11. “Crye55,” May 4th, 2011. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=344zseAQhQM

(3, 4, 5) “Allegations Against ACORN” CSPAN video, 2:04:03. The House Judiciary and Oversight and Government Reform Committees. December 1st, 2009. https://www.c-span.org/video/?290347-1/allegations-acorn

*Notice: This updated repost article: “Power of the Whistleblower” was first published in the August 2024 Edition. Anita Moncrief was also featured in the Special Edition: A Nation in Apostasy? (May 2022).

For Additional Reading

1.) CSPAN: Allegations Against ACORN (December 2009)

“Republican members of the House Judiciary and Oversight and Government Reform Committees talked about recent allegations against ACORN and congressional bans on federal funding for the organization.”-CSPAN 

2.) HuffPost: Opinion: The Business Of Black Death And A $6 Million Mansion (April 2022)

“Ferguson activist Darren Seals tried to warn the rest of America that the Black Lives Matter organization was not the sacred cow everyone believed it to be.”–Stephen A. Crockett Jr.

3.) CNBC: Mark Zuckerberg says White House ‘pressured’ Meta to ‘censor’ Covid-19 content (August 2024)

“Zuckerberg said it was ultimately Meta’s decision to take down any content, but he noted he believes that the alleged “government pressure was wrong.”-Arjun Kharpal

Videos (2)

“WI-CFL 2011 Annual Conference – Anita Moncrief ACORN Whistleblower”
Crye55 on YouTube
April 30th, 2011

“ACORN Forum Part 2”
GOP Oversight on YouTube
December 3rd, 2009
Joint House Oversight Committee & House Judiciary Committee Forum on Acorn Misconduct Allegations