Justice & Power

We Got Us with Dr. Sylvia Bartley, Titilayo Bediako and Alicia Dixon

Are you ready to be part of the transformative movement of women's leadership? Join Nekima Armstrong and her guests, Dr. Sylvia Bartley, Alicia Dixon, and Titilayo Bediako, to shatter the notion that black women's tireless efforts go unnoticed. Their conversation exposes the unappreciated heavy lifting black women do in communities, families, and society as a whole. Brace yourself for a paradigm shift as they passionately advocate for increased support and opportunities for black women to unleash their extraordinary leadership potential. [00:00 - 10:29] Empowering Black Women's Leadership * The discussion focuses on black women's leadership and the lack of recognition for their significant contributions to families, communities, and society * The goal is to raise awareness among those in power about the support black women deserve * Guest Dr. Sylvia Bartley, a public health professional and community advocate, highlights the brilliance and impressive nature of black women's leadership in overcoming challenges * Guest Alicia Dixon, executive director of the Marcus Foster Education Institute, emphasizes the self-catalyzing ability of black women to make a difference and addresses the need to challenge the status quo for better outcomes [10:30 - 18:48] Celebrating the Brilliance, Power, and Essentiality of Black Women Leadership * Alicia's word "self-catalyzing" reflects the remarkable ability of black women to create opportunities and overcome challenging circumstances * Guest Titilayo Bediako emphasizes the crucial role of black women in education and the need to address systemic issues affecting children's success * The guest's words—brilliant, impressive, self-catalyzing, powerful, and essential—underscore the strength and significance of black women's leadership [18:49 - 30:15] Breaking Down Barriers: Autonomy, Fairness, Unity, and Resilience * Alicia emphasizes the need for autonomy and trust in black women's leadership, calling for a departure from rigid philanthropic objectives * Sylvia highlights the importance of fairness and equal treatment for black women in leadership roles across sectors * Titilayo underscores the significance of unity and collective action among black women, bridging corporate and community sectors for practical work that benefits the entire community [30:16 - 39:21] Defying Barriers, Trusting Philanthropy, and Prioritizing Health in Black Women * Trust philanthropy is emphasized, advocating for communities' autonomy in addressing their own needs * The impact of chronic stress on black women's health is discussed, emphasizing the correlation with chronic illnesses * By collecting and sharing culturally relevant data, black women can make a compelling case for investment and drive positive change [39:22 - 51:16] Empowering Voices, Unity, and Equitable Opportunities * Titilayo highlights the need for institutions to have a basic understanding of black women's leadership and provide space for their work * She emphasizes the importance of black women coming together and speaking with one voice to determine their community's needs * Dr. Sylvia and Alicia discuss the importance of fair support from institutions, such as access to resources, networking opportunities, promotions, and a seat at the table * They Highlight the impact of supportive educational systems on black children's success and the need for institutions to prioritize equitable resources and opportunities for them [51:17 - 61:07] Cultivating Empowered Allies and Sisterhood * Allies are urged to take tangible action and evaluate their practices and policies to effectively support communities of color * Trust, accountability, and emotional well-being are key factors in fostering a strong sisterhood * The importance of sharing personal stories, including mistakes, and exchanging resources and contacts among black women is emphasized for collective empowerment Connect with Sylvia Through Linkedin [https://www.linkedin.com/in/sylvia-bartley/%20Connect%20with%20Titilayo] Connect with Titilayo Through Linkedin [https://www.linkedin.com/in/titilayo-bediako-737bb111/%20Connect] Connect with Alicia Through Linkedin [https://www.linkedin.com/in/alicia-dixon-44a6b321/] Did you know this episode has a video? You can find this episode and more on YouTube [https://www.youtube.com/@justiceandpower]. Subscribe and show us some love in the comments! Join the movement for justice and power with the "Justice & Power'' podcast. Listen to stimulating conversations on tough topics affecting Black and Brown America with host Nekima Levy Armstrong. Reach out to us on https://www.instagram.com/justiceandpowerpodcast/Instagram [https://www.instagram.com/justiceandpowerpodcast/], YouTube, and http://www.facebook.com/justiceandpowerpodcastFacebook [http://www.facebook.com/justiceandpowerpodcast]. To know more about us connect with us at https://www.wayfinder.foundation/Wayfinder Foundation [https://www.wayfinder.foundation/] and http://www.nekimalevyarmstrong.com/www.nekimalevyarmstrong.com [http://www.nekimalevyarmstrong.com/]. Let's make change happen together! Tweetable Quotes: "We know we have the answers in us. My one word about black women's leadership is it is self-catalyzing. We have this amazing ability to make something out of nothing. And I just love that about us and our creativity and heart to make a difference." - Alicia Dixon "The problems that we see in our children in the public institution has everything to do with the fact that they're not learning about themselves. They're not seeing the greatness of their people and the accomplishments that we've made.'" - Titilayo Bediako "It's about giving us black women who are skilled and experienced leaders just the fairness and the space and the freedom to do the work that we're employed to do without judgment or having to prove ourselves or just constantly having to overcome these barriers." - Sylvia Bartley

Black Women's Funding in Philanthropy

Did you know that despite their immense contributions, Black Women-led movements have faced systemic oppression and chronic underfunding? In this captivating episode, we bring to light this critical reality. Brace yourself for an empowering journey as we explore the experiences and perspectives of Nekima Armstrong, Dr. Maria S. Johnson, Tyeshia Ty Wilson, and Nicole Robinson. Together they delve into the shortcomings of institutional philanthropy and unlock innovative solutions for creating equitable funding opportunities. From the crucial need for rest and recognition to the transformative impact of advocacy and Black Women's Giving Circles, this episode will leave you inspired to support and amplify these remarkable movements. Join us as we unveil the hidden power of Black Women-led movements and ignite a spark for lasting change and empowerment. [00:00 - 09:02] Voices of Empowerment and Advocacy * Nekima Armstrong is joined by Nicole R Robinson, Maria Johnson, and Maria Johnson to discuss black women's funding in philanthropy * Dr. Maria S. Johnson created the Black Women and Girls Fund, which distributes grants exclusively to black women founded LED serving organizations * Taisha Wilson assumes the role of chair-elect for the Heritage Giving Fund, which supports small grassroots organizations led by black women * Nicole Robinson serves as the CEO of the YWCA of Metro Chicago, an organization dedicated to eradicating racism and empowering women * The conversation centers around the current state of institutional funding for black women, utilizing language that highlights the challenges and opportunities present within this context [09:02 - 18:08] Supporting the Liberation of Thought, Expression, and Opportunity for Rest * Funding is provided for rest, retreats, vacations, and sabbaticals, aiming to support individuals in replenishing their energy and well-being * A dedicated economic dream fund is established to empower Black women in realizing their aspirations and unlocking their dreams * Organizations receive general operating funds to ensure they have the necessary resources, including HR and finance, to operate smoothly * Emphasis is placed on the liberation of thought, expression, imagination, and opportunities, promoting freedom and growth * Black women and girls are given the space to explore their futures with creativity and imagination, fostering innovative thinking [18:09 - 26:01] Reflections on the Peak Grant-Making Conference in Baltimore * Proposed a spark talk at the Peak Grant Making Conference in Baltimore, advocating for the creation of a Black Women's Justice Fund * A sense of community and appreciation for the unacknowledged efforts carried out behind the scenes permeated the atmosphere * The aesthetics of Black women as essential components of culture, labor, and contribution were prominently highlighted * Data was meticulously presented, showcasing the impactful movements spearheaded by Black women * The message emphasized the significance of investing in and relying upon the strength and capabilities of Black women [26:01 - 34:02] Dorothy Height's Leadership and Initiatives Empowering Black Women within the YWCA * It is imperative to ensure the inclusion of black women in leadership roles and facilitate their access to institutional funding * The inception of the Black Women's Giving Circle aimed to invest in organizations led by Black women, specifically focusing on delivering programs that cater to the needs of Black women and girls residing in the south side of Chicago * The Queen Makers initiative emerged as a transformative force in the community, dedicated to nurturing leaders in the nonprofit sector and fostering the establishment of new businesses * Dorothy Height, as the pioneering racial justice chair at the YWCA, orchestrated a clandestine gathering of black women from various YWCAs. This secret meeting served as a platform to discuss matters of equity and advocate for equality within the organization [34:03 - 42:14] YWCA's Activism and the Empowering Force of the Heritage Giving Fund * The YWCA placed the elimination of racism as its central objective, embodying an unwavering commitment * The activism carried out by the YWCA stands unparalleled, showcasing their relentless dedication to addressing racial injustice * The imperative of race and equity lies in the transformative act of shifting power dynamics, promoting inclusivity and justice * The ongoing culture war and the erosion of civility have contributed to fatigue in discussions surrounding race and the persistence of white supremacy * The establishment of the Heritage Giving Fund emerged as a driving force to encourage black philanthropy, provide funding for organizations led by black women, and offer comprehensive support beyond financial resources [42:15 - 50:08] The Heritage Giving Fund's Advocacy and the Strength of Giving Circles * The Heritage Giving Fund was established six years ago and has recently expanded its mission to include advocacy, further enhancing its impact * Giving circles are a powerful tool that often goes overlooked, but they serve as ramps for civic engagement and strengthen democracy * Giving circles bring people together in an intentional and strategic way to support causes they care about * The Heritage Giving Fund, currently consisting of 57 members, demonstrates its agility and adaptability, actively seeking opportunities for growth and increased influence * Maria took the initiative to establish her own donor-advised fund, enabling her to empower others to contribute on a larger scale, amplifying the impact of their giving efforts [50:08 - 57:36] Baltimore Community Foundation's Fund and Trust-Based Philanthropy * The Baltimore Community Foundation has been selected as the designated organization to establish a fund exclusively dedicated to supporting black women and girls * There is a deliberate focus on funding initiatives that authentically prioritize the needs and aspirations of black women, reflecting a genuine passion for their advancement * The fund operates with an unrestricted approach, allowing flexibility in allocating resources while maintaining a brief and streamlined application process to minimize burdens on applicants * Knowledge-sharing sessions and meetups are organized to facilitate meaningful discussions on topics of significance for operating nonprofit organizations * Giving circles, predominantly led by black women, have embraced a trust-based philanthropy model, fostering a sense of empowerment and collective support Connect with Tyeshia Through Linkedin [https://www.linkedin.com/in/tyeshiarwilson/] Connect with Nicole Through Linkedin [https://www.linkedin.com/in/nicole-r-robinson-825abb1/] Connect with Maria Through Linkedin [https://www.linkedin.com/in/mariajohnsonphd/] Did you know this episode has a video? You can find this episode and more on YouTube [https://www.youtube.com/@justiceandpower]. Subscribe and show us some love in the comments! Join the movement for justice and power with the "Justice & Power'' podcast. Listen to stimulating conversations on tough topics affecting Black and Brown America with host Nekima Levy Armstrong. Reach out to us on https://www.instagram.com/justiceandpowerpodcast/Instagram [https://www.instagram.com/justiceandpowerpodcast/], YouTube, and http://www.facebook.com/justiceandpowerpodcastFacebook [http://www.facebook.com/justiceandpowerpodcast]. To know more about us connect with us at https://www.wayfinder.foundation/Wayfinder Foundation [https://www.wayfinder.foundation/] and http://www.nekimalevyarmstrong.com/www.nekimalevyarmstrong.com [http://www.nekimalevyarmstrong.com/]. Let's make change happen together! Quotes: "We don't have to wait for somebody else to show up. Why not do it now?" - Nekima Armstrong "Much of the world we know, we've been out here doing the work, but nobody is checking on our wellbeing. Nobody is gonna check for black women and girls." - Tyeshia Ty Wilson "It is not just about black women starting something or any group startup, it's really about creating practices that are liberatory, that are authentic, and welcoming to the grantee partners. That's treating them as experts." - Maria Johnson "We'll never get to gender equity, economic equity, we'll never get to educational equity, or any of these things until we deal with racism." - Nicole R Robinson

Navigating Life's Challenges with Tameka Foster Raymond

Tameka Foster Raymond joins Justice and Power podcast to share her insight on how she keeps it all together. Tameka is a mother of five, entrepreneur, stylist, and fashion designer who was introduced to fashion through her aunt's consignment store and studied merchandise marketing at the Fashion Institute FIDM. She has worked with some of the biggest names in the industry, such as Jay-Z, Ciara, NAS, and Usher Raymond. Tameka shares her story of courage and determination while discussing the importance of self-care, navigating difficult times, and exploring resources for support, affirmation, and community during hard times. Her conversation also touches on the fears and struggles of a Black mother raising five sons in the United States, including racism. Tameka speaks of her memoir Here I Stand and how she wants her legacy to be known for being a great mother and a good person who is authentic and doesn't say anything behind people's backs. This inspiring conversation encourages us all to remain in a beautiful state rather than allow life's obstacles to bring us into a state of suffering. [00:00 - 08:18] Tameka Foster Raymond: From Fashion Designer to Costume Designer, Her Story of Overcoming Heartbreak and Loss • Tameka Foster Raymond is a mother of five, entrepreneur, stylist, and fashion designer. • She fell in love with fashion at a young age and went on to study it at the Fashion Institute F I D M. • She has styled many A-list entertainers such as Jay-Z, Ciara, NAS, and her ex-husband Usher Raymond. • Tameka has written a memoir called Here I Stand which details her childhood, losing her first love, and her own brush with death. • She encourages others to take risks and not be afraid to try something new [08:19 - 15:49] Navigating Grief and Self-Care to Find Strength in Vulnerability • Self-care is essential in dealing with difficult times • Meditation and silence are important for mental health • Crying is healthy and can clear the mind • Black mothers are incredible and need to practice self-care • Talking to children openly about emotions helps them process their own feelings • Travel, prayer, therapy, and social media have been helpful resources • Social media can be a powerful tool for forming community and getting support [15:50 - 23:15] Racism and the Fear of Raising Sons in the United States • Raising her sons in the US means being aware of the racism and white supremacy they face • Had to have "the talk" with her sons about police encounters • Experienced racism when her son was pulled over for driving too slowly [23:15 - 34:14] Keeping Her Sons' Legacies Alive Through Love and Action • Teaching son a lesson about driving while black in America • Taking action after police encounter with son to signal to the department to monitor officer's behavior • Bonding with sons by attending Apple classes, concerts, and other activities • Embracing her role as a boy mom and pouring into her sons while they are around her • Writing a memoir to share life story in own words • Keeping son Kyle's legacy alive through his foundation Connect with Tameka: LinkedIn [https://www.linkedin.com/in/tameka-foster-raymond-3322976a/], Facebook [https://web.facebook.com/TamekaJFoster] Did you know this episode has a video? You can find this episode and more on YouTube [https://www.youtube.com/@justiceandpower]. Subscribe and show us some love in the comments! Join the movement for justice and power with the "Justice & Power'' podcast. Listen to stimulating conversations on tough topics affecting Black and Brown America with host Nekima Levy Armstrong. Reach out to us on https://www.instagram.com/justiceandpowerpodcast/Instagram [https://www.instagram.com/justiceandpowerpodcast/], YouTube, and http://www.facebook.com/justiceandpowerpodcastFacebook [http://www.facebook.com/justiceandpowerpodcast]. To know more about us connect with us at https://www.wayfinder.foundation/Wayfinder Foundation [https://www.wayfinder.foundation/] and http://www.nekimalevyarmstrong.com/www.nekimalevyarmstrong.com [http://www.nekimalevyarmstrong.com/]. Let's make change happen together! Tweetable Quote: "You've gotta really live out loud. You gotta really be an example. What do you want your legacy to be? And I hope that I'm known for being a great mother. I hope I'm known for having great style. I got a smart mouth. I'm snarky. I'm not perfect.¨ - Tameka Foster Raymond

Speaking Up in an Anti-Black Society

Tune in to this powerful conversation between Nekima Armstrong, and Tavis Smiley, a respected leader and advocate for the African-American community. One of TIME magazine's "100 Most Influential People In The World," Smiley has interviewed a veritable who's who list of influencers, has penned multiple New York Times Bestselling books, and has already been honored with a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame. Tavis shares his experiences growing up in Mississippi and Indiana, learning from the wisdom and strength of his grandmother. The conversation highlights the danger of being a black person in a society that is often anti-black, while reflecting on how much further we have to go in terms of racial equality. It also touches on Rhon DeSantis' attack on Black history and critical race theory, as well as the importance of love and speaking up for social justice. Listeners will also hear about Martin Luther King Jr's commitment to justice and the need for an honest conversation about America's past and present if it is to build a better future. Finally, Tavis encourages us all to seek, speak, stand on, and stay with the truth—and invites everyone to support his work at KBLA 1580 Talk Radio. Don't miss this powerful podcast episode! [00:00 - 07:43] Travis Smiley Reflects on His Mississippi Roots and the Impact of Big Mama's Wisdom • Tavis Smiley is a legend within the African American community and respected for his unapologetic progressivism • He is the recipient of nearly 20 honorary doctorate degrees, honored with the Star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame, and recognized by Time Magazine as one of the world's most 100 influential people • Tavis moved from Gulfport Mississippi to Indiana when he was two or three years old • He remembers fondly spending summers in Mississippi with his grandmother, Big Mama • Tavis believes that every black person in America needs a Big Mama to learn about overcoming adversity and gain wisdom from black women elders [07:43 - 15:11] The Danger of Speaking Up • Nobody is self-made; everyone is who they are because somebody chose to love them. • The story of Tavis grandmother, big mama, being concerned for his safety when she saw him on TV debating a white man. • The story of Emmett Till and how it impacted Tavis grandmother and the civil rights movement. • Rosa Parks' story and how it was in her mind when she sat on the bus. • The dangers of speaking up about racial justice in an anti-black society. [15:11 - 22:54] Examining the Misinformation Surrounding Critical Race Theory and Black History • Recently, a radio play called The Return was promoted for weeks in advance and featured two actors that looked and sounded like Martin Luther King Jr. and Malcolm X. • The play addressed contemporary issues such as Black Lives Matter, the killing of George Floyd, climate change, and the economic gap between black and white people. • Florida Governor Ron DeSantis is seen as dangerous for his attack on African American history and critical race theory. • Critical race theory is not being taught in elementary, middle, or high school. [22:55 - 30:33] America Needs to Accept the Truth • America has always had a problem dealing with accepting the truth. • Analyzing how, If you take black folk out of the experiment in democracy, the whole thing falls flat. • America would not be what it is today without black folks. • There's nothing wrong with capitalism except for the fact that they always get the capital and we get the ism. [30:33 - 38:26] Remembering Martin Luther King Jr.'s Last Sermon • Dr. King wanted to launch the Poor People's Campaign and spoke about universal healthcare, affordable housing, and guaranteed minimum income • Dr. King was assassinated one year after his Beyond Vietnam speech • Last year of his life he was toxic and everyone turned against him • His last words were "I would rather be dead than be afraid" • He wanted to do God's will and planted seeds for generations to come [38:27 - 44:18] A Call to Seek, Speak, Stand on and Stay with the Truth • Seek, speak, stand on and stay with the truth • Be humble enough to realize that there is the truth and a way to it • Have courage to say what you see • Two kinds of people: running scared or running free • Freedom means having the courage to speak truth to powerful and powerless • No lie can live forever • Take positions that are not safe, politic, comfortable or convenient, but right • Commit yourself to your work and witness so well that even unborn couldn't do it any better Connect with Tavis: Facebook [https://www.facebook.com/kbla1580], Website: https://kbla1580.com/ [https://kbla1580.com/] Did you know this episode has a video? You can find this episode and more on YouTube [https://www.youtube.com/@justiceandpower]. Subscribe and show us some love in the comments! Join the movement for justice and power with the "Justice & Power'' podcast. Listen to stimulating conversations on tough topics affecting Black and Brown America with host Nekima Levy Armstrong. Reach out to us on https://www.instagram.com/justiceandpowerpodcast/Instagram [https://www.instagram.com/justiceandpowerpodcast/], YouTube, and http://www.facebook.com/justiceandpowerpodcastFacebook [http://www.facebook.com/justiceandpowerpodcast]. To know more about us connect with us at https://www.wayfinder.foundation/Wayfinder Foundation [https://www.wayfinder.foundation/] and http://www.nekimalevyarmstrong.com/www.nekimalevyarmstrong.com [http://www.nekimalevyarmstrong.com/]. Let's make change happen together! Tweetable Quotes: "We are who we are because somebody loved us." - Travis Smiley "No lie can live forever. Cowardice asks is it safe, expediency asks is it politic, vanity asks is it popular, but conscience asks is it right. And every now and then we must take a position that is neither safe, nor politic, nor popular but one must do it because one's conscience - Travis Smiley

Lessons from an Expert in Solution-Focused Brief Therapy with Elliott Connie

In this episode, we dive into the world of psychotherapy with Elliott Connie, a leading therapist in the field of solution-focused brief therapy. Elliott shares his journey towards becoming a therapist and how he discovered his approach to therapy that focuses on solutions rather than problems. He discusses how parenting in the black culture is influenced by the legacy of slavery and suggests that parents should listen to their children and give them space to express themselves rather than resorting to physical discipline. Finally, he stresses the importance of seeking help from professionals when struggling with issues and believes that change requires people to be uncomfortable. Join us for this engaging discussion on parenting, respecting authority, trauma, and breaking down barriers in psychotherapy. [00:00 - 08:36] Bringing healing and hope to African American culture through solution-focused brief therapy • Elliot became a psychotherapist to help his African American community overcome the stigma towards therapy. • Using solution-focused in brief therapy helps to focus on the future rather than past trauma. • His journey toward healing saved his life, and he wants to spread hope and love to everyone. [08:37 - 17:07] From Solution-Focused Brief Therapy to Leading the Field and Inspiring Greatness • Elliott discovered solution-focused brief therapy and was on fire to learn more, becoming a leader in the field • Solution-focused brief therapy focuses on outcomes and resources, not the origins of problems. • The therapist helps clients activate their greatness and apply it to multiple areas of life. • Parenting involves finding a balance between discipline and flexibility while maintaining expectations. [17:07 - 26:00] Parenting with intellect and divorcing from the legacy of slavery • Parenting in black culture is influenced by the legacy of slavery • Physical discipline is a common practice, but it's time to divorce from it • Children should be given the bandwidth to express themselves and learn to use their voice • Listening to children and giving them attention is important for teaching them value • Compliance does not guarantee safety; understanding our value starts at home [26:00 - 34:22] Parenting expert encourages allowing children to use their voice while also teaching them about societal consequences • Encourages parents to allow their children to use their voices and practice standing up for themselves • Acknowledging the potential risks of police brutality and the need for parents to educate their children about it • Urges parents to coach, punish, and influence their children's behavior when necessary • Criticizing the legacy of slavery and its impact on societal attitudes toward black people • Elliott advocates for breaking this pattern and taking ownership of our own behavior and culture [34:23 - 42:15] Psychotherapist encourages parents to explain the importance of respecting authority to their children • Importance of explaining to children why they need to respect authority • Advocating for talking to children about what parents are trying to build within them • The importance of giving children the gift of attention and time • Understanding the value of seeking help from professionals when struggling with trauma or pain • Importance of cultural competency in psychotherapy [42:15 - 48:25] Breaking Barriers and Saving Lives through Solution-Focused Therapy • Elliott Connie discusses his journey to change the field of therapy and counseling • He emphasizes the importance of being dedicated to change and accepting pushback • He urges listeners to recognize that being black is a gift and that legacy is one of strength, not oppression • Elliott encourages people to divorce themselves from the difficult habits of the legacy of slavery and be bold enough to think freely. Did you know this episode has a video? You can find this episode and more on YouTube [https://www.youtube.com/@justiceandpower]. Subscribe and show us some love in the comments! Join the movement for justice and power with the "Justice & Power'' podcast. Listen to stimulating conversations on tough topics affecting Black and Brown America with host Nekima Levy Armstrong. Reach out to us on Instagram [https://www.instagram.com/justiceandpowerpodcast/], YouTube, and Facebook [http://www.facebook.com/justiceandpowerpodcast]. To know more about us connect with us at Wayfinder Foundation [https://www.wayfinder.foundation/] and www.nekimalevyarmstrong.com [http://www.nekimalevyarmstrong.com/]. Let's make change happen together! Tweetable Quotes: "I'm trying to tell our truth in a way that leads towards progress." - Elliott Connie "Your journey is significantly more important than your origin." - Elliott Connie "The most important thing you have in this world, the most precious commodity you have in this world, is your time and your attention. Those are two things that we cannot get back." - Elliott Connie