The campaign runs from December 23, 2014 until January 28, 2015!!! PLEASE CONTRIBUTE!!!
https://www.kickstarter.com/projects/afrolatinospresente/afrolatins-presente-2015
PLEASE SUPPORT!!!!
CHRONICLES OF THE BROWN BLACK FIST: Home to the literature, art, and activism of Kevin Alberto Sabio
Saturday, December 27, 2014
Afrolatin@ Project: Afrolatin@s Presente! 2015 Kickstarter Campaign
Representing for my peoples at the Afrolatin@ Project/Proyecto Afrolatin@!!!! Wanted to help spread the word about their Kickstarter campaign. Please support them in their efforts! Please pass the word on!!!!
The campaign runs from December 23, 2014 until January 28, 2015!!! PLEASE CONTRIBUTE!!!
https://www.kickstarter.com/projects/afrolatinospresente/afrolatins-presente-2015
Uhuru sase, y paz.
PLEASE SUPPORT!!!!
The campaign runs from December 23, 2014 until January 28, 2015!!! PLEASE CONTRIBUTE!!!
https://www.kickstarter.com/projects/afrolatinospresente/afrolatins-presente-2015
PLEASE SUPPORT!!!!
Wednesday, December 10, 2014
End-of-Year Progress Report
So as 2014 comes to a close, I have a few upcoming events and initiatives that I'm working on. This year didn't go exactly as I'd planned, not to mention ending on a bit of a weak note. But hopefully, the new energies of the new year will help to bring me greater prosperity.
I'm trying to continue to do the joint book signing tour that I had started organizing this fall. I have three potential dates already; I'm just awaiting confirmation from the establishments that we/I contacted. I was severely disappointed with how the tour went this fall, with us having to cancel most of the dates because of the incompetence of the local Parks and Rec department in some of the other boroughs. Hopefully, we can officially book those dates, and move on from there. We're also trying to book some events that are OUT of NYC; we didn't have too positive of an experience in our own hometown, and so we're looking to get some recognition elsewhere.
On a more personal note...I've just recently completed writing my very first novel! It's an action adventure piece I'm calling "Chronicles of the Black Fist". I'm going through the editing process right now, and I hope to have it published by early Spring. This time around though, I might have to hire a cover artist to do the cover for my book. I know how I want it to look, but I just don't have the necessary artistic skills to do it myself. Once the book is published, I know of a few book fairs and comic book conventions that I want to take it to, to promote it.
Once the novel starts going through the final publishing stages, I'll post pictures and excerpts of the book here. Also, once the dates have been confirmed for the book signing appearances, I'll post the image of the flyer(s) here as well. It's all about staying on your grind. I'm hoping to keep pace with my goal to publish four books in five years. I'll probably just focus on the publicity of the books after that, and then go wherever the Creator directs me afterward.
So, here's to the new year, and the new energies that come with them! Wish me luck, and thanks for the continued support!!! :)
Uhuru sase, y paz!!!
I'm trying to continue to do the joint book signing tour that I had started organizing this fall. I have three potential dates already; I'm just awaiting confirmation from the establishments that we/I contacted. I was severely disappointed with how the tour went this fall, with us having to cancel most of the dates because of the incompetence of the local Parks and Rec department in some of the other boroughs. Hopefully, we can officially book those dates, and move on from there. We're also trying to book some events that are OUT of NYC; we didn't have too positive of an experience in our own hometown, and so we're looking to get some recognition elsewhere.
On a more personal note...I've just recently completed writing my very first novel! It's an action adventure piece I'm calling "Chronicles of the Black Fist". I'm going through the editing process right now, and I hope to have it published by early Spring. This time around though, I might have to hire a cover artist to do the cover for my book. I know how I want it to look, but I just don't have the necessary artistic skills to do it myself. Once the book is published, I know of a few book fairs and comic book conventions that I want to take it to, to promote it.
Once the novel starts going through the final publishing stages, I'll post pictures and excerpts of the book here. Also, once the dates have been confirmed for the book signing appearances, I'll post the image of the flyer(s) here as well. It's all about staying on your grind. I'm hoping to keep pace with my goal to publish four books in five years. I'll probably just focus on the publicity of the books after that, and then go wherever the Creator directs me afterward.
So, here's to the new year, and the new energies that come with them! Wish me luck, and thanks for the continued support!!! :)
Uhuru sase, y paz!!!
Thursday, December 4, 2014
Rant Session: Fuck The Police
I'm really getting tired of this crap....
First you had the Grand Jury in Ferguson, MO let off the killer of Michael Brown, and now recently in my hometown of NYC, they let yet another cop walk for killing an unarmed brother on the street, Eric Gardner.
I'm also sick of the hashtagging and street protests. Gathering and marching isn't going to change a DAMN thing! The marches don't scare, nor intimidate them. They see it as a nuisance...nothing more. As I said before, marching worked back in the day because it was something that was unexpected of us. They thought that we would remain docile and compliant, so when we did march, it was unprecedented.
FUCK MARCHING!!!!
I'm not going to march on Washington, City Hall, or wherever, and beg the government to do anything! They won't do anything...they never have! Even the Civil Rights Bills was ridiculously watered down and stripped of it's bite when it was finally passed. What we really need to do is organize, and FIGHT BACK!!!!
We need to bring back a lot of these fighting formations from our past. They won't stop wantonly shooting us down, and disrespecting our communities until we make some consequences for their actions. Hell...even the ANC (African National Congress) had their military wing, the Umkhonto WeSiswe (MK), so that they could fight on both fronts. We NEED to bring back the BLA (Black Liberation Army) and Deacons for Defense, and let the powers that be know that this WON'T be further tolerated. You can keep your nonviolent bullshit, and shove it where the sun don't shine!
"To be practicing nonviolence against a violent enemy is doing a disservice to your community"--Malcolm X
We NEED to start practicing self defense! Start forming RBG Fit & Training Clubs, organize ourselves, arm ourselves with political education, history, and military tacitcs, and FIGHT BACK!!!
In my 40 years of existence, I've been harassed and profiled by the cops. I've known other associates who have been brutalized by the police. This is systemic, it always has been. Cut the crap! If you're too much of a punk to stand up and fight, then sit down, STFU...and get the flying fuck out of the way, and let those of us that are willing to fight, fight. If you're too busy looking out for your own self interest because you benefit from this bullshit system, they you are as much a part of the problem as they are, and you also need to be dealt with.
The time is NOW!!!!!!
STAND UP!!!!!
First you had the Grand Jury in Ferguson, MO let off the killer of Michael Brown, and now recently in my hometown of NYC, they let yet another cop walk for killing an unarmed brother on the street, Eric Gardner.
I'm also sick of the hashtagging and street protests. Gathering and marching isn't going to change a DAMN thing! The marches don't scare, nor intimidate them. They see it as a nuisance...nothing more. As I said before, marching worked back in the day because it was something that was unexpected of us. They thought that we would remain docile and compliant, so when we did march, it was unprecedented.
FUCK MARCHING!!!!
I'm not going to march on Washington, City Hall, or wherever, and beg the government to do anything! They won't do anything...they never have! Even the Civil Rights Bills was ridiculously watered down and stripped of it's bite when it was finally passed. What we really need to do is organize, and FIGHT BACK!!!!
We need to bring back a lot of these fighting formations from our past. They won't stop wantonly shooting us down, and disrespecting our communities until we make some consequences for their actions. Hell...even the ANC (African National Congress) had their military wing, the Umkhonto WeSiswe (MK), so that they could fight on both fronts. We NEED to bring back the BLA (Black Liberation Army) and Deacons for Defense, and let the powers that be know that this WON'T be further tolerated. You can keep your nonviolent bullshit, and shove it where the sun don't shine!
"To be practicing nonviolence against a violent enemy is doing a disservice to your community"--Malcolm X
We NEED to start practicing self defense! Start forming RBG Fit & Training Clubs, organize ourselves, arm ourselves with political education, history, and military tacitcs, and FIGHT BACK!!!
In my 40 years of existence, I've been harassed and profiled by the cops. I've known other associates who have been brutalized by the police. This is systemic, it always has been. Cut the crap! If you're too much of a punk to stand up and fight, then sit down, STFU...and get the flying fuck out of the way, and let those of us that are willing to fight, fight. If you're too busy looking out for your own self interest because you benefit from this bullshit system, they you are as much a part of the problem as they are, and you also need to be dealt with.
The time is NOW!!!!!!
STAND UP!!!!!
Juan Flores (1943-2014)
This blog is dedicated to a dear friend and mentor of mine, Juan Flores. Juan is/was a scholar, author, and activist, being the co-founder and co-director of the Afrolatin@ Forum. I've been fortunate enough to have had interactions with him, and be able to consider him my friend.
Juan passed away on the morning of Tuesday, December 2nd. I checked my email that afternoon, and saw the e-blast sent out by his organization about his passing. I was both stunned and hurt, having just seen him this past October at the Forum's Afrolatin@s Now! Conference, and having had the opportunity to talk to him. I was lucky enough to see him a few times this past summer at other Forum related events, and get to share some laughs and quality time with him. I felt better about seeing him, now that I was permanently back in NYC. This would give me the opportunity to, not only come out and support the Forum more, but also to work with him on any other projects that they were doing, or that I would like to do with them jointly.
This is a deep loss for me; I don't have too many people out there that I can truly count on as friends and comrades in the struggle. There are actually VERY few of us out there that are truly dedicated to instituting change, and fighting for the cause. I especially liked Juan because he is/was a very warm, friendly, and personable type of personality. I never felt like he was ever talking down to me, or that he didn't respect my opinion or ideological persuasion because of my age. I don't really get that from a lot of older people, especially those that want to claim the status of 'elder' in the community. To be considered an elder is a right that needs to be earned, not given just because you've reached a certain age. Juan was truly an elder in my eyes, and was just as vibrant as any youthful activist.
So, this is deeply dedicated to my dear friend Juan Flores. May you rest in power in the ancestral plane, and may I make you happy with all of my achievements and accomplishments.
Libertad ahora!!!
Uhuru sase, y paz
Juan passed away on the morning of Tuesday, December 2nd. I checked my email that afternoon, and saw the e-blast sent out by his organization about his passing. I was both stunned and hurt, having just seen him this past October at the Forum's Afrolatin@s Now! Conference, and having had the opportunity to talk to him. I was lucky enough to see him a few times this past summer at other Forum related events, and get to share some laughs and quality time with him. I felt better about seeing him, now that I was permanently back in NYC. This would give me the opportunity to, not only come out and support the Forum more, but also to work with him on any other projects that they were doing, or that I would like to do with them jointly.
This is a deep loss for me; I don't have too many people out there that I can truly count on as friends and comrades in the struggle. There are actually VERY few of us out there that are truly dedicated to instituting change, and fighting for the cause. I especially liked Juan because he is/was a very warm, friendly, and personable type of personality. I never felt like he was ever talking down to me, or that he didn't respect my opinion or ideological persuasion because of my age. I don't really get that from a lot of older people, especially those that want to claim the status of 'elder' in the community. To be considered an elder is a right that needs to be earned, not given just because you've reached a certain age. Juan was truly an elder in my eyes, and was just as vibrant as any youthful activist.
So, this is deeply dedicated to my dear friend Juan Flores. May you rest in power in the ancestral plane, and may I make you happy with all of my achievements and accomplishments.
Libertad ahora!!!
Uhuru sase, y paz
(Miriam Jimenez Roman <his wife>, myself, and Juan Flores; Baltimore, 2011)
(Juan at the recent Afrolatin@s Now! Conference in 2014)
Tuesday, November 25, 2014
Aftermath--Ferguson Grand Jury Decision
Can't say that I'm surprised...
We've seen it happen time and time again. Hell, I've seen it happen in my own hometown too many times to count. Cop shoots Black/Latino person...DA takes it to the Grand Jury...cops get off scott free. Hell, I remember the Rodney King beating case, and you had video evidence of the cops wrongdoing, and they STILL got off. I'm basically going to reiterate what I've said before in this blog...
Forget the nonviolent marching crap. They don't care about us marching. It doesn't phase them, nor impress them. What we need to do, is start practicing SELF DEFENSE!!! This is going to continue to happen because they know that there will be no consequences for their actions; not by the legal system, nor by our community. There is no trust there because THEY'VE NEVER EARNED IT!!! Just because you wear a uniform DOES NOT mean you are to be automatically respected (if not, feared).
Again...to echo the ancestor El Hajj Malik El Shabazz:
"When you tell your people to stop being violent towards my people...then I will tell my people to put their guns away."
Even during the Civil Rights Movement, MANY who were actively involved in the movement questioned the use of nonviolence. Marching and protesting have their time and place; THIS AIN'T IT. These are not isolated incidences that occur; this is something that happens systemically in our communities TO US. The only way that it'll stop, is if we FORCE them to stop. You had the Deacons For Defense & Justice, the Black Panther Party For Self Defense, Black Liberation Army, Universal Africa Legion through the UNIA, and a few other formations that existed. Hell, even the ANC had their paramilitary wing, the Umkhonto weSiswe (MK). NOT having a defense stance is stupid. It shows that you know nothing about history, nor about political strategy. What we need is real unity, organization and direction, for proper mobilization of our people. WE know our neighborhoods better than they do; that gives us the tactical military advantage. A well organized resistance is the scariest thing in the face of an enemy.
"The single best weapon our enemy has, is a lack of consciousness among our people"--Osageyfo Kwame Nkrumah.
Study the past...
Study the elders and ancestors....
Study Sun Tzu...
Uhuru sase, y paz
We've seen it happen time and time again. Hell, I've seen it happen in my own hometown too many times to count. Cop shoots Black/Latino person...DA takes it to the Grand Jury...cops get off scott free. Hell, I remember the Rodney King beating case, and you had video evidence of the cops wrongdoing, and they STILL got off. I'm basically going to reiterate what I've said before in this blog...
Forget the nonviolent marching crap. They don't care about us marching. It doesn't phase them, nor impress them. What we need to do, is start practicing SELF DEFENSE!!! This is going to continue to happen because they know that there will be no consequences for their actions; not by the legal system, nor by our community. There is no trust there because THEY'VE NEVER EARNED IT!!! Just because you wear a uniform DOES NOT mean you are to be automatically respected (if not, feared).
Again...to echo the ancestor El Hajj Malik El Shabazz:
"When you tell your people to stop being violent towards my people...then I will tell my people to put their guns away."
Even during the Civil Rights Movement, MANY who were actively involved in the movement questioned the use of nonviolence. Marching and protesting have their time and place; THIS AIN'T IT. These are not isolated incidences that occur; this is something that happens systemically in our communities TO US. The only way that it'll stop, is if we FORCE them to stop. You had the Deacons For Defense & Justice, the Black Panther Party For Self Defense, Black Liberation Army, Universal Africa Legion through the UNIA, and a few other formations that existed. Hell, even the ANC had their paramilitary wing, the Umkhonto weSiswe (MK). NOT having a defense stance is stupid. It shows that you know nothing about history, nor about political strategy. What we need is real unity, organization and direction, for proper mobilization of our people. WE know our neighborhoods better than they do; that gives us the tactical military advantage. A well organized resistance is the scariest thing in the face of an enemy.
"The single best weapon our enemy has, is a lack of consciousness among our people"--Osageyfo Kwame Nkrumah.
Study the past...
Study the elders and ancestors....
Study Sun Tzu...
Uhuru sase, y paz
Tuesday, November 18, 2014
African American Women In Cinema International Film Festival (AAWIC) 2014
It is my honor to help promote this year's edition of the African American Women In Cinema International Film Festival (AAWIC)!!!!! I remember when I first volunteered for them back in 2003 (yes..I'm dating myself), and I had such a WONDERFUL experience. I volunteered for them for three years; '03, '04, and 2006. Since then, most of my support has been viral through emails and text messages to friends and fellow former volunteers. I'm happy to be able to come back this year and support them as a movie goer to their opening night reception. Hopefully in the near future, I can be there to have on of my screenplays finally produced and screened there.
Here is their schedule for this year's festival:
Much love to AAWIC's founder, Terra Renee, for creating such a wonderful platform for our sister filmmakers! PLEASE come out and support the festival!!! Spread the word!!!!
Here is their schedule for this year's festival:
Much love to AAWIC's founder, Terra Renee, for creating such a wonderful platform for our sister filmmakers! PLEASE come out and support the festival!!! Spread the word!!!!
Thursday, November 13, 2014
Puerto Rican Authors Book Expo
3rd Annual Puerto Rican Authors Book Expo
Saturday, November 22, 2014
12pm to 7pm
Bronx, NY
To be held at the
Hostos Center for the Arts and Culture
450 Grand Concourse
Sunday, November 9, 2014
Mosaic Literary Conference 2014
Looking forward to attending this year's Mosaic Literary Conference, taking place this weekend, on Saturday, November 15th. I am friends with the founder of the conference, Ron Kavanaugh, and I look forward to coming out, and supporting the brother. He4 also publishes a quarterly magazine called Mosaic Magazine.
The conference is FREE, and located at the Bronx Museum on Grand Concourse, in Bronx, NY. I registered ahead of time, and have been looking forward to this.
Hope to see you there!!! :D
Friday, November 7, 2014
Dia Nacional de los/las AfroArgentin@s y Cultura Afro
Shared with me by an organization called Diaspora Africana de Argetina!!! National Day of Afro Argentinian African Culture!!!!
November 13, 2014!!!!
Monday, October 27, 2014
Afrolatin@s Now! Conference 2014
Just spent this last weekend enjoying the second annual Afrolatin@s Now Conference held in my hometown of New York City, from Thursday, October 23rd to Saturday, October 25th. I was able to attend two out of the three days of the Conference, and really enjoy myself. I got the chance to catch up with some old friends, and see my peoples from The Forum.
I was able to attend the opening night panel discussion that was held at The Schomberg Center. I was actually quite familiar with two of the panelists; Roland Roebuck who I've actually met personally before at one of my past events in Baltimore, and Peter Noguera who is local here in NYC in the education field. The other panelists I know moreso by reputation. it was a very interesting discussion, and a lot of people came up to ask questions during the Q&A session.
(Panelists l-r: Peter Noguera, Tianna Paschell, Roland Roebuck, Tanya K. Hernandez, Leonardo Reales)
I unfortunately missed the Second day of the Conference due to some personal business that I needed to tend to. I was bothered by that, because I had a friend that was going to be on one of the panels held that day, a budding documentary filmmaker named Magdalena Albizu. That panel was held at Teacher's College at City College of New York (or CCNY for us real New Yorkers ;) ). I wish that I hadn't missed it; I heard some really good things about that particular panel.
I was able to attend the Third and last day of the event, which was held at El Museo Del Barrio in East Harlem. The opening panel had to do with "Recounting the Afrolatin@ Artist Experience". That particular panel was supposed to have three artists representing their work (one had a family emergency at the last minute) showcasing their work, and Afrolatinidad in their work. Their panel was followed by workshops on mask making, and a dance workshop.
(Panelists: l-r: William Villalongo, E. Carmen Ramos, moderator Rocio Aranda-Alvarado)
To cap off the Conference, were were graced with musical and dance performances that showed off our African roots from the Diaspora. We were dazzled by the cultural dances of the Garifuna people; members of the Chief Joseph Chatoyer Garifuna folkloric Ballet Company blessed us with a few performances, celebrating Garifuna culture. The drummers and the dances held us all in sway. I have to admit...I had to literally fight the urge not to go out on the floor, and bust out some Punta moves of my own, lol, lol.
To cap it off, we were graced by the musical stylings of a group called Los Hacheros. They played a whole host of Afro influenced Latino music; Son, Bomba, Plena, Rumba, Cumbia, Mambo, etc. They had the whole place rocking and dancing. They were even requested to do an encore. We had a cultural conference, and dance party broke out, lol, lol! ;)
(Los Hacheros)
So ended the second Afrolatin@s Now! Conference: Race Counts. I was glad to have been able to attend the conference, and hope to return when they hold the next one. Shout out to the Afrolatin@ Forum for organizing such a great event. People came out near and far to support and participate. I would also like to personally participate as a panelist again. I enjoyed it the first time they held the conference, and would love to come back again.
Aluta continua!!!
I was able to attend the opening night panel discussion that was held at The Schomberg Center. I was actually quite familiar with two of the panelists; Roland Roebuck who I've actually met personally before at one of my past events in Baltimore, and Peter Noguera who is local here in NYC in the education field. The other panelists I know moreso by reputation. it was a very interesting discussion, and a lot of people came up to ask questions during the Q&A session.
I unfortunately missed the Second day of the Conference due to some personal business that I needed to tend to. I was bothered by that, because I had a friend that was going to be on one of the panels held that day, a budding documentary filmmaker named Magdalena Albizu. That panel was held at Teacher's College at City College of New York (or CCNY for us real New Yorkers ;) ). I wish that I hadn't missed it; I heard some really good things about that particular panel.
I was able to attend the Third and last day of the event, which was held at El Museo Del Barrio in East Harlem. The opening panel had to do with "Recounting the Afrolatin@ Artist Experience". That particular panel was supposed to have three artists representing their work (one had a family emergency at the last minute) showcasing their work, and Afrolatinidad in their work. Their panel was followed by workshops on mask making, and a dance workshop.
To cap off the Conference, were were graced with musical and dance performances that showed off our African roots from the Diaspora. We were dazzled by the cultural dances of the Garifuna people; members of the Chief Joseph Chatoyer Garifuna folkloric Ballet Company blessed us with a few performances, celebrating Garifuna culture. The drummers and the dances held us all in sway. I have to admit...I had to literally fight the urge not to go out on the floor, and bust out some Punta moves of my own, lol, lol.
To cap it off, we were graced by the musical stylings of a group called Los Hacheros. They played a whole host of Afro influenced Latino music; Son, Bomba, Plena, Rumba, Cumbia, Mambo, etc. They had the whole place rocking and dancing. They were even requested to do an encore. We had a cultural conference, and dance party broke out, lol, lol! ;)
So ended the second Afrolatin@s Now! Conference: Race Counts. I was glad to have been able to attend the conference, and hope to return when they hold the next one. Shout out to the Afrolatin@ Forum for organizing such a great event. People came out near and far to support and participate. I would also like to personally participate as a panelist again. I enjoyed it the first time they held the conference, and would love to come back again.
Aluta continua!!!
Friday, October 10, 2014
Mujeres en el Movmiento: Afro Chicas & Black Latina/Negra Bella
You always learn something new every day. I may have my issues with the internet, but I love it when I'm able to connect with and network with other like-minded people.
I found out about some hermanas en el movmiento. The first is a group called Afro Chicas, based in New York City.
They have a Meet & Greet event coming up next week on October 15th in Brooklyn, New York. Tickets are available for this event. If you would like to connect with these fierce hermanas, this is a great way for you to get into contact with them. :)
You also have las hermanas from Black Latina/Negra Bella. They are also based in New York City, and have been traveling, and taking their message to other places.
They will be having their next event on October 17th in Norcross, Georgia. So, for any of our Bella Negra Afro latina hermanas that live in the area, PLEASE come out to support them at this event!
If WE don't support our own, who will! Please support nuestra hermanas that are in the struggle, and are making things happen!
www.afrochicas.com
www.negrabella.com
I found out about some hermanas en el movmiento. The first is a group called Afro Chicas, based in New York City.
They have a Meet & Greet event coming up next week on October 15th in Brooklyn, New York. Tickets are available for this event. If you would like to connect with these fierce hermanas, this is a great way for you to get into contact with them. :)
You also have las hermanas from Black Latina/Negra Bella. They are also based in New York City, and have been traveling, and taking their message to other places.
They will be having their next event on October 17th in Norcross, Georgia. So, for any of our Bella Negra Afro latina hermanas that live in the area, PLEASE come out to support them at this event!
If WE don't support our own, who will! Please support nuestra hermanas that are in the struggle, and are making things happen!
www.afrochicas.com
www.negrabella.com
Thursday, October 2, 2014
International Society of Black Latinos (ISBL) presents...Afro-Latinos: Journey Through the Americas & Caribbean
International Society of Black Latinos (ISBL) presents...
Afro-Latinos: Journey Through the Americas and Caribbean
Saturday, October 4, 2014
Barnsdall Gallery Theater
4800 Hollywood, Boulevard
Los Angeles, CA
www.blacklatinos.com
Wednesday, September 24, 2014
The Consortium of Afro Latino Communities: Joint Literary Event
A joint Reading, Discussion, & Book Signing event, these three Afro Latino authors have banded together to help spread the messages about their literary works, and about Afro Latino issues and affairs. A belated Latino Heritage Month event, this literary event is FREE, open to the public, and easily accessible by public transportation.
The Consortium of Afro Latino Communities
Reading, Discussion, & Book Signing
Metropolitan Recreation Center
261 Bedford Aveneue
Brooklyn, NY 11211
October 18, 2014
2pm to 5pm
Featuring;
Clarissa Mendez; authoress, Life Coach
Kevin Sabio; author/activist
Robert Oriyama'at; author/poet/activist
Monday, September 15, 2014
Pueblo Harlem: Latino Heritage Month Event
Afro Latin Jazz Alliance and Harlem School of Arts presents...
Pubelo Harlem!!!
Saturday, September 20, 2014
645 St. Nicholas Avenue
11am-6pm
FREE and open to the public!!!!
The State of Black Women in Latin America
Brought to you by Red de Mujeres Afro Latinamericanas Afro caribenas y de la Diaspora, Encuentro Diaspora Afro, Caribbean Cultural Center & African Diaspora Institute, When & Where I Enter, Inc, and the Afrolatin@ Project!
Opening remarks by Dr. Marta Moreno-Vega.
The State of Black Women In Latin America
Williamsburg Music Center
367 Bedford Avenue
Brooklyn, NY
September 22, 2014
6pm-8:30pm
FREE, and open to the public!!!
Organization DiaFar showing Solidarity in Michael Brown Shooting
Being shown solidarity from our Afro Latino brothers and sisters in the diaspora. This particular group is based in Argentina. Diaspora Africana de Argentina.
Whe you bleed...we bleed.
When you suffer, we suffer.
You are not alone!
#TruePanafricanism
Thursday, September 4, 2014
Poetics of Reparations--Featuring Monica Carrillo
Poetry, film screening, and music
Featuring the work(s) of Monica Carrillo aka "Oru":
The screening of her film "Afroperuanos", as well as the performance of her poetry.
Music played by Martin Fuks
Sunday, September 7th
5pm to 7pm
187 Prospect Place
Brooklyn, NY
$5 suggested donation
RSVP today!!!
http://www.martinfuks.com/rsvpmaker/poetics-of-reparation/
Wednesday, September 3, 2014
Autumnal Aspirations
This is the first week of September.
Summer has come to a close, and the Autumnal Equinox is right around the corner. September is also the beginning of Latino Heritage Month, and many independence day celebrations throughout Latin America (specifically Central America). This also marks four months that I've been back in New York.
The Summer has been bittersweet. I've been lucky enough to experience a good number of the cultural events and institutions that we have in NY since my return. At the same time, I've vended at a number of cultural and literary events, and haven't done well financially at all. I've also faced some adversity in trying to organize some of my own literary events.
The one good thing that I can say is that I've been able to network with a number of people that I've met this summer. Hopefully, that networking will pay off for me, and lead to bookings for some events. I've been trying to team up with some other authors that I know, and work on creating a joint book signing tour. I'll let you know how that works out...
At least I'm still writing and networking. I've been talking to several establishments about getting my works stocked on their shelves. Unfortunately, they're either completely unresponsive, or they're taking their sweet time to review my books, and get back to me with a response.
Seriously...do I really need to harass you just to get a simple 'yes' or 'no' answer out of you?!?! How long does it take you to look at your fucking calendar to see if the date that I requested to hold a book signing event at your store is open or not?!?! Really, people?!?!?
I can't really say that the majority of the resistance is because I'm 'unknown'; everyone has to start from scratch. I also can't really blame it on arrogance or egotism on the part of the business owner (or, employee; though I've met a few asswipes). I know that a lot of this is based on personal relationships, and I'm still getting to know people. Most of my contacts that were originally here, have either moved on to other things, or have left the state. At the same time, people should be open to networking with newer talent.
I'm still keeping my head up. Hopefully, I can get this book singing tour off the ground. If not, I might have to work on some solo literary events. I need to gain some sort of traction going. I'm not trying to go back to the regular corporate workforce. I just really need to get my foot in the door....
The saga continues....
Summer has come to a close, and the Autumnal Equinox is right around the corner. September is also the beginning of Latino Heritage Month, and many independence day celebrations throughout Latin America (specifically Central America). This also marks four months that I've been back in New York.
The Summer has been bittersweet. I've been lucky enough to experience a good number of the cultural events and institutions that we have in NY since my return. At the same time, I've vended at a number of cultural and literary events, and haven't done well financially at all. I've also faced some adversity in trying to organize some of my own literary events.
The one good thing that I can say is that I've been able to network with a number of people that I've met this summer. Hopefully, that networking will pay off for me, and lead to bookings for some events. I've been trying to team up with some other authors that I know, and work on creating a joint book signing tour. I'll let you know how that works out...
At least I'm still writing and networking. I've been talking to several establishments about getting my works stocked on their shelves. Unfortunately, they're either completely unresponsive, or they're taking their sweet time to review my books, and get back to me with a response.
Seriously...do I really need to harass you just to get a simple 'yes' or 'no' answer out of you?!?! How long does it take you to look at your fucking calendar to see if the date that I requested to hold a book signing event at your store is open or not?!?! Really, people?!?!?
I can't really say that the majority of the resistance is because I'm 'unknown'; everyone has to start from scratch. I also can't really blame it on arrogance or egotism on the part of the business owner (or, employee; though I've met a few asswipes). I know that a lot of this is based on personal relationships, and I'm still getting to know people. Most of my contacts that were originally here, have either moved on to other things, or have left the state. At the same time, people should be open to networking with newer talent.
I'm still keeping my head up. Hopefully, I can get this book singing tour off the ground. If not, I might have to work on some solo literary events. I need to gain some sort of traction going. I'm not trying to go back to the regular corporate workforce. I just really need to get my foot in the door....
The saga continues....
Wednesday, August 27, 2014
Dia de la Presencia Afro Slvadorena 2014
FYI!!!!!! Taking place in El Salvador!!! FIRST annual event!!!!
Celebration of the African presence in El Salvador, and Afrosalvadorenoa pride!!!!!!
Dia De la Presencia Afro Salvadorena
El 30 de agosto (August 30th)
Zacatecoluca, El Salvador
PLEASE SPREAD THE WORD!!!!!
Tuesday, August 19, 2014
Musings: Michael Brown, Eric Garner, and other deadly encounters with the Boyz in Blue
So I've been a bit quiet about this as of late. I wanted to have enough time to be able to coherently gather my thoughts, and to properly express what I'm feeling inside. Let me echo one of my favorite rap artists, 2Pac:
"They claim that I'm violent, just cause I refuse to be silient,
These hypocrites are having fits, cause we're not buying it,
defying it..."
Or, better yet, how about Michael Jackson:
"All I really wanna say...they don't really care about us!"
We've seen this time and time again. We see the same response by so-called Civil Rights activist/leaders calling for calm and peace. They make calls to "act accordingly", and not be confrontational, to practice nonviolence as a solution.
FUCK THAT!!!!
We DON'T need calm. Calm has never brought us any results. Hell...nonviolence has never been proved to be an effective tactic against the oppressive powers. If any of you had actually bothered to study history, instead of listening to the bullshit rhetoric of these old ass talking heads on these Sunday morning news shows, you would know that even during the Civil Rights struggle, you had MANY that questioned the tactic of nonviolence after several deadly encounters with police forces in the American Deep South. That's one of the main reasons for the little splits that happened during the movement.
We don't need more damned discussions. What we need is organization and mobilization to counteract this oppressive treatment by an ever-increasingly militarized police force. We've been asleep at the wheel for the last 13 years (and lost our backbone <not to mention our minds> for the last 6 years); it's time to wake up, and face reality.
We need to defend ourselves. If we learned nothing from the BPP-SD, it was that we needed to protect ourselves from external forces that were detrimental to our community. Those who focused solely on their community programs and NOT on their self defense program and doctrine have shown that they know NOTHING about that organization, and truly have NO idea what they were about.
Let's cut the crap here. Michael Brown wasn't some young thug making trouble in the community. Eric Garner wasn't some local petty criminal making problems for the community. Neither deserved to be murdered by the police for no other reason than being a Black man on the street. When Eric Garner was murdered, he was accused of selling 'loosies' on the street, yet NONE were found on him at the crime scene, and WITNESSES were on hand to say that he was breaking up a fight, and had nothing to do with any criminality going on.
We are asleep and spineless. We are completely apathetic and complacent. Yeah..you'll have a few people go on social media...pop off at the mouth...and then go back to their bullshit lives, worrying about Scandal, Real Housewives, R&B Divas, and other stupid-ass nonsensical shit. We NEED TO FIGHT BACK!!!!!!
We need our own fighting formations. If you're too much of a pussy to want to stand up and fight, and talk that I-hate-violence bullshit, take your ass somewhere, sit your ass down, and SHUT THE FUCK UP. We do too much talking, and not enough action. To echo 2Pac again:
"They claim I'm violent, then violent's what I gotta be"
Or, maybe I should be echoing my peoples Public Enemy:
"Shut 'em down".
I'll even through my own voice into the mix:
"No respect to the Boyz In Blue,
And it's not because I hate ya, it's just the shit I see you do,
Givin' beat downs, buck downs...goin' insane,
Ya runnin' shit, can't even roll through my own domain..."
If they want to militarize the police force, then we need to create OUR OWN community defense force. There are a number of grassroots organizations in our community that are doing just that, but we choose to dismiss them as if they are crazy, and show them no support. Don't wait until it is too late, for another incident to hit our community. Stand up, and FIGHT BACK!! There is NOTHING wrong with fighting back. If we can cheer an uprising in a foreign country, then why not cheer and support an (well deserved) uprising on the home front?
Strategize....organize....MOBILIZE!!!!!
Uhuru sase, y paz
"They claim that I'm violent, just cause I refuse to be silient,
These hypocrites are having fits, cause we're not buying it,
defying it..."
Or, better yet, how about Michael Jackson:
"All I really wanna say...they don't really care about us!"
We've seen this time and time again. We see the same response by so-called Civil Rights activist/leaders calling for calm and peace. They make calls to "act accordingly", and not be confrontational, to practice nonviolence as a solution.
FUCK THAT!!!!
We DON'T need calm. Calm has never brought us any results. Hell...nonviolence has never been proved to be an effective tactic against the oppressive powers. If any of you had actually bothered to study history, instead of listening to the bullshit rhetoric of these old ass talking heads on these Sunday morning news shows, you would know that even during the Civil Rights struggle, you had MANY that questioned the tactic of nonviolence after several deadly encounters with police forces in the American Deep South. That's one of the main reasons for the little splits that happened during the movement.
We don't need more damned discussions. What we need is organization and mobilization to counteract this oppressive treatment by an ever-increasingly militarized police force. We've been asleep at the wheel for the last 13 years (and lost our backbone <not to mention our minds> for the last 6 years); it's time to wake up, and face reality.
We need to defend ourselves. If we learned nothing from the BPP-SD, it was that we needed to protect ourselves from external forces that were detrimental to our community. Those who focused solely on their community programs and NOT on their self defense program and doctrine have shown that they know NOTHING about that organization, and truly have NO idea what they were about.
Let's cut the crap here. Michael Brown wasn't some young thug making trouble in the community. Eric Garner wasn't some local petty criminal making problems for the community. Neither deserved to be murdered by the police for no other reason than being a Black man on the street. When Eric Garner was murdered, he was accused of selling 'loosies' on the street, yet NONE were found on him at the crime scene, and WITNESSES were on hand to say that he was breaking up a fight, and had nothing to do with any criminality going on.
We are asleep and spineless. We are completely apathetic and complacent. Yeah..you'll have a few people go on social media...pop off at the mouth...and then go back to their bullshit lives, worrying about Scandal, Real Housewives, R&B Divas, and other stupid-ass nonsensical shit. We NEED TO FIGHT BACK!!!!!!
We need our own fighting formations. If you're too much of a pussy to want to stand up and fight, and talk that I-hate-violence bullshit, take your ass somewhere, sit your ass down, and SHUT THE FUCK UP. We do too much talking, and not enough action. To echo 2Pac again:
"They claim I'm violent, then violent's what I gotta be"
Or, maybe I should be echoing my peoples Public Enemy:
"Shut 'em down".
I'll even through my own voice into the mix:
"No respect to the Boyz In Blue,
And it's not because I hate ya, it's just the shit I see you do,
Givin' beat downs, buck downs...goin' insane,
Ya runnin' shit, can't even roll through my own domain..."
If they want to militarize the police force, then we need to create OUR OWN community defense force. There are a number of grassroots organizations in our community that are doing just that, but we choose to dismiss them as if they are crazy, and show them no support. Don't wait until it is too late, for another incident to hit our community. Stand up, and FIGHT BACK!! There is NOTHING wrong with fighting back. If we can cheer an uprising in a foreign country, then why not cheer and support an (well deserved) uprising on the home front?
Strategize....organize....MOBILIZE!!!!!
Uhuru sase, y paz
Wednesday, August 6, 2014
La Marqueta Stories Literary & Arts Festival
Brooklyn's prodigal son will be participating in this years festival. I will be on hand with copies of all three of my book titles. Celebrating East Harlem, while bringing some Brooklyn flava! :D
La Marqueta Stories Literary & Arts Festival
Saturday, August 16, 2014
12pm to 3pm
1640 Park Avenue (between E. 116th and E. 117th Streets)
FREE and open to the public!! Accessible by public transportation.
BE THERE!!!!!!
Monday, August 4, 2014
Proyectos Futuros (Future Projects)
The one question the writers/authors get frequently asked, especially either during an interview or a book signing, is this....
So, what are you working on now...?
What's my response to this question....? What am I not working on?
Currently, I'm still writing several screenplay projects. Film and television has always been my first love, so I continue to write my cinematic stories. I'm working on several new projects, as well as trying to finish a few others that I've temporarily put on hold. I still have several TV series projects that I have yet to write the pilot out, and only have in treatment form. There are others that I want to continue to write out additional episodes, and at least complete a first season. At the same time, I'm considering getting together a writing team to do those projects...
On the literary front...I'm working on three fiction novels. One is an Afrocentric sci-fi space opera, in which I've actually posted an excerpt of it here on this blog. Another novel is an action/adventure project about a community activist-turned-crime fighter; also excerpted as an entry in this blog. The third project is another sci-fi action/adventure project that deals with the Earth defending itself from an oncoming alien invasion, using the aliens' own technology against them (a la Robotech). That one I plan to turn into a series....
Lastly....I am currently writing PART THREE of the "Raise Your Brown Black Fist" book series. I have finally figured out the direction that I wanted to go in with this particular book. Now that I am back in New York, I have access to the materials and information that I need to complete the book. This book will be the most ambitious of the three, and I hope to complete it and have it published by the end of next year (2015). I was kinda hoping to stick to the schedule that I gave to myself to have published at least four books in five years.
Meanwhile....I'm still trying to get my grind on by getting my books stocked in bookstores, and doing more book signings, festivals, and speaking engagements.
Stay tuned for more! :)
So, what are you working on now...?
What's my response to this question....? What am I not working on?
Currently, I'm still writing several screenplay projects. Film and television has always been my first love, so I continue to write my cinematic stories. I'm working on several new projects, as well as trying to finish a few others that I've temporarily put on hold. I still have several TV series projects that I have yet to write the pilot out, and only have in treatment form. There are others that I want to continue to write out additional episodes, and at least complete a first season. At the same time, I'm considering getting together a writing team to do those projects...
On the literary front...I'm working on three fiction novels. One is an Afrocentric sci-fi space opera, in which I've actually posted an excerpt of it here on this blog. Another novel is an action/adventure project about a community activist-turned-crime fighter; also excerpted as an entry in this blog. The third project is another sci-fi action/adventure project that deals with the Earth defending itself from an oncoming alien invasion, using the aliens' own technology against them (a la Robotech). That one I plan to turn into a series....
Lastly....I am currently writing PART THREE of the "Raise Your Brown Black Fist" book series. I have finally figured out the direction that I wanted to go in with this particular book. Now that I am back in New York, I have access to the materials and information that I need to complete the book. This book will be the most ambitious of the three, and I hope to complete it and have it published by the end of next year (2015). I was kinda hoping to stick to the schedule that I gave to myself to have published at least four books in five years.
Meanwhile....I'm still trying to get my grind on by getting my books stocked in bookstores, and doing more book signings, festivals, and speaking engagements.
Stay tuned for more! :)
Thursday, July 24, 2014
32nd Annual Festival Santiago Apostol de Loiza a El Barrio
Carribean Cultural Center and Africa Diaspora Institute
presents...
32nd Annual Festival Santiago Apostol de Loiza a El Barrio
3-day celebration of Afro Puerto Rican culture
Music, food, vendors, FUN!!!!
July 25-27, 2014
105th Street (between Lexington and Park Avenues)
FREE!!!!!!
SPREAD THE WORD!!!!!
Monday, July 21, 2014
Social Media presence
Other than this blog, there are other ways to find me in the webiverse...
I have profiles on G+, LinkedIn, Facebook, and Black Author Showcase (Ning.com site). I don't do Twitter, though....haven't really been drawn to it (nor Instagram or Pinterest for that matter).
I actually have two Fan Pages on Facebook. The main one that I use is named after this blog, "Chronicles of the Brown Black Fist". Here is the link for it:
https://www.facebook.com/pages/Chronicles-of-the-Brown-Black-Fist/472444836156619?ref_type=bookmark
This Fan page deals not only with the blogs that I post from here that I share, but also a lot of my activism. I share a lot of different information on that page pertaining to issues that I feel strongly about, and my cultural interests.
My other Fan Page I just recently started. It's really dedicated to highlighting my skills as a writer, and promote me as a published author. It's called "Author, Kevin Alberto Sabio" Here is the link to it:
https://www.facebook.com/AuthorKevinSabio
This one was set up as a suggestion from a friend, thinking that I should differentiate between my activism, and my literary work. This particular page can highlight and focus mainly on my books, and upcoming literary projects. I'll still post about my upcoming events on both pages on FB, but I think that this will actually work.
SO.....
Feel free to hit me up and 'friend' me on any of these different social networks, if you haven't already. It's just another way for you to feel connected to me in this interconnected cyber world we now live in.
Keep the fist raised!!
I have profiles on G+, LinkedIn, Facebook, and Black Author Showcase (Ning.com site). I don't do Twitter, though....haven't really been drawn to it (nor Instagram or Pinterest for that matter).
I actually have two Fan Pages on Facebook. The main one that I use is named after this blog, "Chronicles of the Brown Black Fist". Here is the link for it:
https://www.facebook.com/pages/Chronicles-of-the-Brown-Black-Fist/472444836156619?ref_type=bookmark
This Fan page deals not only with the blogs that I post from here that I share, but also a lot of my activism. I share a lot of different information on that page pertaining to issues that I feel strongly about, and my cultural interests.
My other Fan Page I just recently started. It's really dedicated to highlighting my skills as a writer, and promote me as a published author. It's called "Author, Kevin Alberto Sabio" Here is the link to it:
https://www.facebook.com/AuthorKevinSabio
This one was set up as a suggestion from a friend, thinking that I should differentiate between my activism, and my literary work. This particular page can highlight and focus mainly on my books, and upcoming literary projects. I'll still post about my upcoming events on both pages on FB, but I think that this will actually work.
SO.....
Feel free to hit me up and 'friend' me on any of these different social networks, if you haven't already. It's just another way for you to feel connected to me in this interconnected cyber world we now live in.
Keep the fist raised!!
Monday, July 14, 2014
Musings: The Ujamaa Effect (or lack thereof)
Since my return, I've been to at least three different festivals so far; two that I participated in as a vendor, and one that I just attended (and illegally vended). With the first two, I helped to (imho) heavily promote those events because I was actively participating in them as a vendor. The third was one that I was just hoping to attend, and be able to enjoy as an attendee. With the activism that I do in/for the literary arts, I don't get the opportunity to attend and enjoy these events as I would like to.
What really disturbed me was the lack of commerce and support being given by the attendees with the vendors present. The attitude that you sensed from the crowd was really a superficial one; they just came to show up, and show off. They wanted to give the appearance of being so damn deep and cultural, but didn't really support the vendors that were there, myself included. Certain attendees acted like they couldn't give you the time of day; as if you were beneath them.
#1- If you're a female, I AM NOT trying to get with you! I'm trying to make a sale. This is how some of us make our livelihood(s). We can't step up our game if you don't financially support us. Our products cost money to make/purchase, vending fees have to be covered, travel expenses need to be addressed, etc.
#2- If you don't support the vendors, they won't be able to participate in events like this. If they don't participate in events like these, the organizers can't organize these events. If the organizers can't put together these types of events, THEY WON'T EXIST ANYMORE!!! Do you see a pattern forming here...?
#3- You're NOT that deep or cultural. You come to these events 'playing' African, wearing your 'African' costume. You come to these events frontin' like you so damn deep and cultural, when after the event is over, you go back to being your ignorant, ratchet-ass self. You're more willing to come out of pocket to buy some $1000 smartphone, or $250 pair of shoes/sneakers, but wanna bitch at a vendor to pay $10 for a fucking book, DVD, or CD?!
#4- Not saying that there should be a dress code, but HTF you gonna come to a 'cultural' event dressed like anything?!?! Your booty cheeks are hanging out of your shorts, you're wearing the tightest dress(es) known to man, or you're wearing little to nothing in way of clothing attire. C'mon...really?! But you so damn deep and African...
#5- If you have NO intention of buying anything, YTF you bother coming out?!?!?! That's a waste of everyone's time. Cultural events like these are not about you being seen; it's about supporting the cause/purpose of the event, and supporting the businesses/entrepreneurs participating in the event.
We can't complain about not having such-and-such business(es) in our neighborhoods if we don't support our own businesses/entrepreneurs. We can't complain about having 'alien' businesses in our communities if we don't support our businesses first and foremost. The power of economics and spending habits speaks volumes to your priorities, and economic power and political influence.
If you have a nickle-and-dime mentality, you're gonna get nickel-and-dime results.
Think about that....
What really disturbed me was the lack of commerce and support being given by the attendees with the vendors present. The attitude that you sensed from the crowd was really a superficial one; they just came to show up, and show off. They wanted to give the appearance of being so damn deep and cultural, but didn't really support the vendors that were there, myself included. Certain attendees acted like they couldn't give you the time of day; as if you were beneath them.
#1- If you're a female, I AM NOT trying to get with you! I'm trying to make a sale. This is how some of us make our livelihood(s). We can't step up our game if you don't financially support us. Our products cost money to make/purchase, vending fees have to be covered, travel expenses need to be addressed, etc.
#2- If you don't support the vendors, they won't be able to participate in events like this. If they don't participate in events like these, the organizers can't organize these events. If the organizers can't put together these types of events, THEY WON'T EXIST ANYMORE!!! Do you see a pattern forming here...?
#3- You're NOT that deep or cultural. You come to these events 'playing' African, wearing your 'African' costume. You come to these events frontin' like you so damn deep and cultural, when after the event is over, you go back to being your ignorant, ratchet-ass self. You're more willing to come out of pocket to buy some $1000 smartphone, or $250 pair of shoes/sneakers, but wanna bitch at a vendor to pay $10 for a fucking book, DVD, or CD?!
#4- Not saying that there should be a dress code, but HTF you gonna come to a 'cultural' event dressed like anything?!?! Your booty cheeks are hanging out of your shorts, you're wearing the tightest dress(es) known to man, or you're wearing little to nothing in way of clothing attire. C'mon...really?! But you so damn deep and African...
#5- If you have NO intention of buying anything, YTF you bother coming out?!?!?! That's a waste of everyone's time. Cultural events like these are not about you being seen; it's about supporting the cause/purpose of the event, and supporting the businesses/entrepreneurs participating in the event.
We can't complain about not having such-and-such business(es) in our neighborhoods if we don't support our own businesses/entrepreneurs. We can't complain about having 'alien' businesses in our communities if we don't support our businesses first and foremost. The power of economics and spending habits speaks volumes to your priorities, and economic power and political influence.
If you have a nickle-and-dime mentality, you're gonna get nickel-and-dime results.
Think about that....
Tuesday, July 8, 2014
Reflections: Musings of a Prodigal Son
So...I've moved back to my hometown of Brooklyn. I've been back for almost two months now. I've seen a lot of the changes that have been happening here since I've been gone for the last 7-8 years...
And I DON'T like what I see.
None of these changes were made to benefit the people who were originally here; they were made to benefit the Manhattanites who can no longer afford to live in Manhattan, and the newly arrived transplants who disrespectfully carry themselves as if they are originally FROM here.
You're NOT!!! Stop fakin' the funk!!!!
A lot of this is what I was fighting against before I moved out of the state. I saw the handwriting on the wall, so to speak, and saw that people just weren't prepared for what was coming, nor were they interested or inclined in trying to fend it off. It frustrated me beyond belief, and totally burned me out, among other personal issues that I was dealing with at the time. It got worse almost immediately after I left.
I've only been gone a short time. I would understand if I'd been gone a good 10+ years; progress and change is inevitable. BUT...I've only been gone a short amount of time. I walk around the neighborhood I grew up in, and don't even recognize it. The borough that I love has lost it's flavor; it's become so stagnant. All you see around the way are these mainstream big box stores. The local mom-and-pop shops are falling/have fallen to the wayside. You have interloping transplants boguarding and regulating as if they're actually from here, and putting a kibosh on any and all cultural activities that have been going on in our communities for decades before their arrival.
I DO see people keeping up the fight. Brothers and sisters are out there trying to maintain our cultural and artistic spaces, or are trying to create new ones for us. The supreme need is the support of the community so that these traditions and institutions can never be lost to us ever again. They can try to push us out; I think that it's about time that we started to push back.
When our neighborhoods were defunct and crime ridden, they didn't want to have anything to do with us. Now that we've brought our communities back, they want to leech onto our space, claim them for their own, and push us out. They abandoned us with 'white flight' back in the day, and left us to our own recourse, suffering with our lack of capital and resources. Once we brought our communities back, through grit and determination, investing in our own ethnic arts and businesses, now they want a piece of the action, and take over by pricing us out. I've recently been to Downtown Brooklyn; it looks like a little Manhattan. That disgusted me beyond belief. Brooklyn has IT'S OWN identity; we DON'T NEED nor WANT to be another Manhattan. Take that bullshit back where you came from!
Now that I'm back, I must help to do my part to keep that original part of us alive. This cookie cutter persona that permeates throughout this city of great originality must be discarded! WE are the trendsetters. WE are the originators. WE are the ones that set the standards for others to follow across the country, and the world. WE are the innovators of fashion, music, arts, and style. We were NEVER followers; we are leaders!
To our youth...step it up, and think outside the box!! To our elders...provide that proper guidance that our youth need. This mockery of who we are cannot stand for much longer. Let's be the trendsetters and innovators that we truly are. Fuck chasing the almighty dollar; your due compensation will surly come in due time. Besides, having a lot of money doesn't make you right, nor make you the best.
Reclaim that Brooklyn steelo.
Holla at ya boy!!!!
And I DON'T like what I see.
None of these changes were made to benefit the people who were originally here; they were made to benefit the Manhattanites who can no longer afford to live in Manhattan, and the newly arrived transplants who disrespectfully carry themselves as if they are originally FROM here.
You're NOT!!! Stop fakin' the funk!!!!
A lot of this is what I was fighting against before I moved out of the state. I saw the handwriting on the wall, so to speak, and saw that people just weren't prepared for what was coming, nor were they interested or inclined in trying to fend it off. It frustrated me beyond belief, and totally burned me out, among other personal issues that I was dealing with at the time. It got worse almost immediately after I left.
I've only been gone a short time. I would understand if I'd been gone a good 10+ years; progress and change is inevitable. BUT...I've only been gone a short amount of time. I walk around the neighborhood I grew up in, and don't even recognize it. The borough that I love has lost it's flavor; it's become so stagnant. All you see around the way are these mainstream big box stores. The local mom-and-pop shops are falling/have fallen to the wayside. You have interloping transplants boguarding and regulating as if they're actually from here, and putting a kibosh on any and all cultural activities that have been going on in our communities for decades before their arrival.
I DO see people keeping up the fight. Brothers and sisters are out there trying to maintain our cultural and artistic spaces, or are trying to create new ones for us. The supreme need is the support of the community so that these traditions and institutions can never be lost to us ever again. They can try to push us out; I think that it's about time that we started to push back.
When our neighborhoods were defunct and crime ridden, they didn't want to have anything to do with us. Now that we've brought our communities back, they want to leech onto our space, claim them for their own, and push us out. They abandoned us with 'white flight' back in the day, and left us to our own recourse, suffering with our lack of capital and resources. Once we brought our communities back, through grit and determination, investing in our own ethnic arts and businesses, now they want a piece of the action, and take over by pricing us out. I've recently been to Downtown Brooklyn; it looks like a little Manhattan. That disgusted me beyond belief. Brooklyn has IT'S OWN identity; we DON'T NEED nor WANT to be another Manhattan. Take that bullshit back where you came from!
Now that I'm back, I must help to do my part to keep that original part of us alive. This cookie cutter persona that permeates throughout this city of great originality must be discarded! WE are the trendsetters. WE are the originators. WE are the ones that set the standards for others to follow across the country, and the world. WE are the innovators of fashion, music, arts, and style. We were NEVER followers; we are leaders!
To our youth...step it up, and think outside the box!! To our elders...provide that proper guidance that our youth need. This mockery of who we are cannot stand for much longer. Let's be the trendsetters and innovators that we truly are. Fuck chasing the almighty dollar; your due compensation will surly come in due time. Besides, having a lot of money doesn't make you right, nor make you the best.
Reclaim that Brooklyn steelo.
Holla at ya boy!!!!
Monday, June 23, 2014
43rd Annual International African Arts Festival
Brooklyn's prodigal son will be participating in this year's 43rd annual International African Arts Festival, located at Commodore Barry Park in BROOKLYN, NYC!! I will have a table in their Sankofa section, selling copies of all three of my book titles, along with a fellow comrade and author, Robert Oriyama'at selling copies of his book "Heaven O Hell: Black Omen".
This will be my first MAJOR event to vend at, and I am very excited. I've always attended the IAAF, and always loved it every time I went. I would always meet so many different people and entrepreneurs there. Their products were always well worth the purchase, and have always valued everything I've ever bought from there. It will now be my greatest honor to be a part of this festival as a vendor.
International African Arts Festival will be held from July 3-6, 2014, located at Commodore Barry Park on Navy Street. The festival will run from 10am to 9pm all four days. For more information, please go to their website at www.iaafestival.org, or email the organizers at info@iaafestival.org.
Hope to see you all there! SPREAD THE WORD!!!!!
Monday, June 9, 2014
Afro Latino Festival NYC 2014
MARK YOUR CALENDARS!!!!!!
Brooklyn's prodigal son will be RETURNING for the SECOND annual Festival AfroLatino NYC! It was such an honor for me to be asked to participate in the inaugural festival last year, and I am SO pleased to be asked to return! PLEASE spread the word, and COME OUT AND SUPPORT!!!
Saturday, June 28, 2014
12pm to 6pm
Brooklyn, NYC
[Ocean Ave and Prospect Pl, by Parkside Avenue "Q" train entrance.]
BE THERE!!!!!
Brooklyn's prodigal son will be RETURNING for the SECOND annual Festival AfroLatino NYC! It was such an honor for me to be asked to participate in the inaugural festival last year, and I am SO pleased to be asked to return! PLEASE spread the word, and COME OUT AND SUPPORT!!!
Saturday, June 28, 2014
12pm to 6pm
Brooklyn, NYC
[Ocean Ave and Prospect Pl, by Parkside Avenue "Q" train entrance.]
Friday, June 6, 2014
Proyecto Mas Color: Media campaign for inclusion
I feel SO fortunate when I am able to come across fellow Afro Latin@s that are doing their thing as far as representing four our people, and fighting to create change! I came across this, and befriended the hermanita (and her sister) who are behind this campaign.
Victoria Arzu is a young Afro Latina fighting for our equal representation on the "Big Two" Spanish-language networks here in the United States; Univision and Telemundo. She has taken her campaign viral, called Proyecto Mas Color (Project: More Color!)' and also has a petition set up on Change.org to fight against this under-representation of Latinos of Color, specifically Afro Latinos, on the 'Big Two' channels.
Here is the encompassing video to help support their campaign:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xoynWkeColI
PLEASE help to spread the word, and support their campaign. If you are on Facebook, please like their page, and share their video throughout your various social networks. Also, don't forget to sign their petition in Change.org.
Keep the fist raised!!!
Wednesday, June 4, 2014
Abdias Nascimento Series: Political Resistance, Art, and the Sacred
Continuing the series on the influence of Abdias Nascimento, brought to you by the Afrolatin@ Project/Proyecto Afrolatin@ and the Caribbean Cultural Center and African Diaspora Institute (CCCDAI), this latest discussion will be held:
June 13, 2104
Aaron Davis Hall/ City College of New York
160 Convent Avenue
6:30pm to 8:30pm
FREE and open to the public
Sunday, June 1, 2014
Afro/Latino Magazine Parade & Festival 2014
Reading, PA stand up!!!!
Afro/Latino Magazine Parade & Festival
June 14, 2014
@ the American Legion
237 N. 3rd Street
Reading, PA 19601
Looking forward to actually attending this event this year! This will be my first time coming out to support. Will be rolling with two of my comrades, my fellow scribes. Won't be vending, but I just wanted to come out and support. :)
Hope to see you there!!
Afro/Latino Magazine Parade & Festival
June 14, 2014
@ the American Legion
237 N. 3rd Street
Reading, PA 19601
Looking forward to actually attending this event this year! This will be my first time coming out to support. Will be rolling with two of my comrades, my fellow scribes. Won't be vending, but I just wanted to come out and support. :)
Hope to see you there!!
Friday, May 30, 2014
Celebration of Arturo Alfonso Schomberg & Afro-Puerto Rican Pride
Representing for my peoples as the Caribbean Cultural Center and African Diaspora Institute (CCCADI), and the Afrolatin@ Project!!! Please come out and support!!!!
Celebration of Arturo Alfonso Schomberg & Afro-Puerto Rican Pride
June 7, 2014, 12pm to 6pm
Schomber Center for Research and Learning
515 Malcolm X Boulevard
New York, NY
Tuesday, May 27, 2014
Word! Caribbean Book Fest
Word! "Islands in the City"
Caribbean Book Fest
Medgar Evers College
1650 Bedford Aveneue
Brooklyn, NY
2pm-8pm
$10 adults/$5 children
Brought to you by the Caribbean Cultural Theatre
Spread the word, and please support!!!!
Thursday, May 22, 2014
Festival Afro Bahia 2014
Festival Afro Bahia
Celebrating Brazil's African Heritage
May 29th-June 1st
Washington, DC
www.festivalafrobahia.org
BE THERE!!!!!
Monday, May 19, 2014
Rant Session: Nigroes with ITGS
Okay....I normally don't involve myself with pop culture issues, but this one has been working my nerves for quite a while. It's gotten to the point where I feel that I can no longer keep my mouth shut about this issue. Now...what is it that has gotten me all hot and bothered? It's the 'controversy' over having Zoe Saldana playing Nina Simone in a soon-to-be-released biopic. Nigroes have been complaining about her being grossly miscast to play her in the film, and want to say some very disparaging things about Zoe.
The bottom line...? Nigroes talk too fucking much!
That's right, I said it! And yes...I MEANT to spell it that way. Niggas + Negroes = Nigroes. Motherfuckas think that just because they have internet access and an opinion, think that their opinion is fact and law.
IT'S NOT!!!! FUCK WHAT YOU HEARD!!!!
I like Zoe as an actress. I've seen a number of her films before she became a star. I think that she is talented, and deserves her props. I may not always agree with her politics (she IS a celebrity after all, and might back a cause that I don't), but I respect her as an artist. The majority of these fake-ass Nigroes aren't even as political as they be frontin' to be. Y'all AIN'T conscious! You just have ITGS; Internet Tough Guy/Girl Syndrome. You talk shit because you're hiding behind a computer, and can't nobody step to you physically. You dumb Nigroes probably don't even support any REAL Black films; just that wack-ass Tyler Perry-ass bullshit.
So what if she darkened her skin to play the role?! Forest Whitaker did the SAME THING to play Idi Amin in "Last King of Scotland". Did you dumb Nigroes say anything about that? There have been PLENTY of times where you had an actor/tress play a real life person that they didn't look like. Denzel is a WONDERFUL actor, but he DID NOT look like brother minister Malcolm. Morgan Freedman played the brother minister in "Death of a Prophet"; AGAIN, he didn't look like the man. I believe that even James Earl Jones played the brother minister in a film; AGAIN...HE DID NOT LOOK LIKE HIM!
Where were you dumb fucking Nigroes when that happened?
Or...is it something else? Is it because of her nationality? What...first Afro Latinos "don't claim our blackness" enough for you stupid asses, and now...she's not black ENOUGH?!?!?!?!
GTFOH!!!!
You can't have it both ways. Just because the internet allows you the opportunity to express your opinion, that doesn't make your opinion law, nor does it make it RIGHT! You dumb Nigroes have probably never even supported a Black film festival before, much less a real Black film.
Do I really expect Hollywack to accurately tell our stories? OF COURSE NOT! But...she's a talented actress, and will probably do a great job. Half you dumb ass Nigroes out there probably don't even OWN any Nina Simone recordings, but wanna talk a bunch of shit online. You probably barely know her by name, and have NEVER listened to her music.
My advice...? Unplug, and take a chill pill. Stop talking a bunch of shit online, and get a fucking clue. You half-stepping, unconscious ass, pseudo-militant internet wannabes need to seriously STFU, and need to really learn the ideology. Stop talking some bullshit rhetoric that you don't even truly understand! Fuck you, and your online blogs and petitions! Where is all that bullshit when Mista Charlie be putting an ass whuppin' on your community via the police? Where was all this fire and vitriol when our communities were getting gentrified like crazy? But nah....Y'ALL dumb ass Nigroes wanna get online, and get upset over some bullshit ass movie.
SMGDMFH.....
The bottom line...? Nigroes talk too fucking much!
That's right, I said it! And yes...I MEANT to spell it that way. Niggas + Negroes = Nigroes. Motherfuckas think that just because they have internet access and an opinion, think that their opinion is fact and law.
IT'S NOT!!!! FUCK WHAT YOU HEARD!!!!
I like Zoe as an actress. I've seen a number of her films before she became a star. I think that she is talented, and deserves her props. I may not always agree with her politics (she IS a celebrity after all, and might back a cause that I don't), but I respect her as an artist. The majority of these fake-ass Nigroes aren't even as political as they be frontin' to be. Y'all AIN'T conscious! You just have ITGS; Internet Tough Guy/Girl Syndrome. You talk shit because you're hiding behind a computer, and can't nobody step to you physically. You dumb Nigroes probably don't even support any REAL Black films; just that wack-ass Tyler Perry-ass bullshit.
So what if she darkened her skin to play the role?! Forest Whitaker did the SAME THING to play Idi Amin in "Last King of Scotland". Did you dumb Nigroes say anything about that? There have been PLENTY of times where you had an actor/tress play a real life person that they didn't look like. Denzel is a WONDERFUL actor, but he DID NOT look like brother minister Malcolm. Morgan Freedman played the brother minister in "Death of a Prophet"; AGAIN, he didn't look like the man. I believe that even James Earl Jones played the brother minister in a film; AGAIN...HE DID NOT LOOK LIKE HIM!
Where were you dumb fucking Nigroes when that happened?
Or...is it something else? Is it because of her nationality? What...first Afro Latinos "don't claim our blackness" enough for you stupid asses, and now...she's not black ENOUGH?!?!?!?!
GTFOH!!!!
You can't have it both ways. Just because the internet allows you the opportunity to express your opinion, that doesn't make your opinion law, nor does it make it RIGHT! You dumb Nigroes have probably never even supported a Black film festival before, much less a real Black film.
Do I really expect Hollywack to accurately tell our stories? OF COURSE NOT! But...she's a talented actress, and will probably do a great job. Half you dumb ass Nigroes out there probably don't even OWN any Nina Simone recordings, but wanna talk a bunch of shit online. You probably barely know her by name, and have NEVER listened to her music.
My advice...? Unplug, and take a chill pill. Stop talking a bunch of shit online, and get a fucking clue. You half-stepping, unconscious ass, pseudo-militant internet wannabes need to seriously STFU, and need to really learn the ideology. Stop talking some bullshit rhetoric that you don't even truly understand! Fuck you, and your online blogs and petitions! Where is all that bullshit when Mista Charlie be putting an ass whuppin' on your community via the police? Where was all this fire and vitriol when our communities were getting gentrified like crazy? But nah....Y'ALL dumb ass Nigroes wanna get online, and get upset over some bullshit ass movie.
SMGDMFH.....
Wednesday, May 14, 2014
Raise Your Brown Black Fist: The Radio Interview II
For all my followers out there, I will be interviewed on internet radio station "Harambee Radio" on Thursday, May 15th at 8pm. I will be interviewed by my good friend, author Rom Wills. I will be talking about my book(s), my activism, the Afro Latino experience, and the African Diaspora in general. Hope that you all tune in and support!!!
www.harambeeradio.com
Harambee Radio
May 15, 2014
8pm air time.
www.harambeeradio.com
Harambee Radio
May 15, 2014
8pm air time.
Saturday, May 10, 2014
East Coast Black Age of Comics Convention 2014
East Coast Black Age of Comics Convention
May 17, 2014
The Enterprise Center
4548 Market Street
Philadelphia, PA
BE THERE!!!!!!
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