He was seven years old, riding in the backseat of his fathers black Bronco. I drove up alongside him happy that I’d come across them at the light. My nephew pointed a toy gun at me that looked more real than fake and ducked back down below the window. When he noticed me his eyes lit up as he turned…
Category: Poverty and Education

The Times They Are A-Changin
Youth have a voice! It’s evident everywhere you go! They are speaking out! Raising fists and flags and signs, shouting “Give Us” whatever it is we need! When I was a youth (at risk of sounding old), children were seen and not heard. I recall my seventh grade teacher Mr. Barnicowski had a huge paddle over his classroom door. Engraved…

There’s Nothing Typical About Black Boys Behavior!
America’s got blood on its hands when it chooses to not address trauma in its misguided youth. . I recall doing a pop-up visit at my son’s school some years ago. Walking up the corridor I could hear what I thought was the gym and a group of children very loud and running around. It was my son’s 6th grade…

Detroit In Africa, Dannah Inspires Us All
You may remember the name Dannah Wilson? If not, you may want to keep her name in your mental rolodex for future reference. Dannah spoke wrote a letter about Betsy Devos that went viral. She has been an inspiration for so many people hear in Detroit. Most of us adults who advocate for education wish we had an ounce of…

Black Mothers, Guilty As Charged
I stand accused yet guilty Knowing very well the charges placed before me. No plea for mercy from the court, or throwing myself at its feet. I stand! Ready to face these charges that will run consecutively. Wrists clenched together, prepared to be cuffed until I am found guilty. Guilty of all charges! I admit it is I whose…