COVID-19 has upended our communities. Theresa Greenfield has a plan to get us back on our feet. Theresa’s family nearly lost everything in the Farm Crisis. Then, when she was just 24, Theresa’s first husband was killed on the job and she became a young widow with a toddler and another child on the way. She knows tough times, and she knows what it takes to get right back up. Determination, grit, and a plan: Extended pandemic relief unemployment benefits so people can stay on their feet. Invest in Black-owned businesses to create more opportunities for Black entrepreneurs and help them stay open during the pandemic. Tackle racial health disparities by expanding access to high-quality, affordable health care. Make community college debt-free for everyone so more people have more opportunity. THERESA GREENFIELD WILL FIGHT FOR IOWA. ALWAYS. Vote Theresa Greenfield for U.S. Senate Election Day is Tuesday, Nov. 3. Vote Early Oct. 5 – Nov. 2. GreenfieldForIowa.com /GreenfieldForIowa @GreenfieldIowa Paid for by Theresa Greenfield for Iowa @TheresaGreenfield
I’m Running for U.S. Senate to Put Iowans First By Theresa Greenfield As I’ve met Iowans across the state, it’s clear Washington isn’t working for us. This is especially true for Black Iowans who face additional unjust social and economic challenges - and those inequities have only been made worse by this pandemic. But instead of helping solve the problem, too many politicians in Washington only look out for corporate donors and party leaders. I’m not taking a dime of corporate PAC money and in Washington I’ll display the same grit and resolve I’ve shown as a businesswoman, a mother of four and a scrappy farm kid. That means working with anyone to finally address the racial disparities in housing, health care, education, employment, policing and so much more. We’re living in one of the most consequential times of our lives. Black communities across this country - and here in Iowa - have endured countless incidents of hate crimes and systemic racism. Breonna Taylor, George Floyd and so many other Black Americans should be alive - and I stand with leaders across our state calling for change. Whether that means supporting legislation like the Plan for a More Perfect Union, which passed thanks to the leadership of Iowa’s Legislative Black Caucus or supporting policing reforms that demand more transparency, ban chokeholds and enact racial bias and de-escalation training, I’m ready to roll up my sleeves and get the job done. We must also protect voting rights- one of the foundations of our democracy. We must eliminate barriers to voting and pass legislation like the John Lewis Voting Rights Advancement Act which is a crucial step in doing just that. Additionally, I support reforms for our criminal justice system, while keeping our communities safe. I will fight for fair reforms that include expanding mental health services and substance abuse treatment. I’ll also work to expand ban the box legislation, so if someone has served their time, they can apply for jobs without the associated stigma. But racial disparities impact every aspect of our society. We also must support Black Iowans with policies that tackle racial health disparities and expand access to quality, affordable health care through strengthening the ACA with a public option and allowing Medicare to negotiate for lower prescription drug costs. These disparities in care aren’t new. Even before the pandemic people of color were more likely to face barriers to health care. Now, during the pandemic, Black Iowans have represented a disproportionate number of COVID-19 cases in Iowa, and a greater share of deaths from the virus. To address this, we must take steps to better understand the social determinants that drive these disparities, not only in health care, but in pay fairness, housing, access to healthy food and more. We do this by creating more training tools for medical providers and legislation like the Black Maternal Health Momnibus Act. We should also all be able to agree our children are our future. I believe we need to invest in their education beginning with high-quality early childhood education and expanding pre-K. But it doesn’t stop there. We need to provide more access to apprenticeships, skills training and debt-free community college, so that as students grow, they continue to have options to advance their skills and knowledge. As someone who has been in small business most of my career, I’ve seen the challenges our small businesses and workers face. The URBAN EXPERIENCE | 2020 3
WRITERS & STAFF Editor-In-Chief Dwana Bradley Contributors Copy Editor Virgina Smith Creative Director Ash Easley Donnetta Austin Debra Carr Terence Haynes Angela Jackson MAGAZINE OUTLETS Broadlawns 1801 Hickman Road, Des Moines, IA 50314 CareMore 1530 East Euclid, Des Moines, Iowa 50313 Central Library 1000 Grand Ave, Des Moines, IA 50309 DMACC Urban Campus 1100 7th Street, Des Moines, IA 50314 DSM Brew Coffee Co. 300 Martin Luther King Jr. Pkwy, Suite 140, Des Moines, Iowa 50309 Drake Diner 1111 25th Street, Des Moines, IA 50311 Eastside Library 2559 Hubbell Ave. Des Moines, Iowa 50317 Fields Pharmacy 501 University Ave. Des Moines, IA 50314 Iowa-Nebraska NAACP 1620 Pleseant Suite #210, Des Moines, IA 50314 Forest Library 1326 Forest Ave, Des Moines, IA 50314 Franklin Library 5000 Franklin Ave. Des Moines, Iowa 50310 Hy-Vee 3330 Martin Luther King Jr. Pkwy, Des Moines, IA 50310 John R. Grubb YMCA 11th Street, Des Moines, Iowa 50314 Johnston Library 6700 Merle Hay Rd. Johnston, Iowa 50131 Northside Library 3516 5th Ave. Des Moines, Iowa 50313 Evelyn Davis Center 801 Suite #3, University Ave, Des Moines IA 50314 Mr. Bibbs 2705 6th Ave, Des Moines, IA 50313 Join our email club at: joindsmurban@gmail.com Senior Polk County 2008 Forest Ave, Des Moines IA 50314 Smokey Row Coffee Co. 1910 Cottage Grove, Des Moines, Iowa 50314 Southside Library 1111 Porter Ave. Des Moines, Iowa 50315 The Great Frame Up 5515 Mills Civic Parkway Suite #150, West Des Moines, IA 50266 The Des Moines Civil and Human Rights 602 Robert D. Ray Drive, Des Moines IA 50309 The Urban Dreams 601 Forest Avenue, Des Moines, Iowa 50314 Traditions Grooming Parlor 1111 E. Army Post Road Ste. 154 Urbandale Public Library 3520 86th Street, Urbandale, IA 50322 Submit your news to: dsmurbannews@gmail.com Become a Outlet for Urban: contactdsmurban@gmail.com Urbandale Chamber of Commerce 2830 100th Street, Suite 110, Urbandale, IA 50322 West Des Moines Library 4000 Mills Clive Pkwy, West Des Moines, Iowa 50365 The Zone of Comfort 3829 71st Street, Suite B, Urbandale, IA 50322 Also Available at churches, our directory can be found on our website at dsmurban.org COVID-19 Celeste Lawson Gary Lawson Bert Moody Lori Young
Features 09 13 Evolve Uncertanity 26 Interview with Chairman National Association of Black Law Enforcement Officers, Incorporated 29 ARTIST OF THE MONTH Surviving Trauma: A personal Herstory Healing Part 2 31 Just Voices Iowa is a new organization committed to speaking the truth and seeking justice for Black and Brown people. 35 43 Let’s talk Politics How Important is ‘Your’ Vote? 45 Interview with Wisconsin Lieutenant Governor Mandela Banes Honorable The URBAN EXPERIENCE | 2020 5 What’s Inside?
your voice to be heard. Many fought for you This is the moment for Vote November 3rd and let your vote be a thanks for those who paid the price. Dwana Bradley | Editor in Chief The Urban Experience Magazine The URBAN EXPERIENCE | 2020 7
BLACK STORIES OCTOBER 3, 2020 – JANUARY 17, 2021 CURATED BY MITCHELL SQUIRE & JORDAN WEBER PARTICIPATE & SUBMIT YOUR STORY FIND OUT HOW AT DESMOINESARCENTER.ORG/EXHIBITIONS/BLACK-STORIES OR EMAIL THE DIRECTOR / JFLEMING@DESMOINESARTCENTER.ORG. Romare Howard Bearden (American, 1911 – 1988) / Blues from the Old Country, 1974 (detail) Collage, acrylic and lacquer on board / 45 x 51 inches / Des Moines Art Center Permanent Collections; Gift of Mr. E.T. Meredith, III, 1990.28 / Photo: Rich Sanders, Des Moines ENTIRELYUNEXPECTED PLAN YOUR VISIT. ORDER YOUR FREE TICKETS ONLINE TODAY.
THE GREAT FRAME UP SUPPORTS AFRICAN-AMERICAN ARTISTS ARTIST FEATURE: Second in a Two- Part Series : BLACK STORIES PROJECT IN OCTOBER 2020 Written by Angela Jackson The URBAN EXPERIENCE | 2020 9
DES MOINES, IOWA – As a local custom frame retailer and art gallery, The Great Frame Up in West Des Moines enjoys supporting the visual arts. This month we encourage readers to visit the Des Moines Art Center and experience the impactful exhibit: “BLACK STORIES” currently on display until January 17, 2021. Black Stories is the first-ever exhibition of its kind featuring Black, African American and African artwork to be held in Des Moines, Iowa. Featured in the collection are more than two dozen sculptures, works on paper and originals by celebrated and world renowned fine artists— all donated to or acquired by the Des Moines Art Center. Significantly, artists Mitchell Squire and Jordan Weber co-curated the “BLACK STORIES” exhibition. Throughout the exhibition, quotes by Squire and Weber encourage reflection, inter-generational engagement and discussion. I viewed the “BLACK STORIES” exhibition when it opened on Saturday, October 3, 2020. There are four sections of the exhibition: In Black and White, In Living Color, In Wakanda, and the shrine room of traditional African objects, such as masks, palace doors and ceramic vessels. Located in this room with examples of traditional African objects is a bench for those who visit. There is an opportunity to sit and pause. A necessary and essential part of the experience to allow you to close your eyes and exhale. A powerful, peaceful moment in time where our community can “just breathe”. I encourage you to take a deep breath. It reminded me of my time in Abidjan, Cote d’Ivoire such a rich heritage we have from the Motherland. Additional works are also hung throughout the Des Moines Art Center’s galleries. For example, for the first time in recent history all four of the permanent collection of Henry Osswa Tanner’s oils are majestically displayed in a grouping for greater impact. The Des Moines Art Center has made diversity and inclusion a priority and invites the community to share their personal stories and experiences in response to the artwork in this exhibition. Community stories may be submitted in English or Spanish by completing a form available at the Des Moines Art Center, via mail, through their website desmoinesartcenter.org/exhibitions/black-stories or by phone in English at 515-428-1240 or in Spanish at 515-216-4190.
“I will celebrate Black Stories and I hope you will too. I will celebrate Black Stories because black people deserve celebration. Because Black people deal with ironies and challenges daily. Because Black Stories give me life. Because Black people are everything.” — Mitchell Squire, co-curator This effort has been made with the hope of including hundreds of others in the conversation through sharing their stories about the impact of the exhibit and the artwork during this period of time in our nation’s history. When you visit the Des Moines Art Center, you can look forward to viewing the nearly two dozen works on view by Black, African American and African artists — including major works from artists Kerry James Marshall, Jacob Lawrence, Kara Walker, Joyce Scott, Jean-Michel Basquiat, Romare Bearden, David Hammons, Betye Saar, Lorna Simpson, Carrie Mae Weems, Fred Wilson, El Anatsui, Julie Mehretu, Glen Ligon, Henry Taylor, Wangachi Mutui, Alison Saar, Mark Bradford, Deana Lawson, Bill Traylor, Ebony G. Patterson, Elias Sime, Mitchell Squire and Jordan Weber. Several of these artists were featured previously in the Des Moines Urban Experience. Readers are encouraged to explore, to reflect, be inspired, be refilled and be encouraged by the exhibit and to share your story inspired by “BLACK STORIES”. This phenomenal exhibition continues until January 17, 2021, so make plans to take the family to the Des Moines Art Center to experience this part of our rich international heritage and history. You won’t want to miss it! For more information— desmoinesartcenter.org Credits — the Des Moines Art Center www.desmoinesartcenter.org We strongly encourage you to take the family to the Des Moines Art Center and check it out. Best of all, the Art Center is always free! For more information: www.desmoinesartcenter.org At The Great Frame Up we currently feature originals, prints, sculpture and framed artwork of numerous African American and Iowa artists in the gallery. To see some of the prior artists featured visit www.westdesmoines.thegreatframeup.com and our social media. Please follow us on Facebook Instagram Twitter Pinterest Houzz Youtube About The Great Frame Up The Great Frame Up is a custom picture framer, offering more than 1,000 custom frames, mat styles, ready to hang framed art and local artwork. The West Des Moines location of The Great Frame Up opened in 2005 and is located at 5515 Mills Civic Parkway in the West Glen Town Center and is open Monday through Saturday 10 ¬- 5pm. Advertise with Urban Ask about our digital campaigns! The URBAN EXPERIENCE | 2020 11
DISCOVER REAL POSSIBILITIES IN IOWA AARP is in Iowa creating real, meaningful change. We're proud to help all our communities become the best they can be. Like providing family caregivers with tips to take care of loved ones, helping to make our communities more livable and hosting fun, informative events all across the state. If you don't think Real Possibilities when you think AARP, then you don't know “aarp". Get to know us at aarp.org/ia. ---/aarpiowa -@aarpiowa Real Possibilities is a trademark of AARP.
Evolve in uncertainty by Donnetta Austin Honestly with all that has been going on in the world today. You may be thinking it has been difficult or whether challenging to adapt to the new way of living. Many people are having to evolve and develop a new brand or business due to a loss of income or a job. Due to the pandemic it is new for many of us getting use to wearing face mask and shields everywhere you go. Many companies have gone bankrupt and shut down. Children are having to attend school and take courses online. We are having to find creative ways of spending quality time with friends and family. The loss of losing lives from either Covid 19, sex trafficking, or police brutality has been tragic and heartbreaking. Romans 12:2 Do not conform to the customs or pattern of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind. Then you will be able to test “learn to know” what God’s will is, which is good, pleasing, and perfect. With all of that being said, it is always good to call upon the Lord and connect with him in prayer and seek after his wisdom through the holy spirit. Falling into a deep depression can easily steal your joy unless you tap into the mighty power of our God. Psalms 119:133 Order my steps in Thy word, and let not any iniquity have dominion over me. When you are dealing with times of uncertainty “yield” unto the holy spirit and get into alignment of the written word of God. In God’s word He will give you reassurance, peace and understanding, faith and courage to walk into doing whatever he tells you. Trust in Him and wear the Armor of God as he will sustain you. By Author Donnetta Austin Book on Amazon: “Never Retire God” Email: be.encouragedbyone@gmail.com The URBAN EXPERIENCE | 2020 13 Psalms 118:24 This is the day that the Lord has made. We will rejoice and be glad in it.
While Black business owners have long been denied the same opportunities as other entrepreneurs, I believe all Iowans deserve the opportunity to be a part of our small business community. That’s why in addition to creating educational opportunities, we also must ensure professional opportunities. From promoting policies to build savings, supporting homeownership and expanding access to capital to invest in minority-owned businesses and Black business owners, I will fight to make sure Iowans are able to achieve their dreams, no matter their zip code. My Small Towns, Bigger Paychecks plan addresses the challenges Black business owners face, supporting Black business ownership by working to end discriminatory Advertise with Made Easley Photographer: Curtis Easley Model: Jacob Humbles lending practices and investing in Community Development Financial Institutions that provide low-interest loans for minority business owners. This election is our shot for everyone to make their voice heard and elect leaders who will take action to tackle the racial disparities that have unjustly harmed Black Iowans for generations. But to do that, I need your help. We’ve seen what happens when Black voters step up and demand change, so I’m hopeful Black Iowans across this state are going to keep it up and demand new leadership by making their voices heard before November 3rd. Change is long overdue. I’ll be a leader who works with anyone and stands up to anyone to finally get it done. Let us flex While you Rock your Brand We make the creative process Easy.
t d Breast Cancer Awareness Dr. Karen Olesen OBGYN/Women’s Health Broadlawns Medical Center The URBAN EXPERIENCE | 2020 15
October is Breast Cancer Awareness Month. A breast self-exam (BSE) is a step-bystep approach an individual can use to look at and feel their breasts to check for anything abnormal. In the past it had been recommended that a woman conduct a BSE monthly but this is no longer recommended, as studies have shown BSEs don’t offer any difference in breast cancer survival. According to the Susan G. Komen Foundation, every two minutes a woman in the United States is diagnosed with breast cancer. One in eight women will be diagnosed with breast cancer in their lifetime. The 2017 Cancer in Iowa Report showed that breast cancer is the most common cancer in Iowa women, and accounts for 25 percent of all new cancers diagnosed in Iowa women every year. Studies by the CDC show that black women and white women get breast cancer at about the same rate, but black women die at a significantly higher rate than white women - 40% higher. The higher rate of death is attributed to data indicating that breast cancer is found at an earlier stage among white women than among black women. Early detection is key to reducing racial disparities in breast cancer. A breast self-exam (BSE) is a step-by-step approach an individual can use to look at and feel their breasts to check for anything abnormal. In the past it had been recommended that a woman conduct a BSE monthly but this is no longer recommended, as studies have shown BSEs don’t offer any difference in breast cancer survival. Although a monthly BSE is no longer recommended, it’s important to always have breast awareness. You should become familiar with the way your breasts normally look and feel so you can notice a change. Consult with your women’s health provider right away if you notice any changes in either breast including: • Lump, hard knot, or thickening inside the breast or underarm area • Swelling, warmth, redness or darkening • Change in size or shape • Dimpling or puckering of the skin • Itchy, scaly sore or rash on the nipple • Pulling in of your nipple or other parts of the breast • Nipple discharge that starts suddenly • Pain in one spot that does not go away Keep in mind that these symptoms can happen with other conditions that are not cancer, and there is no such thing as a “normal breast”. What is normal for you may not be normal for someone else. The way your breasts look and feel can be affected by getting your period, having children, losing or gaining weight, and taking certain medications. Breasts also tend to change as you age. This is why consistent and ongoing breast awareness is important. Mammograms are the best way to find breast cancer early, when it is easier to treat and before it is big enough to feel or cause symptoms. Broadlawns Medical Center utilizes the most state of-the art screening and diagnostic tools available for early detection of breast cancer. Recommendations are that women who are 40 to 70 years old and are at average risk for breast cancer get a mammogram every year. Most health insurance plans are required to cover mammograms with no out-of-pocket cost.
There are also many programs in Polk County which cover the out-of-pocket cost of a mammogram if your insurance will not. Each mammogram may look a little different because all breasts are a little different, but all mammograms are relatively simple. Most patients find having a mammogram to be uncomfortable and some find it painful, but try to remember it takes just a few moments. Here are some tips to help make your mammogram more comfortable: • Try not to have your mammogram the week before you get your period or during your period. • On the day of your mammogram, don’t wear deodorant, perfume, or powder. These products can show up as white spots on the X-ray. • Wear a top with a skirt or pants, instead of a dress, to make undressing and dressing easier. You will usually get the results of your mammogram within a few weeks. Keep in mind that an abnormal mammogram does not always mean that you have cancer, but you will likely need to have additional tests done. There are many combinations of risk factors that are attributed to breast cancer. The top two risk factors you cannot control: being a woman and getting older. Other risk factors that you can’t control include inherited genes, reproductive history, having dense breasts, having noncancerous breast diseases, or family history. There are some risk factors you can control: • Not being physically active • Being overweight or obese after menopause • Taking hormones • Reproductive history, specifically having the first pregnancy after age 30 or not breastfeeding • Drinking alcohol • Smoking may also may increase breast cancer risk Some women will get breast cancer even without any other risk factors that they know of. Having a risk factor does not mean you will get breast cancer, but they are important to be aware and to continue to talk with your doctor about. At Broadlawns Medical Center, our women’s health team is committed to helping women of all ages receive the healthcare that they need at every stage of their lives. If you have questions about your breast health, or women’s health in general, we invite you to schedule an appointment at the Broadlawns Women’s Health Clinic by calling (515) 282-2340 or lean more by visiting www. broadlawns.org. All forms of insurance are accepted. Advertise with Made Easley Photographer: Curtis Easley Model: Crishanna Michelle We make the creative process Easy.
The History of US. You took our history from us then took our history from us and wrote a book about the history of us and it’s a best seller and our percentage of the book deal about the history of us is 0 our credit for the book about the history of us even less but you expect the rats nest of festering distress about the history of us might just go away even though I can see your intentions are not for my good even with my eyes closed. Will Brown should have a mausoleum not a head stone purchased by a complete stranger 70+ years after his death because in every book written about the atrocity committed against black people in this nation you used his picture like a post card from hell to sell every copy on every shelf. You owe so many, oh so much, oh you don’t think so, oh I can prove it. My aunt Maimie Till-Mobley, how big was her check cause in total in consideration and brazen disrespect you wrote about her son Emmit she had a bank account but none of those royalty checks got deposited in it. How many black children have gone to college on the money made by the books sold about the history of us and a big shout out to all your grandmothers and grandfather’s fathers, mothers, aunts, uncles and cousins who were forever immortalized in ever HISTORICAL murder scene and mob riot photos about the history of us and thank you to all of the authors who wrote about the history of us and put their children through college with the proceeds, Oops! I mean blood money from every book sale. It’s fact not fiction and every depiction of black people in narrowly narrated narratives told printed and sold you owe us. We have been the commodity of your market place since dubbed by you a subhuman race in your race to increase evil gain. You want it well done and spoon fed but I’m a give it to you raw so that you clamber the milk from MY mammy, because you stole that too. You tell us forget the past but make History (HIS STORY) a REQUIREMENT in school for me to pass but you tell me my plight is the past and I need to get pass it and let it go. Are we living in a Disney World or something cause all I keep hearing in my ear is let it go, let it gooooo! You speak with a forked tongue, you have gone low on a forked road and its plain to see you are like a well paid referee cause you won’t call it foul. The URBAN EXPERIENCE | 2020 19
Anything but that you’ve even called it boot straps but the boots you strapped on you kept on my neck. I can’t breathe has been shouted and screamed from the coast of west African, to the coast of south America, to the coast of north America, to the east coast, to the west coast, and the midwest, but you didn’t hear it until it went tik tok then in an Instagram you had to do an about Facebook to turn on your YouTube and stop twittering your thumbs and CNN for yourself what CNBC was reporting. I on the other hand knew my BLACK LIFE mattered long before now. Now you want to do DIVERSITY and Inclusion and include and infuse groups that are not black with black people to address issues with black people but never addressing issues with black people because in order to address issues with black people we have to include all people to be fair to all people but it was not all people who the issue was about it was black people but instead of doing what is really right and addressing issues with black people since you don’t want to openly admit your issues with black people you include all people. This still does not address your issues and HIS STORY and non-DIVERSITY and non-inclusion and murder and torture and public disposure... of black people. Say it! Black people again black people. I can tell you exactly what racism is and what it has done to me and my family and my people. The scares, the nightmares, the pain, the depression, the ptsd (POST TRAUMATIC SLAVE DISORDER), the anger, the frustration, the defeat. Take a seat fill the Tedtalk auditorium and listen. Oh, I’m not an expert on this? Why because you said so? Oh, okay well you also said I could have 40 archers and a mule where that’s at? Oh no, I get it wrong presentation package and topic and tone. To be an expert on racism I have to be other than black, other than a black male, no bass or vibrato, and the I can fill every auditorium and grotto to have a civil conversation on white fragility AKA racism and get paid 30k per year to stroke session because it’s less offensive. Even though for well over 400 yrs. you have been offensive morally, spiritually, physically, socially sexually, emotionally, economically, exceptionally and expediently offensive. Ok I get it. The thing is the whole world saw the murder of George Floyd now you may no longer have selective attention. Now to ignore what is set before you it has to become willful ignorance. Your close but not quite there as sit being comforted in your cozy board room chair getting your certificate after your 60min. DIVERSITY and INCLUSION lunch and learn but real talk it’s gonna take a real talk to get you on a higher plane about the history of us. Terence Haynes
Stand up, Speak UP, And Vote. Des Moines Chapter of The Links members have been working tirelessly registering new voters, mailing post card shout outs that voting matters. The theme for the Chapter’s GOTV Campaign is “Stand up, Speak UP, And Vote.” All of The Links efforts have been focusing on carrying out the goal of registering new voters, i.e. 18-year olds, new citizens, and felons with restored voting rights as well as reaching out to remind everyone to vote.
Links Members partnered with members of the League of Women Voters and NAACP in Des Moines and Ames to increase access to voter registration opportunities, as well as for a broader impact and reach into low voter turnout communities. In addition to assisting with addressing and mailing 22,000 postcards, many new voters were registered by Links members in the Oakridge Neighborhood, at Creative Visions, Urban Dreams, Union Baptist Church, Ames Lincoln Center and Ames HyVee. Corinthian Baptist Church is the next Voter Registration stop for the Links and the League of Women Voters Voter Mobile on Saturday, Oct. 3rd . “A mandate for this moment is to Check your status and vote like your life depends on it!” Article submitted by Dr. Mary Chapman, National Trends Chair, Des Moines Chapter, The Links, Inc. The URBAN EXPERIENCE | 2020 23 VOTE A mandate for this moment is to Check your status and vote like your life depends on it!
Interview with Charles P. Wilson, Chairman National Association of Black Law Enforcement Officers, Incorporated by Celeste and Gary Lawson Lieutenant (Retired) Charles P. Wilson previously served with the Rhode Island College, Providence, RI Campus Police Department as a patrol shift supervisor. With a professional career dating from 1971, his previous law enforcement experience has included service as a Detective/ Patrolman with the Woodmere Village, Ohio Police Department, where he also served as its first African American Chief of Police from 1988 to mid1990. He holds a Bachelor of Arts Degree with an emphasis in Justice Studies from Rhode Island College in Providence, Rhode Island; a Master of Science degree in Criminal Justice from Lamar University in Beaumont, Texas; and is a six-term National Chairman of the National Association of Black Law Enforcement Officers, Inc. His research interests include issues pertaining to minority law enforcement, campus safety and police-community relations, with over 20 peer-reviewed publications in various scholarly journals, to include the Journal of Black Studies, Western Journal of Black Studies, Journal of Critical Incidents, and the Journal of Ethnicity in Criminal Justice. Note: Following are excerpts from the interview conducted on September 4, 2020.
Gary: What is the primary purpose of the National Organization of Black Law Enforcement Officers? Wilson: Our overall mission is to be an interface between law enforcement and the community. We serve as a buffer...if you will... and reading directly from our mission statement...we are an organization that represents the needs and concerns of law enforcement officers of color. We are watchful of the issues that have a direct impact...both adverse and positive... on the employment, promotion, and retention of minority law enforcement officers and other justice practitioners. We are dedicated to enhancing and empowering the minority community. We are dedicated to eradicating police abuse and misconduct... no matter where it exists...and we take great pride in the empowerment of our communities politically, economically, and educationally... because we recognize that a strong community is a wise one, when it strives to agree. Celeste: What is the spectrum of membership of your organization, by race and sex? Wilson: Now that is kind of a hard question for me to answer. We have approximately 9,000 members across the country. Most of my membership is in the Northeast area of the country...Pennsylvania, New Jersey, New York, Connecticut, Rhode Island, and Massachusetts. We also have members in Illinois, Colorado, Tennessee, California, Louisiana, Georgia, and Washington, D.C. They are primarily African American law enforcement officers...either retired or active service. They are municipal...they are federal...they are state...they are campus...and they are correctional officers. They are all very strong-minded men and women who remember who we are...where we came from and why we do what we do. Ethnically...we are principally African American, but we have a number of Latino members...several Afro-Asian members...and as quiet as it has been kept, we’ve got one or two White members. Gary: What is your plan for upscaling the accountability for the misuse of police action within communities of color? Wilson: I think that is noted... principally...in a number of our position statements. On the 29th of June...we issued our national statement supporting police reform. What that entails...is that we are calling for the condemnation of racial profiling and excessive use of force. we are an organization that represents the needs and concerns of law enforcement officers of color. We are asking for the recognition of the sanctity of human life... and de-escalation in all use of force policies. We are asking for the increased mandatory use of bodyworn cameras...comprehensive standardized legislation starting an investigation of a police use of force. We are requesting, and mandating, the adoption of community policing philosophies across the board... which includes the increased hiring, promotion, and retention of officers of color. We are advocating for the universal elimination of the use of chokeholds...a universally legislated duty to intervene, and a creation of a national database for officers who have been decertified...fired...or found to be untruthful. That is what NABLEO stands for. Celeste: Do you have any additional thoughts that you would like to share with our readership? Wilson: We are constantly looking for new members...both individuals and new chapters. Membership is available online through our website at nableo.org. We are constantly looking for new sponsors for our various programs. We are constantly looking for agencies...across the board... that are willing to buy into these philosophies that we put in place. People have to recognize that the institution of policing is inherently biased against people of color...and low-income...and it was designed to be that way. So, we stress to our counterparts... that they must understand, and accept that, as their history...and work forward from there. It does not matter what the current administration and their followers wanted...there is in fact... systemic racism in law enforcement. Everybody has to accept that understanding and go forward from there. Celeste and Gary: Thank you for the interview. The URBAN EXPERIENCE | 2020 27
2 COPING STRATEGIES There are five universal stages of grief and loss (denial, anger, bargaining, depression, and acceptance). People grieving do not necessarily go through the stages in the same order or experience all of them. Conceptually knowing what to do and doing are totally different concepts. The expectations we put on ourselves can be unrealistic, especially when circles of support are small, or you are labeled the strong one. Negotiating trauma at an all-time high while living life knowing a part of you will never return is an eerie feeling. Shifting thinking is imperative. Slowing down raging thoughts and meeting emotionally charged feelings face-to-face can be helpful. Spiritual support is critical. Anchoring oneself in unwavering faith gives additional context and reasoning. Dismantling armor that can easily keep a person bound is beneficial. Remember, there is a fine line between sane and insanity. As the old folks say, “keep living.” Life has a way of teaching us lessons and showing us things, we never imagined. Incorporate deep breathing exercises to calm your body down and soothe yourself. Repeat this strategy to minimize anxiety. Get outdoors. Notice the beauty of nature. Take a walk and do light exercise. Physical activity adds great health benefits while also releases tension. Try getting a massage. It breaks up toxins in the body for elimination. Drink room temperature water first thing in the morning to wakeup your spleen and help the body better process food during the day. Eat properly and rest. Take breaks when you feel tired. Spend time alone reflecting upon the small things that matter most. The URBAN EXPERIENCE | 2020 29
Remember, there is a fine line between sane and insanity. As the old folks say, “keep living.” Life has a way of teaching us lessons and showing us things, we never imagined. Surround yourself with loved ones or support groups are also great assets. Savor precious moments. These are all simple tasks anyone can do to improve quality of life. The strong needs to recharge, restore and heal just as anyone else does. Give yourself a bit of grace to help ease stress and strain. The journey to healing is an ongoing and continuous climb, not a destination. I would be less than honest if I did not admit the pathway to healing and wellbeing includes long-suffering. I am surviving. Others have survived. Remain optimistic. Hope, faith, and action are what you will need to survive when you experience a traumatic loss. HOPE FOR THE FUTURE I am in the beginning stages of the grieving process. Each person moves differently throughout the grieving continuum. One will forever feel a void and myriad of emotions. The only thing I know for sure is to hold on to God’s unchanging hand.There will be more wind, rain and extremely cloudy days and nights. Eventually, the sun rises again. Despite pain, heartache, wind, and rain, I believe joy will come in the morning. gO dIGITAL aDVERTISE WITH Debra A Carr is a life-long learner, cause-minded socialpreneur, social justice advocate, mom, fashion lover, coach, counselor,and social worker. Debra is a graduate of the University of Iowa School of Social Work, a licensed master social worker, certified financial social worker, member of academy of certified social workers and certified nonprofit management professional.
Just Voices Iowa Speaking Truth. Seeking Justice Our website is a place for your voice to be heard. Being Black in Iowa ain’t easy, especially when it comes to disproportionate rates at which we are stopped, ticketed, and too frequently arrested by the Des Moines Police Department. Finally, there’s an organization that knows this, who has done the research, and collected the stories. Just Voices Iowa is a new organization committed to speaking the truth and seeking justice for Black and Brown people who have lived through racially-biased policing. Their far-reaching vision is a society free from racial oppression. Their more immediate mission is to see a state-wide ban on raciallybiased policing, a mandate for complete and accurate data collection, and the decriminalization of marijuana. While Des Moines finally passed an ordinance, a law, banning racial profiling in June, it came only after two years of community-led pressure. In the end, an alliance of organizations combined forces to demand that our city’s elected officials implement real change in policing of people of color. Those organizations included the community-based social justice giant, Iowa-CCI, the ACLU of Iowa, the Des Moines NAACP, Pastor Fredrick Gaddy, and retired attorney, Harvey Harrison. The awful murder of George Floyd in Minneapolis also added pressure to our city leaders. Many feel the ordinance is a good start, it falls short of all the changes the community truly demanded. While that battle for an anti-racial profiling ordinance waged on, Just Voices Iowa was building an organization and a website that would be ground-breaking and very revealing. Their website is www.justvoicesiowa.org and there you will find the true stories and the real data collected over six years, from 2014 through 2019 which proves raciallybiased policing is happening in Des Moines. Here’s some highlights from the website, but go there to find much more. The URBAN EXPERIENCE | 2020 31
Our Homepage provides a launchpad into the entire website, sharing images of racial profiling victims and a few startling data points about the polcing disparities in Des Moines by our DMPD. Our data is based on city, Sherriff Department, and DOT records. Read (or watch) the stories in the words of victims of racial profiling telling not only what happened, but how it impacted their lives. Stories are shared in the form of interviews on video, audio, and written format. Unfortunately, there will be more stories added to the website as this ineffective policing practice continues. , so. Have you been racially profiled? We want to share your story.
There is no shortage of alarming data. This graph displays the disparity in marijuana arrests for Black people by police, even though ACLU research shows that marijuana usage by Black people and white people is equal. You’ll find charts with data and analysis showing disparate policing in Des Moines. For example, the chart on speeding citations, shows that over a 6-year period, if you’re a Black person driving in Des Moines you are more that 2 times more likely to ticketed for speeding and once ticketed, you are 4.5 times more likely to be arrested than a white driver. The URBAN EXPERIENCE | 2020 33
Just Voices Iowa Can Help If you’ve experienced racially-biased policing in Iowa, we want to hear your story. Contact us through the website and we’ll get right back to you. We can also help you: • Give public witness to your story, like those you’ll find on our website, in order to bring about real change • File a complaint against the Des Moines Police and monitor the progress of that complaint • OR file a complaint with the Des Moines Civil & Human Rights Commission or Iowa Civil Rights Commission • Identify an attorney that will be willing to meet with you to determine if you have standing to pursue legal action against the City and DMPD. Get informed and stay woke You can visit our website, www.justvoicesiowa. org, and find more information, study our data, learn from our resources, and even take a quiz to learn more about your rights when interacting with police. Be sure to follow us at: • Facebook - @justvoicesiow • Instagram @justvoicesiowa • Twitter - @VoicesIowa Just Voices Iowa. We provide the platform. You provide the power.
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Interview with Republican by Celeste and Gary Lawson Before serving as the Republican Party of Iowa Chairman, Jeff Kaufmann served in the Iowa House of Representatives from 2005 to 2013, including six years in leadership positions in the GOP caucus and two years as Speaker Pro Tem. Kaufmann represented a competitive district and built a reputation as a consensus problem-solver and constituent advocate. In 2014, Kaufmann took over the Iowa GOP and led the party to tremendous success on the local, state, and federal levels. In his time as the chair, the GOP won control of both chambers of the state legislature and the governorship for the first time in almost twenty years, and the GOP presidential candidate won Iowa for the first time since 2004. Kaufmann is a seventh-generation livestock farmer. He is a department chair at Muscatine Community College, where he teaches history and government. In 2012, Kaufmann was honored as Iowa’s Faculty Member of the Year by the Iowa Association of Community College Trustees. He obtained his B.A., M.A., and Ph.D. from the University of Iowa. Kaufmann is also currently a member of the Cedar County Board of Supervisors. Jeff and his wife, Vicki, have been married for over 30 years. They raised three sons: Bobby, a state representative in House District 73; Jacob, a middle school science teacher; and John, who now works for Senator Chuck Grassley. Note: Following are excerpts from the interview conducted on September 4, 2020. Jeff Kaufmann, Chairman Party of Iowa Gary: The Republican Party of Iowa’s history embraces some interesting occurrences with reference to the abolition of slavery. One such event is that the Republican Party of Iowa was founded on an antislavery platform during 1856. One of the leading cofounders was Samuel J. Kirkwood. Another leading cofounder was Edward Russell, who introduced negro suffrage, meaning the right for Blacks in America to vote, via a resolution that passed during a Republican Party of Iowa state convention. In addition, Russell’s son was a cofounder of the National Association for the Advancement of Colored People (NAACP). With that interesting heritage, what is the Republican Party of Iowa currently doing to turn out the vote in the African American and other minority communities in 2020?
Kaufmann: Thanks for that question. I am a history professor... so I appreciate the lead up to that question...and I know the crux of what you want to know (about) what we are doing now in the presidential election...but just to comment on what you said...out here in Iowa... we are very proud of Governor Kirkwood. He had actually served two terms...nonconsecutive...and he is generally regarded...if not our greatest Governor... he is definitely in the top five by far, so we’re very proud of that fact. The other thing that I would throw in there too, Gary...is another fact that we are proud of...that as a percent of our population...more young Iowans died during the Civil War fighting for the Union cause than any other state. This is...and not necessarily a Republican Party of Iowa platform... but it is Jeff Kaufmann’s strong, strong belief, and it’s one of the reasons why...quite frankly...I am so opposed to any association with the Confederate flag by the Republican Party of Iowa. I have spoken very, very loudly and forcefully (about that). Part of that is because of our abolitionist background, and for those young Iowans that are buried throughout this state and who were fighting for freedom...for the journey that Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. (fought)...and we are still fighting. In terms of sending a message... there are several things. First of all, I really believe...I would answer this threefold. First of all...and probably the most basic...and that is... study the message of what Donald Trump has done for the African American community. (But let me first share that) in terms of our candidates...we are very proud (of our candidates) in our legislative races. It could be a real battleground in the Iowa House (of Representatives) this year. In the Iowa Senate, Republicans are going to maintain a very strong majority... probably, we will even grow that. It could be a battleground in the Iowa House. We have some excellent candidates. I believe...and I don’t know this for sure...but I believe for the first time in my tenure here...and possibly ever...we have three ‘viable’ African American candidates. When I say viable, I don’t necessarily mean the nonviable candidates aren’t worthwhile, but they are in districts that would be almost impossible to win. We have an African American male running in Des Moines, two African American women running in Clinton and Dubuque. I would like to say they have been hot on the trail... they have been speaking in a wide variety of places outside of their district. I would also add that even though this question is pertaining to the African American outreach, we also will potentially have: 1) the first Latino Iowan that will serve as a Republican in the legislature; and 2)...and I believe that he doesn’t have an opponent... so I think I can say we will have the first Asian American legislator. So, the first point that I would make (regarding) African Americans is that we are running viable African American leaders for positions of power in our legislature. So, I want to make sure that I bring that up. Second of all, we have a committee... we split it up last year...we actually had the (Republican National Committee) out here on two or three different occasions...we have what was called a Minority Outreach Committee. Now...it isn’t just outreach to our African American community...it’s also for outreach in all of the minority communities... including Pacific Islanders, Latino Iowans, and Asian Iowans. It has been a committee where we have had multiple (interactions). Actually, one of the leaders in that group is one of our State Central Committee members, which is our governing board, and that is my boss, and he is actually a former State Senate Candidate. Another point that I would make is that we had a really unique situation...I’m sorry for the circumstances that led to it...because there was chaos after the shooting... but there is always some good that can come out of these tragedies...and I’ll tell you that to see our Governor working across the aisle with State Representative Ako Abdul- Samad (D), who is one of the leaders of the Democratic Legislative Black Caucus... and the two of them sat down on the last day of session, and they worked out a compromised Bill...and get this, Gary...it passed unanimously through all of the debates that were occurring. That will certainly be something that we will remind Iowans...that Republicans were a key part of. I personally did...last year...sit down with Rep. Ako Abdul-Samad on a college campus...no rules... opened up the door...no preordained questions...nothing...it’s just Ako and I. We used to serve together, and we are good friends. Politically we may disagree, but we held an hour and a half meeting on stability...on a college campus with no rules except for ‘come in and ask us whatever you want’. So that part of our outreach...I think I would say...is leading by example...and actually putting our money where our mouth is. On the other side of things...in terms of what Donald Trump has done...we need to get the message out over and over again. Some of it is repetition...in terms of the record low employment among the African American community. That’s something that not only unites African Americans, and all minority outreach, including Caucasian Iowans, but I think it also unites even branches...or commissions... within the Republican Party... between our Libertarians and our more established Republicans; and shortening mandatory minimum sentences for the nonviolent drug crimes...and 90% of those who’ve their sentences reduced...90% were Black Americans. The URBAN EXPERIENCE | 2020 37
I get the feeling in the legislature... its more than just a feeling...I have heard Republicans and Democrats...in fact I heard the Speaker of the House (of Representatives) say it last night at a meeting that...we are not done with that issue. So...I think you’re going to see more criminal justice reform. My hunch is...if President Trump is re-elected...you will see more of that too...and President Trump has made Historically Black Colleges and Universities a top priority. So...I would think by our action... Gary...at the Republican Party level... individual level...and (including) the Chairman of the (Iowa) Republican Party, and (a) leader of the (Democratic) Black Caucus, sitting down with no rules and having a stability conversation...all the way to pushing what our President has done. That is probably a much longer answer than what you wanted, but as you can tell, I’m kind of proud of what we’ve been doing. Gary: Well, thank you for that information. Celeste: With all the hardships that Iowa has recently faced, such as trade losses with China and weatherrelated catastrophes, how likely is the national Republican ticket (President Trump and Vice President Pence) going to secure Iowa’s vote this November? Kaufmann: I thank you for that question. I feel very good...not cocky...not arrogant... but in a very cautiously optimistic way...I feel very good about Iowa. We have record dollars that are going into our absentee voting...and record numbers going into... actually... people using their own shoe leather in order to outreach to Iowans. When you mentioned the trade loss with China...that’s certainly a fair point to make. Our farmers... and of course, not only do you have a large amount of farmers in this state...our economy is very much driven by that. So, even people that live in our towns are related to (agriculture) policy...and impacted by it. Traditionally...the polls show this over, and over, and over again... the strength of rural Iowa...I really believe that our farmers were so tired of the trade differential. Let me tell you something...it’s going to be a nonpartisan statement...or maybe a bipartisan criticism...of both Democratic and...to be honest with you...Republican presidents...have completely ignored that. So, I’m not going to lay all the blame on President Obama and President Clinton...I’m going to lay blame on the two Bush Presidents too...and before that. So, I believe there is an acknowledgment by our farmers...and the polls (support that) ...that they are willing to sacrifice in order to permanently fix this trade differential. Also, along those lines...we’ve got the Japan deal, and USMCA (United States, Mexico, and Canada Agreement). We are already seeing...especially in our dairy sector in northeast Iowa, we get most of Wisconsin, that’s a pretty strong sector...that things have changed appreciably. The waters of the U.S. was something...during the Obama administration...that would’ve put into place 97% of Iowa land under regulation. If you want to get a farmer fired up...regardless of whether it’s a Republican or Democrat proposing it...tell them that we are going to regulate their land. Obviously, there are regulations for certain environmental situations that they all accept. President Trump eliminated that...and there isn’t a farm-related Iowan in this state that doesn’t realize that has happened. Finally, I would just bring up the basis point that when we have complete control of this virus (COVID-19)... hopefully...God willing...we are going to have a vaccine...and then we are going to be facing...straight on...an economy. I would make the case... and I think it’s a case that can be made very strongly...that Donald Trump has done it once before. Joe Biden has been in office for nearly a half-century, and I can make the argument...I believe... that his policies do not work. So, I feel very good about that...and I would just point to previous actions to reinforce that. Gary: Do you have any final thoughts that you would like to share with our readership? Kaufmann: Two things, Gary, if you will indulge me. We sometimes...as the ‘first-in- the-nation’ state...get criticized because we’re not diverse enough. There is something in our past...and you have articulated our past very well in terms of when Iowa has been at the forefront of several issues that were crucial to minorities...and I absolutely reject that, and I want to make sure your readers are reminded that... this state made Barack Obama. He was President of the United States because he got his start here in Iowa. During 2016, on the Republican side, a Latino American got first place in our caucuses, a Latino American got third place in our caucuses, and an African American got fourth place in our caucuses. I really believe in my heart of hearts...and I hope that I’m sending a signal by giving you examples on both sides of the parties (Democrat and Republican)...I truly believe our state...although not as diverse as New Mexico, California or New York...I truly believe...in our voting... on both sides of the aisle...that we actually made one of my favorite quotes by Martin Luther King, Jr. come true and that is...we judge people by the content of their
character, and not by the color of their skin. I really do take our Republican Party’s heritage to heart, and I am especially proud... and yes, I am proud to say that Iowans...and I may not agree with President Obama’s policies in many areas, but I am extremely proud that it was my little state of three million that had a crucial, crucial role in making Barack Obama the first African American President. So... that is how strongly I feel about this...that Republicans shared in that. I’m going to end with that...and leave that not-so-subtle message with you. Celeste and Gary: Thank you for the interview The URBAN EXPERIENCE | 2020 39
Interview with Mark Smith, Chair Iowa Democratic Party by Celeste and Gary Lawson Mark Smith of Marshalltown, Iowa became the Chair of the Iowa Democratic Party on February 15, 2020. Mark is finishing his tenth term in the Iowa House, having represented Marshalltown and the surrounding area for twenty years. During those twenty years, Mark has served as a Chair of the Human Resources Committee and was, for 5 1/2 years, the Minority Leader in the Iowa House. Mark is married to Karen Lischer and they are the parents of Allison Paarsmith, who is the library director in West Liberty, Iowa. Mark also has two grown foster sons, Kevin Eggert of Clearfield and Darwin Eggert of Lenox. Mark was born in Osceola, Iowa and lived on a farm in Clarke County until he was ten. He then lived in Winterset until high school graduation in 1970. At his high school graduation, he was awarded the William and Mary Krabel Scholarship. He holds both a Bachelor’s and Master’s degree in Social Work. Through the years, he has worked in almost all areas of social work and was a clinical director of a community mental health center for 18 years and most recently has provided co-occurring mental health and substance use disorder treatment. Note: Following are excerpts from the interview conducted on September 8, 2020. Gary: The origins of the Iowa Democratic Party date back to when present day Iowa was part of the Wisconsin territory. Iowa officially became a state during 1846. Over time, the Iowa Democratic Party began growing and adapting to the changing demographics of our state. When urban areas began to grow, so did the influence of the Democratic Party. As the Democratic Party has evolved, they have won political offices with great support from the minority community. However, there are major issues that exist in the minority community such as education, healthcare, and jobs that are disproportionately plaguing the minority community, especially African Americans. What is the Iowa Democratic Party currently doing to turn out the vote in African American, and other minority communities, in 2020?
Mark: Well Gary, first and foremost, the Iowa Democratic Party recognizes that every person...that is registered to vote...or should be registered to vote in Iowa... is someone of equal standing... and that’s very significant. So, it doesn’t matter if we have 50 million dollars to our name...or fifty cents to our name...we are one vote. So, we recognize that and we’ve been doing a tremendous amount of effort to reach out so that all Iowans...regardless of our ethnic heritage...are participating in our elections. With that...we’ve been having organizing directors that are dedicating their voices in Black, Latinx, Native American, Asian, and Pacific Islander communities to make sure that...like I said... all Iowans are able to vote. So far teams have had more than a hundred meetings on the ground... with a mix of people...to bring in new voters and partners with these advocacy groups. We feel, as Democrats, that we garnered these votes and obtained their support by earning it and being on the correct side of issues. Celeste: Data reveals that winning Democratic presidential candidates received great support from Iowa voters during 1988 to 2012, with the exceptions when: 1) Republican George W. Bush won in 2004; and 2) when Republican Donald J. Trump won in 2016. Iowans have recently seen major unrest and protests by the minority community. This year’s presidential election promises to be close and the minority vote could make the difference. What outreach effort is the Biden campaign making in Iowa with respect to effectively getting its message out to Iowa’s minority community? Mark: Celeste, did you do the research on that, or your dad? That is very good. I have been frequently saying that I am 68 years of age... and if you divide my life in half... all of those years have been here in Iowa. The first 34 years...only one Democrat carried the state for the presidency...and that was Lyndon Johnson in 1964. As you mentioned...in the second 34 years of my life...Iowa has gone Democratic on the presidential race...with the exception of (2004) and (2016). So, there are lots of things that we are doing in this regard. During the 60 days between now and the election, we are going to take every effort to organize our communities and turn out the vote. On the horizon, we are looking forward to National Black Voter Day on September 18...and we’re partnering with campaign planning events throughout the week. So, those things are going to look like voter registration pop-up stations, online trainings, and discussions about the voting process. We are also gearing up for Hispanic Heritage Month...during September 15 through October 15. We have a great couple of team members there that I want to do a shoutout about...1) Yena Balekyani, and she is the Black Constituency Engagement Director; and 2) Mauricio Diaz, who is our Latinx Constituency Engagement Director. We are working very hard to make sure that we are able to turn out. As I said earlier, the belief that we are all equal...we are all one vote... and that every Iowan who has the ability to participate in the 2020 election...should be participating in the 2020 election. Gary: Do you have any other thoughts that you would like to share with our readership? Mark: The Biden (campaign) team in Iowa has built a strong coalition team of staff and volunteers...that is headed by Bernie Sanders’ Iowa Political Director, Oliver HidalgoWohlleben...who focuses on the Asian and Pacific Islanders...and The URBAN EXPERIENCE | 2020 41 the Progressive outreach, and also Representative Ras Smith...who I know you and I talked about trying to get in contact with him...is the strategic advisor in overseeing the coalition efforts with Black Iowans, and the Faith community. The volunteer leadership groups include Women for Biden, African Americans for Biden, Latinos for Biden, Asian and Pacific Islanders for Biden, and Veterans for Biden. They are all very active in targeted organizing. So, I feel like the Biden coalition teams of the Iowa Democratic Party have been working very diligently with our (allies) and volunteers to organize communities across the state and harness the energy of the Biden/ Harris ticket (that) is happening in this state. Celeste and Gary: Thank you for the interview.
How Important is ‘Your’ Vote? Since 1999, by Gary Lawson I have interviewed numerous leaders running for political office on the national, state, and local levels. This article focuses on the interviews that I have conducted with United States presidential/vice presidential candidates during that time. Some of the candidates were sitting vice presidents, as well as, national/state senators, national/ state representatives, governors, and mayors. One thing they all had in common, their campaigns reached out to all of Iowa, to include our minority community. In addition, the candidates were ‘personally’ accessible, meaning they made themselves available for interviews by minority media, and in essence, communicated directly with the minority community. The interviews that my daughter (Celeste) and I have pursued with political leaders and candidates on the state and local levels were met with great success as it relates to those in power connecting with minority voters. However, the national campaigns, as a whole, was a different story when compared to the past. During the most recent Iowa Caucuses, we had interviewed three of those listed among the top five finalists. The only two presidential candidate campaigns, among the five we had reached out for an interview with their presidential candidate, but not granted one at that time, are the Biden and Sanders campaigns. This does not mean that former Vice President Biden, or United States Senator Bernie Sanders were not interested in doing an interview, because that would have been arranged by their campaign staff, however, it does raise a question about providing ‘access’ to the minority media in Iowa, particularly African Americans/ Blacks. One of the questions we would have presented during an interview with Vice President Biden would have examined a comment he made during a national interview this past May that basically seemed to project to the African American/Black community that you are not African American/Black if you don’t vote for him... which upset people. Vice President Biden has since apologized for making that comment...and we must remember that he was the sitting Vice President along with the first African American/Black President of the United States...Barack Obama. To all of the campaign staff for Democrats... Republicans...Independents...or otherwise... please note that the late/great Aretha Franklin released a song called Respect, where she belts out............. R-E-S-P-E-C-T. To that end, please respect the growing minority community in Iowa by providing better access to the ‘candidates’ who are asking for the minority community’s votes. To the readers of this magazine...please V - O - T - E !
Interview with Wisconsin Lieutenant Governor Mandela by Celeste and Gary Lawson This interview, which took place on October 10, 2020, was conducted with the Honorable Mandela Barnes, Lieutenant Governor for the state of Wisconsin. He is the first African American elected to serve in the office of Lieutenant Governor and the second African American to hold a statewide office in Wisconsin. He credits his successes to his mother (a public school educator) and father (a member of the United Auto Workers). His past political achievements include being elected to the Wisconsin State Assembly (at the age of 25), where he served as the Chair of the Black and Latino Caucus. When it comes to engaging current public issues, he is guided by ‘sustainability and equity’ in search of solutions that provide ‘opportunities and fairness’ regardless of where people reside in Wisconsin. The following are excerpts from the interview. Honorable Barnes Celeste: Hi, Lieutenant Governor Barnes. Lt. Gov. Barnes: How are you? Celeste: Good. Thank you for accepting the interview with us this morning. If Vice President Joe Biden is elected as our next President of the United States, what may we expect him to do as a means of increasing opportunities, and success, regarding academic achievement, and employment, in the changing economy?
Lt. Gov. Barnes: I am glad that you asked that question. There are so many reasons for supporting Vice President Joe Biden, especially in the issue areas that you’ve outlined...but first, I guess I should say thank you for having me. When it comes to education and opportunities, Joe Biden’s brand has specific metrics that he and (United States Senator and Democratic Vice Presidential Nominee) Kamala Harris are looking to meet and benefit the underserved, especially the Black community, across America... when it comes to educational opportunities... making sure that postsecondary education is more accessible to people who have been denied those opportunities. On the economic front, which we can couple with the employment front, (offering) opportunities for first-time homeowners so that they can begin to build wealth. There are opportunities...not just for people who are seeking jobs, (but also for) people who are currently employed...by raising the minimum wage, and also creating an opportunity for business owners, and inspire business owners to be able to thrive. I think that we should look back to the recovery during 2009. That recovery led to some of the greatest economic successes this nation has every seen. It has led to the strongest economy. If you choose to judge the economy based on the stock market...we can go into that conversation another day, or another time, however, if you want to purely use those metrics...then judge the strength of that economy...the same economy for which (President) Donald Trump has taken credit. The gains in the stock market that we have seen under the Trump Presidency are completely owed to the foundation that was (laid)...we were already on track during the Obama years and Joe Biden has had a great deal to play in making sure that the United States of America saw that sort of prosperity. Gary: Do you have any other thoughts that you would like to share with the readership? Lt. Gov. Barnes: Absolutely. I just want to say that it cannot be repeated enough that this is the most important election of our lifetime...certainly the most consequential election of our lifetime, but I also want people to know that it is not over until election day. There still are so many different issues (and) we have to make sure that they get addressed. Too often...when the person that we want to win an election... when they do win...we assume that things are going to get better...or we fail to hold them accountable. When the people we don’t want to get elected...(actually do get elected)...too often we get angry...as we should, but that anger should also come with some organizing to make sure that we can build for the next election cycle. There are so many more races, that are critical to our well-being, that don’t happen during Presidential (races). Not only is it important to vote during every election...it is also important to make sure that we organize...even after an election. As we elect our state representatives, or our school board members...it is important for us to make sure that we still show up to meetings... be it online or in person...to make sure that we know that they are doing right by our community... to make sure that we understand...and they understand...that we have issues that need to be addressed...and that their work isn’t done just because they got elected...(but rather) their work starts because they got elected. Celeste and Gary: Thank you. The URBAN EXPERIENCE | 2020 45
Let’s Support our Black Owned Businesses Bottle and Bottega James and Bridget Neely Wine & Painting https://www.bottleandbottega.com/des-moines/ This year The Urban Experience Magazine celebrates 5 years. This isn’t a list of all the Black owned businesses in our city. The businesses listed below have been either featured or supported the Urban Experience Magazine in the last five year. Put your business card in the Urban Experience Magazine for $25 a month for the first year. Reach out to us at: contactdsmurban@gmail.com for more details. Urban City Magazine Howell Dixon Magazine/Podcast https://urbancitymag.co/ Ruby B’s Catering Bradley Family Restaurant 515) 681-4028 https://www.facebook.com/ rubybskitchen/
Hip Hope, Inc Bo James https://hiphopeinc.wixsite.com/hiphopeinc Tranzitions Salon & Beauty Bar Ty Daye & Courtney Beauty Salon https://www.facebook.com/TranZitionsBeautySalon/ Roots to Branches Ricki King https://www.rootstobranchesgenealogy.com/ Black Women 4 Healthy Living Brandi Miller Health https://www.facebook.com/groups/ bw4hl/?ref=share MAV Nu Direction Calvetta Berry https://www.facebook.com/ma.vs.73 Iowa Juneteenth Observance Dwana Bradley www.iowajuneteenth.com Van Esther Vanessa Lewis www.vanesther.com Made Easley Advertising Ash Easley www.asheasley.myportfolio.com NAACP Des Moines Branch Kameron Middlebrooks https://www.naacpdesmoines.org/ NAACP Iowa/Nebraska Branch Betty Andrews www.iowanebraskanaacp.org SoulFit Zakiya English https://www.facebook.com/DsmSo The URBAN EXPERIENCE | 2020 47
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