United States Senator Amy Arts & Music The People Shall Govern Pt. 2 KLOBUCHAR Interview with Mayor Pete Why you need Life Insurance LIVIN’ WITH PURPOSE: Uncomfortable Political & Economic Realities
ADVERTISE WITH July 2019 The URBAN EXPERIENCE 3
INDEX DISCLAIMER The Des Moines Urban Experience provides news, opinions and articles as a service to our readers. The views and opinions, political endorsements or statements expressed in the Des Moines Urban Experience publication do not necessarily represent the writers, columnists, editors, publisher, management or its agents. The Des Moines Urban Experience reserves the right to edit or not publish comments and/or articles in printed, mobile or digital format. Therefore, we cannot be held responsible for the accuracy or reliability of information written by external parties. No Part of any of our publication, whether in print or digital may be reproduced, stored in a retrieval system or transmitted in any form or by any means, photocopying, electronic, mechanical or otherwise without the prior written permission of the copyright owner.
JULY 2019 15 College & Career 10 Art & Music 17 Spirituality 21 Community SUBMIT YOUR NEWS TO: dsmurbannews@gmail.com Join our email club at: joindsmurban@gmail.com 31 37 Beauty Public Affairs BECOME AN OUTLET OF THE URBAN EXPERIENCE MAGAZINE Contact Dwana Bradley at contactdsmurban@gmail.com ADVERTISE WITH THE URBAN EXPERIENCE MAGAZINE dsmurbanads@gmail.com July 2019 The URBAN EXPERIENCE 5 What’s Inside?
WRITERS & STAFF Editor-In-Chief Dwana Bradley Contributors Bert Moody Pastor Rosezine Wallace Hal Chase Margo Jones Gary Lawson Editor Lindsay Schwab Celeste Lawson Lori A. Young Pastor James Wilson Greg Harris Angela M. Jackson Teresa Bradley Copy Editor Virgina Smith Shyasia Barker Cle’Shai Harden Dr. Eric Johnson Jeremy Barewin Tiffany Braxton Donnetta Austin MAGAZINE OUTLETS Broadlawns 1801 Hickman Road, Des Moines, IA 50314 CareMore 1530 East Euclid, Des Moines, Iowa 50313 Cardinal Cleaners 1245 21st, Des Moines IA 50311 Cardinal Cleaners 835 Hull Ave, Des Moines, IA 50316 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 Evelyn Davis Center 801 Suite #3, University Ave, Des Moines IA 50314 Fifields 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 Mr. Bibbs 2705 6th Ave, Des Moines, IA 50313 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 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 Graphic Designer Ashle` Easley Howell Dixon Tenelle Thomas (Queen T) Dani Relle Courtney Nevilles Ty Daye
www.zumi.com facebook.com/zumicollection Twitter @ZumiCollection 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. July 2019 The URBAN EXPERIENCE 7
YOUR IOWA STATE FAIR DISCOUNTED ADVANCED ADMISSION TICKETS • Adults: $8 ($12 at the gate) • Children (ages 6–11): $4 ($6 at the gate) • Children (ages 5 and under): FREE • Advanced admission tickets available while supplies last through August 7, convenience fees may apply. Discounted Advanced Thrill Pass Wristbands Advanced Unlimited Ride Wristband $36 (includes wristband) Good Monday-Thursday for unlimited rides Advanced Thrill Pass Wristband $25 for 35 credits (includes wristband) Good all day, any day on any ride or game. For more information DOWNLOAD THE FAIR APP • TEXT FAIR TO 75782 • OR VISIT IOWASTATEFAIR.ORG family fun pack Various kid-friendly rides and activities, plus food tickets. A $35.50 value for $20
Editor Message JUNETEENTH CELEBRATIONS This month I would like to thank everyone who made Iowa Juneteenth a success. For those of you not familiar with Juneteenth let me provide you with a brief history lesson. The Emancipation Proclamation freed slaves on January 1st, 1863 and slaves were told through this document they were free. Communication didn’t get to Galveston, Texas until June 19th, 1865 which is now known as Juneteenth. Juneteenth has been celebrated by the nation for the last 154 years. Iowa Juneteenth was founded by Gary Lawson and Des Moines had their first Iowa Juneteenth celebration in June of 1990. Gary and his team worked tirelessly to make sure each Iowa Juneteenth was a success. April 11, 2002 Iowa Juneteenth was written into law by former Governor Tom Vilsack to be celebrated on the third Saturday in June. I always remember it because it’s Father’s Day weekend. After 25 years of being the General Chairperson of Iowa Juneteenth, Gary gave custodianship to The Des Moines Urban Experience in October 2015. I’ve had the pleasure of having events from the Community Builders Appreciation banquet where we recognize individuals in the state of Iowa for the work in the areas of education, health, citizenship, political process, advocacy, gospel, and next year jazz. We also have a statewide essay contest and recognize our 9th-11th grade winners. We’ve had a Gospel Fest for the last three years and end our celebration with our Urban Parade and Neighbors Day at Evelyn K. Davis Park. During Neighbors Day we have vendors, a three on three basketball tournament, food, health screenings, and entertainment. Each year we get better and grow to make sure everyone in the community comes out to celebrate. This year we had our first Iowa Juneteenth night at Principal Park. As Iowa Juneteenth grows, we will need volunteers. Please make sure to check out our website on July 15th which will inform you on the volunteers needed. Iowa Juneteenth turns 30 next year. I want the community to come together to support and participate in the activities we will have. Iowa Juneteenth wouldn’t make it without the help of our sponsors who provide in-kind and monetary donations and our volunteers who give of their time because they believe in Iowa Juneteenth. I will leave you with this, Iowa Juneteenth is like our fourth of July and we should tell the state of Iowa all about it. It is our time to make things better for our youth and provide an outlet for them to be successful in the areas of education, health, and wealth. I can’t do it on my own, but together we can do more. I always believe we are better together. I ask for your help next year whether you give to Iowa July 2019 The URBAN EXPERIENCE 9 Juneteenth personally, volunteer, or educate others about who we are. Iowa Juneteenth exists to make sure the history of Iowa Juneteenth is passed down for generations to come. Visit our website at www.iowajuneteenth. com to find out more about who we are, and the events that took place over this last Iowa Juneteenth. -Dwana Bradley Dwana Bradley , Editor of Urban Experience Magazine
THE GREAT FRAME UP SUPPORTS AFRICAN-AMERICAN ARTISTS JULY FEATURE: The PEOPLE SHALL GOVERN Second in a Two- Part Series BY ANGELA JACKSON 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 Art Institute in Chicago and experience the compelling exhibit: “THE PEOPLE SHALL GOVERN! Medu Art Ensemble and The Anti-Apartheid Poster” currently on display until September 2, 2019.
Arts & Music Revolutionary images with bold slogans were one tool this art collective used to advocate for social justice and pan-African solidarity. A Women’s Place Is In the Struggle According to the Art Institute of Chicago, “Though relatively few black women were active within Medu, the collective made a point of featuring them prominently in posters, theater and poetry. The members felt that oppressed groups needed to see themselves in images for such visuals to communicate effectively. Drawing subject matter from photographs, daily life, and important events in the struggle against apartheid – and aligning with socialist iconography proud working The Medu Art Ensemble formed in the late 1970s in opposition to South Africa’s apartheid policy of racial segregation and violent injustice. Through graphic design and poster production, members forcefully articulated a call for radical change, advocating for decolonization or majority (nonwhite) rule in South Africa and in the neighboring countries of Angola, Mozambique, Namibia, and Zimbabwe. THE PEOPLE SHALL GOVERN! Is the first-ever exhibition on Medu in North America. Featured among its 130 objects are more than 60 posters by members of the ensemble and related makers, all recently acquired by the Art Institute of Chicago. Collaboratively executed and often printed in the hundreds, Medu’s offset lithograph and screen-printed posters combine sobering and revolutionary imagery with bold slogans that, in word and image, mobilized citizens to support causes in social and economic justice and encouraged panAfrican solidarity. Medu posters that were smuggled into South Africa and mounted in public spaces are exceedingly rare. The Art Institute is home to the most comprehensive holding of these vibrant works outside South Africa. The Medu spirit of oppositional creativity transformed the culture of resistance in southern Africa during the late 20th century. women – many Medu render women as sturdy and posters black strong, emphasizing their integral role in struggles for equity”. “In South Africa separate and unequal access to education, health, and economic opportunity long predated apartheid law – as did female resistance to such conditions. Starting in the early 20th century, women rallied through self-organized committees as well as membership in trade unions and political parties. The posters on view attest to the tradition of women’s activism, which lives on today through women’s leadership of #feesMustFall movement, which calls for free and decolonized education.” The Art Institute of Chicago shared more details, “Now You Have Touched the Women” (1981). These are, “lyrics from a South African protest song from the 1956 Anti-Pass Campaign. Pass laws severely restricted movement within the country for black, July 2019 The URBAN EXPERIENCE 11 of . . . the South African
COMMUNITY Indian, and colored women seeking work or traveling for any reason. On August 9, 1956, twenty thousand women from across the country marched to the union buildings in the capital city, Pretoria, to petition Prime Minister J.G. Strijdom on the issue. Such significant displays of women’s defiance are recognized annually through South Africa’s National Women’s Day.” Credits - The Art Institute in Chicago www.artic.edu We currently feature originals, prints, sculptures 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 Facebook page at www.facebook.com/tgfuwdmiowa. Please follow us on Pinterest www.pinterest.com/ tgfuwdm and Twitter @tgfuwdm. About The Great Frame Up Founded in 1972, The Great Frame Up, Inc. 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 and is open Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday, Friday 10–6pm; Thursday 10– 8pm & Saturday 10– 5pm. SAVE THE DATE: The Great Frame Up Features Local Artists! South African Women Unite - This is a very brightly colored poster with red background. The images of various women holding signs of resistance in an array of strong contrasting colors of black, yellow, green, white and blue. These primary colors and the powerful graphics make the words, “South African Women Unite Against Apartheid,” shout in unionism more effective and eye catching. Readers of the Urban Experience are encouraged to see these original works from visual, literary and performing South African artists internationally acclaimed and unknown. This compelling exhibit continues until September 2, 2019. This summer, make the Art Institute in Chicago a memorable family experience of this part of our international heritage and history. You won’t want to miss it! For more information- www.artic.edu Original Art & Wearable Art Exhibitor Irina — Thursday, July 11th 5–8pm Original Art – Kaly Mayfin – Thursday, August 1st 5–8pm thegreatframeup.com and our Facebook page at www.facebook.com/tgfuwdmiowa. Please follow us on Pinterest www.pinterest.com/tgfuwdm and Twitter @tgfuwdm.
COMMUNITY Arts & Music Art | Memories Conservation Materials | Commercial & In-Home Consultation Bring in this ad for 30% Off Your Custom Framing Order! West Glen Town Center 5515 Mills Civic Parkway #150 West Des Moines, IA 50266 515-226-2310 westdesmoines.thegreatframeup.com For millions of prints - shop our online store shopthegreatframeupart.com July 2019 The URBAN EXPERIENCE 13
Resources for Starting or Growing a Business in Central Iowa For many entrepreneurs, the road to small business ownership starts with an idea: a passion for executing what they do best, an innovative new product, or a hobby turned into more than simply a hobby. This spark turns into a flame, and the idea for starting a business becomes a reality. For many, the “starting a business” component creates stumbling blocks for many great ideas. The specifics of business and marketing plans, licensing and locating funding aren’t the most fun elements of becoming an entrepreneur! Thankfully, several central Iowa resources are available to entrepreneurs and small business owners to assist with the details of starting a small business, from business plans and sales strategies to accessing capital. Online Resources For business owners wanting to secure the details themselves and self-navigate through information about starting a business, IASourceLink.com is a great starting resource. IASourceLink, a collaboration between Iowa Economic Development Authority (IEDA) and the University of Northern Iowa Center for Business Growth and Innovation, connects Iowa entrepreneurs to a network of 360+ nonprofit resource organizations that provide a wide range of business-related services, including marketing, financial planning, sales, loans and technical assistance product development. In addition to the comprehensive network of resource entrepreneurs can access 24/7 via the Resource Navigator, IASourceLink provides some direct services to Iowa small business owners. Through the popular Business Concierge service, the website provides Iowa-based companies with no-charge market research assistance and helpful referrals and the free business tax webinar series with the Iowa Department of Revenue can help Iowa entrepreneurs address their many business tax questions. Additionally, IASourceLink’s Business License Information Center, which assists start-ups and small businesses with identifying regulatory requirements, provides comprehensive information on the licenses, permits and occupational requirements needed to operate a business legally in the state of Iowa. The Greater Des Moines Partnership is another great central Iowa resource helping address the many questions related to starting a business. Through its recently launched initiative, “The Hub”, business owners and entrepreneurs can access online tools and resources on topics like how to start a business, finance, banking and capital, marketing, hiring and events for small businesses owners to attend. 2019 Small Business Summit For those wanting a full-day intensive and deep-dive into various topics related to small business ownership, plan to attend the Greater Des Moines Partnership’s Small Business Summit November 8 at the FFA Enrichment Center at Des Moines Area Community College in Ankeny. The purpose is to inform, educate and inspire business owners in greater Des Moines. The Summit hosts keynote speakers, workshops and breakout sessions on a variety of timely topics that affect business owners and managers. Attendees will also have time to network and establish strategic partnerships. Direct Assistance Looking for face-to-face assistance? Plan to meet with an advisor from your local Small Business Development Center (SBDC) or a Des Moines SCORE mentor.
COLLEGE & CAREER For face-to-face guidance and advising, entrepreneurs and small business owners can meet with a counselor at one of the 15 SBDCs around the state, whose mission is to support the collaborative economic development of Iowa by providing entrepreneurs and businesses with individual consultation and educational resources necessary to assist businesses in succeeding. Iowa SBDCs provide no-cost, confidential, customized, professional business advice in all 99 Iowa counties to entrepreneurs and existing businesses. Another option is to meet with a SCORE mentor. SCORE, the nation’s largest network of volunteer, expert business mentors, is dedicated to helping small businesses get off the ground, grow and achieve goals. SCORE is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization and a resource of the U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA). Because of the support from the SBA and others, many SCORE opportunities and programs are available at no cost. Through SCORE, entrepreneurs can access free, confidential business mentoring in person or remotely via email, phone and video. SCORE mentors, all experts in entrepreneurship and related fields, meet with small business clients on an ongoing basis to provide continued advice and support. Curtis Baugh at the Evelyn K. Davis Center for Working Families offers 1:1 Business Coaching to assist with business registration and formalization, marketing plans or social media strategy. Classes and Workshops For those that prefer to take a class, SCORE and Iowa SBDCs hosts classes and workshops in person and online, or consider the Iowa Center for Economic Success’s DreamBuilder series. The Iowa Center’s primary focus is empowering people to start or grow a small business, whether it’s through the Women’s Business Center, free tax preparation and planning programs, or its microloan portfolio. The Center offers several workshops and classes on its Events page. The DreamBuilder series helps potential business owners conceptualize a complete business plan, define the “why” for owning a small business, meet with subject matter experts, and learn the basics of small business ownership. In addition to 1:1 coaching, the Evelyn K. Davis Center offers a Masters Business BootCamp, which is designed for existing business owners to reinforce the essential skills necessary to own, manage, grow or operate a small business. The six-week program addresses topics, including funding a business, accounting and cash flow, taxes, legal issues, commercial real estate contracts, marketing, customer service and entrepreneurship. Qualified participants may take advantage of the Earn and Learn Program, which subsidizes business owners and active community entrepreneurs for time away from their business. The next boot camp class is September 9 – October 21. The SBA also offers a variety of online courses through its Learning Center to help start and run a business. Courses are designed to help participants research, plan and turn ideas into a profit. Topics include how to write a business plan, legal requirements, social media marketing, sales for small business, government contracting and growing an established company. Access to Capital Access to capital can be a challenge. Without adequate funding, small businesses cannot grow and thrive. Various forms of capital are available, including traditional bank financing, non-traditional lenders, SBA-backed loans and helps with seeking outside investments. Learn more about Financing Fundamentals and programs offered through the State of Iowa at IASourceLink. URBANDALE CHAMBER OF COMMERCE Serving, protecting and promoting businesses across the Des Moines Metro Experience what a 5 Star Acredited Chamber can do for your business! www.uniquelyurbandale.com | 515-331-6855 July 2019 The URBAN EXPERIENCE 15
COLLEGE & CAREER For specific questions about micro-loans, check out the Iowa Center for Economic Success’s loan offerings, which includes the Targeted Small Business Loan program that offers up to $35,000 to startup businesses or $50,000 to eligible businesses already in business. Microloans are available through the SBA, in addition to SBA’s traditional guaranteed loan program. Looking for more options or investors? Plan to attend the Greater Des Moines Partnership’s Raising Capital Seminar on September 26 to learn more or download the resources available on the Partnership’s website from previous seminars. Ask Questions Ultimately, there are several partners in central Iowa available to help learn the ins and outs of running a business so you can focus on a great idea, product, service or innovation. Leave the rest of the details to the experts! Still not sure where to start? Reach out to IASouceLink toll-free at 866.537.6052, or email info@iasourcelink.com. YOUR AD HERE
SPIRITUALITY Freedom brought in Christ by Donnetta Austin In John chapter eight of the bible, a woman who has been caught in the act of adultery is brought to our attention. During this time Jesus is at the temple in the Mount of Olives teaching and surrounded by a group of people. Many of the Pharisees believed that under the law this woman should be stoned. The Pharisees tested Jesus asking him how he felt. Jesus humbled himself, In John chapter eight verse seven he responded saying, “He who is without sin among you. Let him throw a stone at her first”. It was as though Jesus was bringing it to their attention that you have all sinned. He thought to himself go ahead I will wait. They were all convicted and began to walk away. The divine favor of God was with this woman. Jesus forgave her and asked her to go and sin no more. July 2019 The URBAN EXPERIENCE 17 John 8:12 Then Jesus spoke to them again; saying, “I am the light of the world. He who follows ME shall not walk in darkness, but have the light of life”. We are able to find freedom in Christ when we begin to say no to our sins. Obedience is always the best way of living a liberating lifestyle. God will continue to reveal himself to you. Author: Donnetta Austin Book: “Never Retire God” on Amazon Facebook: Be Encouraged, Inspirational Books by Donnetta Austin Email: be.encouragedbyone@gmail.com
IOTA ZETA OMEGA CHAPTER, ALPHA KAPPA ALPHA SORORITY, INC. Presents 2019 Scholarships & Awards The members of Iota Zeta Omega Chapter of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc. presented its 41st Annual Scholarship Cotillion, “Cultivating Minds of Today & Tomorrow” where family and friends celebrated 13 African American high school seniors. The Scholarship Cotillion was held on Saturday, April 20 at the Holiday Inn Hotel and Conference Center.
COMMUNITY The 13 Participants in the 2019 Alpha Kappa Alpha Scholarship Cotillion were: Na’Jm Berry | North High School Te’Ara Burgs | Roosevelt High School Aapri Dukes | Roosevelt High School Jalen Long | East High School Kathelina Moody | Waukee High School Janae Weber Moore | Valley High School Nautika Bradley Norman | Roosevelt High School Sandrah Nasimiya | Valley High School Laya Rudison | Joshua Christian Academy Khalil Summerville | Lincoln High School Antwaneisha Tolson | Valley High School Princess Walker | Valley High School Zoe Young | Valley High School The male escorts again executed with precision and high stepping style their crowd pleasing “beautillion strut” choreographed by Mr. Cory Williams . The 2019 Belles and male escorts were: Isaiah Moody Keshawn Coney Savion Coleman Demetrion Johnson Tre Jarrett Xavier Jones Jarius Jones Keziah Long Jalen Neely Destin Page Brianna Phillips Javaci Williams Heath Young Over the 41 years, approximately, $300,000.00 have been presented in awards and scholarships. July 2019 The URBAN EXPERIENCE 19
For several months, the Cotillion participants were engaged in Pre-Cotillion activities and workshops leading up to the April 20th Cotillion presentation. Activities included personal development and college prep workshops as well as community service at a local community center packaging Meals From the Heartland. A Senior Showcase held at Grand View University provided an opportunity for the Cotillion participants to show off their unique talents for family and friends. The best of show ranged from artistic and musical talents to displays of personal interests. The participants were also given a task to express their thoughts on the current social climate by writing an essay in response to the topic, “The hate you give-how do you navigate being your authentic self in a world that would see you as something different”. The essay semi-finalists were Jalen Long, Nautika Bradley-Norman, and Janae Weber-Moore. The award winning essay was written by Laya Rudison. Laya read her essay for family and friends attending the sold out presentation on April 20. The top 2019 Scholarship and Award recipients were: Laya Rudison – Billiejean Morrow Scholarship Nautika Bradley-Norman – Fran Cuie Memorial Scholarship Antwaneisha Tolson – Wilda B. Hester Community Service Award Laya Rudison- Congeniality Award Laya Rudison- Essay Award The Iowa Ivy Foundation and Iota Zeta Omega Chapter of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc. express heartfelt thanks and gratitude for the many sponsors and supporters who have made it possible to continue recognizing academic excellence and achievements of outstanding students of color in the Greater Des Moines FHLB Des Moines is proud to support our community partner Iowa Juneteenth Observance www.fhlbdm.com @FHLBDM Federal Home Loan Bank of Des Moines FHLBDM community. A special thank you to the corporate sponsors, John Deere Works, Polk County, Wells Fargo, and Mercy Charitable Fund.
COMMUNITY LIVIN’ ON PURPOSE: UNCOMFORTABLE POLITICAL AND ECONOMIC REALITIES by Dr. Eric Johnson W.E.B. DuBois, a noted sociologist, civil rights activist, and scholar once famously said, “A system cannot fail those who it was never meant to protect”. The prophecy of those words is both uncomfortable and illuminating. Uncomfortable in the sense that factors such as race, class, ethnicity, and gender still have an enormous impact on the lived experiences of too many people. Illuminating in the sense that the words themselves are in many ways instructive. They not only identify inequality, but they also plainly provide an explanation. In other words, the bottom and top of a social, economic, and political system is not and never has been solely determined by the deeds of the people in question. Moreover, the bottom of the economic rung has traditionally been overpopulated by racial and ethnic minorities and that trend continues today. Systematic outcomes become far more predicable when we examine who mostly benefits and who is mostly harmed. This examination oftentimes comes down to one question: How are the people at the top social structure affected compared to the folks at the bottom? The outcome of that question makes many people uncomfortable but when it is applied to systemic effects it forthrightly reveals who was meant to be protected and who was not. Current political and economic trends unfortunately serve as evidence for the systemic analysis provided by the Dr. DuBois. While the President and many of his supporters tout an economic boom, it is not shared evenly across the American public. Black unemployment during the Trump presidency has consistently doubled the rates in the White community. Furthermore, there continues to be disparities in wages between the Black and White communities. Black unemployment over the last year has actually been on the rise, while it appears to be 6.8 percent currently, it has been as high as 7 percent in 2018 more than doubling the rates in the White community. Wage disparities for the year 2018 were pervasive at every level of wage distribution. In 2018 White people who had high school diplomas earned 21% on average more than Black folks with the same qualifications. July 2019 The URBAN EXPERIENCE 21
The wage disparity for people with advanced degree was 18%. While the wage disparities cannot be explained by differences in education levels because even when Black and White people have similar education levels there are still unemployment and wage disparities that tend to advantage people in the White community. As we look at current trends in education there is no reason to be optimistic for any significant systemic change in the near future. There is an intimate relationship between politics, education and economics. As we apply this metric to any number of contemporary relevant social tensions and conflicts, we can see a pattern that is in no way refutable. The current college admissions scandal that has recently revealed the undue influence of money, privilege, and race on university admissions is in some ways not surprising, but it does disclose a deliberate attempt to maintain the status quo. It seems that the already disproportionate advantage that White students have in college admissions was not enough for some privileged families. Black and Hispanic students with 3.5 or higher G.P.A.s are nearly three times more likely to attend community colleges than white students with similar academic profiles. In addition, Black and Hispanic students tend to be clustered in less selective universities while selective top tiered universities are mostly composed of White and Asian students. Enrollment in the top 468 best funded universities are 77% percent white, while enrollment at the 3, 250 lowest funded community colleges and universities are nearly 50% Black and Hispanic. Black and Hispanic students take on more debt to finish college and this is further complicated by the fact that white students tend to finish college nearly two years sooner, which not only contributes to less college debt but often translates to more years in work force. However, these advantages apparently were not enough for some privileged White families. It raises the stakes for the punishment that these accused privilege white families face or does it? While people at the bottom of the economic rung are disproportionately Black and Brown, they are nonetheless compelled to support and participate in a system that appears to have no interest in equality or justice for all. The politics surrounding police violence is not irrelevant to the discussion given the power of police officers to impact the lives of citizens based on their ability to arrest and detain. holds them accountable. A recent study that included 85,000 officers from over 700 police departments found that officers were investigated or disciplined for nearly 200,000 offenses. It is important to point out that this study represented a small sample given that there are 750,000 officers in the country from over 18,000 departments, but the results of this study are still relevant. While most incidents were relatively minor, many did include allegations of Rape, Excessive force, and Abuse. In fact, there were more 2,200 cases of evidence tampering or falsifying reports and 32 people became Police Chiefs or Sheriffs despite serious misconduct allegations. These facts seem to validate DuBois’s analysis and frame the tenuous political and legal reality confronted by many Black and Brown folks and in many ways all people who feel marginalized and disenfranchised systemically. However, who
COMMUNITY The political and economic hypocrisy evidenced in these facts demonstrate a warranted suspicion of uneven systemic outcomes. Access to an educational process and system that supports a tide that raises all boats is little more than economic fantasy. It is difficult to call it a systemic failure when one can make the argument that the social and economic outcomes are by design. While nothing excuses each of us from the results of our decisions and personal responsibility, it is difficult to ignore the stubborn and persistent manifestation of inequality. Any change in our long-term economic forecast requires a complete reset of a process that benefits some at the expense of many. While there are no easy answers, our road to recovery includes an honest assessment of the challenges we face. The legacy of economic inequality and political hypocrisy is not an accident, it is the result of deliberate forces that serve a function. Our path to empowerment is a realization that there are those who benefit from the exploitation of others. As a result, there are some difficult questions we have to confront. How long will we allow ourselves to pitted against one another for crumbs that fall from a table where we not welcome to dine? Is real collective progress possible in a system that requires exploitation? Is it possible that the people who require our uninformed complicity will supply the resources for our empowerment and their decline? These questions require serious collective soul searching because chances are, we and our children will spend the rest of the lives in system not designed to protect us. And as a result, we find ourselves in an eternal struggle between the haves and the have nots. The hypocrisy is that we are both and neither. Eric Johnson Strategies to Succeed Check me out on social media Twitter: Strategies2Succeed @BeyondSelfHelp1 Facebook: Eric Johnson/strategies2succeed Instagram: dr.eric_johnson (strategies2succeed) July 2019 The URBAN EXPERIENCE 23 RICKI KING Ricki@RootsToBranchesGenealogy.com www.RootsToBranchesGenealogy.com
COMMUNITY Des Moines Divine 9 Greek Weekend During the weekend of May 31-June 2, members of Iota Zeta Omega Chapter, Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc. participated in the 3rd Annual Des Moines Divine Greek weekend. The weekend kicked off with a meet & greet on Friday, followed by a cookout on Saturday afternoon at Union Park and a social on Saturday evening. Many friends and family members from the community joined the festivities including AKA members from Tau Psi Omega (Iowa City) and Delta Epsilon Omega (Omaha, NE). In alignment with Alpha Kappa Alpha’s program Target III: Building Your Economic LegacyOperation AKA Assist, the weekend of activities for Iota Zeta Omega Chapter culminated on Sunday, June 2nd with a day of service, preparing approximately 300 meals at Creative Visions for individuals, families and children from the community as well as prepared dinners delivery to a local homeless shelter. for
In 2012, Xi Jinping, then Vice President of China, returned to Iowa to reconnect with his, “Old Friends”. One thing that came out of this visit is the China-US Demonstration Farm that is modeled off the Kimberly Farm in Maxwell, IA. President Xi visited the Kimberly Farm and encouraged a model farm be built in Hebei Province. Information Compiled by Iowa Sister States Executive Director, Heather Jones This month we are learning about one of our most unique partners; a partnership that truly exemplifies the power of a people to people exchange. Our third sister state was initiated by Governor Robert D. Ray during a visit to China in 1982. A Sister State relationship was formally established during a return visit by a Hebei delegation in July 1983. Iowa Governor, Terry Branstad, and Hebei Governor, Zhang Shuguang, formalized the partnership during that visit on July 22, 1983. In 1985, there was a Chinese delegation that came There are multiple examples of other strong ties that have emerged from this relationship. The house that President Xi stayed at in 1985 has now been turned into the Sino-US Friendship House in Muscatine. The World Food Prize Global Youth Institute brings students from Hebei Province every October to participate in its institute. In June of 2018, the Drake University football team traveled to Hebei to play the first ever international Division 1 football game in China against Hebei University. Another well-known outcome of the 1985 and subsequent 2012 visit is the placement of Iowa’s former Governor, Terry Brandstad, to the post of US Ambassador to China. As we are seeing with each featured partnership, one connection can literally change the world. Our relationship with Hebei is a great example of this. to Iowa that has now become famous over time. The leader of this delegation was none other than Xi Jinping, who is now the President of China. This was the beginning of a lifelong relationship that has been dubbed, “Old Friends”. This delegation catapulted exchanges and programs between the partners that continue to this day.
COMMUNITY To get involved with this wonderful relationship please connect with Iowa Sister States on Facebook and Twitter at @IASisterStates, on Instagram at @ IowaSisterStates or iowasisterstates.org. About: Hebei Province Population: 63.9 million people Capital: Shijiazhuang Language: Mandarin Chinese Area: 187,000 sq.km Major Attractions: The Great Wall; Anji Bridge; Longzing Buddhist Temple Education: 50 Universities and Colleges Climate: Temperate Continental Web Resources: https://www.iowasisterstates.org/hebei https://docs.wixstatic.com/ugd/26fad8_ fcfecfada3b644ec9f8c52c6d19372b0.pdf https://www.desmoinesregister.com/story/news/local/ columnists/kyle-munson/2017/11/07/xi-jinping-iowa-chinafarm-kimberley-hebei/784184001/ https://visitmuscatine.com/434/Sino-US-Friendship-House https://www.central.edu/study-abroad/director-led-programs/ merida/ July 2019 The URBAN EXPERIENCE 27 YOUR AD HERE visit our website at www.
It's important to take the time to acknowledge the uniqueness of the deceased: the individuality of their personality, and the uniqueness of their life's path. Not just for them, but for you; it affirms the relationship, and leads to healing after loss. Honoring their life is truly an act of love – for the both of you. “WE’RE FAMILY” PHONE: (515) 309-6550 3500 SIXTH AVENUE DES MOINES, IA 50313 HENDERSONSHP.COM
WHY YOU NEED LIFE INSURANCE! by Sophia Sledge You may think you don’t need to worry about life insurance until, or if, you have children. After all, there’s no one who relies on you to feed, clothe, and educate them. Remaining uninsured, however, could prove to be a big financial mistake, even without dependents. Here’s why. Life insurance can shield your surviving loved ones from financial hardships they may face if you pass away unexpectedly.1 This could apply to anyone who relies on your ability to provide for them financially, including aging parents or a spouse who doesn’t work outside the home. Even if your spouse has a full- or part-time job, consider what would happen if the income you bring in was permanently lost. Would your spouse be able to handle all living expenses — including large bills like mortgage payments? Would he or she be able to continue paying off any debts you share? Many partners would not be able to cover the expenses of their current lifestyles without two incomes. So considering life insurance to protect each other is a critical financial planning step. If you decide to look into life insurance, you will have to decide how much you and your spouse need to protect each other. There are several ways to determine how much coverage you will need. One method is to multiply your salary by five or 10. This may make the most sense, however, when you have minor dependents who will need financial help to see them through college and early adulthood. July 2019 The URBAN EXPERIENCE 29
COMMUNITY If you and your partner simply want to protect each other, you may need coverage that will cover only one to two years of expenses. Perhaps the most accurate way to measure how much you will require is to consider the amount your surviving spouse would need to handle his or her actual financial needs, whether it’s paying off the mortgage, satisfying debts, or providing care to aging parents. Life insurance can provide you with peace of mind and the knowledge that your surviving loves ones won’t face serious financial hardship after you’re gone. This educational, third-party article is provided as a courtesy by Sophia Sledge[Agent’s Name], Agent, (CA/ AR Ins. Lic. #) New York Life Insurance Company. To learn more about the information or topics discussed, please contact Sophia[Agent’s Name] at 480-2665332 or ssledge@ft.nyl.com [Contact Information]. _____________________________ Sources: Michael Estrin, “7 Reasons to Buy Life Insurance Now,” Bankrate, May 2015. http://www.bankrate.com/ finance/insurance/reasons-to-buy-life-insurancenow-1.aspx#slide=1 Karen Carr, “How to Avoid Lifestyle Inflation,” Credit Karma, March 2016. https://www.creditkarma.com/ article/avoid-lifestyle-inflation-31416 Barbara Marquand, “How Much Life Insurance Do I Need?” NerdWallet, August 2015. https://www. nerdwallet.com/blog/insurance/how-much-lifeinsurance-do-i-need/ dsmurbanads@gmail.com
BEAUTY TIPS Beauty Tips Is a Chemical Peel Right for You? by Courtney Neviles of TranZitions Salon & Beauty Bar. A treatment or technique that is used to improve the appearance and texture of the skin. You can expect to remove dry skin cells that will show a smoother more radiant skin. Chemical peels can be effective for treating: ageing skin, sun spots or damaged skin, or can help even skin tone, and smooth mild scarring. Overall it’s a very effective way to treat your skins problems. Different Types of Chemical Peels: Glycolic Peel: Great for exfoliation and for aging skin Lactic Peel: Good for sensitive skin (Easier on skin) Beta Peel: Good for acne Vitalize Peel: Good for hyperpigmentation (Not all are listed) July 2019 The URBAN EXPERIENCE 31
Who can do Chemical Peels? An Esthetician can only perform light to moderate peels per Iowa law. Depp peels can only be performed by a physician or under a physician’s supervision. How Often Should I do a Chemical Peel? 6 Treatments on a weekly or bi-weekly basis depending on the person. This can be repeated up to 3-4 times without damaging the skin. Contraindication or things you shouldn’t do before getting a Chemical Peel: X Botox X Waxing X Electrolysis X Laser hair removals X Exfoliating mask *make sure to tell your professional any medications or vitamins you are taking*
BEAUTY TIPS Costs of Chemical Peels Superficial Peels (done mostly by estheticians) range from $80-$200 Moderate Peels (done by estheticians or doctor) range from $200-over $600 Deep Peels (done by a medical doctor) range from $3500-$5000 Follow us on Instagram and Facebook IG- Tranzitionsbeauty FB- TranZitions Salon and Beauty Bar experience. She offers Semi Permanent makeup, full body waxing, facials, chemical peels, Microdermabrasion, Eyelash extensions. At TranZitions Beauty our passion is to create and inspire. We realize that we are all given gifts and talents out hope is that in using our given talents we are able to inspire others to recognize and utilize their own. We specailze in Hair and spa services. ————————————————Ty Daye is a well know licensed hair Stylist in the Des Moines area who has been in the industry for over 15 years. She enjoys teaching all she’s learned over the years. Courtney Nevilles is licensed Esthetican in Des Moines area who has over 18 years July 2019 The URBAN EXPERIENCE 33 Quianna Tucker is Chicago native licensed hair Stylist in the Des Moines area who has been in the industry for over 15 years. She specializes in braids and natural hair. Gives you the latest care tips about how to take care of your braids & save your “edges” ladies.
United States Senator AMY KLOBUCHAR by Celeste and Gary Lawson
United States Senator Amy Klobuchar is the first woman elected to that office from the state of Minnesota. She is also a graduate of Yale University and the University of Chicago Law School. She is running to win the Democratic Party’s nomination for President of the United States. This exclusive telephone interview had been confirmed in advance, but was rescheduled and conducted on June 7, 2019. Celeste: Good afternoon, Senator Klobuchar. According to results from a Pew Research Center survey conducted earlier this year, 73% of Americans responded that race and ethnicity should not be considered when deciding who will be admitted to colleges and universities. What are your views in that regard, and as President, what policies would you pursue to improve the education of racial and ethnic minorities? Senator Klobuchar: Well, that’s a good question, and I do think that it should be considered, because I want to have an economy that works for everyone. I also want to make sure our economy is as strong as possible. Now, when we have to compete, internationally and globally, and if we don’t abilities of all of our people, we are not going to be able to compete effectively. That is why my policies are focused on, first of all, making sure that we have students that are able to pursue their education. Iowa has the highest graduation rate in the country, and like other states, it still has an achievement gap. That is why, first of all, I would make sure that we have strong funding for public education. I have a clear history of supporting public schools, I just don’t talk the talk. When you look at my life…I went to public schools, my daughter went to public schools, and my mom taught second grade in public schools until she was 70 years old. My daughter actually went to a school, for years, that was 90% free and reduced lunch. She was, in fact, with a lot of kids, mostly immigrant kids. So, I have a pretty good sense of some of the issues with our schools. The first thing that I would say is that we need to pay our teachers better and we need to have better funding for our public schools, if you are going to make them work for everyone. The second thing is making sure that we have…and we looked at what the President has done, and he is going the opposite way with his budget…so, our school infrastructure has to be good, we can’t have double standards depending on what neighborhood you’re in. That is why I put schools in my lead infrastructure plan…I was the first candidate with an infrastructure plan which includes the schools upfront and center, and mentioning the Baltimore schools…where they actually ran out of heat last winter…as an example of what we need to improve learning. use the know-how and the I’ve had my own personal experience with this being that my daughter went to a school in Virginia after I got elected to the United States Senate. It was a brand new building and there was a significant number of kids of color in that school. What I saw was a beautiful school building, and how kids reacted in a beautiful school building, and it was really extraordinary. So, that is just an example of my own personal experience. In addition to funding our schools and the infrastructure, would be making sure that we make it affordable for all kids to go to college…and it may not be a four-year college…there are a lot of paths to success…but I wanted to also mention that we just need to make sure that we are investing in the schools in the areas that need it. I talked with (Iowa State) Representative Ruth Ann Gaines about this at length…she just endorsed me… and I know she had taught for decades in the public schools and will be a good advisor for me on Iowaspecific issues about closing the achievement gap. Gary: While education and training are important requirements for entering and advancing in the workplace, what policy/policies would you work toward as President to ensure that government investments in education and training programs better correspond
PUBLIC AFFAIRS Senator Klobuchar: We need to get ahead of this. We know in my state, and in Iowa, that we have problems finding employees for certain jobs…and many of them are good jobs in the medical field and the technology field. We need to get kids interested in science, technology, engineering, and math. Another argument I would make, and make all over the country, is why we can’t have an achievement gap. We have to have all kids learning. One of my arguments is that everyone does not have the same path to success. I certainly had that in my own family…my sister didn’t graduate from high school, then she went down to Iowa and worked in manufacturing for a number of years. She got the confidence to take the GED (General Education Development) test, she got her GED, then she went to a community college in Iowa for two years and finished up with a four-year degree. She is now gainfully employed as an accountant in Florida. A lot of this has to do with making sure that we have apprentice programs, technical certifications, one and two-year degrees.The other piece of it is making sure that kids can afford college. I would do a lot of targeted aid…I would make community college free…and then I would do a lot of targeted expansion of Pell Grants for kids who need help the most, not just cut it off at $50,000 in income and $50,000 in Pell Grants, but really expand that for families that need it the most, as well as doing some things with tax credits and other things. Gary: What are your thoughts on healthcare in America? Senator Klobuchar: Well, we cannot go back to the days before the Affordable Care Act when people were charged more for insurance, or even denied coverage when they got sick, or had preexisting conditions like asthma, diabetes, or cancer. When you think about it, half of all Americans have preexisting conditions. We made that effective argument in the 2018 elections about how these guys were trying to kick people off of their insurance…they were trying to appeal Obamacare (Affordable Care Act). I think some people that voted believed us, that is why we won a lot of those states, Senator Klobuchar: My background is a little different from that of Donald Trump. I am someone that came to where I am because of opportunity. I didn’t start with opportunity…my grandpa worked 1500 feet underground in the mines. He had nine brothers and sisters, and he July 2019 The URBAN EXPERIENCE 37 but I’m not sure everyone did. They saw what the administration did last month, which is actually file a brief in Texas saying we should appeal the Affordable Care Act. So, that is my first focus. The second is to make it easier for people to afford coverage and to expand to universal healthcare. I believe in the approach that President Obama wanted to take, which was including a public option that could be done through Medicaid or Medicare, but was the one thing he wasn’t able to accomplish with the Affordable Care Act. That would move us to universal healthcare so that it would be less expensive and be broader coverage. The last thing that I would do is take on the pharmaceutical companies, something else we were not able to do in the Affordable Care Act, and that is everything from unleashing the power of millions of seniors…43 million seniors…to negotiate prices under Medicare as well as making sure that we get less expensive drugs from other countries. The one thing that I would note with our situation here, where we have health disparities for people of color, is that we have to improve the standard for maternity wards. There is a horrible story about this pregnant woman in New Orleans, who is African-American, and she tells her doctor about swelling in her hands and feet. All of that would make people think that something was wrong, and in her words, when she lost her baby, “It was like my doctor threw me away.” So, that is a piece of this as well. Again, people of color will be inordinately hurt if we turn our backs on the Affordable Care Act…and also inordinately hurt if we do not expand on the Affordable Care Act. Celeste: Are there any final thoughts that you would like to share?
had to quit school because he was the oldest son, his parents were sick, and he literally went to work in the mines…when that is not what he wanted to do, but someone had to pitch in and raise his brothers and sisters. No one had ever gone to college in my family, my grandpa and grandma literally saved money in a coffee can in the basement and they sent my dad to a twoyear community college, then he finished up at the University of Minnesota. My mom grew up without money during the Great Depression in Milwaukee (Wisconsin), then she came to Minnesota because they had a strong teachers’ union, and she taught second grade until she was 70 years old. She started teaching in the city schools in Minneapolis and then finished up in the suburbs. So, I am literally the candidate that is the granddaughter of a miner…the daughter of a teacher and a newspaper man…the first woman elected as a United States Senator from the state of Minnesota, and a candidate for President. So much of what I am about…and the themes I focus on…are themes of opportunity. We live in a country of shared dreams, and that means that no matter where you come from, or how much money you have, or what the color of your skin is…you should be able to succeed in America. That means, to me, everything from reforming childcare and making it easier for people to work while they have kids…to overhauling our country’s housing policy when housing is getting more and more out of reach for people…to making sure that education is the great equalizer. Just one last thing I wanted to add is the work I’ve done on retirement savings…and this is a bill that has the support of SEIU (Service Employees International Union)…and that we introduced last month. It allows people who are not working in places that have 401Ks… it says that their employers have to pitch in 50 cents an hour for their retirement…and that adds up, over a lifetime, to about $600,000. It allows people to do this even if they’re working part-time…and can take it with them to different employers. It gives the employers a tax break and is paid for by rewinding some of that regressive Republican tax bill and it allows them to take the first - this is different than 401Ks - every year they can take the first $2,500 out for emergency room expenses, or for emergencies because right now you get penalized for doing this, so this takes account for the fact that 4 out of 10 Americans can’t pay for an emergency room bill, and it will especially be helpful to people of color. Finally, I would add that I am on the Judiciary Committee (in the United States Senate) as noted by the Kavanaugh (current United States Supreme Court Associate Justice, Brett Kavanaugh) hearings…and also the ranking Democrat on the Rules Committee. That means I do a lot on elections…and I think we’ll do a bill for getting kids to register to vote when they turn 18, I think that would make a big difference and get rid of these suppressive voting laws that are developing in states by reauthorizing the Voting Rights Act, and by giving everyone a seat at the table…and the way you do that is by making it easier to vote, including getting the bad money, the special interest money, out of our
PUBLIC AFFAIRS (United States Supreme Court decision) with a constitutional amendment. Gary and Celeste: Thank you, Senator. Celeste Lawson is a freelance writer who focuses on various aspects of education and cultural diversity. She earned a graduate degree in Curriculum and Instruction, and an undergraduate degree in Elementary Education, with concentrations in English and Language Arts. In addition, she has more than 20 years of classroom experience with teaching students at the early childhood, primary, secondary, and postsecondary levels. YOUR AD HERE Gary Lawson is a freelance writer who focuses on various aspects of business and government. He earned a graduate degree in Government Administration, and an undergraduate degree in Business Administration with a duel concentration in Management and Marketing. He is a Vietnam-Era veteran who has served as a Commissioned Officer in the United States Army. In addition, he has taught business courses at Drake University and Des Moines Area Community College July 2019 The URBAN EXPERIENCE 39
Mayor Pete Buttigieg Interview by Celeste and Gary Lawson Peter (Pete) Buttigieg has been Mayor of South Bend, Indiana, since 2012. He is a graduate of Harvard and a Rhodes Scholar. Mayor Buttigieg has served as an intelligence officer in the United States Navy Reserve. He is seeking to win the Democratic Party nomination to run for President of the United States. This interview was conducted on May 29, 2019. Celeste: Good morning Mayor Buttigieg, according to the Human Development Index data, which measures the well-being of people across the globe regarding education, health, and income, African-American children in Iowa rank near the bottom concerning academic performance. If elected President of the United States, what plans do you have for creating balance in the academic performance among all students? Buttigieg: So, one of the things that we know about American economic opportunity is that it is not evenly distributed and education is a huge part of that. If you are behind in education, you’re going to be behind for the rest of your life. We need to take proactive steps to deal with that. One thing that I think is important is to make sure that we support Title I schools, where most lowincome and minority Americans are studying and get them extra support. For example, we know the difference a top-performing teacher can make in the life and the lifetime earnings of a child. So, my proposal for increasing teacher pay prioritizes Title I schools in order to get that kind of support. We also need to make sure that college is more accessible and affordable for students who are headed to college, knowing that, especially for first-time and first-generation students, costs can be an obstacle and student debt can pull people down. It’s one reason why I think we need to expand Pell Grants index them to inflation so we don’t have to go back to Congress every time the cost of education increases, and use that as a way to access higher education for people of all backgrounds but knowing that will especially help African-American students and students from lowincome communities. Also, I think that just at a more basic level right now, we don’t see the kind of commitment to quality public education that is needed in Washington, and it starts with personnel. So, I’m committed to appointing a Secretary of Education who believes in public education and who takes these concerns seriously. You know, we are dealing with the legacy not only of things like school segregation, but things like housing segregation, which in turn has lead to disparities in academic and educational outcomes. These things aren’t going to take care of themselves we’ve got to proactively root out these inequities and make sure that federal policy is helping to make sure that happens at the state and local levels.
PUBLIC AFFAIRS Gary: When addressing health issues, we seem to focus on physical health. However, our society is increasingly feeling the impact of mental health issues. As President, how would you seek to address mental health issues? Buttigieg: Well, the time has come for us to put mental health on an equal playing field as physical health. Unfortunately, because of stigma and because of silence many Americans and policymakers have not paid enough attention to mental health concerns. Yet, something like onein-four Americans will face some kind of mental health struggle or challenge in their lifetime. Which means every family, every community is touched by these issues. Now, more and more you have things like mental health parity on the books, but it doesn’t always happen in practice. We need to make sure that health insurance adequately covers mental health needs. I would like to see insurance companies covering annual mental health checkups the same way as we do physicals. I think we need to have more research in our federal institutions, like the Centers for Disease Control (and Prevention) and the National Institutes of Health, that focuses on mental health issues. I think as we move toward universal healthcare, it will help us make sure that people are covered for both mental and physical health concerns. I’m particularly troubled by states resisting expansion of Medicaid, knowing how many of those most in need of support and treatment for mental health are also people who rely on Medicaid. We need to make sure, as we move toward universal healthcare, that in the meantime we are strengthening Medicaid and I’m afraid that privatization is not helping in places like Iowa. Gary: There is a current shortage of skilled labor in the country. A shortage of skilled labor will have an impact on infrastructure plans across the nation. What should the country be doing to help with ensuring an ongoing acceptable match of skill availability for job availability? Buttigieg: We talked about higher education, but there is a lot more to skills than that. We need to be beefing up career and technical education in our high schools, and we should be partnering with organized labor to make sure that apprenticeships, and other pathways to gain the types of skills that are needed to do well and [create] success in the American middle class and make sure that those skills are more widely available. Also, it’s another area where we see, unfortunately, a lot of racial disparity in this country. So, whether it is making sure that we’re partnering with the Building Trades to recruit diverse classes of young July 2019 The URBAN EXPERIENCE 41
people ready to join apprenticeship programs, or whether it is making sure that we’re supporting minority-owned businesses and entrepreneurs who are often finding that they need help navigating the system, they can create some of those opportunities for different kinds of skilled workers. We also support them by making sure those skills are present. This is only going to become more important as our economy becomes more and more high tech, it means that there’s going to be a real urgency around making sure that people have the kind of skills that will be needed no matter what’s happening with technology. Critical thinking, working with other people, things that can’t be done by a machine. We need to make sure that we are supporting that at every stage of somebody’s career path. Here in South Bend, we’re working on a lifelong learning pilot, we’ve got backing from foundations and philanthropies to help set up a platform for people to get these kind of skills and then track online the credentials they’re getting so that employers know how to recognize the skills that they’ve gained. We are finding that has created a lot of opportunity for people here who might not have been able to participate in the economic recovery that has been going on in recent years. So, there is a lot of work to be done here, but the biggest thing is recognizing that not only do we need to support people who seek college and higher education. We need to recognize that at any part of the economy whether it is something that requires a college degree or not, we have to be very serious about creating opportunities for skill-building and recognize that in an economy where people are going to change careers more and more often, especially people in my generation or younger that it is vital to prepare people for perhaps multiple changes in the skills that are needed and give them the tools they need to succeed in that world. Celeste: In closing, do you have any final thoughts that you would like to share? Buttigieg: I believe we are in a moment that is really pivotal in the life of this country not just all the reasons why we know that there is a lot at stake in this election but really the possibility of opening up a new era in American political and economic life. If we want to get anywhere, we have to rise to meet that moment and we can’t just be tinkering around the edges of the system that has let us down, economically and politically, over the course of my lifetime. We need to be ready to take up bold reforms and ensure that our democracy is more fair. We need to be ready to really work to ensure our economy lifts up more people and has more equality of opportunity. I think that if we work to raise wages, to increase access to education, to reduce health disparities, and above all to empower everyone with an equal voice and an equal vote if we get this right, we could actually have a really positive stage in the life of this country while moving out of the incredible division, chaos, and negativity that we’re living through today. Celeste and Gary: Thank you to you and your staff. __________________________________________ __________________________________________
PUBLIC AFFAIRS Made Easley makes the Celeste Lawson is a freelance writer who focuses on various aspects of education and cultural diversity. She earned a graduate degree in Curriculum and Instruction, and an undergraduate degree in Elementary Education, with concentrations in English and Language Arts. In addition, she has more than 20 years of classroom experience with teaching students at the early childhood, primary, secondary, and post-secondary levels. creating process easy by providing branding, advertising, and event services! GET 2 Digital Flyers for $40 $400 for Animated Logos Made 360 Gary Lawson is a freelance writer who focuses on various aspects of business and government. He earned a graduate degree in Government Administration, and an undergraduate degree in Business Administration with a duel concentration in Management and Marketing. He is a VietnamEra veteran who has served as a Commissioned Officer in the United States Army. In addition, he has taught business courses at Drake University and Des Moines Area Community $600 Package * Custom Logo * Business Cards * 6 Flyer Designs *Custom Social Media Plan Visit https://asheasley.myportfolio.com/ July 2019 The URBAN EXPERIENCE 43
Our family CARING Pediatric Clinic 1801 Hickman Road 282-2700 East University Family Medicine 2508 East University Avenue 282-EAST 1761 Hickman Road, Des Moines, IA 50314 | (515) 282-2334 | www.broadlawns.org All forms of insurance accepted. www.broadlawns.org All forms of insurance accepted. Schedule your Back-to-School and Sports Physicals today!
1 Publizr