Call a Thing a Thing….Or Pay the Price

In the 1985 fiction novel, Linden Hills, the late author Gloria Naylor depicted the rise, and demise, of an opulent, upper class neighborhood. For decades, the historical roots, prestigious citizens and luxurious homes were the envy of many…..until the ones who “made it” began to self-destruct. The reason? Coveting the ‘privilege’ of an exclusive residence… Continue reading Call a Thing a Thing….Or Pay the Price

“They Marched Black and Biracial Children Down the Hall To Check Their Hairstyles.”

Every weekend, after Saturday dance classes and before Sunday ​evening​, the girls and I gather in the living room for a marathon of hair-styling. One by one, Nia and Layla take turns sitting between Mama’s knees, patiently accepting my commands to ​”​turn here​”​ and ​”​lean there​”​ as I oil their scalps, detangle their coils and… Continue reading “They Marched Black and Biracial Children Down the Hall To Check Their Hairstyles.”

Putin, Assad, Racism & a Can of Pepsi?

My baby brother, Michael, is one of my favorite people on the planet. We’re over a decade apart, age-wise, but he loves his Big Sis LoLo and can be fun to hang out with. Since he’s the only native Texan among us, Michael’s full-fledged Southern roots and love for hip-hop have influenced not only his dialect, but his… Continue reading Putin, Assad, Racism & a Can of Pepsi?

Increase The Peace: DJ Young Music Launches Empowering School Tour Against Youth Violence

Taking A Stand: High School Honor Graduate and Radio Host DJ Young Music Launches Empowering School Tour Against Youth Violence Source Magazine 3.3.2017 “DJ Young Music and Streetz Stop The Violence Foundation presents “The Streetz Blunt Truth Tour,” a multi-state effort to spread peace, love and understanding through music, while seeking to combat youth violence… Continue reading Increase The Peace: DJ Young Music Launches Empowering School Tour Against Youth Violence

White Tears & Special Snowflakes: Offended Pro-Lifer Gets Owned

When, when, WHEN will people learn? If you know me personally or follow me here regularly at MOC, you already know: I am a proud, card-carrying, fist-rocking, down-for-my-sisters womanist. I am personally pro-life, but endorse a woman’s right to choose and always vote as such. I don’t excuse misogynoir, women who try whitesplaining themselves and/or… Continue reading White Tears & Special Snowflakes: Offended Pro-Lifer Gets Owned