Posts made in February 2025

William McDonald, An American Boom Trailblazer

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William Madison McDonald was an influential Texas politician, businessman, and banker. He was elected to the Republican Party of Texas’s state executive committee in 1892 and became permanent state chairman in 1898. He was also a leader of two Black fraternal organizations, serving as Grand Secretary of the Grand Lodge of Texas, Prince Hall, for 50 years. In 1906, he founded Fort Worth’s first African American-owned bank, which survived the Great Depression. He made loans to Black businessmen and became the first Black millionaire in Texas.

Need to Know:

  • William Madison McDonald, born in 1866, is widely believed to be the first Black millionaire in Texas.
  • The son of a freed slave, McDonald was a successful banker, businessman, and influential political figure in Fort Worth.
  • He founded the Fraternal Bank and Trust, the first Black-owned bank in Texas, which played a crucial role in supporting the Black business community.
  • McDonald was a prominent figure in the Republican Party and advocated for Black self-reliance and economic empowerment.

Takeaways:

  • McDonald’s story highlights the achievements of Black entrepreneurs and community leaders during segregation.
  • His success in business and politics challenged racial barriers and paved the way for others.
  • The Fraternal Bank and Trust played a vital role in providing access to capital for Black businesses, fostering economic growth and self-sufficiency within the community.
  • McDonald’s advocacy for Black self-reliance and institution-building remains a relevant message today.

Impact on American Culture and Society

  • McDonald’s accomplishments serve as an inspiration and a reminder of the contributions of African Americans to American society, despite facing discrimination and segregation.
  • His story challenges the prevailing narratives about Black history and highlights the resilience and resourcefulness of Black communities.
  • The Fraternal Bank and Trust’s role in supporting Black businesses demonstrates the importance of financial institutions in promoting economic empowerment and social mobility.
  • McDonald’s political influence and advocacy for Black self-reliance contributed to the ongoing struggle for racial equality and civil rights in America.
  • William Madison McDonald (June 22, 1866 – July 5, 1950), nicknamed “Gooseneck Bill”, was an American politician, businessman, and banker of great influence in Texas during the late nineteenth century.

Lessons to Learn

  • McDonald’s life teaches us the importance of education, hard work, and perseverance in overcoming obstacles and achieving success.
  • His story emphasizes the value of community and the role of strong institutions in supporting economic development and social progress.
  • McDonald’s advocacy for Black self-reliance and institution-building underscores the importance of self-determination and collective action in addressing social and economic disparities.
  • The fading legacy of McDonald and his contributions reminds us of the importance of preserving and celebrating Black history and its impact on American society.

William McDonald’s story is not just a historical footnote; it is a powerful testament to the resilience, ingenuity, and determination of African Americans in the face of adversity. By recognizing and honoring his legacy, we can inspire future generations and continue the work towards a more just and equitable society. 

Florida Bill Mandates Death Penalty for Certain People

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The News

Florida’s legislature recently passed a bill that reinstates the mandatory death penalty for certain capital offenses. This move is controversial, as it contradicts a 1976 Supreme Court ruling that deemed mandatory death sentences unconstitutional.

Need-to-Know

  • Mandatory Death Penalty: This means that upon conviction of a specific crime, the death penalty is automatically imposed, without consideration of individual circumstances or mitigating factors.
  • Supreme Court Precedent: In 1976, the Supreme Court ruled that mandatory death sentences are unconstitutional because they don’t allow for individualized consideration of the offender and the offense.
  • Florida’s New Law: The new law mandates the death penalty for certain offenses committed by individuals who are “unlawfully present” in the U.S.

Takeaways

This new law in Florida raises significant legal and ethical concerns:

  • Constitutionality: It directly challenges the Supreme Court’s ruling against mandatory death sentences.
  • Individualized Justice: It removes the possibility of considering mitigating factors that might lead to a sentence less than death.
  • Discrimination: Critics argue that targeting individuals based on their immigration status is discriminatory and unjust.

Impact on American Culture and Society

The reinstatement of the mandatory death penalty in Florida could have far-reaching consequences:

  • Rule of Law: It undermines the principle of individualized justice and challenges the authority of the Supreme Court.
  • Social Divisions: It could exacerbate existing social tensions and divisions, particularly around issues of immigration and criminal justice.
  • Human Rights: It raises concerns about human rights and the potential for wrongful executions.

The Big Picture

This development in Florida highlights the ongoing debate about the death penalty in the United States. While some argue that it is a necessary punishment for heinous crimes, others contend that it is cruel, inhumane, and inherently flawed. The mandatory death penalty raises additional concerns about fairness, justice, and the potential for state-sanctioned violence. It remains to be seen how this new law will be challenged in the courts and what its long-term impact will be on Florida and the nation.

How does the mandatory death penalty in Florida affect the principle of individualized justice?

The mandatory death penalty in Florida directly contradicts the principle of individualized justice. Individualized justice requires that each case be evaluated based on its unique circumstances, including the specific details of the crime and the individual characteristics and history of the defendant. This allows for mitigating factors to be considered, potentially leading to a sentence less than death.

However, mandatory death sentences remove this individualized consideration. By automatically imposing the death penalty for certain crimes, regardless of any mitigating factors, it treats all defendants as a “faceless, undifferentiated mass,” as stated in the reference text. This disregards the possibility that some individuals may be less culpable or deserving of a less severe punishment.

Future of NPR and PBS Funding at Stake Amid FCC Investigation

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The Federal Communications Commission (FCC) has launched an investigation into NPR and PBS, raising questions about the future of federal funding for these public broadcasters. This move, initiated by Trump-appointed FCC Chairman Brendan Carr, centers on concerns that NPR and PBS member stations may be airing commercials that violate federal law, which prohibits such activity for these taxpayer-funded entities.

Need to Know:

  • The FCC is investigating whether NPR and PBS are violating federal law by airing prohibited commercials.
  • This investigation could influence Congress’s decision on future funding for local NPR and PBS stations.
  • NPR and PBS maintain they adhere to FCC rules.
  • This follows past accusations of bias at NPR, notably from former Senior Editor Uri Berliner.
  • The FCC is investigating follows CBS News agreement to provide the full transcript and camera feeds from a “60 Minutes” interview with former Vice President Kamala Harris. This comes after then-presidential candidate Donald Trump sued CBS for $10 billion, alleging the interview was edited to mislead the public.
  • A House subcommittee will hold a hearing on federally funded television and radio, with NPR and PBS CEOs expected to appear.

Key Takeaways:

  • The investigation highlights the ongoing scrutiny of public broadcasting and its funding.
  • Allegations of bias at NPR contribute to the controversy surrounding the investigation.
  • The FCC’s actions and the congressional hearing indicate a potential shift in how public broadcasting is regulated and funded.

Implications:

  • American Culture: NPR and PBS play a significant role in American culture, providing news, educational programming, and entertainment. Changes to their funding or operations could impact the availability and type of content offered to the public.
  • Society: The debate over NPR and PBS reflects broader societal discussions about media bias, government funding, and the role of public institutions. It raises questions about how we consume information and the responsibility of media outlets to serve diverse perspectives.
  • Journalism: The investigation has implications for journalistic practices, particularly for public broadcasters. It underscores the importance of adhering to regulations and maintaining public trust. The outcome could influence how public media organizations operate and how they are perceived by the public.

If NPR and PBS are found to be in violation of FCC regulations, particularly regarding the airing of prohibited commercials, there could be several potential consequences:

  • Financial Penalties: The FCC could impose fines on NPR and PBS member stations.
  • Funding Cuts: The investigation could influence Congress’s decision on future federal funding. This could lead to decreased or eliminated funding for local NPR and PBS stations, significantly impacting their operations.
  • Increased Scrutiny and Regulation: The FCC might increase its oversight of NPR and PBS, leading to stricter regulations and monitoring of their broadcasts.
  • Reputational Damage: The investigation itself, and any findings of violations, could damage the reputation of NPR and PBS, potentially eroding public trust and support.
  • Changes in Programming: To avoid further violations, NPR and PBS might have to make significant changes to their programming and underwriting practices.

While the investigation poses potential risks for NPR and PBS, there are a few potential, albeit less direct, benefits:

  • Clarification of Rules: The investigation could lead to a clearer understanding and definition of what constitutes a commercial versus an underwriting announcement. This clarification could help NPR and PBS in the future, ensuring they remain compliant with FCC regulations.
  • Public Awareness: The investigation and associated debate can raise public awareness about the role and funding of public broadcasting. This could potentially lead to increased public support and engagement, especially among those who value NPR and PBS’s services.
  • Internal Review and Improvement: The scrutiny may prompt NPR and PBS to conduct internal reviews of their practices, potentially identifying areas for improvement and leading to stronger adherence to their mission and ethical standards.
  • Opportunity for Advocacy: The situation provides an opportunity for NPR and PBS to engage in public advocacy, highlighting the importance of public broadcasting and defending their programming. This could rally supporters and reinforce their value proposition to the American public.

It’s important to acknowledge that these potential benefits are dependent on how the investigation unfolds and how NPR and PBS respond. The primary and more immediate concern remains the potential negative consequences, such as funding cuts or financial penalties.

The situation is developing, and the upcoming congressional hearing will likely provide further insights into the future of NPR and PBS.

Broken Promises: The Illusion of Corporate DEI

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As President Trump launches attacks on DEI and other protected civil rights progress, the lack of Black representation in DEI leadership roles becomes a glaring contradiction, highlighting the disconnect between corporate promises and the reality of persistent inequality. This disparity not only undermines the credibility of DEI initiatives but also fuels the false narrative that these programs unfairly benefit certain groups over others. This discrepancy between words and actions erodes public trust in both corporate America and the government, raising serious questions about the sincerity of their commitment to diversity and inclusion.

Need to Know:

  • Following the 2020 protests after George Floyd’s murder, many companies pledged to increase Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) efforts.
  • Despite these promises, a 2023 report found that only 4% of Chief Diversity Officer positions were held by Black people.
  • Experts suggest these DEI initiatives were performative, lacking genuine commitment and follow-through.
  • DEI roles often lack support and resources, and are sometimes filled by unqualified individuals.

The Harvard Business Review’s 2016 study found that diversity programs often fail due to companies’ neglect of data. The impact of bias or sensitivity training is often short-lived and can even trigger negative reactions. Mandatory diversity training for managers resulted in a decrease in Black, Latina, and women managers, while voluntary training led to better outcomes, particularly for Black men. The study also identified effective strategies for increasing diversity, including diversity task forces, diversity managers, self-managed teams, and targeted college recruiting.

Takeaways:

  • Performative Activism: The lack of Black representation in DEI leadership roles suggests many companies’ commitments were more about public image than actual change.
  • Unfulfilled Promises:  The disparity between companies’ pledges and the reality of DEI outcomes highlights a lack of accountability.
  • Structural Issues:  The challenges faced by DEI professionals, including lack of support and resources, reveal deeper structural issues within organizations.

Impact on DEIA, American Culture, and Society:

  • Erosion of Trust: The failure of companies to follow through on their DEI commitments erodes trust and fails on the promises of social responsibility.
  • Missed Opportunities:  The lack of genuine DEI efforts perpetuates existing inequalities and misses opportunities to create a more equitable and just society.
  • Continued Disadvantage:  Underrepresented groups, particularly Black Americans, continue to face systemic barriers and discrimination in the workplace.

The Way Forward:

  • Accountability and Transparency: Companies must be held accountable for their DEI promises and transparent about their progress.
  • Meaningful Change: DEI initiatives need to be more than just symbolic gestures; they must lead to meaningful changes in organizational culture and practices.
  • Investment in DEI: Companies need to invest in DEI roles, provide adequate support and resources, and ensure that these positions are filled by qualified individuals.

The lack of progress in DEI, despite public commitments, is a stark reminder that words alone are not enough.  Real change requires sustained effort, investment, and a genuine commitment to creating a more equitable and inclusive society.

Recent DEI Changes and Events

The Trump Administration’s Legacy on Racial Justice:

  • The Trump administration pursued an agenda to roll back racial justice, as exemplified by the “1776 Report,” which demonized efforts to achieve racial equality.
  • They ordered federal agencies to cease trainings on systemic racism and banned trainings on race and gender discrimination for federal employees and contractors.
  • Trump’s rhetoric and policies vilified and neglected communities of color, including his handling of white supremacist groups.

The 2024 Trump Campaign and the Backlash Against Racial Justice:

  • The 2024 Trump campaign fulfilled its promise to eradicate DEI policies, furthering the backlash against racial justice efforts.
  • The anti-DEI backlash aims to dismantle civil rights gains and is supported by right-wing foundations, think tanks, and political operatives.

Three Strategies Trump Will Deploy to Reverse Course on Racial Equality:

  • Censoring Academic Discussions of Race and Human Rights: This includes cutting federal funding for schools with “divisive” curricula and eliminating DEI positions.
  • Abandoning Civil Rights Enforcement: This involves ceasing enforcement of civil rights laws and weakening protections against discrimination.
  • Marshalling Federal Power to Ramp Up Right-Wing Attacks on Equal Opportunity Initiatives: This includes targeting affirmative action policies and DEI programs.
  • Trump also blamed DEI initiatives after the recent Potomac River crash involving a military helicopter and a United Airlines plane with 67 passengers on board. This accusation followed Trump’s firing of the FAA administrator without naming a replacement, implementing a federal hiring freeze that reduced FAA staff including air traffic controllers, disbanded the aviation security advisory committee and firing the TSA director. Read Trump’s DEI Executive Order HERE. 

 “The Defense Intelligence Agency is working with the Department of Defense to fully implement all Executive Orders and Administrative guidance in a timely manner,” said Lt. Cmdr. Seth Clarke. 

The Push Back:

  • Civil rights organizations and democratic members of Congress are fighting back with litigation, legislative advocacy, and policy advocacy to resist a second Trump administration’s attacks on racial justice.
  • They will challenge unconstitutional classroom censorship, defend access to educational opportunities, and challenge rollbacks of federal anti-discrimination protections.
  • The groups say they will work to insulate state and local DEI policies from rolling back civil rights protections.

TargetFast: A Lenten Call for Corporate Accountability

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In a move reminiscent of the Montgomery Bus Boycott, a grassroots movement is calling for a 40-day fast from Target stores. This Lenten season protest is in response to Target’s alleged backpedaling on its $2 billion pledge to Black-owned businesses and a perceived retreat from Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) initiatives.

The Need-to-Knows

  • The TargetFast is a 40-day boycott of Target stores, beginning March 3rd and ending April 17th.
  • The organizers are calling for 100,000 conscientious citizens to participate.
  • The fast is a response to Target’s alleged betrayal of the Black community and a broader corporate rollback on DEI efforts.
  • The movement is demanding that Target honor its $2 billion pledge, invest in Black banks, restore its commitment to DEI, and create community centers at HBCUs to teach retail business.

Key Takeaways

  • This boycott highlights the power of consumer activism and the growing demand for corporate accountability.
  • It underscores the importance of DEI initiatives and the consequences of corporate retreat from these commitments.
  • The movement is leveraging the economic power of the Black community to effect change.
  • The use of a Lenten fast adds a spiritual dimension to the protest, emphasizing the moral and ethical implications of corporate actions.

Impact on American Culture and Society

The TargetFast has the potential to significantly impact American culture and society. It could:

  • Force corporations to reconsider their commitment to DEI and social responsibility.
  • Empower marginalized communities to use their economic power to hold corporations accountable.
  • Spark a broader conversation about the role of corporations in social justice issues.
  • Lead to increased support for Black-owned businesses.

Historical Connection to the Montgomery Bus Boycott

The TargetFast draws a clear parallel to the Montgomery Bus Boycott of 1955-1956. Both movements leverage economic boycotts to protest injustice and demand change. The Montgomery Bus Boycott, sparked by Rosa Parks’ refusal to give up her seat, led to the desegregation of buses and was a pivotal moment in the Civil Rights Movement. Similarly, the TargetFast aims to leverage economic power to challenge corporate policies and promote racial equity.

The Urgency of Now

The organizers of the TargetFast emphasize the urgency of their cause, stating that “Black America is the world’s 12th wealthiest nation in spending power.” By harnessing this economic power, they aim to send a clear message to Target and other corporations: social responsibility is not optional, and the Black community will not tolerate betrayal. The TargetFast is a powerful reminder that consumers have a voice and can use their wallets to vote for change.

Lessons from the Montgomery Bus Boycott applicable to the TargetFast movement:

  • Unified Front: The Montgomery Bus Boycott was successful due to widespread community participation. TargetFast organizers similarly aim to mobilize 100,000 citizens, emphasizing the power of collective action.
  • Non-Violence: The Montgomery Bus Boycott adhered to non-violent protest, maintaining the moral high ground and garnering public support. TargetFast, as a Lenten fast rooted in spiritual principles, also aligns with peaceful resistance.
  • Clear Demands: The Montgomery Bus Boycott had clear, achievable goals – desegregation of buses. TargetFast also presents specific demands to Target Corporation, providing a roadmap for resolution.
  • Perseverance: The Montgomery Bus Boycott lasted over a year, demonstrating the need for sustained effort. TargetFast’s 40-day duration and potential for a “Phase 2” show commitment to long-term change.
  • Economic Impact: The boycott significantly impacted the bus company’s revenue, forcing them to negotiate. TargetFast aims to leverage Black America’s spending power to similarly pressure Target.

By applying these lessons, the TargetFast movement can enhance its effectiveness and potential for achieving its goals.

The TargetFast movement aligns with the spiritual principles of Lent in multiple ways:

  • Sacrifice and Fasting: Lent is a time of sacrifice, and the TargetFast calls for a 40-day fast from spending at Target, mirroring the traditional Lenten practice of fasting from food or other indulgences.
  • Reflection and Repentance: Lent is a season of reflection and repentance. The TargetFast encourages participants to reflect on the importance of economic justice and corporate responsibility, and to repent from supporting companies that neglect these principles.
  • Spiritual Resistance: The TargetFast frames the boycott as a form of spiritual resistance, drawing parallels to Jesus’ actions in the temple. This highlights the moral and ethical dimensions of the protest.
  • Renewal and Transformation: Lent is a time of renewal and transformation. The TargetFast aims to bring about change in corporate practices and promote a more just and equitable society.

By connecting the boycott to the spiritual practices of Lent, the TargetFast movement adds a deeper layer of meaning and purpose to the protest, inviting participants to engage in a holistic act of resistance that encompasses both personal and societal transformation.

The TargetFast movement leverages the economic power of the Black community by:

  • Direct Boycott: Calling for a 40-day fast from spending at Target, directly impacting the company’s revenue.
  • Stock Divestment: Encouraging individuals to sell any Target stock they own, potentially affecting the company’s market value.
  • Circulation of Black Dollars: Partnering with the Black Chamber of Commerce to provide a directory of Black-owned businesses, promoting economic support within the community.
  • Highlighting Spending Power: Emphasizing that Black America has significant spending power ($12 million/day) that can be redirected to support businesses aligned with their values.

By organizing a collective boycott and encouraging alternative spending within the Black community, the TargetFast movement aims to demonstrate the economic influence of Black consumers and hold Target accountable for its actions.

New Birth Missionary Baptist Church Pastor Dr. Jamal Bryant:

Cal Johnson: From Slavery to Success and Social Impact

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Cal Johnson, born into slavery in Knoxville, Tennessee, defied the odds to become a wealthy and influential businessman. He owned successful racetracks and saloons, amassing a considerable fortune by the time of his death in 1925.

Speedway Circle in East Knoxville was once a horse racing track owned by Johnson, a prominent Black businessman and philanthropist. Johnson was involved in horse racing as an owner, jockey, and sponsor of racetracks. His track also hosted the first plane to ever land or take off in Knoxville, which belonged to the Wright Brothers. The track was in operation for around 18 years and is now a residential street.

Key Takeaways

Johnson’s legacy extends far beyond his business ventures. He was a philanthropist who used his wealth to uplift his community and support those in need. His contributions included:

  • Cal Johnson Park: He created a park with a fountain, archway, and annual Christmas tree lighting for families to enjoy. Today, the Cal Johnson Recreation Center stands in its place.
  • Ethel Beck Orphanage: Johnson donated generously to the orphanage, providing a home for children without families.
  • Beck Cultural Exchange Center: The center preserves Johnson’s memory and houses artifacts related to his life and contributions.

Impact on American Culture and Society

Johnson’s story embodies the resilience and entrepreneurial spirit of African Americans who overcame immense challenges to achieve success. His philanthropy demonstrates the importance of giving back and supporting community development. Johnson’s life and work continue to inspire and impact American culture and society, reminding us of the power of individual initiative and the importance of social responsibility.

Cal Johnson became Knoxville’s first Black millionaire through entrepreneurship and real estate investment. The Cal Johnson Building, his last remaining structure, was revitalized by the Dance family with support from the City of Knoxville and Downtown Knoxville Alliance. The building now features retail and residential spaces, preserving Johnson’s legacy through historical elements and design. Johnson’s success story includes building a business empire from a federal contract.

Additionally, he made significant contributions to the African-American community.

The City of Knoxville continues to honor Johnson’s legacy through the Cal Johnson Family Recreation Center, the preservation of the Cal Johnson Building, and a plaque at Marble Alley Lofts. Johnson’s life and achievements highlight the significant contributions of African-Americans to Knoxville’s history and culture.

You can learn more about Cal Johnson by visiting the Beck Cultural Exchange Center in Knoxville, Tennessee, and discover how one man’s journey from slavery to success continues to shape our world today.

Learn more about Cal Johnson in recognition and celebration of Black History Month from historian Robert J. Booker: