December gem 2013

Farewell

Mandiba

Manitoba African and Caribbean Quarterly Magazine

gggggloballoballoballoballobal eeeeeyyyyyeseseseses 4thQUARTERDecember 2013

Global Eyes Magazine December 2013 2

Global Eyes is an independent magazine quarterly publicationdevoted to promoting cultural awareness of the African andCaribbean communities of Manitoba and highlighting theissues and concerns of these communities. It also aimsat promoting cultural diversity and appreciation. ItsIt features articles ranging from the achievements of local, national and international personalities and general informationthat are of interest to the African/Caribbeancommunity. It offers editorials with African/Caribbean sensibilities and letters to the editor. TheMagazine is produced under a volunteer editorialcommittee that assists with proof-reading, publicity and

Subscribe TodayName:_________________________________________________________

Address:________________________________________________

Postal Code_______________

Phone:_______________________

Email address:_______________________

Support Global Eyes Magazine if you think we’re doing a good job.Subscription: $15.00 per year for 4 issues.I Would like to receive upcoming event notices from the Caribbean/Black/larger community - by email or by phone (YES/NO)

Mail cheque/Money Order to: Global Eyes Magazine (GEM)671 Rathgar Avenue,Winnipeg, ManitobaR3L 1G6

IN THIS ISSUERegulars:BriefsLetter to my childrenGlobal CounselorFinale of ZIZI’s StoryCommunity Events

Monday, February 17, 2014HISTORY LESSON & WORKSHOPLocation: JAM, 1098 Winnipeg Ave.Time: 10:30am-3pm **FREE EVENT**Cooking, Music, Arts and Crafts… Lunchprovided!Fun for all ages! Contact: Mavis @204.257.9665

Saturday, February 22, 2014BHM GOSPEL CELEBRATIONFeaturing: Sheila Raye Charles (dtr ofRay Charles)Location: Immanuel Christian Fellowship,Time: 7:00pm Tickets: $10 (adults) $5 (youth)Contacts: Rhonda Thompson-Wilson @204.509.7726**REFRESHMENTS AVAILABLE FORPURCHASE**

Saturday, March 1, 2014BLACK HISTORY MONTH COMMU-NITY AWARDSBANQUETTime: 6:30pmLocation: Jamaican Cultural Centre, 1098Winnipeg AveTickets $35 (adults) $20 (students w/ ID)$15 (child)Special Guest Speaker: Chief of PoliceDevon ClunisContact: Mavis McLaren @204.257.9665For more information: call Mavis 204257-9665 or Nadia 204.798.7352 oremail bhmwinnipeg@gmail.

Black History Moth Events

A genuine leader is not asearcher for consensus buta molder of consensus.Martin Luther King, Jr

Global Eyes Magazine December 2013 3 3

Mandela has gone home to hiseternal rest. On the one hand I thinkthe people of South Africa and theworld were prepared for hispassing due to his lengthy illnessbut for the people in South Africaparticularly those who grew up inthe shadows of Mandela’s nameand aura, they could not imaginethe void his passing would create.He was their angel who looked outfor them. He was one they couldappeal to in case of injustices butto whom would they now turn.Grandfather is no more. Will therebe another Mandela could therebe? I believe so but not in thislifetime.

There is the hope that SouthAfrica will honor Mandela’sprecepts and not slip into adestructive path of greed,corruption and indifference as somany African Nations have. Thatthe path of peace that Mandelapreached will be the path of thecurrent and future governments, thatMandela’s legacy will be honored.

What about Winnie Mandela?Little was said about her during thefuneral procession. Many peoplecame to know of Mandela throughWinnie Mandela. She was tirelessin her advocacy to keep his namein people’s mouths even though she

was jailed and condemned to housearrest several times she would notbe silenced. She suffered withMandela. It was her voice thatrose above the din and got theattention of the world. LikeMandela, Winnie was a humanbeing and she may have made somepoor judgement and she wasthoroughly chastised by the pressand factions of her people in SouthAfrica. But did we give up onWinnie too quickly because of hertransgressions during a time ofwar.

In spite of all her ups anddowns she remained strong withthe fierceness of Harriet Tubmanwho had threatened anyonethreatened anyone of her convoyswith death if they did anything tojeopardize the rest of the crew. Inwar as in love there is alwaysbloodshed in the mix. Winnie wasa leader of her people in her ownright and she had to balance herpolitical advocacy with being amother and raising her children.

My hope is that she picks upthe mantle of Mandela and run withit. She could be the voice ofconscience. She could use hervoice to reach out to the worldwhen South Africa falters. LongLife Winnie Mandela. MayMandela Rest in Peace.

ReflectionNelson Mandela has raised the bar on

leadership on the African continent butespecially he has raised the bar for BlackAfricans and has redefined the measure of agood statesman.

African is undergoing growing painsand it is painful to watch the atrocities thatare being committed on innocent citizensincluding women and children in the fightfor power.

Mandela like his neighbour Presidentof Namibia could have held on to poweruntil his 95th birthday feeling that he isentitled to the sweetness of power since hehad endured so much for the nation but hechose a path less travelled.

We do not have to look that far to seehow power is used and abused in the handsof petite dictator-style governance. It ishappening in Winnipeg amongst those whoseek freedom and democracy. When theyget the power they choose to walk the samepath as those in the countries from whichthey ran.

With little power to grab some seek tograb it in community organizations wherethey want to throw their weight around, tobelieve they know what is best for thecommunity and no one else has theknowledge; there are those who feel “it’smy way or the highway.”

How can we learn from Mandela?Mandela demonstrated that power comes tothose who share it, those who respect it andthose who are willingly walk away from itwhen it is time. Here are the leadershiplessons from Mandela according to authorDonna Rockwell:

1. Courage is not the absence of fear -it is inspiring others to move beyond it2. Lead from the front - but don’t leaveyour base behind3. Lead from the back - and let othersbelieve they are in front4. Know your enemy - and learn about hisor her favorite sport (be thorough)5. Keep your friends close - and your rivalseven closer6. Appearance matters - and remembers tosmile7. Nothing is black or white8. Quitting is leading too (knowing how toabandon a failed idea, task or relationship)

TAKE ONE- Editorial


Letter to my Children

Dear Global Counselor,I live next door to my brother

and his wife and they are driving meto tears each day. My brother is wasmy best friend. I brought him toCanada and sent him to school. Wegot along well until he returned homeand married a woman byarrangement. The woman has turnedour lives upside down. My brotherand I have not spoken in about fiveyears. I do not get to interact with hischildren. He is quiet. He takes upfor his wife and throws me away. Imiss my brother. I am so hurt. Whatcan I do?

Sad

Dear Sad,I am sorry to hear of your

sibling woes. Sometimes whenthings change we cannot change and

expect things to be the same.Your brother might be just tryingto keep the peace in his home.Is there an elder you can ask tospeak to the three of you? If not,maybe one of you should moveout from being so close to oneanother or try to accept the factthat even though your brothermay love you, he has a wife andhis first allegiance is to her.That’s just the way things are.Detach yourself, have noexpectations of him and let himbe and hope that one of thesedays he will realize how badlyhe has been treating you and askyou to forgive him. Until thattime, busy yourself with otherinterests, other friends and otherhobbies.

Kudos toDr. June Jamesand her teamfor pulling offanother excitingscholarshipfundraiser atthe Canada Innon RegentAvenue. Thisyear they took audience for a thrillingspace tour and as guest speakerMuseum Animator.... who interactivelydelivered a brief history of astronomy.The evening was fun and entertaining.The highlight was the awarding ofscholarship to three deserving women.

KenishaCalder performedsplendidly as theevening’s emcee.

Moniesraised will gotowards offeringscholarship towomen in pursuitof their career oracademic goals.

My dear children,The world almost came to astandstill upon hearing the death ofthe beloved Nelson MandibaMandela. A father and grandfather tohis people in South Africa he wasblessed with 95 years on this side oflife after spending 27 years of hardlabour. God must have chargedMandela with the purpose ofbecoming the iconic larger than lifefigure he rose to become. As,prophet founder of Baha’i faithwrote “with fire we test the gold andwith gold we test our servants”.Mandela was true gold. He hascompleted the work he was called todo, to lead his people fromoppression, hate and segregation tofreedom and forgiveness. Throughhis life he demonstrated that twowrongs do not make a right.

Sometimes we have give up ourgrudges for our own good andfor the greater good of theworld. Mandela would beremembered long after you and Ihave moved on. His name willbe boldly whispered in the samebreath as other iconic figuressuch as Mahatma Gandhi,Mother Theresa, Martin LutherKing, and Socrates. Through hisselfless act he has cast a brightlight on all of Africa. One thingthat stands out for me was to seethe beauty and softness of theplace Mandela grew up. It isnot a surprise that Mandelaemerged from such spiritualfield. May his soul rest in peaceand may his lesson be heeded bythose who follow.Love, mom

Global Counsellor

Unity Dinner Big Success

Kevin Mogk,Animator,ManitobaMuseum

Dr. June James

Dr. Lois Stewart Archer (r) andScholarship Winners

Kenisha Calder,Emceeflanked by brother &mother


Hello everyone, it’s Mimi. Iwanted to inform you of my firstpublished work as an author (inprocess) and its upcoming booklaunch. The book is entitled, “I’m anaddict: In bits and pieces”. It is anautobiographical memoir thataddresses my experience with drugaddiction, sexual exploitation,childhood sexual trauma, domesticviolence and the apprehension of mychildren by child and family services.It follows the first five years of mydecision to move forward from thesethings (I plan to write two more booksto follow). It includes a self-reflection/study guide in the back aswell as a listing of suggested readingmaterial. I have attached a picture ofthe cover page.

I would be grateful if you wouldforward this email to any contacts thatyou feel would be interested in such aread.

The book launch is set for April2, 2014 at 7pm at McNally Robinson(1120 Grant Avenue). Thanks/Megwetch.Mimi Shamin BrownBSW Student

Mark your Calendar

Are you looking for an exotic or unique shopping adventure? A one ofa kind item to own to give? Check out the Forest People Crafts at TheForks’ Market. You can find necklaces, bracelets, earrings, woodcarvings, batiks, clothing and other crafts individually hand made inAfrica and the Americas by people living in forest communities. Whenyou buy from Forest People Crafts you are helping forest people supporttheir families. We’re on the 2nd Floor #226 of The Fork’s Market, OneForks Market

Wanjoki Connection – Action RequestJambo/hello to all our friends and supporters! We have received news fromKenya of hard times for two of the women there who work with us in bothForest Peoples” Craft, our registered Fair Trade Shop in the Forks Marketand in our poverty action group Wanjoki Connection. One of these women has recently been diagnosed with cancer. She hasvery expensive treatments facing her. The other one, also a single mom, losther cow when it died giving birth. She depended on that cow to help feedher children and grandchildren. Both are in urgent need of small donations toget them through these crises and continue their productive lives.Please help with your contribution that you can take to Pauline in the shopon the 2nd Floor , Forks Market or mail to forest Peoples’ Crafts #226 Oneforks Market Road, Winnipeg, Manitoba R3C 4L9. If you would like toreceive up to date information about the project please include your emailaddress.Asante Sana/thank you very muchForestpeoplescrafts.caWanjokiconnection.org


The recent Gay-Strait AllianceConference that was held at theVictoria Inn, more than 600 studentsof all orientations attended to makeit a meaningful and fun day. The organizers ensured that allwashrooms were gender-neutral andit appeared to work well. In June 2013 the Attorney Generaland Justice Minister amended theHuman Rights Code to includeGender Identity as one of the pro-tected grounds. More and more Manitoba youthsare embracing youths of differentorientations and offer support inGay-straight alliances which arepopping up in many schools. Students who fall outside of themale-female category are beingconsidered and their issues andconcerns taken seriously in forumslike this. Of the more than 600 students whoattended there was about one percentstudent from visible minority back-grounds.

HISS AND HEARSELying in the shadow of wood and pea-‘Sex more weeks to Spring?,’ she laughs“It doesn’t take much to get you going—”‘A lot less than it takes for you to last!’We were like the jawsOf a bear trap, awkward pause—?“Where’s my Secretary Bird?,’ I ask“I have a snake in garters on my bedAnd she won’t unfurl at all!”‘I was about to suggest to youShe says, ‘yours barely has life tocrawl!’Dovetailed into the perfect crunch(Why couldn’t I have been ‘clover-leafed’?)‘You look am-aging!!,’ I balked at herShe stood quiet, in disbelief…

Jared Starr, Conference Coordinator

PRIME ORDEALNew moon after midnightDash from death by frostUnder rule of new moon(years?)…yeah…Flowers haven’t woken as yetAs silt croons for the salt tideWorld worse for wearAnd all I can hearIs the flit of my eyes…Have all the time I need nowThe only thing I can get downWon’t stay down tonight (or day)We were not built for wearCrichton’s words in my earsBut will ‘life’ find a way?…

Poems byNeil Pitamber

Students Breaking Barriers

Minister fImmigration andMulticulturalismProvince ofManitoba held areception at theLegislature foran informationevening withDarcy Ataman,CEO andFounder k MakeMusic Matter

and cofounder, Peter Frantz, adjunctprofess of sculpture and drawing atTowson University in Baltimore andcofounder Panzi Foundation USA anon profit organization that addressesthe conflict in the Democratic Republic

of Congo and assists Panzi hospital inBukavu, Kibvu Province of DRC.Mr. Franz is the primary artist andcurator of a continuing series ofexhibitions entitled: Peace should notbe this fragile – a Portrait of Panzi

Darcy has been working withabused women in the eastern DRC to

Manitoba Musician Making a Difference in the Congo

contd on p10

Darcy Ataman (l) and Peter Franz (r)


Congratulations to the winners ofthe Annual Human RightsCommitment and the Sybil ShackAwards which honors those whohave promoted human rights withintheir community.Congratulations tothe winners of the Annual HumanRights Commitment and the SybilShack Awards which honors thosewho have promoted human rightswithin their community.

Each year the event issponsored by the Manitoba HumanRights Commission (MHRC),Canadian Human Rights Commission(CHRC) and the ManitobaAssociation of Rights and Liberties(MARL) Each year the event issponsored by the Manitoba Humanrights Commission, Canadian HumanRights Commission and the ManitobaAssociation of Rights and Liberties

(MARL). The 2013 winners of this

prestigious Commitment awardwent to Manitoba League forPersons with Disabilities(MLPD) which was accepted byClaire Simpson and Jim Derksenwho are actively involved in theorganization. As Mr. Derksenrecalled he was on the groundfloor in advocating for handi-transit. Imagine where we wouldbe without a handi-transit. BettyHopkins, LEAF (Legal EducationAction Fund) Chair for hercommitment to human rights andin particular equality rights forwomen, Professor of FamilyStudies at the University ofManitoba Dr. Joan Durrant’saward was accepted by her sonJonah Durrant Olsen who read hismother’s acceptance speech inwhich she said “the young manyou see before you did not evenexist when I began my work”.

The Sybil Shack Awarddedicated to youths in thepromotion of human rights workwent to The Gay Straight AllianceGroup of Gray’s Academy andMegan Fulz an indomitable youngwoman of many talents and skills.Co-presidents of the Gay StraightAlliance Group William Pitch

Human Rights Commitment Award Winners 2013Joseph Durrant Olsen receives awardfor his mother from Robin Dwarka

Megan Fultz receives award from YvonnePeter, MHRC Chair

William Pitch and Anne Binder accept awardfrom Rebekah Enns

Betty Hopkins, LEAF Chair

Jim Derksenand ClaireSimpsonreceives awardfor MLPD


Wrong should not replace the WrongAnd here you sitAnd here you stand and there in

South Africa our Prime Ministers andnotables went to pay homage!

Wrong should not replace the wrongThe lesson and the message of great

personalities, in historical events is that“wrong should not replace the wrong”

When Dr. Martin Luther King, in hisfight for racial equality in America said“everyman has something to die for; andany man who wouldn’t die for somethingis not fit to life”, he meant and he meanswrong should not replace the wrong.

In the Holy Bible, the new testament– Jesus Christ of Nazareth in his “Sermonon the Mount”, said, if someone slaps youon your right cheek, give him also yourleft cheek, he meant and means wrongshould not replace the wrong.

And Mahatma Gandhi fought theBritish domination in India with his“peaceful disobedience” tactic said “theweak can never forgive.” “Forgiveness is

the attribute of the strong,” and again hecited that, “an eye or an eye only endsup making the whole world blind.” Hemeant and means wrong should notreplace the wrong.

Mandela Mandiba Nelson was aman of wisdom and knowledge.

Like his predecessors before him,Mandela knew that wrong should notreplace the wrong.

He did not entertain whitedomination and he did not entertainblack domination. Wrong should notreplace the wrong.

Wrong should not replace thewrong is an empirical fact and SouthAfrica under Mandela was an historicalfact – that wrong should not replace thewrong. This is the lesson well learnedand the message should be the soundingechoes we should whisper to thegenerations not yet born. Wrong shouldnot replace the wrong.

Well done Mandela, well doneand history has already absorbed you.

Tribute to Nelson Mandela by Godfrey Smithaka Smitty A Black History Month

EventFebruary 16, 2013Musac - Larry Stracha - Artistic ABlack History Month Event</strong>February 16, 2013Musac - Larry Strachn - ArtisticDirectorCrossroads Orchestral music byblack ComposerWhen: Sunday, February 16, 2014Time: 7:00 p.m.Where? Shaw Performing ArtsCentre - 2, Forks Market RoadTickets going cheap: $15 adults,$10.00 StudentsAvailable at McNally Robinson andat the doorFor Reservations call - 204-504-2185Please come out and support thisevent and our community talent******************

HealthyRecipe

Main Ingredients:Sweet potatoes: 3 cups, choppedChicken stock: 6 cupsLeek: 3, choppedFresh ginger: 1 tbsp (optional)Butter: 1 tbspSaltDirections:1. Heat butter in a frying pan. Addsliced leeks to the pan and cook for acouple of minutes.2. Add sweet potatoes and chickenbroth to the pan. Season with salt.3. Reduce heat to low. Cover andsimmer for 1 hour. Stir occasionallyuntil cooked.4. Let the soup cool for a while thenprocess in a food processor untilsmooth.5. Garnish with fresh ginger beforeserving.

Congraulations to LEAF Manitoba Stellar VolunteersMel and Maxine McCrae were

pleasantly surprised when theywere recognized at LEAFManitoba’s Annual Person’s DayBreakfast on October 18, 2013with a gift.

Maxine is still a member ofLEAF’s Board and has been theBreakfast Chair in the past. Melhas been volunteering for manyyears on the Breakfast Committeeand working closely with LEAFChair Betty Hopkins to raise fundsfor the organizations.


The Ethiopian hall onSelkirk Avenue was packedwith diverse African nationsand friends of the Africancommunity including MayorSam Katz, MLA for Logan andMinister of Multiculturalismand Literacy Ms FlorMarcelino, representative ofthe Liberal Party and manyrepresentatives of the Africancommunities e.g. Nigeria,Ghana, South Africa, Ethiopia,Sudan, Congo, Sierra Leone,and Zambia .

Nalinini Reddy gave astirring rendition of the SouthAfrican National Anthem whileStrini Reddy’s tribute broughthome the struggles that werelaunched in Winnipeg to freeMandela.

Born and raised in SouthAfrica and was himself arefugee of that country in the60’s Reddy provide neededperspective of the numerouspeople who were involved inthe Mandela freedom fight.

Members of Africancommunity celebratedMandela’s life African stylewith songs of praise and danceof the ancestors. Even though itwas a sad time, Mandelareceived a hero’s send off to

join those who have gone before. The evenings proceedings

was adorned with pride of thelegacy of an African son to whomall can look up to and speak of withrespect, love, admiration and yes aman of peace and wisdom.

CommunityLeaders pay their tribute to Mandela

Chanian singers

Youth Representative

NigerianSingers

Don't find fault, find a remedy.HenryFord

Quote


For Black History Month,Passages Canada will beconnecting with over 150 schooland community groups acrossCanada with their BlackCanadian Volunteer speakers.They will share their stories ofheritage, identity and achievementinspiring a younger generation toexplore their own roots.

In addition, PassagesCanada’s beCOMING CanadaVideo series, the latest educationtool, features 23 bilingualinterviews, that are availableonline and as a DVD,underscoring Canada’s definingdiversity, with stories fromrefugees arriving from war-torncountries to those of long-standing citizens who can tracetheir Canadian ancestry backmany generations. The videoscomplement Passages Canadagrowing Story Archive whichnow counts over 200 profilesfrom around the world.

PASSAGES CANADAGEARS UP FOR BLACK

HISTORY MONTH

ExhibitionArtist Talk

Yisa Akinbolaji, WinnipegArtist of Nigerian descent oftendescribed as the African Picassoupped the ante at his last showwich was held at the Framingand Art Centre in St. Vital wherehe not only exhibited his new andexciting works but also presentedan artist talk which absorbed theaudience on Akinbolaji’s journeyfrom a novice to the professionalartist he is today.

Akinbolaji was influencedby Pablo Picasso’s work. How-ever at first glance at some of theMaster’s work which to theuntrained eyes appear to bechildlike, made him think that hecould draw better than Picasso.

He soon realized that inorder to manipulate one’s art onehad to understand and abile toexecute the principles of drawingand must have a feel for the art.

Akinbolaji’spresentationwas lively and speckled withhumour throughout aided at timesby his loving wife Catherine whoprompted his memory on impor-tant details he might have over-looked.

His new works are freshand inviting with bold colours -a feast for the eyes and

help them reintegrate into society afterdisfiguring rape crimes against themleave them with conditions that make itdifficult for the women to live normallives. Since 2007 Make Music Matterhas been using music to engage,education and foster leadership incommunities affected by extremepoverty and conflict and tries to enrichthe lives of women and youths withmusic.

Many people, mostly of Africancountries and in particular DRCresidents here in Manitoba attended theevent and voiced their own concernsabout the level of violence againstwomen in that part of the world.

Manitoba Musiciancont’d from p6

ACOMI Pres Andre Dombe and Pres ofCongolese Org presents gift to Mr. Ataman


Kamta Roy Singh, Guyanese Canadian businessman wasthe guest speaker at the Citizen Equity and DiversityAnnual Open House on December 4, 2013 at City HallCouncil Building. Singh spoke about his journey to Canada and to wherehe is today and the lessons learned. He was candid andshared from the heart how went to a front counter servingpersonnel to the owner of more than four coveted TimHorton’s franchises which could readily serve as a modelfor those who aspire to great things. First you have to behumble and trustworthy. Singh said when he landed in Canada “on August 26,1989 I arrived with $ 27: 00 Canadian dollars. The taxidriver charges me $77:00 dollars. I was immediatelybroke.” The Taxi driver unloaded him on the highway butchanged his mind since the only way he could be paid wasby taking him to his destination. The following day thanksto the generosity of his uncle he boarded the Greyhound toWinnipeg and he has been here ever since. He gave the audience a brief geographic sketch of Guyana,South America neighbours to Brazil, Suriname andVenezuela and compared its multicultural mosaic to

Cont’d on p15

Kamta Roy Singh

Singh’s Journey Inspires Audience

CECChairMr.DavilOrilkow


Gaffin wid BuddyWhat happens now? Christmas is

here again and I’ m not stickingaround. I’m heading to warmer climeof the Caribbean shoes. I haven’t beenhome for years and I decided it’s timeto experience a good ole fashionChristmas. Jus tinking bout it mek meso excited - de hot sun, green grass,people milling round de market widfresh, fresh fruits and vegetables widfresh fruits and vegetables, dehucksters by the market hustling doughfuh family and fried from fuh demfrom ovasees, free smiles low class

Mon most of all I’m lookingforward to drink wata in me mout totaste dat black cake, ginger beer,chowmein curried chicken, roti,chocolate tea on Christmas morning.I’m gonna have it all.’

Checking out de neighbours in thefront yard an ting, de rum punchcompetition and tasting which leaveyou feeling good and tipsy but Iandastand people drink de stuff dailyfuh breakfast so I gat to actresponsibly – yeah man living defridge dis year – have a whiteChristmas.

Hassan Salah was one ofearliest migrants from Ethiopianand was the prime movers andshakers of the Ethiopiancommunity. He was a benevolentleader, a generous contributor anda great communicator. He isdescribed by members of thecommunity as a good friend, afather, devoted husband and fatherto his own children.

Anyonewho knewMr. Salahknew hewas a manwho couldrepresentthe interestof hiscommunityand wasnot afraidto speakthe truth,said hiswifeZahra

Mr.Salahwas ajovial,kindpersonand was

personally known to me and witheach encounter will be greetedwith the Ethiopian style greetingsof kissing both cheeks and theconversation would not endwithout a lot of laughter.

He wasalso known asthe Falafel man.Together withhis wife Zahra,they owned theFalafel Pyramid.In the summermonths hisFalafel van wasstationed onBroadway and during festivals at theForks and other locations he would bethere selling the most delicioussamosas. He was a businessman witha heart.

Hassan passed away whatseemed to many as suddenly as it wasnot common knowledge that he wasill. His passing shook the communityin a big way.

Hassan came to Canada in the1960’s and helped to found theEthiopian Society of Manitoba andwas in fact its founding president. Hewas an avid advocate for the rights ofthis people, a person to whomcommunity members could seek out tohelp them solve their problems.

Like most leaders he had hisadmirers and those who did not agreewith his point of view.

He was proud of his Ethiopianheritage and was a hard worker. Shesaid he worked at many jobs beforefinally opening his own businessincluding being a Taylor. He issurvived by his loving wife andchildren, Toffic, Ahmed, Mubarick,Muna and Melina. May his soul restin eternal peace.

A Community Champion Gone Too Soon

Hussein - Youth Presenter at NelsonMandel’s Memorial.

Global Eyes congratulates HelmaRogge-Rehders, a long timemember of the ImmigrantWomen’s Association ofManitoba, Inc. who recently wonthe first Prize for in the Poetrycategory in the Winnipeg Free

Press Annualwriting compe-tition. Helmais also aprolific visualArtist.


Many Winnipeggers especially Blackfolks have not tuned into this awesomecelebration of Black Culture and history –Kwanzaa.

Kwanzaa is a spiritual and cultural butnon religious celebration which occurseach year between December 26, andJanuary.

This seven-day celebration honorsseven distilled principles that groundBlacks in their African roots to sproutleaves of success and positive living. theseven principles of Kwanzaa arecontemplated and discussed on each of thedays: Day 1. Umoja means unity. Day 2.Kujichagulia means self-determination.Day 3. Ujima means working together. Day4. Ujamaa means supporting eachother.Day 5. Nia means purpose. Day 6.Kuumba means creativity. Day 7. Imanimeans faith, especially faith inourselves.Even though the celebration isafrocentric the principles can be applied toanyone from any culture as a way of life.

The celebration was started by Dr.Maulana Karenga, professor and chair ofthe Department of Black Studies atCalifornia State University, whosefrustration with the lack of direction andhopelessness of Black youths in the headydays of the 60’s, came up with this brilliantidea of Kwanzaa - Swahili word for Firstfruits and encouraged blacks to getinvolved and honor the tried and trueprinciples upon which their ancestors builttheir lives. Today millions celebrateKwanzaa world-wide.

Each year for the past 20 years theCongress of Black Women of Winnipeghave celebrated Kwanzaa to bring thecommunity together for a common purposeor remembering. The each of

However for logistical reasons theCBW compresses the seven days to one .This year’s event was held at theCaribbean Community Cultural Centre.More than 120 participated including lotsof happy children who received gifts, foodand drinks and music.

Can’t find a salon to dojustice to your hair?

Look no more!

Les ToucheSalon

will send you satisfied everytime

4-555 Balmoral AveHours: Mon. - Sat.9 a.m - 7:00 p.m.Phone: 947-5830

Congress of Black Women Celebrates Annual Kwanzaa


Zizi found out she was threemonths pregnant after bouts ofunexplained unrelenting vomiting andnausea that she had to go and see herdoctor. She thought it was one of thosenasty flues that was going around butboth she and Leyroy were pleasantlysurprised at the news.

“OMG” she had exclaimed “Howcan this be?”

“That’s for you to figure out” herdoctor had joked are we looking atanother immaculate conception here?”You know what this means?” Leyroysaid grinning from ear to ear like thecat who stole the last piece of cheese.

What?“We’re getting married asap.

Don’t want my child to be bornoutside of the law besides you knowwe black men get a lot of bad pressfor being dead beat dad. I’m not goingto be that statistics”

“You’re such a dad already”“To the best mom in the world.

We – you and me -” he pointed backto forth to him and Zizi “are going tomake beautiful children and having achild with you makes me the happiestman alive”

Later that evening Leyroy wentdown on his knees the old fashionedway and formally asked Zizi to be hiswife.

“Let me think..... YES” She saidwithout skipping a beat

“My heart was in my hand whenyou took that nano second to respond”They both laughed and hugged eachother.

“Not too tight Lee, a baby’s inhere now”

“I’ve got to tell my cousinBrenda, phone mom and dad and therest of the gang. She sighed happily “Iam so excited Leyroy, so happy to be a

mom””I know” he held her close.

“Don’t want to reign on ourparade but what about work?”

“I’ve have to tell SgtDaniels to put me on a desk jobuntil my Mat Leave and ask for afew more years off to see how Ifeel.”

“Sounds good.”A few days later Brenda,

Leyroy and Zizi in Brenda’sliving room laying out the draftof their wedding plans – social,invitations, shower, and venuedress the whole shebang.

“Let’s keep this small andtasteful among close friends andfamily, please” Zizi said.

“How small” Brendaasked?

“Sixty Max. I think we canafford to feed that much people.I’m not in favour of social,maybe a shower but I don’t wantto us to kill ourselves. I want usto have a good time.”

“Okay, I can work with thatbut I think a social will be nicefor those who are not going tobe invited – people from thecommunity, your work and soon”

“I think that soundsreasonable Zi” Leyroy agreed.

“Leave it to me and Leyroyto make the plans. You younglady take care of your belly”

Zizi hugged and gaveBrenda big kiss on the cheek“What would I do without mybig cousin. Thank you so much”

They had approximately sixmonths to cover all the grounds.Brenda being a professionalorganizer pinned down dates

and the clocked started ticking.Over the next few months Zizi and

Brenda with the help of a couple otherwomen put together a beautifulpackage, booked the Fort Garry Hotelfor the Wedding reception, and planneda successful social in two and a halfmonths which raised about $10,000through silent auction and attendance.Brenda prepared an elaborate snack forthe occasion and everything wentunbelievable smoothly. People Zizinever knew showed up for the partyand she had a great time dancing andmeeting people.

Zizi was a beautiful bride evenwith her belly which had become veryvisible. The happiness Leyroy and sheshared was obvious in their faces.November 3, 2013 was the day shebecame Leyroy’s wife. A dream shehad thought would have never beenrealized. Leyroy’s son was the ringbearer and Zizi felt motherly towardsthe beautiful boy. They were a familyand he was part of it, she felt.

“I have to keep pinching myself Zi.I thought my life was over when youwere not in it. I thank God for leadingus back together.”

“I feel the same way Lee, this wasmeant to be. I promise the be the bestwife ever and to keep our love fresh aslong as I live”

“And I promise to be the besthusband and to thank my lucky stars dayand night for you. I never want to messthis up. You are my life my wife” hehad whispered to her as they took thatfirst dance. “You will be my sweetheartforever”

Zizi and Leyroy went on to havetwo more children in success and Zizistayed off work. She loved being homeand greeting Leyroy with freshly bake

Culmination of the story of ZIZI so far.


Roti and curry with spinach stew orback at work and having to run hereand there to pick up kids and eating leftovers all the time. Zizi felt she wantedto keep her options open. Leyroysupported whatever made her happybut let it be known that he does notmind being the sole bread winner andhe loved to be greeted by a relaxedwife when he returns from work notone who is as stressed as he is. “Let’spray about it” Zizi had said to Leyroysince they had also joined aneighbourhood spiritual community.

Canada’s multiculturalism. Heacknowledge Nelson Mandela’spassing as the death of a mentor,role-model and others like himsuch as Mahatma Gandhi andMother Theresa who fought forequality and peace. My first job was at 7-eleven“I also had two other jobsduring the same time, one was ajanitor and the other as a caretaker. After working for threeMonths at seven eleven I washired and start working at TimHorton’s on Dec 6, 1989. Beingemployed after a year I waspromoted to a Manager. Duringthose days racism was a lotmore prominent than today. Forexample in my store there were31 employees of which 29 wereCaucasian and the otherVietnamese and myself. Iquickly learn you as anindividual must accept racism asa challenge to be stronger,wiser, and move on in life.

Instead of being a complainer hebecame a helper. “After I finished myshift, instead of going home, I offeredto help in other areas e.g. clean thefloor wash the dishes after havingstaff members train me to do thesechores.” Over a six month periodSingh had mastered every job at TimHorton’s without a cost to hisemployer. He also helped the ownerswith office work and in so doinglearned the administrative side ofrunning the business. He had puthimself in a category all by himselffor no one else knew what knew.“When it was time for the owners togo on vacation and needed someoneto look after the business, I was theone chosen because of 31 employees Iwas the only one with the requiredknowledge. Fast forward to 1992 when theowners Gordon and Lorraine Caveretired from Tim Horton’s theyrecommended Singh for the positionof District Manager successfullymanaging more than 150 staff for theHead Office. Singh is the envy of many whowant to be where – owner of four TimHorton franchises and the onlyCaribbean national he is but may notwant to travel the same path as him.“Racism still exists, and jealousy stillis there, however you can make adifference instead of complaining ofobstacles. Singh received a resoundingapplausefor hisstory asmany inthe roomappearedtoresonatewith hiswords.

Congratulations toPresident Michelle Bachelet on

her Second Big Win in ChileMichelle Bachelet, 62, the centre-

left candidate, smashed some records inbeing re-elected president of Chile with anew majority coalition comprising offour parties on November 17, 2013 withmore than more than 62% in the second vote,the highest proportion of votes anypresidential candidate has won since 1989.

Daughter of an air force general whoalong with Michelle was tortured byGeneral Augusto Pinochet’s regime, thepaediatrician rose to political power in2000 as Minister of Health and in 2002she became the first woman to hold theport folio of Minister of Defence whichled her up to being elected as Chile’s firstfemale president in 2006.

Bachelet is well loved andrespected by the masses if the publicapproval of 84% is to be believed andher being the first woman to be reelectedagain after a mandatory leave of office.Chile’s constitution does not allow asecond successive presidential term.

Ms Bachelet, generally regarded asa warm and maternal figure, left office inJanuary 2010 with the highest level ofpublic approval of any Chilean president,84%, and with both her internationalstature and Chile’s considerablyenhanced. She is the first president since1952 and the first woman to be re-elected– that is, elected again, after a mandatory

sabbatical, since Chile’sconstitution does not allow asecond successive presidentialterm.

“Those of us who wantchange are in the vastmajority,”said President Bacheletin her victor speech


Did you know you can get help insorting out your options to solvelegal problems facing you, what isthe next step you should take? Eventhough the clinic staff can notrepresent you they can help yourepresent yourself in court

To find out more about how the legalHeal Centre can help you call: 204-258-3096 or email them [email protected] main office is at 393 PortageAvenue (Portage Place Mall).

You can also reach them at theirSelkirk Outreach Monthly Clinic at485 Selkirk Avenue.

Congratulations

Mr. Ayodele Akenroye, who was recentlycalled to the Bar after completing hisstudies at University of McGill. Her hasalso accepted a position as AssociateLawyer with Boudreau Law Firm

Ayodele Akenroye is an AssociateLawyer at Boudreau Law where hepractices in all areas of law. His experienceincludes conducting due diligence and titlereview, preparing legal opinions, draftingand reviewing energy and First Nationsrelated agreements, including revenuesharing agreements for First Nations cleanenergy projects, joint venture agreements,software license and intellectual propertyagreements and shareholders’ agreements. Mr. Akenroye has previous litigationexperience in criminal law, human rightslaw and civil ligation and has provided legaladvice and opinion on Manitoba HumanRights Code, the Criminal Code ofCanada, and Corruption of Foreign PublicOfficial Act. He has taught courses as aTeaching Assistant in McGill University,Montreal, Canada. He also hasinternational experience having worked forUnited Nations affiliated organizations inthe area of international criminal law,peace and security, promotion of the ruleof law, human rights and democracy

The Congress of Black Women ofManitoba is sponsoring its 5th

Annual Cultural AwarenessWorkshop: Diversity and theMedia,” February 18, 2014,Tuesday 8:30-4:30, Viscount GortHotel. For more information pleasecall 204-775-4378.Mark your Calendar: June 28th

2014, evening for the first GlobalFlair: A multicultural Fashion Show.

Lola’sBeauty Gallery & SuppliesManitoba’s #1 Hair Extension Centre

567 Portage Avenue, Winnipeg,Manitoba R3G 2G2Phone: (204) 772-2506Fax: (204) [email protected]

Off the Beaten Path: Violence,Women and Art Exhibition „hWinnipeg Art Gallery, 300 Memo-rial Boulevard „h Off the BeatenPath: Violence, Women and Art isa compelling exhibition curatedand organized through Art Worksfor Change. an organizationwhose mission Info: 204-786-6641

IN THE MIX

Be the chief but neverthe lord.Lao Tzu

Quote

December gem 2013

News & Politics

December gem 2013