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CAUSE THE Edouardo Jordan CONT ENT S WINTER 2018 www. t h e c a u s e i n t e r a c t i v e . c om Publisher The Cause Organization, Inc. Editor Kimberly Solomon Creative Director Michael Tong Webmaster Monte Hamilton Advertising Manager Lester Tyson The CAUSE Magazine is proud to have served the African American community since 1967. It is our goal to promote diversity and inclusion in the public and private sectors. Our online magazine and website provide education and career information, including motivational articles, information on scholarships and job opportunities. To learn more go to our website: www.thecauseinteractive.com Email: info@thecauseinteractive.com Phone: (800)748-6790 Mailing Address: The CAUSE, 31938 Temecula Parkway, #A324, Temecula, CA 92592 © The CAUSE Magazine, 2018 Neil Tyson Muhannad Ali Career in Criminology Tiffany Brooks NMAAHC
CBS is promoting a great new dramatic series starring Morris Chestnut as the iconic literary character Dr. John Watson, the companion of master detective Sherlock Holmes. The show, titled “Watson,” is a contemporary story set one year after the death of Holmes at the hands of his arch nemesis Moriarty. In this new series the Dr. Watson character resumes his medical career as the head of the clinic treating rare disorders. This fresh and unexpected take on Watson will portray him as a new breed detective turning his attention from solving crimes to solving medical mysteries. Watson’s old life isn’t done with him, though—Moriarty and Watson will continue to write their own chapter of a story that has fascinated audiences for more than a century. For Chestnut, the show will be his latest stint playing a doctor in a recent broadcast series. Chestnut previously starred in multiple seasons of the Fox medical drama series “The Resident” and led the cast of the Fox series “Rosewood,” in which he played a private pathologist who solves crimes in Miami. His other recent roles include the Peacock series “The Best Man: The Final Chapters,” the Fox series “Our Kind of People,” and the NBC series “The Enemy Within.” He is also known for films like “Boyz n the Hood,” “The Best Man” films, “The Last Boy Scout,” “Think Like a Man” and many others. In 2022, Chestnut was honored with a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame. In 2023, he won his second NAACP Image Award.Chestnut is also an executive producer for the new series. Morris Chestnut Dr. Watson
John Lewis was a genuine American hero and moral leader who commanded widespread respect. The American politician and civil rights leader served in the United States House of Representatives for Georgia's 5th congressional district from 1987 until his death in 2020. Lewis was also an iconic figure in the civil rights movement and he served as the Chairman of the Student Nonviolent Coordinating Committee from 1963 to 1966. February 21, 1940 - July 17, 2020 Cause Magazine John Robert Lewis
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Cause Magazine Lewis, the son of sharecroppers survived a brutal beating by police during a landmark 1965 march in Selma, Alabama. He has said that Rev. Martin Luther King inspired his activism. Angered by the unfairness of the Jim Crow South, Lewis launched what he called "good trouble" with organized protests and sit-ins. In the early 1960s, he was a Freedom Rider, challenging segregation at interstate bus terminals across the South and in the nation's capital. At the age of 23, Lewis was a keynote speaker at the historic 1963 March on Washington. His passionate oratory skills were backed by a long record of action that included, by his count, more than 40 arrests while demonstrating against racial and social injustice. He recently won a National Book Award for his collaboration on a series of inspiring graphic novels depicting his lifelong struggle in the civil rights movement.
Cause Magazine During his more than three decades of work as a Congressman in the House of Representatives, Lewis was often referred to as "the Conscience of the Congress." Of his passing, Speaker Pelosi said “In the halls of the Capitol, he was fearless in his pursuit of a more perfect union, whether through his Voter Empowerment Act to defend the ballot, his leadership on the Equality Act to end discrimination against LGBTQ Americans or his work as a Senior Member of the Ways and Means Committee to ensure that we invest in what we value as a nation...Every day of John Lewis’s life was dedicated to bringing freedom and justice to all.
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Cause Magazine In a statement, his family said, "He was a stalwart champion in the on-going struggle to demand respect for the dignity and worth of every human being. He dedicated his entire life to non-violent activism and was an outspoken advocate in the struggle for equal justice in America. He will be deeply missed." en you see something that is not right, not just, not fair, you have a moral ation to say something. To do something. Our children and their children ask us, ‘What did you do? What did you say?’ For some, this vote may be But we have a mission and a mandate to be on the right side of history.” John Robert Lewis - December 2019
Simone Biles said that her decision to withdraw from several events at the Olympics to focus on her mental health will likely go down as one of her "greatest accomplishments." The gravity defying gymnast reflected on her experience in Tokyo during a Zoom call with President Joe Biden, first lady Jill Biden, and fellow Team USA athletes. "To have mental health be talked about more in sports is really nice because at the end of the day, we are humans before athletes," Biles said. Cause Magazine Courage to Soar
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Cause Magazine At 24, Biles has already earned the most world championship medals in U.S. history (25) and the most world championships gold medals of any female gymnast (19) including four gold medals and a bronze in the 2016 Olympics. At the Tokyo Olympics Biles stunned the world when she left in the middle of the gymnastics team final and backed out of the individual all-around competition, but she did go on to win bronze on the balance beam, a medal that meant to her "more than all the golds, because I've pushed through so much the last five years and the last week," she said in a recent "Today" show interview.
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Cause Magazine Biles love of gymnastics started on a daycare field trip in her home town of Spring Texas. Her God given talent and perseverance have made her one of the most recognizable and top gymnasts of the world. Her inspiring story from foster care to world champion is a model for everyone who has had a dream to succeed at a challenge.
Cause Magazine She has not yet decided about the next Olympics, but this fall, she and other star gymnasts, including Laurie Hernandez and Jordan Chiles, will be touring 35 cities throughout the United States to celebrate female athletes. No matter what the future holds, Simone Biles has already proved that she is a courageous champion for the ages.
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Sydney McLaughlin has again proved herself one of the world’s best hurdlers. Representing the USA at the Tokyo Olympics, she smashed her own record in the 400-meter hurdles and bested her team mate and longtime rival Dalilah Muhammad to win the gold medal. She ran the 400 meters while clearing 10 hurdles at 17 miles-per-hour in world record time (51.46). During the Olympic trials McLaughlin became first woman to complete the hurdles in less than 52 seconds-- an amazing feat, much more daunting than she makes it look. Cause Magazine SydneyMcLaughlin
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Cause Magazine The University of Kentucky track and field alumna also subsequently won a second gold medal with the Team USA 4x400m relay team at one of the most anticipated events in Tokyo. The race took place on her 22nd birthday and was the final day of Olympic track & field competition. The USA team was composed of track all-stars Allyson Felix, Athing Mu, Dalilah Muhammad and McLaughlin. “It’s an amazing group of women right here,” McLaughlin told reporters in Tokyo. “It’s a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity. I think we all just knew going in it was going to be fast. All we had to do is do our part and just have fun with it.” SydneyMcLaughlin
Cause Magazine SydneyMcLaughlin McLaughlin also enjoys her friendly one-on-one rivalry with fellow Olympic medalist Muhammad trading speed records and medals back and forth, as time goes on. “I think that’s really iron sharpening iron,” McLaughlin said. “I think it’s two athletes wanting to be their best and knowing there’s another great girl who’s going to help you get there.” McLaughlin was born into an athletic family. Her father Willie was a semi-finalist in the 400 meters at the 1987 Olympic trials. Her mother Mary was a runner in high school, and her older brother Taylor won the silver medal in the 400 meter at the 2016 IAAF World U20.
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Cause Magazine SydneyMcLaughlin Sydney McLaughlin was the youngest athlete to qualify for the U.S. track and field team for the 2016 Summer Olympics, and she had already broken a world record by the time she was 20. Her accomplishments and beauty have repeatedly set the internet abuzz, but she remains humble and says that her faith in god helped her in the competition. McLaughlin has more than 1 million followers and counting on Instagram, where her bio says, “Jesus saved me.” She posts often about her faith there and on Twitter, where her profile picture says “Saved by grace.” McLaughlin is still young and has a long way to go to catch Allyson Felix for the record of 11 track and field medals by a U.S. Olympian, but two golds is a great start. After all, who would have ever thought Allyson Felix would have surpassed Carl Lewis to become America's most decorated track and field Olympian?
Tina Turner Simply The Best For more than seven decades Tina Turner has been one of the most successful and recognizable entertainers in the world. The powerful singer and performer was an unforgettable force, bringing enjoyment to fans all over the world. Born Anna Mae Bullock in Brownsville Tennessee, she began her career in the late 1950’s while attending High School when she began singing with Ike Turner and his band the Kings of Rhythm. At first she only sang part time in the background, but it didn’t take long before she became the bands star attraction. The group was soon renamed the Ike and Tina Turner Revue. They continually toured the country working the “Chitlin’ Circuit” and small bars and clubs. After a string of soul hits they crossed over to the pop world in a big way after working with legendary producer Phil Spector. In the late 1960’s they had several major hits such as “Proud Mary” and “River Deep--Mountain High.” Tina’s unique voice, dancing and dynamic energy on stage made her a favorite among rock stars and fans as well. She is in fact also known as the “Queen of Rock and Roll.”
Offstage, Ike and Tina had a turbulent, often violent relationship. She finally escaped the abusive relationship in 1978 and slowly began to completely rebuild her life and career. A few years later she surprised everyone when she made one of the greatest comebacks in music history. Her 1984 multi-platinum album Private Dancer contained the hit song "What's Love Got to Do with It", which won the Grammy Award for Record of the Year and became her first number-one song on the Billboard Hot 100. At 44, she was the oldest female solo artist to top the Hot 100. Her chart success continued with "Better Be Good to Me", "Private Dancer" and "We Don't Need Another Hero.” In 1986, she published her autobiography I, Tina: My Life Story, which was adapted for the 1993 film What's Love Got to Do with It. The hit film bravely depicted her struggles, the domestic abuse and her stunning professional comeback. In 2009, Turner retired after completing her Tina! 50th Anniversary Tour, one of the highest-grossing tours of the 2000s. In 2018, she became the subject of Tina, a jukebox musical which premiered in London’s West End and subsequently went on to Broadway and other productions all over the world. Turner has sold more than 150 million records worldwide, becoming one of the bestselling recording artists of all time. She received 12 Grammy Awards, which include eight competitive awards, a Grammy Lifetime Achievement Award and three Grammy Hall of Fame inductions. She was the first black artist and first woman to be on the cover of Rolling Stone. She was inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame twice, with Ike Turner in 1991 and as a solo artist in 2021. She was also a 2005 recipient of the Kennedy Center Honors and Women of the Year award. Tina passed at age 83 at her longtime home in Switzerland. She will be long remembered and her earth shattering voice and energetic performances will continue to live on.
Smith was originally a chemical engineer and began his career in business at Kraft General Foods, where he earned a four U.S. and international patents. He joined Goldman Sachs in 1994 before ultimately founding his own investment firm. His approach to philanthropy has been described as transformative, and his gifts, much like his grant to Morehouse students last weekend, are often unprecedented. Smith made a $20 million gift to the National Museum of African American History and Culture, making him the second-largest individual donor behind Oprah Winfrey, who donated $21 million to the museum. Other past gifts include sizable donations to Columbia and Cornell, whose School of Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering bears his name. Smith is also the founder of the Fund II Foundation, a grant making organization focused on preserving and deepening the understanding of AfricanAmerican history, safeguarding human rights, funding education and environmental initiatives, and promoting entrepreneurism. Morehouse graduates interviewed by "CBS This Morning" said they expect that Smith's gift will have an immeasurable impact on their lives. "Just imagine the weight lifted off your shoulders when you have a clean slate coming out of college," said one 2019 graduate with a degree in business administration, who owed more than $150,000 in debt. "It's just an overwhelming feeling, in a good way," the formerly homeless student said. "I'm so motivated to go change the world." Smith had concluded his commencement address by telling graduating seniors, "This is my class, and I know my class will pay this forward." Cause Magazine
At an event last year at the Oakland, California, Smith spoke with a gathering of mostly black politicians, venture capitalists, tech entrepreneurs, and philanthropists. He weighed in on the importance of investing in communities and his advice for future generations. “Love your community by voting,” he said. “Love your community by taking care of your community. Love your community by actually doing something wherever you can.” “Think about what is it that you uniquely bring to a community that changes that community. Sometimes, it is words of inspiration. Most of the time it’s acts of inspiration. It is doing something, it is leading, it is taking advantage of what it is you have to provide. Sometimes what you have to provide is walking a child home every night so they feel safe. Sometimes it’s making sure a child is read to at night because their parent is at work. Sometimes it’s a scholarship. Sometimes it’s the encouragement to go dream big, go take the test, go try something different, go get an internship. Or it’s creating an internship, like the internship I got at Bell Labs when I was 17 years old, that allowsthem to stretch their imaginations,” he also said at the time. Cause Magazine
REV. JEssE Jackson kEEp HopE aliVE! After more than six decades as a leading activist marching and fighting for equality, justice and hope, Rev. Jesse Jackson is now passing the torch to a new generation. It will be hard to fill his shoes. The 81 year old Baptist minister is widely regarded as one of the most influential African-American activists of the 21st century. Jackson began his activism as a protégé of Martin Luther King Jr., and was by his side at the Lorraine Motel in Memphis when he was killed. After King’s death, Jackson founded the organizations that merged to form Rainbow/PUSH (People United to Save Humanity) a Chicago based non-profit pursuing social justice, civil rights, and political activism-- a precursor to organizations like Black Lives Matter. Jackson was a competitive Presidential candidate in both 1984 and 1988, exceeding expectations, and firing up many voters with his inspirational speeches and unique turns of phrase.
Civil rights activist Al Sharpton said he considers Jackson his mentor and said, "The resignation of Reverend Jesse Jackson is the pivoting of one of the most productive, prophetic, and dominant figures in the struggle for social justice in American history". In August 2000, Bill Clinton awarded Jackson the Presidential Medal of Freedom, the nation's highest honor bestowed on civilians. Jackson’s sons are also involved in politics. He is the father of former U.S. Representative Jesse Jackson Jr. and current Representative Jonathan Jackson. Democratic National Committee (DNC) Chair Jaime Harrison released the following statement: “Every so often, there are people whose very presence can change the trajectory of an entire nation. For over 60 years, Reverend Jesse Jackson has been that presence. Throughout his life, Reverend Jackson has dedicated himself to forging a nation that reflects the lofty ideals outlined by our Founding Fathers, that all people are created equal and endowed with the unalienable rights to life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness. Simply put, Reverend Jackson has left an indelible mark on our nation’s history.
“As a poor, Black kid growing up in the South, my first encounter with politics came when I was a 12 year old watching Reverend Jesse Jackson’s speech at the 1988 Democratic National Convention in Atlanta. For the first time, I was watching someone who looked like me speaking about what it meant to not only hope, but fight for a better America. An America where people of color have a seat at the table and an America that works for everyone – not just those at the top. “Whether it was inspiring future generations, pushing for economic policies that extended a hand to the middle and lower class, or fighting to protect our sacred right to vote, Reverend Jackson has been a champion for everything we stand for as Democrats. We congratulate Reverend Jackson on a well-earned retirement and we look forward to continuing to draw upon his wisdom to keep hope alive in America.”
Neil deGrasse Tyson eil de
He is a familiar face, and you’ve heard his voice on many TV shows. He also has written a number of New York Times best sellers. A big “star” in the scientific world, Neil deGrasse Tyson is a leading astrophysicist, cosmologist, author, and science communicator. Tyson is the Director of the Hayden Planetarium in New York where he has served since 1996. He is one of the main scientists who have awakened new interest in astronomy, appearing on various shows and networks including hosting gigs on PBS shows such as “Cosmos: A Spacetime Odyssey,” and “NOVA ScienceNow,” National Geographic’s “StarTalk,” and The History Channel's popular series “The Universe.” Tyson also frequently appears as a guest on various talk shows. He has even made appearances in a few movies. In the last year alone, Tyson also had two New York Times Bestsellers; “Astrophysics for People in a Hurry” and “Death by Black Hole: And Other Cosmic Quandaries.” Regardless of the medium he is using, he has the ability to communicate complex scientific concepts with enthusiasm and humor. As his facebook page states, he dedicates his life to “Serving the undeniable cosmic curiosity that percolates within us all.” His efforts have been recognized by several awards including The National Academy of Sciences which awarded Tyson the Public Welfare Medal in 2015 for his "extraordinary role in exciting the public about the wonders of science" Neil deGrasse Tyson was born in New York City on October 5, 1958, the same week NASA was founded. He grew up in the Bronx and he was the second of three children. His mother, Sunchita Maria (née Feliciano) Tyson, was a gerontologist for the U.S. Department of Health, Education and Welfare, and is of Puerto Rican descent. His African-American father, Cyril deGrasse Tyson (1927–2016), was a sociologist, human resource commissioner for New York City mayor John Lindsay, and the first Director of Harlem Youth Opportunities Unlimited. Cause Magazine Shoot for the Star
Neil’s interest in the universe traces back to age 9, after a first visit to the Hayden Planetarium of the American Museum of Natural History. He has recalled that "so strong was that imprint [of the night sky] that I'm certain that I had no choice in the matter, that in fact, the universe called me.” He was educated in the public schools of New York City through his graduation from the Bronx High School of Science. After graduating from the Bronx High School of Science, where he was editor-in-chief of the Physical Science Journal, he completed a bachelor's degree in physics at Harvard University in 1980. Then, after receiving a master's degree in astronomy at the University of Texas at Austin in 1983, he earned a master's (1989) and doctorate (1991) in astrophysics at Columbia University. For the next three years, he was a postdoctoral research associate at Princeton University. he w s a p s doctoral research associate at Princeto Un versity. Cause Magazine In 1994, he joined the Hayden Planetarium as a staff scientist and the Princeton faculty as a visiting research scientist and lecturer. He began making appearances on TV in the early 2000’s. Then in 2007, Tyson was chosen to be a regular on The History Channel's popular series “The Universe.” From 2006 to 2011, he hosted the television show “NOVA ScienceNow” on PBS. Since 2009, Tyson hosted the weekly podcast StarTalk. A spinoff, also called “StarTalk,” began airing on National Geographic in 2015. On the show Tyson often interviews pop culture celebrities and asks them about their life experiences with science. In 2014, he hosted the television series “Cosmos: A Spacetime Odyssey,” a successor to Carl Sagan's landmark 1980 series “Cosmos: A Personal Voyage.” Tyson is currently co-developing a sandbox video game with Whatnot Entertainment, “Neil deGrasse Tyson Presents: Space Odyssey,” which aims to help provide players with a realistic simulation of developing a space-faring culture, incorporating educational materials about space and technology. The game is anticipated for release in 2017.
Elle Smith is Miss USA 2021. She is also a model and a journalist. As Miss USA, she also represented the United States at Miss Universe 2021 where she was placed in the top ten of 80 countries competing for the title. Smith has a full schedule of duties as Miss USA, but she still finds time to express herself and utilize her voice in various forums. Smith sees herself as a creative person, currently zoning in on her passion for photography, videography and modeling. Smith attended the University of Kentucky graduating with a degree in broadcast journalism and a minor in political science in 2020. While a student, she served as vice president of the university's chapter of the National Association of Black Journalists. After completing her degree, Smith became an on-air reporter with ABC affiliate WHAS-TV in Louisville, Kentucky. Understanding her role as a journalist to be such an essential part of our society, she took each day as a challenge to connect with her community and share new perspectives. ELLE SMITH
Around that time, Smith sat in bed and watched the Miss USA pageant. She remembers seeing so many incredible women grace the stage that night and thought "I want to be on the stage and I want to be like them." The following year, having won the title of Miss Kentucky, the 23 yearold beat 50 other contestants at the Miss USA event in Oklahoma to win the crown. In no time, she had made her dream a reality. Along with the title, the prize package includes a six figure salary, a luxury Los Angeles condo, a fabulous Porsche, designer garments, skincare + haircare treatments, and access to exclusive premier events. The prestigious title also comes with a chance to network and build a platform for unlimited career opportunities. Beyond the red carpet glamour and luxurious prize package, the platform of Miss USA is synonymous with giving back. Charity and community engagement are at the core of the organization. From exciting fund-raising events, to heart-warming visits, outreach and adventures in awareness, at Miss USA, initiatives matter. Those wearing the Miss USA crown have a schedule full of a variety of good works during the year. Inspired by her late grandmother, Elle has also taken up the mantle to advocate for cervical cancer awareness and prevention in her current reign. Regarding her victory, Smith says, “I understand the power that this title holds and I plan to take up every opportunity that comes my way. From moving to Los Angeles and starting my new life to continuing my career in the entertainment epicenter of the world, I can’t wait to see all that unfurls on this magical journey.”
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King of Dallas The Black Academy of Arts and Letters C urtis King is an accomplished creator, producer and director who has worked with many great talents including everyone from Ossie Davis and Ruby Dee to Billy Preston and Golden Globe winner Regina Taylor. He also describes himself now as “basically an entrepreneur,” but he is also a visionary and an inspiration. For more than four decades, he has brought cultural and artistic diversity to the City of Dallas and beyond. In addition to his own stellar career, King’s creation and promotion of his The Black Academy of Arts and Letters, Inc., (TBAAL) institution has helped create over the last 42 years, what one of his supporters calls "a reservoir of talent, art and history ... now making a difference worldwide." Artists such as Lou Gossett, Maya Angelou, Halle Berry, T.C. Carson, Tamela Mann, Regina Taylor, Erykah Badu and many more have studied, supported, or shared their gifts at the academy. At its core, TBAAL is “a multi-discipline arts institution whose mission is to promote, cultivate, foster, preserve and perpetuate the African, African American and Caribbean Arts and Letters in the Fine, Literary, Visual, Performing and Cinematic Arts.” It is a cultural institution so important for our communities to support. For both the artists and the audience, the Arts are enlightening, entertaining, and powerful, giving people a different perspective, new awareness and a framework for understanding. Cause Magazine
Over the years, King and his not-for-profit institution have produced and presented a wide variety of cultural events enriching the community. This has allowed many people to enjoy various cultures, art and artists, often for free or at a very low cost. Each year, TBAAL produces over 100 different programs in music, theatre, dance, literary, visual and cinematic arts. TBAAL has also twice won a Lone Star EMMY Award for a show that King creates, produces and directs each year. The annual “Black Music and Civil Rights Movement” Concert: A Tribute to Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. event dramatizes and reflects on the moments and memories of the life and works of Dr. King. The show airs on the Dallas/Fort Worth CBS television affiliate and is a compelling evening of narration, music and dance with special guest stars, and the TBAAL 200 voice concert choir. The 36th annual show, which took place in January, included a special tribute to the late Queen of Soul and musical civil rights activist, Aretha Franklin. The TBAAL Riverfront Jazz Festival is also held annually and is a major event in Dallas. It features 35 national and international acts plus more than 40 promising young artists. This year, it will take place over the Labor Day weekend and may also include among the artists Erykah Badu, Will Downing, Sheila E, Roy Ayers and Dianne Reeves. Cause Magazine King and his institution celebrate icons and their legacy, but they also take great pride in presenting, producing, and developing artistic talent. Each year, TBAAL services more than 50,000 youth in its Arts-and-Education programs and through its Annual Summer Youth Arts Institute. During the summer Intensive program, students ages 10-18 work for several weeks on every aspect of the big productions themselves. Not just the music, theatre and dance; they also are responsible for the costumes, make-up, and even shooting the videos. TBAAL’s audience consists of more than 600,000 patrons a year and includes a membership base of about 5,000. The institution has grown to occupy a permanent 250,000 sq. ft. venue located at the Dallas Convention Center. It is the only African-American institution based in a convention center in the US. The space includes two theaters, an art gallery, and several other rehearsal spaces and ballrooms. TBAAL also endeavors to create strong ties among many emerging and well-known artists and scholars. In 2013, the institution donated its entire archival collection of letters, papers, brochures, photographs, videos, etc. to the University of North Texas as a part of TBAAL’s long term cultural collaborative partnerships. The collection is now being digitized to protect it for future generations.
History and culture have always interested King. In fact, that is how TBAAL came to be. Back in the summer of 1977, King was given a treasure trove of documents, letters, photos and memorabilia which were found in a trash dumpster on the streets of New York City. The materials were the discards of a defunct African American organization (BAAL) which had roots going back to the 19th Century. King was shocked that the items had been discarded and knew they had historic value. As a student, he had been aware of BAAL and had always hoped to become a member. At once, he made it his mission to bring the seeds of the organization back to life. After contacting some of the leading members from that incarnation and receiving their blessing, he decided to carry on with their work by creating a new organization. This time, he wanted to also include formation of an academy that would directly involve young and aspiring artists and scholars. With $250 of his own money at his kitchen table he began. Little did he know it would become his life's work and that despite the many struggles, he’d still be enjoying it 42 years later. King has always worked hard, and in his own distinguished career, has worked nationally and internationally. He has conceived, created, directed and produced more than 300 highly acclaimed plays, musical tributes, concerts and other cultural events. The work is generally aimed at uplifting the African American community as well as enlightening diverse audiences. Projects and accomplishments include a Special Tribute to comedian/activist Dick Gregory at The Kennedy Center hosted by Bill Cosby featuring Cicely Tyson, Steve Wonder and Isaac Hayes; Symphony with the Divas featuring Dionne Warwick, Tramaine Hawkins, Ruby Dee, and Esther Rolle; creator and producer for “I Remember: The March on Washington 30 Year Performing and Visual Arts Anniversary Salute, 1963-1993” featuring Della Reese, Dan Rather, Carole Simpson, Louis Gossett, Jr., Halle Berry, Jennifer Holiday, Eartha Kitt, and Patti Austin; director of “Addis by Night” Ethiopia (Africa); produced the National Civil War Gala at Washington's Lincoln Theatre Center for the Performing Arts in 2000; creator and producer for Dallas Arts Gala and creator and producer for TBAAL's 30th Anniversary Season Opening Gala featuring Oleta Adams, Kim Fields, Regina Belle and Peabo Bryson. Currently, King is working on his first feature film "Blues Bar," which he hopes to star American Idol Fantasia Barrino, based on his successful stage play which originally starred Phyllis Hyman, Billy Preston and Roger E. Mosley, Jr. Cause Magazine
King has dreamed of directing a film ever since he was a young man. A native of Coldwater, Mississippi, King’s father was a farmer and his mother was a school teacher. As a college student, his mentor was famed author Margaret Walker Alexander. Though her, he was able to meet a range of interesting people. Always good at networking, he made sure to get contact info from most of them which came in handy later. After he graduated from Jackson State University, King went on to earn a Master’s Degree in Theatre from Texas Christian University and did his doctoral work at the University of Texas at Dallas. For all his accomplishments and accolades, King most enjoys helping people to develop their own artistic talents. “I enjoy working with the kids. Seeing people come through here with their talent is a real joy to me. These are brilliant, young, smart kids. They come in with their heads down and leave here with their heads up.” King insists on taking a no nonsense approach with his young students. Cell phones are not allowed. He also insists that they each bring a dictionary. “They must learn to think on their feet,” he says. “They can have fun, but they have to take the opportunity seriously.” His students also need to have or develop an “I am; I will do” attitude. This is probably the most important aspect of what they will learn. “I love to help raise money and be with these amazing people that look like me, that can create a different kind of world,” says King. But manifesting all these dreams and creations has not been easy by any means. The biggest challenge is raising the money necessary for day-to-day operations. “Drumming up funding support and keeping costs low is a constant battle,” he says. In addition, the small staff of the organization must often navigate city politics and bureaucracy. Plus, manage the various needs and circumstances of artists, students and supporters. The Dallas Independent School District supports the institution with funding as does the City of Dallas. As of now, only a very small percentage comes from corporate and foundation donors. Says King, “We really need a generous angel to give us the boost we need.” In November of 2017, Dallas City Council gave special recognition to Curtis King for his 41 years of work in the arts community and for creating the iconic role TBAAL serves in Dallas, nationally and internationally. The award proclaimed “This special recognition is for someone who has brought arts and culture to a new level in the city of Dallas.” At the ceremony, TBAAL volunteer and former employee Dion Hood said he has learned a lot from the institution. “This organization has such a rich history,” Hood said. “The arts has been afforded and made available to all of Dallas and the Metroplex and all over the country because of Mr. King. I support the arts because it has a way of allowing children to use their creativity and talents. It allows them to create a safe haven and teaches kids values, disciplines and morals, and also things that are necessary for them to grow and develop into a successful person, just like the man we are honoring, Mr. King.” To be successful, King advises people to, “be persistent and consistent…when you get a ‘no’, do not be discouraged. No is not always negative. Someone else may say yes. Maybe at another time it will be a yes.” Also he says, “Keep an open mind. LISTEN, observe. Trust your instincts and keep your spirit. Know in your heart of hearts that God will lead you in a right path as long as you do the right thing.” You have to keep your dreams alive, after all, as King says, “Dreams and visions tie us to purpose and destiny.” For more information on TBAAL and upcoming events go to https://www.tbaal.org Cause Magazine
Muhammad Ali 1942 - 2016 Cause Magazine Remembering the Legend
Cause Magazine Boxer Extraordinaire, Social Activist, Civil Rights Champion, Olympic Gold Medalist and a Man Amongst Men passed away June 3, 2016.
Cause Magazine Ali embodied the true meaning of the word “champion.” No matter what challenge he faced, he was always able to conquer it. He will be forever remembered as “The Greatest.”
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The death of Prince Rodgers Nelson stunned the world. For decades, the pop icon was one of our most talented musicians and electrifying performers. During his career, Prince sold more than 100 million records, won seven Grammys, an Academy Award and was inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in 2004. At one point in 1984 had the No. 1 album, single and film simultaneously. When he died tragically this year at the age of 57, his fans spanned multiple generations and genres. Cause Magazine June 7, 1958 – April 21, 2016
The New York Times described him as "a man bursting with music — a wildly prolific songwriter, a virtuoso on guitars, keyboards and drums and a master architect of funk, rock, R&B and pop, even as his music defied genres." Prince always defied any kind of labels. He made it a point to shatter stereotypes on race and sexuality throughout his career. In addition to his unparalleled musical talent, he was also a dynamic performer, dancer, producer, actor and style icon. He was still a teenager when he was signed to Warner Bros. Records, in an unusual deal that included full creative control. He played virtually every instrument on his early recordings. With the 1984 film and album “Purple Rain,” he told a fictionalized version of his own story. In those days, a film about a young musician--let alone an African American one-- was a hard sell. The low budget film was a surprise blockbuster. The music also won him an Academy Award and the album sold more than 13 million copies in the United States alone. Cause Magazine
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Cause Magazine President Obama was also a fan and commented, “Few artists have influenced the sound and trajectory of popular music more distinctly, or touched quite so many people with their talent.” The public and many of his close friends did not know about his longtime philanthropic efforts and charitable contributions. He preferred to remain anonymous. In recent years, the artist worked with activist Van Jones on the organization Green for All, which creates green jobs in disadvantaged communities, and #YesWeCode, an organization that educates urban youth about technology. Prince also worked behind the scenes to raise awareness for movements such as Black Lives Matter and many others.
Cause Magazine The hardworking genius was constantly making music--right up until his death. Apparently, he left a huge vault of unreleased songs that could be enough to release a new album every year for the next century. He will be remembered for the music, his singular and eccentric style, his artistic integrity and how deeply he connected with fans and those that loved him throughout the years. The legacy of Prince and the music will live on.
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Cause Magazine
NMAAHC More than 100 years after it was originally proposed, the Smithsonian National Museum of African American History and Culture recently opened its doors in Washington, D.C. The National Museum of African American History and Culture is the only national museum devoted exclusively to the documentation of African American life, history, and culture. It was established by Act of Congress in 2003, following decades of efforts to promote and highlight the contributions of African Americans. To date, the Museum has collected more than 36,000 artifacts and nearly 100,000 individuals have become charter members. The Museum opened to the public on September 24, 2016, as the 19th and newest museum of the Smithsonian Institution. President Obama spoke during the dedication ceremony for the Smithsonian National Museum of African American History and Culture on the National Mall in Washington. During President Obama's remarks at the dedication ceremony, he explained how this important new museum can inspire all of us and shine a light on stories that are often overlooked in the history books. "This national museum helps to tell a richer and fuller story of who we are," Obama said. "It helps us better understand the lives of yes, the president, but also the slave. The industrialist but also the porter, the keeper of the status quo but also the activist seeking to overthrow that status quo." President Obama speaks during the dedication ceremony for the Smithsonian National Museum of African American History and Culture on the National Mall in Washington. Pablo Martinez Monsivais/AP National Museum of African American History Opens Its Doors
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Cause Magazine NMAAHC
Cause Magazine NMAAHC
Cause Magazine
Don Cornelius was a legend of broadcasting and pioneering entertainment mogul. He was the first black owner of a nationally syndicated TV franchise. The smooth, deep voiced host of "Soul Train" who helped break down racial barriers and broaden the reach of black culture with funky music, groovy dance steps and cutting-edge style, died on February 1st, 2012 of an apparent suicide. He was 75. People were saddened to hear that Don Cornelius was gone. Many of us grew up with him, tuning in every Saturday to watch him host "Soul Train" the "hippest trip in America." The show has been off the air since 2006, but almost everyone knows the brand and what it represents. In addition to hosting, Cornelius had also created and produced the show, getting it on the air and syndicated at a time when African-Americans were marginalized and stereotyped on television and when there were very few black entertainment ventures on a national level. Don was independent, cool, self-possessed and setting the tone for a new chapter in Cause Magazine Don Cornelius Engineer of the Soul Train black culture. He was right on the scene at a time that coincided with the Civil Rights Movement, “Black Power” and the 70’s “do your own thing” vibe. A radio news announcer by trade, Cornelius began moonlighting at WCIU-TV in Chicago in the late 1960s. While there, he had the idea of creating an African-American version of "American Bandstand," Dick Clark's influential music show, with live dancing five days a week. It wasn’t easy to get off the ground, but on August 17, 1970 the first episode of “Soul Train” premiered on the station, and by the following year, a weekly version was being syndicated in other urban markets. It soon spread all across the country and eventually became a crossover hit with white audiences as well. Through the years, it showcased many legendary artists including Diana Ross, Marvin Gaye and James Brown. It brought the best R&B, soul and (later) hip-hop acts to TV and had young people dance to them.
Actually, the kids became the stars of the show. Many of the dancers were notable, and they wound up influencing and teaching everyone from Michael Jackson all the way down to anyone who's ever sashayed down a "Soul Train" line at a party. Michael was even taught much of his signature "Moonwalk" by Jeffrey Daniels, one of the "Soul Train" dancers back in the day. One of the most unique things about the show was its style and flavor. In those days, everything on TV was homogenized and bland. But Don was smart enough to let the kids be themselves--often trying to outdo each other with outrageous moves, fashions and funky new styles. It was “must see TV,” a lifeline to what was really happening on the street back in those days before the Internet and the onset of 24/7 media pop culture. Crossing all racial boundaries, "Soul Train" would go on to become the longest-running nationally syndicated show in history, airing from 1971 through 2006. Cornelius held down the hosting duties for most of that run, before stepping away in 1993. He remained as the program's executive producer and expanded the brand into an annual awards show, “Soul Train Music Awards” and later on, the “Soul Train Lady of Soul Awards” and the “Soul Train Christmas Starfest.” Cornelius’ death prompted many to speak of the positive influence he and his show had on pop culture, music and the black community. "God bless him for the solid good and wholesome foundation he provided for young adults worldwide and the unity and brotherhood he singlehandedly brought about with his most memorable creation of `Soul Train,'" said Aretha Franklin, an early performer on the show. The Rev. Jesse Jackson told KNX-Los Angeles that Cornelius "was a transformer." Chairman and chief executive of Black Entertainment Television Debra Lee cited Cornelius as a personal role model. She said she used to finish her chores early on Saturday mornings so she could check out the latest music, fashions and dance moves on the show. "He was such a pioneer in the black music space but also in the black business space," she said. "He created the show in a very hostile environment. He made it a success and he made it a destination for African-Americans and lovers of our culture all over the country and all over the world.” Don Cornelius was born in Chicago's South Side on September 27, 1936, and raised in the Bronzeville neighborhood. Following his graduation from DuSable High School in 1954, he joined the United States Marine Corps and served 18 months in Korea. He worked at various jobs following his stint in the military, including selling tires, automobiles, and insurance, and as an officer with the Chicago Police Department. According to one story, he gave a ticket to a local radio announcer one day, and the man was so impressed with Don’s voice and manner, he suggested that he go into broadcasting. Soon Don quit his day job to take a three-month broadcasting course in 1966 despite being married with two sons and having only $400 in his bank account. Later that same year, he landed a job as a fill-in announcer, news reporter and disc jockey on Chicago radio station WVON. A couple of years later he switched to television and became a sports anchor. Inspired by the Civil Rights Movement, and his broadcasting work, Cornelius saw a need for shows directed at a black audience. He got the idea of a producing a local dance show aimed at black teenagers. He thought it would be fairly inexpensive and easy to do, especially with all the music industry connections he had made as a radio DJ and announcer. He pitched it to the local TV station heads and they liked the idea. Cause Magazine
Still, while the station owners allowed him to produce it, they stipulated that Cornelius would have to bankroll it. He started it with just a few hundred dollars and was the show’s host, producer, and salesman but he did not draw one cent from it until local advertisers began to recognize the program’s value and started signing on. The show premiered on August 17, 1970. As the show grew in popularity, Cornelius began thinking about national syndication. He approached the Johnson Products Co., the country’s leading black-owned company (makers of Afro-Sheen and other products), and they made the decision to advertise on the show along with Sears. Then in 1971, Cornelius moved his operations from the Windy City to Hollywood. Like Berry Gordy at Motown, he realized there would be more opportunity for his business in the entertainment capital. At the time, Dick Clark hosted “American Bandstand” and had no other real competitors until Cornelius made the scene with his lean and mean “Soul Train” machine. Even with a couple of solid advertising sponsors it wasn’t so easy to lay down the tracks for the “Soul Train” in uncharted territory. “There was not programming that targeted any particular ethnicity,” Cornelius said in 2006, then added: "I'm trying to use euphemisms here, trying to avoid saying there was no television for black folks, which they knew was [aimed] for them." Only a handful of stations initially were receptive."When we rolled it out, there were only eight takers," he recalled in a 2006 interview with The Associated Press. "Which was somewhere between a little disappointing and a whole lot disappointing." The reasons he heard? "There was just, `We don't want it. We pass,'" he said, with race going unmentioned. "No one was blatant enough to say that." The “Train" had pulled into the station at a time when the country was still reeling from the Civil Rights Movement, political upheaval and major cultural swings. A time when black faces on TV were still few and far between, let alone an entire program targeting that audience. Cornelius pushed on though, and slowly but surely began adding stations across the country as word spread about the show. Cause Magazine
Cause Magazine It turned out to be a great vehicle for the emerging “Black is Beautiful” ethos. Back then, just wearing your hair in a natural style was a bold socio-political and fashion statement. On Saturday mornings you could tune in to “Soul Train” and see a screen full of big Afros, platform shoes and studded denim as the kids boogied and shimmied to the music of the likes of James Brown, Earth Wind & Fire and other acts less likely to get on "American Bandstand." It was its own mini-revolution, bringing funk and soul to the television airwaves for the first time. Cornelius always made sure the show had solid production values and he did much to increase the hiring of black professionals in the entertainment business. That included everything from grips and gaffers to directors and cameramen. That growing behind-the-camera presence was just as important back in the day as the success of the show itself. On a recent VH-1 documentary about the show, Cornelius recounted the time that James Brown came on the show and was so impressed, he repeatedly asked, “Don, who’s backing you on this?”Cornelius told him, "It's just me, James. But the King of Soul could hardly believe it, and kept asking, "No really, brother, who's behind you on this?” In those days, even for a “Black Power” advocate it was hard to believe that a show like that could succeed on its own without any input from the white corporate power structure. With its great music and performances, “Soul Train” attracted a sizeable crossover audience as well, although it always remained true to its original vision. In the mid-seventies, the show even welcomed Elton John and David Bowie to perform on its stage. The show always had a regular and loyal audience, and it was able to adapt to the many changes in the music industry over its 35 year reign. Over the years, R&B, Soul, Funk, Disco, Hip Hop and Rap all had a stop on the line. Cornelius stepped down as "Soul Train" host in 1993 when he felt his dapper “old school” persona was no longer right for the changing and somewhat grittier times. The show carried on until 2006, but for many it was never quite the same without Don on the mike. He continued to produce the “Soul Train Music Awards” which always included an entertaining mix of
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