Category: Diversity

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Diversity Topic

What Right Do You Have to Be A Woman?

Photo by Gayatri Malhotra on Unsplash

Correct me if I’m wrong but, we are in the year 2022? And this is the United States? This is not a country that discourages women to educate themselves, right? Is anyone listening?!

So, why is there this controversy about a woman’s right to have an abortion? There should be no question about a woman having the right and freedom to choose what she does with her body. Abortion rights should not be in the hands of government. How did we get here as a country?

Past and Present

Well, let’s see… Women have not always had the same freedoms and privileges as their male counterparts. The 19th amendment gave women the right to vote. Playing sports for women came around the year 1920. Women were finally made a part of the military in the year 1948. Some countries still try to block women from getting an education. Also, women make less money than men and are just as, or more qualified for the same job. Why is that?

Why are women’s rights being rationed and then stripped away? It is not fair that we are regulated in this way. Where is the gender equality? We have brains just like men and are capable of thinking for ourselves. No, we don’t have the brute physical strength of men, but we have made a lot of strides and impactful progress in the world!

Inequality Today

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A woman should have the basic human right to decide what she does with her body. If she becomes pregnant, she should not have to resort to unsafe, unhealthy and dangerous solutions in an attempt to abort the pregnancy: if she so chooses. The choice to either carry a pregnancy to term or abort it, no matter the reason, should be that woman’s choice.

Not some government!

Everyone has their opinion as to whether abortion is right or wrong. Whether it is right or wrong as it relates to religion. Whether it is the right economical choice. Is it right morally? Whether it is right or wrong physically. Whether it is right or wrong mentally. Such a decision when it relates to abortion is a deeply personal one. It is between that woman and her maker.

Not some government!

No matter what the law is in your state, the Emergency Medical Treatment and Active Labor Act (EMTALA) can override the local state law for emergency purposes. It is a protection for any provider who may perform an abortion. The original premise of the EMTALA was to provide treatment to everyone regardless of their ability to pay. This enabled people to receive care and not be turned away.

Why Now?

The Roe vs Wade decision has been overturned. Why now after so many years has this happened? It makes no sense. This decision is going to impact a lot of people all over the world. We are dealing with so many other issues and now this is another concern.

Women are valuable human beings but are being treated like we are incapable of making our own decisions.  The overturning of Roe vs Wade complicates so many things for so many people.  This world will face overpopulation and poverty levels are going to rise.  Sadly, some women will lose their lives because they are carrying a pregnancy that might be medically dangerous.  Other women will die trying to have a procedure done in unsafe ways.

Some women may not be able to seek emergency abortion care under the protection of EMTALA.  The decision to overturn Roe vs Wade was not made with the well-being or best interest of women in mind.  “The powers that be”, aka “the government”, sit around and make decisions for an entire group of people. Making decisions without any thought of how it will affect not only their family, but families all over the world. 

Think About This

Photo by Gayatri Malhotra on Unsplash

Currently, families are struggling financially to put food on the table, and clothes on their backs. Struggling to gas up their cars.  Stressing about the cost of housing and wondering if they will make next month’s rent or mortgage.  Now, add to it the number of women who are stripped of a fundamental human right to choose what to do with their own bodies.  Now, you tell me what is wrong with this picture!!

We have a lot of work to do in this country.  Gender equality should not be up for debate.  Yes, we are women. No, we are not trying to assume the roles of men but just want to be treated fairly. We want our voice to be heard.  Not forced into something that “some government” told us we have to do under the law.  It just begs the question, what right do you have to be a woman?

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Diversity Info Topic

Latifah and Shaq Putting Newark on the Map

Image by Bruce Emmerling from Pixabay

Big ups to Queen Latifah and Shaquille O’Neal for their efforts with affordable housing in Newark, New Jersey. This is much needed in the Newark and surrounding areas. I know families who live there are grateful to have housing that is not breaking their pocket.

People who love their community should not feel pressured to leave because it costs too much to live in the area. A lack of resources can put a strain on the pockets of many. Newark has definitely changed over the years. You can see some revitalization happening in different parts of the city. It is nice to see.

Queen Latifah’s Project

Affordable units called Rita Gardens will be available and are located at 650 Springfield Avenue, Newark, NJ. Springfield Avenue is one of the major streets that continues into neighboring cities like Irvington, Maplewood, Union, Springfield, Vaux Hall and towards Jersey City going in the opposite direction. An electric car charging station, business center and fitness center are some of the amenities you will find. There will be market priced units in addition to the affordable units made available.

Shaquille O’Neal’s Project

777 McCarter Highway is a project underway, close to Newark Penn Station. This will be a mixed residential property with 20% of the units affordably priced. This high-rise property will feature an indoor pool, roof top lounge, a gym and concierge service. Space for retail businesses will also be available at this location.

What a great effort by Queen Latifah and Shaquille O’Neal! It goes to show what is possible by teaming up with others who are passionate about the communities they grew up in. Newark is steadily changing, and it seems to be moving in the right direction. Thank you to Queen Latifah, Shaquille O’Neal and all the partners and investors who are making this possible for the community in Newark, New Jersey!

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Diversity Topic

Light or Dark Skin. What’s In a Complexion?

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Black people come in a myriad of different skin tones. Due to this, some are discriminated against because they are either too light or too dark to be Black. This discrimination happens within our own community, as well as, by people outside of the Black race. That’s the sad part about it.

Light Skin

Light Skinned Complexion
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If you are Black and are of a lighter complexion, people think that you are conceited. Some people say that you think you are, “all-that” and that you think you are better than other Black people who have a darker skin tone. While some light skinned people do act that way and fit the description, it is not because of the color of their skin. I attribute those characteristics to the individual person and not their complexion. Just note, that there are darker skinned Black people who possess the same traits. They think they are better than other Black people and there are some who are conceited too.

A perception exists that lighter skinned people are smarter, have more privileges and are more successful than darker skinned people. Being of a lighter complexion leads some people to say that you are not, “black enough”. Just based on your skin tone. Also, there is this kind of acceptance that some people seek just to prove their, “blackness”. This backward thinking is a part of what’s wrong with the world today. It goes back so many years and you would think in the year 2022, we would have progressed.

A person’s success in life depends on the efforts of that individual and not some unfounded belief that it is because they are light skinned. The world is so focused on outward appearance. Nowadays, people don’t take the time to see what others are truly made of and who they are beyond their skin tone.

We can’t help how we were made, and we were made the way we are for a reason. It is no excuse to call people names and insult them because they are not the same complexion as you. Light skinned people have been called derogatory names like red bone, high yellow, light skin, and pale face, just to name a few.

Dark Skin

Dark Skinned Complexion
Photo by Meghan Holmes on Unsplash

Being a Black person and having a dark skin tone comes with some negative preconceptions too. People think that if you are dark skinned that you are unintelligent, unsuccessful and not attractive. Again, this is so superficial and another stereotype that needs to be broken. Some people with a dark skinned complexion feel the need to compete with light skinned people. Meaning, that some women go to the extreme of bleaching their skin. I attribute this to the pressures of society to fit some unrealistic mold.

Darker skinned people are just as smart, beautiful, and successful as people of lighter skin tones. It can be hard for some to truly believe this when everyday someone tries to make them feel otherwise. We have to erase the color lines and lift each other up. It is so unfair to judge someone by their complexion before getting to know them. People of darker skin tones get labeled as, “too ethnic” and are passed up for certain career opportunities.

Some negative names that dark-skinned women have been called are jigaboo, darkie, black and burnt. Imagine what this does to a person’s psyche. There are many more derogatory names that people of both light and dark skin tones are called but this is just the abbreviated version. I truly believe that you should not navigate your life based on what other’s think of you. Pave your own way and don’t worry about people’s opinion.

Takeaway

Your complexion should not influence how far you go in life. My advice is to believe in yourself and go for what you want in life. It’s okay if you get passed up for an opportunity. That means it wasn’t for you and there is something else out there. Keep going! Do not be discouraged! It’s hard enough out here being judged by the masses. Why are we being judged by our own too? Let’s embrace each other and help each other out.

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Can You Answer This? Name an inspirational woman still alive today.

Who is your inspiration?

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March is Women’s History Month and with that in mind, what woman would you say is an inspiration to you?

I’m going to be a little biased in my answer. My mother inspires me. She is understanding, kind, and strong. The love that she has shown over the years is why she inspires me. Just the lessons that she has taught me growing up and watching how she conducts herself. She has taught me a lot and her wisdom has shaped me into the woman I am today.

There are a lot of women who inspire me but too many to name. They have set an example of what is possible. I have highlighted a few.

Kamala Harris

Vice President of the United States. She is the first woman VP, also the first African American woman and South Asian woman to hold this office. If you have political aspirations, just look at what she has achieved. And know that it is possible for you too.

Serena Williams

Tennis star who started at a young age. She kept on keeping on even when people doubted her abilities. She speaks out about gender pay equality and racial equality as well. Her fearlessness is an inspiration to me.

Simone Biles

Gymnast who has won numerous world championship gold medals. Outside of her athletic abilities, she has partnered with Mattress Firm Foster Kids. This is a charity that helps kids in foster care. Simone Biles, in spite of being diagnosed with ADHD was able to persevere. Just goes to show that we all have something to deal with in life, but we must not let it hold us back.

Michelle Obama

Former First Lady. She is not afraid to let her truth show, even with the country watching her under a microscope. Also, her mission to help prevent obesity in children. Her initiative, Let’s Move focuses on physical activity and healthy eating in an effort to fight childhood obesity. Our children are the future, so what a better way to ensure that they grow up healthy.

Oprah Winfrey

Business woman, humanitarian and philanthropist. She implemented a school in South Africa for girls. She has won 2 humanitarian awards in 2002 and 2011. Oprah Winfrey has influenced people all over the world with her talk show and her various projects in show business.

Look at the wonderful things that women of the world can achieve!! Who would you name as your inspiration?

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Diversity Topic

International Women’s Day

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International Women’s Day Audio

March 8, 2022 is International Women’s Day. This month is also Women’s History Month. Let’s celebrate each other ladies!! What a wonderful way to truly bring light to women all over the world. Oftentimes, we do not get the recognition that we deserve. We are women, mothers, wives, business owners, providers, educators, nurturers and then some.

Sometimes we are overlooked for certain career opportunities. We are paid less than men, but we are just as valuable. We contribute as many ideas, hours and truly bring value to the workplace. Women are often seen as the “weaker” sex. I’m here to tell you that nothing can be further from the truth. We are just as capable as men in the world.

Even though we are nurturers we also hold our own in many, many ways. We wear many hats and are stronger than we look; both mentally and physically. Don’t judge a book by its cover. Don’t sleep on us because we look a certain way. Women have the capability to adapt to situations and rise above adversities in life.

I encourage every woman to let their light shine and don’t be afraid to stand tall and DO YOU!! Don’t dumb it down just so that everyone around you can feel comfortable. No, be YOU in all your glory, beauty and brains!

We have a lot to offer and that is why as women we need to continue to lift each other up. Not just in times of need but in every way that we can. You never know who you can encourage and lift up just by your kind words, smile and advice.

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Diversity Topic

Black History in America

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Black history month is almost over but that doesn’t mean that we stop making history. This is America; after all. Just because it’s almost March does not mean we stop remembering the contributions made by the black community. After the month of February we are still here and doing great things. Black history should be remembered and celebrated all year long.

Being African American, Black, Afro-Latino, Black American, American or however you identify yourself comes with great responsibility. I’m talking about having to work twice as hard and prove yourself worthy just for a seat at the table. Let’s be clear; we belong at the table! Unfortunately, not everyone sees it that way. I’m talking about showing up and making sure that you don’t give people a reason to doubt who you are as a productive member of society.

I’m talking about making sure that as a black woman or black man you make people notice you and make your presence known. Stand up for what you believe in and make a difference. In doing so, you may not get recognition or a pat on the back. Don’t expect it because it’s not about that. You are using your gifts. That is satisfaction in itself. When you can say that you are holding your own in this world called America, that is enough.

We have done, are doing and will continue to do things that impact all people in a positive way. Not just the black community but the world as a whole benefits from the sacrifices and efforts made by the countless number of African Americans.

Image by OpenClipart-Vectors from Pixabay
Photo by Mick Haupt on Unsplash

Powerful black leaders and contributors

Harriet Tubman- She roughed it and helped so many out of enslavement. The Underground Railroad is how she helped a lot of people escape slavery. It was not an actual train but called underground due to the secrecy of the help she received along the way. Hidden compartments and secret hiding places is how she was able to make her escape and help others get away. Harriet Tubman braved the dangers for the betterment of black people. She was a soldier and very brave for what she did.

Malcolm X- By any means necessary! Does that sound familiar? If you have seen or heard him in action then you know he had a no-nonsense approach to the disparities going on at the time. He was not afraid to use a little muscle and manpower to get the job done. Malcolm X was a pillar of the Muslim community and fought for civil rights of his time.

Barack Obama- The 44th President of the United States of America. First African American president of the USA. This was not his first involvement in politics. He was also the senator of Illinois. During his presidency, Osama Bin Laden was located and killed. A terrorist who was on the run for many years. Also, President Obama turned the financial crisis around during his time in office. He brought back the troops from Iraq. Families were able to reunite. Unemployment numbers dropped also while he was in office. He helped businesses open up again and put people back to work. He truly believed his saying that, “yes we can”.

Martin Luther King, Jr- Dr. King who was also a prominent figure for civil rights, helped pave the way for so many. He had a non-violent approach in the way he handled things. Racial inequality, economic justice, voting rights were some of the things he fought for. It was Dr. King that said, “injustice anywhere is a threat to justice everywhere”.

James Edward Maceo West- It was his childhood fascination with taking things apart and then putting them back together, that later gave birth to his invention of the foil style microphone. In 1999 he was inducted into the Inventors Hall of Fame for the electret microphone. The technology used for the electret microphone can also be found in everyday items such as, telephones, camcorders, computers, hearing aids and other electronics.

Madam CJ Walker- She was the first black self-made millionaire in America. Hair care products is how she accomplished her success. Some of the money she made from her hair care products was given back to the community. She donated money for scholarships for women at Tuskegee Institute. Also, she donated money to various other charities.

Black History in America

Entrepreneurs, inventors, civil rights leaders and activists, freedom fighters are just a few who can be attributed to African Americans. As you can see, we have made strides in this country and will continue to do so in order for future generations to continue the legacy of black history in America.

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Diversity Topic

Martin Luther King, Jr.

Martin Luther King, Jr. was born on January 15, 1929. He was a very influential Black, civil rights activist. and minister. One of the things he was known for is the, I Have a Dream speech which he recited on August 28, 1963. He gave this speech at the March on Washington in D.C. This speech was a call to end racism and for civil and economic rights. His non-violent approach is something he was also known for, which was due to his Christian beliefs.

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The Montgomery Bus Boycott was to his credit also. This boycott lasted for a little over a year and started in 1955. Rosa Parks was arrested during the boycott for not giving up her seat to a white person. This boycott came about in Montgomery, Alabama because of racial segregation on the public transit system. Black people had to sit in the back of the bus.

  • In October 1964, he won the Nobel Peace Prize. He was the youngest person to receive this honor.
  • On April 4, 1968 he was assassinated in Memphis, Tennessee. Riots ensued after he was killed in cities all around the United States.
  • Martin Luther King, Jr. is the only non-president to have a national holiday.
  • In 1986 his birthday was observed in the United States as a federal holiday. Even though various states established his holiday as early as the year 1971.

Martin Luther King, Jr. positively changed the lives of African Americans, not only in his time but in many years after his death. People no longer have to sit in separate sections on the bus or drink from separate water fountains. He had a talent for bringing people together for a common goal. He was responsible for the Civil Rights Act and the Voting Rights Act, just to name a few.

King has afforded, not only African Americans, but also the world as a whole with a lot of advantages that we might not have otherwise known today. His tireless efforts to protest and fight for equality and rights has truly paid off. We still have a long way to go in society but some progress has been made.

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Diversity Topic

Three Kings Day

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Today, January 6th is Three Kings Day! Today is also known as Epiphany or El Día de Reyes. I just want to take a minute to recognize today since I am Boricua too. Although, I am still learning about the traditions of this holiday. I have my Titi in Puerto Rico to thank for keeping me up to date with the culture. This day marks the end of the Christmas holiday celebrations. Three Kings Day is celebrated in Mexico, Spain, Puerto Rico, Argentina and Peru, just to name a few.

As you can imagine, the celebrations involve family. It also involves gifts for the children. During this holiday some traditional dishes are arroz con gandules, pasteles, and roasted pork. Add to that, Puerto Rican eggnog which is called Coquito (little coconut). Another tradition is caroling (parrandas) while singing aguinaldos or Christmas songs. Some musical instruments used during a parranda are maracas, guitar, cuatros and guiros. Wepa!

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Diversity

Diversity means so many different things to different people. It could relate to gender, race, music, food, people or any number of things. When I think of diversity it brings to mind my childhood. I grew up in a very culturally diverse neighborhood. Living in close proximity, going to school and having friends of different cultures and races has afforded me a greater appreciation for people and life in general.

Imagine living in a place where there are people who are from Africa, Puerto Rico, Greece, Haiti, India, Poland, and a host of other places; you learn a lot. It taught me that even though someone is not the same as me, we can still be friends and live in the same neighborhood. Just because someone does not look like me, dress like me and they don’t have the same beliefs does not make them less than. Despite our cultural differences, we still have some things in common. If we just took the time to get to know people from other cultures we begin to see a lot of things that we may not have known.

We open many doors when we see things from another person’s point of view. Most of us can say that we are a product of our environment. We learn what we see and hear in our everyday surroundings. If you dare to go outside of that, people think that you have sold out and are not down.

In my opinion, diversity means acceptance and understanding. When we accept that everyone is different we have a better understanding of how the world works. Today I focused on diversity as it relates to people. I will explore other types of diversity in a later post. I challenge you to learn something new about a different ethnic group or person.

What does diversity mean to you?

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