Fact Checks & Sources from this months Podcast because "Truth" matters!

This document provides sources for the historical claims made in the podcast script to ensure accuracy and provide listeners with a credible foundation.

Claim: "August is Black Philanthropy Month."

· Verification: This is correct. Black Philanthropy Month is a global celebration of giving and community investment within the Black community, celebrated annually in August.

· Source: City Teaching Alliance, "Give 8/28 and Black Philanthropy Month."

Claim: "Our story in America... began in August 1619 with the arrival of the first enslaved Africans in Virginia."

· Verification: This is correct. The first documented arrival of enslaved Africans in Virginia occurred in late August 1619 at Point Comfort.

· Source: National Park Service, "First Africans in Virginia Marker."

Claim: "This spirit of resistance shows up again and again in August. From Nat Turner's rebellion in 1831..."

· Verification: This is correct.

· Source: Encyclopedia Virginia, "Nat Turner's Revolt (1831)."

Claim: "...to Emancipation Day in 1834..."

· Verification: This is correct. The Slavery Abolition Act of 1833 came into effect on August 1, 1834, leading many former British colonies to celebrate Emancipation Day on that date.

· Source: British Online Archives, "Emancipation Day."

Claim: "The tragic murder of 14-year-old Emmett Till in August 1955 became a turning point..."

· Verification: This is correct.

· Source: The FBI's official page on "Emmett Till."

Claim: "...the March on Washington in August 1963, where a quarter of a million people spoke with one voice..."

· Verification: This is correct.

· Source: National Park Service, "March on Washington for Jobs and Freedom."

Claim: "This movement's victories continued in August 1965 with the signing of the Voting Rights Act."

· Verification: This is correct. President Lyndon B. Johnson signed the Voting Rights Act of 1965 into law on August 6, 1965.

· Source: U.S. Senate, "The Senate Passes the Voting Rights Act."

Claim: "The Watts Uprising in August 1965..."

· Verification: This is correct.

· Source: Britannica, "Watts Riots of 1965."

Claim: "...the session of black panther George Jackson in prison was another tragic reminder of the ongoing struggle for freedom and justice."

· Verification: The date is correct.

· Source: Black Lives Matter, "The Legacy of George Jackson."

Today, we're going to talk about why creating a space for our shared experiences is not just important--it's a revolutionary act of self-care. We'll explore how our virtual community support network is addressing the mental health crisis affecting our community and creating a safe space for us to thrive.

This is precisely why "Talk Black & Give Back" created our Virtual Community Support Network. We recognized that before anyone even gets to a clinic, they need a safe place to land. A place to talk, to listen, and to see themselves in others' stories. We wanted to create a first step--or for some, the only step they feel ready to take. A space that is ours, built by us, for us.

We believe that healing begins with connection. It begins when you share a struggle and someone else says, "Me too." That "me too" moment is powerful and life-changing. It dissolves shame, it builds bonds, and it reminds us that we are not alone in this journey.

Join us. Become a member of our organization and our virtual support network. You can find all the information on our website at https://talkblackgiveback.org/. If you have skills as a coach, mentor, licensed therapist, psychologist, social worker, or psychiatrist, and are looking to volunteer your time and be a resource to our community, reach out to us!

Welcome, welcome, welcome to "Echoes of Freedom," a special Juneteenth edition brought to you by Talk Black & Give Back! I'm your host, Jennifer Nickerson-Turner, and today, we're diving deep into the heart of Juneteenth, exploring its profound meaning of freedom, the rich heritage it celebrates, and the vibrant traditions that make it a day of true liberation. Our focus today? The foundational year of 1865 and the powerful truth it unfolds.

Juneteenth. The name itself is a blend of "June" and "nineteenth," but its significance transcends those syllables. It's the oldest nationally celebrated commemoration of the ending of slavery in the United States. Many of us know the Emancipation Proclamation was issued by President Abraham Lincoln on January 1, 1863, declaring enslaved people in Confederate states free. But here's the crucial fact that anchors Juneteenth: that freedom wasn't immediate, nor was it universal.

Imagine, if you will, the vastness of the Confederacy, the chaos of war, and the deliberate withholding of information. Even after the Emancipation Proclamation, enslaved people in many areas remained in bondage, often because the Union Army hadn't yet arrived to enforce the decree. Texas, in particular, became a final stronghold for slavery. It was a place where enslavers from other states often fled with their human property, believing they were beyond the reach of Union forces.

This deliberate suppression of information allowed slavery to continue for nearly two and a half years after the Emancipation Proclamation.

At Talk Black & Give Back, we believe in the power of giving, not just monetarily, but through sharing knowledge, amplifying voices, and uplifting our communities. Juneteenth embodies that spirit of collective uplift. It's a day to reflect on the past, acknowledge the struggles, and celebrate the triumphs. It’s a day to recommit to the ongoing work of justice and equality, because as many say, "We're not all the way free, but we ain't where we used to be either."

This month, our call to action is to encourage you to seek out Juneteenth celebrations in your communities. Learn more about the history of this holiday, support Black-owned businesses, engage in meaningful conversations, and honor the legacy of freedom.

Until next episode, we love you and take good care!

Welcome back to Talk Black & Give Back! I am your host, Jennifer Nickerson-Turner. Today, we're diving into a project that's incredibly close to my heart, one that's designed to uplift, empower, and ignite a wave of prosperity right here in our community. We're talking about our very own Black Business Directory, The Black Pages.

Have you ever wanted to support Black-owned businesses but struggled to find them? Or perhaps you're a Black entrepreneur feeling unseen, unheard, and looking for a dedicated platform? Well, you're in the right place, because we have built that bridge. We've created a central hub, a digital meeting place, where Black businesses can connect with consumers who are eager to support them.

This podcast is divided into a few points... Our Vision behind the directory, why you should list your business, and a call to action.

In every podcast, you will be challenged with a call to action because, without action, we are just flapping our lips! Sign up your business for FREE by visiting https://talkblackgiveback.org. Click on Directory at the top of the page. Then, click on our Talk Black & Give Back icon. Add your business today!

Welcome back to Talk Black & Give Back. I'm your host, Jennifer Nickerson-Turner. As we move through April, we're focusing on National Minority Health Month. This year's vital theme, "Advancing Commitments to Eliminate Health Disparities," calls us to directly address the persistent and unacceptable differences in health outcomes experienced by minority groups in the United States, and especially within our Black community.

Understanding these disparities requires us to acknowledge their deep and troubling roots in historic and systemic inequities, a legacy that continues to shape our present. These aren't just random occurrences; they are deeply interwoven with ongoing social injustices, economic disadvantages, and environmental inequalities that have consistently acted as significant barriers to achieving true health equity for Black individuals and communities. Today, we'll dive into the complex ways these factors intersect and begin to explore meaningful paths forward to bridge some of the gaps and build a healthier future for us all.

Now, for those of you who say there are no inequities or economic disadvantages in health care, let’s take a quick look at some of the FACTS…

There are significant areas where health disparities are evident, such as cardiovascular disease, diabetes, cancer, maternal mortality, and mental health.

The mental health and well-being of Black Americans are overwhelmingly impacted by the relentless burden of economic disadvantages, social injustices, and systemic inequalities. 1 These persistent stressors create a chronic state of stress, eroding mental resilience and significantly increasing the risk of anxiety, depression, and other mental health challenges within the community. The evidence linking racism to health disparities is expanding rapidly. A variety of both general and disease-specific mechanisms have been identified that link racism to outcomes in mental health, cardiovascular disease, birth defects, and other outcomes (Paradies, 2006a; Pascoe and Smart Richman, 2009; Shavers et al., 2012; Williams and Mohammed, 2009).

It's crucial to understand that these injustices, disadvantages, and inequalities are interconnected and often compound each other, creating a significant burden on the health and wellness of the Black community.

Our Call for Commitment and Action

Talk Black and Give Back is actively addressing some of the multifaceted health disparities within our community through impactful initiatives. Our Housing Community Project directly tackles social and economic inequalities by reducing barriers to homeownership for lower-income individuals, fostering stability, and improving overall well-being. Simultaneously, our Free Mental Health Network provides crucial and accessible support, offering mentorship, coaching, and volunteer assistance to alleviate stress often stemming from systemic inequities. Recognizing the vital link between education and mental health, our Free Virtual After-School Tutoring Program further strengthens our community by supporting children's learning needs, ultimately contributing to improved mental and emotional well-being for families. Together, these programs represent our commitment to creating a healthier, more equitable future for the Black community by addressing fundamental social, economic, and mental health needs.

Welcome to Talk Black & Give Back, where we believe community is the foundation of wellness. I'm your host, Jennifer Nickerson-Turner, and today, we're diving into the power of connection and how, together, we can thrive and support one another.

Our virtual network is designed to be a safe haven. Here, you will find coaches, mentors, and volunteers who are ready to listen without judgment. We're not licensed therapists, but we are a community of caring individuals who understand the importance of having someone to talk to.

If you're looking for a supportive community, 100% FREE, we invite you to join us at Talk Black & Give Back. You are not alone. We are here to listen, to encourage, and to help you build a life of wellness.

Check out our website at www.talkblackgiveback.org and thank you for joining us today. Remember, you are valued, you are heard, and you are part of a community that loves you. Until next time, take good care.

***I'm unsure why my music didn't play, but remember that I, too, am a work in progress! We are going to get better. Listen to Black Violin on your own time! **

I DO NOT OWN THE RIGHTS TO THE MUSIC IN THIS PODCAST -- Wake Up Everybody!

Host: Welcome, everyone, to Talk Black & Give Back. This month, we dedicate our time to honoring Black History Month, a time to reflect on the legacy of resilience, strength, and sacrifice that has shaped our community and our nation. Today, we're focusing on the unwavering commitment of those who gave their lives to build a better future for Black people, and the ongoing struggle for true equality.

We begin with Medgar Evers. A name that echoes with courage and profound sacrifice. Medgar Evers, a World War II veteran, dedicated his life to the fight for civil rights in Mississippi. He understood that the battleground was not just in the halls of power, but in the hearts and minds of everyday people. He registered voters, organized boycotts, and investigated acts of violence against Black citizens. His work was dangerous, but he never wavered.

Clip: https://www.youtube.com/shorts/RSeTX1Di6Mw?feature=share

Host: On June 12, 1963, Medgar Evers was assassinated in his own driveway, a brutal act of violence intended to silence his voice. But his death did not silence the movement. Instead, it fueled the fire, igniting a national outrage and strengthening the resolve of those fighting for justice. Medgar Evers’ sacrifice reminds us that freedom is not free. It is bought with the blood, sweat, and tears of those who dare to dream of a better world.

Medgar Evers was not alone. He stands alongside countless other Black ancestors who gave their lives in the pursuit of justice. From the nameless victims of lynchings to the leaders who stood on the front lines, their sacrifices paved the way for the progress we've made. We remember those who fought for the right to vote, to attend integrated schools, to simply exist without fear. We honor their memory by continuing the fight.

(Pause for reflection)

Host: And as we reflect on these sacrifices, we must also address the ongoing struggle for equality. We are still fighting for basic rights, for dignity, for a society that truly values Black lives. James Baldwin, a brilliant writer and social critic, once said, "We can disagree and still love each other unless your disagreement is rooted in my oppression and denial of my humanity and right to exist."

Clip: https://www.youtube.com/shorts/-FRoUYahZTY?feature=share

Host: Baldwin’s words resonate deeply. We believe in love, in unity, in the power of community. But we are tired. Tired of having to justify our existence, tired of fighting for the same rights our ancestors fought for decades ago. We love everyone, but we are simply exhausted from the constant battle for basic rights.

It is time to reap what our ancestors have sown. They planted seeds of hope, of resilience, of unwavering belief in a better future. We must cultivate those seeds, nurture them, and bring forth a harvest of justice and equality. This is not just about the past; it's about the present and the future. We must continue to dismantle systemic racism, to challenge injustice, and to create a world where all Black people can thrive.

Let's honor the legacy of Medgar Evers and all our ancestors by committing to action. Let's register voters, support Black-owned businesses, advocate for policy changes, and amplify the voices of those who are still fighting for justice.

Let's continue to honor Black History Month all year long, by making history ourselves. Until next time, stay strong, stay united, and keep fighting for justice.

• Focus: Go beyond medical treatment to address the broader social and emotional factors impacting the well-being of Black individuals that lead to heart disease.

Heart disease disproportionately affects certain racial and ethnic groups in the United States. Here's a breakdown:

• Black Americans: (Data comes directly from the Cleveland Clinic) retrieved from: https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/articles/23051-ethnicity-and-heart-disease
• Have higher rates of high blood pressure, stroke, and heart failure compared to white Americans. 1
  • 59% of Black adults have hypertension. This is the highest prevalence among all racial and ethnic groups.
  • Black women are twice as likely as white women to develop chronic hypertension during pregnancy which raises a person’s risk for cardiovascular disease down the road.
  • Black adults are more likely than white adults to have organ damage caused by hypertension. As a result, we are four times more likely to experience end-stage kidney disease.
  • Black adults are more likely than white adults to die from hypertension and related diseases.

• Subtopics:
  • Mental health and stress management: The impact of stress, anxiety, and depression on heart health.
  • Social support and community building: The role of community support groups and peer-to-peer mentorship.
  • Addressing the social determinants of health:
  • For example, Black Americans who lack insurance are more likely to have unmanaged hypertension. And people who face discrimination have higher blood pressure.
• Women's Heart Community Event will be held on Friday, February 7, 2025, from 8 am- 1 pm. Scan the QR code or visit www.conehealth.com/communityheart to register.

As we say goodbye to 2024, let's take a moment to reflect on the past year and consciously choose to leave behind anything that didn't serve us. Let go of negativity, doubt, and fear.

In 2025, let's embrace positivity, encouragement, and the power of our collective voices. Let's uplift each other, celebrate our successes, and support one another on our journeys of growth, building community, and self-discovery.

#TalkBlackAndGiveBack #NewYearNewBeginnings #Empowerment #Community #BlackExcellence #LeaveThePastBehind #2025Vision

Talk Black & Give Back Followers are encouraged to enhance this post by:

• Adding a relevant quote: Include an inspiring quote about new beginnings or personal growth.
• Sharing a personal reflection: Briefly share a positive experience or a lesson learned in 2024 and how you plan to carry that forward.
• Including a call to action: Our followers are encouraged to share their own intentions for the new year or to support a cause they believe in. Let us know how we can help or if you would like to volunteer in one of our upcoming projects!

I hope this post helps you spread positivity and encouragement not only within the Talk Black and Give Back community but all of our communities as we move into the new year!

On behalf of all volunteers and staff at Talk Black & Give Back, I would like to express our heartfelt gratitude to everyone who participated in our annual Christmas gift-giving event.

A special thank you to all the wonderful "elves" who volunteered their time and spirits to bring joy and cheer to those who may not have otherwise been able to experience the Christmas spirit at Compass Healthcare & Rehab fully. Your generosity and kindness truly brightened the holiday season for over 110 residents. We were able to give about 10 items per gift bag including, socks, gloves, activity books, Kleenex, disposable washcloths, hand sanitizer, candy canes, etc. We were also able to gift several baby dolls to the nursing home, compliments of a special angel from the Dollar Store.

We are incredibly grateful for your support and wish you all a joyous holiday season filled with peace, love, and happiness.

Now, going into 2025, let’s strive to cultivate a life of gratitude, peace, and joy. Let’s consciously release all that no longer serves my highest good – negativity, anger, hate, greed, and the lingering hurt of the past to embrace new beginnings with open arms and a heart full of love and compassion. Let’s reflect on the person in the mirror to be the best people we can be.

Going into the New Year, visit us at www.talkblackgiveback.org. Plan to volunteer your time to help others in need. If not with us, that’s okay but find your own way to make a difference in the lives of those around you.

We will be back online for a full episode in January 2025. Until then, take good care and be well!