tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-23136249623340553562012-02-03T19:37:53.594-08:00The Black Hourhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15875864200385480607noreply@blogger.comBlogger5121100tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2313624962334055356.post-30493303176032365652012-02-03T19:15:00.000-08:002012-02-03T19:37:53.609-08:00

Listing of Black History Month events taking place Wednesday, February 1 to Saturday, February 4. If you have an event you would like posted to the calendar, email theblackhour (at) gmail (dot) com.WEDNESDAY, FEBRUARY 1"African Americans in Education"6-8pm, Unit 1, Cheney Main Lounge, UC Berkeley Residential HousingWhat is wrong with education in Black communities??? But most importantly, what

Reginald Jameshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12628705188318732608noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2313624962334055356.post-74951676781848638672011-12-18T11:47:00.000-08:002011-12-18T12:06:14.452-08:00

On December 11, an anti-death penalty summit was held at Laney College in Oakland. The program focused on Mumia Abu Jamal, the recently executed Troy Davis, Stanley "Tookie" Williams, and current inmate Kevin Cooper. Ramona Africa of the MOVE organization speaks out for freedom for her friend Mumia Abu Jamal.Abu Jamal has been on death row for 30 years for the shooting of a Philadelphia police

The Black Hourhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15875864200385480607noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2313624962334055356.post-1723533736154654532011-12-07T10:39:00.000-08:002011-12-08T10:51:47.595-08:00

On Monday December 12, Occupy Oakland is joining with the anti-Wall Street Movements along the entire U.S. West Coast to shut down the ports.During the November 2 General Strike, Occupy Oakland had tens of thousands in the streets, including thousands blockading the Port of Oakland."The ports play a pivotal role in the flow and growth of capital for the 1% in this country and internationally. For

Reginald Jameshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12628705188318732608noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2313624962334055356.post-68741386037401873582011-11-28T09:56:00.000-08:002011-12-09T12:54:38.793-08:00

The African Arts Society event, "The Showcase," took place November 20. The event featured fashion, poetry, dance and musical stylings of UC Berkeley students. Photos by Reginald James.

Reginald Jameshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12628705188318732608noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2313624962334055356.post-48073056185538610452011-11-18T18:27:00.000-08:002011-11-18T18:30:34.304-08:00

"Who is the '99'?" "We are the 99!"So goes the rallying cry at Occupy Wall Street demonstrations throughout the nation. But what do those numbers really mean? The UK Guardian explores the data about wealth inequality and concentration and the United States. The real questions may be: What does it mean that the rich get richer? And what will it take to change this system?

Reginald Jameshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12628705188318732608noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2313624962334055356.post-25100888958508335952011-10-27T11:43:00.000-07:002011-11-19T11:45:03.878-08:00

http://oaklandlocal.com/posts/2011/10/police-teargas-protesters-oaklandHundreds of protesters who took to the streets to protest Tuesday's pre-dawn raid of the downtown Occupy Oakland encampment were met with tear gas and flash bangs from police.The protest began at a 4 p.m. at the Main Library near Lake Merritt. Protesters marched in the street down 12th Street to Broadway. Protesters then made

Reginald Jameshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12628705188318732608noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2313624962334055356.post-65803930172445752872011-10-09T20:53:00.000-07:002011-12-08T09:01:46.497-08:00

Sixth annual Ready to Learn Fun Fair held at Peralta Elementary SchoolBooks, Face painting, Storytelling and Robotics. These are a few of the activities at the 6th Annual Ready to Learn Fun Fair held on October 1 at Peralta Elementary School in North Oakland.Clifford the Big Red Dog was a crowd favorite.Buki the Clown returned with a new friend this year: Oliver the Clown. The two clowns did face

Reginald Jameshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12628705188318732608noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2313624962334055356.post-32573481575488364512011-09-26T20:51:00.000-07:002011-12-08T09:35:47.137-08:00

Protest Against Censorship of Palestinian Children's Art by MOCHADozens of people picket the Oakland Museum of Children's Art (MOCHA).Two weeks after the Middle Eastern Childrens' Alliance for Peace (MECA) announced that Zionist groups had pressured the Oakland Museum of Children's Art (MOChA) to cancel its planned exhibit of Palestinian children's artwork, dozens came out to protest censorship

Reginald Jameshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12628705188318732608noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2313624962334055356.post-44902827958826640052011-09-15T20:55:00.000-07:002011-12-08T09:48:30.479-08:00

Laney College hosts Black Recruitment FairHundreds of Bay Area students attended the third annual Black College Recruitment at Laney College on September 14. Many were accepted “on-the-spot” by the Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs) present.“The response of the Bay Area was tremendous and the community came out in record numbers,” said Dr. Alan Rowe, CEO of the United College

Reginald Jameshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12628705188318732608noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2313624962334055356.post-13207373513423860242011-09-11T20:54:00.000-07:002011-11-17T20:55:24.815-08:00

UC Berkeley Yard Show[PHOTOS]

Reginald Jameshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12628705188318732608noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2313624962334055356.post-61940100411288292042011-09-08T21:05:00.000-07:002011-12-08T09:16:04.986-08:00

The Oakland Fam Bam Labor Day Get Down was really like a family reunion. The Labor Day event had the spirit of Oakland's Carijama, a defunct festival that took place at Mosswood park every May up until 2004. There was even bicycle parking by Red, Bike and Green.There was a jumper for the children (even though it was leaning like some grown folks were inside), food, dancing and live art.Oakland

Reginald Jameshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12628705188318732608noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2313624962334055356.post-84787319221828549512011-08-26T21:07:00.000-07:002011-12-08T10:31:49.846-08:00

College of Alameda student Jepeabo Wellington was murdered on August 24. He was 24 years old.The Oakland native was coming from a peace vigil in West Oakland when he was apparently approached by men asking where he was from. When he replied, "East Oakland," he was gunned down.A vigil was held on August 25 for Peabo at the College of Alameda, where he was a student. Friends and classmates shared

Reginald Jameshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12628705188318732608noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2313624962334055356.post-34292742377971179222011-03-28T10:03:00.000-07:002011-03-28T10:03:00.464-07:00

This week's Music Monday is from Oakland-based poet and artist Khari Toure. The song is called, "Sweet Tooth."

The Black Hourhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15875864200385480607noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2313624962334055356.post-11791131763925540462011-03-21T12:30:00.000-07:002011-03-24T10:32:21.828-07:00

By Reginald JamesBlack Chauncey Bailey ProjectA jury was selected Monday morning in the murder trial of Oakland journalist Chauncey Bailey.Former leader of Your Black Muslim Bakery, Yusef Bey IV, and Antoine Mackey are standing trial for Bailey's murder. Bey alleged ordered the killing, while Mackey allegedly drove the getaway vehicle. A former bakery worker DeVaugndre Broussard confessed to the

The Black Hourhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15875864200385480607noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2313624962334055356.post-45261042204257115322011-03-21T10:06:00.000-07:002011-03-24T10:31:21.910-07:00

Two years ago, young, Black Oakland resident Lovelle Mixon got into a shootout with Oakland Police that ended in the death of four Oakland Police officers, including two SWAT members, before Mixon was murdered himself.This week's Music Monday features Oakland artists Sleepy-D and G-Wett with a dedication to the "Knock Down King," entitled, "Lovelle Mixon."The shooting got national attention, a

The Black Hourhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15875864200385480607noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2313624962334055356.post-38967814400572101172011-03-20T21:46:00.000-07:002011-03-21T22:18:46.460-07:00

Omali Yeshitela, leader of the Uhuru movement, returns to Oakland to promote his latest book, "One People! One Party! One Destiny!" He speaks at the Humanist Hall on Tuesday, March 22.Chairman Yeshitela is a veteran of the 1960s Black Power Movement, author, political theorist and a lifelong activist. He currently Chairs the African Socialist International and the Black is Back Coalition. His

The Black Hourhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15875864200385480607noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2313624962334055356.post-15238422433418712602011-03-14T20:16:00.000-07:002011-03-24T10:01:46.983-07:00

Oakland-based activist, actor, writer and filmmaker Adimu Madyum's new song, "Throw the Rope" is this week's Music Monday. The video, under his Hairdoo performing name, WolfHawkJaguar invokes the Orishas present in West Oakland. Madyum recently directed the controverial documentary, "Operation Small Axe." And when he's not documenting the community -- like his recent work through Oakland Voices -

Reginald Jameshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12628705188318732608noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2313624962334055356.post-30870606684660018452011-03-11T10:08:00.000-08:002011-03-11T10:35:29.443-08:00

"An explosion of love, set to jazz!"That’s the way one person described this dynamic event. For the fourth year, Oakland-based nonprofit, OneLife Institute, will present Transformative Visions, a multimedia art show and spoken word/jazz concert with a message of peace, justice, and possibility. The event takes place from 2:00 p.m. – 5:00 p.m. on Saturday, March 12, 2011, at Studio One Art Center

Reginald Jameshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12628705188318732608noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2313624962334055356.post-64562578770740058162011-03-07T19:16:00.000-08:002011-03-07T20:31:40.906-08:00

This week's Music Monday track, "Gang Injunction" comes from Oakland Hip-Hop group, The Brown Buffalo Project. A classic protest song from the New American mixtape, hosted by journalist and radio host Davey D, the artists flip Akon's "Locked Up." A wise choice as jail bars close throughout the composition, emphasizing that gang injunctions are a tool of the prison industrial complex and that

Reginald Jameshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12628705188318732608noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2313624962334055356.post-13578090049022877562011-03-04T10:06:00.000-08:002011-03-04T10:06:00.631-08:00

More info:The Art of Living BlackThe Art of Living Black at Mills CollegeBeing Black is an art. On Feb. 5, the Richmond Art Center celebrated 15 years of The Art of Living Black exhibit.The only annual show in the Bay Area to exhibit artists of African descent, TAOLB features regional artists and works in ceramics, crafts, fine arts, paintings, photography, sculpture and textile arts. the

Reginald Jameshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12628705188318732608noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2313624962334055356.post-25498249206653688462011-03-01T01:19:00.000-08:002011-03-01T01:51:27.870-08:00

Nearly one year ago, students from throughout the country held sit-ins, protests and occupations as a part of the March 4, 2010 Day of Action to Defend Public Education. On Wednesday, March 2, Bay Area students will again demonstrate their opposition to fee increases and budget cuts. In San Francisco, students at SF State and City College plan to rally at Malcolm X plaza from 11-noon, followed by

The Black Hourhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15875864200385480607noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2313624962334055356.post-25506765585766479272011-02-28T00:00:00.000-08:002011-03-01T00:43:04.659-08:00

This Week with Jasiri X, after creating an Egyptian solidarity track, "We All Shall be Free" with M-1 from dead prez, Jasiri reports live from Wisconsin where workers are fighting corporate stooges. The track, "American Workers Vs. Multi-Billionaires" is needed when banks have been bailed out while workers are asked to take pay cuts and increased health and retirement costs. "Our latest video "

Reginald Jameshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12628705188318732608noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2313624962334055356.post-57574705513769975442011-02-27T15:57:00.000-08:002011-02-27T15:57:00.123-08:00

This op-ed was published in the Daily Californian, the student newspaper at UC Berkeley last February.By Stephan MoutouthSpecial to TheBlackHour.comWhen I think of Black History Month, I think of celebrating the accomplishments of the African American people that preceded us in history. We celebrate the progress we have made as a result of the people who fought and died for change. We saw that

Reginald Jameshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12628705188318732608noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2313624962334055356.post-62348971260412602552011-02-26T10:54:00.000-08:002011-02-26T10:54:00.881-08:00

The EastSide Arts Alliance is holding, "Dig Deep" on Saturday, February 26 in Oakland. Dig Deep is a multidisciplinary evening of dance, storytelling, food and film featuring Amara Tabor Smith & Traci Bartlow. Amara Tabor-Smith presents excerpts of Our Daily Bread; a dance theater piece celebrating food, it's folklore and how it shapes our cultural identity. Traci Bartlow's work in progress, Rich

The Black Hourhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15875864200385480607noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2313624962334055356.post-75180706361310440252011-02-26T07:16:00.000-08:002011-02-26T08:42:37.768-08:00

The Black College Expo is coming back to Oakland. On Saturday, February 26, colleges and universities will be at the Oakland Marriott from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.. Students should bring their transcripts, SAT or ACT scores, seminars for students and parents, and could possibly get scholarships and admissions "On the Spot." There will be a Step Show and Dance Competition from 3-5p.m. Admissions is $8

The Black Hourhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15875864200385480607noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2313624962334055356.post-43261709054374919402011-02-25T16:01:00.001-08:002011-02-25T16:06:25.672-08:00

On Friday, February 25, the Oakland Museum of California is hosting, "O ZONE: Soundtrack—The Drum." The six-hour event celebrates the "power and resilience of the drum from West Africa to California!"Performers include: Lagos Roots Afrobeat Ensemble (featuring members of Fela Kuti & the Afrika 70, Sonny Okosuns); master drummer CK Ladzekpo and famed composer Anthony Brown; hambone player Derique

Reginald Jameshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12628705188318732608noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2313624962334055356.post-80781208713355529322011-02-25T11:51:00.001-08:002011-02-25T15:51:15.038-08:00

Oakland Mayor Jean Quan is hosting a Black History Month celebration on Friday, February 25 at the African American Museum and Library of Oakland featuring emcee and pianist Kev Choice. The purpose of the event is to attract mentors for Oakland youth, and raise funds for her proposed mentoring program. Quan wants 2,000 Oaklanders to mentor the city's youth.The event takes place from 6-8 pm at

The Black Hourhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15875864200385480607noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2313624962334055356.post-79930572388607372222011-02-23T08:07:00.000-08:002011-02-26T08:16:05.011-08:00

Assembly Member Sandre Swanson is teaming up with his alma mater Laney College to host a Youth Health Fair on Saturday, February 26 from 10a.m.-3p.m.. The event is free. The Youth Health Fair includes free screenings for obesity, high blood pressure, cholesterol and asthma, and free vision and dental examinations. There will also be referrals to local health providers, assistance with obtaining

The Black Hourhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15875864200385480607noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2313624962334055356.post-29225006803145768902011-02-21T09:59:00.000-08:002011-02-21T10:11:25.122-08:00

The Bay Area celebrates the life of El Hajj Malik El-Shabazz, Malcolm X, in many ways. Oakland has the Malcolm X Jazz Arts Festival each May. The Peralta Colleges designated Malcolm's birthday as a holiday, while Laney Colleges students and members of Club Knowledge held the Malcolm X Consciousness Conference from 2003-2005, while the Laney Black Student Union recently held the Malcolm X Summit

Reginald Jameshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12628705188318732608noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2313624962334055356.post-48640910017766043892011-02-18T17:45:00.000-08:002011-03-24T09:46:19.668-07:00

Are Blacks leaving the Bay Area? San Francisco's Black population has dropped to 3.9 percent, according to recent Census data.The Bay Area is a vital aspect of our collective history, yet many youth are not familiar with the story of their ancestors. Alameda County Supervisor Keith Carson is organizing a unique Black History Month event on Saturday, February 19 at the Black Repertory Theater in

The Black Hourhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15875864200385480607noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2313624962334055356.post-67187152184542630722011-02-14T08:37:00.000-08:002011-03-01T00:38:06.307-08:00

Jasiri X and M1 of dead prez teamed up for timely track in solidarity with the people of North Africa, "We All Shall be Free!"

Reginald Jameshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12628705188318732608noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2313624962334055356.post-58530083144386111022011-02-07T21:29:00.000-08:002011-02-13T21:42:02.512-08:00

This week's Music Monday is the debut video for Long Beach-based artist, poet, educator and singer Rashondra Angelle. "Rise" has an inspiring, smooth, laid back groove that makes you want to move. Or, better yet, rise! Check out Rashondra Angelle at http://www.rashondraangelle.com. Or, you can check out her live performance of Rise at the KRST Center in Los Angeles.

The Black Hourhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15875864200385480607noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2313624962334055356.post-9608229080530978532011-02-03T12:16:00.000-08:002011-02-14T06:15:23.998-08:00

Black elected officials, religious leaders gather in Oakland with law enforcement officials to strategize on crime reduction.By Reginald JamesElected officials and clergy gathered in Oakland on Wednesday to strategize and share best-practices on crime prevention. The breakfast meeting, hosted by the Black Elected Officials and Faith Based Leaders of the East Bay and chaired by Alameda County

The Black Hourhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15875864200385480607noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2313624962334055356.post-38852776215767867072011-01-30T16:17:00.000-08:002011-01-30T16:26:52.640-08:00

On Saturday, January 29, a solidarity demonstration with the Egyptian people was held in San Francisco. Over 350 people marched up Market St, according to organizers, with nearly 1,000 people rallying in the U.N. Plaza near Civic Center.For over five days, Egyptians have hit the streets demanding dictator Hosni Mubarak, president of Egypt, resign. The recent unrest in Tunisia sparked what some

Reginald Jameshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12628705188318732608noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2313624962334055356.post-26572255503481634242011-01-25T12:05:00.000-08:002011-01-25T12:05:00.281-08:00

THURSDAY, JANUARY 27, 2011FINANCIAL LITERACY FOR COLLEGE WORKSHOPLaney College Theatre900 Fallon StreetOakland, CA 946076:00 p.m. – 7:00 p.m.Welcome and Overview of the CA Educational Systems and Costs“Start saving now”: Overview of Ways to Save for CollegeFinancial Resources and Financial Aid InformationMillions of dollars of available financial aid money for college students never makes

The Black Hourhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15875864200385480607noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2313624962334055356.post-28705986608091685402011-01-24T12:00:00.000-08:002011-01-24T12:00:04.809-08:00

Local Black elected officials and clergy will meet on Wed. Jan. 26 in Oakland to discuss solutions to crime in the community. Speakers include: Oakland Police Chief Anthony Batts and Berkeley Police Chief Michael Meehan, as well as other experts who will share their strategies on combating crime and other forward thinking initiatives. This meeting by the Black Elected Officials and Faith Based

The Black Hourhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15875864200385480607noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2313624962334055356.post-8054595392169303522011-01-24T10:12:00.000-08:002011-02-27T10:28:14.068-08:00

Using her tremendous music talent to speak out against violence, Bay Area songstress Netta Brielle recently released the video for her song, "Screaming." "I was determined to shoot this video in my hometown, Berkeley, CA, because in the last few years the crime rate has increased drastically," Brielle said. "With all the negative attention Berkeley and Oakland, CA have been getting in connection

Reginald Jameshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12628705188318732608noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2313624962334055356.post-23674256563459437522011-01-21T16:09:00.000-08:002011-01-21T16:22:09.394-08:00

The John George Democratic Club will host a forum Saturday, Jan. 22 called, "Ranked Choice Voting: How Did It Work?". The event will feature Oakland City Councilmember Rebecca Kaplan in conversation with journalist Jesse Allen-Taylor. A follow-up discussion, "What's next?" will take place with Joe Tuman, a SFSU Political Science professor.Kaplan and Tuman were third and fourth place finishers in

The Black Hourhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15875864200385480607noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2313624962334055356.post-65221561639253783882011-01-21T14:38:00.000-08:002011-01-21T14:47:33.337-08:00

By Haiti Action CommitteeSpecial to TheBlackHour.comHaiti Action Committee strongly supports the call for the immediate arrest and prosecution of Jean- Claude Duvalier. We also take this moment to support the Haitian people’s campaign to return President Jean-Bertrand Aristide to Haiti. It is unconscionable that the dictator Duvalier is now staying at a luxury hotel in Port-au-Prince while the

The Black Hourhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15875864200385480607noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2313624962334055356.post-62325766584519300502011-01-21T09:35:00.000-08:002011-01-21T09:55:28.798-08:00

It's that time of year again. W-2's are arriving in the mail and before you know it April will be here. Get a jump start on taxes this year.Volunteers are needed to help prepare free income tax returns for working class individuals and families through the Volunteer Income Tax Assistance (VITA) Program.VOLUNTEERS WILLProvide assistance to low-income individuals and familiesHelp families qualify

Reginald Jameshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12628705188318732608noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2313624962334055356.post-21504880101096210062011-01-19T06:00:00.000-08:002011-01-19T06:09:42.583-08:00

The Martin Luther King, Jr. Day of Service brought people together throughout the county to honor the legacy of Dr. King by serving. Dr. King once said, "Everyone can be great, because everyone can serve." True to this theme, dozens of people came together for Urban Releaf's clean-up at the Lake Merritt Garden Center in Oakland."Volunteers joined their team leaders and began working on a number

The Black Hourhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15875864200385480607noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2313624962334055356.post-91378143540259709242011-01-17T09:46:00.000-08:002011-01-17T09:55:57.000-08:00

In memory of Dr. King's birthday, this week's Music Monday is "A Dream" by Common.The Black Hour emerged from a dream inspired by a speech by Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. about Black Radio. A week later, the Laney Black Student Union held an event a Laney College to honor Dr. King that January. Within a month, planning was taking place for the first episode of The Black Hour on 9th Floor Radio.

Reginald Jameshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12628705188318732608noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2313624962334055356.post-39268887475180607422011-01-11T09:28:00.000-08:002011-01-12T10:47:17.343-08:00

The East Bay Church of Religious Science will host “The Living Wisdom of Howard Thurman” in honor of the Martin Luther King, Jr. birthday weekend, Sunday, January 16, 2011, from 3:00-5:00 PM. The public is invited.The Rev. Dr. Howard Thurman was a guide and mentor for Dr. King and other leaders of the Civil Rights Movement. His work speaks directly to today’s personal and social issues,

The Black Hourhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15875864200385480607noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2313624962334055356.post-8754058514982809842011-01-11T08:37:00.000-08:002011-01-11T08:43:42.388-08:00

Two orientations for the College of Alameda’s Warehouse and Forklift training program will be held on Tues. Jan. 11 and Wed. Jan. 12. at the Workforce Collaborative. As a part of the Alameda Transportation and Logistics Academic Support program, ATLAS, training prepares students for jobs as forklift drivers, packagers and freight, stock and material movers. The 11 week training program begins

The Black Hourhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15875864200385480607noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2313624962334055356.post-4314019184914595982011-01-09T08:17:00.000-08:002011-01-21T08:17:48.327-08:00

UPCOMING SERVICESSunday, Jan. 9: A musical celebration in honor Chris Jones. 6 p.m. at Seventh Avenue Baptist Church, 1740 Seventh Ave., Oakland.Monday, Jan. 10: 11 a.m. funeral service, St. John Missionary Baptist Church, 1909 Market St., Oakland.The family requests memorial donations be sent to Xperience Ministries Inc., P.O. Box 262, Oakland, CA 94604.Oakland, CA – A sunset vigil for 17 year

The Black Hourhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15875864200385480607noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2313624962334055356.post-42325752016205874612011-01-07T09:30:00.000-08:002011-03-24T09:42:38.665-07:00

Oscar Grant lives on in many ways. Memories of friends and family were captured in numerous family photos and even a short IndyBay.org documentary. The family takes regular trips to Grant's gravesite, like their recent one after a New Year's Day vigil at Fruitvale BART.Oakland Hip Hop artists made the Hayward-raised Grant one of town's own, as journalist Eric K. Arnold wrote. Visual artists

Reginald Jameshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12628705188318732608noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2313624962334055356.post-16132462716872615962011-01-04T08:00:00.000-08:002011-01-04T08:37:54.486-08:00

A vigil for Oscar Grant was held on New Year’s Day at Fruitvale BART, two years after he was shot and killed by former BART police officer Johannes Mehserle.“Two years ago today, Oscar Grant was murdered up there,” said Jack Bryson, pointing to the BART platform above where cell phone video captured the shooting of his son's friend. “Life just ain’t the same.”A crowd of 100, including Grant’s

The Black Hourhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15875864200385480607noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2313624962334055356.post-46077666849060773552011-01-03T09:21:00.000-08:002011-01-07T13:33:50.636-08:00

On the two anniversary of the murder of Oscar Grant, the Turf Feinz and Yak Films released a memorial dance video, "RIP Oscar Grant.""The multimedia production company Yak Films and the Oakland dance crew Turf Feinz released a dance video commemorating the death of Oscar Grant, a young father who was fatally shot by a transit police officer in Oakland, Calif., on New Year’s Day 2009," reads a

Reginald Jameshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12628705188318732608noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2313624962334055356.post-55857304776236313142010-12-20T07:12:00.000-08:002011-01-07T22:22:34.359-08:00

Editor's Note: Last week, KALW News' 'The Informant' dropped a bombshell concerning what many activists in the Justice for Oscar Grant movement already expected. Reading between the lines, it becomes obvious that a) Law enforcement brought to Oakland during recent protests were primarily concerned with protecting property and, (b) the federal involvement of law enforcement likely means agent

The Black Hourhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15875864200385480607noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2313624962334055356.post-90337169427457665022010-12-06T16:14:00.000-08:002011-01-07T13:51:36.315-08:00

The Black Hourhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15875864200385480607noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2313624962334055356.post-67178887325163233442010-11-29T09:16:00.000-08:002011-01-07T22:23:31.045-08:00

Three finalists have been selected for the next Chancellor of the Peralta Community College District. The finalist are: are Dr. Lawrence M. Cox, Provost/CEO of Compton College (California); Dr. Edna B. Chun, Vice President of Human Resources at Broward College (Florida); and Dr. Ed Gould, Superintendent/President of Imperial Valley College (California).The first forum will be held on the evening

The Black Hourhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15875864200385480607noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2313624962334055356.post-4916337989068394082010-11-23T12:07:00.000-08:002010-11-23T17:12:57.291-08:00

By Al YoungSpecial to TheBlackHour.comIshmael Reed will read from and discuss his latest book, BARACK OBAMA AND THE JIM CROW MEDIA: The Return of the Nigger Breakers, on Tuesday, November 23 at the Black Dot Cafe in West Oakland.Under slavery, 'nigger breakers' had the job of destroying the spirits of tough black men by whatever means necessary. At age 15, Frederick Douglass was sold to Edward

The Black Hourhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15875864200385480607noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2313624962334055356.post-48808117396960750502010-11-22T23:10:00.000-08:002010-11-22T23:18:33.570-08:00

This week's Music Monday:To raise awareness about the silent epidemic of sexual abuse in the community, filmmaker and activist Dedoceo Habi, rap artist Naru Kwina and songstress Yolanda Davis have created, "Mystified.""Both young boys and young girls — yes, even here in our fair city of Oakland — are being victimized by these quiet perpetrators who endear themselves to a family or are considered

Reginald Jameshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12628705188318732608noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2313624962334055356.post-86017108913328016192010-11-15T10:55:00.000-08:002010-11-22T23:19:11.126-08:00

AC Transit riders rallied against service cuts in downtown Oakland on Nov. 9 as agency officials announced an agreement in an ongoing labor dispute with bus drivers.The decision halted planned December service cuts, that would have brought service to its lowest levels in 30 years, but there will likely be future service reductions.In the past year, the agency has hiked fares and slashed service

The Black Hourhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15875864200385480607noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2313624962334055356.post-61323207813755622042010-11-11T09:36:00.000-08:002010-11-11T10:13:18.664-08:00

Oakland police shot and killed unarmed business owner Derrick Jones on Nov. 8. A march from his Bancroft Ave barbershop, Kwic Cuts, to Fruitvale BART is planned for Thursday for 3 p.m. Police are defending the shooting.According to police, OPD responded to a report of a domestic abuse between Jones and his ex-girlfriend, ABC News reports. When police arrived at Jones' barber shop, police said

Reginald Jameshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12628705188318732608noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2313624962334055356.post-41838593105469139892010-11-08T22:53:00.000-08:002010-11-09T07:17:48.929-08:00

With AC Transit at its lowest service levels in decades, bus riders are fighting back. On Tuesday, Nov. 9, riders are holding a rally at 14th and Broadway to "Stop the Cuts" and encourage officials–who worked so hard for the Oakland Airport Connector (OAC)–to work to preserve AC Transit service."Due to unjust funding decisions by the Metropolitan Transportation Commission (MTC), compounded by

Reginald Jameshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12628705188318732608noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2313624962334055356.post-74090405078175398262010-11-08T11:48:00.000-08:002010-11-23T15:45:15.638-08:00

The following statement was released by the Black Elected Officials and Faith Based Leaders of the East Bay a few hours after the sentencing of former BART Police Officer Johannes Mehserle.The organizations and individuals listed below condemn today’s sentencing of former BART Officer Johannes Mehserle. The sentence of two years minus time served is far more lenient than would normally be handed

The Black Hourhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15875864200385480607noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2313624962334055356.post-75439390895495789742010-11-07T23:05:00.000-08:002010-11-07T23:59:27.747-08:00

During a press conference last month to announce the most recent Oakland gang injunction, the hearing room at Oakland City Hall was hard for some people to find because the room number was covered up.Underneath a white sheet of plastic was the name of one of the four officers who were killed last year during a March 2009 shootout with Oakland resident Lovelle Mixon. On Monday, November 8, City

The Black Hourhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15875864200385480607noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2313624962334055356.post-32084682342811124552010-11-05T07:36:00.000-07:002010-11-05T07:42:10.399-07:00

Former BART police officer Johannes Mehserle will be sentence on Friday, November 5 for the shooting death of Oscar Grant, III. Hundreds will gather at Oakland City Hall, and later in West Oakland, to respond to the sentencing and to honor Oscar.“While many of us will undoubtedly be angry on that day, we will also take time out to honor the memory of Oscar Grant,” said Ann Weils, Attorney at Law.

Reginald Jameshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12628705188318732608noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2313624962334055356.post-34588436408784935672010-11-04T22:23:00.000-07:002010-11-07T22:56:46.713-08:00

On the eve of the sentencing of former BART police officer Johannes Mehserle, KTVU is lobbying for his freedom, activists said. On Nov. 1, the Coalition for Justice for Oscar Grant protested outside KTVU-Fox News' Oakland offices, condemning the recent ">televised jailhouse interview of Mehserle. "Rita Williams' recent 'interview' of Mehserle was not that of an authentic reporter," said Rachal

The Black Hourhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15875864200385480607noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2313624962334055356.post-48278625580084905822010-10-23T23:41:00.000-07:002010-11-30T16:35:58.989-08:00

"Head of the State" by Baracka Flacka

Reginald Jameshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12628705188318732608noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2313624962334055356.post-21529282263277340702010-10-22T09:49:00.000-07:002010-10-22T10:11:36.350-07:00

Laney College has received a bomb threat from an anonymous caller, according to an email sent out to students on Thurs October 21."There has been a suspicious phone call from an anonymous individual declaring a bomb threat at Laney College," wrote Laney College President Elnora Webb. Many students were notified by text message or email, but some did not find out until Friday morning when told

Reginald Jameshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12628705188318732608noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2313624962334055356.post-87116237176197881012010-10-21T13:11:00.000-07:002010-10-21T13:11:00.272-07:00

The Bay Area Black Journalists Association will host the final Oakland mayoral candidates forum tonight at Holy Names University. The program will take place from 6-8:30 p.m. Holy Names is located at 3500 Mountain Blvd. The program is co-sponsored by the League of Women Voters in Oakland.

The Black Hourhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15875864200385480607noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2313624962334055356.post-57644123710544854022010-10-21T09:00:00.000-07:002010-10-21T09:07:30.689-07:00

The Ground Breaking for Urban Releaf's 31st Green Street Demonstration Project takes place Thursday, October 21 from 11-1 p.m. The event will take place on the corner of 31st and Market Street in West Oakland.Following the success of Urban Releaf's Ettie Street watershed research and evaluation projects funded by the statewide CALFED Watershed Program, the only Black run urban forestry

The Black Hourhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15875864200385480607noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2313624962334055356.post-12639999475216539322010-10-20T07:56:00.000-07:002010-10-23T08:00:13.143-07:00

The International Longshoremans Worker's Union (ILWU) has will shut down the Port of Oakland and host a rally at Oakland City Hall on Saturday, October 23 for Justice for Oscar Grant. The noontime rally, two weeks before former BART police officer Johannes Mehserle is to be sentenced for the 2009 New Year's murder of Oscar Grant, is sponsored by dozens of labor and community organizations. "

The Black Hourhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15875864200385480607noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2313624962334055356.post-43901117296681766262010-10-15T23:22:00.000-07:002011-01-21T08:32:57.358-08:00

By Tracey TateSpecial to TheBlackHour.comThe Bay Area Black Journalists Association (BABJA) awarded Laney College student Reginald James the Chauncey Wendell Bailey Jr. Scholarship on Oct. 2. At the Seventh Annual Young Journalists Scholarship Gala, held at Scott's Seafood Restaurant in Jack London Square, James received a check for $2,500 for his work as a student journalist.James, a former

The Black Hourhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15875864200385480607noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2313624962334055356.post-10309271542599635692010-10-13T06:10:00.000-07:002010-10-13T06:34:20.346-07:00

Black Cartoonists participate in a panel discussion on October 13 at the Laney College as a part of the Library's current exhibit, "Coloring Outside the Lines: Black Cartoonists as Social Commentators."The exhibit, curated by Kheven LaGrone, is about breaking outside those lines."LaGrone told ">OaklandLocal.com "In particular, as an African American … I feel like I'm being given a coloring book

Reginald Jameshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12628705188318732608noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2313624962334055356.post-84548591049011433682010-10-12T08:48:00.000-07:002010-10-21T08:56:07.267-07:00

By Niema JordanOaklandLocal.comMedia professionals, students, and community members gathered in Jack London Oct. 2 for the 7th Annual Young Journalists Scholarship Gala. One of the many projects coordinated by the Bay Area Association of Black Journalists (BABJA), the event honored broadcast journalist and industry mentor Bob Butler for his contributions both past and present. During the Gala

The Black Hourhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15875864200385480607noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2313624962334055356.post-57511676620277072202010-10-11T06:42:00.000-07:002010-10-13T06:49:09.829-07:00

A student-run literacy project at the Peralta College is seeking volunteers at the Children’s Centers of Laney College and Merritt Colleges in Oakland, and College of Alameda. Orientations will be held this Tuesday and Thursday for Laney College students interested in being Volunteer Readers with Peralta Reads. Students will read to the pre-schoolers at the Laney College Children’s Center each

Reginald Jameshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12628705188318732608noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2313624962334055356.post-39771520407232877572010-10-10T22:41:00.000-07:002010-10-10T22:44:13.849-07:00

Christopher Columbus was a rapist, murderer and a thief. And there's a holiday named after him.Celebrate Indigenous People's Day instead. Respect those who were here first.Reconsider Columbus Day.

Reginald Jameshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12628705188318732608noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2313624962334055356.post-46772327747737159092010-10-09T09:27:00.000-07:002010-10-22T09:42:26.688-07:00

Following a rally at Laney College on October 7, a group of students stormed the Peralta Colleges District headquarters and briefly occupied the Chancellor's office.The rally abruptly ended as about 30 students marched from Laney’s quad, down 8th Street towards the district’s headquarters chanting, “No cuts! No fees! Education should be free!”The group burst into the the Peralta District’s

Reginald Jameshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12628705188318732608noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2313624962334055356.post-74833842323635033262010-10-08T16:02:00.000-07:002010-10-08T16:06:26.819-07:00

The Lower Bottom Playaz Present August Wilson's Gem of the Ocean" from October 8 through October 17 in West Oakland.Gem of the Ocean is the first installment of his decade-by-decade, ten-play chronicle, The Pittsburgh Cycle, dramatizing the African-American experience in the twentieth century.The play is set in 1904 at 1839 Wylie Avenue in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania's Hill District. Aunt Ester, the

Reginald Jameshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12628705188318732608noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2313624962334055356.post-71094236018551909882010-10-08T09:26:00.000-07:002010-10-22T09:47:08.751-07:00

Demanding no more budget cuts, staff layoffs, or fee increases, Laney College students held a noontime rally on the main campus quad on October 7. Some later marched to the Peralta Colleges district and briefly occupied the Chancellor’s office.Coinciding with a National Day of Action in Defense of Education, the “Speak Out” let any student share how education budget cuts affected them. At the

Reginald Jameshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12628705188318732608noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2313624962334055356.post-43872541664538241722010-10-07T00:49:00.000-07:002010-10-08T01:09:36.920-07:00

Of all urban cities in the U.S., the percentage of San Francisco's African American population is the smallest. Yet, much of early Black history in California is set in the city, and remains largely untold. Sailing Away, a site-specific dance performance on Market Street from October 7 to October 10 will explore the history of African Americans' early contributions to the development of San

The Black Hourhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15875864200385480607noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2313624962334055356.post-5049587031403223692010-10-06T15:51:00.000-07:002010-10-08T15:58:21.651-07:00

Laney College is hosting a free screening of the film, "Gerrymandering," on Friday, October 8 in the Theater building.What is "gerrymandering"? Named for the Massachusetts governor who conveniently redrew a few erratic lines in 1812, gerrymandering is the redistricting of electoral boundaries to effect voting outcome in favor of a particular candidate, political party, et cetera. Director Jeff

Reginald Jameshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12628705188318732608noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2313624962334055356.post-14792449098767604882010-10-06T06:18:00.000-07:002010-10-13T06:50:05.109-07:00

By Tracey BrownSpecial to TheBlackHour.comIn 1965 there was "Wee Pals," a friendly comic strip advocating racial integration. Now there is "Boondocks," a comic strip morphed into an animated TV series whose primary characters are two inner-city kids who have moved to the suburbs--Huey, an angry revolutionary, and Riley, a wannabe gangsta. The evolution of this social commentary by black

Reginald Jameshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12628705188318732608noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2313624962334055356.post-51990525164849675012010-09-28T10:31:00.001-07:002010-09-28T10:35:02.332-07:00

Candidates for the Peralta Colleges Board of Trustees will be at Laney College on Tuesday, September 28 from 11:45 am to 1 p.m. in the Forum to answer questions and share their platforms. The Candidates Forum, sponsored by the Associated Students of Laney College (ASLC) and the Laney College Classified Senate will feature all the candidates for Area 3(Linda Handy and Monica Tell) and Area 5 (Dr.

The Black Hourhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15875864200385480607noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2313624962334055356.post-30225867138451447672010-09-15T03:51:00.000-07:002010-09-15T16:00:05.664-07:00

Image: MarchingSport.comAfter too many years of holding Transfer Day events and College Fairs with NO representatives from Historically Black Colleges and Universities, Laney College will host the Second Annual HBCU College Recruitment Fair September 15.Students will be able to receive:ON THE SPOT Admissions and ScholarshipsApplication Fee Waived for Many CollegesFace-to-face contact with

The Black Hourhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15875864200385480607noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2313624962334055356.post-63816897501314801322010-09-07T22:03:00.000-07:002010-09-07T22:08:54.148-07:00

Russian news agency RT has a news program focusing on San Francisco's Bayview -Hunters Point neighborhood. "USA: Prisoner of the Ghetto," takes an interesting look at the plight of Black people in southeast San Francisco. "USA: Prisoners of the Ghetto gives a powerful portrayal of the difficult and dangerous life in the black ghettos of San Francisco," according to RT. Video Credit: Russia Today

Reginald Jameshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12628705188318732608noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2313624962334055356.post-16250638901652206332010-08-31T17:32:00.000-07:002010-10-23T11:30:32.236-07:00

Three of the Peralta Board of Trustees seven seats will be up for reelection on Tuesday, November 2. With three incumbents running, one trustee is running unopposed while the others each face one challenger.In Area 3, two-term incumbent Linda Handy faces a challenge from Monica Tell. Handy, who served as board president in 2006, defeated the embattled trustee Brenda Knight in 2002, with major

Reginald Jameshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12628705188318732608noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2313624962334055356.post-53998977190652525992010-08-23T09:31:00.000-07:002010-08-23T09:31:00.689-07:00

Back in April, TheBlackHour.com debuted Hal Linton's "Mind Control" song for our Music Monday.Last month, the Barbadian artist released an official video. Check it out below."Mind Control" by Hal Linton

Reginald Jameshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12628705188318732608noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2313624962334055356.post-55573926455570070212010-08-20T16:26:00.001-07:002010-08-20T16:33:36.472-07:00

Just one night after an amazing show at East Side Arts Alliance, another benefit for the Justice for Oscar Grant movement is taking place Friday, August 20 at the Humanist Hall in Oakland.The event, titled, "Caribbean Allstars, a benefit for Justice for Oscar Grant," will feature spoken word and great food, organizers said. Doors open at 6 p.m., music begins at 7:30 p.m. Admission is $10. The

Reginald Jameshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12628705188318732608noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2313624962334055356.post-22673247440616754872010-08-19T09:46:00.000-07:002010-08-19T09:57:29.450-07:00

The Holla Back Open Mic series will host a fundraiser for the Oscar Grant family and friends on Thursday, August 19 at East Side Arts Alliance.The benefit concert will feature many local and also well known artists. Artists include: Ras Ceylon, Malika Ubaka, Do D.A.T., Buccet Belafonte and T. Killings, and the paid poet society.The event will take place at 7 p.m. at East Side Cultural Center,

Reginald Jameshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12628705188318732608noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2313624962334055356.post-31118231866050572922010-08-18T13:10:00.001-07:002010-08-18T13:45:37.628-07:00

By Reginald JamesTheBlackHour.com EditorIf you call AC Transit’s Customer Relations for a question or a complaint, don’t be surprised to hear someone with a New England accent.AC Transit plans on outsourcing its local Telephone Information Center to Connecticut based American Customer Care starting next month. The center is currently located at the District’s downtown Oakland headquarters.“We can

The Black Hourhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15875864200385480607noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2313624962334055356.post-58090794741326206472010-08-18T11:41:00.000-07:002010-08-21T11:50:30.896-07:00

Looking for a fun weekend of live music, art and food? Head to downtown Oakland for the 10th Art & Soul Festival on Saturday, August 21 and Sunday, August 22.Art & Soul features Oakland legend MC Hammer, Tony! Toni! Tone!, En Vogue, Lenny Williams of Tower of Power, Sheila E and her father Pete Escovedo and the Kev Choice Ensemble and the Mo' Rocking Project. Although there is no Hip Hop stage,

Reginald Jameshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12628705188318732608noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2313624962334055356.post-76292063012245587212010-08-16T16:29:00.000-07:002010-08-17T16:45:59.083-07:00

Block Report Radio will host a screening of the film, "Disappearing Voices: The Decline of Black Voices in Radio" at the Black Dot Cafe in West Oakland on Tuesday, August 17. Disappearing Voices is filled with interviews with prominent individuals in media and Black culture and features rare air checks by some of the most famous Black jocks of all time.Whether they are students of media, radio

The Black Hourhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15875864200385480607noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2313624962334055356.post-2420415870319063702010-08-16T12:33:00.000-07:002010-08-16T12:33:00.690-07:00

Peralta Colleges trustee Marcie Hodge wants to be the next Mayor of Oakland, the Oakland Tribune reports.Hodge is one of 13 candidates who filed nomination papers August 11 to succeed Oakland Mayor Ron Dellums -- who recently announced he would not be running for reelection -- in the Nov. 2 election. She said is unimpressed with the other candidates.Hodge told the Oakland Tribune: “We need to

The Black Hourhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15875864200385480607noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2313624962334055356.post-71923459547825449732010-08-12T14:47:00.000-07:002010-08-14T12:49:24.535-07:00

As Oakland mayoral hopefuls filed their nomination papers, the Oakland Community Action Network (Oakland C.A.N.) held a press conference August 11 for candidates to express support for a proposed local currency and present their platforms.The proposed Alternative Currency for Oakland Residents and Neighbors, or ACORN – not to be confused with the now defunct human rights organization – would

Reginald Jameshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12628705188318732608noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2313624962334055356.post-8772610355506534632010-08-12T11:23:00.000-07:002010-08-14T11:37:00.210-07:00

Grind for the Green will host its annual Hip Hop concert at Mosswood Park on Saturday, August 14. Since moving to Oakland from San Francisco, the event is now the "Fresh Fest 2010."The solar powered stage will be hosted by Boots (from the Coup) and feature performances by Erk tha Jerk, Do D.A.T., Nu Dekades and Holly Saucy. Mosswood Park is located at Broadway and West MacArthur, and is

Reginald Jameshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12628705188318732608noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2313624962334055356.post-56550934128350541642010-07-19T22:43:00.001-07:002011-02-13T22:17:24.246-08:00

Pro-Mehserle and law enforcement officers face off against Grant supporters and anti-police brutality demonstrators in Walnut Creek on July 19.A rally staged in support of former BART police officer Johannes Mehserle in Walnut Creek Monday afternoon drew hundreds of protesters, dozens of journalists and photographers and plenty of police. But instead of the 100 Mehserle supporters, gathered in

Reginald Jameshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12628705188318732608noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2313624962334055356.post-50891828537290304082010-07-19T10:05:00.000-07:002011-02-13T22:13:58.223-08:00

A few months ago, author and anti-racist activist Tim Wise wrote an article, "Imagine if the Tea Party was black?"Pittsburgh PA activist and rapper Jasiri X took the concept and delivers in a way only Hip Hop can. Back again delivering the next, This Week with Jasiri X asks, "What if the Tea Party was Black?"Check out Jasiri X's RealTalkXpress.com.

The Black Hourhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15875864200385480607noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2313624962334055356.post-91887771102073825142010-07-17T21:35:00.000-07:002010-08-17T02:43:33.138-07:00

Blood stains from spot where man was shot and killed by Oakland and BART police officers on Saturday morning, July 16.A man -- identified by OPD as 48 year old Oakland resident Fred Collins, was shot and killed Saturday morning by at least five Oakland and BART police officers. The shooting occurred at about 8:15 a.m. after Oakland Police dispatchers received a call that a man was armed on the

The Black Hourhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15875864200385480607noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2313624962334055356.post-73071035863428930282010-07-15T22:31:00.000-07:002010-07-15T22:56:14.388-07:00

By Reginald JamesAlthough the Willie Lynch letter is historically a work of fiction, it appears that his ghost has risen from the pages of fiction and continues to be a reality among Black folks in the Bay Area. This weekend – after a two-year hiatus, the Black Expo returns to Oakland. In fact, there will be two Black Expo’s in Oakland this weekend. In two different locations.The Black Expo has

The Black Hourhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15875864200385480607noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2313624962334055356.post-30494759915833317502010-07-11T14:21:00.000-07:002010-08-17T02:44:17.511-07:00

By Thandisizwe ChimurengaSpecial to TheBlackHour.comDay 10 of the People vs. Mehserle trial ended June 24 with defendant Johannes Mehserle taking the stand.Mehserle, a former Bay Area Rapid Transit (BART) police officer, is accused of murder in the death of Oscar Grant, who was shot in the back while prone at an Oakland rail station on New Year’s Day 2009.Defense attorney Michael Rains’ first

The Black Hourhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15875864200385480607noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2313624962334055356.post-32472480285625816772010-07-11T14:15:00.000-07:002010-08-14T12:50:59.471-07:00

By Thandisizwe ChimurengaSpecial to TheBlackHour.comTestimony in the trial of former Bay Area Rapid Transit officer Johannes Mehserle concluded Friday with the appearances of former officers Marysol Domenici and Anthony Pirone.Both officers were fired by BART last spring based on recommendations from a private firm that investigated the shooting.Domenici changed her testimony from earlier reports

The Black Hourhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15875864200385480607noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2313624962334055356.post-64091118027992302382010-07-10T23:11:00.000-07:002010-07-11T16:34:01.509-07:00

By Dave IdSpecial to TheBlackHour.comThe Oakland General Assembly for Justice for Oscar Grant held a second press conference in less than a week after it was learned that Councilmember Desley Brooks was heading up organizing a counter-event at the same time and place as the community gathering set for the day the verdict in the Mehserle murder trial was announced, 6 p.m. at 14th and Broadway. It

The Black Hourhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15875864200385480607noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2313624962334055356.post-48980537182501899632010-07-02T23:24:00.000-07:002010-07-11T14:36:53.549-07:00

By Dave IdSpecial to TheBlackHour.comPictured above: Tony Coleman, longtime community activist, of OneFam and New Year's Movement for Justice, describes the reason for choosing the location at 14th and Broadway because it represents Oakland's Town Square and says that the real "outside agitators" are Oakland police, 90 per cent of whom do not live in the city.The Oakland General Assembly for

The Black Hourhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15875864200385480607noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2313624962334055356.post-33957718456575022422010-06-15T03:15:00.000-07:002010-06-15T03:25:23.496-07:00

Editor's Note: After return from Kemet (Egypt) this past weekend on an educational tour, it seems ironic to hear that Cleopatra will be played by a white actress. To quote our Nubian tour guide Farouk, "There were seven queens named Cleopatra, and none of them looked like Elizabeth Taylor." - Reginald JamesBy Shirea L. CarrollSpecial to TheBlackHour.comJust when we thought there weren't enough

Reginald Jameshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12628705188318732608noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2313624962334055356.post-59517703545464686512010-06-13T05:56:00.000-07:002010-11-30T16:38:59.832-08:00

By Thandisizwe ChimurengaMorning testimony in day two of the Mehserle trial ended on an emotional note. A 17-year-old friend of Oscar Grant, accompanying Grant when he was shot by the former transit officer, was called to the stand.Jamil Dewar had filmed some of the events the morning of Jan. 1, 2009, on the Fruitvale BART station platform with his cell phone camera.Although the video does not

The Black Hourhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15875864200385480607noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2313624962334055356.post-47200965307636589902010-06-09T11:38:00.000-07:002011-01-07T22:34:15.875-08:00

By Thandisizwe ChimurengaSpecial to TheBlackHour.comWhat began as a two-day selection process ended today with eight women and four men being sworn in as jurors in the murder trial of Johannes Mehserle. The former transit officer is charged with the New Year’s Day 2009 killing of Oscar Grant III, 22, at an Oakland subway station.The jury, composed of five Latina and three white woman and two

The Black Hourhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15875864200385480607noreply@blogger.com