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Inside this Edition... Learn how to cultivate Black genius on page 10.
Counting down to our 90th Anniversary
May 30 - June 5, 2024
Vol. 90
No. 44
Phone: 612-827-4021 www.spokesman-recorder.com
‘Tales from the Northside’ to commence Black Music Month Jellybean Johnson and star-studded panel take us back to the beginning
Jellybean Johnson
As the vibrant rhythms and ander O’Neal and Mint Condisoulful melodies of Black Music tion, we celebrate the pioneering Month sweep across June, the spirits who crafted a timeless legMSR is proud to spotlight the acy and transformed the musical iconic figures of the Minneapolis landscape. Sound. This legendary music pheWe kick off with an exciting nomenon, globally recognized for history lesson about the original its fusion of funk, rock, pop, and members of the band Flyt Tyme. new wave, has its roots deeply - Editor planted in the Twin Cities. Featuring groundbreaking art- By Tony Kiene ists such as Prince, whose genius Staff Writer first came to global prominence, to the innovative sounds of e want our spot Jimmy Jam and Terry Lewis, Jelover here,” Jellybean Johnson, Andre’ Cymone, lybean JohnCynthia Johnson, Morris Day, son said to Fox 9 News last June, Photo by Billy Briggs The Sounds of Blackness, Alex- explaining his vision for the
Minneapolis Sound Museum on Paisley,” noted Johnson. “But the eve of the inaugural “Tales you can also come to our spot from the Northside” event, a and see all the history with sold-out fundraiser in support Prince, as well as the rest of us, of said museum. all those that helped him to beA 501(c)3 nonprofit organi- come the force that he was.” zation, the Minneapolis Sound On Wednesday, June 5, Museum is working to estab- 2024, from 7 p.m. to 10 p.m., lish a permanent location in the second annual “Tales from the city that will also feature a the Northside” returns to the professional recording studio, historic Capri Theater (2027 event space, a retail shop, and West Broadway), this time other offerings. shining its spotlight on Flyt “So, when you come to Tyme, another of the most town, you can still go out to ■ See NORTHSIDE on page 3
Turbulent Community marks fourth anniversary times for of George Floyd’s death with Kettle River candlelight and fiery words Black city council member alleges discrimination from colleagues
By H. Jiahong Pan Contributing Writer eing one of the few people of color who live in Kettle River, 42 miles southwest of Duluth, Councilmember Monique Doward wants to improve her hometown. For example, she tried to apply for a grant to fix the city playground. “The kids deserve it,” Doward said, showing off the sinking play structure during a recent MSR visit. Though she submitted the application, Mayor David Lucas had it withdrawn because their colleagues hadn’t approved it and they didn’t have the matching funds. “We have a very small budget and we have a very tight budget,” said Lucas. “We’ve been spending on city attorneys that we could probably use somewhere else,” ■ See KETTLE RIVER on page 3
Doward stands on the playground she worked to improve. Photo by H. Jiahong Pan
H i s to r i
ca l Capsule
Editor’s Note: Published on Feb. 5, 1981, this historical capsule represents a key point in Prince’s career. He was celebrated for selling three million records before the age of 20. At this stage in what would become a legendary career, Prince had recorded three albums, playing all the instruments and writing and singing all the songs himself. To read this and more historical articles, please visit www. spokesman-recorder.com. By Al Brown Assignment Editor
On Sunday, the Square remained a focal point, drawing media attention from as far as n Minneapolis’ George London, with Doc Hearts, a Floyd Square, the 4th an- documentary film company, niversary of George Floyd’s capturing the essence of the death was marked with a pro- community’s commemoration. found blend of solidarity and These days of remembrance reflection. On Saturday, a large harmonized the spirit of resiscrowd gathered for a candle- tance, hope and unity in the light vigil, illuminating the night pursuit of lasting change. As the city of Minneapolis with a sea of flickering lights. Floyd’s family members spoke, prepares for its year-end report sharing heartfelt reflections of what needs to be done to and calls for justice, their words revitalize the block-long area resonating deeply with those in beginning at the intersection attendance. Community voices, including Jennie Leenay of The People’s Closet, added their perspectives. Leenay, who provides free clothing from a bus stop in the Square, passionately declared, “We ain’t playing. No justice, No peace!” This rallying cry has underscored the ongoing fight for social justice for years, echoing through the crowd.
of 38th Street and Chicago Avenue, aka George Floyd Square, anticipation from some and doubts from others in the community swirl about. However, if this year is any indication to onlookers, the community is invested in keeping George Floyd’s death at the forefront of the fight for social justice. The words “We ain’t playing” came through loud and clear.
H is to r ica l Capsul e
Al Brown welcomes reader comments at abrown@spokesman-recorder.com.
Photos by Al Brown
i ca l H i s to r
C a ps u l e
To read this story about Prince Rogers Nelson, go to this link: bit.ly/PrinceMSRHistoricalCapsule
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Ms. Juneteenth contestant finds her niche as mental health advocate R H i s tor
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Social worker is on mission to create more access for community By Al Brown Assignment Editor n the heart of our bustling community, where the diverse tapestry of humanity thrives, Ms. Aihomon Ebojie stands as a beacon of hope and transformation. With over eight years of dedicated service in the mental health field, she has carved a niche for herself as an advocate for marginalized populations. Her journey from an aspiring student to an influential social worker, coupled with her recent nomination as a candidate in the Ms. Juneteenth Pageant
this summer, is a testament to her commitment and resilience. Ebojie’s profound impact is deeply rooted in her academic foundation. Armed with a bachelor’s degree in psychology and a master’s degree in social work, she has utilized her knowledge to address the multi-faceted challenges faced by underrepresented communities. Her passion for mental health advocacy is palpable, especially in her efforts to implement policy changes aimed at inclusivity and equitable access to mental health services.
Focus on youth and holistic care Throughout her career, Ebojie has observed a concerning trend: a significant rise in mental health issues among African Americans, particularly young adults between the ages of 19 and 24. This age range, often marked by the onset of severe mental health conditions such as depression, anxiety, and bipolar disorder, has become a focal point for her advocacy. Ebojie emphasizes that early identification and intervention are crucial in mitigating longterm mental health challenges. One of the most compelling
aspects of Ebojie’s work is her focus on holistic care. She has extensively worked with individuals experiencing physical disabilities, including those with cerebral palsy and paraplegia. Her approach transcends traditional therapy, integrating physical care with mental health support to address the overall well-being of her clients. Ebojie’s empathetic and inclusive perspective ensures that her clients receive comprehensive care tailored to their unique needs. “The data shows that between ages ■ See MENTAL HEALTH on page 3 Aihomon Ebojie
Photo by Al Brown