Low Literacy Rates and Crime

85% of all juveniles who interact with the juvenile court system are functionally low literate. Did you know that not only are low literacy rates associated with higher rates of crime, but they also make it difficult for individuals to break the cycle of poverty and dependence on welfare?

African American Vernacular English

Have you ever heard the term African-American Vernacular English (AAVE)? This type of language, also known as Black English, Ebonics or talking with a Blaccent, is commonly associated with Black culture in the United States.

The War On Drugs: A Racist & Ineffective Approach

Not only did the war on drugs disproportionately affect the African American community, it also turned out to be a rather ineffective approach to combating drug use. Despite stricter laws and increased incarceration rates down through the years, drug use has not decreased in the United States.

What Is Cross-Cultural Literacy?

Cross Cultural Literacy

I had someone say that they had never actually heard the phrase “Cross-Cultural Literacy” before and wanted to get a better understanding of what the phrase meant. So, let me take a few minutes to explain what it is that I’m doing, and why I feel that this phrase explains it best.

The Critical Race Theory Battle & Why I Hate It

As a Pastor & also someone who is doing all that I can to bring people together around these divisive topics, my fear is that we are well on our way down the slippery slope of repeating some of our nation’s dark history.

What Does Defund the Police Mean?

The question I want to dive into for this week is a very serious question as it has become a VERY hot topic that is driving everything from the creation of laws to the running platforms of political parties. That question is simply “What does defund the police really mean?”

Let’s BE GOODER Together!!!

I came to the conclusion that over the course of my life, a large number of the decisions I had been making were actually being made for the benefit and even the comfort of other people. Basically, there was no part of my life that had been untouched by this reality. So, I decided to stop getting better and to BE GOODER!

I’m With Ruby

Apparently, some parents feel that this book (based on Ruby’s actual real life experience as a child) mentioning a “large crowd of angry white people who didn’t want Black children in a white school” was too harsh and didn’t offer “redemption” at the end…

What Is Juneteenth?

Union soldiers, led by Major Gen. Gordon Granger, landed in the city with news that the Civil War had ended and slaves were now free. The announcement came two-and-a-half years after President Lincoln’s Emancipation Proclamation that technically freed slaves.

Recommended Resources

Here is a list of resources that we recommend for those looking for a good place to get started with learning more on the topics of racism, discrimination & cultural awareness.  The items listed are grouped in categories representing different styles for learning.