Igniting Hope for Health Equity

Ep. 32 Pastor George Nicholas and Dr. Henry Taylor discuss their plan to transform Buffalo's Black east side. This episode explores the concept of a neighborly community built on principles of solidarity, community governance, shared ownership, cooperative economics, and community wealth. We must own and control the land on which we are building our community." - Dr. Henry Lewis Taylor Dr. Henry Taylor is a University at Buffalo faculty expert on urban issues and social, racial and economic justice. He directs the Center for Urban Studies at UB. With an unwavering commitment to systemic transformation, Dr. Taylor elucidates the principles of creating a prosperous and equitable community framework. He ardently speaks on the imperative of governing at the neighborhood level, advocating for shared ownership, and establishing community wealth over individual wealth. This episode is a beacon for those seeking actionable insight into catalyzing positive change within Black communities. GET ACTIVE! Register for the Event: How to Change the Black Eastside Monday, Feb 26th 6pm at Jacobs School of Medicine, 955 Main Street, Buffalo, NY Read the Report Changing the Black East Side: Pilot Initiative Will Tackle Social Determinants of Health - Community Health Equity Research Institute - University at Buffalo End Gun Violence Event: Thursday, February 29 10am-1pm Erie County Medical Center Smith Auditorium 462 Grider St., Buffalo, NY Key Episode Takeaways: Shared Community Governance: Dr. Taylor emphasizes the significance of collective action and self-determination within neighborhoods through elected local bodies that represent community interests. Comprehensive Planning: Effective transformation necessitates identifying issues and systematically addressing them in unity, ensuring all community members are involved in decision-making. Ownership of Land: Securing control over the land on which communities are built is paramount to fortifying neighborhoods against exploitative market dynamics and gentrification. Economic Self-Sufficiency: The development of cooperative businesses and social enterprises enables communities to retain economic resources and foster community wealth. Health Equity and Infrastructure: The fixture of existing housing conditions is a pathway to addressing health disparities endemic within the black community on Buffalo's East Side. Chapters: 0:00:00 Intro: The challenges of liberating black communities. 0:00:43 Need for black communities to take action and read Dr. Henry Lewis Taylor's report. 0:03:28 Dr. Henry Lewis Taylor discusses the condition of black communities and paths to improvement. 0:04:28 Historical pattern of Black people living in undesirable neighborhoods 0:06:00 Dr. Taylor challenges the narrative that white people don't want to live next to black communities 0:08:20 Community built on solidarity, self-governance, and shared ownership. 0:14:53 Pastor George highlights the existence of homeowner associations in wealthy neighborhoods. 0:16:09 The American way perpetuates disparities and mass incarceration. 0:20:03 The importance of cooperative ownership and community wealth. 0:22:39 The focus on fixing existing rental housing and community control. 0:23:55 The impact of dilapidated housing on health and the need for comprehensive planning. 0:29:30 The undervaluation of land in Black communities and market dynamics. 0:33:58 Job training for community members is essential for neighborhood improvements. 0:36:17 Utilizing creative tools like payments in lieu of taxes to lower costs. 0:38:24 Median household income for black Americans is lower than other racialized groups. 0:39:00 Community conversation on February 26 to discuss the comprehensive plan. 0:41:16 Demonstrating proof of concept and seeking broad support for the plan. 0:43:29 Rejecting the notion that black people cannot control their own destiny. 0:46:16 Invitation to join the conversation at the Jacob School of Medicine. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Ep. 31 Pastor George Nicholas and Sherman Webb-Middlebrooks discuss the issue of gun violence as a public health concern. They explore the historical roots of gun ownership in America, particularly its connection to the control of Black people, and the disproportionate impact of gun violence on Black youth. They also highlight the need for upcoming community events to address the culture of violence and trauma that perpetuates gun violence. "The presence of gun laws itself has not proven to be the kind of deterrent in order to keep ourselves safe. It's a cultural thing." - Pastor George Nicholas Resources: Buffalo Center for Health Equity Events: Men's Health Initiative Monday, February 19, March 4 and 18th. How to Change the Black Eastside (Featuring Dr. Henry Taylor) Monday, Feb 26th End Gun Violence Event: Thursday, February 29 10am-1pm Erie County Medical Center Smith Auditorium 462 Grider St., Buffalo, NY Book by Carol Anderson: The Second: Race and Guns in a Fatally Unequal America Key Takeaways: Gun violence is the leading cause of death for children and teenagers in America, with black youth being disproportionately affected. America has a unique gun culture, with more guns than people, and a significant portion of gun ownership is concentrated among white men. The historical context of gun ownership in America reveals a legacy of using firearms to control and oppress black people and indigenous communities. Framing gun violence as a public health issue allows for a deeper understanding of the root causes and the development of comprehensive solutions. Addressing the trauma and desensitization to violence is crucial in breaking the cycle of gun violence and creating safer communities. About the Speakers: Pastor George Nicholas is the host of the Igniting Hope podcast and the Executive Director of the Buffalo Center for Health Equity. He is dedicated to eliminating race-based health disparities and addressing the root causes of gun violence in communities. Sherman Webb-Middlebrooks is the Manager of the Men's Health Initiative at the Buffalo Center for Health Equity. He works closely with young people and men in the community, providing support groups and resources to promote personal and financial growth. Chapters: 0:00:00 Pastor George Nicholas introduces the topic of gun violence as a public health issue. 0:05:29 Sherman Webb-Middlebrooks promotes the upcoming men's health initiative event. 0:08:18 Analysis of the ineffectiveness of strict gun laws in preventing gun violence. 0:11:05 Revelation of firearms as the leading cause of death for children and teenagers in America. 0:13:06 There is gun violence everywhere in America. 0:14:58 Witnessing violence creates trauma, especially for young people. 0:15:37 The presence of firearms enables and empowers violence. 0:16:53 "The Second: Race and Guns in a Fatally Unequal America" by Carol Anderson. 0:17:21 The idea of black people having guns was not in the original documents. 0:18:46 The Negro Act of 1740 restricted the movements and access to firearms for enslaved people. 0:19:20 South Carolina issued monetary rewards for the scalp of an escaping slave. 0:20:10 50% of wealth holders in the 13 colonies owned guns in 1774. 0:21:37 Legislation and punishment were used to control enslaved people. 0:24:00 Massachusetts and New York banning enslaved Africans from possessing guns 0:25:11 The use of the militia to control African and indigenous populations 0:26:59 Comparison of the government's use of the National Guard during civil rights protests 0:30:46 The rise in black gun ownership and the narrative of self-defense 0:32:25 Disproportionate gun violence and deaths among black youth 0:34:46 Desensitization to violence and the influence of street culture 0:35:53 Gilbert Arenas and the consequences of impulsive actions 0:37:23 Creating a community where gun violence is not normalized 0:39:32 President Biden's office of Gun Violence Prevention Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Ep. 30 Guest host Ebony White delves into the depths of community resilience and grassroots advocacy with guest Dion Green. This show promises to unravel the tapestry of a community's struggle for health equity and the individual journeys of empowerment that fuel collective hope and healing. Dion Green is the founder and CEO of the Fudge Foundation in Dayton, Ohio. Dion shares his personal story of losing his father in the Oregon District mass shooting and the barriers he faced in accessing support from the Victims of Crime Act. He discusses his advocacy work to change legislation and establish resources for those impacted by violent crime. Dion also talks about his run for District 39 of Ohio House of Representatives and how being a survivor of tragedy fuels his agenda to make communities safer. Resources: Flourishing Under Distress Given Encouragement (FUDGE) a 501c3 nonprofit that helps survivors through traumatic experiences with resources and support.  Victims of Crime Act (VOCA) formula grants are intended to support victim assistance services for victims and survivors of domestic violence, sexual assault, child abuse, drunk driving, homicide, and other crimes. End Gun Violence Event: Thursday, February 29 10am-1pm Erie County Medical Center Smith Auditorium 462 Grider St., Buffalo, NY Buffalo Center for Health Equity Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Ep. 29 In this episode of Igniting Hope Radio, guest host Ebony White interviews Isiah Gary, the Director of Diversity, Community, and Health Equity at Health Sciences Charter School in Buffalo. Isiah discusses his role in helping students plan for their future careers and promoting health equity within the school. He highlights the importance of Wellness Wednesdays, an initiative that educates the school community about social determinants of health and encourages healthier decision-making. Isaiah also talks about the school's garden program, which provides students with hands-on experience in growing their own food. The episode concludes with a discussion about the Health Ambassadors program and the impact it has had on students' understanding of health and wellness. "Our students have influence on each other, so empowering them to teach their peers, family members, and community about health equity is a slam dunk." - Isiah Gary Key Takeaways: The school's garden program, fostered by Home Beneath Our Feet, provides students with hands-on experience in growing their own food and promotes the importance of nutrition. The Health Ambassadors program empowers students to teach their peers, families, and community about social determinants of health and make positive choices. Parents and caretakers can support young people by listening to understand, leading by example, giving them time to grow, and loving them unconditionally. Resources: Health Sciences Charter School Buffalo Center for Health Equity Erie Niagara Area Health Education Center (AHEC) Produced by JazzCast Pros Chapters: 0:00:00 Introduction to the podcast and guest speaker, Isiah Gary 0:01:16 Discussing favorite things about Buffalo, including food 0:02:00 Isiah Gary's role as Director of Diversity, Community, and Health Equity 0:03:01 Wellness Wednesday initiative at Health Sciences Charter School 0:04:08 Examples of activities during Wellness Wednesday, such as smoothie program and healthy cooking classes 0:05:12 Impact of the smoothie program on students' eating habits 0:06:36 The school's garden and plans for future involvement 0:08:03 Rewards and challenges of working with students in promoting health and wellness 0:09:49 Challenges of motivating students and accepting limitations 0:10:36 Acknowledging the loss of students and the school community's response 0:11:27 Health Sciences Charter School's strong community connection 0:12:12 Importance of teaching social determinants of health 0:13:49 Impact of Health Ambassadors program on students 0:15:19 Vision for the upcoming school year 0:17:41 Pointers and support for parents and caretakers 0:19:59 Importance of unconditional love for positive youth development Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Ep. 28 The Sensory Garden was created in response to the mass shooting at a Buffalo grocery store on May 14 2022. This is just one of seven Urban Gardens our guest has his green thumb on! Dwight Lowe, the executive director and founder of Home Beneath Our Feet, joins Ebony White on Igniting Hope Radio to discuss the importance of gardening and providing programming for inner-city children. Dwight shares his inspiration for starting the organization, which stemmed from the lack of programming in his own youth. He believes that by teaching children how to grow their own food, they can develop life skills and a sense of stability. Dwight also emphasizes the importance of knowing where our food comes from and the benefits of eating fresh, live food. He shares his experiences working with youth and building community gardens, highlighting the positive impact it has on both individuals and the community as a whole. For more info visit on Urban Gardening in Buffalo, NY visit Beneath Our Feet on Facebook Email Dlowe@hbof.org Key Takeaways Gardening provides a sense of stability and self-sufficiency, allowing individuals to feed themselves even in challenging times. Teaching children how to grow their own food instills valuable life skills and promotes a sense of responsibility. Community gardens bring people together, fostering a sense of community and providing access to fresh, nutritious food. Eating fresh, live food contributes to overall well-being and can have a positive impact on mental health. By creating platforms for individuals to thrive, we can help them discover their purpose and reach their full potential. Quotes "When I see a backyard or front lawn, I see a green space and opportunity to feed ourselves and to at least that if you don't have that, you can't feed yourself." - Dwight Lowe "Our kids are happy, happy people, happy plants. That's a fact. That's a scientific fact." - Dwight Lowe "We want to eat live food, to stay alive, to feel better." - Dwight Lowe Credits Hosted by Ebony White for Buffalo Center for Health Equity Produced by JazzCast Pros Chapters 0:00:00 Importance of gardening and youth involvement 0:02:11 Introduction of Dwight Lowe, founder of Home Beneath Our Feet 0:03:20 Inspiration behind creating programming for inner-city youth 0:04:52 Impact of after-school programs on community 0:05:37 Priority population: inner-city children dealing with food insecurity 0:07:10 Number of gardens cultivated by Dwight Lowe 0:08:14 Importance of teaching youth about food sources and sustainability 0:09:23 Sensory garden at 1117 Ellicott St and involvement of young children 0:11:07 Teaching youth about entrepreneurship through selling produce 0:12:24 Collaboration with other organizations to support community needs 0:13:24 Importance of giving children tools for prosperity 0:13:35 Children's knowledge about bugs in the garden 0:14:20 Importance of eating live food for better health 0:15:13 Addressing the mindset of "we're going to die anyway" 0:16:19 Encouraging parents to start their own gardens 0:17:31 Balancing outdoor activities with technology 0:18:22 Volunteering opportunities with Home Beneath Our Feet 0:19:29 Neighbors taking care of community gardens 0:21:36 Gardens as a study place and sense of pride 0:22:54 Motivation to create stress-free environments for growth 0:24:18 Dwight Lowe's job is to create platforms for self-improvement. 0:24:27 Contact information for Dwight Lowe. 0:24:55 Conclusion and closing remarks. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Ep. 27 Tobacco use is a major contributor to the three leading causes of death among African Americans—heart disease, cancer, and stroke, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. 40,000 Black people die annually from cigarettes annually but on Saturday June 24th the Tobacco Free Erie Niagara Coalition is holding a funeral for "Menthol" celebrating the death of cigarette use. In this episode Stan Martin gives us the story behind the motivation for this event and his mission to work with tobacco users to help them quit the product that, when used as intended, will kill you.  For decades, Big Tobacco marketed menthol cigarettes to African Americans by giving them away in neighborhoods, at festivals and other events. While the use of tobacco products is about equal among Blacks and Whites, African Americans are more likely to smoke menthol cigarettes, inhaling the smoke deeper into their lungs and making it more difficult to quit.  NYS smoker quit line- 1 866 NY quits, https://www.nysmokefree.com/ About the Guest Stan Martin, MM is the Buffalo Office Director for Cicatelli Associates Inc. He possesses over 20 years of experience in program planning, coordination and implementation of community initiatives focused on tobacco control, chronic disease prevention, healthy eating, nutrition, optimal adolescent health, and vaccine hesitancy in historic oppressed populations.   Contact Stan "The Man" via email smartin@caiglobal.org   Throughout his decade of service with CAI, he has held several key leadership positions, which promote health and wellness, facilitation of youth-community led initiatives including HOPE Buffalo, REACH Buffalo & Advancing Tobacco Free Communities. Mr. Martin has expertise in building the capacity of community stakeholders to address the social determinants of health, utilization of Community Based Participatory Research, Collective Impact and Population-Based Health strategies that promote systemic and policy change at every level of the socio-ecological model, which lead to the transformation of social norms. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Ep. 26 Sherman Webb-Middlebrooks is on a mission to fill a void in his community by creating a safe space for Black men to engage in conversations about mental, physical, and spiritual health. But with a system designed to benefit from their trauma and struggle, Sherman's journey is anything but easy. Will he be able to break the mold and provide a new path for black men? "Exposure leads to expansion. If I can expose brothers to different environments, different conversations, get them to think thoughts and never thought before, then I can expand their mind." -Sherman Webb-Middlebrooks   This conversation with Pastor George Nicholas brings to light the staggering health disparities faced by African American men, particularly around mental health and suicide prevention. Public school systems and the criminal justice system often disproportionately affect Black men, contributing to a range of mental health challenges. Recognizing these systemic issues and acknowledging the role they play in the mental health crisis of the black community is essential in driving positive change. Sherman has taken it upon himself to bridge the gap between black men and community programs designed to improve mental health and wellness as the Program Manager of the Black Men's Health Initiative at the Buffalo Center for Health Equity. He believes that by creating a culture and community of support, black men can find the resources and connections they need to thrive, ultimately changing the narrative and breaking the cycle of trauma that has persisted for far too long. This passion stems from his upbringing surrounded by strong female role models, who taught him the importance of emotional intelligence and communication. In this episode, you will be able to: Investigate the presence of stigma tied to mental health in the Black community and its effects. Evaluate the gaps in provision of culturally appropriate mental health care for the Black community. Analyze the systemic factors that intensify the mental health crisis affecting the Black community. Realize the importance of community connections and protected spaces in fostering Black men's mental health.   RESOURCES Black Men's Health Initiative www.buffalohealthequity.org Buffalo Fatherhood Initiative Podcast On YouTube   ABOUT THE GUEST Sherman D. Webb-Middlebrooks is a full-time black man, public intellectual, and lifelong Buffalo resident with a passion for youth development and community building. He holds a BA in Psychology and American History from D'Youville College, and has extensive experience in education and community outreach. Sherman is an experienced facilitator, and has a proven track record of delivering high-quality educational programs and activities that address identified programming priorities around DEI, anti-racism, nutrition, health, and wellness. He has worked with several organizations and institutions including the NYS Public Health Fellows & both Cornell's 4H Healthy Community Youth Advocates program and Youth Community Action Network as a key contact in the Buffalo community.   OTHER EPISODES YOU'LL ENJOY What’s Strong with Black Men? With Stan Martin ”He’s My Brother, Not an Inmate”: How to Help a Loved One Re-enter Society After Incarceration Buffalo May 14 Massacre: Politically or Racially Motivated? with Dr. Henry Taylor Mother of Buffalo Mass Shooting Victim Speaks Out and Fights Back | Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Ep. 25 Sade Dozan joins Pastor George to talk about their personal experiences with caring for aging parents and the upcoming event addressing the need for care for the caregivers. In this episode we explore the following questions: Should you give up your life to care for elderly parent? How do you deal with the stress of caring for an elderly parent? What resources are available for caregivers in Buffalo, NY   The Western New York Chapter of the Alzheimer’s Association in partnership with the Buffalo Center for Health Equity presents “It’s A Family Affair: 3rd Annual Black/African American Caregiver Conference,” Saturday April 1st from 1pm - 3:30pm at the Frank Merriweather Library 1324 Jefferson Avenue, Buffalo, NY   The conference will focus on the unique challenges faced by family caregivers in communities of color. Join us in person or log in via Zoom. Register at bit.ly/AlzFamConf23 or call 800.272.3900. Sponsored by Highmark Blue Cross Blue Shield of Western New York and made possible by a grant from the NYS Dept. of Health.   ABOUT THE GUEST Sadé Dozan, Chief of Operations & Development, at Caregiving Across Generations is a witness to the power collective voice has in shifting culture and policies surrounding under-resourced communities and marginalized groups. Sade is a Black Latina millennial and sandwich generation caregiver living in New Jersey. She cares for her mother and father, who are both in their 70s and chronically ill, and her young daughter. As someone with a disability herself, she balances her own care with that of her loved ones and navigates paid leave, child care, aging and disability care—all while working full time."   Other episodes you'll enjoy A Call For Safe and Equitable Maternal Health with Danise Wilson Why Inclusion in Medical Science is Critical for Black Communities Understanding Alzheimer’s Disease with Claire Corwin   Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Ep. 24 Discover the shocking disparities in health equity revealed by the Erie County Initial Report. Kelly Wofford is the director of the Erie County Department of Health Equity, established by law in 2020. She is responsible for the Health Equity in Erie County: An Initial Disparities Report - This report is intended to serve as a resource for all Erie County residents so that they can better understand the issues and status of health equity and health disparities in Erie County.   Through surveys, targeted outreach and focus groups, Kelly and her team gave a voice to the people who have historically been left out of conversations. In this episode, you will learn the following: 1. How Erie County's Office of Health Equity is using equity to address the social determinants of health for marginalized communities in Western New York.  2. How the Office of Health Equity collected data from more than 3,000 Erie County residents. 3. How the Office of Health Equity is building relationships with community members to ensure their stories are heard.   Resources Office of Health Equity established in Erie County https://www3.erie.gov/health/health-equity   Office of Health Equity written into Law https://www3.erie.gov/health/sites/www3.erie.gov.health/files/2023-02/locallawheoffice.pdf   Buffalo Center for Health Equity 257 W. Genesee Street Suite 160 Buffalo, NY 14202 admin@buffalohealthequity.org   Other episodes you'll enjoy Black Mamas: A Call For Safe and Equitable Maternal Health with Danise Wilson Buffalo Massacre: Politically or Racially Motivated? with Dr. Henry Taylor Food Apartheid on Buffalo’s Eastside with Rita Hubbard-Robinson   About the Guest With a career centered in health engagement and advocacy, Kelly Marie Wofford began her role as the inaugural director of the Erie County Department Office of Health Equity in late 2021.  The Office of Health Equity is a new initiative that focuses on evaluating health disparities and improving health outcomes in Erie County, and building partnerships for programs that help marginalized and diverse populations in Erie County achieve maximum health and wellness.    Prior to her role establishing the Erie County Office of Health Equity, Kelly led community relations at Erie County Medical Center as well as communications efforts and mental health advocacy for the Buffalo Center for Health Equity. Her leadership was also pivotal in the creation of the University at Buffalo’s Institute for Community Health Equity, a research institute – the first of its kind – that partners with the Buffalo Center for Health Equity and the Erie County Office of Health Equity to provide the research needed to achieve the vision of a more healthy, equitable, and just community.   Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Ep. 7 This Indigenous Peoples' Day, we are exploring an important perspective from the Seneca Nation on the ongoing struggles for justice and equitable treatment, issues deeply rooted in historical injustices. Pastor George sits down with Samantha Nephew to discuss Native American affairs in Western New York, including the recent dispute between New York State and the Seneca Nation over casino revenue sharing. Samantha is an active member of the Seneca Nation of Indians (Deer Clan) serving as an advocate for health equity in Western New York. Instagram @healthcareeducation Generational Trauma: Its Legacy and Impact The episode opens by addressing the generational trauma that deeply affects Indigenous communities. Samantha Nephew shares a powerful story of her great-grandmother, a Deer Clan member who was forced into a residential school. 🏫 She was punished for speaking her native language, underscoring how colonial systems sought to erase Indigenous identities. This trauma echoes through generations, showing up in mental health challenges and struggles to preserve culture. The importance of truth-telling for healing is emphasized throughout the episode, reminding us that confronting the past is crucial for moving toward reconciliation. 💬 🎰 Governance Disputes: The Seneca Nation vs. New York State The podcast also dives into the financial disputes between the Seneca Nation and New York State, specifically around the gaming compact that has fueled ongoing tension: The Issue: New York demanded revenue payments from the Seneca Nation’s casinos, which led to a financial freeze of the Seneca Nation’s bank accounts in early 2022. This action was seen by many as a modern form of colonial domination. 🏦 The Impact: The freeze disrupted the livelihoods of many Seneca Nation members and deepened mistrust. Pastor G from the podcast reflects, “No matter what you make out of that, it’ll never be a fair and equitable exchange for what was done to native people.” Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Ep. 21 The Buffalo Center for Health Equity partners with the Future Hope Apprenticeship and Recovery Program to support people who were incarcerated and help them cope with the many difficult aspects of successful reintegration into the community. Our mission is to provide valuable job opportunities in the construction trade, along with life-skills, education and job readiness training for a sustainable future. Key training areas include: carpentry, painting, drywall, taping, and roofing. Resources:  www.futurehopeapprenticeship.org www.buffalohealthequity.org   Future Hope Apprentice was established in order to provide re-entry assistance for ex-offenders on a permanent basis. The primary clients are male and female youth offenders and ex-offenders who are in the process of reintegration into their communities. Graduates from a full year of the FHAP will be fully qualified for formal apprenticeship programs in the building trade unions, leading to union membership and permanent jobs. Reverend Emanuel Hutcherson, leads the staff and volunteers of FHAP which includes psychologists, licensed substance abuse counselors, government and service agencies in the State of Massachusetts. This is a project that is both inspired and run by the community it serves. Reverend Emanuel L. Hutcherson is a native from upstate Buffalo New York. He is the Executive Director of Prison Prevention Ministry / Founder of Future Hope Apprenticeship & Recovery Program Inc. and D.Y.S. mentor program. He’s a formal Chaplain for Suffolk County Sheriff’s Department house of Correction. He completed his leadership ministerial education at Greater Love Tabernacle Church and Gordon Cornwell Theological Seminary. He strives for reconciliation between returning citizens and today’s society, by integrating values health wellness, recovery, mentoring, spirituality with economic development. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Episode 19 Zaneta Everhart's son Zaire Goodman was shot by a domestic terrorist on May 14th 2022 during the White Supremacist attack at the Tops Supermarket in Buffalo, New York. He survived, but has a bullet wound that went through his neck and out his back. Everhart has become an advocate for gun violence prevention since the shooting. She believes that the root causes of gun violence, such as poverty and lack of education, need to be addressed in order to prevent future shootings. "I've always felt that I was a servant of the community and for the community, but now I know that service has been elevated, and I'm here to do the work, because what happened to Zaire is a unique situation." - Zeneta Everhart In this heartfelt episode we discuss 1. How easy it is for people to access guns in America 2. Staggering statistics showing how gun violence disproportionately affects Black men 3. The connection between gun violence and social economic factors 4. What policy changes can impact the root causes of gun violence Zeneta Everhart is the Director of Diversity & Inclusion for New York Senator Tim Kennedy's office; where her focus is on ensuring equity through legislation, community building, and the equitable distribution of resources. She is a passionate advocate for policy change to address the root causes of gun violence and help keep communities safe. After Zaire Goodman survived the Tops Markets massacre, he and his mother, Zeneta Everhart, started a book drive to gather children's books about racism and diversity. Zeneta & Zaire's Book Club collected close to 10,000 books donated from around the country. The books will be held at Villa Maria College and distributed to schools and community centers. Resources: Zeneta & Zaire's Book Club Wish List https://www.amazon.com/hz/wishlist/ls/2QT7QPH0XGSS6 Book referenced by Pastor George - "The 2nd Amendment: Race and Guns in a Fatally Unequal America by Caroyn Anderson Movie Michael Moore's documentary "Bowling for Columbine"   Other episodes you'll enjoy Black Mamas: A Call For Safe and Equitable Maternal Health with Danise Wilson Buffalo Massacre: Politically or Racially Motivated? with Dr. Henry Taylor Food Apartheid on Buffalo’s Eastside with Rita Hubbard-Robinson Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Episode 13 "To be a Negro in this country and to be relatively conscious is to be in a state of rage almost all of the time.” - James Baldwin. Is this what happened to Will Smith at the Oscars? Stan Martin joins Pastor George to discuss how we can move past the negative media portrayals of "toxic masculinity" and focus on what is Strong with Black Men. ABOUT THE GUEST: Stan Martin, MM is the Buffalo Office Director for Cicatelli Associates Inc. Throughout his decade of service with CAI, he has held several key leadership positions, which promote health and wellness, facilitation of youth-community led initiatives including HOPE Buffalo, REACH Buffalo & Advancing Tobacco Free Communities. Mr. Martin has expertise in building the capacity of community stakeholders to address the social determinants of health, utilization of Community Based Participatory Research, Collective Impact and Population-Based Health strategies that promote systemic and policy change at every level of the socio-ecological model, which lead to the transformation of social norms. MEDIA REFERENCES: NPR Radio "To be in Rage Almost All the Time" https://www.npr.org/2020/06/01/867153918/-to-be-in-a-rage-almost-all-the-time All Eyez on Me Movie "They’re gonna give you the tools you need to destroy yourself” - Afeni Shakur Will Smith/Chris Rock vs Will Packer/Samuel Jackson 2022 Oscar’s analogy… The media spotlights ONE misbehavior and does not balance the portrayal of black men with their achievements; including the fact that Will Packer was the first Black man to produce the Oscars Award Show. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Ep. 23 Stan Martin joins Pastor George to address the leading cause of death among Black American adults. There is a concerted plan to destroy us. We need to be diligent about supporting policy that support us. Tobacco is responsible for deaths needs to held responsible. Big tobacco places profit over people. WE must place public health over Tobacco. Big Tobacco is the villain, and we cannot allow them to divide us. It’s time for it to stop. It is our intention to bring truth and awareness where there is division…provide healing. Expose the actors outside of our community that try to manipulate the hearts and minds of our leaders. "Stop carrying the water” that provides sickness.   Stan Martin, MM is the Buffalo Office Director for Cicatelli Associates Inc. He possesses over 20 years of experience in program planning, coordination and implementation of community initiatives focused on tobacco control, chronic disease prevention, healthy eating, nutrition, optimal adolescent health, and vaccine hesitancy in historic oppressed populations.   Stats and facts In the last 12 months 40000 have be lost as a result in cigarette smoking Menthol cigarettes, more flavorful, more addictive... marketed to the African American community. Kills more ppl than car accidents, suicide, and AIDS combined. Cancer related deaths are preventable. New legislation New York Governor Hochul Proposal to Ban the Sale of All Flavored tobacco Products, Including Menthol, https://www.health.ny.gov/press/releases/2023/2023-02-09_flavored_tobacco_products.htm   Both sides of the issue Con Sale and distribution of menthol would criminalize smokers and increase negative encounters with ppl and community. Black market for menthol cigarette   Pro African Americans are more vulnerable to health-related diseases connected to smoking menthol and other flavored tobacco product…this legislation will set a boundaries, restricting the ability of big tobacco from targeting the next generation.   Resources Referencing paraphrased quote… If you are not gonna target youth, you will be out of business…https://www.lakecountyil.gov/DocumentCenter/View/2809/Tobaccos-Target---YOU-PDF?bidId= NYS smoker quit line- 1 866 NY quits, https://www.nysmokefree.com/   About the Guest Stan Martin Project Director / Senior Trainer Ciatelli Associates,  smartin@caiglobal.org   Throughout his decade of service with CAI, he has held several key leadership positions, which promote health and wellness, facilitation of youth-community led initiatives including HOPE Buffalo, REACH Buffalo & Advancing Tobacco Free Communities. Mr. Martin has expertise in building the capacity of community stakeholders to address the social determinants of health, utilization of Community Based Participatory Research, Collective Impact and Population-Based Health strategies that promote systemic and policy change at every level of the socio-ecological model, which lead to the transformation of social norms. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Ep. 22 The need for Black maternal health care has never been more pressing. According to the CDC, in New York City alone, Black women are nine times more likely to die of a pregnancy-related cause than white women, and their rate of infant mortality is more than three times higher. In this episode Pastor George Nicholas is joined by Danise Wilson, Executive Director of the Erie Niagara Area Health Education Center to discuss how Doula services can help and how you can attend a free conference offering tons of resources for Black Mamas.  Danise, had a heart attack days after giving birth and she continues to have health problems years later because she was not heard. More than a hot topic, this crisis impacts black moms and babies we must be intentional in our efforts in mitigate the negative outcomes.     ABOUT THE GUEST Danise Wilson, MPH Executive Director of the Erie Niagara Area Health Education Center. Erie Niagara AHEC is dedicated to creating a diverse healthcare workforce and well-informed community. Our educational programs address community health issues such as maternal health, opioid use, and health literacy.  Learn more at https://www.erieniagaraahec.org/    RESOURCES J. Marion Sims, American Physician/Surgeon A fresh look at the historical record     What are the benefits of having a doula? A doula is a professional labor assistant who provides physical and emotional support to you and your partner during pregnancy, childbirth and the postpartum period. Are you a Medicaid-eligible Black or Brown mother in Erie county? Would you like doula services to help you through your prenatal, labor and delivery, and postpartum journey at no charge? Please contact mackley@erieniagaraahec.org  Erie Niagara AHEC Mother-Doula Program Enrollment Form     EVENT: Black Mama: A Call for Safe & Equitable Maternal Health   February 22 in Buffalo, NY This free mini conference will focus on Black maternal health with an emphasis on post-partum care.        Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Episode 20 The 2022 Igniting Hope Podcast featured speaker Reverend Dr. Heber Brown, III is empowering the black community to take control of their food security. In this episode, you will learn: 1. How did African Americans gain control of the food supply chain in the past, and how can this knowledge be used to create a more equitable food system in the present? 2. What is the connection between the African American church and food security? 3. How can a focus on the spiritual aspects of food justice help to create a more sustainable and equitable food system? Reverend Dr. Heber Brown, III is a pastor and founder of the Black Church Food Security Network. He travels around the country advocating for food security within the African American community. He visited Buffalo, New York and was disturbed by the lack of access to healthy food for many within the city. He attributes this to a lack of control and agency within the community when it comes to food. He believes that the African American community must begin to look to the black church as a key source of empowerment when it comes to food. The black church has a In this episode, Pastor George and Rev. Brown tackle the following issues How do we break the cycle/How do we care for ourselves  Face the reality that we do not have control of our own food environment…we cannot feed ourselves  Ask where do we have control? One of those places is the Black church. We can begin to control our food environment in the place where we already have some control agency and resource.  How did we get here…we did not ask for an abundance of liquor stores, fast food in our community…we didn’t put them there…we don’t own anything How we can shift the current trajectory  Create spaces for deep study and analysis to see how we got here  Determine the ways that we are complicit to sustaining the current arrangement  Explore to see examples of better and different to reimagine spaces Adapting a new mindset  Understand that there is a connection to disease and what we put in our bodies  Stop lamenting about what’s above our head and focus on the things that are at the top!  Tap into more than just the social political aspect of food insecurity…tap into a source a stream and power greater than to break the ties of bondage  Allow God to release in us what he has already to deposited in you Resources: Where Have All the Prophets Gone: Reclaiming Prophetic Preaching in America by Marvin McMickle The Practice of Prophetic Imagination: Preaching an Emancipating Word by Walter Brueggemann Exodus 4:2 Then the LORD said to him, “What is that in your hand?” “A staff,” he replied. Women with the issue of blood Mark 5:34 And he said to her, “Daughter, your faith has made you well; go in peace, healed of your disease.” Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Episode 18 If you're interested in health equity, the Igniting Hope Conference is for you. Learn about the work of Dr. Jamal Williams and how to take effective action to improve health outcomes and increase inclusion in medical research.   In this episode you will learn:  1. How exclusion from medical research can impact treatment and resources for chronic diseases among black Americans  2. The importance of inclusivity in medical research in order to create accurate conclusions  3. How Igniting Hope Conference served as a catalyst for one young black scholar to get involved in medical research. "I think we really have to get activated in science and medicine. And we can't stand on the sidelines any longer and point to historical situations where we were abused, or we were taken advantage of." Dr. Jamal Williams is a postdoctoral fellow in neurogenetics at UCLA. He earned his PhD in neuroscience from the University at Buffalo, where he became interested in science as a way to address the issues of health disparities he observed growing up in Buffalo's Eastside. Dr. Williams has spoken about the importance of inclusion in science and medicine, both in terms of research subjects and researchers themselves, in order to address the disparities in health outcomes between black and white Americans. This is Dr. Jamal Williams's story... I'm Dr. Jamal Williams, and I'm a scholar who was born and raised in Buffalo, New York. I attended public school here and then went on to earn my PhD in public health from the University of Buffalo. Today, I work at UCLA in Los Angeles, but I'll never forget the impact that the Igniting Hope Conference had on my journey. The conference was created to bring awareness to health disparities within the African American community, and it did just that. I was blown away by the passion and commitment of the speakers to tackling these issues head on. After attending the conference, I reflected on how I could use my own career to make a difference. I realized that I could use my skills in science to help dispel myths about mental health disorders and to work towards. Key Takeaways: People of African descent have the most genetically diverse genome of anybody else in the world. They are still vastly underrepresented in genetic screening and medical research.  In 2022, non-European representation in genome wide association studies only makes up about 2.5%. Europeans make up only about 16% of the world's population. There are 16 billion people in Africa, 13 billion in India, and 14 billion in China. Dr Williams is concerned about the poor performance of African American children in math and science in Buffalo Public Schools. He believes that students need to work twice as hard to achieve the same level of achievement as their white counterparts. Resources: Register for the Free 2022 Igniting Hope Conference August 12th and 13th at www.BuffaloHealthEquity.org Learn more about Dr. Jamal Williams and his podcast Reclaim the Bench podcast, highlighting unsung heroes in science and medicine at www.jamalbwilliams.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Episode 17 Have you ever just stopped on the street to feel the wind on your face or the sun on your skin? These simple mindfulness practices are often overlooked but can really be beneficial to people who are dealing with trauma and grief. In this episode Pastor George is joined by grief coach Troia Butcher who came from Pennsylvania to Buffalo, NY to help the community find a practical path from loss to recovery, enabling them to become whole in order to fulfill their purpose. ABOUT THE GUEST Troia has spent a lifetime committed to the service of others. An 8-year veteran of the U.S. Army and an Ordained Minister, Troia brings an empathetic approach to grief and loss. She is a certified Grief Counselor, as well as a certified Life Coach. Currently, Troia is pursuing a master’s degree in Thanatology (study of death, dying, and grief). She holds an M.S. in Project Management and a B.S. in Criminology. Troia has used her life experiences and her education to develop a unique approach to empowering others through their grief and loss journey. Contact Information hello@gghealing.org www.gghealing.org Join Pastor George and other community members at the annual Igniting Hope Conference: Breaking Barriers, Maintaining Resilience and Reconstructing a Community of Care. August 13th 8am - 3pm at the Jacobs School of Medicine and Biomedical Science on the University at Buffalo Campus. Register for this free event at www.BuffaloHealthEquity.org Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Episode 16 The 47th Annual Juneteenth Festival in Buffalo, NY has been welcoming people from all over the country to celebrate long before June 19th was recognized as a National Holiday. Ras Jomo, the Executive Vice President for Juneteenth Festival, says, “I think there’s a whole lot of room, opportunity, and solidarity for Buffalo to show the world again why we’re a leading city in this country and in this time.” This year's festival may be the most important one yet because it comes a month after 10 innocent people lost their lives in a racially motivated mass shooting at the Tops on Jefferson Avenue. Juneteenth is the celebration of the end of slavery in the United States, and yet here we are still fighting for our freedom to live in peace as Black people in America. "Our liberation does not pose a threat to your existence" - Pastor George Hosted by Pastor George, chair of the Buffalo Center for Health Equity www.BuffaloHealthEquity.org Produced by JazzCast Pros www.JazzCastPros.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Episode 15 Claire Corwin from the Alzheimer's Association of WNY offers support and resources for those living with Alzheimer's disease AND their Caregivers! It's important that we break the silence and stop the stigma around this form of dementia and utilize the support groups available right here in our community. Unaddressed depression impacts cognitive ability which tangles up the brain and can lead to an Alzheimer's diagnosis. Help is available. Call the 24-Hour Alzheimer's Support Line 1 800 272 3900 Visit www.Alz.org/WNY or call (716) 626-0600 to find out about services like Medical Alert Wanderer Support and Driver's Evaluation. ABOUT THE GUEST Claire Corwin is the Community Outreach Specialist for the Alzheimer’s Association of WNY. Claire has worked with the Alzheimer’s Association five years, but began her journey with them as a volunteer and “Walk to End Alzheimer’s” participant in 2016. Claire is motivated by her own experiences as a caregiver for her grandmother, who lived with Alzheimer’s disease for over ten years. Claire is a WNY native, and has worked for the Alzheimer’s Association in New York City, as well as here in Buffalo, with a focus on introducing members of our community to the services available to them through the Alzheimer’s Association WNY. Hosted by Pastor George, chair of the Buffalo Center for Health Equity www.BuffaloHealthEquity.org Produced by JazzCast Pros Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices