April 2020 Newsletter

Enslaved African Develops Basis for Smallpox Cure

The underlying cure for smallpox, a disease that ravaged parts of the early United States, was brought to light by an enslaved African who brought critical healing knowledge from his homeland. Onesimus, like untold numbers of Africans, came from African societies that had developed medicinal and other knowledge the western world had yet to discover. From farming techniques to healing protocols and varied arenas of craftsmanship, enslaved Africans brought a wide range of knowledge, talents, and competencies to the United States that were routinely exploited.

As you read how Onesimus helped end the 1721 smallpox epidemic in Massachusetts, be reminded of the legacy of rescue that is African. Fully consider this historic example of how people of African descent solved problems, found remedies, invented solutions. Be fortified in knowing that like Black people who found solutions for themselves and others in the past, Black people can find solutions to present-day challenges. Remembering that possibility during the current pandemic may have everyday value. Click below and know.

2020 April Newsletter, History and Culture

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Free African Society Nurses Saved Philadelphia From the 1792 Yellow Fever Epidemic

Because enslaved Africans in South Carolina were less affected by the 1742 yellow fever epidemic than whites, it was presumed 50 years later that Black people in Philadelphia had greater immunity. When the Free African Society was called upon to care for those affected during Philadelphia’s 1792 epidemic, Black nurses became the primary caregivers.

Over a 3-month period when more than 5,000 people died, mostly Black women staffed the yellow-fever-ridden hospitals. While a limited number of Black men were recruited to remove and discard highly infectious corpses, Black women served as front line health workers who attended to the needs of Black and white patients stricken by the disease during one of America’s worst epidemics. To learn more about this historic occasion when Black nurses made the difference, click below.

2020 April Newsletter, Present Day Achievement

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9 Black-owned Companies Making Hand Sanitizers

As challenges sometimes do, the Coronavirus has led to a discovery of assets otherwise less known: Black-owned hand sanitizer companies. From vegan, to alcohol free, hypoallergenic, and pH balanced, this collection of products offered by Black businesses represents items coveted and sorely needed during the Coronavirus pandemic. Because some sanitizers may be more potent than others, take care to identify which are most appropriate for your needs. Click below and enjoy discovering sources for critical products during a critical time.

2020 April Newsletter, Present Day Achievement

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Young Doctor Significantly Curtailed Spread of the Coronavirus in Nigeria

It was her keen attention and vigilante approach to monitoring the symptoms of a visitor that helped contain the impact of Nigeria’s first Coronavirus carrier. Young Dr. Amarachukwu Allison took swift measures to test and quarantine an infected Italian contractor. That is why she is credited with getting a firm handle on containing COVID-19 in Nigeria.

Dr. Allison credits her knowledge and “God-given intuition”; as sources that fueled her tenacity. Click below to learn more about the difference the young doctor—a modern day Shero—has made, and why she is being widely celebrated.

2020 April Newsletter, Present Day Achievement

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13 Year-old Making and Donating COVID-19 Protective Masks

When Charles Randolph’s parents enrolled him in enrichment classes that included learning how to use a 3-D printer, they had no idea he would become a great example of how young people can make a big difference during the COVID-19 pandemic. Using skills learned, Charles has designed and produced protective face masks that he gives away. His motivation came from wanting to help his great uncle who has asthma and other underlining health conditions that make him more likely to be affected by the Coronavirus.

As we acknowledge Charles for his outstanding efforts, let us also recognize his parents for giving him access to education that enabled his contribution. What skill-building class could you enroll a young person in today to further their inventive creativity? What young mind and life could you impact? Click below to read more, and also view a video about a young man we can proudly call Charles Randolph, The Exemplar!

2020 April Newsletter, Youth and Community

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Black IHOP Franchise Owner Providing Free Meals During COVID-19 Pandemic

A Liberian immigrant who acquired her first restaurant at age 29, restaurateur and real estate developer Adenah Bayou now owns 3 IHOP franchises, 4 soul food restaurants and manages a multimillion-dollar property development portfolio. During the Coronavirus pandemic, she is
offering free IHop meals to children, parents, and disadvantaged adults in the cities of Newark, Paterson, and Irvington, New Jersey.

Apparently steeped in traditional African values that place people before money, Bayou recalls, “I grew up in communities where I learned that nothing is more important than taking care of each other.” It is from that value system that she extends generosity and human regard. Adding, “No child should go without a meal because schools are closed. No adult should be hungry while navigating the risks of a global pandemic.” To learn more about Bayou’s extraordinary achievements and compassionate practices that honor the people and communities who support her businesses, click below.

2020 April Newsletter, Present Day Achievement

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Black and Mobile Delivery Service For
Black Owned Restaurants

Never mind that his dad was incarcerated, he struggled through school, and his behaviors often left his grandmother worried and broken-hearted. David Cabello did not succumb to the social and economic life-traps that abound. He did not give up on himself. He looked for, found, and then activated his own power to build the business and life he really wanted.

After driving a few months for a delivery service and learning the ins and outs of that work, Cabello decided he could own a delivery service. That is how “Black and Mobile” was born, August, 2019. Now, in the midst of the Coronavirus pandemic, when food delivery services are critical, Cabello’s Philadelphia and Detroit based businesses are taking off. An important added value of “Black and Mobile” is that it services Black-owned restaurants. When you visit their website you can choose delivery from an assortment of Black-owned eateries. With one click you can support two Black-owned businesses. To read the full story about “Black and Mobile” becoming a shining example of achievement despite odds, click below. And if you live in Philadelphia or Detroit, click here to place an order.

2020 April Newsletter, Present Day Achievement

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