The management team of Connecticut Juvenile Training School / Department of Children and Families are under tremendous pressure from media and lawmakers concerning employee restraints at CJTS. Not only are lawmakers holding hearings and conducting property inspections at the facility, but looking for scapegoats too. In America whenever there are problems in society it is necessary -in the words of character Clay in Sons of Anarchy- " to blame it on the black man." In previous blog stories Youth Service Officer Dupree became the black man CJTS /DCF blamed for harmful restraint practices. Yeah man, Dupree's name and address were given to media; leaked videos showed this large black man restraining some resident at CJTS. However sources report the technique shown in that video is taught at Safe Crisis Management Trainings authorized by plantation hierarchy. Let me not digress from the point. Dupree is now the face of all that is supposedly wrong with client restraints. He is now terminated from a job with CJTS. This is not the only black man to be depicted as menacing and marauding through the DCF / CJTS countryside ...like Frankenstein.
Former employee [ retired ] YSO Cornell Lewis did not see an altercation between two residents while working at CJTS. Lewis and staff were looking at something on a computer during the fight that lasted seconds. Lewis attempts at organizing employees to address favoritism, racial animus made management angry--- so they gas lighted him. Lewis got paced on administrative leave for being harmful to children at that facility.The arbitrator failed to see Lewis as any kind of threat and restored his employment with benefits and back pay. However for one year the scenario was the same as the one for Dupree; black man is dangerous. In Lewis case he fought back, he refused to be part of some jive narrative that assassinated his character ... put out by vengeful management. Now it is 3 years after Lewis arbitration vindication that brother Dupree is sacrificed as some black male Frankenstein, who ravages the CJTS countryside.
Hold on, in 2009 a white male YSO physically struck some resident and only received 10 days off. The white male YSO did not get terminated for hitting the resident in front of witnesses, nor was his address placed in newspapers. In Dupree's case mobile news trucks sat in front of his house after the story of him as dangerous black man surfaced.
THE PUBLIC FACES OF PLANTATION TROUBLES ARE BLACK MEN !!
Wednesday, September 30, 2015
Thursday, September 24, 2015
DUPREE THROWN UNDER THE BUS , SUPERINTENDENT HAS DISINGENUOUS MEETING
The rulers at Department of Children and Families plus Connecticut Juvenile Training School are under siege by media... lawmakers. In order to get the focus off them DCF Plantations management did something despicable but not unexpected. A Youth Service Officer at CJTS named Dupree was publicly humiliated and fired. Dupree is now the black face of all the problems at CJTS. What makes this so reprehensible is tapes of Dupree restraining a resident were leaked to the media, then political posturing started. The head of DCF thundered proclamations from the mountain top about "cleaning up the facility and making sure residents are safe." Then the CJTS Superintendent held some jive meeting with YSOs to "assure them he is on their side." Most YSOs contacted this blog and said they held their nose doing the CJTS meeting.
Let me be clear.
All of this is going on because for years CJTS has been allowed to get out of control because management did not provide clear direction / purpose. Keystone Cops management allowed every Unit at CJTS to be run by petty warlord supervisors... according to different criteria. Now the Child Advocate -with help by the glorified CJTS whistle blower- released reports condemning YSO restraint techniques and everyone is trying to cover their backs. Hell, even the whistle blower is being quoted in the on line publication CT News Junkie. Oh by the way this whistle blower is trying to get transferred to 3rd shift because co-workers are not happy with all these false revelations... or the sacrifice of Dupree. Well if we read the history of America correctly, it is always better to place blame on the black man. And Dupree is a big.. strong... muscular black man. I wonder if the big black buck image played any part in throwing Dupree under the bus ? Hmmmmm !
Let me be clear.
All of this is going on because for years CJTS has been allowed to get out of control because management did not provide clear direction / purpose. Keystone Cops management allowed every Unit at CJTS to be run by petty warlord supervisors... according to different criteria. Now the Child Advocate -with help by the glorified CJTS whistle blower- released reports condemning YSO restraint techniques and everyone is trying to cover their backs. Hell, even the whistle blower is being quoted in the on line publication CT News Junkie. Oh by the way this whistle blower is trying to get transferred to 3rd shift because co-workers are not happy with all these false revelations... or the sacrifice of Dupree. Well if we read the history of America correctly, it is always better to place blame on the black man. And Dupree is a big.. strong... muscular black man. I wonder if the big black buck image played any part in throwing Dupree under the bus ? Hmmmmm !
Monday, September 21, 2015
PLANTATION HAS NO DIRECTION, TROUBLE ON UNIT 5D, RESIDENT SENT TO WRONG HOSPITAL
The Connecticut Juvenile Training School is spiraling out of control due to lack of leadership. Since the Child Advocate released her critical report about CJTS, management is running scared. Let me be clear. CJTS has always been dysfunctional and KeyStone Cops management operated that facility badly. However now directives are going out preventing Youth Service Officers from doing their jobs; residents are getting bold by saying " you [ YSOs ] cannot touch me so fuck going to bed at the designated time". To show you how out of control things are, consider an incident September 17, 2015 while CJTS residents were in school. Sources report that a resident decided not to stay in school... then ran outside onto the facility grounds. For almost 30 minutes the resident wandered the plantation facility while YSOs just stood and looked. KeyStone Cops management are reluctant to do anything that might cause more scrutiny from law makers or the Child Advocate Office. At this juncture lawmakers seem poised to try and close this dysfunctional facility that costs 30 million dollars to operate yearly. While Rome burns Nero fiddles. While CJTS spirals out of control management sits in their offices scared of shadows on the wall.
What is going on in Unit 5D with residents ? Sources report how this certain resident is spitting on and biting staff. Instead of trying to contain the problem, dysfunctional management refuses to address the biting or spitting. The resident in question is saying how no one can restrain him. He knows about publicity focused on CJTS, and this leads to acting out behaviors when management does not operate to restore rule of law. This attitude is shared by all residents at CJTS.
Finally to highlight the problems at CJTS let us look at the following incident. The resident is acting out behaviorally on his Unit. Someone decided to make the decision to send this resident to get help from hospital professionals. The original decision was to send the resident to Sol Norit South Hospital. However lack of communication between management / supervisors allowed the resident to be sent to Middlesex Hospital. Say what ?? This is the height of incompetence, you send a person in need of help to the wrong location, due to poor communication from the Assistant Superintendent in charge of Pueblo Girls Unit. It is reported by YSOs that Assistant Superintendent Christy Ramsey's lack of communication skills might possibly be a factor in sending the resident to the wrong hospital. DCF Plantation blog cannot verify this with Ramsey due to the fact the blog's staff is considered persona non grata. CJTS staff has been told not to talk with blog staff writers.
What is going on in Unit 5D with residents ? Sources report how this certain resident is spitting on and biting staff. Instead of trying to contain the problem, dysfunctional management refuses to address the biting or spitting. The resident in question is saying how no one can restrain him. He knows about publicity focused on CJTS, and this leads to acting out behaviors when management does not operate to restore rule of law. This attitude is shared by all residents at CJTS.
Finally to highlight the problems at CJTS let us look at the following incident. The resident is acting out behaviorally on his Unit. Someone decided to make the decision to send this resident to get help from hospital professionals. The original decision was to send the resident to Sol Norit South Hospital. However lack of communication between management / supervisors allowed the resident to be sent to Middlesex Hospital. Say what ?? This is the height of incompetence, you send a person in need of help to the wrong location, due to poor communication from the Assistant Superintendent in charge of Pueblo Girls Unit. It is reported by YSOs that Assistant Superintendent Christy Ramsey's lack of communication skills might possibly be a factor in sending the resident to the wrong hospital. DCF Plantation blog cannot verify this with Ramsey due to the fact the blog's staff is considered persona non grata. CJTS staff has been told not to talk with blog staff writers.
Sunday, September 20, 2015
MORAL MONDAY CT BLACK LEADERSHIP MEETS WITH RESIDENTS OVER CONCERNS
It was a nice...sunny day September 19, 2015 at the address 4-40 Vine Street Apartments in Hartford. At 11:00am Moral Monday CT black leadership met residents of this apartment complex about concerns. The residents have in the past helped run drug dealers out of the apt. complex and forced renovations to the massive structures on Vine Street. However now there are concerns about problems in newly renovated buildings only months after people moved in. Bishop John Selders, wife Pamela Selders, and Cornell Lewis toured the apartment complex and listened to the residents complaints. There are five major complaints from residents (1.) buildings are not maintained in the back, dumpsters not emptied they smell... and crawling with maggots, (2.) there are vermin in building e.g. mice, spiders, roaches and bats inside walls, (3.) buildings are not consistently cleaned inside by regular staff. This lack of cleaning is due to management hiring other workers for cheaper rates, (4.) employees are not recording rental fees responsibility... inaccurate ledgering of rental monies, (5.) apartments advertised as including heat... air conditioning... and water within rental payment. However when residents moved in management changed the story so that residents pay for these utilities.
Residents blame Schochet Companies 536 Granite Street ... Braintree, Massachusetts as the culprit behind these problems with apartments. There are reports of residents having tried to present concerns to Schochet Companies but have not been taken seriously. It worth noting that residents of 4-40 Vine Street Apartments contacted Moral Monday CT leadership for guidance and advocacy around this issue. There are so called black leaders in Hartford running around promoting their persona... getting photographed with politicians and promoting feel good events. Yet when people of color in this apartment complex need help... so called black leaders are not to be found. I guess it is easier to go stand with lawmakers at the Legislative Office Building than be with your people in the Northend of Hartford. Well at least Moral Monday CT black leadership is addressing the needs of marginalized people instead of grinning like Buckwheat with the white power structure.
Residents blame Schochet Companies 536 Granite Street ... Braintree, Massachusetts as the culprit behind these problems with apartments. There are reports of residents having tried to present concerns to Schochet Companies but have not been taken seriously. It worth noting that residents of 4-40 Vine Street Apartments contacted Moral Monday CT leadership for guidance and advocacy around this issue. There are so called black leaders in Hartford running around promoting their persona... getting photographed with politicians and promoting feel good events. Yet when people of color in this apartment complex need help... so called black leaders are not to be found. I guess it is easier to go stand with lawmakers at the Legislative Office Building than be with your people in the Northend of Hartford. Well at least Moral Monday CT black leadership is addressing the needs of marginalized people instead of grinning like Buckwheat with the white power structure.
Thursday, September 17, 2015
WHISTLE BLOWER ON THE PLANTATION HAS TRAGIC FLAW CONCEPT
In reading Greek literature and mythology there is always the main character with a Tragic Flaw. To simplify what I mean ... it goes like this ; person commit great deeds or exhibits certain character qualities ...then does something foolish to fall from grace. Odysseus, Theseus, Oedipus, Achilles, Ajax, Diomedes, and Hector displayed certain character traits as admirable then succumbed to the Tragic Flaw. However at Connecticut Juvenile Training School there is some demented twist on this concept of Tragic Flaw being flaunted around. In the past several weeks media attention has focused on how supposedly out of control Youth Service Officers are dangerously restraining residents for no reason. There are Hartford Courant news articles about the subject, television coverage, and legislative hearings by lawmakers about "the problem" at CJTS. All of this information came to light when a certain employee of CJTS collected hundreds of documents during work and delivered this data to the Child Advocate Office. This person claimed to be upset about treatment of residents by uncaring peers. To anyone looking from the outside into CJTS this would seem to be an admirable quality from the Whistle Blower.
However if we look closely the shine on this Whistle Blower is tarnished or to put it another way full of pyrites [ fools gold as it is called ]. In the past this same Whistle Blower has been involved in numerous incidents that caused peers of color to file complaints about racial animus with Human Resources. Let us list all of the incidents that contribute to this YSO seeming to possess the Tragic Flaw.
1. At some point in the past being investigated for assault on a resident.
2. The use of state equipment without out permission and during working hours.
3. Posting racially charged notes about co-workers of color in various Units.
4. Verbally assaulting a black female co-worker to the point of tears.
4. Being terminated, rehired, fired, and then violating any restraints imposed by management as
conditions for re-employment.
5. character assassination of a black female running for Union Representative.
6. Going to various Units to inform residents how not to obey directives of other YSOs.
7. Displaying erratic behaviors that led to being banned from CJTS property because staff / et al.,
felt uncomfortable.
After reading the list above any sentient person would have to assume there is a Tragic Flaw in this
person's character. Why then is the YSO running all over CJTS facility claiming to be the Whistle
Blower .... that went to the Child Advocate to expose alleged resident abuse by co-workers ?
It is no secret that management used the Whistle Blower in the past as a Fifth Columnist to bring
havoc on fellow YSOs. When CJTS management got all the use possible out of this self proclaimed
Whistle Blower they jettisoned him to obscurity. Now in the second reincarnation of the Whistle
Blower... the title of Saviour has been adopted and this person claims credit for the maelstrom at
CJTS. One day the YSO is used as tool of management, then goes to goat, and finally hero.
In the final analysis this person is some sort of hero... at least in their own mind.
However if we look closely the shine on this Whistle Blower is tarnished or to put it another way full of pyrites [ fools gold as it is called ]. In the past this same Whistle Blower has been involved in numerous incidents that caused peers of color to file complaints about racial animus with Human Resources. Let us list all of the incidents that contribute to this YSO seeming to possess the Tragic Flaw.
1. At some point in the past being investigated for assault on a resident.
2. The use of state equipment without out permission and during working hours.
3. Posting racially charged notes about co-workers of color in various Units.
4. Verbally assaulting a black female co-worker to the point of tears.
4. Being terminated, rehired, fired, and then violating any restraints imposed by management as
conditions for re-employment.
5. character assassination of a black female running for Union Representative.
6. Going to various Units to inform residents how not to obey directives of other YSOs.
7. Displaying erratic behaviors that led to being banned from CJTS property because staff / et al.,
felt uncomfortable.
After reading the list above any sentient person would have to assume there is a Tragic Flaw in this
person's character. Why then is the YSO running all over CJTS facility claiming to be the Whistle
Blower .... that went to the Child Advocate to expose alleged resident abuse by co-workers ?
It is no secret that management used the Whistle Blower in the past as a Fifth Columnist to bring
havoc on fellow YSOs. When CJTS management got all the use possible out of this self proclaimed
Whistle Blower they jettisoned him to obscurity. Now in the second reincarnation of the Whistle
Blower... the title of Saviour has been adopted and this person claims credit for the maelstrom at
CJTS. One day the YSO is used as tool of management, then goes to goat, and finally hero.
In the final analysis this person is some sort of hero... at least in their own mind.
Monday, September 14, 2015
THE WORKERS DID NOT FIGHT, NOW THEY WANT TO ABANDON SHIP !!
It has come to the attention of DCF Plantation blog that Youth Service Officers are suffering from anxiety about recent events at Connecticut Juvenile Training School. First the Child Advocate publishes a scathing report about YSOs are actually harming residents with unnecessary restraints or takedowns. Second after this report came out lawmakers held hearings about CJTS / Department of Children and Family. Then after those things happened, lawmakers came to inspect CJTS facilities and continue to do so. All of this sent shivers through the DCF Plantation hierarchy and YSOs too. The weird thing that keeps coming up is how YSOs had chances to not let it get to the point of no return : now, lawmakers want to close CJTS permanently.
The workers know what the real problems are ... racism, management that operates in dysfunctional ways when it comes to running that facility ; high paid supervisors who are incompetent... the list goes on. However YSOs did not stand up and fight or expose apparent injustices. YSOs continued to keep low profiles, secure overtime and complain out of earshot of management. YSOs were / are still whispering in Old Massa's house. What is both sad / funny is now these same spineless people are looking for jobs in other facilities. Connecticut Valley Hospital posted openings recently, and YSOs flocked to get applications. When asked why they want to leave the answer came back "it is demoralizing to work at CJTS." However in 2010 five brave employees launched class action lawsuits against CJTS / DCF for racism...bias... hostile workplace environment etc. Not one YSO stood in solidarity with the DCF Plantation 5. On the contrary barn yard, buck dancing, head scratching employees attacked the DCF Plantation 5 as trouble makers. People sat back and watched as white management attacked the DCF Plantation 5.. all of whom are employees of color. If just for once those cowering masses of humanity called YSOs would have stood up, faced the oppressors, then maybe things might be different on the CJTS plantation.
Now the chickens have come home to roost ; because of not standing up in the past to oppression, CJTS management et al., have put forth narratives blaming YSOs for facility troubles. YSOs are now running around like chickens with no heads, asking the Union or God to save their cowardly arse. It will be interesting to watch how things develop in the next few months about CJTS / DCF.
Lawmakers plus the Child Advocate office certainly seem to have the upper hand. Yet if activists had fought hard in the past to expose what really was going on at CJTS, then the YSOs might not be ready to abandon ship.
Just perhaps the YSOs are getting what they deserve for non action.
The workers know what the real problems are ... racism, management that operates in dysfunctional ways when it comes to running that facility ; high paid supervisors who are incompetent... the list goes on. However YSOs did not stand up and fight or expose apparent injustices. YSOs continued to keep low profiles, secure overtime and complain out of earshot of management. YSOs were / are still whispering in Old Massa's house. What is both sad / funny is now these same spineless people are looking for jobs in other facilities. Connecticut Valley Hospital posted openings recently, and YSOs flocked to get applications. When asked why they want to leave the answer came back "it is demoralizing to work at CJTS." However in 2010 five brave employees launched class action lawsuits against CJTS / DCF for racism...bias... hostile workplace environment etc. Not one YSO stood in solidarity with the DCF Plantation 5. On the contrary barn yard, buck dancing, head scratching employees attacked the DCF Plantation 5 as trouble makers. People sat back and watched as white management attacked the DCF Plantation 5.. all of whom are employees of color. If just for once those cowering masses of humanity called YSOs would have stood up, faced the oppressors, then maybe things might be different on the CJTS plantation.
Now the chickens have come home to roost ; because of not standing up in the past to oppression, CJTS management et al., have put forth narratives blaming YSOs for facility troubles. YSOs are now running around like chickens with no heads, asking the Union or God to save their cowardly arse. It will be interesting to watch how things develop in the next few months about CJTS / DCF.
Lawmakers plus the Child Advocate office certainly seem to have the upper hand. Yet if activists had fought hard in the past to expose what really was going on at CJTS, then the YSOs might not be ready to abandon ship.
Just perhaps the YSOs are getting what they deserve for non action.
ALL ROADS LEAD TO FERGUSON TOUR- CINCINNATI / ST.LOUIS / FERGUSON
This is a brief diary about 12-14 people that departed Hartford on 7-312-15 bound for Ferguson, Missouri. We intended to participate in the one year anniversary of the shooting death of Michael Brown by white Police Officer Darren Wilson. The trip took eight days-while we stopped at churches along the way collecting money for activist's legal fees who got arrested during the event.
We were suppose to depart ( 8-4-15) from Cleveland at 10:00am for Cincinnati. The group had discussions about a number of issues facing our tour ; we are late in leaving, it is 1:30pm and the next event is scheduled for 5:00pm. There is at least four hours of driving ahead of an already tired group. Well finally we arrived at Freedom Center Underground Railroad Museum around 6:00pm [ late one hour ]. The auditorium where we perform is filled with a few people. Bishop John Selders gives the audience an introduction about why the tour developed and goals after we reach Ferguson. While the band is singing songs I play along with spoons and dejembe. Several black male poets performed i.e. Austin Larkins , Gamm LeBeau , also one of the tour members named Jake recited personal poetry.
The tour group ate dinner -provided by hosts of a local church- and then I went to the Millennium Hotel around 11pm. The tour members slept in facilities provided by a local church.
8-5-15
At 11:00am Bishop Selders held group discussions in the basement of the church facility for our group to iron out differences. We were suppose to be on the road driving toward Ferguson but people wanted to talk. Around 1:00pm this meeting ended but there is still strong artistic feelings around how shows need to be performed. Finally the group is headed for St.Louis -we leave Louisville, Kentucky off the scheduled tour stop. It is 9:00pm on 8-5-15 and the group arrives in St. Louis seeking housing for the night. Again a local church provides housing for tour members while I sleep at the Cheshire Hotel room 249 ( a great place to reside ). Bishop Selders et al. went to the home of Rev. Osagyefo Uhuru Sekou a leading theologian of the Ferguson uprising. This short... slightly built man is highly intelligent and is fearless in facing oppression in that environment. Rev. Sekou revealed to us that Bree Newsome would be coming to Ferguson for Michael Brown's anniversary celebration and she might need security. Ms. Bree Newsome was arrested on June 27, 2015 for taking down the Confederate battle flag ... on the grounds of the South Carolina State House. This action has made Bree the target of certain right wing extremists and Rev. Sekou wanted to make sure this black woman did not get hurt by white racists in the area. I agreed to help provide security for Bree. Later the discussion at Rev. Sekou's home focused on what direction the Ferguson uprising needed to evolve into. For over one year dedicated activists -black, white, gay, straight- have been fighting against oppression in that area and many of these fighters are mentally -spiritually drained.
8-6-15
Bishop Selders, wife Pamela Selders and I went to several clothing stores. I need suitable clothing for the task of appearing with Bree Newsome in public. We then visited Greater Saint Mark Family Church in order to get a visual idea of how to best provide security for not only Bree Newsome but Professor Cornel West who would also join us for the Michael Brown celebration. Around 7:30pm members of the tour went to a local college to watch this documentary about the infamous shooting of a black male by this white male over the playing of loud rap music... in gas station.... 200-300 people were in attendance. Rev. Sekou was mobbed by well wishers and people taking pictures.
8-7-15
The tour group went to Civil Disobedience training at Greater Saint Mark Family Church in preparation for upcoming protests. Activists from all over America will participate in CD. These people are dedicated freedom fighters for liberation in Ferguson / St. Louis. Most of the activists meet at MoKabe's Coffee House to plan strategy. The owner of this establishment Maureen has graciously allowed her business to be the epic center of all the activity in preparation for Michael Brown's celebration. MoKabe's is the sacred place for activists of the Ferguson rebellion. Delphi had the Oracle of Apollo; St. Louis has MoKabe's as place of worship.
8-8-15
At 2:00pm Bishop Selders, Rev. Sekou et al. went to the rally of Vondruitt Meyers. This black man was shot 17 times by police and later died. His death happened six weeks after Michael Brown's. A crowd of at least one thousand people marched with the family one mile...in 90 minutes. Hot weather took its toll on many people, causing some to faint or discontinue the march. During this event security became a concern for Rev. Sekou due to the stalking of him by a white male. We provided security for Sekou especially, because this white male kept circling Sekou attempting to get close-for what purpose only heaven knows. During the route of this march I was impressed with the number of clergy that were in the crowd. At the end of this event organizers provided food and water. I am impressed by this well organized event. Let me also state that The Nation of Islam provided security and high visibility too. Around 7:30pm we picked up Bree Newsome from the airport. She is soft spoken but full of dedication to the liberation of black people from oppression.
Note: we also picked up Dr. Cornel West from the airport I believe on the same day. However for some reason this was not written down in the journal.
Around 8:25pm we arrived at MoKabe's Coffee House and ate dinner. Bree received lots of attention from admirers. Dr. West also was inundated by people wanting to take selfies etc.
8-9-15
At 6:30am almost 100 people gathered for interfaith service at scene of Michael Brown's shooting death. Rev. Sekou et al. departed for an interview with media at 7:00am. Rev. Sekou conducted the interview by cell phone. Rev. Sekou and group picked up Professor Cornel West from the airport (?). The group went to a Jesus / Justice meeting at St. John's Church titled "One Year After Michael Brown." Panelists at this event were Lisa Sharon Harper, Rev. Osagyefo Uhuru Sekou, Alice W. Hunt, Rev. Starsky D.Wilson. There were 100 plus people attending this event. Later that night around 7:30pm Dr. West / Rev. Sekou spoke to 700-800 people at Greater Saint Mark Family Church. During this same event a panel spoke about the Ferguson rebellion. Around 11:00pm activists held street protests [ peaceful ], but during the event gunfire erupted on the streets. It was reported a black male fired shots at someone. Police then returned fire, wounding the black male with the gun. Rev. Sekou heard about the shooting and became agitated. We [ Bree, Dr. West, and I ] heard about the shooting while eating 11:30pm. Somewhere in all the confusion white men called Oath Keepers showed up carrying weapons... claiming to be protecting the media and protestors.
8-10-15
Rev. Sekou et al. took us to a church for rally before the protest at Department of Justice. Several speeches given by Bree, Dr. West and Rev. Sekou to fire up the crowd. We marched six blocks with 500 people to DOJ court house in hot as Hades weather. Rev. Sekou led the march with dejembe drum players in in front. A scroll of demands were read on steps of DOJ; songs were sung ... speeches given. At one point the police were lined up behind barricades in anticipation of CD. Police focused on Rev. Sekou and their actions caused me to stand behind him. Police walked closer to Sekou as his back was turned. I informed him of what was going on. Rev. Sekou turned to look at the police. Then at least 40 people started over the barricades led by Dr. West and Rev. Sekou. The activists sat down on the ground and sang... while locking arms. Then through skillful tactics the group moved closer to the entrance of court house ..blocking it and catching police off guard. People continued to sing... and chant outside of the barricades as police sent in reinforcements to handle protestors. At least 70 people were arrested that jumped those barricades. One hundred people later in the day 3:00pm blocked highways as part of a two pronged strategy of protest. Police arrested all protestors blocking the highway plus towed their cars. It was evident police were angry, using rough tactics on protestors by yanking them out of cars or slamming them to the ground.
During all of these protests officials declared a State of Emergency, bring National Guard into St. Louis and Ferguson. At this juncture Bishop Selders decided to leave the area [7:00pm ] and get everyone back to Connecticut.
8-12-15
We arrived in Connecticut around 4:00pm tired but grateful for having shared the experience with activists in Ferguson.
We were suppose to depart ( 8-4-15) from Cleveland at 10:00am for Cincinnati. The group had discussions about a number of issues facing our tour ; we are late in leaving, it is 1:30pm and the next event is scheduled for 5:00pm. There is at least four hours of driving ahead of an already tired group. Well finally we arrived at Freedom Center Underground Railroad Museum around 6:00pm [ late one hour ]. The auditorium where we perform is filled with a few people. Bishop John Selders gives the audience an introduction about why the tour developed and goals after we reach Ferguson. While the band is singing songs I play along with spoons and dejembe. Several black male poets performed i.e. Austin Larkins , Gamm LeBeau , also one of the tour members named Jake recited personal poetry.
The tour group ate dinner -provided by hosts of a local church- and then I went to the Millennium Hotel around 11pm. The tour members slept in facilities provided by a local church.
8-5-15
At 11:00am Bishop Selders held group discussions in the basement of the church facility for our group to iron out differences. We were suppose to be on the road driving toward Ferguson but people wanted to talk. Around 1:00pm this meeting ended but there is still strong artistic feelings around how shows need to be performed. Finally the group is headed for St.Louis -we leave Louisville, Kentucky off the scheduled tour stop. It is 9:00pm on 8-5-15 and the group arrives in St. Louis seeking housing for the night. Again a local church provides housing for tour members while I sleep at the Cheshire Hotel room 249 ( a great place to reside ). Bishop Selders et al. went to the home of Rev. Osagyefo Uhuru Sekou a leading theologian of the Ferguson uprising. This short... slightly built man is highly intelligent and is fearless in facing oppression in that environment. Rev. Sekou revealed to us that Bree Newsome would be coming to Ferguson for Michael Brown's anniversary celebration and she might need security. Ms. Bree Newsome was arrested on June 27, 2015 for taking down the Confederate battle flag ... on the grounds of the South Carolina State House. This action has made Bree the target of certain right wing extremists and Rev. Sekou wanted to make sure this black woman did not get hurt by white racists in the area. I agreed to help provide security for Bree. Later the discussion at Rev. Sekou's home focused on what direction the Ferguson uprising needed to evolve into. For over one year dedicated activists -black, white, gay, straight- have been fighting against oppression in that area and many of these fighters are mentally -spiritually drained.
8-6-15
Bishop Selders, wife Pamela Selders and I went to several clothing stores. I need suitable clothing for the task of appearing with Bree Newsome in public. We then visited Greater Saint Mark Family Church in order to get a visual idea of how to best provide security for not only Bree Newsome but Professor Cornel West who would also join us for the Michael Brown celebration. Around 7:30pm members of the tour went to a local college to watch this documentary about the infamous shooting of a black male by this white male over the playing of loud rap music... in gas station.... 200-300 people were in attendance. Rev. Sekou was mobbed by well wishers and people taking pictures.
8-7-15
The tour group went to Civil Disobedience training at Greater Saint Mark Family Church in preparation for upcoming protests. Activists from all over America will participate in CD. These people are dedicated freedom fighters for liberation in Ferguson / St. Louis. Most of the activists meet at MoKabe's Coffee House to plan strategy. The owner of this establishment Maureen has graciously allowed her business to be the epic center of all the activity in preparation for Michael Brown's celebration. MoKabe's is the sacred place for activists of the Ferguson rebellion. Delphi had the Oracle of Apollo; St. Louis has MoKabe's as place of worship.
8-8-15
At 2:00pm Bishop Selders, Rev. Sekou et al. went to the rally of Vondruitt Meyers. This black man was shot 17 times by police and later died. His death happened six weeks after Michael Brown's. A crowd of at least one thousand people marched with the family one mile...in 90 minutes. Hot weather took its toll on many people, causing some to faint or discontinue the march. During this event security became a concern for Rev. Sekou due to the stalking of him by a white male. We provided security for Sekou especially, because this white male kept circling Sekou attempting to get close-for what purpose only heaven knows. During the route of this march I was impressed with the number of clergy that were in the crowd. At the end of this event organizers provided food and water. I am impressed by this well organized event. Let me also state that The Nation of Islam provided security and high visibility too. Around 7:30pm we picked up Bree Newsome from the airport. She is soft spoken but full of dedication to the liberation of black people from oppression.
Note: we also picked up Dr. Cornel West from the airport I believe on the same day. However for some reason this was not written down in the journal.
Around 8:25pm we arrived at MoKabe's Coffee House and ate dinner. Bree received lots of attention from admirers. Dr. West also was inundated by people wanting to take selfies etc.
8-9-15
At 6:30am almost 100 people gathered for interfaith service at scene of Michael Brown's shooting death. Rev. Sekou et al. departed for an interview with media at 7:00am. Rev. Sekou conducted the interview by cell phone. Rev. Sekou and group picked up Professor Cornel West from the airport (?). The group went to a Jesus / Justice meeting at St. John's Church titled "One Year After Michael Brown." Panelists at this event were Lisa Sharon Harper, Rev. Osagyefo Uhuru Sekou, Alice W. Hunt, Rev. Starsky D.Wilson. There were 100 plus people attending this event. Later that night around 7:30pm Dr. West / Rev. Sekou spoke to 700-800 people at Greater Saint Mark Family Church. During this same event a panel spoke about the Ferguson rebellion. Around 11:00pm activists held street protests [ peaceful ], but during the event gunfire erupted on the streets. It was reported a black male fired shots at someone. Police then returned fire, wounding the black male with the gun. Rev. Sekou heard about the shooting and became agitated. We [ Bree, Dr. West, and I ] heard about the shooting while eating 11:30pm. Somewhere in all the confusion white men called Oath Keepers showed up carrying weapons... claiming to be protecting the media and protestors.
8-10-15
Rev. Sekou et al. took us to a church for rally before the protest at Department of Justice. Several speeches given by Bree, Dr. West and Rev. Sekou to fire up the crowd. We marched six blocks with 500 people to DOJ court house in hot as Hades weather. Rev. Sekou led the march with dejembe drum players in in front. A scroll of demands were read on steps of DOJ; songs were sung ... speeches given. At one point the police were lined up behind barricades in anticipation of CD. Police focused on Rev. Sekou and their actions caused me to stand behind him. Police walked closer to Sekou as his back was turned. I informed him of what was going on. Rev. Sekou turned to look at the police. Then at least 40 people started over the barricades led by Dr. West and Rev. Sekou. The activists sat down on the ground and sang... while locking arms. Then through skillful tactics the group moved closer to the entrance of court house ..blocking it and catching police off guard. People continued to sing... and chant outside of the barricades as police sent in reinforcements to handle protestors. At least 70 people were arrested that jumped those barricades. One hundred people later in the day 3:00pm blocked highways as part of a two pronged strategy of protest. Police arrested all protestors blocking the highway plus towed their cars. It was evident police were angry, using rough tactics on protestors by yanking them out of cars or slamming them to the ground.
During all of these protests officials declared a State of Emergency, bring National Guard into St. Louis and Ferguson. At this juncture Bishop Selders decided to leave the area [7:00pm ] and get everyone back to Connecticut.
8-12-15
We arrived in Connecticut around 4:00pm tired but grateful for having shared the experience with activists in Ferguson.
Tuesday, September 8, 2015
ALL ROADS LEAD TO FERGUSON TOUR -- PITTSBURGH / CLEVELAND
This is the account of people going from Hartford, CT to Ferguson, Missouri for the 1 year anniversary of Michael Brown's shooting death by a white police officer.
PITTSBURGH
We arrived in Pittsburgh [August 2, 2015] for the purpose of raising money for legal fees at local churches, then giving those funds to activists in Ferguson. The Ferguson Tour group unloaded sound equipment for the performance that night and spoke with the church Pastor. This is a Mennonite congregation located in the heart of an urban setting. We looked out into the audience of 120 people who eagerly awaited our music / poetry performance. Bishop Selders led songs while other tour members participated in other activities. During the question and answer period several church members expressed sympathy with activists in Ferguson and wanted to help support their efforts in some manner. Bishop Selders asked these church members to donate money for the legal fund. Tour members stayed at homes of other Mennonite church folk who were very gracious in offering to help us out. That night -11pm- church folk invited us to dinner at a local eatery and engaged tour members in conversation about social justice issues. Once again artistic differences emerged about music etc., but these problems were overcome.
CLEVELAND
On August 3, 2015 the All Roads Lead To Ferguson Tour arrived into Cleveland, Ohio ( 6pm ? ). I believe Trinity Commons Church hosted our group. There were 50-60 people present in the audience; a black female opened up the performance with poetry recitation. Bishop Selders began with commentary about what is going on in Ferguson, MO plus how our group traveling there [ for Michael Brown's shooting death ] is essential in order to help fellow activists. Rap music / poetry were presented by various artists before church members ; then as tour members sang, church members came up on stage to join in. Some people actually marched around and stomped on the Confederate Flag. Lots of emotion at this event especially during stomping on Confederate Flag. Finally the tour group departed from this grand church structure and went to various sleeping locations. I went to bed at 12am
PITTSBURGH
We arrived in Pittsburgh [August 2, 2015] for the purpose of raising money for legal fees at local churches, then giving those funds to activists in Ferguson. The Ferguson Tour group unloaded sound equipment for the performance that night and spoke with the church Pastor. This is a Mennonite congregation located in the heart of an urban setting. We looked out into the audience of 120 people who eagerly awaited our music / poetry performance. Bishop Selders led songs while other tour members participated in other activities. During the question and answer period several church members expressed sympathy with activists in Ferguson and wanted to help support their efforts in some manner. Bishop Selders asked these church members to donate money for the legal fund. Tour members stayed at homes of other Mennonite church folk who were very gracious in offering to help us out. That night -11pm- church folk invited us to dinner at a local eatery and engaged tour members in conversation about social justice issues. Once again artistic differences emerged about music etc., but these problems were overcome.
CLEVELAND
On August 3, 2015 the All Roads Lead To Ferguson Tour arrived into Cleveland, Ohio ( 6pm ? ). I believe Trinity Commons Church hosted our group. There were 50-60 people present in the audience; a black female opened up the performance with poetry recitation. Bishop Selders began with commentary about what is going on in Ferguson, MO plus how our group traveling there [ for Michael Brown's shooting death ] is essential in order to help fellow activists. Rap music / poetry were presented by various artists before church members ; then as tour members sang, church members came up on stage to join in. Some people actually marched around and stomped on the Confederate Flag. Lots of emotion at this event especially during stomping on Confederate Flag. Finally the tour group departed from this grand church structure and went to various sleeping locations. I went to bed at 12am
Friday, September 4, 2015
CHRISTIANS IN FERGUSON STAND AGAINST OPPRESSION BUT CHRISTIANS ON THE DCF PLANTATION WILL NOT SPEAK THE TRUTH
I visited Ferguson, Missouri on the one year anniversary of Michael Brown's shooting death by police. We all know the story of how a black man with hands in the air was shot down in the street. Since that horrific event occurred protests have been going on, fueled by years of anger between blacks and predominately white police force. During my seven day visit with other activists in Ferguson it became apparent how some Christians were in the vanguard of facing heavily militarized police, with tanks ....guns.... tear gas etc. One year later some of these dog tired Christians are still advocating for systematic change in how people of color are treated, by police who swore to protect and serve [ the local community ]. However people who work at Connecticut Juvenile Training School and profess to be Christians are taking the low road when it comes to advocating for justice.
For years the racial animus at CJTS ( and indeed throughout Department of Children & Families ) has systematically targeted employees of color for disproportionate discipline of minor infractions. Key Stone Cop management did not even try to cover up their bias; whenever people of color were disciplined they received the maximum as compared to whites. Yet these so called believers in Jesus at CJTS never once spoke up let alone demonstrated publicly about apparent racial bias. When I think about how clergy in Ferguson are jailed and treated harshly for peaceful protests, versus pseudo Christians at CJTS with lock jaw, it is truly shameful to acknowledge. How can CJTS followers of Jesus watch their peers -black, white, Hispanic- get treated as less than human but say nothing about it ? You can bet on Sunday while in church these same silent Christians are hollering... praising God...falling down while slain in the spirit... or speaking in tongues. Yet no audible sound comes out of these same holy rollers about racial discrimination on the DCF Plantation.
A salute goes out to Jesus followers in Ferguson who truly are disciples, willing to place their bodies on the line for justice. However the same cannot be said about those silent Christians on the CJTS campus. they have sold out for financial concerns while ignoring injustice that is plain to see.
In the final analysis those so called CJTS Christians will have to answer for their cowardice in the face of oppression.
For years the racial animus at CJTS ( and indeed throughout Department of Children & Families ) has systematically targeted employees of color for disproportionate discipline of minor infractions. Key Stone Cop management did not even try to cover up their bias; whenever people of color were disciplined they received the maximum as compared to whites. Yet these so called believers in Jesus at CJTS never once spoke up let alone demonstrated publicly about apparent racial bias. When I think about how clergy in Ferguson are jailed and treated harshly for peaceful protests, versus pseudo Christians at CJTS with lock jaw, it is truly shameful to acknowledge. How can CJTS followers of Jesus watch their peers -black, white, Hispanic- get treated as less than human but say nothing about it ? You can bet on Sunday while in church these same silent Christians are hollering... praising God...falling down while slain in the spirit... or speaking in tongues. Yet no audible sound comes out of these same holy rollers about racial discrimination on the DCF Plantation.
A salute goes out to Jesus followers in Ferguson who truly are disciples, willing to place their bodies on the line for justice. However the same cannot be said about those silent Christians on the CJTS campus. they have sold out for financial concerns while ignoring injustice that is plain to see.
In the final analysis those so called CJTS Christians will have to answer for their cowardice in the face of oppression.
Thursday, September 3, 2015
PLACE IN CHAOS, UNIT 6B OFF THE HOOK, COMFORT ROOM FOR RESIDENTS
The howling from Connecticut Juvenile Training School is not from any people in particular. It has been reported that the Key Stone Cops management at CJTS are running in circles like dogs chasing their tails. The Child Advocate office recently issued a scathing report about ill treatment of residents by staff. Since that document was released the CJTS facility -according to employee reports - is in chaos. The YSOs do not want to restrain residents because of the fear of discipline from management; as a result of the fear running rampant, the facility is even more dysfunctional. It has been reported how recently ten YSOs sat around watching four clinicians talk to out of control residents. These residents were throwing items at staff, verbally assaulting staff and ignoring directives. For these infractions decisive action should have been taken. But if YSOs try to restore discipline, then Monday morning quarterbacks are coming after the fact to punish staff-based on fear of the Child Advocate report and hearings being held by legislators about CJTS.
Why is it supervisors in charge of Unit 6B are being accused by staff of not being leaders ? Reliable sources are commenting how recently residents assaulted YSOs, refused to go in their rooms at night and spineless leadership did nothing. Why is it YSO Elliot -a good man- has been hit by residents twice yet no charges were filed by management ? Yes Unit 6B is off the hook.
Finally it must be stated how afraid management is of all the noise created by the Child Advocate report and DCF / CJTS hearings by legislators about alleged employee abuse of residents. Key Stone Cop management recently instituted a novel idea for residents. Now youth convicted of crimes are treated to something called a Comfort Room !! Sources report that residents who are out of control behaviorally or emotionally can go into a room with Bean Bag, MP 3 player and colored lights. Residents now have the option of listening to Rap Music or a light show.
Man give me a damn break.
Why is it supervisors in charge of Unit 6B are being accused by staff of not being leaders ? Reliable sources are commenting how recently residents assaulted YSOs, refused to go in their rooms at night and spineless leadership did nothing. Why is it YSO Elliot -a good man- has been hit by residents twice yet no charges were filed by management ? Yes Unit 6B is off the hook.
Finally it must be stated how afraid management is of all the noise created by the Child Advocate report and DCF / CJTS hearings by legislators about alleged employee abuse of residents. Key Stone Cop management recently instituted a novel idea for residents. Now youth convicted of crimes are treated to something called a Comfort Room !! Sources report that residents who are out of control behaviorally or emotionally can go into a room with Bean Bag, MP 3 player and colored lights. Residents now have the option of listening to Rap Music or a light show.
Man give me a damn break.
Wednesday, September 2, 2015
ALL ROADS LEAD TO FERGUSON- DAY TWO BALTIMORE
The journal entries you are reading were recorded on an eight day journey toward Ferguson, Mo to commemorate the one year anniversary of Michael Brown's shooting death. We stopped at churches on the way to Ferguson and collected money for legal fees incurred by activists during months of protests.
We did not get into a hotel until 3:30am then after sleeping for eight hours it was time to start driving toward Baltimore. Driving on the road for hours on end can be mentally exhausting not to mention being in vehicles with various personalities. We drove up to the Pleasant Hope Baptist Church in Baltimore. Members of the All Roads Lead To Ferguson Tour unloaded musical equipment, then planned how to perform before the mostly white audience. Pastor Dr. Herber M. Brown III introduced Bishop Selders et al. People were still coming into the church as we prepared to sing or recite poetry.
Bishop Selders overview of why our group was journeying to Ferguson captured the attention of the audience. The performance began with song. "I Can't Breathe" (authored by Peace Poets) dedicated to Eric Garner being choked to death in New York, was the lead song of the program. Selders led the group in a spirited rendition of "God Has Work For Us To Do" in preparation for poetry readings by Peace Poets / Trinity College students. After the program , Pastor Brown asked for financial donations for legal fees of Ferguson activists. People in the audience responded with enthusiasm. Before the event ended around 10:00pm an audience member -black female young adult- asked to recite some poetry. After her presentation the audience clapped.
Once again we loaded musical equipment into the van. Then all parties went to reserved sleeping accommodations for the night. There is one constant in our universe- driving on the road in the morning toward Pittsburg.
We did not get into a hotel until 3:30am then after sleeping for eight hours it was time to start driving toward Baltimore. Driving on the road for hours on end can be mentally exhausting not to mention being in vehicles with various personalities. We drove up to the Pleasant Hope Baptist Church in Baltimore. Members of the All Roads Lead To Ferguson Tour unloaded musical equipment, then planned how to perform before the mostly white audience. Pastor Dr. Herber M. Brown III introduced Bishop Selders et al. People were still coming into the church as we prepared to sing or recite poetry.
Bishop Selders overview of why our group was journeying to Ferguson captured the attention of the audience. The performance began with song. "I Can't Breathe" (authored by Peace Poets) dedicated to Eric Garner being choked to death in New York, was the lead song of the program. Selders led the group in a spirited rendition of "God Has Work For Us To Do" in preparation for poetry readings by Peace Poets / Trinity College students. After the program , Pastor Brown asked for financial donations for legal fees of Ferguson activists. People in the audience responded with enthusiasm. Before the event ended around 10:00pm an audience member -black female young adult- asked to recite some poetry. After her presentation the audience clapped.
Once again we loaded musical equipment into the van. Then all parties went to reserved sleeping accommodations for the night. There is one constant in our universe- driving on the road in the morning toward Pittsburg.
BLACK FEMALE EMPLOYEE VERBALLY ASSAULTED BY WHITE MALE, STILL NO INVESTIGATION
As Fats Waller once sang "the joint is jumping." It has been reported to DCF Plantation Blog that several weeks ago a white Youth Service Officer at Connecticut Juvenile Training School verbally assaulted an employee. What makes this incident so egregious is that the white male has a lengthy history of similar type incidents at CJTS. In the past it was reported the white male YSO wrote racial charged notes [ to people of color ] and posted them within the Unit he worked on. Also he verbally insulted male YSOs of color and tried covering it up by creating counter stories about staff mistreatment of residents. The dysfunctional management only slightly reprimanded the white male YSO for these former transgressions of racial animus toward peers of color, now Bubba is at it again.
When will management investigate this latest display of racism and create a safe working environment for all workers? Other YSOs witnessed how the white male YSO was verbally abusive toward the black female employee; management received complaints about what happened, however no investigation has been launched to ascertain what the facts are.
Oh well, life on the DCF PLANTATION is great .... unless you are an employee of color.
When will management investigate this latest display of racism and create a safe working environment for all workers? Other YSOs witnessed how the white male YSO was verbally abusive toward the black female employee; management received complaints about what happened, however no investigation has been launched to ascertain what the facts are.
Oh well, life on the DCF PLANTATION is great .... unless you are an employee of color.
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