WSSN Stories

By Tanu Henry, Antonio Ray Harvey and Joe W. Bowers Jr. | California Black Media 

Two California Legislative Black Caucus (CLBC) members, Assemblymembers Akilah Weber (D-La Mesa) and Mike Gipson (D-Carson) were among the speakers during a special ceremony organized by the California Women’s Caucus last week to celebrate Women’s History Month.

During the ceremony, lawmakers from different groups in the Legislature and the 50-member strong Women Caucus paid tribute to several remarkable women from California and across the United States and urged their colleagues to pass House Resolution (HR) 72, legislation that declared March as Women’s History Month.

“I rise on behalf of the members of the California Legislative Black Caucus and the incredible women of that Caucus in support of this resolution and thank our colleagues for bringing this very important piece of legislation before us today,” said Gipson during the event held on the floor of the State Assembly on March 11.

“Your groundbreaking career is unparalleled, and I am proud we represent San Diego County together,” Weber posted on X, the social media platform formally known as Twitter.

Gipson paid tribute to the five women mwmvwea of the CLBC: Sen. Lola Smallwood Cuevas (D-Los Angeles) and Assemblymembers Lori Wilson (D-Suisun City), Akilah Weber (D-La Mesa), Mia Bonta (D-Alameda) and Tina McKinnor (D-Inglewood).

The Assembly leadership honored Janette Robinson Flint, founder of Black Women for Wellness, at the ceremony. She was escorted to the floor by Mckinnor and Assemblymember Rebacca Bauer-Kahan (D-Walnut Creek).

MEMPHIS, TN — Kappa Alpha Psi Fraternity, Inc., a beacon of service and commitment, celebrated its enduring alliance with St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital® at the Vicennium Partnership Banquet at the Masonic Temple. The event was hosted by the Memphis (TN) Alumni Chapter, the University of Memphis Chapter, the Kappa Beta of Kappa Alpha Psi, and sponsored by the local Memphis Kappa Alpha Psi ®Achievement Foundation.

For more than two decades, Kappa Alpha Psi Fraternity, Inc. has stood shoulder-to-shoulder with St. Jude in efforts to create impactful change in the lives of children worldwide with cancer and other catastrophic diseases. Since 2003, the fraternity has raised more than $3 million for the renowned

children’s hospital through programs like St. Jude Sunday of Hope and the annual St. Jude Walk/Run, held during Childhood Cancer Awareness Month each September. At the event, the fraternity announced a new goal of raising an additional $2 million in the next three years.

“Our friends at Kappa Alpha Psi Fraternity, Inc. have humbled us with their dedication and sense of service over the past 20 years in their support of the kids and families of St. Jude,” said Richard C. Shadyac Jr., President and CEO of ALSAC, the fundraising and awareness organization for St. Jude

Children’s Research Hospital. “With this latest commitment, together, they are not only building a legacy – but they are helping save lives and create hope where it is needed most. Thanks to this partnership, St. Jude can impact more of the 400,000 kids around the world with cancer and other life-threatening diseases each year.”

Fundraising by the fraternity and other partner organizations of the National Pan-Hellenic Council help ensure that families never receive a bill from St. Jude for treatment, travel, housing or food, so they can focus on helping their child live.

“We value our partnership with St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital, and this new fundraising commitment will further help us support research and treatment of catastrophic childhood diseases and illness,” said Jimmy McMikle, Kappa Alpha Psi’s Grand Polemarch [International President]. “I encourage our members, affiliates, and friends across the globe to help the fraternity continue our efforts to assist St. Jude in fulfilling its vision.”

Help Kappa Alpha Psi Fraternity, Inc. and St. Jude give every child a chance to live their best life and celebrate every moment.

By Tanu Henry, Antonio Ray Harvey, and Joe W. Bowers Jr. | California Black Media 

The Ebony Alert, a statewide system that has been implemented to notify the public — and signal the launch of police investigation – when Black children and young Black women go missing in California is working, says Sen. Steve Bradford.

Bradford authored Senate Bill (SB) 627, the bill that created the Ebony Alert. Gov. Newsom signed it into law on Oct. 8, 2023.

 “One Ebony Alert was issued on Jan. 4, and then later they found the young lady who was missing from (the city) of Long Beach,” Bradford told California Black Media (CBM).

Bradford added that a 19-year-old Black Los Angeles woman was found on Feb. 20 after the alert system was used.

The Ebony Alert is activated if a law enforcement agency decides that it would help in the investigation of a missing Black youth or a young Black woman between the ages of 12 and 25 years.

On behalf of the Los Angeles County Police Department, an Ebony Alert was turned on Feb. 16, to locate a missing 14-year-old who was last seen on Jan.5. The 5-foot-4 woman was last seen West 102nd Street and Figueroa Street in Los Angeles and still has not been located at the time of this report.

On March 5, an alert was released regarding a 22-year-old Black woman from San Mateo County. She was last seen Feb. 16 in East Palo Alto, according to a post on X by the California Highway Patrol (CHP). The East Palo Alto Police Department is the investigating agency that requested the alert.

“This new emergency alert, focused on missing Black youth and young women, marks a significant step in dedicating resources towards a previously underserved community,” CHP posted on its Facebook page on Jan. 8.

In 2023, Los Angeles had the most missing persons reports at 10,039, according to California Department of Justice data, followed by San Diego (3,993), San Bernardino (2,833), Sacramento (2,788) Nevada (2,490), and Riverside (2,357) counties. Alameda (1,834), San Francisco (1,743), and Santa Clara (1,515) counties were reported to have the highest number of missing persons among the 58 jurisdictions in the state.

Bradford said he is pleased that law enforcement agencies are using the Ebony Alert early on and will continue to implement it going forward.

“It lets us know that law enforcement has educated themselves and made themselves aware that this tool is available,” Bradford told CBM. “All folks want them to do is utilize it. There’s not really a learning curve. It’s simple: there’s a missing child or Black woman missing. Send out the alert.”

By Lou K. Coleman | WSS News Contributor

What has already happened, what continues to unfold, and what is yet to come.

One world government, one world religion, one world economy, [Daniel 2, Daniel 7, Revelation 17, 18, 13:11-18]. Confirming of a 7-year peace agreement with many [Daniel 9:27]. Intoxicating obsession with dividing Jerusalem [Zechariah 12:1-3]. Global cry for peace and security. [1 Thessalonians 5:3]. Increase of lawlessness. [2 Thessalonians 2:1-12]. Increase of wickedness [Genesis 6:6; Luke 17:26-29]. Massive earthquakes increasing in frequency and intensity. [Matthew 24:4-8; Luke 21:10-11]. Allied Invasion of Israel, led by Russia, Iran, and Turkey, [Ezekiel 38-39]. Sudden destruction of Damascus Syria. [Isaiah 17:1, Jeremiah 49: 23-27]. Mocking of Bible prophecy and the Lord’s return. [2 Peter 3]. What has already happened, what continues to unfold.

What is yet to come?

Confirmation of the Covenant. When the Antichrist and his world government system confirm Israel’s right to a homeland in the Middle East from that day, the day that it actually happens, the day that they decide on a plan and implement it and make it stick, where the borders of Israel are drawn and the Temple Mount is shared, and they sign a treaty, there will only be 7 years remaining until the Battle of Armageddon and the return of Jesus Christ! What has already happened, what continues to unfold, and what is yet to come.

Watch for increasing demand for international intervention and control over Jerusalem. Watch for the forming of what the Bible calls “the King of the South” arising in the Middle East and Northeastern Africa. Watch Europe—especially Germany. Watch for animal sacrifices to begin in Jerusalem. Watch for a charismatic miracle-working religious leader to rise up in Europe. End Time Bible Prophecy!

Three angels give a last warning to the inhabitants of the earth. The hour of judgment is come. Babylon makes all nations drink of the wrath of her fornication. Those who take the mark and worship the beast shall drink of the wine of the wrath of God. This isn’t a physical hour of time, it’s a figurative statement that a period of time has come. It’s the time just before the wrath of God.

By Tanu Henry ?|? ?California? ?Black? ?Media?

On March 7, President Biden delivered his third State of the Union address before a joint session of Congress.

In the wide-ranging and impassioned speech that covered broad political ground, Biden defended Democracy at home and abroad, drawing policy distinctions with his predecessor and probable opponent in the upcoming November elections, Donald Trump.

From global wars between Russia and Ukraine to the ongoing military conflict in the Middle East, moving on to wedge issues at home like abortion, the economy and immigration, Biden challenged his Republican opponents on the issues while highlighting his achievements.

“This is a moment to speak the truth and to bury the lies. Here’s the simple truth: You can’t love your country only when you win. As I’ve done ever since being elected to office, I ask all of you, without regard to party, to join together and defend democracy,” Biden said.

“Remember your oath of office and defend against all threats foreign and domestic,” the President added. “Respect free and fair elections. Restore trust in our institutions. And make clear — political violence has absolutely no place, no place in America. Zero place.”

During the speech and after, California officials reacted to the President’s message.

“The President’s State of the Union speech was a powerful reminder that government can be a force for good. Over the last three years, President Biden has been a defender of our freedoms, a champion of our democracy, and an advocate for our progress,” said Sen. Laphonza Butler (D-Calif.).

“He has done the hard work, securing victories that have led to historic job creation and record low unemployment. Americans in cities and towns across the country – including those in California – are better off today than the day he took office. I am proud to partner with an Administration that doesn’t shy away from taking on our most pressing challenges, and faces our future with urgency and resolve,” she added.

Rep. Barbara Lee (D-CA-12) praised Biden for seeking a political solution to the conflict in the Middle East and committing to delivering humanitarian aid to Gaza.

“I’m pleased President Biden underscored the dire need to secure a two-state solution in Israel and Palestine. However, as I’ve said several times, in order to reach that goal, the U.S. must call for an immediate and lasting ceasefire,” said Lee. “Each day that Palestinians continue to suffer from famine, violence, and displacement is a tragedy. President Biden’s plan to construct a port for large-scale aid flow is a vital step in the right direction to ending this dire humanitarian catastrophe, but we cannot stop here. The release of hostages is imperative. The lasting peace and security of the Israelis and Palestinians depends on a ceasefire and a hostage deal now.”

State Superintendent of Public Instruction Tony Thurmond said he celebrates the President’s decision to support students at different stages of their educational attainment.

“The President’s call to ensure that every three- and four-year-old has access to preschool and to ensure that every child learns to read by third grade echo our work to invest in early learning, reading specialists, and proven professional development for teachers of literacy,” said Thurmond.  

He also touted the President’s plan to support opening career pathways for students to career opportunities.

“President Biden also called for more access to internships so that all students can discover their passions and develop career-ready skills,” said Thurmond. “I am proud of our work to invest in paid internships for our young people, which directly connect California youth with opportunities in high-growth, high-wage industries.”

Reacting to the President’s speech, Mayor Karen Bass issued a statement affirming the President’s accomplishments and crediting him for investing in programs that have transformed the lives of people and improved infrastructure in Los Angeles.

“With President Biden’s partnership, more than 3,365 Angelenos moved into permanent housing through emergency housing vouchers delivered through his American Rescue Plan and the administration provided historic waivers to cut through bureaucracy and moved more formerly unhoused Angelenos indoors,” Bass said.

“In the midst of a global pandemic, the Biden-Harris Administration also provided relief for local small businesses and helped the city keep essential workers on the payroll and continue delivering critical services,” Bass added.

Biden urged Americans to stand up for America’s ideals.

“Hate, anger, revenge, retribution are the oldest of ideas. But you can’t lead America with ancient ideas that only take us back. To lead America, the land of possibilities, you need a vision for the future and what can and should be done. Tonight, you’ve heard mine,” said Biden.

“I see a future where in defending democracy, you don’t diminish it. I see a future where we restore the right to choose and protect other freedoms, not take them away,” he said.

By Edward Henderson | California Black Media

As time passes, the details of our great African American historical figures begin to feel more like legends than concrete facts. At the beginning of this Women’s History Month in 2024, and as March marks the 201st year since Harriet Tubman was presumably born, California Black Media (CBM) honors this monumental figure by sharing 10 little-known facts about her life.

1. Harriet was not her birth name.

Historical accounts suggest that Tubman was born between 1820 and 1821 into slavery in Eastern Maryland.

The then-named “Araminta Ross” was the daughter of Ben Ross, a skilled woodsman, and Harriet ‘Rit’ Green. Tubman worked from the age of six, as a maidservant and later in the fields, enduring inhumane treatment, and brutal conditions.

Tubman adopted her mother’s name after escaping slavery, and her surname came from her first marriage in 1844, to a free Black man John Tubman. This blended marriage was complicated by her slave status, passed on by her mother, but was not uncommon.

2. She was the first woman to lead an armed assault in the Civil War.

Recognizing the significance of a Union victory for the abolition of slavery, Tubman contributed to the war effort as scout, a nurse, a cook, and a spy to Federal troops.

In June 1863, Tubman worked alongside Colonel James Montgomery to assault plantations along the Combahee River. Using intelligence from escaped slaves, she guided Union riverboats through Confederate torpedo traps. At least 750 slaves were freed in the mission. Unfortunately, despite Tubman’s years of service, she never received a regular salary and was denied veteran’s compensation for 34 years.

3. She helped find a cure for dysentery.

During her time as a nurse during the Civil War, Tubman was credited for providing a treatment for dysentery. Many people in the hospital where she worked were suffering from the disease. Tubman used her knowledge of plant roots to put together a herbal remedy that alleviated the patient’s symptoms and facilitated their recovery from the disease.

4. She refused anesthesia when undergoing brain surgery in 1898

Tubman lived much of her life experiencing severe migraines and seizures due to an injury inflicted on her by her slave owners. By the late 1890s, the pain in her head had affected her ability to sleep. Fortunately, she found a doctor in Boston willing to operate on her brain. Instead of receiving anesthesia while the doctor cut open her skull and performed the surgery, she chose to bite on a bullet — something she had seen soldiers do during the Civil War when they suffered pain on the battlefield.

5. She had a beautiful singing voice

Tubman reportedly had a beautiful singing voice and would sing two songs – “Go Down Moses” and “Bound for the Promised Land” – as signals while leading escape missions. Tubman would change the tempo of the songs to let escaping slaves know if it was safe to come out of hiding.

6. Two years after escaping captivity, Tubman came back for her husband, but he refused to leave. 

When Harriet escaped slavery in 1850, she left her husband behind in Maryland. Two years later, she returned hoping to bring her husband north with her. However, she soon discovered that he had married another woman and had no desire to leave. Instead, she found a group of slaves who wanted to escape and brought them up to Philadelphia.

7. Her second husband was 22 years younger than Tubman when they wed in 1869.

Tubman’s second husband was Nelson Davis, a veteran of the Civil War. At the time of their marriage, Tubman was 59 years old, while Davis was just 37. In 1874, the pair adopted a baby girl named Gertie. They shared a life together for 20 years before Davis passed away.

8. She was an active proponent of women’s suffrage.

Tubman worked alongside women suffragettes such as Susan B Anthony and Emily Howland. She travelled to New York, Boston and Washington speaking about her actions during the Civil War and her role as an Underground Railroad conductor. Her speeches were seen as validations of the struggle for women’s rights.

9. Harriet Tubman has two National Park sites dedicated to her memory.

The Harriet Tubman Underground Railroad National Historical Park in Dorchester County, Maryland, interprets Tubman’s early life and features a visitor center with thorough and informative exhibits, the site of the plantation where Tubman was enslaved as a girl, and the general store where she suffered her traumatic head injury. The Harriet Tubman National Historical Park in Auburn, New York, tells the story of her later life and includes the house she owned. Visitors can also see Tubman’s grave at a nearby cemetery that is unaffiliated with the historical park.

10. She converted the home she owned into an assisted living facility.

Tubman was very passionate about the lives of senior citizens. She founded ‘The Tubman Home for Aged and Indigent Negroes’ in 1908 with help from the A.M.E. Zion Church. The facility was located in Auburn, New York, and was designated as a National Historic Landmark in 1974.

This resource is supported in whole or in part by funding provided by the State of California, administered by the California State Library in partnership with the California Department of Social Services and the California Commission on Asian and Pacific Islander American Affairs as part of the Stop the Hate program. To report a hate incident or hate crime and get support, go to CA vs Hate.

ATLANTA, GA— Grammy Award-winning artist Lecrae has once again captivated audiences with his latest release, “I Still Believe,” featuring his good friends and the acclaimed Australian pop-singer duo for KING & COUNTRY. Following Lecrae’s monumental success at the 2024 Grammy Awards, securing two Grammy wins for his latest album “Church Clothes 4” and his single with Tasha Cobbs Leonard “Your Power,” “I Still Believe” is a poignant anthem that resonates with themes of resilience, hope, and unwavering faith in the face of adversity.

Stream “I Still Believe” ft. for KING & COUNTRY HERE!

Lecrae, known for his groundbreaking contributions to the hip-hop and Christian music scenes, continues to push artistic boundaries with “I Still Believe.” His ability to seamlessly blend genres and deliver impactful messages has earned him widespread acclaim and a dedicated global fanbase. The track showcases Lecrae’s signature lyrical depth and dynamic delivery. for KING & COUNTRY, comprised of brothers Joel and Luke Smallbone, bring their distinctive sound and unparalleled vocal prowess to “I Still Believe.” With a string of hits and multiple awards to their name, the duo adds an extra layer of depth and emotion to this collaboration.

Together, they craft a musical masterpiece that speaks directly to the human spirit. This single not only showcases their exceptional talent but also reaffirms their commitment to creating music that inspires, uplifts, and connects with listeners on a profound level.

Nearly a decade after the release of Lecrae’s breakout album, “Anomaly,” in which he received a Grammy for his single “Messengers” also ft. for KING & COUNTRY, Lecrae is now speaking from a place of experience and hope. Over the course of that time, he has engaged and documented the complexities of his belief in God through his music as well as publicly online. Most recently with his GRAMMY-winning album “Church Clothes 4,” Lecrae’s heart wrenching and passionate delivery on his track, “Deconstruction,” summarizes his journey of doubt leading to a deep depression and ultimately being called back to his God given purpose over a beautiful and impactful vocal sample uttering, “you can still find your way back home. you’re never too far gone.”

Ten years, six albums and many trials after the beginning of that journey, Lecrae makes the statement with his latest single that despite all he’s gone through, he still believes God is his Lord & Savior and that he exists to ultimately bring Him glory.

“Purpose is not something that you can conjure up, It is given to you. After everything I’ve been through, I still believe that purpose is found in God. I hope that people can see my story, relate, and find hope. Healing is not something that can happen overnight, but it can happen, and I am an example of that,” says Lecrae.

A journey that would leave most people scared and resistant, has led Lecrae to a further connection and belief in God that he believes is available to everyone. “I Still Believe” is a reminder for people also struggling and dealing with doubt that God is here, He is good, and He is for you.

Follow Lecrae:

Website: http://www.lecrae.com

Twitter: https://twitter.com/lecrae

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Lecrae

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/lecrae

For more information on Reach Records, please visit www.reachrecords.com and on social media @ReachRecords.

About Reach Records:

Reach Records is an Atlanta based independent hip-hop label founded in 2004 by Lecrae and Ben Washer. Long before acclaim, awards, plaques, chart positioning, and radio play, the two started the label because they both love hip-hop and Jesus. Reach Records was launched with no strategy, no funds, no big players, but they made big moves! Today Reach Records is a trailblazing label with a roster of nearly 10 artists and a staff of 20 who are unashamed about sharing their faith and passionate about hip-hop. Reach Records is committed to building a movement that combines faith with music and popular culture.

By Craig J. DeLuz  | California Black Media 

The streets of America, once shrouded in shadows, are filled with the flicker of hope as Black History Month comes upon us. A time to reflect on the struggles and successes of African Americans in this great nation. But amongst the celebrations and festivities, there is one crucial aspect that often remains shrouded in the darkness of ignorance.

The Second Amendment.

It’s a delicate topic, one that is often swept under the rug and avoided during this time of year. But let’s not forget the role that this amendment has played in securing the rights and liberties of not just African Americans, but all Americans. From the Civil War through the civil rights movement and even until today, the Second Amendment has been a powerful tool in the hands of those who have fought for justice and equality.

But unfortunately, as with most things in Black history, this topic has been silenced and overshadowed. The harsh reality is that laws were put in place to keep slaves and freed Black men from obtaining firearms. And even after the Civil War, many states passed what’s known as Black Codes, intentionally designed to restrict African Americans from exercising their right to keep and bear arms.

These laws, coupled with the growing violence against African Americans, gave birth to an unlikely ally in the fight for civil rights: the NRA. Yes, you heard that right. The National Rifle Association, often portrayed as a white, racist organization, was founded by three union officers who fought for the end of slavery and the civil rights of African Americans. They recognized the need for individuals to defend themselves against the tyranny and violence of the Ku Klux Klan, as the government was not doing enough to protect them.

But as with most things that go against the status quo, there were those who were not pleased. And thus, the gun control movement was born. But make no mistake, it was not about protecting people or reducing violence. It was about keeping guns out of the hands of African Americans.

The Black Panthers, a civil rights group, understood this all too well. In the late 1960s, they called upon the American people to take note of the racist California legislature that was passing laws specifically aimed at disarming Black citizens. And just like the KKK, the inspiration for these laws came from an unlikely source: Nazi Germany. The language used in these laws was almost identical to that of the Nazi regime, showing the true intentions behind gun control.

But for some, history seems to repeat itself endlessly. As we see yet again with the rise of hate groups and acts of violence against innocent citizens, the importance of the Second Amendment cannot be understated. It was created to prevent a new government from slipping back into tyranny and to allow individuals to protect what is theirs from any threats.

And yet, even in modern times, there are those who continue to deny African Americans their Second Amendment rights. As prominent lawyer and gun rights commentator Colion Noir stated, “Dr. King would look at me with a bit of confusion as he happily struggled with me…that I, a young Black male living in the heart of the South, whose house was never firebombed and has never received death threats, was granted a concealed handgun license. Yet he who had encountered all of these things was denied.”

It’s time to shed light on the role of the Second Amendment in Black history. To educate ourselves and others on the importance of this amendment in securing not just civil rights, but all rights. Let us not be afraid to speak out and defend the Second Amendment, for it is the one that defends all others. And let us never forget the words of one man who truly understood the power of this amendment: “When you touch the Second Amendment, you can’t become more anti American, because America would not be without her guns.” – Willian Owens, President / Founder at America’s Altar.

About the Author

Craig J. DeLuz has almost 30 years in public policy and advocacy.  He is currently President of the Robla School District Board of Trustees where he has served for almost 20 years. Learn more at CraigDeLuz.com or follow him on X at @CraigDeLuz.

By Lou K. Coleman | WSS News Contributor

“Whatever is going wrong, put your war clothes on. You might be in a daze but tell the devil he can’t have your praise. No matter the attack, you won’t turn back. This means War! He can’t have your family, he can’t have your increase, he can’t have your breakthrough, because you plead the blood of Jesus. You can’t take this lying down. Whenever the enemy’s attacking in your life, you can’t be breaking down and falling out, you gotta say, This means War!” [Charles Jenkins & Fellowship Chicago].

Understand we are fighting a spiritual war that underlies all of man’s wars.  This battle is for the salvation of souls, for our eternal destiny. This battle is real, so put on the full armor of God, so that you will be able to stand firm against the schemes of the devil. For our struggle is not against flesh and blood, but against the rulers, against the powers, against the world forces of this darkness, against the spiritual forces of wickedness in the heavenly places. So, gear up, [sword, shield, and armor] and prepare for battle. This means War!

You see, Satan knows that this is his last chance to win in his battle against God, and he’s going to “pull out all the stops.” He’s going to marshal every evil human power on earth, and this grand armada will devote its vast power to achieve one purpose: the total elimination of God’s people from the face of the earth.  He is without a doubt on the warpath and ready to destroy people’s livelihood. This is serious stuff. This is not for the faint hearted or the weak-kneed. This means War! And it’s time to start acting like it! Satan is not pulling any stops. He will come at you from every direction. He got his eyes set on you. Your enemy is prepared to overtake you. According to the War in Revelation [Chapter 13 and Chapter 19], Satan will use every spiritual tool he has ever devised, especially deception and force, to get you and me to surrender our faith in Jesus. The Hell with Satan. Gear up and prepare for battle. This means war!

Stand, therefore, with truth like a belt around your waist, righteousness like armor on your chest, take the shield of faith, the helmet of salvation, and the sword of the Spirit [Ephesians 6:14-17] and know that God has given you power to tread upon serpents and scorpions, and over all the power of the enemy: and nothing shall by any means hurt you.” [Luke 10:19]. He has given you everything you need to experience victory. The only question is: will you use what he has given you, or will you walk into battle unprepared and exposed to the enemy’s attacks?

I pray that as a result of today’s message you will be encouraged to prepare for spiritual battle every day. And I pray that you will take advantage of these tools God has given you to fight the enemy and win the victory. Gear Up!

“And they overcame him by the blood of the Lamb, and by the word of their testimony; and they loved not their lives unto the death”. [Revelation 12:11]

CHARLOTTE, NC – With significant gains in education, employment, and entrepreneurs, African American women emerged as leaders in Black homebuying, according to a report released today by the National Association of Real Estate Brokers (NAREB).

NAREB’S 2023 Women Investing in Real Estate (W.I.R.E) report found that between 1990 and 2019, Black women increased homeownership by 5.6%. Moreover, Black women ages 45-54 and over 75 had a 2.9% increase during the pandemic, the largest among Black homeowners. In early 2020, when the pandemic onset slowed homebuying, Black women fared better than men. The full report can be downloaded HERE.

“With the rise of Black women buying homes, there is hope for the future,” exclaimed Dr. Courtney Johnson Rose, NAREB’s President. “Black women are breaking down barriers in several areas, and homeownership is another example of the resilience and strength of Black women working to secure a financial foundation for themselves and their families and contributing to closing the racial wealth gap. By owning a home, Black women create paths toward long-term financial stability and a legacy for their families. Homeownership among Black women is economic empowerment and serves as a catalyst for broader community development.”   

Dr. Rose added: “As homeowners invest in their properties, neighborhood revitalization often follows, impacting local economies and fostering community pride. This upward trajectory of Black female homeownership embodies the resilience and determination to overcome historical challenges and pave the way for social and economic progress.”

Noting that Black female homebuyers rebounded faster and continued to outpace males during the economic recovery from the pandemic, the W.I.R.E report outlined the data demonstrating Black women’s growing status and strength in American society.

The advances by Black women will be celebrated at NAREB’s 2024 MidWinter Conference in Charlotte, NC, February 28 – March 2. On Friday, March 1, Dr. Rose, Charlotte Mayor Vi Lyles, and Wells Fargo EVP Georgette Dixon will participate in “A Fireside Chat with Women of Impact” at the Marriot Charlotte City Center at 11:15 AM.

“I’m looking forward to sharing my story, the triumphs and challenges, as well as hearing from my esteemed colleagues as we go on to discuss what’s next for women leaders and entrepreneurs,” Dixon said. “Wells Fargo is excited to be a leader in this space of supporting women’s empowerment with a variety of programing through organizations like NAREB and the Women’s Business Enterprise National Council (WBENC).”

The W.I.R.E. report documented the economic gains that have paved the way for the success being enjoyed by Black women, who are 6.3% of the nation’s population, 52% of the African American population, and 12.5% of all women. Further, 63.4% of African American women over 16 are active in the labor force, and 89.3% of Black women have graduated high school or its equivalent.

Black women are also making tremendous strides as entrepreneurs. According to recent data, businesses owned by Black women grew by 50% between 2014 and 2019, with Black Women accounting for 42% of all women who opened new businesses during that period. In 2021, 17% of Black women were in the process of starting a new business. – 7% more than White women and 2% more than White men.

The real estate industry is also witnessing a positive trend concerning diversity, with an encouraging number of Black women carving a niche for themselves in this sector.

The shift towards greater inclusivity is a win for Black women and the industry, with diverse perspectives fostering innovation and a deeper understanding of multifaceted market needs. It is widely recognized that the real estate industry has been working toward increasing diversity and inclusion within its ranks. Black women, in particular, have made strides in the field, with NAREB and others providing support and networking opportunities to encourage further representation.

“Despite these efforts, considerable work remains to be done to eliminate barriers to entry and advancement for underrepresented groups,” said Dr. Rose. “Ongoing mentorship programs and targeted educational resources are critical for equipping individuals with the knowledge and skills necessary to succeed. “In response to the W.I.R.E. report, NAREB will host a pre-conference one-day event for Black women in real estate and finance as part of their annual convention on July 31, 2024, in New Orleans, LA.

ABOUT THE NATIONAL ASSOCIATION OF REAL ESTATE BROKERS

NAREB was formed in 1947 to secure equal housing opportunities regardless of race, creed, or color. NAREB has advocated for legislation and supported or instigated legal challenges that ensure fair housing, sustainable homeownership, and access to credit for Black Americans. Simultaneously, NAREB advocates for and promotes access to business opportunities for Black real estate professionals in each real estate discipline.  From the past to the present, NAREB remains an association proud of its history, dedicated to its chosen struggle, and unrelenting in its pursuit of the REALTIST®’s mission/vision embedded goal, “Democracy in Housing.”