SAN BERNARDINO, CA— The City of San Bernardino has announced the appointment of Rochelle Clayton as its new Deputy City Manager. Clayton, a San Bernardino native, has nearly 30 years of leadership roles with public agencies in the Inland Empire, most recently as the Assistant City Manager for the City of Menifee. Her first day will be April 15.

“This is a homecoming for me,” said Clayton. “I grew up here. We raised our kids here. Our girls graduated from Aquinas High School. I couldn’t be more excited to serve the residents of San Bernardino and be a part of the great things taking place.”

Having spent the past five years in Menifee, Clayton oversaw the Police, Fire, Community Services, Information Technology, Finance, Human Resources, and City Clerk departments. She served as the City’s lead negotiator with developers, businesses, school districts, and labor unions. Clayton also led the development and implementation of a five-year plan to successfully transition Menifee’s municipal police services under City control and no longer the Riverside County Sheriff’s Department.

“We are very pleased that Rochelle will be joining our team,” said City Manager Charles Montoya. “She has extensive experience in municipal government, county government, and with special districts. And she knows the City of San Bernardino well.”

Prior to her time in Menifee, Clayton served as deputy city manager and Administrative Services Director for the City of Banning. She also worked as the Chief Financial Officer for the West Valley Water District in Rialto, the High Desert Water District in Yucca Valley, and the Finance Director for the City of La Habra Heights. Clayton also spent seventeen years with the County of San Bernardino Finance Department in various finance roles, rising to the level of Deputy Chief.

Clayton is a member of the International City Management Association, the California Society of Municipal Financial Officers, the Southern California Public Power Authority, and the Association of California Water Agencies. She holds a bachelor’s degree in business administration from California State University, San Bernardino.

As Deputy City Manager, Clayton will oversee the Public Works, Community Development and Housing, and the Parks, Recreation and Community Services Departments.

VICTORVILLE, CA—- The Queendom Awards, an esteemed annual event recognizing the exceptional contributions of women in the High Desert community, is thrilled to announce its second edition, set to take place on Mother’s Day Weekend, Saturday, May 11, 2024, at the Holiday Inn in Victorville, CA, from 6:00 p.m. to 9:00 p.m.

The Queendom Awards celebrate the leadership, philanthropy, and commitment of extraordinary women whose work has made a profound impact on the community. This year’s esteemed honorees include Regina Bell, Founder Of D.V.L PROJECT; 1st Lady Lorrie Denson of The Burning Bush Baptist Church; Leslie Irvin, City Councilwoman, Victorville CA; Pastor Kashmier Hayes, Epiphany Meeting Destiny; and Sylvia Romo, 2023 Women of Excellence Award Recipient. These exceptional women have demonstrated unwavering dedication to empowering others and fostering a positive change in the HIGH DESERT and beyond.

The event is made possible through the generous support of our community sponsors, including Victorville Motors, The High Desert Sports Association, K.I.C.K.S KAFE, Congressional Candidate Derek Marshall, and more. Their commitment to recognizing and honoring the achievements of women in our community is invaluable and deeply appreciated.

The evening promises to be a memorable occasion, featuring a glamorous Red-Carpet Network, followed by a sumptuous dinner sponsored and served by POPPA’S KITCHEN. Members of the media are cordially invited to participate in the Red-Carpet Network and capture the excitement of this special event.

“We are thrilled to host the 2nd Annual Queendom Awards and shine a spotlight on these remarkable women who have made significant contributions to our community,” said Justified Smith, Founder of FATHERS IN HIP HOP. “Their dedication, leadership, and resilience inspire us all, and we look forward to celebrating their achievements on this special evening.”

For sponsorship opportunities, or to RSVP for the event, please contact: Event Producer, Brittany Tinna White at (909-684-1330) or tuproductions3@gmail.com.

About the Queendom Awards: The Queendom Awards are an annual event that honors exceptional women in the High Desert community who have demonstrated outstanding leadership, service, and commitment to making a positive difference in the lives of others. The awards seek to celebrate and empower women from diverse backgrounds and industries, recognizing their achievements and inspiring future generations.

SAN BERNARDINO, CA— Seven distinguished young men were presented to society on Saturday, March 30th, 2024, at the beautiful campus of California State University. Sir Knight 2004 Raafi Bell teacher and principle of Hardy Brown College Prep was the Master of Ceremony.

The 57th Annual Beautillion Ball which was no disappointment to a packed house of spectators as each young man was introduced along with their courts. Elegance, excitement, and suspense were thick in the air as the Knights and their courts performed dances with precession for their guests. The Keynote speaker was Dr. Jerrold N. Thompson, Sr., Senior Pastor of San Bernardino Community SDA Church – where he spoke on our theme of “Your Moment of Greatness” and shared his personal examples on the theme.

The Social Lites honored Wallace Allen of Westside Story / Talk Back, Michael Davis, Alton Garrett – Garrett Management Group, Dr. Danielle Osonduagwuike, Tina Darling, Councilman Damon Alexander and SBVC Aeronautics Department of Valley College with service awards for their unselfish act of pouring into our young men through the last 6 months with their various workshops and activities.

In full force our representatives from the federal, state, county and local government were present which included our Congressional Representative Pete Aguilar of the 33rd District, James Ramos California State Assembly representing District 45th office, Assembly member Eloise Gomez-Reyes representing the 50th California Assembly District, Joe Baca Jr. San Bernardino County 5th District, Dr. Gwen Dowdy Rodgers, San Bernardino of the County of School Board and Damon Alexander of the 7th Ward of the City of San Bernardino and Felicia Alexander, San Bernardino City Unified School District Trustee and Social Lite member who presented our Knights with certificates and witnessed the affair.

Our Successful Well Accomplished Gentleman (S.W.A.G.) Award for 2024 was awarded to Edward Brantley, President of the “I Am Gifted Foundation” for providing countless assistance in coaching and providing a stellar example to our young men and Chief Joseph Paulino, Chief of Police for the San Bernardino City Unified School District was awarded the Trail Blazer Award for giving back numerous years to our young men and creating a path while forging ahead for others.

The evening concluded with our crowning of Sir Knight Solomon Moore of Citrus Valley High School. As dubbed Sir Knight, he receiving over $22,500.00 in scholarships and awards for the prestigious title. This included $10,000.00 for the Social Lites, Inc. (SLI) Scholarship, $6,000.00 for the Evan T. Carthen Emerging Leadership Memorial (ETCEL) Award, $3,000 Academic Excellence Award, a $400.00 Mr. Congeniality Award and a $1,000 Travel Voucher including his countless gifts valued at over $1,800.00 for college expenses to allow him to pursue his dream to become a Civil Engineer at Tennessee State University.

Daniel Rivera, Jr., 1^st Runner- Up was awarded $8,000.00 along with $3,000 Academic Excellence Award by the (SLI) Scholarship, $1,000.00 for the (ETCEL) Award along with a host of gifts and prizes valued at over $1,800.00.

2^nd Runner-Up Syncere Brackett-Lambey was awarded $6,000.00 by the (SLI) Scholarship and $1,000.00 for the (ETCEL) Award along with a host of gifts and prizes valued at over $1,950.00.

Darvion McGee was awarded the Perservance Award by the (SLI) Scholarship of $4,000.00 and $1,000.00 for the (ETCEL) Award along with a host of other gifts and prizes valued at $1,500.00.

Ali Dphrepaulezz was awarded the President Award by the (SLI) Scholarship of $2,000.00 and $1,000.00 Academic Excellence Award and $1,000.00 for the (ETCEL) Award along with a host of other gifts and prizes valued over $1,700.00.

Frank Cox III was awarded the Social Lites Award of $1,500.00, $1,000.00 Academic Excellence Award, $1,000.00 for the (ETCEL) Award and along with a host of other gifts and prizes valued at over $1,100.00.

Destyn Maurice was awarded by the (SLI) Scholarship of $8,000.00 for the Alumni Award and $1,000.00 for the (ETCEL) Award along with other gifts and prizes valued at over $1,100.00.

Each young man received a host of Resolutions and Proclamations by local mayors and dignitaries.

As we conclude our ceremonial event, our work is NOT over. With your help, we are seeking our next African American and brown young men to set on the path toward higher levels through their education. The Social Lites program is a non-profit (501c3) program that created the Beautillion Program. It was started in the Inland Empire out of concern for the future and survival of the young black and brown men in the community in which they live and serve. This program is designed to help young men who are seniors in high school prepare for college through the solicitation of ads, leadership development, accountability, responsibility, etiquette, attire for all occasions, spiritual growth, publics peaking, and community service.

If you know any young men 6 years old to their 1st year in college who aspire to improve with their educational aspirations. Please reach out to us so that we can bring them into the program. If you would like to donate to our cause, we appreciate all contributions. To date, we have we have given out approximately 3.5 million dollars in scholarships to our college bound young men.

For more information, please call President, Sheri Lewis at (909) 320-0799 or publicity chairperson, Marlene Davis at (909) 709-5502

SAN BERNARDINO, CA—- Time for Change Foundation’s (TFCF) 22nd Annual Awards Gala will honor outstanding individuals and organizations that go above and beyond for our communities and continue to make a difference in the lives of others.

Kellie Todd Griffin is a dynamic leader with a rich history of driving change and empowering communities across California. With an impressive portfolio spanning 25 years, Kellie has made significant strides in community engagement, strategy development, and social impact initiatives.

As the President and CEO of the California Black Women’s Collective Empowerment Institute, Kellie oversees transformative programs such as the CA Black Women’s Think Tank at California State University, Dominguez Hills. Her experience in healthcare leadership has earned her recognition as a champion for healthcare equity, culminating in her receipt of the Los Angeles County Woman of the Year award.

Kellie’s dedication to political advocacy and community organizing is evident in her leadership of initiatives like CA African Americans for Obama, which she co-chaired alongside prominent figures like Karen Bass and Kamala Harris.

Kellie channels her expertise in public affairs, communications, and diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) to empower nonprofits, government entities, and corporations. Her entrepreneurial spirit is further demonstrated through her founding of organizations such as Sistallect, Inc. and the California Black Women and Girls Social and Economic Impact Fund.

“Kellie Todd Griffin’s unwavering dedication to community empowerment and social justice serves as an inspiration to all who have the privilege of collaborating with her,” said Kim Carter-Tillman, Founder/Ambassador of Time for Change Foundation, “She is truly an inspiration to all women!”

Other Award Honorees include:

Bobby Wagner, football player of the NFL, with the Philanthropist of the Year Award; Rev. George Lamb at F.A.C.C.T with the Lifetime Achievement Award; Dr. Rita (Faridah) Ali from We 2 Matter with the Humanitarian Award; Dawn Downs to receive the Businesswoman of the Year Award; Laurena Bolden at San Manuel Band of Mission Indians with the Community Champion Award; Pastor Craig Hadley from Paradox Church with the Nancy Varner Angel Award; and Rialto ROTC with the Ramos Family Spirit of Compassion Award.

Time for Change Foundation’s 22^nd Annual Awards Gala will be held on Friday, April 19th, 2024, at the DoubleTree Hotel in Ontario, California at 6:00 p.m. PST. To support the work of Time for Change Foundation, you can become a sponsor, purchase an ad in the event program book, or purchase a Gala ticket.

To register for the event or to become a sponsor and increase your business’s visibility in the community, please visit our website at www.TimeForChangeFoundation.org, or contact Florence White at (909) 886-2994 or by email at fwhite@timeforchangefoundation.org.

Dedication, self-discovery, and a passion for learning are the hallmarks of Jamira Hunter’s remarkable journey. Her introduction to the world of STEM began in seventh grade when she first encountered STEM NOLA. This New Orleans program shaped her career path and influenced her approach to making a meaningful contribution to society.

Guided by her mother’s wisdom, Jamira and her brother, Jamal, embarked on a journey of exploration, immersing themselves in the hands-on STEM activities at STEM NOLA that would play a pivotal role in defining Jamiri’s desire to achieve academically and her ultimate decision to pursue nursing.  They grew up and attended school in Baton Rouge, but their parents drove them nearly 100 miles to participate in STEM Saturdays in New Orleans.

“As a parent and educator, I am grateful my husband and I took advantage of the opportunity that allowed my children to participate in STEM NOLA from a young age,” says Mironda Hunter.

Further, she credits STEM NOLA for increasing their awareness of STEM skills. “It peaked their wonderment of research and “what ifs.” They discovered new interests and strengths and expanded their outlook on STEM careers and opportunities. They were placed in direct contact with STEM professionals who looked like them and made the missions and outcomes realities together. Jamira and Jamal are STEM majors at this time.”

A particularly memorable project for Jamira involved building and powering a model car. This hands-on experience ignited Jamira’s passion for learning by doing, laying the foundation for her love of applied sciences. “I learned how to build things with my hands, and it made me realize I like being hands-on with things; I should learn when touching,” she reflects.

This newfound appreciation for hands-on learning significantly influenced Jamira’s educational and career trajectory, steering her towards nursing—a field where science meets compassionate care. For Jamira, nursing is not just about diagnosis and treatment; it’s about holistic patient care and making a tangible impact on people’s lives.

As Jamira, now 21, progressed through high school, STEM NOLA helped solidify her interest in nursing, ultimately leading her to enroll at Southern University and A&M College. Reflecting on her journey, she notes, “STEM NOLA helped me realize I like learning about life and science from a life perspective. It helped me determine that I like learning about the human body and caring for people.”

Jamira’s story symbolizes the broader impact of STEM NOLA in helping young minds identify their passions. Central to her success is the mentorship provided by Dr. Calvin Mackie, the founder of STEM Global Action and its affiliate, STEM NOLA.

“I love him. He’s funny, and he is real. He’s a real role model,” says Jamira. “You know how some people put on a front; he’s real hands-on and nurturing. He’s caring, ensuring everybody’s okay and you have what you need. He’s real sweet.”

Dr. Mackie expresses his commitment to empowering young minds through STEM. “STEM education is not just about teaching,” he says, “it’s also about fostering a mindset of curiosity, resilience, and a passion for making a positive impact on the world and our communities.”

In pursuing a nursing career, Jamira finds fulfillment in the clinical experiences provided by her academic journey. These experiences serve a purpose similar to internships, equipping her with practical skills while ensuring a smooth transition into the professional realm. Jamira emphasized the significance of these clinical experiences, saying, “Because really with nursing, after every clinical [experience], you’re certified with more skills.”

Beyond academics, Jamira values the cultural environment of Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs) like Southern University and A&M College. The sense of community and shared aspirations create an environment where she feels comfortable learning, asking questions, and striving for success.

“As a Black woman, being surrounded by professors and peers who look like me is empowering. It makes me more comfortable to learn and ask questions,” she says, adding that her appreciation for HBCUs includes homecoming, football games, and community.

Jamira remains focused on her goal of becoming a nurse. Her aspirations extend beyond personal success; she aims to leverage her knowledge to educate her family and community about preventive healthcare, especially within the African American community.

“We have a lot of people in our family with high blood pressure and mental disorders. Nursing educated me to help educate my family and others on how to prevent getting these sicknesses,” she says.

Jamira’s advice to aspiring STEM enthusiasts is poignant: “If you’re interested in anything science-wise, you should go to STEM NOLA because there aren’t a lot of activities that allow you to get your hands actively engaged and get a feel for what you want to do in life. Sometimes, people wait too late until they already started college, still figuring it out. But if you start going to places like these, you can start narrowing down to target your career path instead of wasting time or waiting.”

Jamira Hunter, who recently started her third semester of clinical studies at Southern University School of Nursing, is blazing a new path and showing her community what’s possible with STEM education. Her story underscores the potential within every young mind eager to explore the wonders of STEM.

ABOUT STEM GLOBAL ACTION

In 2013, Dr. Calvin Mackie founded STEM NOLA, a New Orleans non-profit committed to expanding STEM education, particularly in communities of color. His goal is to make STEM education available in ALL communities. In July 2021, Dr. Mackie launched STEM Global Action, a campaign and network of affiliates that pursue STEM education for children, parents, and communities. His initiatives have impacted more than 125,000 students, 20,000 families, and 5,150 schools across the U.S. and in five countries. Dr. Mackie holds a Bachelor of Science in Mathematics from Morehouse College, as well as a Bachelor’s, Master’s, and Ph.D. in Mechanical Engineering from Georgia Tech. An archive of the Let’s Talk STEM with Dr. Calvin Mackie podcast is HERE.

SAN BERNARDINO, CA— It was all about smiles, laughter, and a bit of friendly competition at

Glen Helen Regional Park last weekend. This event was dedicated to our community’s underserved at-risk youth and children from San Bernardino County Children and Family Services (CFS), aiming to provide a joyful and inclusive experience for all participants.

This year’s event was made possible through the collaboration of various partners, including the San Bernardino County Probation Department, Regional Parks, and Bass Pro Shop.

“I just want to say a big thank you to everyone who helped make this day happen,” Supervisor Baca shared, “It’s events like these that remind us of the simple joys in life—fishing, laughing, and spending time with each other. It’s about the kids, their families, and seeing those moments of pure happiness. That’s what it’s really all about.”

In addition to the fishing activities, the event also provided free lunch to ensure that all families were fed. “Seeing the community come together for our kids—especially those who’ve had it tough—means the world to me,” Baca added.

In acknowledging the collaborative effort, Jonathan Byers, Assistant Director of Children and Family Services, shared, “Today isn’t just about catching fish; it’s about creating memories that will last a lifetime. Fishing is an opportunity to connect with nature, bond with loved ones, and make unforgettable memories. It’s a chance to unplug from screens, get outdoors, and simply enjoy each other’s company.”

San Bernardino County works hard to create special moments for our youth. Supervisor Baca is looking forward to next year, hoping to introduce even more kids to their first fishing experience.

By Tanu Henry and Joe W. Bowers Jr. | California Black Media

Last week, Gov. Gavin Newsom announced that he granted clemency to 52 people: 37 pardons and 18 commutations.

One of the people the Governor is requesting a full pardon for is  Earlonne Woods, who was formerly incarcerated at San Quentin and is one of the creators of the popular, award-winning podcast Ear Hustle, which chronicles prison life.

Woods, a Los Angeles native who now lives in Oakland, recently signed a deal to work with Morgan Freeman on a documentary series.

Because Woods has been convicted of two or more felonies, his pardon will have to be approved by the State Supreme Court.

“The California Constitution gives the Governor the authority to grant executive clemency in the form of a pardon, commutation, or reprieve, the statement from the Governor’s office reads.

“The Governor regards clemency as an important part of the criminal justice system that can incentivize accountability and rehabilitation, increase public safety by removing counterproductive barriers to successful reentry, correct unjust results in the legal system, and address the health needs of incarcerated people with high medical risks.

Woods, an outspoken advocate for repealing California’s Three Strikes law, spent 21 years in prison, for attempted robbery.

Newsom also granted a posthumous pardon to civil rights activist William Burwell, whose life and advocacy became the impetus for establishing Cal State Northridge’s Africana Studies Department. In 1969, Burwell was arrested and convicted of misdemeanor trespass and failure to disperse during a racial justice protest on campus.

By Tanu Henry and Joe W. Bowers Jr. | California Black Media

To mark César Chávez Day on March 31, Assembly Speaker Robert Rivas, who is the son of farmworkers, partnered with Assemblymember Esmeralda Soria (D-Fresno) to honor the legacy of labor leader Cesar Chavez.

“César Chávez is an inspiration, said Soria in short video the two lawmakers posted on X.

“His leadership and advocacy created opportunities for generations of farmworkers – the men and women who feed our entire nation and the entire world. He worked tirelessly alongside Dolores Huerta and others, added Soria. Today, we remember César Chávez’s many lessons and we reiterate our commitment to fight for protections and the right of every worker.”

Ahead of a Los Angeles event organized Sunday by presidential candidate Robert F. Kennedy to celebrate the Mexican American labor activist and civil rights leader, Chávez family issued a statement opposing the use of his image in political campaigning.

“When we saw Bobby Kennedy begin to use images of my father, and then when we heard about this event in L.A., it really prompted us to stand up and to make sure that people understood that the Chavez family does not support his campaign,” wrote the labor icon’s son, Paul Chávez.

Andres Chavez, Paul’s son, also registered his outrage with the Kennedy campaign.

“We’ve never seen anybody go as far as using that image for political gain,” said of Kennedy’s campaign event invitation.

The leadership of the National Chavez Center in Keene has announed that they tend to endorse President Biden.

By Lou K. Coleman | WSS News Contributor

Don’t you know that My warnings are meant for your good? [2 Timothy 3:16]. Circumcise your hearts and avoid the calamity that awaits you. [Jeremiah Chapter 4]. For My Spirit shall not always strive with man. [Genesis 6:3]. Hear instructions and be wise, and do not refuse it. Flee for your life! Don’t look back, and don’t stop anywhere in the plain! Flee to the mountains or you will be swept away. [Genesis 19:17]. Understand that I am not slow in keeping My promises, as some understand slowness. I am patient with you, not wanting anyone to perish. [2 Peter 3:9]. Return O backsliding children, says the Lord.

Don’t be one of the multitudes of people who will lift up their eyes from Hell, crying out as they remember the “random” incidences where the Holy Spirit tried to reach them. Don’t be like the Pharisees. Jesus in His great love sent the Pharisees men like the Apostle Paul to give warnings. God always gives us a warning or even multiple warnings before His judgment falls upon us. If you just look at our world today, there are many signs and warnings that God has and continues to give to us. These warnings are not meant for our destruction, but they are meant as a way to give us an opportunity before destruction comes. Understand the urgency of the times that we are living in.  The violence in the Middle East and even violence within our own nation is an outward manifestation of the warnings that God sends to us. Abnormal conditions within our world. Even weather patterns that are catastrophic serve as a warning.

Remember, God warned Noah that a global flood would cover the entire earth due to humanity’s wickedness. If Noah had ignored this warning, he and his family would have perished along with everyone else. But by heeding God’s warning, Noah ensured the survival of his family and the continuation of humanity. His faith saved them from the floodwaters. Noah’s faith demonstrated obedience, trust, and action. He believed in what he could not yet see and acted accordingly. In contrast, those who disregarded the warning faced condemnation. Their refusal to repent and heed God’s message led to their demise. My Stubborn, Heedless, Inattentive Children heed my warning. The Time is Near!

Although they knew God, they neither glorified him as God nor gave thanks to Him, but their thinking became futile, and their foolish hearts were darkened. Therefore, Hell hath enlarged herself, and opened her mouth without measure. [Isaiah 5:15]. They will suffer the punishment of eternal destruction, away from the presence of the Lord and from the glory of His might. [2 Thessalonians 1:9].

By Charlene Muhammad | California Black Media

On the night of March 10, 2024, Ramadan began for some two billion believers across the Muslim world. The Islamic Holy Month is a time of spiritual renewal for all participants, including many who do not identify as Muslim. Each year, an increasing number of individuals beyond the Muslim world embark on the journey of fasting during this sacred time.

In California, where an estimated half a million Muslims live, accounting for about 1.3% of the state’s population, the faithful are gathering daily for prayers at the 246 mosques located across the Golden State.

This month of Ramadan benefits every human being, regardless of their belief, said Student Minister Ishmael Muhammad of the Nation of Islam during his March 24 address livestreamed from Mosque Maryam in Chicago.

“Did you know that fasting and prayer can help us hear God more clearly?  Did you know that the principle and practice of prayer and fasting can help us make better choices,” Muhammad added.

On Tuesday, April 9, the holy month of fasting will come to an end.

Prayer, fasting and reflecting on Allah (God) gives one the power of discernment, he said.  In addition, they strengthen faith and build self-discipline, which brings one closer to their Creator, he detailed. The name Ramadan, said Muhammad, comes from the ninth month of the Lunar calendar and it means “intense heat.”

According to Islamic history, this is the month in which the Holy Qur’an was revealed to Prophet Muhammad (Peace and Blessings of Allah Be Upon Him) by the angel Jibril, and every year, during Ramadan, each day, 1/30th of the Holy Book is recited or read by those observing the fast.

Ramadan spans 30 days of fasting, study, recommitment, and heightened awareness of Allah (God). In Arabic, this is known as Taqwa, the state of being conscious and cognizant of God. But what is Ramadan, how does one observe Ramadan, and lastly, how did it come to be observed by over 25% of the world’s population?

“O you who believe, fasting is prescribed for you, as it was prescribed for those before you, so that you may guard against evil,” it reads in Chapter 2, verse 183. “So, whoever of you is present in the month, he shall fast therein,” continues the Holy Qur’an.

“This is a beautiful month.  Thanking Allah for His many blessings, His mercy, His protection, His favor, and we should praise Allah every day,” Muhammad stated.

Acts of fasting were performed by Moses and his community, Jesus and his followers, prophets such as David, Elijah and many other figures in the Torah and the Gospel.

There is, however, a unique all-encompassing quality to fasting in Islam, especially during the time of Ramadan. During Ramadan, Muslims restrain themselves from consuming food and water during the daylight hours. In addition, they are required to abstain from fighting, foul language, and sexual relations with their spouses during the daylight hours. For nearly 12-16 hours a day, from sunrise to sunset, Muslims are engaged in an exercise to gain greater self-control, adding strength to their righteous character.  Ramadan is observed not only through the abstaining of food and water, but through the daily readings of the Holy Qur’an, keeping up prayer, increased acts of kindness and charity especially in the way of feeding the poor.

Amina Lei, a Chinese American artist, and educator who has held forums to bring the Black, Brown, Red and Asian communities into a space to foster understanding and dialogue in Los Angeles, has been a Muslim since 2019.  “It’s really a time for spiritual cultivation, a really great practice to rise above our physical desires, for hunger, vanity as well, to really get into the word of God, to have some quiet time for yourself, and study,” she told California Black Media.

In addition, during Ramadan, she has found great benefit in cultivating communities, she said.  “This practice of rising above our physical limitations brings us to a higher level, a greater cause and to do that with your brothers and sisters in this time is really meaningful,” she added.

California Black Media also spoke to Grammy-nominated producer Kenneth “Trax” Coby, who said, “The first time I did it (Ramadan), I realized I was doing it wrong,” acknowledging that he wasn’t observing the strictest elements of the fast. “It was good, it builds a sort of discipline. I was new to it. You’re consistently working at something then after the 30 days, it’s a huge payout.”

“I’ve been observing the fast of Ramadan since I was 15-years-old, I’m 28 now,” said Na’il Ali Muhammad.  “It took me a few years to see it through and complete the entire 30 days. There’s great satisfaction when you complete it, much like when you climb a mountain and finally reach the top. For me, every fast allows me to reset my mind, body and cater to my soul. Ramadan offers a great chance to connect with God and get a grip on my negative habits and expel ideas that no longer serve me.”

Thus far, Muslims in various Nation of Islam mosques and study groups around the country have been preparing and distributing over 10,000 meals to communities as acts of service since the first week of Ramadan, according to Muhammad.  Girls Training and General Civilization Class) have been working together to ensure delicious, homemade food reaches those in need.

While Ramadan is a special time for individual improvement, the Holy Month also serves as a time for the strengthening of family and community bonds. In the evenings, as the fast concludes, families and friends gather for what is called Iftar –feasts that occur regularly throughout the month and mass assemblies of Muslims gathered for prayer.

For those curious about the benefits of Ramadan, consider tuning in to  “Ramadan: The Ummah Reflects,” a livestream that airs every morning and offers replays of each episode.

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.