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San Bernardino has a rich history of early Black pioneering that can be traced back before the county’s official founding in 1853. Perhaps you’ve heard the names Charles Rowan, Lizzy
Flake, Grief Embers, Toby Embers, and Martha Embers. Much less is known about Hannah
(who went by several different surnames, including as Embers and Smiley) than her famous
companion, Biddy Mason. Both Hannah and Biddy were brought to San Bernardino by Mormon slaveholders in 1851. They lived on Jumuba ranch and worked throughout the colony as skilled midwives until they won their freedom in 1856 in Los Angeles. Hannah returned to San Bernardino to live out the rest of her days. Her daughter, Martha, married Israel Beal, who was a prominent Black pioneer in Redlands.

In collaboration with the National Underground Railroad Network for Freedom, the Santa
Monica Mountains National Recreation Area, and Hannah’s descendants, we are asking the
greater San Bernardino and Redlands area for help. If you have any information or insights into the history of Hannah, Jumuba Ranch, or early Black San Bernardino, please feel free to
contact us. With your help, we aim to preserve, celebrate and uplift the often overlooked history of Black pioneering in the Inland Empire.

What we are seeking: on Jumuba Ranch and Hannah

• Oral histories
• Family archives
• Newspaper clippings
• Maps
• Sketches
•  Diaries

Contacts
Angela Wilkinson (angela.ingham.wilkinson@gmail.com): direct descendent of Hannah and
Israel Beal

Dr. Kevin Waite (kevin.a.waite@durham.ac.uk): associate professor of history and project
director

Christella Maldonado (christella_maldonado@partner.nps.gov): PhD student and research
specialist in Jumuba Ranch and early San Bernardino

Sonya Massey Shot in the Face and Murdered by White Deputy Sean Grayson

On July 23, 2024, CBS News reported that bodycam video of the fatal shooting of Sonya Massey was released by Illinois State Police Monday afternoon, showing a chaotic scene after a sheriff’s deputy shot Massey in the face during a tense moment over a pot of water in her home. On July 23rd, Mother Jones Reported, “She needed a helping hand,” attorney Ben Crump said at a press conference on Monday. “She didn’t need a bullet to the face.” On July 6, Massey reportedly called the authorities about a potential prowler around her Springfield home. Officer Grayson and another deputy arrived on the scene.

The Art of the Cover-Up:

On July 23, 2024, The Guardian reported that police audio obtained by the Guardian features someone on the scene the night of Massey’s killing – presumably a deputy – saying Massey’s wound was “self-inflicted.” A dispatcher asks to confirm, and the person on the scene repeats, “Self-inflicted.” The recording is in line with what the family says was misleading information given by police when Massey was taken to a hospital, where she was pronounced dead. This incident reminds Black people in America that we can be unjustly murdered by those who are supposed to serve and protect us. It also serves as a stark reminder of the historical challenges and barriers Black women face in the United States and how unsafe it can be when calling law enforcement for help.

“As the Democratic National Convention approaches in Springfield, Illinois, we urge lawmakers from both parties to embrace robust police accountability measures. Ending Qualified Immunity and implementing other necessary policies are crucial steps to ensure the safety of Black Americans from unjust actions by law enforcement, such as the tragic incident involving Sonya Massey. During this critical time, we stand in solidarity with the community in Springfield, including the family of Sonya Massey and activists nationwide. We must remain united in advocating for justice and Systemic change. Together, let us work towards a future where all Black individuals are treated with dignity and equal protection under the law.”

Tour Has Hosted Thousands of Educators on Immersive Tours Retracting the Steps of Freedom Seekers from Kentucky to Canada

RIVERSIDE, CA— The third and final “Footsteps to Freedom Underground Railroad Study Tour” of summer 2024 will take place from Tuesday, July 23, to Tuesday, July 30. Founded by Black Voice Foundation Inc., and now produced by Footsteps to Freedom LLC, the eight-day trip provides a unique Underground Railroad study tour experience. Led by experienced conductors and subject matter experts, the tour has hosted thousands of educators on immersive tours retracing the steps of freedom seekers spanning two countries, four states, and over three thousand miles from Kentucky to Canada.

Tour stop highlights include Rankin House, John Parker House, National Underground Railroad Freedom Center, Oberlin College Archives, Charles Wright Museum for African American History, North Buxton Historical Site, Walls Family Farm, Women’s Rights Museum, Harriet Tubman homesite, and Frederick Douglass NorthStar Newspaper site.

Founded by Cheryl Brown, retired California Assemblymember and Black Voice News Publisher Emeritus, the tour celebrates its 27th anniversary this year. Brown’s children, Paulette Brown-Hinds, PhD, Founder of Voice Media Ventures and Publisher of the Black Voice News, and Hardy Brown II, Chairman Emeritus Black Voice Foundation, and Managing Principal, Footsteps to Freedom, serve as the tour’s lead executives. “Our mother started the Footsteps to Freedom tour to provide an immersive, educational experience that brings to life the rich history of the Underground Railroad, one of our country’s greatest freedom movements,” Brown-Hinds and Brown share in a joint statement. “She believed that understanding the struggles and triumphs of those who sought freedom is crucial to appreciating our collective history and fostering a more inclusive society. Today, the tour remains as relevant as ever, reminding us of the importance of resilience, courage, and the ongoing fight for equality and justice.”

The tour is a transformative learning opportunity built on a foundation of historical empathy that expedites professional and personal growth. “We believe through historical empathy, participants can connect more deeply with the past, fostering a greater understanding and appreciation of the experiences of others,” Brown-Hinds and Brown add. “This approach not only enriches our historical knowledge but also helps to build a more compassionate and empathetic society.”

Conductors include lead historian and retired history professor Dr. Daniel E. Walker and Kenneth Morris, co-founder and president of the Frederick Douglass Family Initiatives. “Participating in the Footsteps to Freedom Underground Railroad Study Tour for 19 years has been a profound honor,” Morris says. “As a direct descendant of Frederick Douglass and Booker T. Washington, I’ve had the privilege of inspiring and empowering thousands of educators over the years with the remarkable stories of my great ancestors and the brave freedom seekers whose resilience and courage we study and honor.”

The tour partners include the Black Voice Foundation, Mapping Black California, Black Voice News, Howard University, The Jerry Gore Collection, and various school districts in California.

By Darrell Frye

Good afternoon, Fam! Darrell Frye here, President of the Black Young Dems (IE)! Get ready for the dopest event of the summer!!! Join us on Saturday, August 17th from 5 p.m. to 9 p.m. at the City Center SB for an incredible Artivism experience.

Come and explore music, art, and vendors all dedicated to making a difference! Artivism is about using art to create social change – and we plan to create a space that does just that!!! This event will be free with RSVP!

The City Center is located at 455 W. 4th Street, San Bernardino, CA 92401. To RSVP as a guest, vendor, or artist, please click here.

By Bo Tefu | California Black Media

Last week, the California State Transportation Agency (CalSTA) approved nearly $1.9 billion to upgrade and sustain public transportation systems statewide.

The state plans to invest a total of $5.1 billion among regional transportation planning agencies over several years, as mandated in Senate Bill (SB) 125, which Gov. Newsom signed into law in 2023.

The funding will pay for transit operations and capital improvements, allocating varying amounts of money to 22 agencies based on population.

“This vital funding serves as a lifeline for transit agencies all over the state and helps to advance California’s ambitious, world-leading climate goals,” said Newsom.

At the same time, we’re adding accountability measures that help put our state’s transit agencies on a path toward long-term stability,” the Governor added.

Planning agencies will also receive funds from the transportation package. CalSTA plans to approve $500 million for projects implemented this summer. More funds will be approved for future projects until the 2027-2028 fiscal year.

California Transportation Secretary Toks Omishakin said the investment aligns with the state’s environmental and equity goals and responds to the needs of the public.

“California’s commitment to public transit is unwavering, and with billions more in funding in the pipeline — including for zero-emission equipment and operations — we are just getting started in delivering a more sustainable and equitable transit system for the people of California,” said Omishakin.

By Edward Henderson | California Black Media

California Attorney General Rob Bonta released the 2023 Hate Crime in California Report on June 29, providing data and resources to support ongoing efforts across the state to combat violence motivated by racial or other biases.

Overall, reported hate crime events in California decreased by 7.1% from 2,120 in 2022 to 1,970 in 2023.

Despite that general downward trend, anti-Black bias incidents in the state remained the most prevalent. Year after year, this disturbing statistic holds true despite a 20.6% decrease from 652 in 2022 to 518 in 2023. The next highest reporting of bias events was 199 Anti-Hispanic or Latino instances.

“The California Department of Justice has a zero-tolerance policy when it comes to hate, and will continue working with law enforcement, elected leaders, and community organizations across the state to keep our communities safe through education, prevention, and enforcement,” said Attorney General Robert Bonta in a statement after releasing the report.

“We won’t let bigots and bad actors win. We will not let hate prevail,” said Bonta

The report also found that prosecutions inched up by 5% (about 32 percentage points).

According to the Attorney General’s report, from 2022 to 2023, the number of hate crimes referred for prosecution increased from 647 in 2022 to 679 in 2023. Of the 679 hate crimes that were referred for prosecution, 463 cases were filed by district attorneys and elected city attorneys for prosecution. Of the 463 cases that were filed for prosecution, 322 were filed as hate crimes and 141 were filed as non-bias motivated crimes.

Under California law, a hate crime is a criminal act committed in whole or in part because of a victim’s actual or perceived disability, gender, nationality, race or ethnicity, religion, sexual orientation, or association with someone with one or more of these characteristics.

Aside from the information related to Anti-Black hate crimes, other key findings in the 2023 Hate Crime in California Report include:

• Hate crimes fell by 7.1% to 1,970 events.
• Hate crime offenses dropped by 8.9% to 2,359.
• Victims of hate crimes decreased by 6.9% to 2,303.
• Hate crimes due to racial bias went down by 21.6% to 1,017.
• Hate crimes due to religious bias rose by 30% to 394.
• Anti-Islamic bias events increased from 25 to 40.
• Hate crimes due to sexual orientation bias went up by 4.1% to 405.
• Anti-transgender bias events rose by 10.2% to 65.
• Anti-LGBTQ+ bias events surged by 86.4%.

The disproportionate number of hate incidents recorded in the Attorney General’s report lines up with data released by the California Civil Rights Department (CRD).

Responding to a surge in hate crimes and hate incidents, in 2023, Gov. Gavin Newsom’s administration launched the “California vs. Hate” initiative, which includes a hotline and online reporting platform for victims.

“CA vs Hate is about recognizing and protecting the incredible diversity of our state and sending a clear message that hate will never be tolerated,” said Newsom.

“When California was confronted by an alarming increase in hate, we didn’t just sit back and hope it got better,” said CRD Director Kevin Kish, celebrating the one-year anniversary of the initiative in May.

“We came together and launched an array of nation-leading programs to ensure all our communities feel welcome and protected. I’m incredibly proud of our state’s resilience and commitment to a California for all,” added Kish. “This work is only just beginning, but it would not be possible without the advocacy of our community partners and the foresight of our state’s Administration and Legislature.”

To combat hate crime offenses and events, Bonta urges local partners and law enforcement to review the resources highlighted in the report and to recommit themselves to leveraging them.

“Everyone has a part to play as we continue to fight prejudice and create safer communities in California,” said Bonta.

“I urge everyone to review the data and resources available and recommit to standing united against hate,” he continued. “The California Department of Justice has a zero-tolerance policy when it comes to hate, and will continue working with law enforcement, elected leaders, and community organizations across the state to keep our communities safe through education, prevention, and enforcement.”

If you believe you or someone you know has been the victim of a hate crime, notify local law enforcement and consider taking the following steps:

How To Report A Hate Crime:

CA vs Hate is a non-emergency, multilingual hate crime and incident reporting hotline and online portal. Reports can be made anonymously by calling (833) 866-4283, or 833-8-NO-HATE, Monday to Friday from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. PT or online at any time.

Hate acts can be reported in 15 different languages through the online portal and in over 200 languages when calling the hotline. For individuals who want to report a hate crime to law enforcement immediately or who are in imminent danger, please call 911.

For more information on CA vs Hate, please visit CAvsHate.org.

By Bo Tefu | California Black Media

Last week, the California State Legislature approved a $10 million bond proposal to modernize and repair K-12 schools and community colleges statewide.

The education bond measure, Assembly (AB) Bill 247, will appear on this year’s November ballot.

AB 247 aims to upgrade school buildings, allocating $8.5 million to public schools and $1.5 million to community colleges across California.

Authored by Assemblymember Al Muratsuchi (D-Torrance), the measure was authored in collaboration with Assemblymembers Mike Fong (D-Alhambra), and Lori Wilson (D-Suisun City), and Senators Steve Glazer (D-Contra Costa) and Josh Newman (D-Fullerton).

Supporters of the proposition point out that schools in California are over 50 years old, raising safety concerns among community and school leaders. The education bond will provide matching dollars to K-12 school districts based on local priorities and it calls for monitoring spending for local taxpayer accountability.

“California urgently needs a statewide school bond to repair dilapidated and unsafe school facilities and to invest in our children to meet 21st century educational and workforce needs,” said Muratsuchi, an author of the education bond proposal.

Since 1998, the state has been providing $54 billion in education bonds for K-12 schools and institutions of higher education. Voters approved the last successful bond, Proposition 51, during the 2016 November election. That proposition has provided K-12 schools with $7 billion and community colleges with $2 billion for repairs and construction to improve safety.

However, some school district officials are concerned that funds from state and local bonds mostly benefited affluent districts, leaving rural districts disadvantaged.

A report by the Public Policy Institute of California stated that it is easier for the state to match funds from the district in wealthier areas. The report stated that voters in affluent areas are more likely to approve bonds making it easier to raise funds since their property values are higher.

Public Advocates, a nonprofit law firm, threatened to sue the State claiming that the bond system is unconstitutional.

“The Legislature is shooting itself in the foot. What they’ve proposed will only undermine support from voters,” said John Affeldt, an attorney who supports the bill. “But technically they still have time to fix this.”

State officials, on the other hand, remain optimistic about the outcome of the education bond during this year’s November election.

By Bo Tefu | California Black Media

Last week, California became the 26th state to require high school seniors to pass courses focused on finance literacy, adding to a recently added ethnic studies prerequisite and a health class requirement focused on the dangers of fentanyl use.

The senior class of 2031 will be the first group of students to take the mandatory financial literacy course. California school districts are required to implement Assembly Bill 2927, authored by Assemblymember Kevin McCarty (D-Sacramento), at the beginning of the 2027-2028 academic year.

The bill works hand-in-hand with newly approved Assembly Bill 2429, authored by Assemblymember David Alvarez (D-San Diego). That law requires students to take health classes that discuss the dangers of fentanyl use and illegal drugs commencing in the 2026-2027 school year.

Both bills require high school seniors to complete the designated coursework during any semester between the ninth and twelfth grades. High school students in charter schools are also required to complete the state-mandated coursework. Under this law, local educational agencies will impose the required courses using state-mandated local programs.

McCarty said that the financial literacy classes will prepare students for the future and empower them to make smart money decisions throughout life.

“It’s such an important life skill,” he said. “The stressors that young people face today — especially student loans, renting, buying a house, credit cards all those things are so critically important, and if you fall behind. The consequences have a serious impact later in life.”

Unlike the bill on financial literacy that imposes classes as a graduation requirement, the bill on health education allows school districts to choose if health classes are a graduation prerequisite.

Alvarez said that health education can help address the state’s fentanyl epidemic, specifically among the youth.

“I think it’s important… that we share facts with young people, especially these days as they rely more and more on social media with misinformation,” said Alvarez.

“There’s still no better-trusted source than our schools for students and for families to receive the information that they need in order to make better decisions and better choices,” he continued.

Gov. Gavin Newsom said the state needs to help prepare young people in a statement backing the bills.

“Saving for the future, making investments, and spending wisely are lifelong skills that young adults need to learn before they start their careers, not after,” the Governor said in statement backing the education bills.

Starting in the 2025-2026 academic year, the state will also require high school seniors to take an additional one-semester course on ethnic studies.

SAN BERNARDINO, CA– In a moving ceremony on June 27, San Bernardino High School (SBHS), the San Bernardino City Unified School District (SBCUSD), and the Making Hope Happen Foundation (MHHF) honored one of their own, Alexander Mattison, by retiring his jersey. The star running back for the Las Vegas Raiders returned to his alma mater to a boisterous and warm embrace from the community that saw him rise from a dedicated student-athlete to an NFL standout.

The hour-long ceremony held at the SBHS football stadium was not just about celebrating Mattison’s professional achievements but also his unwavering commitment to his roots. It was an evening filled with emotional reunions, heartfelt speeches and a palpable sense of pride and unity. Family, friends, former coaches and community members gathered on a balmy evening to pay tribute to a young man who has become a beacon of hope and inspiration for his hometown. Mattison, who graduated from SBHS in 2016, has not only excelled in his professional career but has also remained a dedicated and inspirational figure in his native San Bernardino.

“Seeing my jersey, #22, retired at San Bernardino High School, the place where my dreams began, is incredibly humbling,” Mattison shared, his voice filled with emotion. “This community has always been my foundation. It’s here where I learned the values of hard work and perseverance, and it’s these lessons that have carried me through my career. That’s why I hope to inspire the next generation to dream big and work hard.”

Mattison’s journey from SBHS to the NFL is a story of resilience and dedication. Born and raised in San Bernardino, he excelled in both academics and athletics. As a dual language immersion graduate, he began learning Spanish at Lincoln Elementary School, attended Arrowview Middle School and graduated from SBHS as a fluent Spanish speaker. His former Pop Warner Coach, Michael Aragon, reminisced about his determination and leadership on the field, traits that have defined his career with the Minnesota Vikings and now the Raiders.

SBCUSD Superintendent Mauricio Arellano spoke of Mattison’s influence beyond his athletic prowess.

“Alex is a shining example of what our students can achieve,” said Arellano, himself an SBHS alumni. “His powerful story is a testament to the strength of our community and the power of dreams. He has not only made us proud through his achievements on the field but also through his unwavering commitment to giving back.”

Mattison’s impact extends far beyond football. He has remained actively involved in community service, using his platform to inspire and uplift the youth of San Bernardino through his I Am Gifted Foundation. His visits to his alma mater and his involvement in youth sports programs have made a significant difference, serving as a reminder of what can be achieved with dedication and support.

The highlight of the ceremony was the unveiling of Mattison’s retired jersey, which will be displayed in the halls of SBHS. It stands as a symbol of excellence, hope and the limitless potential within every student.

As the event concluded, the sense of community pride was unmistakable. Mattison’s story is not just about athletic success; it’s about the power of dreams, the importance of community support and the enduring impact of giving back.

SAN BERNARDINO, CA— The San Bernardino City Unified School District (SBCUSD) presented the Outstanding Community Partner Award in April to the Making Hope Happen Foundation for its unwavering commitment to improving the lives of local youth.

The Making Hope Happen Foundation, a local nonprofit that supports the educational mission of SBCUSD, has been a steadfast supporter of District schools and students, providing invaluable resources, mentorship programs and scholarships to help students succeed academically and personally. Their dedication to fostering hope and opportunity for young people in our community aligns perfectly with the mission and values of our school district, according to Superintendent Mauricio Arellano.

“We are thrilled to recognize the Making Hope Happen Foundation for its outstanding contributions to our schools and community,” Arellano said. “Their tireless efforts to uplift and empower our youth have made a lasting impact, and we are grateful for their partnership.”

The Making Hope Happen Foundation’s initiatives, including mentorship programs, scholarship opportunities and educational resources, have positively impacted countless students throughout San Bernardino and Highland. The Foundation’s commitment to fostering hope, resilience and academic success among local youth is truly commendable.

“We are honored to receive this award from San Bernardino City Unified,” said Foundation CEO Niki Dettman. “It is a testament to the dedication of our team and the incredible potential of the students we serve. We remain committed to supporting and empowering young people in our community.”

The award presentation ceremony took place at the April 16 Board of Education meeting, where representatives from the Making Hope Happen Foundation were recognized for their outstanding contributions.

About San Bernardino City Unified School District:

The San Bernardino City Unified School District is California’s eighth-largest school district and is dedicated to providing a high-quality education that prepares students for college, career and life. With a focus on equity, excellence and empowerment, the District serves a diverse student population in the San Bernardino and Highland communities. For more information about SBCUSD, visit www.sbcusd.com and follow the District @SBCityUSD on Facebook, Instagram, X, YouTube and LinkedIn.

About Making Hope Happen Foundation:

The Making Hope Happen Foundation is a nonprofit organization dedicated to empowering youth and fostering hope in the San Bernardino community. Through mentorship programs, scholarship opportunities and educational resources, the foundation works to support the academic and personal growth of young people attending SBCUSD schools.