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Donald Trump is making it difficult for our goals – says ‘Black Lives Matter’ Co-Founder, Opal Tometi

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Trump is making it difficult for the ideals of #BlackLivesMatter Movement – co-Founder, Opal Tometi

Some six years ago, Black Lives Matter (BLM), an international activist movement that campaigns against violence and systemic racism towards black people was birthed.

The movement received global attention when in 2003, it began the use of the hashtag #BlackLivesMatter across social media after the acquittal of George Zimmerman in the shooting and killing of teenager, Trayvon Martin in February 2012.

BLM has over the years held regularly protests, speaking out against police killings of black people, and broader issues such as racial profiling, police brutality, and racial inequality in the United States criminal justice system.  These have included street demonstrations following the 2014 deaths of Michael Brown and Eric Garner.

In 2015, Black Lives Matter activists became involved in the 2016 United States presidential election. The originators of the hashtag and call to action, Alicia Garza, Patrisse Cullors, and Opal Tometi, expanded their project into a national network of over 30 local chapters by 2016.

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I caught up with Opal Tometi to look back on the journey, the successes, challenges and the future of the Black Lives Matter movement.

“What has been so powerful about Black Lives Matter is that, first and foremost, it was a love message to us, black people.  Just to say that we affirm our existence and our lives actually matter despite all of what we see. We have to have a sense and knowledge that we matter so that we don’t have to take this nonsense. We don’t have to take this kind of violence that’s been exacted on us. People now get that, and there’s a sense of pride and real dignity that is clear now that might have not been there before.

According to Opal, it is also imperative that the message is translated into all other sectors to improve the lives of black people.  “Black Lives Matters means so much more. We’re concerned about the healthcare system, it is about black immigrants and refugees, this is about black people with disabilities, this is about black queer people. We have been really intentional about ensuring that this movement is about all black people, and that every sphere of our lives matter.”

Opal also talked about the impediments that certain utterances and policies of the Donald Trump administrations present to the ideals of the movement.

“To be quite honest it is difficult under Trump. What he’s done is to embolden white supremacists, natives, and neo-Nazi groups. He didn’t just come to be president on his own doing. He knows how to use media, and he was able to play up and create a sense of fear amongst white people, especially white women. He was really able to distort what was really going on and used a lot of lies,” Opal lamented.

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“What is happening is almost unconscionable.  It’s bananas to me that he hasn’t been impeached yet. But what is difficult is that he has not only been out there spreading lies, infecting the public but he has also been out there emboldening people who have no morals, people who are venomous and have been looking for the opportunity to go out there and attack so and so persons. And they’ve been doing that. A lot of hate crimes have been happening and hate crimes have spiked ever since he came into office. It’s a really scary time, particularly for black people, for people who wear hijab or just black women who wear scarfs for fashion. He’s so ignorant and he’s spreading that ignorance to people that act ignorantly and it’s really scary” she added.

 

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“COVID-19” inspired my “Aseda”single – Michael K. Okyere recounts

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Versatile musician Michael K. Okyere has recently released a single titled “Aseda,” which was inspired by the COVID-19 pandemic. The article explores the meaning behind the song and how Okyere found inspiration during this challenging time.

The COVID-19 pandemic has undeniably affected people’s lives across the globe. From the devastating loss of lives to the economic downturn, it has created an unprecedented situation for everyone. However, amid the chaos and uncertainty, many individuals have found solace and inspiration in unlikely places.

One such person is Michael K. Okyere, a talented and versatile musician known for his ability to captivate audiences with his unique fusion of various music genres. When the pandemic struck, Okyere found himself reflecting on the prevailing circumstances and sought a way to channel his emotions into his art.

The result was the creation of his latest single, “Aseda,” which means “thanks” in the Akan language spoken in Ghana, Okyere’s home country. The song serves as a tribute to the resilience and gratitude of individuals during these challenging times.

Okyere shares that “Aseda” was born out of his desire to express his deep appreciation for life and the strength of the human spirit. He witnessed people coming together, supporting each other, and finding joy in the simplest of things despite the hardships they faced. The song aims to inspire listeners to focus on gratitude and appreciate the little things that often go unnoticed.

The upbeat and catchy melody of “Aseda” mirrors the message of hope and positivity that Okyere intends to convey. By merging traditional Ghanaian rhythms with contemporary sounds, he manages to create a musical fusion that resonates with a wide audience. The song’s infectious energy invites listeners to immerse themselves in the celebration of life and their ability to overcome adversity.

While the pandemic has presented numerous challenges for musicians and artists, Okyere has channeled his creativity into creating meaningful and inspiring content. He believes that music has the power to uplift souls and connect people, even in the toughest of times.

Through “Aseda,” Michael K. Okyere hopes to remind listeners that amidst the chaos and uncertainty, there is still much to be grateful for. The song serves as a testament to the resilience of the human spirit and the power of gratitude in finding solace and joy even in challenging circumstances.

As an artiste, his ability to find inspiration in difficult times demonstrates his dedication to his craft and his commitment to spreading positivity through music. “Aseda” is a testament to his versatility and talent, showcasing his ability to merge different musical styles to create a vibrant and captivating masterpiece.

Enjoy the song below

https://youtu.be/vInPF-NKMic?si=mFS0mfw8CAX0YEtd

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Pizza Inn the Bridge at Adjiriganor is giving free Pizza Pies this Christmas season

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Ghanaian Pizza brand, Pizza Inn has opened a new branch in East-Legon and has FREE pizza pies and more to share this christmas season. (more…)

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Watch: Stonebwoy gives update on legal action against Kelvynboy

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Dancehall act, Stonebwoy has hinted that his legal team is taking serious action against his former signee Kelvynboy for comments he made after he was attacked in Ashiaman recently. (more…)

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Watch: Michael Blackson hosts AY Poyoyo on IG live: Snoop Dogg reacts

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Internet sensation and “King of Gh Rap”, AY Poyoyo has caught the international audience with his unique style of music. (more…)

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Justin Bieber denies sexual assault allegations, plans to take legal action

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Canadian singer, Justin Bieber has reacted to the sexual assault allegation made against him by a Twitter user identified simply as “Danielle” with evidence. (more…)

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Arnold Asamoah Baidoo goes hard at eShun, labels her untrustworthy and a liar

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Showbiz pundit, Arnold Asamoah Baidoo has articulated his disappointment at eShun’s actions as a professional artist over the years.

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