Welcome to TODAY IN BLACK MEDIA, the go-to source for news, cultural events, and thought-provoking discussions from an African American perspective. Our platform is dedicated to shedding light on the rich tapestry of black experiences, amplifying diverse voices, and celebrating the achievements of the black community worldwide.
Join us as we explore the latest developments, delve into thought-provoking analyses, and showcase the vibrant cultural manifestations that shape our collective identity. Whether you’re passionate about current affairs, arts and entertainment, or social justice issues, you’ll find compelling content that resonates with you.
In today’s installment…
The Million-Man March was held in Washington D.C. on this date in 1995. Minister Louis Farrakhan of the Nation of Islam organized this march, which was meant as a powerful symbol of African-American solidarity and a call for unity among Black men across the nation. This historic event aimed not only to address the pressing issues faced by the African-American community, such as social injustice, economic disparity, and political disenfranchisement, but also to encourage a renewed commitment to family and community values. The autumn chill of that day was barely noticeable to the one million people who gathered, as they wrapped themselves in a deep sense of racial pride and an unwavering commitment to community strength. Many attendees expressed feelings of hope and purpose, believing that their actions could ignite change and inspire future generations to continue the fight for equality and justice. The speeches delivered that day echoed through the crowd, emphasizing the importance of education, self-reliance, and empowerment, creating an unforgettable atmosphere of camaraderie and determination that resonates to this day.
Participants included individuals from all walks of life, reflecting the rich diversity of our country; both white collar and blue collar workers stood side by side, united in their quest for justice and equality. They carried banners and wore shirts showcasing their heritage, emphasizing that their collective voice could not be ignored, a powerful cacophony of cultures blending into one harmonious plea for rights that have too long been denied. This monumental gathering served not only as a rallying point for civil rights but also as an inspiring reminder of the importance of uplifting one another in the pursuit of opportunity and respect for all people. Each chant echoed through the crowd, creating a deep resonance among the participants, who moved forward with unwavering determination, fueled by stories of struggle and triumph. The atmosphere buzzed with hope, resolve, and a shared desire for a brighter future that would resonate for generations to come, igniting a flame of solidarity that would continue to burn brightly in the hearts of those who dared to dream of a better tomorrow.
Welcome to MALICIA AS A GAME OF POWER. This blog series aims to delve deep into the realm of Strategy. Throughout the series, we will explore various aspects of dealing with certain people, offering insights on effective communication, conflict resolution, and building meaningful connections. Additionally, we will provide valuable tips on avoiding scammers, protecting oneself from online fraud, and maintaining a secure online presence.
Navigating the world we live in can be challenging. In this series, we will share practical guidance on making informed decisions, embracing opportunities, and overcoming obstacles on the path to success. Whether it’s negotiation, identifying manipulation, or honing leadership skills, this series will equip you with the knowledge to thrive in interpersonal dynamics and strategic decision-making. We will also explore personal branding, self-presentation, and managing online reputation, empowering you to craft a compelling image in today’s digital world. Join us as we unravel the complexities of power dynamics and relations, arming you with the expertise to emerge victorious in your pursuits.
In this installment, we will explore the 11th law of power in the book, the 48 laws of power by Robert Greene. You can but a copy by clicking HERE.
Law 11: LEARN TO KEEP PEOPLE DEPENDENT ON YOU
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To maintain your independence, you must always be needed and wanted. The more you are relied on, the more freedom you have to shape your own life and decisions. Make people depend on you for their happiness and prosperity, offering them solutions to their problems and fulfilling their needs, and you have nothing to fear about losing your position. Your presence becomes essential in their lives, creating a bond that both empowers you and binds them to you. In this dynamic, it is crucial to cultivate your own skills and knowledge continuously, as this will enhance your value to others and ensure that they see you as an indispensable part of their journey.
By fostering genuine relationships built on trust and support, you not only strengthen your own foundation but also create a network of connections that can elevate you further. Always remember that your influence grows not just from what you can do for others, but also from the authentic way you interact with them, making them feel valued and understood in return.
Never teach them enough so that they can do without you; instead, cultivate an environment where they see you as their indispensable guide and supporter, someone who is always available to offer wisdom and assistance. By doing so, you ensure that their reliance on you only deepens over time, fostering loyalty and a strong sense of attachment that transcends mere guidance. In this way, you create a bond that is not just professional but personal, allowing them to turn to you for advice and solutions even in the most complex situations. This reliance is beneficial for both parties, as it reinforces their respect for your knowledge and expertise while providing you with a continuous platform to impart your influence.
By nurturing this relationship, you not only secure your own autonomy and significance but also create a dynamic where your influence continues to grow, reinforcing your role as a key figure in their lives and further solidifying your own power, ultimately creating a legacy of guidance that will benefit future generations.
The Angoleiro’s Philosophy of Dependence: The Necessity of the Other
For an Angoleiro, dependence is not about manipulative control; it is about establishing oneself as an indispensable resource. The very nature of Capoeira Angola—a dialogue, a conversation played out through movement, music, and ritual—demands the presence and active participation of others.
The Mastery of Specific, Rare Skills (Os Segredos – The Secrets):
Indispensable Knowledge: An Angoleiro seeks out and masters aspects of the art that others neglect or find difficult. This could be the deep, historical knowledge of the toques (rhythms), the ability to repair, tune, or craft a perfect berimbau (the primary instrument), or a profound understanding of the forgotten movimentos (movements) and their practical applications.
The Power of the Instrumentalist: The person who truly masters the berimbau and leads the bateria (orchestra) is the heart of the roda. By controlling the rhythm and the songs, they control the energy, speed, and even the “mood” of the game. The roda depends completely on this person to exist and thrive, granting them a subtle but undeniable form of authority.
The Keeper of the Culture: The Angoleiro ensures they are the go-to source for authentic ritual, history, and Portuguese song lyrics, making their presence necessary for the group to maintain its cultural integrity and depth.
Creating a Resource Economy within the Group:
The Teacher’s Hook: A wise teacher (Mestre) never gives all their knowledge away at once. They dispense it in measured, sometimes cryptic, doses. This creates a powerful desire in the student to remain close, to continue learning, and to demonstrate loyalty for the next piece of the puzzle. The student depends on the Mestre for their growth and initiation into deeper levels of the art.
The Utility of the Student: Conversely, the Mestre can make themselves dependent on the student in a positive way. They may assign a student the specific task of organizing events, maintaining the space (Academia), or managing the instruments. By assigning crucial, non-transferable responsibilities, the Mestre ensures the student feels valued and necessary, solidifying the student’s commitment.
The Dynamic of the Roda (The Game):
Setting the Stage for the Other: In the game itself, the best Angoleiro is one who sets up their partner perfectly, either for a beautiful exchange or a clever trap. A player who consistently provides an engaging, challenging, and meaningful game—who makes their opponent look good, or who is the only one capable of truly testing them—becomes a highly sought-after partner. Their presence in the roda elevates the entire experience, making others dependent on their participation for the game to be worthwhile.
The Warning: Avoiding the Trap of Complete Control The Angoleiro understands that this dependence must be managed carefully. If one becomes too necessary, the burden can become heavy, leading to resentment or even an attempt to overthrow the dependency structure. Therefore, the dependence cultivated is one of specialized utility, not total servitude. It is a reciprocal, necessary relationship that benefits the whole community, ensuring the Angoleiro remains central without stifling the growth of others. The goal is to be the indispensable pivot around which the roda turns, not the anchor that prevents it from moving.
In this thought-provoking video, Shahid Bolsen explore the shocking truth about the West’s relationship with Africa. For over 800 years, the West has maintained a ruthlessly extractive economic relationship with Africa, exploiting its natural resources and human capital to fuel its own growth and prosperity. From chattel slavery to neocolonialism, the West has consistently prioritized its own interests over the well-being of African nations and peoples. He examines how this centuries-long pattern of exploitation has enabled the West to impersonate a superior civilization, and how it has maintained its grip on power despite the rise of new global players like BRICS.
He also looks at the ways in which the West has worked to undermine African independence and sovereignty, from regime change to economic manipulation, often disguising these actions under the pretense of democracy and development. These tactics have perpetuated a cycle of dependency that stifles true growth and self-determination in various African nations. However, there is an undeniable sense of hope for change on the horizon.
As global power dynamics shift and new options emerge, African nations have an unprecedented opportunity to break free from the West’s stranglehold and forge their own sustainable paths to development and prosperity. This moment is critical; will they seize it with the courage and unity required to disrupt the status quo, or will they continue to be held back by the West’s neocolonial grip that has historically limited their potential? The choices made in the coming years will determine not only the economic trajectories of these nations but also their ability to foster self-reliance and innovation. By embracing partnerships that prioritize mutual respect and benefit, African countries can harness their abundant resources, youthful populations, and rich cultural heritage. It is an essential turning point where they must advocate for policies that reflect their unique needs and aspirations, while actively participating in the global arena as equal players rather than as subjects of foreign influence. The journey towards reclaiming agency and dignity involves collaborative efforts, visionary leadership, and the unwavering commitment to nurturing a future that genuinely embodies the aspirations of their people.
Watch to learn more about the West’s 800-year-old secret and the future of Africa in a rapidly changing world, where the voices of African leaders and citizens are rising to challenge the narratives imposed upon them.
Once again, join WODE MAYA as he shows us the amazing country of Brazil, through his eyes, bringing to life its vibrant culture, stunning landscapes, and rich history. This journey is particularly important as it reflects the dynamic spirit of different cultures interwoven with the essence of Brazil.
The image of AFRICA has been DISTORTED around the WORLD, often clouded by stereotypes and misconceptions that fail to capture the continent’s true essence and diversity. It is crucial to confront these misrepresentations by showcasing the vast array of traditions, languages, and histories that enrich the African experience. We are CHANGING the NARRATIVES via YOUTUBE videos One Country At a Time, sharing authentic stories that celebrate the achievements and resilience of African communities.
By focusing on the positive contributions and innovative solutions arising from the continent, we aim to inspire a new generation of thinkers. Until the HISTORY of AFRICA is told by AFRICANS, the story of GREATNESS will always GLORIFY the IMPERIALISTS, and the voices of the continent will remain silenced. It is imperative that we elevate these narratives, creating a more balanced understanding of Africa’s profound impact on global history and culture, inviting everyone to discover the beauty and complexity that defines this land. By uncovering these rich stories, we pave the way for a deeper appreciation of Africa’s role on the world stage, fostering greater unity and collaboration among diverse cultures.
The majority of police in the world are good men and women who serve their communities with honor and dignity. Unfortunately, there are bad police officers who abuse the law and hurt their communities. Multiple factors contribute to the differences among law enforcement officers, and it is crucial to address those factors to ensure the safety and well-being of all individuals within society.
These are their stories.
In this installment…
Alastair Morgan, whose brother was brutally murdered in 1987, and Neil Woods, a former undercover police officer who now dedicates his life to investigating police corruption, spoke to Insider about the insidious ways in which police corruption actually operates within the force. In the detailed interview, Neil elaborated on his firsthand experiences, breaking down the various types of corruption he witnessed, and even engaged in, while working undercover for a grueling 14-year stint in the UK.
During his time within the police system, Neil arrived at a distressing conclusion: that most “corruption within the police is driven by the substantial income generated from the illicit drugs market,” which has pervasive effects on law enforcement integrity. Alastair Morgan recounted the harrowing circumstances of his brother, Daniel Morgan, who was murdered with a vicious axe in a pub car park in South London in 1987, a shocking act that has left lasting scars on the family and community. He told Insider, “Within three weeks of the murder, I was convinced, because of the events that took place, there had been police involvement in Daniel’s murder. Which was a terrifying prospect,” reflecting on the weight of his discovery.
At the time of the murder, Daniel was managing a detective agency alongside his business partner, Jonathan Rees, further complicating the narrative. Alastair firmly believes that both Jonathan Rees and corrupt police officers collaborated in the conspiracy that led to his brother’s tragic death. Since Daniel Morgan’s murder, there have been five separate police investigations, yet each one seems to have missed the mark. Jonathan Rees and Detective Sergeant Sid Fillery have faced multiple arrests over the years, but shockingly, each time, the charges have been dropped without explanation.
In a turn of events in 2014, both Jonathan Rees and Sid Fillery received substantial six-figure damages from the Metropolitan Police after they successfully brought a malicious prosecution claim against the department, a situation that raises many eyebrows. The pain and frustration of the Morgan family’s battle for justice continued when, in 2021, an independent inquiry concluded that the Met Police was “institutionally corrupt” in its mishandling of the investigation into Daniel Morgan’s murder, a damning assessment that echoed the family’s long-held suspicions. Alastair is currently in the arduous process of suing the Metropolitan Police, underlining the relentless pursuit of truth and justice for his brother, as the murder case remains unsolved. This episode delves deeply into the alarming realities of Police Corruption within the UK, shedding light on a critical issue that demands ongoing attention and reform.
If you have been affected by violent crime please contact the resources below.
Kobina Ackon known widely by the brand name, Wode Maya is a Ghanaian freelance Vlogger / YouTuber. With a degree in Aeronautical Engineering from Shenyang Aerospace University, China, Wode Maya has, over the years been able to create a niche for himself in the area of Social Media Content creation and in a space of a few years; his channel grew in popularity, attracting over a Million subscribers.
Click HERE to check out his YouTube channel, where you can find a variety of engaging and entertaining videos that showcase his unique talents and insights, along with valuable content that keeps you informed and inspired.
The image of Africa has been distorted around the world, and we are actively changing the narratives via YouTube videos, one country at a time. These videos serve not only as a means of entertainment but as powerful tools for education and enlightenment, offering authentic perspectives on the rich culture, history, and contributions of the African continent. By showcasing local stories, art, and traditions, we aim to dismantle stereotypes and present an accurate portrayal of various nations, their peoples, and their achievements.
Until the history of Africa is told by Africans themselves, the story of greatness will always glorify the imperialists, overshadowing the true heroes and unsung champions of the continent’s past. These individuals, whose contributions and sacrifices have often been buried beneath colonial narratives, deserve recognition and celebration. By sharing our voices and storytelling traditions, we aim to reclaim our narrative, weaving together the rich tapestry of our diverse cultures, experiences, and histories. This collective effort not only fosters a deeper understanding and appreciation for African societies but also empowers future generations to connect with their roots and heritage. Through this process of reclamation, we dismantle the stereotypes that have long persisted, highlighting the resilience, innovation, and achievements of African peoples, and encouraging a more nuanced view of our continent within the global narrative.
“There are not more than five musical notes, yet the combinations of these five give rise to more melodies than can ever be heard. There are not more than five primary colours, yet in combination, they produce more hues than can ever been seen. There are not more than five cardinal tastes, yet combinations of them yield more flavours than can ever be tasted.” ― Sun Tzu, The Art of War“
Capoeira Angola is a defensive martial art known for its intricate trap-like defenses designed to catch opponents off guard. It encompasses 8 basic defenses, each with unique unexpected attacks and counter attacks based on the opponent’s positioning. Mastery of these movements enables capoeiristas to defend against individuals carrying various weapons, including sticks, clubs, knives, and potentially even firearms with the appropriate skills.
In this installment, I will introduce you to another fundamental technique and concept of Capoeira… The Esquiva.
The Esquiva are integral to the game of capoeira. Not only do they serve to avoid kicks, but they also help set up attacks and allow for fluid movement around the roda.
In fact, mastering the esquiva is crucial for any capoeirista, as it provides both defensive and offensive benefits. Capoeira as a martial art depends on constant movement; thus, when you esquiva, you are not merely dodging an incoming strike, but also creating opportunities for counterattacks.
This dynamic motion enables practitioners to navigate the roda with grace and agility, enhancing their overall strategy in not just evasion, but in engaging with opponents effectively. The interplay of dodging and moving becomes a dance, reflecting the rhythm and energy of capoeira, where every movement is a conversation between the players, a dialogue of skill and intention. Each esquiva not only serves a defensive purpose but also invites opportunities for counterattacks and creative expressions of style, making it vital in maintaining one’s presence in the game. This intricate ballet of motion empowers the capoeirista to adapt and respond, ensuring that they remain fluid and unpredictable while also embodying the rich cultural heritage that capoeira represents, thus making each esquiva an essential component in the art of self-defense and expression.
Jogo Corpo Fechado 