A Letter from Gale Jones Carson

Dear Young Women,

As we stand on the shoulders of giants, it’s essential to recognize the indelible impact that Black women have had on history and the powerful examples they’ve set for living a life of purpose, courage, and resilience. These trailblazers have not only shaped the course of history but have also paved a solid path for us to follow, inspiring us to reach for our highest aspirations.

A Legacy of Leadership

Black women have been at the forefront of change, breaking barriers and challenging the status quo. Their stories are not just tales of triumph but blueprints for a better life, teaching us the value of determination, education, and self-worth. Here are just a few of the remarkable women whose legacies light our way:

• Harriet Tubman: An icon of freedom and bravery, Tubman risked her life to lead others to liberation through the Underground Railroad. Her courage reminds us that we, too, can be agents of change.
• Rosa Parks: Known as “the mother of the civil rights movement,” Parks’ refusal to give up her seat on a Montgomery bus ignited a movement. Her quiet strength shows us the power of standing firm in our convictions.
• Shirley Chisholm: The first Black woman elected to the United States Congress and the first woman to seek the Democratic presidential nomination, Chisholm’s trailblazing political career encourages us to pursue our dreams, no matter how audacious they may seem.
• Maya Angelou: A literary voice of dignity and resilience, Angelou’s works, including “I Know Why the Caged Bird Sings,” offer profound insights into the human spirit. Her life teaches us the transformative power of words and self-expression.
• Kamala Harris: As the first woman, first Black person, and first person of South Asian descent to hold the office of Vice President of the United States, Harris’ historic achievement exemplifies the heights that can be reached through dedication and perseverance.
• Oprah Winfrey: A media mogul and philanthropist, Winfrey’s journey from poverty to becoming one of the most influential women in the world is a testament to the power of vision and hard work.

The Path Forward

These women, and countless others, have laid a foundation of excellence and empowerment. As you navigate the complexities of life, let their stories guide you. Embrace education, as it is the key to unlocking your potential. Stand up for what you believe in, even if it means standing alone. Use your voice, for it is a powerful instrument of change. And above all, believe in your inherent worth and ability to make a difference.

In the spirit of these pioneers, let us move forward with intention and grace, knowing that we are part of a lineage of greatness. Let their legacies be a beacon that guides us toward a future filled with promise and possibility.

With admiration and hope,

Gale Jones Carson

Remember, young women, you are the architects of the future, and within you lies the potential to continue the extraordinary legacy of the Black women who have blazed the trail before you. Let’s honor their contributions by living our lives with purpose and passion.

Throwback Video

In an inspiring and heartfelt moment captured on video, Carlyn Addison introduces her son to the statue of his grandmother, Lois DeBerry, a towering figure in the fight for voters’ rights. This poignant encounter not only serves as a bridge between generations but also highlights the enduring legacy of Lois DeBerry’s commitment to justice and equality. Before Carlyn Addison’s own historic victory as a judge in Shelby County, this video stands as a testament to the powerful impact of family legacy on public service and civic engagement. It underscores the importance of remembering those who paved the way for progress, and how their spirit continues to inspire new generations to lead with courage and dedication.

Memphis is home to a vibrant community of women who are making significant contributions across various fields. Here’s a list of some of the current women doing amazing things in the Memphis area:

• Ida B. Wells – Although not a contemporary figure, Ida B. Wells is a historical figure whose legacy continues to inspire many in Memphis and beyond. As an activist, she played a crucial role in the civil rights movement and the fight against lynching.
• Black Women-Owned Business Owners – There’s a growing community of Black women-owned businesses in Memphis that are making a significant impact. From retail to services, these entrepreneurs are contributing to the local economy and community empowerment.
• Women in the Arts – Memphis is overflowing with dynamic, influential, and groundbreaking women in the arts. Events organized by Dixon Gallery and Gardens and Theatre Memphis celebrate these incredible artists and art administrators, showcasing their contributions to the local arts scene.
• Women in Memphis Music – The FedExForum Art exhibit highlights women in Memphis music, celebrating their contributions to the rich musical heritage of the city. These talented musicians continue to shape the sound and soul of Memphis.
• All-Female Senior Leadership Team in Memphis – In a historic move, Memphis has appointed an all-female senior leadership team. This groundbreaking team is leading the city with their diverse expertise and perspectives, making history and setting a precedent for female leadership in municipal governance.

These women and many others are shaping the future of Memphis with their leadership, creativity, and activism. Their contributions are a testament to the strength and diversity of the women in Memphis, making the city a better place for all its residents.

Written by: JR Robinson

Are you ready to make a difference in your community? The Realtist® Institute of Leadership, in partnership with the Memphis Urban League, is thrilled to announce a program designed to empower and inspire the next generation of Black leaders. This initiative is not just about leadership; it’s about shaping tomorrow’s legacy.

The Realtist® Institute of Leadership, in collaboration with the Memphis Urban League, is a unique opportunity for individuals who are passionate about making a positive impact on their community. The program is endorsed by none other than Mayor Paul Young, who will be addressing our inaugural class. His participation underscores the importance and impact of this program in our community.

The program culminates in a celebration that highlights the efforts of the participants. It’s an opportunity to network with corporate executives and receive an awe-inspiring message from Mayor Paul Young. This is more than just a program; it’s a movement towards a brighter future for our community.

 

We invite you to be a part of this transformative journey. If you have a strong desire to make a positive impact on your community, just like Mayor Young, then the Realtist® Institute of Leadership is the perfect platform for you. It’s time to step up, make a difference, and shape tomorrow’s legacy.

Remember, leadership is not about being in charge. It’s about taking care of those in your charge. Let’s take care of our community together. Join us today!

Written by: JR Robinson

As the dawn of a new year unfolds, the Memphis Urban League stands at the forefront, poised to carve a path of empowerment and success for the Black community in 2024. Setting and executing goals is a powerful catalyst for change, and the Memphis Urban League is committed to harnessing this potential to uplift, inspire, and make lasting strides in the pursuit of equity and opportunity.

Setting the Stage:
The Memphis Urban League has always been a beacon of hope and progress, tirelessly working towards fostering positive change within the Black community. As we step into 2024, the organization recognizes the importance of strategically setting goals to address key challenges, unlock opportunities, and cultivate an environment of prosperity for all.

Empowering Through Education:
One of the primary goals for 2024 is to bolster educational opportunities within the Black community. The Memphis Urban League aims to initiate and support programs that enhance access to quality education, providing the tools and resources necessary for academic success. By addressing educational disparities, the organization endeavors to empower the youth with the knowledge and skills needed to shape a brighter future.

Economic Empowerment:
Economic empowerment is a cornerstone of the Memphis Urban League’s vision for 2024. Recognizing the systemic barriers that have hindered economic progress in the Black community, the organization is dedicated to creating initiatives that foster entrepreneurship, financial literacy, and career development. By providing tangible pathways to economic stability, the Memphis Urban League aims to break the chains of economic inequality.

Health and Wellness Initiatives:
Health disparities continue to plague marginalized communities, and the Memphis Urban League is committed to addressing this issue in 2024. By implementing health and wellness initiatives tailored to the specific needs of the Black community, the organization aims to improve overall well-being. This includes promoting preventative care, mental health awareness, and facilitating access to healthcare resources.

Community Engagement and Advocacy:
Community engagement and advocacy play pivotal roles in effecting meaningful change. The Memphis Urban League aims to strengthen its ties with the community through increased outreach, dialogue, and collaboration. By amplifying the voices of the Black community, the organization seeks to address systemic issues, advocate for justice, and create a more inclusive and equitable society.

Youth Empowerment Programs:
Investing in the future means investing in the youth. The Memphis Urban League’s goals for 2024 include expanding and enhancing youth empowerment programs. These programs will focus on mentorship, leadership development, and creating safe spaces for young individuals to explore their potential. By nurturing the next generation of leaders, the organization envisions a legacy of empowerment that transcends generations.

As the Memphis Urban League sets its sights on the goals for 2024, the commitment to uplift the Black community remains unwavering. Through strategic planning, collaboration, and community engagement, the organization is poised to make a significant impact on education, economic empowerment, health and wellness, and youth development. The journey ahead is marked by a spirit of resilience, determination, and a collective vision for a Memphis where every individual, regardless of their background, can thrive. The Memphis Urban League invites the community to join hands in this transformative journey towards a more equitable and empowered future. Together, we will elevate excellence in 2024 and beyond.

Written by: JR Robinson

As the Memphis Urban League celebrates its 80th anniversary, we invite you to join us in making a difference in the lives of African Americans and other underserved communities in Memphis. This #GivingTuesday, your donations will help us continue our mission to expand economic opportunities and secure equality, power, and civil rights for those in need.

The Power of Your Donation

Your generous contributions enable us to provide vital programming for the underserved and economically disadvantaged. By donating amounts ranging from $8 to $80, you can make a significant impact on the lives of those we serve. Your support will help us continue our work in areas such as education, workforce development, and community empowerment.

How Your Support Makes a Difference

Over the past 80 years, the Memphis Urban League has been dedicated to empowering communities and changing lives. Our programs and initiatives have touched countless lives, providing resources and opportunities for personal and professional growth. By supporting our work, you are investing in the future of Memphis and helping to create a more equitable and prosperous city for all.

Click to Make a Donation Now

Join Us on #GivingTuesday

This #GivingTuesday, we invite you to celebrate our 80th anniversary by making a donation to the Memphis Urban League. Your support will help us continue our mission and make a lasting impact on the lives of those we serve. Together, we can empower communities, change lives, and create a brighter future for Memphis.

To make a donation, please visit our website at Memphis Urban League’s donation page. Thank you for your generosity and for being a part of our 80-year legacy of impact.

With gratitude,

The Memphis Urban League

Written by: Tonja Sesley

As we approach this Thanksgiving season, the Memphis Urban League would like to take a moment to express our heartfelt gratitude to the Black Community of Memphis. This year, like many others, has presented its share of challenges. Yet, it’s during these difficult times that the power of community, resilience, and gratitude truly shines.

The Bible offers numerous passages that encourage us to give thanks in all circumstances. For instance, 1 Thessalonians 5:16-18 urges us to “Rejoice always, pray continually, give thanks in all circumstances; for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus for you”. Similarly, Philippians 4:6-7 advises us not to be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present our requests to God. These verses remind us that even in the most difficult times, we can find reasons to be thankful.

This year, we are particularly thankful for the tremendous success of our first Save Our Sons 5k. The event was a testament to the strength and unity of our community, and we are deeply grateful for your support. We would also like to extend our gratitude to our dedicated team members who have made this year one of our best years ever.

As we celebrate this Thanksgiving, let’s remember to give thanks in all circumstances, to appreciate the good in our lives, and to find the silver lining in our challenges. Let’s use this time to come together as a community, to celebrate our culture and history, and to express our gratitude to those around us. As we do so, we will find that even in the hardest of times, there is always something to be thankful for.

On behalf of the Memphis Urban League, thank you for your continued support. We look forward to serving our community in the coming year and beyond. Happy Thanksgiving!

Written by: JR Robinson

The Memphis Urban League extends its warmest congratulations to Mayor-Elect Paul Young on his recent election victory. As an organization deeply committed to the empowerment of African Americans and other underserved urban communities in Memphis, we are excited about the potential of your leadership.

Your rich history of service to our community, your dedication to urban growth and development, and your commitment to consensus-building are qualities that we believe will make a significant difference in the lives of Memphians. We are particularly inspired by your focus on community engagement and your plans to bring jobs and economic development to our city.

We understand that stepping into office comes with its own set of challenges, including addressing crime and infrastructure issues. However, we are confident in your ability to navigate these challenges and lead our city towards a brighter future.

We look forward to seeing your plans for our city unfold, especially your initiatives aimed at restoring trust between residents and the Memphis police, investing in our youth, and enhancing public safety. Your focus on activating community centers, parks, and supporting non-profits resonates deeply with our mission at the Memphis Urban League.

As you embark on this new journey, we wish you the very best. We are eager to support your administration in any way we can to ensure the voices of our community are heard and their needs are addressed. Together, we believe we can bring about positive change and progress for the Black community in Memphis.

Congratulations, Mayor-Elect Paul Young! Here’s to a successful term and a prosperous future for all Memphians.

Breast cancer is a major health concern in Memphis, Tennessee, especially among African-American women. In fact, among the nation’s largest cities, Memphis has the highest disparity in breast cancer mortality, with African-American women being twice as likely to die from the disease as their White counterparts. This disparity is largely due to factors such as limited access to quality screening and treatment, particularly for women living in poverty-stricken or underprivileged neighborhoods.

The Fight Against Breast Cancer in the Black Community

Despite these daunting statistics, Memphis is home to numerous organizations and initiatives dedicated to supporting African-American women in their fight against breast cancer. The Surviving, Thriving, African-Americans Rallying Support (STAARS) group, founded by breast cancer survivors Barbara Davis and Toni Clark, aims to educate, encourage, and empower breast cancer survivors and co-survivors, and to be a visible and vocal force in the fight against breast cancer.

Another organization, Carin’ & Sharin’, has been serving the Memphis and Shelby County breast cancer community for over three decades. Initially focusing on African-American women, they have since expanded their services to assist women of all races and men.

The American Cancer Society also has a presence in Memphis through the Harrah’s Hope Lodge, which provides a supportive environment for patients undergoing cancer treatment and their caregivers.

Community Action: How We Can Help

As a community, we can support and encourage those fighting breast cancer in several ways:

1. Education: We can raise awareness about the importance of early detection and treatment through community outreach programs, health fairs, and educational workshops.

2. Support: We can provide emotional support to those battling breast cancer through support groups, counseling services, and by simply being there for those in need.

3. Volunteering: We can volunteer our time to help local organizations with various tasks, from administrative work to providing transportation for patients.

4. Donations: We can make financial contributions to help fund research, provide patient services, and support the overall mission of organizations like STAARS, Carin’ & Sharin’, and the American Cancer Society.

5. Participation in Events: We can participate in events like the Making Strides Against Breast Cancer walk to help raise funds and awareness for the cause.

In conclusion, while the impact of breast cancer on the Black community in Memphis is significant, there are numerous ways we can come together as a community to provide support and encouragement to those fighting this disease. By educating ourselves and others, offering support, volunteering our time, making donations, and participating in events, we can make a difference in the lives of those affected by breast cancer.

Domestic violence is a pervasive issue that affects communities across the globe, and Memphis is no exception. However, the impact of this crisis is particularly profound within the Black community. Systemic racism and socio-economic disparities have led to higher rates of domestic violence among Black individuals, with both Black women and Black men experiencing domestic violence at higher rates than other communities.

In Memphis, the issue is particularly acute. The city has seen a significant number of domestic violence calls, with a significant proportion of these incidents occurring within the Black community. This crisis is not just a problem for the victims involved; it affects our entire community. It’s a cycle of abuse that often repeats itself, with many violent adults coming from violent homes. This cycle can be difficult to break, especially when victims may not know where to turn for help or how to escape their abusive situations.

However, the Memphis Urban League, along with other local organizations, is working tirelessly to address this issue. Through initiatives like “Save our Sons,” the Urban League is striving to empower underprivileged African-American men, providing them with opportunities to further their education and job skills. By tackling the root causes of domestic violence, such as economic instability and lack of education, the Urban League is making strides towards breaking the cycle of violence in our community.

But there is still much work to be done. To effectively address domestic violence in the Black community, we need to focus on several key areas:

1. Community Education: We need to raise awareness about the signs of domestic violence and the resources available for victims. This includes educating community leaders, teachers, and other influential figures who can help identify victims and guide them towards the help they need.

2. Support Services: We need to ensure that victims have access to the support they need, from hotlines and shelters to counseling and legal services. These services should be culturally sensitive and tailored to the specific needs of the Black community.

3. Policy Changes: We need to advocate for policies that address the root causes of domestic violence, such as economic inequality and systemic racism. This includes policies that promote economic empowerment, access to quality education, and criminal justice reform.

4. Community Engagement: We need to engage the entire community in the fight against domestic violence. This includes men and boys, who can play a crucial role in changing social norms and attitudes that perpetuate violence.

By addressing these areas, we can make a significant impact on the domestic violence crisis in the Black community in Memphis. It’s a daunting task, but by working together, we can make a difference. We owe it to our community to try.

On Saturday, September 23, 2023, the Memphis Urban League hosted the Save Our Sons Inaugural 5K/1 Mile Race, a massive success that drew more than 500 supporters and around 260 runners. The event not only showcased the positive impact of the Save Our Sons (SOS) program but also highlighted the unity and strength of the Whitehaven community and the Southland Mall area.

Save Our Sons: Empowering Young African-American Men

The Save Our Sons initiative, created by the Memphis Urban League, focuses on empowering African-American males aged 18 to 34 in Memphis and Shelby County. The program aims to advance workforce readiness and life skills by providing resources for workforce training, financial literacy, family building, and health and wellness. By supporting the SOS program, businesses and individuals can help transform the lives of these young men and contribute to building a stronger, more resilient Memphis.

A Day of Celebration and Community Building

The Inaugural 5K/1 Mile Race was more than just a competition; it was a celebration of the SOS program’s mission and the positive impact it has on the Whitehaven community. Participants and the public were invited to a vibrant community block party co-hosted by the Greater Whitehaven Economic Redevelopment Corporation (GWERC) and MEMFIX after the race. The event provided an opportunity for the community to come together, support the SOS program, and enjoy a fun-filled day.

A Much-Needed Success Story

The success of the Save Our Sons Inaugural 5K/1 Mile Race demonstrates the power of community engagement and the importance of programs like SOS in uplifting underserved populations. By bringing together hundreds of supporters and raising awareness about the challenges faced by young African-American men in Memphis, the event contributed to the overall well-being and prosperity of the city and helped create a more inclusive and equitable community.

The Save Our Sons Inaugural 5K/1 Mile Race was a much-needed success story for the Whitehaven community, the Memphis Urban League, and the Save Our Sons program. The event showcased the power of unity and collaboration in creating positive change and highlighted the importance of investing in the future of our communities.