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June 22, 2009
August 3, 2007
Press Release: "Don’t Call Me N!gga"
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Contact:
Zekita Tucker/
Zeniam Publications
PO Box 142446
St. Louis, MO 63114
info@zeniampublications.com
www.zeniampublications.com
‘Banning the “N” Word’ from the Mouths of Our Babies! Children’s Book Discusses and Discourages the Use of the ‘N’ Word!
NOW AVAILABLE at Amazon.com
St. Louis, MO June 2007 -- Author/ Freelance Writer Zekita Tucker brings you the new and more powerful revised edition of her highly controversial children’s book titled Don’t Call Me N!gga. This daring and critically honest book has kept both children and adults in amazement at the shockingly open display of emotions and the realistic language used by this book’s characters.
Already, Don’t Call Me N!gga has generated an enormous buzz across the country throughout many African American communities. Since its first publication in March 2006, Don’t Call Me N!gga has been featured by ABC World News on the very popular news site ABCnews.com, has made cover stories in African American newspapers and websites. Zekita Tucker has been interviewed by a Black Enterprise reporter for her courageous work on Don’t Call Me N!gga as well as the very popular The Ave. Magazine, and she has also been a guest on the Roland S. Martin Show, who is a CNN News commentator (Chicago) and The Intersection w/ Rebecca Roberts (DC).
Teaching your children about the affects of language is a great way to help them conquer some unforeseen battles in their lives. Don’t Call Me N!gga now published and reprinted by Zeniam Publications, written by Zekita and illustrated by Matthew Schultz, is a perfect tool for parents who want to combat the use of the ‘N’ word with their children but may not have other effective tools or resources. It is a perfect tool for children of all ages and is recommended for 8 years old and up.
The story focuses on the history of the so called ‘N’ word, its negative connotations, and its impact on the African American community. In this book the two main characters are faced with two very common dilemmas: conflict and self respect. This is the first children’s book that has ever addressed such a powerful issue in the African American community. Your children will be able to enjoy and learn from a story about children who look like them, use the same language codes, and may have similar viewpoints on the world. This book is a must read for all! It tackles responsibility for actions and the power of language.
Zekita Tucker serves the community as an author and freelance writer. She is the Founder and CEO of Zeniam Publications, a company that offers literary services to both independent authors/writers as well as businesses. She has written many controversial articles about the problems in African American communities for newspapers across the country. Some of her many insightful works have appeared in the ABCnews.com Website, Award Winning St. Louis American Newspaper, Black Star News, Emerging Minds, Westside Gazette, The Indianapolis Recorder, The Black Suburban Journal (NJ Ed.), Gambia.net, The Jackson Advocate, Black Britain Magazine, and the very popular black British website Tytecurl.com and Timbooktu.
Don’t Call Me N!gga is currently available for order through publisher/author, by call in order through Barnes & Noble (if it is not already on local shelf), and available at Amazon.com.
Don’t Call Me N!gga (Revised Edition) - ISBN# 978-1-60402-249-0
For more information or for interviews with author contact:
Zeniam Publications
PO Box 142446
St. Louis, MO 63114
zekita@zeniampublications.com
www.zeniampublications.com
June 10, 2007
Father's Day
This Father's Day, we want to present our black fathers in a positive light and show they are not just deadbeat, absentee dads. We want to hear your stories of what it means to be a father and what it's meant to have a father in your life. You can email submissions@ybemagazine.com (Subject "Father's Day"). We will post your stories on the website. We hope all of you dads have a wonderful Father's Day!
May 18, 2007
This Month in Black (American) History
This month in black history saw black achievement in medicine as well as the births of revolutionaries Miles Davis and Malcolm X.
April 21, 2007
This Month in Black (American) History
April was a significant month for African-Americans in the world of sports and entertainment.
April 8, 1974 - Atlanta Braves slugger Hank Aaron hits 715 home run, surpassing Babe Ruth as the game's all-time home-run leader.
April 10, 1947 - Brooklyn Dodger Jackie Robinson becomes first African American to play major league baseball.
April 15, 1964 - Sidney Poitier becomes first Black to win Academy Award for Best Actor for Lilies of the Field.
April 17, 1983 - Alice Walker wins Pulitzer Prize for fiction for The Color Purple.
April 3, 2007
Overcoming Challenges
Life is a lot different now than it was 10, 20, or 30 years ago. Although in many respects it is easier due to technological advancements and cultural openness, it is also more difficult due to racist and religious beliefs, economic oppression, drugs and violence in our schools and communities, and other factors. We want to know the challenges you face and how you have or are fighting to overcome them. Send your stories to us at submissions@ybemagazine.com (Subject: Challenges). Your submissions should not be longer than 1000 words. Select stories will be posted on the YBE Magazine website. Perhaps you could be a source of inspiration for others going through similar situations.
February 28, 2007
Black History
History isn't about boring us with details of the past. And black history isn't just about slavery and racism. It's a story - our story - with tales of successes and failures, perseverance, and determination. It's a story of people who have achieved despite the obstacles in their paths. It's a story of a people would refused to let others rule them or break their spirits. It's a story that shows our limitless potential. And it's a story that shows that despite stereotypes and misconceptions, we are a superior people.
These 28 Bios of Blackness were provided to serve as inspiration for our young people to show that nothing is unattainble. These bios aren't just to show what others did, but to show us what we can do. We can learn not only from the mistakes of the past, but also from the accomplishments to inspire us to achieve great things.
All of these people had dreams they wanted to achieve, but they all had obstacles which they had to overcome. What they did was open doors for us and reveal previously hidden paths for us to follow.
I hope that everyone gained some insight, was inspired, and learned something from these bios. And what's more, I hope to be writing about each of you one day to inspire future generations.
You
This is the story not yet completed. This is your story - of your achievements, of your failures, of your inspiration. This is the story that will soon appear in news articles, in magazines, in history books because you made it so through your determination, your sacrifices, your knowledge, and your creativity. You are the one who will inspire others to achieve greatness. You will show others what it means to have pride in yourself, your heritage, and your people. You are the one who will continue to open the doors that our ancestors unlocked for us. You are the one who will discover new paths for others to follow. You are the one who will set the positive example for others to emulate. You will overcome obstacles to become a success in your life and not succumb to the negative elements around you. And you will know that when it seems no one else is there to encourage or believe in you, you believe in you. This is your story.
February 27, 2007
Judge Glenda Hatchett
An advocate for youth, Judge Hatchett has made a difference in the lives of many young people through her tough love and unique interventions.
February 26, 2007
Kevin Clash
Even if you don't know him by his real name, you know who Kevin Clash is. As one of the puppeteers from Sesame Street, Clash turned a furry little red monster into an overnight sensation known all across the world.
February 25, 2007
James Weldon Johnson
Born James William Johnson in Jacksonville, Florida in 1871, the son of a waiter and Florida's first black female schoolteacher, Johnson became known for the Black National Anthem, "Lift Ev'ry Voice and Sing."
February 24, 2007
Dr. Mae Jemison
In 1992, Dr. Mae Jemison made history being the first black female astronaut to travel to outer space.
February 23, 2007
Nichelle Nichols
Most famously known as communications officer Lt. Uhura on Star Trek's USS Enterprise, Nichelle Nichols had positively impacted the African-American community more than she could have imagined 40 years ago.
February 22, 2007
Keith Boykin
Activist, author, teacher, lawyer, campaign manager, leader, positive influence. Keith Boykin has been all of these things and more, including being a successful, openly gay, black man.
February 21, 2007
Robert Reed Church, Sr.
This man's example shows that no present-day African-American has an excuse to not be successful. From slavery to being the first black millionaire in the nation, Robert Reed showed that knowledge, desire, and determination can overcome any obstacles.
February 20, 2007
Mary Church Terrell
Mary Church Terrell is perhaps one of the most significant people in African-American history as one of the charter members of the NAACP.
February 19, 2007
Ralph Bunche
Ralph Bunche was a brilliant debater whose skill at negotiations earned him the Nobel Peace Prize in 1950, the first African American to do so.
February 18, 2007
Nuttin' But Stringz
In an industry full of stereotypes and filled with unoriginality, two young black men give music listeners something to appreciate.
February 17, 2007
John Lewis
Perhaps the Energizer Bunny of Congressmen, John Lewis has been one of the most influential and passionate Representatives in the House for twenty years, representing Georgia's 5th Congressional District (metro Atlanta), and he shows no signs of slowing down.
February 16, 2007
Dr. Meredith Gourdine
Dr. Meredith Gourdine was an accomplished physicist whose ingenuity still lives on in many homes and businesses across America.
February 15, 2007
Charlayne Hunter-Gault
Charlayne Hunter-Gault is an award winning journalist and foreign correspondent for CNN, responsible for ending segregation in University of Georgia.
February 14, 2007
Ed Bradley
For nearly 40 years, Ed Bradley has provided reliable news coverage for CBS and has been one of the most recognized, respected, and decorated African-American journalists in the nation.
February 13, 2007
Dr. Benjamin Carson
Once considered the dumbest of his class, this world famous neurosurgeon has proven to be a superior talent with unlimited potential.
February 12, 2007
Charles Hamilton Houston
Many may credit Thurgood Marshall and the NAACP for ending segregation in public schools, but long before their landmark victory, one man engineered the end of Jim Crow to usher in a new era of racial integration.
Charles Hamilton Houston
Many may credit Thurgood Marshall and the NAACP for ending segregation in public schools, but long before their landmark victory, one man engineered the end of Jim Crow to usher in a new era of racial integration.
February 11, 2007
John Mercer Langston
The great-great-great-great uncle of Harlem Renaissance poet, Langston Hughes, John Mercer Langston was an influential black leader, reformer, and statesman in his day, dedicated to the abolition of slavery and the education of African-Americans. He is considered to be as influential a leader as Frederick Douglas for his success and achievements in politics.
February 10, 2007
Langston Hughes
Langston Hughes is one of the greatest black poets of the Harlem Renaissance, one who was unashamed of being black in America. Hughes' writings focused primarily on pride in the African-American community, the struggle, joy, humor, strength, resiliency, and courage of his people.
February 9, 2007
Granville T. Woods
Modern subway systems and railroads owe much to Granville Woods, the man whose numerous inventions considerably improved the railroad industry.
February 8, 2007
Farrah Gray
At 22 years old, Farrah Gray is one of the world's youngest self-made millionaires. Born with the entrepreneurial spirit, Gray has been recognized by numerous organizations for his leadership and integrity and has been an inspiration to millions worldwide. He is perhaps the best example of what any our people can do if we all apply ourselves and refuse to let adversity hinder us.
*Photo from The Official Farrah Gray Website
February 7, 2007
Althea Gibson
Almost fifty years before the Williams sisters dominated the tennis courts, one black woman was winning championships and breaking racial barriers.
February 6, 2007
Colin Powell
Colin Powell, born in Harlem in 1937 to Jamaican parents, is a man of many firsts. His parents instilled in him the importance of education and personal achievement. Not only did he have numerous achievements in his life, but he would later instill those same values in others.
February 5, 2007
Bessie Coleman
Bessie Coleman was a woman with an inextinguishable passion to fly during a time when neither blacks nor women were allowed to be pilots.
February 4, 2007
Barbara Jordan
Barbara Jordan's political career began in her kitchen. A native of Houston, Jordan returned home in 1959 after receiving her law degree at Boston University, using her kitchen as her law office to help poor people with their legal troubles. In 1962 and 1964, she unsuccessfully ran for the Texas House of Representatives before winning a seat in the Texas Senate in 1966. She was the first African-American woman and first African-American since 1883 to be elected to that position.
February 3, 2007
Elizabeth Jennings
Over 100 years before the events leading to the Montgomery Bus Boycott were conceived, blacks were rallying against unequal treatment on New York City's public transportation systems.
February 2, 2007
Dick Gregory
Dick Gregory is perhaps equally known for his comedy as he is for his civil rights activism. Often, both went hand in hand. Gregory often used his comedy to make statements about race relations in America: "Segregation is not all bad. Have you ever heard of a collision where the people in the back of the bus got hurt?"
February 1, 2007
Carter G. Woodson
Were it not for this man's efforts, not only would we not have a Black History month, but we probably would have far less of a cultural identity or knowledge of where we came from. Carter Woodson, referred to as the "Father of Black History," was much more than just the founder of Black History Month. He was a scholar with a doctorate from Harvard and an author of several books documenting the history, culture, and contributions of African-Americans to this country.
January 29, 2007
This Month in Black (American) History
This month in black (American) history is a new feature of YBE. Black history should not be treated as if it is separate from America's history, even if many times we do feel disconnected from this country. Our ancestors' contributions are no less important than those of European founders and should not be simply relegated to the shortest month of the year. As such, we will provide information in each month of the year on significant events in history that affected our people. We hope this will aid in providing better insight and pride in our people.
January 28, 2007
Live Life! - Pt. 3
In this final part of the interview with Quincy Benton, we speak on some of the elements that contribute to success and Quincy shares what's in store for the future.
Live Life! - Pt. 2
A few weeks ago, I had an opportunity to speak with Atlanta author and publisher, Quincy Benton, about his book Live Life!: Be Young, Black and Successful and some of the people he interviewed. Here's what he had to say.
Live Life!
A Three-Part Interview with Author and Publisher, Quincy Benton
Along metro Atlanta's many miles of transit lines are scores of billboards, flyers, and other advertisements promoting miscellaneous products and services. Among them all stood one that caught my attention.
"Live Life! Be Young, Black, and Successful," it said in big, bold letters.
Had a reader of YBE decided to purchase a billboard and promote us for Christmas? Not quite.
It was an advertisement by Quincy Benton promoting his debut book, or rather, guide to creating wealth, mental and spiritual enrichment, and a host of other topics through interviews with notables such as Mike Vick, Alonzo Mourning, Laila Ali, and John Singleton.
I contacted the man behind the billboard, to learn about the book, his motivation, and challenges he faced. Below is the first part of this three part interview.
June 21, 2006
Dare to Dream
Inspiration:
An agency, such as a person or work of art, that stimulates the mind or emotions to a high level of feeling or activity.
Divine guidance or influence; Motivation
Inspiration can be found anywhere at any time. It can be something as simple as a person you see in passing, the ocean at sunset, a political speech, or a homeless man sleeping in the park. It can be a song on the radio, an emotional movie, or a good book. Or it can be more life-changing such as a birth of a child, a spiritual awakening, natural disaster, or world war. Inspiration can move you to create works of art, publish written works or music, react in support or protest, motivate others, or even change your lifestyle. It can push you harder to achieve success. But inspiration is something different for each person.
What inspires you?
June 14, 2006
Father's Day
June 18th is right around the corner. Is that significant, you ask? To most people, it's just another Sunday. To a few, this day is one of celebration; the time we take to show our appreciation to the men guiding us, encouraging us, and enabling us to be better human beings.