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   NATIONAL NEWS
Women show support for Millions More Movement
By: Valencia Muhammad
Special to the NNPA from AFRO papers
Originally posted 10/20/2005


WASHINGTON (NNPA) – Women in unison with thousands of Black men at the kickoff of the Millions More Movement symbolized trust and hope in those charged with the responsibility to unify our resources, financially and intellectually.

Carolyn Kilpatrick from Detroit, Mich., portrayed the feelings of most women who attended the 10th year anniversary celebration of the Million Man March in Washington, D.C. on Oct. 15 in the nation’s capital.

“The Million Man March was needed. But it was time for women to join in the discussion and active participation about the plight of our people. This is awesome watching serious and focused men and women from around the country, marching side-by-side, listening to the same message to take back to their communities for action,” said Kilpatrick. Others agreed.

Elizabeth Buckner traveled from Norfolk, Va., by bus.

”It is time for us to overcome barriers that keep us separated as a race. We must learn to take care of ourselves. That is something I hope to learn at the march,” said Buckner.
Some believed it was long overdue.

“I think this event is wonderful and the movement is long overdue and needed. I attended another march in the 70’s with my parents as a child. It’s something you never forget. Somehow I believe that the people are sincere and there will be major changes in the lives of Black people,” said Simona Smith, who traveled from Detroit, Mich., with Celester Morris and 14-year old, Jaquanx Slappeg.

The resounding message brought families together from all parts of the country.

“I have been here for three days having lots of fun. I went to a rally at a church with my daughter who attends Howard University. I am very impressed. It shows unity, no riots, no violence, and us supporting each other the way it is supposed to be,” said Patricia Hurd, from San Jose, California.

LaDanna Morales drove from Fayetteville, N.C., to the march with her family after her brother, Malik Muhammad flew from California to meet her with his three sons.

“We wanted to make this a family affair. This coming together for the march also helps to strengthen families’ love for one another. Look all around you, thousands of Black people in love and harmony. That’s why we came. We wanted our children to know that love exist between Black people all over the word,” said Morales.

The program included experiences for several generations of youth.

“I came for the personal experience. We always see things on television. It’s great to say you are a part of history. I wanted to hear Min. Farrakhan, Kanye West, Tavis Smiley and many other Black leaders pledge to do more and to commit themselves to the upliftment of Black people,” said Monica Veney, a sophomore at Old Dominion.

Rasheeda Brown Jordan is a sophomore at Norfolk State University and works a full time job. “Although money was tight, the sponsoring group made it affordable. The march came at the perfect time. The Bush administration tries to portray Black people as uncaring. This shows we do care,” said Jordan. “

Sophia Muhammad, a young mother from Altamonte Springs, Fla., said she was hoping that during her lifetime she would attend an event like this with her daughter.

“Just like the brothers did in the past, there are many mother-daughter teams here today represented. This feels so good,” said Muhammad.

Some had mixed feelings about the Millions More Movement. Asantewaa Nkrumah-Ture marched with a group of 50 protesters to protest the last minute decision not to include a representative from the homosexual community.

“I came here to support the right to inclusion by gays, lesbians, bisexuals, transvestites and queer brothers and sisters. Although I believe it is a mistake not to include a representative as previously promised by Rev. Willie Wilson, the event shows when Africans come together to do great things, they can be done effectively,” said Nkrumah-Ture.


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