Athletes Sitting Out of the NCAA Tournament? It Almost Happened

by Dr. Boyce Watkins, Syracuse University – Scholarship in Action 

I was proud to watch Real Sports with Bryant Gumbel last week, as Gumbel decided to dig into the issue of college athlete compensation. Securing the labor rights of college athletes has been a passion of mine for quite some time, and I was excited that 2011 provided a tremendous amount of momentum around the topic. Our coalition, The Athlete Liberation Academic Reform Movement (ALARM) now has thousands of supporters around the country and Ben Jealous of the NAACP has joined Education Secretary Arne Duncan in a call to reform of one of the most exploitative systems in America.

The Real Sports episode had me on the edge of my seat, as one couldn’t help but laugh while the beneficiaries of the system, Rich Rodriguez (former University of Michigan football coach) and Billy Packer (CBS Sports commentator), were trying to defend a system that they themselves would never accept. Both of these men have been made into millionaires from the labor of college athletes, and have a direct incentive to keep the money away from the players and their families.

The most interesting part of the show was when Bernard Goldberg interviewed former University of Massachusetts player Rigo Nunez. Nunez shocked Goldberg by acknowledging that he and other players around the country were planning to sit out of the 1995 NCAA tournament. To protest the fact that coaches were earning millions while many of the athletes’ families were in poverty, prominent players around the nation decided that they were going to have no part of the NCAA tournament that year.

Here’s how the conversation went down:

Nunez: At one point it was pretty organized among players that maybe the biggest impact that we can have, and the biggest opportunities for us to have a stand, will be prior to the NCAA tournament.

Goldberg: Well, how was that gonna happen?

Nunez: We were not gonna play.

Goldberg: What?

Nunez: We were just gonna go to the middle of the court and sit down. Every game, in the whole country.

Goldberg: Because you weren't getting paid?

Nunez: Because it was not fair to us.

 

Click to read.

Dr. Boyce Watkins: NCAA President Agrees that Athletes Should Be Paid a Little More

by Dr. Boyce Watkins, Syracuse University – Scholarship in Action 

Every now and then, some families get to experience “that intervention moment.” This is when the uncle who’s been getting high, drunk and abusive every single day finally admits that he might have a problem. Of course he still minimizes the significance of his issues, but he has at least opened the door to getting the help that he needs.

For the American justice and economic systems, the NCAA is the addicted uncle. But rather than being hooked on drugs, the NCAA is addicted to the highs of capitalism and corporate greed. By being able to skirt the legal and moral parameters of our society, this professional sports league has been able to extract wealth from student athletes and the African American community to the tune of several billion dollars.

The NCAA’s new president, Mark Emmert, shocked the world when he admitted that it might be time for student athletes and their families to share in the massive revenue streams being generated by their kids. Emmert has admitted that he would like to “explore” the issue of modestly increasing the scholarship limits of student athletes in revenue-generating sports, primarily football and basketball. While remaining far from admitting that there should be significant changes, Emmert has confessed to the fact that the financial asymmetries might be a bit uncomfortable.

Click to read.

Why Do HBCU Grads Earn Less Money Than Their Counterparts at White Universities?

by Dr. Boyce Watkins, Syracuse University – Scholarship in Action 

A 2007 study by Roland Fryer and Michael Greenstone has found that graduates of Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs) suffer a wage penalty relative to their counterparts who attend Predominantly White Institutions (PWIs). The authors conclude that in comparison to black students who attend PWIs, graduates of HBCUs earn 20% less on the job market than their counterparts.

Equally interesting is that out of the 20 universities with the highest black graduation rates, only one of them (Howard) is an HBCU. Some wonder if this result, as well as the wage differential, cuts into the perceived value of an HBCU education.

Click to read.

Dr. Boyce Spotlight: Carlos Thomas – Father, Husband, Scholar, Leader

by Dr. Boyce Watkins, Syracuse University – Scholarship in Action 

Professor Carlos Thomas is one of the sharpest, most powerful black men on earth. Sitting on two PhDs (not one), Thomas has built a career that embraces the essence of the black academic warrior. Not only is he typically the sharpest man in the room, he is a living personification of the essence of what it means to be a black man in America: To love your family, teach the children around you (not just your own), and to stand a stand for what is right. It is because he has chosen to live a life full of power and purpose that Dr. Thomas is today's Dr. Boyce Watkins Spotlight on AOL Black Voices:

 

Click to read.

Afrika Owes: 17-Year Old Ivy League Bound Student in Drug/Gang Ring Bailed Out By Her Church

by Dr. Boyce Watkins, Syracuse University – Scholarship in Action 

Abyssinian Baptist Church in Harlem has taken a very active role in securing the legal rights of one of their parishioners. Afrika Owes is a 17-year old girl who will soon be on trial for felony charges related to gun and drug trafficking. What makes her unique is that she was also a top student, bound for an Ivy League University. The theory among those who support Owes is that her involvement with the gun and drug trade came largely from undue influence from her boyfriend, Jaquan Layne, who was allegedly running the gang from Rikers Island Prison.
Judge Edward McLaughlin of the Manhattan Supreme Court ruled that it is legal for the church to post bail, but only if the church gets permission from the board of directors.

"They can do if they chose to in the manner set out in what the board of directors can do or not do on their behalf," said the judge.

Click to read.

Dr. Boyce and Al Sharpton debate the attack on Libya

Click here to listen to Dr. Boyce and Al Sharpton debate the attack on Libya

Anthony Robles: One-Legged Wrestler Wins National Championship

Anthony Robles presents a lesson for anyone out there who thinks they can’t achieve their goals.  With just one leg, this two-time All-American wrestler is a serious contender for the national championship.  This is what happens to those of us who are absolutely determined to succeed.

Click to read.

Dr. Boyce: Kensley Hawkins: Asked to Pay for Incarceration with Jailhouse Savings

by Dr. Boyce Watkins, Syracuse University – Scholarship in Action 

Kensley Hawkins was sent to prison in 1980 for the murder of one man and the attempted murder of two police officers in Chicago. He had an 8-year old daughter and was going to be in prison for a very long time.
During his time in prison, Kensley earned $75-per-month building furniture in Joliet, Illinois. Somehow, he was able to save $11,000 during his stay in the penitentiary, a small tribute to his daughter, who is now nearly 40-years old. But the state of Illinois is not satisfied, and has asked that Kensley be required to pay for the costs of his incarceration.

The state is arguing that Mr. Hawkins owes them $455,203.14 for the cost of keeping him in prison. The case has now reached the Illinois Supreme Court.

"The reason you want Mr. Hawkins to keep his money is because he's gonna get out of prison some day, and when he gets out of prison, we want him to have saved his money so that he can take care of himself you don't want the public to have to pay for him," Hawkins' attorney, Ben Weinberg, told Fox Chicago.

 

Click to read.

Dr. Boyce: Ten Thing Every Black Father Needs to Do

by Dr. Boyce Watkins, Syracuse University – Scholarship in Action 

1) Tell your kids you love them every single day

Love not only makes the world go round, but every person needs to feel loved in order to have the balance necessary to be truly successful. If you love your kids, don’t just show it with your actions, say it with words. It will keep them from seeking love in all the wrong places.

2) Set an example for other fathers

The black male gets a bad rap for allegedly being an irresponsible father. We know that this stereotype is a misguided reflection of America’s historical hatred of the black male, but that doesn’t mean that we can’t encourage each other to do a better job. Demand that other brothers in your circle stand up as good fathers to their children, in spite of their circumstances. It can be tough to be a good parent with sky high unemployment and incarceration rates, but that doesn’t give you an excuse not to try. Those of us who ignore our children should be shamed into realizing how harmful such irresponsibility is to our community.

3) Always find a way to show respect to their mother

Even if you can’t stand the woman you had a child with, you should always give her as much respect as you possibly can. Kids don’t enjoy watching their parents fight, no matter whose fault it is. Also, in spite of your differences, you must always find a way to show appreciation toward the woman who gave life to your offspring.

4) Prepare them for the bullsh*t

We know that being black isn’t easy. You have to be twice as good to get half as much and life sometimes kicks you in the butt when you don’t deserve it. Prepare your kids for life as an African American, letting them know that they are going to have to be tough, smart and courageous to succeed in a world where the odds can be stacked against them. We all know that life isn’t fair, and it’s important to make sure your kids are prepared for the coming disparities.

Click to read.

Tom Joyner’s Cruise This Week: Partying with a Purpose?

by Dr. Boyce Watkins, Syracuse University – Scholarship in Action 

This morning, I got a text from my respected colleague, Roland Martin. I can't remember what Roland and I were talking about, but I do remember what he told me at the end of our conversation. Roland mentioned that he couldn't do anything next week because "the cruise is leaving in a couple of days." I immediately became jealous, because I knew he was talking about the Fantastic Voyage, hosted by Tom Joyner.

I'm not always big on black folks looking for another party, but there is something I love about the Tom Joyner Cruise. Anyone who's ever been on a cruise knows that seeing another black person on a cruise ship is like searching for Louis Farrakhan at a Klan rally. While cruises can be fun, comfortable and even exciting, there is a dryness that people of color experience from a lack of cultural diversity.

Click to read.

So, the NCAA Still Doesn’t Graduate Black Males? What a Surprise

by Dr. Boyce Watkins, Syracuse University – Scholarship in Action 

The Institute for Diversity and Ethics in Sport at the University of Central Florida told us, once again, what most of us already knew: Black Division I men's basketball players are lagging behind white student athletes when it comes to graduation rates. Although the study cites a long-term increase in the graduation rates of both groups, African-American males are still pulling up the rear.

So, what do we make of these disparities? Well, most casual observers of sport know that the graduation gap is a persistent part of collegiate athletics, and not a problem that is taken very seriously. We've come to expect that the white guys are the ones who walk away with access and opportunity while many of the black athletes, unfortunately, get about 10 seconds of fame and a lifetime of regrets. Even when these black male former athletes show up to their alma maters seeking jobs as coaches, they are typically rejected.

Disproportionate sampling may also play a role in the gap. In a recent ESPN documentary about the Fab Five at The University of Michigan, Jalen Rose mentions the widely-known practice of allowing white guys with goodGPAs and perhaps family connections to become bench warmers in order to help maintain the team grade point average. Nobody cares about who rides the end of the bench. They only pay their millions to see the men (typically black) who are dunking the basketballs and scoring all the points.

 

Click to read.

Blast from the Past: Dr. Boyce at Madison Square Garden – Explaining Why College Athletes Should be Paid

Part 1 is above

 

 

Part 2 is above

Why Was Bullying Never an Issue When It Was Happening to Black Kids?

by Dr. Boyce Watkins, Syracuse University – Scholarship in Action 

Holding its first ever anti-bullying conference last week, we found theWhite House quite concerned with bullying as a public health issue.  Without doubt, the initiative is impressive - far too many children are left with nowhere to turn when cats with bad intentions follow them home, either to incessantly poke fun or to swipe their lunch money … or worse. Most of us will agree that it’s about time adults got involved.

I recall being chased by an older kid on my way home from kindergarten every day.  The boy was eight years old which made him appear massive in the eyes of frightened five-year old. Back then, thePresident of the United States wasn’t going to protect you, you had to protect yourself. So, I did what any reasonable five-year old might consider doing in that situation:  I put a brick upside his head.  Needless to say, the bullying problem ended right then, for I had personally reclaimed domination over that relationship.

Click to read.

Your Black World Survey: Should College Athletes Be Paid?

In light of the start of March Madness, we’d like to get a feel for your take on whether or not college athletes should be paid.  Please click here to take the survey.

March Madness Reminds us of the Importance of Reforming the NCAA Plantation

by Dr. Boyce Watkins, Syracuse University – Scholarship in Action 

I wrote about a new book regarding the NCAA’s alleged exploitation of black athletes, written by University of Georgia Professor Billy Hawkins. In his recently-released book, “The New Plantation,” Hawkins goes out of his way to help us understand that the method by which the NCAA does business is not much different from the mindset of plantation owners of the old south.

The analogies used by Professor Hawkins are thought-provoking and appear to be alarmist at first glance. After all, citizens are commonly comparing nearly every modern-day injustice to slavery in order to make a dramatic point. But in this case, the analogies are appropriate, in large part because slavery is not a dichotomy. Instead, it is actually a continuum, with complete freedom on one end and total servitude on the other. One could even argue that slaves themselves were not completely devoid of freedom, since they could have always chosen to run away, buy their freedom, maim themselves or even commit suicide as a way to escape their condition. The point of this very grim example is not to say that slavery was not entirely horrific; rather, it is to say that something does not have to be entirely horrific to be compared to slavery.

 

Click to read.

Your Child Isn’t Making the Grade? Then Take His Butt Off the Field

by Dr. Boyce Watkins, Syracuse University – Scholarship in Action 

Today I took my afternoon nap thinking about the days when I was captain of my high school track team in the 12th grade.  I wasn’t the star of the team and I also wasn’t an academic star (my grades were terrible).  Like many other black boys across America, I’d come to identify myself as an athletic commodity rather than an intellectual one. 

I remember that one of the fastest boys on our team was also like a lot of other black males:  He was in special education and had horrible grades.  On his report card, he’d gotten two Fs, three Ds and a C.  My coach was concerned about his grades, but not because he cared about the young man.  He was only worried about his grades because he thought that the kid might not be eligible for the big track meet we had coming up.

 

Click to read.

Howard University Students Choose Productivity Over Partying for Spring Break

by Dr. Boyce Watkins, Syracuse University – Scholarship in Action 

Most college students are planning to waste time and money over spring break, partying hard, drinking till they vomit, and doing other things that might get them into trouble. Howard University is encouraging its students to engage in a more enlightened use of its time over spring break, by helping the students to raise money for a trip to support the people of Haiti.
WHUR, the Howard University radio station and one of the leading stations in the DC area, is helping the students raise the $150,000 that they will need in order to make the trip. The station is holding a radiothon to raise money on Sunday, March 6th from 6 am until 6 pm. In addition to going to Haiti, the students plan to go to other cities across the United States in order to provide "critical services to those in need." The students plan to travel to Haiti, Chicago, Detroit, New Orleans and Atlanta, in addition to providing support in the Washington DC area.

 

Click to read.

Howard University Students Raise Money to Help Out in Haiti

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE CONTACT: Renee J. Nash

Office of Information and Public Affairs 202-806-3623

rnash@whur.com

“WHUR LENDS HELPING HANDS TO ASSIST HOWARD STUDENTS”

Radio Station Launches Fundraiser to Help University Students Perform Good Deeds

WASHINGTON (February 2, 2011) WHUR 96.3 FM - Howard University will host a 12-hour radiothon Sunday, March 6^th from 6 a.m. to 6 p.m. to help send hundreds of Howard University students to Haiti and cities across the United States to provide critical services to those in need. The “Helping Hands” radiothon will encourage listeners to phone in, drop by the radio station or to go on-line to make a contribution so students can travel to Haiti, Chicago, Detroit, New Orleans, Atlanta, and here in the Washington area.

Click to read.

Dr. Boyce Spotlight: Prof. Rodney Washington Helps to Keep Your Sons in Line

by Dr. Boyce Watkins, Syracuse University – Scholarship in Action 

I recently heard Rodney K. Washington speak at the Critical Conversations Summit at Jackson State University. I was instantly impressed with Dr. Washington's keen understanding of the experience of the black male in America and his willingness to attack the issue head-on. Skills like those of Dr. Washington are critical in a nation where black males have been placed into a cage that leads them to kill one another and commit homicide to their own futures every single day. We also need more black male educators put in front of the classrooms of public schools and universities who have yet to embrace the difference between true diversity and cosmetic window-dressing. It is for his decision to dedicate his scholarship to helping his community that Dr. Rodney K. Washington is today's Dr. Boyce Watkins Spotlight on AOL Black Voices:

 

Click to read.

Seminars for Fathers on How to Succeed in Family Court

WEEKLY SEMINARS FOR FATHERS

HOW TO SUCCEED

IN FAMILY COURT

According to Eric Legette, President/Founder of Fathers With Voices (FWV), there are several major reasons that separated/divorced fathers would benefit from this seminar:

75% of fathers that contact FWV complain about the legal system and also state that they will not be successful within the legal system

40% of FWV cases involve visitation rights that have been violated

50% of FWV cases involve men who want to obtain their visitation rights

80-85% of FWV cases complain about their attorneys: they have spent thousands of dollars in legal fees and yet see no progress made in their cases

Since 1996, Fathers With Voices has accomplished its mission by assisting separated/divorced fathers throughout the United States to stay involved in their children’s lives. The success of Fathers With Voices has not diminished the fact that fifteen years later even more men are facing similar challenges related to their children. The most alarming concern is hearing men state over and over their belief that fathers cannot succeed within the legal system.

Click to read.

The Black Male Incarceration Crisis

 

One of my very good friends, Dr. Marc Lamont Hill, speaks to a panel about the mass incarceration crisis that is affecting black males.  Take a look.

Study Finds that a Strong Racial Identity Increases Your Happiness

by Dr. Boyce Watkins, Syracuse University – Scholarship in Action 

Researchers at Michigan State University have just found that those who identify with their race more strongly than others tend to be happier. The study, which is set to appear in the journal Cultural Diversity and Ethic Minority Psychology, is the first empirical study to document such a relationship.

"This is the first empirical study we know of that shows a relationship between racial identity and happiness," said Stevie C.Y. Yap, who is the lead researcher on the project.
While there have been studies linking racial identity to higher self-esteem, none have actually connected it to happiness. The study surveyed black adults in the state of Michigan. They found that the more the subject identified with being black, or the more important their blackness was to them, the happier they were with life in general.

Click to read.

City of Memphis Engaged in Fight Over School Funding

Click here to hear an interview between Roland Martin and Pastor Kenneth Whalum about the pending merger of Memphis City Schools with those of Shelby County.

 

Click here to see the other point of view.

This is Dr. Boyce wrote on the issue on AOL Black Voices:

Memphis, Tennessee is a city that is rich with culture, history and opportunity. I've visited the city on several occasions and found the city and its people to be quite enjoyable on all levels. What's also interesting about Memphis, however, is that it's city schools are failing and it continues to be a town that is plagued with racism: The city itself is mostly black, while wealthier whites live on the outskirts, hoping that the black folks don't come and rain on their parade. The city is not nearly as disconnected from it's legacy of blatant racism as it might want to believe.

Voters in the city of Memphis are being sent to the polls Tuesday to decide whether or not to transfer control of the Memphis City Schools to Shelby County, which surrounds Memphis. The Memphis City School Board voted on December 20 to surrender its charter and relinquish control of Memphis City Schools to Shelby County, leading to tomorrow's showdown. The referendum effectively allows voters to validate the decision by the school board, overriding Shelby County's legal challenge to the Memphis City School Board decision.

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Dr. Boyce Spotlight: A Teacher is Successfully Educating Black Boys

by Dr. Boyce Watkins, Syracuse University – Scholarship in Action 

I was introduced to the work of Roszalyn Akins at a conference being held by the Mississippi Learning Institute. Roz (that's her nickname) was giving a presentation about her program called "Black Males Working." I was immediately impressed with the vigor and passion with which Roz approached the important task of mentoring and educating young black boys. Without having the funding nor the fanfare that her program truly deserves, Roz has taken the "worst" kids in her district and turned them into academic champions. She reminds us that there is nothing that our kids can't do when they are given an opportunity and a little bit of encouragement. Saving the black male is not just something just that helps black men. It is important to any woman who cares about her son, husband, brother or father and the abysmal outcomes that occur in a society that is designed to destroy you. So, saving the black male is critical to protecting the black family in America. It is for her never-ending commitment to empowering black boys that Roszalyn Akins is today's Dr. Boyce Watkins Spotlight on AOL Black Voices:

Click to read.

Dr. Boyce: Does Education Always Lead to a Better Job? Nope

by Dr. Boyce Watkins, Syracuse University – Scholarship in Action 

An economist for whom I have tremendous respect, Paul Krugman, recently wrote a New York Times article which put the debate over education into context. I found the article interesting as I prepare to speak at the National Black Law Students Association Convention with my colleague, Charles Ogletree at Harvard University.
I've been thinking a great deal about how to help our community understand the meaning and value of a good education (here are some of my thoughts on the matter if you're interested). I've preached relentlessly that being well-educated is incredibly important for all of us, and that we should be willing to fight to the end to make sure our kids get what they need from our woefully inadequate school systems. At the same time, my recent appearance at the Black Achievers Banquet in Louisville, Ky led me to conclude that further discussion is necessary. I saw quite a few young people doing amazing things, but it's my hope to help us all understand that an education is not simply a path to getting a job with some corporation that will have you doing meaningless work for your entire life. Sure, that can be part of the plan, but it can't be the entire plan altogether.

 

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Educated Black People and the National Black Law Student Association: What I think About Both

 

From Dr. Boyce Watkins 

In the video below, I talk about my upcoming appearance at the National Black Law Students Association conference, as well as ways that African Americans can learn the difference between going to school and being educated.  There is also a difference between being free and being INDEPENDENT, which many educated African Americans may want to consider. 

Click to read.

Dr. Boyce: Fifth Grader Made into a “Slave” in Classroom Slave Auction

by Dr. Boyce Watkins, Syracuse University – Scholarship in Action 

A black fifth grader in Gahanna, Ohio was used as a slave in a social studies class in order to teach a lesson to the children.  Since that time, the mother of the boy, Aneka Burton, has demanded an apology, citing the psychological damage that was being done to her child.  The principal at the school, Scott Schmidt of Chapelfield Elementary, called the mother to offer his most sincere apologies for the incident, stating that no harm was intended. 

According to 10-year old Nikko Burton, the students were divided into two groups:  “Slaves” and “masters,” with the other black student in class being made into a master.  The teacher then had the audacity to do a simulated slave auction, which the boy refused to be a part of.   At that point, he was sent back to his desk.

Click to read.

Dr. Boyce Spotlight: Dressing for Success in a Tough Economy

by Dr. Boyce Watkins, Syracuse University 

African Americans are suffering worse than any other group of Americans during this prolonged recession. Our unemployment, bankruptcy and foreclosure rates are far higher than whites, which is a striking reality to face after electing our first black president. People like Alison Vaughn position themselves to help those of us who wish to compete more effectively in the workplace by offering training that will increase your value to prospective employers. It is her commitment to serving her community that makes Alison Vaughn today's Dr. Boyce Watkins Spotlight on AOL Black Voices:

Click to read.

Alexis Marie: Former Stuyvesant HS Student Posts Video in Response to Racist Rappers

by Dr. Boyce Watkins, Syracuse University – Scholarship in Action 

Alexis Marie, the girl who posted the video of the white students at Stuyvesant HS who rapped about their disdain for black people, issued a statement regarding why she posted the video. 

In her remarks, Alexis states clearly that she was seeking to use the video to encourage “elite” high schools to have conversations about race relations.  Her statement is very intelligent and effectively delivered, especially for a young woman her age.  I personally applaud Alexis for having the courage to speak up and take a stand on issues like this one. 

 

Click to read.

Ivy League Bound Black Student Dealt Drugs for Her Boyfriend: Blame it On Hip-Hop?

by Dr. Boyce Watkins, Syracuse University – Scholarship in Action 

I spoke this weekend to a group of aspiring college students in a group called "Black Achievers." The group invited me to speak because I talk regularly about the value of education, as well as confronting the structural obstacles that make it difficult for our kids to find success. But one thing I brought to the table that the students and their parents might not have expected is the need for us to confront the destructive elements of hip-hop culture, which teach our good kids that "keeping it real" is something that should be done at all costs, even when it causes them to lose their lives.

The reason I brought this issue to the forefront of the discussion was because of young women like Afrika Owes. Afrika is a 17-year old who was once headed to an Ivy League school. But rather than going to anyone's university, she will be spending most of her adult life in prison. Afrika was recently arrested for being part of a drug ring run by her boyfriend in prison. "Head shots only," he would tell her from behind bars, as he detailed how he wanted people to be executed.

Click to read.

Why Carol Moseley Braun Could Not Become the Mayor of Chicago

by Dr. Boyce Watkins, Syracuse University – Scholarship in Action 

One of the most interesting political events in America was the race to become mayor of Chicago. After yet another seemingly endless regime under the Daley family, black Chicago had a chance to elect one of their own. Carol Moseley Braun, the seasoned politician and history-making former Senator, positioned herself to be the great black hope for the city of Chicago.

Unfortunately, the Moseley-Braun candidacy was simply not meant to be. After a series of missteps, Rahm Emanuel used the power of President Obama's backing to convince the vast majority of Chicago citizens, white and black, to give him their support. Apparently, unspoken endorsements from Barack Obama and Bill Clinton goes a long way, even if you can't readily prove that you've done very much for the African American community.

click to read.

Dr. Watkins Interview on Why College Athletes Should Get Paid

With March Madness approaching, Dr. Boyce Watkins did a recent interview regarding the details on how and why college athletes should be paid.  The interview is below:

1.  If college athletes are to be paid for their performance, how do you decide who is paid and who is not?

The market can decide who gets paid.  That's how coaches find out who earns $2 million per year vs. those who earn just $500k.  Better performers typically get paid more money on a job, so why should it be any different for athletes?

2. How do you decide how much to pay them? Is it enough to provide for their families and some for extra activities, or is it solely based on something like jersey sales, winning record, etc.?

I don't think any of us should decide how much to pay someone - no one "decides" that Rick Pitino is worth $2 million per year.  He negotiates and the highest bidder gets his services.  I am a believer that athletes should have access to the same fair market that their coaches receive.  To argue differently is to imply that coaches are more important than athletes or that they deserve better treatment.  This is a classist and racist thing to believe.

Click to read.

Dr. Boyce Video: The Value of Education and Being a Black Achiever

 

Click here to listen to Dr. Boyce Watkins talk about what it means to be a black achiever and the value of education.

From Dr. Wilmer Leon: Free Rodney Stanberry

To read Dr. Boyce Watkins’ take on the case of Rodney K. Stanberry, please click here. 

 

A note from Dr. Wilmer Leon:

Greetings All,
Here is the clarion call!  As you know, I've been working with a very dear
friend of mine Dr. Artemesia Stanberry as she works to get her cousin Rodney
Stanberry out of prison. 
Go to www.freerodneystanberry.com for additional information as well.
Please go to my web site http://www.wilmerleon click on Listen Now and go to
the
two interviews on this issue. During the latest interview we were able to talk
with Rodney directly. Your calls and emails have actually had an impact.
There's a new DA Ashley Rich who has put a new investigator, Mike Morgan (251)
574-6681  on the case.  New eyes, fresh perspective; hopefully more progress. 

 

Click to read more.

Suicide of Former NFL Star Causes Talk of Long-Term Brain Injuries

by Dr. Boyce Watkins, Syracuse University – Scholarship in Action 

This weekend, I was driving through the middle of "Nowhere's Ville," Indiana, on my way to Chicago. Right as I was approaching South Bend, the home of the Notre Dame Fighting Irish, I ironically received an email from former Notre Dame Coach Lou Holtz. Holtz and I had recently debated whether college athletes should be paid (we disagreed on the topic), but the coach was gracious enough to email me twice since the interview to say that he now considers us friends. I have a tremendous amount of respect for both Holtz and his noble gesture.

Adding to the irony of the trip was the fact that I also received a text message from a friend informing me that former Notre Dame/Chicago Bears football Star Dave Duerson had just been found dead in his condo. So, on a trip past Notre Dame on my way to Chicago, I receive both an email from Lou Holtz and a text message about a former Notre Dame/Chicago Bears star dying that day. Perhaps this was a signal from a higher power that I needed to dig further into the issue.

Click to read.

Urban Prep in Chicago Sends 100% of It’s Black Males to College….Again

by Dr. Boyce Watkins, Syracuse University – Scholarship in Action 

Well, they've done it again. Urban Prep Academy of Chicago, an all-male charter school with kids from the "worst" parts of Chicago, is sending 100% of its graduating seniors off to college. The school, founded in 2006, has stated that its continuous objective is to see to it that all of its students go to college. They are succeeding with flying colors.
The school started with kids whose futures had been left for dead by their public schools: Only four percent of the school's incoming freshmen were reading at grade level when they arrived on campus. But by sending all of their graduating seniors to college, they've not only gotten these kids up to speed, they've allowed them to zip past every other public school in the entire United States.
"No other public [school] in the country has done this," said Tim King, the founder of Urban Prep.

Click to read.

Watkins/Sharpton rally in Ohio for Kelley Williams-Bolar and Educational Equality in America

On Thursday, February 17 at 6 pm, Dr. Boyce Watkins and Rev. Al Sharpton will rally in Akron Ohio on behalf of the case of Kelley Williams-Bolar, the single black mother who was jailed for sending her kids to the wrong school district.  The information for the rally is below:

 

Mountain of the Lord Church
Rev. Eugene Norris
1477 Copley Road
Akron, OH 44320
(330) 873-9793

The National Black Graduate Association Executive Council

Vice Presidents Dhymsy Owens (Virginia State University), Ivory M. Berry (University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign), Dominique C. Hill (University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign) and Amber Wilburn (Oregon State University); Treasurer, Secretary, and Historian, Brian W. Kellum (University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign), Aysha Foster (Virginia State University), and Lecia Gresham (Jackson State University), respectively; and Regional Representatives Dalton Crayton (University of Minnesota at Mankato), Deborah Strahorn (Wright State University), Percy Isaac (Morgan State University), Brittany D. Whaley (George Mason University), Alexander Washington (Mississippi State University), Lauren Williams (Clark Atlanta University), Stephen Ndzeidze (Oregon State University), and MeCherri Tarver (University of Oregon).

White Coach Uses the N-word toward His Players

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Coach may be fired for using inappropriate language toward players. ;

Dr. Boyce Spotlight: Prof. Njoki McElroy Lives and Speaks Black History

by Dr. Boyce Watkins

During Black History Month, it only makes sense that we connect with those who can help us to get in touch with our history. Professor Njoki McElroy is a story-teller and truth-teller when it comes to the struggles of our people and how we've created the reality that surrounds us. Her work is well-respected, and she has written a book describing one of the most significant periods in the history of black people in America. It is for that reason that Professor Njoki McElroy is today's Dr. Boyce Watkins Spotlight on AOL Black Voices.

What is your name and what do you do?
Njoki McElroy, PhD. I am a storyteller, professor, playwright, performer and author. My new book is entitled 1012 Natchez: A Memoir of Grace, Hardship and Love (Brown Books)

 

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Grandma with 20 inch nails - Is this normal?

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Who told this woman that 20 inch nails is a good fashion statement? ;

Dr. Jennifer Caudle Talks about the Dangers of Bullying

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Dr. Jennifer Caudle on the dangers of bullying. ;

Omega Psi Phi Issues a Statement in Response to the Shooting at Youngstown State University

Statement from Dr. Andrew A. Ray,
Grand Basileus - Omega Psi Phi Fraternity, Inc.

The collective thoughts and prayers of the Omega Psi Phi Fraternity, Inc. are with the family of Brother Jamail Earl Johnson. We pray for their comfort and peace during this difficult time. Our thoughts also are with the 11 victims of the senseless act of violence occurring in Youngstown, Ohio on February 6, 2011.

We wish to thank Youngstown State University President Dr. Cynthia E. Anderson and her staff for the sensitivity afforded to the Johnson family during this ordeal. The Fraternity would like to acknowledge the work of the Youngstown Police Department in the ongoing investigation.  Our International Chaplain will be available to assist the family.

Brother Johnson became a member of the Omega Psi Phi Fraternity, Inc. on March 21, 2009, through Zeta Gamma Chapter at Youngstown State University. He was a Business Management major and was scheduled to graduate with several other members of his chapter this spring. Brother Johnson served the Fraternity as the chapter's recording secretary.
The death of Brother Johnson is a tragedy of immeasurable proportion to the Fraternity. The community will never benefit from his full potential and promise. He was a native of Youngstown, active in various student organizations and, was working to pay his way through college.

On the evening of the tragedy, Brother Johnson and his fellow chapter members were entertaining guests at their residence, when intruders sprayed the residence with gunfire. This senseless act of violence has stunned the Fraternity, the collegiate community and, all who respect civility in our nation.

Some media outlets have incorrectly reported that the incident occurred at an Omega Fraternity house and that the gathering was a Fraternity sponsored event. The Fraternity does not own any Fraternity housing in the State of Ohio and the gathering was not a Fraternity sponsored event. The Fraternity brothers in their residence did nothing wrong and were the victims of this criminal act.
Individuals, who engage in intellectual thought and the pursuit of academic attainment, significantly add to the quality of life in the community. Students and the broader community are entitled to a safe environment in which citizens can work, learn and grow. Senseless violence cannot be allowed to abridge the entitlements of the community.

The weight of this tragedy strengthens our resolve to uplift humanity at every station in life as we carry the hope and promise of our Brother, Jamail Johnson. The men of Omega join the citizens of Youngstown as we collectively seek to heal from this catastrophic event.

Note:  Any inquiries pertaining to Omega Psi Phi Fraternity in relation to these events should be directed to Christopher M. Cooper, Esq.  Telephone: (614) 447-0225 or Electronic mail: ccooper4th@aol.com

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Dr. Boyce Watkins speaks with Prof. Khalil Muhammad from the Schomburg Center

by Dr. Boyce Watkins, Syracuse University – Scholarship in Action 

One of the men for whom I have a great deal of respect is Dr. Khalil Muhammad, the new Director of the Schomburg Center for Research in Black Culture. Professor Muhammad is currently a scholar of African-American history at Indiana University.
Professor Muhammad's selection for the post was not without controversy. Some thought he was too young and unknown to be granted such a serious and prestigious post. I don't agree with the criticism, but only time will prove us all correct. From my meetings with Professor Muhammad, I found him to be sharp, insightful and down-to-earth. He is a scholar who fully understands, respects and appreciates the gravity of his appointment and the importance of The Schomburg.

 

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