Race Matters Hosted by Dillard University, a panel featuring Mayor Mitch Landrieu, Urban League President and CEO Marc Morial and former Ambassador Andrew Young was convened to discuss economic development strategies for New Orleans, which happens to be the city of birth for all three men. While the discussion was billed as one that would […]

For a precious few individual Black folks, it’s definitely not too late; they are doing just fine. No matter what the economy brings, I am sure most of them will continue to be financially secure. Of course we have some who, despite their tremendous wealth and fame, will continue to purchase all the “bling” they […]

“Blackboard Wars” – the title of Oprah Winfrey’s OWN documentary about John McDonogh High School – insinuates that the hijacking of schools since Hurricane Katrina has actually been about improving the education of public school students in New Orleans. Those closer to the battle know the truth. Documentaries—even those produced by Oprah Winfrey—can lie. But […]

by Orissa Arend This poetically rendered memoir/history lesson written by J. F. “Smitty” Smith documents his seven-day evacuation beginning Aug. 28, 2005, from his home in the Lower Ninth Ward after Hurricane Katrina. Mr. Smith, the peripatetic historian/philosopher/bard, graces us with a glimpse and an ear full of conversations at the Convention Center, grandparents’ tales […]

The Every Man Club by Anitra D. Brown It’s one thing for Mardi Gras goers to say they won’t allow the yet-unfulfilled threat of rain to keep them from going to the Zulu parade. It’s another thing, entirely, to actually watch as hundreds of revelers hold tight to their spots along Orleans Avenue even after […]

by Keith Weldon Medley Established in 1917, the Bunch Club is one of New Orleans oldest Carnival clubs. While primarily a fraternal organization, it is best known for the Bunch Club Carnival Dance. On the Friday before Mardi Gras, the members of the Bunch Club and their 1500 guests celebrate the carnival season with music, […]

Dillard University Executive Vice President Walter Strong retires in February on the heels of the completion of the $70 million Advantage Dillard! capital campaign. Strong planned and directed the campaign, which exceeded its goal in private gifts at a cost of less than six cents per dollar raised. Strong joined Dillard University in the summer […]

Harold Clark has been named as a finalist for the 2013 Stanley Drama Award for his play, “Tour Detour”. Clark will be honored at a reception on Monday, Mar. 18 at The Players in Manhattan New, NY at 6 p.m. Only full length plays or musicals that have not been professionally produced or published are […]

“Kunta Kinteh Island: Coming Home Without Shackles”, a documentary by New Orleans native Elvin Ross that is creating buzz around the country, will be shown in New Orleans on Feb. 25 – 26. The film traces the life of the celebrated captive African, Kunta Kinteh; his journey to America; his brutal enslavement; his triumphant survival […]

Dillard University President Dr. Walter M. Kimbrough joins 99 other African-American history makers and industry leaders being honored during Black History Month by NBC’s theGrio.com. This is the fourth year that NBC’s the Grio.com has recognized African-American leaders making a difference in the lives of others in their communities and beyond. Honorees are selected from […]