The Cleopatra Exhibit: HOTEP 365 Visits

Unless you've been living in a cave for the past month, any resident of Los Angeles county has seen or heard an advertisement for the Cleopatra Exhibit that has recently opened as of May 23rd 2012 at the California Science Center in Exhibition Park. This is the only west coast appearance for the Exhibit, running until December 31 2012.
Naturally, We at Hotep 365 being avid Kemet junkies when it comes to anything that has to do with Egypt or anything on the continent of Africa for that matter, jumped at the chance to go check the exhibit out. However, my excitement was short lived when my attempt to purchase tickets online for the opening date was derailed. When logging on to the California Science Center's website http://californiasciencecenter.org, under the sub page for the Cleopatra Exhibit it offers a package deal to view an Imax film on the exhibit as well as seeing the physical exhibit. They also offer admission for each to be viewed independently. Me being me, It was all or nothing which turned out to be nothing at least for that day, because every time slot was completely sold out. I called the box office to ask if any tickets were available for that day and they assured me it was sold out and to plan on every day afterward to have the same results. Long story short, I was able to purchase tickets for the following day.
Call me naive, but i couldn't have possibly imagined how many people would be interested in this exhibit. I mean yes, Cleopatra may be one of the most famous names in terms of Egypt but to my surprise there were people lined up in droves all to see the same thing. Not to add insult to injury, There was a line wrapped all the way around the building that made waiting in line for a ride at your local amusement park on a "Saturday" seem like a quick liquor store run. The time slots to see the physical exhibit were in 45 minute increments and each well exceeded that by and hour or two.
After my exciting wait, we finally reached the entrance and it immediately became apparent that it was all worth the while. As soon as u cross the thresh hold, your are seated to watch a short film (very short) On Cleopatra and her reign in Egypt. Then magically, screen opens up and you are consumed with the ambiance of artifacts thousands of years old, while the luminescent exhibits come to life thanks to the brilliant lighting strategically placed to accent each and every nuance of the visual. While in line, your given a hand held audio guide with what is supposed to be the voice of Cleopatra. The guide is numbered to match the number on each exhibit, giving you a brief synopsis on what the viewer is looking at.
The 13,000 square foot Exhibit boast over 150 priceless Egyptian artifacts, lost (Stolen) for nearly 2,000 years. Clearly in looking at some of the artifacts, Cleopatra ruled during a time where the Greeks were in power and had a heavy influence on the art an the way art was portrayed. Most statues brandished European features with thin lips and pointy noses, but one with just the smallest tidbit of information of ancient Egypt and the earlier dynasties can decode the clues to its African (Nubian) origins. As the old adage goes "As much as things change, things stay the same" this rang true when it came to the deities of old. Asar, Aset and Heru and their image still reigned supreme under the rule of Cleopatra. Who was said to be after further evaluation, European and in fact not Egyptian blood at all.
Overall, rather you're a well studied super scholar and Egyptologist or young novice whose only thought of Egypt is the Sphinx and the pyramids without a clue of Egypt being on the continent of Africa. One will appreciate this Exhibit for its aesthetic splendor and overwhelming collection of ancient artifacts. Hopefully the city of Los Angeles will bring more attractions of this nature for us all to enjoy.
Until next time... Peace and Hotep!!

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

  

A.A. Rashid visits Shades of Afrika and presents "Fear of A Black Illuminati" Part 1

I was pleased to see so many young faces collected at Shades of Afrika in Long Beach, CA to hear Brother A.A. Rashid. His raw nature coupled with his new age approach is just what’s needed to spark the idle minds of our youth. Speaking a language all could over stand encouraged unity between generations providing answers to several questions, at the same time inciting new ones.

To commence, the door was opened inviting past and future ancestors to facilitate this meeting of kindred spirits in the same grateful spirit offered. Brother A.A. wasted no time laying it all on the table… from the importance of numbers to the construct of the bible he switched gears with ease motivating those in attendance to, “Learn How To Learn.” Recognize mental illnesses designed to impede upon self-veneration forcing credit to be mistakenly edified by something other than that of our very own pineal glands. Acknowledging a “system stolen, re-codified and utilized” to take as much as possible while giving us nothing in return he commended we create new paths. Opposed to building bridges to nowhere let us solidify our awareness and accord through rituals and rites of passage for our youth.

Our Brother A.A. Rashid left no stone unturned. Each shuffle of his words dealt the same hand, {our} ethics stemmed from a cradle inadequately capable of exceeding our potential. Morals supported by hollowed pillars gave way at every turn revealing another sleeping force being swayed into submission. Initiation broken blood lines befuddle updates rendering them useless. Noting discrepant abilities to receive messages, he reflected on perception. Not only does killing someone equate to becoming a man, by adopting ways that disrupt our connection to the grid we evade inborn realities. Conceding that a breast fed child is far more perceptive than one who is not, shed light on a culture that does not support the act. Being a “natural birth-control” I can see how breast feeding until the age of seven would have a tremendous impact on society in various aspects. (I digress)

I merely warmed the surface with this attempted elucidation of Brother A.A. Rashid’s vibration. Definitely not your average, his depth is matched by few. Steadfast about expanding the mind of the people, he declares read books that “exceed your understanding”. He also passed around books from his personal collection so we could write down the titles and more importantly, (for me) feel their energy. Opining we assert financial stability and secure a comfortable life in today’s society, if necessary perhaps, even being “The Spook by the Door” to do so.


For more from A.A. Rashid please visit www.aarashid.com
For Books, Oils, Yoga, Upcoming Events & MORE at Shades of Afrika visit www.shadesofafrika.com

Huey P. Newton -Prelude to Revolution (Prison interview)

Dr. Phil Valentine & Dynamic Certified w/ Myndsett Ent. on Urban Soul Radio

Steve Cokely's Home Going

As I greeted an elderly couple out front on the sidewalk, I could hear the beating of the drums. I gestured for them to follow me to join the family who’d already gathered to escort our beloved teacher, “The Minister of Information”, Steve Cokely home. Upon entering the room the combined energy of our brothers and sisters depicted the Second Line ushering his body to its final resting place. As his soul ascends ... his legacy begins, providing future generations a platform, a foundation on which to stand. The bedrock to grow from and nurture so that WE Can…

Sister Thelma began libations calling on our first ever ancestor extending on to those yet to be born. Furthering our brother through his transition afforded his place among those who have come before us. Her voice pierced with certitude and adoration, averring the ancestor in us all.

Rev. Meri Ka Ra flicked the switch on what is necessary to bring the community together, for doors to open - as needed support - is essential. Brother Abeid sang Steve’s “Anthem”, “I Love My People”! Bringing our family to its feet with his vibration, he initiated the blood flow, grounded the physical and embodied the natural wealth of our existence. As Brutha’s presented the Cokely Family with our Flag one stated, “To Not Remember Him Would Stop The Flow of Other Steve Cokely’s!” His words, this truth… were continuously reiterated throughout the night. 

Steve Cokely (Left) and Sabir Majeed (Right) of Photo Synthesis

Leimert Park 1993, Photographer Malcolm Ali 

Loved ones lined up to share their heart filled stories. The first, a sistah proclaiming he made his transition on 4/11 (“4 1 1”), “He was ALL about information!” Followed by others urging us all to, take our rightful places. Stick to his legacy. Support the Cokely Family as Brutha Steve Cokely has supported his community. Words of endearment came from his heart through their mouths, “keep trying and we will make it.” Expressions of his character illustrated his earthy nature and steadfast disposition. Utterance of his selfless dedication, his way of calling out liars, how he “made sense of everything,” composed a thesis leaving no room to assume just who Brutha Steve Cokely IS. “Radicals meet Radicals”, compelled another as he assured all that came before him spoke the truth about Brutha Steve.

Reverend Meri said it best, Brutha Steve’s appointed duty was to enlighten! Others described him as a master planner, very detailed in all he did. As one of the most influential he not only had Academic but Common sense as well. Cultivating bonds for which words need not be spoken, this National Treasure was lent to us for a purpose. His service to our community will continue to pay the price for the space he occupied. “I Will Never Stop Because of Steve Cokely!” These words, true to so many hearts say, “The Struggle Continues!” With every challenge we become more spiritually powerful. Our consciousness conjoined with lack of connection defeats this agenda.

Unfortunately, many of our teachers “put into the community without putting into themselves.” If OUR community is going to grow we must aid those tilling the soil. Our state of consciousness means nothing if we are unable to move as a unit, such conflicting acts negates the agenda forcing us to serve another’s purpose.

Fast Food, Fat Profits: Obesity in America

Obesity in America has reached a crisis point. Two out of every three Americans are overweight, one out of every three is obese. One in three are expected to have diabetes by 2050.

Minorities have been even more profoundly affected. African-Americans have a 50 per cent higher prevalence of obesity and Hispanics 25 per cent higher when compared with whites.

How did the situation get so out of hand? Josh Rushing explores the world of cheap food for Americans living at the margins.

What opportunities do people have to eat healthy? Who is responsible for food deserts and processed food in American schools?

I recently had the chance to visit the city of Memphis, Tennessee, A city according to the U.S Census, holds the highest poverty rate in the country at 19.4%. Most affected by poverty in the city of Memphis are Hispanics at 38.6% and African Americans at 28.6%, while the rate for white Americans drop all the way down to  9.6%. It was alarming that in the most urban (poor) areas of Memphis is where I found an abundance of fast food and fried food restaurants on just about every corner (Elvis Presley Blvd). Not to mention the plethora of liquor stores on hand. Ironically when i traveled 5 to 10 miles up the road to German Town, a suburban and more affluent part of the city, (Predominantly white) I was able to find an array of alternative food locations with healthier choices on the menu. Subsequently, German Town also brandishes esthetically nicer hospitals, banks, grocery stores etc. One day during my stay I just so happened to catch the local news program and the report was on obesity and how Memphis ranked amongst the highest in the country in terms of obesity. Not surprising, African Americans and Latinos Ranked at the top of the list.
It doesn't take a Rocket scientist to make a simple observation of the most poorest poverty stricken people and see that they are also the most overweight, out of shape and are in poor health. Due to the elements I believe to be strategically put in place all for the financial gain of corporate America and big business. Creating a demographic trap that we continue to feed into based on our economical conditions. One hand washing the other Both washing    the face!
We must go above and beyond the call of duty to educate ourselves on whats taking place in our community, environment and with ourselves. Educate our children on the benefits of a healthy diet and exercise and make the needed sacrifices to ensure an abundant and prosperous future. Peace and HTP.

EMPIRE IN AFRICA : DOCUMENTARY

Located in Western Africa, Sierra Leone is a nation caught in a struggle between extreme poverty and extreme wealth; while diamond mining provides the bulk of the country’s income, most of its people struggle to survive by raising their own crops. In 1991, a civil war broke out in Sierra Leone, with a rebel group called the Revolutionary United Front taking on government forces in a bid for a more just economy and an end to hunger. However, the forces behind Sierra Leone’s mining interests were more interested in protecting their investments than changing the economy, and both the nation’s military and the RUF fell into indiscriminate violence against all parties involved. In all, 70,000 people lost their lives in the nearly 15 years of fighting, while millions lost their homes and many thousands were maimed. Filmmaker Philippe Diaz took a camera crew into Sierra Leone in the midst of the fighting to document the bloodshed and tell the story behind the brutality; The Empire in Africa is the result, which incorporates interviews with politicians and military figures with footage of the mayhem. The Empire in Africa received its North American premiere at the 2006 Slamdance Film Festival.

HOLES IN HEAVEN: H.A.A.R.P Documentary

The late Carl Sagan said (which is related to this documentary): We’ve arranged a global civilization in which most crucial elements profoundly depend on science and technology. We’ve also arranged things so that almost no one understands science or technology. We might get away with it for a while, but sooner or later, this combustible mixture of ignorance and power is going to blow up in our faces. This documentary film poses the question: Are we making Holes in Heaven? HAARP (High Frequency Active Auroral Research Program) is a controversial high frequency radio transmitter, or “ionospheric heater,” which is believed to be descended from the works of Nikola Tesla and is operated by the U.S. Navy/Air Force and Phillip Laboratories in remote Gakona, Alaska. Using HAARP, the military can focus a billion-watt pulsed radio beam into our upper atmosphere, ostensibly for ionospheric research. This procedure will form extremely low frequency waves and send them back to the Earth, enhancing communications with submarines and allowing us to “see” into the Earth, detecting anything from oil reserves to underground missile silos. However, several researchers claim HAARP poses many dangers, including blowing thirty-mile holes in the Earth’s upper atmosphere. They also warn of possible disruption of the subtle magnetic energies of our Earth and ourselves. Holes in Heaven? is a prime example of grassroots filmmaking by producer Paula Randol-Smith and Emmy-winning director Wendy Robbins. Narrated by Martin Sheen, the documentary, investigates HAARP, its history and implications, and examines the dangers and benefits of high and low frequencies and of electromagnetic technology. 

FBI'S WAR ON BLACK AMERICA (Documentary)

Through a secret program called the Counter Intelligence Program (COINTELPRO), there was a concerted effort to subvert the will of the people to avoid the rise of a black Messiah that would mobilize the African-American community into a meaningful political force.

This documentary establishes historical perspective on the measures initiated by J. Edgar Hoover and the FBI which aimed to discredit black political figures and forces of the late 1960′s and early 1970′s.

Combining declassified documents, interviews, rare footage and exhaustive research, it investigates the government’s role in the assassinations of Malcolm X, Fred Hampton, and Martin Luther King Jr. Were the murders the result of this concerted effort to avoid a black Messiah?

Documentary: "Apartheid did not Die"

Apartheid based on race is outlawed now, but the system always went far deeper than that. The cruelty and injustice were underwritten by an economic apartheid, which regarded people as no more than cheap expendable labor. It was backed by great business corporations in South Africa, Britain, the rest of Europe, and the United States. And it was this apartheid based on money and profit to allow a small minority to control most of the land, most of the industrial wealth, and most of the economic power. Today, the same system is called – without a trace of irony – the free market. John Pilger was banned from South Africa for his reporting during the apartheid era. On his return thirty years later with Alan Lowery, he describes the extraordinary generosity of a liberated people, but asks who are the true beneficiaries of a democracy – the black majority or the white minority? Won the Gold Award in the category of ‘Film & Video Production: Political/International Issues’, Worldfest-Flagstaff, 1998; Certificate for Creative Excellence (third place), U.S. International Film & Video Festival, Elmhurst, Illinois, 1999.