Gathering of the Young Masters Harlem, NY 2011

The energy in The National Black Theater surely extended the doors. Sunday, December 18, 2011 three powerful voices; Sara Suten Seti, Brother P.O.L.I.G.H.T. and Dr. Umar Johnson, did what they do best, share knowledge. Walking in a bit late, Seti’s aggressive yet passionate words sunk in, too many of our people have “Nigga-Itis”! Finding no humor in the statement, steadfast in his conviction of the truth, the platform was set.

As Brother Polight took the floor he acknowledged fellow comrades. Stern faces on heads held high, these gentlemen exude a look that’s deceiving. Affirming how expression in our community is deliberately mal-apportioned and misappropriated tarnishing our portrait of self.  Explaining economics as production; creating; the birthing of our households through financial stability, while reminding how misleading language set financial, amongst other, traps. Unswerving allegiance, teamwork and implemented plans pave his foundation and continuous growth.

Once Dr. Umar Johnson’s presence was felt in the building, another sense peaked. Another representation of balance was at the forefront. Another wave on this battle ground we concede as consciousness was to come. He started with the problem! Leaving no room to deny what’s being done to, in, and around our community to manifest oppression, all anyone could do was accept it. Accept it not to bask coercion but to acknowledge and combat it. Use their superficial strategies against them by invoking every one of our leader’s mission statements. Making them one “Black Supremacy” hand book, NOT to control anyone but ourselves! As he reached number nine our time was up. The sigh was that of a choir in unison as this much needed foundation was abruptly deferred due to time constraints.

As dynamic as the Young Masters were, Kisway Ali left an impact greater than any.  The young baker “Brooklyn’s Brownie Girl”,  united the voice of every speaker.  In no way did she show signs of “Nigga-Itis”. As self made C.E.O., she embodied financial creation. Disputing all that holds us back, she embraces all that moves us forward. The nine year old Kisway Ali started baking not long before her 8^th birthday.  As an only child, she loves to read when she’s not baking her “vegan love brownies”. In five years she wants people all over the world to love her brownies. In ten years, she says, she’ll be a famous baker and off to college to become a second grade teacher. The community named her “Brooklyn’s Brownie Girl”. She loved it and added it to her pink and green business cards. This 3^rd grader doesn’t waste her time watching tv. Surprised to learn that she was born on national brownie day (December 8^th) it’s fitting and somewhat prophetic that she simply loves to make brownies. She loves when people eat her brownies because she puts a lot of love in them. Her sweet voice captivated you. Her warm smile gave you comfort. Her innocent eyes give us hope for our youth.

Warm hearts shielded all from the cold Harlem air. Men, Women, and Youth filled seats to be a part of OURstory. The picture of Unity in the Community was painted through the host, speakers, vendors and attendees alike.  These brothers, few of many, are paving the way for change in our community. The necessary change needed for our youth to be free from what plagues most minds in today’s society. Their complementary lectures connected another link for all in attendance. Their words still vibrate days later. This DVD is definitely one for your collection.