#71 Resilient Narrative Unveiled - Nii Ayikwei Parkes

06/17/23 • 39 min

Nii Ayikwei Parkes, an acclaimed Ghanaian-British writer, editor, and a prominent voice among black intellectuals in the UK, delivers a powerful message on the persistent challenges encountered by Black writers. Currently engaged in groundbreaking research on "Philosophical connections between Africa and the African Diaspora in the "New World"" at the Hutchins Center at Harvard University. Parkes eloquently exposes the stifling impact of cliches that plague Black writers. With poignant clarity, he emphasizes the pervasive stereotypes faced by Black writers, shedding light on the unsettling reality that Blacks have been conditioned to view literature through the lens of "whiteness". He offered inspiring solutions and strategies for Black writers to carve their path to success, empowering them to challenge the status quo and reclaim their narratives.
"The people I grew up with in Ghana did not have the experience of seeing themselves as Black, because in my language, there is no word for Black... in terms of describing people, you have dark or light." - Nii Ayikwei Parkes
Nii's latest novel Azúcar, is an atmospheric book, giving so much: music, food, eccentric family legend, the Northern Antilles, West Africa, the scents, and colors of two worlds and the story of a man relocated from one home to another. Azúcar is a new kind of Caribbean novel with a reach beyond the region. Published by Peepal Tree Press.

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#70 Addressing Dementia in the Black Community - Fayron Epps

Fayron Epps, PhD, RN, a nurse with 20+ years’ experience creating culturally relevant programs to reduce health disparities for underserved populations, highlighted significant health findings, negatively impacting the Black community.

Dr. Epps passionately implored patients, their families, caregivers, and spiritual leaders to be engaged, for it is clear the status quo will be insufficient to sustain the community, and the consequences could be dire. The impending threat emphasized the urgency to adapt and collaborate on this new path that ensures the community’s survival and vitality.

“I heard that by 2030, 40% of individuals in America with a diagnosis of Alzheimer's disease or dementia would be Black or Latino – that’s seven years away... This is from a report released by Florida International University and UsAgainstAlzheimer's”. - Fayron Epps, PhD, RN

Dr. Epps can be reached at 678-723-8188 or through email at [email protected].

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#72 Faith Beyond Color - Archbishop Isiah Mcoshwa Simelane

Archbishop Isiah Mcoshwa Simelane, the remarkable, visionary founder and overseer of the Evangelical Gospel Church of South Africa, whose wisdom transcends borders and generations, graciously offered his profound insight in this awe-inspiring interview. The Archbishop shared enlightening perspectives on the pivotal role of missionaries in shaping the lives of Black South Africans. As he delves fearlessly into the depths of truth, he unveiled the poignant reality of a profound lack of trust that pervades the Christian community, transcending the constraints of race. Brace yourself for a captivating exploration as Archbishop Simelane unearthed profound insights, challenged prevailing notions, and ignited a compelling dialogue towards authentic unity and profound reconciliation.
"Forty yeas ago, even though we were living in poverty, things were better then, than now" - Archbishop Isiah Mcoshwa Simelane
(Interview in isiSwati and English)