Global eyes magazine holiday edition 2012

gggggloballoballoballoballobal eeeeeyyyyyeseseseses4thQUARTERDecember 2012

Manitoba African and Caribbean Quarterly Magazine

Diversity equalsInclusion

New Horizon Bandringing in the season -Mr. Fernandes sang arendition of Nat KingCole`s Christmas Song

Cde. Wade Kojo Williams1949-2012

HAPPY HOLIDAYS TO ALL OUR READERS

Former Winnipeg Blue Bomber Boyd Barrett tiesthe knot with long time sweetheart Diane

Omoniyi

Bridegrooms and bridesmaids all in a row

New HorizonBand

Global Eyes Magazine Holiday Edition 2012 2

Remembering Comrade Wade Kojo Williams

I think there is consensus in ourcommunity that Comrade Wade KojoWilliams Sr. championed the cause ofjustice and equality especially justice forBlack people and those similarly situated.As a writer once said at the end of theday we have to ask ourselves, “Have Ilived, have I made a difference and have Iloved?” To all three of these questionsCde. Williams would have no troublegiving a resounding yes. As Pastor Layne said at Cde Williamsviewing at Richfield Church you eitherloved Wade or you hated him. Eventhough there are a lot of people on eitherside of the fence I think the commonground has to be that he made adifference, he was passionate about Blackliberation and he was fearless in hiscriticism of anyone whom he saw asstanding in the way of what is rightfullyBlacks. I admired the man even though Ipersonally have discussed with Cde

Williams inmanyconversationsthat while Iadmired him Idid not like someof the ways inwhich heresolved orprovokedconflicts. He wasa man who didnot live his lifebased on thegood opinions ofothers and thataccording toMaslow is one ofthe attributes ofan actualizedperson. Those ofus who want tobe liked and saythings that make

others like us even though we may notbelieve in it are the diplomats and there isroom for all kinds when it comes tocommumity building. In community building we needpeople on the front lines and people inthe backroom and people to do damagecontrol. Wade was definitely a frontliner. He sounded the call and peoplelistened. Our political leaders listened. Even though Chief of Police DevonClunis has achieved his success throughhis hard work and dedication to policeservice, credit also must be given to CdeWilliams who pounded on the door ofthe Mayor and the Chief of Police foryears and stressed need for Black policeofficers in the force. He helped to breakdown barriers. He took cases on behalfof people to the Human RightsCommission and according to him weresuccessful. Cde. Williams took on the toughestjobs for the underdog. People who

were suffering from perceived orreal racism in our community,knew they could call on Wadeanytime and he would go to batfor them. There are not manylike Wade around.His imposing stature carriedover in his psychic stature aswell. He was towering in voiceand passion and made people situp and listen. A long-time communityactivist who fought for peoplein the local African andCaribbean community, joined insolidarity with othercommunities that faceddiscrimination, a man initiatedamd organized Black HistoryMonth every February for aquarter-century has left us in ahurry to his eternal home. Hewill be terribly missed. May hissoul rest in peace.

Cde. Wade Kojo Williams- The Calypso Monarch

Global Eyes Magazine Holiday Edition 2012 3 3

ReflectionBeatrice Watson

Do not grumble when others getpromoted and you don't. You need tofind out what they are doing right andcopy that. New York Times editor AdamBryant has interviewed more than 200CEOs for his Corner Office column.Here is a distillation of what hediscovered. The first [quality] is passion andcuriosity. That really refers to a deepsense of engagement with the world -- aquestioning mind. [People who exhibitthis quality] are interested in people,interested in things. When they go into asituation, they try to figure out, "Howdoes this work and how can it be madeto work better?" The second one is battle-hardenedconfidence, which really refers tohaving a track record of facing downadversity and knowing what you're

capable of, because at all points inour lives we get put on the hot seatin stressful situations. These CEOshad faced down that adversity, andthere was that quiet confidence.They knew what they were capableof. The third one is team smarts,which is the organizationalequivalent of street smarts.... Youhave a good antenna for meetingdynamics and a good sense of howto bring people together. The fourth one is what I call asimple mindset, and that reallyrefers to the ability to distill a lotof information down into the oneor two or three things that matter.When you stand up in front of agroup of employees, you don'twant to say to them, "These are the

12 things I want you to think aboutthis year." You really want to givethem one, two or three becausethat's what people can remember.On those days, CEOs really earntheir paycheck if they can take avery complicated portfoliocompany and say, "These are thethree things that matter." The last one is fearlessness,which is really just a bias towardaction -- not recklessness, but awillingness to take risks and to seethings that need to be turned upsidedown or inside out to beimproved. The CEOs that I'veinterviewed had reverence in theirvoices when they talk about thisquality of fearlessness.(Knowledge @Wharton,December 2012)

Five Qualities of Effective Leaders

While we celebrate with loved ones andfamily say a silent prayer for those whoare in some unfortunate situations at thistime, some may know no peace, who aretrapped in the prison of domesticviolence, who have lost their children tothe Child Welfare System or to sexpredators, people who live in refugeecamps waiting, waiting for their day offreedom to come, children who wouldnot see a meal or receive any presents.Think of them and then be grateful thatyou do not have to face any of the abovecircumstance.If we each say a silent prayer we mayraise the vibration in the world andmaybe for that day, for that hour, the

darkness in the hearts of thesepeople may life and a little lightmay shine through and touch theirhearts in a special way. There ispowerful energy in thoughts bothfor the thinker and those thoughtabout. Are there people who are shut-ins, senior citizens who has nochildren around? Can you reachout to some of these people letthem know that they are caredabout. There are so many gifts of theheart that money cannot buy thanyou can offer to your fellowman.

Maybe this is the year you willfeel the fear and do it anyway .Make a difference. We all will bethe better for it.


Global Eyes is an independent magazine devoted topromoting cultural awareness of the African andCaribbean communities of Manitoba and to highlight theissues and concerns of these communities. It also aimsand promoting cultural diversity and appreciation. Itsmandate is to be a quarterly publication featuring articles,and the achievements of local, national and internationalpersonalities that are of interest to the African/Caribbeancommunity, promoting healthy living by providing healthtips and recipes as well as editorials with African/Carib-bean sensibilities and letters to the editor. The Magazine isproduced under a volunteer editorial committee thatassists with proof-reading, publicity and distribution.

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IN THIS ISSUERegulars:Briefs p6Letter to my children p11Global Counselor p11Gaffin wid Buddyp26Healthwise 18Zizi the continuing story p20Leg Up p19

P30 Piecing togetherMemories 30

P2 Remembering CdeWade K. Williams p3 - Effective Leadershipp7 CEC Open Housep9 Diaspora Newsp10 Christmas memoriesp13 Diane & Boydp14 Margaret’s Birthdayp15 Shirley’s Kitchenp17 Making a Differencep18 Yisa Akinbolajip20 Drink? don’t Drivep21 Eritrean Advocacyp23 Employment Equityp24 Parenting Tipsp26 CCOM Seniors Awardp27 MHRC AwardsP28 Strangers in NewHomeland Conference

Poetry By Neil p21

ATTENTIONGEM would like to invite stories aboutCde Wade Kojo Williams for the BlackHistory Month Edition- it could be apoem, an experience anything thatwould help us celebrate the life of thisgiant who lived among us. Please call477-155 if you want to discuss yourarticle before writing it.: Deadline -February 15, 2013.Thanks.


GLOBAL EYES

MAGAZINE

Neil Pitamber,Caribbean Shield

Lara Badmus, LLB

A prolific writer, poetand owner, CaribbeanShield

GEM’s Regular Contributors

Discipline CounselThe Law Society of

Manitoba

Distributed to local businesses, and inWinnipeg and via email to individualsin Manitoba and former Manitobans invarious parts of the world.

To receive Global Eyes by mail pleasesend a cheque for $15.00 to:Global Eyes Magazine671 Rathgar AvenueWinnipeg, Manitoba R3L 1G6Phone: [email protected]

All contents are (c) 2011 and may notbe reprinted without the express orwritten consent of the author or Editor.

Editor: Beatrice Watson

Out and About

Police Chief Devon Clunis andManitoba Human RightsCommission Chair, Jerry Woods atthe wrap-up of the RCAPS Projectwhere Chief Clunis and two othermembers of the Winnipeg Policeservices promised to work withcommunities to combat crime.

Congratulation to HumanRights Commitment

Award Winners

This beautiful glass scuplturewas commissioned especiallyfor the Human RightsCommitment Awards Winners2012. See Story on p27


Briefs Local

On December 4th a group ofManitoba community organizations,along with the federal and provincialgovernments launched a challengeto youths (ages 14 to 20) to join aglobal conversation on how to fightracism.The event was held in theConvocation Hall at the Universityof Winnipeg. The challenge will leadup to the United Nations Day for theElimination of RacialDiscrimination, which takes place onMarch 21, 2013. Three youthsparticipated in a panel discussionwhich focussed on their personalexperiences of racism, hosted byWab Kinew, Director of IndigenousInclusion, University of Winnipeg. React to Racism is the result of apartnership between the Universityof Winnipeg, the NewcomersEmployment and EducationDevelopment Services Inc.(NEEDS), the Treaty RelationsCommission of Manitoba (TRCM),Ma Mawi Wi Chi Itata, Seven OaksSchool Division, the ManitobaAssociation of Rights and Liberties(MARL), Ka Ni Kanichihk,Manitoba Education and AboriginalAffairs and Northern DevelopmentCanada.

Members of the former UNWomen are planning anothermeeting in January to look atoptions for continuing to worktogether. There is a possibility anew organization that could belinked to the Institute forInternational Women’s Rightswould be considered, accordingto Mary Scott’s advisory. Marilou McPhedran, formerPrincipal of the Global College ishelping the group formulate aplan. Scott stated that the group hasdeposited the archievabledocuments from the UN Womento the Manitoba Archives forposterity. They also produced aMemory Book that includespictures, quotes and documentsabout the Winnipeg Chapter ofthe Canadian Committee forUNIFEM/UNWomen. You canview this at http://www.mixbook.com/photo-books/interests/memory-book-

UN Women MovingForwardRacism Challenge to

YouthChallenge Info(Take the Challenge and wincash prizes)

It’s time to speak up on racismand discrimination in oursociety. It affects everyone, butignoring it won’t make it goaway.Take the React to RacismChallenge. Tell us how racismhas affected you and offer upsome ideas on what we can do toend discrimination. Create apiece of writing, artwork ormultimedia that captures yourreaction and solution, and thenvisit our contest page to submityour piece. Vote for yourfavourite and encourage yourfriends and family to do thesame.After the contest closes, ourjudges will choose one grandprize and one runner up fromeach of the three submissioncategories: writing, artwork andmultimedia. First and secondplace category winner prizes of$500 and $300 will be awarded.

When can I submit?The contest is open from 9:00 AMCST December 4, 2012 until 11:59PM CST February 15, 2013.Who can participate?Manitoba residents aged 14 to 20.You can submit as an individual oras a group. You may only submitone entry.For more info go to the website at /www.reacttoracism.ca

Wab Kinew questions youths about theirexperiences. L-R Wab Kinew, Nikki Spence,Behnam Belzxael & Brennan Lundie

Holiday Cheer at theLegislature

Our MLAs harmonized beautifully insome great Christmas songs for thepublic enjoyment. Each year the open house givescitizens the opportunity to enjoytheir politicians and free goodies.


Editorial - Take One

Citizen Equity and Diversity (CEC) Holiday Soiree

The Winnipeg Citizen Equity and Diver-sity Committee’s annual Open House isalways a pleasant treat. Unfortunately,the guest speaker, Chief Devon Clunis

could not be present but there were lotsof community representatives whoshowed up to make the event successful.It is a great networking opportunity, toconnect with other like-mindedindividuals and also to learn what theCommittee is doing to promote harmonyin Winnipeg. CEC Chair, CouncillorMike Pagtakhan bade farewell. He hasbeen tramsferred to the EPC. HeatherFlynn Chair of CMARD (CanadianMunicipalities against RacialDiscrimination) provided the audiencewith a report on the work of thatCommittee and its future plans.

Councillor Mike Pagtakhan (r)Member of the Ex. Policy C’tee

Heather Flynn (l)

Cde WadeKojo Williams

S r death came as ashock. Hebrought the

community together to reflect on whatit means to have Cde. Williams out ofthe picture. He was one of thosefigures whom you felt would be aroundfor a long time, but God had otherplans. His importance as a communityleader or builder as he preferred to callhimself was recognized by the mediacoverage he received upon his death. Even though many did not see eyeto eye with Cde Williams, no one

could deny his tremendouscontribution to the development ofour community not only politically butin the entertainment industry. Wadeplayed hard and worked hard. Hewas instrumental in Blackorama, inthe Calypso competition, in Councilfor Caribbean Organizations ofManitoba Inc., Black History Monthand Martin Luther King birthdaycelebration. He supported communityorganizations and that was why hestaunchly refused to take BlackHistory Month celebrations tocommercial hotels but held in at theJamaica Hall where it was catered by

the members so that the money remainsin the community to help build it. Bydoing so the event was affordable andnot subject to the inflation thatcommercial venues demands. By beinglocal Cde Williams opened these eventsto those who can least afford.Among the women he respectedincluded Dr. June James, MavisMcLaren and Diva Yasmine Lewiswhom he mentored for many years. Ifyou are in his good books he is fiercelyloyal to you. His barber was Smithy aGhanaian Canadian and Smithy paid amoving tribute to his friend at the pre-

contd on p 18


I would ask all the HonourableMembers to join me inacknowledging the great work of theCongress of Black Women ofManitoba, and in congratulating thisyear’s award recipients. Asexceptional individuals andinspirational leaders of tomorrow,we wish you all the best in yourfuture pursuits. Thank you, Mr.Speaker. Mr. Speaker, it is my pleasure torise today to honour both a deservingorganization, and four women whoare proud to call Manitoba their newhome. As such, I wish to pay tributeto the Congress of Black Women ofManitoba for the amazing work theydo, and also to their scholarshipwinners of 2012 – who are with ustoday in the Gallery. The Congress of Black Women ofManitoba is a non-profitorganization which works topromote the consciousness,education, and rights of BlackWomen in Manitoba. Founded onInternational Women’s Day in 1981,the Congress has since grown to amembership of approximately 140formal members.

To address its mandate, theCongress employs a variety ofprograms focusing on cross-culturalrelations, effective employment,health, and consumer awareness.Additionally, the Congress works topromote education, familiarizingwomen with the educational systemsand institutions in Manitoba. It is onthis note that I wish to congratulatethe Congress’ scholarship winners of2012. At the 14th annual Cultural UnityDinner and Dance, four deservingyoung women were honoured withthe “Award of Merit for OutstandingAchievement.” Displaying greatcharacter, volunteerism, andacademic achievement, the winners,who are all studying at theUniversity of Manitoba are: Ms.Sheneik Wedderburn, fromJamaica, majoring in clinicalpsychology; Ms. Dorismart Okeke,from Nigeria, majoring in socialwork; Ms. Idunnu Adeojo, fromNigeria, majoring in science with afocus in neurology; and Ms.Okeoghene Ojekudo, from Nigeria,who is majoring in science with afocus in microbiology.

Congress of Black Women’s Work Recognized by MLA BonnieMitchelson in the House of Commons

I would ask all the HonourableMembers to join me inacknowledging the great work ofthe Congress of Black Women ofManitoba, and in congratulatingthis year’s award recipients. Asexceptional individuals andinspirational leaders of tomorrow,we wish you all the best in yourfuture pursuits. Thank you, Mr.Speaker.

Guyanese-born United Nationsofficial Baroness Amos is seekingUS$8.5 billion to fund emergencyresponse programmes forhumanitarian aid to millions ofpeople in the Caribbean and aroundthe world in 2013. “There is no let-up in humanitarian needs in theworld,” said Valerie Amos, theUnder-Secretary-General forHumanitarian Affairs and EmergencyRelief Coordinator, speaking toreporters after she and other seniorUN and humanitarian aid officialslaunched the appeal.

Baroness Valerie AmosCalls for Humanitarian Aid

Hon. Bonnie Mitchelson (far right) with her colleagues and the Scholarship Winners


TheCanadianCoalition for theRights ofChildrenhonoured LostLyrics with anaward inspired

by the UN Convention on the Rights ofthe Child. Lost Lyrics was presented withThe Article 12 Award for exercising voiceand participation for children’s rights.Congratulations to the team Jeff Tanaka,Ghettochildsz Kiontay, QuentinVerCetty TheArtivist, Isiah Lea andGusai for being there to accept the award.“Lost Lyrics is an award winningprogram We are a mobile and innovativelearning incubator that empowersthousands of young people to create abridge of knowledge between the streetsand the classroom. We locate critical self-empowerment as an integral component tothe learning experience. Students definethe curriculum and create a positive andreflective self-image while having funusing arts-based tools of education. We area mobile and innovative learning incubatorthat empowers thousands of young peopleto create a bridge of knowledge betweenthe streets and the classroom. We locatecritical self-empowerment as an integralcomponent to the learning experience.Students define the curriculum and create apositive and reflective self-image whilehaving fun using arts-based tools ofeducation; mobile and innovative learningincubator that empowers thousands ofyoung people to create a bridge ofknowledge between the streets and theclassroom. We locate critical self-empowerment as an integral componentto the learning experience. Studentsdefine the curriculum and create apositive and reflective self-image whilehaving fun using arts-based tools ofeducation” Amanda Paris is the founderof this Program..

Positive Black Stories. By HeruG. Duenas share this incrediblefeat of three young Nigerian girlsaged 15-16 who invented anelectricity generator powered byurine which is capable ofproducing six hours of powerusing one litre of urine. Theyoung women: Duro-AinaAdebola, 14, AkindeleAbiola,14, Faleke Oluwatoyin,and 15-year-old Bello Eniolapresented their invention at theMaker Faire Africa entre-preneurs event, in Lagos,southern Nigeria on 5 and 6November 2012. Even though Nigerian boasts ahealthy oil economy, more thanhalf of its 162, 000 millioncitizens do not have access toelectricity and those who do arenot guaranteed to have it everyday.According to Heru’s article the,urine is put into an electrolyticcell, which cracks the urea intonitrogen, water, and hydrogen.The hydrogen goes into a waterfilter for purification, which thengets pushed into the gas cylinder.The gas cylinder pusheshydrogen into a cylinder ofliquid borax, which is used toremove the moisture from thehydrogen gas. This purifiedhydrogen gas is pushed into thegenerator, and one litre of urineprovides six hours of electricity.

The first banknotes featuring the faceof Nelson Mandela have gone intocirculation in South Africa.They are the first South Africannotes to bear the image of a blackperson - they replace notes with wildanimals and rural and industrialscenes. President Jacob Zuma says thebanknotes were a “humble gesture”to express South Africa’s “deepgratitude”. Mr. Mandela, 94, is one of theworld’s best loved figures afterspending 27 years in prison forfighting apartheid.Reserve Bank governor Gill Marcuswas the first to use the newbanknotes when she spent 160 rand,about $18 (£12) on some nuts,beetroot, a watermelon and acucumber at her local shop in thecapital, Pretoria. She said that Mr. Mandela wasdelighted with the design. She also noted that South Africatries to update its currency everyseven years for security reasons.Mr. Mandela’s face is on one side ofall the new banknotes, while the“Big Five” animals - lion, leopard,rhino, buffalo and elephant - remainon the reverse. He won the Nobel Peace Prize in1993 for his campaign against whiteminority rule and was electedpresident the following year beforestepping down after a single term.

Banknotes featuresNelson Mandela

Lost Lyrics wins Award Diaspora NewsGirl in Science


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Black cake, pepperpot, garlic pork,sorrel drink and ginger beer. Say thosewords to any Guyanese and they willimmediately know you are talkingabout Christmas. Making some or allof these foods is the norm atChristmas for Guyanese of all faiths.Christmas preparations for many startmonths before Christmas when fruitfor the black cake is minced andmixed with rum and wine. WhileBlack cake is usually made atweddings and pepperpot can be eatenyear round, garlic pork is generallyonly made at Christmas.Weeks before Christmas day, houseswould be thoroughly cleaned andpainted, curtains would be changedand the homes would be decoratedwith Christmas trees and lights.In the shopping areas, there would becrowds and masquerade bands. Themasquerade bands would performoutside Fogartys and Guyana Storesand along Regent Street.Many Catholics would attend a

Christmas novena of masses at5:00 a.m. for nine consecutivedays before Christmas.A few days before Christmasday, the black cake and poundcake would be baked. The garlicpork would also be set and thepepper pot, ginger beer andsorrel drink prepared.The streets in downtownGeorgetown would be busy lateinto the night on Christmas Evewith people getting last minutegifts. For Christians, attendingChurch on Christmas Eve is amust.Much like Christmas in manyparts of the world, childrenwould eagerly await gifts fromSanta Claus.The wonderful, distinctivearoma of garlic pork andpepperpot from all theneighbours on Christmasmorning is one that I miss the

most. These dishes are eaten withfreshly baked plaited bread.Christmas lunch for many would becomprised of ham, macaroni andcheese, baked chicken and stuffing,roast pork, roast beef.Many Guyanese make cook-up rice onold year’s night as it is believed thisbrings good luck.The Christmas Season in Guyana endswith a bang on old year’s night wheremany people go to Church and headoff to parties which would go until thewee hours of the morning and wherebreakfast of garlic pork and pepperpotalong with fresh bread would beprovided.Submitted by: Andrea Collins-Fitzpatrick, LL.B.Andrea makes black cake, garlic porkand pepperpot every Christmas toenjoy a Guyanese Christmas on thePrairies.

My recollections of Christmas in Guyana

During Diwali, we pray with thefamous words of the Bhadara GyakaUpanicas follows :Lead us from untruth to truthLead us from darkness to lightLead us from death to immortalityMay the words that we speak bealways free, but free also in the mostprofound religious sense: free fromthe intention to hurt, free fromfalsehood, free from disrespect, andfree from violence. May our words bepeaceful, truthful, respectful andhelpful.Hari Singh(Vancouver)

DIWALI MESSAGE(A major Hindu festival of lights whichcelebrates good over evil) Diwali falls ona new moon day during Oct. or Nov.

Nov. 3 2013 isthe date of thenext Diwali


RegularsLetter to my children

Global Counsellor

My dear children, Christmas has come to symboliseexpensive gifts, food, parties, jinglebells and lots of shopping till youdropping behaviours. It is notsurprising therefore that people getmajor meltdowns during this seasonwhich tends to start earlier every year.Where is Jesus in all this? Thecommercial sector has hijacked this,one of the holiest holidays inChristendom, and made it into cheapmoney changing activity in which Jesusbecomes background noise. It remindsme of the time when Jesus went intothe temple of God, and cast out all themthat sold and bought in the temple, andoverthrew the tables of the moneychangers, and the seats of them that solddoves (Matthew 21:12). Jesus is said to have been bornaround this time and signalled thefulfilment of a promise that God madeto man. That he will send his son to

save mankind. Christ’s cominginto the world was not accidentalbut rather purposeful. To theBlessed Virgin Mary, the angelsaid. “Thou shalt call His nameJesus, for He shall save Hispeople from their sins.” JesusHimself said of His own missionupon one occasion, “The Son ofMan came to seek and to save thatwhich was lost.” God’sredeeming love was at the veryheart, and the main reason forJesus’ birth. “God so loved theworld that He gave His onlybegotten Son for its redemption.”This is the reason we call thestory of Christ’s life the gospel,that is, good news. God’stenderest love revealed itself insuch a marvellous way to savehumanity. Before Christ’sembodiment of human life, the

people knew God as a terrible Judge.Jesus put a human face to the Creatorand his life was an example of howman should live. For me, it does notmatter if all the circumstances aroundJesus’ birth is accurate, the fact is thathe was a good person and worthemulating. And at this time wecelebrate the birth of this Saviour.I liked the simpler times and notbecause of my age, there wassomething peaceful and spiritualabout Christmas celebrations, therewas a sense of optimism in the air .People shared what they had, cake,food, fruits, vegetables, not storebought goods. Today many peoplesay they dread the holidays becauseits highlights their poverty. Theybecome sad at Christmas, which isthe opposite effect. Anyway you havea wonderful Christmas.Love always, mom

Dear globalcounselor,Christmas is on us again and I ambeginning to feel the dread. I have nofamily here and I am bit of a loner butat this time of year I feel more alonethan ever. I know it is because I feel Ishould be with people. I get noinvitation to anyone`s home. I amfrom the Caribbean community. Iknow there are usually communityevents but there is nothing onChristmas Day. I feel there should besomething at the Centre for peoplelike me who are alone and would benice to have an option to eat withother people. This is not only for mealone but I am sure there are otherslike me out there who have nobodyand spend this day by themselves. Isuffer from a mental problem - social

anxiety disorder - which makesit even more difficult to pushmyself because of this innerdread of not fitting in orknowing what to say. Do youhave any suggestions on how Ican cope this Christmas. I readyour column and I like youradvice that you give to people.Anxious

Dear Anxious,My heart goes out to you first ofall. You are not alone. There aremany people in your situation.Since you recognize that youhave a mental illness, I wonder ifyou are taking medication or

counselling to overcome the limita-tions this put on you. If you are not Iwould strongly urge you to get helpand lead a fuller life. You deserve afull life. Secondly, my best tip to you indealing with the holiday blues is tofind people who are worst off thanyou and reach out to help them.Enlist your volunteer help in one ofthe places that feed those who areless fortunate than you and me - thehomeless, the poor. Helping peopleless fortunate than yourself may helpyou to feel much better, You may thensee just how much worst your lifecould be. On the other hand, youcan invite somone to your home thisyear. Have a Merry Christmas.


In Your Back Yard

More than 25 participants showed upfor the Canada World Youth forum onNovember 23, 2012 at Menno SimonsCollege to raise awareness on Africanrefugees in Israel who are facingviolence, discrimination and arbitrarydetention. “After having gone througha terrifying journey to Israel, theAfrican refugees in the country aregreeted with rejection and continue toface deportation or threat ofdeportation. They are seen as‘infiltrators’ and social ‘cancer”alluded Weyni Abraha one of theorganizers of the event. The evening was spent hearing andsharing stories of refugees about theirjourney and the pitfalls that awaitthose who are still struggling to find aplace of peace and rest. There werestudent human rights and peaceactivists. A documentary film made byAljazeera on the odds refuges face inthe region was seen prior to the eventand was the subject of discussion. Abraha said that she could not rest inpeace while her brothers and sistersback home are struggling, that shemust speak out on their behalf and leteveryone know the difficultiesrefugees face in their attempt to findfreedom.

Canada World YouthRaise Awareness ofPlight of Refugees

Merveille Mandianga a 15 year oldyouth attends Nelson McIntyreSchool and is involved in theCongress of Black Women’s NewHorizon Project that pairs a youthwith a senior to learn public-speaking skills,. He made his parentsLiliane Biti and father BaudouinDiazence very proud when theyrecently went to the school to hearhim speak to his class. “He did a very good job, we arevery proud of him” said Lili to whichhis father Baudouin agreed. His teacher said she was also proud

of Merveille and liked the wayhe started out with a question toget the audience participation.She said it is always morechallenging to speak to yourpeers which she creditedMerveille for having the cour-age to do. Merveille was mentored byBeatrice Watson who said shewas pleased with Merveille’sMadianga maturity, dedicationand his enthusiasm about beinga person who can inspire othersto do their best.

Demonstrationsat theManitobalegislature toraiseawareness ofthe plight ofAfricanrefugees andothers

Ms Leslie MacCorby (teacher) Merveille Mandianga, Lili Biti (mom) andBaudouin Diazence (father)

Thanks to all our faithful financialsupporters, volunteer writers, advertisers,printer. Without your help andcontribution this magazine would not havelasted this long, almost 20 years.Have yourselves a Merry Christmas and avery happy and prosperous New Year


Bridging the gap between the motherland and Diaspora AfricanOur African ancestors are dancing withdelight at the coming together in matri-mony of two of their children havereunited . Our African ancestors foughtslavery in spite of death that loomedover their heads to be free, becausethey had a dream that one day theirchildren, truncated from their rootswould find their way home.Congratulations to this couple whohave caused the hearts of ourancestors to stir with joy andfulfilment. The groom of Caribbean heritagewas able to experience a culturalmarriage as it would have beenperformed had he never left Africa. The wedding was beautiful and heldat the Centro Caboto centre. Familyand friends came from far and near towitness the event. There were lots of food and drinksand of course dancing.

The rain of money on the bride andgroom

Bridesmaid in traditional Nigeriandresses and head wraps

Today's Nigerian weddings tendto follow the Western styletraditions which means that theweddings are held in Churcheswith dresses, suit, reception etc.But during the reception thecouple usually wear traditionalclothes have traditional food and acombination of American andtraditional music. Here twodifferent cultures are meeting andthis is something that has becomemore common in the Nigerianweddings today. The Westernsocieties are influencing theAfrican societies with thetraditional Western weddingnorms with white dresses,receptions etc.

Chief IsaacOmoniyi andwife Lola,Bride &Groom, andVenzieStewart,Groom’smom

Diane & Boyd


Margaret’sSurprise Birthday

Party

Laying of hands by no less thanthree Pastors.

Gottcha!

Confidentlywalking

Seems like she smelled a rat

Heulwen Jones-Strachan sings forher mother-in-law

Margaret’s birthday Cake

Margaret’s family

Margaret Strachan went weakkneed when guests jumped out ather in a chorus of “surprise”.Margaret was tricked by her owndaughter Leisha to cut short hervisit to a friend and rush down tothe Centre to open the door for aPerforming Arts meeting.Conscientious as Margaret is shewillingly took off to the Centre,while those at the Centre waited indelicious anticipation. It was wellworth the wait to see Margaret’sface. It was as if she was aboutready to faint as she bent over andheld her knees. “It’s payback time” she said aftercatching her breath. She had donethe same to her husband when heturned 70 years and he promised toreturn the favour. There was thatglitter of victory in his eyes. It was a lovely party, at theCaribbean Cultural Centre. Theplace was packed with people withwhom Margaret had either worked,went to Church , sat on Boards, orfriends from the Caribbeancommunity. One of her favouritecousins travelled from out ofprovince to be with her. There were

lots to eat and drink, dancing, and a cakemade especially for Margaret that listed allthe roles she plays or has played over theyears. There was a slide presentation of herlife up to this point. The one striking photowas Margaret sleeping on the couchobviously exhausted after all her volunteerwork. “The couch sleeper.” Global Eyes Magazine wishes Margaretmany more years ahead in great health. MayGod grant her whatever her heart desires.


From the Kitchen CornerHello my readers of Global Eyes,My name is Samantha Duncan I am special needs Ihave learning and speech disorder but if you seeme now you would never know. Throughout my life people treated me with norespect and bullying me because of my specialneeds and then one of my teachers and other adultstold my mother and myself I would never gobeyond my line. People were giving up on me before giving me achance. When I got older and was almost done withschool I saw people was doing same thing theydoing to me to other special needs. I don’t want any special needs kids or adults feelthe same way I felt when I was put down so I’msupporting special needs awareness and maybe oneday I can be positive speaker to help special needspeople. Like me, they can do anything that they putthere minds to. I want to challenge people inschool, home and even in work places to give us achance. Thank you for reading.

Letter to the Editor

Second time aroundIt was voting time in the U.S.A. againAs the race for the presidency began.Mitt Romney, the Republican opponentThought he had a chance, and wasDetermined to unseat the Democratic President.So up and down the country he prancedHolding babies and kissing grannies just for votesAnd the same time, at Obama he gloats.

My television set I feared to watchAs time ticked by so slowly, tick, tock, tick, tock.Barrack’s opponent was closing in, ready for the killIt was like a game of cat and mouseAs Romney so badly wants toClaim the white house.

Oh Barack, Barack, how I squirmedAs Romney votes seemed to be standing firm.My television set was now turned off,For Barack, I could not handle those words “lost”.I sent a pray up aboveFor God to send him down his love.

And pretty soon all hell broke looseAnd someone called with the good news,History has repeated itself once moreBarack Obama has conquered another ‘Four”As President and Commander in Chief, he stated hisclaimYes, He’s back in the white house once again.

Despite all the fury and the logos they displayedSuch as “no drama, Obama”Or “too cool for school”I’ll just add mine to the pack,“You’re back, Obama, and that’s a fact”(Shirley Alleyne Nov/2012)

Louise Simbandumwe, Rhodes Scholar, is nostranger to the immigrant refugee community. Inboth her paid and unpaid work Louise is on the pulseof the needs and concerns of the immigrantcommunity in particular the refugee community.Louise was a young girl when she came with herfamily more than 20 years ago and has a deepappreciation and gratitude to Canada for openingdoors to her family who were refugees fromBurundi after her mother Marceline Ndyumvire lostalmost all the members of her family. Louise in aaccepting the Manitoba Human Rights CommitmentAward 2012, recognized the strength of her motherand her continual support to her children throughoutthe most difficult period of their lives. Louise said she was pleased with the recognitionand humbled by it but said she hasn’t been workingalone. “Doing community-based human rights work,you’re always doing it with other people,” she said.“It always feels a little odd to be singled out. All the

Cont`d on p30

Rhodes Scholar and Activists winsAward

What happens to a dream deferred? Does it dry up likea raisin in the sun?Langston Hughes

Quotable Quote


Obedience my friend, not sacrificeTo the Book of Life I turnIt is a document no one should burnIn it are words of life no one must spurnAnd in it we find solace to our concernYou shall have no other gods but the AlmightyOtherwise we’ll fall for any mere mightyYou shall not make for yourself an imageOtherwise we’ll forever be in bondageYou shall worship not an idol but GodIn whom there is no deception or fraudThe agape love is to a thousand generationsBut to Him alone you must give all the adorationsHis awesome name we must not misuseIf we must escape abuseSabbath day we must keep holyIn order to wipe clean our follyHonor your father and your mother,Remember their love is comparable to no otherAnd for you to live long in your God-given landsBegin to appreciate what God is giving into your handsHeed the warning that you shall not murderIf you want to avoid the destructive thunderTo the command you must heed and commit no adulteryIf you really want to escape devil’s mockeryThe deaf to this shall taste enemy’s crueltyBut the wise shall enjoy the beauty of God’s noveltyObey the command that you shall not stealIf you seriously expect your pain to healBear not false witness against your neighborIn order to see abundant return on your laborCovet not your neighbor’s belongings and wifeSo as to experience unusual flourishing in your lifeWe are called to obedience my friend, not sacrificeOne that makes your God-given destiny preciseNot convenience but obedience that gives your lifespiceA life that can never experience despise.by: Sunday Olujuku

McGill music student James Clarke offersencouragement to a young performer in a student-run McGill program which uses the power of musicto transform the lives of disadvantaged children—aswell as those of their volunteer teachers. With support from the McGill Alma Mater Fund,the Montreal Heart of the City Piano Program(MHCPP) provides free piano lessons to buddingyoung musicians from four inner-city elementaryschools.Each week, dozens of pupils receive a 30-minutepiano class from an MHCPP volunteer. Thesestudents are also expected to practice regularlyduring lunch period or after school in classroomsequipped with keyboards (supplied by Yamaha MusicCanada) and music books (courtesy of Steve’s MusicMontreal). While the program focuses on developing the kids’musical abilities, the students also pick up suchinvaluable life skills as dedication, self-discipline andthe confidence to face an audience. “I’ve been able to see the progress that mystudents have made and the benefit of the program totheir self-esteem,” says neuroscience student SarahHanafi, summed up his experience succinctly. “WhenI play the piano and I hear the sound, I get veryhappy.”(Information culled from article by Richard Andrews ofMcGill News)

Making a difference to those lessfortunate

Bringing the gifts that my ancestorsgave, I am the dream and the hope ofthe slave.I riseI riseI rise.Maya Angelou


HEALTHWISEGinger Beer - Tastes Goodand it’s good for you.

Ingredients

1 oz piece fresh ginger root, peeledand crushedPeel of a medium lime1/3 cup fresh strained lime juice½ cup sugar3¾ cups boiling water1 teaspoon active dry yeast¼ cup lukewarm water (110°F to115°F)Preparation• Starting one week ahead,combine the ginger, lime peel, limejuice and sugar in a large bowl, andpour a boiling water over. Stir untilthe sugar dissolves completely, andlet the mixture cool to roomtemperature.• In a small bowl or cup,sprinkle the yeast over the lukewarmwater. Let stand for 2 - 3 minutes,then stir to dissolve the yeastcompletely. Set this small bowl in awarm, draft-free place for about 5minutes, or until the mixture beginsto bubble and almost double involume. (If no bubbles develop,discard the mixture and repeat theprocess with fresh yeast.• Add the yeast to the gingermixture and stir thoroughly.• Cover the bowl tightly withfoil or plastic wrap, and place it in awarm, draft-free place. Let themixture ferment for a week, stirringevery other day. After a week it willbe mildly carbonated.• Strain the ginger beerthrough a fine sieve and, using afunnel, pour the liquid into a 1-quartglass or ceramic bottle and cork ittightly.

• Let the beer ferment atroom temperature for anadditional 3 or 4 days, thenrefrigerate until thoroughlychilled.• Serve the ginger beer inchilled tumblers, with orwithout ice cubes.

ZucchiniCheddar cheeseFlourBaking SodaBaking PowderNutmegSaltSugarBrown sugarEggsVegetable oil

Step 1: Preheat your oven to350 degrees and grab yourgrater (use the wide hole side).Grate a medium zucchini, skinon, and then squeeze it usingyour hands to get rid of theliquid. Pat the zucchini dry witha paper towel and set aside. Step 2: In a large bowl andusing a fork, mix together theflour, baking soda, bakingpowder, salt, white granulatedsugar, brown sugar, and

Sharp CheddarZucchini Bread

nutmeg. Then add in thezucchini and shreddedcheddar cheese (the older thecheddar, the better the flavour),reserving a ½ cup of cheese for the topof the loaf.Step 3: In a small bowl whisk theeggs and the vegetable oil until wellmixed, then pour it over the flour,zucchini and cheese mixture.Mix the wet and dry ingredientstogether until just combined, andscrape the batter into your lightlyoiled loaf pan. Try to get the batter assmooth as possible on top, thenscatter on the remaining cheese andpop the loaf into the oven for 45 – 50minutes, or until a cake tester (orknife) comes out clean. Step 5: Let stand for 10 minutes, thenremove from the pan, slice and enjoy.(Tip: A little butter makes this breadeven better!)

funeral event and no one could havestopped him until he was finished. I felthe was saying Cde Williams deservedthe time. Wade had a large Facebookfollowing as well and his entire funeralwas taped and broadcast on YouTube.

Editorial - from p7

Upcomimg EventNew Years Eve Night parties arehappening:

CCOM - at 1100 Fife Street

Guyanese Cultural Organization atACAM Hall on Watt Street

Guyanese Association of Manitobaat Victorian InnCheck one out or check all out.


Leg UpLaurel Wright, Monica

Rhiney and VioletClacken

Yisa Akinbolaji,Winnipeg Artist, was thehonoured guest speakerat the recent M CIE’s(MB Council forInternational Education)reception at theLegislature. Here is hisspeech: The HonorableMinister of AdvancedEducation, Erin Selby;Deputy Ministers, andMLAs present,distinguished ladies andgentlemen. If I may,Jacky, thank you for thateloquent introduction ofme. And thanks to theexecutive of ManitobaCouncil for InternationalEducation and to Andrea.It is an honor for me to be invited. Youhave done such a fine job in putting thisgreat event together.

Many times over the years, Ihave been a student, because Itruly value education. Beforeimmigrating to Canada in 1997, Ialso had the opportunity to teachart in Nigeria, both in a collegeand in a high school. At the timeof my coming to Red RiverCollege in 1997, there was noInternet in Nigeria and no cellphones, which meant I had neverencountered working with acomputer. So my first day inclass where I needed to usecomputer for my studies wasvery rough. It was so bad, then, Idid not even no what a computermouse was. But as you know,we as humans no matter wherewe come from are veryadaptable. I worked very hard

and was granted theValerie FosteyMemorial Awardfor Excellence at theend of that sameyear. So to those ofyou who areInternationalStudents inManitoba I say, ifyou work hard nomatter how cold itmay be inNovember,December, January,February, Marchand April, you willachieve your goals.I must also tell youthat my studies atRed River Collegehave continued to

help advance my career in art. And asI now travel to different parts of theworld to exhibit my innovativetechnique of painting I tell people, itis made in Winnipeg, Canada where Inow call home. The peace I havefound and embrace in my new homeof Winnipeg makes it easier to workhere and travel to anywhere I wantand then return home. Finally, Mrs. Catherine Rust-Akinbolaji, that is the name of mywife and she is in the house. Thankyou! And I would also like to thankeveryone for the role they haveplayed or continue to play in ensuringthat I’m included in the list ofinnovative artists of our generation.Thank you, MCIE, thank you, all.Shalom.

Yisa flanked by four beautiful women including the one to hisimmediate right his wife Catherine


Zizi - The Continuing Story

If you drink Don`t Drive - Province introduces tougher lawsIgnition interlock use will now be arequirement for all convictedimpaired drivers who wish to drivelegally following their licencesuspension, Justice MinisterAndrew Swan announced today. The new rules come into effecton Dec. 15 and will now includedrivers convicted of an impaireddriving offence for the first time. “Manitoba is once again settingthe pace in the battle against

drinking and driving,” said Swan.“Expansion of the mandatoryignition interlock program sends aneven stronger message thatimpaired driving is not acceptablein Manitoba and will not betolerated.” Mothers Against Drunk Driving(MADD) Canada fully supportsManitoba’s tough stand againstdrinking drivers, said Andrew Murie,chief executive officer, MADDCanada.

“Are you ready?” “Ready for what? “For us to tie the knot?”Leyroy blurted out matter offactly “you know this wascoming, don’t look sosurprised?” “Well... I never.,. “”What you never thoughtI’d ask you again?” “To be honest, I feel we’realready married. Strangeeh?” “I know what you mean.We’re like childhood sweethearts and you know myheart is always with you. Iwas given a second chancewith you and I’m going letGod know I deserved thatchance. I am going to makeyou the best husband that Icould be.” “We’ve come a long wayand I guess it’s time. In factmy cousin was urging me toget married because it is agood life, she was telling methat tonight.”

“I never said a word to herbut I was thinking about it allthrough dinner. I envy theirlittle family. I want that.” “We’re not married yet andyou’re thinking aboutchildren?” “Don’t you want children?” “Of course I do. Whatabout my job?” “There are lots of benefits inthis country. Canada needsmore children and they treatpregnant women well” “Do I have to give up mycareer?” “I certainly would not askyou to but it’s up to youhoney. Whatever makes youhappy. “So what’s the answergonna be?” “Let me think for a fewminutes.... yes, yes, yes.” “We can do this the easyway – go to the City Hall, thenhave a reception for ourclosest friends and family” “No way, I’m going tomarry once and it has to be

perfect, white dress trails andall” Zizi sighed happily “I’mgoing to see if I could bringmom and dad for this. It’sgoing to be great.” “Oh my God, what have Idone?” “Let’s set a date” “April wedding. Come tothink about it – why don’t wehave the wedding in theCaribbean?” “There? I will put my footdown. I am not going backthere. I’ll be killed” “Bad idea,” Zizi quicklyagreed when the phone rang.“Ëxcuse me Lee” said saidpicking up the phone. “Hello, Zizi” “Oh hello Sgt Daniels “ Zizisaid and winked at Leyroy “I am fine – we’re fine, yes,you know me too well” “Is anything wrong?” “Yes and no. Anyway we’lltalk tomorrow. You sleep well” “What did ye want?” “We have to go in to seehim tomorrow”


POEMS by Neil Pitamber

continued on p22

YOUTH IN REVOLTOne last shotSqueeze dry and runDown from the roof before they’ve learnedWe’ve left the towels to dry in rainAnd the echelon unrungDragonfly wings are stainglass windowsBaker-Miller pink is ‘all’ but subtleEspresso with Johnnie Walker BlueAs youth under the gunI long to feel those days againExcusing myself on the western sideOf my parent’s homeThrowing glares like javelinsAnd hording polished river stonesOne last timeLace over tongueDown from the roof before we’ve learnedThey’ve done away with highschool yearsIn trade for golden ones…

GAG ORDERFairytales are empty caloriesAesop’s Fables inject colourInto grey matterIt really doesn’tI’m wising upTo know there is no HeavenBut fool enough to believeExacerbate this awful lieExaggerate commonalityHesitate to present ‘truth’Prayer is as intimateAs self-mutilationI’m wising upTo know there is no betterBut not fool enough to leave…

PERKS Hint: Starts with an ‘end’And ‘enn’s’ with an ‘ess’‘Ambien in a moment, Charles!’(Naproxin-ately, how many left?)‘Howmgonna, howmgoona, howm…’Dutch Schultz is on the wire, Boss’I like the kid but he just babbles on‘Naw, Pete ain’t my son;I’m just pickin’ up moss’Have you guessed as yet?Phone is tapped with imported beerSomeone! Someone is always there…Listening…I love the scattered look(love the scat yard look)If you brainwash

Will it (need a) shrink?The replacement fee is costlyMost recognizable smell in the worldNext to fresh-brewed coffee…

MOHS SCALE Put your ear to the windLaughter and gaffterThe best people travel by trainAmour the merrierTelling you all the beautiful thingsLife should be likeDon’t fail to go if they ever invite youQuality of conversation will varyAll these things do suffer some timeHave a slice of pata negra with figs

Taste of acorn isthe cure and well-curedWhat is domesticto Schlitz or Blatz?Present your ticketonce you’re onboard…

KOAN ‘He must have asoft frontelle,’ she

said‘How else would those light bulbsCome and go?’Says he ‘feels like a pedophile’When he drinks twelve-year old rums…Name is not unique, but for the spellingAnd if not the spelling—Then the ‘circumstance’ thatsurrounds…The bereaved and the baldThe crashed and the curiousCan I ‘believe this weather’?It’s not a parable…What do you think the author meant?You respond, ‘well, it ‘sounds’ like…’And if I tell you something personal?Your only retort is, ‘uh, yes; I ‘see’…’What have I shown youThat you think you’re reading me?

ROCHE LIMITLove in the name of scorn—Desperate for practiceHe hit on his feminine sideLive to spite another day—

There are so few people I welcomeInto my personal spaceSo many more that make an assumptionThat they are welcome hereI think, therefore I can—There are a lot of sheepThink they are wise enough to shepherdAnd don’t know a wolf from PeterWe pay for the ‘privilege’—Not consumption (estimate stands)Alive enough to sufferBut too dead to act…Think I’ll call in ‘fat’ tomorrowTell them I broke my hurtLife as we ‘poet’ only seems to work…

POCKETFUL OF MUMBAITaxi men are spry for fifteen dollar tripsYeah, when I’m in psychaDelhi I float(play with the tip)…My brain works just fineI don’t need anybody forming opinionsFor me to adopt‘There are more contractual provisionsThan actually provided for who and what’(?What?)Uses two exclamation marksTo accentuate our confusion (very clever)Only here until I’ve no veins left to sever…Horny or highThe Devil gets me at a bargainFull on emptinessBut weak because I’m starvingSynestheatre of the mindIn the (bac)k of a (k)cabAnd someone betting me‘English women really aren’t half bad’…

THE DEAD BOG In Lexington GallowsHangs an image of AlexaYoung and beautiful and very, very sadAwaken suddenlyTo the whisp of desparate pleasUnder the rumbling armoury ofSoldiering lepers and the suicide squadsIt is a very different time…You think because you love them muchThe world at large owes them it’s finestThe ground was ill to accommodateAlexa onto the eerie blemished isletYes, she closed her eyesBut slept lucid in unrest—


Where they deconstructed herShall rise the wrath of MenhitAny minute now…Any minute now(Elevant Du Sol)…

ATLASSqueeze my eyes closedAnd catch the scent of inner peaceTo leave the way I cameAnd without serious enemiesThousands of forks crash randomlyAgainst a shining city roadWet with failure and drizzleOr maybe a veil of sparrowsResponding to a signalIt’s all mental confettiVerbal static overload…Am I the prime consciousness?Am I the dominant personality?With pressure tap-dancingOn the roof of my skullFaced with revelationsForced into realizationThat I cannot feel lessThan the sum of it ‘all’…

CALCULATED EVILS I’m feeling jealous of your lies (again)Envy the ability – not the strange desireI know Tom insomuch as I know ‘of’TomAnd ‘of Tom’, as in ‘as little as required’(I’m acquainted with many billsAnd not one ‘William’ imagine)It’s not enough praise to youYou want (to get in) my headSniffing out de-tails in the parkDon’t know what makes me madderMercury, marsupials or Venetian blindsThat fail to work when I’m lissa-ning…The sun sets oil-less down in winterSave from spilling out the sphincterRehearsed one-linersAnd nursed half-truthsAbout condos with outrageous duesIn Australia, Trinidad and TexasFalse I know but still I’m very jealous…

From Eritrean Community InWinnipeg Inc. and Coalition ofCanadian Communities andOrganizations (CECCO)

MODERN DAY SLAVERY,TORTURE AND DEATH OFTHOUSANDS OF AFRICANSVICTIMS OF HUMANTRAFFICKING IN SINAIEGYPT The Eritrean Community InWinnipeg Inc. for the last 12 yearshas being tirelessly working tosponsor and Welcome to Manitobahundreds of new Canadians ofEritrean origin.Our organization: A) Realizing that the no war, nopeace between Eritrea andEthiopia, particularly Ethiopia’scontinued rejection of the finaland binding peace agreementincluding non-implementation thedemarcation of the commonborder according to the decision ofthe neutral and independentEritrea-Ethiopia BoundaryCommission at The Hague iscreating a lot of misery on thepopulation of the Horn of Africa,B)Abhorring the big business ofillegal immigration and humantrafficking including theunorthodox exodus of Eritreanyouth lured by politicallymotivated efforts carried byEthiopia and its enablers in orderto weaken the newly independentcountry of Eritrea C) Condemning the lawlessnessand abuse of human rights thatprevails in Northern Africa D) Being fully aware of thetragic International human

trafficking taking place withkidnappings and serious humantragedies particularly in the Saharadesert, the crossing of theMediterranean Sea from Libya andthe Sinai desert. E) Denouncing the kidnappings ofresidents from refugee Camps in theSudan and Ethiopia. F) Understanding the terrifyingand horrible human experiences ofhuman abuses in the Sinai desert ofEgypt by human traffickers whowork in cooperation with somegroups and entities in Europe andNorth America. Since 2000 has assisted thesponsorship of more than 1600refugee claimants by ourorganization out of which 500 havearrived in Manitoba and Canada.In a strict observance of ourCanadian and Eritrean Values ofcare, compassion and hospitality ourorganization has been fully engagedin the pre and post arrival of all newCanadians of Eritrean Origin. The Eritrean Community InWinnipeg Inc. and the Coalition ofthe Eritrean Canadian Communitiesand organizations (CECCO) , aCoalition of 11 Canadian Eritreancommunities and organization acrossCanada call upon the Manitoba andCanadian government to place allnecessary efforts to stop the modernday slavery that is taking place inSinai Egypt and provide assist itsvictims.Contact info Lambros Kyriakakos204 7944981 Yohannes Mehari 2048802260

Quotable QuoteThe battles that count aren'tthe ones for gold medals. Thestruggles within yourself—theinvisible, inevitable battlesinside all of us—that's whereit's at. Jesse Owens


DIVERSITY & INCLUSION - EMPLOYMENT EQUITY INFORMATIONCargill Limited is an international producer and marketer of food, agricultural, financial and industrial products andservices. Founded in 1865, our privately held company employs 142,000 people in 65 countries. We help our customerssucceed through collaboration and innovation, and are committed to sharing our global knowledge and experience to helpmeet economic, environmental and social challenges.Food: We provide food and beverage manufacturers, foodservice companies and retailers with high-quality ingredients,meat and poultry products, and health-promoting ingredients and ingredient systems.Agriculture: We buy, process and distribute grain, oilseeds and other commodities to makers of food and animal nutritionproducts. We also provide crop and livestock producers with products and services.Financial: We provide our agricultural, food, financial and energy customers around the world with risk management andfinancial solutions.Industrial: Cargill serves industrial users of energy, salt, starch and steel products. We also develop and marketsustainable products made from agricultural feedstocks.Cargill Limited is an employer of choice for diverse people and committed to ensuring a fair and equitable workplace. Westrongly believe that a diverse and inclusive workforce is business imperative and would promote Employment Equity.Cargill would welcome any initiative that promotes the inclusion of the visible minorities or others from the fourdesignated groups in our organization.We have various job opportunities advertised in both French and English language on our career website andcareer search is split between experienced & University/College/Recent Grads opportunities (summer & traineeprogram).Experienced opportunities are for career seekers who have previous business experience and are looking to further theircareer.Summer Programs: Cargill offers a wide range of valuable summer employment opportunities. Students receive hands onwork experience related to their field of study.Trainee (Recent Grad) Programs: Our Trainee programs provide candidates with an exciting opportunity to addsignificant value to our business through participation in areas such as engineering, operations, sales and quality assurance.These twelve to eighteen month development programs offer unique job learning experiences plus personal developmentthrough mentorship and soft skill training.I would like to use this opportunity to present a link to Cargill Canada career website: http://www.cargill.ca/en/careers/career-search/index.jsp or https://cargill.taleo.net/careersection/2/moresearch.ftl e. By Joseph Oladele

President Barack Obama toldEssence Magazine that parentscan help their school agedchildren in many ways.

Regulate TV timeThe President said that he andMichelle don't allow theirdaughters (Malia & Sasha) towatch TV during school nights,and that they start homework assoon as they get home.Thispractice does not require money,but does require commitment,and discipline from bothchildren, and parents.

Stay in touch with teachersThis is probably one of the mostimportant things you can do tohelp your child. Staying in touch

with teachers via telephone, notes, e-mail, conferences, etc., makes it easierto address academic problems, and/orpromote academic success. Obamasaid that even with his busy scheduleas President - he has not missed aparent teacher conference yet.

Set educational expectationsStudents must take responsibility(beyond primary grades) to wake upand get to school on time, give theirbest effort in class, and completetheir homework. B

Read! Read! Read!Reading is the foundation tolearning. Reading is involved inevery subject in school.

Monitor

Once your child is on track academi-cally, the best way to keep them there isby monitoring. Have regular talks withyour child (at least weekly) aboutschool, and personal issues. Set goals,and plans to achieve them. Monitoryour child to show them that you arecommitted to ensuring their personal,and academic success. And finally, don'tforget to celebrate the little successesalong the way - for a job well done.

Parenting Tips from president Barack Obama


Dancing anddrumming

Congratulations to our President ,Congress of Black Women ofManitoba , Antoinette Zloty, onreceiving the Queen Elizabeth IIDiamond Jubillee Medal on October23, 2012. It is one of 60,000 medals

being awarded to Canadians who havedemonstrated significant contributions andachievements.The commemorative medals were created aspart of celebrations marking the sixtiethanniversary of Her Majesty Queen ElizabethII as Queen of Canada. For 60 years, Her

Majesty has exemplified thetrue meaning of service withsteadfast purpose anddedication. The medalsprovide a tangible way torecognize those Canadianswho, like Her Majesty, havededicated themselves toservice to family,community and country.Antoinette Zloty wasnominated by the CanadianHome Care Association andthe Canadian CaregiverCoalition for her work inhome and community care. Antoinette Zloty has aMaster of Social WorkDegree and a Bachelor ofSocial Work Degree. Shesupports cultural and crossgenerational programs andwomen's equality. She wasthe first President and afounding member of theBarbados Association ofWinnipeg. Antoinette hasdeveloped many programs,policies and services whichare still in operation today.She received the honourduring a special ceremonyheld at the Hyatt RegencyHotel, Vancouver, BritishColumbia on October 23,2012 during the CanadianHome Care Association'sSummit, October 23-15,2012.

Zloty - Diamond Jubilee Winner


MarMarMarMarMarkkkkketetetetetPlacePlacePlacePlacePlace

2nd FloorForks Market,

CONGRESS OF BLACK WOMEN OF MANITOBAI N C . .

Invites you to our 4th annual Cultural Awareness Workshop

Tuesday,February 19, 2013 8:30am – 4:30pm

Viscount Gort Hotel, 1670 Portage Ave. Winnipeg, MB

What to expect:

· A better understanding of challenges faced by women of African, Caribbean, Canadian and East Indiancultural origins in finding their way in society and what today’s picture appears to show. Includes anexamination of historical and present day perspectives from family interactions, human resources, humanrights, and the legal system.

· View and discuss “Remembering Africville”, a film regarding the experience of Canadian Blacks inNova Scotia.

· Round table and facilitated discussions.

“Managing our Interactions in Society: Then and Now”

Please register before 2013.Registration forms can be found onCOBW website at


Gaffin wid BuddyOh Buoy it’s Christmas again and

me begin to feel thatnastalgia feelingcoming into meheart and when melook around me aska wha me a do here?Christmas in deCaribbean issomething else. Yuh

gat everyting dere, the food, deingredients, de taste, everyting isbetta. Yuh gat family an friensaround and life is good. Life iscomplicated dese days. Everybady isscatta all ova de place dat yuy beginto feel dere is no way to go but stayput.No matta how me try Christmasdoes nat hae de flava of theCaribbean Christmas. It is cold anbecause a dat who wants to walkabout de street. Ah just feel likestaying in me house an watch TV,keep meself warm instead a freezingme butt off. Back home yuh chillinoutside in de yard wid shart sleevescotton shirt and Bermuda sharts, yuhbuddies drap by have a lickle rumand coke, a pisa black putting,peppa pat and fresh bread or somebad chicken or goat curry. Latawrong yuh wash dat down withsome strang, ginger beer and a pissgranny’s authentic black cake.Those was de days were de best.Christmas eve yuh go to Church anlisten to dat moving service, and inde middle a de night waken up byCarollers –dat was heaven man.Dose days would neva come again. Iguess ah gatta get ova dis nostalgiaand get an wid the program inCanada.I am thankful to be livin in a peacefulcountry, for de food which is packedwid anti-biotic and atha chemicals butnonedeless it fills de belly. Ah gat

friends hey, ah gat me family soah guess dat should be enough.Some a me friends tell me ah livinin de pas, dat ah gatto fuhgetdem ole days and embrace mereality and mek it work. If yuhknow how to mek it wuk, Ahlike to hear. Anyway me friens,have a Merry Christmas and aProperous 2013.

Caribbean CulturalCommunity Centre hosts

Recognition of SeniorsDinner

On Sunday, November 4th, theCaribbean Community CulturalCentre hosted a dinner at theCentre, 1100 Fife Street torecognize seniors. In keepingwith its mandate, thecommunity honoured eightseniors from different culturalgroups. The honourees wereFlora Zaharia and GeorgeMunroe from the First NationsElders (Dakota Ojibway TribalCouncil Pamela Rebello andManju Lodha from the EastIndian community, Madam

Margaret Ogunmola and MadamMary Oyinwola from the Nigeriancommunity and Lola Hibbert andGeorge Mambo Elias from theCaribbean community.The seniors were selected on the basisof their cultural contributions to theirparticular communities and to thewider community.Ms Zaharia and Mr. Munroe,residential elders at YellowquillCollege provide culturally appropriatecounselling to students and providesmudging, and traditional teachings.Pamela Rebello. O. M. establishedthe India School of Dance, Music andTheatre in 1980 and for over 30 yearshas been instrumental in teaching andpromoting the culture through dance,music and theatre. The school underthe leadership of Pamela as ExecutiveDirector provides instruction inBharatnatyam, Kathak, HindustaniVocal Music / Harmonium, Flute,Sitar, Tabla and Carnatic VocalMusic.Manju Lodha is a visionary artist whohas painted over one hundred andfifty works, based on themes such aswater, the environment, peace, war,tolerance, non-violence andmulticultural cooperation. Her work

Ms Margaret Strachan, Madam Ogunmola, Madam Oyinwola, MsHibbert, MsZaharia, Mr. Munroe, Ms Rebelo, Ms Manju, Ms Diane

Dwarka


On the evening of Thursday, December6, 2012 a large number of peoplegathered at the United Way Building torecognize and honour seven persons whoare the recipients of this year’s AnnualHuman Rights Commitment Award andThe Annual Sybil Shack Human RightsYouth Award.The Annual Human Rights CommitmentAward of Manitoba recognizes thosewho have promoted respect for humanrights and fundamental freedoms andhave advanced the rights of Manitobans.The Recipients of the 2012 HumanRights Commitment Award of Manitobaare Jane Burpee, Education Coordinatorwith the Manitoba SchizophreniaSociety, Chad Smith, Executive Directorof The Rainbow Resource Centre, amajor resource and support centreserving Manitoba’s gay, Lesbian, BiSexual, Transgendered and Two SpiritedLGBTT communities received the awardon behalf of the Centre, and LouiseSimbandumwe, Director of SEEDWinnipeg’s Asset Building Programs andfounder of Run for Rights. Louise is asecond generation recipient of thisaward. Her mother, Marceline

Ndayumvire received this awardin 2005.The Annual Sybil Shack HumanRights Youth Award recognizesthe work of a person or group ofpeople, 25 years old and underwho have had an impact on theadvancement of human rights asguaranteed in the CanadianCharter of Rights and Freedomsand human rights legislation inManitoba. This year’s recipientsare Ayla and Van Hamilton ofMajor Pratt School, RussellManitoba, Muuxi Adam, AfterSchool Program Coordinator atthe Immigrant and RefugeeCommunity Organization ofManitoba Inc. and ChelseaCaldwell, a second year studentat the University of Winnipeg.The reception was hosted by TheManitoba Association for Rightsand Liberties, the CanadianHuman Rights Commission andthe Manitoba Human RightsCommission.

has been mounted at severalexhibitions here in Winnipeg. Manjuis an active promoter of multicultural,intercultural and interfaith educationthrough her creativity in art, storytelling,and poetry. Madam Margaret Ogunmola, a retirednurse and Madam Mary Oyinwola aretired teacher continue to be role modelsand teach culturally appropriate Nigeriancustoms to the younger generations.Lola Hibbert is a founding member of theJamaican Folk Ensemble; she performsand composes all the lyrics for the group.She designs and sews all of theircostumes. George (Mambo) Elias started playingthe steelpan when he was 5 years old.Now he teaches new students to play andis himself a percussionist playing thedrums, bongo and metal which all cometogether to make “sweet music”.Margaret Strachan opened the eveningwith a warm welcome, a short tribute anda moment of silence to Wade KojoWilliams, founding member of BlackHistory Month celebrations in Winnipegand human rights activist who passedaway the previous evening.Guest speaker, Dr. Art Miki formerCitizenship Judge and holder of theOrder of Canada and Order of Manitobaspoke about seniors and the importantrole they play in the community inpassing on traditions and teachings. Theparticipants enjoyed a traditionalCaribbean meal. Entertainment featuredthe Jamaican Folk Ensemble, an EastIndian dance, drums from the Caribbean,Aboriginal drumming, and the talkingdrum from Nigeria. Mavis McLarenperformed a poem in Jamaican dialect,and Madeline Coopsammy and ShirleyAlleyne read some of their poetry.Thanks to all who contributed to makethe evening a success.by Diane Dwarka

Seven Manitobans receive Human Rights Awards

Jane Burpee, Flo Marcelino (Min of Culture) Ayla & VanHamilton, Chelsea Caldwell, Rob Altemeyer (MLA Broaway),Louise Simbandumwe, Chad Smith, Muuxi Adams

Seniors Award - cont’d from p26

By Diane Dwarka


Strangers in New Homelands International Conference 2012Even though the storm kept many of thepresenters away, the conference was ahuge success. It brought together researchers andthinkers on immigrant/refugee issue toshare new information and garnerideas for continued research. The guest speaker at this event heldat the University of Manitoba over atwo day period, Hon. Jean Augustine,was the highlight of the conference. As the first Fairness Commissioner,the first Black Woman to become MPin Canada among other firsts, herpassion remains education and justice. She spoke about building a strongmulticultural society and the need forCanadians to uphold the ideals andmerits of a multicultural society. “We have to ask ourselves: who arewe, what are the ideals andfundamentals of our society, whatdoes it mean to be a multiculturalcountry and what are its contours.`` Augustine believes thatmulticulturalism is being watereddown to pluralism. “Pluralism suggests that equalityand achievement are a coded veil forthose who do not believe in the saladbowl.” She said that 6.6 million Canadiansspeak a different language other thanEnglish or French. She said the proposed immigrationlegislation is a step backwards.“The requirement of mandatory foreigneducation credential assessment, therequirement of minimum language capac-ity have unintended impact of newcom-ers. The new language test is to excludea large number of people. Sixty percent of newcomers come withspecialized skills which are being under-used and costs Canada $2 billion a year.

Dr. Michael Baffoe, Professor ofSociology, University of Manitobaand Conference Chair in hisopening statement welcomedparticipants. He stated that the two-day event which started modestlyin 008 has now grown into a largerannual event bring together research-ers, academics, students, non-gov-ernmental organizations, front-lineimmigrant and refugee settlementworks and government representa-tives from various parts of the worldand notably from the Province ofManitoba. He said for many immigrants andrefugees in the diaspora, the conceptof “home” around which theconference has revolved, evokesconfusion, fear, hopes andaspirations. They are welcomed attimes in the new worlds in whichthey settle, but they are mostly andpublicly despised and blamed formany things that go wrong in thehost societies in which they settle. The concept of diaspora suggests

the spread or scattering of aspecific population or race ofpeople to different and far-flungplaces throughout the world.“I wish to underscore, thesignificance of this conference tothe University of Manitoba and theprovince of Manitoba. Thisprovince has embarked on anambitious and valuableimmigration policy which hasattracted thousands of immigrantsto this province over the past sixyears. It is therefore fitting forresearchers at this university andthe government of this province tocollaborate in research that willhelp inform and shape immigrationand settlement policies in the

province and hopefully, the rest ofCanada.

Dr. Baffoe presents Hon. Augustinewith a beautiful African woodensculpture donated by ACOMI

Hon. Jean Augustine

Judy Williams presenterand volunteer at theRegistration Desk

ACOMI is theAfricanCommunityOrganizationsof ManitobaInc.


New Social Worker inMillennium Library

Safe harbour TrainingGraduate

In case you did not know, there is now asocial worker at the Millennium Library,Bruce Fiske, who is available to meetyou for coffee and/or an informal chat.The service is especially for those whomay be experiencing difficulties while inthe library. He can help you find emer-gency shelter and housing, with your socialassistance, employment, counsellingmental health therapy, health care andmuch more. Bruce is encouraging peopleto drop by and get to know him better. ̀ `My purpose here is to provide assist-ance to vulnerable customers by linkingthem with various support agencies. Thiscan mean counselling, housing, socialassistance, basic needs and so on. I alsowork with staff in developing ways to dealwith difficult customer behavours. I havealso assisted, new immigrants, elderly,individuals with mental health issues,behavioral issues, and so on.” “I am endeavoring to become awareof programs that assist marginalizedindividuals so that I can accommodatethe needs of this increasingly diversepopulation.” Meet Bruce at Millennium Library, 2ndFloor Seating Area (near elevators)2 - 3 p.m. on Tuesdays or you can call foran appointment.Phone: 204-986-398

CMARD (Canadian Municipalities againstracial discrimination) sponsored afacilitator -Train the Trainer, Safe Harbourtraining, to equip local trainers to takethe message of diversity and inclusion toorganizations and communities inWinnipeg. Safe Harbour aims at creatingopportunities for local store front busi-nesses, institutions, agencies and entiremunicipalities to better understand andcelebrate our differences, helping to createsafer, more welcoming communities thatsupport diversity and reject discrimination. This project was initiated by theMulticultural Societies and Service Agen-cies of BC (AMSSA). The first trainingwas done in Nanaimo in 2004 supportedby agencies like the Royal Bank ofCanada, Black and Blue Tattoos amongmany others. Today there are more than 1000 andgrowing Safe Harbour Certified locationsacross Canada. These locations receivethe Safe Harbour window decal to visiblydisplay their commitment to ̀ `Respect forpeople of all cultures, ethnicities, religions,race etc.`` While there are a few Safe Harbourlocations in Manitoba, CMARD hopesto work at increasing that numberdramatically. Safe Harbour is about providingsafety, equality and respect for allpeoples.

Seniors`s Award cont`d p27

Melanie Wight, MLA Burrows

India School Dancers

African Talking Drum

Poet - Madeline Coopsammy


Piecing together Memories

`Hi Life Steel Orchestra

Participants stand as Aboriginal drummer sings ahonor song for the award recipients.

Mavis McClaren performs aMiss Lou’s poem

Jamaica Folk Ensemble

Millions of Africans in the West celebrate Kwanzaabetween Dec. 26 to Jan. 1. A non-religious, Afro-centric celebration designed for Diaspora Africanancestry people, Kwanzaa started in 1966 by Dr.Maulana Karenga, Prof. & Chair of Africana Studies,at a time when the Black community in America wasin the throes of war, violence, upheaval in a verydisorganized and unhealthy way. Dr. Karenga wanted togive young people hope and purpose in a communalway. He saw Kwanzaa as a vehicle to bring the old andyoung to revisit their history and culture. Kwanzaa promotes and centres around the NguzoSaba, seven principles: Unity, Creativity, and Self-determination, Collective work and responsibility andCooperative economics, Purpose and Faith, which ourancestors lived by. The season and celebration ofKwanzaa coincides with ancient African first-fruits orharvest celebrations and the model of the harvestwhich stresses the cooperative creation, gathering andsharing of goods, specifically food as a life-sustaininggood; gratitude for the bountifulness and beauty of theworld; and the commitment to protect and preserve theearth as both a source of life and a site of the sacred.The Congress of Black Women celebrated its 18thAnnual Kwanzaa with more than 150 participants.

Dr. Maulana Karenga

CBW Kwanzaa Lisa Hackett,reads a KwanzaaBrer AnancyStory to thechildren whowere really goodat listening.

Aboriginal traditional drummer


projects I’ve work on have involved a lot of other people whohelp make them work.” Her current concern is about the federal government’schanges to our immigration policies which she believes willhave a negative impact on refugees hoping for refuge in Canada“I feel really strongly that I want Canada to continue being awelcoming country especially for people who cannot return totheir homelands” she said. Another former refugee Muuxi Adam was also a recipient ofthe Sybil Shack Awards which recognizes youths under 25years for their contribution to human rights work in theProvince. Muuxi Adams works with the IRCOM House. Hesaid Louise has been a mentor for him and he wanted to be likeher. Muuxi who came to Canada alone when he was 16 ispassionate about refugee issues.

Louise (centre) with her mom (r) flanked by some ofher fellow refugee community members (Hon. FlorMarcelino on her left and William Vivas (EditorHispand) on her left

Rhodes Scholar cont’d from p16

Global eyes magazine holiday edition 2012

News & Politics

Transcript of Global eyes magazine holiday edition 2012