Category: Cover Page
Shared from The Obama Foundation
Santa… err… President Obama stopped by an elementary school on the South Side of Chicago on Tuesday to spread some holiday cheer, and one student couldn’t believe her eyes!
Take a LOOK!!!
We hope this brings a smile to your face and puts you in the holiday spirit. Forward this to a friend to keep spreading the cheer!
Photos courtesy of Facebook
Catch him in “The Mr. X Family Show” on the Africa Independent Television network, Beyoncé’s “Black is King” film/music video, and in an upcoming American Drama Miniseries, “Little Fires Everywhere” starring Kerry Washington and Reese Witherspoon.
Ozie has appeared in an Adidas commercial with Childish Gambino and has also appeared in Louis Vuitton’s 2019 Men’s Spring Print Campaign.
Ozie, “Zmny” at age 13 recorded a song “Hater-Free” with R&B artist Ray J Norwood, Brandy’s brother. He also collaborated with other popular African and American Hip Hop artists. Ozie was the youngest to have a “Grammy Party” approved by the Grammy’s Recording Academy Governance.
Ozie is a role model for kids of all ages and uses his platform to help inspire and empower. As a Youth Ambassador, Ozie has touched many teens’ lives internationally. In Nigeria, he sponsors and donates to a youth charity group to help end racism and poverty in their communities. Ozie’s compassion compels him to go in the streets of Lagos around Christmas time to clothe and feed the impoverished. Ozie’s empathetic quality is honorable.
As a stellar student, Ozie received several Estella Awards due to his excellent grades and humanitarian efforts.
GO BANG! MAGAZINE: Where were you born and raised?
Ozie Nzeribe: I was born and raised in Monrovia, California.
GO BANG! MAGAZINE: How and when did you get started in acting and modeling?
Ozie Nzeribe: I stumbled into acting while in a recording studio making music. I was approached by an acting manager about a possible acting job. Although I was skeptical at first, I was talked into it by my mom.
GO BANG! MAGAZINE: Over the years, you’ve appeared in numerous tv series and more recently you’re working on “I Want It All”, alongside several Hip Hop heavy hitters. What can you tell our readers about that role and the show?
Ozie Nzeribe: Unfortunately, I’m not allowed to discuss details regarding the film until I get the greenlight from the producers. Guess you guys are just gonna have to wait.
GO BANG! MAGAZINE: Kevin Durant has a basketball tv drama series on Apple TV titled “Swagger” and you’re a regular on the show. How did you become a part of the show, please describe your character and what you like most about the role you play?
Ozie Nzeribe: I booked my series regular role on “Swagger” after my agency acquired the audition. I originally read for a different part, but instead booked my current role as Royale Hughes. Royale is a dyslexic sub-par basketball player with a wealthy dad and insanely unmatched basketball knowledge.
GO BANG! MAGAZINE: In addition to acting, you are also an international rapper, known to flow to Hip Hop, melodic and lyrical Rap, R&B and Afro Beat. At 13 years old, you recorded the song Hater Free” under the name of Zmny, with Brandy Norwood’s brother Ray J Norwood. How did that opportunity come about, and can you please introduce yourself to our readers that may not be familiar with Zmny, to give them a feel of Zmny, the recording artist.
Ozie Nzeribe: I’ve been infatuated with music my whole life. By the time I turned 12, I wanted to make my own music. So, my mom and I sought out an artist to collab with in the hopes of giving my first song a good push. The artist I decided on was Ray J.
My stage name Zmny, pronounced Z Money, was first coined by my dad when I was a kid, because I was obsessed with money and the Z being the second letter in my name. I currently go by my actual name, Ozie.
GO BANG! MAGAZINE: Who are some of the recording artists that have influenced you?
Ozie Nzeribe: Artists that have influenced me, from the top of my head, out of order, I would have to say Post Malone, J. Cole, Chance The Rapper, Lord, Juice WRLD, Tyler, The Creator, Lewis Capaldi, Justin Bieber, Kyle, and many more.
GO BANG! MAGAZINE: Who are some of the actors that have influenced you?
Ozie Nzeribe: Actors that have influenced me, from the top of my head, out of order, I would have to say Dylan O’Brien, Chadwick Boseman, Ryan Reynolds, Frankie Muniz, Tyler Posey, Denzel Washington, and many others.
GO BANG! MAGAZINE: You are also a humanitarian, a scholar, and a role model. Many entertainers do not like to hold the responsibility or title of being a role model. How do you feel about being characterized as a role model and what type of responsibility does that title place on you as an individual?
Ozie Nzeribe: I personally wouldn’t want to be characterized as a role model, because of the weight it bears and the responsibilities for countless others I would be agreeing to carry. I don’t aim to be a giant beacon for others to follow because no human is infallible. I only wish to become the best possible version of myself. I’m spreading joy and good vibes through my art and spreading love and kindness as a person, while still learning and growing. But, if my actions and what I stand for helps others along the way, I am happy to continue doing so.
GO BANG! MAGAZINE: If you had the opportunity to work with any actors/recording artists/producers in the world, who would it be and why?
Ozie Nzeribe: For actors, all out of order would be Reynolds, for his unfiltered raw comedy, Jenna Ortega, because of her versatility and dedication to her roles, and Tom Holland for his ability to portray American and for his work on “Spider Man.”
For music artists, Tyler, The Creator, because I’ve loved his style of Rap since middle school and his rapping voice. Lorde, because I’ve loved her music for the longest and has always put joy and good vibes in my house. Then Post Malone for his rocker/mellow musical style.
GO BANG! MAGAZINE: What’s next on your agenda and what should our readers be on the lookout for from you?
Ozie Nzeribe: Season 2 of “Swagger” on Apple TV+, airs this June, so watch out! I will be working on a lot more music this year. I’ll be adding in a couple more genres too. You may also see me in a film or two this year, and another show!
Last but not least, Kevin Feige, Sarah Finn, James Gunn, and all the other esteemed members of marvel, if you’re reading this, I think I would make a great addition to the family as Miles Morales (Spider-Man), just to put it out there. 😉
GO BANG! Magazine: Well Ozie, I want to thank you for granting me this interview. I also want to inform you that you have now been officially BANGED!!! GO BANG!
Pierre A. Evans is a freelance writer of Entertainment, Music, Art, Culture, Fashion and Current Events, and previously for SoulTrain.com, NDigo.com, ChicagoDefender.com, EmpireRadioMagazine.com, and UrbanMuseMag.com, an author, singer/songwriter, actor, model, poet, dancer, and DJ. He is also the Owner of Pinnacle Entertainment Productions and the Owner/Publisher of GO BANG! Magazine. Follow him on Facebook @Pierre Andre Evans, Twitter @Playerre, and on Instagram @Pierre_Andre_Evans.
Dancers pictured: (female) Cortney LaFloy & (male) Pierre Andre’ Evans @ Chosen Few Picnic’s 25th Anniversary (2015) in Chicago, IL
Information reprinted from https://www.facebook.com/akaBA
Pictured above: Andre Pierre “The Dancin’ Machine” aka Pierre Andre Evans
Photos courtesy of Facebook.com
One of our own…Chicago’s own…House’s own…Craig Loftis, pioneering DJ, music producer, club owner and one of Frankie Knuckles’ proteges, needs our help. His club, “The Lodge”, one of Chicago’s only southside clubs dedicated to House music, culture and the community, was recently closed by the City of Chicago due to minor licensing violations and structural issues.
For those that may not be familiar, Craig Loftis has been a DJ in the Chicago music scene since 1979. He realized that music was his true gift from God and he decided to take it further. He attended Columbia College Chicago, where he received a degree in Arts and Entertainment Management and Sound Engineering. In the early years, he redesigned the sound system for Frankie Knuckles’ legendary “Power Plant” and became Knuckles’ personal sound engineer, opening DJ and General Manager for the next four years. In 2000, Loftis started a new promotion company, Loftwerk Productions, working with Loleatta Holloway, Ava Cherry, Sharon Pass, Darryl Pandy, Byron Stingley, Rochelle Flemming, Georgy Porgy and Martha Wash, to name a few.
Craig says, “The Lodge is in need of your help and support. The Lodge is located at 5108 S. Prairie Avenue in Chicago. It’s a Black-owned-and-operated private dance club. The Lodge is a place that welcomes all regardless of race, sexual orientation, and gender identity. It’s also a great place to hear HOUSE MUSIC in the city that it was born in… CHICAGO!
Just recently, the global House community united to save the historic building in Chicago that housed Frankie Knuckles’ “The Warehouse”, which resulted in getting it designated as a national historic landmark. Let’s come together again to save The Lodge, a possible future national historic landmark!!!
Loftwerk Production is the name of the production company that hosts and manages the The Lodge guest memberships events @ The Great Lakes Elks Lodge #43 5108 S. Prairie ,Chicago Il. 60615. The sole purpose of the group is to promote and preserve the rich legacy of Chicago House Music . All like minded individuals are welcome to join. Being a member of Loftwerk Productions (THE LODGE) in no way makes you a member of Great Lakes Elks Lodge #43 . What it does do, is allows you to enter the event hall as a guest of Craig Loftis, member of Great Lakes Elks Lodge #43. THE LODGE IS NOT OPEN TO THE PUBLIC.. you must be invited by a member of Great Lakes or a guest member of THE LODGE.
Lastly, Craig requests, “To everyone who has donated and that plan to donate, please send me a SHORT VIDEO SNIPPET of what “The Lodge” means to you. Please end it with ‘25 to stay alive’…Support The Lodge.’ You can drop it in my inbox or email it to cl60643@aol.com . Thank you!”
PHOTOS COURTESY OF ISAIAH JAMAL EVANS / CALI VISUALS EXCEPT WHERE NOTED OTHERWISE – @IsaiahJamalEvans @CaliVisuals
On Sunday, August 13, 2023, Chicago native and former Soul Train Dancer Brandy Sanders brought her fabulously fun “Disco Ball” to the town where the dance began, CHICAGO! It was held at the posh South Shore Cultural Center, 7059 S. Shore Dr., from 4pm – 11pm. In the words of the late great Don Cornelius,, “You can bet that it was a stone cold gas!”
Since 2008, “Brandy’s Disco Ball” has celebrated the culture and the spirit of the 70s Disco era through music and fashion. So, this event paid tribute to the legendary entertainers of the era. Each year, the Los Angeles legendary Soul Train Dancers are the honorary guests. But this year, Brandy honored and recognize the original Soul Train Dancers from Chicago, along with many other Chicago born entertainers and celebrities.
It was a night of fun and an exciting evening of live entertainment, “Best Dressed” Contests, Dance Contests, Games, Raffles, Vendors, the Soul Train Scramble Board and of course, The World Famous “Soul Train Line!!”
Special featured musical guest performers were Remj (a Michael Jackson Tribute Entertainer)
Nu Skool Sings Old School star Mesiyah and Gospel Soul Recording Artist “Lady Leah.” Special celebrity guest and Chicago born actress Cynda Willliams, from “Mo’ Better Blues” and Oprah Winfrey’s “The Wedding” was also in attendance, donning her funky and fabulous 70’s outfit. While the distinguished special guest was the SEIU African American Caucus.
One of the highlights of the event was Brandy’s award presentation to the honorees, which included Chicago original Soul Train Dancers Mable Buckner, Albert Adams, The Puppets (Maurice Christian, Anthony Fairchild, Melvin Shumpert, Willie Fultz, Carlton Knight, Yolanda Cooper, Wayne Ward and the late David Crockett), Captain Sky, Poppin Chuck, Robin Roberts Mister, the late Diane Roberts Mister and Stefon Patterson.
Albert Adams performed a fantastic dance routine and The Puppets put on a spectacular dance performance as well.
Photo courtesy of Darrell Roberts
Also honored were Chicago’s legendary entertainers, including Blues Singer/Songwriter Deitra Farr, entertainment veteran Lee “Mr. Lee” Kirsky, musical group, The Notations (Clifford Curry, Eric Rapier Bryant, Marzette Griffith) and lastly, the Jazz & Blues artist Legendary HolleThee Maxwell, who spoke about her time with Ike Turner and wanted to dispel the talk about Ike being a monster. She stated that he wasn’t like that with her. She also promoted her memoir book titled, “Freebase Ain’t Free.” The book describes Maxwell’s wild ride as Turner’s friend, trusted associate, and closest ally.We cannot forget to mention the special tribute to Chicago House music pioneer, the late Ron Hardy and Chicago Original Soul Train Dancer Adolfo “Shabba Doo” Quinones. The tributes ended with a special dedication to Soul Train Founder, Producer & Host Don Cornelius and Chicago Soul Train Host Clinton Ghent.
This event not only celebrated the Chicago Soul Train dancers, but it also celebrated 50 Years of Hip Hop with a special presentation by Chicago Hip Hop Historian Darrell “Artistic” Roberts of the Chicago Hip Hop Heritage Museum, located in Chicago at 4505 S. Indiana Avenue, 773.414.2006. We got a chance to briefly speak with “Artistic” and he is just an incredible individual filled with great spirit, personality and knowledge.
Once the presentations and performances were over, the lights were dimmed, the music was pumped and the world famous Soul Train Line was formed. Everyone in attendance jumped out of their seats and hit the dance floor. From young teenagers to seasoned seniors, they all showed off their moves while going down the Soul Train line. This lasted for hours, as the line grew longer and longer. Then, the line broke up and all of the dancers just took to the floor and jammed, packing it from wall to wall.
Photos courtesy of Darrell Roberts
Brandy Sanders says “It’s always been my dream to bring my show from LA back to Chicago. It’s going to be a full circle moment for me. Grab your bell bottoms, your platform shoes, your miniskirts and your go-go boots. It’s Gonna Be A Ball Y’all!!!”
Brandy promised this to be one of the most epic and historical events to ever hit Chicago….and IT WAS!!!
We leave you with the famous words of the late Don Cornelius, LOVE, PEACE & SOULLLLLLL!!!
Video courtesy of Brandy Sanders @ https://www.youtube.com/@nuskoololdschool
Photo courtesy of Brandy Sanders/Facebook
With the support of House music fans, Preservation Chicago, the city of Chicago, and Mayor Brandon Johnson, the building that once was the location of The Warehouse received landmark status by the Chicago City Council. City Council’s Committee on Zoning, Landmarks and Building Standards approved landmark status for the building during its Tuesday meeting. It was announced Thursday, June 22, 2023.
In the late ’70s and early ’80s, “The Warehouse”, a building known as the birthplace of House music, located at 206 S. Jefferson St. in the West Loop, was home to dance parties hosted by legendary Chicago DJ Frankie Knuckles, who helped create House music and popularize it around the world.
The road to landmarking The Warehouse started earlier this year when thousands of people signed an online petition calling on the city to “save” the West Loop building. The landmark designation protects the building’s facade and roofline from being altered by the current owner.
The building — today home to a law office — has been at the center of a recent push to recognize Chicago’s contributions to House music, as well as the numerous LGBTQ+, Black and Latino Chicagoans who helped define the genre.
“The Warehouse opened in 1977 with DJ Frankie Knuckles and a state-of-the art sound system per the vision of owner Robert Williams to convert an old industrial building into a vibrant nightclub creating dancefloor freedom for Chicago’s Black gay community,” Preservation Chicago stated. “It was at this club, with the iconic DJ Frankie Knuckles at the helm, that house music was developed. From The Warehouse this new sound spread from Chicago living rooms to the rest of the world,” Max Chavez, the Director of Research and Special Projects with Preservation Chicago, said at Tuesday’s zoning meeting. “This landscape of world music, because of The Warehouse, because of Frankie Knuckles and because of Chicago was changed forever.”
EDITOR’S NOTE: As a lifetime city of Chicago resident, former DJ, and lover of the House culture, I along with many of my House loving friends who were either pioneers in the creation of House music, patrons of the Warehouse, or simply fans of Frankie Knuckles, made it our mission to put a petition together and UNITE to secure the protection of the place that started it ALL. The entire House community, across planet Earth, came together as a family, to ensure that 206 S. Jefferson would stand forever!
I felt proud to see the House community come together, especially the Chicago House community come together. LET’S KEEP THAT SPIRIT!!!
For more background information on the Warehouse and Frankie Knuckles, follow this link to a “Bassement Sound’s” article.
The International African American Museum (IAAM) explores the history, culture, and impact of the African American journey on Charleston, on the nation, and on the world, shining light and sharing stories of the diverse journeys, origin, and achievements of descendants of the African Diaspora. Located in Charleston, S.C., at the historically sacred site of Gadsden’s Wharf, IAAM honors the untold stories of the African American journey.
Across 9 galleries and a memorial garden with art, objects, artifacts, and multi-media interaction, IAAM is a champion of authentic, empathetic storytelling of American history. As a result, the museum will stand as one of the nation’s newest platforms for the disruption of institutionalized racism as it evolves today. The mission of IAAM is to honor the untold stories of the African American journey at the historically sacred site of Gadsden’s Wharf and beyond.
Its nine distinct galleries will demonstrate how enslaved Africans and free blacks shaped economic, political, and cultural development throughout the nation and beyond, while offering an especially close look at the connection to the South Carolina Lowcountry. These include the Transatlantic Experience, the Atlantic Worlds Gallery, the South Carolina Connections Gallery, the Gullah Geechee Gallery, the American Journeys Gallery, the Carolina Gold Gallery, the
African Roots Gallery, The Theater, and the Special Exhibitions Gallery.
In addition to the galleries, the African Ancestors Memorial Garden sprawls across the museum’s grounds and reflects on the historic significance of Gadsden’s Wharf, one of the many docks in Charleston Harbor at which an estimated 45% of enslaved Africans entered this country. Artistic installations and site objects mark the history and archeology there. This area, which will be free and open to the public, also provides a space for informal and structured gatherings where stories and traditions can once again be shared.
Working to serve and improve equity for Black and African Americans, IAAM is a champion of authentic, empathetic storytelling of American history and is thus one of the nation’s newest platforms for the disruption of institutionalized racism as it evolves today.
Opening on June 27 of 2023, IAAM has been in the works since 2000 when former Charleston Mayor Joseph P. Riley, Jr., voiced a need for the museum in his State of the City address. In 2002, a steering committee was formed to explore the development of the museum, and in 2005, Congressman Jim Clyburn became the museum’s first chair of the Board of Directors. As of early 2022, IAAM had raised close to $100 million dollars toward building construction and the foundation of what will comprise the heart of the museum. Since 2021, Dr. Tonya M. Matthews, president and chief executive officer of IAAM, has guided the extensive efforts leading to the museum’s opening and its ongoing efforts to tell the story of the African American journey.
The African Ancestors Memorial Garden, a collection of gardens and artistic installations that sprawls across the IAAM grounds, will be free and open to the public. It will give visitors the opportunity to honor African ancestors and reflect on the historic significance of Gadsden’s Wharf facing the harbor, where some historians estimate more than 45% of enslaved Africans entered this country. Site objects mark the history and archeology there. This area also allows for
informal and programmed gatherings where stories and traditions can once again be shared.
Technology and Educational Features for Visitors:
• Another centerpiece of the museum, the “Atlantic Worlds Gallery,” will be furnished with North America’s first public installation of the latest Crystal LED display in a 32-
foot wide, 7-foot-high configuration provided by Sony. The immersive audio/visual experience is expected to elicit a powerful emotional response from visitors, as it brings
history to life through technology.
• To help visitors explore, the South Carolina Connections Gallery includes an interactive table digital map (supported by Google) that highlights where history happened throughout the state and the Lowcountry.
• The Theater (supported by BMW) will feature a commissioned film installation, The Ummah Chroma, an award-winning film collective. It will serve as both a visitor orientation to the museum experience and a work of art to be screened and distributed internationally. The film will be a visual and an emotional encapsulation of the spirit, resilience, and power of people of African descent.
The International African American Museum (IAAM) features nine galleries housing 11 core exhibits and one changing exhibit that rotates two to three times annually. The museum also publishes a consistent series of digital exhibits on the Google Arts & Culture platform. The core exhibits include over 150 historical objects, over 30 works of art, nearly 50 films and digital interactives, and numerous analog interactives and didactic tools intended to bring history to life and to actively resist global systemic racism. Below are brief descriptions of each gallery and exhibit.
Transatlantic Experience | Transatlantic Experience Exhibit
The Transatlantic Experience provides visitors with a large-scale immersive media experience. Situated as the entry point to the east wing of IAAM, this experience features eight large video screens, which take visitors on a historical journey through hundreds of years of history, from African cultural roots to the tragedy of the Middle Passage and into local and international diaspora scenes and traditions. The four-minute film offers an introductory experience to the themes, emotions, and historical interpretations that visitors will encounter throughout their museum experience.
The Theater Gallery | Film Exhibit
The Theater Gallery, adjacent to the Transatlantic Experience, features films and videos, which provide broad historical context and further orient the visitor to the overall museum experience through a narrative storytelling format. The original film to be featured in this gallery will be produced and co-conceived by the award-winning film collective The Ummah Chroma.
Gullah Geechee Gallery | Gullah Geechee Exhibit
With a focus on the Lowcountry of South Carolina and Georgia, the Gullah Geechee Gallery provides an introduction to Gullah Geechee history and culture. Through the exploration of themes including activism, organization, and cultural practices and preservation, this gallery examines the history of the community as well as contemporary issues facing Gullah Geechee communities. Featuring a full-size bateau (boat), a recreated praise house, and multiple media experiences, the Gullah Geechee Gallery provides insight into the dynamic cultural identity of the Gullah Geechee people and endeavors to define and demystify what it means to be Gullah Geechee.
South Carolina Connections Gallery | South Carolina Connections Exhibit
The South Carolina Connections Gallery focuses on African American and African diasporic history that is within and historically interconnected to South Carolina. Featuring key artifacts and an interactive map table powered by Google, the South Carolina Connections Gallery provides insight into known and lesser-known South Carolinians, as well as relevant places and events from early colonial settlement to the present. This gallery tells stories of resistance and achievement, from the many local, national, and international influential African Americans in South Carolina’s history. Significant artifacts in this gallery include tennis rackets belonging to Althea Gibson, the first African American tennis player to compete at the U.S. National Championships, as well as a Waterford Crystal Award, commemorating her Wimbledon singles and doubles championship wins in 1957.
African Roots Gallery | African Roots & African Routes Exhibits
The African Roots Exhibit explores the diverse empires, cultures, historic figures, knowledge systems, and technologies of West and West Central Africa — the areas of origin connected to Africans forced to the Americas. A central media program highlights the dynamic past, present, and future of these regions, and Africa more broadly, from empires and societies to colonies and modern nations. Key artifacts in this exhibit include an 18th century Islamic astrolabe, as well as masks, currency, and jewelry from different West and West Central African ethnolinguistic groups.
The African Routes: Diaspora in the Atlantic World Exhibit illuminates stories that exemplify the influence and movement of people of African descent throughout the Atlantic World over time, from the Transatlantic slave trade to the 21st century. Layered against a collage of images that illustrate the vast breadth and diversity of the African diaspora in the Atlantic World, stories are organized by themes of intellectual connections, spirituality, and cultural expressions presented through a dynamic media program.
Atlantic Worlds Gallery | Atlantic Worlds Exhibit
The Atlantic Worlds Gallery explores the nuanced historical connections throughout the Black Atlantic World. Focusing on the major themes of resistance, revolution, creolization, immigration, and the Middle Passage, this gallery explores the deep interconnectivity between Africa, the Americas, and Europe. A 30-foot, ultra-high-definition video screen on the South wall of the gallery features an original short film that examines the historical connections between Charleston, Barbados, and Sierra Leone. The floor space of the gallery is filled with both historical and contemporary objects, art, and artifacts from throughout the Black Atlantic World.
Carolina Gold Gallery | Carolina Gold & Memories of the Enslaved Exhibits
By examining the roots of the plantation system, the skills and knowledge of Africans from rice growing regions of Africa, and how enslaved Africans and their descendants created community, kinship, and cultivated resistance, the Carolina Gold Exhibit demonstrates the transformative impact of enslaved people who labored on plantations in South Carolina and helped build the lucrative rice industry. A media program describes the knowledge and labor of enslaved people on the rice plantations, illustrating how enslaved West Africans brought significant knowledge and technological contributions to rice cultivation in the region, while also describing the physical and emotional toll it took on those working in tidal rice-growing regions in South Carolina.
The Memories of the Enslaved Exhibit utilizes quotes and insight of formally enslaved people to examine the brutality of chattel slavery. The lived experiences of these men and women demonstrate the importance of memory, violence, family, and culture. Featuring original artifacts including a jug made by enslaved potter Dave “The Potter” Drake and Ashley’s Sack, this exhibit illustrates how remembrance of enslavement was passed down intergenerationally within African American families. The media program in this gallery encourages visitors to form an emotional connection with formerly enslaved people by hearing their stories, their words, and their voices.
American Journeys Gallery | American Journeys Exhibit
The American Journeys Gallery presents key moments, figures, and movements in African American history that are interconnected with South Carolina, showing how they shaped, and were shaped, by local, national, and international cultures, politics, and economies. This gallery is organized into twelve chronological sections: Carolina in the Atlantic World; the Rise of Plantation Slavery; Revolutions; Expanding the United States; Emancipation to Reconstruction; the Return of the Old Order; Color Lines; Mobility, Migrations, and Military Service; South Carolina’s Freedom Struggle; Global Human Rights; Revolts and Transformations; and Movements. Significant artifacts in the gallery include the “Come and Join Us Brothers” lithograph, published by the Supervisory Committee for Recruiting Colored Regiments, Cir. 1863; a uniform from Company E, 24th U.S. Infantry Buffalo Soldier regiment formed in 1869; one of two American flags flown over the United States Capitol on April 4, 2018, in remembrance of the 50th anniversary of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.’s assassination in Memphis, Tennessee; along with various items connected to the Civil Rights and Black Power Movements, both locally and nationally.
Special Exhibitions Gallery
The Special Exhibitions Gallery is a 3000 sq ft. space dedicated to temporary, rotating exhibits. This gallery features a variety of historical, artistic, and immersive exhibits, which expand on the core exhibits. These include traveling shows curated by other institutions, as well as shows originated by IAAM. The first rotating exhibit produced by IAAM will be titled Follow the North Star. Sponsored by Michelin, this exhibit will explore the literal and figurative theme of mobility throughout African American history.
Creative Journeys Exhibit
The Creative Journeys Exhibit consists of artwork, poems, films, and creative materials placed throughout IAAM. These works of art on walls, pedestals, and screens exist in conversation with the historical content of each gallery and provide alternative vantage points for understanding history and the role that creative expression plays in both shaping and reflecting its arc. Existing in sections throughout each gallery, rather than in a dedicated gallery of its own, the Creative Journeys Exhibit features works that are connected visually through color branding, as well as thematically through curatorial text primarily displayed within the American Journeys Gallery.
Digital Exhibits
IAAM utilizes the Google Arts & Culture platform to develop and publish digital exhibits which explore themes and special topics relevant to the museum’s mission. These exhibits feature film, photography, interactive media, and historical interpretation that go beyond the stories and themes explored within the core exhibits in the building. With more stories and historically significant events that could ever fit in a single building, IAAM’s Digital Exhibits platform allows the museum to significantly expand its breadth and reach. In addition to these digital exhibits, the museum’s core collection and physical exhibits will be digitized and made available online.
LEADERSHIP
Tonya M. Matthews, PhD
President and Chief Executive Officer (CEO)
Dr. Tonya M. Matthews is a thought-leader in institutionalized equity and inclusion frameworks, social entrepreneurship, and the intersectionality of formal and informal education. Her background as both poet and engineer have made her a highly sought-after visioning partner on boards and community building projects, as well as a frequent public speaker and presenter for communities across all ages and venues.
John Anderson
Vice President of Administration and Chief Operating Officer (COO)
Anderson joined the International African American Museum in 2021 as vice president and COO. In this role, he is responsible for activating the museum’s visitor experiences, building and site operations, organizational administration, and company culture. Prior to joining IAAM, Anderson served as the Michigan Science Center’s vice president of administration and chief operating officer. Prior to that, he held multiple professional positions with the City of Detroit and Detroit Zoological Society.
Dianne Firment
Chief Financial Officer (CFO)
Firment joined the International African American Museum in 2019 as director of finance and was promoted to CFO in 2021. In this role she is responsible for propelling the financial growth and success of the museum’s operations.
Malika N. Pryor
Chief Learning and Education Officer
Malika N. Pryor, chief learning and engagement officer for the International African American Museum, provides strategic direction for creating and enhancing dynamic programs that explore the Middle Passage, the African diaspora, and the crucial contributions that African Americans have made to our history and to our modern world. As a member of the senior executive team, Pryor works closely with the CEO to establish partnerships and programs that support and sustain the museum’s mission, including exhibitions, school programs, faith-based initiatives and programs, local and national public programs, and the Center for Family History, a one-of-a-kind
research center that focuses on African American genealogy.
For more information, please visit www.iaamuseum.org or call 843-872-5352.
Photo courtesy of Obama.org
Reprinted from email: http://www.Obama.org
Hi Pierre,
Earlier this week, I made a trip home to Chicago to hear firsthand from some of the inspiring young people and leaders who are a part of Obama Foundation programming.
From meeting in a church I first visited as a young man, to joining the MBK Alliance for a timely conversation, check out this recap video of my visit.
On Wednesday, May 10th, I was proud to help the MBK Alliance celebrate four communities that are doing extraordinary work to address the persistent opportunity gaps young boys and men of color face with real, measurable impact.
The cities of Newark, Omaha, Tulsa, and Yonkers, in partnership with organizations on the ground, are making strides to reduce violence, raise graduation rates, and increase school attendance for students of all ages.
With access to education and mentorship in environments free from violence, these young people are getting a fair shot to live up to their fullest potential. This work is urgent and these communities are setting an example for cities across the country.
I also stopped by Lilydale First Baptist Church on the South Side—where my organizing career began—to meet with Pastor Alvin Love, as well as Obama Foundation Scholars ahead of their graduation.
Pastor Love and I shared some advice with these leaders, who are graduating from the University of Chicago and Columbia University, as they prepare to put the knowledge they’ve gained to work in their own communities.
They give me hope for the future. I look forward to seeing what they achieve in the coming years, and I know you probably do, too.
Thanks for being a part of this work.
—Barack
All photos courtesy of Peter Koutun Photography
Mr. Guthrie Lamont Bonnétt has such an interesting life. He is an Army veteran that travels for a living and is a personal photographer for many in the Fashion and House music industry.
Born in Chicago, Illinois’ southside neighborhood of Morgan Park, he attended Morgan Park High School. Upon graduation he joined the 82nd Airborne, United States Army. Out of the military, he had to focus on what lifespan he had left.
In 2013, while he attended college, he opened a store called “A Taste Of Chicago. This earned him the nickname (ATOC). He sold Chicago memorabilia in his store i.e., artwork, sports merchandise, candy etc., while he earned two bachelor’s degrees. He earned a Bachelor of Science (BS) in Psychology and a BS in Social Work.
ATOC still wanted more and decided to attend the Art Institute of Indianapolis, where he earned a third degree. He completed the art school with a Bachelor of Arts (BA) degree in Digital Photography. He is not only talented, but also educated and his educational goal became a reality.
He started photographing events for free, then started only taking donations as his professional career started, over 15 years ago. In his first fashion event, he met Sandra Smith-Doghmi, and he began shooting for Red Silk Carpet at The Oscars, New York Fashion Week, Style Fashion Week, Midwest Fashion, Latino Fashion Week, and Amsterdam Fashion Week. ATOC’s photography and modeling career took flight. ATOC’s photography business has been a big asset in his life.
ATOC always enjoyed fashion, but he lacked the confidence to want to model. He enjoyed what he saw through the lens. He started to follow his dream to start modeling, as he began losing weight, about five years ago. He started off at 365 lbs and now he’s comfortable, weighing between 225 – 240 lbs. His lowest weight was 198.7 lbs.
Currently, he’s been turning heads modeling and doing photography during “The Oscars”, “The Soul Train Awards”, “New York Fashion Week”, “LA Fashion Week” and other runway shows. Guthrie’s loving the opportunities he’s been given to model at 52 years young and looks forward to doing more photography and modeling internationally in 2023.
Guthrie says, “I’m humbled to have worked with some amazing designers, artist, celebrities, and photographers. A couple of my personal photographers that I go to when I’m being photographed are Jerome Lynch of Jerome Lynch Photography in Gary, IN and Peter Koutun of Peter Koutun Photography in Chicago, IL.
Shout out to everyone living their dreams because I believe #DreamsAreMeantToBeLived!
GO BANG! Magazine: What is it about photography that attracted you to it?
ATOC: The one thing about photography that attracts me to it is the opportunity it gives me to actively participate in capturing moments and sharing them with others.
GO BANG! Magazine: Over the years, you’ve created quite a name for yourself. What are some of your most memorable photo gigs you’ve had thus far?
ATOC: Over the years, some of my more memorable moments as a personal photographer have been covering “The Oscars” and “Oscar” related events with Red Carpet Concierge of Chicago. There’s nothing like covering “The Red Carpet” in Hollywood for “The Oscars.”
GO BANG! Magazine: How would you describe your style of photography?
ATOC: The best way to describe my style of photography is me capturing moments and sharing them with others. It’s more like a personal photographer or a photojournalistic approach to each shooting opportunity. I’ve done it all, from studio work to corporate events, a personal photographer for many artists in the Chicago House music community, to sports, to weddings and divorce parties.
Back then, I had to go get a fake high school ID to get into Mendel (Catholic high school in Chicago) gymnasium House parties back in 1984. I started following “The King of House Music” Farley Jackmaster Funk, and today I’ve had the privilege of photographing his family and their events.
I’m currently shooting House parties for many DJs, Event Planners, and musical artists in the industry from beginning to end, which includes the DJ’ing, the dancing, and the mingling. I’m capable of printing images on the spot and take pride in making myself available to travel more and doing events outside of Chicago.
I take pride in the face that I’VE NEVER CHARGED A CLIENT FOR MY SERVICES, BUT HAVE ONLY TAKEN DONATIONS SINCE I BEGUN PROFESSIONALLY BACK IN 2005.
GO BANG! Magazine: How did you become interested in the fashion area of photography?
ATOC: As far back as I can remember, I’ve always enjoyed taking photos of others, as well as being photographed. While in school getting my BA in Digital Photography at The Art Institute of Indianapolis and in Chicago, I started shooting events as an opportunity to start promoting my BRAND as a personal photographer.
I came to Chicago mostly to shoot, due to it not being as many opportunities in central Indiana (Lafayette, In). My first event was a Meet & Greet and Fashion Show that followed. That day, I started asking others there if they had anyone there taking photos of them for their personal use. Most said no. I then began shooting one event and cover photos for anyone in hope of getting them that night. That’s how I started shooting photography in Chicago for Red Carpet Concierge of Chicago, and that’s how I still roll to this date.
GO BANG! Magazine: Fashion photography is your forte, but you’ve always wanted to be in front of the camera, but lacked the confidence, being overweight. Please explain to our readers what happened and inspired you to lose weight.
ATOC: When I first started losing weight, if I didn’t lose the weight, my health would have continued to decline. I wanted to take the shortcut and have the surgery. But to even qualify to have it, you must show that you can change your lifestyle. I was asked to lose 25 – 50 lbs. I said that if I could start losing the weight on my own, I would continue losing without the surgery. I never had it and I just kept losing it, one pound at a time.
GO BANG! Magazine: At your heaviest, you were up to 365 lbs. You reached an all-time low of 198.7 lbs. Currently you’re between 225 lbs. – 240 lbs. How did you lose the weight and how has your life changed?
ATOC: I changed my portion sizes, cut out the sugars, drunk more water, and ate mostly plant based items. I never missed meals because when you miss meals your body stores fat to prevent starvation. I do moderate exercises three to five times a week. I, like everyone else, go back and forth with weight loss and gain. I just try to not stay too far away from these basics and I’ve kept the weight off.
GO BANG! Magazine: You’ve had the opportunity to live your dreams of being a model and have graced the runways all over. Currently you’re in a competition presented by WORLD GRAMMY 2022’S BEST IN THE BUSINESS. Your category is “Male Model of The Year.” Please tell our readers about the competition, how they can vote for you and when it ends.
ATOC: ALL YOUR VOTES ARE APPRECIATED!
VOTE, THEN SHARE WITH YOUR SUPPORTERS!!!
Thanks For nominating me MALE MODEL OF THE YEAR 2022-23 Meme Braboy and Dee Divine Ceo. @Michelles_House_Of_Designs
GO BANG! Magazine: What would winning this competition mean to you?
ATOC: Winning the Male Model of The Year competition would reinforce my DREAM MODEL, which is:
GO BANG! Magazine: What advice would you give to someone that is overweight but wants to start the weight loss journey?
ATOC: If you come to the conclusion that you need or would like to lose weight, then you’ve already won half the battle. Now, all you must do is BELIEVE THAT YOU CAN DO THIS, ONE DAY AT A TIME. Just start, don’t stop! If you do get stagnated, just press your RESTART BUTTON, and “P.U.S.H.” (PRAY UNTIL SOMETHING HAPPENS)
GO BANG! Magazine: What advice would you give to a budding photographer who doesn’t know exactly how to get into the business?
ATOC: If you think PHOTOGRAPHY is for you, find people that inspire you in the industry, do homework, and follow their lead. Practice capturing moments and then “WELCOME TO THE GUILD OF PHOTOGRAPHY!!!”
GO BANG! Magazine: What can our readers, THE BANGERS, expect from ATOC soon?
ATOC: The BANGERS can expect ME WALKING AND PHOTOGRAPHING THE RUNWAY INTERNATIONALLY IN 2023.
GO BANG! Magazine: In conclusion, what do you want your legacy to be?
ATOC: Just know that the LEGACY OF #ATOC will be helping those in need of HIS HELP, without ever charging them a dime. I’VE NEVER CHARGED ANYONE FOR MY SERVICES SINCE DAY 1. I TAKE PRIDE IN MY WORK BEING STRICTLY DONATION BASED!
GO BANG! Magazine: Well, ATOC, I want to thank you for granting me this interview. I also want to inform you that you have now been officially BANGED!!! GO BANG!
