Author: William Ross

Hermanito Adam Toledo (Español)

William Ross 0 Comment Uncategorized

Es martes 27 de abril de 2021. Ha pasado un mes. La tarde es tranquila. No hay manifestantes, dolientes, familiares, organizadores o activistas en el callejón donde mi hermano fue asesinado por un hombre cuyos intentos fallidos de resucitarlo solo resaltaron el hecho de que su vida fue una ocurrencia tardía. Empiezo por arrodillarme ante el altar conmemorativo, pero la energía aquí me obliga a sentarme. Estoy sentada en el suelo y una lágrima recorre el curso de mi mejilla. El viento sopla y digo tu nombre: Ibaye, hermanito Adam.

El callejón es pesado. El estacionamiento está visiblemente vacío pero espiritualmente lleno. Los antepasados ​​lloran. Los espíritus de los niños lloran porque hay otra alma que agregar a la lista de juegos para jugar en el patio celestial. La vela que encendí parpadea en el viento mientras me digo a mí mismo que necesito estar de pie, pero mis piernas protestan. Mi mano agarra la línea de tiempo actualizada que el Chicago Sun Times publicó hoy. La tinta del papel que mancha mis dedos intenta con vehemencia justificar la sangre que mancha las manos de quienes roban a nuestra comunidad de futuros líderes. La información actualizada logra destacar la violencia y la actividad criminal que afecta a muchas áreas de Chicago. Hace referencia a la extensa historia de pandillas con la que los residentes están demasiado familiarizados. Incluso intenta celebrar el tiempo de respuesta y los esfuerzos generales del Departamento de Policía de Chicago (Howe, J. y Boyle, A., 2021). Sin embargo, toda la información actualizada que puede producir la prensa no puede borrar el hecho de que una comunidad está de luto nuevamente. Una madre está aprendiendo a vivir con lo inimaginable que Lin-Manual Miranda cantó en Hamilton:

“Hay momentos en los que las palabras no llegan

Hay un sufrimiento demasiado terrible para nombrar

Sujeta a tu hijo lo más fuerte que puedas

Y aleja lo inimaginable “.

(Miranda, L., 2015)

El asesinato de Hermanito Adam es más que la relación que la policía tiene con la comunidad. El dolor reverbera en toda la comunidad y exige que miremos la relación que tenemos entre nosotros. Menos de tres semanas después del robo del futuro de Hermanito Adam, la vida de Jaslyn Adams, de 7 años, fue robada por dos miembros de la comunidad que dispararon contra el automóvil en el que estaba sentada con su padre mientras ordenaban una comida en McDonald’s (Harris, C ., 2021).

Adam Toledo estaba afiliado a The Almighty Latin King Nation, pero su afiliación no se puede resaltar con tanta fiebre que uno se ciega a las condiciones sociales que hacen de las afiliaciones un refugio para la violencia. No podemos quitarnos los anteojos de la totalidad para centrarnos en las escenas que validan nuestra perspectiva.

La dualidad de perspectivas que alimentan los argumentos sobre lo que sucedió el 29 de marzo, no traerá de regreso a Adam. Las subvenciones otorgadas a organizaciones que buscan frenar la violencia callejera no traerán de regreso a Jaslyn. Las perspectivas deben articularse para que puedan concebirse los diálogos y nacer la comprensión. Los programas deben nutrirse con dinero. Sin embargo, ninguno de estos producirá progreso hasta que nosotros, como pueblo, comprendamos los roles colectivos e individuales que desempeñamos cuando se trata del empoderamiento y la mejora de nuestra comunidad.

Con demasiada frecuencia, somos llamados a llorar juntos, pero nos dividimos antes de que se manifieste un cambio.

Con demasiada frecuencia, gritamos para decir el nombre del difunto, del robado, del asesinado. El problema no es que su nombre no esté pasando por nuestros labios. El problema es que es el próximo nombre que estamos diciendo mientras nos preparamos para aprender el próximo que necesitamos decir.

©Dr William “King Mission” Ross 2021 

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Harris, C., (2021, April 26). Man Arrested After Fatal Shooting of 7-Year-Old Girl in Front of Her Dad at McDonald’s Drive-Thru. People. https://apple.news/Af1FLZlEuROOBg-_a8Jswgw

Howe, J., Boyle, A., (2021, April 26). A Detailed Timeline of the Adam Toledo shooting. Chicago Sun Times. https://chicago.suntimes.com/news/2021/4/26/22386140/adam-toledo-shooting-timeline-video-police-cpd-little-village

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Hermanito Adam Toledo (English)

William Ross 2 Comments Uncategorized , , , , , ,

It is Tuesday, April 27, 2021. A month has passed. The afternoon is quiet. There are no protesters, mourners, family members, organizers, or activists in the alley where my brother was murdered by a man whose failed attempts to resuscitate him only highlighted the fact that his life was an afterthought. I start by kneeling before the memorial shrine, but the energy here demands me to sit. I am sitting on the floor and a tear charts the course of my cheek. The wind blows and I say your name: Ibaye, hermanito Adam.

The alley is heavy. The parking lot is visibly empty but spiritually full. Ancestors mourn. Spirits of children cry because there is another soul to add to the roster for games to play in the celestial playground. The candle I lit flickers in the wind as I tell myself that I need to stand, but my legs are protesting. My hand grips the updated timeline that the Chicago Sun Times released earlier today. The ink from the paper staining my fingers tries vehemently to justify the blood that stains the hands of those who rob our community of future leaders. The updated information succeeds at highlighting the violence and criminal activity that plagues many areas of Chicago. It nods at the extensive gang history that residents are all too famiiar with. It even attempts to celebrate the response time and overall efforts of the Chicago Police Department (Howe, J., and Boyle, A., 2021). However, all of the updated information that the press can produce cannot erase the fact that a community is again mourning. A mother is learning to live with the unimaginable that Lin-Manual Miranda sang about in Hamilton:
“There are moments that the words don’t reach
There is suffering too terrible to name
You hold your child as tight as you can
And push away the unimaginable.”
(Miranda, L., 2015)

The killing of hermanito Adam is about more than the relationship the police has with the community. The pain reverberates throughout the community and demands that we look at the relationship we have with each other. Less than three weeks following the robbing of hermanito Adam’s future, the life of 7-year old Jaslyn Adams was stolen by two community members who shot into the car she was sitting in with her father as they ordered a meal from McDonald’s (Harris, C., 2021).

Adam Toledo was affiliated with The Almighty Latin King Nation, but his affiliation cannot be highlighted with such fever that one becomes blind to the social conditions that make affiliations a haven for violence. We cannot remove the spectacles of totality to focus on the scenes that validate our perspective.

The duality of perspectives that fuel the arguments on what happened on March 29th, will not bring Adam back. Grants issued to organizations seeking to curb street violence will not bring Jaslyn back. The perspectives need to be articulated so that dialogues may be conceived and understanding birthed. Programs need to be nourished with money. However, neither of these will produce progress until we, as a people, understand both the collective and individual roles we play when it comes to the empowerment and improvement of our community.

Too often, we are called together to mourn, yet we divide before a change is manifested.

Too often, we scream to say the name of the departed, of the stolen, of the murdered. The problem is not that their name is not passing our lips. The problem is that it is the next name we are saying as we prepare to learn of the next one that needs to be said.

©Dr William “King Mission” Ross 2021

 

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Harris, C., (2021, April 26). Man Arrested After Fatal Shooting of 7-Year-Old Girl in Front of Her Dad at McDonald’s Drive-Thru. People. https://apple.news/Af1FLZlEuROOBg-_a8Jswgw

Howe, J., Boyle, A., (2021, April 26). A Detailed Timeline of the Adam Toledo shooting. Chicago Sun Times. https://chicago.suntimes.com/news/2021/4/26/22386140/adam-toledo-shooting-timeline-video-police-cpd-little-village

Lin-manuel-miranda-phillipa-soo-original-broadway-cast-of-hamilton-and-renee-elise-goldsberry-its-quiet-uptown-lyrics

WEPA! Mercado del Pueblo en Chicago, IL

William Ross 0 Comment Uncategorized , , ,

As the sun warms the snow-kissed blocks of “Paseo Boricua,” community members create a steady flow of traffic. Masks and other face coverings are the new additions to the attire worn by all. Still, as is the tradition on Division street between Western Avenue and Mozart Avenue, where Chicago’s Puerto Rican Community is concentrated and celebrated with businesses and organizations focused on the preservation of Puerto Rican culture in the face of gentrification (Flores-Gonzalez, 2001), these masks contain Puerto Rican flags and other symbols associated with the island and the culture it houses.

It is a Saturday in March during a pandemic. Messages on the importance of social distancing are on repeat from politicians and medical organizations, while simultaneously warnings of the adverse effects isolation have on one’s mental health are touched upon in the media. For Chicago youth, the violence hasn’t subsided despite the curfews, the quarantines, and the other social stipulations conceived by society’s efforts to combat Covid-19. “Yeah, bro… we still here living the life we live – ya feel me? Covid ain’t changed nothing but forcing us to wear a mask and we can’t sit at a local spot and eat. We gotta take our food-to-go,” says a 17-year-old high school student who calls the Humboldt Park area of Chicago home. “Oh, and we can’t say goodbye to our people who get killed or die cause of the virus,” he adds.

But there is a change on “Paseo Boricua” during this time of pandemic-driven economic hardship. Another accomplishment of Chicago’s Puerto Rican Cultural Center is made tangible as of February 6, 2021, when the “WEPA! MERCADO DEL PUEBLO” opened its doors to community vendors. Providing a space for the community to gather – following face coverings and 6 feet of distance (when possible) – and purchase goods produced by local entrepreneurs. The market’s idea was born from the need for vendors who were regularly participating in community pop-ups to have an indoor space where they could continue selling their products without having to battle the frigid temperatures of the Chicago winter. The initiative will continue to expand and evolve to the next phase, where local vendors will receive assistance to establish storefronts.

Walking into the “Mercado Del Pueblo” comes with a greeting from one of the most potent tools the community has to prevent youth violence; the smile of a young person. Emitting energy that speaks to a sense of purpose and pride, the two young women who greeted me when I entered into the space did so with flyers for upcoming events and a brief explanation of the vendors that were present. Their smiles were contagious not only to me but to all the vendors in attendance. In the back of the space, traditional Puerto Rican food was being sold, and it was here where I found a congregation of young people laughing and talking in a manner that denoted a sense of comfort and relaxation. There was no denying that the community was genuinely embracing this community space.

Taking a moment to stop at every vendor’s table, observe their products, make a purchase, and engage in a brief chat, proved beneficial in confirming the assessment I made of the vibe that permeated through the market. Time and time again, the positive effects on the community were iterated to me by the vendors. “I grew up in this neighborhood, and there was a time that we knew not to be outside. We knew when we had to be home because the violence was bad. Now, we still have problems, but you know what? These kids have a place where they can come and safely hang out now and get something to eat at a good price. They also become familiar with other community members, and when they see each other in the street, they can say “hello”. That makes a difference,” said one vendor when I asked her how she felt the initiative was impacting the community.

A key aspect of conflict resolution is understanding the root of the conflict. A key aspect of understanding the conflict is understanding the perspective of those involved. A key aspect of understanding the perspective of those involved is understanding their lifestyle. The WEPA! MERCADO DEL PUEBLO addresses a need the community on Division Street has. A community that is no stranger to the fight against gentrification, this initiative instills pride in the people of Paseo Boricua and that pride has the potential to quell potential conflict among the youth in the area by reminding them that the community is home to more than them and those in their immediate circle. With the extension of their network comes an appreciation for the existence of others. With this appreciation comes (hopefully) an understanding that life should not be disregarded. I would argue that when someone not only knows the name of the bystander behind the target of their rage but also cares about their wellbeing, the individual may be less likely to act in a manner that could rob another of their life.

©Dr William “King Mission” 2021

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Eternal Spirit…

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The flame flickers for a second and then remains still.

My eyes are hypnotized by the stillness of the fire that usually dances to the rhythms of the spirit world.

A breeze embraces me and I feel Her…

Maferefun mi querida Oya.

With palo in hand, I knock on the door of my Nfumbe and with Their blessings I call to Siete Rayos and the whole of the Bakulu.

The stars twinkle and I am reminded in the most profound way, that I am not alone.

My tongue mirrors those of my ancestors and the words that are released from my mouth have their origins in an antiquated era.

As the breezes continue, I can feel a change in the temperature of my face….

It seems that the shell that houses my spirit cannot contain the emotions that are running rampant within it and has allowed the overflow to pour from the windows of my soul and down my cheek.

It is at this moment that the flame moves.

They wipe my tears and kiss my head, reminding me that all time in mortality is borrowed.

They explain that while I may mourn them physically, I must not fall so deep into grief that I fail to feel the spiritual embraces that they are now offering.

They remind me that I need only close my eyes to play the movies created by the memories made with them.

They remind me that the greatest way to honor their life, is to live mine to the fullest.

They comfort me and say: “We did not leave this world… We evolved in it”

They are my loved ones and while their mortal shells have expired, their spirit is eternal.

©Dr William Q Ross “Mission” 2018

Balance…

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The process of spiritual growth and development is a process that is not void of trials and tribulations. Actually, it is the moments where our patience, strength, and resolve are tested, that we are reminded of the fact that balance is not either smooth sailing or rocky waters; rather it is both. The ocean in all of its entirety, if you will. Now, it is also imperative that we acknowledge the role we play in harboring the negative energy in our lives. Its presence is not only inevitable, but needed. However, the duration of its stay is often extended with our actions and speech. For example, statements such as “F**K my life” fuel the negativity energy and rob all that guides you of a percentage of their strength. More than a mere statement or “joke”; each and every time we articulate a statement, we are investing our Àşę into it. When the statement is such that it can be construed as dismissing the blessings we have received, the work of our spiritual guides, and the process of progress, then we are not only inviting regression to remain, we are inviting it to thrive. Imagine the negative impact a parent would have on the emotional, spiritual, and mental well-being of their child if they said “F**K my child”. Even if followed by an infinite number of loving expressions, the damage has already been done. 

Do not simply think of your spiritual growth and development, articulate your place on it. 

Luz, Amor, y Àşę,

©Dr William Q Ross 2018

Maferefun Òrìsà Aganjù….

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Luz, Amor, y Àşę.

Today, the energy of Òrìsà Aganjù is celebrated throughout the world by practitioners of Santeria. Commonly recognized as the Òrìsà who is represented by the power of volcanoes and the destructive as well as constructive properties of their eruptions, it is imperative that we look deeper and see His Àşę within the realm of our personal existence as well.

Within us all exists the nucleus of our souls. The very core of who and what we are is alive and erupting. Whether we allow this eruption to reach its full potential is a decision that we must make not once, or twice; but each and every day. No opportunity to grow from where we are to where we want to be should be ignored or overlooked. Such is the lesson that the powerful Òrìsà Aganjù teaches us as He causes our chests to rise in anticipation of the next stage of our lives.

“Òrìsà Aganjù, thank you for filling me with the heat needed to melt away the freezing effects of regression and never allowing the chilling air of stagnation to thrive. May the eruptions of progress and growth clear the way for the beauty of Àşę to reach each and every crevice of my being.”

Maferefun Orisha Aganjù!

Luz, Amor, y Àşę,

©Dr William Q Ross “Mission” 2018 

Offering Light during the Blood Moon

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On July 27, 2018, the longest Blood Moon of the century will share its energy with us. During it’s peak we will be offering light to the spirits of those who have transcended back to the spirit realm. We welcome all who wish to have their loved ones included in this ceremony, to share the names of their departed via an email sent to  lifecoachingwithashe@gmail.com. We will include all names provided to us in a special prayer at the peak of the Blood Moon. 

“The embers fill the air and announce the presence of the Ancestral Spirits that are being remembered. We offer them these flames with the hopes that their path will always be illuminated and their spiritual progression will know no limits. We also give sincere thanks for their never ending guidance, protection, love, and leadership.

May we never forget that each and every step we take, we do so on the shoulders of those who came before us. We may blaze a trail, but the path was pioneered by those whose presence precedes our own.

Somos!

Nsala Malecum!”

 

Indepence from Indolence

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Today, instead of focusing on your political platform regarding the true meaning of July 4, use the time to draw from the energy of Orisha Sango and Orisha Oya, and focus on freeing yourself from feelings of failure. Fight for your independence from indolence and remember that your commitment to spiritual growth and development cannot remain as simply a conversation. Action is required for your mortality to reach a level of consciousness that celebrates the consistency of your ancestors, the potency of your Ori, the commitments of your Egbe, and the beauty of your Orisha. 

At the end of the day, we have to more than want to remember what we have forgotten when we crossed the rivers of forgetfulness; we have to put in the work.

Fireworks may be going off outside. But the true sparks should be lit in your spirit and the show should be the new actions of your shell.

Luz, Amor, y Àşę.

©Dr William Q Ross “Mission” 2018 

 

Conversations at Palabras / Conversaciones en Palabras

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Ashé International, Inc. proudly presents:

“Conversations at Palabras”
“Conversaciones en Palabras”

A series of community conversations where everyone is invited to participate. Taking place at PALABRAS BILINGUAL BOOKSTORE (1738 E McDowell Rd, Phoenix, AZ 85006), where the community will find unison by expressing our perspectives in a space that values our voice.

Upcoming discussions:

“A SAFE SPACE WITH Nkisi and Orisa”
Sunday, June 24, 2018 from 11 am – 1 pm
Palabras Bilingual Bookstore
Discussing the practices of Palo, Ifa, and Santeria and addressing homophobia, discrimination, and sexual abuse.

 

“Puerto Rico y Cuba: De un Pájaro Las Dos Alas”
Sunday, July 15, 2018 from 11 am – 1 pm
Palabras Bilingual Bookstore
Discussion on hurricane preparation and relief effort organization. How can we support those affected and their loved ones? How and where can we donate? How can we assist with community sustainability?

 

“Mental Health and Afro-Cuban Spirituality”
Sunday, August 26, 2018 from 11 am – 1 pm
Palabras Bilingual Bookstore
Discussion on how we can support one another through the practices of Palo, Ifa, and Santeria. Emphasis on the role of ancestral reverence as it relates to mental health. 

 

Nourishing the Pride in the Parade….

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Nourishing the Pride in the Parade….

This weekend a young Puerto Rican child will stand on Fifth Avenue in New York City dressed from head to toe in Puerto Rican paraphernalia. Even their face will be painted with a Puerto Rican flag and their small hands will be feverishly waving the flag that on Sunday, possibly more than any other day of the year, as a symbol of pride and a commander of emotion.

As the child looks to the adults around them screaming and shouting, a profound emotion will fill their very essence. This unprecedented occurrence will be coupled with images of scantily clad, rambunctious men and women. Somehow, at some point, the flag of Puerto Rico became a bandana, a bikini top, and several other unfathomable items. The child will continue to bask in the warmth created by the emotions that will fill every inch of their body. Their adrenaline will be soaring as it is fueled by the screams and shouts of the crowd.

“Boricua!!” the child will shout, “Wepa!!”

The beauty of this child growing with pride in who he/she is, will be truly inspiring… but there will be questions.

When the fever of this day is over, how will the pride be nourished? Will it be with the truth and history of our culture and traditions? Will it be with explanations of our Indigenous, African, and Spanish roots? Will it be with the installation of values and morals that have their foundation in the preservation of family and respect? Will the remaining 364 days be filled with as much pride as today?

When the fever of the day is over, will it be nourished in such a way that the child grows to be a strong Boricua who contributes in a positive way to society? Or will the child grow with only the aspirations of being a thug who feels that as long as he/she waves his/her flag on Fifth Avenue once a year and screams out “Boricua”, showing his/her communal brothers/sisters that he/she respects them by invading their personal space, he/she will not only be displaying ,but also living up to Puerto Rican Pride?

When the fever of the day is over, will it take with it the memory of the more than 4,645 Boricua brothers and sisters lost over the last 8 months, and the countless number lost during our history?

©Dr William Q Ross “Mission” 2018