Grandmothers, Mothers and Women Saving Our Children
Author: cedell29
Founder Geri Collins
In 2002 Grandmothers, mothers and women saving our children was born (GMWSOC) It was time for the hands that rocks the cradles to be heard so the hand burying our children could be put to better use. I knew the problems our children face were huge, the price was high and non-refundable and the currency was their lives.
I’m a mother, grandmother and great-grandmother, who realized it was going to take a village to raise a child; but the village needed to be fixed by us, (GMW), before we could trust our children to it.
Grandmothers, mothers and women (Gmw), Rosa Parks sat down as one woman and changed a nation, now we must stand and make it better.
FORGIVENESS TO: ALL FORMER SLAVE OWNERS AND CURRENT WHITE SUPREMACIST.
We Forgave And Receive The Power Of FORGIVNESS…Sometimes we tend to think of Forgivness as an action related to submission or meekness. Forgivness, however, is really a demonstration of strength and power. We call upon our courage to reach out and forgive someone who may have hurt us in someway, or even to forgive ourselves for some past mistake or happening.
It may not be easy to forgive, but as we do so, we draw upon our inner resources and in the process, renew and strengthen our own lives. The ability to forgive is a dynamic trait that determines our unlimited power.
Forgiveness begets forgiveness, For forgiveness begins and ever-widening circles of good. Those whom we forgive are strengthen and released; Likewise we are strengthened and released. As we forgive, we receive the power of forgiveness.
? Luke 6:3 – Judge Not; and you will not be judge; condemn not, and you will not be condemn; Forgive, and you will be forgiven.
For all GMW (Grandmothers, Mothers, Women) in particular and America in general. No Sane Adult, can ever repeat the phrase again, “ My Vote Doesn’t Count.†The Voting in 2020 Election was pivotal in demonstrating the power of your vote. You must decide which Majority Party you want in Congress. What type of leaders agendas will they support: presidents, judges, governors, mayors, City Councils, police chiefs, or school board members. You decide with your vote, which will have a major impact on your life and community.
An educated voter is a powerful Voter. Well! America the 2022 MIDTERM are twice as PIVOTAL. Each of us (registered voters) gets to decide: What type of leadership we want. Dr Kurt Lewis, father of Social Psychology, identify three types of leaders: laissez-faire, authoritarian and democratic.
Laissez-faire leadership…
Laissez-faire leadership allows group members total freedom. Laissez-faire leaders do not participate in the decision-making process, and rarely offer opinions. This style can work well if the group is highly motivated and competent. However, laissez-faire leadership has many drawbacks. Without the leader’s input, the group can sink into conflict as members jockey over roles and responsibilities. In Lewin’s study, the children under laissez-faire leadership were the least productive and the most argumentative.
James Buchanan’s presidency offers a historical example of the weaknesses of laissez-faire leadership. As slavery threatened to tear America apart, the nation needed leadership from the White House. James Buchanan failed to offer it.
Authoritarian leadership…
Authoritarian leadership means that the leader has full power. Authoritarian leaders tell groups what to do and expect group members to execute. This style may work well, allowing the leader to make a quick decision and providing the group with direct instructions. An authoritarian leader who presents a clear vision can motivate a divided group. However, authoritarian leaders are more likely to disregard the good ideas of others. The style can also inspire resentment and stress. In Lewin’s study, the children under authoritarian leadership were productive but not very creative.
President Lyndon Johnson provides an example of effective authoritarian leadership. In Congress, Johnson was known for his aggressive style and his remarkable ability to get legislation passed. When one senator quipped, “Rome wasn’t built in a day, another responded, “Lyndon Johnson wasn’t the foreman on that job.†As President, Johnson sought aimed to remake American society. His sweeping vision included civil rights, voting rights, and Medicare. To achieve his goals, Johnson would cajole, threaten, charm, and browbeatopponents into submission. Johnson’s sheer force of will drove his landmark bills through Congress.
The Kim family of North Korea is an extreme case of authoritarian leadership. In North Korea, senior advisers are terrified of Kim-Jong Un with good reason. Instead of honest advice, these men offer useless flattery instead. Unchecked, an authoritarian leader can prove disastrous.
Democratic leadership…
Democratic leadership balances decision-making responsibility between the group and the leader. Democratic leaders actively participate in discussions, but also make sure to listen to the views of others. This style often leads to positive, inclusive, and collaborative work environments. Furthermore, a good democratic leader can bring out the group’s creativity. Under this style, the leader still retains final responsibility for the group’s decision. In Lewin’s study, the children under democratic leadership made the highest quality contributions.
General Dwight Eisenhower and Nelson Mandela are examples of successful democratic leaders. During WWII, Ike was appointed Supreme Allied Commander. While that title might seem to imply unlimited authority, he worked extremely hard to hold together a diverse coalition. He preferred discussing issues with his staff rather than simply barking orders. Never afraid to take blame, he once said, “leadership consists of nothing but taking responsibility for everything that goes wrong and giving your subordinates credit for everything that goes well.â€
Mandela displayed a democratic leadership style as a leader of the African National Congress (ANC) he believed that people of all colors and political affiliations could contribute to the good of all. When he became president, Mandela could have sought revenge on his former oppressors. Instead, in an exceptional act of forgiveness and reconciliation, he included them in his government. His decision greatly accelerated the national healing process in South Africa.
The violence in our beautiful city has to be seriously address and dealt with by each of us, doing our part as, “NORFOLKIANS:
The CIty Council, The Board of Edu. The Chief of Police, and The Rest of us, Norfolkians. We are Norfolk. We are not going to solve Norfolk’s problems, by disenfranchising one group for the benefit of another.
The past two years has been tough for all of us, we’ve faced 1 challenge after another; but we are still standing. Excuses does not solve problems. We all have problems, some took us to our knees, while on our knees, we prayed back to our feet. 7
Us, Adults has to start,â€LEADING BY EXAMPLES. Our Children learn from what they see, Not what they hear. If We Want Them To Listen To US:
THE STOP THE VIOLENCE COALITION: WILL LISTEN TO THEM:
WITH A-TEENS-SUMMIT-FORUM: MAY 21, 2022 @ The KROC CENTER, Located at Ballentine and Princess ANNE 2:00pm – 4:30pm.
We’re providing a platform for our YOUTH to express their Grievances. We’re having a 12 Member-Youth-Panel, ranging in Ages from 10-17, addressing their question to a panel of community and city Leaders. We will also make it possible for youth in the audience to have their questions addressed.
We need a few more youth to complete to the panel. If you’re a youth with something to get off your chest, in a constructive way. Come to our Coalition Meeting Tomorrow, 6:pm at the KROC Center.
The Summit Is Coordinate by: Mr. Bilal Muhammed-leader of STOP THE VIOLENCE (STVT), To all community Leaders, Businesses-Entrepreneurs, consulor’s, educators,and all who’s ready to be, “ALL IN,“ for Our Beloved City of Norfolk; There’s a spot for you on the Coalition with your name on It.
EACH OF US HAS TO FIND OUR WAY TO BE “ALL IN,†To Stop The Violence In Our Be Love City of Norfolk.
GMW’S of Norfolk We Are All IN, With Our Power. And,In the Name of JESUS, “We can do all things but fail.?
What are the people of Norfolk Called, Norfolkian? I need an adjective to easily address us; So for my story, “I will consider Us as Norfolkian!†I’m open for corrections.
The violence in our city has to be seriously address and dealt with by each of us doing our part as, “NORFOLKIANS: The last two (2) City Meetings I attended in the month of March, 2022, the Norfolkians or Constituents, we were treat it like a cheap date.
The Board of Ed., was the Most offensive, their meeting was to pass the budget for 2022 and 2023, and they knew it would be heavily attended; Yet they decided to have it in the small space on the 12th floor of their headquarters, with only 15 seats available for public attendees. Our superintendent was selected; The board was elected. We put them there by our votes, and if we’re not happy with their service, We should vote them out.
The same is true for City Council Members, all were elected, except for City Manager, who was Selected. At least accommodations were fine, the majority of the Norforkians in attendance we’re from Park Place; “Protesting the sale of a landmark community church, that’s being sold to be replaced by expensive apartments, Where a-one-bedroom would rent for $1700 plus a month. In a community where $1000 a month in rent is a struggle. Those Norforkians were treated as 2nd class citizens. There were a few times when the members were condescending. They cast their yeas and nays, as if what their constituents had to say (even some with tears) had no impact on them, Whatsoever. It was cold and Callous.
The project was given to a White-Deep-Pocket Contractor, over several Black-Contractors who put in bids to consider the community and do a great job, they were rejected.
IS NORFOLK A SAFE PLACE TO LIVE? First, keep in mind that Virginia is one of the safest places in the country, ranked No. 7 in the Crime Index by USA.com. As with any major metropolitan area, there are areas of Norfolk considered more dangerous than others. Taking these areas into account, Norfolk itself is considered one of the more dangerous areas in Virginia.
WHAT ARE THE BAD PARTS OF NORFOLK? There are several neighborhoods, primarily in the southern part of Norfolk, that represent the greatest amount of crime. According to Roadsnacks.net, these include Roberts Village, Campostella, Grandy Village, Beacon Light and Coronado-Inglenook, all of which have some of the area’s highest unemployment, lowest median income, lowest population density and lowest home values.
To Stop The Violence in areas that has the highest amount of crime, Norfolk, we must address these issues and do something about them:
High Unemployment
Low median income
Lowest population density
Lowest home value
Lowest reading and math scores.
The highest school suspensions and school dropouts.
If we address the above issues, the Violence from guns and drugs will decrease. Each of us has to take a stand, and be willing to make our mark for the benefit of our neighborhoods and beloved City of Norfolk. the City Council and Chief of police is upping their effort, including assistance from other cities.
The city budget for 2022-23, has made the minimum wage for city employees $18. that amount would make lot of difference, in raising the standard of living, in all low income communities, but we also know in order to earn more, â€We must bring more skills to the job market. back to education. Trade Schools, making all of our schools conducive to learning.
We are not helpless. Each of us has the same power: Our Vote, Dollars , God and our Love. Get registered to vote if you’re not, get your rights restored if they were taken away. Know who’s running for office; its going to take some effort on each of us, but its worth it. I’ll help keep us updated on whose running. You just get ready to vote. And lets start letting our children know and see, â€Well maintained schools and neighborhoods say we care.
I also see Racism raising its ugly head. In My Beloved City of Norfolk.
Councilman Riddick: It’s My  privilege, honor and pleasure  to commend you for your 30 years of service to the city of Norfolk in General,  and Ward 4 in particular.  You are known, and respected as a man of character and integrity, who stands up for his belief, and has no problems voicing your opinions, always, in support of some, and in opposition to  others.
You epitomize what it means to take a stand and make a mark. You have made your Exemplary contribution To the City of Norfolk, as councilman, businessman, father, grandfather friend and Confident of many, and foe of few.
On behalf of Gethsemane Community Fellowship Baptist Church, Grandmothers,Mother and Women (GMW), WE Matter TOO organization; and the STOP THE VIOLENCE COALITION-under the leadership of Bilal Muhammad. We say thank again for 30 years of unselfish Service.
I also see Racism raising its ugly head. In My Beloved City of Norfolk.
To Norfolk City Council members, I went to the Bd of Edu. meeting last Tuesday in an observatory capacity, was highly disappointed. I left and watch virtual until about about 1:05am Wednesday morning.
I Decided to do some research on the City of Norfolk’s education system and Norfolk, “The city I Luv.†All the research concluded with the board of Ed: C+, and City of Norfolk: C+. We can and must do better for our children. Which raised the question:
Is Norfolk a safe place to live?
First, keep in mind that Virginia is one of the safest places in the country, ranked No. 7 in the Crime Index by USA.com. As with any major metropolitan area, there are areas of Norfolk considered more dangerous than others. Taking these areas into account, Norfolk itself is considered one of the more dangerous areas in Virginia.
What are the bad parts of Norfolk?
There are several neighborhoods, primarily in the southern part of Norfolk, that represent the greatest amount of crime. According to Roadsnacks.net, these include Roberts Village, Campostella, Grandy Village, Beacon Light and Coronado-Inglenook, all of which have some of the area’s highest unemployment, lowest median income, lowest population density and lowest home values.
GMW and WE MATTER TOO: Is making Southside Stem Academy, (located in Superward 7 and ward 4), Our 1st Project along with the parents in this school, and community.
Another Meeting: Last evening (3/22/22); I attended the City Council Meeting, which was one of the coolest Meeting I have ever attended. The councilmembers came across as condescending, arrogant and uncaring. It was almost like some of the time they were, â€Looking down their noses.â€
The Park-slope Community was present in great numbers, expressing their grievances against the gentrification that they can see, will be happening to them. Only Mamie Johnson made an unemotional response to those Constituents who poured out their hearts, then they voted as if their fellow citizens did not exist. Only Councilman Riddick votes against that particular proposal.
I love my City of Norfolk, But, I don’t like it right now. I see Racism raising its ugly head. In My Beloved City of Norfolk.
Norfolk became my city of choice when I moved here from NY 2003. I have no regrets…Let’s Turn a C+ Into an A.
INCLUDING: THE Good-Bad And Ugly, Just Like NY.
GMW of Norfolk: Here; I’m only speaking for myself; “I try to never point-fingers or complain about a situation, unless I’m willing to help do something about it.â€
Based on the Education C+ rating by Niche.Com and the Norfolk City C+ rating by CrimeGrade.org; and some quotes by writer: Eric Mees. The question becomes, Is Norfolk a safe place to live.
First, keep in mind that Virginia is one of the safest places in the country, ranked No. 7 in the Crime Index by USA.com. As with any major metropolitan area, there are areas of Norfolk considered more dangerous than others. Taking these areas into account, Norfolk itself is considered one of the more dangerous areas in Virginia.
CrimeGrade.org scores Norfolk a C+, ranking it in the 50th percentile for safety, meaning half the cities are more dangerous and the other half are less dangerous.
What are the bad parts of Norfolk?
There are several neighborhoods, primarily in the south part of Norfolk, that represent the greatest amount of crime. According to Roadsnacks.net, these include Roberts Village, Campostella, Grandy Village, Beacon Light and Coronado-Inglenook, all of which have some of the area’s highest unemployment, lowest median income, lowest population density and lowest home values.
What are the Pros and Cons of Living in Norfolk?
Pros
When considering “Is Norfolk a good place to live?†it’s good to know that there are many upsides to living in the Norfolk area. The cost of living is lower than the national average, as are housing costs in the area. The military and defense industry, as well as commercial shipping, help keep the local economy afloat even in the toughest times.
The area is also home to three public universities as well as a private one. Old Dominion University is a public research university, with approximately 20,000 under-grads and graduate students on campus. The school has eight colleges and offers more than 150 degree programs.
Norfolk State University, a historically black university, has just over 5,000 under-grads and graduate students. It is one of the state’s most affordable schools.
Eastern Virginia Medical School has less than 1,000 students, and the campus includes the 555-bed Sentara Norfolk General Hospital, a level 1 trauma medical care facility, and a 212-bed children’s hospital.
Virginia Wesleyan University is a private, liberal arts college. The student body consists of about 1,500 mostly under-grads.
Norfolk is also home to many performing arts complexes and hosts annual festivals and parades, mostly in Town Point Park. Revitalization efforts in downtown have brought a number of music clubs to the area, many in lower Granby Street. The Chrysler Museum of Art is considered to be the finest museum in the state, with a significant glass collection. The city’s naval presence is celebrated at Nauticus, which is also home to the battleship U.S.S. Wisconsin, which served in WWII, Korea, and the Gulf Wars. And, The Harrison Opera House, official home of the Virginia Opera in the Neon District of Downtown Norfolk.
Cons
The most significant con for the region centers around the higher crime rate than many of the neighboring communities. NeighborhoodScout.com rates a person’s chance of becoming the victim of a violent crime as 1 in 151, significantly higher than Virginia as a whole, which they rate at 1 in 482.
Public schools are not as highly rated as others in Virginia. Larchmont Elementary School, for example, is the top-rated public elementary in Norfolk, earning a B+ and a Virginia-wide ranking of 309th on Niche.com.
Turning Those C+ to A’s, GMW (Grandmother, mothers and women)of Norfolk, is our responsibility. We have the tools: Our Dollars and Vote, Our Power: Our God and Love.
GMW and We Matter, has join forced with the Stop The Violence coalition, in combine efforts of stopping the violence, and improving Norfolk’s C+ rating.
GMW and WE MATTER 2: Is adopting Southside Stem Academy, supporting parents with children in the beautiful underutilized school. For reasons listed by, Public Schools Review. Southside Stem Academy: Bd of Ed-Rep. Rodney Jordon: Superward 7: and Christine Smith, Ward 4. City Council Superward:7: Rep. Danica J. Royster, and Paul R. Riddick, City Council ward 4.