Toussaint L'Overture Leader of the Haitian Revolution

One of the greatest freedom fighting stories that often slips through the cracks is that of Toussaint L'Overture and the Haitian Revolution. May 18th is widely commemorated as Haitian Flag Day, in honor of the culture and Heritage behind the Flag. With respects to that I wanted to reflect on the accomplishments of General L'Overture.

"Brothers and friends, I am Toussaint Louverture; perhaps my name has made itself known to you. I have undertaken vengeance. I want Liberty and Equality to reign in St Domingue. I am working to make that happen. Unite yourselves to us, brothers and fight with us for the same cause..

Your very humble and obedient servant, Toussaint Louverture,

General of the armies of the king, for the public good."

It is believed that L'Overture was born on a Plantation and not freed until the age of 33. After hearing of the French Revolution, many Haitians became determined to increase their rights. In 1791,  he was a leader in the French Slave rebellion in the colony of Saint Domingue against Napoleon Bonaparte's army. What started as willing to negotiate for better conditions of slavery ended up be coming a quest for its complete abolition. Slave revolts rarely resulted in success, however this particular revolt eventually led up to Haitian Independence. L'overture was knowledgeable of many European war tactics and trained and his soldiers with the most up to date and some unconventional methods. He was recognized and respected by the French as a significant Military Leader. Napoleon Bonaparte is said to have lost two thirds of the troops sent there.  By 1794, the New French Government had declared the complete Abolition of Slavery in Haiti. After Slavery was abolished , Toussaint changed his allegiance to the french and wrote a new constitution declaring himself Governor for life in the new formed Colony, and for the first time making Skin Color a non factor in  social Ranking. He Maintained a sizable army and leadership over almost the entire landmass which is known today as Haiti and Dominican Republic. He was eventually captured by French forces sent to restore authority and deported in 1802 to a French Prison where he died of health complications in 1803. Just one year later his Lieutenant kept fighting and eventually declared independence January 1st 1804.  This story  inspired American abolitionists like John Brown, and also many 19th century African Americans ,  in their Fight for Freedom and the abolition of Slavery.

Song of Tha Week: LIL UZI VERT - Hi Roller (Prod. by Maaly Raw)

As the new Season approaches, the mood of my music seems to change with the weather. Chill music is the way to go for me during these laid back summer months. I recently caught up with Philly's Lil Uzi Vert via his Live performance at Miami's Rolling Loud Fest. His performance was Dope enough to make me research his music portfolio only to discover he is actually cranking out some good music right now. His beat selection is crazy with assists from  Grade A Producers like DON Cannon and Metro Boomin. Also he has variety in his flow that makes for quite an addicting style of music.  Check out this track produced by Maaly Raw titled "Hi Roller" from his 2016 Mixtape "Lil Uzi VS. The World".  On This track UZI reflects on his new found fame and more in a melodic blend of the fast and slow flow. Let us Know if you are Listening to any other tracks from Lil Uzi in the Comments Below.

Atlanta AIDS Rate at Epidemic Proportions

The AIDS Rate in Atlanta has been declared as an Epidemic. The CDC reported that Downtown Atlanta has an HIV/ AIDS concentration comparable to that of some of the poorest and Vulnerable countries on Earth. It is estimated that at least 1 in 51 Georgians will contract the virus in their Lifetime. Lifestyle choices can increase or decrease these statistics Greatly. For example, Homosexual Males have a higher chance of Contracting the Virus than a Heterosexual Male. Studies suggest that African American Women account for 87% of all Women living with AIDS in Atlanta,and it is said to be the leading cause of death in African American Women ages 25-34.  50% of all new HIV infections are occurring in youth 16-24 years old! Check out the Video Below. Shit is Serious....

Here are your 5 best Options to Combat contracting this Virus:

1. Get TESTED!- Go with your Partner.
2. Dont Assume- Dont Assume your partner is Virus Free until the Doctor says so.
3. Use Protection- Although this is the Most Obvious approach, People still don't learn until its too late.
4. Practice Abstinence- 100 % fail safe, if no sex Oral or otherwise, no disease can be contracted.
5. Don't Share needles- Tattoo needles included.

Bonus* 6. USE COMMON SENSE

There are some thing being done to make a difference but more needs to be done...The Government is increasing Funding for research, and The CDC is increasing Awareness programs in the Community to try and educate the youth and even Adults on making better lifestyle choices in order to decrease this rising Epidemic.  This is a time when the Leaders need to step up. I can't name one Celebrity or Community Activist that has made headlines for Speaking out on this Topic. Where are they? If you have a link please share in the comments below.