Delaware Valley Association of Black Psychologists (DVABPsi)
Past Newsletters
December 2023
July 2022
June 2022
May 2022
April 2022
March 2022
February 2022
January 2022
December 2021
November 2021
October 2021
September 2021
August 2021
July 2021
June 2021
May 2021
April 2021
March 2021
JANUARY NEWSLETTER
Welcome to DIRECTIONS the monthly online newsletter of the Delaware Valley Association of Black Psychologists (DVABPsi). We look forward to providing our readers with pertinent information to support, encourage, and uplift our community and those who serve the community. The goal of DVABPsi is to make a positive impact on Black Mental Health today and in the future.
Views and opinions in DIRECTIONS are those of the authors and do not purport to represent the opinions or views of DVABPsi or its members.
Ayo Maria Gooden, Ph.D., ABPBC, Co-Editor
Auriane Nguiadem Kemegne, BA, Co-Editor
"Though we may not have reached the heights we anticipated yesterday, today is a brand new day to begin a new climb." - Chinonye J. Chidolue
A message from our President: Dr. Ingrid Tulloch
As we welcome another year, I want to extend my warmest wishes to each and every one of you.
Happy New Year!
The start of a new year is a time of reflection, renewal, and fresh beginnings. It offers us the opportunity to embrace new challenges, set ambitious goals, and chart a course towards personal and collective growth. As I pondered the new year, I came across the words of the amazing actress and writer Chinonye Chidolue. Her words resonate deeply with the essence of our journey as Africans at home, in the diaspora, and as members of the Delaware Valley Association of Black Psychologists. We have embarked on an inspiring and challenging path that requires continuous growth and commitment to our shared mission. While we may have yet to achieve all we set out to do in the past, today represents an opportunity to rekindle our aspirations and take the first step towards new heights.
I encourage each and every one of you to embrace the spirit of renewal and embark on your own unique climb toward personal and professional fulfillment. Let us draw strength from our collective purpose, supporting and inspiring one another as we work together to positively impact the lives of those we serve.
In the field of psychology, our work is instrumental in bringing about positive change, fostering mental health, and promoting equity and justice. Let us redouble our efforts and strive for excellence in all that we do. Through our dedication and determination, we can make a meaningful difference in the lives of individuals, families, and communities across the Delaware Valley, our nation, and the globe.
As we journey together into this new year, let us remember that our shared mission is a source of inspiration and unity. I have no doubt that, with the talent, passion, and dedication of our members, we will reach new heights and achieve remarkable accomplishments in the days and months ahead.
Once again, I extend my warmest wishes for a Happy New Year to you and your loved ones. May this year be filled with growth, success, and profound moments of fulfillment.
With great optimism and enthusiasm for the journey ahead.
Yours in service,
A people without the knowledge of their past history, origin and culture is like a tree without roots. - Marcus Garvey
Dr. Carlton Payne has more than 30 years of experience in the field of psychology. He earned his BA in psychology from LaSalle University, his MS in Counseling Psychology from Villanova University and his PhD. in Educational Psychology from Temple University. He has taught college and graduate students and served as the Chief Psychologist and Director of Behavioral Health for the City of Philadelphia Prison System. His areas of expertise include Forensic Psychology, Psychological Testing/Assessment, Learning Abilities/Disabilities, Mediation/Dispute Resolution, Suicide Prevention/Grief Counseling, Diversity/Multicultural Education, Anger Management, and Curriculum Design.
Ebonee is a six part story addressing child abuse by Dr. Carlton Payne.
Ebonee is a fictitious story based on real events.
EBONEE - PT 2
The foyer was a semiprivate area where I could monitor my group as they settled for bed but where she could talk without being overheard. After sitting on a wooden radiator cover in the hall I said, “Young lady, can I see you for a minute.” She walked over to me and I asked her if she was alright. She said, “Yeah,” and went back to her work. But as I stood to return to the male unit to write my log entries, she reappeared and asked, “Can I talk to you for a minute.” The kids were not allowed in the staff area where I had been working but the foyer was out of earshot of the group. I thought she was going to tell me that her boyfriend dumped her or she missed her family but what she told me made me hold on to my seat. I should have known. After all, we were at the Center.
She began slowly and purposefully. “I don't know when it all started. Maybe I was too young to remember or I guess I blocked it out of my mind somehow. I can only recall telling Dora, one particular day, what he did to me when she got home from work. Mom made me call her by her first name, Dora. She said when I called her ‘mom,’ it made her feel old. I preferred calling her mom because, at least when I said the word, it was like she almost was a normal mom, even for a few seconds.
“She confronted him about what I told her but he was very convincing ‘What kind of man do you think I am Dora?’ he said. ‘I ain’t that low. I would never do anything like that to a child. Do you actually believe I would do that?’ “He said, ‘You know she don't want us to be together. I thought you knew me better than that. If you love someone you got to trust them. You got to trust me baby or we got nothin’,’ he said. This guy was my mother's boyfriend who had moved in soon after she got on drugs. She was working and he was not so he stayed home with me while she worked. Not only did she not have to pay for daycare but he copped drugs for her so that made him believable, I guess. He left me alone after I told mom but only for a while but soon it started up again. I had to do something. I hated when he touched me, when he forced himself on me.
“My Grandma was my only other living relative, that is, except for my father who I had never met and who was doing life in prison. I could have told my grandma but she had a bad heart and I was afraid of killing her if I did. Instead, I asked my mother to take me to see my father at the prison. ‘She wondered why I wanted to see him so bad after so much time had passed. When I wouldn't answer the question, she dropped the subject and forgot all about it. I was determined to see my father so I ditched school the next day and caught the bus up to the prison. They wouldn't let me in ‘cause I was too young. The rules required that an adult accompany me.
“The bus ride home seemed to take forever but part of me was happy. That prison was a big scary place and I was glad to get away from there. My father had never done anything for me in life. He was sent to prison soon after I was born. I didn't even know what he looked like but I knew in my heart if I told him this guy was raping me, he would have him killed or something. “My goal was to find a way to get to visit him. He was probably a big time gangster who could have people killed just by snapping his fingers. Just thinking about that made me feel better.
“When I got home, I asked to spend the night at my grandma’s. Usually, I would stay the whole weekend. I was happy there. She and I, we just, well, clicked, you know? We got along so well. Grandma didn't like my father. She says she knew he was a loser when my mom first brought him home. She said that I was the best thing he had ever done in his whole miserable life. Since she disliked him so much, I had never written to him, talked to him or nothin’. I thought of writing to him about my problem but each time I tried, the right words would not come out. No, this had to be done face-to-face. That was the only way.
© Dr. Carlton Payne
Life is one big road with lots of signs. So when you riding through the ruts, don't complicate your mind. Flee from hate, mischief and jealousy. Don't bury your thoughts, put your vision to reality. Wake Up and Live! - Bob Marley
Featured monthly starting in December 2023
JAMAICA
written by
Ayo Maria Gooden, Ph.D., ABPBC
Each month, we will highlight a different Black country. We invite you to share your knowledge about the country so that our knowledge grows. If we visit the country, we will be better prepared. We are starting off with Jamaica for December to recognize the contributions of the outgoing president, Dr. Tashekah Smith and the incoming president Dr. Ingrid Tulloch, who are both Jamaicans. My husband’s parents are Jamaican, and we enjoy staying for a month at a time at least yearly (sometimes twice a year). We rent an apartment at The Point in Negril. Negril is our preferred vacation location because of the wonderful beaches that are perfect for snorkeling. The Point has a beach that is perfect for non-swimmers and children, a deeper area for snorkeling and a cave that provides easy access. We snorkel daily for at least one hour.
When you plan your trip to Jamaica be prepared:
-
Passport (If you do not have one plan on applying at least 4-6 months before you plan to travel.) Everyone, including babies need a passport.
-
Travel documents https://www.pica.gov.jm/immigration/travel-documents-required
-
Water shoes (to protect your feet from poisonous sea urchins in the Caribbean sea)
-
Full-face snorkeling mask so that you feel like a mermaid or merman-it is awesome!
-
Water flippers
-
At least 2 swim suits so that one can dry
-
Sun block
-
Flotation device if you cannot swim or for babies
-
US money $1 = JA$1.35 Keep your US money so you can judge what you are tipping and spending. Jamaicans prefer US money.
You have not had really sweet pineapple (try the sugar loaf) or fantastic bananas until you taste the ones in Jamaica!
In addition to the larger hotel chains, there are some smaller more economical places:
Negril:
-
Travelers on the 7-mile beach
-
Coco La Palm on the 7-mile beach
Black Owned Businesses in Negril, Jamaica:
-
My husband’s cousin, Javell owns Chances Negril Restaurant and Club on the 7-mile beach, where you can get traditional Jamaican food, vegan choices, and the best pizza in Jamaica. You can also see the bobsleigh from the movie, Cool Runnings.
-
Near Chances Negril Restaurant and Club you can enjoy live music with Luddy Samms, Jamaican lead singer of the famous Drifters musical group at Drifters on the 7-mile beach.
Luddy Samms (Lead singer for the Drifters), Dr. Ayo Maria Gooden, Dr. Warren Gooden at Drifters in Negril, Jamaica 2023. In case you are too young to know the Drifters, check out some of the music.
-
RastaAde – Vegan food and café 876-957-3898
-
Hi-Lo Plaza on the main road is owned by a Black family. It includes the Hi-Lo supermarket, pharmacy, hardware store, restaurants, souvenir shops, a print shop, and much more.
Montego Bay:
Most tourists go to Montego Bay which is an hour east of Negril. Here are two Black-owned hotels in Montego Bay.
-
Hotel Gloriana & Spa http://www.hotelgloriana.net/ you cannot beat the prices and the food is excellent. It is located on the beach and there is off-street parking. They also provide shuttle service to the airport which is 5 minutes away.
-
Airport Beach Hotel https://airportbeachhotelja.com/ you can get a room or if it is available, you can rent the apartment that has a kitchen. It is a one bedroom but they are flexible and will add a bed to accommodate families. You can sit in their bar and watch the planes take off because you are next to the landing strip. The beach is across the street so you can enjoy the warm, salty waters of the Caribbean.
Meaning of the Jamaican Flag:
-
Two black triangles: overcome hardships, both in the past and future of Jamaica.
-
Two green triangles: hope and agricultural fertility
-
Yellow cross: also called a saltire, this represents minerals in the ground and sunlight in the sky of Jamaica.
-
“Hardships there are, but the land is green and the sun shineth” – Jamaican flag motto
Famous Jamaicans:
The Honorable Marcus Mosiah Garvey, Jr.
-
Political activist.
-
Founder and first President-General of the Universal Negro Improvement Association and African Communities League
-
Born: August 17, 1887, Saint Ann's Bay, Jamaica
-
Died: June 10, 1940, London, United Kingdom
-
Children: Marcus Mosiah Garvey, III
-
Organizations founded: Universal Negro Improvement Association and African Communities League, MORE
-
Spouse: Amy Jacques Garvey (m. 1922–1940), Amy Ashwood Garvey (m. 1919–1922)
-
Parents: Sarah Jane Richards, Marcus Mosiah Garvey, Sr.
Jamaican musicians:
Jamaica is a paradise with beautiful, strong Black people. We will examine some of the more popular people from the music industry with the most famous, Bob Marley, the King of Reggae who was responsible for one tenth of the gross national product of Jamaica (over 190 million dollars).
Bob Marley (Nesta Robert Marley) was born on February-6, 1945 in Jamaica and died on May 11, 1981, in Miami, Florida. He was the person best known for introducing the world to Reggae music. He was an activist, musician, singer, and song writer. The Marley family is the most famous family in the history of Jamaica. Bob was married to Rita Marley (Alfarita "Rita" Constantia Anderson was born in Santiago, Cuba) and was his backup singer, the mother of 3 of his biological children (Cedelia, Ziggy and Stephen) and 3 of hers he adopted. Rita was an internationally successful reggae artist. She is an entrepreneur with businesses and foundations. Bob Marley had 11 children. His most famous children Damian, Ziggy, Rohan (partner of Lauren Hill), and grandson Skip who has won 2 Grammys for his music. I personally love Bob with Damian as my second favorite. Powerful lyrics! To learn more about the Marley family.
Exodus by Bob Marley and The Wailers
Damian Marley (July 21, 1978) Video Life is a Circle
Rita Marley (July 25, 1946) Who Feels It Knows It
Ziggy Marley (October 17, 1968) Love is My Religion
The Wailers – backup band for Bob Marley
Third World The Best Of Third World - Third World Greatest Hits
Alaine Laughton (September 21, 1978) You Give Me Hope
Shaggy, Orville Richard Burrell (22 October 1968) Bombastic
Jamaican athletes:
Usain Bolt was born August 21, 1986. As a sprint runner he is the fastest person in history. He holds world records in the 100 meters and 200 meters.
Some other Jamaican artists include, Grace Jones, Naomi Campbell and Patrick Ewing.
Food:
Here are some examples of Jamaican foods: Look up the health benefits of these foods and you will want to eat them daily!
-
Callaloo
-
Mango
-
Banana
-
Pineapple
-
Papaya
-
Sweet Sop
-
Breadfruit
-
Ackee
-
Sorrel
-
Dreadlocks
-
Originated in Africa possibly by the warriors of the Masai Nation in Kenya
-
In Jamaica, Rastafarians wore locked hair as a symbol of cultural pride and the celebration of Black pride. It is the rejection of Euro-centric standards that promote straight hair as the only acceptable hair.
-
Reportedly became popular during post-emancipation as a way to reject European/White values.
-
Eurocentric Jamaicans reportedly said the style was “dreadful”. It was also said that when White people saw the locks they felt dread.
-
Rastafarians grow their hair into dreadlocks in accordance with their religious beliefs Nazarite Vow. (Also their vegan dietary rules are part of the law) All Rastafarians take this vow and claim it is commanded by the Bible (Leviticus 21:5 “They shall not make baldness upon their head, neither shall they shave off the corner of their beard nor make any cuttings in their flesh”).
-
Black people must be protected so that we do not suffer from hair discrimination. Please sign the petition for the C.R.O.W.N. Act.
-
First recorded people were the Arawak or Taino
-
Words from the Nation of Taino people include hurricane, tobacco, hammock, and barbecue.
-
Jamaica comes from the Taino word Xaymaca which means land of wood and water.
Ocho Rios, Jamaica
Asante sana (Thank you very much) for reading our article on Jamaica! If you have questions or comments, please share them with us. Let's us know what country you want us to cover next!
"The greatness of a man is not in how much wealth he acquires, but in his integrity and his ability to affect those around him positively." - Bob Marley
Join
The Association of Black Psychologists (www.abpsi.org) and DVABPsi
Make your contribution to healing our people!
Your donations allow us to provide free
-
Individual Therapy
-
Couples Therapy
-
Family Therapy
-
Court Assessments
The more you donate, the more we can serve.
DVABPsi membership dues were increased to $50.00 for professionals and associate members, $25 for elders and $20 for students. Membership information and the application form can be found on our website.
BENEFITS:
-
Free CEs for Licensed Psychologists and licensed social workers
-
Advertising Your Products (Books, Toys, Products Research, etc.)
-
Opportunity to Present your Books or Research during our monthly Mbongi
-
Jegnaship (Mentoring) for Graduate and Undergraduate Students
-
Community Partnerships and Involvement
-
Job Opportunities and Advanced Notices of Job Postings
-
Networking with other Blacks in psychology, social work, marriage and family therapy, counseling
-
Opportunity to Receive Supervision for Licensure
-
Advertise your Workshops/Training or Business to Members and other Mental Health Professionals
"Progress is the attraction that moves humanity." - Marcus Garvey
Opportunity to Advertise in DIRECTIONS Newsletter
Advertisements can be submitted for review and publication at least three weeks before the next month's issue along with a check or money order payable to:
DVABPsi or you may make an online payment. Advertisement rates are as follows:
Full Page: $100.00
Half Page: $50.00
Quarter Page: $25.00
Business Card: $15.00
Mailing address: Ayo Maria Gooden, Ph.D., ABPBC, Co-Editor
DIRECTIONS Newsletter
Delaware Valley Association of Black Psychologists
P.O. Box 542
Westtown, PA 19395-0542
Directions Submissions
Members of DVABPsi are encouraged to submit articles, poems, announcements, quotations, employment opportunities, and information related to undergraduate, graduate, and post-graduate programs in psychology. We welcome non-member guest contributors. Members of DVABPsi are encouraged to submit their research, papers on their areas of interest and reflections on current events. Please submit a short bio and photo with articles. Related pictures and graphics can also be submitted with articles. Contact: DIRECTIONS Newsletter Team for additional information at: directionsdvabpsiorg@gmail.com.
"If there is no struggle, there is no progress." – Frederick Douglass
The Mashariki Gazeti
A CALL FOR PAPERS
Calling all articles (scholarly, opinions, etc.) about Africa, Africans, African Americans, psychology, advertisements, events, poetry, quotes, and announcements. The Mashariki Gazeti (MG) is published twice (i.e. September and March) during the fiscal year (i.e. August to July). Submission deadlines are August 15th and February 15th.
Advertisement Rates
Advertise employment opportunities, business ventures, office space, conferences, business cards, trips, and other events. Our circulation reaches over 300 people in Boston, New York, New Jersey, Delaware Valley (i.e. Philadelphia and surroundings), and Washington, D.C.
$100.00 – full page
$50.00 – ½ page
$25.00 – ¼ page
$15.00 – business card
Advertisements must be camera ready. Make checks or money orders payable to:
Dr. Faruq Iman
Please submit all articles, ads, etc. to:
Faruq T.N. Iman, Ph.D., C.H.P., Editor
1301 N. 54 th Street
Philadelphia, PA 19131-4307
(215) 921 – 2557
Email: faruqiman@yahoo.com
"The time is always right to do what is right." – Martin Luther King, Jr.
"I have learned over the years that when one's mind is made up, this diminishes fear; knowing what must be done does away with fear." – Rosa Parks
