By Stacy M. Brown 

Black Press USA Newswire Senior National Correspondent

Fred Redmond, the highest-ranking African American in the history of the American labor movement, is sounding the alarm on what he calls a full-scale assault on Black workers under President Donald Trump’s second term.

“Black unemployment has now surged—more than double the national average,” Redmond told Black Press USA. “For Black women in particular, it’s reached its highest level since 2021, and that’s likely to grow.”

Today, Redmond’s first op-ed for BlackPressUSA.com as a new regular contributor was published: “Trump Didn’t Just Fail to Protect Black Jobs. He’s Leading Us to Black Unemployment.”

Redmond, Secretary-Treasurer of the AFL-CIO, also spoke today at the A. Philip Randolph Institute’s annual convention in Chicago, where he said the energy of the gathering has fueled his commitment to fight back against what he described as reckless and dangerous policies targeting the working class—especially African  Americans. 

He directly blamed Trump’s continued attacks on federal agencies, noting that government work historically provided a path to the middle class for African Americans, especially Black women. “The attack on federal agencies has really damaged the Black community—with particular emphasis on Black women,” Redmond said, pointing to job losses at HUD, VA hospitals, and other critical institutions.

As for the president’s abrupt firing of the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) commissioner, Redmond didn’t mince words. “Numbers don’t lie. This is typical Donald Trump. You don’t like the numbers, so you fire the person who presents the numbers—as opposed to digging into the cause,” Redmond stated.

“The president shot the messenger. He’s trying to justify a failed month of economic policies that aren’t working for average Americans—particularly Black and brown communities who still live under the old paradigm: last hired, first fired.”

Redmond warned that the BLS—used by the labor movement and business community alike—relies on a decades-long methodology to analyze the workforce. If Trump installs someone who manipulates those figures to fit his narrative, Redmond warned, “that could throw the country into a very precarious situation with devastating consequences.”

He said the Trump administration is playing a dangerous game with tariffs, creating widespread uncertainty. “Black men aren’t seeing layoffs reported in manufacturing, but unemployment is at a standstill because companies are refusing to invest in equipment and modernization. They’re reducing shifts and capacity,” he explained.

Redmond pointed out that during the Great Migration, Black workers—particularly women—found economic mobility in manufacturing and government jobs. But with Trump’s unstrategic tariffs and budget-slashing, that pathway is disappearing. “He says we’re saving money through tariffs, but it’s not reflected in the stats or the jobs numbers,” Redmond said. “He’s playing games with people’s lives.”

Redmond made clear the labor movement doesn’t oppose tariffs outright, but they must be applied strategically. “When you just blanketly place tariffs on every good and commodity, that money is paid by the consumer. Corporations aren’t going to eat that cost. That’s a misnomer,” he said. “This is reckless, and it’s going to cost the American public dearly.”

The AFL-CIO Secretary-Treasurer also emphasized the historic role and ongoing work of the A. Philip Randolph Institute (APRI), where he serves as board chair. “Mr. Randolph’s vision was a Black-labor alliance. He believed organized labor’s priorities should reflect those of the Black community—good jobs, retirement security, decent pay, and healthcare,” Redmond said. “He knew that collective bargaining built the Black middle class.”

He praised the leadership of Clayola Brown, APRI President, and noted that its 120-plus chapters are on the ground organizing in Black communities across the country.

And Redmond isn’t just talking—he’s on the move. “We’ve got buses rolling across the country. Last week in Chicago, we stood with workers forced to work under horrendous conditions. We’re headed to Cleveland and Columbus, mobilizing for 2026,” he said.

He added, “Our goal is to make Hakeem Jeffries Speaker of the House, fight for democracy, and rebuild the social contract—by working people, for working people. We must stop this tyranny and stop this president from building an economy for billionaires by billionaires.”

Redmond, who has led the AFL-CIO’s racial justice initiatives and helped shape national labor policy for decades, said he’s working on an op-ed to further expose the administration’s economic failings.

“I’ve spent my entire life fighting for racial justice in the workplace and throughout our communities,” Redmond said. “We’re going to keep fighting—because the stakes have never been higher.”

By Tacuma Roeback, Managing Editor, Chicago Defender

On a cool, mostly overcast morning at Oak Woods Cemetery on Chicago’s South Side, friends, colleagues and admirers gathered to honor Harold Washington—Chicago’s first Black mayor—and his lasting and incalculable impact on the city and country.

The Mayor Harold Washington Legacy Committee hosted the annual wreath-laying ceremony, a tradition that brings together those who knew Washington, worked with him or were inspired by his leadership. Speakers shared memories of a man who led with dignity in the face of adversity and shaped Chicago’s political landscape.

Ald. Desmon Yancy (5th) gave remarks at the wreath-laying ceremony (Photo Credit: Tacuma R. Roeback).

“There was a sense of pride that ran through the Black community as we watched our dear Mayor Washington lead with dignity in the face of adversity,” Ald. Desmon Yancy (5th) recalled.

“Bold, Black and eloquent and usually the smartest person in the room, I believe that no one was better at linking Black liberation and politics than Harold.”

The Master of Ceremony for the event was Andrea Smith of the MHWLC.

Among the guest speakers were former State Rep. Mary E. Flowers, State Sen. Mattie Hunter, Rev. Dr. Janette Wilson, Dr. Barbara J. Norman, and 12-year-old King Hutchinson, a student at Burnside Scholastic Academy. Also present were former Ald. David H. Moore (17th) and former Ald. Dorothy Wright Tillman, both of whom had worked with Washington or were deeply influenced by his leadership.

Devorah Crable, one of the MHWLC’s founding members at the wreath-laying ceremony (Photo Credit: Tacuma R. Roeback).

Born in Chicago in 1922, Washington’s journey from DuSable High School to the U.S. Air Force and later to Roosevelt University and Northwestern University’s School of Law set the foundation for his political career.

That career began in earnest when he served in the Illinois State House and Senate before being elected to Congress in 1981.

In 1983, Washington was elected the 42nd mayor of Chicago, a historic achievement that would change local politics. He was reelected in 1987 before his sudden death later that year.

Rev. Dr. Janette Wilson delivers her remarks at the wreath-laying ceremony (Photo Credit: Tacuma R. Roeback).

Monday’s wreath-laying ceremony marked 37 years since Washington’s death. His passing left a gap in local and national politics, and still lingers today, particularly in the leadership of figures like Barack Obama, who often credit Washington for helping to shape their progressive political views.

Decades before diversity, equity and inclusion became a thing, Washington imparted that approach during his administration.

Dr. Barbara J. Norman, expounding on the legacy of Mayor Washington with Andrea Smith (Photo Credit: Tacuma R. Roeback).

“Mayor Washington implemented bold and progressive measures to ensure that all members of Chicago society, women in particular, were provided a fair and equitable opportunity to be elected into office and occupy high-level positions in all areas of government,” said Devorah Crable, one of the MHWLC’s founding members.

12-year-old King Hutchinson, a student at Burnside Scholastic Academy, delivers remarks at the wreath-laying ceremony (Photo Credit: Tacuma R. Roeback).

The wreath-laying ceremony also sparked conversations about bringing to bear Washington’s legacy to impact the future of local and national politics. Hutchinson, born after Washington’s time as mayor, spoke to the next generation’s role in carrying his legacy forward.

Members of Mayor Harold Washington’s police detail carry a wreath to be placed on his grave Wednesday at Oak Woods Cemetery on Monday (Photo Credit: Tacuma R. Roeback).

“I wasn’t born when Harold Washington was elected mayor, but I know that he made history as the first African American mayor of Chicago. I wasn’t born when Barack Obama became the first African American president of the United States, but I’m aware that Mayor Washington’s leadership paved the way for that historic moment,” said Hutchinson.

Members of the former mayor’s security detail presented the wreath at the stately, gray stone mausoleum that is Washington’s final resting place, accompanied by the sound of bugle taps. As the sun broke through the clouds, attendees gathered for photos, reflecting on Washington’s legacy and the work still to be done.

Photo Credit: Tacuma R. Roeback

State Sen. Hunter unveiled plans for a new statue of Harold Washington to be placed at the Illinois State Capitol in Springfield. Rev. Dr. Wilson reminded the crowd that honoring Washington’s memory was not enough.

“We’re going to be holding elected officials accountable in 2025, and we’re going to take back the Congress and the Senate in 2026,” she said. Of the wreath-laying ceremony, Rev. Dr. Wilson added, “It’s not just to celebrate his memory, we must remember to embrace his legacy.”

Photo Credit: Tacuma R. Roeback.

By Stacy M. Brown, NNPA Newswire Senior National Correspondent
@StacyBrownMedia

CHICAGO – Chicago has transformed into one of the most fortified locations in the world this summer as the Windy City plays host to the Democratic National Convention (DNC). With the influx of thousands of delegates, media personnel, and political dignitaries, the city has seen unprecedented security measures involving the Secret Service and state and local police, turning downtown Chicago into a near-impenetrable fortress.

Security preparations have been visible across the city, particularly in the downtown area. To stop any attempts to vandalize the courthouse, towering security gates with concrete pillars appeared overnight at the Dirksen Federal Building in the Loop. Similarly, residents and visitors along the Magnificent Mile and Gold Coast were met with unexpected road closures and additional security barriers, even miles away from the primary DNC venues. Roads near Chicago Avenue have been blocked, with police officers stationed on standby and large security gates restricting sidewalk access.

In the South Loop, manhole covers have been sealed with tamper-evident markers, a precautionary measure to detect any unauthorized access. The DNC Public Safety Joint Information Center, which includes local and federal law enforcement agencies, has warned of additional road closures throughout the convention. Some closures will last the entire duration of the DNC, while others will be more temporary.

The security measures extend to the city’s hotels, where 15,000 media members, thousands of delegates, and volunteers are staying. These hotels have become largely inaccessible by vehicle due to barriers that include city trucks and steel walls, forcing guests to walk several blocks with their luggage. In response to security concerns, congressional officials have advised House Democrats to exercise extra caution when planning their travel, including booking lodging under different names to avoid detection. Officials have also cautioned against visiting certain areas where violent encounters may be more likely to occur.

“The protesters aren’t staying in a designated protest site… and there are people who are going to go and really try to cause trouble,” one lawmaker warned, echoing concerns about potential disruptions.

While demonstrations from Trump supporters are anticipated, the primary concern for law enforcement is the potential for violence from tens of thousands of pro-Palestinian demonstrators expected to protest U.S. funding for Israel’s war in Gaza. In a welcome packet sent to Democratic attendees, convention officials emphasized that the Secret Service has been working closely with various law enforcement agencies, including the Capitol Police and the Chicago Police Department, to ensure the safety of the event.

High-profile speakers like Vice President Kamala Harris and Minnesota Governor Tim Walz are set to deliver speeches at the convention, and numerous dignitaries, including President Joe Biden, former Presidents Barack Obama and Bill Clinton, and former First Ladies Michelle Obama and Hillary Clinton, are expected to attend. The rumor mill is abuzz with speculation that celebrities like Beyoncé and Taylor Swift might make surprise appearances.

Monday marked the first of a week-long briefing at the Office of Emergency Management and Communications, where the Secret Service coordinates the efforts of federal, state, and local agencies. The office is also responsible for disseminating information if any unplanned situations arise.

As the first wave of protests swept through downtown, Chicago Police responded with a robust presence, including shoulder-to-shoulder patrol officers and bike units along the protest routes. Federal dog teams screened vehicles at the United Center, and U.S. Coast Guard teams patrolled the lakefront. Chicago Police Superintendent Larry Snelling assured the public that the city is prepared to handle any situation.

“We want people to exercise their First Amendment rights,” Snelling stated. “We will protect them while they’re doing it, but we will not guarantee that we’re not going to make arrests if they start to act violently or commit crimes.”

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=wpbn0ibyc1k

Multicultural Integrated Marketing Communications Firm Earns Top Honors in Its 32^nd Year in Business

CHICAGO – Flowers Communications Group finished 2023 with an impressive list of top honors received from highly coveted industry award programs. The agency added 22 awards to its trophy case in 2023.

After being named PRNEWS Medium Sized Agency of the Year, FCG started 2023 strong with new wins. Throughout the year, the firm was recognized for its outstanding work not just in multicultural marketing, but in a number of other categories, including media relations, social media, experiential marketing, video/content development and government relations. The accolades signify Flowers Communications Group’s continued excellence across industries and audience sectors.

“We pride ourselves on delivering innovative work for and alongside our client partners. These accolades are a testament to our firm’s longevity and ongoing success in reaching diverse audiences through culturally competent communications. We have forged impactful collaborations through forward-thinking strategies and new depths of creativity that resonate with consumers,” said Michelle Flowers Welch, Founder and Chairman of Flowers Communications Group. “Our people and partners are truly what make us great, and we could not be more honored to have our work recognized across the industry.”

Standout campaigns from 2023 include Famous Amos Ingredients for Success, which was recognized by industry organizations in five categories including ‘Corporate Social Responsibility,’ ‘Multicultural Campaigns’ and ‘Multicultural Marketing.’ The agency’s Democratic National Convention video collaboration led to four acknowledgements in ‘General Government Relations’ and ‘Best Use of Broadcast/Film/Video’ categories, among others.

FCG’s strong pulse on the culture shone through additional industry wins in new media and community relations projects. The firm bested as gold winner twice in ‘Best Use of Social Media’ for American Honda Battle of Bands (HBOB), an annual exhibition showcasing Black collegiate talent. HBCU programs like HBOB are near and dear to FCG’s agency leaders who are HBCU alumni. Flowers Welch is a graduate of Winston-Salem State University; Flowers Mazyck graduated from Spelman College; and Brinton Flowers is a graduate of Florida A&M University.

Two silver awards for ‘Community Relations’ and ‘Best Visual Storytelling Campaign’ were won for FCG’s work with the Black McDonald’s Operators Association. Awards for excellence in media relations were won for the Illinois Lottery, ComEd and the Poetry Foundation.

As the agency begins its 33^rd year, multicultural storytelling continues to be the focal point of FCG’s expertise and growing client portfolio. In addition to the industry awards, the agency has added several new national clients with work in consumer goods and services, health, B2B, corporate social responsibility and experiential campaigns.

For more information on Flowers Communications Group and the award-winning work the firm produces, please visit explorefcg.com or connect via Facebook, Twitter, LinkedIn and Instagram.

About Flowers Communications Group

Flowers Communications Group is an award-winning integrated marketing communications firm with more than three decades of experience creating connections between some of the world’s most iconic brands and multicultural consumers. Founded in 1991 by Michelle Flowers Welch, FCG’s mission is to provide innovative public relations, social media, experiential and integrated marketing services that reach and respect ethnic audiences and align with client partners’ business objectives. FCG has partnered with more than 100 companies and brands over the years, including AT&T, Brown-Forman, Cook County Department of Public Health, Ferrero North America, Foot Locker, Honda, Illinois Lottery, Lawry’s, Mary Kay Cosmetics, McDonald’s, MillerCoors, Nielsen, Nike, Walgreens, Wells Fargo, and other blue-chip clients.

By Tacuma Roeback, Managing Editor | Chicago Defender

The Chicago Bulls must be patient, add another piece and give this year’s team time to grow. That was the advice that Chicago basketball legend and former Boston Celtic great Antoine Walker gave to fans of the hometown team.

“I think you have to be patient,” Walker told The Chicago Defender recently. “They’ve got some great pieces. They drafted well. I think it’s going to take some time for them to get over the hump, but I think they’re headed in the right direction.”

For now, Walker’s words appear prescient as the Bulls have won three straight games against the Milwaukee Bucks, New Orleans Pelicans and Charlotte Hornets. Moreover, they are enjoying their longest winning streak of the season without Zach LaVine, arguably their best player.

After the Charlotte win, the Bulls announced that LaVine, who hasn’t played since Nov. 28, will be out for three to four more weeks due to right foot inflammation.

If LaVine is out for three weeks, he stands to miss about 10 games. He could miss up to 14 games if he’s out for four.

Whatever the case, the Bulls’ recent stretch of success has some wondering whether the team is better off without LaVine, who has been the subject of trade speculation for years. This season is no different as his name has again come up in trade rumors, though ESPN recently reported that there appeared to be no trade market for the 6-5 shooting guard.

It also doesn’t help that LaVine is having one of his worst seasons in the seven years he has been a Bull. His field goal and three-point shooting percentages are below his career numbers. According to the Player Impact Estimate, a metric that gauges a player’s all-around contribution to the game, LaVine is having his second-worst Bulls season.

Walker, who joined Cam Newton and Brandon Marshall’s I Am IConic – Live Tour at City Winery Chicago, said that success was within reach for the team however, especially if they kept LaVine and added another impact player.

“I like Zack, and I like DeMar,” Walker said, “They probably are another piece from really making it a consistent playoff team.”

“If a couple of young guys continue to grow, Ayo [Dosunmu] and Coby White, the Bulls should be in the mix of things come next year,” he said.

The Bulls look to extend their win streak to four when they face the San Antonio Spurs and 2023 No. 1 draft pick Victor Wembanyama on Friday, Dec. 8, in San Antonio.

The post This Chicago Basketball Legend Says Fans Should Be Patient With the Bulls appeared first on Chicago Defender.