
Nathan Thompson is an expert on the economic engines of The Policy Kings that “ran the Numbers” or as we say today, held the local Lottery in Chicago. These men also served as the micro-lenders to the hundreds of small businesses owned by Black entrepreneurs in the community.
Oct 10
30 min

In 1973, four African American photographers and friends created their own gallery presentation at the Southside Community Arts Center called Through Eyes of Blackness. What was unique about them is they were Black men who all worked for Chicago’s mainstream newspapers. Fifty years later, one of the photographers, Howard Simmons tells us about the men, the photography, the era and the exhibit.
Sep 14
41 min

The Obsidian Collection goes across the pond to work with a group of Black female photographers in London, UK. This conversation is with the founder of this group with a membership of over 400 Black women and their joining the Obsidian Collection Archives. To Learn MoreVisit: https://ukbftog.com/
Oct 6, 2022
26 min

On the heels of the Civil Rights Movement, the riots of the 1968 Democratic National Convention in Chicago, Illinois and the assassinations of too many Black leaders, the Black community decided it was important to come together and create their OWN platform for Black people in America. Over 10,000 Black people met in Gary, Indiana. The rest is history.
Jul 29, 2022
35 min

In 1966, MLK was invited to Chicago by the local Black Clergy to support their efforts for improved housing and better living conditions. The challenges were many but so were the rewards. Hermene Hartman owns some rare images of this event. They were taken by famed photographer, John Tweetle. The stories told surrounding the visit are riveting.
Jun 8, 2022
32 min