Community News
How to get vaccinated without parental consent! Yea! WikiHow did that!
BY SIMONE J. SMITH
“There’s a lot of misinformation about vaccines online, and sometimes well-meaning parents fall into rabbit holes of conspiracy theories and made-up “facts.” While they often intend to protect their children, not vaccinating has the opposite effect, and leaves kids more vulnerable to dangerous and even deadly diseases.”
How to Get Vaccinated Without Parental Consent –WikiHow
(https://www.wikihow.com/Get-Vaccinated-Without-Parental-Consent)
As I scanned through the article, I couldn’t believe what I was seeing. The very first photo was of a young black woman, contemplating. The second photo was of two black parents talking to each other. As I scrolled through the article, I was horrified by what I saw. I am not a parent yet, but I thought that it was important for parents to know what is going on. If you don’t read anything else in the paper parents, read this article.
I have included the link so that you are witness to the atrocity that has now become available to our young people. This article “How to get Vaccinated without Parental Consent,” has 17 co-authors, which are undisclosed, and when I wrote this article it had 168,000 views. It was appalling to read some of the suggestions provided by the “experts,” that WikiHow has writing for them. Let’s first take a look at the rhetoric that is currently provided when you research WikiHow.
According to their About Us Link, the goal at WikiHow is to deliver trustworthy articles that engage readers and meet their informational and emotional needs. They claim to have the best how-to experience on the Internet, and brags that for fifteen years, they have committed to their step-by-step teaching model that they continue to REFINE for the best possible results. They are proud of the fact that they have helped millions of people solve problems, learn new skills, and feel supported.
They go on to tell the reader that they train their writers and editors to research, organize, and write articles that address readers’ needs, and help them achieve their goals.
Their newest task; they are helping our young people learn how to lie to their parents so that they can go ahead and make decisions that they are not prepared to make. Now YOUR child can search the Internet about vaccines, and WikiHow has created a how-to article that will help them step-by-step get a vaccine without their parent’s consent. They go through THREE METHODS, and I would like to take the time to share them with you.
Method One (making plans)
Your child is instructed to Look at their options. Some areas let you get vaccinated without parental consent if you are a minor, and others don’t. You can get vaccinated in secret (if your local laws allow it), and if you run the risk of your family finding out, petition the court for emancipation if your parents are really bad. If this is unnerving for you,wait until you’re eighteen if you think that your parents would severely punish or abuse you if they learned that you disobeyed them.
The next thing they tell you to do is try talking to your parents. The writing team is so nice, they even provide a script for our young ones;
“I understand that people are saying a lot of scary things, and that it can be hard to figure out what’s true and what isn’t true. I know it must be difficult for you.”
They tell our young ones that if their parents really hate vaccines, they could pretend that they want to know if they are at risk for “vaccine injury.” Here is where it really gets special. They say, and I quote,
”You are allowed to lie to your parents if it’s the only way you can get the information you need to protect your health. Later, you can say that you researched it and realized you don’t have a vaccine injury.”
Your next steps are to: research the laws in your area if you’re a minor, try visiting different clinics to see if they can help you, consider getting an adult to help you out, especially if you’re young. Now, isn’t that nice. They can turn to another adult to help them lie to YOU parents.
Method Two (getting the shot)
“Make sure that you schedule the date for a Friday, or a day before a break from school/work, if possible. Don’t forget to figure out what (if anything) to say to your family. You can say that you’re going out, and not specify where. You can also tell a white lie, like saying that you are visiting a friend to study or hang out. You’re allowed to tell lies to protect your health and safety, and getting vaccinated is one of those cases.”
Ummmmm! I think that if you have read up to this point and you are not furious, keep reading. I think you might just be in shock. Let’s see what else our trusted friends at WikiHow have to say.
“If your parents are distrustful, prepare your cover story especially well.”
Now! You have to make sure that you have a good cover story right? That is lying 101. They also suggest: bringing a friend for moral support, especially if you’re afraid of needles, talking to the doctor about any concerns, and treating yourself after you get your shots. You have to reward yourself by buying or doing something nice, within reason. Anyone who has taken psychology courses understands the idea of positive and negative reinforcement. For me, this sounds all too familiar, but why are they telling our young people to positively reinforce doing something behind their parents back? Let’s move on to Method Three.
Method Three (handling any aftermath)
Lies! Lies! More lies! They care about our young people so much that they tell them to rest after their vaccine, especially if they don’t feel well. Keep up the lie by telling your family that you’re feeling under the weather. They provide more script for our young people to use, “I think I might be fighting off some type of illness.” This is if your child doesn’t feel safe telling you about the vaccine.
“Remember that you don’t have to tell your parents about getting vaccinated, especially if they are controlling or abusive. You can keep your health choices to yourself; especially if they would be mean to you or make you feel unsafe as a result of your choices. You’re allowed to keep a secret if it’s necessary to promote your health and well-being.”
Is it just me, or do they continue to promote this idea of lying because it is about the child’s better health. This would not be a how-to without a closing. They tell the reader what to say if you as a parent find out. They are told to be respectful for your position (however illogical it may be, their words not mine), while emphasizing that it was important to them. Here is one of their scripted lines.
“I’m autistic. I can’t be turned autistic twice. But I could die of polio, and I’d really rather not.”
How about that? Are you scratching your head yet? People, we are in different times, and at some point we have to stand up to these supposed reputable: researchers, writers, and editors who are pushing our children to lie, conceal, and do things to themselves that they cannot comprehend at the time.
Finally, they close in the most targeted way;
“Stay away from conspiracy theorists and disreputable websites. They may say inaccurate and confusing things.”
Said the pot calling the kettle black!
BY TRISHA SMITH
In the heart of downtown is the historical charm known as the Distillery District. Nestled within this urban tapestry were the most beautiful Black women and men, dressed in purple and blue glam, coming to celebrate yet another SheaMoisture collection in the sheik Archeo event space.
The atmosphere was giving luxe with a welcoming and social vibe. As soon as I arrived, I was given a cute flower crown that brought yet another layer of cohesiveness in everyone’s matching attire.
The place was buzzing with Toronto influencers: women in business, creatives and journalists like me, eager to connect, while enjoying a tasteful selection of finger food and signature cocktails. DJ Martina was spinning the latest Afrobeats and R&B, keeping the energy high. There was a visual artist vendor customizing complimentary plants, and hairstyling stations, where women were upping their hair game with SheaMoisture’s new product collection.
Speaking of new collections, SheaMoisture is launching a whopping eight new products this summer! The Scalp Moisture collection consists of 4 new products: shampoo, conditioner, pre-wash masque and scalp cream. The original Coconut & Hibiscus Frizz Free Curl Mousse has two new sisters: a multi-styling mousse from the Manuka Honey & Yogurt line, and the Wrap and Set Mousse, from the Manuka Honey & Mafura Oil line. This one is for roller sets and twist outs while the multi-styling mousse was formulated for the ladies with braids, locks and up-dos. There was also a new whipped curl cream, and last, but certainly not least, a Coconut and Hibiscus +Flaxseed edge gel. We all know a Black girl’s edge is the icing on any hairstyle and this edge gel offers a semi-firm hold without the flaking and unnatural stiffness.
I’ve had the opportunity to smell and try them all and as always, the scents never decline, and the consistency is on point. One thing I personally love about this brand is their dedication in providing Black women clean organic ingredients, free of parabens, petroleum and mineral oil which is a big plus in my book as a registered nutritionist. It’s important to note that whatever we put in our scalp and on our bodies, goes directly into our bloodstream. Harmful ingredients can cause toxic build-up and hormone disruption while SheaMoisture’s organic ingredient profile does what it’s supposed to do, minus the hidden harm.
My personal favourite from the line is the scalp cream. It’s used just like hair oil but what I love about it is the cream application. I don’t have to worry about an overly shiny scalp with oil dripping down my forehead on a hot summer day. I also don’t have to be weary of the oil messing up my clothes during application (which happens every so often). The application tip t is perfect, the cream goes directly on my scalp, and it disappears as soon as you massage it in. No white film or build up and I’ve been using it every day! It’s obvious that our hair concerns are always at the forefront and SheaMoisture always has its way of delivering exactly what we need.
Their dedication to fair trade and ethical sourcing has brought forth fair wages and a better quality of life for families in Ghana and Burkina Faso. SheaMoisture has not only made their mark globally with remarkable products, but they have changed the lives of thousands through partnerships and most importantly, giving back.
SheaMoisture was also proud to announce their second year of the Dream Fund! This fund is a continuation of the grant program to offer financial support to the community. The Dream Fund grant program offers $10,000 each to five Black owned businesses in the beauty and wellness space. If you are a Black business with a product, or service that serves the community, you are encouraged to apply for your chance to win! Applications open April 15th, 2024, and close May 31st, 2024. Winners will be announced July 15th, 2024! Keep in mind, you do not need to be a hairstylist, or specifically in the beauty industry to apply.
Last year, a book publishing company, a fitness organization, a chef and a hair accessory company took home the gold. No matter how big, or small your company is, think about the greater impact you can make with an extra $10,000! The Dream Fund serves all Black businesses across Canada and is just one of the many grants, scholarships and funding accessible to the Black community on a global scale.
SheaMoisture is out here making big moves and standing with the underdogs so we can all rise in power and service to our community, and for that I will always support this product line and their initiatives.
BY SIMONE J. SMITH
I tell you, the team at Humanity Ova Vanity is solidifying their place in Toronto’s creative scene. It is incredible to see an organization embrace the essence of human creativity, curating experiences that transcend superficiality and celebrating the authentic expressions of people.
With every event that the Toronto Caribbean Newspaper is invited to, I am exposed, and have a deeper innerstanding about their commitment to showcasing the richness of human ingenuity. Through their curated experiences, they invite the world to witness the beauty that arises when humanity comes together in genuine expression, fostering connections and inspiring others to embrace their own creativity.
On Tuesday, April 2nd, 2024, the Black Screen Office (BSO) hosted a Fireside chat with O-T Fagbenle, an acclaimed: actor, writer, and director known for his roles in: “The Handmaid’s Tale,” (which earned him an Emmy nomination for Outstanding Supporting Actor) “The First Lady,” and his creation “Maxxx.” In 2022, he starred as Cameron Lautner in the Apple TV+ drama “WeCrashed,” a series inspired by the tumultuous story of WeWork, and O-T can next be seen in the upcoming series “Presumed Innocent,” for Apple TV+ opposite Jake Gyllenhaal and Peter Sarsgaard.
The exclusive fireside chat in conversation with Donisha Prendergast was held at the Toronto Regional Board of Trade (The Quay) that forms part of the BSO Symposium, a platform dedicated to amplifying authentic African narratives and fostering substantial representation in the arts. The symposium successfully facilitated featured speakers from overseas and connected students with the opportunity to participate in creative discussion. The discussion revolved around bringing authentic African stories to life. It’s evident that African stories have been untold, mistold, and marginalized. While there are efforts to address this, they often seem minimal compared to the potential for true representation and impactful storytelling. The goal is to catalyze change.
The symposium became a starting place of strength, celebrating the global influence of African culture—the “origins of cool.” It featured: decision-makers, broadcasters, streamers, funders, distributors, producers, and creatives in the screen industry, a day for collective ideation on what’s possible, not just locally but globally.
The symposium was hosted by Melanie Nicholls King, and featured keynote interviews (Sean Cohan), and presentations from esteemed guests (Jully Black, Mark Bamuthi Joseph, Rob Maylor), roundtable discussions, networking opportunities, and special presentations. “This enriches our collective endeavor, making it not just a meeting but a milestone event for actionable change,” shares Donisha Prendergast Founder at HOV.
Joan Jenkinson, Executive Director of the BSO, stated, “Our mission at the Black Screen Office extends beyond initiating dialogues; we aim to enact real change. O-T Fagbenle’s participation underscored our dedication to creating an inclusive screen industry that celebrates the richness of Black stories.”
If the success of the symposium was not enough, the rainy evening of April 2nd, 2024, brought its own treat. I made my way down to Its OK Studios to watch Canada’s #1 weekly podcast (now available on Apple Music), to watch a live episode of Extra Gravy with hosts: That Dude McFly, Alicia ‘Ace’ West and Big Norm. O-T made his second appearance of the day to screen episodes of “Maxxx!”
This will be a reunion of sorts and nothing short of comedic, as Marlon was one of the comedy writers who workshopped the development of Maxxx in Toronto (now showing on Channel 4 and later picked up by Hulu).
The highlight of my night was my sit-down interview (stay tuned for that) with Rob Maylor, a Jamaican-American lawyer, producer, and spearhead at Mental Telepathy Pictures. He is noted for executive producing “Sprinter,” championed by Jada Pinkett-Smith and Will Smith. Collaborations with luminaries like Shaka King and companies such as Hillman Grad showcase his commitment to authentic storytelling.
With a rich background including stints at UTA, Mark Burnett Productions, and Magnolia Pictures, Rob’s expertise extends to notable projects like: Paramount’s “Bob Marley: One Love,” and HBO’s “Get Millie Black.”
I am excited about what he shared with me, and I know it is going to excite our creatives who are reading this. The Jamaica Promotions Corporation (JAMPRO), an agency of the Ministry of Industry, Investment & Commerce and home of Jamaica’s Film Commission, has announced the opening of the Call for Applications under the Jamaica
Screen Development Initiative (JSDI).
The JSDI is a J$1 billion financing initiative by the Government of Jamaica (GOJ) aimed at bolstering and enriching the local film industry while attracting destination films. Through the JSDI, filmmakers, animators and creatives will be supported in developing eligible, local screen-based projects across various stages of development.
The Call for Applications for grant and loan support for Development, Production and Post-Production (Completion) phases end on April 28th, 2024. However, applications for Film Festivals and Market Attendance, applications for Marketing and Distribution, as well as Production Rebates will be accepted on a rolling basis.
Applications will be subjected to a validation check to ensure eligibility and assessment by an evaluation panel comprising local and international film industry experts. Assessment factors include: the strength of the application, demonstrated track record and/or ability to progress project development and execution, financial feasibility, market interests and marketing plan, as well as the overall benefit of the project to the Jamaican economy.
Exciting indeed! Application guidelines as well as the application form can be found at: https://dobusinessjamaica.com/jamaica-screen-development-initiative/.
Incredible work is being done here in Toronto, and we are so happy to be at the helm of it.
Community News
Not just a reunion; It’s a powerful catalyst for unity and growth. Welcome to the 10thBiennial Jamaica Diaspora Conference
BY SIMONE J. SMITH
“Under the theme ‘United for Jamaica’s Transformation: Fostering Peace, Prosperity and Youth Empowerment,’ this year’s conference promises to be a pivotal platform for collaboration between Jamaicans, the Government and other stakeholders, as we work towards achieving the national development goals.” Minister of Foreign Affairs and Foreign Trade, Senator the Honourable Kamina Johnson Smith
There is definitely excitement surrounding the 10th Biennial Jamaica Diaspora Conference, and this excitement was evident at the launch that took place on Thursday April 4th, 2024, at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Foreign Trade, 2 Port Royal Street, Kingston. The Conference theme is “United for Jamaica’s Transformation: Fostering Peace, Productivity, and Youth Empowerment,” and the hybrid event will be held June 16th – 19th, 2024, at the Montego Bay Convention Centre. It will be the first in-person conference since the COVID-19 pandemic.
The Jamaica Diaspora Conference is a signature biennial global forum that connects Jamaicans and persons of Jamaican descent living across the globe with the aim to strengthen linkages and build alliances that will fuel Jamaica’s growth and development on the world stage.
Since its inception, participation in the conference has steadily increased and as such this year’s target is 5,000 participants. The conference highlights that the Jamaican Diaspora represents much more than their ability to produce remittances, with its significant untapped economic impact on entrepreneurship development and the transfer of new and emerging skills.
Minister of State in the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Honourable Alando Terrelonge, who carries the day-to-day mandate for Diaspora Affairs, explained that the conference will also celebrate the cultural heritage and achievements of Jamaicans worldwide, while providing a platform for networking and dialogue on critical issues facing the Diaspora and Jamaica. He said marketing Jamaica as ‘Destination Trade and Investment’ and using the conference to provide key linkages for investment opportunities, is to “Get Jamaicans across the diaspora to invest in Jamaica, see investment returns, and see yourselves earning money.”
“Everyone knows Jamaica for its sunshine, but Jamaica is more than our beaches. It’s more than coming down and having a Red Stripe beer, having some jerked chicken or going to Dunn’s River Falls. Jamaica is also one of the best economies in the developing world,” the State Minister said.
Key stakeholders, including Conference Chairman Mr. Courtney Campbell, Legacy Partners VM Group, GraceKennedy Group, and Jamaica National Group Limited, were lauded by both Ministers for their unwavering support and contributions to Diaspora engagement.
The Thursday rising launch also saw the attendance of other Government Ministers such as: the Honourable Delroy Chuck, Honourable Franklyn Witter and the Hon. Marsha Smith, as well as representatives from a slew of Jamaican business conglomerates, who have expressed their enthusiasm for the upcoming conference, emphasizing the importance of unity in propelling Jamaica towards unprecedented growth and inclusivity.
Guests attending the Conference this year will have thematic sessions addressing the following:
- Educational transformation through digitalization: exchange, exposure and opportunities for self-actualization in Jamaica and the diaspora
- Embracing the migration compact: sustaining a thriving diaspora
- Breaking barriers and building futures: empowering Jamaican communities with citizen security, entrepreneurship, digital age technologies, and productivity, in partnership with the diaspora
- Empowering the youth for the future economy: actions and pathways to success and paying it forward
- Tourism and wealth creation
During her keynote address, Foreign Minister the Honourable Kamina Johnson Smith, highlighted the significance of the diaspora’s contributions to Jamaica’s development including strategic partnerships in various sectors: healthcare, education and other socio-economic sectors. She also shared that the Ministry anticipates the official launch of the Jamaica Diaspora Engagement Model (JAM-DEM), to also explore trade and investment opportunities aimed at furthering Jamaica’s development.
Guests also have the Marketplace to look forward to, as well as the Government at Your Service sections which will facilitate access to a wide range of services from both the business and public sectors. The Diaspora Day of Service will take place on June 20th, 2024, and will entail a wide range of charitable projects pioneered and supported by the diaspora across the country. In some cases, there is broader coordination from within regions and some initiatives are pursued at the individual or organizational level. Projects are registered on an event platform to facilitate broader support, coordination and reach.
The launch had surprises like a digital dollar giveaway, and other engagement surprises that ensured that as the world gathers in Montego Bay, this in-person conference after five long years will not just be a reunion; it’s a powerful catalyst for unity and growth. Register NOW to be a part of this historic homecoming.
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Roger Brown
October 31, 2020 at 1:32 pm
Great! article. Yes, this is truly terrifying. Think back to 5th grade (Washington DC is trying to make it legal for 11 year olds to go behind their parent’s backs to get vaccinated). Could you have made an informed decision weighing the possible benefits against the possible harm. Right.
Keep up the good work, Simone Smith.