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The Rockefeller Foundation has been given the authority to make these decisions on behalf of the world

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Photo Credit: Edwin Hooper

BY SIMONE J. SMITH

One of the most important decisions you’ll ever make in life is deciding who to trust. I know that we all have a story where trusting the wrong person has gone wrong. Trusting the wrong person can result in abusive relationships, being taken advantage of, financial losses, and many more undesirable outcomes.

This week, I want to share a newer development that has not been discussed readily, but what it does is put us, the citizens of the world, in a position where we are forced to trust leaders who may not have our best interest at heart. Unfortunately, our history has presented us leaders who manipulate people to follow them, even when it’s not in the followers’ economic or other interests. They do this by using emotion and identity to attract and manipulate their followers. They define in-group and out-group by manipulating emotions, especially fear, anger, and outrage. Through emotional persuasion, leaders get followers to adhere to a particular partisan identity, and they emphasize that by sticking with them, followers can avoid harm.

In recent years, concern has been expressed in both scholarly and popular literature about the dangers of scientific developments that could be used to control and manipulate human behavior. There are fears that behavioral techniques have advanced to such an extent that they threaten the fundamental values of Western civilization.

It is one of the reasons that when I found out that The Rockefeller Foundation announced it had partnered with the World Health Organization (“WHO”) “To expand global pandemic preparedness in an era of climate change,” the alarms in my head went off! We have seen how our global leaders have used manipulation to evoke trust during the pandemic, actions that have caused severe harm to many of us. Let’s take a look at what they have in store for us.

The Rockefeller Foundation launched the partnership with the WHO Hub for Pandemic and Epidemic Intelligence on the sidelines of the 76th World Health Assembly (“WHA”). The Seventy-sixth World Health Assembly was held in Geneva, Switzerland, from May 21st–30th, 2023. The World Health Assembly is the decision-making body of WHO. It is attended by delegations from all WHO Member States and focuses on a specific health agenda prepared by the Executive Board. The main functions of the World Health Assembly are to determine the policies of the Organization, appoint the Director-General, supervise financial policies, and review and approve the proposed programme budget. They also meet to “negotiate” proposed amendments to the International Health Regulations (“IHRs”).

The Rockefeller Foundation’s announcement dramatically titled ‘One Health in practice – Preventing the Next Pandemic Before Communities Suffer’.  A topic which is more in line with the Foundation’s announcement which makes it clear that the pandemic, climate change and surveillance ideologies have merged into one agenda.

The Rockefeller Foundation announced it is investing US$5 million to accelerate priority projects of the WHO Hub for Pandemic and Epidemic Intelligence to drive global collaboration in genomic surveillance, adoption of data tools for pathogen detection, and assessment of climate-aggravated outbreak threats.

With support from the Government of the Federal Republic of Germany, the WHO Pandemic Hub for Pandemic and Epidemic Intelligence was established in September 2021. The WHO Hub for Pandemic and Epidemic Intelligence (the WHO Pandemic Hub), facilitates a global collaboration of partners from multiple sectors that supports countries and stakeholders to address future pandemic and epidemic risks with better access to data, better analytical capacities, and better tools and insights for decision-making.

The WHO Pandemic Hub works closely with Member States and WHO Regional and Country Offices to strengthen their data-sharing capacities and enable partners from around the world to collaborate and co-create tools to gather and analyze data for early warning surveillance. With a presence in more than 150 countries, six Regional Offices, and its Geneva Headquarters, WHO’s reach gives them the ability to treat pandemic, epidemic and public health risks with equal urgency and diligence around the globe.

So, as things stand, it has been decided by a small group of people at the World Health Assembly that a select group of undisclosed “partners” will have total global control over the prediction, data and information of “future pandemics.”  Pandemics that could be declared at the whim of WHO’s Dictator General in the name of health, environment or climate.

WHA and WHO’s partners have not been given the authority to make these decisions on behalf of the world, and yet more than 8 billion people in the world do not have a say. We are to “trust” that these individuals have our best interests at heart, which is difficult after seeing all the harm that has been caused.

We, as humans are guaranteed certain things in life: stressors, taxes, bills and death are the first thoughts that pop to mind. It is not uncommon that many people find a hard time dealing with these daily life stressors, and at times will find themselves losing control over their lives. Simone Jennifer Smith’s great passion is using the gifts that have been given to her, to help educate her clients on how to live meaningful lives. The Hear to Help Team consists of powerfully motivated individuals, who like Simone, see that there is a need in this world; a need for real connection. As the founder and Director of Hear 2 Help, Simone leads a team that goes out into the community day to day, servicing families with their educational, legal and mental health needs.Her dedication shows in her Toronto Caribbean newspaper articles, and in her role as a host on the TCN TV Network.

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International Overdose Awareness Day flag raising ceremony held In Toronto

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Photo provided by Paul Junor

BY PAUL JUNOR

It was an emotionally moving, enriching, uplifting and inspiring day on Saturday, August 31st, 2024.  It was the International Overdose Awareness Day (IOAD) flag-raising ceremony, which was held at Toronto’s City Hall. It was hosted by the Black Coalition for AIDS Prevention (Black CAP), which is the largest Black-specific AIDS service organization in Canada. IOAD2024 results from an engaging partnership between Black CAP, the African and Caribbean Council on HIV/AIDS in Ontario (ACCHO), Flags of Hope (FOH) and Families for Addiction Recovery (FAR).

It is the world’s largest annual campaign to: end overdose, remember without stigma those who have died, and acknowledge the grief of family and friends left behind. IOAD is driven by the following six principles:

  • Overdose can and must be prevented.
  • Overdose prevention solutions exist – let’s use them.
  • Criminalizing drug use has not worked. Compassionate alternatives must be pursued.
  • Policy and legislation must exist to protect individuals and communities and ensure basic human rights and needs are met.
  • Everyone has a right to respectful and comprehensive health care.
  • Only a community-wide effort can end overdose.

The City of Toronto provides details about the overdose crisis. Toronto Paramedic Services responded to 3,956 suspected opioid overdose calls in 2022 and 6,362 in 2021. This was amplified by the COVID-19 pandemic impact on mental health and substance abuse. Preliminary data from the Office of the Chief Coroner of Ontario revealed that in 2022 there were 508 deaths in Toronto because of the opioid toxicity. This is almost a 100% increase from 2021. Furthermore, in 2022 most occurred in private settings and almost 25% of those who died in Toronto were homeless. There were 187 such deaths in 2022 according to TPH.

The press release issued by Black CAP on Wednesday, August 28th, 2024, describes IOAD as “The world’s largest annual campaign to end overdose, remember without stigma those who have died from an overdose, and acknowledge the grief of the families and friends left behind.” It spreads the message that the tragedy of overdose death is preventable. “The theme chosen for IOAD was ‘Together we can,’ which focuses on the power of our community when we stand together.”

Black CAP is committed to playing an active role in bringing the diverse stakeholders together to find a solution to this pandemic of the opioid crisis. The press release notes, “In line with this year’s theme, we want to highlight and celebrate the impact of collaborative efforts to mitigate the overdose crisis in communities across Canada.” It notes further, “This International Overdose Day, we say to all members of the African, Caribbean, and Black (ACB) as well as other communities impacted by substance use and overdose “Together we can!”(#TogetherWeCan#IOAD24#EndOverdose).

The welcome address was given by Orville Burke, the Director of Health Promotions at Black CAP and MPP Krysten Wong-Tam of Toronto Centre riding addressed the crowd. It is important that politicians take this issue seriously as the ongoing impact of this social issue continues to touch many lives not just in Toronto, but all across Canada.

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Mrose Health and Fitness Studio is actively supporting cancer survivors and increasing awareness

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BY PAUL JUNOR

There are many organizations that are involved in bringing awareness of the issue of breast cancer as it impacts the lives of many women and men from diverse: backgrounds, races, ethnicities and cultures. The fact that October is celebrated as “Breast Cancer Awareness Month” is meant to draw attention to the important issue of breast cancer.

According to a media release on Wednesday, October 9th, 2024, from the Public Health Agency of Canada it is a period when we come together to support and honor those impacted by this disease. It mentioned further that breast cancer is one of the most common forms of cancer, and the second leading cause of cancer-related death among women living in Canada. One in eight women is expected to be diagnosed with breast cancer in their lifetime. A new fitness studio, Mrose Health and Fitness Studio located at 5 Rogers Road in the Oakwood-Vaughan area organized the 3rd Rose Walk to support breast cancer survivors and patients planned for Sunday, October 27th, 2024.

The fitness studio was launched by Tashawna Higgins and is named after her late grandmother and mother. She is a former professional basketball player. The names of the individuals who are involved in the fitness studio are: Obed Cetoute (former professional football player in the Canadian football League), Allana Arundell (former basketball player) and Lydia Cuff (former athlete and personal trainer).

According to their website, the studio offers a range of services such as:

1 on 1 Personal Training

1-on-1 fitness training offers personalized attention and guidance

Partner & Group Training

Experience the power of teamwork and shared motivation with our partner training program

Youth Mentoring & Training

Guidance and support to empower young individuals, helping them develop essential life skills and healthy lifestyles

Nutritional Coaching

Nutritional coaching program provides personalized guidance and expertise allowing individuals to make informed dietary choices

FST- Fascial Stretch Therapy

Personalized sessions to improve flexibility, relieve pain and enhance overall mobility, allowing individuals to move with ease and efficiency

Charmaine Williams, Associate Minister of Women’s Social and Economic Opportunities for the Province of Ontario, announced on her Facebook page the lowering of the age of self-referral from 50 to 40 for mammograms without a referral from a primary care provider. She wrote, “Women over the age of 40 can self-refer for publicly funded mammograms through the Ontario Breast Cancer Screening Program (OBSD). Of the one million women between the ages of 40-49 that are now eligible for mammograms, it is estimated that an additional 305,000 will self-refer. As part of your Health: A Plan for Connected and Convenient Care, the Ontario government is connecting more people to the services they need when they need them. Our government is connecting more women to life saving breast cancer screening.”

I spoke to Tashawna on Saturday, October 12th, 2024, and she is excited about the 3rd Rose Walk. She believes in the importance of actively supporting cancer survivors and increasing awareness. The walk will commence at 9:30 am at 5 Rogers Road. Anyone who is interested in more information can email: info@mrosehealthandfitness.com, or check social media for additional details about Mrose Health and Fitness Studio at:

Website: Mrosehealthandfitness.com

Facebook: Rose Health and Fitness

Instagram: @mrosehealthandfitness

Anyone interested in learning about the initiatives by the Ontario government can check

website: https cancer-testing-and-prevention

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Return of the Prince of Pan-Africanism; Toronto welcomes back Dr. Umar Ifatunde after 12 years!

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BY SIMONE J. SMITH

Peace and Pan-Africanism Toronto!

Last weekend, we invited the man known as the King of Controversy back to our great city. Dr. Umar Ifatunde, a renowned figure in the fields of education and mental health, is a name that is widely recognized by all, and his impact on the Afrikan and Afrikan-American community is undeniable. As a Doctor of Clinical Psychology and Certified School Psychologist, Dr. Umar has dedicated his career to advocating for the well-being and academic success of Black children.

Rooted in a rich historical lineage, Dr. Umar is a paternal kinsman to both the great Abolitionist Frederick Douglass and the late Bishop Alexander Wayman, two prominent figures in the fight for racial equality. This connection underscores his deep-seated commitment to social justice and the preservation of Afrikan heritage.

Beyond his academic pursuits, Dr. Umar is a passionate educator and community leader. He has founded and leads the “Unapologetically Afrikan” Black College & Consciousness Tour,” a transformative experience for young people that fosters a sense of pride in their cultural heritage and introduces them to the rich history of Afrikan- American colleges and universities. Additionally, his weekly Afrikan-American parent teleconference provides invaluable support and guidance to parents seeking to advocate for their children’s education and mental health.

Dr. Umar’s influence extends beyond academia and community work. His name, quotes, and speeches have been referenced and celebrated in the world of Hip-Hop music, solidifying his status as a cultural icon. His dedication to empowering Afrikan communities and promoting social justice has made him a highly sought-after scholar and a respected voice in the fight for equality.

The: GACN, Black Board International, RastaFest, EPG Creative Marketplace, AfroGlobal, Caribbean Vibrations, FAM TV and of course The Toronto Caribbean Newspaper welcomed the Prince of Pan-Africanism Dr. Umar Ifatunde to Toronto after 12 long years away.

The weekend of October 4th-6th, 2024, was a whirlwind of intellectual and cultural engagement, beginning with a Meet & Greet with Dr. Umar Johnson at The Real Jerk Legacy Restaurant in Toronto. The event, part of the 1st Fridays series, featured a book signing, Q&A session, and networking opportunities.

The following day, the energy shifted to Oshawa’s The Lighthouse for a networking event designed to connect industry leaders with emerging entrepreneurs. Special guests including Farley Flex, DeWitt Lee, and JahWigs, along with musical performances by Lindo P and others, created a vibrant atmosphere.

On Sunday October 6th, 2024, Dr. Umar delivered a powerful address on Pan-Africanism at the Jamaican Canadian Association. Dr. Umar, often referred to as the “King of Controversy,” has earned this title through his unapologetic and often polarizing views on issues impacting the Black community. Hosted by, well, me (Yeah), I had the opportunity to sit on stage and intellectually dialogue with Sis. Elaine Robinson (G.H.E.T.T.O Stories), Elder Szimbah Hanley, and Dr. Umar before he went IN on all of us. When I say he went in, I mean he went IN!

He has sparked intense debate with his critique of interracial dating, asserting that it undermines the unity and progress of Afrikan men and women in the diaspora. Dr. Umar harshly criticized parents, calling out both mothers and fathers for being “lazy” and failing to provide the necessary care and guidance for their children. His outspoken views that night extend to the education system, which he stated is neglecting Afrikan-Caribbean children, leaving them vulnerable to systemic oppression. He also highlights the need for fathers to seek mental health support, emphasizing that unresolved mental health issues prevent them from being present for their families.

Dr. Umar asserts that parents should stop vaccinating their children, claiming that vaccines are responsible for the increasing rates of autism in young children. He argues that the substances used in vaccines, particularly those containing certain preservatives and additives, have been linked to developmental disorders, including autism.

Dr. Umar emphasized the need for parents to conduct their own research and exercise caution before adhering to standard vaccination schedules, as he believes the medical community has overlooked potential adverse effects. His stance encouraged parents to prioritize their children’s health by opting out of vaccines, despite widespread scientific consensus supporting their safety.

When KINGS unite, the possibilities are endless. Teamwork makes the dream work. It was a historical weekend in Canada. Three successful events in three cities. Big respect to Kofi (Culture Power / GACN), Warren Salmon (First Fridays), Jamaal (EmProGraffix / Network & Build) and of course our special guest Dr. Umar Ifatunde.

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