Monday, April 28, 2025

NubianNewYorkers - Take Action Now: Legal Tactics to Make Politicians Listen to YOU

 Hey NubianNewYorkers... my family, my friends..

Adorable ones, I hope you’re all feeling bright today! I want to talk to you about something close to my heart-how each of us, born right here in the United States, has the power to shape our future by speaking up to our government. 

Your voice, my friend, is a treasure. When we use it together, we can create the kind of world we want to live in.




Sometimes, it can feel like only rich people or big companies get to talk to politicians, but that’s not true at all. When you and your family reach out to your local representative, you are showing them what real people in their community care about.

If something happens-a problem at school, in your neighborhood, or even a family emergency-it helps so much to already have a friendly connection with your local politician’s office. 

They are there to help you, and when they know your name and your story, they can listen and act even faster. Lobbying isn’t just for the powerful, it’s for everyone, and your voice can make a big difference!



Let me show you how you can get your voice heard-this is called “lobbying,” and it’s easier than you think:

1. Find Out Who Represents You


First things first, adorable one: you need to know who your local politicians are. Even if you didn’t vote for them, they still work for you! You can find them online using these helpful sites:


    USAGov Elected Officials Tool
    https://www.usa.gov/elected-officials

    House of Representatives “Find Your Representative”
    https://www.house.gov/representatives/find-your-representative

    270toWin “Who Represents Me?”
    https://www.270towin.com/who-represents-me/

    Ballotpedia “Who Represents Me?”
    https://ballotpedia.org/Who_represents_me




2. Plan Your Meeting OR Communicate Online


Politicians are busy, but remember, my family, their job is to listen to you. Check their website or call their office to find out when you can meet them. Many hold “town hall meetings” where anyone can speak up. Mark it on your calendar and get ready!


AND/OR


U.S. citizens have several effective ways to communicate online with their elected representatives:

    Email:


    Most elected officials have official websites with contact forms or published email addresses. Sending a personalized, concise email is one of the fastest and most effective ways to share your views. Always include your name and address so they know you are a constituent, and clearly state the issue and your request

.

Official Contact Tools:


Websites like the USA.Gov 'Elected Officials Tool, help you find your representatives and their official contact information, including email and web forms


.

Social Media:


Many members of Congress and local officials actively use platforms like Twitter, Facebook, and Instagram to interact with constituents. You can tag them in posts, reply to their updates, or send direct messages. Social media is public, so your message may get more attention, but always keep it respectful and focused

.

Advocacy Platforms:


Services like Resistbot let you send messages to your representatives by texting, using Messenger, or other chat apps. Resistbot will find your officials for you and deliver your message as a fax, email, or letters


.

3. Know What to Say


Think about what matters most to you-maybe it’s helping families in need or making your neighborhood safer. Be clear and keep your message short. Know a few facts about your issue, and have a simple request, like asking them to support a law or speak up about your concern.

4. Take Notes and Pictures


When you meet your representative, write down what you talked about, especially if they promise to do something. Take a photo together! It’s a great memory, and sometimes the local newspaper might want to share your story.



5. Follow Up 


After your meeting, send a thank you note. Ask if they’ve done what they promised. And don’t forget to tell others in our community about your experience-when you share your journey, you inspire others to find their voice, too.

Remember, my adorable ones, thinking ahead and taking these steps shows true wisdom and care for our future. Lobbying isn’t just for adults or experts-it’s for everyone, and especially for thoughtful, caring people like you.



I’m so proud of you, my friends. Let’s keep lifting each other up and making our voices heard. Together, there’s nothing we can’t do!

With all my admiration,  
E-MAN












Tuesday, April 15, 2025

NubianNewYorkers - Thinking About Moving to Africa? (At least til after the next Prez election?) Let’s Talk Options

 





Hey everyone,

I’ve been looking into places where we can live as Black gay men without all the stress we face here. Africa has some great options, but we need to be smart about it. Here’s what I found:

Ghana – Since 2019, Ghana has been welcoming Black folks from the U.S. through the Year of Return program. It’s full of culture and history, and you’ll see Black people everywhere, which feels amazing. But keep in mind: being gay isn’t fully accepted there. There’s a growing LGBTQ+ community in Accra, but we’d need to be careful and connect with locals who know the scene.


 

South Africa – This is the best option for living openly. Cape Town has beaches, art, and a strong LGBTQ+ community. Same-sex marriage is legal here, so you can be yourself without hiding. Johannesburg is busier, with more creative energy. The drag scene and social life are thriving—definitely a place where we can live freely.


 

Kenya – Nairobi has modern city life, nature, and a cool vibe. But like Ghana, being gay is still illegal, so the queer community is more underground. If you go, link up with local LGBTQ+ groups to stay safe and connected.


 

Liberia – This country has deep ties to Black history, but LGBTQ+ rights aren’t strong yet. It’s more for those who want a connection to heritage but are okay keeping things private.


 

Benin & Togo – Beautiful places with rich culture, but not safe for living openly as LGBTQ+. Better for short visits than long-term stays.

If you’re serious about leaving, South Africa is the safest choice. Ghana and Kenya are great but require caution. Let me know if you want more details—I’m happy to keep researching.


 

Stay safe and proud,

E-man