Poetry: 'Rainbow Train' by James Henderson

Here's James Henderson's first poem published by The Bold Testament. He's our newest writer on the team and he'll be featured on our next newsletter coming September 2013 (Issue #2). James is also a recording artist who's working on his debut mixtape titled, "3rd Coast Sunrise" coming late August.

Read 'Rainbow Train' after the jump.

Jean Pierre Roy

Music: Stalley - Raise Your Weapons

New music from Ohio native Stalley. In this song attempts to invoke a generation to wake up and fight the injustice that takes part of their everyday life. This revolutionary infused song holds a revealing mirror to the listener. Listen to this song after the jump.

American Rapper Stalley

Video: Brother Ali Addressing Trayvon Martin Trail

I've seen a lot of videos of people voicing their opinions on this controversial trial that  has grabbed a lot of peoples attention. I have been sadden by how much division this trial is costing this country. It's  refreshing to see people passionate about a particular topic, but its disgusting to see the hate being thrown around between the people.

RIP Trayvon Martin February 5, 1995 – February 26, 2012

I have already vented on this topic personally, so I have no desire to be another published opinion. I have included Brother Ali's PSA on this topic. It's very emotional unifying. He's genuine when he speaks on loving one another. A message he carries in his music that I wish people take to heart. Check it out after the jump   

Rapper, Brother Ali

Poetry: "...And Everything In It" By Henry Ansah

As the son of immigrants, I was taught from the beginning to
appreciate being cultured. From food to language to family rituals, my
household was different from the next on my block due to its infusion of Ghanaian
and American cultures instilled by my parents. My brothers and I were privileged
to be engulfed with the spirit of adventure and seizing the opportunities to
further our knowledge of the world. I grew up around too many kids who knew
never a father or mother or anyone who could act as a whistle blower and
announce that this world is theirs. I must extol my parents for opening my eyes. 

Read "...And Everything In It" after the jump. 

Jay Long

Video: Lupe Fiasco - #1234 Trilogy

On July 4th Lupe Fiasco released this music video for three songs off his latest album 'Food & Liquor 2'. I decided to post it on our blog because of the generational defining messages this video subliminally delivers. I won't put my opinion out because your interpretation of this video will be different from mine but it is as justifiably correct.

Lupe Fiasco's art deserves the time to be digested. He creates his art for the observer to learn from and discover the critical messages embedded within. This music video is no different. I advise you to pay attention to details and watch this 12 minute video a few times.         

Watch after the jump. Question the thoughts this video made your think about? Ask yourself if this was done accurately? Enjoy. 

American Rapper Lupe Fiasco

Essay: On the 'Tamarrod Campaign' in Egypt by Stefan Patterson

I have been giving much attention to these historical events that have been taking place in Egypt these past few days. It's inspiring to see people organize in effort to oppose a political party that they feel isn't representing their best interest. This restores humanistic thinking and displays the strength of the people, this will have to be respected by the next President of Egypt.

I wrote a few paragraphs on what I think we should take note of as this revolution in Egypt unravels. My essay is not discussing the political history of Egypt but rather the activism from its five originators.  Read it after after the jump.

Egypt's newly overthrown President Mohamed Morsi