A Message From Our Founder, Dr. Maxine Bryant

Be Aware: Physically – Breast Cancer; Factually – Domestic Violence; Politically – Midterm Elections

October is a month that calls us to be aware—and to take action.

Throughout the month, we recognize both Breast Cancer Awareness Month and Domestic Violence Awareness Month, two important observances that remind us of the need for education, prevention, support, and advocacy. But we are also called to observe another kind of awareness—political awareness.

With the 2026 midterm elections just weeks away, now is the time to pay close attention to the political issues shaping our communities and our country. Our ancestors fought for access to the ballot. They faced intimidation, discrimination, imprisonment, and even death in the struggle to secure voting rights. Their sacrifices are part of our collective history—and that history deserves to be remembered. We honor that legacy by understanding our rights, staying informed, and taking our civic responsibilities seriously.

Whether we are talking about breast cancer, domestic violence, or the political issues affecting our lives, one truth remains: Awareness is important. But awareness without action changes very little.

Be aware. Be informed. Be engaged.

And remember—history is not simply something we study. It is something from which we must learn.

Dr. Maxine Bryant, Founder, GriotSpeaks

HONORABLE MENTION

Special kudos to our very own Editor-in-Chief, Sharon Simpson, for her annual Pink and Purple Runway Fashion Show fundraiser, designed to increase awareness of both causes. Her 2026 show, held on October 9, was nothing short of phenomenal! The voices of survivors—both men and women—were heard, honored, and celebrated. What a powerful reminder of the courage, resilience, and strength of those whose lives have been touched by breast cancer and domestic violence.

Thank you, Sharon, for turning awareness into action!

KULTURE KEEPER KORNER

(Thanks to Mr. Ronald Strum of Maryland for nominating this month's Kulture Keeper!)

Dr. Angela Hicks, Ed.D.

In 1857, a free Black man in Dorchester County, Maryland by the name of Rev. Samuel

Green Sr, was arrested, convicted, and sentenced to ten years in prison. for having possession of a book exposing the horrors of American slavery.

Rev. Green was a minister, freedom advocate, and trusted participant in the

Underground Railroad. He understood that knowledge and freedom were deeply

connected.

Now, fast-forward more than 165 years.

One of his descendants, Dr. Angela Hicks, Ed.D., has devoted her professional life

to education and community empowerment.

Her ancestor was imprisoned for possessing a book. Dr. Hicks has spent her

career opening doors to knowledge.

Additionally, Dr. Hicks is CEO of Grant Professional, an organization that helps small

and minority-owned businesses, nonprofits, and public agencies secure resources to

thrive. Her work has generated millions in funding for environmental conservation,

community healthcare, cultural arts, and social programs.

GriotSpeaks proudly honors Dr. Angela Hicks as our October Kulture Keeper - a

woman who understands that ancestral legacy is not something we simply admire. It is

something we must preserve, protect, and advance.