Here and Now with Sandra Bookman

The Abyssinian Baptist Church in Harlem will host its second annual HBCU Sunday this month. It’s meant to promote the mission and legacy of historically Black colleges and universities. Abyssinian itself has a long-running history of doing important work at the intersection of faith, social justice and education. Here to tell us more is Dr. S. Raschaad Hoggard, the executive minister of the Abyssinian Baptist Church.

Exploring the lives of iconic Civil Rights leaders, Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. and Malcolm X. We'll introduce you to the stars of the new National Geographic docudrama series, “Genius: MLK/X." Also ahead, we examine cardiovascular disparities and a new clinical trial at Mount Sinai that focuses on women and minorities. Plus, celebrating a century of Black art and artists at the Montclair Art Museum. And the author of a new book puts a spotlight once again on Hollywood's first African-American movie goddess: Lena Horne.

We go inside the fight for tenure among Black orchestral musicians. Some of the nation's most esteemed institutions are accused of falling short when it comes to diversity and inclusion. Some highly trained, talented classical musicians are now calling for a day of solidarity as they demand respect and equal treatment. According to the Black Orchestral Network, musicians of color are disproportionately denied tenure by some of the country's most esteemed cultural institutions. Joining us to explain why this is happening, why it's so important, and what needs to be done about it is the network's founder, Shea Scruggs. *** At a time when Black history is being pulled from school curriculums, one organization is on a mission to keep Harlem's history front and center. The group, While We Are Atill Here Inc., is installing 25 historic markers to honor those who have given the community its unique character. It's called the Sign of the Times Harlem Heritage Markers Project. And here to tell us more is the founder and executive director of While We Are Still Here, Karen D. Taylor. *** Move over Godiva and Hershey. Three brothers in the Bronx are making their mark in the world of fine chocolate. The company is committed to not only quality but also to environmental and social responsiblity. Joining us is Daniel Maloney, one of the co-founders of Sol Cacao.

It's a big move toward racial justice in New York State amid plans for a new commission tasked with researching the generational harm from slavery. In an effort to acknowledge the impact of slavery in New York State, Gov. Kathy Hochul recently signed a bill to create a commission to study reparations for Black New Yorkers, making New York the third state in the nation to do so. State Sen. James Sanders Jr., who sponsored the New York State Commission on Reparations Remedies bill, joins us. *** If getting your finances in order is at the top of your list of New Year's resolutions, our next guest has some advice on avoiding some financial pitfalls. Joining us is Dee Brown, a real estate developer, philanthropist and contributing writer for Forbes.com. He will share his good-sense tips on managing money and getting your finances in order. *** Back in the 1980s, when mainstream media refused to air rap videos on television, Ralph McDaniels created the show, "Video Music Box." Today he is celebrating the 40th anniversary of the iconic program that gave a platform and a voice to hip-hop artists. And now, his new children's book -- "Roscoe Learns About Video Music Box" -- offers young readers insight into McDaniel's journey and the evolution of rap music and culture. McDaniels, known affectionately as "Uncle Ralph," joins us. *** The International Girls Academy stands on the principles of breaking down barriers, solving problems, and empowering youth. Students gain interview skills, are introduced to business practices and travel abroad to learn about the global supply chain. We are joined by founder and CEO, Makeba Green, and youth president, Samia DeSmith. *** Many, if not most, of you are familiar with Kente cloth, which is a textile practice that originated in Ghana and was set aside for royalty. Made by hand on a loom, Kente, which means basket, consists of more than 350 patterns. Our guest, Kwame Sarfo, is trying to share this vibrant, iconic cultural symbol. He's the founder and CEO of the luxury home-decor company, Obrempong Home.

In the latest Here and Now with Sandra Bookman, we explore "The Poison Garden," a new documentary that exposes long-standing racism in South Florida's criminal justice system. We'll introduce you to the producers of this award-winning and important film. Also ahead, reconnecting fathers with their children -- meet the founder of the "Fatherless Generation." Plus: The secret to recharging your health through juicing: a Navy veteran, Alton Weekes, shares how shedding 100 pounds changed his life, and led to the creation of his business, Cellful Organics. Finally, changing young lives one hairstyle at a time. Never miss a podcast; make sure you hit subscribe and get the latest Here and Now episodes in your podcast feed.

In this edition of “Here and Now,” Sandra Bookman looks at how Children of Promise, NYC is creating opportunities for young people whose parents are behind bars. Plus, a new exhibit shines a spotlight on early African American history in the north. "Unnamed Figures: Black Presence and Absence in the Early American North," is at the American Folk Art Museum. Rapper Styles P turns his focus on health and wellness in underserved communities. And 1960s girl groups finally get the credit they deserve. We'll introduce you to Laura Flam, author of the new book, "But Will You Still Love Me Tomorrow?" Also joining us is Beverly Lee of The Shirelles.

Welcome to the “Here and Now” podcast” from WABC-TV New York and Eyewitness News. Every week, host Sandra Bookman takes a deep dive into the issues and stories that impact the Black community, from elected leaders and experts voicing their opinions and positions, to community activists and grassroots groups highlighting concerns and changing lives to entrepreneurs big and small making a difference. “Here and Now” offers in-depth discussions about the things that matter most: the economy, education and important health issues. We also showcase the best in Black culture, whether it's theater, music, visual arts, fashion, sports or tech trends. The show provides a platform for those making a difference in the African-American community to share their stories and the lessons they've learned. We'll also be sharing some bonus content like extended interviews with some of our biggest names and newsmakers, so hit follow and join us each week.