The Official Publication of the United Supreme Council, Ancient and Accepted Scottish Rite of Freemasonry, PHA, Northern Jurisdiction, USA Inc.
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Printed twice annually by the United Supreme Council, Ancient and Accepted Scottish Rite of Freemasonry, Prince Hall Affiliation, Northern Jurisdiction, USA, Inc., 1514 Fitzwater Street, Philadelphia, PA 19146-2123. SGIG Dr. Melvin J. Bazemore, 33 o Sovereign Grand Commander
SGIG Daryl L. Andrews, 33 o Editor
Associate Editors / Columnists SGIG Sidney D. Broadnax, Jr., 33 o SGIG Grady Edge, 33 o
SGIG Roland K. Lee, Sr., 33 o SGIG Edward M. Brooks, 33 o SGIG Daniel R. Poole, 33 o
SGIG Raynard W. Hughes, 33 o SGIG Edward B. Darnell, 33 o SGIG Rev. Dr. Wilton E. Blake, I, 33 o SGIG Stuart A. Lee, II, 33 o
SGIG Reginald B. Stewart, 33 o SGIG Charles Burns Jr., 33 o SGIG Horace Jackson, 33 o SGIG Thomas Hughes, 33 o SGIG Stuart A. Lee II, 33 o SGIG Reginald B. Stewart, 33 o SGIG Roy J. Mays, 33 o SGIG Ralph Sirmons, 33 o GIG Samuel Lindsey, 33 o SP William Irving, 32 o Photographers GIG George T. Smith, 33 o SGIG Richard A. Maxey, 33 o
The cutoff for the next edition is: September 1, 2024 All submissions may be forwarded to Bulletin@AndrewsPress.com All submissions become the property of The United Supreme Council, Ancient and Accepted Scottish Rite of Freemasonry, Prince Hall Affiliation, Northern Jurisdiction, USA, Inc.
TABLE OF CONTENTS O FFICIAL S UMMONS — 143 RD A NNUAL S ESSION
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S OVEREIGN G RAND C OMMANDER ’ S P EN
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U NITED S UPREME C OUNCIL O FFICERS
F ROM THE D ESK OF THE E DITOR
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D EPUTIES FOR THE O RIENTS
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D ESK OF THE G RAND P RIOR
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I N M EMORY OF R EV . D R . C HARLES G. A DAMS
T HE P OWER F OUR AND G LOBAL R ECOGNITION
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R EST IN P EACE
T HE G OLDEN L IGHT
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Guillermo Thorne
Dr. Donald Ware
O UR H ISTORY S HOULD NOT BE A M YSTERY
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Sovereign Grand Commander Nearly 240 years ago, a Masonic charter was issued by the Premier Grand Lodge of England warranting the formation of the African Lodge in America. The charter represents a documented legacy of legitimacy to which all Prince Hall Affiliated Grand Lodges can trace their foundation and is a prime factor for recognition between them. With exclusive territorial jurisdiction defined, they operate in harmony and work together to promote the growth of Freemasonry at large. As the Scottish Rite is built upon the superstructure of Freemasonry, it is critical that legitimate Scottish Rite Bodies continue to recognize one another in the same manner so that the Scottish Rite can operate in harmony in the respective boundaries and her mission be promoted consistently upon the same ideals.
Today, the Scottish Rite continues to prove that it is alive and well as the fraternal bonds
between legitimate bodies continue to extend. Most recently, the Colombian Supreme Council of the 33rd Degree of the Ancient and Accepted Scottish Rite extended the hand of friendship to our United Supreme Council (left). In doing so, our United Supreme Council has recognition on nearly all continents around the globe. As we prepare for our 143r d annual session in the Orient of Wisconsin, a focus on growth and progress remains our highest priority. For it was by this mindset that Prince Hall Freemasonry has remained strong for 240 years. Maintaining this focus, will ensure that we achieve the same target 97 years from now.
Yours in the Rite, Dr. Melvin J. Bazemore,33 o Sovereign Grand Commander
E DMUND P ETTUS B RIDGE C ROSSING 2024
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U NITED S UPREME C OUNCIL C ONSTITUTION Q UIZ
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S OCIAL J USTICE AND C IVIC E NGAGEMENT 16 C IVIC S POTLIGHT : Chicago Board of Elections Exec. Director 17 C RADLE TO C OLLEGE U PDATES 18 F OLLOWING THE F OOTSTEPS OF O NE S HOT D OC 20 V ETERANS R ESOURCE C OMMITTEE 30 T HE S OVEREIGN G RAND C OMMANDERS : Illustrious Dr. Russell S. Gideon 40 M EMBERSHIP R ECLAMATION & M OVING C AMP P ODCASTS 45 USC B ENEVOLENT F UND D ONORS : 2022 - 2023 50 M ORE L IGHT IN THE R ITE 60
S ECURITY C ORNER : Cyber-Security
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U NITED S UPREME C OUNCIL B OOKSTORE 78 143 RD A NNUAL S ESSION OF THE U NITED S UPREME C OUNCIL 80
N EWS FROM THE O RIENTS : Pennsylvania 24 Michigan
26 29
Bahamas 27
Minnesota
28
Nebraska
Illinois
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Connecticut 36
Wash-Oregon 39 New Jersey 52
Wisconsin 46 New York 56
Iowa
48 62 72
Indiana Far East
Delaware
64 74
Europe
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Ohio
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Lieutenant Grand Commander Sovereign Grand Inspector General Sidney D. Broadnax, Jr., 33°
“MAKING A DIFFERENCE ” - M.A.D.R. ( Making A Difference Reporting)
The M.A.D.R. program is designed to strategically capture and aggregate our community involvement and donations at both the national and local levels. We are encouraged to continue REPORTING our Activities such as Scholarships, taking care of the Needy, our Times (hours), Mileage doing any type of charitable work, etc. LET US CONTINUE TO WORK AT “MAKING A DIFFERENCE ” by ENHANCING Our SCOTTISH RITE EXPERIENCES!
Somewhere I read that “ The Beauty of Life is, while we cannot undo what is done, we can see it, understand it, improve it, and learn from it!”
M.A.D.R. — Report your acts of Charity and Service Like these today!!!
Grand Minister of State Sovereign Grand Inspector General Grady Edge, 33°
As a man that was a teen of the late 1940s, and a young adult of the 50’s I have seen many changes in this world. While at the same time, I have witnessed the treatment of the peoples of my community and seen some of the many accomplishments of our community. One of the prestigious events of our country I’ve seen is man going to the moon, and perhaps the most prestigious event is the election of a black man to the presidency to the United States of America. These two very notable events were very great accomplishments however, the one of a black man getting to be elected as the president of America took over 350 years
and countless lives lost to accomplish it. Getting a man to land on the moon took less than a decade once the goal was set. I’m not downplaying the significance of landing a man on the moon but I am highlighting the importance of getting black men recognized. To get the black man elected as president, many people lost their lives fighting for our community to have the right to vote. When we vote, we can help elect those candidates who will protect our welfare and interests for future generations and preserve our communities. Under the previous presidential administration, cases of police brutality and killing of Black citizens increased at an alarming rate. What has been determined is that when we vote and partake in the political process and are proactive in establishing better local relationships between our communities and law enforcement, there is less harm and death to our community. There should be a constant drumbeat for the need to vote and to influence as many as possible to register and vote. We should continue to hear that same drumbeat at every election at your local, county, state and federal elections. The sound of that drumbeat is saying “ WE NEED TO VOTE! ”
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Secretary General of the Holy Empire Sovereign Grand Inspector General Edward M. Brooks, II, 33°
First giving praise to the GAOTU for his many blessing. As we prepare for United Supreme Council Annual Session in Milwaukee, Wisconsin, where we will be making approximately 130 new peers and greeting those we have known for years. I would like to personally “CONTRATULATE THE CLASS 2024.” As we continue to move this United Supreme Council in a very positive direction and with the assistance of the
have many events planned for the membership in Milwaukee, so that you will be able to take something away from this session to improve in your Masonic knowledge. For those of you who have never been to Milwaukee, take time out of your busy schedule to avail yourselves to all the amenities that this great city has to offer, like shopping and many great eateries. If your schedule permits, you should carve
website for notification, registration and to prepare for this year’s session, reducing our printing, postage and distribution costs immensely. We still need your assistance in assisting those members who are not as computer literate as yourselves. We
out an extra day or two to take advantage of the city. Don’t forget your required medication and pack it separately from your checked luggage. I am looking forward to seeing, meeting and greeting you in Milwaukee.
From the Desk of the Editor Sovereign Grand Inspector General Daryl L. Andrews, 33°
The Bulletin has now shifted to electronic delivery and will save the United Supreme Council a ton of funds. FREE technology allows us to publish on the website without size restrictions but with LIVE website links. This will help us to expand the audience to include the whole Scottish Rite and the public. Hopefully, it will generate new opportunities for our future. In this edition, we extend the series on the Sovereign Grand Commanders. Dr. Russell S. Gideon was a phenomenal man and fraternal stalwart who set a grand example that should be emulated today. Our Grand Prior, Dr. Wilton E. Blake echoes this message in his column in that we must share our wisdom today for solid growth in the future. New columnists will keep us abreast of security and health matters. Our other columnists cover the remaining basis relative to mentorship, history, veterans affairs and more. Special thanks to SGIGs Stuart A. Lee and Reginald Stewart, GIG Samuel Lindsey and SP William Irving for
providing editorial support while I was on medical leave. Our photographers are second to none. Facebook photos have also been snagged specifically from Sovereign Grand Commander Bazemore, SGIGs Daniel Poole, Milton Jackson, Gino Anderson, Jospeh Slay Jr.; GIGs Cliff Brown and Reiss Byrd; and SP Christin Campbell. Editorial tasks are numerous and rank or grade have no bearing on them. We have several projects underway. If you possess this skill set and would like to contribute, forward your resume to Bulletin@AndrewsPress.com. In closing, take a moment, visit your doctor. Ascertain a complete status of your health. I remain thankful to the health workshops that provide education and opportunities to gain awareness and identify solutions to health problems. Taking the advice of these professionals can save lives. I AM A LIVING WITNESS. If being macho prevents you from seeing a doctor, YOU are just being foolish. Don’t’ delay, visit your doctor today!!
Samuel Lindsey, 33 o (Ohio)
William Irving, 32 o (Illinois)
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Deputies for the Orients of the Holy Empire
A LASKA
B AHAMAS
C ANADA
C ARIBBEAN
C OLORADO /WY/UT
C ONNECTICUT SGIG Ronald A. Thomas, 33 o
SGIG Clifford Hastings, 33 o
SGIG Everette Z. Mackey, 33 o
SGIG Frederick Ofusu, 33 o
SGIG Edward B. Darnell, 33 o
SGIG Lionell Cummings, 33 o
D ELAWARE
E UROPE
F AR E AST
I LLINOIS
I NDIANA
I OWA
SGIG James A. Scott, 33 o
SGIG Enrique John, 33 o
SGIG Charles H. Bush, 33 o
SGIG Melvin Frierson, 33 o
SGIG Carl Drummer, 33 o
SGIG Osumana V. Cassell, 33 o
K ANSAS
M ASSACHUSETTS SGIG Daniel C. Brightwell Sr., 33 o
M ICHIGAN
M INNESOTA
N EBRASKA
N EW J ERSEY SGIG Robert L. Oglesby Sr., 33 o
SGIG James S. Webb, 33 o
SGIG Christopher Buck, 33 o
SGIG John W. Hardeman III, 33 o
SGIG Johnny L. Cummings, 33 o
N EW Y ORK
O HIO
P ENNSYLVANIA SGIG Leonard A. Heard, 33 o
R HODE I SLAND
W ASHINGTON / OR SGIG Gregory D. Wraggs Sr., 33 o
W ISCONSIN
SGIG Hermon Simpson, 33 o
SGIG Carl A. Williams, 33 o
SGIG Prince Reid Jr., 33 o
SGIG Marshall E. Tharpe, 33 o
- C LICK ON THE ICON TO VISIT THE WEBSITE FOR THE O RIENT
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D ESK OF THE G RAND P RIOR “ Becoming Better than When We Started ”
Authored by Lloyd D. Newell, Submitted by Sovereign Grand Inspector General Rev. Dr. Wilton E. Blake, I, 33°
In 1978, Nobel Prize winner Aleksandr Solzhenitsyn spoke at Harvard’s commencement ceremony. The students in the audience had reason to be proud of their accomplishments. They
This quest requires that we learn the difference between the temporary and the permanent. Along the way, we come to understand that among those permanent things are memories, relationships, wisdom, and love. We come to see that goodness and compassion outlive us, that people matter more than things that God is real and He matters most of all. We discover the truth of the biblical proverb: “A good name is rather to be chosen than great riches, and living favour rather than silver and gold” (Proverbs 22:1)
were graduating from one of the world’s most prestigious universities. Future success, at least by worldly standards, probably seemed assured. To this accomplished audience, Solzhenitsyn gave a stark and humbling reminder we are born to die. And since that’s the case, he continued then our task on earth evidently must be of a more spiritual nature [than just to be happy]. It cannot be unrestrained enjoyment of everyday life. It cannot be the search for the best ways to obtain material goods and then cheerfully get the most of them. It has to be the fulfillment of a permanent, earnest duty so that one’s life journey may become an experience of moral growth, so that one may leave life a better human than one started it.(1) It’s good counsel for high -achieving college graduates and for all of us. No matter what we’ve accomplished in the past, life is an ongoing quest to be better. And since life on earth is temporary, that quest would feel empty if it did not improve us spiritually. This is a spiritual quest, and it includes not just becoming smarter and more productive but also gentler, kinder, more patient, more hopeful, more loving. That is the quest of a lifetime.
Higher education is a blessing. But the highest education comes as we strive to nurture our faith in God and grow our moral and spiritual nature so we can leave this life better human beings than we were when we started. Source: (1) Aleksandr Solzhenitsyn: A World Split Apart, Harvard University commencement address, June 8, 1978.
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I N M EMORY OF “ Rev. Dr. Charles G. Adams, 33 o ”
by Sovereign Grand Inspector General Edward B. Darnell, 33°, Deputy-At-Large and Trustee, Hartford Memorial Baptist Church
The renown Pastor Emeritus of Olivet Institutional Baptist Church of Cleveland, Ohio, the Rev. Dr. Otis Moss, Jr., defines birth as a “dot” and death as a “dash.” The period in between the two, he calls life. The late Rev. Dr. Charles Gilchrest Adams’s “dot” began on December 13, 1936, and his dash coming on November 29, 2023, with the life he lived between, calling him to preach, teach, advocate, educate, mentor, lead serve and direct while carrying the banner of Christian love, fellowship and understanding all over the world. To even begin to speak to his many accomplishments would take up this entire Bulletin, with a call for additional pages, so in unfair condensation, I begin by boasting that he was MY spiritual Sheppard, as well as a member of my Lodge. He Pastored Hartford Memorial Baptist Church for over 50 years. Was President of the Detroit Branch NAACP, during which time he organized a successful economic Boyett against the City of Dearborn, Michigan, until they rescinded their city ordinance that bared non-Dearborn
establishing church owned business franchises along the busy business strip of 7 Mile Road not far from the church, which provides jobs for the unemployed. He not only has an earned Doctorate, but Honorary Doctoral degrees from numerous other citadels of higher learning and was listed more than once in Ebony magazine as one of the fifteen (15) greatest black preachers. He was a proud and supporting member of Omega Psi Phi Fraternity and a 33 ⁰ Scottish Rite Mason and members of the Leon H. Stewart Class of 1989. His son Charles Christian Adams succeeded him in the pulpit, and delivered his eulogy which he declared need not be long, for PA (Pastor Adams) as he was affectionately called had already ascended to the Holy House and is now sitting on the right hand of our God the Father in Heaven, and those that loved but proceeded him in death were crying Hosannah out loud, and asking him, “What took you so long?” The period between his “dot” and “dash” was full up, and he shall not easily be replaced.
residents (mainly people of color) from attending Dearborn public parks. He served as a visiting professor at Harvard Theological Seminary for a five (5) year period, flying home on the weekends where he often conducted weddings for his congregants and preached funerals for the deceased, then preached two sermons on Sunday morning before flying back to Boston on Monday. He built a low-income Senior Citizen Housing Complex known as Hartford Village which is comprised of 86 Units divided into one- and two-bedroom accommodations as well as some larger cottage dwellings. He ventured into the commercial real estate market by
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Worldwide Recognition Map among Bodies of the
The Power Four AMerican United Supreme Councils
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Ancient and Accepted Scottish Rite of Freemasonry
“We may have all come from different ships, but we’re on the same boat now.” — Martin Luther King, Jr.
The United Supreme Council, Ancient and Accepted Scottish Rite oF Freemasonry, prince Hall Affiliation, Northern Jurisdiction, U.S.A., Inc. enjoys recognition from several, legitimate Supreme Councils of the Ancient and Accepted Scottish Rite of Freemasonry across the globe. Through recognition agreements, the integrity of the Scottish Rite becomes more secure providing a stronger basis upon which claims of regularity can be determined. In doing so, unfounded claims may be quickly and easily dispelled.
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T HE G OLDEN L IGHT Loyal Lady Pamela Gallimore Managing Editor, THE DOVE & THE QUILL Volume 2
Universities and with Philadelphia and Delaware County Community Colleges. She also served in the administration of Governor Tom Ridge of Pennsylvania as the Bureau Director for Postsecondary Services, Pennsylvania Department of Education. She was the first African American to hold this position. Her community service has included, but is not limited to: Big Sister match in Big Brothers Big Sisters, Board of Directors of the West Chester Area School District and President of the School Board, Board member Domestic Violence Center of Chester County, Board member Maternal and Child Health Consortium, member American Association of University Women, member Black Women in Higher Education, member American Association for Women in Community Colleges, member Black School Educators, NGO representative to the U.N. Year of the Woman in Moscow, Board member and Board President Philadelphia Youth Network and a patron of the First World Theatre Company. In addition to a being a member of the Order of the Golden Circle, she is the Worthy Matron of Ida W. Brooke Chapter 83, Order of Eastern Star, Inc., Deborah Grand Chapter, Prince Hall Adopted, Commonwealth of Pennsylvania and a Charter member of Amen Ra Court No. 225 of the Daughters. She is an avid reader and has an interest in and plans return travels to the Middle East and East African destinations. Although retired, she is currently an adjunct faculty member at Delaware County Community College in the Department of Business and Computer Sciences. She resides in West Chester, Pennsylvania and is the extraordinarily proud parent of Dr. Zachary Mondesire. Her enthusiasm and dedication are to the success and longevity of Scottish Rite Masonry and the Order of the Golden Circle! She loyally, and as a lady, wears her Crown!
Loyal Lady Pamela Gallimore, who hails from Mary E. Gould Assembly, No. 61, Valley of Ambler, Orient of Pennsylvania, followed the membership opportunity created by her Father being a Scottish Rite Mason and member of Martin Luther King, Jr., Consistory, No. 86, and proudly joined the Order of the Golden Circle in the spring of 2008. Her service began with Ways and Means as a State Grand Assembly Queen followed by her path to becoming the Loyal Lady Ruler in 2013. She continued the long-standing collaboration with Martin Luther King, Jr. Consistory, No. 86 in service to their local community with successful, family-focused outreach projects. Her cornerstone charity as the Loyal Lady Ruler was “Pamoza International” where one of their initiatives is consistent with LL Gallimore’s national and global commitment to provide secondary educational opportunities for all girls. Her involvement in Statewide activities includes having served in 2019 and 2022 as the Coordinator for Loyal Lady Activities for the United Supreme Council held in Philadelphia. She also served as the Secretary of the Pennsylvania State Grand Assembly in 2019- 2020 and as the Recording Secretary of the Pennsylvania State Grand Assembly in 2020- 2022. She currently serves as the State Grand Loyal Lady Outer Guard. A graduate of Howard University with a BS in Psychology and Villanova University with a MBA in Systems Design, she has over 40 years of experience in Finance, Higher Education Administration and Education Policy. She began her career in Finance with the former brokerage firm of Butcher and Singer, Inc. Her commitment, however, has been higher education administration and education policy. She served in several leadership, administrative, policy and adjunct faculty positions with Temple and West Chester
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O UR H ISTORY S HOULD N OT B E A M YSTERY —XIX “ Consistorial Origins ” By Sovereign Grand Inspector General Reginald B. Stewart, 33°, Grand Historian
Labanus Consistory No. 56 Valley of Salt Lake City Orient of Colorado, Wyoming, and Utah Chartered May 18, 1924 (Defunct) In the early 1920s, the United Supreme Council continued its spread westward and found a group of eager men in Utah. The name “Labanus” may be more familiar to some as it is similar to the name in one of the degrees of the Consistory — Knight of the Royal Axe, or Prince of Libanus — the 22nd degree. The story of this degree tells of those who cut cedar from the forests of Lebanon. The underlying lesson is that and that the goodness in performing labor (working) should be celebrated. “Labanus” is also an ancient name for the country of Lebanon and lends its name to the mountain range there. In the early 20s it took a great amount of “work” to organize men, inform them of masonic happenings and effect change in the form of creating something new. They enjoyed neither the immediate communication systems nor tolerable racial climate we have today and that certainly imbued a sense of resiliency within them. However, all trees do not bear good fruit. One of the primary organizers of this Consistory, S.P. H. E. Jackson 32° was involved in the illegal creation of a Council of Royal and Select Masters in the city a few years prior. This Consistory did not make it through the Great Depression era.
In May 1976, years after this Consistory went dormant another Consistory sprouted in its place — Ben Lomond Consistory No. 94 — whose name is derived from another mountain in Europe — Ben Lomond in Scotland.
Ophir Consistory No. 48 Valley of Trenton, Orient of New Jersey Chartered May 21, 1921
The ancient city of Ophir, as mentioned in the Bible, was an area renowned for its wealth, especially gold. The exact geographical location, however, has been highly debated. It has been theorized the city is in Sri Lanka; India; Africa; Saudia Arabia; or Ethiopia. King Solomon and Hiram, King of Tyre received goods and supplies from this port every third year. The name “Ophir” has also been ascribed to a son of Joktan — prince over the children of Shem. Mention of Ophir, as it relates to the port and the person can be found numerous places in the Bible — Genesis 10:29; 1 Kings 9:28; 1 Kings 10:11; 1 Kings 22:48; 1 Chronicles 1:23; 1 Chronicles 29:4; 2 Chronicles 8:18; 2 Chronicles 9:10; Job 22:24; Job 28:16; Psalm 45:9; and Isaiah 13:12. Illustrating the definition of the word, the Trenton area has been a rich preserve from the Grand Lodge of New Jersey and the United Supreme Council, Northern Jurisdiction to mine from.
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2024 Edmund Pettus Bridge Crossing Photos from Sovereign Grand Inspectors General Dr. Melvin J. Bazemore, 33° & Eugene Anderson, 33°; Grand Inspector General
In commemoration of the 1965 Bloody Sunday March across the Edmund Pettus Bridge in Selma, Alabama, thousands from across the globe participated in the re-enactment march on Sunday, March 3, 2024. The purpose of the 1965 march was to aid in securing the rights of black citizens to vote
introduction and passage of the Voting Rights Act of 1965. This act outlawed discriminatory practices as a prerequisite for voting which provided an avenue for all to vote despite race or creed. One of the notable moments of the march included evidence that showcased that multilateral
as was set to be guaranteed by the Civil Rights Act of 1964 that was passed by United State Congress. While the act provided provisions to secure voting, the enforcement of the provisions was not honored prompting the march across the Edmund Pettus Bridge in March of 1965.
and multicultural support for the movement. A sea of individuals of all races stood in solidarity, locked arm-in-arm in support of the cause. In like manner, Masonic leaders stood arm in arm under the direction of Most Worshipful Brother Dr. Corey Hawkins, Grand
Master of the Most Worshipful Prince Hall Grand Lodge of Alabama and Sovereign Grand Commander of the United Supreme Council, Ancient and Accepted Scottish Rite of Freemasonry, PHA, Southern Jurisdiction, USA, Inc. under the same umbrella of unity.
Several were beaten by police including the Honorable Brother John Lewis but they continued to march forward with a focus on the issue at hand. The activities received sufficient media coverage to cause a national uproar which prompted the
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Re - Enactment—Selma, Alabama Gregory Smith Jr., 33°; Sublime Prince Christin Campbell, 32°, and Jerome Hutchinson Photography
Most Worshipful Brother Hawkins was accompanied by Sovereign Grand Commander Dr. Melvin J. Bazemore, Sovereign Grand Commander of the United Supreme Council, Ancient and Accepted Scottish Rite of Freemasonry, PHA, Northern Jurisdiction, USA, Inc.; Most Worshipful
for all Americans to consider for the future of the nation: “ Our young leaders — well, they are cleareyed about what’s at stake. And in the spirit of a young John Lewis, I know they too will not be deterred, they will not be defeated, and they will not be denied. So, Selma, the challenges we currently face
Brother and Sovereign Grand Inspector General Eugene Anderson, President of the Conference of Grand Masters; and Grand Masters from all American Prince Hall Affiliation Jurisdictions. This show of support most definitely provoked moments of awe from many in consideration of the re -enactment of such a
are not unlike the challenges faced by those 600 brave souls 59 years ago. And in this moment, we too, then, are confronted with a fundamental question: What kind of country do we want to live in? Do we want to live in a country of freedom, liberty, and justice — or a country of injustice, hate, and fear?” We each have the power to answer that question
with our voice, with our feet, and with our vote.” With all on one accord, undoubtedly did each person present become moved by the events of the day. Given the charge by the keynote speaker to ensure that citizens take advantage of the right to vote, all left with one mission. Vote, vote, vote!!!
momentous occasion in the history of the United States of America. The keynote speaker for the day was none other than the first black, female Vice President of the United State of America, the Honorable Kamala Harris. Her words summarized the day’s events while providing more substance
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Social Justice and Civic Engagement Committee C ALL TO A CTION : 2024 E LECTION C YCLE Submitted by Sovereign Grand Inspector General Carl Drummer, 33 o , Chairman
In the dynamic landscape of democratic governance, active participation is the lifeblood that sustains its vitality. The upcoming 2024 election cycle beckons individuals to engage with civic duty from a moderate, non-partisan perspective. At the heart of this call lies the recognition that a healthy democracy thrives when diverse voices actively contribute to shaping its course. Voting, the cornerstone of civic engagement, is an essential act that transcends political affiliations.
actively promote civil discourse by participating in or organizing community conversations. These discussions create opportunities for people with differing opinions to find common ground, fostering a more inclusive political environment. Social media platforms, when used responsibly, can also serve as channels for constructive dialogue, enabling individuals to engage in meaningful conversations beyond their immediate communities.
Advocacy plays a pivotal role in shaping policy outcomes. Individuals can leverage their voices by communicating with elected representatives, expressing their views on issues that matter to them. Writing letters, making phone calls, and participating in advocacy campaigns amplify individual voices and contribute to the democratic process. Furthermore, supporting organizations that champion voter rights and civic education reinforces the democratic infrastructure. Donations, volunteering, or even amplifying their messages through social media are impactful ways to contribute to the broader goals of fostering an informed and engaged citizenry. In essence, the call for active participation in the 2024 election cycle extends beyond casting a vote; it is an invitation for individuals to become architects of their democracy. By embracing a non- partisan, moderate stance, citizens can bridge divides, foster understanding, and collectively contribute to a more resilient democratic process. In the mosaic of democracy, every individual's engagement shapes the overall picture, creating a tapestry that reflects the values and aspirations of a diverse and vibrant society. As the 2024 election approaches, let us recognize the profound impact of our collective actions and embrace the opportunity to shape the future of our nation through active, informed, and non-partisan civic engagement.
Regardless of one's ideological leanings, participating in the electoral process is a fundamental way to influence the direction of governance. Casting a ballot is not merely an individual right but a collective responsibility, binding citizens together in the shared pursuit of a better society. Beyond the ballot box, there are myriad ways for individuals to deepen their engagement in the political process. One powerful avenue is to educate oneself on the issues, especially in your local communities. Understanding the nuances of policies, current events, and the implications of political decisions equips individuals with the knowledge necessary to make informed choices at the polls. Attend town halls, forums, and engage in civil discussions to foster a well-rounded understanding of various perspectives. Community involvement is another impactful means of political engagement. Volunteering for local initiatives, joining community boards, or participating in grassroots movements allows individuals to directly influence the issues that matter most to them. In these spaces, people can collaborate, irrespective of party lines, to address shared concerns, fostering a sense of unity and shared purpose. In today’s polarized climate, encouraging respectful dialogue is crucial. Individuals can
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Civic Spotlight on Grand Inspector General Charles Holiday, Jr., 33 o C HICAGO B OARD OF E LECTIONS E XECUTIVE D IRECTOR Submitted by Sovereign Grand Inspector General Daryl L. Andrews, 33 o
Charles Holiday, Jr., 33 o is the Executive Director of the Chicago Board of Election (CBOE) Commissioners and oversees voter registration and election administration for the City of Chicago’s over 1.7 million voters, the third largest in the United States of America. For over 30 years, he has dedicated his career towards the management of free, fair, and transparent elections in Chicago, including supervising the registration
91 of the Most Worshipful Prince Hall Grand Lodge of Illinois. He served as Worshipful Master of the Lodge in 1997. He is a member of John W. Thompson Priory No. 3 which is only allotted to members who have been elected to and served as Excellent High Priest of a Chapter of Holy Royal Arch Masons, Thrice Illustrious Master of a Council of Royal and Select Masters, Eminent Commander of a Commandery of Knights Templar, and Past
division through a digital modernization, multiple redistricting processes, voter canvassing, and more. He believes that “if we aren't practicing the right to vote then we aren’t really living. The vote is your voice. Stand up and be heard and live.” Charles’s work has helped lead to several advancements that have improved voter turnout, including growing Early Voting and Vote By Mail expansion, increasing poll worker training and recruitment, safeguarding accessible voting sites, and expanding outreach and communication to the many communities and civic organizations of Chicago. He also directs the day-to-day operations of the Board’s seven divisions: registration, community services, information technology, pre- election voting and logistics, finance, human resources, and warehouse operations. Charles is a graduate of the Chicago Public Schools system and attended Harold Washington College and Olive Harvey College. He is married to his wife Angela and is the proud father of four children and grandfather to three grandchildren. In his spare time, he volunteers with charities throughout the city, including the Greater Chicago Food Depository, Ronald McDonald House, and Wrightwood Little League. Charles’ fraternal affiliations extend across all houses in Prince Hall Freemasonry. He is a forty year member of Chicago’s Cornerstone Lodge No.
Master of a Blue Lodge. For the State of Illinois, he not only served as Most Excellent Grand High Priest of Holy Royal Arch Masons but also Right Eminent Grand Commander of Knights Templar. An Honorary Grand Thrice Illustrious Master of Royal and Select Masters, he has held all leadership and most administrative roles in the Prince Hall York Rite at the local and national level for both male and female houses. Illustrious Holiday holds over 30 years of membership in Western Consistory No. 28, Valley of Chicago, Orient of Illinois. After being selected Mason of the Year for the Most Worshipful Prince Hall Grand Lodge of Illinois in 2005 and terms of administrative service in Western Consistory, he was coronated a Grand Inspector General of the United Supreme Council in the 2008 Bolden-Fitch Class. An advisor on many committees, he remains active in all bodies including Al Hamid Temple No. 222, AEAONMS, Oasis of Joliet, Desert of Illinois. With years of service as a District Deputy Grand Master and a Head of House for multiple statewide bodies, he sought to elevate his level of activity. In 2022, Right Worshipful Brother Holiday was elected Grand Auditor of the Most Worshipful Prince Hall Grand Lodge of Illinois. He leverages his vast administrative expertise from service in multiple offices to fulfill the obligations associated with this role.
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C RADLE TO C OLLEGE P ROGRAM :
Submitted by Sovereign Grand Inspector General Horace J. Jackson, 33°, Chairman
mentoring partner creates the foundation of your mentoring relationship but talking can take things only so far. To make mentoring conversations more meaningful to personal development, end every critical conversation with a commitment to take a specific action. Here are three ways you can accomplish this: 1. BE GOAL ORIENTED. Mentees : Prioritize activities and ideas that can improve your skills or abilities and ultimately bring you closer to your mentoring goals. Mentors : Consider asking “Why?” for each idea or action that arises so you can ensure it helps move the mentee toward their stated goals. This will also give them the chance to express their reasoning and thoughts behind each action. 2. BE PRACTICAL. Mentees : Attempt to apply new learning or awareness in a common and straightforward way. Take on actions that put the basic principles of your conversation into play and report back to your mentor regarding your experience and observations to stimulate further discussion. Mentors : Walkthrough ideas with your mentee so they can see how to apply them in the real world. Encourage open discussions on what worked and what did not. 3. BE A MODEL. Mentees : As you engage in conversations with your mentor, consider how the concepts under discussion will affect your current behavior. If you were to adopt a new standard of behavior, what changes would have to take place? Mentors : Give honest feedback on your observations of their behavior and, if possible, share personal insights from your own experiences with adopting the new behaviors or techniques under discussion. Show them how you walked this path and what you learned from the experience.
Conversations What makes mentoring such a special process?
Consider these three things:
1. Humanity and humility that people bring with them to their relationships give mentoring its power. Humanity is the human race. Humility is defined as the quality of being humble. 2. Conversations between people put ideas and learning into context. 3. Support between mentees and mentors provides the strength people need to overcome hurdles and learn from mistakes. When you pull those factors together, you can create powerful mentoring relationships that impact people’s lives and careers— not to mention the impacts that can occur within organizations. To make the most of your mentoring conversations and build meaningful relationships, follow these tips: A. Create a Rhythm and Flow Conversations between mentees and mentors represent the foundation of mentoring relationships and provide a mechanism for development to occur. The quality of these conversations will directly impact the value they have on the mentee’s development. Mentoring conversations should have a rhythm and flow. This occurs by having a set pattern to the conversations that you can use time and again. Each time you meet with your mentee or mentor, talk about: • what actions were taken since your last meeting? • what worked? • what did not work? • what you could try next? • where you go from here? This becomes a cyclical conversation model that you can follow throughout the relationship. By focusing on the smaller action items, you will progress toward larger goals. B. Turn Conversations into Actions Talking about issues and concerns with your
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“ Tips for Successful Mentoring ”
Sovereign Grand Inspector General Charles Burns, Jr., 33°, Co- Chairman and Author of “A Guide to Light the Way to Mentorship”
C. Give Thanks Taking the time to explicitly state why you are grateful to be in the mentoring relationship can be a great conversation starter. It can also help build trust and rapport between you as you openly express gratitude. Do you tell your mentee or mentor the things they have brought to your life and the relationship? Do you take the time to share specific examples of what it is about your mentee or mentor that makes you appreciate them? Do you express how they have impacted your work? People tend to feel closer to one another when they open up and express real emotions. That can play a key role in forging a solid foundation in your mentoring relationship. Consider these conversation starters that you can use with your mentee or mentor to begin expressing your gratitude:
A Guide to Light the Way The goal of a mentorship program is to accelerate the
personal and professional development of mentees. This is achieved by providing mentees with guidance, advice and feedback from mentors who can develop an emotional bond with the mentee, have greater experience than the mentee, and can provide support, guidance, and opportunities to help youth succeed in life and meet their goals. This work provides a step by step approach on how to establish a mentoring program and provides a well-rounded methodology for creating successful mentoring experiences. Tips and techniques range from the program design and planning tools to the program marketing and tips for recruitment and retention. It is an all-inclusive guide to a successful mentorship program!!!
I am grateful for . . .
•
I appreciate when you . . .
•
I find it helpful when you . . .
•
• I value you and try to show you by . . .
• Your partnership with me means . . .
Our conversations help me . . .
•
• Your personality/attitude/insights/ experience/openness helps me . . .
• This relationship has given me . . . Expressing genuine gratitude can strengthen your relationship. It can also help you build your character as you strive to show appreciation as well as give you a renewed sense of commitment to your mentee or mentor. As you continue on your mentoring journey, remember that mentoring is a personal relationship between humans and that fostering better mentoring conversations can help you achieve success. Reference: Francis, L., & T, S. (2019, June 18). 3 Tips for Successful Mentoring Conversations. Retrieved from https://www.td.org/insights/3-tips-for-successful- mentoring-conversations.
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Following in the Footsteps of S OVEREIGN G RAND I NSPECTOR G ENERAL BY S OVEREIGN G RAND I NSPECTOR G ENERAL
Many of us have heard the phrase, "A picture is worth a t housand words." This p h r a s e infers that pictures may
motion pictures of the Annual Sessions of the Supreme Council made for preservation in its archives. He began his Masonic travels in Forest of Lebanon Lodge No. 71, Mt. Vernon, Illinois, in 1933 and eventually served as Worshipful Master. After moving to Springfield, Illinois, he petitioned to join the Ancient and Accepted Scottish Rite of Freemasonry, Prince Hall Affiliation, Northern Jurisdiction, USA, Inc. He became a member of Menelik Consistory No. 49, Valley of Springfield, Orient of Illinois. In 1972, he was conferred the 33rd Degree of Freemasonry and appointed Deputy for the Orient of Illinois in 1985. He served in this position until 1992. Although Ill. Helm took photographs for the Supreme Council, the Most Worshipful Prince Hall Grand Lodge of Illinois (Grand Photographer), and other Masonic organizations, he is also credited with documenting African American life in Springfield through his photography for over 50 years, much of which would have gone unrecorded without him. Additionally, he served as the State of Illinois Official Photographer, Office of the Secretary of State, 1944 to 1992. Ill. Helm began working for the Illinois Secretary of State's office in
convey an idea more effectively and entirely than the written word. As an avid photographer, I can relate. I’ve taken thousands of photos at our United Supreme Council Annual Sessions, many of which have been shared with the membership through different channels. A well-composed picture has the potential to capture and communicate the significance, emotion, temperament, and nostalgia of an event or moment in time. Sovereign Grand Inspector General, Illustrious (Ill) Eddie Winfred "Doc" Helm, 33°, was someone who mastered this ability and exemplified the art of photography. An article in The USC Winter Bulletin, February 1961 Issue introduced Ill. Eddie Winfred Helm as the "Official Photographer of the Supreme Council" and credits him with furnishing most of the photographs reproduced in the Bulletin and for the
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The Illustrious “One Shot Doc” E DDIE W INIFRED “ D OC ” H ELM , 33 O S TUART A, L EE , II, 33 O , O RIENT OF THE F AR E AST
1934. One of his first duties was to hoist the flag on top of the Illinois Statehouse Capitol Building each morning and take it down each evening, which required him to climb to the top of the building. He performed this task with no safety harness or equipment to protect him. In the early 1940s, he took a job with the Illinois State Library, responsible for microfilming documents. Because the facility had a photo lab, he obtained permission from the head librarian to develop film there during his breaks, which he did. Realizing a lack of professional black photographers in Springfield, Ill. Helm opened his commercial studio in 1943. Shortly afterward, Ms. Helene D.
Helm Renfro. Afterward, his nickname evolved to "One Shot Doc" because of his ability to compose photos in his mind. He often required just one shot to capture the image he envisioned. Over the years, I l l . H e l m
photographed state receptions and funerals and portraits of politicians, dignitaries, and celebrities. He took photographs of famous persons such as
Rogers, Head Librarian, recognized his gift for
photography and in February of 1944, he was promoted to O f f i c i a l S t a t e Photographer. Illustrious Helm quickly earned the
nickname "One Shot Doc" through his professional work ethic and exceptional eye for photography. There were two reasons for the name. He earned the nickname "Doc" because one of his first jobs was delivering prescriptions for a local pharmacy, according to a 2010 interview with his daughter, Beverly
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Joe Louis, Gene Autry, Muhammad Ali, Nat King Cole, Bob Hope, Sammy Davis, Jr., Richard Pryor, at least three Presidents, several presidential candidates, and W.E.B. DuBois. The UMass Amherst Libraries' Department of Special Collections and University Archives (SCUA) maintains a digital archive of the W.E.B. Du Bois Papers,
which contains written correspondence between Ill. Helm and Du Bois discussing the purchase of photographs. Ill. Helm was considered a leading photographer in central Illinois and the state's most influential African American photographer during the mid-20th century. Ill. Helm passed away on January 1, 1994, but left behind a great legacy. As Deputy for the Orient of Illinois, he established the Illinois Council of Deliberation Scholarship Fund, which has aided many people in their efforts to pursue higher education. Additionally, the Illinois State Library and Office of the Illinois Secretary of State maintain his photographs in the digital archive of the "Eddie Winfred Doc Helm Photograph Collection." The collection may be found at http://www.idaillinois.org/digital/collection/DocHelm/. In May 2020, the Illinois State Archives was awarded a federal grant of "$60,178 to support a project to preserve, digitize, and provide online access via the Illinois Digital Archives to 21,000 photographs from the Doc Helm Collection." Several of his photographs may also be found at the Abraham Lincoln Presidential Library and Museum. Following Ill. Helm, there have been several photographers that have continued to capture the history and activities of the USC through their lens, such as Ill. George T. Smith, 33°, Ill. Richard A. Maxey, 33°, and Ill. Prince Burnett, 33°. They are rarely in photographs, as they are often behind the camera rather than in front of it. I am not an appointed photographer of the USC; however, I have volunteered to help visually document USC activities, including the “United Supreme Council Way” Street Renaming Ceremony in May 2022 and the “Historic Walk of Fame Garden” reveal in May 2019, and the signing of the
Correspondence between W.E.B. DuBois and E. Winifred Helm
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Scottish Rite Activities Interchange Agreement by Sovereign Grand Commanders (SGC) Dr. Melvin J. Bazemore, 33° and Corey D. Hawkins, Sr., Esq., 33° of the recognized United Supreme Councils of the Northern and Southern Jurisdictions, in 2023.
In closing, after reading the article about Ill. Helm in the February 1961 issue of the Bulletin, I was inspired to learn more about him and to recognize those that followed, volunteering their time and talent to document our history. Many can’t appreciate the amount of work that goes into photography, such as maintaining equipment and software and reviewing and editing photographs. It’s often time -consuming, however, if the photograph helps effectively capture and communicate the story, it’s worth the effort.
from 1973 to 1978 and Barack Obama from 2001 to 2004. In 2008, Barack Obama was elected as the 44th President of the United States. • Sangamon County Historical Society. History of Sangamon County, Illinois. “Doc Helm, Photographer.” Accessed from https://sangamoncountyhistory.org/ wp/?p=11193 on March 12, 2022 • UMass Amherst Libraries Department. Credo, W.E.B. Du Bois Papers. Accessed from https:// credo.library.umass.edu/view/collection/mums312 on March 19, 2022. • Ancient and Accepted Scottish Rite, PHA, Orient of Illinois. The Scottish Rite Clarion Fall 2010 – Vol 1, No 2. p6. Accessed http://icodpha.org/publications on March 19, 2022. • National Archives. National Historical Publications & Records Commission. National Archives Grant – May 2020. Access to Historical Records: Archival Projects. “Illinois State Archives.” Accessed https:// www.archives.gov/nhprc/awards/awards-5-20? _ga=2.265285775.1036093149.1647093186- 1796980130.1647093186 on March 12, 2022 • Archives of Grand Inspector General William L. Norman (Photo of Doc and Richard Pryor)
Sources:
• United Supreme Council, A.A.S.R. of Freemasonry, Prince Hall Affiliation, Northern Jurisdiction, U.S.A., Inc. (1961). The Winter Bulletin, February 1961 Issue. “The Official Photographer of the Supreme Council.” Philadelphia, PA. • Abraham Lincoln Presidential Library and Museum. Beverly Helm-Renfro – General Interest – Statecraft. (Image No. 31) Accessed from https://presidentlincoln.illinois.gov/oral- history/collections/helm-renfro-beverly/interview-detail/ on March 12, 2022. • Sangamon County Historical Society. History of Sangamon County, Illinois. “Doc Helm, Photographer.” Accessed from https://sangamoncountyhistory.org/wp/?p=11193 on March 12, 2022 • Newsletter of the Illinois State Archives and The Illinois State Historical Records Advisory Board. For the Record, Volume 34, Number 2, Summer 2020. “NHPRC Awards State Archives Grant for Doc Helm Collection.” • Beverly Helm Renfro, served as an administrative assistant for two Illinois State Senators, Fred Smith
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