It is important that we take the time to explore our roots, and teach our children to do the same thing. Knowledge is power. It not only frees the mind, but breaks the ties that would hold us back and bind us from moving forward.

The powerful short film, The Bully,tackles not only the issues bullying, but that of racism, religion and sexuality. It is a story of intolerance, but also a story of kindness, forgiveness, and redemption.

From Preacher to President. Taking the cause for human and civil rights to another level in African American History. Yet, it is more than African American history; it is American history—plain and simple.

From slavery until now there has been one thing that certain in the African-American community: working together and for one another accomplishes more than if tried alone. Standing and fighting for those who cannot, makes the community stronger and a future possible for the generation of tomorrow.

Possibly affecting 30 million LGBT individuals, Native American women, and undocumented immigrants, House Republican leaders failed to advance the Senate's 2012 reauthorization of the Violence Against Women Act.

This year has seen its share of triumphs, defeats, evil and good. African-Americans saw many changes take place in the past few years. However, for many, 2012 felt like they took a step back in time to the days of Civil Rights—fighting for a our right to vote, equality, and justice.

Why have predominantly minority communities and poorer neighborhoods not received the media coverage and outcry for the senseless slayings of their minority children?

OP/ED What happened to the Spirit of the Season? Nowadays you hardly see or hear mention of Christ or Chanukah or anything associated with religion. It's as though it is taboo to mention the name of Christ during the Holidays.

There are times when you should work it out, and then there are times when you should let go and move on. Are you in a toxic relationship? You've done all you could do. You have gone further than you thought you would. Perhaps it's time to move on.

Which ever way you choose to rock your locks is your decision. Just be certain to take care of your hair, and include a regimen for the inside, as well.