E. Lynn Harris and Henry Louis Gates

I was shocked by the death of Michael Jackson. The death of E. Lynn Harris came as a similar surprise.


His first book, "Invisible Life" mirrored my life in so many ways. It became a bit of a lifeline for me. Reading that book helped me connect to a place inside myself that I had been searching for but wasn't sure I could find. It wasn't the only thing. There were a number of forces at work but it definitely help me on the path to self discovery. For that I will be ever grateful.

I read each book he published. Met him at a couple of book signings and have to admit that his last few books became a bit formulaic for me. He will always be one of my favorites. He definitely was someone who inspired me to write. Seeing him do it helped me get to the point where I could believe in me doing it. It's strange to me that both he and BeBe Moore Campbell are both gone. They came up in the "Black Literary" world after Terry McMillan and for me forged new territory. They were also friends so I guess in some way they are together again. The most interesting thing is the recent deaths of Michael Jackson, E, Lynn Harris, My friend and performing partner Min. Regi Perry, Transgender activist and friend Teri. Tinsley, and my niece have me thinking of my own mortality more than I ever have...








The interesting discussions and conversations concerning the arrest of Henry Louis Gates once again proves to me that the notion of a "Post Racial" America simply has not happened.

After offering his opinion about the situation President Barack Obama has been mocked and derided for his words. I totally understand what he meant when said that after proof of being the owner of the house Dr. Gates should've been left alone but I also know I was not there and am seeing this situation through the lens of my experience.

I also actually believe the police officer and his supporters that his intent was not to racially profile Dr. Gates but what seems to be an episode that spiraled out of control is turning into a dialog that has has nothing to do with what happened.

People can pontificate all they want but the fact remains that there are some situations in this country where people in authority use that power in an abusive way. I am not saying that's what happened with Officer Crowley but it does look like the situation could have been handled differently by many parties involved.