By Stacy M. Brown
NNPA Newswire Senior National Correspondent
@StacyBrownMedia

(NNPA Newswire) – A group of researchers from Rutgers University and Michigan State University have launched a major study to examine the long-term effects of structural racism on cognitive aging, physical decline, and frailty—particularly in Black Americans. A five-year grant from the National Institute on Aging, a division of the National Institutes of Health, will support the study under the direction of Danielle L. Beatty Moody, an associate professor at Rutgers University, and Richard C. Sadler, an associate professor at Michigan State.

The research team plans to explore how lifetime exposure to structural racism in neighborhoods affects the aging process. The study will involve 800 Black and White participants from Baltimore who have been tracked for over two decades as part of a larger project on healthy aging in diverse neighborhoods. The long-term data will allow researchers to examine the cumulative impact of historical, enduring and contemporary markers of structural racism.

In a news release, Moody and Sadler asserted that the study moves beyond traditional research focused only on residential segregation or redlining. 

“It’s not just redlining, and it’s not just segregation,” they said. “The patterns of racist, discriminatory practices go far deeper. We need to comprehensively document the full array of tools used to entrench structural racism in our urban landscapes to understand why racial inequities persist across numerous health outcomes.”

In addition to exploring how non-Black residents in the same communities are affected, the researchers said they would investigate personal experiences with discrimination and biological and social factors that influence risk and resilience. 

The authors expect the study will inform strategies to address racial inequities in accelerated aging, particularly in communities where Black Americans live and age in place.

Once completed, researchers said they would share the results with participants and local stakeholders to support ongoing advocacy and policy efforts to achieve health equity. Moody and Sadler hope the study’s findings will help drive transformative change, particularly in housing and neighborhood environments.

“We are not only looking at the past or present,” Sadler remarked. “We’re also aiming to influence the future of health equity in communities where Black Americans continue to take the hardest hits.”

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By Stacy M. Brown
NNPA Newswire Senior National Correspondent

(NNPA NEWSWIRE) – With the 2024 presidential election just two weeks away, early voting is surging nationwide as both parties make their final push to secure crucial ballots. Early voting data has begun to shed light on which states might see the most significant shifts—and, in some cases, repeat the razor-thin margins of 2020. While Independent and other voters are mostly excluded from the figures, pollsters warn that party affiliation doesn’t necessarily determine who early voters are casting their ballots for.

National early voting trends: Key battlegrounds in focus

Across the nation, more than 15 million mail-in and early in-person votes have already been cast. Among these early votes, 46 percent come from registered Democrats, 36 percent from Republicans, and 18 percent from other parties. 

The early voting push comes as Vice President Kamala Harris’ campaign encourages Democratic voters to take advantage of mail-in and early voting to lock in ballots well before Election Day, countering the traditionally lower early voting rates among Democratic voters in past elections. 

And, despite initially criticizing early voting, the twice-impeached former President Donald Trump’s campaign has urged Republicans to vote early, apparently recognizing its critical role in battleground states.

In Georgia, where Biden narrowly defeated Trump in 2020, early voting has seen 1,691,298 ballots cast so far. The partisan split is tight, with 49 percent from Republicans and 46 percent from Democrats, reflecting how crucial the state remains in the 2024 contest.

Wisconsin, another battleground where Biden edged out Trump in 2020, has seen 326,124 early votes, with Democrats accounting for 40 percent and Republicans just 19 percent. In Michigan, where Biden won by a margin of 50.6 percent to 47.8 percent in the last election, 1,031,654 early votes have been cast, with 54 percent from Democrats and 36 percent from Republicans.

Pennsylvania, pivotal in Biden’s 2020 victory, has already seen 921,720 early votes, with 64 percent from Democrats and 27 percent from Republicans. Nevada, another state that helped seal Biden’s win in 2020, has logged 247,738 early votes, with a breakdown of 40 percent   Democrats, 35 percent Republicans, and 25 percent from other voters.

The toss-Up nature of the 2024 election

Polling data, including a Washington Post-Schar School survey, shows that Harris and Trump are locked in a dead heat, with each receiving 47 percent support from registered voters. Among likely voters, Harris holds a slight 1-point lead at 49 percent compared to Trump’s 48 percent This trend mirrors the tight electoral battles seen in these battleground states, where margins of victory could come down to just a few thousand votes, as they did in 2020.

“I think this election will break at the end,” veteran Democratic strategist James Carville said. “Someone will carry the swing states, and that will decide it. Whoever breaks those states 5-2 or 6-1 will not only take the presidency; they’ll likely do well in the House and Senate too.”

The shadow of Project 2025

While much of the focus is on the election itself, the looming influence of Project 2025, a Heritage Foundation initiative to reshape the federal government, has garnered attention. The initiative, which has strong ties to Trump’s first administration, is conservative in ideology. 

Despite Trump’s claims that he has no connection to the project, analysis has revealed that well over half of the 307 authors and contributors to the “Mandate for Leadership,” the document guiding Project 2025, served in Trump’s administration or during his campaign.

The policy proposals outlined in Project 2025 aim to overhaul key aspects of the federal government, including dramatically reshaping regulatory frameworks, reducing the size of government, and reversing many policies implemented by the Biden administration. Critics have pointed out that the project could significantly alter how federal agencies operate, and its influence could expand should Trump return to the White House.

“This race is a long way from decided,” added Carville, who noted he has “a feeling” Harris will win. “But one thing’s clear: whoever breaks those (swing) states is going to take the presidency.”

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By Stacy M. Brown
NNPA Newswire 

Bath & Body Works is facing backlash after releasing its holiday themed “Snowed In” candle, which bears a design some social media users claim resembles imagery associated with the Ku Klux Klan. The Columbus-based retailer swiftly apologized and announced it would be removing the candle from shelves.

The controversy erupted when a Reddit user posted an image of the candle featuring a close-up snowflake design set against a maroon background. Although intended as a winter motif, some users noted a striking resemblance to the pointed hoods associated with the KKK, leading to terms like “klandle” and “KKKandle” circulating online. 

“I know it’s one of those paper snowflakes, but I can’t be the only one who sees ‘it,’ right?” asked the Reddit user. The post quickly gained traction, with users on platforms like X questioning how the design passed quality checks. 

“Wait, how did nobody at Bath & Body Works clock the klandle?” one user exclaimed.

In response to the criticism, a spokesperson for Bath & Body Works stated, “We are committed to listening to our customers and to addressing mistakes, even those that are unintentional. We apologize to anyone we’ve offended and are working to remove this item from our stores while evaluating our process going forward.”

While some criticized the oversight as insensitive, others dismissed the controversy, arguing that society is becoming overly sensitive.

“This isn’t just a branding mistake; it’s a reminder of how sensitive cultural symbols can be,” commented one user. Meanwhile, another argued, “People see ‘racism’ in everything nowadays.”

This incident is not Bath & Body Works’ first brush with controversy. In 2022, the company faced criticism for a Black History Month collection featuring kente-cloth-inspired packaging, which some considered cultural appropriation. 

Bath & Body Works, which became an independent public company in 2021 and operates over 1,850 locations across the U.S. and Canada, reported $7.4 billion in revenue last year.  

“Let’s hope they take this as a lesson in awareness and responsibility,” one online user noted.

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By Stacy Brown
NNPA Newswire

Rapper T.I. and singer Tameka “Tiny” Harris have emerged victorious in a major lawsuit against toy company MGA Entertainment, securing a $71 million judgment. The couple, alongside their music group OMG Girlz, accused MGA of violating their intellectual property rights by copying the group’s image and style for the company’s popular L.O.L. Surprise! O.M.G. dolls.

The case, which spanned over three years, concluded when a jury ruled in favor of the Harris family. According to People magazine, Tiny, 49, was elated as she shared her thoughts in an Instagram Live video outside the Santa Ana, California federal courthouse. 

Reflecting on the years-long legal battle, she said, “It was a hell of a fight. We couldn’t be more happy.”

Tiny expressed profound gratitude to the jurors, who delivered a unanimous verdict. “They heard our story and they knew we wasn’t lying. It’s amazing,” she said.

The lawsuit, initiated in 2020, focused on more than a dozen L.O.L. Surprise! O.M.G. dolls that strongly resemble the OMG Girlz, a group Tiny formed in 2009 with her daughter, Zonnique Pullins, along with Bahja Rodriguez and Breaunna Womack. According to the court, MGA had “infringed on the trade dress and misappropriated the name, image and likeness” of the group, particularly their outfits and hairstyles.

People magazine noted that the jury awarded $53.6 million in punitive damages in addition to the initial settlement, an outcome that surprised even Tiny. 

“I mean, wow. They did more than I thought they would,” she told Rolling Stone after the verdict. “I would have been happy with whatever. They blessed us more than beyond.”

The OMG Girlz themselves testified during the three-week trial, recalling specific public events and photos where the dolls copied their unique wardrobe and style. 

Womack shared her emotional reaction, telling Rolling Stone, “I’m so grateful and overwhelmed with joy.” 

Pullins added that when the jurors unanimously recognized the group’s memorable style, “We all silently cried.”

T.I. also reflected on the case, criticizing MGA for attempting to dismiss the lawsuit as a “money grab.” 

“That kind of condescension comes from when you’re not really in touch with the reality of culture,” he said in an interview with Rolling Stone. The rapper emphasized that MGA’s actions were exploitative, stating, “They were the ones that came and ripped us off, and expected us to not have the audacity to stand up and speak for ourselves.”

Despite MGA’s founder, Isaac Larian calling the claims baseless and referring to the Harris family as “extortionists,” the jury’s decision firmly supported the OMG Girlz, reinforcing the importance of protecting creative and cultural expression.

“We did this for the culture,” Tiny said outside the courthouse, a resounding declaration of their victory.

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By Stacy M. Brown
NNPA Newswire

Vice President Kamala Harris has unveiled an extensive agenda designed to dismantle systemic barriers and foster new opportunities for Black men across America. The agenda, announced on Oct. 14, spotlights wealth-building, health equity, criminal justice reform and expanded education and job training access. Her plan follows recent controversial remarks by former President Barack Obama, who addressed concerns about voter turnout among Black men and stressed the importance of participating in the election.

Obama’s comments in Pittsburgh were roundly criticized as scapegoating Black men, though he emphasized the high stakes of the 2024 election, noting that some African American males might hesitate to vote. He suggested that part of the reluctance could stem from discomfort with the idea of a woman president. Harris’s plan aims to address the specific needs of Black men, with initiatives focused on financial empowerment, healthcare and education.

Forgivable loans and wealth creation

Harris’s economic plan centers on wealth-building and supporting Black entrepreneurship. Her administration would provide one million forgivable loans, each up to $20,000, to help Black men and others who have faced significant barriers to starting a business. By partnering with community banks and mission-driven lenders, Harris aims to make capital accessible to Black entrepreneurs looking to launch or expand businesses in fields ranging from technology to landscaping and beyond.

Additionally, Harris has proposed a significant expansion of the Small Business Startup Tax Deduction, increasing it from $5,000 to $50,000, which would allow Black entrepreneurs to offset startup costs. She also plans to boost access to venture capital, low-interest loans and incubators specifically for Black-owned businesses. Recognizing that Black entrepreneurs are frequently denied credit, Harris’s plan includes reforms to expand affordable banking services and crack down on hidden fees that inhibit wealth accumulation in Black communities.

Pathways to high-demand jobs and expanded education access

Harris’s agenda promotes education, training and mentorship programs to equip Black men with the skills needed to succeed in high-demand fields. Her plan emphasizes registered apprenticeships and credentialing programs, which would provide hands-on training for jobs in sectors like cybersecurity, renewable energy and healthcare. She also seeks to eliminate unnecessary college degree requirements for 500,000 federal jobs, making these roles more accessible to Black men who may not have pursued higher education.

To increase the representation of Black male teachers—a crucial role model for young Black students—Harris said she plans to invest in teacher training programs through the Department of Education. By collaborating with HBCUs and MSIs, the Democratic presidential nominee hopes to build a pipeline for Black male educators, addressing the severe underrepresentation in this profession, where only 1 percent of teachers are Black men. Research has shown that Black students benefit academically and socially when they have Black male teachers, yet structural barriers have prevented many from entering the field. Harris also supports the Public Service Loan Forgiveness Program to attract and retain Black male teachers, ensuring they have a pathway to long-term careers in education.

Financial protections in the digital economy

Harris’s plan includes protections for Black men who invest in cryptocurrency and other digital assets, acknowledging that over 20 percent of Black Americans have owned these assets. Among her goals is establishing a regulatory framework to safeguard digital investments, ensuring that Black men are protected as they participate in the burgeoning digital economy. The framework would set standards to protect investors from fraud and provide educational resources on digital asset management.

Health equity and addressing medical debt

Health equity remains a cornerstone of Harris’s agenda. She has introduced a National Health Equity Initiative focused on Black men, which would address high rates of chronic diseases like diabetes, prostate cancer and sickle cell disease. Harris proposes capping insulin costs at $35 per month and limiting out-of-pocket expenses on prescription drugs to $2,000 annually. Additionally, she said she would expand funding for sickle cell research and build a national database to improve prevention and treatment.

To tackle the burden of medical debt, which disproportionately affects Black men, Harris proposes removing medical debt from credit reports and working with states to relieve outstanding medical debt. The effort would help Black men access better credit, opening doors for homeownership and business financing.

Criminal justice reform and economic opportunities in legal cannabis

The vice president also has committed to legalizing recreational marijuana at the federal level, which she argues will reduce incarceration rates for Black men and create economic opportunities in the emerging cannabis industry. By working with Congress to ensure the safe cultivation, distribution, and possession of marijuana, Harris would remove long standing barriers that have disproportionately impacted Black men. Her plan would establish pathways for Black men to access licenses and jobs in the legal cannabis sector, providing a chance to build wealth in a market that has historically excluded them.

Affordable housing, homeownership, and financial literacy

Harris further proposes building three million affordable housing units during her first term to address the housing crisis. She would offer up to $25,000 in down payment assistance for first-time homebuyers, aiming to triple the number of new Black homeowners annually by the end of her term. The initiative would specifically target those who have been unable to buy homes due to a lack of generational wealth, which disproportionately affects Black families.

Still, another facet of her plan would tackle racial bias in home appraisals, a pervasive issue that often results in undervalued properties in majority-Black neighborhoods. Her proposal would mandate training and accountability measures for appraisers to ensure that Black homeowners receive fair property valuations, helping to close the racial wealth gap.

Community events and outreach

As part of her outreach to Black men, the Harris-Walz campaign is launching several community-centered events. The “Black Men Huddle Up” initiative will feature NFL and NCAA watch parties in battleground states, where Black men can discuss the upcoming election and its implications for their communities. In addition, the campaign will host a series of Economic Freedom Talks, with notable Black entrepreneurs discussing strategies for business growth and financial independence. Harris’s team is ramping up its Shop Talk series, Brother to Brother canvass events, and launching new testimonial ads to reach Black voters in states like Pennsylvania, Georgia and Michigan.

In stark contrast to Trump’s agenda

Harris’s proposals directly counter Donald Trump’s Project 2025, which she argues would dismantle progress for Black communities. Trump’s plan includes:

• Reinstating stop-and-frisk practices.
• Cutting funding for urban education.
• Eliminating critical programs like Medicare, Medicaid and Social Security, which many Black families rely on.
• Harris’s agenda seeks to offer Black men a comprehensive path to economic stability and success, positioning her as the candidate dedicated to addressing their unique challenges.

Harris’s detailed plan appears to offer Black men a vision of leadership, opportunity and economic empowerment, which she argues is essential for the future of Black communities. She believes investing in education, health and wealth-building would help address systemic inequities and build a path to prosperity for Black men nationwide.

“Donald Trump could care less about equipping hardworking Americans with the tools needed to get ahead,” campaign co-chair Cedric Richmond stated. “While Vice President Harris is promising to equip Black men with the tools needed to pursue our dreams and aspirations, Donald Trump is promising Black men in America a national nightmare.”

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By Stacy M. Brown
NNPA Newswire

John Amos, the Emmy-nominated actor and pioneering television star who brought to life some of the most beloved characters in entertainment history, has died at age 84. His son, K.C. Amos, confirmed in a statement that Amos passed away more than a month ago, on August 21, in Los Angeles of natural causes. The younger Amos didn’t say why he kept his father’s death under wraps for more than a month.

“It is with heartfelt sadness that I share with you that my father has transitioned,” K.C. said. “He was a man with the kindest heart and a heart of gold… and he was loved the world over. Many fans consider him their TV father. He lived a good life. His legacy will live on in his outstanding works in television and film as an actor.”

Amos’ acting career spanned over five decades, with his most iconic role being that of James Evans Sr., the no-nonsense, hard-working father on the groundbreaking CBS sitcom “Good Times” (1974–1979). The show, which was the first sitcom to center on an African American family, became a cultural touchstone, and Amos’ portrayal of James Evans Sr. made him a symbol of strength and dignity for countless viewers.

However, his time on the series was cut short after three seasons due to creative differences with the show’s producers. Amos famously clashed with the show’s direction, objecting to what he saw as the stereotypical portrayal of his on-screen son, J.J., played by Jimmie Walker.

“We had a number of differences,” Amos recalled in later interviews, according to the Hollywood Reporter. “I felt too much emphasis was being put on J.J. in his chicken hat, saying ‘Dy-no-mite!’ every third page.” Amos’ insistence on portraying a more balanced, positive image of the Black family on television led to his departure from the show in 1976, when his character was written out in a dramatic two-part episode.

Born John Allen Amos Jr. on December 27, 1939, in Newark, New Jersey, Amos began his professional life with dreams of playing football. He played the sport at Colorado State University and had brief stints with teams like the Denver Broncos and Kansas City Chiefs. But after a series of injuries and cutbacks, Amos transitioned to entertainment, beginning his career as a writer and performer.

Amos got his first major acting break as Gordy Howard, the good-natured weatherman on “The Mary Tyler Moore Show,” appearing on the iconic series from 1970 to 1973. He would go on to write and perform sketches on “The Leslie Uggams Show” and later landed roles in various television series and films.

In 1977, Amos received an Emmy nomination for his powerful portrayal of the adult Kunta Kinte in the landmark ABC miniseries “Roots,” a role that solidified his status as one of television’s most respected actors. Amos’ performance in “Roots,” one of the most watched and culturally significant television events of all time, remains one of his most enduring achievements.

In addition to his success on television, Amos made his mark in films. He appeared in Melvin Van Peebles’ groundbreaking blaxploitation film “Sweet Sweetback’s Baadasssss Song” (1971) and “The World’s Greatest Athlete” (1973). He was widely recognized for his role in “Coming to America” (1988), where he played Cleo McDowell, the owner of McDowell’s, a fast-food restaurant parody of McDonald’s. Amos reprised the role over three decades later in “Coming to America 2” (2021).

His filmography also includes the Sidney Poitier and Bill Cosby classic “Let’s Do It Again” (1975), “The Beastmaster” (1982), “Die Hard 2” (1990), “Ricochet” (1991), “Mac” (1992), “For Better or Worse” (1995), “The Players Club” (1998), “Night Trap” (1993) and “Because of Charley” (2021).

Amos was also a familiar face on television throughout the 1980s, 1990s, and 2000s, with recurring roles in shows like “The West Wing” as Admiral Percy Fitzwallace, chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff, and “The Fresh Prince of Bel-Air” as Will Smith’s stepfather. He appeared in “The District, Men in Trees, All About the Andersons,” as Anthony Anderson’s father, and the Netflix series “The Ranch.”

Beyond acting, Amos had a passion for writing and performing in theater. In the 1990s, when he found it challenging to secure roles in Hollywood, he wrote and starred in the one-person play Halley’s Comet, about an 87-year-old man waiting in the woods for the comet’s arrival. He toured with the production for over 20 years, performing in cities across the United States and abroad.

In addition to his onscreen and stage accomplishments, Amos co-produced the documentary America’s Dad, which explored his life and career. He was also involved in Broadway, appearing in Carl Reiner’s “Tough to Get Help” production in 1972.

John Amos’ life and career were not without personal challenges. In recent years, he was embroiled in a public legal battle between his children, K.C. and Shannon, over accusations of elder abuse. This unfortunate chapter cast a shadow over his later years. However, his legacy as a beloved television father and one of Hollywood’s pioneering Black actors remains untarnished.

Both K.C. and Shannon, children from his first marriage to artist Noel “Noni” Mickelson and his ex-wife, actress Lillian Lehman, survive Amos.

This article was originally published by NNPA Newswire. 

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By Stacy M. Brown
NNPA Newswire Senior National Correspondent
@StacyBrownMedia

(NNPA Newswire) – New York City Mayor Eric Adams pleaded not guilty Sept. 27 to charges of bribery, wire fraud, soliciting campaign contributions from foreign nationals and conspiracy.  The charges mark a pivotal moment in Adams’ tumultuous tenure, which high-level resignations and a series of federal investigations have plagued, NBC News reported. 

“I am not guilty, your honor,” Adams told 

U.S. Magistrate Judge Katharine Parker.

Federal prosecutors announced the 57-page criminal indictment late Sept. 26, marking the first time a sitting mayor in the city’s history has faced such charges.

Adams allegedly sought and accepted illegal “nominee” or “straw” contributions. By “smuggling their contributions” to Adams’ campaign through the straw donors and actors from overseas, Adams “defeated federal laws that serve to prevent foreign influence on U.S. elections,” according to the indictment.

In 2018, when Adams had announced his plans to run for New York City mayor, he allegedly accepted and sought illegal campaign contributions to his upcoming mayoral campaign, the indictment says.

Businesses also circumvented the city’s ban on corporate contributions “by funneling their donations through multiple employees,” according to the indictment.

In a video statement posted online, Adams fiercely denied the allegations, calling the charges “entirely false” and “based on lies.” He asserted that federal authorities had targeted him because of his commitment to standing up for New Yorkers. Adams vowed to fight the charges in court. He made it clear he had no plans to resign.

The indictment follows months of escalating federal scrutiny. Earlier this month, federal agents searched the homes of several of Adams’s top officials and seized phones, including that of Police Commissioner Edward Caban, who resigned on Sept. 12. Authorities also confiscated the phone of Caban’s twin brother, James Caban, a former police officer who now runs a nightclub security business. Investigators reportedly are looking into whether bars and clubs in Manhattan and Queens paid James Caban to act as a police liaison and if those establishments received special treatment from local precincts.

The indictment adds to a series of ongoing federal probes into Adams’ administration, which has already seen numerous high-ranking officials come under investigation. These probes began last year when federal agents seized the mayor’s electronic devices after searching the home of his chief fundraiser.

Calls for Adams to step down have intensified after the charges. New York City Comptroller Brad Lander and New York State Sen. Zellnor Myrie, who have launched campaigns for next year’s mayoral race, have publicly called for the mayor to resign.

“The hardworking people of New York City deserve a government and leadership they can trust. Right now, they don’t have it,” Lander posted on X.

The New York Working Families Party, a major progressive group, also demanded Adams’ resignation, stating that “he has lost the trust of the everyday New Yorkers he was elected to serve.”

Adams, a former NYPD captain, was elected in 2021 on promises to restore public safety and reinvigorate the city post-COVID-19. His administration, however, has been criticized for the handling of issues like the migrant crisis and subway safety, as well as for his late-night socializing and disputes over city spending, particularly on education. Despite these challenges, Adams has maintained a defiant stance, denying all wrongdoing.

In his video statement, Adams remained resolute: “I always knew that if I stood my ground for New Yorkers, I would be a target—and a target I became. If I am charged, I am innocent, and I will fight this with every ounce of my strength and spirit.”

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By Stacy M. Brown
NNPA Newswire Senior National Correspondent
@StacyBrownMedia

(NNPA Newswire) – Stevie Wonder has announced that he’s bringing a message of “joy over anger” this fall with his “Sing Your Song! As We Fix Our Nation’s Broken Heart” tour. The 10-show run begins on Oct. 8 in Pittsburgh and concludes on Oct. 30 in Grand Rapids, Michigan. This tour arrives at a crucial junction in American politics, and Wonder said he’s seeking to inspire unity and healing.

Wonder, a 25-time Grammy Award winner, will offer free tickets to individuals working tirelessly in their communities to mend what he calls “our nation’s broken heart.” The gesture aligns with Wonder’s long-standing commitment to social justice and humanitarian causes. In his recent release, “Can We Fix Our Nation’s Broken Heart,” Wonder sings about the country’s current challenges and reflects the nation’s mood with lyrics like: “Children marching on the boulevard / Tears are streaming down their face,” encapsulating the tension and hope for change.

Tickets for the tour go on sale Sept. 20, available through StevieWonderLive.com.

The Wonder Productions-led tour, which AEG Presents is promoting in collaboration with Free Lunch, will visit cities such as New York, Philadelphia, Baltimore, Greensboro, Atlanta, Detroit, Milwaukee, and Minneapolis.

Wonder’s impact on music and culture remains unquestionably profound. At just 12 years old, he became the youngest artist to top the charts with “Fingertips, Part 2,” simultaneously reaching No. 1 on Billboard’s Hot 100, R&B Singles, and Album Charts. Over his illustrious career, Wonder has released numerous iconic albums, including “Songs in the Key of Life,” which is preserved in the National Recording Registry of the Library of Congress for its cultural, historical and aesthetic significance. With 49 Top Forty singles and 32 No. 1 hits, Wonder’s worldwide sales have surpassed 100 million units.

Beyond his musical achievements, Wonder is known for his activism and philanthropy. In 1983, he played a pivotal role in establishing Martin Luther King Day as a national holiday, with his song “Happy Birthday” serving as an anthem for the movement. His participation in the 1985 “We Are The World” fundraiser for hunger in Africa is a landmark moment in music history, and his efforts to end apartheid in South Africa are legendary. Wonder has been recognized with numerous honors, including the Presidential Medal of Freedom, the Kennedy Center Honors, and a U.N. Messenger of Peace designation focusing on persons with disabilities.

As Wonder embarks on this tour, he continues to be a vital influence in both the music industry and global activism, using his platform to advocate for social progress and world harmony. With his call for “joy over anger,” Wonder said he’s inviting audiences to join him in “seeking healing and unity during these challenging times.”

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By Stacy M. Brown
NNPA Newswire Senior National Correspondent
@StacyBrownMedia

(NNPA Newswire) – The U.S. Department of Justice launched a civil rights investigation into Rankin County, Mississippi, and the Rankin County Sheriff’s Department (RCSD). The probe will determine whether the RCSD engages in unconstitutional practices, including excessive force, unlawful stops and racially discriminatory policing. Rankin County, which has a population of about 160,000, is located 30 minutes east of Jackson, the state capital.

The investigation follows the highly publicized case involving the so-called “Goon Squad,” a group of five former Rankin County deputies convicted for the brutal assault of two Black men, Michael Jenkins and Eddie Parker, in January 2023. Those deputies were sentenced to federal prison, but the Justice Department is now examining whether the issues within the department are more widespread.

“We are launching this investigation to examine serious allegations that the Rankin County Sheriff’s Department systematically violates people’s constitutional rights through excessive use of force, unlawful stops and arrests, and discriminatory policing,” said Attorney General Merrick B. Garland.

The investigation will scrutinize the RCSD’s use of force, including deadly force, and evaluate whether officers have engaged in unlawful searches, stops, and arrests in violation of the Fourth Amendment. The Justice Department will also assess claims of discriminatory policing practices that could violate the 14th Amendment, Title VI of the Civil Rights Act and the Safe Streets Act.

Rankin County officials have pledged their cooperation with the investigation. The DOJ said it would review the sheriff department’s policies, training, and oversight systems. Investigators will gather information by meeting with community members, law enforcement officers and department leadership.

Assistant Attorney General Kristen Clarke of the Civil Rights Division referenced the Goon Squad case in remarks about the investigation, stating, “Although the Goon Squad deputies are now serving time, we have received numerous reports that their actions were part of a broader pattern of misconduct that persists within the sheriff’s department.”

Officials said the investigation is being conducted under the authority of the Violent Crime Control and Law Enforcement Act of 1994, which allows the Justice Department to address law enforcement misconduct through civil litigation. This marks the 12th such investigation into law enforcement practices opened by the Justice Department during the Biden administration. Recent investigations into departments in Phoenix and Louisville have led to significant reforms.

“The pursuit of justice is not just about punishing individual officers; it’s about ensuring that the culture of policing reflects the values of our Constitution,” Garland said. “No community should live in fear of those sworn to protect them.”

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By Stacy M. Brown
NNPA Newswire Senior National Correspondent
@StacyBrownMedia

(NNPA Newswire) – The Congressional Black Caucus Foundation’s (CBCF) 53rd Annual Legislative Conference (ALC) on Sept. 14 culminated in an influential Phoenix Awards gala at the Walter E. Washington Convention Center in downtown Washington, D.C. This year’s theme, “From Vision to Victory: Amplifying Black Voices,” was not just a celebration of Black culture and heritage but also a call to action to defend and expand fundamental freedoms in an increasingly challenging political climate.

The Phoenix Awards, always the pinnacle of the conference, honored individuals who have made significant contributions to the progress of Black Americans.

President Joe Biden received the Congressional Black Caucus Lifetime Achievement Award. He praised the CBC for its integral role in bolstering his administration’s efforts. 

“With the CBC, we went big, and we went bold, and we are better off today than we were four years ago,” Biden said. 

He also stressed the importance of continued vigilance to ensure a future where freedom, justice and equality prevail. “We must show up; we must look to the future. I’m looking to you to help lead the way,” he told the audience.

And Democrats are looking to another CBC alum to lead the way. Vice President Kamala Harris, the Democratic presidential nominee, also addressed the gathering, calling on the CBC to leverage its history as “the conscience of the Congress” to shape the nation’s future. 

“The CBC has always had a vision for the future of our nation; a future where we can see what is possible unburdened by what has been;” Harris said, “a future where we fulfill the promise of America; a promise of freedom opportunity and justice, not just for some but for all.”

Another Black leader in whom Democrats see a bright future is Maryland Gov. Wes Moore, who was awarded the Congressional Black Caucus Foundation Annual Legislative Conference Honorary Co-Chairs’ Award. 

“I am standing before you as probably the most improbable governor in America… It’s an exciting time for our country, and I’m so grateful to be your partner in the work,” Moore said.

Other honorees included the late Sheila Jackson-Lee, former U.S. representative for Texas’s 18th congressional district; the 14th Librarian of Congress, Dr. Carla Hayden; and Democratic National Committee Chair Jaime Harrison. 

An “in memoriam” tribute was displayed on the large screen above the stage and featured influential African Americans who died this year, like singer Frankie Beverly, actor James Earl Jones, hip-hop artists Fatman Scoop and Rich Homie Quan, actress Erica Ash, Rev. James Lawson and baseball superstar Willie Mays.

Throughout the week, the ALC tackled pressing issues impacting the Black community. Rep. Hank Johnson, D-Ga., led a session on Supreme Court reform, highlighting the challenges posed by the Court’s “6-3 MAGA supermajority” and its recent rollbacks on voting rights, reproductive rights and affirmative action. Johnson advocated for court reforms, including adopting a code of conduct, term limits and court expansion, arguing these changes are necessary to protect democracy and restore balance to the judicial system.

Rep. Lauren Underwood, D-Ill., moderated a panel on Black maternal health, focusing on the critical need for research and programs such as the NIH IMPROVE Initiative. The discussion underscored the alarming disparities in health care for Black women and the importance of ongoing efforts to address this crisis.

A significant highlight was the 16th Annual Black Women’s Roundtable (BWR) Public Policy Forum Series, in partnership with the CBCF. The forum spotlighted Black women’s leadership, power and influence in shaping a new movement and political era, particularly as the nation heads into the 2024 presidential election cycle. Contributors to the 11th Annual Black Women’s Roundtable Report shared insights on Black women’s roles in various movements, from civil rights to social justice.

Sybrina Fulton, Trayvon Martin’s mother, led the “Mothers of the Movement” workshop at the conference. The session brought together African-American mothers who have lost loved ones to police violence. These mothers shared their stories and discussed their efforts in advocating for criminal justice reform and stricter gun laws to prevent future tragedies.

Congressman Glenn Ivey’s session on the challenges facing Black-owned businesses amidst conservative attacks on DEI (diversity, equity and inclusion) programs emphasized the need for legislative advocacy. The push for the Black Wealth Agenda Resolution, H.R. 1101, seeks to enshrine DEI commitments into law.

CBCF President and CEO Nicole Austin-Hillery emphasized the critical moment in history that the conference represents. “We are at a defining moment in history. Just weeks ago, we saw the first African American woman nominated to run for president by a major party,” she said. 

Austin-Hillery said the ALC’s mission remains to empower the global Black community by creating real opportunities and ensuring true equity. Reflecting on the conference’s essence, she added, “Each and every voice adds to our collective strength; every collective action emphasizes our unity and our determination. And all of those things are necessary to move us from vision to victory.” 

The sentiment was echoed throughout the conference, driving home the imperative to protect progress and work toward a future where equality and justice are not just ideals but realities. Vice President Harris summarized it this way during her remarks at the Phoenix Awards:

“Each of us has a job to do, and the bottom line is we know what we stand for and that’s why we know what we fight for. And when the CBC fights, we win.”

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By Stacy M. Brown
NNPA Newswire Senior National Correspondent
@StacyBrownMedia

(NNPA Newswire) – Newly unearthed research notes and letters from William Bradford Huie, the journalist whose reporting on the 1955 lynching of Emmett Till helped shape the public’s understanding of the crime, reveal that Huie deliberately concealed vital details that could have implicated additional participants in the murder. These documents, recently released by the descendants of one of the lawyers involved in the case, suggest that Huie prioritized his financial interests and the protection of his sources over the pursuit of truth and justice.

The cache of documents, now housed in the Florida State University Digital Repository, includes a 33-page set of Huie’s research notes and a series of letters exchanged between Huie and John Whitten, one of the defense attorneys for J.W. Milam and Roy Bryant, the two men acquitted of Till’s murder. The content of these letters and notes reveals a complex and troubling relationship between the journalist and the defense team, raising serious questions about the integrity of Huie’s reporting.

Huie’s notes indicate that he was aware of other individuals involved in the kidnapping and murder of Emmett Till but chose not to report this information. In a letter dated December 10, 1955, Huie confessed his doubts about the story Milam and Bryant were telling him: “I began doubting myself… and one night I was on the point of coming back to Mississippi and ‘pistol-whipping’ Milam for telling me a fabric of lies.” 

Despite these doubts, Huie went ahead with his article in Look magazine, presenting Milam and Bryant’s version of events as the complete truth.

The letters between Huie and Whitten also reveal the extent to which Huie was willing to collaborate with the defense attorneys to craft a narrative that would serve their mutual interests. In a letter dated November 16, 1955, Huie assured Whitten that he was carefully considering the “most effective presentation” of the story, stating, “We have been sort of marking time… and in due time and with great care, I’ll be in touch with you.” This close coordination suggests that Huie’s reporting was influenced not only by his desire to protect his sources but also by a shared goal of controlling how the public would receive the story.

Huie’s financial motivations are laid bare in another letter from Whitten, dated November 22, 1955, in which the attorney thanked Huie for a gift—a fine Cavanaugh hat—and expressed confidence that the criminal case would not proceed further despite any additional publicity. “My wife was so complimentary of the hat… that I finally had to tell her something about where it came from,” Whitten wrote, before adding, “Nevertheless, I think that we should not throw caution to the winds.”

Beyond these troubling collaborations, Huie’s notes reveal that he was aware of a “third man” involved in the kidnapping of Emmett Till, identified by Elizabeth Wright, Till’s great-aunt, as Milam’s brother-in-law from Minter City, Melvin Campbell. However, this information was not included in Huie’s published article, which instead presented a version of events that Huie himself doubted.

The letters also highlight Huie’s strategic manipulation of the narrative to ensure the story’s maximum impact. In a December 20, 1955, letter, Huie boasted to Whitten about his ability to control the story, writing, “I dealt with a magazine with which I could exercise this control. You see, John, I’m very old in this propaganda business. I know how to fight smart… so smart that my ‘enemies’ don’t realize just what is being done to them at times.”

Huie’s cynical approach extended to his portrayal of Till, as revealed in the same letter, where he explained that including a detail about Till having a picture of a White girl in his wallet would “pinpoint the hypocrisy” of White liberals and make them “very uncomfortable.” These remarks starkly contrast Huie’s public reputation as a journalist sympathetic to the Civil Rights Movement.

Huie’s reporting had an immediate and profound impact when it was published. His article in Look magazine led to a backlash against Milam and Bryant, even among White Mississippians who had previously supported them. U.S. Rep. Charles Diggs (D-Mich.) read the story into the congressional record, and it was hailed as “spectacular” by Black newspapers. However, Huie’s decision to omit critical details effectively ended efforts by Black journalists and the FBI to pursue additional suspects in the case.

The release of these documents exposes the uncomfortable truth that Huie’s reporting, while instrumental in bringing the horror of Emmett Till’s murder to national attention, was deeply compromised. The documents suggest that his decisions to prioritize financial gain and protect his sources over full transparency contributed to a narrative that left justice incomplete and the full story untold.

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By Stacy M. Brown, NNPA Newswire Senior National Correspondent

(NNPA Newswire) – In a visit to PBS-TV’s The Chavis Chronicles in Washington, D.C., Gloria James and other relatives of NBA superstar LeBron James highlighted the extraordinary impact of the LeBron James Family Foundation (LJFF) and its ongoing mission to uplift and empower communities. The foundation’s efforts, which began in Akron, Ohio, where LeBron was raised, have become a national model for athletes, entertainers and politicians alike.

Gloria, LeBron’s mother, expressed immense pride in her son’s accomplishments both on and off the court. 

“I’m very honored to be LeBron’s mother. He has done so much for our community and for people across the world. He’s so unselfish,” Gloria said, emphasizing that LeBron’s greatness extends beyond his athletic achievements. “He’s not only the G.O.A.T. (greatest of all time) on the court, but off the court. He’s a humanitarian, a great father and husband, and a great advocate for his community, people of color, and the underdog.”

The LJFF, through its flagship I PROMISE program, serves over 1,400 students in the Akron area, offering comprehensive support that extends far beyond academics. The foundation’s work, as Gloria described, is about more than just raising graduation rates; it’s about redefining the concepts of family and community.

“What we learned was that you can’t just help one person in the family and expect it to be of great significance,” Gloria explained. “Even when it comes to housing or food, we address those issues as well. We know that a lot of our families can’t provide meals for themselves for a full family throughout the entire month so we have pantries.”

The holistic approach to community support has become the cornerstone of the LJFF’s mission. “Unfortunately, some kids don’t have that in their lives,” Gloria noted, referring to the love, compassion, and support she said true family offers. “They deserve that, and that way it’ll also help them as they grow into adulthood. Family, we take that very seriously.”

Curtis James, LeBron’s uncle and an assistant at the foundation, echoed Gloria’s sentiments, highlighting the foundation’s recent projects, including a documentary. 

“We just launched a documentary, and my job is to inspire people through my podcast. We want people to do the right thing. It’s not just through our music. Family keeps me in the community, and Akron will always need inspiration, so I try to be a model for people to do better and be better,” Curtis said.

The LJFF’s influence has extended to the University of Akron, where the LeBron James Family Foundation School of Education operates with selective admission criteria to nurture future educators who will continue the foundation’s legacy of community upliftment.

“What I’ve learned through our foundation is that helping your community is probably one of the most important jobs you can have,” said Gloria James, who works as a third-grade teacher’s aide at the I PROMISE school. “Especially if you’re on a platform that allows you to help, not just talk about it, but be about it. Put your money up. Our city has been so responsive positively that it makes us want to do even more.”

The family’s commitment to Akron and its residents is unwavering. As Gloria noted, they are not just making a difference but setting a precedent for others to follow. “We also have blueprints for other athletes, actors, mayors of other cities, and we’re willing to share the blueprint so others in other cities can build up their communities,” she said. “We’ve been able to change lives.”

Reflecting on LeBron’s journey to superstardom, Gloria expressed pride not just in his athletic success, but in his dedication to his community. “I’ve always been very proud of him,” she said. “He’s such a giving and caring and compassionate person. What’s most important to LeBron is the work that he does off the court. That’s the changes that he makes in the lives of the people in our community.”

Gloria also shared her emotions during one of LeBron’s most iconic moments—carrying the Olympic flag. “Every time LeBron exceeds expectations, which is often, I feel he’s given more than he’s received. But seeing him carrying the Olympic flag made me feel even more special; that was almost surreal,” she noted. “Think back years ago when Blacks and people of color had such a hard time being chosen for something so honorable, so to see that made it even more special. To see them with medals around their necks, it just confirms that he’s done all the right things and he’s deserving.”

The excitement continues for the James family, as LeBron’s son Bronny is expected to join him on the Los Angeles Lakers for the upcoming season. “That will be very special. I know LeBron is extremely excited about playing with his son,” Gloria said, beaming with pride at the prospect of the father-son duo making history together on the court.

Sean Jones, a Cleveland native and Curtis’ music partner, accompanied the family to D.C. and reflected on his journey. “When I released my first record, I was called the LeBron James of rap, but who would ever have thought I’d be sitting here today with LeBron’s mother, Gloria, and Curtis,” he remarked, acknowledging the deep connections that the James family has fostered within their community.

Despite the success, Gloria said the family maintains a close circle. “We’ve been really blessed,” Gloria said. “Our family has been respectful. No one has really felt like they want a place in the center circle that we have, so things have worked out really well.”

In reflecting on the foundation’s broad impact, Gloria James summed up their mission with heartfelt pride: “What’s most important to LeBron is the work that he does off the court, that’s the changes that he makes in the lives of the people in our community. Coming from this same community at a time when we also needed this same help, he’s only done what he promised to do.”

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By Stacy M. Brown
NNPA Newswire Senior National Correspondent
@StacyBrownMedia

(NNPA Newswire) – A new report from the Pew Research Center, as part of the Pew-Knight Initiative, has revealed how Americans perceive and consume local crime news, highlighting significant racial, ethnic, and political disparities. 

Based on a survey of 5,146 U.S. adults conducted in January and funded jointly by The Pew Charitable Trusts and the John S. and James L. Knight Foundation, the study is the third in a series examining how Americans engage with local news.

One of the report’s key findings is that more Americans get news and information about local crime than any other local topic except the weather. The study found that 71 percent of U.S. adults often or sometimes receive news about local crime from friends, family, and neighbors, while a nearly identical share (70 percent) gets this news from local news outlets. This widespread consumption of crime news underscores its importance in the daily lives of Americans, shaping their perceptions of safety and community well-being.

However, the study also reveals that Americans still have not found a single go-to source for crime information. While 26 percent of U.S. adults first turn to local news outlets, others rely heavily on social media, search engines, or personal networks for updates on crime. 

These diverse sources influence how crime news is perceived, with notable differences based on where people get information. For example, those who consume crime news from social media or locally focused apps like Next-door and Ring are more likely to believe these sources exaggerate crime levels in their communities. In contrast, those who rely on official sources, such as local law enforcement or politicians, think these sources underplay the amount of crime.

The report also highlights that Black Americans are particularly likely to perceive local crime news as biased, especially in terms of racial and ethnic fairness. This perception aligns with previous Pew Research findings that have shown Black Americans to be more attuned to racial bias in both policing and news coverage. 

Black Americans are also more engaged with local crime news, with 45 percent reporting that they often get news about local crime—a higher rate than that of Hispanic, White, or Asian Americans. Additionally, nearly half of Black respondents (48 percent) reported seeing news about violent crime at least weekly, which is significantly higher than other racial and ethnic groups.

Researchers said the consumption of local crime news also is closely linked to concerns about personal safety. The study found that Americans who regularly consume local crime news are more likely to express concern about crime affecting them or their families. Among frequent crime news consumers, 65 percent report at least some concern, including 33 percent who are extremely or very concerned. 

This heightened concern is particularly evident among Black Americans, who are more likely to view crime as a pressing issue for the president and Congress to address.

Despite the strong interest in crime-related news, many Americans need help accessing high-quality information. While 85 percent  of respondents expressed interest in understanding what local officials are doing to address crime, only 22 percent said it is easy to obtain this information. This disconnect between public interest and information availability highlights a significant challenge in local news consumption.

The report also delves into the emotional impact of local crime news, noting that frequent consumers of such news are more likely to feel concerned, angry, or afraid about what is happening in their communities. However, these emotions only sometimes translate into community action. Only 52 percent of respondents said they feel motivated to change things in their community after consuming crime news, and just 48 percent feel confident that things will improve.

Political affiliation also plays a significant role in shaping how Americans perceive and react to crime news. Republicans are more likely than Democrats to view violent crime as an important national issue, though both groups consume local crime news at similar rates. Interestingly, while both parties rely on many of the same news sources, Democrats are more likely to believe that crime news exaggerates the problem and is biased against certain racial or ethnic groups. 

Moreover, older Americans, particularly those over 65, are more likely to consume local crime news and perceive the information as accurate than younger adults.

The report also addresses the gap between public perception and actual crime statistics. Despite FBI data showing that property crimes are more common than violent crimes, the public perceives these two types of crime as occurring at similar rates. This discrepancy between perception and reality is particularly pronounced among those who frequently consume crime news, possibly contributing to heightened concerns about personal safety.

Trust in crime news remains relatively high, particularly when the information comes from local law enforcement or news outlets. About 79 percent of respondents who get their news from local news outlets and 77 percent from local law enforcement consider the information at least somewhat accurate. 

However, only a quarter believe that any source provides very accurate information.

“Like we find with several local news topics, relatively few Americans are highly satisfied with the local crime news they get,” researchers concluded. “Among those who get local crime news, one-third say they are extremely or very satisfied with the quality of this news. About half (48%) say they are somewhat satisfied, and 18% say they are not too or not at all satisfied.”

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By Stacy M. Brown
NNPA Newswire

On the second day of the Democratic National Convention, the Obamas took center stage and delivered electrifying speeches that reverberated through the United Center in Chicago. The convention, already energized by a capacity crowd in Milwaukee where Vice President Kamala Harris spoke during a rally, reached new heights as the former First Lady and former President rallied Democrats with their powerful words.

Harris, who spoke to a packed arena in Milwaukee, had her speech live streamed into the United Center, effectively connecting the two cities in a show of Democratic unity and strength. Her presence set the tone for the evening, with her words filling both venues.

Michelle Obama took the stage before her husband in Chicago, immediately captivating the audience. “Something wonderfully magical is in the air, isn’t it? I’m talking about the contagious power of hope,” she declared as the United Center enthusiastically rocked. “America, hope is making a comeback. Kamala Harris is one of the most qualified people to ever seek the office of president. And she is dignified.”

Obama didn’t shy away from addressing the twice-impeached and 34-times convicted felon and former President Donald Trump directly. “For years, Donald Trump did everything in his power to try to make people fear us,” she remarked. “His limited, narrow view of the world made him feel threatened by the existence of two hardworking and highly educated, successful people who happen to be Black. Who wants to tell him that job he’s seeking just might be one of those Black jobs?” she asked, eliciting raucous applause from the crowd.

She continued to dismantle Trump’s rhetoric, particularly his attempts to question the blackness of Harris and other Democrats. “No one has a monopoly on what it means to be an American, no one,” Obama declared, her words striking a chord with the audience.

Barack Obama then took the stage and immediately lifted the energy in the arena to a fever pitch. “I don’t know about you, but I’m feeling fired up,” he began, his voice booming across the United Center. “Even if I’m the only person stupid enough to speak right after Michelle Obama.”

Obama then turned his focus to Harris, praising her as a leader who embodies the best of what America stands for. “This country has a chance to elect someone who’s spent her whole life trying to give people the same chances America gave her,” Obama said. “Someone who sees you and hears you and will get up every single day and fight for you: the next president of the United States of America, Kamala Harris.”

He also drew a sharp contrast between Harris’s vision for the country and the policies of Trump and his allies. “For them, one group’s gain is another group’s loss. For them, freedom means that the powerful can do what they please, whether its firing workers trying to organize a union, poisoning our rivers, or avoiding paying taxes like everyone else has to do,” he said, highlighting the fundamental differences in their approaches to leadership.

Throughout the night, other prominent Democrats joined the Obamas in rallying the crowd. Illinois Senator Tammy Duckworth delivered a searing critique of Trump’s attacks on reproductive rights. “I take it personally when a five-time draft-dodging coward like Donald Trump tries to take away my rights and freedoms in return—especially when it concerns my daughters,” Duckworth said.

Maryland Senate candidate Angela Alsobrooks reflected on her close relationship with Harris, emphasizing the vice president’s dedication to justice and public safety. “Kamala Harris knows how to keep criminals off the streets,” Alsobrooks said. “And come November, with our help, she’ll keep one out of the Oval Office,” a line that drew loud cheers from the Chicago crowd.

New Mexico Governor Michelle Lujan Grisham contrasted Harris’s healthcare policies with Trump’s, criticizing the former president’s attempts to dismantle the Affordable Care Act. “Donald Trump and JD Vance want to dismantle our healthcare system, repeal the Affordable Care Act, and eliminate protections for preexisting conditions. Either these guys don’t get it, or they don’t care,” Grisham said.

Barack Obama left the crowd with a final, resonant message: “If we work like we’ve never worked before, we will elect Kamala Harris as the next president and Tim Walz as the next vice president. And together, we too will build a country that is more secure, more just, more equal, and free.”

This article was originally published by NNPA Newswire.

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By Stacy M. Brown
NNPA Newswire Senior National Correspondent
@StacyBrownMedia

(NNPA Newswire) – On the 116th anniversary of the Springfield Race Riot, President Joe Biden signed a proclamation establishing the Springfield 1908 Race Riot National Monument in Springfield, Illinois. The new monument will preserve 1.57 acres of federal land and highlight a significant but painful moment in American history, when a White mob attacked the Black community in Springfield, leading to the lynching of two Black men and widespread destruction of homes and businesses.

“Our history is not just about the past; it’s about our present and our future,” Biden said during the announcement. “The Springfield 1908 Race Riot National Monument will help us remember an unspeakable attack on the Black community and honor the Americans who came together in its aftermath to help deliver on the promise of civil rights.”

The Springfield 1908 Race Riot was a violent response by a White mob to allegations against two Black men, Joe James and George Richardson, held in the Sangamon County Jail. The mob’s demands for their release escalated into widespread violence after the men were moved to another location for their safety. 

Throughout the weekend of Aug. 14-16, 1908, two Black men, Scott Burton and William Donnegan, were lynched, and dozens of Black-owned and Jewish-owned businesses were looted and destroyed.

The riot, which occurred just blocks away from President Abraham Lincoln’s home, shocked the nation and led to the founding of the National Association for the Advancement of Colored People (NAACP). Civil rights leaders such as Ida B. Wells-Barnett, W.E.B. Du Bois and Mary Church Terrell played pivotal roles in establishing the NAACP, an organization that has been instrumental in the fight for civil rights in the United States.

NAACP President and CEO Derrick Johnson attended the event at the White House on Aug. 16, where President Biden signed the proclamation. The president also hosted guests in the Oval Office, including the National Newspaper Publishers Association (NNPA), the trade association of the Black Press of America.

The designation marks Biden’s 11th use of the Antiquities Act, following the establishment of the Emmett Till and Mamie Till-Mobley National Monument in 2023, created on the 82nd anniversary of Emmett Till’s birth. The White House announced that the National Park Service (NPS) will manage the Springfield 1908 Race Riot National Monument and include the charred foundations of five homes never rebuilt after the riot.

“Establishing the Springfield 1908 Race Riot National Monument is an important step in recognizing and remembering this painful but important moment in America’s history,” said Interior Secretary Deb Haaland. “The Springfield 1908 Race Riot was a horrific and significant part of our nation’s march toward equality and civil rights. As we work to tell America’s story—even when difficult—may this monument help us learn from the past in order to build a more just and equitable future.”

NPS Director Chuck Sams also applauded the new monument. “This national monument will provide current and future generations an opportunity to reflect on the tragic events but also to be inspired by the resilience of the Black community and national leaders that went on to fight for social change and civil rights in America,” Sams said.

The Springfield 1908 Race Riot National Monument joins an extensive network of sites dedicated to commemorating civil rights history across the United States, including the Birmingham Civil Rights National Monument and the Brown v. Board National Historic Park. The NPS plans to collaborate with local communities to prepare for interpretation, commemoration, and visitor experiences at the new site, which will eventually be part of the NPS’s African American Civil Rights Network.

White House officials said the new monument underscores the Biden-Harris administration’s commitment to advancing civil rights and racial justice. Officials said it also builds on previous actions such as signing the Emmett Till Antilynching Act, establishing the Emmett Till and Mamie Till-Mobley National Monument, and making Juneteenth a federal holiday.

With the president’s actions, the Springfield 1908 Race Riot National Monument became part of the National Park System, which now includes 431 national park sites.

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By Stacy M. Brown
NNPA Newswire Senior National Correspondent
@StacyBrownMedia

(NNPA Newswire) – A group of well-known Black Democratic leaders unveiled Project FREEDOM, a fresh strategy to combat Project 2025, a contentious 922-page plan to reform the federal government put forth by a conservative Washington think tank and other political allies.

President Joe Biden and Vice President Kamala Harris have repeatedly warned in campaign speeches that if Donald Trump wins a second term, he plans to use the conservative blueprint to exert unprecedented presidential power, eliminate the Department of Education and federal housing assistance, and significantly cut or restrict food stamps and other social welfare programs.

Trump has tried to distance himself from Project 2025, calling some of the proposals “seriously extreme,” but its architects helped shape his Republican Party platform. 

Project FREEDOM, the organizers said in a virtual news conference, is designed to engage Black voters in four key battleground areas.

In the plan, the group says it aims to mobilize voters of color through town halls, community events, digital campaigns and phone banks in Michigan, North Carolina, Las Vegas, and the Pennsylvania/Tri-State area.

Project FREEDOM aims to provide voters with a substantial policy agenda for Democrats ahead of the November election, offering a clear and precise contrast to Project 2025. 

Organizers say Project FREEDOM is based on four pillars: Freedom to Live, Freedom to Learn, Freedom to Vote, and Freedom to Thrive.

“When people show you who they really are, you have a responsibility to speak your truth. Project FREEDOM is our opportunity to speak in one collective voice and say, ‘This will not stand,” said Rev. Michael McBride, co-founder of Black Church PAC and the National Black Brown Gun Violence Prevention Consortium, which work to center Black and Brown gun violence prevention practitioners and scale up life-saving interventions related to urban and communal violence.

They said Freedom to Live is born from the idea that the Black community should be able to “live freely and without fear.” Organizers are calling for the passage of the George Floyd Justice in Policing Act, which Republicans in the U.S. Senate have stalled. 

“The way to really engage voters to go to the polls is to make sure they know we’re not just going for a celebratory vote. Instead, we’re going to the polls with our bag of demands with us,” said Tamika Mallory, co-founder of Until Freedom, an intersectional social justice organization.

Mallory emphasized the need to address income inequality, educational challenges and police violence. She referenced the case of Sonya Massey, an unarmed 36-year-old Black woman and mother of two, who was fatally shot by former deputy Sean Grayson in her Illinois home. Grayson’s troubled history in law enforcement, including prior disciplinary issues, highlights systemic problems in policing that Project FREEDOM aims to address.

Meanwhile, Freedom to Thrive calls for expanding the Child Tax Credit, increasing the federal minimum wage to match inflation, and a pilot program for universal basic income in low-income communities nationwide. 

Additionally, Freedom to Learn focuses on education, including canceling student debt and protecting Black American history in public schools. 

Freedom to Vote aims to strengthen voting rights, advocate for the John Lewis Voting Rights Advancement Act’s passage, and reshape the U.S. Supreme Court.

Michael Blake, founder of Project FREEDOM and CEO of KAIROS Democracy Project, emphasized the urgency of the initiative. 

“Our democracy is under siege by a man and political machine that put themselves above all those in whom they detect ‘otherness,’” said Blake, a former vice chair of the Democratic Party.

“We cannot afford to forget the pain inflicted on our people throughout Donald Trump’s administration, and we certainly cannot afford the destructiveness a second term would normalize,” Blake stated.

Project FREEDOM officials said, “Make no mistake: Communities of color are the frontline communities targeted by the poison that is Project 2025’s Christian Nationalist vision for the future, and Project FREEDOM is the antidote.”

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By Stacy M. Brown
NNPA Newswire Senior National Correspondent
@StacyBrownMedia

(NNPA Newswire) – The Apollo Theater, Harlem’s legendary cultural institution, has made history by earning a rare Kennedy Center Honors, one of the highest accolades in the arts. For 90 years, the Apollo has been the heart of American culture, nurturing emerging artists, launching legends, and serving as a center of innovation for Harlem, New York City, and the world. As the largest performing arts institution dedicated to Black culture and creativity, the Apollo has significantly influenced popular culture globally.

The Kennedy Center’s recognition marks the first time a venue, rather than an individual performer, has received this prestigious award.

“We are thrilled to be the first organization honored in the history of the Kennedy Center Awards, emphasizing The Apollo’s impact on the past, present, and future of American culture and the performing arts,” stated Michelle Ebanks, president and CEO of The Apollo.

The 47th Kennedy Center Honors will also celebrate the lifetime achievements of director and filmmaker Francis Ford Coppola; blues singer-songwriter and guitarist Bonnie Raitt; jazz trumpeter, pianist, and composer Arturo Sandoval; and the surviving members of the countercultural rock band the Grateful Dead.

“I am profoundly humbled and deeply honored to be selected as a recipient of the prestigious Kennedy Center Honors,” Sandoval said. “This recognition is an extraordinary milestone in my career.”

Raitt said she’s “deeply honored and thrilled to have been chosen to receive one of this year’s Center Honors. There is no higher level of esteem nor as delightful a celebration.”

Frances Ford Coppola reflected on his career and the honor, stating, “There’s no greater honor than to be included along with those who inspired me, who I looked up to, and who gave me encouragement when times were dim.”

The Grateful Dead has always been about community, creativity, and exploration in music and presentation, stated the band’s Bob Weir. “We’ve always felt that the music we make embodies and imparts something beyond the notes and phrases being played—and that is something we are privileged to share with all who are drawn to what we do—so it also must be said that our music belongs as much to our fans, the Dead Heads, as it does to us,” he continued. “This honor, then, is as much theirs as ours.”

The Kennedy Center Honors, which raises funds for the Kennedy Center in Northwest Washington, D.C., will be held on Dec. 8 and aired on CBS on Dec. 23.

Meanwhile, for 90 years, the Apollo has served as a testing ground for new artists working across various art forms and ushering in the emergence of musical genres, including jazz, swing, bebop, R&B, gospel, blues, soul and hip hop. The countless legendary artists who launched their careers at The Apollo’s “Amateur Night,” the original, large-scale talent show and one of the longest-running continuous events in New York City, include Ella Fitzgerald, Sarah Vaughan, Billie Holiday, James Brown, Stevie Wonder, Gladys Knight, Luther Vandross, H.E.R., D’Angelo, Lauryn Hill, Machine Gun Kelly and Miri Ben Ari. 

The Apollo’s forward-looking artistic vision continues to build on this legacy. During its 90th anniversary season, the organization opened The Apollo Stages at the Victoria Theater, marking the institution’s first-ever major expansion and renovation. It also began plans to restore and renovate its historic theater. Officials said this will allow The Apollo to increase performances and educational and community programs and expand its support for artists and other cultural organizations.

“From the longest-running talent show in America with, Amateur Night at The Apollo, which launched the careers of icons like Ella Fitzgerald and Lauryn Hill, to performances from beloved legends like Smokey Robinson and Lil’ Kim and today’s biggest stars like Drake, The Apollo has always been a home for artists to create and a home for audiences to see incredible music and art from legendary artists,” Ebanks said.

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By Stacy M. Brown
NNPA Newswire

In an unprecedented display of unity and determination, over 50,000 Black men gathered on a July 22 Zoom call hosted by Roland Martin’s Black Star Network, raising over $1.3 million for Vice President Kamala Harris’ presidential campaign. This powerful show of support came just a day after 40,000 Black women joined in a similar Zoom call, generating about $2 million for Harris and sending a resounding message of solidarity and resolve.

The men’s call, led by Martin and co-hosted by Bakari Sellers and others, was a powerful statement against former President Donald Trump, who has been twice impeached and convicted of 34 felonies. Martin, visibly moved, tweeted, “I have no words. And not just because I’m tired. My @BlkStarNetwork just told me that 53,862 people registered for our #WinWithBlackMen video call. We raised $1.3 million and counting from 17,000 donors.”

Bakari Sellers shared a poignant story that underscored Harris’s compassion and unwavering support. He recounted a harrowing time in 2019 when one of his twin daughters was born with a rare liver condition. 

“The first person to call me was Kamala Harris. I am not sure people understand the pain and suffering that goes along with being a Black man in this country,” Sellers said. “I am not sure people understand what it means to stand strong in this country. To have your back against the wall. But I am going to stand with her because she stood with me during my darkest moment when I almost lost my daughter. When I had to protect my wife.”

The Zoom call resonated with the slogan, “We Rocking with Kamala Harris,” reflecting the participants’ unyielding support. This extraordinary event followed President Joe Biden’s announcement that he would not seek the Democratic nomination, prompting the Win with Black Women network to organize a Zoom call showcasing their preparedness to back Harris.

The women’s call drew an astonishing 40,000 attendees and featured influential speakers such as Reps. Joyce Beatty, Maxine Waters, and Jasmine Crockett. These leaders passionately emphasized the vital role of Black women in the upcoming election and shared compelling stories about Harris that highlighted her qualifications and leadership qualities. Distinguished attendees included D.C. Mayor Muriel Bowser, Maryland Senate hopeful Angela Alsobrooks, civil rights leader Bernice King, and Black Voters Matter co-founder LaTosha Brown. “We have a plan. This is not arbitrary. We are ready,” asserted Holli Holiday, one of the call’s moderators.

The energy was electric, with attendees voicing their readiness to work tirelessly to elect Harris. “This is work. Roll up your sleeves; we got work to do,” one attendee urged. Another declared, “Fired up and ready for this moment led by an intergenerational legion of Black women. Let’s get to work. Let’s gather our sons, daughters, nieces, and nephews. Let’s do what Black women do!”

In a less-publicized yet equally significant gathering, a large group of Black men and boys convened in Atlanta to discuss the state of America and the importance of Harris’s candidacy against Trump in the 2024 election. These weekly discussions are critical for spreading accurate information and countering misinformation.

“The reason that we’ve gathered tonight is that there is so much misinformation, disinformation, that is being put out. So, we wanted thought leaders from across the political spectrum to come in tonight and talk directly to Black men about what they know, what they experience, and what some of the real statistics and facts are,” said Attorney Mawuli Mel Davis, co-founder of the non-profit hosting these discussions. “That’s critically important because the sources of our information are important for us to make sure that we’re basing our decisions on good quality information.”

This article was originally published by NNPA Newswire.

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By Stacy M. Brown
NNPA Newswire Senior National Correspondent

(NNPA Newswire) – In a ruling that would make it difficult for Americans to dictate what the Supreme Court, those in power or individuals seeking office and the presidency can’t do, the high court issued what could be a devastating ruling in the so-called Chevron decision. 

On June 28, the Supreme Court consigned to history the 1984 ruling known as Chevron v. Natural Resources Defense Council, potentially jeopardizing the safety and rights of consumers and the environment. The decision could lead to skyrocketing phone bills, soaring healthcare costs, and the dismantling of regulations on food safety and consumer protections that have been in place for decades. 

In a 6-3 decision, the conservative majority of the court dealt another blow to the power of federal agencies. In writing for the majority, Chief Justice John Roberts declared, “Chevron is overruled. Courts must exercise their independent judgment in deciding whether an agency has acted within its statutory authority.” 

Liberal Justice Elena Kagan, in her dissent, warned that a “longstanding precedent at the crux of administrative governance thus falls victim to a bald assertion of judicial authority.”

At the time of its decision four decades ago, Chevron was a victory for the Reagan administration’s deregulatory agenda, granting judges the ability to defer to federal agencies in interpreting ambiguous statutes. The flexibility allowed Democratic and Republican presidents to implement new regulations across various issues. However, many Republicans have increasingly criticized Chevron, arguing it gives too much power to agency bureaucrats. Environmental activists and other groups on the left have defended Chevron for its ability to address issues like climate change.

The case that led to this ruling involved a challenge to a federal regulation requiring fishing vessel operators to fund data collection for fishery conservation and management. The National Marine Fisheries Service, which oversees ocean resources, issued a rule in 2020 mandating vessel operators pay up to $710 a day for independent observers to monitor operations. Small owner-operators argued this cost was burdensome, challenging the service’s authority under the 1976 Magnuson-Stevens Fishery Conservation and Management Act. The lower courts had ruled in favor of the federal government.

The Trump administration has supported a campaign by the conservative justices to limit the power of federal agencies, and this decision is the most recent in that series. The court’s conservative majority, including three Trump appointees—Neil Gorsuch, Brett Kavanaugh and Amy Coney Barrett—has repeatedly struck down agency actions lacking explicit congressional authorization, following the “major questions doctrine.”

Former acting Solicitor General Neal Katyal sounded the alarm in an NBC News interview, saying, “The Supreme Court has done an extraordinary thing, an extraordinarily dangerous thing. Most government regulation in this country is not done by Congress. It’s done by administrative agencies… What the Supreme Court did today by a 6–3 vote is overturn Chevron. That is going to make it much more difficult to regulate businesses, to protect consumers, to protect the environment and to protect our healthcare.”

Katyal emphasized the sweeping impact of the ruling, noting that regulations by agencies like the Environmental Protection Agency, Food and Drug Administration and Federal Communications Commision, which influence everything from environmental standards to food safety and phone bill costs, will now face greater challenges. He warned, “This decision… is going to change government as we know it.”

The political dynamic behind the ruling reflects the decreasing productivity of Congress due to partisan divides, leading to a greater reliance on agency rules to achieve regulatory goals, particularly by Democratic presidents. The 1984 Chevron precedent, which called for judicial deference to federal agency interpretations of ambiguous laws, has been a target of conservatives and business interests for years. With the ruling, the Supreme Court has dramatically shifted the landscape of American governance, with opponents arguing that it potentially jeopardizes decades of consumer and environmental protections and ushered in a new era of regulatory challenges.

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By Stacy M. Brown
NNPA Newswire Senior National Correspondent
@StacyBrownMedia

(NNPA Newswire) – Forget alternative facts and political spin: the first presidential debate of 2024 was an overwhelming flood of falsehoods. The twice-impeached and 34-times convicted felon and former President Donald Trump unleashed a torrent of misinformation on topics ranging from terrorism to taxes during the first debate of the 2024 general election. Poorly moderated to the point of farce by two CNN anchors, the debate will likely go down in history for the sheer volume of lies broadcast to the American people.

Trump, who boasted that he could grab women by their private parts and later was found responsible for sexually assaulting a woman, lied about everything from the economy to racism and having sex with an adult film star.

“I spent 90 minutes debating on a stage with a guy who has all the morals of an alley cat. I mean, did you see Donald Trump last night? He must have set a new record for the number of lies ever told in a single debate,” President Joe Biden said after the June 27 debate.

“He lied about what a great economy he created when we all remember the pandemic. He lied about how great he was for veterans when we can recall how he called veterans who had given their lives for this country ‘suckers’ and ‘losers.’ And he even lied about how he had nothing to do with January 6,” Biden asserted.

The president reminded debate viewers that they had all witnessed a Trump-supporting mob attack the U.S. Capitol, including assaults on police officers. “The Capitol was ransacked,” Biden asserted. “Folks, for all of Trump’s lies, we did learn some important truths. We learned he is still proud of being the person who killed Roe v. Wade. Donald Trump showed us who he is last night. We have to believe him.”

Although Biden received poor marks and criticism for his performance, backlash against Trump also proved swift and severe. Democratic Party of Virginia Chair Susan Swecker; Chair of the DNC Veterans and Military Families Council Terron Sims II, an Army veteran; and Chair of the Virginia Beach Democratic Committee Sean Monteiro, an Air Force veteran, called out Trump for his long record of disrespecting Americans in uniform. They highlighted his past comments, referring to those killed in service as “suckers” and “losers.” They criticized his efforts with MAGA GOP extremists to cut veterans’ benefits, which would have a significant impact on the Hampton Roads area — home to nearly 120,000 active-duty military members and 220,000 veterans.

“Donald Trump’s record, rhetoric, and actions have all proved that he is against everything that our military stands for and works to protect,” Swecker stated. “There is only one man on the ballot in November who has stood up for veterans time and again. That man is Joe Biden, a father who knows what it feels like to have a son fighting for his country, and a president who has delivered the most significant expansion of benefits and services for veterans.

“President Biden and Democrats are working to protect freedom and defend democracy, standing up against aggression abroad and hate at home,” said Sean Monteiro. “Donald Trump only cares about himself – and, with the backing of his MAGA Republican allies, he’s willing to insult service members and destroy the very ideals of democracy in his own pursuit of personal power, revenge, and retribution. We have to defeat Trump and MAGA Republicans once and for all — so he doesn’t have a chance to do any more damage to our democracy and our values as a country.”

The litany of key questions Trump refused to answer on the debate stage further highlighted his evasion and dishonesty. Instead, Trump deflected, blamed others and continued his pattern of misinformation. 

He also made racially charged claims about immigrants taking jobs from Black and Hispanic Americans. 

“They’re taking Black jobs now, and it could be 18, it could be 19, and even 20 million people,” Trump said, showing just how racist he can be. “They’re taking Black jobs, and they’re taking Hispanic jobs, and you haven’t seen it yet, but you’re going to see something that’s going to be the worst in our history.”

Derrick Johnson, CEO of the NAACP, responded succinctly, “There’s no such thing as a Black job or a White job.”

The debate has revealed the stark choice facing American voters. On one side is Biden, 81, who has spent four years cleaning up his predecessor’s misdeeds. Biden has worked tirelessly to rebuild the economy, navigate the country through a devastating pandemic, and restore America’s global reputation. He has fought for healthcare, veterans’ rights, and the middle class, as well as relieving tens of millions of dollars of student debt.

On the other side stands Trump, 78, whose presidency nearly decimated the economy, whose inaction during the pandemic allowed countless people to die, who spews hate, racism and violent rhetoric, and who all but ruined America’s standing in the world.

“For over a century, the NAACP has worked tirelessly to ensure Black voices are heard in every election,” Johnson stated. “This year is no different. We need candidates who are going to prioritize diversity, equity, and inclusion, not attempt to mischaracterize Black workers as anything but American workers.”

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The rejection has ignited a firestorm of criticism, highlighting the broader issue of racial inequity in media representation. Atlanta, a city with a rich history of Black culture and leadership, finds its Black-owned media sidelined at a critical political event.

By Stacy M. Brown
NNPA Newswire Senior Correspondent

(NNPA Newswire) – CNN has come under fire for denying media credentials to every Black-owned media entity, including those based in Atlanta, for the presidential debate on June 27. Despite granting over 600 media credentials, not even one was extended to Black-owned outlets, sparking outrage and accusations of systemic exclusion in a predominantly Black city.

The rejection has ignited a firestorm of criticism, highlighting the broader issue of racial inequity in media representation. Atlanta, a city with a rich history of Black culture and leadership, finds its Black-owned media sidelined at a critical political event.

The National Newspaper Publishers Association (NNPA), a leading voice for Black-owned media, revealed a letter from CNN rejecting their request for credentials. In an email, CNN’s Dylan Rose said the network could provide the Black Press transcripts and photos from the debate.

The NNPA represents the 197-year-old Black Press of America, which counts The Atlanta Voice, Atlanta Daily World and the Atlanta Inquirer among its more than 230 newspapers and media companies.  The popular Rolling Out magazine also counts among the Black Press’ members frozen out by CNN.

Media personality and Black Star Network owner Roland Martin tweeted that his phone had been “buzzing from Black-owned media outlets in Atlanta who say they are being denied media credentials to the debate.”

The prolific news leader further noted, “They don’t care about us.  This is despicable. The treatment of Black-owned media is pathetic.”

Added NNPA President and CEO Dr. Benjamin F. Chavis Jr., “CNN’s decision is an affront to the very essence of press freedom and diversity. In a city where Black voices and perspectives are essential, this exclusion is both a slap in the face and a stark reminder of the ongoing struggles for equitable media representation.”

The timing and nature of the rejection letter have only fueled the outrage. Despite having ample time and resources to accommodate a diverse range of media outlets, CNN’s refusal to include Black-owned entities suggests a troubling oversight or, worse, a deliberate and overtly racially-motivated dismissal.

Local Black-owned media outlets, many of which have served the Atlanta community for decades, expressed their frustration and disappointment with collective assertions that CNN has intentionally overlooked the heartbeat of the city’s news and culture.

The exclusion comes at a time when media diversity and representation are under intense scrutiny. 

Advocacy groups and community leaders have also called for immediate corrective actions from CNN and other major networks to ensure that Black-owned media entities are not just included but are given the respect and opportunities they deserve.

In the wake of the debate, the spotlight remains not just on the candidates but also on the institutions that shape public discourse. CNN’s decision cast a long shadow over the debate, raising critical questions about who gets to tell the story and who gets left out.

“Our exclusion from this pivotal event is not just an insult to our organizations but to our readers and viewers who rely on us for their news,” Chavis argued.

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CNN, which declined to provide Black-owned media with any of the more than 800 credentials it passed out, enabled a boatload of misinformation and flat-out lies to pass through their airwaves like bad wind.

By Stacy M. Brown
NNPA Newswire Senior National Correspondent

(NNPA Newswire) — The first presidential debate of 2024 between President Joe Biden and criminally convicted former President Donald Trump was nothing short of a shameful display of unhinged and unchecked behavior. CNN, which declined to provide Black-owned media with any of the more than 800 credentials it passed out, enabled a boatload of misinformation and flat-out lies to pass through their airwaves like bad wind.

“Absolutely disgraceful that the CNN moderators refuse to fact-check Trump on anything,” said human rights activist and attorney Qasim Rashid. “This is journalistic malpractice, and it is decimating our democracy.”

Writer and attorney Olayemi Olurin tweeted, “It is a failure on CNN not to fact-check Trump’s lies, but the thing is… if Joe Biden were performing the way he’s supposed to in a debate, his answers would be the fact check. So, three things are true: Trump is lying his off, the mediator isn’t doing their job, and neither is Biden.”

Biden, whose campaign said he suffered from a cold during the debate, took some of his biggest shots at Trump after the former president refused to accept the results this fall regardless of who won. Trump said he would only accept the results “if it’s fair, legal, and good.”

“You’re a whiner,” Biden said. “When you lost the first time… you appealed and appealed to courts all across the country. Not one single court in America said any of your claims had any merit, state or local, none. But you continue to promote this lie about somehow, there’s all this misrepresentation, all this stealing. There’s no evidence of that at all. And I tell you what, I doubt whether you’ll accept it, because you’re such a whiner. The idea if you lose again, you accepting anything? You can’t stand the loss. Something snapped in you when you lost last time.”

Without any rebuttal, Trump also incredulously asserted that former House Speaker Nancy Pelosi was primarily to blame for the violent uprising on Jan. 6, 2021.

The moderators then cut to a commercial. And that was just a tiny part of CNN’s massive failure. Meanwhile, at the People for American Way reception and debate watch party at the Wharf in Washington, D.C., attendees sighed and expressed anger at their television sets as Trump told lie after lie. Despite having two anchors and a mute button, the host network failed to challenge him. 

“The debate turned into a 90-minute Trump rally,” said Alice Wilkes of Northeast. “I waited and waited for the moderators to say something, or, at least, cut him off.”

At Busboys & Poets on K Street in Northwest, where former lawmaker Nina Turner hosted a watch party, a packed house cheered as Biden called Trump “a sucker” and noted that he had “sex with a porn star” behind his wife’s back.

During the debate, Biden addressed questions about his age and stumbled when he tried to mock Trump’s fitness. “You can see he is 6-foot-5 and only 223 pounds or 235 pounds… well, anyway,” Biden said. 

Later, he agreed to Trump’s challenge of a golf match on one condition: “If you carry your own bag.”

Several Black voters expressed disappointment in the way both candidates talked about Black people. 

“It’s like they forgot about Black people,” Byron Cooper of Southeast said.

“Trump commuted some sentences and pardoned some drug dealers. That’s supposedly what he did for the Black community,” Cooper remarked. “Unfortunately, to some Black people, that’s enough, which is ridiculous because the guy is a stark raving racist.”

During the debate, Trump revived attacks on Biden and Democrats over the 1994 crime bill that disproportionately harmed African Americans. Neither Biden nor CNN failed to mention Trump calling for the execution of five Black and Brown teenagers who were innocent of sexually assaulting a White woman in Central Park.

Biden did mention how Trump has called skinheads and White nationalists “good people.”

In his two-minute closing argument, Trump personally attacked Biden’s record abroad. “They don’t respect you throughout the world,” he said. 

Trump claimed he had the largest tax cut and the largest regulation cuts in history, but the country is now “exploding.” 

“We’re a failing nation, but it’s not going to be failing anymore,” he said. We’re going to make it great again.”

For his close, Biden noted, “We have made significant progress from the debacle President Trump left in his last term.”

Biden then summarized some of his signature policies. In terms of the economy, he vowed not to raise taxes on anyone making under $400,000 a year and to continue his work to reduce health care and childcare costs and give families financial breathing room. 

“We’re going to continue to fight to bring down inflation and give people a break,” Biden said in closing.

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By Stacy M. Brown
NNPA Newswire Senior National Correspondent

(NNPA Newswire) – The National Newspaper Publishers Association (NNPA) concluded its 2024 annual summer convention on June 22, leaving its mark on Baltimore and making history as the first trade association with a presidential campaign as an event sponsor. The Biden-Harris campaign also announced a groundbreaking seven-figure advertising and sponsorship deal with the NNPA, which represents 250 Black-owned newspapers and media companies comprising the Black Press of America.

“In August of last year, our campaign announced the earliest and largest investment into Black media for any reelection campaign in history,” said Jasmine Harris, the director of national Black media for Biden-Harris 2024. “This partnership with the NNPA is a continuation of those efforts and will strengthen our work in meeting Black voters where they are, to underscore the stakes of this election for Black America. President Biden and Vice President Harris are responsible for creating millions of new jobs for Black workers and record low Black unemployment. Black America has far too much to lose this election.”

In a letter to publishers, Vice President Harris asserted that the NNPA has remained steadfast in its commitment to supporting Black publishers. “Your work helps ensure that communities gain critical knowledge and have access to accurate information on the pertinent issues impacting our country,” Harris said. “As you know, the freedom of the press is essential to our democracy. I commend the efforts of the NNPA as you continue to be trusted voices of your communities and tell stories that too often go untold.”

NNPA Chairman Bobby R. Henry Sr. emphasized that “it is extremely important to show support of the business side of the Black Press owned by Black business leaders. Verbal support is good, but financial support is better.”

The 2024 convention began with the unveiling of the “Marylanders Cry Freedom, Civil Rights at Home and Abroad” exhibit at Baltimore City Hall, which celebrated the 40th anniversary of Maryland’s divestment from South Africa’s apartheid regime in 1984.

The unveiling featured remarks from Baltimore Mayor Brandon Scott, U.S. Rep. Kweisi Mfume (D-Md.), Chavis, Henry, AFRO Publisher Dr. Toni Draper, and other dignitaries. Distinguished guests included U.S. Black Chambers President Ron Busby and Dr. Camille Ragin of Fox Chase Cancer Center.

The convention offered a series of insightful panels and discussions. A GenZ panel on voter issues featured journalist Ashleigh Fields, University of Maryland Student journalist Savannah Grooms, North Carolina A&T student journalist Melvin Harris Jr., Huffington Post journalist Phillip Lewis, community organizer Brielle Morton, and Elijah Pittman, an anti-colonial, Afro-diasporic-centered journalist from Howard University. Additional panels, hosted by Wells Fargo, Google News Initiative, General Motors, Pfizer, and Reynolds, aligned with the convention’s theme, “Empowering the Black Press, Communities, Families, and Voter Turnout.”

During the NNPA Fund’s Merit Awards, Baltimore Times Publisher Joy Bramble was honored as Publisher of the Year. The St. Louis American led with 12 awards, including first place in the Armstrong Ellington Entertainment category and the Robert L. Vann Layout & Design Award. Real Times Media publications, the Michigan Chronicle, and the New Pittsburgh Courier collectively garnered eight awards. The Michigan Chronicle won five awards, while the New Pittsburgh Courier earned three.

The Atlanta Voice received six awards for journalistic excellence, including the Emory O. Jackson Award for health coverage and the Ada S. Franklin Award for fashion. The Sacramento Observer, whose publisher Larry Lee won the 2023 Publisher of the Year award, also secured six awards. Other recognized publications included The Washington Informer, Texas Metro News, Houston Forward Times, Houston Defender, Insight News, Minneapolis Spokesman-Recorder, Los Angeles Sentinel, New York Amsterdam News, and Seattle Medium.

The NNPA’s daily digital show, “Let It Be Known,” was celebrated with the Black Press of America’s “Black Excellence in Media” award. The NNPA National Legacy Awards, always among the convention highlights, honored Maryland Democratic Congressman Kweisi Mfume. Erica P. Loewe, a White House Office of Public Engagement assistant to the president and chief of staff, and photographer Mel D. Cole received the inaugural “Future Goes Viral” award from “Let It Be Known,” under the direction of Greer Marshall, for their bravery and unwavering resolve during and after the Jan. 6, 2021, attack on the U.S. Capitol.

Philadelphia Tribune Publisher Robert Bogle, and Defender Network CEO Sonny Messiah Jiles were also presented with the “Future Goes Viral” award for their tireless advocacy as publishers of Black-owned newspapers and media companies.

The conference formally closed with a dinner cruise presented by Regi Taylor of the Baltimore Times that was titled, “From Shackles to Ownership: A Reflection of Baltimore’s Inner Harbor.”

“Gratitude is owed to our sponsors, speakers, awardees and organizers for their unwavering support in making this event possible,” Henry said. “Together, let’s harness this moment to inspire, learn, and collaborate, shaping a brighter future for all through the NNPA and its Black-owned media companies.”

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By Stacy M. Brown
NNPA Newswire Senior National Correspondent

(NNPA Newswire) — Four years after a racist encounter with a so-called “Karen,” Christian Cooper has earned the ultimate payback: a Daytime Emmy Award for his passionate love of birdwatching. The racially charged incident, which took place in 2020, not only spotlighted systemic racial issues but also paved the way for Cooper’s extraordinary success.

It was a sunny day when Cooper, an avid birdwatcher, found himself in the Ramble, a secluded area of Central Park known for its rich bird population. As he enjoyed the tranquility of the natural habitat, he noticed a dog running off-leash, violating park rules designed to protect his beloved birds. Concerned, Cooper approached the dog’s owner, Amy Cooper (no relation), requesting that she leash her dog.

What followed was a disturbing display of racial bias. Amy threatened to call the police and make a false claim that “an African-American man” was threatening her life. Christian captured the incident on video, which quickly went viral and brought attention to the racial tensions that ignited during the time of George Floyd’s murder in Minnesota.

“I knew something like this could happen to me, as a birder who is Black,” said Christian Cooper, a Harvard alumnus and accomplished writer and editor.

In a twist of fate, the viral incident caught the attention of National Geographic, leading to the creation of his show, “Extraordinary Birder,” which premiered in 2023. The show has since garnered critical acclaim, culminating in Cooper winning the Daytime Emmy Award this week for Outstanding Daytime Personality.

“No matter what anybody says or does, we are not going back,” Cooper said during his Emmy Award acceptance speech. “We will only move forward together.”

Cooper’s run-in with Amy, who has since been dubbed “Central Park Karen,” exemplifies the challenges he faced. The altercation not only led to Amy losing her job but also highlighted the dangerous misuse of racial stereotypes and the potentially life-threatening consequences for Black individuals.

Beyond his television success, Cooper has also made his mark as an author. He penned the memoir “Better Living Through Birding: Notes from a Black Man in the Natural World,” which delves into his life experiences and passion for birdwatching. Additionally, he drew inspiration from the Central Park incident for his graphic novel “It’s A Bird,” featured in DC Comics’ digital series “Represent!”

Cooper said he aims to address the structural barriers that prevent Black and Brown communities from engaging with nature. 

“Black and brown people go to the national parks far less than our proportion in the population,” Cooper said during a 2023 interview.

“I think there’s a lot of structural reasons for that,” he added. “I think some of them are in terms of legacy problems that affect our communities and built-in barriers. For example, if you are working two or three jobs to keep a roof over your head, you’re not necessarily going to have the money to be able to send your kids to a summer camp where they can develop an appreciation for nature.

“They’re not going to have that connection to nature to want to go out to the great outdoors. So, we’ve got a lot of things to overcome, and that’s one of the things I’m hoping the show will do—get a lot of Black and Brown kids thinking, ‘Oh, he’s looking at birds. He’s outdoors. Maybe I can do that.’ Because it’s so much easier to picture yourself doing it if you can see somebody who looks like you already doing it.”

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By Stacy M. Brown
NNPA Newswire Senior National Correspondent

(NNPA Newswire ) — Just days after Howard University announced it would revoke the honorary degree awarded to Sean “Diddy” Combs in 2014, additional details have emerged about the decision and the mounting legal issues facing the hip-hop mogul.

On June 7, Howard University’s Board of Trustees voted unanimously “to accept the return by Mr. Sean Combs of the honorary degree,” as stated in their official release. The decision, linked to a series of abuse allegations against Combs, has led to the university stripping all associated honors and privileges.

Combs, 54, who attended Howard University from 1987 to 1989 before leaving without graduating, pledged $1 million in 2016 to establish the Sean Combs Scholarship Fund for financially needy students. The university has also terminated this pledge and a 2023 agreement with the Sean Combs Foundation.

The catalyst for this drastic move was a series of disturbing revelations. In November 2023, Casandra Ventura, known professionally as Cassie, filed a lawsuit accusing Combs of rape and physical abuse. The lawsuit was swiftly settled the next day. More recently, in May, CNN published surveillance footage from a Los Angeles hotel showing Combs attacking Ms. Ventura near the building’s elevators.

Combs posted an apology video on Instagram in response to the footage, saying, “I hit rock bottom — but I make no excuses. My behavior on that video is inexcusable. I take full responsibility for my actions in that video.”

Howard University, founded in 1867 to educate freed slaves, is a renowned historically Black university. Its notable alumni include Vice President Kamala Harris and Pulitzer Prize-winning author Toni Morrison. Last year, the university awarded honorary degrees to U.S. Rep. James E. Clyburn of South Carolina and Keith Christopher Rowley, the prime minister of Trinidad and Tobago.

“The university is unwavering in its opposition to all acts of interpersonal violence,” Howard University’s board wrote. “Mr. Combs’ behavior, as captured in a recently released video, is so fundamentally incompatible with Howard University’s core values and beliefs that he is deemed no longer worthy to hold the institution’s highest honor.” 

The revocation of Combs’ honorary degree comes amid a cascade of legal challenges for the founder of Bad Boy Records. In March, federal agents raided his homes in Los Angeles and the Miami area as part of a human trafficking investigation. Although no charges have been filed, the raids followed lawsuits by four women, including Ventura, accusing Combs of rape and sexual assault. A man has also accused him of unwanted sexual contact. Combs’ lawyers have been actively filing motions to dismiss these lawsuits.

Reportedly, prosecutors have convened a grand jury in New York and may seek sex abuse and other related charges against the mogul.

Adding to his woes, Combs recently sold his majority stake in his media company, Revolt, as his legal issues intensified. Earlier, he sold his half of the liquor brand DeLeón for approximately $200 million after its parent company cited tarnished reputation concerns. Moreover, a New York charter school network that Combs had been instrumental in expanding has severed ties with him.

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By Stacy M. Brown
NNPA Newswire Senior National Correspondent

(NNPA Newswire) — Major League Baseball (MLB) has taken a historic step to rectify a long-standing oversight by officially incorporating Negro Leagues statistics into its historical record. Starting May 29, the achievements of approximately 2,300 Negro Leagues players will be recognized alongside those of MLB legends like Babe Ruth and Ty Cobb.

For decades, Babe Ruth and Ty Cobb were celebrated as the greatest figures in baseball, with Ruth hailed as the best player and Cobb as the premier hitter. However, these narratives often excluded African American athletes whose contributions were underreported or dismissed. This exclusion persisted despite the talents that led to Jackie Robinson breaking the color barrier in 1947 as the first Black player in the modern Major Leagues.

MLB Commissioner Robert Manfred announced this significant change three years ago, emphasizing the league’s commitment to correcting a historical wrong by elevating the Negro Leagues to “Major League” status. John Thorn, an MLB historian, and the Negro Leagues Statistical Review Committee have been responsible for the meticulous process of officially incorporating Negro Leagues stats into MLB records. The team has been reviewing thousands of box scores and other historical data to integrate the statistics of the seven Negro Leagues into MLB’s database.

Josh Gibson, a standout in the Negro Leagues, will now lead multiple batting categories. His career batting average, slugging percentage and OPS surpass those of Ty Cobb and Babe Ruth. While some of Gibson’s legendary feats, such as the nearly 800 home runs mentioned on his Hall of Fame plaque, will not be included, many of his official stats will now be recognized.

Thorn hailed the decision as “not only righting a social, cultural, and historical wrong, it’s defining baseball as a game for Americans without exclusion.” He emphasized that baseball is a sport of tradition, but its capacity for profound change is equally significant.

To honor the Negro Leagues, MLB will host a tribute game on June 20 at Rickwood Field in Birmingham, Alabama—the oldest professional baseball park in the U.S. Players will don period uniforms and pay tribute to legendary center fielder Willie Mays, an Alabama native.

With the integration of these statistics, players like Buck Leonard, Buck O’Neil, Cool Papa Bell, Doc Sykes, Monte Irvin, Leroy Satchel Paige and Gibson will finally receive their due recognition. Fans will now appreciate the true scope of their talents and achievements.

Sean Gibson, the great-grandson of Josh Gibson and executive director of the Josh Gibson Foundation, expressed the family’s excitement over this acknowledgment. “We always considered him a major leaguer; he just didn’t play in the major leagues,” Sean Gibson told NBC Sports, adding he is eager to see how his great-grandfather’s stats compare to those of other MLB legends.

Reflecting on this milestone, he added, “If Josh Gibson was alive right now, he’d be honored. He’ll probably wonder why it took so long. He’ll be happy for all the other baseball players, and more importantly he’ll be excited for his family to carry on his legacy.”

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By Stacy M. Brown
NNPA Newswire Senior National Correspondent
@StacyBrownMedia

(NNPA Newswire) — A petition calling for conservative Supreme Court justices and noted Donald Trump supporters Samuel Alito and Clarence Thomas to recuse themselves from major cases related to the Jan. 6, 2021, Capitol attack has amassed 102,837 signatures as of 4 p.m., May 24. Following a report from The New York Times that highlighted potential conflicts of interest for the conservative justices, MoveOn launched the petition.

The Times reported that an upside-down American flag, a symbol associated with the twice-impeached and four-times indicted Trump’s false claims of election fraud, was displayed outside Alito’s home in January 2021. The flag appeared outside the Alito residence in Alexandria, Virginia, on Jan. 17, just days after Trump supporters stormed the Capitol. Alito told the Times that the flag was “briefly placed” there by his wife during a disagreement with neighbors.

The revelation has again raised concerns about Alito’s impartiality as the Supreme Court considers two significant cases: one addressing charges against the Jan. 6 rioters and another determining whether Trump can claim immunity from prosecution on election interference charges. Justice Thomas also faces scrutiny for his involvement in cases related to the 2020 election, particularly because his wife, Ginni Thomas, contacted Trump officials and lawmakers, urging them to overturn the election results.

MoveOn’s petition argues that Alito must be held accountable for what they describe as a breach of ethics. “He must recuse himself immediately or be removed by Chief Justice John Roberts, and the Senate Judiciary Committee must swiftly investigate and take action on conflicts of interest,” the petition states.

Rahna Epting, MoveOn’s political action executive director, emphasized the need for immediate action to restore public trust in the Supreme Court. “The only way to begin to restore any trust in the Supreme Court—and to ensure any semblance of a fair hearing on Trump’s baseless immunity claims—is for Justices Alito and Thomas to recuse themselves, or be removed by Chief Justice Roberts,” Epting said.

He criticized Chief Justice John Roberts for failing to address these “conflicts of interest,” contributing to the Supreme Court’s lowest public approval ratings ever. “Justice Roberts’ failure to act—and allow these conflicts to go unchecked, has put the Supreme Court at its lowest public approval ever, with the public losing trust in the institution’s integrity and seeing it as the tool of a partisan right-wing agenda that it is,” Epting added.

The petition also calls for the Senate Judiciary Committee to investigate the alleged conflicts of interest and consider impeachment if necessary. “Our country and our democracy deserve better,” Epting said.

Democratic Sen. Dick Durbin of Illinois, chair of the Senate Judiciary Committee, has also urged Alito to recuse himself from cases related to the 2020 election and the Capitol attack. “Flying an upside-down American flag—a symbol of the so-called ‘Stop the Steal’ movement—clearly creates the appearance of bias,” Durbin said in a statement.

In response to growing public pressure, the Supreme Court adopted a code of ethics in November last year, following reports of undisclosed luxury trips and gifts received by some justices, including Thomas and Alito. However, the code lacks enforcement mechanisms, prompting continued calls for stronger accountability.

“The Court is in an ethical crisis of its own making, and Justice Alito and the rest of the Court should be doing everything in their power to regain public trust,” Durbin said.

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The case, Alexander v. South Carolina State Conference of the N.A.A.C.P., No. 22-807, presented a complex challenge of distinguishing the roles of race and partisanship in drawing voting maps, especially as Black voters predominantly support Democrats.

By Stacy M. Brown
NNPA Newswire Senior National Correspondent

(NNPA Newswire) — The U.S. Supreme Court has reinstated South Carolina’s redrawn congressional map, declaring it was not unconstitutional racial gerrymandering. Justice Samuel Alito authored the 6-3 opinion, which overturned a lower court’s finding that the map had illegally removed 30,000 Black voters to favor a White Republican candidate in the 1st Congressional District.

The decision has prompted strong reactions, including from Devon Ombres, senior director for Courts and Legal Policy at the Center for American Progress.

“This ruling allows South Carolina to strip power away from Black voters and implement a congressional map that is clearly racially gerrymandered,” Ombres stated. “The majority cherry-picked evidence disregarded inconvenient proof of racial gerrymandering and substituted its own judgment of the facts instead of deferring to the court below. Worse, the majority makes it clear that, in the future, it will be more difficult to challenge unconstitutional racial gerrymanders.”

The case, Alexander v. South Carolina State Conference of the N.A.A.C.P., No. 22-807, presented a complex challenge of distinguishing the roles of race and partisanship in drawing voting maps, especially as Black voters predominantly support Democrats. A unanimous three-judge panel of the Federal District Court in Columbia, S.C., had ruled in early 2023 that the state’s First Congressional District, drawn after the 2020 census, violated the Constitution by prioritizing race. However, the Supreme Court’s ruling now overturns that decision.

The lower court had held its decision while Republican lawmakers appealed to the Supreme Court, with the parties urging a resolution by Jan. 1. After the deadline passed, the panel ruled in March that the 2024 election would proceed under the contested map, acknowledging practical constraints. “With the primary election procedures rapidly approaching, the appeal before the Supreme Court still pending and no remedial plan in place,” the panel wrote, “the ideal must bend to the practical.”

The disputed district, centered in Charleston, has been a Republican stronghold since 1980, except for in 2018. The 2020 race was notably close, leading Republican lawmakers to strengthen the district’s Republican tilt post-census. The state judges ruled that this goal was achieved by “bleaching African American voters out of the Charleston County portion of Congressional District No. 1,” moving 62 percent of Black voters to the Sixth District, represented by James E. Clyburn, a Black Democrat.

Republican lawmakers admitted that the district was redrawn for partisan gains, but challengers, represented by the ACLU and NAACP Legal Defense and Educational Fund, argued that race was the primary factor. 

“That predominant reliance on race is impermissible even if mapmakers used race as a proxy for politics,” their brief stated.

Justice Elena Kagan, joined by the court’s other liberal justices, dissented. Kagan contended that the ruling encourages state lawmakers to use race as a proxy for partisan objectives. 

“Go right ahead, this Court says to States today. Go ahead, though you have no recognized justification for using race, such as to comply with statutes ensuring equal voting rights,” Kagan wrote. “Go ahead, though you are (at best) using race as a shortcut to bring about partisan gains—to elect more Republicans in one case, more Democrats in another.”

Due to the South Carolina case’s reliance on the equal protection clause of the Constitution, it differs from a comparable Alabama case that is subject to the Voting Rights Act. Ombres underscored the broader implications, stating, “Congress must pass legislation to revitalize the Voting Rights Act to ensure that the will of American voters matters—not just the will of those already in power.”

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First reported by HBCU Buzz, the unprecedented financial commitment represents a substantial increase from the previously reported over $7 billion, encompassing significant additional actions already undertaken. The total exceeds $16 billion, inclusive of over $11.4 billion allocated between FY2021 and FY2023 through federal grants, contracting awards, and debt relief tailored specifically for HBCUs.

By Stacy M. Brown
NNPA Newswire Senior National Correspondent
@StacyBrownMedia

(NNPA NEWSWIRE) – The Biden-Harris administration has announced a historic milestone in federal funding and investments for historically Black colleges and universities (HBCUs), surpassing a monumental $16 billion mark from fiscal year 2021 through current data available for FY 2024.

First reported by HBCU Buzz, the unprecedented financial commitment represents a substantial increase from the previously reported $7 billion-plus, encompassing significant additional actions already undertaken. The total exceeds $16 billion, inclusive of over $11.4 billion allocated between FY2021 and FY2023 through federal grants, contracting awards and debt relief tailored specifically for HBCUs.

“President Biden and I have delivered an unprecedented $16 billion to our nation’s HBCUs. We know that when we invest in the success of our HBCUs, we are investing in the strength of our nation—today and for generations to come,” Vice President Kamala Harris told HBCU Buzz.

President Biden echoed this sentiment, emphasizing the administration’s unwavering commitment to sustaining robust investment efforts in HBCUs throughout the remainder of FY 2024.

Officials said the administration’s dedication to HBCUs underscores their vital role in fostering upward economic mobility in the United States. 

“For generations, these anchors of our communities have played a pivotal role in building and contributing to America’s leadership at home and abroad,” Harris said, noting her personal experience as a graduate of historically Black Howard University in Washington, D.C.

The president and vice president said they’ve long recognized the profound impact of HBCUs, and the administration has prioritized furnishing these institutions with the resources necessary to deliver high-quality postsecondary education. With a legacy spanning over 180 years, HBCUs have been instrumental in advancing intergenerational economic mobility for Black families and communities. 

According to HBCU Buzz, despite comprising only 3 percent of colleges and universities nationwide, HBCUs play an outsized role in supporting the economic advancement of African Americans.

In addition to over $11 billion provided to HBCUs, the Biden-Harris White House has provided over $4 billion to support the success of HBCU-enrolled students through:

• $2.8 billion in need-based grants and other federal programs, including Pell Grants, Federal Work-Study and Supplemental Educational Opportunity Grants, to assist HBCU students in affording a postsecondary education; and
• Nearly $1.3 billion to support veterans attending HBCUs through the GI Bill and other college, graduate school and training programs delivered through the Department of Veterans Affairs.

Further, the Department of Defense U.S. Air Force established the first-ever HBCU-led University Affiliated Research Center (UARC), providing $90 million in funding over five years. The focus of efforts will be on advancing the deployment of autonomous technologies for Air Force missions, with Howard University serving as the project leader. The seven other participating schools include Jackson State University, Tuskegee University, Hampton University, Bowie State University, Norfolk State University, Delaware State University, Florida Memorial University and Tougaloo College.

Also, the Department of Commerce established the first-ever Connecting-Minority-Communities program, delivering funding for 43 HBCUs to purchase broadband internet, purchase equipment, and hire IT personnel to tackle the digital divide impacting HBCUs. Several HBCUs also recently launched an HBCU CHIPS Network in collaboration with the Georgia Institute of Technology to increase the coordination of the resources at the colleges and universities and jointly contribute to the workforce development needs of the semiconductor industry.

Administration officials noted that Chips are critical in powering consumer electronics, automobiles, data centers, critical infrastructure and virtually all military systems.

“HBCUs produce 40% of all Black engineers in America, 50% of all Black lawyers, 70% of all Black doctors and dentists, and 80% of all Black judges,” President Biden asserted last fall. “And HBCUs are engineers of economic mobility, helping to increase the Black middle class. When the middle class does well, everybody does well. The poor have a road up, and the wealthy still do well, although they’ve got to start paying their taxes. That’s why it’s critical we invest in these universities.”

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The rare evening session took a contentious turn when MAGA Republican and rabid Donald Trump supporter Rep. Marjorie Taylor Greene of Georgia responded to a question from Rep. Jasmine Crockett (D-Texas) with a personal remark.

By Stacy M. Brown
NNPA Newswire Senior National Correspondent
@StacyBrownMedia

(NNPA NEWSWIRE) – A nighttime session of the House Oversight Committee, which was intended to discuss a resolution recommending Attorney General Merrick Garland be held in contempt of Congress, descended into chaos amid personal attacks and partisan bickering.

The rare evening session took a contentious turn when MAGA Republican and rabid Donald Trump supporter Rep. Marjorie Taylor Greene of Georgia responded to a question from Rep. Jasmine Crockett (D-Texas) with a personal remark. 

“I think your fake eyelashes are messing up what you’re reading,” Greene commented.

Democrats immediately reacted negatively to the remark, with Rep. Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez (D-N.Y.) leading the charge. She demanded that the unhinged Greene retract her comments and offer Crockett an apology. 

“That is absolutely unacceptable,” Ocasio-Cortez declared amid the crosstalk. “How dare you attack the physical appearance of another person?”

Greene, undeterred, taunted Ocasio-Cortez, asking, “Are your feelings hurt?” 

And the Bronx-born Ocasio-Cortez responded sharply, “Oh, girl? Baby girl, don’t even play.”

Just minutes later, Greene – of all members – attacked Ocasio-Cortez’s intelligence, challenging her to a debate and asserting, “You don’t have enough intelligence.” 

This prompted audible groans from other members.

During the acrimonious exchange, political pundits and others couldn’t help but to note the difference between Crockett and Greene, whom many on social media allege is a staunch racist. The Texas Democrat has routinely demonstrated her passion for justice and the protection of rights and has platformed criminal justice reform. Meanwhile, Greene remains a poster child for what’s plaguing government servants. In March of 2022, numerous Georgia voters filed legal challenges to her reelection campaign, alleging that she was disqualified from public office because she helped to facilitate the January 6, 2021, insurrection.

“The way she represents herself … seems unhinged to Republicans, but Greene is twice as destructive,” USA Today opinion columnist Nicole Russell wrote. “Greene has a history of incendiary behavior, banned from Twitter and stripped of committee assignments in 2021, she even adopted QAnon conspiracy theories and used violent rhetoric against political foes.”

Despite agreeing to strike her comments toward Crockett, Greene refused to apologize for her remarks. 

“You will never get an apology out of me,” she declared. 

Committee Chair James Comer (R-Ky.) ruled that Greene’s insult did not violate House rules, which led to further disputes. When Democratic ranking member Jamie Raskin (D-Md.) attempted to appeal this ruling, Republicans moved to table his appeal.

Following the vote, Crockett sought clarification on the committee’s standards regarding personal attacks. “If someone on this committee then starts talking about somebody’s bleach blond, bad-built, butch body that would not be engaging in personalities, correct?” she asked, causing another uproar.

The controversy moved Comer to admit, “I have two hearing aids. I’m very deaf. I’m not understanding — everybody’s yelling. I’m doing the best I can.”

Comer later agreed to strike Greene’s insult of Ocasio-Cortez from the record, and Democrats pushed to enforce rules that would prevent Greene from speaking for the remainder of the hearing. However, Republicans voted to allow her to continue speaking. After a short recess, Comer reminded members to adhere to the House’s standard of decorum.

Greene was ultimately recognized to speak for over four minutes, reiterating her refusal to apologize. “I will not apologize for my words, and I will not change them,” she said.

Nearly an hour after the disruptions began, the committee returned to the original agenda of debating whether Garland should be held in contempt of Congress for not providing audio recordings of President Joe Biden’s interview with special counsel Robert Hur regarding classified documents.

The session had been moved from 11 a.m. to 8 p.m. to accommodate members who attended former President Donald Trump’s trial in New York. Despite the turmoil, the committee voted 24-20 along party lines to recommend holding Garland in contempt. House Speaker Mike Johnson’s office has yet to announce when the resolution will be presented to the full House.

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The landmark 1954 Supreme Court ruling declared racially segregated schools unconstitutional, but recent data reveals persistent inequities in U.S. education.

By Stacy M. Brown
NNPA Newswire Senior National Correspondent
@StacyBrownMedia

(NNPA NEWSWIRE) – On the 70th anniversary of the historic Brown v. Board of Education Supreme Court decision President Joe Biden emphasized his administration’s commitment to educational equity by announcing new funding and resources aimed at enhancing school diversity and tackling racial segregation. The landmark 1954 ruling declared racially segregated schools unconstitutional, but recent data reveals persistent inequities in U.S. education.

“Every student deserves access to a high-quality education that prepares them to be the next generation of leaders,” Biden stated. 

To further this goal, the Biden-Harris administration introduced several initiatives, including a $20 million investment through the Department of Education’s Magnet Schools Assistance Program (MSAP). This funding will support magnet programs in states such as Arkansas, Colorado and Florida, designed to attract students from diverse backgrounds. Additionally, the administration’s 2025 budget proposal seeks $139 million for MSAP and $10 million for the Fostering Diverse Schools program.

Moreover, a new Technical Assistance Center on Fiscal Equity will assist states and districts in developing fair resource allocation strategies. The initiative aims to address the stark resource disparities that exist between racially and economically segregated schools.

Stephen Benjamin, senior adviser to Biden and former mayor of Columbia, South Carolina, acknowledged the ongoing challenges. 

“There’s an acknowledgment every day with our president that we’re not where we ought to be, but we’re certainly not where we used to be. Still a lot of work to be done,” Benjamin said.

The research underscores the strong correlation between school segregation and racial achievement gaps. The desegregation following Brown significantly boosted graduation rates for Black and Latino students. However, recent decades have seen a reversal, with segregation between White and Black students increasing by 64 percent since 1988, and economic segregation rising by 50 percent since 1991. 

According to the Department of Education’s State of School Diversity Report, racially isolated schools often lack the critical resources necessary for student success.

To combat these trends, the Department of Education announced the release of new data on access to math and science courses, highlighting ongoing racial disparities. The administration said it also plans to launch an interagency effort to preserve African American history, ensuring that students and the public have access to essential historical and cultural resources.

Officials noted that the American Rescue Plan has directed $130 billion to the nation’s schools, with a focus on underserved institutions. This includes nearly $2 billion in additional Title I funding, and a five-fold increase in funding for Full-Service Community Schools, which provide essential services to students and families in need.

Recognizing the importance of teacher diversity, the administration has prioritized efforts to increase the number of educators of color. Competitive grant programs have awarded $450 million to support teacher recruitment and retention, with a particular focus on diversity. Additionally, the Augustus F. Hawkins Centers of Excellence Grant program has provided over $23 million to historically Black colleges and universities (HBCUs), tribally controlled colleges and universities (TCCUs) and minority-serving institutions (MSIs) for teacher preparation.

The president met with family members of the plaintiffs from the Brown v. Board case. Cheryl Brown Henderson, daughter of lead plaintiff Oliver Brown, expressed the ongoing struggle for educational equity. 

“We’re still fighting the battle over whose children we invest in. Any time we can talk about failing underfunded public schools, there is a problem,” Henderson said. 

NAACP President Derrick Johnson, also in attendance, affirmed, “We must continue to fight on all fronts.”

As the nation reflects on seven decades since Brown v. Board of Education, the White House said that the Biden administration’s initiatives signal a renewed effort to fulfill the promise of equitable education for all. 

Schools “remain divided along racial, ethnic, and economic lines,” according to a 2022 report by the U.S. Government Accountability Office. “With around 18.5 million children attending schools where 75 percent or more of students were of a single race or ethnicity.”

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By Stacy M. Brown
NNPA Newswire

On May 7 plaintiffs in a sizable class action lawsuit against insurance giant Geico joined prominent civil rights attorney Ben Crump at a press conference in the nation’s capital. The lawsuit, alleging contractual breaches regarding policy renewal commissions and accusations of unjust enrichment, represents a coalition of minority business owners formerly associated with the company.

At the heart of the allegations is the contention that Geico, a subsidiary of Berkshire Hathaway, systematically deprived minority Geico Field Representatives (GFRs) of critical business opportunities through what Crump termed as “unfair and unlawful” practices.

“It is important to note that Geico had quality reports that detailed Geico field representative’s metrics. These reports were downright discriminatory for the Hispanics, and Asians who worked for Geico,” Crump declared, noting that the names of the reports were themselves steeped in racial bias. “Geico, you are better than this.”

The news conference spotlighted several key revelations:

1. Disproportionate Termination: In an unprecedented move in March 2023, Geico terminated agents across the United States, with a staggering 67 percent of those affected being minorities.
2. Exploitation of GFRs’ Labor: Plaintiffs assert that Geico reaped the rewards of GFRs’ hard work, retaining commissions generated from the business portfolios they painstakingly built. Moreover, Geico’s purported control over various aspects of GFRs’ operations allegedly left many questioning their professional futures post-termination.
3. Representative Testimonies: Present at the conference were four terminated GFRs, all from minority backgrounds:

• Steve Ching, a Navy veteran of Asian descent, was the sole minority GFR in the Pacific Northwest, operating in Portland, Oregon.
• Kim Dao, a Vietnamese woman, saw her Atlanta, Georgia, office shuttered while those managed by white GFRs remained operational.
• Denise Buckley, a Latina based in Houston, Texas, was the only Spanish-speaking agent in a region with a significant Latino population.
• Kevin Ware, an African American with a decade-long tenure at Geico, managed the largest agency in the Midwest before its closure.

The lawsuit, initiated on Nov. 7, 2023, in the United States District Court for the District of Maryland, alleges a litany of legal violations, including breach of contract, unjust enrichment, and misclassification.

After Geico’s parent, Berkshire Hathaway’s, recent annual shareholder meeting on May 4, 2024, scrutiny has intensified on the conglomerate’s corporate governance. Crump and the plaintiffs have galvanized attention toward what they see as Geico’s discriminatory treatment of minority GFRs, igniting a national conversation on equity and accountability within the insurance industry.

This article was originally published by NNPA Newswire.

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By Stacy M. Brown
NNPA Newswire Senior National Correspondent
@StacyBrownMedia

(NNPA NEWSWIRE) – The American Cancer Society is embarking on an unprecedented initiative spanning 20 states, including the District of Columbia, Maryland, and Virginia, to investigate the troubling disparities in cancer survival rates among Black women.

Despite overall declines in cancer deaths, Black women continue to face disproportionately high mortality rates, a phenomenon the organization aims to address through its newly unveiled “VOICES of Black Women” study.

“While cancer deaths have declined, Black women maintain a high death rate,” said Dr. Lauren McCullough, co-principal investigator and visiting scientific director at the American Cancer Society, during a recent briefing. 

“With few exceptions, Black women are more likely to be diagnosed with late-stage cancer, aggressive tumor types, and have higher cancer-specific mortality rates than other women,” McCullough added.

This disparity is especially pronounced in breast cancer, where Black women face a 40 percent higher mortality rate than White women despite having a lower rate of diagnosis by 4 percent.

Moreover, Black women are 60 percent more likely than White women to succumb to cervical cancer and nearly twice as likely to die from endometrial cancer.

The “VOICES of Black Women” study aims to enroll over 100,000 Black women aged 25 to 55, making it the country’s most significant endeavor of its kind. Participants must be cancer-free upon enrollment and will be tracked for 30 years to examine the impact of medical history, lifestyle factors and experiences of racism on cancer risk and mortality.

“To be eligible for the study, participants must live in one of the 20 states or Washington, D.C., which together account for more than 90 percent of the U.S. population of Black women ages 25 to 55,” McCullough clarified.

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By Stacy M. Brown
NNPA Newswire Senior National Correspondent
@StacyBrownMedia

In the wake of a recent survey revealing startling apprehensions among American voters regarding the possibility of a second civil war, experts in history and political science offer sobering insights into the nation’s current trajectory. 

Ashley Robertson Preston, an assistant professor of history at Howard University and author of the acclaimed book “Mary McLeod Bethune the Pan-Africanist,” has detected a palpable shift in national sentiment.

When taking the pulse of America, Preston said she can’t help but to conclude that all hell is about to break loose. She emphasized the eerie parallels between contemporary tensions and the lead-up to the Civil War. 

“The tension that this nation is currently experiencing is very similar to what happened shortly before the Civil War,” Preston said. “As much as I want to say it can never happen again, history says something else. We will all just have to remain vigilant. History matters more than ever now.”

Michael Kazin, a renowned expert on American politics and social movements and a professor in the Department of History at Georgetown University, echoes Preston’s sentiments. While acknowledging the prevalence of domestic strife over issues such as the Gaza conflict, the prosecution of Donald Trump and contentious debates over issues such as abortion, race and LGBTQ-plus rights, Kazin refrains from predicting an imminent civil war.

“We are embroiled in various kinds of civil conflict now I think we are a long way from that,” Kazin observed, highlighting the distinction between current societal divisions and the magnitude of a full-fledged civil war. 

“A civil war would be quite different. It would involve widespread armed confrontations, probably involving some elements of the U.S. military,” he added. “As long as elections, the courts, and Congress operate fairly normally, there can be no civil war.”

These expert assessments follow a Rasmussen Reports poll revealing that a troubling number of U.S. voters harbor concerns about the likelihood of a civil conflict erupting within the next five years. The Rasmussen Reports poll shows that 41 percent of respondents foresee a civil conflict, compared to 49 percent believing it is not likely and 10 percent unsure. The alarming figure translates to approximately 106 million American adults anticipating a potential civil war scenario.

The survey findings coincide with escalating tensions on college campuses, where clashes between pro-Palestine demonstrators, law enforcement, conservative groups and certain Jewish students have become increasingly common. Additionally, the popularity of the dystopian political action film “Civil War” by Alex Garland has fueled speculation about America’s susceptibility to violent upheaval.

Rasmussen analysts have emphasized the looming specter of civil war, particularly amidst the divisive political landscape of an upcoming election year, which pits President Joe Biden against his predecessor Donald Trump. The historical parallels drawn to the devastating conflict of 1861–1865, where 11 southern states seceded from the Union over the issue of slavery, further exacerbate concerns among voters.

“The possibility that America could face another civil war soon is not too far-fetched for a lot of voters,” remarked the pollsters regarding their findings, noting a significant correlation between demographic groups and their levels of apprehension. Specifically, women, younger adults, and non-White Americans exhibited higher levels of concern regarding the potential outbreak of conflict. Furthermore, political affiliations played a notable role, with Republican voters expressing greater certainty in the likelihood of civil war compared to their Democratic counterparts.

The survey also probed respondents’ perceptions regarding the influence of the presidential election outcome on the probability of a civil conflict. Results indicated that 37 percent believed a Biden victory would increase the likelihood of war, while 25 percent held the same view in the event of a Trump triumph. A significant portion, comprising 30 percent of respondents, asserted that the election outcome would bear little influence on the likelihood of conflict, while 8 percent remained uncertain.

With the polarization and unrest plaguing the nation, protests on college campuses have served as flashpoints for ideological clashes between conservatives and liberals. Recent demonstrations opposing Israel’s actions in Gaza have elicited strong reactions, with conservative politicians denouncing protestors as radicals, Marxists, and anti-Semitic. These tensions underscore a widening fault line within American society.

Meanwhile, secessionist movements, particularly prominent in states like Texas, California and Alaska, perceive the current climate as a harbinger of the chaos depicted in the film “Civil War.” The movie portrays a fractured United States plunged into armed conflict, with factions vying for control amid governmental collapse and authoritarianism.

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By Stacy M. Brown
NNPA Newswire Senior National Correspondent
@StacyBrownMedia

(NNPA NEWSWIRE) – In the heart of Manhattan, blocks from the 42nd floor apartment located on 43rd St. and Ninth Ave. where the story unfolds, stands the Shubert Theater, currently home to the captivating Broadway musical, “Hell’s Kitchen.” Developed over 12 years by the incomparable Alicia Keys, this jukebox musical is a touching journey through the soulful melodies that have defined her career.

At a recent midweek and matinee performance, attended by Keys’ own mother, “Hell’s Kitchen” was not just palpable, but electrifying. From the moment the lights dimmed to the final bow, the exceptional performances and the energy of the show were evident, even as Keys’ mother, Terria Joseph, could be heard enthusiastically cheering, laughing, and singing along throughout the performance.  The musical left little doubt as to why, in bustling New York, in the middle of the week, a sold-out crowd poured into the Shubert Theater. It also provided many clues as to why this production has earned an impressive 13 Tony Award nominations.

The narrative delves deep into the tumultuous relationship between 17-year-old Ali (the main character based on Keys), portrayed with profound depth and charisma by Gianna Harris (filling in for Tony-nominated lead actress Maleah Joi Moon), and her fiercely protective mother, Jersey, in an absolute powerhouse performance by Shoshana Bean. Set against the backdrop of the late 1990s Times Square area, Ali’s quest for independence and love clashes with Jersey’s fears and desires for her daughter’s safety, all of which creates a story that likely resonates with the audience’s own experiences.

Harris shines in her portrayal of Ali, seamlessly weaving Keys’ iconic hits such as “Girl on Fire” and “Fallin’” into the fabric of her character’s journey. Opposite her, Bean delivers a tour de force performance, capturing the raw emotion and maternal love that drive Jersey’s actions.

The supporting cast, including Brandon Victor Dixon as Ali’s father, Davis, and Kecia Lewis as the amazing Miss Liza Jane, Ali’s spiritual mentor, further elevated the production. Lewis’ rendition of “Authors of Forever” is exceptionally breathtaking, showcasing her remarkable vocal range and depth of emotion.

While “Hell’s Kitchen” may not be a strict retelling of Keys’ life story – it ostensibly covers just her life as a 17-year-old – it offers a glimpse into a pivotal moment in her adolescence. Kristoffer Diaz’s expertly crafted book ensures that the focus remains on Ali and her journey toward self-discovery, creating a narrative that sticks with audiences long after the final curtain falls.

With its electrifying performances and soul-stirring music, “Hell’s Kitchen” is a testament to Alicia Keys’ enduring legacy as a musical icon. It proved more than just a Broadway production; it’s a celebration of the power of music to inspire, uplift and transform lives. It’s also a gift from Keys to New York, celebrated in the closing with the heart-thumping sound, lyrics, and performance of Keys’ hit with Jay-Z, “Empire State of Mind,” with the cast alternately crooning: “Ooh, New York. Ooh, New York. Even if it ain’t all it seems, I got a pocketful of dreams. Baby, I’m from New York! Concrete jungle where dreams are made of. There’s nothing you can’t do. Now you’re in New York! These streets will make you feel brand new, big lights will inspire you. Let’s hear it for New York, New York, New York!”

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By Stacy M. Brown,
NNPA Newswire Senior National Correspondent,
@StacyBrownMedia

(NNPA NEWSWIRE) – The AFL-CIO, a coalition representing 12.5 million workers across various unions, has released its 33rd annual report, “Death on the Job: The Toll of Neglect,” uncovering troubling racial disparities in workplace safety. The report’s findings, based on the most recent data available, underscore the urgent need for policymakers, regulatory bodies and employers to confront the disproportionate rates of fatalities, injuries and illnesses faced by workers of color.

According to the report, Black workers’ job fatality rates have surged to the highest levels seen in nearly 15 years. Meanwhile, Latino workers continue to endure the most significant risk of death on the job compared to any other demographic group. In 2022, 734 Black workers lost their lives while on the job, a significant increase from the 543 deaths recorded in 2003. Similarly alarming trends were observed among Latino workers, with the number of deaths rising from 794 in 2003 to 1,248 in 2022. Shockingly, 60 percent of those killed were immigrants.

“These alarming disparities in workplace fatalities among workers of color are unacceptable, symptomatic of deeply ingrained racial inequity and the need to pay increased attention to the dangerous industries that treat workers as disposable,” remarked AFL-CIO President Liz Shuler in a statement.

The revelations are particularly stark when compared to the racial breakdown of the American workforce. Recent data from the Bureau of Labor Statistics shows that as of 2021, White workers comprised 77 percent of the U.S. workforce, while Latino workers accounted for 18 percent, and Black employees represented 13 percent. The proportions don’t align with the rates of fatalities among workers of color.

“This report exposes an urgent crisis for workers of color and reaffirms what we’ve long known: When we talk about justice for workers, we must prioritize racial equity,” the authors wrote.

The report identified specific hazards and industries where workers of color are most vulnerable. For Black workers, fatalities often result from transportation accidents, homicides or exposure to harmful substances or environments. Meanwhile, Latino workers face significant risks in industries such as construction, agriculture and manufacturing, where workplace hazards are prevalent.

Furthermore, the report highlights the systemic challenges workers of color face in accessing adequate protections and resources. Instances of employer retaliation for reporting unsafe conditions or injuries are rampant, creating a culture of fear and silence among workers. Weak penalties and enforcement mechanisms further exacerbate these issues, failing to hold non-compliant employers accountable for endangering their employees’ lives. Despite advancements in safety regulations and enforcement, systemic issues persist, threatening the well-being of workers across various industries.

Comparing records on safety and health, the report noted that the Biden and Trump administrations’ records differ drastically. The authors determined that the Biden administration’s job safety agencies have had to repair and rebuild after “four years of decimation rife with understaffing, repeal of worker safety laws, limits on public access to information and the inability to issue even the most basic of long-overdue protections.” They concluded that the Biden administration improved transparency of information about loved ones lost on the job to honor them and to prevent the tragedies for other families, bolstered enforcement initiatives to hold accountable the employers who violate the law and put workers in danger, strengthened policies to protect vulnerable workers with the greatest risks of dying on the job and facing retaliation, and issued milestone regulations to save workers’ lives and improve their livelihoods.

The authors noted that the Biden administration recently used the first action under the amended Toxic Substances Control Act to ban current uses and imports of chrysotile asbestos, after decades of weak laws and inaction that have put the United States behind other countries; issued a rule to protect communities from facilities that store, use or manufacture chemicals; clarified the rights of workers to choose their own representation during inspections; issued a rule to protect mineworkers from silica exposure; issued a rule to require large employers to fall in line with other-sized employers on injury reporting to OSHA and anti-retaliation measures for workers who report injuries; and worked across agencies to protect immigrant workers whose employers are involved in a workplace safety and health investigation.

The authors said urgent steps are needed to address the root causes of workplace fatalities, injuries, and illnesses, particularly those disproportionately affecting marginalized communities. They urged policymakers, employers and stakeholders “to prioritize racial equity to improve workplace safety and health outcomes for all workers.”

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By Stacy M. Brown
NNPA Newswire Senior National Correspondent
@StacyBrownMedia

(NNPA NEWSWIRE) – A new petition calls on President Joe Biden to grant a full pardon to former Baltimore State’s Attorney Marilyn Mosby, who is facing 40 years in federal prison when she’s sentenced next month on fraud charges. The petition is gathering momentum, already netting more than 2,700 of the 3,000 signatures its organizers aimed for, with backing from notable figures like the National Congress of Black Women’s E. Faye Williams. 

Petitioners claim the Department of Justice (DOJ) has sought to make an example of Mosby, a progressive prosecutor known for championing change in communities of color. According to the petition, rather than focusing on pressing issues like the Tulsa Race Massacre, DEI attacks or hate crimes, the DOJ’s pursuit of Mosby and other elected officials has been criticized as a distraction from more significant concerns.

A federal jury in February convicted Mosby, 44, on the federal charge of making a false mortgage application when she was Baltimore City State’s Attorney, relating to the purchase of a condominium in Long Boat Key, Florida. The jury acquitted her of making a false mortgage application to purchase a home in Kissimmee, Florida.

Prosecutors allege that Mosby made a false statement on the application for a $428,400 mortgage and, as part of the application, she falsely stated that she had received a $5,000 gift from her husband for the property. The DOJ said Mosby made the false claim to secure a lower interest rate. They said her husband did not give her the $5,000; instead, she transferred $5,000 to him, and he then moved the $5,000 back to her.

Mosby’s record as a prosecutor is lauded in the petition, which highlights her groundbreaking achievements. As the youngest chief prosecutor of any major U.S. city in 2014, Mosby introduced innovative programs offering alternatives to incarceration for nonviolent drug offenders and initiated one of the nation’s few Youth and Prevention departments.

However, prosecutors also won a perjury conviction against Mosby for withdrawing funds from her retirement account, an action her supporters argued that several other Baltimore City employees also took during the pandemic without facing prosecution. Further, Mosby’s supporters say the charges against her are unjust, particularly compared to the DOJ’s typical pursuit of cases involving much more significant sums.

The petition also highlights the role of federal prosecutor Leo Wise in targeting Mosby. The petitioners said Wise is known for his history of profiling and pursuing Black elected officials, and his involvement in Mosby’s case is suspect. The petition also argues that Mosby’s confrontation with the twice-impeached and four-times indicted former President Trump over potential federal agent deployments to Baltimore following George Floyd’s murder is a catalyst for the subsequent federal investigation against her.

The petition invokes Article II, Section 2 of the United States Constitution, which empowers the president to grant pardons. Advocates argue that it’s time for Biden to rectify perceived injustices, particularly those stemming from the previous administration’s Justice Department. 

White House officials did not return messages seeking comment on the matter this week.

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By Stacy M. Brown,
NNPA Newswire Senior National Correspondent,
@StacyBrownMedia

(NNPA NEWSWIRE) – The U.S. Supreme Court has ruled in favor of a female police sergeant from St. Louis, making it easier for workers to pursue employment discrimination claims related to job transfers. 

The court sided with Sgt. Jatonya Clayborn Muldrow, who alleged she was reassigned to a less prestigious role within the St. Louis Police Department because of her gender.

Muldrow, a Black woman, sued the department under Title VII of the Civil Rights Act after being transferred from the intelligence division in 2017. In her previous role, she had been deputized as an FBI agent, worked a steady weekday schedule, and was involved in investigating public corruption and human trafficking cases. However, her new assignment lacked the same prestige and benefits.

Despite maintaining her pay, Muldrow lost her FBI privileges, had to work patrol and was assigned weekend shifts. A male sergeant who had previously worked with Muldrow’s male supervisor took over her previous position.

The central issue before the justices was whether Title VII protects against all discriminatory job transfers or requires employees to demonstrate that the involuntary move resulted in a “significant disadvantage,” such as harm to career prospects or changes in salary or rank.

In a crucial clarification, Justice Elena Kagan, in her opinion for the court, pointed out that some lower courts had used the incorrect higher standard. She stated that while an employee must demonstrate some harm from a forced transfer to succeed, they need not meet a “significance test.”

Kagan emphasized that Muldrow’s allegations met the court’s new standard “with room to spare” despite her rank and pay remaining unchanged, and her ability to advance to other positions. Legal experts said the decision could lower the bar for employees to proceed with discrimination claims in court, potentially allowing lawsuits that failed under the previous standard to succeed.

Although the court’s judgment was unanimous, Justices Clarence Thomas, Samuel A. Alito Jr. and Brett M. Kavanaugh each wrote separately to explain their differing views on the decision’s impact.

Justice Alito doubted that the decision would make a meaningful difference, suggesting that lower court judges should continue their current practices. Justice Kavanaugh indicated that he would not require any separate showing of harm, stating that “the discrimination is harm” under federal law. Thomas also asserted there was “little practical difference” between the court’s new test and the current practice of appeals court judges.

The Supreme Court’s ruling in favor of Muldrow not only clarifies that Title VII does not require courts to differentiate between job transfers causing significant disadvantages and those causing lesser harm but also significantly strengthens protections against employment discrimination based on sex and other protected characteristics.

Experts further opined that the landmark decision makes it easier for workers like Muldrow to pursue legal remedies for discriminatory job transfers, thereby profoundly impacting workplace diversity, equity and inclusion programs.

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By Stacy M. Brown,
NNPA Newswire

In a study published in the Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences (PNAS), researchers from the University of Pennsylvania have uncovered significant disparities in the effectiveness of language-based models for detecting depression on social media, mainly when applied to Black individuals. The study authors called for more inclusive mental health assessment and treatment approaches. 

The study found that depression, which is a common mental health condition, often leaves clear linguistic traces. For example, first-person pronouns (“I”) and certain groups of words that show negative emotions can be signs of depression among social media users, according to previous research. However, the recent analysis of Facebook posts from over 800 individuals, including equal numbers of Black and White participants, revealed that these predictive qualities were primarily applicable to White individuals.

“We need to have the understanding that, when thinking about mental health and devising interventions for treatment, we should account for the differences among racial groups and how they may talk about depression. We cannot put everyone in the same bucket,” said Dr. Sharath Chandra Guntuku, a senior author of the study, who expressed surprise over the findings.

The research uncovered that language-based models trained to detect depression performed significantly less accurately when applied to posts by Black individuals on social media. Even after teaching the models on language specifically used by Black individuals, their predictive ability remained poor.

“Why? There could be multiple reasons,” said the study’s lead author, Sunny Rai, Ph.D., a computer and information science postdoctoral researcher. “It could be the case that we need more data to learn depression patterns in Black individuals compared to White individuals. It could also be the case that Black individuals do not exhibit markers of depression on social media platforms due to perceived stigma.”

Rai said there’s a need for increased representation of Black individuals and other racial and ethnic groups in research to better understand how depression is expressed across diverse populations. The goal is to develop more accurate predictive models and improve mental health interventions tailored to different communities.

Moreover, the study revealed that specific linguistic markers previously associated with depression, such as first-person pronoun usage and expressions of negative emotions, were not indicative of depression among Black individuals. Researchers argued that this fact highlights the complexity of mental health expression across racial lines and underscores the importance of culturally sensitive approaches in mental health research and practice.

“AI-guided models that were developed using social media data can help in monitoring the prevalence of mental health disorders, especially depression, and their manifestations,” Rai added. “Such computational models hold promise in assisting policymaking as well as designing AI assistants that can provide affordable yet personalized healthcare options to citizens.”

The researchers noted that “insights made through AI can also serve the education of professionals who help people manage depression.”

“Understanding differences in how Black and White people with depression talk about themselves and their condition will be important when training psychotherapists who work across different communities,” said Lyle Ungar, Ph.D., a co-author of the study and professor of computer and information science.

This article was originally published by NNPA Newswire.

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By Stacy M. Brown
NNPA Newswire Senior National Correspondent
@StacyBrownMedia

(NNPA NEWSWIRE) – A new study conducted by the Government Accountability Office (GAO) and commissioned by U.S. Rep. Bobby Scott (D-Virginia) has unveiled concerning trends regarding the representation of Black and Hispanic faculty members in higher education institutions. Despite modest increases in their numbers over the past two decades, Black and Hispanic individuals remain significantly underrepresented among college faculty.

The study, which examined data spanning from fiscal years 2003 to 2021, found that while the proportions of Black and Hispanic faculty members have seen slight upticks, they continue to lag behind their representation in the broader workforce, particularly among workers with advanced degrees and professionals. Further, the study highlighted a stark disparity between the racial and ethnic composition of faculty and that of the student body, indicating a systemic issue within higher education.

“Addressing the underrepresentation of Black and Hispanic faculty is not only a matter of diversity but also impacts the overall quality of education and student outcomes,” study authors wrote. “It’s imperative that we hold institutions accountable for fostering inclusive environments that reflect the diversity of our society.”

The study identified the processing of employment discrimination complaints as one significant barrier. Both current and prospective faculty members have the option to file complaints with either the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC) or the Department of Education. However, the study revealed persistent delays in the referral of complaints from the Department of Education to the EEOC.

In fiscal year 2022 alone, the Department of Education processed and referred 99 complaints alleging employment discrimination at colleges, with an average referral time of 71 days—well beyond the mandated 30-day period. Such delays not only prolong the resolution process but also perpetuate instances of discrimination and inequity within academia.

Additionally, the study uncovered deficiencies in the EEOC’s tracking and processing of complaint referrals. Despite receiving complaints referred to by the Department of Education, the study concluded that the EEOC needs a consistent protocol to ensure the timely receipt and processing of these referrals. 

The lack of accountability poses risks of oversight and further delays in addressing discrimination complaints, the authors stated.

In response to the findings, the GAO has issued recommendations aimed at enhancing accountability and efficiency in the processing of discrimination complaints. Scott has urged swift action from both the Department of Education and the EEOC to address the systemic disparities and processing delays highlighted in the study.

“The good news is that faculty diversity has improved over the last twenty years. The bad news is that faculty diversity is still not representative of the students they teach,” Scott stated.

According to the study authors, historically Black colleges, and universities, among other minority-serving establishments, have had success in nurturing and advancing academic members of color into tenure-track jobs, which offer greater security than adjunct or part-time employment. The authors noted that these schools frequently prioritize the education of students of color in the recruiting and professional development of their professors.

The GAO research suggests that enhancing mentorship, conducting retention studies, and providing leadership opportunities are effective strategies to enhance the retention of faculty members who are of color. The survey also discovered that a positive campus environment affected teachers’ decision to remain at their schools.

The Equal Employment Opportunity Commission and the Department of Education both handle allegations of discrimination at colleges and universities inefficiently, according to the GAO study. The Education Department’s regulation mandates that complaints be sent to the EEOC within 30 days, however, the average time it took to get a referral was more like 71 days.

“As we strive to create more equitable educational environments, it is incumbent upon federal agencies to prioritize the timely and thorough investigation of discrimination complaints,” the authors concluded. “Our nation’s colleges and universities must be bastions of diversity and inclusion, and addressing the underrepresentation of minority faculty is a critical step towards achieving that goal.”

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By Stacy M. Brown
NNPA Newswire

Fifty years ago, the sports world watched in awe as Hank Aaron shattered baseball’s most hallowed record, cementing his place as one of the game’s greatest legends. To celebrate the anniversary of that historic moment, the National Baseball Hall of Fame and Museum plans to immortalize Aaron’s legacy with a monumental tribute.

In conjunction with the opening events for the new exhibit, “More Than Brave: The Life of Henry Aaron,” at the Atlanta History Center, Hall of Fame Chairman of the Board Jane Forbes Clark announced plans to unveil a bronze statue of Aaron at the National Baseball Hall of Fame in Cooperstown, N.Y. on May 23. The statue honors Aaron’s remarkable contributions both on and off the field.

“Hank Aaron’s impact transcended the game of baseball,” Clark stated. “His philanthropy, advocacy for youth empowerment, and trailblazing achievements as an executive have left an indelible mark on society. We are privileged to safeguard his legacy and are honored to unveil this statue as a lasting tribute to an American hero.”

Elected to the Hall of Fame in 1982 after a 23-year career with the Braves and Brewers, Aaron’s legacy extends far beyond his monumental 715th career home run, which surpassed Babe Ruth’s record on April 8, 1974. A 25-time All-Star, Aaron still holds records for the most career RBIs and total bases.

Just how good was Aaron? Even if all his 755 career home runs were removed from the record books, he would still boast over 3,000 hits. The slugger, who died in 2021, made the All-Star team 25 times, established a record with 2,297 RBIs, 1,477 extra-base hits, and 6,856 total bases.

Officials displayed Aaron’s Hall of Fame plaque during a Truist Park ceremony before a recent Atlanta Braves game against the New York Mets. The statue’s creation was made possible through a generous gift from supporters Jane and Bob Crotty, with the guidance and approval of Aaron’s widow, Billye. The statue will debut during the Hall of Fame Classic celebration over Memorial Day Weekend, coinciding with the May 25 Legends game featuring numerous former big leaguers at Cooperstown’s Doubleday Field.

“Henry would be as thrilled as I am to see his statue at the National Baseball Hall of Fame,” expressed Billye Aaron. “His life embodied hope and perseverance, inspiring generations to pursue their dreams despite obstacles. This tribute is a testament to his love for the game and his desire to inspire young boys and girls everywhere.”

The National Baseball Hall of Fame and Museum has remained dedicated to preserving Aaron’s legacy, including the exhibit “Hank Aaron: Chasing the Dream,” unveiled in 2009. Additionally, Aaron pledged his entire personal collection to the Museum in 2010, with many artifacts now on loan to various exhibitions, including the one at the Atlanta History Center.

The U.S. Postal Service announced that it will issue a commemorative Forever stamp to celebrate Aaron’s life and career further. The stamp art will feature a digital painting of Aaron as a member of the Braves, with the selvage showcasing him watching the ball he had just hit for his record-breaking 715th home run on April 8, 1974.

USPS said in a statement, “The selvage showcases a digital painting of Aaron watching the ball he had just hit for his record-breaking 715th home run on April 8, 1974.”

This article was originally published by NNPA Newswire.

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By Stacy M. Brown, NNPA Newswire

AT&T, the telecommunications giant, recently revealed a significant breach that has exposed the sensitive information of millions of its current and former customers. The breach, discovered on the dark web, has potentially compromised data, including Social Security numbers and passcodes, affecting around 7.6 million current account holders and a staggering 65.4 million former account holders.

In a statement, the Dallas-based company expressed concern over the breach and its magnitude while highlighting the uncertainty surrounding the origin of the leaked data. Whether the data was sourced from AT&T itself or one of its vendors remains unclear, prompting the company to initiate a thorough investigation.

The compromised information, dating back to 2019 or earlier, encompasses a wide array of personal data, including full names, email addresses, mailing addresses, phone numbers, dates of birth, and AT&T account numbers. However, AT&T has assured customers that financial information and call histories remain untouched.

For individuals anxious about the security of their data, AT&T has assured them that affected customers will receive direct communication via email or letters. These notifications began rolling out on March 30, confirmed by an AT&T spokesperson.

AT&T has taken immediate action in response to the breach, resetting passcodes for current users and pledging to cover credit monitoring services where applicable. Additionally, the company has launched a comprehensive investigation, leveraging internal expertise and external cybersecurity professionals to delve into the breach’s origins and extent.

The recent breach isn’t the first time AT&T has faced such a cybersecurity challenge. Cybersecurity researcher Troy Hunt highlighted similarities between this breach and a previous one in 2021, which AT&T allegedly failed to acknowledge. The resemblance raises questions about the telecom giant’s handling of data breaches and could expose it to legal repercussions, including class-action lawsuits.

AT&T urges customers to adopt stringent security measures, such as creating complex passwords and enabling multifactor authentication, in light of the breach. Additionally, vigilance against phishing attempts, especially following breach notifications, is crucial. The Federal Trade Commission recommends leveraging free credit freezes and fraud alerts provided by nationwide credit bureaus to mitigate identity theft risks.

In tandem with this breach revelation, AT&T faces legal challenges on another front. In 2021, the District of Columbia sued AT&T for allegedly overcharging for cell phone and internet services, citing breaches of contract and violations of the False Claims Act. 

This article was originally published by NNPA Newswire.

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By Stacy M. Brown,
NNPA Newswire

Once upon a time, Black Americans were simply known as “colored people,” or “Negroes.” That is until Ramona Edelin came along. The activist, renowned for her pivotal roles in advancing civil rights, education reform and community empowerment, died at her D.C. residence last month at the age of 78. Her death, finally confirmed this week by Barnaby Towns, a communications strategist who collaborated with Edelin, was attributed to cancer.

Born on Sep. 4, 1945, in Los Angeles, Calif., Edelin’s early years were marked by a commitment to education and social justice. According to her History Makers biography, after graduating from Fisk University with a Bachelor’s degree in 1967, she pursued further studies at the University of East Anglia in England. She earned her master’s degree before completing her Ph.D. at Boston University in 1981.

Edelin’s contributions to academia and activism were manifold. She was pivotal in popularizing the term “African American” alongside Rev. Jesse L. Jackson in the late 1980s. 

Jackson had announced the preference for “African American,” speaking for a group of summit organizers which included Edelin. “Just as we were called Colored, but were not that, and then Negro, but not that, to be called Black is just as baseless,” he said, adding that “African American” “has cultural integrity” and “puts us in our proper historical context.”  

Later, Edelin told Ebony magazine, “Calling ourselves African Americans is the first step in the cultural offensive,” while linking the name change to a “cultural renaissance” in which Black Americans reconnected with their history and heritage.

“Who are we if we don’t acknowledge our motherland?” she asked later. “When a child in a ghetto calls himself African American, immediately he’s international. You’ve taken him from the ghetto and put him on the globe.”

The History Makers bio noted that Edelin’s academic pursuits led her to found and chair the Department of African American Studies at Northeastern University, where she established herself as a leading voice.

Transitioning from academia to advocacy, Edelin joined the National Urban Coalition in 1977, eventually ascending to president and CEO. During her tenure, she spearheaded initiatives such as the “Say Yes to a Youngster’s Future” program, which provided crucial support in math, science, and technology to youth and teachers of color in urban areas. Her biography noted that Edelin’s efforts extended nationwide through partnerships with organizations like the National Science Foundation and the United States Department of Education.

President Bill Clinton recognized Edelin’s expertise by appointing her to the Presidential Board on Historically Black Colleges and Universities in 1998. She also co-founded and served as treasurer of the Black Leadership Forum, solidifying her standing as a respected leader in African American communities.

Beyond her professional achievements, Edelin dedicated herself to numerous boards and committees, including chairing the District of Columbia Educational Goals 2000 Panel and contributing to the Federal Advisory Committee for the Black Community Crusade for Children.

Throughout her life, Edelin received widespread recognition for her contributions. Ebony magazine honored her as one of the 100 Most Influential Black Americans, and she received prestigious awards such as the Southern Christian Leadership Award for Progressive Leadership and the IBM Community Executive Program Award.

This article was originally published by NNPA Newswire. 

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By Stacy M. Brown
NNPA Newswire Senior National Correspondent
@StacyBrownMedia

(NNPA NEWSWIRE) – Washington, D.C. Mayor Muriel Bowser’s proposed budget and legislative initiatives could have significant implications for Black and minority residents, particularly  youth. Some say it’s hurtful that an African-American mayor in a district once heralded as “Chocolate City” would launch such initiatives. Here’s a look at how these measures might affect them, along with potential solutions.

Elimination of Early Childhood Educator Pay Equity Fund

The proposed elimination of the Early Childhood Educator Pay Equity Fund, which provides stipends to caregivers and daycare teachers, could adversely impact Black and minority workers in the early childhood education sector and exacerbate existing inequalities in pay and employment opportunities within the workforce.  According to the nonprofit Under 3 DC, with the current budget, child care challenges for parents of infants and toddlers lead to negative employment impacts that cost the District $8,100 per parent annually or $252 million aggregated across all similar D.C. parents. The annual cost to businesses for each parent is $2,540, or $79 million aggregated across D.C. parents.

“The mayor’s budget takes an ax to the transformative investments—like the Pay Equity Fund—that D.C. has invested in in recent years, prioritizing the wealthy business sector and police force over investments in D.C. residents struggling to get by,” said Tazra Mitchell of the DC Fiscal Policy Institute.  “Eliminating the Pay Equity Fund and gutting the child care subsidy program will decimate the early education sector.” 

Mitchell continued: “Not only does the mayor’s approach undermine her purported ‘economic comeback’ vision, it backtracks on D.C.’s commitment to Black and brown educators fueling a sector that all other business sectors rely on. Her approach will set back the progress that DC has made on poverty reduction, greater economic inclusion, and closing racial and gender disparities that harm us all.”

Tax hikes

Proposed tax hikes may impose further financial burdens on low-income Black and minority families, potentially widening economic disparities and hindering their ability to access essential services and resources. Despite being called a budget of “shared sacrifice,” critics said Bowser’s proposed fiscal year 2025 budget and financial plan takes an ax to transformative investments in residents who struggle to get by – like the Pay Equity Fund, “baby bonds” program, and the D.C. Earned Income Tax Credit – while prioritizing the wealthiest businesses.

The budget also raises the sales tax, which disproportionately affects residents with low and moderate incomes who spend every dollar they earn to get by. As is, the proposed budget will set back the progress that D.C. has made on poverty reduction, greater economic inclusion and shared prosperity.

“People are DC’s economic engine—not any one neighborhood,” said Erica Williams, executive director of the DC Fiscal Policy Institute. “Prioritizing public investments that support D.C.’s most-in-need children, workers, families, and businesses, as we have over the last few years, is critical to growing the strength and resilience of our economy.

Legislation on youth prosecution and truancy

Bowser’s legislative proposal to increase prosecution of children and teens who commit certain crimes and address truancy cases has drawn criticism from advocates and attorneys. Restricting prosecutors from using plea agreements and banning diversion programs for youth facing gun charges could disproportionately impact Black and minority youth, contributing to the perpetuation of systemic inequalities within the criminal justice system.

“We’re concerned this bill will increase the incarceration of young people and is really relying on practices that we know are not effective for addressing truancy,” said Kaitlin Banner, deputy legal director for the Washington Lawyers’ Committee for Civil Rights and Urban Affairs. 

“We know the leading causes of truancy in D.C. and nationwide are students who are not in stable housing, students who are homeless, students with disabilities who don’t have access to the accommodations and services they need in school,” Banner said. “We want to make sure that the programs that address those root causes are funded robustly in this budget.

Effectiveness of legal consequences

Most experts point to research which suggests that imposing more legal consequences on children and teens may not effectively address underlying issues such as violence and truancy. Instead, such punitive measures could potentially exacerbate recidivism rates and fail to address the root causes of youth-related challenges. 

“These proposed cuts would have a severe impact on Legal Aid DC’s ability to provide legal services to low-income residents at a time when we are seeing more and more residents come to us for assistance,” said Vikram Swaruup, executive director of Legal Aid DC, in a statement.

“Every resident should be able to access legal services that help them stay in their home, put food on the table or keep their family safe,” he added. “Unfortunately, these cuts are just one piece of a larger budget that is balanced on the backs of low-income Black and Brown residents. Legal Aid DC has dramatically expanded its services to our neighbors over the last year, and the mayor’s proposed cuts each year jeopardize the significant progress we’ve made in closing the access to justice gap.”

Past truancy initiatives

The Office of the Attorney General’s approach to truancy has emphasized alternative responses to prosecution. However, insufficient information from schools and logistical barriers have hindered the effectiveness of these efforts in addressing truancy rates among Black and minority students.

“Shared sacrifices cannot just be disproportionately by lower-income residents or small businesses,” said At-Large Councilmember  Kenyan R. McDuffie. 

Added At-Large Councilmember Christina Henderson, “I do disagree with this ‘shared sacrifice’ part because it feels like we’re proposing to balance this budget on the backs of Black and brown women.”

“Budgets are about choices and the choice to cut early childhood education and other critical services in the district budget is not a fair choice, it’s not a moral choice and it’s not a choice about how we make a stronger recovery,” said Joanna Blotner, the D.C. Action director of government affairs.

Several stakeholders suggest solutions and alternative approaches like prioritizing community-based interventions, including mentorship programs, mental health support services, and restorative justice initiatives, may offer more effective and equitable solutions to addressing youth-related challenges.

Additionally, advocates said redirecting resources toward education and youth development programs, particularly those serving Black and minority communities, could help mitigate the adverse effects of budget cuts and promote positive outcomes for young residents. And, engaging community stakeholders, including advocates, educators, and youth themselves, in the development and implementation of policies and programs is essential for ensuring that solutions are responsive to the needs and experiences of Black and minority youth in D.C.

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By Stacy M. Brown,
NNPA Newswire

In a precursor to what life will be like under another administration led by the four-times indicted, twice-impeached former President Donald Trump, House Republicans have put forward a budget proposal that directly contradicts those goals and threatens the health, livelihood, and viability of many American citizens – particularly seniors and those in need of health insurance coverage.

Just weeks after President Joe Biden’s State of the Union address, where he emphasized a vision for economic fairness for the middle class, the Republican Study Committee, representing most of the House GOP, has unveiled a plan that slashes Medicare, Social Security, and the Affordable Care Act (ACA) while favoring tax cuts for the wealthy.

Biden has vowed to oppose any attempts to cut Social Security or Medicare, promising to protect those vital programs in his recent address at the Capitol. “The president has kept his word by standing against the new House Republican budget, which he believes would harm hardworking families,” the White House said in a Fact Sheet released on March 21.

The Republican plan proposes cuts to Medicare and Social Security and aims to increase prescription drug, energy, and housing costs while providing tax breaks for the affluent. One notable aspect of the proposal is the intention to raise the Social Security retirement age, which has drawn criticism from many quarters.

According to the budget details, it calls for substantial cuts to Social Security amounting to over $1.5 trillion, including proposals to increase the retirement age to 69 and reduce disability benefits. Additionally, Medicare would face increased costs for seniors as the plan seeks to eliminate Medicare’s ability to negotiate prescription drug prices and repeal provisions of the Inflation Reduction Act, such as the $35 insulin cap and the $2,000 out-of-pocket limit.

Moreover, the proposed budget targets Medicaid, ACA and the Children’s Health Insurance Program with cuts totaling $4.5 trillion over ten years, potentially leaving millions without access to essential healthcare services. “These measures risk returning to a time when individuals could be denied coverage due to pre-existing conditions or charged exorbitant premiums,” the White House noted.

Critics have argued that the Republican budget heavily favors the wealthy and large corporations, with over $5.5 trillion in tax cuts directed toward these entities. The plan includes provisions to extend tax cuts from the Trump era, eliminate taxes on billion-dollar corporations, and provide substantial tax breaks for billionaire investors.

Further, the budget is being criticized for its potential adverse effects on job creation and investment, particularly in clean energy sectors, and for dismantling consumer protections such as those provided by the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau.

House Republicans’ proposed budget has ignited a contentious debate over the future direction of economic policy in the United States. While proponents argue for fiscal responsibility and reduced government spending, opponents fear that the proposed cuts would disproportionately impact middle- and lower-income families while further enriching the wealthiest individuals and corporations. The coming weeks will likely see intense negotiations and deliberations as lawmakers grapple with these competing visions for the nation’s economic future.

“President Biden has a different vision for how we move into the future: make the wealthy, big corporations, and special interests pay their fair share while protecting and strengthening Medicare and Social Security,” the White House stated. “Extending the Affordable Care Act tax credits, he delivered lower health care costs and cover more Americans than any time in history. Making the economy work for the middle class by investing in America and the industries of the future, while lowering key costs that working families face. And expanding Medicare’s ability to negotiate lower drug costs.”

This article was originally published by NNPA Newswire.

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By Stacy M. Brown
NNPA Newswire Senior National Correspondent
@StacyBrownMedia

(NNPA NEWSWIRE) – In a powerful ode to womanhood, MC Lyte, the mogul, voice-over artist and hip-hop legend, is dropping her latest single, “Woman.” The track collaborates with fellow hip-hop pioneers Salt from Salt-N-Pepa, Big Daddy Kane and R&B crooner Raheem DeVaughn. Produced by Warryn Campbell, “Woman” is a bold and lyrical celebration of women across the globe.

The single, a joint venture between My Block Inc. and Sunny Girl Inc., with distribution by Vydia, promises to uplift and inspire all women. Lyte, known for her groundbreaking career spanning over 30 years, was the first female rapper nominated for a Grammy Award and the first rap artist to perform at Carnegie Hall.

“We were in a studio – me, Kane, Raheem with Warryn Campbell – and the music was already done,” Lyte told the NNPA Newswire. “We were listening to it, trying to assess what might happen. Raheem went into the booth and started singing ‘woman,’ and just hearing that, I was like, ‘This is an ode to women.’”

Lyte noted how she often speaks about her experience, and contemplates how everyone can celebrate women, particularly sending a message to individuals of color that their struggle isn’t in vain. 

“My greatest hope is the acknowledgement of what has been and what has gotten us here,” Lyte said.

“Generally speaking, women are taking back their power,” she added. “There are many women who sit in their power and have the ability to nurture and empower others, but there’s so many others who have yet to understand that they can claim their power back, whether it’s through a domestic violence scenario, starting their own business, empowering young people in their community or realizing it takes a village. I want to give admiration and gratitude to those women who really are superwomen. They lead businesses, they lead families along with their husbands and sometimes alone, they have sisterhoods that are strong and they’ve been able to provide support to other women.”

Apart from her illustrious music career, Lyte has left her mark as a prolific actress, with roles in television series like “New York Undercover,” “SWAT,” “Power” and “Queen of the South.” Her film credits include titles like “Patti Cake$,” “Girls Trip” and “Bad Hair.” When the New York Knicks City Dancers perform at home games in the World’s Most Famous Arena, she’s the voice introducing the troop to spectators at Madison Square Garden.

Beyond her artistic endeavors, Lyte is a philanthropist, motivational speaker and author. She founded the Hip Hop Sisters Foundation, presenting over $1 million in scholarships. She’s also served as a U.S. ambassador for the Thurgood Marshall College Fund, focusing on youth empowerment. And she worked with students in the National Newspaper Publishers Association (NNPA) and Chevrolet’s college fellowship and scholarship program, Discover the Unexpected.

Lyte’s influence includes being a vocal advocate for women in hip-hop and beyond. Her commitment to artistic integrity and empowering female artists remains at the forefront of her work.

With her new single, “Woman,” Lyte continues pushing boundaries and inspiring audiences worldwide with her timeless message of empowerment and resilience. “Woman” shows that Lyte’s impact remains as potent as ever, solidifying her as a true icon of hip-hop and women’s empowerment.

“Hip-hop in my era, and that prior to me, was all about leadership, stepping out in the world, having a global experience, bringing it back to the community, and taking stories from our communities and spreading it worldwide,” Lyte said. “The world, not just hip hop, has taken a backseat to holding the torch of being a positive influence and how much that matters to our community. I think it is not just entertainment, television, film, or music, but in general, it has been folks’ kind of separate, not realizing we’re much stronger together as a unit.

“Because of that, things have gone awry; kids are not respecting authority, not just their parents. We need to bring back a reason for that respect, a reason for them to live and a longing to be successful. Some are not shooting for the stars, just not caring to rise above. It’s not all, but I know there are certain people who can benefit from some inspiration and loving guidance. Strength, courage, and wisdom, the words of India.Arie, in that order, seeing who you are, reclaiming your power, and reminding others of how much respect is due to the woman of color.”

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By Stacy M. Brown
NNPA Newswire Senior National Correspondent
@StacyBrownMedia

(NNPA NEWSWIRE) – A coalition of advocacy groups is urging the U.S. Department of Transportation (DOT) to address racial bias in traffic enforcement, citing concerns over its ineffectiveness and disproportionate impact on Black motorists.

In a recent report co-authored by the Center for American Progress, the Vera Institute of Justice and Color of Change, it’s revealed that despite roughly 20 million traffic stops occurring annually in the United States, Black drivers are more likely to be stopped and searched, especially for minor infractions, which continues to raise grave concerns about racial profiling and the safety of African American motorists.

The coalition’s report presents several recommendations to incentivize reforms at the state and local levels.

“To honor Tyre Nichols and so many others who have been surveilled, harassed, and, too often, killed while doing something as simple as driving while Black, DOT must take swift, public action to consider and adopt policies that advance safety and equity on our nation’s roadways,” said Patrick Gaspard, president, and CEO of the Center for American Progress.

Nick Turner, president and director of the Vera Institute of Justice, added that routine traffic enforcement doesn’t make people safer. “It makes many communities feel less secure,” said Turner, who urged the DOT to support state and local innovations that reduce police involvement in minor traffic infractions.

Rashad Robinson, president of Color of Change, also emphasized the need for increased support for national research to bridge existing studies with emerging approaches. “DOT must take seriously the recommendations provided and take actionable steps to prioritize alternative traffic enforcement practices for traffic safety,” Robinson said.

Moreover, the coalition’s report criticized the DOT’s current Equity Action Plan for its failure to address specific goals related to reducing racially biased police traffic enforcement.

The report noted that his administration has championed a “whole-of-government equity agenda since President Joe Biden’s inauguration.” They pointed out that the DOT has taken up the mantle by establishing its Equity Action Plan, centered around wealth creation, power of community, proactive intervention, planning and capacity building, expanding access, and institutionalizing equity. “While these pillars are broad in concept, nowhere does the action plan specifically reference equity goals related to police traffic enforcement—or even enforcement more generally,” the report’s authors declared.

“This glaring omission calls into question the level of priority and intentionality being dedicated to addressing this critical issue, which affects the safety of Black drivers and other drivers of color. DOT should include more explicit equity goals related to reducing racially biased police traffic enforcement of minor violations.”

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By Stacy M. Brown,
NNPA Newswire

Amidst escalating turmoil in Haiti, a recent exodus of U.S. citizens fleeing the violence underscores broader concerns about the humanitarian crisis unfolding in the Caribbean nation. As conflict rages on in regions like the Middle East and Eastern Europe, voices like Dr. Benjamin F. Chavis Jr., president of the National Newspaper Publishers Association, emphasize the need for global attention to the suffering of people worldwide, including those in Haiti.

“A lot of people are concerned about the suffering that’s going on in the Middle East, and they should be concerned,” noted Dr. Chavis Jr. in his State of the Black Press Address at the National Press Club. “But I’m also concerned. I don’t hear a word about the suffering in Africa, where millions of people are being killed in the Congo. I don’t hear a word about… what’s going on in Haiti.”

Against this backdrop, a charter flight carrying more than 30 U.S. citizens seeking refuge from the spiraling gang violence in Haiti touched down in Miami on March 17, according to U.S. State Department officials. The evacuation came amid escalating chaos in Haiti, where gang attacks, looting of aid supplies, and widespread violence reportedly have pushed the nation to the brink of famine.

The situation in Haiti has been deteriorating for over a year, with the recent chaos culminating in a pivotal moment on Monday night. Haiti’s embattled Prime Minister, Ariel Henry, agreed to step down once a transitional government is established through negotiations involving regional powers and stakeholders, including the United States.

However, concerns persist over the legitimacy and effectiveness of such interventions, as many argue that Haitians themselves must drive actual solutions. A Haitian-led interim government with oversight committees tasked with restoring order, battling corruption, and facilitating fair elections is what the proposed “Montana Accord,” which has the support of various Haitian stakeholders, seeks to establish.

Meanwhile, armed groups, including paramilitary factions and former police officers, have seized control of large swathes of the capital, Port-au-Prince, perpetuating a cycle of violence and instability. The United Nations estimates that at least 80 percent of the capital is now under the control of these armed groups, exacerbating the humanitarian crisis and displacing thousands of residents.

As Haiti grapples with the convergence of manufactured and natural disasters, including the lingering effects of the 2010 earthquake, hurricanes, and floods, the plight of its people demands urgent attention and concerted action from the international community.

“It’s the Haitian people who know what they’re going through. It’s the Haitian people who are going to take destiny into their own hands,” Jimmy Chérizier — also known as “Barbecue,” told the Associated Press. “Haitian people will choose who will govern them.”  

This article was originally published by NNPA Newswire.

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By Stacy M. Brown,
NNPA Newswire Senior National Correspondent

(NNPA NEWSWIRE) – In a stirring celebration of 197 years of unwavering advocacy, the National Newspaper Publishers Association (NNPA) convened in Washington, D.C., for Black Press Week to celebrate the March 16, 1827 founding of Freedom’s Journal, the first Black-owned publication in the U.S. This year’s observance, which featured the NNPA’s annual Board of Directors meeting and a visit to the White House, resonated with the theme “Getting Out the Black Vote.”

The NNPA is the trade association of the more than 250 African American-owned newspapers and media companies that comprise the Black Press of America. While six new publishers were accepted for membership, the week of activities included the Black Press Archives and Gallery of Distinguished Newspaper Publishers enshrinement ceremony, a visit down memory lane, and the State of the Black Press Luncheon at the National Press Club.

One of the highlights of the events was the NNPA’s partnership with Howard University.  At the school’s Moorland-Spingarn Research Center, African drummers led a procession into the Founders Library for a ceremony to enshrine Zora Neale Hurston in the Gallery of Distinguished Black Publishers.  A journalist, author and folklorist, Hurston helped publish the inaugural issue of Howard University’s newspaper in 1924 and joined the Howard Literary Club. Among other accolades, Hurston was counted as one of the preeminent writers of 20th-century African American literature.

During the week, guests were treated to a fascinating discussion and tour of Howard University’s Black Press Archives Digitization Project. Senior project manager Brandon Nightingale illuminated the painstaking process of digitizing over 2,000 newspaper titles, preserving the Black experience for future generations.

At the heart of the week’s observance was the State of the Black Press Luncheon, held at the prestigious National Press Club. The event opened with a compelling video montage tracing the civil rights struggle, and setting the stage for impassioned speeches and reflections, including a video tribute from South Carolina Democratic Congressman James Clyburn.

Longtime aide to the Rev. Jesse Jackson Sr., Shelly Davis, and White House Director of Black Media Rodericka Applewhaite were among those in attendance. Applewhaite led publishers to the White House for a special gathering.

The week received widespread support from partners and sponsors, including Reynolds, Pfizer, the Google News Initiative, the American Petroleum Institute, Comcast NBC Universal, Diageo, Nissan, Hyundai, General Motors, T-Mobile and AARP. Their collective commitment to social responsibility underscored the importance of collaboration in advancing the cause of justice and equity.

Benjamin Talton, director of the Moorland-Spingarn Research Center, paid homage to the resilience of Black publishers, while the Rev. Mark Thompson, serving as the master of ceremonies, skillfully guided the proceedings, where guests also heard remarks from AFRO Publisher Frances Toni Draper and NNPA Chairman Bobby Henry. The keynote address by NNPA President and CEO Dr. Benjamin F. Chavis Jr. stirred the audience to its core.

“Our cause is to publish and speak truth to power,” declared Chavis, his words resonating with conviction and urgency. “We will not bow down to the reappearance of the flags of the Confederacy or the flags of Nazism, racism or anti-Semitism.”

Chavis urged Black publishers and citizens to seize the power of the vote as a tool for change. “Our cause and purpose are to work hard and get the vote out in America,” he said, echoing the sentiments of generations past who fought tirelessly for justice and equality.

“I get emotional when I think about all of our people who swung from trees, and people today dare to talk about swing states,” said Chavis, now in his 11th year as NNPA’s president and CEO. “We’ve been swinging from trees, we’ve been swinging from branches, trying to get equality, freedom, and justice, not just for ourselves but for all of God’s people.”

Chavis surprised the gathering by breaking the news that an original NNPA book about the Transatlantic Slave Trade is scheduled for release on June 19, and Select Books Inc., has provided an exclusive NNPA-Black Press of America imprint.

“Our cause and purpose are to work together for our people’s continued liberation and advancement,” Chavis continued. “I’m concerned about the suffering going on in the Middle East, but I don’t hear a word about suffering in Africa or about the millions of people who have died in the Congo. We’ve been so conditioned–not necessarily to accept our suffering but conditioned to see our suffering as normal. The Black Press must call out the abnormality; we must call out those things that are not right. Our cause and purpose are to work hard and get the vote out in America.”

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By Stacy M. Brown
NNPA Newswire Senior National Correspondent

(NNPA NEWSWIRE) – With the observance of Women’s History Month in full swing, the music world has finally begun to recognize female artists’ vast contributions.

The latest report from the USC Annenberg Inclusion Initiative reflected on the strides forward and the persistent obstacles women professionals in the music industry face.

The USC Annenberg Inclusion Initiative and associate professor of communication Stacy L. Smith conducted the study, which included 1,200 songs from the Billboard Hot 100 Year-End Charts and provided a detailed analysis spanning 12 years. Its scope encompassed the roles of artists, songwriters and producers while delving into Grammy Award nominations across six major categories.

The study’s findings painted a nuanced picture of progress and disparities within the industry. Notably, there has been a marked increase in the representation of women artists, reaching a 12-year high of 35 percent. Researchers said this surge, particularly evident in the rise of individual female artists claiming over 40 percent of spots on the Billboard Hot 100 Year-End Chart in 2023, signaled a positive shift. 

However, despite the gains, the study authors noted that it’s crucial to recognize that women still occupy less than a quarter of artist roles overall, underscoring the need for sustained efforts toward greater inclusivity.

Behind the scenes, there have also been advancements. The study revealed a significant rise in the percentage of female songwriters, climbing from 14.1 percent to 19.5 percent in 2023. The increase is largely attributed to the contributions of women of color. Similarly, while the number of women producers reached a modest high, significant challenges remain in achieving equitable representation in these roles.

The study’s key findings center on the crucial role that women of color have played in advancing change within the sector. Accounting for a staggering 65 percent of female artists on the charts in 2023 and making significant gains in songwriting roles, women of color have been instrumental in shaping the industry’s trajectory. Jay-Z’s Grammy speech, in which he questioned why his wife, Beyonce hadn’t won Album of the Year honors despite being arguably the most successful female music star in history, underscored the lack of recognition for women, particularly in prestigious award nominations.

The study authors wrote that efforts such as “She Is The Music,” “Spotify Equal” and “Girls Make Beats” have been crucial in fostering inclusivity and providing platforms for women, including women of color, to showcase their talent. However, they said there remains a need for collective action to dismantle systemic barriers and biases that hinder women’s progress, particularly those from marginalized communities.

“As the industry continues to evolve, it must strive to amplify women’s voices, focusing on women of color and ensuring that diversity and representation remain at the forefront of its agenda,” the authors concluded. “Only then can the industry truly reflect the richness and diversity of talent within its ranks and pave the way for a more inclusive future.”

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By Stacy M. Brown, NNPA Newswire

President Joe Biden and his twice-impeached and four-times indicted predecessor, Donald Trump, emerged victorious on Super Tuesday, wrapping up their respective party nominations and setting up a rematch of the volatile 2020 election.

More than a dozen states participated in primaries and caucuses on March 5, constituting the most significant nominating race day, and shifting the focus from the one-by-one march through early-voting states.

Despite signs of potential weaknesses in their election strategies, both Biden and Trump faced challenges. Numerous progressives, reportedly disillusioned with Biden, opted for the “uncommitted” option in places like Minnesota and Michigan, while college-educated suburbanites leaned towards alternatives to Trump. While the 15 states in contention didn’t officially provide Trump with enough delegates to secure the GOP nomination for a third consecutive time, he closed the gap, leaving little room for his main rival, Nikki Haley, who suspended her campaign the morning after. Haley and Biden earned victories in the District of Columbia’s primaries held the Sunday before Super Tuesday.

The latest delegate estimate revealed Trump’s substantial gain of 617 delegates on Tuesday, propelling his overall count to 893, or 92 percent of those awarded, putting him on the brink of the 1,215 delegates required for clinching the GOP nomination. In contrast, Haley lagged significantly with only 66 delegates.

“They call it Super Tuesday for a reason,” declared Trump, whom a civil jury twice sanctioned for sexually assaulting a writer and a New York judge found guilty of massive business fraud. “This is a big one,” continued Trump, who was ordered to pay nearly $500 million for his New York crimes and $90 million for the sexual assault guilty finding. “And they tell me, the pundits and otherwise, that there’s never been one like this.”

Despite facing challenging headlines and low approval ratings, Biden maintained his dominance on Super Tuesday, securing approximately 80 percent of the vote, while Trump struggled to reach that threshold. Although Haley posed a more formidable challenge, Biden retained solid support from his party’s rank-and-file.

Looking ahead to the general election in November, Trump faces potential headwinds like those he encounters now, including four criminal trials that could potentially land him an 800-year prison sentence. Conversely, Biden has room to win over intra-party detractors, especially those critical of his handling of Israel’s conflict in Gaza, where the administration has increased its call for a ceasefire.  

Meanwhile, in California, the battle for the U.S. Senate seat left vacant after Dianne Feinstein’s death intensified. Rep. Adam Schiff will face former baseball star Steve Garvey, a Republican and Trump supporter. Garvey secured a spot in the top two alongside Democrat Schiff, outpacing Democratic Reps. Barbara Lee and Katie Porter. Sen. Laphonza Butler, appointed after Feinstein’s demise, had earlier pledged not to run for the seat in 2024.  

“We have a clear path to victory,” Biden’s campaign said in a memo circulated late Tuesday. “A significant share of moderate and Haley voters across the country are saying that Trump cannot count on their votes in a general election. The November election will be a very close general election contest like all modern presidential elections are… but, we have a clear path to victory.”

This article was originally published by NNPA Newswire.

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By Stacy M. Brown
NNPA Newswire Senior National Correspondent
@StacyBrownMedia

(NNPA NEWSWIRE) – In a move towards easing the financial burden on working families, Vice President Kamala Harris recently unveiled a comprehensive set of measures to lower child care costs and provide crucial support for early educators. 

The White House noted in a Fact Sheet that the initiative aligns closely with President Biden’s historic executive order on care. The White House said the Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) finalized a rule that bolsters the Childcare & Development Block Grant (CCDBG) program, a cornerstone for child care assistance benefiting over a million families monthly.

Under the new rule, families participating in CCDBG will now face a cap on co-payments, limiting them to no more than 7 percent of their income. Administration officials asserted that the move is expected to alleviate the significant financial strain that high co-payments have placed on working families, particularly those with low incomes. The HHS projects that more than 100,000 families will see their co-payments reduced or eliminated due to these reforms.

Moreover, the rule urges states to eliminate co-payments entirely for families facing specific challenges, such as those with disabilities, experiencing homelessness, in foster care, in Head Start, and families at or below 150 percent of the federal poverty level. 

Financial relief is not limited to families alone. Officials said the rule also addresses the challenges faced by childcare providers. States must now pay CCDBG providers more fairly and on time, which is designed to improve financial stability for approximately 140,000 child care providers. This change is anticipated to incentivize more providers to participate in the CCDBG program, leading to a broader range of childcare options for families.

Additionally, the rule seeks to streamline access to CCDBG subsidies by encouraging states to adopt online applications for enrollment, which reduces the paperwork burdens currently faced by families, with nearly one-third of states still relying on paper applications for childcare assistance. Further, the new rule promotes adopting presumptive eligibility policies, allowing families to receive temporary and immediate financial assistance for child care while their eligibility for the program is determined and verified. Currently, only six states offer presumptive eligibility to families.

Administration officials said the comprehensive reforms underscore the Biden-Harris team’s commitment to addressing working families’ pressing challenges, making quality child care more accessible and affordable for all. 

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By Stacy M. Brown
NNPA Newswire Senior National Correspondent
@StacyBrownMedia

(NNPA NEWSWIRE) – In a press briefing on Feb. 29, U.S. Senate leaders alongside civil rights advocates announced the reintroduction of S.4, the John R. Lewis Voting Rights Advancement Act, aimed at safeguarding voting rights and fortifying the nation’s democratic foundations.

According to Senate Majority Whip Dick Durbin (D-Ill.), the Senate Judiciary Committee will hold a hearing on March 12 to discuss the growing threats to voting rights and the need for federal voting safeguards.

The leaders said as the nation reflects on the sacrifices of civil rights champions like the late Rep. John Lewis, the call resounds for every member of Congress to endorse pivotal democracy bills, including the John R. Lewis Voting Rights Advancement Act, the Freedom to Vote Act, and the Native American Voting Rights Act, ahead of the 59th anniversary of Bloody Sunday on March 7.

“This year’s presidential election will be the first since Republican-led state legislatures passed a wave of restrictive voting laws,” Durbin remarked. “As members of Congress, we have an obligation to defend our democracy against these attacks on our fundamental right to vote.”

Majority Leader Chuck Schumer of New York emphasized what he called the vital role of a robust democratic foundation. “To make real progress on the issues we care about, the foundation of democracy must be strong,” Schumer said. “The hard right is trying to cut those efforts off at the knees, making it harder for people to participate in democracy and be represented.”

Georgia senator the Rev. Raphael Warnock underscored the legislation’s importance in preserving democracy. “Let’s protect the sacred right. We’ve got to get this done in the spirit and in the name of John Lewis, and because our democracy itself is at stake,” Warnock said.

Maya Wiley, president and CEO of The Leadership Conference, emphasized the non-partisan nature of the cause. “This is not about partisanship; this is about people having power. That is why we need the John Lewis Voting Rights Advancement Act,” Wiley said.

Others from various civil rights organizations also weighed in, with John C. Yang of Asian Americans Advancing Justice (AAJC) urging Congress to support the change, and Damon Hewitt of the Lawyers’ Committee for Civil Rights Under Law stressing the need for a democracy that works for everyone.

“Voters are demanding better from their representatives, and the John Lewis Voting Rights Advancement Act must be the response,” added Deirdre Schifeling, chief political and advocacy officer of ACLU.

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By Stacy M. Brown,
NNPA Newswire

In a significant move to alleviate the burden of student debt, the Biden administration revealed on Feb 21,  its decision to automatically forgive $1.2 billion in student loans for 153,000 borrowers. Those eligible for debt relief are individuals enrolled in the saving on a valuable Education (SAVE) repayment plan who have diligently made payments for at least 10 years.

The Department of Education said it would email those who will receive the debt cancellation today, another step in the administration’s ongoing efforts to address the nation’s staggering $1.77 trillion student debt crisis. The announcement comes after the Supreme Court invalidated the administration’s previous plan for widespread student loan forgiveness, which aimed to assist over 40 million borrowers in wiping away up to $20,000 in debt. 

U.S. Secretary of Education Miguel Cardona emphasized the administration’s commitment to providing relief, stating, “If you’ve been paying for a decade, you’ve done your part, and you deserve relief.”

This latest move brings total approved loan relief to nearly 3.9 million borrowers, with a cumulative debt cancellation of almost $138 billion through various executive actions. The 153,000 qualifying borrowers represent the first group to benefit from the SAVE plan policy, which allows debt forgiveness after ten years of repayment for those who borrowed $12,000 or less in student loans.

Originally scheduled for July, the Biden-Harris Administration implemented this provision of the SAVE plan nearly six months ahead of schedule, which the White House said amplified its commitment to delivering swift relief to those who have faithfully repaid their loans.

Under the SAVE plan, borrowers enrolled in the program who have been in repayment for at least a decade and took out $12,000 or less in loans will receive immediate debt relief. The Department of Education identified and notified the nearly 153,000 borrowers enrolled in the SAVE plan who qualify for debt cancellation. Additional outreach will be conducted to encourage eligible borrowers not currently enrolled in SAVE to join the program.

The accelerated timeline for forgiveness is expected to particularly benefit community colleges and other borrowers with smaller loans, propelling them toward freedom from student debt faster than ever before. According to the Biden-Harris Administration, 85 percent of future community college borrowers under the SAVE plan will be debt-free within a decade.

Biden introduced the SAVE plan last year, which offers the most affordable repayment option ever by basing monthly payments on income and family size rather than loan balance. Additionally, the plan ensures that borrowers making monthly payments do not accumulate interest and starting in July, undergraduate loan payments will be halved.

The White House Council of Economic Advisers released an issue brief today, highlighting the potential savings for low- and middle-income borrowers enrolled in SAVE due to interest and principal forgiveness. The Biden-Harris Administration’s track record of canceling student debt now includes nearly 3.9 million Americans receiving almost $138 billion in debt relief through various actions.

“The President remains dedicated to delivering debt relief to as many borrowers as possible, continuing to fight for comprehensive solutions to address student loan debt challenges,” officials stated in a Fact Sheet. “The administration has also taken historic steps to improve the student loan program, including significant increases in Pell Grants and reforms to the Public Service Loan Forgiveness program.” Borrowers interested in enrolling in SAVE can visit studentaid.gov/save for more information.

This article was originally published by NNPA Newswire.

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The twice-impeached and four-times indicted former president is facing 91 felony counts, including racketeering and conspiracy to obstruct justice.

By Stacy M. Brown
NNPA Newswire Senior National Correspondent
@StacyBrownMedia

In a brazen display of political manipulation, former President Donald Trump took to the stage at the Black Conservative Federation Gala in South Carolina, using racially charged rhetoric and shamelessly attempting to forge a connection between his multiple criminal indictments and the historical struggles of Black Americans.

The twice-impeached and four-times indicted former president is facing 91 felony counts, including racketeering and conspiracy to obstruct justice. A New York jury determined that he should pay nearly $90 million for sexually assaulting a journalist. A judge has ordered him to pay about a half-billion in penalties for committing massive business fraud. Yet, Trump boasted about his legal battles, suggesting that the Black community supports him because they identify with the discrimination he claims to face.

“I got indicted a second time, a third time, and a fourth time and a lot of people said that that’s why the Black people like me because they have been hurt so badly and discriminated against,” Trump declared callously, drawing applause from the audience.

Attempting to equate his privileged legal battles with the systemic oppression endured by Black Americans throughout history, Trump asserted, “I think that’s why the Black people are so much on my side now because they see what’s happening to me happens to them. Does that make sense?”

Throughout the evening, Trump continued his disturbing narrative, pointing to his mugshot from the Fulton County election interference case as a symbol embraced by the Black population. 

“My mug shot; we’ve all seen the mug shot. And you know who embraced it more than anybody else? The Black population. It’s incredible,” he remarked, suggesting that African Americans are particularly familiar with mugshots.

In a tasteless attempt at humor, Trump made racially insensitive comments about the brightness of the lights on stage, saying, “These lights are so bright in my eyes that I can’t see too many people out there. But I can only see the Black ones. I can’t see any White ones. You see, that’s how far I’ve come. That’s how far I’ve come.” 

The remarks played into racial stereotypes, leaving some on stage uncomfortably laughing.

Trump’s calculated appearance included Black political allies, such as Reps. Byron Donalds, R-Fla., and Wesley Hunt, R-Texas, as well as former Secretary of Housing and Urban Development Ben Carson. 

The event has ignited widespread condemnation for its blatant attempt to exploit racial tensions and manipulate the struggles of Black Americans for political gain.

The former president’s shameless tactics at the gala underscored a troubling trend of divisive rhetoric and opportunistic exploitation, raising questions about the ethical boundaries of political discourse and the extent to which leaders are willing to go to secure support within specific communities.

“There’s just so much controversy,” Ebony McBeth, a Columbia resident and transportation worker, told the Associated Press. “I would go for Biden just because Trump has his own agenda.”

Isaac Williams Sr., a retired cook from Columbia and a lifelong Democrat, said he disliked both parties but found Trump to “have mobster tendencies.”

“He’s only out for himself.”

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By Stacy M. Brown,
NNPA Newswire Senior National Correspondent,
@StacyBrownMedia

(NNPA NEWSWIRE) – A scathing report released by the Department of Justice (DOJ) Inspector General Michael E. Horowitz unveiled a disturbing pattern of operational and managerial deficiencies within the Federal Bureau of Prisons (BOP), shedding light on the alarming rate of inmate deaths. The report, covering the years FY 2014 through FY 2021, scrutinizes 344 deaths in BOP institutions and points to a multitude of issues, notably suicides, homicides, accidents and a concerning number resulting from unknown factors.

Suicide epidemic: BOP’s alarming shortcomings revealed

Suicides emerged as the predominant cause of death among inmates, constituting over half of the 344 cases investigated. In fact, the report found that despite a significant drop in the overall inmate population, plummeting from 214,149 in 2014 to 144,448 in 2021, the number of suicides within the BOP system surged.

The DOJ Office of the Inspector General (OIG) identified recurring policy violations and operational failures contributing to those deaths. Among the highlighted deficiencies were lapses in staff completion of inmate assessments, inappropriate mental health care level assignments, and the heightened risk associated with single-celled inmates. The report uncovered a lack of coordination among staff departments, hindering the provision of necessary treatment and follow-up for distressed inmates. Furthermore, a glaring oversight revealed that the BOP failed to provide evidence of completing the required mock suicide drills essential for staff readiness. Investigators said 67 out of the 194 BOP facilities were unable to provide evidence of running a single mock suicide drill between 2018 and 2020, violating the required three drills per year, one for each shift.

Insufficient emergency response: BOP staff’s failures exposed

The OIG’s findings underscored significant shortcomings in the BOP’s response to medical emergencies, with almost half of the inmate deaths reviewed reflecting inadequate reactions. From a lack of urgency and unclear radio communications to issues with naloxone administration in opioid overdose cases, the report paints a picture of systemic failures compromising the safety and well-being of inmates.

Information void hinders prevention: BOP’s limited understanding of inmate deaths

A critical revelation emerged regarding the lack of available information about inmate deaths, hampering the BOP’s ability to prevent future fatalities. The report exposed the BOP’s inability to produce required documents following an inmate’s death, limiting their understanding of circumstances leading to deaths and impeding the identification of preventative measures. The OIG also highlighted the absence of in-depth action reviews for inmate homicides or fatalities resulting from accidents and unknown factors, further limiting the BOP’s capacity to learn from these tragic incidents.

Operational challenges: A recipe for disaster

Long-standing operational challenges such as contraband interdiction, staffing shortages, outdated security systems and staff non-compliance with policies were identified as contributing factors in nearly one-third of inmate deaths. The report concluded that chronic understaffing contributed to multiple failures in the BOP. The report also singled out 70 inmates who died from drug overdoses, emphasizing the pressing need for comprehensive reforms to mitigate these risks.

Recommendations for reform: BOP’s pledge to change

The OIG proposed 12 recommendations to address the root causes of inmate deaths. In a rare show of unity, the BOP has pledged to implement all the recommendations, signaling a commitment to rectify these systemic issues, and upholding its duty to ensure inmates’ safe and humane management.

“The report is an urgent call to action. No family should ever have to receive a call that a loved one has died while incarcerated simply because a facility was understaffed, under-resourced or out of compliance with BOP policy,” Inimai Chettiar, deputy director for the Justice Action Network, said in an emailed statement. 

“There is strong bipartisan support for comprehensive oversight of our nation’s prisons, and it is long past time for Congress to enact the kind of transparency and accountability that will prevent deaths like these in the future. We are encouraged by Senator [Dick] Durbin’s prompt commitment to hold a hearing in the wake of the report’s release. Families of the deceased, and those whose sons, daughters, brothers, and sisters are being detained in federal facilities right now deserve immediate attention.”

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By Stacy M. Brown,
NNPA Newswire Senior National Correspondent,
@StacyBrownMedia

(NNPA NEWSWIRE) – More than four years after the tragic death of Elijah McClain, advocates led by Midian Holmes, a friend and supporter of Elijah’s mother, are intensifying their efforts to ensure justice is served. The focus is now on the upcoming sentencing of Emergency Medical Technicians (EMTs) Peter Cichuniec, 51, and Jeremy Cooper, 49, scheduled for March 1, 2024.

McClain, a young Black man, died in 2019 following a police encounter in Aurora, Colorado, which escalated into a chokehold and a severe health emergency. Cichuniec and Cooper were found guilty of criminally negligent homicide, with Cichuniec also convicted of second-degree assault for administering a fatal overdose of ketamine, a potent sedative, during Elijah’s health crisis on the scene.

Holmes, relentless in her pursuit of justice, emphasizes the gravity of the situation: “It’s a pretty horrific situation where police basically stopped this young Black man, [who] ended up in a cop chokehold, went into a health emergency, was injected with a massive dose of the sedative from EMTs, and died.” Holmes and the McClain family advocate for the maximum sentence, viewing it as a crucial step toward accountability.

In an email statement, Holmes urged supporters to join the cause by writing to Judge Mark Warner, the presiding justice in the Adams County Court. A template has been provided, urging the judge to impose the maximum sentence on the convicted EMTs. Holmes asserts, “It’s not a huge amount of time, but we must fight for every measure of justice we can get.”

Holmes and the McClain family have already seen success in their pursuit of justice. Following Elijah’s death, changes were implemented within the Aurora Police Department (APD). In June 2020, the department banned carotid pressure holds, and the circumstances surrounding the case led to a five-year-long consent decree with 68 mandates. A recent report indicates substantial compliance with 31 out of the 68 mandates as of October, two years into the independent review.

At the state level, in July 2021, Gov. Jared Polis signed a bill prohibiting police officers from directing paramedics to administer ketamine. The legislation mandates professionals to weigh individuals before injecting ketamine and bars medical providers from using ketamine to calm someone suspected of criminal behavior.

As the sentencing date approaches, Holmes said the family remains steadfast in their pursuit of justice, hoping to send a powerful message that accountability and reform are crucial components in preventing similar tragedies in the future.

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By Stacy M. Brown,
NNPA Newswire

Tributes continued to pour in for Joe Madison, the talk show host, activist and philanthropist known as “The Black Eagle.” After a lengthy bout with prostate cancer, the popular SiriusXM host died on Feb. 1. He was 74.

Madison’s death comes as America observes the start of Black History Month. Dr. Benjamin F. Chavis Jr., president and CEO of the National Newspaper Publishers Association (NNPA), stated, “On behalf of the National Newspaper Publishers Association, representing the Black press of America, we express our profound condolences to the family of Joe Madison. As a trailblazer and consistent freedom fighter journalist and broadcaster, Joe Madison embodied the essence and courage to speak truth to power.”

President Joe Biden and Vice President Kamala Harris also offered their thoughts. “Whether it was a hunger strike for voting rights or his advocacy for anti-lynching legislation that I was proud to sign in 2022, Joe fought hard against injustice,” Biden stated. Madison aligned his platform with his purpose, Harris added. “Through his decades-long career in radio, he championed the fight for equity and justice. Our nation is better because of his voice.”

According to his official bio, the native of Dayton, Ohio, was an All-Conference running back at Washington University in St. Louis where he was also a baritone soloist in the university choir and a disc jockey at the campus radio station. He earned his bachelor’s degree in sociology, becoming the first person in his family to graduate college.

At age 24, he became the youngest executive director of the NAACP’s Detroit branch before being appointed the organization’s national political director and eventually being elected to the National Board of Directors where he served for 14 years. During his tenure at the NAACP, Madison led hundreds of volunteers on a series of successful voter registration marches, including a cross-country “March for Dignity” from Los Angeles to Baltimore. The marches garnered thousands of signatures for an anti-apartheid bill in Congress.

Madison’s radio career began in 1980 at Detroit’s WXYZ. He continued his broadcast journey to WWDB in Philadelphia, WWRC and WOL in Washington, DC. The popularity of his WOL program led to syndication on the Radio One Talk Network and its XM satellite channel which merged with Sirius to become SiriusXM in 2008. In 2023, Madison celebrated his 15th anniversary with SiriusXM.

In 2015, Madison set the Guinness World Record for the longest on-air broadcast, 52 hours. During the record-breaking show, he raised more than $250,000 for the Smithsonian National Museum of African American History and Culture. Five months later, Madison made history again by broadcasting live from Cuba and becoming the first American radio host to do so in more than 50 years.

In 2021, Madison went on a 73-day hunger strike to encourage passage of voting rights bills. Unbeknownst to his listeners, he was fighting prostate cancer during his hunger strike. When asked if he understood the danger he was in, he replied, “I am willing to die.”

His bio further noted that a few months after his hunger strike, the Emmett Till Antilynching Act passed in the Senate with the help of Madison’s continued push on the radio. His efforts were noticed by many, including the then Speaker of the House Nancy Pelosi, who publicly thanked him for another fight for justice.

Madison and his wife Sharon have been married for more than 45 years and they currently reside in Washington, D.C. Their blended family includes four children, five grandchildren and one great-grandchild.

In a statement, Madison’s family invited fans and friends to send condolences. “Joe dedicated his life to fighting for all those who are undervalued, underestimated and marginalized. On air he often posed the question, ‘What are you going to do about it?’. Although he is no longer with us, we hope you will join us in answering that call by continuing to be proactive in the fight against injustice. The outpouring of prayers and support over the last few months lifted Joe’s spirits and strengthened us as a family. We continue to ask for privacy as we gather together to support each other through this difficult time.”

This article was originally published by NNPA Newswire.

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By Stacy M. Brown
NNPA Newswire Senior National Correspondent
@StacyBrownMedia

(NNPA NEWSWIRE) – Renowned businesswoman and philanthropist Ronda Stryker and her husband, William Johnston, chairman of Greenleaf Trust, have bestowed a monumental gift of $100 million to Spelman College. The extraordinary donation is the largest single contribution ever made to a historically Black college or university (HBCU).

According to a news release, Stryker, a devoted Spelman College trustee since 1997, has dedicated decades of her life to the advancement of women through higher education, championing opportunities for marginalized groups. The $100 million gift coincides with Spelman College’s commemoration of the 100 years since its official naming in 1924, marking a historic occasion in the institution’s rich legacy.

Officials said 75 percent of the donation is earmarked for establishing endowed scholarships to support future students. That move aligns with Spelman College’s commitment to attracting the brightest minds and dismantling financial obstacles that may impede qualified students from pursuing education at the esteemed institution, officials said. The remaining $25 million will go towards initiatives such as the development of an academic focus on public policy and democracy, enhancements to student housing, and the provision of flexible funding to address critical strategic needs.

“We are invigorated and inspired by this incredible act of generosity,” said Dr. Helene Gayle, president of Spelman College. “This gift is a critical step in our school’s mission to eliminate financial barriers to starting and finishing a Spelman education. We can’t thank Ronda Stryker enough for her selflessness and support as both a trustee and friend. There’s no doubt that Spelman College is better because of her.”

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In December, Deputy Ty Shelton and another officer arrived at the home of 27-year-old Niani Finlayson who reported a domestic violence incident, noting that her boyfriend had abused her 9-year-old daughter.

By Stacy M. Brown
NNPA Newswire Senior National Correspondent

(NNPA NEWSWIRE) – The “white lady walks into the police station, and then shoots it up and still is alive.” 

“She called for help and ended up dead. My gosh, our system is jacked.” 

“ we must wake up. What we have here is classic case of a Klansmen disguised as someone who is supposed to protect and serve.”

The comments were among many of the more than 9,100 on an Instagram post detailing the deadly shooting of a distressed Black woman who called 911 for assistance from an allegedly abusive ex-boyfriend. 

In December, Los Angeles County sheriff’s Deputy Ty Shelton and another officer arrived at the home of 27-year-old Niani Finlayson who reported a domestic violence incident, noting that her boyfriend had abused her 9-year-old daughter.

When Shelton and his partner arrived, a distressed and scared Finlayson was holding a knife and threatening to stab her ex-boyfriend if he wasn’t removed from the home. On bodycam footage released recently, Shelton is heard ordering his partner to taser Finlayson, but within a split second and with Finlayson’s daughter just a few feet away from her mother, Shelton unleashes four shots into the Black woman who was pronounced dead a short time later.

Reacting to the body-worn camera footage, the victim’s father, Lamont Finlayson, expressed dismay at the shooting.

“When you look at the bodycam, you just have to shake your head and say, ‘Oh my God, what happened? What happened?’” he told KTLA-TV’s Lauren Lyster. “They’re supposed to be there to save her life, not to kill her. You throw the taser down and just automatically go for your weapon within one second. When I look at that, I’m saying, ‘Why is he still on the force?’ Where does this guy come from, where’s his training?”

In response to the case, the sheriff’s department said that with all deputy-involved shootings, there is a thorough review process – involving the Office of the Inspector General, the L.A. County District Attorney’s Office and more – where every aspect of the shooting is evaluated.

However, it wasn’t the first time that Shelton was involved in a domestic incident that turned deadly. According to the Instagram post, Shelton was also involved in the killing of Michael Thomas, 61, under similar circumstances.

In the aftermath of Finlayson’s shooting, the Sheriff’s Department said its investigation continues as Finlayson’s family started the process of suing the department and county for $30 million. 

“As she sought to be protected, instead she was executed,” said Brad Gage, an attorney representing Finlayson’s family. “Niana was sitting on the ground when she was shot in the back. Niani was obviously upset that this man had injured her and her daughter but did not take any violent actions.”

Authorities are asking anyone with information regarding the case to call LASD’s homicide detectives at 323-890-5500. Anonymous tips can be submitted to L.A. Crimestoppers at 800-222-8477.

“They immediately treated her as the hostile one,” Instagram user “afrocrypt” wrote. “No attempt to calm anything.” 

Another user, “cymuzik,” posted about the deputy, “Trained to kill.”

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By Stacy M. Brown
NNPA Newswire Senior National Correspondent
@StacyBrownMedia

(NNPA NEWSWIRE) – The recent unveiling of the 96th Academy Awards nominations brought forth a notable roster of Black talent, marking a significant stride for the industry in recognizing diversity within the film industry.

The list of nominees reveals that, to some degree, the Academy has finally begun to acknowledge the outstanding contributions of African Americans. Danielle Brooks, Sterling K. Brown, Colman Domingo, Da’Vine Joy Randolph and Jeffrey Wright are among the Black actors grabbing nominations for Hollywood’s most prestigious award. The nod signifies a crucial step towards inclusivity and representation on the grand stage of the Oscars.

Set to be broadcast on ABC on March 10, the 2024 Oscars ceremony will be a night of celebration, with audiences witnessing a menu that includes Black excellence.

Here’s a closer look at what each of these accomplished individuals has been nominated for:

• Danielle Brooks
• Category: Best Actress In A Supporting Role
• Film: “The Color Purple”

• Sterling K. Brown
• Category: Best Actor In A Supporting Role
• Film: “American Fiction”

• Colman Domingo
• Category: Best Actor In A Leading Role
• Film: “Rustin”

• Da’Vine Joy Randolph
• Category: Best Actress In A Supporting Role
• Film: “The Holdovers”

• Jeffrey Wright
• Category: Best Actor In A Leading Role
• Film: “American Fiction”

The nominations reflect a noteworthy departure from the controversial #OscarsSoWhite movement, indicating the Academy Awards’ progress in recognizing and honoring diverse talent within the industry.

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By Stacy M. Brown
NNPA Newswire 
@StacyBrownMedia

In what the Democratic Party is calling a bid to secure control of the U.S. House in the upcoming November elections, the Democratic Congressional Campaign Committee (DCCC) has announced a $35 million investment in a comprehensive outreach initiative targeting Latino, Black, Asian American, Pacific Islander and Native Hawaiian voters. 

“Power the People” aims to persuade, organize, welcome, educate and reach voters from diverse ethnic backgrounds.

Despite the significant allocation, a notable omission from the Democratic strategy is the exclusion of the Black Press of America, a move that continues to raise eyebrows given the pressing need to engage African-American voters effectively. The Democratic Party, including the DCCC, the Democratic National Committee, and the Biden-Harris re-election campaign, has thus far ignored criticism for overlooking the influential Black Press.

While the DCCC revealed that 2024 spending surpassed the $30 million expended on these voter groups in the 2022 midterm elections, concerns persist over excluding the Black Press from this financial commitment. Critics argue that the omission is particularly striking during what is widely acknowledged as modern history’s most crucial and transformative election.

During Biden’s 2020 campaign, he turned to the Black Press when it appeared that Vermont Sen. Bernie Sanders and even New York billionaire Michael Bloomberg’s campaigns were gaining steam. In fact, before arriving in South Carolina, Sanders who had just romped in Nevada, held 45 delegates while Indiana Democrat Pete Buttigieg was second with 26, and Biden had claimed just 15.

In Charleston, Biden met with a conglomerate of publishers from the National Newspaper Publishers Association (NNPA), the trade association of America’s 250 Black-owned newspapers and media companies.

A broadcast interview led by NNPA President and CEO Dr. Benjamin F. Chavis Jr. was followed by a national news article about the sit-down that all went viral. And, after the endorsement of South Carolina Rep. James Clyburn, Biden solidified the vital Black vote and dusted his competition all the way to the White House.

Missayr Boker, DCCC deputy executive director for Campaigns, defended the “Power the People” initiative, stating that it honors the commitment to a multiethnic coalition crucial for a robust democracy. The initiative focuses on persuading and mobilizing Latino, Black, Asian American, Pacific islander and native Hawaiian voters to counteract what the DCCC perceives as efforts by extremist Republicans to suppress the votes of people of color.

The DCCC said its approach includes conducting in-depth research, creating multilingual media content, organizing with local leaders, and countering disinformation targeting specific communities. However, the absence of collaboration with the Black Press of America remains a point of contention.

José Muñoz, a DCCC spokesperson, emphasized the party’s commitment to “smart, targeted outreach,” which he claims recognizes the nuances not only between different ethnic groups but also within various regions and districts.

This article was originally published by NNPA Newswire.

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By Stacy M. Brown
NNPA Newswire Senior National Correspondent

(NNPA NEWSWIRE) – The National Newspaper Publishers Association (NNPA) concluded its 2024 annual Mid-Winter Training Conference Jan. 27 at the B Ocean Resort and Hotel in Fort Lauderdale, Florida, where publishers, editors, sponsors, partners and visitors shared four days of workshops and fellowship that promise to strengthen the iconic Black Press of America as it heads toward its bicentennial.

Representing 250 African American-owned newspapers and media companies in the United States, the NNPA’s theme for this year’s conference was “Empowering in 2024: The Black Press, The Black Vote, and Black America.”

The conference provided attendees with valuable insights into performance-driven tools and methodologies aimed at expanding and monetizing their businesses. Workshops, presentations and discussions featured prominent figures from various fields, making it a comprehensive and enriching experience for participants.

Reflecting on the conference, NNPA Chairman and Westside Gazette Publisher Bobby R. Henry Sr. said he’s expecting bigger and better things for the Black Press, and noted its recent advocacy.

“As the chairman of our beloved association, hosting the NNPA members—the Black Press of America—in Florida’s Broward County in Fort Lauderdale was a true honor,” Henry said. “In these challenging times, the Black Press confronted bigotry and hatred, understanding the need for collective action.”

Through the NNPA’s National Town Hall Meeting, Henry said, the group aimed to reaffirm the historic bond between Blacks and Jews in America, rooted in the shared struggle for civil rights and freedom. He emphasized the importance of re-engaging and strengthening the significant relationship between Blacks and Jews, “Remembering we marched together, fought together, and died together for civil rights.”

NNPA President and CEO Dr. Benjamin F. Chavis added that the NNPA, members of the Anti-Defamation League and others planned the Town Hall, which included U.S. Reps. Deborah Wasserman Schultz and Sheila Cheflius-McCormick, ADL Senior Vice President of National Affairs Max Sevillia, and professor emeritus of the Department of Psychology at Florida International University Dr. Marvin Dunn.

The highly anticipated event took place at the African American Research Library and Cultural Center in Ft. Lauderdale, and Chavis and others noted that they planned the Town Hall well before Hamas’ Oct. 7 attack in Israel.

“We knew that, with the rise of anti-semitism and with the rise of hatred in America, particularly against Black people in America, we needed to do something,” Chavis said.

The Holocaust Museum of Southern Florida also sponsored a lively reception one day after the Town Hall.

During the conference, there were also several lively sessions on a variety of topics.

Carolyn Fox, the managing editor of the Tampa Bay Times, discussed “Revenue Generating Strategies in the Publishing Digital Age” in a public session. The fireside chat between Chavis and Stephanie Childes, vice president of Diageo, explored “Harnessing the power of community, the Black Press, and inclusive corporations,” in which the popular spirits company reaffirmed its commitment to supporting the Black Press of America and educating all on responsible drinking. Pfizer Rare Disease conducted a lunch talk on “Sickle Cell and ATTR-CM” while another panel emphasized “The Black and Brown Vote.”

Google News Initiative led a discussion on “The Power of Audience to Generate Revenue,” and Hyundai sponsored a breakfast and informational session, including a film presentation and a panel discussion. Additionally, a panel sponsored by Reynolds held a poignant discussion on “The Importance of Racial Impact Studies.”

An energetic millennial panel on “Digital Creative Storytelling” included Lafayette Barnes of the Bridge newspaper, Micha Green of the Washington Informer, NNPA social media correspondents DaNiesha Bell and Dawn Montgomery, and New York Beacon Publisher Ashley Smith.

Niele Anderson, the founder and CEO of PLB Media Inc., hosted a “Scaling- Moving from Print to Digital” session discussing the importance of being relevant and profitable in a digital world and riding the 2024 election revenue wave.

The PGA TOUR demonstrated its commitment to education by providing two $5,000 scholarships for HBCU students, Jasmin Ball and Victoria Gisel Montanet.

The NNPA 2024 Lifetime Achievement Award went to Greene County (Alabama) Democrat publishers Carol and John Zippert. 

“The Black Press are storytellers,” Carol Zippert said in accepting the award. “We tell our own story, and if we don’t, folk are gonna tell it the way they want. If the lion told the story, it would be different from the hunter’s story.”

Chavis praised the conference as one of the best of his 10-plus-year tenure. Publishers also took the opportunity to salute retiring NNPA executive administrator Claudette Perry — whose massive workload includes organizing NNPA conferences and conventions — with a standing ovation during the association’s board meeting.

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By Stacy M. Brown
NNPA Newswire Senior National Correspondent

(NNPA NEWSWIRE) – Recent research conducted by Scientific American Online supported fears that facial recognition technology (FRT) can worsen racial inequities in policing. The research found that law enforcement agencies that use automated facial recognition disproportionately arrest Black people.

The report’s authors stated that they believe these results come from factors that include the “lack of Black faces in the algorithms’ training data sets, a belief that these programs are infallible, and a tendency of officers’ own biases to magnify these issues.”

FRT was again cast in a negative light after the arrest of a 61-year-old grandfather, who is now suing Sunglass Hut’s parent company after the store’s facial recognition technology mistakenly identified him as a robber. Harvey Eugene Murphy Jr. was subsequently held in jail, where he says he was sexually assaulted, according to a lawsuit.

The robbery occurred at a Sunglass Hut store in Houston, Texas, when two gun-wielding bandits stole thousands of dollars in cash and merchandise. Houston police identified Murphy as a suspect, even though he lived in California.  They arrested Murphy when he returned to Texas to renew his driver’s license. His lawsuit claims that, while in jail, he was sexually assaulted by three men in a bathroom, causing him to suffer lifelong injuries.

The Harris County District Attorney’s Office later determined Murphy was not involved in the robbery, but the damage was already done while he was in jail, his lawyers said in a news release.

“This is precisely the kind of situation we’ve been warning about for years: that these systems, whatever their theoretical reliability, are in practice so finicky and consequential that they cannot be fixed,” Os Keyes, an Ada Lovelace Fellow and doctoral candidate at the University of Washington, told Vice News.

“The only thing I’d push back on is Murphy’s lawyer’s claim that it could happen to anyone; these systems are attractive precisely because they promise to automate and speed up ‘business as usual,’ which includes laundering existing police biases against people who are already in the system, minority groups, and anyone else who doesn’t fit,” Keyes continued. “This outcome is as inevitable as it is horrifying and should be taken as a sign to restrict and reconfigure policing in general as well as FRT in particular.”

Scientific American researchers noted that the algorithms used by law enforcement “are typically developed by companies like Amazon, Clearview AI and Microsoft, which build their systems for different environments.” They argued that, despite massive improvements in deep-learning techniques, federal testing shows that most facial recognition algorithms perform poorly at identifying people besides White men.

In 2023, the Federal Trade Commission prohibited Rite Aid from using FRT after the company wrongly accused individuals of shoplifting. CBS News noted that, in one incident, an 11-year-old girl was stopped and searched by a Rite Aid employee based on a false match.  Also last year, the Detroit Police Department was sued by a woman whom their technology misidentified as a carjacking suspect. Eight months pregnant at the time, Porcha Woodruff was jailed after police incorrectly identified her using FRT.

The Commission acknowledged that people of color are often misidentified when using FRT. 

“Disproportionate representation of white males in training images produces skewed algorithms because Black people are overrepresented in mugshot databases and other image repositories commonly used by law enforcement,” Scientific American researchers determined. “Consequently, AI is more likely to mark Black faces as criminal, leading to the targeting and arresting of innocent Black people.

“We believe that the companies that make these products need to take staff and image diversity into account. However, this does not remove law enforcement’s responsibility. Police forces must critically examine their methods if we want to keep this technology from worsening racial disparities and leading to rights violations.”

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By Stacy M. Brown
NNPA Newswire

The National Newspaper Publishers Association (NNPA) is gearing up for its 2024 Annual Mid-Winter Training Conference, which begins on Jan. 24, at the B Ocean Resort and Hotel in Fort Lauderdale, Fla. 

Representing 250 African American-owned newspapers and media companies in the United States, NNPA’s theme for this year’s conference is “Empowering in 2024: The Black Press, The Black Vote and Black America.”

The four-day interchange promises attendees valuable insights into performance-driven tools and methodologies aimed at expanding and monetizing their businesses. Highlights include workshops, presentations and discussions featuring prominent figures from various fields.

NNPA Chairman Bobby R. Henry Sr. affirmed, “As the Chairman of our beloved association, hosting the NNPA members — the Black Press of America — in Florida’s Broward County in the city of Fort Lauderdale is a true honor. In these challenging times, the Black Press confronts bigotry and hatred, understanding the need for collective action. The Westside Gazette and the NNPA, through the NNPA’s National Town Hall Meeting aims to reaffirm the historic bond between Blacks and Jews in America, rooted in the shared struggle for civil rights and freedom.”

NNAP Chairman Henry emphasized, “It’s a call to re-engage and strengthen this significant relationship. Remembering we marched together, fought together, and died together for civil rights.”

Main registration for the conference opens at 8 a.m., Jan. 24, 2024. The NNPA will host its board meeting at 11 a.m., and the NNPA Fund will hold its meeting at 2 p.m.

Again, one of the many highlights is the NNPA National Town Hall Meeting: “Reaffirming the Relationship between Blacks and Jews in America.” The NNPA National Town Hall Meeting will convene on Jan. 24 at 7 p.m. Eastern Time at the African American Research Library and Cultural Center in Fort Lauderdale.

The National Town Hall Meeting will feature distinguished panelists, including NNPA Chair and Westside Gazette Publisher Bobby Henry, NNPA President and CEO Dr. Benjamin F. Chavis Jr., U.S. Congresswoman Deborah Wasserman Schultz, who serves as the ranking member of the Appropriations Committee in the U.S. House of Representatives; U.S. Congresswoman Sheila Cherflius-McCormick, who represents Florida’s 20th District in the U.S. House of Representatives; Jonathan Greenblatt, the National Director of the Anti-Defamation League (ADL); and Dr. Marvin Dunn, a renowned psychologist and historian.

On Jan. 25, 2024, Carolyn Fox, the managing editor of the Tampa Bay Times, will discuss “Revenue Generating Strategies in the Publishing Digital Age” in a public session. The always-popular fireside chat occurs Jan. 25 at 11:50 a.m. between Chavis and Stephanie Childes, vice president of Diageo. It will explore “Harnessing the power of community, the Black Press, and inclusive corporations.”

At 12:45 p.m., Pfizer Rare Disease plans to conduct a lunch talk on “Sickle Cell and ATTR-CM.” Freshman U.S. Congressman Maxwell Frost has been invited to give the keynote address, “The Black and Brown Vote,” at 1:15 p.m.

Another highlight on Jan.25 is expected to be a 2:30 p.m. session featuring Google News Initiative experts, titled “The Power of Audience to Generate Revenue.”

Highlights for Jan. 26, 2024, include a Hyundai-sponsored breakfast at 8:30 a.m. which promises to provide informational speeches, a film presentation, and a panel discussion.

Later on Jan. 26, a Millennial Panel on “Digital Creative Storytelling” will include Lafayette Barnes, Micha Greene, DaNiesha Bell, and Ashleigh Fields. Niele Anderson, the founder, and CEO of PLB Media Inc., will host a workshop at 11:20 a.m., discussing the importance of being relevant and profitable in a digital world and riding the 2024 election revenue wave.

The PGA TOUR will demonstrate its commitment to education by providing two $5,000 scholarships for HBCU students Jasmine Ball and Victoria Gisel Montanet.

The elegant black-tie affair, the NNPA 2024 Lifetime Achievement Award Gala, will take place at 6:30 p.m. on Friday evening of Jan. 26, 2024, at B Ocean Resort and Hotel, Promenade A & B & C. The conference adjourns on Saturday, Jan. 27, 2024 with a continental breakfast and a NNPA publisher’s think tank. Dr. Benjamin Chavis stated, “On behalf of the National Newspaper Publishers Association, we are elated and so very much pleased to present the NNPA 2024 Lifetime Achievement Award to Carol and John Zippert, the distinguished co-publishers of the Green County Democrat newspaper in Eutaw, Alabama. Carol and John are longtime freedom-fighting publishers for civil rights, justice, equality and freedom.”

NNPA’s 2024 Mid-Winter Training Conference is made possible through the support of its sponsors and partners, each playing a crucial role in fostering empowerment and growth within the Black press and community. The sponsors include:

Diageo: A global leader in beverage alcohol, Diageo is known for its wide range of spirits and beers, committed to promoting responsible drinking and supporting communities.

Hyundai: The automotive giant, Hyundai, is dedicated to innovation and sustainability, consistently contributing to technological advancements in the automotive industry.

Comcast: A leading telecommunications conglomerate, Comcast provides a range of services including cable television, internet and telephone, shaping the landscape of digital connectivity.

AARP: A non-profit organization advocating for the well-being of older adults, AARP focuses on issues such as healthcare, employment and retirement planning.

The American Petroleum Institute (API): Representing the oil and natural gas industry, API plays a pivotal role in setting standards and promoting safe and sustainable practices.

Volkswagen: A renowned automotive manufacturer, Volkswagen is recognized for its commitment to quality, innovation and environmental responsibility.

Rebuild Local News: This initiative is dedicated to supporting and revitalizing local journalism, recognizing its crucial role in informing and engaging communities.

Wells Fargo: A major financial services company, Wells Fargo is committed to providing banking, investment and mortgage services, contributing to financial stability.

Nissan: As a leading automobile manufacturer, Nissan is synonymous with innovation, quality and sustainability in the automotive industry.

NNPA Partners

NNPA’s partnerships play a key role in advancing its mission. Partners include :

Reynolds:

Reynolds is a prominent American company known for contributing to the tobacco and packaging industries. While they are historically recognized for their tobacco-related products, the company has diversified its portfolio and is engaged in various business sectors. It has a substantial presence in the packaging industry, offering innovative solutions and products.

Pfizer:

Pfizer is a leading global pharmaceutical company widely recognized for its contributions to healthcare and the development of innovative medicines. With a focus on research and development, Pfizer has played a crucial role in addressing various health challenges, from infectious diseases to chronic conditions. The company is committed to advancing medical science and improving health outcomes worldwide.

NNPA Media Partner, Google News Initiative:

The Google News Initiative (GNI) is an effort by Google to collaborate with the news industry and support the future of journalism. GNI aims to strengthen quality journalism, empower news organizations through technology and foster a sustainable ecosystem. It provides tools and resources for journalists, publishers and newsrooms to adapt to the evolving digital landscape.

General Motors:

General Motors (GM) is a major American automotive company with a rich history in the automobile industry. GM has been a key player in shaping the automotive landscape, known for iconic brands such as Chevrolet, Cadillac and GMC. The company is committed to innovation, producing a wide range of vehicles that include electric and autonomous options, contributing to the advancement of the automotive industry.

This article was originally published by NNPA Newswire.

The post NNPA 2024 annual mid-winter conference to empower Black America appeared first on AFRO American Newspapers.

By Stacy M. Brown
NNPA Newswire

Legendary radio and media personality Donnie Simpson signed off, possibly for the last time, on Jan. 12. The illustrious career that spanned an incredible 55 years ended with a heartfelt message from the iconic DJ himself. 

“Today’s the day,” Simpson posted on X. “Please make sure you tune into my last day…Let’s celebrate together as I thank each and every one of you for your support during my 55 years in radio.”

An icon, trailblazer, and media legend, Simpson held a commanding presence in Washington, D.C.

He gained international fame as a television and movie personality. From his early beginnings in Detroit to his stints at WKYS and WMMJ in Washington, he etched his name in the history of radio.

A true industry pioneer, Simpson was one of America’s first video jockeys, hosting iconic shows like BET’s “Video Soul.” His achievements reached new heights when, in 1988, Billboard Magazine recognized him as both the best top radio personality and top program director in the nation.

After retiring in 2010, Simpson triumphantly returned to the airwaves and television screens in 2015. As the afternoon drive host on WMMJ, Majic 102.3 in Washington D.C., and the face of TV-One’s “Donnie After Dark,” he continued to captivate audiences with his signature style.

As noted in his bio, Simpson started in Detroit as the “Love Bug.” Simpson’s passion for music, nurtured in his mother’s record shop, laid the groundwork for an extraordinary career. He connected with the biggest stars globally throughout the years, showcasing his talent and versatility.

Simpson’s television career soared as he anchored sports and hosted “Video Soul” on BET. In 2021, he announced the revival of “Video Soul.”

Honored with inductions into the BET Walk of Fame (2004) and the R&B Hall of Fame of Class of 2020, Simpson’s legacy is cemented in the annals of entertainment history.

“I’m going to miss doing the show, Donnie’s going to miss it, too, but he’s got some great things planned,” wrote News4 anchor Tony Perkins, who joined “The Donnie Simpson Show” in the 3 p.m. slot six years ago. “We loved doing the show. Thank you for all the responses on social media.”

This article was originally published by NNPA Newswire.

The post Radio icon Donnie Simpson takes final bow after 55 years in media  appeared first on AFRO American Newspapers.

By Stacy M. Brown
NNPA Newswire
Senior National Correspondent
@StacyBrownMedia

President Biden continues to make significant strides in alleviating the student loan debt crisis, announcing the approval of debt cancellation for an additional 74,000 student loan borrowers. The latest action contributes to the record-breaking relief the administration has provided to more than 3.7 million Americans.

Earlier this month, Biden announced the accelerated implementation of a crucial provision under the Student Aid for Voluntary Education (SAVE) plan, which the administration said has helped 3.6 million Americans by canceling their student debt. Biden said the plan aims to create a more affordable student loan repayment structure while providing life-changing support to students and their families.

“Today, my administration approved debt cancellation for another 74,000 student loan borrowers across the country, bringing the total number of people who have had their debt canceled under my administration to over 3.7 million Americans through various actions,” Biden said in a statement on Jan. 19.

The beneficiaries of the latest round of relief include nearly 44,000 teachers, nurses, firefighters and other public service professionals who have earned forgiveness after a decade of dedicated service. Additionally, close to 30,000 individuals who have been in repayment for at least 20 years without receiving relief through income-driven repayment plans will now see their debts forgiven.

Biden credited the success of these relief efforts to the corrective measures taken to address broken student loan programs. He asserted that these fixes have removed barriers preventing borrowers from accessing the relief they were entitled to under the law.

The president outlined the broader achievements of his administration in supporting students and borrowers, including achieving the most significant increases in Pell Grants in over a decade, aimed at assisting families with incomes below approximately $60,000 per year. Other accomplishments include fixing the Public Service Loan Forgiveness program and introducing the most generous income-driven repayment plan in history, known as the SAVE plan, he said. Borrowers are encouraged to apply for this plan at studentaid.gov.

In response to challenges, including the Supreme Court’s decision on the student debt relief plan, Biden affirmed the administration’s commitment to finding alternative paths to deliver relief to as many borrowers as possible, as quickly as possible.

“From Day One of my administration, I vowed to improve the student loan system so that higher education provides Americans with opportunity and prosperity, not the unmanageable burdens of student loan debt,” Biden asserted. “I won’t back down from using every tool at our disposal to get student loan borrowers the relief they need to reach their dreams.”

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By Stacy M. Brown
NNPA Newswire Senior National Correspondent
@StacyBrownMedia

(NNPA NEWSWIRE) — The World Health Organization (WHO) reported a staggering total of nearly 10,000 global deaths in December, raising alarm bells about a worsening worldwide health crisis stemming from the continued threat of COVID-19. WHO Director-General Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus also noted pressing humanitarian crises in Gaza, Sudan and Ethiopia that exacerbates the ongoing challenges related to COVID-19.

While COVID-19 is no longer classified as a global health emergency, the virus remains a formidable threat, Ghebreyeus warned. He said newer cases, driven by holiday gatherings and the prevalence of the JN.1 variant, led to a 42 percent increase in hospitalizations and a 62 percent rise in ICU admissions.

Ghebreyeus urged governments to maintain surveillance and sequencing and ensure access to tests, treatments and vaccines. He also noted other emergencies the WHO is responding to, including in Gaza, Ukraine, Ethiopia and Sudan.

Ghebreyesus called it “indescribable” that “this Sunday marks the 100th day of the conflict in Israel and the occupied Palestinian territory.”

He said Gaza continues to face an unprecedented humanitarian catastrophe to go along with rising health concerns borne out from the pandemic. The conflict has displaced nearly 90 percent of Gaza’s 1.9 million residents, who continue to endure “excruciating conditions with long queues for limited water and nutritionally inadequate bread,” the director general lamented.

He said only 15 hospitals are partially operational, and the absence of clean water and sanitation creates a breeding ground for diseases. WHO’s humanitarian aid efforts have encountered “insurmountable challenges” due to intense bombardment, movement restrictions, fuel shortages, and communication breakdowns, Ghebreyeus stated.

“People are standing in line for hours for a small amount of water, which may not be clean, or bread, which alone is not sufficiently nutritious,” he said. “The lack of clean water and sanitation and overcrowded living conditions are creating the ideal environment for diseases to spread. We have the supplies, the teams and the plans in place. What we don’t have is access.”

Further, the director general stressed the need for the release of hostages and an imperative for all parties to uphold international humanitarian law, ensuring healthcare protection. He also sounded an alarm about the ongoing situation in Sudan, a nation that’s grappling with nine months of conflict where there’s escalating violence and mass displacement.

Ghebreyeus said Sudanese residents have also experienced the rampant spread of diseases, including cholera. The WHO temporarily suspended operations in Gezira due to security concerns, disrupting the annual harvest and heightening the risk of food insecurity. Even before the conflict, Ghebreyeus said Sudan faced food shortages, intensifying the crisis for vulnerable groups, particularly children under five and pregnant or breastfeeding women.

Meanwhile, in Ethiopia, the north-western region of Amhara is in the grip of a severe health crisis due to ongoing conflict since April 2023, he said. Communication challenges, damaged health facilities, and restricted movement impede humanitarian assistance. Conflict, drought, and displacement exacerbate hunger and disease outbreaks, with cholera, malaria, measles, leishmaniasis and dengue spreading. Urgent access to affected areas is crucial, the director general affirmed.

Finally, Ghebreyeus insisted that just as governments and individuals take precautions against other diseases, “we must all continue to take precautions against COVID-19.” The WHO plans to release its Health Emergency Appeal for 2024, outlining how much there’s a need to protect the health of the most vulnerable people in 41 emergencies globally.

“In 2024, we aim to reach almost 90 million people with lifesaving support,” Ghebreyeus declared. “The coming year will be a test for humanity, a test of whether we give into division, suspicion and narrow nationalism, or whether we are able to rise above our differences and seek the common good.”

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 Johnson and others said the conflict between Israel and Palestine and Russia and Ukraine would have stirred King to declare that there was little difference between the demand for civil rights and the cry for peace.

By Stacy M. Brown
NNPA Newswire Senior National Correspondent

(NNPA NEWSWIRE) — During his short life, Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. stepped on all kinds of powerful toes in his fight for civil rights, and he was a courageous and determined leader who refused to let prison or violence sway his end mission. He also never lost sight of the fact that civil rights—addressing racial and economic injustice—was inextricable from peace.

As the leader of the Southern Christian Leadership Conference (SCLC), King led a nonviolent movement to abolish the triple evils crippling American society: racism, poverty, and militarism. Associates said he believed those forces were contrary to God’s will for humanity and that they could only be opposed by a religious vision of nonviolent social change.

In April of 1967, King spoke publicly against the war in Vietnam. Today, as the nation observes Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Day, civil rights activists, including those who knew the slain leader, offered their thoughts on what his position might be on conflicts in the Middle East and Russia and on the twice-impeached and four-times indicted former President Donald Trump.

“At the March on Washington in 1964, Dr. King talked about Alabama Gov. George Wallace having his lips dripping with interposition and nullification,” said the Rev. Peter Johnson, who began working for the Congress of Racial Equality in Plaquemine, La., and later was recruited by Andrew Young to work for King in the Southern Christian Leadership Conference in Atlanta. “What’s the difference between George Wallace and Donald Trump? You’re not going to hear Trump publicly say the n-word, that’s the only difference.

He continued, “King would easily have seen that Trump is a bigot in the true sense of the word, who actually believes he is superior to people of color.”

Johnson and others said the conflicts between Israel and Palestine and Russia and Ukraine would have stirred King to declare that there was little difference from the demand for civil rights and the cry for peace.

“ Benjamin Netanyahu is on the wrong side of history,” legendary civil rights leader the Rev. Jesse Jackson told the Black Press. “What led up to Oct. 7 (when Hamas attacked Israel) is the issue, not what happened on Oct. 7.” 

Jackson, like he said King would have, decried the mass killings taking place in the Middle East and the war strategy occurring in Ukraine. “Those captured,” Jackson demanded, “should be allowed to go home under the supervision of the United Nations and anyone tried should be done so in the World Court.”

Jackson noted that King spoke of a deeper malady in American society. His view was that presidential administrations have been embroiling themselves in conflicts across the globe for the wrong reasons.

“Dr. King was outspokenly anti-war and anti-racism,” said the Rev. Mark Thompson, a civil rights leader who recently joined the National Newspaper Publishers Association as the trade association’s global digital transformation director. “There’s no question King would oppose the war in Ukraine and seek diplomatic solutions. I believe he would also call for a ceasefire in Gaza.”

Thompson added that the reason for King’s cancellation of a pilgrimage to the Holy Land in 1967—one year before his assassination—suggests King had an evolving posture on the Israel-Palestine question. 

“In canceling the pilgrimage during the Six-Day War, King said, ‘I just think that if I go, the Arab world, and of course Africa and Asia for that matter, would interpret this as endorsing everything that Israel has done, and I do have questions of doubt,’” Thompson said.

“I believe his posture on Congress’s dysfunction would be consistent with the words he used to describe segregationist intransigence in his ‘I Have a Dream’ speech—interposition and nullification,” Thompson declared.

NNPA President and CEO Dr. Benjamin F. Chavis Jr., also an SCLC alum, concurred. “Dr. King was a nonviolent freedom fighter who believed that we all are members of one humanity. His concept of the ‘beloved community’ was all-inclusive and not discriminatory to anyone,” Chavis said. “Today’s world realities of racism, anti-Semitism, Islamophobia, oppression, war, hatred and bigotry are void of love for one another. We need Dr. King’s wisdom, inclusive theology and leadership courage today more than ever before.”

Johnson said there’s little doubt about where King would stand on today’s issues because the icon never wavered.  He said, “I don’t think he would have changed his position fundamentally.”

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One of the last surviving members of King’s inner circle, Young sat down for an exclusive interview on PBS-TV’s “The Chavis Chronicles” with National Newspaper Publishers Association President and CEO Dr. Benjamin F. Chavis Jr., where he shared valuable insights into his historical journey as a leader of the civil rights movement and his own enduring legacy.

By Stacy M. Brown
NNPA Newswire Senior National Correspondent
@StacyBrownMedia

(NNPA NEWSWIRE) — As the nation commemorates Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Day, civil rights icon, diplomat and former Atlanta mayor Andrew Young reflected on King’s legacy and progress in America since the 1960s.

One of the last surviving members of King’s inner circle, Young sat down for an exclusive interview on PBS-TV’s “The Chavis Chronicles” with National Newspaper Publishers Association President and CEO Dr. Benjamin F. Chavis Jr., where he shared valuable insights into his historical journey as a leader of the civil rights movement and his own enduring legacy.

“I do this,” Young said, reflecting on challenging injustices like the false arrest and imprisonment of the Wilmington Ten in the 1970s, “because it’s the right thing to do. I wasn’t being militant or outspoken, I was trying to get people to see just what it is.”

From his beginnings in segregated schools in New Orleans to his early graduation from Howard University and later studies at Hartford Theological Seminary, Young’s commitment to justice emerged during his time as a pastor in southern Georgia. Organizing voter registration drives in the face of death threats, he played a crucial role in the campaigns leading to the Civil Rights Act of 1964 and the Voting Rights Act of 1965.

Elected to congress in 1972, Young became the first African-American representative from the Deep South since Reconstruction. His legislative efforts included establishing the U.S. Institute for Peace, The African Development Bank and the Chattahoochee River National Park. He left an indelible mark on the city by negotiating federal funds for vital infrastructure projects in Atlanta.

In 1977, President Jimmy Carter appointed Young as the first African American ambassador to the United Nations, where he played a crucial role in shaping U.S.-Africa policy based on human rights. His efforts contributed to ending White-minority rule in Namibia and Zimbabwe.

Reflecting on his experiences, Young shares poignant moments during the interview, including facing violence during the Civil Rights Movement. 

“When the Klan came marching down in the community, they wanted to provoke a fight. They had guns under their sheets in Lincolnville, Florida,” he recalled. “The same Black folks who got beat up with me said they had the love of Jesus in their hearts; that spiritual witness of nonviolence and forgiveness moved the Congress, and the next week they passed the 1964 Civil Rights Act.”

Assessing the progress in civil rights, Young emphasizes the strides made, saying, “If anybody says things are no better now than they were then, they don’t understand how well we have it now.” 

He acknowledges the challenges but underscores the opportunities for education and progress.

As Young reflects on Martin Luther King Jr.’s dream, he interprets it as a call for equal opportunity. “We are no longer slaves; we have equal opportunity to make this a great nation if we are able to work hard. The educational opportunities are opening up,” Young said. He acknowledges the partnership with White folks that contributed to Atlanta’s success.

Young said he remains optimistic about the nation’s future, echoing Dr. King’s words: “It’s inevitable to me that this nation, as Martin Luther King said, will live out, one day, the true meaning of its creed.”

Click here to view the full episode with Ambassador Andrew Young.

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By Stacy M. Brown
NNPA Newswire Senior National Correspondent
@StacyBrownMedia

The Rev. Mark Thompson’s illustrious and groundbreaking journalism career, which found its roots in the Black Press of America nearly 40 years ago, has come full circle as he assumes a pivotal leadership role with the National Newspaper Publishers Association (NNPA).

From his early days as a journalist with the historic AFRO newspaper in Washington, D.C., under the mentorship of the legendary Frances L. Murphy II, to trailblazing moments as the first talk show host on XM Satellite Radio, Thompson has consistently championed the cause of African American-owned media. Now, in his role as the new NNPA Global Digital Transformation Director, he is poised to drive a new era of innovation, guiding member publishers through the intricate landscape of digital transformation and content distribution.

“After serious contemplation and after a review of the capabilities of more than 75 others who inquired about the job, not only did Mark’s resume and experience rise to the top in the digital space, but in his longevity of advocating the power and impact of the Black Press of America, this was not a difficult decision,” stated NNPA President and CEO Dr. Benjamin F. Chavis Jr.

“In fact,” Dr. Chavis continued, “it was providential. We look forward to working as a team, and I’m very honored to invite Mark to join the NNPA’s national staff as a full-time Global Digital Transformation Director. In addition to Mark’s experience in America, he also has an international perspective, particularly in the African diaspora, where the content produced and distributed by the Black Press of America will also, with his assistance, have extended reach and impact for communities of color throughout the world as the NNPA continues to be the most respected, vital, and trusted voice of Black America.”

Currently a political, human rights, and breaking news podcast host, Thompson’s work in digital social media won his “Make It Plain” recognition among Best Civil Rights Podcasts, Best Human Rights Podcasts, Best Podcasts About Social Justice, and Best Broadcast Television Podcasts in 2021.

A 40-year veteran on the frontlines of the ongoing struggle of African Americans and others, the 104th Annual NAACP Convention in Orlando in 2013 awarded Thompson “For 25 years of crusading journalism and outstanding leadership in furthering the work of civil and human rights.” He not only has been a part of every significant social justice movement and event over the past 40 years, but he has also been a radio broadcaster and journalist for over three decades and has spent over ten years as a national network television commentator.

“In this pivotal time as it pertains to the Black Press of America, we need new blood and new vision that would take us to higher heights which include making a huge footprint in the digital transformation of Black-owned media,” NNPA National Chairman and Westside Gazette Publisher Bobby Henry added. “Mark has a proven track record in his endeavors of achieving success in bringing Black-owned media to the forefront. We are positioned at the right time where a fresh undertaking would complement the 197 years of the rich history of the Black Press. Digital transformation is on the horizon for all media, and this is especially of benefit to Black-owned media. The Black Press is here to stay and to be complemented by our digital platforms will only enhance our presence.”

Among Thompson’s many academic and professional achievements, he graduated from the University of the District of Columbia with a bachelor’s degree in mass media journalism long before the advent of the internet and social media, a testament to his foresight in the ever-evolving journalism world. He said his mandate with NNPA extends beyond technical aspects, encompassing a strategic approach to content distribution that emphasizes revenue generation.

“As media evolves, we’ve all had to adjust. I learned the importance of digital and social media at least ten years ago and jumped right in when others were resistant,” Thompson asserted. “When ‘Make It Plain’ was on Sirius XM, I pioneered a lot of digital and social media. Some people didn’t like it; only some were ready to embrace going into social media. However, we’ve all found something critically important: reaching a larger audience because more information is consumed via social media, and it’s an ever-growing and ever-standing market to reach our audience. We must keep ourselves on the pulse of that and make our publications more and more accessible digitally and on social media. That is important to the future and survival of the African American print media.”

Thompson noted that he and Chavis began the “Meet the Black Press” segment on his “Make It Plain” show some years ago and said the importance of that component was again amplified at the time of his NNPA hire.

“Without realizing it, this moment for the NNPA is timelier than we may have thought,” Thompson insisted. “On the very weekend that ‘Meet the Press’ has given a platform to someone (GOP Rep. Elise Stefanik of New York) who questioned the legitimacy of the past election and called insurrectionists hostages, shows how relative and timely it is to meet the Black Press not just as a segment, but to meet the Black Press as a way of life going forward.”

Hiring Thompson in this role underscores the NNPA’s commitment to fortifying the 250 African American-owned newspapers and media companies within its membership, Chavis exclaimed.

Chavis and Thompson proclaimed that the NNPA Digital Network is now positioned as the most prominent African American-owned digital network in America, with an ultimate goal of global dominance in becoming the most influential, engaging, and impactful digital news and content distribution network globally.

“Everyone knows about the downsizing and contraction of print newspapers,” Thompson said. “What the NNPA represents is what really boils down to is more than 200 bureaus, independent to some extent, but each local Black-owned newspaper has an important role in letting the world know what’s happening in local communities. The more we work together and promote that, the more it sets NNPA apart because there are so few major print media have organizations of that size and depth anymore.”

Already, in a testament to the NNPA’s commitment to innovation, strategic collaborations have been forged with key players such as the Google News Initiative (GNI), the US Black Chambers of Commerce, the National Association of Black-Owned Broadcasters, the NAACP, and the National Urban League. Chavis said those partnerships are designed to aggregate and disseminate digital content, solidifying the NNPA’s position as a frontrunner in the digital realm.

“With NNPA, journalism is still taking place, not sensationalism,” Thompson continued. “We’re seeing much of the mainstream click-bait material. As the Black Press, we must continue to be the moral conscious and moral authority of objective journalism. That’s most important as we set the example to educate the next generation of journalists because we want Black students inspired.”

Chavis cautioned that, since 1827, when Freedom’s Journal was first published, there have been naysayers and turncoats that have tried unsuccessfully to silence the Black Press.

“I see clearly that 2024 will be another year of growth and expansion for the NNPA and the Black Press of America,” he said. “The acquisition of Mark Thompson as the Global Digital Transformation Director will greatly enhance not only what we do in 2024 in the digital and print space, but also as we approach the 200th anniversary of the Black Press of America in 2027, we are all grateful that Mark Thompson has agreed to join the NNPA for this vital and transformational objective.”

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 In an overview released on Jan. 5, the Justice Department noted that more than 1,265 defendants from almost all 50 states and the District of Columbia have faced criminal charges.

By Stacy M. Brown
NNPA Newswire Senior National Correspondent

(NNPA NEWSWIRE) — The United States Attorney’s Office is marking the third anniversary of the unprecedented attack on the U.S. Capitol, which shook the nation and much of the world when supporters of the twice-impeached and now four-times indicted former President Donald Trump stormed the building and disrupted a joint session of Congress where members were attempting to affirm the results of the 2020 presidential election.

“In the wake of this historic event, the U.S. government has been tirelessly working to investigate and prosecute those responsible for the breach,” the U.S. Attorney’s Office said in a release.

In October 2022, officials pegged the approximate losses resulting from the Capitol siege at a staggering $2.8 million. The sum accounts for damages to the Capitol building and grounds, both inside and outside, along with costs incurred by the U.S. Capitol Police.

“Under the continued leadership of the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the District of Columbia and the FBI’s Washington Field Office, the investigation has progressed at an unprecedented speed and scale,” officials said, adding that the Department of Justice remains steadfast in its commitment to holding those who committed crimes on Jan. 6, 2021, accountable.

In an overview released on Jan. 5, the Justice Department noted that more than 1,265 defendants from almost all 50 states and the District of Columbia have faced criminal charges.

Four hundred and fifty-two defendants were charged with assaulting, resisting or impeding officers, including 123 individuals charged with using deadly or dangerous weapons.

One hundred and forty police officers were assaulted on Jan. 6, 2021, with approximately 80 from the U.S. Capitol Police and 60 from the Metropolitan Police Department.

Eleven individuals were arrested for charges related to assaulting members of the media or destroying their equipment.

Of those charged, 1,186 were indicted for entering or remaining in a restricted federal building or grounds, 116 for entering a restricted area with a dangerous or deadly weapon, 71 for destruction of government property, and 56 for theft of government property. Additionally, prosecutors charged 332 individuals with obstructing an official proceeding and 57 for conspiracy counts related to obstructing a congressional proceeding, obstructing law enforcement during a civil disorder, or injuring an officer.

Approximately 718 individuals pleaded guilty to federal charges, with 213 pleading guilty to felonies and 505 to misdemeanors. Eighty-nine individuals who pleaded guilty to felonies faced federal charges of assaulting law enforcement officers, and four individuals pleaded guilty to the federal charge of seditious conspiracy.

The U.S. Attorney’s Office tried 139 individuals who were found guilty, including three in the Superior Court of the District of Columbia. Further, 32 individuals were convicted following an agreed-upon set of facts, and 76 were found guilty of assaulting, resisting, or impeding officers and obstructing officers during a civil disorder.

Finally, the U.S. Attorney’s Office reported that approximately 749 federal defendants have received sentences, with 467 sentenced to periods of incarceration and 154 given home detention. 

Trump, who has also been found civilly liable for sexually assaulting the writer, E. Jean Carroll, and ordered to pay her $5 million in damages, faces four criminal indictments, including federal charges of inciting the Jan. 6 attack, which led to the deaths of five law enforcement officers.

The DOJ said they’re still seeking more insurrectionists, including Evan Neumann, Jonathan Daniel Pollock, Joseph Daniel Hutchinson III, Adam Villarreal, Paul Belosic and Olivia Michelle Pollock.

“Citizens from across the country have played a crucial role in aiding the investigation,” DOJ officials said. “The FBI continues to seek public assistance in identifying individuals believed to have committed violent acts on Capitol grounds.”

The post 3 years after attack on Capitol investigations and prosecutions mount appeared first on AFRO American Newspapers.

By Stacy M. Brown
NNPA Newswire Senior National Correspondent

(NNPA NEWSWIRE) — Further highlighting how White supremacy knows no boundaries, a new board game titled “Storm the Capitol—TrueAnon Edition” is set for release this weekend, coinciding with the third anniversary of the Jan. 6, 2021, riot at the U.S. Capitol. The limited-edition game, designed for four to seven adult players and priced at $64.99, is based on the events of that deadly day and claims to allow players to “relive one of the funniest days in American history!”

Players can take on the roles of one of six “Patriots,” navigating the Capitol, collecting ballots, taking hostages and clashing with the police. Alternatively, players can play as the Capitol Police, using every means possible to prevent the “Patriots” from reaching the roof with enough ballots to “Stop the Steal,” according to the game’s website.

TrueAnon, a political podcast with hosts Brace Belden, Liz Franczak and Yung Chomsky, created the contentious board game. According to Newsweek, the podcast currently ranks ninth on Patreon. On a recent episode titled “MAGA-log,” the hosts promoted the game, recalling the Capitol riot. Belden called it “the best day of watching things on TV,” while Franczak described it as “a slice of life.”

The violent incident at the United States Capitol unfolded as a joint session of Congress attempted to certify the electoral college results of the 2020 presidential election, confirming the victory of Joe Biden. 

A large crowd of supporters of Trump gathered at the Capitol, protesting the election results. The situation then escalated, leading to a breach of the Capitol building by some protesters. Rioters broke windows, vandalized offices and clashed with law enforcement officers. Authorities placed the Capitol on lockdown, and lawmakers were evacuated or took shelter. The chaos resulted in the deaths of five individuals, including Capitol Police Officer Brian Sicknick, who succumbed to injuries sustained during the violence.

Insurrectionists had expressed resentment and anger over the election results because of the false allegations of widespread voter fraud that Trump and his allies spread. The attack was widely condemned as an attack on democracy and the rule of law.

More than 1,000 individuals were arrested and subsequently convicted on charges related to their involvement in the riot. Charges ranged from trespassing and disorderly conduct to more serious offenses such as assaulting law enforcement officers, conspiring to obstruct the certification of the electoral college results, and seditious conspiracy. Trump currently faces 91 felony charges stemming from his false claims of election fraud and his actions that sparked the insurrection.

The board game hosts claimed the game is meant for all Americans, regardless of political affiliation. If players choose to be “Patriots,” or the supremacist Trump supporters who caused mayhem that day, they move from room to room, drawing “event” cards or ballots—the game’s equivalent of points. The objective is to accumulate 100 ballots and reach the final room, where the twice-impeached and now four-times indicted former President Donald Trump awaits to fly players in his helicopter and change the results of the 2020 election to his favor, or to ratify the actual results.

One player assumes the role of the Capitol Police, aiming to prevent the “Patriots” from reaching 100 ballots before the 10th turn, at which point the police character would win and certify Joe Biden’s victory. The TrueAnon account provocatively wrote on social media, “January 6 was about having fun with your friends—and this January 6, that amazing feeling is coming back.”

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Johnson championed STEM, women’s rights, veterans, fair housing, transportation and the Affordable Care Act throughout her career.

By Stacy M. Brown
NNPA Newswire Senior National Correspondent

(NNPA Newswire) — Former U.S. Rep. Eddie Bernice Johnson, a trailblazer and dedicated public servant, died at 89. Kirk Johnson, her son, confirmed her death on Dec. 31. Johnson had been recently admitted to hospice care and left behind a legacy of remarkable achievements and contributions to the nation.

Kirk Johnson highlighted his mother’s accomplishments as a trailblazer, public servant and remarkable family member in a statement that the family released to express their sorrow over her passing. The family acknowledged the mourning of an extraordinary woman while celebrating her life and legacy. 

“I am heartbroken to share the news that my mother, Eddie Bernice Johnson, has passed away,” Kirk Johnson said.

“She was a remarkable and loving mother, mother-in-law, grandmother, and great-grandmother, as well as a trailblazer and public servant. While we mourn the loss of an extraordinary woman, we celebrate her life and legacy. She will be deeply missed.”

The younger Johnson said funeral services are pending.

“I am stunned and saddened to learn of the passing of my dear friend, Congresswoman Eddie Bernice Johnson,” Dallas Mayor Eric Johnson wrote on X Dec. 31. “Congresswoman Johnson was a groundbreaking leader for this country and for our state and city, and there really are no words to express my profound sense of grief and loss at the passing of this legendary American.”

Eddie Bernice Johnson was born to Edward and Lillie Mae Johnson in Waco, Texas. She graduated from A.J. Moore High School and earned her nursing certificate from Saint Mary’s College of Notre Dame in 1955. According to the Texas Metro News, Johnson furthered her education at Texas Christian University, obtaining a bachelor’s degree in nursing. She earned a master’s of public administration from Southern Methodist University in 1976.

Johnson championed STEM, women’s rights, veterans, fair housing, transportation and the Affordable Care Act throughout her career. She was a founding member of the tri-Caucus (Congressional Black Caucus, Congressional Hispanic Caucus and the Congressional Asian Pacific American Caucus) and the Dallas Coalition of Hunger Solutions. Noted Ambassador Ron Kirk highlighted Johnson’s numerous firsts, including being the first African American to serve as chief psychiatric nurse at the Dallas Veterans Administration Hospital.

In her political career, Johnson served in the Texas House and Senate, becoming the first African American woman in Dallas to be elected to office. When she went to Washington, she became the first registered nurse to ever serve in Congress. She was a member of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority and Links, Inc.

Johnson was the first African American and first female chair of the House Committee on Science, Space, and Technology. She was also the first African American to serve as the Department of Health, Education, and Welfare’s regional director, appointed by then-President Jimmy Carter.

Before her retirement, Johnson’s portrait was unveiled and hung in the Science Committee Room on Capitol Hill. The program for STEM women has also been named in her honor. Upon her retirement at the end of the 117th session, she was the oldest member of the House of Representatives.

The Congressional Black Caucus Chairman Steven Horsford (D-Nev.) and members of the CBC issued a statement mourning the loss of Congresswoman Eddie Bernice Johnson. 

“Among her many accomplishments in the Texas State Legislature as a nurse and member of Congress, Congresswoman Johnson was perhaps best-known to those close to her as a mother, wife, and friend, and she will be greatly missed,” CBC members stated. “She leaves a legacy and a lifetime of public service that will not soon be forgotten.”

They acknowledged her groundbreaking achievements.

Johnson’s impact extended beyond legislation; she delivered hundreds of millions of dollars toward revitalizing transportation in Texas, notably for the Southern Gateway Project and the DART Rail System. The DART and Amtrak rail centers in Dallas were renamed the Eddie Bernice Johnson Union Station in her honor.

Johnson’s multifaceted career included being a mother, wife and friend in addition to a public servant, leaving a void that those who knew her will feel deeply. “Her legacy as a trailblazer and advocate for justice, equality, and progress will endure,” CBC members said.

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By Stacy M. Brown
NNPA Newswire Senior National Correspondent

(NNPA Newswire) — According to newly revealed audio recordings, former President Donald Trump personally pressured two Republican members of the Wayne County Board of Canvassers in Michigan not to certify the 2020 presidential election results.

The recordings, obtained and reported by The Detroit News, show Trump urging two canvassers, Monica Palmer and William Hartmann, not to sign the certification documents and suggesting they would look “terrible” if they did. Trump told them they had to fight for the country, and vowed to provide them with attorneys. The revelation of Trump’s direct involvement in attempting to undermine Biden’s win in Michigan comes as he faces more than 90 criminal charges related to the 2020 election.

The Nov. 17, 2020, phone call, which also involved Republican National Committee Chairwoman Ronna McDaniel, urged canvassers to do whatever it took to keep Trump in office.

“We’ve got to fight for our country,” said Trump on the recordings, which the newspaper said were made by a person present for the call with Palmer and Hartmann. “We can’t let these people take our country away from us.”

McDaniel, a Michigan native and the leader of the Republican Party nationally, said at another point in the call, “If you can go home tonight, do not sign it. … We will get you attorneys.” To which Trump added, “We’ll take care of that.”

Palmer and Hartmann left the canvassers meeting without signing the official statement of votes for Wayne County and the following day, they unsuccessfully attempted to rescind their votes in favor of certification, filing legal affidavits claiming they were pressured. The moves from Palmer, Hartmann and Trump, had they been successful, threatened to throw the statewide certification of Michigan’s 2020 election into doubt.

The newspaper noted that the revelation of the contents of the call with the twice-impeached and four-times indicted former president comes as he faces four counts of criminal conspiracy to defraud the United States and its voters of the rightful outcome of the election. Efforts to prevent certification of Democrat Joe Biden’s 154,000-vote victory in Michigan are integral to the indictment.

Jonathan Kinloch, a former Democratic member of the Wayne County Board of Canvassers in November 2020, said what happened on the call with Trump was “insane.”

“It’s just shocking that the president of the United States was at the most minute level trying to stop the election process from happening,” Kinloch said.

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By Stacy M. Brown
NNPA Newswire Senior National Correspondent

(NNPA NEWSWIRE) — In a recent SiriusXM interview with Gayle King, iconic actress Taraji P. Henson bravely addressed the pervasive issue of pay inequality in Hollywood, triggering an outpouring of solidarity from her peers. The 53-year-old star, celebrated for her roles in “Empire,” “Hidden Figures” and “The Color Purple,” opened up about the substantial pay gap that Black women face in the entertainment industry.

“I’m only human and it seems every time I do something and I break another glass ceiling, when it’s time to renegotiate I’m at the bottom again like I never did what I just did. And I’m just tired,” Henson explained in an emotional Sirius XM interview. “It wears on you.”

“When it’s time for us to go to bat, they don’t have any money,” she added of her contract negotiations. “They play in your face. And I’m just supposed to smile and grin and bear and just keep going.”

Support for Henson flooded social media, with Gabrielle Union, 51, taking to X (formerly Twitter) to affirm, “Not a damn lie told. Not. A. Damn. Lie.” Union emphasized the collective commitment of industry veterans to usher in the change necessary for future generations, acknowledging the toll it takes on one’s mental health, soul and career.

Black British actor John Boyega, known for his standout roles in “Star Wars,” “The Woman King” and “They Cloned Tyrone,” praised Henson for her bravery.

“Brave of her to speak about this openly,” he commented on Instagram. “Problems at the top are hard to comprehend when it isn’t you.”

Keke Palmer, known for her role in “Nope,” also joined the conversation on Instagram, delving into the intricacies of Hollywood paychecks. Palmer drew parallels between the entertainment industry and other businesses, shedding light on the collaborative efforts behind every successful actor. She discussed the financial complexities of managing a team, including agents, publicists and assistants, echoing the sentiment that “more money means more problems,” a reality in any industry.

Palmer further touched upon the commonality of juggling multiple jobs in the entertainment sector, often out of necessity rather than choice. She highlighted the financial challenges faced by those pursuing success in America, emphasizing the importance of entrepreneurship while acknowledging its inherent expenses.

Henson’s revelations struck a chord as she detailed the financial strain actors endure, especially when negotiating contracts and managing the substantial expenses of their support teams.

“I’m just tired of working so hard, being gracious at what I do, getting paid a fraction of the cost,” Henson replied. “I’m tired of hearing my sisters saying the same thing over and over. I hear people go, ‘You work a lot.’ I have to. The math ain’t mathing.”

She pointed out that behind every successful actor is a team of people supporting them. “Big bills come with what we do. We don’t do this alone,” she said. “The fact that we’re up here, there’s a whole entire team behind us. They have to get paid.”

The actress conveyed frustration at consistently finding herself negotiating as though she had not already broken barriers in her career. Henson candidly shared the industry’s tendency to lack financial support when it comes time for equitable compensation negotiations.

Despite these challenges, Henson emphasized the importance of diversifying income streams. Beyond acting, she has launched side projects, such as her TPH haircare line, to fortify her financial standing and safeguard her well-being in an industry that, as she put it, “if you let it, it’ll steal your soul.” 

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By Stacy M. Brown
NNPA Newswire Senior National Correspondent
@StacyBrownMedia

(NNPA NEWSWIRE) — In an exclusive telephone interview, White House Press Secretary Karine Jean-Pierre underscored President Biden’s unwavering commitment to addressing the Black community’s critical issues. Reflecting on promises made during the 2020 campaign, Jean-Pierre outlined key achievements and ongoing initiatives directly impacting African Americans and other historically underserved communities.

“At the onset of President Biden’s term, the country faced economic turmoil and the devastating effects of the COVID-19 pandemic. The president, true to his campaign commitment, prioritized equity, ensuring the Black community received fair access to COVID-19 vaccines,” said Jean-Pierre.

“He made sure that small businesses got back on their feet, our schools reopened, and the child tax credit put money into people’s pockets. All those things were important to our community.”

The more than 10-minute discussion also delved into the significance of the American Rescue Plan, which was pivotal in supporting various facets of the Black community. The first Black woman to serve as White House press secretary, Jean-Pierre highlighted the impact of the Biden-Harris administration’s policies on economic recovery, small business revival, and other measures that directly provided essential financial relief to individuals.

“Economic indicators demonstrate significant progress since President Biden took office. Black unemployment, which stood at 9.2 percent, has notably declined to 5.9 percent as of October,” said Jean-Pierre, emphasizing the administration’s commitment to economic revitalization.

Jean-Pierre also noted the importance of net worth, noting a remarkable 60 percent increase for African Americans. She highlighted the historic investment of $7 billion in historically Black colleges and universities (HBCUs) and the doubling of Black business ownership since the onset of the pandemic.

“The president has consistently prioritized equity across various policy areas, including healthcare, education, and police reform,” said Jean-Pierre, also the first openly gay person to helm the White House briefing room. 

“Executive orders were issued to ban chokeholds and implement strong use-of-force policies when congressional action stalled,” Jean-Pierre added.

She noted that Biden and Vice President Kamala Harris have regularly worked to uplift Black and Brown communities, including their fight for voting rights, police reform, and cutting prices at the cash register.

“Lowering prices is what the president works on every day,” the press secretary asserted. “The prices of eggs, milk, and are lower than last year. Used cars and truck prices are down, and we will do everything we can to continue to lower prices. The work continues.” 

The conversation extended to Biden’s recognition of the Black Press’s significance, with Jean-Pierre assuring ongoing access to the president for regular engagement and discussions.

“The president understands the credibility and importance of the Black Press in conveying messages directly to the community. We are committed to ensuring continuous access and engagement,” affirmed Jean-Pierre. “We’re going to ensure has access to the president. That’s what he wants—he wants to speak directly to you. This president understands the importance of speaking to the Black Press, and he wants to have regular engagement with all of you, and we’re going to make sure that happens.”

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By Stacy M. Brown
NNPA Newswire Senior National Correspondent
@StacyBrownMedia

A group of current and former Alabama prisoners have filed a federal lawsuit, alleging that they were trapped in a “modern-day form of slavery” by being forced to work at fast-food chains for meager or no compensation. The comprehensive 129-page complaint, seeking class-action status, contends that the prisoners were victims of a “convict leasing” system, compelling them to work under exploitative conditions while the state of Alabama and its corporate partners reaped substantial profits.

The lawsuit, filed in the U.S. District Court for the Middle District of Alabama and first reported by the website Law & Crime, implicates over two dozen state officials, including Gov. Kay Ivey and Attorney General Steve Marshall, alongside numerous government agencies and private employers, including the Alabama Department of Corrections (ADOC). The plaintiffs argue that these entities have violated the Trafficking Victims Protection Act.

The complaint notes that while 26.8 percent of Alabama’s population identifies as Black or African American, double that percentage constitutes the Black incarcerated population. Drawing historical parallels, the group compares the alleged labor-trafficking scheme to the enslavement of individuals in Alabama’s cotton fields and subsequent sharecropping and convict leasing practices post-Civil War.

In a video statement, jailed activist Robert Earl Council, also known as Kinetik Justice, asserts that Alabama’s work programs are a continuation of pre-Civil War slavery. He accuses corporations and fast-food companies involved in these programs as complicit “slave masters,” condemning their participation in the alleged exploitation.

The complaint alleges that Alabama generates an annual $450 million from forced labor, with inmates compelled to work against their will. At the same time, the ADOC claims 40 percent of gross earnings purportedly for the cost of incarceration. In a recent finding, the U.S. Department of Justice announced significant deficiencies in ADOC facilities, prompting a 2020 lawsuit against Alabama, citing widespread violence among prisoners and guards.

Individual plaintiff stories further underscore the harsh realities. Lakiera Walker, incarcerated from 2007 to 2023, recounted years of uncompensated work, including housekeeping, floor stripping and employment at Burger King for a paltry $2 per day. Walker details enduring sexual harassment, being forced to work while unwell, and the intimidation preventing many women from speaking out.

The lawsuit contends that the work programs create a paradoxical situation where inmates are denied parole for public safety reasons while simultaneously working without supervision at local businesses. The plaintiffs demand justice for what they describe as forced labor and aim to expose and rectify systemic exploitation within Alabama’s prison system.

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By Stacy M. Brown
NNPA Newswire Senior National Correspondent

(NNPA NEWSWIRE) – Navy Federal Credit Union, the largest credit union in the United States, is under fire for exhibiting the most substantial racial disparities in mortgage approval rates among major lenders. The disparities, reaching new heights in 2022, were borne out by a pronounced contrast in approval rates for White and Black borrowers.

Recent Consumer Financial Protection Bureau data indicated that Navy Federal approved over 75 percent of White applicants for new conventional home purchase mortgages in 2022. In stark contrast, the approval rate for Black borrowers applying for the same type of loan was less than 50 percent. The nearly 29 percentage point gap in approval rates at Navy Federal stands out as the widest among the top 50 lenders originating the most mortgage loans last year.

Even when considering similar incomes and debt-to-income ratios, the racial disparity persisted. Navy Federal approved a higher percentage of applications from White borrowers earning less than $62,000 annually than Black borrowers earning $140,000 or more.

A detailed statistical analysis conducted by CNN revealed that Black applicants to Navy Federal were more than twice as likely to be denied compared to White applicants, even when multiple variables – including income, debt-to-income ratio, property value, downpayment percentage and neighborhood characteristics – were identical.

Navy Federal, initially founded in 1933 to serve Navy employees and now open to all members of the armed forces, Department of Defense personnel, veterans and their relatives, boasts about 13 million members and holds over $165 billion in assets. Last year, the credit union rejected approximately 3,700 Black applicants for home purchase mortgages, potentially impeding their path to homeownership, notably as interest rates spiked.

Bill Pearson, a spokesperson for Navy Federal, defended the credit union’s lending practices. “Navy Federal Credit Union is committed to equal and equitable lending practices and strict adherence to all fair lending laws,” Pearson stated. 

However, experts in mortgage lending and advocates for fair housing expressed concerns about the institution’s practices, emphasizing that the racial gaps in approval rates raise questions about Navy Federal’s commitment to fairness.

The widening gap in homeownership rates between White and Black Americans, exemplified by Navy Federal’s 2022 approval rates of 77.1 percent for White applicants, 55.8 percent for Latino applicants and 48.5 percent for Black applicants, mirrors a broader national issue. In comparison, other major lenders like Wells Fargo, US Bank and Bank of America exhibit smaller racial approval rate gaps.

CNN reported that advocates have urged lenders to improve automated underwriting systems to reduce racial disparities in decision-making. Some experts pointed out that Navy Federal’s unique member base may have different financial characteristics than large banks, potentially influencing the observed racial differences.

While federal regulators review banks’ lending under the Community Reinvestment Act, the network reported that credit unions like Navy Federal are not subject to the same scrutiny. Calls for legal revisions to ensure credit unions adhere to similar rules as banks have continued.

Sara Pratt, a lawyer at Relman Colfax, noted that racial disparities in mortgage lending may also be linked to loan officers assisting white borrowers more than Black ones. Despite having no evidence of such practices at Navy Federal, Pratt emphasized that the approval rate gaps demand explanations from the lender.

Federal law stipulates that lenders can be in violation of fair lending rules without intentional racism, as a “disparate impact” on minorities can lead to discrimination claims. This is not the first time Navy Federal has faced scrutiny over racial disparities, as a previous analysis in 2019 indicated significant gaps. This trend appears to have only intensified since then.

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By Stacy M. Brown
NNPA Newswire 

Renowned actor Andre Braugher, celebrated for his compelling performances in iconic television series such as “Brooklyn Nine-Nine” and “Homicide: Life on the Street,” has died at 61 after a brief illness. His publicist, Jennifer Allen, first confirmed the news to Variety.

A two-time Emmy winner, Braugher gained widespread acclaim for portraying Captain Raymond Holt in the police procedural comedy “Brooklyn Nine-Nine” from 2013 to 2021. Braugher’s character, an officer who appeared tough but displayed his care for all, was paired with Andy Samberg’s Detective Jack Peralta, the polar opposite of Holt.

Many may recall Braugher’s role as Detective Frank Pembleton on NBC’s “Homicide: Life on the Street,” which earned him the title of lead actor Emmy in 1998 when he departed from the series. In the critically acclaimed police drama that Barry Levinson, Tom Fontana, and David Simon created, Braugher stood out due to his intense performances.

In addition to his Emmy successes, Braugher received acclaim for his role as a master criminal in the FX series “Thief,” for which he earned another Emmy in 2006. His multifaceted career prompted reflection on the complex portrayal of police officers in the media, as discussed in a 2020 Variety cover story where he emphasized the need to address the depiction of law enforcement on television collectively.

Born in Chicago, Braugher graduated from Stanford University before pursuing drama at the Juilliard School. His career began with a notable role as a Union soldier in the film “Glory,” portraying Thomas Searles, a free Black man who joined the first Black regiment. From there, he seamlessly transitioned to television, notably appearing in “Kojak,” “Homicide: Life on the Street,” “Hack,” and “House, M.D.”

Braugher’s versatility extended to the big screen, where he left an indelible mark with roles in films such as “City of Angels,” “Frequency,” “Poseidon,” “Primal Fear,” “Duets,” “The Mist,” “Fantastic Four: Rise of the Silver Surfer,” “Salt” and “The Gambler.”

His wife, Ami Brabson, who also starred in “Homicide: Life on the Street,” and their three children survive him.

This article was originally published by NNPA Newswire.

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By Stacy M. Brown,
NNPA Newswire

Congress members Jasmine Crockett (D-TX-30) and Greg Casar (D-TX-35), alongside fellow Texas Democratic Reps. Colin Allred (D- TX-32), Joaquin Castro (D-TX-20), Congressman Lloyd Doggett (R-TX) , Veronica Escobar (D-TX-16) , Lizzie Fletcher (D-TX-7), Sylvia Garcia (D-TX-29), Vincente Gonzalez (D-TX-34), Al Green (D-TX-9), Sheila Jackson Lee (D-TX-18) and Marc Veasey (D-TX-33), have penned a letter to Attorney General Merrick Garland and the Department of Justice (DOJ) demanding heightened federal oversight of Texas’ controversial “Operation Lonestar” (OLS) program.

Initially conceived by Texas Governor Greg Abbott, OLS has stirred significant controversy, with reported incidents resulting in at least 74 deaths and numerous instances of violence and mistreatment of migrants over the past year. Investigations have uncovered the use of razor wire and buoys in the Rio Grande, deadly vehicle pursuits and prolonged detention without due process. Concerns are escalating with Abbott set to sign Texas S.B. 4 into law soon, potentially granting law enforcement more extraordinary powers to detain individuals suspected of being foreign nationals and raising fears of increased violence against migrants and the targeting of Latino Texans.

Expressing their apprehensions in the letter, the Democratic representatives highlighted the lack of remedial and preventive actions at the federal level despite ongoing abuses spanning nearly two years. The letter emphasized the necessity for the DOJ to assert field preemption and address the recurring violations under OLS, urging clarity on the administration’s stance regarding the legal interference of federal immigration law by Texas officials and law enforcement.

The lawmakers stressed their acknowledgment of the challenges at the southern border and the need for bipartisan solutions to address the broken immigration system. However, they underscored the imperative to ensure that actions taken at the border are legal and that the rights of all individuals, regardless of nationality, are protected.

“While Governor Abbott ramps up his escalated actions under OLS, we continue to see civil rights violations and illegal actions, whether it is the continuing ‘trespassing’ arrests of immigrants, razor-wire installations, or physical interposition by DPS and Texas Guard personnel preventing migrants from accessing safety and medical care, as illustrated from a video last month showing a Texas National Guard soldier accosting a migrant stuck in barbed wire,” the representatives wrote.

The letter concluded with a call for the DOJ to brief Congress on the recent findings of the Operation Lonestar investigation and a request to deploy federal civil rights observers to the affected areas.

Crockett further called for a DOJ briefing to update Congress on the ongoing investigation into “Operation Lonestar” and requested a commitment from the DOJ to deploy federal civil rights observers to the impacted regions. “It is critical that DOJ assert its rightful field preemption and send a strong message regarding OLS abuses,” she insisted.

This article was originally published by NNPA Newswire.

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By Stacy M. Brown,
NNPA Newswire Senior National Correspondent

(NNPA NEWSWIRE) – Hip-hop power couple T.I. and Tiny Harris celebrated the grand opening of their long-awaited affordable housing complex, The Intrada Westside, during a ribbon-cutting ceremony in Atlanta. 

 According to HipHopDX.com, the project is part of the couple’s commitment to community development, but it also has personal meaning for T.I. – the property once housed a grocery store where his grandmother shopped.

The Intrada Westside, located opposite Center Hill Park in the northwest part of Atlanta, boasts 143 apartments and 25 unique units to house homeless youth. T.I., born Clifford Harris and known for hits like “Whatever You Like,” expressed gratitude for the support from the arts and entertainment industry, which helped garner the financial resources needed to provide some of the essential amenities to the community. 

 “The arts and entertainment industry in this city has been able to collaborate and be, I guess, profitable enough to offer the community so many things that are much needed,” he said.

This venture is reportedly not the first time T.I. has invested in revitalizing his Atlanta community. In 2020, he urged his social media followers to shift their focus from luxury items to real estate. The rapper highlighted the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on consumer behavior and encouraged responsible spending. 

HipHopDx.com reported that T.I. had been actively involved in community initiatives through his Buy Back the Block initiative, investing over $2.7 million since 2017 to acquire six properties and plots of land in his Center Hill neighborhood. The website said his philosophy emphasizes the potential for individuals to thrive financially while positively contributing to their communities.

“The Black Press of America salutes both the creative genius of T.I. and his concrete commitment to the economic development of Black communities,” National Newspaper Publishers Association (NNPA) President and CEO Dr. Benjamin F. Chavis Jr. said. The NNPA is the trade association of America’s more than 230 Black-owned newspapers and media companies. 

“The affordable housing development in Atlanta is an innovative and positive pathway forward,” Chavis added. “I know T.I. personally, and his character and integrity are impeccable.”

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By Stacy M. Brown,
NNPA Newswire Senior National Correspondent

(NNPA NEWSWIRE) – Iconic rock star Lenny Kravitz has clarified his comments regarding his absence from Black awards programs, emphasizing that his concerns were not directed at Black-owned media companies. 

In response to the entertainer’s comments to Esquire, the National Newspaper Publishers Association’s “Let It Be Known” digital news broadcast had taken Kravitz to task, questioning whether he or his publicists and handlers were ignoring Black media. The show also directed a tweet to Kravitz on X, inviting him to explain why he chose to take his beef to mainstream media if he had been concerned about the Black Press. The National Newspaper Publishers Association is the trade association of over 230 African American-owned newspapers and media companies composing the 197-year-old Black Press of America.

In a statement, Kravitz expressed the importance of setting the record straight. “It is important to me to set the record straight on recent media reports based on an interview I did,” Kravitz said. “My Black musical heritage means a lot to me, and I owe my success to my supporters who have taken this journey with me over the span of my career.” 

He went on to clarify the specific nature of his comments, stating, “The comment I made was not about ‘Black media’ or the ‘Black community.’ I was specifically referring to Black award shows in particular.” 

Kravitz, whose biggest hits include “American Woman,” and “It Ain’t Over Til It’s Over,” insisted that his comments were meant to express concern about ensuring that Black artists are recognized for their work in what is now being called “non-traditional” Black music. 

“Rock and Roll is the music we were instrumental in creating and is a part of our history,” he stated. “We must retain our heritage and celebrate that together.”

In his comments to Esquire that initially raised comments, Kravitz, a four-time Grammy winner, questioned why Black entertainment publications didn’t celebrate his success and expressed disappointment at never receiving invitations to events like the BET or Source Awards. 

“Here is a Black artist who has reintroduced many Black art forms, who has broken down barriers—just like those that came before me broke down. That is positive. And they don’t have anything to say about it?” he questioned in the interview. 

Kravitz later acknowledged the contributions of networks like BET and others. “BET and countless others have paved the way for this type of recognition,” Kravitz said. “I hope that by sharing my concern, a spotlight will be shone on this issue. Love and peace.”

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By Stacy M. Brown,
NNPA Newswire

The National Institutes of Health (NIH) has released a major study showing how positron emission tomography (PET) scans of the heart could be used to find people likely to get Parkinson’s disease or Lewy body dementia. Health officials said the research, the brainchild of specialists from the National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke (NINDS), marks a significant advancement in the early detection of these crippling neurodegenerative disorders.

This discovery, led by scientists from the NINDS and published in the Journal of Clinical Investigation, could change how early these crippling neurodegenerative conditions are found.

In the pioneering investigation, scientists delved into neurotransmitter levels by employing PET scans on the hearts of 34 individuals with known Parkinson’s disease risk factors. The scans gave new information about the people who later were diagnosed with Parkinson’s disease or Lewy body dementia. Lewy bodies—abnormal alpha-synuclein protein deposits—are the root cause of both conditions.

The research took place at the NIH Clinical Center; currently the sole facility offering 18F-dopamine PET scanning. PET scans employ a radioactive tracer to visualize metabolic or biochemical processes within body organs.

Norepinephrine, derived from dopamine, is notably deficient in the brains of people living with Parkinson’s, health officials explained in the study. Dr. David S. Goldstein, the principal investigator for NINDS, has previously shown that people with Lewy body diseases have very little cardiac norepinephrine. He explained that nerves that supply the heart typically release this neurotransmitter.

The new study, led by Dr. Goldstein, found that people who were at risk and had low 18F-dopamine-derived radioactivity in the heart were much more likely to develop Parkinson’s or Lewy body dementia over time than people who had the same risk factors but normal radioactivity.

“Imagine the scans are frames of a movie. The frame at 8 minutes during the first evaluation is already enough to identify the people who are likely to go on to develop a central Lewy body disease years later,” Goldstein stated.

For the research, 34 individuals at risk for Parkinson’s were engaged, and subjected to cardiac 18F-dopamine PET scans every 18 months for up to approximately 7.5 years or until diagnosis. Those who took part had at least three things that put them at risk for Parkinson’s – a family history of the disease, anosmia (loss of smell), dream enactment behavior (a sleep disorder), and orthostatic intolerance symptoms, like feeling dizzy when standing up.

Eight of the nine participants who had lower cardiac 18F-dopamine-derived radioactivity on their first scan were later diagnosed with Parkinson’s disease or Lewy body dementia. Remarkably, only one of the eleven participants with normal initial radioactivity developed a central Lewy body disease. All nine participants who developed a Lewy body disease exhibited low radioactivity before or at the time of diagnosis.

Researchers noted that the study supported the idea that synuclein disorders, including Parkinson’s disease and Lewy body dementia, affect the nerves that control automatic body functions like blood pressure and heart rate. Officials said Goldstein’s extensive work, among others, showcases synuclein aggregation in nerves related to gastrointestinal organs, skin, and glands in both conditions.

“We think that in many cases of Parkinson’s and dementia with Lewy bodies, the disease processes don’t actually begin in the brain,” Goldstein remarked. “Through autonomic abnormalities, the processes eventually make their way to the brain. The loss of norepinephrine in the heart predicts and precedes the loss of dopamine in the brain in Lewy body diseases.”

Health officials declared that finding biomarkers for diseases before they show symptoms, in the “preclinical period,” is very important for testing that can help with early intervention. Parkinson’s motor symptoms do not show up until dopamine-producing neurons in parts of the brain that control movement are severely damaged or lost.

“Once symptoms begin, most of the damage has already been done,” Goldstein emphasized. “You want to be able to detect the disease early on. If you could salvage the dopamine terminals that are sick but not yet dead, then you might be able to prolong the time before the person shows symptoms.”

The study concluded, “Using PET scans to find people with preclinical Lewy body diseases could lead to testing preventative measures like changing your lifestyle, taking dietary supplements, or taking medicine.”

This article was originally published by NNPA Newswire.

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By Stacy M. Brown,
NNPA Newswire Senior National Correspondent

GOP Rep. George Santos of New York has become the third congressman in the last 50 years to be expelled from Capitol Hill. Santos, who has faced allegations of lies, fraudulent activities, and bizarre behavior, witnessed his downfall primarily at the hands of fellow Republicans who found his conduct too egregious to tolerate.

Among the fabrications, Santos falsely claimed that his mother perished during the Sept. 11, 2001, terror attacks and later awkwardly walked back comments that he was Jewish, adding to a litany of untruths. 

His expulsion also follows a sweeping 23-count superseding indictment by the Department of Justice (DOJ), charging him with conspiracy, wire fraud, making false statements to the Federal Election Commission (FEC), falsifying records, aggravated identity theft and access device fraud.

On Dec. 1, members of Congress voted to expel him. The resolution required a two-thirds majority vote to succeed. House Speaker Mike Johnson announced that 311 members of the House voted to expel Santos, 114 members voted against the expulsion, and two members recorded themselves as “present.”

He is the first member of Congress to be expelled since the Civil War who was not convicted of a felony beforehand.

Expulsion is handled administratively in the same way as a vacancy, such as due to death or resignation, according to a former House parliamentarian. The House clerk assumes control of the office and makes decisions on behalf of that office. Among other steps, the clerk will determine the process for clearing Santos’ office, while his district office would remain fully operational to address the needs of its constituents.

The chamber’s clerk will inform the governor of New York that there is now a vacancy in the third district of New York. It is then up to Democratic Gov. Kathy Hochul to schedule a special election to replace him.

“We don’t know who he is at all. He’s a dedicated, committed con man in the halls of Congress and has access to government secrets, to a lot of things that could be damaging to this country. He has to go,” said Republican Rep. Brandon Williams of New York.

Santos faced criticism from both sides of the aisle. GOP Rep. Marc Molinaro said, “George Santos is doing what every con man and 4-year-old does, which is to ignore the truth, take no responsibility and point at others and suggest they are worse.”

The expulsion process faced initial uncertainty, with some questioning whether a vote would occur. 

Rep. Jasmine Crockett, D-Texas, criticized Santos and the GOP for engaging in what she described as a distracting “dueling expulsion” rather than addressing crucial issues like the migrant crisis or passing a budget.

House Ethics Committee Chair Michael Guest, R-Miss., denounced Santos for criticizing the Ethics Committee’s report that advocated for his expulsion, stating, “George Santos would have you believe that the process that he endorsed in May is fatally flawed and that he instead is the subject of a political witch hunt.”

In his defense, Santos argued that he had not been convicted of any crimes, emphasizing the lack of precedent for expulsion without a criminal conviction. House Speaker Mike Johnson also expressed reservations about setting such a precedent.

However, the DOJ’s indictment revealed a complex scheme Santos allegedly executed during the election cycle. Prosecutors accused him of conspiring to obtain money for his campaign by submitting materially false reports to the FEC and inflating campaign fundraising numbers to qualify for financial and logistical support from a national party committee

The scheme involved falsely reporting significant financial contributions from family members, never making loans, and misrepresenting financial stability. “Santos allegedly led multiple additional fraudulent criminal schemes, lying to the American public in the process,” said FBI Assistant Director-in-Charge James Smith.

Added Breon Peace, the U.S. attorney for the Eastern District of New York, “Santos is charged with stealing people’s identities and making charges on his own donors’ credit cards without their authorization, lying to the FEC and, by extension, the public about the financial state of his campaign. Santos falsely inflated the campaign’s reported receipts with non-existent loans and contributions that were either fabricated or stolen.”

Santos, elected to Congress last November, was sworn in as the U.S. representative for New York’s Third Congressional District on Jan. 7, 2023.

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By Stacy M. Brown,
NNPA Newswire

Vice President Kamala Harris on Nov. 23 announced the Women in the Sustainable Economy (WISE) Initiative, which the White House says supports the 2023 Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC) theme of “Creating a Resilient and Sustainable Future for All.” Its goal is to strengthen women’s economic empowerment globally.

The initiative contains over $900 million in commitments from governments, private sector companies, foundations, and civil society. The funds will bolster women’s economic participation in key sectors such as clean energy, fisheries, recycling, forest management, and environmental conservation.

The WISE Initiative is a core element of the broader Biden-Harris administration’s dedication to advancing women’s economic empowerment globally. The commitment aligns with the U.S. National Strategy on Gender Equity and Equality and the U.S. Strategy on Global Women’s Economic Security. Notably, it builds on the administration’s previous announcement in Ghana, where $1 billion was pledged to empower women globally and bridge the digital gender divide.

According to a White House Fact Sheet, the initiative operates on three foundational pillars:

1. Promoting Well-Paying Jobs: Ensuring women have the necessary skills, training, and access to decent jobs in energy, land, and water use and management.
2. Supporting Women-Owned Businesses: Facilitating increased access to banking, financial services, networks, markets, and technical assistance for women in critical sectors
3. Eliminating Barriers: Advancing STEM education for girls and addressing obstacles to women’s economic participation in energy, land, and water use and management.

Under the WISE umbrella, flagship initiatives include the Engendering Industries program, which is focused on creating economic opportunities for women in sectors like water, agriculture, energy and information technology.

The Climate Gender Equity Fund (CGEF), a public-private partnership under the direction of USAID, promotes financial inclusion for women-led organizations in climate finance for long-term economic growth.

Global commitments from governments include Australia, Canada, Ireland, Japan, Mexico and Norway, each contributing significant funds to support women’s economic participation and empowerment.

Administration officials confirmed that the private sector, philanthropic organizations, and civil society are active participants. Major players such as Amazon, CARE, Citi, LinkedIn, Mastercard Impact Fund, PepsiCo, Reckitt, Unilever and the Visa Foundation commit substantial financial resources to promoting women’s economic empowerment.

In reinforcing the U.S. commitment, Harris announced a contribution of $163 million to advance women’s economic security domestically and globally. Collectively, partners are pledging over $900 million, marking a historic step towards fostering women’s participation in the sustainable economy.

“This initiative not only aligns with the APEC theme but also represents a bold stride in the global pursuit of gender equality, economic empowerment, and sustainable development,” administration officials said in a release.

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By Stacy M. Brown,
NNPA Newswire Senior National Correspondent,
@StacyBrownMedia

The clock struck midnight on the New York Adult Survivors of Sexual Assault statute, a law that opened a one year window for accusers to file a lawsuit against their alleged abusers. And when it was all said and done, more than 2,600 claims were filed, including some last-minute cases against Hollywood and music’s biggest names.

The state law, which opened on Thanksgiving 2022 and closed at midnight on Friday 2023, has allowed accusers from decades-old encounters to seek financial damages from those they said manipulated them, took advantage of their authority, raped, and otherwise sexually abused them.

Some of the earlier high-profile names were the twice-impeached, four-times criminally indicted former President Donald Trump, whom the writer E. Jean Carroll successfully sued in court this year. A jury found that Trump sexually assaulted Carroll in the 1990s and awarded her $5 million in damages.

A week before the midnight holiday deadline, the R&B singer Cassie Ventura sued Sean “Diddy” Combs for years of sexual abuse and a myriad of other damning accusations, and the two quickly reached a settlement that one report claimed netted Ventura $100 million. Before the deadline, Diddy was hit with two additional sexual assault lawsuits , as was Harve Pierre, the former president of Diddy’s Bad Boy Records, who is accused of preying on the Jane Doe plaintiff “on multiple occasions in New York City and other locations throughout the country,” according to a complaint filed in the New York County Supreme Court.
Actors Jamie Foxx and Cuba Gooding Jr. were among those to have allegations leveled against them. Entertainers such as Russell Brand, Marilyn Manson, and Harvey Weinstein were also hit with claims. 

Comedian Bill Cosby again faced allegations of sexual assault, while Guns N’ Roses front man Axl Rose was accused of a vicious assault in 1989. Photographer Terry Richardson and famed music producer L.A. Reid were also served with legal documents from accusations dating back to 2004.

Record mogul Jimmy Iovine, former New York Gov. Andrew Cuomo, New York State Sen. Kevin Parker, and New York City Mayor Eric Adams were among the many others accused by women of assaulting them in lawsuits filed this week under the Adult Survivors Act, signed into law by New York Gov. Kathy Hochul in May 2022.

The Adult Survivors Act evolved from the Child Victims Act, enacted in 2019, which gave individuals abused as minors a “lookback window” to file claims. Hochul noted that the Child Victims Act had overlooked many individuals, prompting the introduction of the Adult Survivors Act. The sheer volume and variety of allegations underscored the seismic impact of the legislation and its role in giving a voice to survivors who claim to have long felt unheard.

Still, most of those accused issued public statements denying the allegations. “Diddy, LA Reid, Steven Tyler, and now they circle back to this,” Cosby spokesperson Andrew Wyatt said. “When is it going to stop?”

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By Stacy M. Brown,
NNPA Newswire

TikTok, the Chinese-owned social media giant, is bidding farewell to its $2 billion Creator Fund, an initiative launched in 2020 to support eligible users creating content on the platform financially. A TikTok spokesperson confirmed the announcement, which represents a significant change in the environment for influencers and content creators who have long relied on this fund to support their livelihoods.

The Creator Fund, as per a July 2020 news release from TikTok, was designed to “help support ambitious creators who are seeking opportunities to foster a livelihood through their innovative content.” Over the past three years, the fund has distributed money to creators based on their share of overall views on the platform. However, after the fund’s launch, many creators voiced their concerns, asserting that it had made monetization on TikTok an uphill battle.

Notable internet personality Hank Green, a former YouTube star, was among the outspoken critics of the fund. Green argued that the monetization tool primarily served TikTok’s interests rather than those of its creators. He pointed out that, despite amassing substantial viewership numbers, creators only made meager incomes from the platform. For instance, Green, who boasts 8 million followers on TikTok, revealed that he earned just about 2.5 cents per 1,000 views.

The Creator Fund will cease operations on Dec. 16 in the United States, the United Kingdom, France and Germany, according to reports from The Verge and Fortune. Although TikTok confirmed the fund’s termination to NBC News, the platform’s spokesperson gave no further information or a specific end date.

TikTok has already introduced a replacement for the Creator Fund, known as the Creativity Program, aiming to address the initial grievances of creators. In a blog post in February, TikTok announced that creators could “earn up to 20 times the amount previously offered by the Creator Fund.” To qualify for the Creativity Program, videos must be longer than a minute, garner at least 1,000 views and adhere to the platform’s community guidelines, among other criteria.
The program remains in beta testing and, at present, is available exclusively to U.S.-based creators over 18 with more than 10,000 followers and a minimum of 100,000 video views in the last 30 days. It remains to be seen whether TikTok intends to introduce a different monetization program that includes creators worldwide.

“The Creativity Program was developed based on the learnings and feedback we’ve gained from the previous Creator Fund,” the Tik Tok spokesman stated. “As we continue developing new ways to reward creators and enrich the TikTok experience, we value the feedback and direct insights from our community to help inform our decisions.”

This article was originally published by NNPA Newswire.

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By Stacy M. Brown,
NNPA Newswire

The Supreme Court unveiled an ethics code for its justices on Monday, marking a departure from its historical absence of such regulations. The move comes in the wake of heightened scrutiny and revelations surrounding undisclosed property deals and gifts that have raised concerns about the ethical conduct of some justices.

In an official statement, the court highlighted the code’s purpose as providing a comprehensive framework for ethical conduct. “For the most part, these rules and principles are not new,” the court explained. It emphasized that the absence of a code had led to what the court said was the misconception that justices were exempt from ethical constraints.

While lower federal judges adhere to an ethics code governing their conduct, Supreme Court justices have never been subject to the same rules due to their unique constitutional status. Chief Justice John G. Roberts Jr., in a letter to lawmakers earlier this year, indicated that the court draws guidance from the ethics code applicable to other federal judges.

The decision to adopt the ethics code follows a series of controversies surrounding undisclosed dealings, including a revelation involving conservative Justice Clarence Thomas. Thomas acknowledged undisclosed travel expenses funded by billionaire associate Harlan Crow in his most recent annual financial disclosure report.

The report detailed several trips facilitated by Crow, including a conservative conference in Dallas and a vacation to the Adirondacks. Thomas, citing security concerns related to a leaked draft opinion on the Roe v. Wade case, defended using a private jet for one trip. The report, compiled with the assistance of attorney Elliot Berke, asserted that there were no intentional ethical violations and that any discrepancies in previous reports were unintentional.

The disclosures stem from a ProPublica exposé outlining Thomas’s acceptance of luxurious trips from Crow, a prominent Republican donor, which were not disclosed in previous financial reports.

In response to these revelations, Democratic members of the Senate Judiciary Committee are urging the Supreme Court to implement new ethical guidelines. The controversy also prompted a change in disclosure regulations in March, requiring justices to disclose private aircraft travel and stays at privately owned resorts.

Justice Thomas justified the gifts from Crow as “personal hospitality,” exempt from previous regulations requiring disclosure. The recent report further addressed Crow’s acquisition of Thomas’s family-owned real estate in Savannah, clarifying that Thomas’s financial loss in the transaction was due to a prior investment in his mother’s property.

Furthermore, the report revealed omissions in Thomas’s previous submissions, including the disclosure of bank accounts and other financial matters held by his conservative political activist wife, Ginni Thomas.

An August 2023 ProPublica report exposed additional details of Thomas’s extensive travel, financed by billionaire backers, raising concerns from Democrats and ethics experts. The report claimed that the new information revealed that Thomas’s lifestyle far exceeded his reported income, potentially violating ethics laws.

Rep. Ted Lieu (D-Calif.) tweeted in response to the revelations, “Justice Thomas has brought shame upon himself and the United States Supreme Court with his acceptance of massive, repeated and undisclosed gifts. He should resign immediately.”

This article was originally published by NNPA Newswire.

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By Stacy M. Brown,
NNPA Newswire Senior National Correspondent

(NNPA NEWSWIRE) – FBI agents confiscated electronic devices belonging to New York City Mayor Eric Adams earlier this week, intensifying a criminal inquiry into potential collaboration with the Turkish government, among others, in an alleged scheme to funnel funds into Adams’ 2021 campaign coffers.

According to a New York Times report, the incident unfolded after an event at New York University, where agents approached the mayor and requested his security detail to step aside. Armed with a court-authorized warrant, the agents joined Adams in his SUV and seized at least two cellphones and an iPad.

The Times said the electronic devices were returned to the mayor within days of the Nov. 6 encounter. It is common practice for law enforcement investigators armed with a search warrant to make copies of data from seized devices for further analysis.

Boyd Johnson, a lawyer representing Adams and his campaign, issued a statement asserting the mayor’s cooperation with federal authorities. Johnson stated that Adams had already “proactively reported” at least one instance of improper behavior upon learning of the federal investigation. “In the spirit of transparency and cooperation, this behavior was immediately and proactively reported to investigators,” Johnson said.

Emphasizing that authorities had not accused Adams of wrongdoing, Johnson reiterated that the mayor swiftly complied with the FBI’s request and willingly provided them with his electronic devices.

However, not all reactions to the news were supportive. Curtis Sliwa, a former New York City mayoral candidate, called for Adams’s resignation. “He’s too distracted by the multiple investigations into his fundraising to lead New York City,” Sliwa insisted.

Chris Sosa, a member of the New York Democratic Committee, echoed similar sentiments, urging Adams to step down immediately. “Our leaders need to demand that he step down for the health of our city,” Sosa wrote on X. “I’m not suggesting anything about the outcome of investigations. But the mayor cannot execute his duties effectively under these escalating circumstances.”

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By Stacy M. Brown,
NNPA Newswire,
@StacyBrownMedia

President Biden this week nominated Judge Julie S. Sneed and Judge Jacquelyn D. Austin to the U.S. District Courts for the Middle District of Florida and the District of South Carolina, respectively. The White House said the nominations continue to show Biden’s ongoing commitment to diversify the federal judiciary and ensure that the nation’s courts reflect the multifaceted nature of the United States

With 32 Black women appointed by Biden already confirmed by the Senate for lifetime judgeships, “The Biden-Harris administration continues to set records when it comes to professional and demographic diversity,” Stephen Benjamin, director of the White House Office of Public Engagement and a senior adviser to the President, said in a statement to TheGrio, which first reported the nominations.

Benjamin noted that the number of Black female federal judges appointed under this administration surpasses any single administration in history.

Both Judge Sneed and Judge Austin are exceptionally well-qualified, with impressive legal careers before their nominations. Sneed has served as a U.S. magistrate judge for the Middle District of Florida since June 2015. Before her judgeship, she gained extensive experience as a partner and associate at law firms Akerman LLP and Fowler White Boggs Banker, P.A. Additionally, she worked as a law clerk for Judge James D. Whittemore on the U.S. District Court for the Middle District of Florida and Judge Chris W. Altenbernd on the Florida Second District Court of Appeal. Her legal education includes a J.D. from Florida State University College of Law and a B.S. from the University of Florida.

Austin has served as a U.S. magistrate judge for the District of South Carolina since 2011. Before her judicial career, she built a solid foundation in private practice at Womble Carlyle Sandridge and Rice, PLLC, where she worked her way up from associate to partner. Austin also served as a law clerk for Judge Matthew J. Perry Jr. on the U.S. District Court for the District of South Carolina. She holds a J.D. from the University of South Carolina School of Law and a B.S. from the University of South Carolina School of Engineering.

Biden’s commitment to increasing diversity on the federal bench has yielded results, with two-thirds of the 148 life-tenured federal judges confirmed so far being women and people of color. This includes a record number of civil rights lawyers and public defenders, which the White House said emphasized the administration’s dedication to promoting fairness and justice within the judicial system.

Among Biden’s most celebrated judicial nominees is Justice Ketanji Brown Jackson, who made history last year as the first Black woman to serve on the U.S. Supreme Court. “These choices also continue to fulfill the President’s promise to ensure that the nation’s courts reflect the diversity that is one of our greatest assets as a country—both in terms of personal and professional backgrounds,” White House officials said in a release.

This article was originally published by NNPA Newswire.

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By Stacy M. Brown,
NNPA Newswire

As COVID-19 continues to evolve, a new variant has emerged, garnering attention from health officials across the United States. Known as HV.1, the latest variant has shown a significant surge in cases, raising questions about its potential impact on public health.

According to data from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), HV.1 was first identified in mid-summer, but it wasn’t until September that cases began to spike, making it the cause of nearly 20 percent of all COVID-19 cases in the country.

Infectious disease experts, including Dr. Amesh A. Adalja and Dr. Thomas Russo, told the health and wellness website Prevention.com that they have classified HV.1 as an Omicron XBB variant, descending from the EG.5 variant. They said the lineage highlights its genetic connection to the original Omicron strain.

According to Prevention.com, one of the concerning features of HV.1 is its spike protein, which has undergone notable changes from the EG.5 variant. While the full implications of these alterations are not yet fully understood, the rapid increase in cases—from 0.5 percent in mid-July to nearly 20 percent in mid-October—suggests a high level of transmissibility.

Despite the rise in cases, experts remain cautiously optimistic. Dr. Adalja emphasized that new variants of SARS-CoV-2 are expected, and most may not pose a significant threat. Dr. William Schaffner told Prevention.com that, so far, HV.1 doesn’t appear to cause more severe illness than other circulating variants.

Symptoms associated with HV.1 largely mirror those of previous strains, including fever, cough, fatigue, and loss of taste or smell. However, it tends to manifest as a more common cold-like illness, with symptoms like congestion and a runny nose being prominent.

Regarding prevention, the updated COVID-19 vaccine based on the XBB.1.5 variant is expected to protect individuals from HV.1. The new variant is considered a “grandchild” of XBB.1.5, and experts anticipate the vaccine will effectively mitigate severe cases.

While HV.1 is rising, health officials urge the public to maintain standard precautions. This includes vaccination, proper hand hygiene, and avoiding close contact with visibly unwell individuals. For added protection, N95 or Kn95 face masks are recommended.

“COVID is still with us. If you develop symptoms, test yourself ASAP and contact your doctor if you’re positive. You may be a candidate for an antiviral medication,” Dr. Russo underscored.

This article was originally published by NNPA Newswire.

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By Stacy M. Brown
NNPA Newswire Senior National Correspondent
@StacyBrownMedia

As the Nov. 17 deadline for a government shutdown looms, Washington grapples with a confluence of domestic political divides and escalating global conflicts.

The recent appointment of far-right House Speaker Mike Johnson (R-La.) follows a tumultuous three-week period during which Congress went without a speaker, underscoring the deep divisions within the Republican Party.

Johnson’s maiden legislative venture, a $14 billion bill aimed at fortifying Israel’s defense against Hamas, drew sharp criticism for its exclusion of aid to Ukraine and substantial cuts to IRS funding. The move, viewed as a desperate overture to the twice-impeached and now four-times indicted former President Donald Trump, underscores Johnson’s conservative agenda.

Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer (D-N.Y.) minced no words in his assessment of Johnson’s approach, emphasizing the bill’s lack of bipartisan support. “His first major legislative effort was not bipartisan at all,” Schumer stated. “And I think he’s going to learn the hard way that that doesn’t work.”

He further pointed out that he and the president shared reservations about the bill, and Senate Minority Leader Mitch McConnell also did not endorse it.

Former Rep. Liz Cheney (R-Wy.) leveled serious concerns about Johnson’s ascendancy to the speaker’s chair, branding him “dangerous” due to his support for overturning the 2020 election results. Cheney, a vocal critic of Trump during her congressional tenure, argued that Johnson’s actions contradicted his professed commitment to upholding the Constitution. She remarked, “He was willing to set aside what he knew to be the rulings of the courts, the requirements of the Constitution, in order to placate Donald Trump.”

USA Today political writer Rex Huppke provided a scathing assessment of the situation, calling attention to the perceived lack of direction within House Republicans. “If you haven’t already passed out from the vacuous stupidity of all that, you might be wondering: ‘Hey, what are these House Republicans doing about the rapidly approaching Nov. 17 deadline to keep the government open?’” Huppke wrote.

He went on to paint a vivid picture of internal discord, referencing Trump’s legal troubles and characterizing the House Speaker as having a “disingenuous-youth-pastor vibe” even as he faces the challenges of avoiding a government shutdown right before the holidays.

In the Senate, a bipartisan effort led to the passage of three critical government funding bills covering areas such as military construction, veterans’ affairs, agriculture, transportation and housing. The decisive 82-15 vote aims to break the deadlock and provide a path to avert a potential shutdown.

Sen. Tammy Baldwin (D-Wis.), a member of the Appropriations Committee, expressed hope that this progress will compel Congress to approve a short-term funding bill, affording the time needed to finalize a budget before year-end.

“There is definitely uncertainty with regard to how the House will respond to our strong bipartisan votes on appropriation bills,” Baldwin said. “But we hope that they will conclude – especially seeing the strong bipartisan votes – that the only way forward is through bipartisanship.”

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By Stacy M. Brown,
NNPA Newswire

As the Israel-Hamas conflict escalates, the U.S. Department of Homeland Security (DHS) and the Department of Justice (DOJ) are issuing warnings of an anticipated surge in hate crimes within the United States. The agencies underscored the need for heightened vigilance, not only against antisemitic and Islamophobic attacks, but also against the backdrop of continued threats faced by African Americans and LGBTQ communities.

The DHS’s recent intelligence assessment emphasizes an expected increase in antisemitic and Islamophobic hate attacks in the country as the conflict progresses. The agency also cautions that the ongoing war could elevate the threat of terrorism and targeted violence on American soil.

In a separate memo addressed to law enforcement agencies in Washington, D.C., DHS pinpointed potential targets, including places of worship, First Amendment-protected demonstrations, events and U.S. military assets. The memo, first reported by ABC News, disclosed a troubling spike in swatting calls targeting Jewish temples in Massachusetts, Pennsylvania, and Rhode Island, featuring hoax bomb threats since the eruption of the latest Israel-Hamas conflict on Oct. 7.

“At the top of our agenda will be our shared efforts to help keep our communities safe from violent crime,” Attorney General Merrick Garland said at a conference in Florida.

Garland acknowledged the palpable fear gripping communities nationwide.

The FBI has reported an uptick in threats against faith communities, particularly those of Jewish, Muslim and Arab faiths. In response, Garland directed all 94 U.S. Attorneys’ Offices and the FBI to maintain close communication with state, local, and federal law enforcement partners in their districts.

Garland pledged the DOJ’s commitment to providing the necessary support for law enforcement partners, particularly in the face of rising threats of hate-fueled violence and terrorism.

However, the heightened alert extends beyond the Jewish, Muslim and Arab communities. Minority communities across America are also on edge. African Americans, long-standing targets of hate crimes, and LGBTQ communities are particularly concerned about the potential for increased violence.

Officials confirmed that organizations and community leaders representing those groups are collaborating with law enforcement agencies to ensure the safety and security of their members. The Department of Justice has initiated measures to address hate crimes targeting these communities, pledging to stand alongside them in the face of adversity.

Recently, in Pensacola, Fla., law enforcement agencies and ATF ballistics experts worked together to convict a shooter involved in an attempted robbery, serving as an example of the Department’s commitment to combating violent crime. A successful operation called “Agua Azul” that seized sizable amounts of illegal substances proved the DOJ’s dedication to destroying the global fentanyl supply chain, the DOJ said. In addition, a recent conviction for a racially motivated attack close to the scene of the 1923 Rosewood Massacre also proves that the Department continues to pursue justice in cases of hate crimes, Garland noted.

He concluded that the Department of Homeland Security and the Department of Justice “remain resolute in their mission to uphold the rule of law, safeguard communities, and protect civil rights, even in the face of escalating international conflicts.”

This article was originally published by NNPA Newswire.

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By Stacy M. Brown,
NNPA Newswire

Georgetown University’s Department of Intercollegiate Athletics officials said they are mourning the death of Women’s Basketball Head Coach Tasha Butts following a courageous two-year battle with breast cancer. Butts, an accomplished player, nationally recognized assistant coach, and first-year head coach, was 41.

“I am heartbroken for Tasha’s family, friends, players, teammates, and colleagues,” the Francis X. Rienzo Director of Intercollegiate Athletics, Lee Reed, said in a news release. “When I met Tasha, I knew she was a winner on the court and an incredible person whose drive, passion, and determination was second to none. She exhibited these qualities both as a leader and in her fight against breast cancer. This is a difficult time for the entire Georgetown community, and we will come together to honor her memory.”

University President John J. DeGioia also expressed his condolences. “Tasha’s passing is a devastating loss. She was extraordinary—Tasha was a person of character, determination, vision, and kindness,” DeGioia stated in the release. “She will be deeply missed by our community and by so many people around the country who have been inspired by her life. We offer her family our most sincere condolences.”

Butts’ transformative tenure at Georgia Tech, where she led the team to consecutive NCAA Tournament appearances, will live on in memory—the 2021–22 season witnessed a historic victory against UConn, snapping their 240-game winning streak against unranked opponents. School officials said her impact extended beyond the court as she fearlessly battled cancer while continuing to inspire her players.

“In Tasha, we had not only a remarkable coach but a true warrior. Her strength and resilience were nothing short of extraordinary,” remarked an emotional Reed.

At LSU, Butts left her mark on the program, leading the Tigers to multiple NCAA Tournament appearances and back-to-back Sweet 16 runs in 2012 and 2013. Officials said she mentored a generation of players, nurturing their talents and fostering their growth as athletes and individuals.

Butts regularly engaged in programs aimed at advancing coaching excellence and was recognized for her dedication to the advancement of Blacks in sports.

A native of Milledgeville, Georgia, Butts was a standout player in high school. Her jersey, bearing the iconic No. 23, was retired to recognize her outstanding achievements.

Spencer, Sr. and Evelyn, her brother Spencer, Jr., her nephew Marquis, a large extended family, and the entire women’s basketball community survive Butts.

With the 2023–24 season approaching, Darnell Haney will serve as the interim head coach for Georgetown, with the university and BIG EAST Conference officials declaring a commitment to continuing Butts’ “Tasha Tough initiative,” which focuses on early cancer screenings and detection.

This article was originally published NNPA Newswire.

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By Stacy M. Brown,
NNPA Newswire Senior National Correspondent

(NNPA NEWSWIRE) – New York Democrat Rep. Jamaal Bowman, charged with falsely activating the fire alarm at a congressional office building before last month’s vote on a stopgap spending measure to fund the government, pleaded guilty on Oct. 26.

“I’m thankful for the quick resolution from the District of Columbia Attorney General’s office on this issue and grateful that the United States Capitol Police General Counsel’s office agreed I did not obstruct nor intend to obstruct any House vote or proceedings,” Bowman said ahead of his plea. “I am responsible for activating a fire alarm, I will be paying the fine issued, and look forward to these charges being ultimately dropped. I think we all know that Republicans will attempt to use this to distract everyone from their mess, but I look forward to putting this behind me and to continue working hard to deliver for New Yorkers.”

The office of the D.C. attorney general confirmed in a statement that Bowman “is pleading guilty and has agreed to pay the maximum fine.”

According to court documents, surveillance footage examined by the Capitol Police shows Bowman allegedly looking at the doors that read “Emergency Exit Only Push Until Alarm Sounds.” According to the complaint, Bowman pulled the alarm and later allegedly walked by Capitol Police officers without alerting them.

“At approximately 1208 hours, the defendant enters the United States Capitol Building and while showing his credentials, he walks by two USCP officers who are posted at the inside entrance, staffing the metal detector,” the complaint said.

“We finished our investigation. Our agents gathered all the evidence, packaged it up, and sent the entire case with charges to prosecutors for their consideration,” the United States Capitol Police said in a separate statement.

Bowman admitted to pulling the alarm, saying it was an accident. “I was rushing to make a vote,” he asserted in an ABC News interview. “I didn’t know it would trigger the whole building.”

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By Stacy M. Brown, NNPA Newswire Senior National Correspondent

(NNPA NEWSWIRE) – Kenneth Chesebro, a former attorney for Donald Trump, has admitted his guilt to charges stemming from attempts to overturn the twice-impeached ex-president’s loss to Joe Biden in the 2020 election in Georgia.

Chesebro, one of 18 people charged along with Trump under the state’s anti-racketeering law, made a last-minute plea deal, confessing to a felony charge of conspiracy to file false documents.

Chesebro’s plea followed fellow attorney Sidney Powell’s guilty plea to six misdemeanor counts. Chesebro’s deal with prosecutors includes five years of probation, 100 hours of community service, a $5,000 restitution, a written apology to Georgia’s residents, and a commitment to truthful testimony in any subsequent trials.

His and Powell’s pleas, along with a prior plea from a bail bondsman last month, mark significant victories for Fulton County District Attorney Fani Willis, who secured racketeering indictments in August against 19 people, including Trump, who faces a total of 91 felony counts in four jurisdictions.

In addition to four indictments against him this year, a civil jury found Trump responsible for sexually assaulting a journalist, and a New York judge ruled that he illegally embellished his wealth to secure better loan and insurance rates.The latest plea agreement also ensures Chesebro publicly acknowledges his involvement and eliminates the uncertainty of a jury trial. Additionally, it compels him to disclose communications with Trump’s campaign lawyers and close associates, including co-defendant Rudy Giuliani.

Powell will serve six years on probation, pay a $6,000 fine, and write an apology letter to Georgia and its residents. She has also provided a statement for the prosecution and pledged to testify truthfully in future proceedings against her co-defendants. Bail bondsman Scott Graham Hall entered a guilty plea to five misdemeanor charges the previous month. He received a five-year probation sentence and committed to testify in forthcoming proceedings.

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By Stacy M. Brown,
NNPA Newswire

For over six decades, the Ohio Players, first introduced as the Ohio Untouchables, have been a powerhouse in the world of music, dazzling fans with iconic hits like “Love Rollercoaster,” “Fire,” and “Funky Worm” while performing to sold-out audiences across the nation. After years of dedicated contributions to the music industry, the band’s drummer and leader, James “Diamond” Williams, is openly questioning why the Ohio Players have yet to secure their spot in the prestigious Rock and Roll Hall of Fame.

Williams, a musical legend in his own right, shared his thoughts during a 30-minute interview on the National Newspaper Publishers Association’s morning show, “Let It Be Known.” “Initially, when I thought about it, I said we are not Rock and Roll, but then after they put the Beastie Boys and everybody else in that rascal,” Williams quipped. “I said, ‘What is the problem? It’s right here in Cleveland, Ohio.’”

Despite the ongoing Rock Hall snub, Williams emphasized that he didn’t want to become embittered. “I would like to think I don’t want to turn into Ernest T. Bass, who used to throw rocks through windows,” he said, citing the character from the Andy Griffith Show. “I don’t want to look at it as something that has upset me because this band has been so well blessed with everything we’ve accomplished and things that are going on right now on the road. But I would like to be a part of that establishment, don’t get me wrong.”

The Ohio Players, now led by Williams, 73, continue to tour and captivate audiences with their remarkable sound. While some original band members like Sugarfoot, Rock Jones, Pee Wee, and Satch have died, several members from the Mercury Records lineup, including Billy Beck, Chet Willis, and Robert Kuumba, remain active with the group, performing with a new ten-piece band. Their performances have continued to receive critical acclaim, leading many to believe that it’s time the Ohio Players receive the recognition they deserve as one of the greatest American bands ever.

The band’s journey began in Dayton, Ohio, in 1959, initially as The Ohio Untouchables. Their breakthrough came with the chart-topping hit “Funky Worm,” which reached number one on the Billboard R&B Charts and became pop Top 15 in May 1973. Their early albums “Pain” and “Pleasure” (both 1972) and “Ecstasy” (1973) were released under Westbound Records. In 1974, the Ohio Players signed with Mercury Records and achieved three consecutive platinum albums with “Skin Tight,” “Fire,” and “Honey” through 1977. They also scored two number-one singles on the Billboard pop charts with “Fire” and “Love Rollercoaster” and five number-one R&B singles.

According to Williams, a key factor behind the Ohio Players’ enduring success is their dedication to authentic music. “We love playing music. We love playing instruments,” he insisted, contrasting his band’s approach with contemporary trends of relying heavily on production and backing tracks. “More often today, the bands are playing stems and tracks. If those stems were to go off, it would be something horrible. We’ve always dedicated ourselves as the Ohio Players to be players, and we can’t give that up.”

The Ohio Players’ music remains the soundtrack of the lives of so many, and the mark it has left on popular culture is undeniable. Their songs have been featured in commercials, television shows, and as samples in the work of numerous artists, including Snoop Dogg, Dr. Dre, Ice Cube, Ice-T, Beastie Boys, Public Enemy, Jay-Z, Outkast, Notorious BIG, 2Pac, Mary J Blige, and many others. Artists like the Red Hot Chili Peppers have also covered their songs.

As for artists sampling their music, Williams quipped, “I feel good about that, but I feel better when I go cash that check.” He recounted the financial success the band enjoyed when their music was used in Rav-4 car commercials, adding with a laugh, “I don’t even like Rav-4, but I made so much money I thought about buying a Rav-4.”

In reflecting on the band’s longevity, Williams emphasized the importance of love, dedication, and a genuine passion for music. “The love and desire and dedication that we all have individually is what makes it last,” he said. “We have ten people on stage, and with our stage manager and production manager and others, it’s 13 on stage, and we take our music to heart. We don’t take anything for granted because we know that every day is a blessing and want to do it right. We want to continue letting people know it’s not about the machines; it’s about the music.”

This article was originally published by Amsterdam News.

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By Stacy M. Brown, NNPA

Newswire Senior National Correspondent (NNPA NEWSWIRE)

Drawing from his experiences as a New Yorker, De Niro attested to the city’s firsthand knowledge of Trump, whom he characterized as unfit for leadership. He pointed out that New Yorkers had already tried to warn the world about Trump in 2016, but their concerns went unheeded.

Hollywood legend Robert De Niro delivered a forceful and unmistakable message at The New Republic’s “Stop Trump Summit” in New York City, condemning the twice-impeached, four-times-indicted former president Donald Trump without ambiguity. Even though De Niro could not attend the event due to his ongoing recovery from COVID-19, he entrusted ex-Trump administration official Miles Taylor to read his excoriation of the 2024 GOP presidential frontrunner.

De Niro’s central message was clear: Trump is not merely a bad person, he is, in De Niro’s words, “evil.”

Drawing upon his extensive career playing various hoodlum characters and his real-life encounters with individuals of questionable moral character, De Niro offered a stark assessment of the former president, whom a civil jury found responsible this year for sexually assaulting a journalist.

“I’ve spent a lot of time studying bad men,” De Niro said. “I’ve examined their characteristics, their mannerisms, the utter banality of their cruelty. Yet there’s something different about Donald Trump. When I look at him, I don’t see a bad man. Truly. I see an evil one.

”De Niro went on to distinguish Trump from even the most notorious gangsters, remarking that while criminals often have some semblance of a moral code, Trump lacks any sense of right or wrong, ethics orempathy for others.

“He’s a wannabe tough guy with no morals or ethics. No sense of right or wrong. No regard for anyone but himself,” De Niro said.

Drawing from his experiences as a New Yorker, the actor attested to the city’s firsthand knowledge of Trump, whom he characterized as unfit for leadership. He pointed out that New Yorkers had already tried to warn the world about Trump in 2016, but their concerns went unheeded.

De Niro then highlighted the consequences of Trump’s presidency, including the divisive impact on America and the failures in responding to the early 2020 crisis, referring to the COVID-19 pandemic, where Trump’s actions resulted in a significant loss of life.

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By Stacy M. Brown,
NNPA Newswire Senior National Correspond

(NNPA NEWSWIRE) – Rudolph Isley, a key figure in creating the popular soul group The Isley Brothers, has died at 84.

Ronald Isley, his brother and fellow bandmate, expressed heartbreak in a statement: “There are no words to express my feelings and the love I have for my brother. Our family will miss him. But I know he’s in a better place.

”The family didn’t disclose the cause of death.

Rudolph Isley was an integral founding member of the renowned musical family ensemble, which included his brothers O’Kelly “Kelly” Isley Jr. and Ronald Isley

The Isley Brothers skyrocketed to fame in the late 1950s and maintained their musical legacy for over sixdecades, leaving an indelible mark on the R&B and soul genres.

Among their enduring hits are the timeless classics “Between the Sheets,” “Who’s That Lady?” and “Shout.”

In recognition of their profound impact on the music industry, the band received induction into the Rockand Roll Hall of Fame in 1992. Just last year, they were further honored with induction into the Songwriters Hall of Fame, a testament to their enduring influence on the music world.

In the late 1980s, Rudolph departed from the band to pursue a life dedicated to ministry.

The family has not yet announced his funeral arrangements or memorial services.

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By Stacy M. Brown,
NNPA Newswire,
@StacyBrownMedia

Preliminary data released by the Bureau of Justice Statistics (BJS) revealed a notable increase in the number of individuals held in local jails nationwide. As of midyear 2022, the incarcerated population stood at 663,100, marking a 4 percent surge compared to the previous year’s 636,100. 

The surge is part of a more significant trend that has seen jail admissions rise by 6.6 percent from July 2021 to June 2022, totaling 7.3 million entries. However, the figure is still 37 percent lower than ten years prior, when admissions peaked at 11.6 million.

According to the new data, of the incarcerated population in mid-2022, 14 percent were female, representing an increase over the previous year. The female population experienced a growth of 9 percent, surpassing the 3 percent growth seen in the male population during the same period.

Among those in custody, approximately 30 percent (197,000) were convicted or awaiting sentencing, while the remaining 70 percent (466,100) were not convicted, pending court action, or held for other reasons. This distribution mirrors the proportions observed in 2021.

The numbers saw a 2 percent increase for state and federal prisons from year end 2021 to year end 2022, with the population rising from 1,205,100 to 1,230,100. 

Notably, 35 states and the federal prison system saw an uptick in the number of individuals sentenced to more than one year.

Most prisoners, approximately 96 percent in 2021 and 2022, had sentences of over a year. The demographic distribution remained consistent over the two years, with 32 percent being Black, 31 percent White, 23 percent Hispanic, 10 percent multiracial or of another race, 2 percent American Indian or Alaska Native, and 1 percent Asian, Native Hawaiian, or Other Pacific Islander.

BJS Principal Deputy Director Kevin M. Scott, Ph.D., emphasized the significance of releasing preliminary data, stating in a news release that, “BJS is publishing advanced estimates of key statistics on this topic to provide our stakeholders with timely data as quickly as possible.”

In response to the report, the Jobs Opportunity Task Force (JOTF), a nonprofit advocating for improved skills, jobs, and incomes, drew attention to the wide-reaching effects of incarceration. They revealed that approximately 113 million adults in the U.S., or roughly 45 percent, have a family member with a history of imprisonment, and 79 million individuals possess a criminal record. JOTF officials pointed out that the post-pandemic era has witnessed a resurgence in incarceration rates, attributing the prior decline to COVID-19 responses rather than systemic changes.
Highlighting concerns specific to Maryland, JOTF warned that the state already incarcerates more individuals per capita than Canada, France, the U.K., and China. They cautioned that should Maryland continue this trajectory, it could face economic repercussions, including high unemployment rates among returning citizens, potentially leading to increased reliance on government assistance, diminished tax revenues, and elevated recidivism rates.

JOTF officials concluded by stressing the urgency of addressing mass incarceration, not only for the well-being of affected individuals and their families but also for the broader economic stability of the nation.

“Maryland must continue to dismantle barriers to employment by increasing access to expungement, limiting the use or consideration of prior criminal history when considering an application for an occupational license, and reducing or eliminating the fines and fees that contribute to keeping justice-involved individuals in poverty even if they are able to secure entry-level employment,” JOTF officials wrote.

This article was originally published by NNPA Newswire.

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By Stacy M. Brown,
NNPA Newswire

With a rare display of bipartisan support in the Senate on the night of Sept. 20, Air Force Gen. Charles “CQ” Brown Jr. overcame a protracted obstruction by Alabama Republican Senator Tommy Tuberville (R-AL)  to win confirmation as only the second Black chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff, the highest-ranking military position in the United States.

The resounding vote of 83-11 reflects a strong consensus in favor of Gen. Brown, underscoring the widespread recognition of his qualifications and the importance of diversity in leadership roles within the U.S. armed forces.

Brown’s ascent alongside Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin marked a historic milestone in American military leadership. With this confirmation, the top two positions in the Pentagon are now held by Black men, which the Biden administration said is a testament to the progress made in advancing diversity and inclusion within the U.S. military establishment. The late Gen. Colin Powell was the first Black chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff.

This pivotal moment in military history occurs just as the current chairman of the Joint Chiefs, Gen. Mark Milley, prepares to retire, signaling a seamless leadership transition at a critical juncture.

Because of Tuberville’s obtuse blockade, the confirmation process proved challenging. Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer orchestrated the votes to circumvent Tuberville’s months-long blockade on military promotions. This maneuver helped fast-track confirmations for Brown and numerous other nominees, including Randy George and Eric Smith, whose confirmations are anticipated in the days ahead.

Yet, Tuberville’s hold remains firmly in place for nearly 300 military nominees, leaving these candidates and their families uncertain and leaving the nation in a precarious military position globally. The blockade is rooted in Tuberville’s objection to a Pentagon policy that provides reimbursement for out-of-state travel for service members seeking access to abortion services. This stance has drawn sharp criticism.

Pentagon officials, along with members of the Biden administration and congressional Democrats, argue that this prolonged state of limbo poses a significant national security risk. 

“This is not a sustainable path. Sen. Tuberville’s continued abuse of his privilege will continue to disrupt the lives of hundreds of our nation’s finest and most dedicated military officers and their families,” Schumer asserted. “And while Democrats didn’t choose this fight, we are ready to put an end to this sooner rather than later.”

This article was originally published by NNPA Newswire.

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 Job gains occurred in several sectors, including leisure and hospitality, government, health care, professional, scientific, technical services, and social assistance.

By Stacy M. Brown
NNPA Newswire Senior National Correspondent

(NNPA NEWSWIRE) – The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics reported on Oct. 6 that American employers added 336,000 jobs last month while the unemployment rate remained at 3.8 percent.

According to the new report, job gains occurred in several sectors, including leisure and hospitality, government, health care, professional, scientific, technical services and social assistance. The household survey’s key labor market indicators showed minimal to no change over the month. The number of unemployed remained essentially unchanged at 6.4 million.

Among different worker groups, unemployment rates showed slight variation in September: adult men (3.8 percent), adult women (3.1 percent), teenagers (11.6 percent), Whites (3.4 percent), Blacks (5.7 percent), Asians (2.8 percent) and Hispanics (4.6 percent).

The number of long-term unemployed (those without work for 27 weeks or more) saw little change, resting at 1.2 million, constituting 19.1 percent of all unemployed individuals. The labor force participation rate (62.8 percent) and the employment-population ratio (60.4 percent) remained steady over the month.

Approximately 4.1 million individuals were employed part-time due to economic reasons, with their hours either reduced or them being unable to secure full-time positions, indicating little change from the previous month. Those who desired employment but were not actively seeking work during the four weeks leading up to the survey or were unavailable to take a job totaled 5.5 million, a marginal difference from the prior month.

Among those not in the labor force but still seeking employment, about 1.5 million individuals were marginally attached to the labor force. These individuals were available for work and had looked for a job sometime within the past 12 months but not in the four weeks preceding the survey. The number of discouraged workers, a subset of the marginally attached group who believed no jobs were available, held steady at 367,000.

Leisure and hospitality witnessed a notable increase in jobs, adding 96,000 positions, surpassing the average monthly gain of 61,000 over the last year. Employment in food services and drinking establishments rose by 61,000 over the month, returning to its pre-pandemic level in February 2020. Accommodation employment also experienced an upward trend (+16,000), though it remains 217,000 below its February 2020 level, a decline of 10.3 percent.

Government employment saw an uptick of 73,000, exceeding the average monthly gain of 47,000 over the past 12 months. Gains in local government without regard to education (+27,000) and state government education (+29,000) were the main drivers of the increase. However, overall government employment remains slightly below its February 2020 level by 9,000.

Health care added 41,000 jobs in September, a deviation from the average monthly gain of 53,000 over the past year. Ambulatory healthcare services saw the most significant increase (+24,000), with hospitals (+8,000) and nursing and residential care facilities (+8,000) also contributing to the growth.

Professional, scientific, and technical services saw an uptick of 29,000 jobs, aligning with the average monthly gain of 27,000 over the past 12 months. Social assistance also experienced growth, adding 25,000 jobs, consistent with the average monthly increase of 23,000 over the prior year. Individual and family services accounted for most of this job growth (+19,000).

Transportation and warehousing employment remained largely stable, with a marginal increase of 9,000 jobs. Truck transportation added 9,000 jobs within this sector, rebounding from a 25,000 job decline in August. Air transportation saw an increase of 5,000 jobs. Employment in transportation and warehousing showed little net change over the year.

Employment in the information sector experienced a slight decrease (-5,000). Specifically, the work in motion picture and sound recording industries continued to trend downward (-7,000), marking a decline of 45,000 since May, reflecting the impact of labor disputes.

Other major industries, including mining, quarrying, oil and gas extraction, construction, manufacturing, wholesale trade, retail trade, financial activities, and other services, saw little change in employment over the month.

Average hourly earnings for all employees on private nonfarm payrolls increased by 7 cents, or 0.2 percent, to $33.88. Over the past 12 months, average hourly earnings have risen by 4.2 percent. For private-sector production and nonsupervisory employees, average hourly earnings rose by 6 cents, or 0.2 percent, to $29.06.

The average workweek for all employees on private nonfarm payrolls remained unchanged at 34.4 hours. In the manufacturing sector, the average workweek also experienced little change at 40.1 hours, with overtime remaining constant at 3.1 hours. Similarly, for production and nonsupervisory employees on private nonfarm payrolls, the average workweek held steady at 33.8 hours.

The total number of nonfarm payroll employees for July increased by 79,000, from +157,000 to +236,000, while August ‘s numbers increased by 40,000, from +187,000 to +227,000. These revisions bring the combined employment figures for July and August to 119,000, higher than previously reported.

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By Stacy M. Brown
NNPA Newswire Senior National Correspondent
@StacyBrownMedia

Today, in a display of unity, the National Newspaper Publishers Association (NNPA), representing the Black Press of America, issued a resolute statement of support for Israel amidst the recent escalation of conflict in the Middle East.

In a joint statement released on Saturday, October 7, NNPA Chair Bobby Henry and NNPA President and CEO Dr. Benjamin F. Chavis Jr. unequivocally condemned the devastating acts of violence perpetrated against the Jewish people and the nation of Israel by Hamas. The militant group’s firing of a deadly barrage of rockets and infiltration of Israeli territory marked a significant escalation in the ongoing conflict between the two sides.

“The National Newspaper Publishers Association (NNPA), representing the Black Press of America, forthrightly condemns the brutal, fatal terrorist attacks today on the Jewish people and the nation of Israel by Hamas,” read the statement. “Terrorism against innocent civilians in Israel and in any other place in the world can never be justified, tolerated, or sanctioned. We stand firmly in solidarity with Israel.”

The statement underscores the unity and solidarity between the African American and Jewish communities in the face of adversity. While their shared history is complex and nuanced, the NNPA’s declaration underscores their shared common ground by condemning violence and terrorism against innocent civilians, regardless of where it occurs.

The NNPA, founded in 1940, is the trade association for African American-owned newspapers and media companies throughout the United States. Its mission is to advocate for the African American press and promote the importance of Black-owned media in shaping public opinion and preserving the African American cultural experience.

The support for Israel comes at a critical juncture, and it emphasizes the importance of solidarity with nations and communities facing acts of violence and terrorism, transcending historical differences to unite in a common cause.

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By Stacy M. Brown,
NNPA Newswire

Senior U.S. Judge Thomas Thrash has ruled that the Fearless Fund, a venture capital firm based in Atlanta, can continue its grant program exclusively tailored for Black women entrepreneurs. The judge said the lawsuit challenging the practice, which argued it unlawfully excluded individuals of other races, was unlikely to succeed.

The Fearless Fund, while a relatively small player in the global venture capital market, has come to symbolize the broader debate surrounding corporate diversity policies. 

However, the lawsuit against the organization may set a precedent as discussions on race considerations evolve within the workplace, particularly in light of the U.S. Supreme Court’s recent ruling in June ending affirmative action in college admissions.

Edward Blum, an anti-affirmative action activist well-known for his involvement in the Supreme Court’s June college admissions cases, is the head of the nonprofit American Alliance for Equal Rights, which requested the preliminary injunction. Blum has expressed plans to appeal the decision, claiming that civil rights laws prohibit racial distinctions based on overrepresentation or underrepresentation.

The Fearless Strivers Grant Contest, which awards $20,000 to Black women entrepreneurs, remains at the center of the lawsuit. Blum argues that this contest violates a section of the Civil Rights Act of 1866, which prohibits racial discrimination in contracts. He claims that members outside the specified racial category are excluded.

Judge Thrash contended that the grants constituted “charitable donations” aimed, in part, at acknowledging the discrimination faced by Black women business owners. He asserted that such donations are protected as “expressive conduct” under the First Amendment. The judge criticized the alliance’s attempt to alter the fund’s intended message.

Gilbert Dickey, an attorney for the alliance, pointed out that the grant program does not extend to other racial minorities, including Hispanics. He argued that privileging one race over others violates First Amendment protection.

The Fearless Fund maintains that its objective is to remove the obstacles that keep companies run by women of color from getting venture capital funding. “We will continue to run the nation’s first venture capital fund that is built by women of color for women of color,” declared Fearless Fund CEO and co-founder Arian Simone. “We realize there is still a long road ahead, but today we remain fearless and steadfast in creating pathways that empower women of color entrepreneurs.”

Data from the nonprofit advocacy group Digital Undivided shows that less than 1 percent of venture capital funding goes to businesses owned by Black and Hispanic women. Founded in 2019, the Fearless Fund conducts the grant contest quarterly, with eligibility criteria stipulating that a business must be at least 51 percent owned by a Black woman, among other requirements.

The NAACP Legal Defense Fund, the National Women’s Law Center, and the Gibson, Dunn, and Crutcher law firm have supported the Fearless Fund in fighting Blum’s lawsuit. Prominent figures, including civil rights advocate Ben Crump, have rallied to defend the Fearless Fund against allegations of discrimination.

The Fearless Fund has invested over $26.5 million in businesses run by women of color with the support of industry titans like JPMorgan Chase and Mastercard. They have also awarded grants exceeding $3 million to Black women-owned businesses.

Jason Schwartz, a partner at Gibson Dunn, stressed the importance of offering grants to Black women small business owners to achieve economic freedom. Alphonso David, another of the Fearless Fund’s lawyers, president, and CEO of the Global Black Economic Forum, condemned Blum’s claims as baseless attempts to subvert existing law. He affirmed their commitment to defend the Fearless Fund and its crucial work vigorously.

“Today, the playing field is not level – that is beyond dispute,” David asserted in an earlier statement. “Those targeting Fearless Fund want to propagate a system that privileges some and shuts out most. They want to pretend that inequities do not exist. They want us to deny our history.”

This article was originally published by NNPA Newswire.

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By Stacy M. Brown,
NNPA Newswire

Earlier this year, Edward Blum’s American Alliance for Equal Rights launched legal action against Fearless Fund. The lawsuit, brought before the U.S. District Court in Atlanta, alleges that the Fearless Fund discriminates against non-Black women. Experts said the suit could present a pivotal moment in the ongoing discourse on race in the workplace.

The Black Economic Alliance (BEA) Foundation, a leading organization mobilizing Black business leaders and advocates, announced the submission of an amicus brief advocating against a preliminary injunction against the Fearless Fund, whose Fearless Foundation focuses on aiding Black women entrepreneurs and other women of color in securing venture capital for their startups.

BEA CEO Samantha Tweedy emphasized the importance of entrepreneurship, highlighting its pivotal role in achieving the American dream and economic prosperity. She noted the systemic obstacles Black entrepreneurs, particularly Black women, faced in establishing and expanding their businesses. “Fearless Fund helps Black women overcome those barriers, which is good for Black work, wages, and wealth and good for our economy as a whole,” Tweedy wrote in a statement on Monday, Sept. 11. “Given BEA Foundation’s own recent polling that showed widespread support for businesses taking active steps to reflect the racial diversity of this country, it is clear that those trying to claw back pathways to economic progress for the Black community are out of step with the vast majority of Americans.”

The amicus brief by the BEA Foundation focuses on the challenges confronting Black women entrepreneurs. It highlights the persisting discriminatory systems, pointing out that Black women business owners encounter a rejection rate three times higher than their White counterparts. Moreover, Tweedy noted that Black women receive less than one percent of venture capital funding. The Fearless Strivers Grant Contest, one of the initiatives, aims to rectify these historical injustices and unleash a reservoir of untapped talent and innovation for the betterment and growth of the economy.

The legal action against Fearless Fund represents a broader trend as modern-day opponents of civil and women’s rights attempt to roll back advancements in racial diversity within the business sector, civil rights advocates stated. Recent polling shows widespread support for businesses promoting racial diversity in America. The support is robust across different races, ideologies, and generations. It is also rooted in the belief that diversity drives greater profitability and innovation.

Renowned civil rights advocate Ben Crump and others have vowed to combat Blum’s actions.

Founded in 2019 by three Black women, Fearless Fund has championed economic empowerment and opportunity for women of color. Their flagship initiative, the Fearless Strivers Grant Contest, has provided substantial financial support to Black women entrepreneurs, with awards reaching up to $20,000. However, Blum’s American Alliance for Equal Rights contends that this program violates a section of the Civil Rights Act of 1866, which prohibits racial discrimination in contracts.

Blum asserts that certain members are being excluded based on race, and they demand redress for what they perceive as a violation of their rights. Alphonso David, a civil rights attorney and the President and CEO of The Global Black Economic Forum, emphasized the undeniable inequality in today’s playing field. “Today, the playing field is not level — that is beyond dispute,” said David. “Those targeting Fearless Fund want to propagate a system that privileges some and shuts out most. They want us to pretend that inequities do not exist. They want us to deny our history.”

Crump asserted that Blum severely underestimated the resilience of Fearless Fund. “Blum thought they would be the easiest ones to pick off. Oh, was he wrong,” said Crump. Support for Fearless Fund’s cause extends to organizations like the NAACP Legal Defense Fund, the National Women’s Law Center, and the law firm Gibson, Dunn, and Crutcher.

“This attack does not change our mission,” declared Arian Simone, CEO, and co-founder of the Fearless Fund. “We will remain steadfast on ensuring that the Fearless Fund will continue to empower women of color entrepreneurs.”

This article was originally published by NNPA Newswire. 

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By Stacy M. Brown,
NNPA Newswire

Judge Rowan Wilson was recently celebrated by family, friends and state lawmakers for his groundbreaking achievement as the first Black chief judge of the state’s highest court. The swearing-in at the New York Court of Appeals in Albany marked a significant milestone in the Empire State’s judicial history, with Gov. Kathy Hochul on hand to administer the oath of office.

“My new role has brought some new challenges, challenges of a very different nature than studying the law, the facts, and the arguments,” the judge shared. Wilson, 62, expressed a commitment to maintaining independence without becoming an adversary, underscoring his intention to work collaboratively with his team to enhance the lives of all New Yorkers.

Hochul, a Democrat, nominated Wilson after her initial nominee, Justice Hector LaSalle, faced rejection by the Senate. LaSalle would have been the state’s first Hispanic chief judge. Wilson, who had previously served as an associate judge of the Court of Appeals since 2017, assumed the role following the resignation of Judge Janet DiFiore in August 2022. The governor expressed confidence in Wilson’s ability to restore faith in the government and the judicial system.

“I feel confident you’ll be able to restore people’s faith in the government, restore faith in this bench, and restore confidence that this court will do the right thing,” Hochul affirmed. “This is a milestone, but that is not why he is sitting here today. It is not why he was selected. He has demonstrated through his years already on this court. The intellect, the understanding, the ability to write in such a powerful way, and to really make decisions that matter.”

Wilson’s appointment garnered favor from Democrats and liberals who viewed him as an advocate for civil rights, labor, and environmental concerns. As an associate judge, he issued a dissenting opinion in a pivotal decision last year, wherein the court majority determined that the state’s Democratic leadership had employed an unconstitutional process in redrawing congressional districts.

“To Gov. Hochul, the executive branch, and to members of the state Legislature, I can assure you that checks and balances means independent– not adversarial,” Wilson said. “My team and I look forward to working with you collaboratively to improve the lives of all New Yorkers.”

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By Stacy M. Brown,
NNPA Newswire

Amidst the impending resumption of student loan payments in October, scammers are intensifying their efforts to exploit borrowers, with more than 350,000 student-loan-related robocalls reported in the last two weeks alone, according to Transaction Network Services (TNS), a leading authority on identifying robocall scams across various carrier networks.

The surge in scams coincides with the conclusion of a pandemic-induced hiatus on loan repayments, implemented in 2020 to provide financial relief to borrowers amidst the public health crisis. The renewal of student loan debt payments also comes in the wake of the Supreme Court’s rejection of President Biden’s proposal to forgive up to $20,000 per borrower, leaving many uncertain about their financial futures.

“Scammers seize on chaos and confusion,” John Haraburda, a robocall data expert at TNS, told CBS News. “Right now, you have a lot of activity with the new White House student loan plan, loan payments set to resume in October and the start of the school year.” He emphasized the importance of skepticism, advising consumers to operate under the assumption that “when something sounds too good to be true, it is.”

Reports from TNS transcripts reveal that scammers often initiate contact by referencing an individual’s student loan and then offer seemingly enticing solutions, such as reducing or deferring monthly payments or even promising total loan forgiveness. Some deceitfully claim affiliation with the Department of Education, while others represent vaguely official-sounding organizations like “student services.”

For example, one recorded robocall falsely declared: “This is United Services Student Loan Department with an urgent call to our clients regarding the new federal program, which now qualifies for complete dismissal and full discharge of all your federal student loans, as well as a refund of monies paid and removal from credit history,” according to a TNS transcription, and reported by CBS News.

Scammers may also request upfront payments under the guise of facilitating debt relief or charge fees for otherwise free services. As TNS warns, they might also seek private information like Social Security numbers. IdentityIQ, an identity theft protection company, further warns that some fraudsters pose as new student loan servicers, taking advantage of borrowers’ unfamiliarity with recent changes in servicing companies.

Authorities are urging borrowers to confirm their student loan servicer to help safeguard against potential scams. Borrowers can log into StudentAid.gov or contact the Federal Student Aid Information Center. They should also remain vigilant for spelling and grammatical errors, which can serve as red flags for fraudulent communication.

The Federal Trade Commission (FTC) reiterated that borrowers should never pay for assistance managing their student loans. In a recent warning, the FTC emphasized, “If someone tries to charge you upfront, before they’ve done anything, that’s your first clue that this is a scam,” and emphasized that legitimate sources will never offer instant loan forgiveness.

Recent data from the Board of Governors of the Federal Reserve System underscores the disproportionate impact of student debt within different communities, with Black borrowers shouldering the largest share of federal student loan debt in 2019, a stark reminder of the unique challenges they face in the current landscape.

Following the Supreme Court’s rejection of the initial student debt relief plan, the Biden administration introduced the Saving on a Valuable Education (SAVE) plan. The new provisions include reducing income-driven repayment plans from 10 percent to 5 percent of discretionary income and forgiving loan balances after ten years of payments for borrowers with original balances of $12,000 or less. The plan, which took effect on August 22, 2023, to provide some relief amidst the ongoing student loan crisis, already has reached more than 4 million in enrollment.

The White House called SAVE the “most affordable repayment plan ever,” which officials said would result in millions of borrowers saving money on their monthly payments. Borrowers who earn less than $15 an hour will not be required to make payments, and anyone who does earn more will save more than $1,000 on payments.

“From day one of this administration, President Biden has focused on reducing the burden of student loan debt on working families, and we are not stopping now,” U.S. Secretary of Education Miguel Cardon said. “Enrollment is quick and easy, and we are working relentlessly to get the word out to borrowers about how millions can reduce their monthly student loan bills and save over a thousand dollars a year by enrolling in SAVE.”

This article was originally published by NNPA Newswire.

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By Stacy M. Brown,
NNPA Newswire Senior National Correspondent,
@StacyBrownMedia

(NNPA NEWSWIRE) – Four innocent young girls getting ready for Sunday services died when the Ku Klux Klan detonated a devastating bomb inside Birmingham’s 16th Street Baptist Church 60 years ago. As the nation commemorates the somber anniversary of that fateful day, Sept. 15, 1963, two remarkable women, Lisa McNair and Tammie Fields, stand united not only in shared tragedy but also in their unwavering message to combat hate.

McNair’s sister Denise was one of the four girls who tragically died in the bombing. In contrast, Fields’ father, Charles Cagle, was initially questioned as a likely suspect in the horrific church bombing but was never charged. Decades after this devastating event, the two women crossed paths at a Black History Month event, forging a seemingly improbable connection and an enduring friendship.

Despite being born on opposite sides of one of the most heinous events of the Civil Rights Movement, McNair and Fields shared a common goal: to speak out against hate. As the nation reflects on the 60th anniversary of this tragic event, McNair implored people to remember what transpired and contemplate how to prevent such hatred from rearing its head again.

“People killed my sister just because of the color of her skin,” McNair passionately declared in an interview with the Associated Press. “Don’t look at this anniversary as just another day. Instead, consider what each of us can do individually to ensure that this doesn’t happen again.”

The explosion occurred when dynamite, surreptitiously placed outside the 16th Street Baptist Church underneath a set of stairs, exploded. The four girls, aged 11 to 14, were assembled in a downstairs washroom before Sunday services when the devastating blast occurred. Tragically, 11-year-old Denise McNair and her friends, 14-year-olds Cynthia Wesley, Carole Robertson and Addie Mae Collins, all died in the explosion. A fifth girl, Sarah Collins Rudolph, Addie Mae’s sister, was also in the room and sustained severe injuries, including losing an eye.

The vile act of violence took place during the zenith of the Civil Rights Movement, just eight months after Alabama’s then-Gov. George Wallace defiantly proclaimed, “Segregation forever,” and a mere two weeks following the Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.’s iconic “I Have a Dream” speech in Washington, D.C. Three Ku Klux Klansmen were convicted in connection with the bombing: Robert Chambliss in 1977, Thomas Blanton in 2001, and Bobby Frank Cherry in 2002.

Tammie Fields, now 64, was a toddler during the bombing. She vividly remembers her father, who died several years ago, harboring deep-seated hatred and bitterness toward Black individuals. Racial slurs were commonplace, and she was encouraged to despise her Black classmates. Fields credited her preacher grandfather with showing her a different path in life. 

“The most important thing to me is that my children will never know the hate that I’ve known,” Fields said.

Lisa McNair, 58, was born a year after her sister’s tragic death, and she grew up witnessing the profound sorrow that haunted her parents. Her mother often took her and her siblings to the cemetery, where she would grieve or sit solemnly.

In her book, “Dear Denise: Letters to the Sister I Never Knew,” McNair candidly wrote about her life in the aftermath of the bombing. When she first heard of Tammie Fields and learned that both were scheduled to attend the same church program, she admitted to being hesitant. 

“Originally, I didn’t really want to meet her,” McNair told the AP. “I was kind of nervous about it, even though she didn’t do it. It was almost like meeting the person who killed your sister, in a way. You’re trying to figure out how I should feel about this?”

Despite her reservations, the two women eventually met at another church where Fields was speaking. McNair listened from the pew, and when the event concluded, the two women shared a heartfelt embrace, tears streaming down their faces. 

“I was extremely, extremely nervous. She had every right not to accept me, but she did,” Fields remembered in a discussion with the AP.

McNair recognized the authenticity of Fields’ desire for reconciliation. Fields, now a grandmother with Black children and mixed-race grandchildren, refrained from discussing the bombing for an extended period. However, she now firmly believes that open dialogue is essential for progress. 

“How is it ever going to change in the world if we’re not honest?” she pondered.
Lisa McNair also expressed concern about the current political climate, in which some politicians appear to be deliberately stoking divisive rhetoric. She sees valuable lessons in the events of 60 years ago for today’s society. 

“So much hate, so much racism is coming back up. That’s the thing that upsets me and saddens me; we should have made more progress. I think we’re going backward instead of forward,” McNair lamented.

During a recent speech in Montgomery, Ala., McNair unveiled a small box that the funeral home had given to her family and contained items found with Denise, including patent leather shoes, a pocketbook, and a delicate handkerchief. Among these items was a chunk of concrete, about the size of a rock, which had been embedded in Denise’s head, ultimately causing her death.

“It shows that racism can kill. Hateful words can kill. And this is a tangible piece of that,” McNair said solemnly.

The Associated Press contributed to this article.

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By Stacy M. Brown,
NNPA Newswire Senior National Correspondent,
@StacyBrownMedia

(NNPA Newswire) – Sean “Diddy” Combs has gifted his Bad Boy family with life-changing anniversary gifts. According to Billboard, the music mogul has decided to return the publishing rights of his label’s artists and songwriters to their rightful owners.

The move resulted in Bad Boy Entertainment’s host of creatives quickly signing agreements to regain control of their intellectual property. Ma$e, Faith Evans, The LOX, 112, and the estate of the Notorious B.I.G. are among those who have already inked deals to reclaim their rights, as per Billboard. Combs started the process in May 2021 to sell the catalog, but the details of the arrangements are still unknown

For years, the administration of publishing on behalf of Bad Boy was entrusted to EMI, a subsidiary of Sony Music Publishing/Sony Corporation of America. Notably, EMI still handles Combs’ publishing. 

Providing artists with publishing rights could mean tens of millions of dollars for their bottom line, as sales of publishing have steadily increased over the years. For example, Dr. Dre recently sold his catalog for more than $300 million, and Justin Bieber netted north of $200 million.

This generous move by Combs coincides with the 30th anniversary celebration of Bad Boy Entertainment this year. The decision also follows a longstanding public feud between Combs and Ma$e, one of Bad Boy’s hitmakers. The rift arose when Combs criticized the Recording Academy during his 2020 Industry Icon Award acceptance speech for undervaluing Black artists in R&B and rap. Ma$e confronted his former label boss in an Instagram post. He revealed that he offered $2 million to buy back his publishing, but Combs said no. Ma$e further alleged, “Your past business practices knowingly have continued to starve your artist purposely and have been extremely unfair to the very same artist that helped u obtain that Icon Award on the iconic Bad Boy label.” The post shed light on longstanding grievances by Bad Boy artists, including Combs’ retaining of Ma$e’s publishing rights from 24 years ago in exchange for a mere $20,000.

In a later interview with The Breakfast Club in 2022, Combs said that Ma$e owed him $3 million in advance money for an album that was never received.

Bad Boy Entertainment, founded by Combs in 1993, has enjoyed a storied history in the music industry. The label quickly became successful, with many albums and singles that went gold, platinum, or multi platinum. The artists included Craig Mack, the Notorious B.I.G., Faith Evans, Ma$e, Total, 112, The LOX and Diddy, himself. Over the years, the label’s illustrious roster has also featured talents like Carl Thomas, Shyne, Dream, Danity Kane and French Montana. Additionally, it housed an in-house writer/producer collective known as The Hitmen, which included notable figures like the late Chucky Thompson, Stevie J, Deric “D-Dot” Angelettie and Mario Winans. Recent releases under the Bad Boy banner include Machine Gun Kelly’s 2022 album “Mainstream Sellout” and Janelle Monae’s latest offering, “The Age of Pleasure.”

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By Stacy M. Brown,
NNPA Newswire Senior National Correspondent,
@StacyBrownMedia

(NNPA NEWSWIRE) – In a grand celebration of HBCU excellence, the 2023 Toyota HBCU New York Classic kicks off a week-long extravaganza from Sept. 12-16. The event, billed as the world’s largest HBCU homecoming and one that celebrates HBCU culture, promises various activities beyond the football field, aiming to immerse attendees in the vibrant tapestry of historically Black colleges and universities.

Classic President Albert Williams and other organizers were enthusiastic about the big week. 

“We can’t wait to celebrate HBCU football and culture for a full week this fall,” Williams, the president of 1105 Sports, which produces the Classic, said during an appearance on the National Newspaper Publishers Association’s “Let It Be Known” show. “Bringing the game to the New York area allows us to expose youth in New York, New Jersey and beyond to HBCUs and the bigger HBCU community. Our goal is to showcase the HBCU culture and life experience through a full week of events. We want fans, students and alumni from all HBCUs to come out and participate.”

The week’s pinnacle is the showdown between Southern Intercollegiate Athletic Conference (SIAC) rivals Albany State and Morehouse College. Both teams are gearing up to launch their season with hopes of clinching the SIAC championship, with the introduction of a new divisional format adding an extra layer of excitement. The game will be aired live on CNBC, Peacock and the NBC Sports App on Saturday, Sept. 16, at 3 p.m. EST.

Schedule Highlights:
Tuesday, Sept. 12
• Mayor’s Kickoff Lunch, 12–2 p.m. ET
Mayor Eric Adams, Morehouse College President David A. Thomas and Albany State President Marion Ross Fedrick will officially launch the 2023 HBCU New York Classic at Sylvia’s in Harlem, N.Y. This exclusive event sets the tone for an extraordinary week.

• NYC High School Education Day, 10 a.m. – 2 p.m. ET
High school sophomores, juniors, seniors and community college students are encouraged to attend. Admissions representatives from Morehouse College and Albany State University will be on hand at the Borough of Manhattan Community College to illuminate the importance of higher education and unveil the exciting programs and experiences HBCUs offer.

Wednesday, Sept. 13
• NJ High School Education Day, 10 a.m. – 2 p.m. ET
A similar event will take place at the New Jersey Institute of Technology in Newark, with admissions offices from both Morehouse College and Albany State University providing insights into the invaluable opportunities presented by HBCUs.

Thursday, Sept. 14
• “HBCU Inspired” + The Great Debate at the Apollo, 7 – 10 p.m. ET (Doors open at 6 p.m. ET)
Marking the 35th anniversary of Spike Lee’s “School Daze” and “A Different World,” cast members will share their journeys and how HBCUs played a pivotal role. Notable personalities, including Jasmine Guy, Kadeem Hardison and Darryl M. Bell, are scheduled to attend. Additionally, a spirited debate between Rutgers and Morehouse College on affirmative action promises to ignite intellectual sparks.

Friday, Sept. 15
• Greek Step Show, 7:30 – 10:30 p.m. ET (Doors open at 6:30 p.m. ET)
The Divine Nine takes center stage at the New Jersey Institute of Technology for a dazzling performance. This ticketed event guarantees an evening of high-energy entertainment.

Saturday, Sept. 16 (Game Day)
• Yardfest, 10 a.m. – 2 p.m.
The MetLife Stadium’s parking lot transforms into a vibrant tailgate experience. Attendees can revel in full-service tents, offering everything from game tickets to exclusive field and press conference access. HBCU enthusiasts, fraternities, sororities, fans, students and alumni are all invited to partake in the festivities.

• Career Expo, 10 a.m. – 2 p.m.
Lot F of MetLife Stadium will be the site of a career fair featuring major companies like the New York Jets, Wells Fargo, Johnson & Johnson and MetLife, offering upcoming and recent graduates, career seekers and switchers fresh opportunities. This event is open to all, emphasizing the inclusive spirit of HBCUs.

“Our mission is to amplify HBCUs and folks that have been positive in the African-American community,” Williams said. “You don’t have to be an HBCU graduate or African American as long as you’re doing something positive for the African-American community.” 

Williams said the event transcends football. He called it a cultural immersion, “a chance to experience what HBCU students and graduates live daily.”

This article was originally published by the NNPA Newswire.

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By Stacy M. Brown,
NNPA Newswire

As Congress reconvenes this week, the nation watches in anticipation of what America’s future holds while bracing for an intense battle of political wills, all while former President Donald Trump’s legal entanglements loom over the legislative process.

The critical issue is the passage of a short-term spending bill to stave off a looming government shutdown scheduled for Oct. 1. The high-stakes standoff sets the stage for an unpredictable showdown between conservative hardliners and those who seek a more pragmatic path

House Speaker Kevin McCarthy, caught in the crossfire of a political maelstrom, finds himself in a most precarious position. According to CNN, during a private conference call last week, McCarthy urged his colleagues to support a short-term spending deal to avert an impending shutdown. He proposed postponing the larger funding fight until later in the fall, a strategy that some view as prudent to ensure the government continues to function.

The House and Senate face substantial differences in their funding proposals, with McCarthy’s prior deal with the White House crumbling under the pressure of demands from the conservative wing of his party. As a result, the two chambers are hundreds of billions of dollars apart, increasing the urgency to find a compromise.

To further complicate matters, Congress must tackle other pressing end-of-the-month deadlines, including extending federal aviation programs and potentially initiating an absurd, nasty and vindictive impeachment inquiry against President Joe Biden in the House.

The White House and senators from both sides of the aisle advocate tying the short-term funding bill to critical provisions such as $24 billion in aid to Ukraine and an additional $16 billion for communities devastated by natural disasters. However, a vocal faction of House conservatives opposes swiftly passing additional aid to Ukraine.

The procedural hurdle of securing a rule vote in the House adds another layer of complexity. Some hard-right conservatives have declared their willingness to block the rule vote for the spending bill if their demands are not met.

All of this leaves McCarthy at a crossroads. He must decide whether to align with conservative hardliners, risk a head-on collision with the White House, or forge a compromise with Democrats, passing the spending bill by a two-thirds majority. The latter option could force McCarthy to make concessions to Democrats, jeopardizing his standing among his party’s far-right members and the possibility of his being removed as Speaker. The vociferous if not powerful MAGA wing has continued their defense of Trump, the four-times indicted, twice impeached, former president whom a civil jury also concluded sexually assaulted a writer. They are seeking to use as leverage anything they believe could potentially halt Trump’s prosecutions.

However, GOP Rep. Mike Simpson (R-ID-2), who chairs one of the appropriations subcommittees, acknowledged the need for Democratic support in short-term and longer-term funding bills. He warned that McCarthy may find himself in a precarious situation as compromise becomes the order of the day in Washington.

“The challenge for McCarthy, and I’ll be real honest with you, is that if he works with the Democrats, obviously, the Democrats are not going to do it for free. They want something. So, it’s going to be a compromise – one of those really bad words in Washington for some reason,” Simpson told CNN. “Then you’re going to find a resolution introduced on the floor to vacate the chair.”

While the short-term funding crisis dominates the current congressional agenda, the House will also consider its homeland spending bill, offering conservatives a fresh opportunity to influence their party’s border policy.

Meanwhile, Democrats are already positioning themselves to pin any potential government shutdown squarely on the House GOP. Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer (D-NY) emphasized their focus on funding the government and preventing what he called “House Republican extremists” from causing a shutdown when the Senate returns next week.

This article was originally published by the NNPA.

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By Stacy M. Brown,
NNPA Newswire Senior National Correspondent,
@StacyBrownMedia

(NNPA NEWSWIRE) – Former President Donald Trump, known for his gaslighting statements and actions aimed at fueling the fire of racial animosity, drew criticism from a federal judge for invoking the 1931 Scottsboro Boys case in a bid to delay his upcoming election interference trial. 

Trump’s legal team cited the landmark Supreme Court decision related to the Scottsboro case, arguing that special counsel Jack Smith wasn’t allowing sufficient time for trial preparation.

U.S. District Judge Tanya Chutkan swiftly rejected the comparison and scheduled Trump’s trial for March 2024, one day before Super Tuesday. The judge emphasized that the case’s timeline did not reflect undue haste and pointed out Trump’s access to a capable legal team and ample resources for a thorough defense.

Trump currently faces four charges in the election interference case, including conspiring to defraud the United States and obstructing an official proceeding—charges previously filed against those involved in the Jan. 6, 2021, Capitol breach. He has pleaded not guilty. 

The 2024 GOP presidential frontrunner currently faces 91 felony charges in four jurisdictions – New York, Washington, Florida, and Georgia – most related to his loss to Joe Biden in 2020. If convicted on all counts, Trump could receive a more than 800-year prison sentence. Due to the complexity of the election interference case in Washington, John Lauro, Trump’s attorney, expressed concern that the trial date would compromise the former president’s right to effective legal counsel.

But Chutkan scolded the lawyers, and the twice impeached, four-times indicted Trump, whom earlier this year a civil jury found liable for sexual assault. She, in turn, also cited the Supreme Court’s Scottsboro Boys ruling, saying: “The court noted that a sizable crowd greeted the defendants at Scottsboro after their arrest and that the community’s attitude was one of great hostility. The defendants’ trials began six days after indictment. The Supreme Court found that there was a clear denial of due process because the trial court failed to give the defendants reasonable time and opportunity to secure counsel, and the defendants were incapable of adequately making their own defense.”

Chutkan continued: “Trump is represented by a team of zealous, experienced attorneys and has the resources necessary to efficiently review the discovery and investigate. I have seen many cases unduly delayed because a defendant lacks adequate representation or cannot properly review discovery because they are detained. That is not the case here.”

The Scottsboro Boys rape cases represent the dark racist part of American history. The nine Black youths were falsely accused of raping two White women in 1931 while traveling on a train near Scottsboro, Ala. The accusations led to trials with all-White juries. Clarence Norris, Charlie Weems, Haywood Patterson, Olen Montgomery, Ozie Powell, Willie Roberson, Eugene Williams and Andy Wright were all tried, convicted and sentenced to death. Another defendant, Roy Wright, saw his trial end in a mistrial when some jurors held out for a death sentence even though the prosecution asked for life imprisonment. 

Over the years, appeals and retrials took place, eventually leading to the 1932 Supreme Court ruling in Powell v. Alabama, which stressed the importance of granting defendants sufficient time for legal counsel and trial preparation. This ruling and the 1935 Supreme Court case Norris v. Alabama played a crucial role in advancing the cause of racially diverse juries.

Alabama eventually dropped rape charges against five of the Scottsboro Boys, and Norris, one of the accused, received a posthumous pardon from Gov. George Wallace in 1976. In 2013, the Alabama Board of Pardons and Paroles issued posthumous pardons to the three Scottsboro Boys who had not previously received pardons or had their convictions overturned.

“It was stunningly stupid,” retired California Superior Court Judge LaDoris Hazzard Cordell told CNN of Trump invoking the Scottsboro Boys case. “Because one, the comparison is ridiculous. But second, if you want to alienate a judge in the case this was exactly what to do. A female judge, a Black judge, and to talk about that case and compare it to Trump’s case was absurd.”

This article was originally published by the NNPA Newswire.

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By Stacy M. Brown,
NNPA Newswire Senior National Correspondent,
@StacyBrownMedia

(NNPA NEWSWIRE) ─ Georgia’s political landscape remains ablaze as Republicans in the state explore avenues to avenge District Attorney Fani Willis’ recent indictment of former President Donald Trump and 18 other defendants. The controversy has ignited a fierce debate over the intersection of politics and the judiciary.

State Senate Majority Leader Steve Gooch, a prominent Republican, revealed to The Atlanta Journal-Constitution that Senate GOP leaders are considering legislative hearings to examine whether Willis is exercising her authority for political gains. This move comes after her expansive racketeering indictment, which has shaken the foundations of Georgia’s legal landscape and threatens to turn the 2024 presidential race on its head. Gooch emphasized that Senate Bill 92, a recently enacted law allowing a state panel to investigate and remove prosecutors found to be acting improperly, could serve as a potent tool for Trump’s allies to scrutinize Willis’s utilization of public resources.

“We believe she is definitely tainted,” Gooch said. “She’s politicizing this, and we want to make sure these people get a fair trial and a fair shake.”

The Republican initiatives represent only a fraction of a broader effort by Trump’s allies within Georgia and Congress to retaliate against Willis and other high-profile prosecutors handling Trump’s ongoing criminal cases. The twice-impeached and four-time indicted Trump faces 91 felony charges across four jurisdictions related to his 2020 loss to Joe Biden, and his alleged mishandling of classified documents. Earlier this year, a civil jury found Trump responsible for sexually assaulting an author and journalist decades ago

Well-known Georgia Republican Rep. Marjorie Taylor Greene has urged the House Judiciary Committee to investigate alleged federal funding of Willis’ office and any potential coordination with White House officials. Greene has even floated the idea of a state-level inquiry into Willis’s actions. Meanwhile, U.S. Rep. Andrew Clyde, also from Georgia, is planning to leverage an upcoming appropriations bill to cut federal funding for Willis, Manhattan District Attorney Alvin Bragg, and federal special counsel Jack Smith, who have spearheaded the pending legal actions against Trump.

However, Gooch quickly acknowledged that there were limitations to the Republican efforts to reprimand Willis. He, along with other party leaders, condemned a petition by first-term Republican state Senator Colton Moore that aimed to force a special legislative session for the impeachment of the district attorney. Such an action would necessitate support from three-fifths of the legislature, including Democratic members.

“We want to make sure we calm down, we look at this stuff deliberately, and we do it in a mature way,” Gooch said, underscoring the need for a measured approach. He added that he has repeatedly engaged in discussions with Moore, urging him to refrain from derogatory remarks about fellow Republicans. 

“There’s a lot of angry people in this state on both sides of this issue,” Gooch told the newspaper. “But there’s still a majority of the Republican base who feel like there was fraud in the 2020 election, and they don’t feel like it was completely vetted properly and investigated. And that’s why a lot of these people are still upset today. They don’t feel like they were heard. And I think Colton Moore resonates with those people, and they support what he’s saying, but maybe not the way he’s saying it and the way he’s conducting himself in the chamber.”

In contrast, Moore remains unwavering and unapologetic. He insists that his GOP colleagues should be incensed about the charging of fellow Sen. Shawn Still, who was among those charged in the Georgia indictment. Still maintains his innocence, asserting that he did nothing wrong when he served as a fraudulent GOP elector. 

“To hear that I need to tone it down when I’m encouraging my colleagues to do their legislative duty is absolutely ridiculous,” Moore countered. “And I hope the people of Georgia see what’s going on.”

In a recent appearance on Steve Bannon’s podcast, Moore issued a stark warning about the potential consequences if Willis’ prosecution is not defunded. “I don’t want a civil war. I don’t want to have to draw my rifle. I want to make this problem go away with my legislative means of doing so,” Moore said.

Willis, a Democrat, made history as Fulton County’s first female District Attorney and assumed office following a landslide victory over six-term incumbent Paul Howard. She has pledged the restoration of integrity to the district attorney’s office while addressing a backlog of cases. Willis’ career has seen her transition from the private sector to the role of assistant district attorney for Fulton County in 2001. She gained widespread recognition as a lead prosecutor in the Atlanta Public Schools cheating scandal – securing convictions in a case that dated back to 2001, which stemmed from elevated statewide test scores.

In 2018, Willis worked in private practice, specializing in criminal defense and family law, which focused on representing fathers in child custody and support battles. Her election campaign against Howard came when he faced misconduct allegations, including financial mismanagement and sexual harassment. Despite initial reluctance, Willis’ friends said she embraced the challenge, “motivated by her conviction that it was a call from a higher power.”

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By Stacy M. Brown,
NNPA Newswire Senior National Correspondent,
@StacyBrownMedia

In a captivating interview held at the National Newspaper Publishers Association’s studios in Washington, Dr. Frances “Toni” Draper, the Chairwoman of the Board and Publisher of the AFRO American Newspapers, reflected on the remarkable journey of the Murphy family and the 131-year legacy of the Afro-American Newspaper.

The interview, which will air later this fall on PBS’s “The Chavis Chronicles,” examined the newspaper’s historical significance as well as Draper’s fundamental role in carrying on its purpose. Draper also addressed the growing importance of Black women and the continuous necessity for a profitable Black Press, as well as future AFRO enterprises that will expand its reach beyond Baltimore and Washington.

Draper announced that The AFRO will roll out its latest digital media innovation, the Digital Billboard Network (DBN). The DBN is the first project in Maryland, with TV screens at 10 locations in Randallstown and Owings Mills. The DBN launch will enable host businesses to expand their reach through the AFRO’s audience network. “This innovation is a celebration of Black business excellence, and the opportunities we can create when we champion one another,” Draper revealed.

“As a multi-generation Black-owned family business, the AFRO has been a strong supporter of our fellow businesses and entrepreneurs. We strive to champion our community’s businesses and offer them access to valuable news that meets audiences where they are, without paywall barriers.”

Draper added that onsite screens will feature original content from AFRO programs, including AFRO social, and clips from shows like The Chicken Boxx, AFRO News at Noon (ish), AFRO Cooking Live, and more. The innovation represents still another chapter in the storied history of the AFRO and the newspaper’s founders.

Draper’s family’s story begins with John Henry Murphy Sr., a man of immense courage and conviction. He bravely fought in the Civil War and eventually received the freedom he and his fellow soldiers had worked hard to achieve. At the age of 52, with a family of ten children, Murphy embarked on an audacious endeavor with just $200 in hand: to establish a newspaper that would come to be known as the Afro-American. His pioneering spirit marked the birth of a legacy that would transcend generations.

Through captivating narratives, Draper painted a vivid picture of the family’s journey. John Henry Murphy Sr. transformed from a printer to a publisher, leveraging the power of the press to champion the causes of his community. “The newspaper’s founding principles of empowerment and advocacy set the stage for future generations, including me, to carry forward this impactful mission,” Draper remarked.

Born on December 18, 1947, in Baltimore, Maryland, Dr. Frances Murphy Draper is a beacon of continuity and progress. Her educational journey, from Morgan State University to Johns Hopkins University and beyond, is a testament to her commitment to learning and leadership. She has inspired positive change as a pastor, community leader, and esteemed figure. From her role as the manager of the New Jersey edition of the AFRO to her tenure as the company president, she has woven herself into the fabric of the publication’s history.

Draper’s illustrious career has marked an unyielding commitment to education, community development, and equality. As a dynamic force in the community, Draper has lent her expertise to numerous boards, including those of Morgan State University and Loyola College. Her accomplishments have earned her prestigious recognition, including being named one of Maryland’s Top 100 Women and a place in the Maryland Circle of Excellence.

“The Black hand that rocks the cradle rules the world, so I think Black women have an important role to play,” Draper remarked. “I think Black women have risen to the point of real leadership in this country. Not just in the vice presidency and Supreme Court, but if you look at corporate America, Black women are starting to infiltrate the board rooms across the country. Black women tend to be organized. Black women helped to get President Biden elected.”

In her more than 30-minute discussion with Chavis, Draper also emphasized the importance of the AFRO and the Black Press. “Black lives have always mattered and continue to matter to us,” she affirmed. “The Black Press has always mattered and continues to matter. So many things covered by the AFRO over the years were being ignored by the mainstream press. The AFRO covered not just the headline things that all of us know about like the March on Washington, but they covered Jesse Owens when he won the Olympics. We were there.”

The post AFRO Publisher Dr. Frances “Toni” Draper Makes PBS-TV Appearance, Unveils New Project for the Newspaper appeared first on AFRO American Newspapers.

By Stacy M. Brown, NNPA Newswire

Two prominent African Americans have found themselves in the middle of the unfolding legal drama surrounding former President Donald Trump.

Harrison Floyd and Trevian Kutti are publicists who have turned suspects and stand among Trump’s 18 alleged co-conspirators in his attempt to overturn the 2020 presidential election in Georgia.

Fulton County District Attorney Fani Willis has hit both, along with Trump and others, with serious racketeering charges.

Floyd led a Trump-founded group to bolster 2020 voter turnout for the MAGA Republican, while Kutti is a celebrity stylist and publicist best known for previously working with Kanye West.

Floyd, also known as Willie Floyd, was the executive director of Black Voices for Trump and emerged as a key player in Trump’s 2020 campaign. According to Newsweek, Floyd’s role extended to the Trump campaign staff.

The charges against Floyd include violating the Georgia Racketeer Influenced and Corrupt Organizations (RICO) Act, conspiracy to solicit the dissemination of false statements and writings and attempts to influence witnesses.

Floyd’s LinkedIn profile reflects a career spanning over 15 years, encompassing operations, crisis management, government affairs and political campaigns.

His experience stems from engagements on Capitol Hill, presidential campaigns, and collaboration with the Marines.

Kutti, a seasoned publicist with Chicago roots, faces allegations of traveling to Atlanta to influence the testimony of Fulton County election worker Ruby Freeman before the Georgia grand jury regarding allegations of election fraud.

The indictment asserts that Floyd engaged pastor Stephen Lee to orchestrate a meeting with Freeman and Kutti, ultimately pressuring Freeman’s testimony.

The charges against Floyd, Kutti, and Lee span “conspiracy to commit solicitation of false statements and writings” and “influencing witnesses.”

Trump now faces 91 felony charges that could result in the demagogue and GOP presidential front-runner serving more than 800 years in prison after being four times indicted, twice impeached, and already found guilty of sexual assault by a civil jury.

Like Trump, Floyd, and Kutti have until noon on Aug. 25 to turn themselves into Fulton County Jail for processing.

This article was originally published by NNPA Newswire.

The post Two African Americans indicted with Donald Trump in Georgia appeared first on AFRO American Newspapers.

By Stacy M. Brown,
NNPA Newswire Senior National Correspondent,
@StacyBrownMedia

(NNPA NEWSWIRE) – After becoming the first president twice impeached, making history with four indictments in four states, being found liable by a civil jury for sexual assault after brashly stating he could grab women by their private parts, former President Donald Trump completed another humiliating first for ex-commanders-in-chief.

Not long after 7:30 p.m. EST. on Aug. 24,  Trump was booked into Fulton County Jail in Georgia on more than a dozen felony charges stemming from his attempt to undo his 2020 election loss.

Inside the lockup, Trump finally received the same treatment as most criminal defendants: his mugshot was taken, and the sheriff released the notorious photo a short time later.

Authorities in his previous three arrests – in New York, Florida and Washington – spared him of the usual perp walk of shame, a jail visit and the indignity of a mugshot.

However, once in Atlanta, authorities processed Trump and eventually released him from Fulton County Jail, but not before he was assigned the inmate number, P01135809.

The booking process was reportedly expedited, lasting approximately 30 minutes, as Trump’s legal team and prosecutors had earlier agreed upon a $200,000 bond. Part of the stipulated conditions prohibits Trump from intimidating co-defendants, witnesses, or alleged victims through any means, including social media.

The former president joined his 18 other co-defendants, who have surrendered in the racketeering and election interference case launched by Fulton County District Attorney Fani Willis.

Mark Meadows, former White House chief of staff; and Rudy Giuliani, Jenna Ellis, John Eastman, and Sidney Powell, who were all attorneys for Trump, now have publicly available mugshots.

Trump shared his mug shot on X, previously known as Twitter. The post sent viewers to his 2024 campaign website, where he used the mugshot for a fundraising campaign.

The charges against Trump and the others include attempting to overturn his 2020 presidential election loss to Joe Biden in Georgia.

“You should be able to challenge an election,” Trump told supporters and journalists outside the Atlanta jail. “I thought the election was a rigged election, a stolen election, and I should have every right to do that.”

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By Stacy M. Brown,
NNPA Newswire Senior National Correspondent,
@StacyBrownMedia

(NNPA NEWSWIRE) – The Black Futures Lab announced that it has reached an historic milestone in the Black Census Project survey, which will conclude in October 2023. The most extensive survey of Black people in the United States has gathered nearly 130,000 responses from all 50 states, four times bigger than the 2018 Black Census.

“The Black Census is historic and important,” said Alicia Garza, founder and principal of Black Futures Lab, who began designing the Black Census Project after the 2016 election.

“Going into another presidential campaign season, we know that Black communities are still being undercounted and under-engaged,” she added. “It is critical that we engage Black communities early and often. Every day, policy is made about us without us. We launched the Black Census to transform that. We take the data from the Black Census and use it to inform a Black agenda that serves as a roadmap for policymakers and politicians on how to best address the needs of Black communities.”

The Black Census Project, launched in 2018, engages communities typically under-represented in traditional surveys and policymaking. The Black Census Project is gathering information on the opinions and views of Black people. This includes demographics and areas such as LGBTQ+ persons, incarcerated Black individuals, Black immigrants and Black people living in rural areas.

“Now more than ever, it is essential that Black trans people are seen, heard, and counted,” said Aria Sa’id, founder emeritus of the Transgender District. “Given all the attacks on trans rights, we know Black trans folks will be the most impacted. While our rights are being taken away and our communities are being targeted, very few people are talking to trans people about what we’re experiencing, and what support we need to live dignified lives. The Black Census does this and gets information from us about our needs and experiences and what we want to see for our futures. The experiences of Black trans people matter, not just for us, but for all Black communities.”

Once the Black Census closes in October, Black Futures Lab said it would use the survey to design and release the Black Agenda in early 2024. The Black Agenda 2024 is a policy roadmap that will inform legislators nationwide of the critical priorities of Black communities across America. The tool will also help activate and involve Black voters before elections. Officials said it would encourage Black communities to participate and use their political power to inform, influence, and impact institutions and decision-makers involved with Black people.

“With the 2024 presidential elections right around the corner, and the first GOP debate kicking off , we know Black votes matter; Black people do too,” said Angela Rye, principal and CEO of IMPACT Strategies. “To be powerful in politics, Black people must curate, shape and push our own political agenda—a Black agenda–and the Black Census Project equips us to do that. That is why this project is tremendously important.”

According to a news release, over 30,000 Black people nationwide participated in the first Black Census Project in 2018. The Black Futures Lab used the results to identify pressing legislative and policy priorities, turning the survey into a national, state and municipal policy platform to guide 2020 presidential candidates as they devised strategies to earn the support of Black voters.

In 2022 and 2023, Black Futures Lab collaborated with over 50 Black-led grassroots organizations, more than a dozen national media partners and Black influencers. The organization said it has reached over 129,000 Black people nationwide. Most respondents (64 percent) are from the South, 14 percent are from the Midwest, 13 percent are from the Northeast and 10 percent are from the West. Nearly half (40 percent) of respondents are ages 60-plus, a quarter are 50–59, 17 percent are 40–49, 12 percent are 30-39, 4 percent are 25–29 and 4 percent are 18–24. 

Initial findings show the top three issues for Black people are:
• Low wages that are not enough to sustain a family: 39 percent
• Gun violence: 32 percent
• Schools that fail to prepare children adequately: 32 percent

“This is the largest survey of Black people in American history—there is nothing else that comes close,” said Michael Harriot, writer, and author of “Black AF History: The Un-Whitewashed Story of America.” 

He added, “This is a way for people to actually know what Black voters want, and what Black voters are concerned about. It also has historical significance and gives us the ability to dispel myths about Black people with real data.” 

Some participants who complete the survey at BlackCensus.org will be eligible to receive a $20 gift card.

This article was originally published by the NNPA Newswire.

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By Stacy M. Brown,
NNPA Newswire

Sixty years after Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. delivered his iconic, “I Have a Dream” speech during the March on Washington for Jobs and Freedom, a groundbreaking new report has laid bare the stark truth of ongoing Black economic inequality in the United States. “STILL A DREAM: Over 500 Years to Black Economic Equality,” is a report co-authored by prominent experts Dedrick Asante-Muhammad, Chuck Collins, Omar Ocampo and Sally Sim. Published by the Institute for Policy Studies (IPS) and National Community Reinvestment Coalition (NCRC) they underscore the enduring disparities faced by Black Americans and highlights the pressing need for concerted action to address these disparities.

“Sixty years ago, Dr. King observed that America has defaulted on this promissory note to Black citizens,” stated Chuck Collins, an IPS senior scholar who directs the Program on Inequality and the Common Good in Washington, DC.

“Six decades later, despite incremental progress on some fronts, the check of opportunity has still come back with insufficient funds.” 

Dedrick Asante-Muhammad, chief of race, Wealth, and Community for NCRC, lamented, “It is deeply troubling that, sixty years after the March on Washington for Jobs and Freedom, Black economic equality remains nothing more than a dream for most Black Americans.” 

Other experts expressed the same sentiments.

“The revelation that it would take more than 500 additional years to close the economic gap for Black Americans is a stark reminder of the systemic inequities that persist,” Asante-Muhammad asserted. 

Sally Sim, a senior organizer, and project specialist at NCRC, emphasized the urgency of the situation. 

“The sobering projection and findings of our report sixty years after the March on Washington for Jobs and Freedom reinforce that the dream for economic equality for Black Americans remains unfulfilled,” Sim stated.

“On this historic anniversary, let us turn this report into a catalyst for meaningful action towards comprehensive solutions and public support for policies and initiatives that promote Black economic equality.” 

Some key findings from the comprehensive report were that despite modest advancements made by African Americans since the 1960s, including reduced poverty rates, increased high school attainment and lower unemployment rates, income disparities between Black and White Americans have only slightly improved. The report exposes that in 2021, African Americans earn sixty-two cents to every dollar earned by  White families. The report’s authors said, at this rate, achieving income parity would take an astonishing 513 years.

Further, the wealth gap between Black and non-Black Americans has experienced only marginal growth, with African Americans possessing eighteen cents for every dollar of non-Black wealth in 2019. If this pace continues, it will take approximately 780 years for Black wealth to match non-Black wealth. Median household income for African Americans has shown minimal growth, growing just 0.36 percent since the turn of the century. Strikingly, it remained lower than White median family income in 1963. Even after over six decades, the Black- White homeownership divide persists.

Black homeownership has grown from 38 percent in 1960 to 44 percent in 2021, while White homeownership surged from 64 percent in 1960 to 74 percent in 2021.The report outlined a series of recommendations to combat Black economic inequality:

1. Advocate for full employment and guaranteed jobs to ensure equal economic opportunities for all.
2. Enact a substantial land and homeownership program to address the enduring homeownership gap between Black and  White Americans.
3. Commit to individual asset building, including financial education, asset matching programs, and supportive society.” Policies, to facilitate access to wealth-building opportunities for Black Americans.
4. Implement policies to reduce dynastic concentrations of wealth and power, tackling the structural barriers that impede economic progress for Black Americans.
5. Explore targeted reparations to address historical injustices and provide meaningful redress for the economic disparities Black Americans face.

The authors noted that, as the nation reflects on King’s enduring vision for equality and justice, the report serves as a sobering reminder that pursuing Black economic equality remains an unmet challenge in America. 

“The findings of this report are sobering and demand immediate and comprehensive action to address the economic disparities faced by African Americans,” remarked Omar Ocampo, a researcher for the Program on Inequality and the Common Good at IPS. “We must invest in transformative policies that address systemic racism and create [equality].”

This article was originally published by NNPA Newswire.

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By Stacy M. Brown,
NNPA Newswire Senior National Correspondent,
@StacyBrownMedia

(NNPA NEWSWIRE) – Gov. Tim Walz has announced that Justice Natalie Hudson is the new chief justice in Minnesota.

The move makes Hudson the first person of color to lead the state’s judiciary.

Walz praised Hudson’s leadership qualities, ability to build consensus and unwavering commitment, emphasizing that she would uphold the court’s independence.

“I have no doubt that she will excel in this role,” Walz told the Minneapolis Star Tribune newspaper.

Lt. Gov. Peggy Flanagan also emphasized the importance of Hudson’s appointment due to the gender and racial imbalance in the state’s judicial leadership. Only two of the 21 previous chief justices were women, and none was a person of color.

Flanagan told the Star Tribune that she’s urging all Minnesotans to celebrate the milestone, recognizing it as a step towards a more inclusive and representative justice system.

To fill the vacancy created by Hudson’s elevation, Walz introduced Karl Procaccini, his former general counsel, as the newest addition to the seven-member court.

Hudson, 66, will replace Chief Justice Lorie Gildea.

Hudson said she was surprised by Gildea’s retirement and took time to consider the move before deciding to succeed her.

She described the opportunity as a “once-in-a-lifetime” chance.

As chief justice, Hudson will lead Minnesota’s highest court and oversee the judicial branch’s operations across 87 counties and the appellate courts.

Notably, following a recent state Supreme Court decision earlier in the year, she will supervise the introduction of cameras into courtrooms.

Hudson’s distinguished career encompasses public and private practice and academia.

Her academic background includes graduation from Arizona State University and a law degree from the University of Minnesota.

Hudson has held positions in various legal spheres, from criminal appellate work to civil litigation, and even served as the St. Paul city attorney. Her extensive experience also includes a 13-year tenure on the state Court of Appeals, where she authored over 1,000 opinions.

In a notable 2018 majority opinion, she allowed a school segregation case to proceed.

She joined the state’s Supreme Court in 2015, and during her swearing-in, Hudson emphasized the importance of the judicial system’s treatment of marginalized individuals.

Peter Knapp, a professor at Mitchell Hamline School of Law, hailed Hudson’s appointment as a significant positive development for the court and the state. Knapp praised Hudson’s fair and ethical approach to the law, saying he believes in her ability to handle internal court affairs and interactions with other government branches.

He also praised her skill in achieving consensus, citing a prior decision involving a complex family tragedy.

With her steady influence, Hudson is expected to provide continuity during the transition as newer justices join the court. Having won statewide elections multiple times, Hudson will reach the mandatory retirement age of 70 in January 2027.

“The appointment of Justice Natalie Hudson to lead the Minnesota Supreme Court—the first person of color to hold this highest of positions—is a powerful testament to our commitment to justice for all. Her selection as the next chief justice embodies the spirit of progress,” St. Paul Mayor Melvin Carter wrote on X, the platform formerly known as Twitter.

“From her time as Saint Paul City Attorney through her tenure as Supreme Court associate judge, Justice Hudson has shown dedication to integrity and upholding the principles of our legal system. She is a proven public servant who will undoubtedly leave a lasting legacy.”

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By Stacy M. Brown,
NNPA Newswire,
@StacyBrownMedia

In a visit to local small businesses in Washington, D.C. this month Vice President Kamala Harris unveiled plans to provide grants to non-profit and community-based organizations as part of the $125 million Capital Readiness Program (CRP).

The program seeks to bolster historically underserved entrepreneurs’ access to capital, aligning with one of the critical pillars of what the White House has dubbed the Bidenomics economic plan.

The CRP, funded through the American Rescue Plan, represents the largest-ever direct federal investment in small business incubators and accelerators.

Run by the Minority Business Development Agency (MBDA), the program expanded and was made permanent by the president’s Bipartisan Infrastructure Law. It counts as the most significant project in the 50-year history of the MBDA.

During the announcement at Sycamore and Oak in the Congress Heights neighborhood of Southeast, D.C., Harris revealed 43 organizations selected as winners of the CRP awards.

These organizations, comprising non-profits, community-based entities, private sector firms, and institutions of higher education, will form partnerships to assist underserved entrepreneurs seeking resources, tools, and support to start or expand businesses in high-growth, high-wage industries like healthcare, climate-resilient technology, infrastructure, and more.

According to recent reports, the United States has experienced a record number of new business applications, totaling 12.6 million under the Biden-Harris Administration.

“This surge demonstrates the confidence entrepreneurs have in the efficacy of Bidenomics,” a senior White House official stated.

The awardees include the Arizona Hispanic Chamber of Commerce Foundation, which will use the $3 million grant to enhance business accelerator and incubator programs for underserved entrepreneurs in Arizona, Nevada, and California.

Based in Pittsburgh, Penn., Bridgeway Capital will receive $2 million to support at least 340 minority-owned and rural entrepreneurs in Pennsylvania, West Virginia, and Ohio, scaling up business education programs for revenue-generating growth opportunities.

The Urban League of Greater Atlanta will utilize $3 million to provide incubator and accelerator services to historically underserved entrepreneurs in high-growth industries.

The Northern Great Lakes Initiative in Michigan will receive $3 million to streamline support for entrepreneurs, focusing on West Michigan, from conceptualizing an idea to business incubation and capital for growth.

The Biden-Harris Administration also announced the first approvals of awards for up to $58 million to 12 states as part of the State Small Business Credit Initiative (SSBCI) Technical Assistance Grant Program.

The SSBCI TA Grant Program, totaling approximately $200 million, aims to give small businesses access to historic support included in the American Rescue Plan, with an unprecedented nearly $10 billion from the Treasury Department.
“Investing in small businesses is at the core of President Biden and Vice President Harris’s strategy to grow the economy from the bottom up,” a senior White House official said.

The White House noted that recent announcements through the Capital Readiness Program and the SSBCI TA Grant Program demonstrate the administration’s commitment to ensuring all communities benefit from the ongoing small business boom.

These initiatives supplement additional actions taken under Bidenomics, such as delivering historic support to minority-supporting community financial institutions, making programs that boost lending to underserved communities permanent, expanding lending licenses, forming the Interagency Community Investment Committee (ICIC), and streamlining and simplifying small business lending.

Officials said the administration is leveraging federal spending to support small businesses and level the playing field for innovative small businesses.

That includes using federal contracting dollars to support small and disadvantaged businesses, ensuring CHIPS Act funding supports small businesses, creating contracting opportunities in clean energy and energy efficiency, and cutting energy costs for small businesses.

“Through these comprehensive efforts, the Biden-Harris Administration seeks to create a thriving environment for small businesses, support underserved entrepreneurs and foster economic growth from the ground up,” the White House official stated.

This article was originally published by NNPA Newswire.

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By Stacy M. Brown,
NNPA Newswire Senior National Correspondent

(NNPA Newswire) –The Arkansas Department of Education has opted to strip course credit from the Advanced Placement (AP) African American Studies course, just a few months after Gov. Sarah Huckabee Sanders inked legislation curbing the scope of public school educators’ classroom offerings.

The AP African American Studies course, a beacon of educational diversity and cultural enlightenment, will not be eligible for early college credit during the upcoming school year.

“The department encourages the teaching of all American history and supports rigorous courses not based on opinions or indoctrination,” Kimberly Mundell, the education department’s communications director, said in a statement.

“Arkansas law contains provisions regarding prohibited topics,” Mundell told local station KHBS, referring to state education restrictions. “Without clarity, we cannot approve a pilot that may unintentionally put a teacher at risk of violating Arkansas law.”

As several states undertake concerted efforts to circumscribe the boundaries of what educators can impart concerning race, gender and sexuality, Arkansas has emerged as a new focal point in this ongoing dialogue.

NBC News reported that Sanders had earlier championed limits on education in the state. The outlet noted that she signed the LEARNS Act into law in March, restricting classroom lessons about gender identity and sexual orientation. And in January, the Republican governor signed an executive order banning “indoctrination and critical race theory” in schools.

The assault on critical race theory, which isn’t taught in grade schools, has been among the most controversial GOP initiatives across the country.

In Florida, Gov. Ron DeSantis spearheaded initiatives to exert an overarching influence over academic viewpoints and curricula. His HB 999 has caused consternation throughout the academic community, epitomizing an audacious stride toward dictating the contours of education.

HB 999 says that all colleges and universities must not spend money on education programs or other things that support diversity, equity and inclusion.

“This bill is a road map for wrecking one of our great state systems of higher education,” University of Michigan Law Professor Julian Davis Mortenson tweeted.

The bill eliminates women’s and gender studies as well as anything “based on the Critical Race Theory belief system” as a major or minor at state colleges and universities.

According to the bill’s text, the university president or board would do all faculty hiring. It asserts that they “may not delegate” any aspect of any hiring decision or hiring authority to any group or faculty, however constituted. Further, the bill asserts that they are “not required to consider the recommendations or opinions of faculty.”

Jeremy C. Young, Pen America’s senior manager of Free Expression and Education, called the bill “terrifying.”

Pen America is a non-profit group that protects and promotes free speech worldwide by promoting literature and human rights.

“Florida HB 999 would enact the most draconian and censorious restrictions on higher education in the history of this country,” Young said.

“The bill would make tenure and faculty hiring committees meaningless, ban diversity statements, and centralize control of core curricula and mission statements in the hands of political appointees,” Young said. “Unexpectedly, it would also ban gender studies majors.”

The post Arkansas education department withdraws credit for AP African American Studies appeared first on AFRO American Newspapers.

By Stacy M. Brown,
NNPA Newswire Senior National Correspondent

(NNPA NEWSWIRE) – Nichelle Lewis, a 24-year-old entertainer and triple threat in theater, music and social media, will star in a revival of “The Wiz” on Broadway.

A seasoned actress who has appeared in “Hairspray” and showcased her vocal prowess on “American Idol,” Lewis reportedly captivated casting agents with her creative TikTok escapades.

Now the Virginia native has seized the coveted role of Dorothy.

The role places her in the prestigious lineage of iconic performers like R&B superstar Stephanie Mills and pop icon Diana Ross.

“It’s been a pretty crazy journey,” Lewis said in an Associated Press interview on Aug. 14. She added, “I’m honored to be making my debut as Dorothy. I know I’m following in some really big footsteps.”

“The Wiz” will soon begin a tour across the United States, starting in Baltimore this fall and heading to Broadway in 2024.

Lewis will act alongside Wayne Brady and Alan Mingo Jr., who will take turns playing the mysterious character known as the Wiz.

The cast also includes singer and actress Deborah Cox as Glinda, Kyle Ramar Freeman as the Lion, Phillip Johnson Richardson as the Tin Man, and Avery Wilson as the Scarecrow.

A graduate of Molloy University’s class of 2021, Lewis ingeniously harnessed the reach of her modest TikTok account to showcase her vocal range. One of her renditions, “Home” from “The Wiz,” resounded far and wide, reaching the ears of astute casting agents who promptly beckoned her to audition.

“I’m so excited that this is a part of my story, because I feel like there’s so many people out there who started out with such a small following, and I feel like they’re hard on themselves about it,” she said.

“But I’m like, ‘You never know who’s watching those videos.’ I never knew that ‘The Wiz’ was looking at my videos.”

“The Wiz,” an adaptation of L. Frank Baum’s timeless “The Wonderful Wizard of Oz,” is a book by William F. Brown and is brought to life through the music and lyrics of Charlie Smalls.

Lewis acknowledged the importance of the heroine’s quest to discover herself in a strange world and said she supports others in finding their true selves.

“I feel like it’s extremely important for people, especially right now, to see that they can be powerful just by being themselves and just by being individual and unique,” she told the AP. “So, I think that’s how the show speaks to me.”

“The Wiz” originally debuted on Broadway in 1975, earning seven Tony Awards, including the coveted title of Best Musical. The production included memorable songs like “What Would I Do If I Could Feel” and “Ease on Down the Road.” It featured Mills as Dorothy, Dee Dee Bridgewater as the good witch Glinda, and Andre De Shields as the enigmatic Wiz.

The 1978 cinematic adaptation featured Diana Ross, Lena Horne, Richard Pryor, Michael Jackson, Nipsey Russell and Ted Ross.

In 2015, a live televised rendition featured Queen Latifah, Ne-Yo and David Alan Grier.

With her mother embracing the news with jubilant tears and ecstatic exclamations, Lewis acknowledged the transformation her life may now take.

“She’s like, ‘Your life is going to change.’ And I’m like, ‘I don’t know. It probably will,’” Lewis said of her mother’s reaction. “ I feel so blessed, and I’m so glad I get to share it with her.”

This article was originally published by NNPA Newswire.

The post Nichelle Lewis’ TikTok performance lands her role of a lifetime as Dorothy in Broadway bound production of ‘The Wiz’ appeared first on AFRO American Newspapers.

By Stacy M. Brown,
NNPA Newswire Senior National Correspondent

(NNPA NEWSWIRE) – In what activist Sherrilyn Ifill called a crisis, more stunning revelations have surfaced over lavish gifts allegedly accepted and not previously disclosed by Supreme Court Justice Clarence Thomas.

Now, Democratic lawmakers are taking to social media to demand Thomas step down.

The calls for his resignation come after another shocking investigative report by ProPublica. The exposé, released on Aug. 10, delves into undisclosed luxury vacations and gifts Thomas received from affluent individuals.

The revelation has again ignited a firestorm of outrage and ethical concerns.

“Justice Thomas has brought shame upon himself and the United States Supreme Court with his acceptance of massive, repeated, and undisclosed gifts,” Rep. Ted Lieu (D-Calif.) posted on X, the social media platform previously known as Twitter. “No government official, elected or unelected, could ethically or legally accept gifts of that scale. He should resign immediately.”

The damning ProPublica report exposed that Justice Thomas received a minimum of 38 destination vacations, 26 private jet flights, numerous VIP passes to sporting events and two lavish resort stays, all financed by billionaire backers during his tenure on the bench.

The report argued that Justice Thomas may have violated legal requirements by failing to disclose these extravagant travels and luxury engagements.

ProPublica reported that Thomas, typically “perched in the skybox” at sporting events, had at least two stays at luxury resorts in Florida and Jamaica, and one standing invitation to an uber-exclusive golf club overlooking the Atlantic coast.

“This accounting of Thomas’ travel, revealed for the first time here from an array of previously unavailable information, is the fullest to date of the generosity that has regularly afforded Thomas a lifestyle far beyond what his income could provide. And it is almost certainly an undercount,” the report asserted.

ProPublica continued: “While some of the hospitality, such as stays in personal homes, may not have required disclosure, Thomas appears to have violated the law by failing to disclose flights, yacht cruises, and expensive sports tickets, according to ethics experts.”

Politico noted that at least four other House Democrats also called for Thomas’ resignation, including Reps. Pramila Jayapal (D-Wash.), Bill Pascrell (D-N.J.), Gerry Connolly (D-Va.) and Hank Johnson (D-Ga.).

“Unprecedented. Stunning. Disgusting. The height of hypocrisy to wear the robes of a #SCOTUS and take undisclosed gifts from billionaires who benefit from your decisions,” Jayapal posted on X. “Resign.”

Democrats in the Senate have attempted to push legislation that would reform the Supreme Court’s ethical guidelines to increase transparency. That bill passed committee but is unlikely to get through a full Senate.

“I said it would get worse; it will keep getting worse,” Sen. Sheldon Whitehouse (D-R.I.), who helped spearhead the bill, said on X in response to the recent allegations.

“The latest ProPublica revelation of unreported lavish gifts to Justice Clarence Thomas makes it clear: these are not merely ethical lapses,” Senate Judiciary Chair Dick Durbin wrote on X. “This is a shameless lifestyle underwritten for years by a gaggle of fawning billionaires.”

Perhaps even more significant, the pattern exposes consistent violations of judicial norms, experts, including seven current and former federal judges appointed by both parties, told ProPublica.

Earlier this year, ProPublica revealed Texas real estate billionaire Harlan Crow’s generosity toward Thomas, including vacations, private jet flights, gifts, the purchase of his mother’s house in Georgia and tuition payments.

The new report said the New York Times also noted revelations about wealthy business people Thomas met through the Horatio Alger Association, an exclusive nonprofit.

Among them were David Sokol, a former top executive at Berkshire Hathaway, and H. Wayne Huizenga, a billionaire who turned Blockbuster and Waste Management into national goliaths.

ProPublica pointed out that The Times reported that Thomas gives access to the Supreme Court building for Horatio Alger events. Such access costs at least $1,500 in donations per person.

According to ProPublica, Thomas once complained that he sacrificed wealth to sit on the court.

“The job is not worth doing for what they pay,” he told the bar association in Savannah, Georgia, in 2001, “but it is worth doing for the principle.”

This article was originally published by NNPA Newswire.

The post Explosive revelations spark renewed calls for Justice Thomas’ resignation appeared first on AFRO American Newspapers.

By Stacy M. Brown,
NNPA Newswire Senior National Correspondent

(NNPA Newswire) – Paramount Global has pulled out of a deal to sell BET Media Group to renowned filmmaker Tyler Perry.

According to The Wall Street Journal, Paramount announced that they had ended the bidding process, which would have included VH1 and BET Studios, streamer BET+ and the BET channel, because “a sale wouldn’t result in any meaningful deleveraging of its balance sheet.”

Paramount Global had received bids ranging from approximately $2 billion to $3 billion.

Perry’s potential ownership would have made BET Black-owned again after 21 years, while VH1, for the first time, would have boasted an African-American owner for the first time.

Earlier this year, Perry’s longtime friend Rolanda Watts, proclaimed that he cemented his place in history by acquiring the two major television networks, making him the first African American to do so.

However, others, including Roland Martin, said the story wasn’t true and that a deal had not been reached.

The renowned actor and filmmaker previously expressed a keen interest in and optimism about purchasing BET if it were a possibility.

Perry, who had already enjoyed tremendous success in collaboration with BET–partnering through his Tyler Perry Studios to create BET+, a popular streaming service–is no stranger to the network.

“I’ve been there for four years now and had tremendous success,” he said. “If that is possible, I’m very, very interested in taking as much of it as I can.”

The exact financial details of the sale negotiations have not been disclosed, but experts on this sort of transaction have placed a significant value on the acquisition of the two networks.

The BET+ streaming service, alone, has been a remarkable success. In 2021, for example, BET+ was responsible for half of the subscribers and nearly all revenue growth for the channel. The platform features a wide range of original films and series from the extensive BET program library, captivating audiences with diverse and engaging content.

The acquisition of BET and VH1 would have marked a significant milestone in representation and minority ownership in the entertainment industry.

Perry’s success as an African-American entrepreneur and his commitment to showcasing diverse stories and voices have paved the way for increased opportunities and inclusivity in the media landscape. The “Madea” star currently owns a minority stake in BET and also produces a large portion of the programming available on BET and BET+.

The post Tyler Perry BET deal falls through as Paramount removes network from sales block appeared first on AFRO American Newspapers.

By Stacy M. Brown,
NNPA Newswire Senior National Correspondent

(NNPA NEWSWIRE) – Michael Oher, a former NFL star known for inspiring the film “The Blind Side,” has filed a petition in a Tennessee court with claims that the family who took him in lied about an important part of his life story.

Oher says the family used him for money, causing controversy around the once celebrated story of triumph.

The retired football star filed a petition in Shelby County, Tennessee, claiming the Tuohy family, who were portrayed as his adoptive parents in the film, never legally adopted him. Instead, he asserted, they manipulated him into signing documents that made them his conservators after he turned 18.

These conservatorship papers allowed them to make financial decisions on his behalf, Oher said. For example, the Tuohys used their authority as his conservators to make a profitable deal for the film adaptation of his story, according to the legal filing.

The movie earned over $300 million and won an Oscar for Sandra Bullock’s portrayal of Leigh Anne Tuohy.

According to reporting by ESPN, the Tuohys allegedly received substantial royalties, while Oher received nothing. despite being the central figure in the narrative.

Documents filed in court alleged that the movie paid the Tuohys and their two birth children each $225,000, plus 2.5% of the film’s “defined net proceeds.”

Oher, whose eight-year career included playing for the Baltimore Ravens, Carolina Panthers and Tennessee Titans, didn’t receive compensation.

The court filing suggested that the Tuohys continued to promote the false narrative of Oher’s adoption, using it to their advantage for personal gain.

Oher’s lawyer, J. Gerard Stranch IV, said Oher discovered the truth in 2023, causing deep emotional distress. The revelation shattered Oher’s belief in the family’s claim to be his adoptive parents, the attorney claimed.

Oher’s legal filing seeks to terminate the conservatorship held by the Tuohys and prevent them from exploiting his name and likeness. The petition also demands a full accounting of the profits generated using Oher’s story and compensation for Oher’s rightful share of these earnings.

Born into a family grappling with drug addiction, Oher faced hardships, including foster care placements and homelessness. 

His trajectory changed when he was taken in by the Tuohy family, which provided stability and support.

ESPN noted that Oher’s athletic talents thrived, propelling him to a successful college and NFL career.

However, the court filing highlighted that if Oher had been legally adopted, he would have retained control over his financial matters. Tellingly, the conservatorship arrangement stripped him of this autonomy, which became instrumental in the family’s alleged financial exploitation.

Further, the Tuohys had previously claimed they received only a flat fee for the movie and shared what they earned with Oher. But recent revelations counter these assertions.

“The lie of Michael’s adoption is one upon which Co-Conservators Leigh Anne Tuohy and Sean Tuohy have enriched themselves at the expense of their Ward, the undersigned Michael Oher,” Oher’s lawyers wrote.

“Michael Oher discovered this lie to his chagrin and embarrassment in February of 2023, when he learned that the Conservatorship to which he consented on the basis that doing so would make him a member of the Tuohy family, in fact provided him no familial relationship with the Tuohys.”

The post Blind-sided: Former NFL star Michael Oher’s explosive claims reveal twists in ‘The Blind Side’ movie tale appeared first on AFRO American Newspapers.

By Stacy M. Brown,
NNPA Newswire

Lessie Benningfield Randle, Viola Fletcher and Hughes Van Ellis Sr., the last three known survivors of the 1921 Tulsa Race Massacre, have continued their pursuit of justice.

They have appealed to the Oklahoma Supreme Court, urging a swift reversal of Tulsa County District Judge Caroline Wall’s controversial dismissal of their lawsuit.

At a press conference held at the Oklahoma Supreme Court, the legal team representing the survivor expressed confidence in the likelihood of the Oklahoma Supreme Court overturning Judge Wall’s ruling.

“The facts of this case align with the long-standing property-based limitations of Oklahoma’s public nuisance statute,” said Damario Solomon-Simmons, the lead attorney for the survivors and founder of Justice for Greenwood.

“The District Court’s imposition of a heightened pleading standard on the survivors is unprecedented in Oklahoma’s legal history,” Solomon-Simmons continued.

“Our clients have sufficiently pleaded a public nuisance claim, as defined by the Oklahoma Supreme Court in its landmark decision on Johnson & Johnson in November 2021.”

Randle, 107, Fletcher, 108, and Van Ellis, 102, are the remaining survivors of the horrific massacre, which destroyed the thriving Greenwood District in Tulsa and caused the loss of countless lives and property, has long been overlooked, and the survivors have been denied justice.

Their legal team contends that Judge Wall’s ruling imposes an unjust and burdensome requirement on parties alleging public nuisance claims.

The court mandated that the survivors provide a specific abatement remedy to address the issue before any discovery, trial or liability determination occurs.

The survivor’s co-counsel Randall Adams, a Schulte Roth and Zabel litigation partner, said this unusual pleading standard lacks any foundation in Oklahoma’s notice pleading code or prior case law.

Further, he said the District Court allowed the defendants to violate an agreement made in open court, promising not to file new motions to dismiss the survivors’ unjust enrichment claims.

Despite the agreement, the defendants filed a second motion to dismiss the unjust enrichment claims, and to the dismay of the survivors’ legal team, the District Court granted these baseless motions.

“It is imperative to recognize that allowing Judge Wall’s decision to stand will have severe implications for individuals and businesses across Oklahoma seeking to uphold their legal rights,” Solomon-Simmons emphasized.

He claimed that a favorable decision by the Oklahoma Supreme Court would “uphold the values of justice and fairness for all state residents and resolve the complaints of those who had suffered because of the Tulsa Race Massacre.”

This article was originally published by NNPA Newswire.

The post Oklahoma Supreme Court Revives Lawsuit Seeking Reparations for Tulsa Race Massacre Survivors appeared first on AFRO American Newspapers.

By Stacy M. Brown,
NNPA Newswire Senior National Correspondent,
@StacyBrownMedia

A grand jury in Fulton County, Georgia, indicted former President Donald Trump and more than a dozen associates for election fraud, racketeering, and other charges related to alleged efforts to overturn the 2020 election.

Trump, the first former president in U.S. history to face criminal charges, has been indicted four times this year for crimes tied to his presidency, perhaps the most divisive four years in American history.

Earlier this year, a civil jury found the twice-impeached former president guilty of sexual assault.

The latest 41-count indictment levels 13 new charges against Trump and brings the total of felony charges against the ex-president to an astonishing 91.
It also presents a real chance that Trump could end up in prison.

Fulton County District Attorney has given Trump and his alleged co-conspirators until noon on Aug. 25 to turn themselves in.

“Subsequent to the indictment, as is the normal process in Georgia law, the grand jury issued arrest warrants for those who were charged,” Willis said.

“I am giving the defendants the opportunity to voluntarily surrender no later than noon on Friday, the 25th day of August.”

She said the state’s role in the process is essential to the functioning of our democracy.

“Georgia, like every state, has laws that allow those who believe that results of the election are wrong, whether because of intentional wrongdoing or unintentional error, to challenge those results in state courts,” Willis said. She asserted that Trump and 18 co-conspirators engaged in a criminal racketeering enterprise over Georgia’s presidential election result.

Many legal experts had previously opined that Willis’ penchant for employing the Racketeer Influenced and Corrupt Organizations Act (RICO) would play out against Trump.

In 1970, Congress enacted the RICO statute, which broadened the scope of prospective prosecutions against participants in organized crime.
Under RICO, prosecutors can freeze the assets of suspects until the case’s outcome.

If the RICO charge is proven, it could lead to a maximum of 20 years in prison for each racketeering count.

A guilty defendant also loses all assets related to racketeering, including those connected to lawful businesses.

Additionally, a judge could impose financial penalties.

Fulton County Superior Court Judge Scott McAfee has been assigned the case, which Willis said she wants the trial to begin before the end of this year.

In 2022, Willis extolled RICO as a tool to convey the “whole story,” appreciating the intelligence and discernment of jurors who yearn for accurate judgments.

“The racketeering statute does not look simply at a single crime. It tries to look at the big picture of view,” Morgan Cloud, a law professor at Emory University, told CBS News.

The charges lodged against Trump and others, including Rudy Guiliani, attorney John Eastman, and former Trump Chief of Staff Mark Meadows, allege False Statements and Solicitation of State Legislatures, high-ranking state officials, the creation and distribution of false electoral college documents, the harassment of election workers, the solicitation of Justice Department officials, the solicitation of then-Vice President Mike Pence, the unlawful breach of election equipment, and acts of obstruction.

“Trump and the other Defendants charged in this Indictment refused to accept that Trump lost, and they knowingly and willfully joined a conspiracy to unlawfully change the outcome of the election in favor of Trump,” the indictment states.

“That conspiracy contained a common plan and purpose to commit two or more acts of racketeering activity in Fulton County, Georgia, elsewhere in the State of Georgia, and in other states.”

Willis said she plans to try Trump and the other alleged co-conspirators together.

At the heart of the case is Trump’s phone call in which he appeared to pressure the Secretary of State into “finding” him enough votes to win the state.

“All I want to do is this: I just want to find 11,780 votes, which is one more than we have. Because we won this state, and flipping the state is a great testament to the country,” Trump said.

“I only need 11,000 votes. Fellas, I need 11,000 votes. Give me a break.” “It’s just not possible to have lost Georgia. It’s not possible,” Trump said.

The court filing said Meadows attempted to enter an area where 2020 election signatures were being audited.

Willis alleges in the indictment that he sent a text message to the Georgia secretary of state’s chief investigator saying, “Is there a way to speed up Fulton County signature verification in order to have results before Jan. 6 if the trump campaign assists financially.”

Further, the indictment lists Giuliani’s sworn testimony in Georgia after the 2020 election, in which he made false claims about election fraud.

Willis also noted Giuliani’s contacting lawmakers in various states, including to Arizona House Speaker Rusty Bowers.

“During the telephone call, Guiliani made false statements concerning fraud in the Nov. 3, 2020, presidential election in Arizona and solicited, requested, and importuned Bowers to unlawfully appoint presidential electors from Arizona,” the indictment stated.

The post Trump and 18 Co-Conspirators Indicted on Racketeering Charges in Georgia; Arrest Warrant Issued appeared first on AFRO American Newspapers.

By Stacy M. Brown,
NNPA Newswire

Charles J. Ogletree Jr., a distinguished Harvard Law School professor, celebrated attorney and leading civil rights advocate, has died at 70. Ogletree, who had battled Alzheimer’s disease since 2015, reportedly died at his home in Maryland.

“Charles was a tireless advocate for civil rights, equality, human dignity, and social justice,” Harvard Law School Dean John F. Manning said, according to the Associated Press.

“He changed the world in so many ways, and he will be sorely missed in a world that very much needs him.”

Dorothy Roberts, a writer, social advocate, and professor at Penn Law, praised Ogletree’s impact at Harvard Law School.She admired his role in inspiring confidence, promoting learning, and encouraging activism among Black students and future generations.

“When I started at Harvard Law School in 1977, Tree was a third-year student and president of the Black Law Students Association,” Roberts recalled in a tweet. “Thank goodness he was there. He set a tone for me and the other Black students — then, and for generations to come — to be confident learners, lawyers, and activists. Rest in love and power.”

Affectionately known as “Tree,” Ogletree was born in California and graduated with a law degree from Harvard Law School in 1978. He became an influential legal theorist and a prominent figure in the legal community. Throughout his illustrious career, Ogletree actively contributed to the National Bar Association (NBA) and its affiliate, the Washington Bar Association (WBA). In 2001, he received the Charles Hamilton Houston Medallion of Merit from the Washington Bar Association. Then, in 2010, he was inducted into the WBA Hall of Fame.

In a news release, the NBA remarked that Ogletree was known for his mentorship and service, in which he emphasized the need to use the law as “an instrument of social and political change” and “a tool to empower the dispossessed and disenfranchised.”

“Professor Ogletree was an invaluable member of our Association,” said NBA President Dominique D. Calhoun.

“His contributions toward the profession and efforts to advance reparations for our people left an indelible mark on the conscience of America for generations to come.”

Calhoun called Ogletree a visionary leader and vowed that the Bar Association would continue strides toward justice and equality.”

Ogletree’s work mainly centered around race, class, and criminal justice.

He served as the lead counsel to Anita Hill during her sexual harassment allegations against Clarence Thomas, then a U.S. Supreme Court nominee. His involvement provided legal counsel and helped Hill devise a media strategy, including a news conference to announce her successful lie detector test. Ogletree credited much of his professional success to the opportunities afforded him due to the Supreme Court decision Brown v. Board of Education, which found segregated public schools unconstitutional. He organized Harvard’s Criminal Justice Institute, establishing the Charles Hamilton Houston Institute for Race and Justice and co-chairing the Reparations Coordinating Committee.

Many recounted how strongly he believed in using the law as a catalyst for social and political change, advocating for the empowerment of marginalized communities. He led efforts to improve clinical training in public and indigent defense. By establishing Harvard’s Criminal Justice Institute, Ogletree paved the way for students to gain valuable experience in Boston’s juvenile and district courts. Additionally, he created the Saturday School program, supporting Black students on Harvard’s predominantly White campus.

The program featured several influential speakers, including the Rev. Jesse Jackson, philosopher and now presidential candidate Cornel West, and actor Danny Glover. One notable attendee of the Saturday School was Barack Obama, who considered Ogletree a mentor and sought his advice frequently, even during his presidency.

“Michelle and I are heartbroken to hear about the passing of our friend Charles Ogletree.,” Obama said in a statement. “He took time on weekends to run something called ‘Saturday School’ for Black students who didn’t necessarily have the support systems at home to get them through the difficult first years of law school,” Obama recalled.

The former president noted that the school had become so popular that students from every background began showing up to hear Ogletree explain subjects in a way they all could understand.

“It was an example of the kind of person Charles has always been unfailingly helpful, and driven by a genuine concern for others,” Obama asserted.“He was an advocate for social justice, an incredible professor, and a mentor to many – including us.”

Ogletree is survived by his wife, Pamela Barnes, and his children, Charles Ogletree III and Rashida Ogletree.

This article was originally published by NNPA Newswire.

The post Renowned civil rights advocate Charles J. Ogletree Jr. dies at 70, leaving a legacy of justice and empowerment appeared first on AFRO American Newspapers.

By Stacy M. Brown,
NNPA Newswire

Lessie Benningfield Randle, Viola Fletcher, and Hughes Van Ellis, Sr., the last three known survivors of the 1921 Tulsa Race Massacre, have continued their pursuit of justice.

They have appealed to the Oklahoma Supreme Court, urging a swift reversal of Tulsa County District Judge Caroline Wall’s controversial dismissal of their lawsuit.

At a press conference held at the Oklahoma Supreme Court, the legal team representing the survivor expressed confidence in the likelihood of the Oklahoma Supreme Court overturning Judge Wall’s ruling.

“The facts of this case align with the long-standing property-based limitations of Oklahoma’s public nuisance statute,” said Damario Solomon-Simmons, the lead attorney for the survivors and founder of Justice for Greenwood.

“The District Court’s imposition of a heightened pleading standard on the survivors is unprecedented in Oklahoma’s legal history,” Solomon-Simmons continued.

“Our clients have sufficiently pleaded a public nuisance claim, as defined by the Oklahoma Supreme Court in its landmark decision on Johnson & Johnson in November 2021.”

Randle, 107, Fletcher, 108, and Van Ellis, 102, are the remaining survivors of the horrific massacre, which destroyed the thriving Greenwood District in Tulsa and caused the loss of countless lives and property, has long been overlooked, and the survivors have been denied justice.

Their legal team contends that Judge Wall’s ruling imposes an unjust and burdensome requirement on parties alleging public nuisance claims.

The court mandated that the survivors provide a specific abatement remedy to address the issue before any discovery, trial, or liability determination occurs.

The survivor’s co-counsel Randall Adams, a Schulte Roth and Zabel LLP litigation partner, said this unusual pleading standard lacks any foundation in Oklahoma’s notice pleading code or prior case law.

Further, he said the District Court allowed the defendants to violate an agreement made in open court, promising not to file new motions to dismiss the survivors’ unjust enrichment claims.

Despite the agreement, the defendants filed a second motion to dismiss the unjust enrichment claims, and to the dismay of the survivors’ legal team, the District Court granted these baseless motions.

“It is imperative to recognize that allowing Judge Wall’s decision to stand will have severe implications for individuals and businesses across Oklahoma seeking to uphold their legal rights,” Solomon-Simmons emphasized.

He claimed that a favorable decision by the Oklahoma Supreme Court would “uphold the values of justice and fairness for all state residents and resolve the complaints of those who had suffered because of the Tulsa Race Massacre.”

This article was originally published by NNPA Newswire.

The post Tulsa Race Massacre survivors seek reversal of dismissal in historic court appeal appeared first on AFRO American Newspapers.

By Stacy M. Brown,
NNPA Newswire,
@StacyBrownMedia

New Jersey was plunged into mourning as the news of the untimely death of Lt. Gov. Sheila Y. Oliver shook the state.

The 71-year-old died on Aug. 1, just one day after being rushed to the hospital due to an undisclosed medical issue. In a heartbreaking statement, the Oliver family expressed their profound sorrow.

“It is with incredible sadness and a heavy heart that we announce the passing of the Honorable Sheila Y. Oliver, Lieutenant Governor of the State of New Jersey. She was not only a distinguished public servant but also our cherished daughter, sister, aunt, friend and hero,” the family wrote.

Oliver had been acting governor in the absence of Gov. Phil Murphy, who was on vacation.

The mantle of acting governor was passed on to Democratic Senate President Nicholas Scutari when Oliver’s health suddenly worsened.

Speaking about Oliver, Gov. Murphy remembered her as a true trailblazer.

“When I selected her to be my running mate in 2017, Lt. Governor Oliver was already a trailblazer in every sense of the word. She had already made history as the first Black woman to serve as Speaker of the General Assembly, and just the second Black woman in the nation’s history to lead a house of a state legislature,” Murphy stated, “I knew then that her decades of public service made her the ideal partner for me to lead the State of New Jersey. It was the best decision I ever made.”

This article was originally published by NNPA Newswire.

The post History making New Jersey Lt. Gov. Sheila Oliver dies suddenly at 71 appeared first on AFRO American Newspapers.

By Stacy M. Brown,
NNPA Newswire,
@StacyBrownMedia

Judge Tanya S. Chutkan will preside over the case of former President Donald Trump’s alleged efforts to overturn the 2020 election.

This decision comes after Chutkan’s previous involvement in key motions related to the January 6 committee’s investigation.

Chutkan has a history with Trump. She denied his 2021 motion to prevent records from being given to the January 6 committee.

In her decision, she emphasized that “Presidents are not kings, and Plaintiff is not president.” This ruling showcased her commitment to upholding the principles of democracy and the rule of law.

A trailblazer in her own right, Chutkan’s background is impressive.

She was born in Kingston, Jamaica and moved to the United States to pursue higher education.

She earned a bachelor’s degree in economics from George Washington University and later graduated from the University of Pennsylvania Law School.

Chutkan began her law career working in private practice and later at the District of Columbia Public Defender Service.

After that, she joined the law firm Boies, Schiller and Flexner LLP, where she specialized in white-collar criminal defense for a total of 12 years.

Legal experts described Chutkan as incredibly dedicated to justice and fair representation as a public defender. They said her commitment to ensuring equal access to justice was evident.

Her colleagues said her extensive experience in complex legal matters and criminal defense undoubtedly contributed to her well-rounded understanding of the law.

Chutkan was appointed to the District Court for the District of Columbia by former President Barack Obama in 2014.

Chutkan has a reputation for being a fair and committed judge.

Still, she hasn’t shied away from imposing harsher sentences than the Justice Department initially requested in cases involving January 6 defendants.

When federal prosecutors suggested that Matt Mazzocco serve three months of home confinement and probation after he pleaded guilty to misdemeanor charges of storming the U.S. Capitol on Jan. 6, Chutkan insisted that there must be consequences “beyond sitting at home” for individuals involved in an attempted violent overthrow of the U.S. government.

“If Mr. Mazzocco walks away with probation and a slap on the wrist, that’s not going to deter anyone trying what he did again,” Chutkan asserted from the bench.

“It does not, in this Court’s opinion, indicate the severity – the gravity of the offenses that he committed on Jan. 6.”

Ultimately, she sentenced Mazzocco to 45 days in jail and 60 hours of community service.

Many observers said her stance reflects a belief in the importance of holding individuals accountable for their actions during the insurrection.

The judge has refused to bow to political pressure or executive privilege.

In addition to denying Trump’s emergency motion in 2021, attempting to prevent the National Archives from turning over his administration’s records to the January 6 committee, she has remained steadfast in upholding the law.

“For a lot of people, I seem to check a lot of boxes: immigrant, woman, Black, Asian,” Chutkan was quoted as saying in a February 2022 profile, posted by the federal judiciary. “Your qualifications are always going to be subject to criticism and you have to develop a thick skin.”

This article was originally published by NNPA Newswire.

The post U.S. District Judge Tanya S. Chutkan to oversee former President Donald J. Trump’s election interference case appeared first on AFRO American Newspapers.

By Stacy M. Brown,
NNPA Newswire Senior National Correspondent,
@StacyBrownMedia

With the white sheets removed, the hoods now off, and the dog whistles as overt as they were during Jim Crow and the struggle for civil rights in the mid-20th century, a conservative group that spearheaded the Supreme Court’s overturning of affirmative action now has set its sights on Black women.

Edward Blum, a conservative activist, founded the American Alliance for Equal Rights nonprofit, which has filed a lawsuit against Fearless Fund, an Atlanta-based venture capital fund.

The lawsuit alleges that Fearless Fund “is engaging in unlawful racial discrimination by restricting eligibility for its grant competition to only Black women entrepreneurs.”

The legal action cited the Civil Rights Act of 1866 and was filed in federal Court in Atlanta. Fearless Fund, established in 2019 by prominent Black women, including Cosby Show actress Keshia Knight Pulliam, entrepreneur Arian Simone, and corporate executive Ayana Parsons, aims to support and empower Black women who own small businesses.

Notable investors in the fund include Bank of America, Costco Wholesale, General Mills, Mastercard, and JPMorgan Chase.

The lawsuit reportedly marks Blum’s first legal challenge since his organization’s victory in the Supreme Court in June.

The Court rejected affirmative action in collegiate admissions, ruling against race-conscious student admissions policies used by institutions like Harvard University and the University of North Carolina.

Blum’s group had argued that such policies unfairly discriminated against white and Asian American applicants.

Blum’s lawsuit focuses on Fearless Fund’s “Fearless Strivers Grant Contest,” which provides $20,000 in grants, digital tools, and mentorship opportunities to Black women business owners.

The American Alliance for Equal Rights claims that white and Asian American members of their organization have been excluded from the grant program solely based on race.

Fearless Fund has yet to respond to the allegations.

In an interview with Reuters, Blum stated that the lawsuit is just the beginning of his efforts to challenge race-based policies used by private corporations through the American Alliance for Equal Rights.

He said he aims to build upon the success of the cases against Harvard and UNC, filed by his organization, Students for Fair Admissions, which led to the Supreme Court’s landmark ruling in June.

“The common theme of these organizations is to challenge in the courts the use of racial classifications and preferences in our nation’s policies,” Blum said, as reported by Reuters.

This article was originally published by NNPA Newswire.

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By Stacy M. Brown,
NNPA Newswire Senior National Correspondent,
@StacyBrownMedia

As the United States commemorates 50 years of mass incarceration, researchers and experts call for a comprehensive reimagining of the public safety infrastructure to prevent another 50 years of this troubling trend.
The Sentencing Project, a leading criminal justice reform organization, has released a groundbreaking report titled “Ending Mass Incarceration: Safety Beyond Sentencing,” outlining five social interventions that can pave the way to a safer, fairer, and more equitable future for America’s communities.

The report sheds light on the startling statistics, revealing that the U.S. prison population has expanded by a staggering 500 percent since 1973.
However, it also highlights some positive developments, with the prison population declining by 25 percent since its peak in 2009.

Twenty-one states have taken steps to partially or fully close correctional facilities since 2000, signaling a trend of prison repurposing for community and commercial use.

Despite those changes, the current pace of de-incarceration, averaging 2.3 percent annually since 2009, indicates that it would take until 2098 to return to the prison population of 1972.

The report emphasizes the need for social interventions and legislative reforms.
Liz Komar, Sentencing Reform Counsel at The Sentencing Project, and co-author of the report, stressed the importance of reimagining public safety infrastructure.
“Policymakers can create safer, fairer, and more equitable communities by combining social interventions that address some of the root causes of crime with legislative reforms that reduce the harm of the criminal legal system,” Komar insisted.

Further, the report noted that deep racial and ethnic disparities exist throughout the criminal legal system, from the point of arrest to post-incarceration experiences that include restrictions on voting and employment.

“Black, Latinx, and Indigenous residents experience cumulative disadvantage at every stage of the criminal legal system because they are more likely to be arrested, convicted, and receive more punitive criminal sanctions than white individuals,” the authors wrote.

“Black adults are incarcerated in state prisons at nearly five times the rate of whites,” they continued, noting that, in 2019, Black youth were 4.4 times as likely to be incarcerated in the juvenile justice system as were their white peers.

The report offers five key recommendations for policymakers and community members to create a safer society without relying on mass incarceration:

1- Implement community-based safety solutions: Violence interruption programs and changes to the built environment, such as adding green spaces and improving street lighting, can decrease violence without resorting to incarceration.

2- Transform crisis response: Investing in trained community-based responders with expertise in public health approaches can reduce police shootings, improve safety, and decrease incarceration during crises, including mental health emergencies.

3- Reduce unnecessary justice involvement: Decriminalizing certain non-public safety offenses and implementing diversion programs can limit police contact and court involvement, ultimately improving safety and reducing unnecessary incarceration.

4- End the drug war: Shifting away from criminalizing drug use and focusing on public health solutions, such as harm reduction services and supervised consumption sites, can improve public health and safety.

5- Strengthen opportunities for youth: Providing summer employment opportunities and training youth in effective decision-making skills can prevent their involvement in the criminal legal system.

Nicole D. Porter, Senior Director of Advocacy with The Sentencing Project and co-author of the report, underlines the effectiveness and cost-efficiency of these interventions.

“Research shows these interventions are more effective at reducing crime and improving public safety, more cost-effective, and more equitable than punitive responses that rely on over policing and mass incarceration,” Porter stated.

Researchers asserted that the report serves as a beacon of hope and an urgent call to action for policymakers, community leaders, and citizens alike.

They insist that embracing these social interventions and legislative reforms allows the United States to forge a safer, more equitable future free from the burden of mass incarceration.

“At every stage of the criminal legal system, and before harm ever arises, there are promising ways that communities can protect public safety and take steps toward ending mass incarceration,” The Sentencing Project researchers concluded.

“State legislatures and the federal government should invest in these interventions and incentivize their adoption. Communities have already begun building the necessary interventions to reduce America’s reliance on prisons.

“Social interventions that address the root causes of crime and legislative reforms that reduce the harm of the criminal legal system can move the U.S. toward a safer, fairer, and more equitable future.”

This article was originally published by NNPA Newswire.

The post New report outlines social interventions to end mass incarceration and improve public safety appeared first on AFRO American Newspapers.

By Stacy M. Brown,
NNPA Newswire

Following a complaint from advocacy groups that Harvard University was breaking federal law by using legacy admissions, the U.S. Department of Education has acted.

The department has formally notified Lawyers for Civil Rights, the organization that filed the complaint against Harvard, that it has initiated a probe into the university’s admissions process.

The Office for Civil Rights within the Education Department is investigating.

While confirming the investigation, an Education Department spokesperson refrained from providing further comments.

The complaint, a comprehensive 31-page document, was filed by the Greater Boston Latino Network and other advocacy groups.

Its central argument is that legacy admissions at Harvard place applicants of color at a significant disadvantage, contradicting the university’s purported commitment to promoting campus diversity.

According to the complaint, Harvard College grants special preferences to many predominantly White students yearly because of their familial ties to the university.

Applicants with relatives who are wealthy donors or Harvard alumni receive preferential treatment from the outset of the admissions process, receiving extra “tips” throughout.

As a result of this practice, known as “Donor and Legacy Preferences,” these students enjoy significantly higher acceptance rates than other applicants, making up as much as 15 percent of Harvard’s admitted students.

“The students who receive this preferential treatment – based solely on familial ties – are overwhelmingly White,” the complaint stated.

“Nearly 70 percent of donor-related applicants are White, and nearly 70 percent of legacy applicants are White. The results of this preferential treatment are substantial.”

For example, over the period 2014–2019, the complaint notes that donor-related applicants were nearly seven times more likely to be admitted than non-donor-related applicants.

Additionally, legacy applicants were almost six times more likely to be admitted than non legacy applicants.

The complaint asserts that donor and legacy preferences disproportionately favor White applicants and systematically disadvantaged students of color, including Black, Latinx, and Asian Americans.

“A benefit provided to some applicants but not to others necessarily advantages the former group at the expense of the latter,” the complainants wrote, quoting the U.S. Supreme Court, which struck down affirmative action-based admissions in higher education.

The advocacy groups behind the complaint have urged the Education Department to intervene, calling on the institution to declare that Harvard must discontinue the use of legacy admissions if it intends to continue receiving federal funds.

The complaint maintains that legacy admissions lack educational justification and are awarded without considering the applicants’ credentials or merits. Instead, it solely benefits individuals born into specific families.

Legacy admissions practices at Harvard and other universities have faced increased scrutiny, particularly after a court ruling and comments from President Joe Biden.

The President stated that legacy admissions contribute to expanding privilege rather than promoting equal opportunities.

Moreover, the NAACP has joined in calling for an end to this practice, asserting that it disproportionately favors White applicants.

The complaint concludes that granting a spot to a legacy or donor-related applicant essentially denies that opportunity to another candidate who meets the admissions criteria solely based on their merit.

The advocates argue that removing legacy and donor preferences would result in more students of color being admitted to Harvard.

“This preferential treatment violates federal law,” the complaint stated. “Specifically, because Harvard receives substantial federal funds, it is bound by Title VI of the Civil Rights Act of 1964 and its implementing regulations, which forbid practices that have an unjustified disparate impact on the basis of race.”

This article was originally published by NNPA Newswire.

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By Stacy M. Brown,
NNPA Newswire
@StacyBrownMedia

The Grammy Awards have issued changes to address how artificial intelligence (AI) affects music. Among the revisions is a rule stating that only “human creators” are eligible to win the music industry’s highest honor.

According to the Associated Press, under the newly released “Artificial Intelligence (AI) Protocols,” a work lacking human authorship will be deemed ineligible for any category.

AI-inspired works will be accepted if a human creator has made a significant contribution to the music or lyrics, according to decisions made at last month’s Academy Board of Trustees meeting.

The requirements specify that the human authorship component must be significant.

Paul McCartney recently announced that a new Beatles record was created using artificial intelligence technology by using an old demo of John Lennon’s voice.

The utilization of AI in music has garnered attention in recent years, with instances where AI has regenerated or even impersonated artists like the late Notorious B.I.G and the imprisoned R. Kelly. Even family members of the late King of Pop, Michael Jackson, have publicly doubted some of his posthumous releases as authentic. These developments have prompted the Recording Academy to ensure integrity and human involvement in the creative process.

In addition to the AI rule, the Recording Academy has made changes to other categories. In the “Album of the Year” category, a music creator must now account for at least 20 percent  of the work to be eligible for a nomination. That includes all credited artists, featured artists, songwriters, producers, engineers, mixers, and mastering engineers.

The modification differs from a decision made in 2021, which allowed anyone who worked on the album to receive a nomination. Nominees eligible for the “Big Four” categories, “Best New Artist,” “Album of the Year,” “Song of the Year” and “Record of the Year,” have been reduced from 10 to eight. The academy said it aims to streamline the competition and enhance the prestige of being nominated in these highly coveted categories.

The Recording Academy has also revised the requirements for the “Best Music Film” category. Previously, 50 percent of the documentary footage had to be performance-based, but this requirement has now been lifted to accommodate the evolving music documentary format.

The change acknowledges that music documentaries often combine actual and archival footage, as seen in Apple TV’s “Billie Eilish: The World’s a Little Blurry.” However, biopics and dramatic feature films remain ineligible for this category. Music videos that are part of a visual album are now eligible for awards, as seen with Beyoncé’s “Lemonade” film in 2016.

The Recording Academy said it updated its system to keep up with changes in music creation and maintain high standards for the Grammy Awards.

Officials said that by limiting AI’s role in music and refining the criteria for various categories, the academy seeks to celebrate and honor the enduring power of human creativity in the industry.

This article was originally published by NNPA Newswire.

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By Stacy M. Brown, NNPA Newswire Senior National Correspondent,
@StacyBrownMedia

Recognizing the country’s painful racial history and honoring the legacy of Emmett Till, President Joe Biden signed a proclamation on Tuesday designating a national monument spanning two states to memorialize Emmett Till and his mother, Mamie Till-Bradley.

A distinguished audience included Dr. Benjamin F. Chavis Jr., President & CEO of the National Newspaper Publishers Association (NNPA), as well as several members of the Congressional Black Caucus, including Chair Steven Horsford, Minority Whip James Clyburn, and Mississippi Democratic Rep. Bennie Thompson.

The NNPA is the trade association that represents the Black Press of America.

Till, a 14-year-old Black teenager from Chicago, was tragically murdered in Money, Mississippi, on August 28, 1955, after being accused by a white woman of whistling at her.

His brutal killing became a catalyst for the Civil Rights movement when his mother, Mamie Till, chose to hold an open-casket funeral, and a photograph of her son’s disfigured body was published in Black media, bringing national attention to the horrors of racism and sparking outrage across the nation.

The Roberts Temple Church of God in Christ in Chicago, where Till’s funeral took place, Graball Landing in Mississippi, thought to be the site of his body’s discovery, and the Tallahatchie County Second District Courthouse, where an all-white jury found the white men responsible for his murder not guilty, make up the 5.7 acres of the newly designated national monument.

During the ceremony, Biden acknowledged the significant role played by the Black Press in shedding light on Till’s tragic story and the broader struggle for civil rights.

He applauded the bravery and unwavering dedication of publications like JET Magazine, the Chicago Defender, and other newspapers and radio announcers who fearlessly reported on the events surrounding Till’s murder, ensuring that the truth reached the American people.

“The reason the world saw what Mrs. Till-Mobley saw was because of another hero in this story: the Black Press,” Biden remarked, receiving applause from the audience.

He emphasized the importance of shining a light of truth on the painful aspects of the nation’s past, acknowledging that darkness and denialism cannot erase history.

Vice President Kamala Harris, also present at the event, echoed Biden’s sentiments and emphasized the critical role that the story of Till and the courage of Mamie Till played in fueling the civil rights movement.

She emphasized her connection to the cause because, while serving in the United States Senate, she sponsored the Emmett Till Antilynching Act, which President Biden later signed into law and made lynching a federal crime.

Harris emphasized that embracing the complete history of the United States, even its painful chapters, is essential to pursuing justice and equality.

She thanked the many leaders at the ceremony, acknowledging their contributions to progress in the civil rights fight.

“Our history as a nation is born of tragedy and triumph, of struggle and success.  That is who we are,” Harris asserted.

“And as people who love our country, as patriots, we know that we must remember and teach our full history, even when it is painful — especially when it is painful.

“Today, there are those in our nation who would prefer to erase or even rewrite the ugly parts of our past; those who attempt to teach that enslaved people benefitted from slavery; those who insult us in an attempt to gaslight us, who try to divide our nation with unnecessary debates.”

She concluded:

“Let us not be seduced into believing that somehow, we will be better if we forget.  We will be better if we remember.  We will be stronger if we remember.”

The Biden administration has taken strong action by designating the site as a national monument to ensure that future generations will remember and preserve the history of racial injustice.

The move comes at a time when some states are facing debates over how to teach their historical past in public schools, with Biden and Harris advocating for an inclusive and accurate education that confronts the darker chapters of American history.

The ceremony took place on what would have been Emmett Till’s 82nd birthday, emphasizing the occasion’s significance.

“There’s really critical work ahead to continue the fight for racial justice and equality for all Americans,” Biden insisted.

“And my administration is committed to leading a path forward.  And I know the members of Congress here are even more committed than that.”

The post Biden Pays Tribute to Emmett Till; Acknowledges the Vital Role of the Black Press in the Civil Rights Movement appeared first on AFRO American Newspapers.

By Stacy M. Brown,
NNPA Newswire Senior National Correspondent,
@StacyBrownMedia

An incident involving a police dog attacking a compliant semi-truck driver has ignited public outrage, drawing comparisons to the dark era of pre-civil rights when police routinely unleashed dogs on Black Americans.

The incident, which occurred on July 4 on U.S. Route 23 near Circleville, Ohio, came to light when body-camera footage of the arrest was released on July 21 by the Ohio State Highway Police.

The harrowing video shows 23-year-old Jadarrius Rose obeying orders from troopers to get on his knees and keep his hands in the air.

Despite complying with the commands, Rose became the victim of a police dog attack, further fueling concerns about law enforcement’s excessive use of force.

“There is a very particular and sordid history of training dogs on Black people as a form of police terror in the U.S. that is both dehumanizing to victims and underscores the barbarism of law enforcement,” Janai Nelson, president and director-counsel for the NAACP Legal Defense & Education Fund, Inc., wrote on Twitter.

The chain of events leading to the incident began at approximately 9:30 a.m. on July 4 when troopers from the state Highway Police Department’s Motor Carrier Enforcement Inspector unit attempted to stop Rose on westbound U.S. Route 35 for an alleged traffic defect violation, according to an initial incident report.
Allegedly refusing to pull over, Rose led the troopers on a chase spanning two counties.

Eventually, troopers deployed spike strips, causing Rose to surrender on Route 23 in Pickaway County.

In the released footage, a German Shepherd K-9, a member of the Circleville, Ohio, Police Department, is seen arriving at the scene, initially held back by its handler as troopers order Rose to comply.

Despite pleas from other officers not to release the dog while Rose had his hands up, the K-9 is let loose, attacking Rose, and gripping his arm as he cries out in pain.

Fellow officers, including the dog’s handler, intervened to remove the animal from Rose.

In a statement, the Ohio State Highway Police asserted that they were attempting to gain compliance through verbal commands when the Circleville Police Department deployed the canine, resulting in Rose being bitten.

After receiving medical attention at a hospital, Rose was taken into custody and booked at the Ross County Jail for failure to comply, classified as a fourth-degree felony.

It’s still unclear why Rose didn’t stop right away when the troopers ordered him to.

The Circleville Police Department’s Use of Force Review Board is investigating the incident.

The K-9 Officer involved in the arrest has been identified as Circleville Police Officer R. Speakman, but it is unknown whether he will be placed on leave during the investigation.

Nana Watson, president of the NAACP Columbus Chapter, expressed deep concern after watching the body-camera video.

“I was afraid for him. I was fearful for him,” she said.

“It saddens me that in 2023 we have officers who are unleashing dogs on a person who clearly had his hands in the air. That did not matter to the Circleville Police Department.”

This article was originally published by NNPA Newswire.

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By Stacy M. Brown,
NNPA Newswire,
@StacyBrownMedia

Charles W. “Chuck” Cherry II, a prominent figure in the fight for social justice and a staunch supporter of the Black Press, has died.

According to the Daytona Times, the retired attorney and publisher of the Daytona Times and the Florida Courier passed away on July 15, at the age of 66.

The newspaper called Cherry an influential voice in the community, who dedicated decades to running the editorial operations of the papers before retiring in 2020.

“Charles was not only a good person, but an individual who fought hard to bring truth to light about any situation,” said NNPA Chair Bobby Henry, the publisher of the Westside Gazette in Ft. Lauderdale, Fla.

“Charles was also a dear fraternity brother,” Henry related.

“He truly spoke truth to power without any hesitation. He was a lover and faithful soldier of the Black Press. Indeed, he was a soldier without a sword.”

NNPA President and CEO Dr. Benjamin F. Chavis Jr., said the entire association of Black publishers were saddened by Cherry’s death.

“On behalf of the NNPA, we express our profound sympathy and condolences to the family of one of the NNPA’s stellar publishers and leaders, Charles W. Cherry II,” Chavis stated.“ Attorney Cherry was a fearless person and a renowned freedom fighting publisher.”

The Daytona Times noted that Cherry was also an accomplished author, speaker, radio broadcaster and strategic business planning consultant.

In 2019, Cherry founded 623 Management, a company focused on developing and disseminating messaging to Black America, with a particular emphasis on understanding and reaching Florida’s Black population through a comprehensive marketing strategy, the newspaper reported.

He was a sought-after speaker on Black history and civil rights, both in Daytona Beach and beyond.

Born on Aug. 6, 1956, in Daytona Beach, Charles W. Cherry II was the son of Julia T. Cherry and Charles W. Cherry Sr., the founder of the Daytona Times and Florida Courier newspapers.

His father was also a past president of the Florida NAACP and a former city commissioner for Daytona Beach. 

Chuck Cherry graduated from Seabreeze High School in Daytona Beach and went on to receive his B.A. degree in journalism from Morehouse College in 1978.

During his time at Morehouse, he followed in his father’s footsteps by pledging Omega Psi Phi Fraternity.

Cherry continued his education at the University of Florida, earning both an M.B.A. and J.D. in 1982.

“His involvement at Morehouse included serving as president of its Interfraternity Council, Basileus of the Psi Chapter of Omega Psi Phi Fraternity, a Student Government Association representative, and a four-year track letterman in the high jump,” the newspaper reported.

After being admitted to the Florida Bar in December 1983, Cherry worked as a former state prosecutor for Fort Lauderdale city and South Florida, practicing law for 21 years.

However, upon the passing of his father, Charles W. Cherry Sr., he returned to journalism and newspaper publishing as his primary occupation.

Cherry served as general counsel to the Housing Authority of the City of Fort Lauderdale for over a decade and held the role of general manager for the family-owned radio station WPUL-AM.

Additionally, he hosted the station’s popular “Free Your Mind” radio show.

His influential column, “Straight, No Chaser,” was a weekly staple in the Florida Courier, earning Cherry numerous Florida and national awards.

In 1994, he authored and published “Excellence Without Excuse: The Black Student’s Guide to Academic Excellence,” which has been widely used as a textbook in college-preparation classes and seminars.

He also co-wrote “Fighting through the Fear” in 2016 with his Morehouse College roommate and Omega Psi Phi Fraternity brother, C. David Moody Jr., of Atlanta.

Cherry is survived by his two children, Chayla Cherry, a recent graduate of Spelman College and a recipient of a Master’s in Global Affairs at Tsinghua University in Beijing, China, and Charles W. Cherry III, a student at Morehouse College.

He is also survived by his former wife, Lisa Rogers Cherry of Fort Lauderdale, his brother Dr. Glenn Cherry (Dr. Valerie Cherry) of Tampa, his sister Cassandra Cherry Kittles (Willie Kittles) of Daytona Beach, his nephew Jamal Cherry (Dr. Sierra Cherry) of Houston, Texas, his great-niece Mila Cherry of Houston and other relatives. He was preceded in death by his father, Charles W. Cherry Sr., his mother, Julia Mae Troutman Cherry, and a daughter, Chip Happy Cherry.

This article was originally published by NNPA Newswire.

The post Fierce advocate for Black press and social justice, Charles W. ‘Chuck’ Cherry II, dies at 66 appeared first on AFRO American Newspapers.

By Stacy M. Brown,
NNPA Newswire Senior National Correspondent,
@StacyBrownMedia

Florida’s Board of Education voted to approve several new rules this week, including teaching that African Americans benefited from their enslavement.
The new curriculum has sparked outrage and accusations of racism, setting up a new school year unlike any other because of these changes and other laws passed by state lawmakers and signed by Gov. Ron DeSantis.

One of the most controversial rules drawing significant pushback is the alteration of the standards of instruction for African American history.
Critics argue that the new standards attempt to rewrite Black history in a deeply concerning manner.

Democratic state lawmakers made their objections known at the board’s meeting on July 19, expressing particular concern over one instructional change implying enslaved individuals benefited from their enslavement.

“Any kind of standards that indicate that slavery benefited Black people is such an insult,” said State Rep. Rita Harris.

Added Rep. Anna Eskamani, “The notion that enslaved people benefited from being enslaved is inaccurate and a scary standard for us to establish in our education system.”

The new rule faced additional opposition from a coalition of Black leaders and community groups, who wrote a letter to the school board asserting that the standards intentionally omitted or distorted crucial historical facts about the Black experience.

Despite the widespread criticism, the board plans to implement the new rule on African American history instruction, along with several others, in classrooms across the state during the upcoming school year.

The move adds to the state’s ongoing debate over African American history in education, further exacerbated by the education department’s rejection of a preliminary pilot version of an Advanced Placement African American Studies course for high school students, citing an alleged lack of educational value.
Under the new standards imposed by the board and DeSantis, teachers will instruct middle school students about how enslaved people developed skills they could use to benefit themselves.

The curriculum omits the brutal horrors of slavery, the inhumane treatment of African Americans, including the rape and torture of enslaved people, selling and separating families, and even the brutal mistreatment of children and babies.
The new curriculum will teach high school students about events like the 1920 Ocoee massacre, the deadliest Election Day violence in US history that began when white poll workers prevented Moses Norman, a Black landowner, from voting.

The rule stipulates that instructions also must include details about the Atlanta race massacre, the Tulsa race massacre, and the Rosewood race massacre.
“Our children deserve nothing less than truth, justice, and the equity our ancestors shed blood, sweat, and tears for,” NAACP President Derrick Johnson stated.

“It is imperative that we understand that the horrors of slavery and Jim Crow were a violation of human rights and represent the darkest period in American history.”

The post Florida Board of Education approves anti-Black history curriculum appeared first on AFRO American Newspapers.

By Stacy M. Brown,
NNPA Newswire,
@StacyBrownMedia

The Biden-Harris Administration has unveiled a $2.2 billion relief initiative aimed at providing support to Black farmers and other individuals who have faced discrimination within federal government lending programs.

The Inflation Reduction Act, part of Biden’s commitment to addressing historical injustices, includes a total of $5.3 billion dedicated to offering relief to tens of thousands of farmers across the country.

Of the allocated funds, $3.1 billion reportedly will be used to assist distressed borrowers in paying off their farm debts without losing their land or becoming ineligible for future assistance.

An additional $2.2 billion will be allocated specifically to farmers who have suffered discrimination through USDA farm programs.

The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) announced that applications are now being accepted for the Discrimination Financial Assistance Program, which aims to provide financial aid to farmers, ranchers, and forest landowners who have experienced discrimination in USDA farm lending prior to 2021.

“The opening of the application process is an important step in delivering on our commitment to providing financial assistance to those who faced discrimination in USDA farm lending, as swiftly and efficiently as possible,” Agriculture Secretary Tom Vilsack emphasized.

The initiative comes after decades of Black farmers accusing the USDA of discrimination and being denied loans crucial for their livelihoods and land preservation.

A study conducted in May 2022 revealed that Black farmers had lost over $326 billion in land value throughout the 20th century.

The Washington Informer reported in 2022 that researchers considered that figure to be a conservative estimate of the actual financial impact racist practices have had on Black American farmers since 1920.

Biden issued an executive order last year, instructing the USDA to establish a 15-member independent equity commission aimed at rectifying discrimination within its policies and practices concerning Black farmers.

Under the initial Build Back Better plan, the Biden administration said it wanted to allocate significant funds to support Black farmers.

However, the plan was scuttled after White farmers filed lawsuits claiming that the earmarking of funds specifically for Black farmers amounted to discrimination.

The legal action has resulted in the tying up of $4 billion as the administration continues to defend the action in court.

Further, a 2021 report from ProPublica also shed light on the systematic discrimination faced by Black farmers at the hands of various federal agencies, including the USDA.

The report detailed how the USDA impeded Black farmers’ access to critical federal funds through discriminatory loan denials and deliberate delays in financial aid.

“If you are Black and you’re born south of the Mason-Dixon Line and you tried to farm, you’ve been discriminated against,” Lloyd Wright, the director of the USDA Office of Civil Rights under Presidents Bill Clinton and Barack Obama, and a Black Virginia farmer, stated in the report.

In an earlier interview with the Informer, John Wesley Boyd Jr., founder and president of the National Black Farmers Association in Bakersville, Va., added,  that “the oldest occupation in this country for Black people is farming. But from slavery through Jim Crow, the USDA and the banks – all these things put together means we are facing extinction.”

Boyd said he believes the U.S. Congress has the power to help Black farmers. 

“What’s troubling is when the brown bear, the black bear, and the bald eagle were facing extinction, Congress put harsh laws in place until their numbers came back up. So why can’t they do the same thing for the oldest occupation in history for Black people, which is farming?”

The White House said the launch of the $2.2 billion relief initiative represents a significant step towards rectifying the historical injustices faced by Black farmers and marks the Biden-Harris Administration’s commitment to addressing systemic discrimination in federal lending programs.

With the Discrimination Financial Assistance Program now accepting applications, eligible farmers, ranchers, and forest landowners should now have access to needed financial assistance.

This article was originally published by NNPA Newswire.

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By Stacy M. Brown,
NNPA Newswire,
@StacyBrownMedia

Federal authorities announced on July 11, that Bank of America violated numerous consumer financial protection rules by double-charging customers, not distributing credit card rewards, and creating fraudulent accounts.

As a result, the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau (CFPB) fined Bank of America $90 million and compelled the institution to pay more than $100 million to customers.

The Office of the Comptroller of the Currency fined Bank of America $60 million.

Some of the accusations are reminiscent of the Wells Fargo debacle from a decade ago, which involved the creation of millions of unauthorized consumer bank accounts.

“Bank of America wrongfully withheld credit card rewards, double-dipped on fees, and opened accounts without consent,” stated CFPB Director Rohit Chopra.

In addition to being illegal, the methods also damaged credibility with the public, regulators stated.

The CFPB vowed to end the banking practices nationwide.

The bank boasts 68 million customers, making it the second largest in the country.

Following the CFPB investigation, Bank of America was found to have “harmed hundreds of thousands of consumers over a period of several years and across multiple product lines and services,” regulators asserted.

Customers were charged “tens of millions of dollars in fees on resubmitted transactions,” after the bank allowed consumers to be “repeatedly charged” $35 each time a transaction was resubmitted after being declined due to insufficient funds.

This happened even if the third-party merchant resubmitted the charge to the customer’s account after the first attempt was refused.

If the customer’s account has insufficient funds or an overdraft, they were charged an additional $35.

The bank’s statements were vague about the possibility of several fees arising from a single transaction, regulators stated.

“Clients had no way of knowing if or when a merchant would resubmit a transaction to the bank for payment, making it unreasonable for them to avoid being charged multiple times for the same transaction,” investigators stated.

The CFPB also claimed that the bank improperly withheld bonuses from tens of thousands of clients despite having made special offers of cash and points when signing up new credit card customers.

The agency also claimed that beginning in 2012, bank workers “illegally applied for and enrolled consumers in credit card accounts without consumers’ knowledge or authorization” to meet now-defunct sales-based incentive goals and raise their ratings.

As a result, clients were penalized with unauthorized fees, saw negative marks on their credit reports, and had to take extra steps to rectify the bank’s mistakes after it used or obtained their credit reports without their permission.

For those infractions, Bank of America must pay over $250 million to government authorities and affected consumers.

This isn’t the first time the bank has faced penalties from the government.

The CFPB also ordered the bank to pay $727 million to settle consumer complaints over unfair credit card practices in 2014.

Further, Bank of America was fined $10 million for wrongful garnishments last year and another $225 million for “botched disbursement of state unemployment benefits at the height of the COVID-19 pandemic.”

This article was originally published by NNPA Newswire.

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By Stacy M. Brown,
NNPA Newswire,
@StacyBrownMedia

Reparations have finally arrived for some Black Americans.

The city of Evanston, Ill., began its historic reparations program by providing compensation to Black residents. Checks and vouchers in the amount of $25,000 have already been sent to eligible residents, a move that backs up the city’s 2019 promise to pay as much as $10 million over the next decade in reparations.

Approved in March 2021, the program targets Black residents who resided in Evanston between 1919 and 1969 or those that experienced housing discrimination due to the city’s policies.

It’s a similar program which officials in San Francisco currently are grappling with, as that California city also considers reparations by the harms suffered by Black residents denied fair housing, job and educational opportunities, and other hardships that were unfairly inflicted upon African American communities.

One Evanston recipient, Louis Weathers, an 88-year-old retired postal worker and Korean War veteran, shared his personal experience with racial prejudice during his interview with the Wall Street Journal.

He recounted his time at an integrated junior high school, where a white teacher consistently marginalized Black students.

He explained that the teacher would purposely ignore their raised hands to undermine their capabilities.

“We got onto that, though. When we didn’t know the answer, we raised our hands,” Weathers recounted.

Weathers counted among the first to receive a $25,000 check from the city. He told the newspaper that he gave his reparations check to his son to reduce debt and make upgrades on his home.

The payments, which can be received as vouchers or cash, are funded through taxes on marijuana and real-estate transfers.

While Evanston has begun making reparation payments, similar proposals at the national level have faced challenges.

Although a federal bill calling for a national reparations task force has been introduced annually since 1989, it has yet to be voted on in Congress.

Evanston’s mayor, Daniel Biss, said his city remains committed to change.

“Our job here is just to move forward and to continue being that example, to continue illustrating that a small municipality can make real tangible progress,” he stated.

This article was originally published by NNPA Newswire.

The post Illinois city begins paying reparations to Black residents appeared first on AFRO American Newspapers.

By Stacy M. Brown,
NNPA Newswire Senior National Correspondent,
@StacyBrownMedia

An Oklahoma judge has dismissed a lawsuit demanding reparations and rebuilding to address the historical damage inflicted by the 1921 Tulsa Race Massacre.

The case, representing the last three survivors of the violent assault that claimed the lives of approximately 300 Black Americans in the renowned “Black Wall Street” community, ended on July 7, according to court records.

Judge Caroline Wall, in her ruling, ruled in favor of the defendants, including the state and the city of Tulsa, who had repeatedly moved for the case’s dismissal.

Wall dismissed the lawsuit with prejudice, barring it from being refiled in state court.

However, the plaintiffs—Lessie Benningfield Randle, Viola Fletcher and Hughes Van Ellis—still have the option to appeal the decision.

Philanthropist Ed Mitzen, who, along with his wife Lisa, donated $1 million to the trio last year, expressed disappointment over the dismissal, describing it as an “incredibly sad development.”

Mitzen conveyed his sympathies to the survivors and their families via email.

One of the central arguments presented by the state and city officials was that the survivors did not personally experience individualized adverse effects resulting from the massacre.

Many said the Tulsa Race Massacre has come to symbolize government-sanctioned racism and violence, contributing to the persistent disparities faced by Black Americans.

Historical accounts suggest that the massacre likely originated from a misunderstanding or falsehood.

A Black boy and a White girl entered an elevator together, and subsequent reports in the local newspaper falsely accused the boy of attempting to assault the girl sexually.

Some have speculated that the boy may have accidentally bumped into the girl, and because of the severe consequences associated with interracial interactions during that era, racist Whites became enraged.

Following a newspaper’s editorial calling for lynching, White residents of the town embarked on a rampage the next day, destroying 1,200 homes, 60 businesses, a hospital, a school, and a library in the Greenwood District, as documented by Human Rights Watch.

The devastation forever shattered the heart of the Black community, which could not reclaim its former prosperity after May 31, 1921.

The lawsuit referred to the event as one of the nation’s “worst acts of domestic terrorism.”

It argued that plaintiffs like Lessie E. Benningfield Randle, the oldest survivor at 108 years old, suffered personal losses.

For instance, Randle’s grandmother’s home was looted and demolished.

The lawsuit highlighted how intergenerational real estate ownership has been a key factor contributing to the wealth disparity between White and Black Americans, with many properties destroyed or unlawfully seized following the Civil War.

In the civil filing, the lawyers contended, “This brutal, inhumane attack… robbed thousands of African Americans of their right to self-determination, upon which they had built this self-sustaining community.”

Officials asserted that the city, county, and state either created a public nuisance or, at the very least, turned a blind eye to the incident and later capitalized on it for their benefit.

The lawsuit cited apologies from the city’s mayor and a commander of the Oklahoma National Guard, the latter of whom admitted that the troops did not intervene to save the community.

The defendants maintain insufficient evidence to support the three plaintiffs’ claims of “individualized injury.”

In a filing submitted in December, they acknowledged the tragic loss of numerous businesses, homes, and lives during the massacre.

While the survivors said dismissing the lawsuit is disappointing, it is unlikely to halt the growing awareness of this crucial chapter in American history, which sheds light on contemporary disparities.

Mitzen acknowledged the plaintiffs’ role in this narrative, expressing gratitude for the opportunity to meet them and apologizing.

He emphasized his desire for their families to experience a better tomorrow than yesterday when the survivors eventually depart this world.

This article was originally published by the National Newspaper Publications Association.

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By Stacy M. Brown,
NNPA Newswire

A Michigan jury has deemed that a handwritten note by Aretha Franklin will serve as the late Queen of Soul’s  official last will and testament.

The jury rendered its decision after an intense legal battle that pitted family members against one another over the inheritance of the legendary singer’s estate.

In the fall of 2019, Franklin’s niece made a remarkable discovery while rummaging through the corners of the singer’s suburban Detroit home.

Nestled beneath a couch cushion, she stumbled upon a cache of three handwritten documents.

Among them was a particularly significant piece from 2014, which would ultimately take center stage in the courtroom drama.

Franklin’s two sons, Kecalf and Edward Franklin, enlisted the assistance of their legal representatives to champion the cause of the 2014 note, ardently contending that it should supersede a separate will crafted in 2010.

Their brother, Ted White II, stood firm, citing the 2010 will, safeguarded under lock and key within the confines of Franklin’s sprawling home.

The crux of the contentious dispute lay in the divergent provisions outlined in the two conflicting wills.

The 2014 note stipulated that Kecalf and Franklin’s grandchildren would inherit her prestigious Bloomfield Hills, Michigan, residence.

The 2014 will, in contrast, conspicuously omits the requirement that the sons obtain a certificate or degree in business, which was a requirement in the 2010 version.

Both wills bestowed upon Franklin’s four sons the privilege of benefiting from her vast musical royalties and copyrights, ensuring their ongoing connection to her enduring legacy.

Franklin’s fourth son, Clarence Franklin, reportedly resides in an assisted living facility and wasn’t involved in the litigation.

The courtroom saga captivated the nation as fans and legal experts awaited the jury’s verdict.

After carefully weighing the evidence and considering the merits of both sides’ arguments, the Michigan jury validated the handwritten note as binding.

This article was originally published by NNPA Newswire.

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By Stacy M. Brown,
NNPA Newswire Senior Correspondent

Recent research conducted by Reuters has shed light on the genealogies of America’s political elite, revealing that a significant portion of members of Congress, living presidents, Supreme Court justices and governors are direct descendants of ancestors who enslaved Black people.

Among the 536 members of the last sitting Congress, Reuters found that at least 100 have ancestors who were slaveholders.

Furthermore, over a quarter of the Senate, or 28 members, can trace their families back to slaveholding ancestors. This spans Democratic and Republican lawmakers, including influential figures such as Republican Senators Mitch McConnell, Lindsey Graham and Tom Cotton, as well as Democrats Elizabeth Warren, Tammy Duckworth, and Jeanne Shaheen.

The examination also revealed that President Joe Biden and every living former U.S. president, except Donald Trump, have direct connections to slaveholders.

That list includes Jimmy Carter, George W. Bush, Bill Clinton, and even Barack Obama through his white mother’s lineage.

Additionally, two of the nine sitting U.S. Supreme Court justices, Amy Coney Barrett and Neil Gorsuch, have ancestors who were involved in enslavement.

The research conducted by Reuters also delved into the gubernatorial level, revealing that in 2022, 11 out of 50 U.S. states had governors who were descendants of slaveholders.

Eight governors hail from states that formed the Confederate States of America, which fought to preserve slavery.

Among them, Asa Hutchinson, the former governor of Arkansas, and Doug Burgum of North Dakota are seeking the Republican nomination for president.

According to Reuters’ findings, at least 8 percent of Democrats and 28 percent of Republicans in the last Congress had ancestral ties to slaveholders. This disparity reflects the historical strength of the Republican Party in the South, where slavery was concentrated.

South Carolina, where the Civil War began, exemplifies the familial connections between lawmakers and the nation’s history of slavery.

Every member of the state’s delegation to the last Congress has ancestral ties to slavery.

Sen. Tim Scott, a Republican presidential candidate, and Rep. James Clyburn, a prominent Democrat, both have ancestors who were enslaved.

All seven White lawmakers from South Carolina in the 117th Congress are direct descendants of slaveholders, as is the state’s Republican governor, Henry McMaster. The unveiling of these ancestral ties to slavery comes at a time when the legacy of slavery is under renewed and intense debate. 

The investigation by Reuters emphasizes the ongoing relationship between America and the institution of slavery, particularly among those who influence the country’s laws.

Henry Louis Gates Jr., a professor at Harvard University specializing in African and African American Research, emphasized in an NBC News interview that identifying these ancestral connections is not about assigning blame but recognizing the close link between lawmakers and slavery.

Gates stated that it served as an opportunity for individuals to learn and for the American people to gain a deeper understanding of their shared history.

The Reuters analysis goes beyond previous documentation of ancestral ties to slavery by focusing on the most powerful officeholders of today, many of whom have taken stances on race-related policies.

The comprehensive research provides a broader and more detailed perspective on the extent of these leaders’ connections to America’s “original sin.”

It also explores the personal and significant implications for lawmakers and prominent officials as they confront the realities of their own family’s involvement in slavery.

The research focused on direct lineal descendants rather than distant cousins.

The sources analyzed included Census records, tax documents, estate records, family Bibles, newspaper accounts, and birth and death certificates.

To ensure accuracy, board-certified genealogists reviewed each case linking a contemporary leader to a slaveholding ancestor.

While the Reuters examination provided a valuable understanding of the ancestral ties between the political elite and slavery, it’s further acknowledged that the records available may not capture the full extent of those connections.

Many records have been lost or destroyed over time, leading to the possibility of an undercount.

This was originally published by the NNPA Newswire / New York Amsterdam News.

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By Stacy M. Brown,
NNPA Newswire

Bobby Henry, the publisher of the Westside Gazette in Fort Lauderdale, Fla., won the election as chair of the National Newspaper Publishers Association (NNPA) during the organization’s 2023 convention in Nashville, Tenn.

The NNPA is the trade association of more than 200 African American-owned newspapers and media companies in the United States.

Dr. Frances Draper, publisher of The Afro-American Newspaper in Baltimore and Washington, will serve as first vice chair, while Jackie Hampton, publisher of The Mississippi Link, earned election as second Vice Chair. Fran Farrer, the publisher of The County News in Charlotte, N.C., was elected Secretary, and Cheryl Smith, publisher of The Texas Metro News and CEO of IMessenger Media, will serve as Treasurer.

Denise Rolark Barnes, publisher of The Washington Informer, and Walter L. White of The Cincinnati Herald will serve as at-large board members. Henry, whose Westside Gazette has been published continuously since 1971 when his father, Levi, started the newspaper, takes over for Houston Forward Times Publisher Karen Carter Richards who served as chair for the past four years.

Richards will join Brenda Andrews of The New Journal and Guide in Norfolk, Va., Kenneth Miller of Inglewood Today in Calif., Rod Doss of the New Pittsburgh Courier, Carl Anderson of The New Tri-State Defender in Memphis, Tenn. and Sonny Messiah-Jiles of the Defender Network in Houston, as members of the NNPA Fund Board, the nonprofit division of the NNPA.

Levi Henry was in attendance at the NNPA’s Legacy Awards Gala when Bobby Henry was announced as the new chair, bringing the elder to tears. Bobby Henry demanded that the NNPA continue to work together and to ensure that the Black Press remains the trusted voice of the African American community. He waxed poetic about his new role and what he expects going forward.

“It is not always a pleasurable chore to serve and to be a servant,” Henry proclaimed in preparing to lead the Black Press of America.

“What appears to be a joyful moment of basking in bliss quickly fades away faster than a snowflake over an open campfire. Be that as it may, I am honored to be in the business of ‘pleading our own cause’ as ‘Soldiers Without Swords,’” he said, referencing the classic 1999 PBS documentary on Black Press.

Henry said the NNPA’s new executive board would “continue to be a preeminent example of the Black Press of America” regardless of “how ‘stony the road we trod.’”

This article was originally published by NNPA Newswire.

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By Stacy M. Brown,
NNPA Newswire

After the Supreme Court’s 6-3 decision to end Affirmative Action in higher education, a civil rights group has launched a challenge to legacy admissions at Harvard University.

Lawyers for Civil Rights, a Boston-based nonprofit, filed a complaint, arguing that the practice unfairly favors predominantly White children of alumni and discriminates against students of color.

The challenge against legacy admissions has gained momentum since the conservative justices on the Supreme Court struck down Affirmative Action on July 2. The NAACP has thrown its support behind the effort, calling on more than 1,500 colleges and universities to level the playing field in admissions.

The NAACP’s initiative includes urging institutions to end legacy admissions as part of their commitment to achieving equal student opportunities. The civil rights complaint, filed by Black and Latino community groups in New England, alleges that Harvard’s admissions system violates the Civil Rights Act.

Ivan Espinoza-Madrigal, the executive director of Lawyers for Civil Rights, expressed his concerns about rewarding children for the privileges and advantages inherited from previous generations. Espinoza-Madrigal emphasized that an applicant’s family background and financial status should not determine their merit or influence the college admissions process.
Critics argue that legacy admissions can no longer be justified without affirmative action, which the recent Supreme Court ruling prohibits.

While the court’s decision mandates colleges disregard applicants’ race, it still allows for preferential treatment of legacy and donor-related candidates. The complaint draws on Harvard’s data, which came to light during the affirmative action case before the Supreme Court. The records reveal that 70 percent of Harvard’s legacy and donor-related applicants are White. Furthermore, being a legacy student increases an applicant’s chances of admission by approximately sixfold.

The complaint also highlights other institutions, such as Amherst College and Johns Hopkins University, that have abandoned legacy admissions due to concerns about fairness.

The complaint argues that Harvard’s legacy preference is unrelated to merit and takes away opportunities from qualified students of color.

It requests the U.S. Department of Education declare the practice illegal and compels Harvard to eliminate it if the University receives federal funding. The complaint contends that removing legacy and donor preferences would result in a higher admission rate for students of color at Harvard. Harvard University declined to comment on the complaint but reiterated its commitment to diversity and inclusivity in a prepared statement.

The University acknowledged the need to align its practices with the Supreme Court’s ruling while upholding its values. In addition to the legal challenge, the NAACP launched a nationwide campaign to promote diversity on college campuses. The campaign calls on 532 public and 1,134 private colleges and universities to end legacy preferences, eliminate racially biased entrance examinations, foster faculty diversity, and support low-income and first-generation students through scholarships and mentoring. The NAACP initiatives align with another campaign that Ed Mobilizer started, asking alums from 30 prestigious colleges, including Harvard, to withhold donations until these institutions stop offering legacy admissions.

“Let’s be clear, Black America is in a fight for our lives. The NAACP has been at the forefront of this battle for more than a century and we’re not backing down,” Derrick Johnson, NAACP president and CEO asserted. “It is our hope that our nation’s institutions will stand with us in embracing diversity, no matter what. Regardless, the NAACP will continue to advocate, litigate, and mobilize to ensure that every Black American has access to the resources and opportunities they need to thrive.”

The call to action has garnered support from both Democratic and Republican lawmakers.

While legacy admissions’ exact prevalence and impact remain uncertain, some schools have publicly disclosed their practices. For example, the University of Southern California and Stanford University reported legacy admission rates of 14 percent among admitted students. A previous Associated Press survey of highly selective colleges found that legacy students constituted anywhere from 4 percent to 23 percent of the first-year class, with some schools boasting more legacy students than Black students.

Proponents of the policy argue that legacy admissions foster alumni communities and encourage donations. However, a study conducted at an undisclosed Northeastern college revealed that legacy students were more likely to donate but contributed to a lack of diversity, with most legacy students being White. As the fight against legacy admissions gains traction, President Joe Biden has called on universities to reconsider the practice, emphasizing that it perpetuates privilege instead of promoting equal opportunities.

“The truth is, as we all know it, discrimination still exists in America,” Biden stated. “[The Supreme Court’s decision] does not change that. The President said the Department of Education would seek new avenues in which to promote diversity at colleges and universities.

This article was originally published in NNPA Newswire.

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By Stacy M. Brown,
NNPA Newswire Senior National Correspondent,
@StacyBrownMedia

House leaders joined forces with the U.S. Postal Service to reveal a commemorative stamp paying tribute to the late Rep. John Lewis on June 21.

The unveiling occurred during a special event held at Capitol Hill.

House Speaker Kevin McCarthy, House Minority Leader Hakeem Jeffries, and Linda Earley Chastang, Lewis’ former chief of staff, were the prominent figures present.

According to a press release from the Postal Service, the stamp showcases a photograph of Lewis captured by Marco Grob for Time magazine in 2013.

The design also incorporates a 1963 image taken by Steve Schapiro outside a nonviolent protest workshop, featured in the selvage or margin of the stamp pane.

Officials called the combination of photographs a poignant reminder of Lewis’ tireless commitment to civil rights and his instrumental role in the nonviolent protest movement.

Postmaster General Louis DeJoy, addressing the gathering, announced that the official dedication ceremony for the John Lewis Forever stamp is scheduled for July 21 at Morehouse College in Atlanta.

DeJoy shared plans to rename Atlanta’s main post office in honor of the late congressman, acknowledging Lewis’ immeasurable contributions to the nation.

“Our nation certainly benefited from his fearlessness and his unfailing willingness to get into good trouble,” DeJoy stated.

McCarthy emphasized the significance of Lewis’ actions during the introduction of President Barack Obama at the 50th anniversary of “Bloody Sunday” in Selma, Alabama, back in 2015.
McCarthy, a Republican from California, acknowledged the power of Lewis’ words and how they transcended party lines.

“I may be in a different party; I may have different views, but I’m an American,” McCarthy asserted.

“I got goosebumps and tears thinking how far we had come and thinking that John Lewis led the march on that bridge and led the introduction that day.”

Jeffries, the Democratic Representative from New York, expressed his belief that the stamp would forever symbolize Lewis’ significant contributions and serve as a tribute to his unwavering dedication as the conscience of Congress.

He called Lewis one of the country’s greatest sons and deemed it fitting for such an influential figure to be recognized with a Forever stamp.

Lewis, a Democrat representing Georgia, served in the House of Representatives from 1987 until his passing on July 17, 2020, at 80, after battling stage four pancreatic cancer.

Known as the “conscience of Congress,” Lewis dedicated his life to advocating for peaceful protests and equality.

An original member of the Freedom Riders, Lewis played a pivotal role in the civil rights movement, enduring brutal violence when Alabama state troopers fractured his skull during the infamous “Bloody Sunday” incident in Selma in 1965.

In July 2020, Lewis became the first Black lawmaker to lie in state at the Capitol, a testament to his indelible mark on American history.

Even after his passing, his words have continued to inspire and motivate, as evidenced by his 2020 New York Times op-ed, where he urged others to carry the torch and fight for their beliefs.

His famous phrase, “make good trouble,” remains a rallying cry for those seeking equality and justice.

Postal officials said the John Lewis Forever stamp is a lasting tribute to a remarkable individual who dedicated his life to making the United States a better place for all its citizens.

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By Stacy M. Brown,
Senior National Correspondent,
NNPA Newswire

President Joe Biden delivered a powerful speech denouncing racism in the United States during the White House’s first major Juneteenth celebration on June 13. The Biden-Harris administration hosted a concert in celebration of the holiday, featuring renowned singers Jennifer Hudson, Audra McDonald and Ledisi. Organizers aimed to highlight the American values Biden said he believes are under threat.

Addressing the audience, Biden urged Americans to choose love over hate and emphasized the importance of remembering history—rather than erasing it.

“As the past few years remind us, our freedoms have been put at risk by racism, that’s still too powerful a force. Hate only hides… And when given oxygen, just a little oxygen, it comes roaring back out again,” said Biden. “We have to stand up and deny it the oxygen. Juneteenth as a federal holiday is meant to breathe new life into the very essence of America.”

Vice President Kamala Harris, the first Black woman to serve as vice president, began the evening by explaining the origins of Juneteenth and introducing 96-year-old Opal Lee, whose tireless advocacy played a significant role in establishing Juneteenth as a holiday.

Lee urged the audience to be catalysts for change, saying, “Make yourself a committee of one to change somebody’s mind. If people can be taught to hate, they can be taught to love.”

A celebration of community, culture, and music, the White House event on the South Lawn featured performances by marching bands from Morgan State University, located in Baltimore, and Tennessee State University, located in Nashville.

Other artists to perform included the dance group Step Afrika! and choirs from other historically black colleges and universities. Biden emphasized that making Juneteenth a federal holiday was not merely a symbolic gesture but a statement acknowledging the origin of slavery as the country’s original sin. He stressed that the Civil War was not fought solely over a union but was fundamentally about the country and freedom.

Harris expressed that Juneteenth is an occasion to honor Black excellence, culture, and community, stating, “America is a promise – a promise of freedom, liberty, and justice. The story of Juneteenth, as we celebrate it, is a story of our ongoing fight to realize that promise. Not for some, but all.”

In addition to commemorating Juneteenth, the concert celebrated Black Music Month, featuring renowned artists such as McDonald and Hudson.

The event was a time to remember for all in attendance and offered a glimpse at the l significance of Black contributions to American culture.

This article was originally published by the NNPA.

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By Stacy M. Brown,
Senior National Correspondent,
NNPA Newswire

Nevada has officially declared Juneteenth a state holiday, joining a growing list of states commemorating the day the last enslaved individuals in the United States learned of their freedom. 

The state’s Republican Governor, Joe Lombardo, signed the bill into law on June 8, elevating June 19 from a day of observance to a full-fledged state holiday. The legislation means that many state employees can now take the day off to celebrate the holiday.

Juneteenth now stands alongside other recognized holidays in Nevada, such as New Year’s Day, Veterans Day, July 4, Labor Day, Nevada Day and Christmas.

The bill received overwhelming support in the State Assembly and Senate, with votes of 40 -1 and 19 – 2, respectively.

Democratic Assemblywoman Claire Thomas, one of the bill’s sponsors, highlighted Nevada’s historic commitment to civil rights as the first state to ratify the 15th Amendment, granting African Americans the right to vote.

“By designating Juneteenth as a state holiday, Nevada continues to honor that legacy and celebrate the progress that has been made in the fight for equality,” she expressed.

The significance of Juneteenth lies in its origin, which dates to 1865 when news of the abolition of slavery finally reached Galveston, Texas. The momentous announcement came two years after President Abraham Lincoln’s Emancipation Proclamation officially ended slavery in the United States and five months after the 13th Amendment was signed, legally declaring all enslaved people free.

Initially observed in Texas, the Juneteenth celebration spread as Black Texans migrated to other parts of the country. In recent years, numerous companies have also recognized the importance of this day by granting their employees time off to commemorate it. The federal recognition of Juneteenth as a national holiday came in 2021 when President Joe Biden signed a bill that Congress had passed.

Biden’s action solidified Juneteenth’s status as a pivotal moment in American history, and its significance continues to grow as more states follow suit in honoring this important day. With Nevada officially recognizing Juneteenth as a state holiday, it stands as a testament to the state’s commitment to equality and commemorating the progress made in the ongoing fight for civil rights.

This article was originally published by NNPA.

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By Stacy M. Brown, NNPA Newswire Senior National Correspondent

Lavaille Lavette, a New York Times best-selling author, said her greatest satisfaction is telling stories about people, places, things, and events that everyone should remember.

“Jayylen’s Juneteenth Surprise,” her most recent work, is a gorgeously illustrated “Little Golden Book” about a little boy’s first Juneteenth celebration. The book aims to teach young readers about Juneteenth, a national holiday honoring the abolition of slavery in the United States.

“I wrote this book in the way that I imagine learning about Juneteenth for the first time as a child growing up in Louisiana,” Lavette stated in a news release.

“It is important to keep the story of Juneteenth alive because it helps us remember the past while improving the present we live in as we build the future we seek,” continued Lavette, who holds a bachelor’s degree in mathematics and accounting and a master’s degree in education management.

Lavette has worked as a special advisor to the United States Secretary of Education and the president, publisher, and managing partner of One Street Books, Lavette Books, and Ebony Media Publishing LLC. She has also worked as both a teacher and a school administrator.

Lavette said an early pandemic conversation with her mother inspired her text.

“My mom told me that she grew up celebrating Juneteenth. Juneteenth was a big deal during her childhood, with fanfare that included zydeco music, two-step dancing, all types of food and treats, and fellowship with friends and family,” Lavette recalled. “The tradition was spearheaded by my mother’s father, and when he died the tradition ended. I must admit that during my childhood, we did not talk about Juneteenth. I knew very little about it growing up.”

Lavette stated that she didn’t understand the Juneteenth celebrations and traditions until she moved to Houston as an adult and elementary school teacher.

In Texas, elected leaders celebrated Juneteenth in schools and churches, and many African American business owners observed the day by closing their doors.

“Now, that was something special,” Lavette recalled.

Some of the proceeds from “Jayylen’s Juneteenth Surprise” sales have been pledged to the National Urban League’s youth programs.

Lavette characterized herself as an enthusiastic supporter of the National Urban League and its goals and expressed her desire to assist the organization in continuing to inspire young minds and effect lasting change.

Jayylen.com offers a free “Jayylen’s Juneteenth Surprise” Teacher’s Resource Guide and Parent Guide to supplement the educational experience.

“Children’s books are not just for children. I’m very intentional in introducing Jayylen as a ‘Little Golden Book’ because ‘Little Golden Books’ [are] 24 pages, usually between 700 and 1,000 words,” stressed Lavelle. “That means you have to be very concise. You have to get a lot of information without a lot of words. So, you have to be very descriptive in how you present the stories. It makes it very entertaining and interesting for kids, but also for adults.”

Lavelle said she’d had a lot of positive feedback on her Juneteenth book and other children’s biographies.

“Because a one- or two-year-old is not reading, that means the parent is going to read the book to the child,” Lavette concluded. “The parent is going to learn something, as well. And that age group, I love that [age group of] zero to six because it allows me to disseminate information–not only to the kid– but also to the parent.”

This article was originally published by the San Diego View and Viewpoint.

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By Stacy M. Brown,
NNPA Newswire Senior National Correspondent,
@StacyBrownMedia

NBC’s long-standing political panel show, “Meet the Press,” will experience a history-making change as Chuck Todd, the current moderator, has announced his departure after nearly a decade.

Stepping into his shoes will be Kristen Welker, the first Black host of the renowned program.

During his announcement, Todd, 51, stated that he wanted to put his family first and avoid letting work consume him, citing examples of friends and family who regretted not doing the same.

While the exact date of his final show remains uncertain, Todd assured viewers that this summer would mark his departure.

Reflecting on his tenure, he expressed concern about the current historical moment but took pride in the high standards maintained by the show. He emphasized their refusal to entertain propagandists, reiterating that the network and program would continue to uphold these principles.

Welker, a former chief White House correspondent, has been with NBC News in Washington since 2011. Since 2020, she has served as Todd’s primary substitute, but her performance as the moderator for Joe Biden and Donald Trump’s final debate during the 2020 presidential campaign garnered widespread praise.

Media experts have hailed Welker’s skillful and incisive questioning of lawmakers during political interviews as a masterclass in the field. In a memo announcing her promotion, Rebecca Blumenstein, NBC News President of Editorial, praised Welker’s abilities.

Welker, 46, will now assume the significant responsibility of leading the program during what promises to be another contentious presidential election cycle.

Since 1947, when Martha Rountree hosted the program, “Meet the Press” has remained a mainstay on Sunday mornings. The program experienced peak years during Tim Russert’s tenure from 1991 until his untimely passing in 2008. Subsequently, Tom Brokaw temporarily filled in before David Gregory assumed the role until Todd’s appointment.

With Welker’s ascension to the moderator position, she became the first Black host in the show’s history and the first woman since Rountree’s departure in 1953.

Industry officials said the milestone marks a significant step forward in diversifying “Meet the Press” and underscores the importance of representation in the media. With the announcement of Welker’s appointment, NBC News also pledged a fresh perspective and renewed energy as the program continues its legacy of providing insightful political analysis and interviews with key figures.

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By Stacy M. Brown,
NNPA Newswire Senior National Correspondent,
@StacyBrownMedia

On June 6, experts ranked New York as the city with the worst air pollution worldwide, as dense smoke from over a hundred wildfires raging in Quebec, Canada, drifted southward.

The persistently poor air quality caused by the Canadian fires has been a cause for concern in the Northeast and Mid-Atlantic regions for over a week. According to IQair, New York City’s air quality index reached alarming levels, exceeding 200 at one point during the night of June 6, which falls under the “very unhealthy” category.

Consequently, the city topped the list of major metropolitan areas with the poorest air quality at 10 p.m. ET, surpassing even pollution-ridden cities like New Delhi, India. Other cities affected by severe air pollution included Doha, Qatar; Baghdad, Iraq; and Lahore, Pakistan. The detrimental effects of air pollution were evident when New York briefly held the undesirable distinction of having the highest levels of air pollution globally. 

The pollution prompted at least ten central New York state school districts to cancel outdoor activities and events, including academic, athletic, and extracurricular pursuits. Officials suspended recess and gym classes because of the hazardous air quality.

The smoke emanating from the wildfires contains extremely fine particulate matter known as “PM2.5,” which is not only minuscule but also highly dangerous, experts said. When inhaled, those particles can penetrate the lungs and enter the bloodstream.

Sources of PM2.5 include the combustion of fossil fuels, dust storms and wildfires. Exposure to the pollutant has been linked to various health issues, such as asthma, heart disease, and respiratory illnesses.

Additionally, health officials said that millions worldwide lose their lives yearly due to air pollution-related health problems.

In 2016 alone, the World Health Organization reported approximately 4.2 million premature deaths associated with fine particulate matter. The concentration of PM2.5 in New York City’s air exceeded the guidelines set by the World Health Organization by more than ten times, highlighting the severity of the situation.

William Barrett, the senior national director of clean air advocacy with the American Lung Association, emphasized the importance of staying indoors during high pollution episodes, “especially for vulnerable individuals such as children, senior citizens, pregnant women, and those with respiratory or cardiovascular diseases.”

Barrett urged people to monitor their health closely and promptly seek medical attention if any concerning symptoms arise during these events.

Reportedly, Quebec has witnessed an alarming surge in wildfires this year, with over 150 active fires, double the average. According to the Canadian Interagency Forest Fire Center, wildfires would have ravaged nearly 9 million acres across Canada in 2023, with Quebec alone accounting for almost half a million acres.

The impact of the wildfire smoke extended beyond New York City, triggering air quality alerts across parts of the Northeast and Midwest. Philadelphia, Detroit and Chicago experienced the westward spreading of the smoke, resulting in elevated levels of ozone and particulate matter.

The National Weather Service in Chicago cautioned active individuals, especially those with pulmonary or respiratory conditions like asthma, to limit their outdoor activities due to the unhealthy air quality. Pittsburgh’s air quality also deteriorated to unhealthy levels, particularly for sensitive groups such as older adults, young children, and individuals with respiratory issues.

While forecasters expected moderate air quality in Chicago, Pittsburgh, and other regions over the next few days, several areas, including most of New York State, Massachusetts, Connecticut, Rhode Island, and Vermont, remained under air quality alerts.

Forecasters said they anticipate a cold front to move southward later in the week, pushing the smoke further south and eastward.

New York City Mayor Eric Adams urged residents with heart or breathing issues to limit their outdoor activities to essential tasks and expect smoky conditions to persist.

 Adams declared that residents should “limit outdoor activities to the absolute necessities.”

This article was originally published by NNPA Newswire.

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By Stacy M. Brown,
NNPA Newswire Senior National Correspondent,
@StacyBrownMedia

Renowned scholar and activist Cornel West, Ph.D, has declared his candidacy for president of the United States of America. West announced that he will enter the race under the banner of the People’s Party on June 5.

In a compelling video shared on Twitter, West expressed his intention to run for the pursuit of truth and justice, emphasizing that the presidency serves as a means to achieve these noble ideals.

With a strong academic background, including positions at prestigious institutions such as Harvard University and Princeton University, West is recognized for his intellectual activism.

In his Twitter video, West articulated his decision to run as a third-party candidate, citing the reluctance of the established political parties to address critical issues concerning Wall Street, Ukraine, the Pentagon, and Big Tech.

He referred to former President Donald Trump, a leading contender for the Republican nomination, as a “neo-fascist” and labeled President Biden as a “milquetoast neoliberal.”

West’s educational journey has taken him through esteemed universities such as Yale, Princeton, and Harvard, and he presently holds a professorship in philosophy at Union Theological Seminary.

Throughout his career, he has been known for his progressive activism and his outspoken critique of former President Barack Obama.

Fair wages, affordable housing, abortion rights, universal healthcare, the urgent need to address climate change and preserving American democracy were some of the significant issues West highlighted in his campaign video.

The People’s Party was founded by Nick Brana, after he worked on Bernie Sanders’s campaign for the Democratic presidential nomination in 2016.

While the party attempted to recruit Sanders after his 2016 campaign, the senator declined involvement and subsequently sought the Democratic nomination once again in 2020.

“Will we succeed? Only time will tell. But some of us are ready to fight until the end,” declared West in his announcement video, leaning towards the camera, his words resonating with determination. “We will fight passionately, with style, and with a smile.”

This story was originally posted by NNPA Newswire

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By Stacy M. Brown,
NNPA Newswire Senior National Correspondent,
@StacyBrown

The debt ceiling drama and any threats of America defaulting on its obligations have officially ended – at least for two years.

Following successful negotiations between President Joe Biden and House Speaker Kevin McCarthy, and passage in the House, the U.S. Senate voted 63 to 36 to pass the bill.

The measure suspends the country’s more than $31 trillion debt limit through 2025 and avoids a catastrophe that likely would have hurt middle-class and lower-income Americans until 2025.

Among the provisions, non-defense spending would have certain limits, working requirements for those receiving food stamps would go into effect, and the bill would reduce the amount of money earmarked for the IRS to crack down on tax cheaters.

“America can breathe a sigh of relief. Because in this process, we are avoiding default,” Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer (D-N.Y.) proclaimed.
“The consequences of default would be catastrophic.”

Senate Minority Leader Mitch McConnell (R-Kentucky), echoed Schumer’s comments.

“Passage of the bill is an urgent and important step in the right direction — for the health of our economy and the future of our country,” McConnell said.
As a condition for voting on the bill quickly, the Senate reviewed and ultimately rejected 11 amendments proposed by various senators.

By reaching this compromise, the Senate could avoid a series of procedural roadblocks that would have required unanimous approval to prevent taking the United States beyond the debt ceiling deadline on June 5.

The debt limit increase does not allow the government to spend more money; instead, it gives the government more time to pay off the debt that both parties have racked up over the years by pushing for more spending and fewer tax revenues.

After a long “pause” that began at the beginning of the pandemic, the bill will resume payments on federal student loans.

In addition, it would force recipients of the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) and Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF) to work if they are between 55 and 59.

Currently, work requirements only apply to recipients up to the age of 50.
Veterans, those experiencing homelessness, and young adults (up to 24) aging out of foster care will be exempt from the adjustments to SNAP and TANF.

There would be no Social Security, Medicare, or Medicaid adjustments under the plan.

President Biden vowed to sign the bill on Friday, June 2.

“Senators from both parties voted to protect the hard-earned economic progress we have made and prevent a first-ever default by the United States.

Together, they demonstrated once more that America is a nation that pays its bills and meets its obligations—and always will be,” Biden said, issuing a thank you to Schumer and McConnell for expediting the bill’s passage.

“No one gets everything they want in a negotiation but make no mistake: this bipartisan agreement is a big win for our economy and the American people,” he stated.

“Our work is far from finished, but this agreement is a critical step forward and a reminder of what’s possible when we act in the best interests of our country.”

This article was originally published by the NNPA Newswire.

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By Stacy M. Brown,
NNPA Newswire Senior National Correspondent,
@StacyBrownMedia

In a significant development, federal prosecutors in the Eastern District of New York announced on Tuesday that a third man would face charges in the 2002 shooting death of Run-DMC star Jam Master Jay.

The latest indictment marks a long-awaited progression in a case that has languished for years, bringing renewed hope for justice.

Jay Bryant, 49, has been named the new defendant in the death of Jason Mizell, the renowned musician professionally known as Jam Master Jay.

This superseding indictment follows the prior charges brought against Ronald Washington and Karl Jordan Jr. in Aug. 2020, as authorities relentlessly pursued leads to solve the murder of the hip-hop icon. Jay was tragically shot in the head inside his Jamaica, New York, recording studio on Oct. 30, 2002. His death, which occurred several years after the murders of Tupac Shakur and the Notorious B.I.G., shocked the music world. Hip hop royalty, including Public Enemy’s Chuck D, Queen Latifah, Russell Simmons, and Jay’s Run-DMC bandmates, later gathered for his funeral just blocks away from where Jay was murdered in Queens.

Previously, when a grand jury indicted Washington and Jordan Jr., law enforcement officials revealed that Jay’s death resulted from a bad drug deal.

In a letter filed with the court, prosecutors elaborated on the events surrounding the shooting.

They asserted that Bryant and the two previously indicted men entered the building on that fateful evening and fled immediately after the incident.

Their evidence includes eyewitness accounts of Bryant entering Jay’s recording studio and DNA belonging to Bryant recovered at the crime scene.

Jam Master Jay served as the DJ and chief part of the iconic hip-hop group Run-DMC, alongside Joseph “Run” Simmons and Darryl “DMC” McDaniel, during the early 1980s.

Their groundbreaking contributions brought hip-hop music to the forefront of popular culture.

Some of the group’s most notable hits include “It’s Like That,” “It’s Tricky,” and a genre-changing collaboration on Aerosmith’s “Walk This Way.”

Jay’s murder had remained a cold case for years, leaving investigators and fans yearning for answers.

Despite authorities offering substantial rewards, witnesses remained reluctant to come forward, exacerbating the difficulties faced by law enforcement in solving the case.

With the inclusion of Jay Bryant as the third charged individual in the high-profile murder case, authorities believe there is renewed hope that Jay’s loved ones and friends will finally receive justice.

This article was originally published by NNPA Newswire.

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By Stacy M. Brown, NNPA Newswire Senior National Correspondent

NNPA NEWSWIRE — Scams and fraud are significant problems in America, and AARP, in partnership with the National Newspaper Publishers Association (NNPA), has continued to sound the alarm.

Recent statistics in an AARP/NNPA roundtable revealed that seven in 10 Black adults think scams and fraud have hit a crisis level, and 85% of Black adults agreed that victims should report the crime to law enforcement.

This crisis is especially fraught within the Black community, and AARP officials said it emphasizes the need for all to work together to reframe the discussion around fraud victimization.

“This is an issue that we highlighted last year as well,” said Kathy Stokes, AARP’s director of fraud prevention programs, who offered new insights into the impact of fraud and scams in the Black community and tips for protecting consumers.

One essential tool Stokes highlighted is the AARP Fraud Watch Network, a free resource that helps individuals learn how to proactively spot scams, get guidance from fraud specialists if targeted, and feel more secure knowing that the organization advocates at the federal, state, and local levels to protect consumers and enforce the law.

“Protecting consumers goes back to AARP’s founding,” Stokes said. He added, “There is a need to rethink fraud in America.”

AARP, an interest group focused on issues affecting America’s over-50 population, noted that all should stay informed, find support, and have a voice in the fight against fraud.

The organization hopes to avoid the plight of victims like one woman who said fraud committed against her caused her to “see disappointment in my children’s eyes.”

“They see me as the person who gave away our family money,” said the unwitting victim, who has remained anonymous.

“I seriously contemplated suicide during this mess. I was devastated,” added the victim, who described herself as a happy but not rich wife, mother, and daughter. “Please remember I am a person who failed her children, and that is what hurts me the most.”

But Stokes said it’s important that victims understand that it’s not their fault — unfortunately, many prey on the elderly, the poor, and the unsuspecting.

Among the keys to combating fraud and ensuring family relationships remain intact are more reporting, police officers viewing the crime more seriously, prosecutors taking on more fraud cases, and policymakers acting to protect the vulnerable.

If those steps are taken, billions of dollars will remain in America’s economy, Stokes said.

Additionally, an AARP Victim Support Program is available to those of all ages and provides free one-hour virtual sessions.

It also supports and empowers victims, lowers stress, and allows for a safe space to discuss fraud.

“This gives me a much deeper understanding of the mental health impact of fraud,” added an AARP volunteer. “Of course, I knew it was devastating, but nothing substitutes for hearing directly from victims.”

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by NNPA Newswire Senior Correspondent Stacy M. Brown

Memorial Day has a deep historical connection to the African American community in the United States.

The holiday, which originated as Decoration Day, initially began when formerly enslaved individuals and their descendants gathered to honor and decorate the graves of Union soldiers who fought during the Civil War.

“Oddly, that’s a fact that I wasn’t fully aware of,” former U.S. Ambassador Andrew Young told the Black Press.

“It’s not surprising, though,” said Young, an American civil rights leader and hero.

Indeed, on a day when picnics, family outings, and other leisurely pursuits occur, the founders of Memorial Day meant for the occasion to honor African Americans newly freed from enslavement, and those who lost their lives fighting for freedom, said actor Wendell Pierce.

“We will never forget those brave and honorable souls,” Pierce stated.

Famous DJ Donnie Simpson called the occasion “very different for me.”

“While we honor those who gave their lives in service for this country, I can’t help but think of those African Americans who were massacred in Tulsa 100 years ago,” Simpson wrote on Twitter.

Author Christina Coles deadpanned, “The Civil War was over, and African Americans had founded Memorial Day in a ritual of remembrance and consecration. They were the true patriots.”

Ben Gold, a historian and founder of the real estate investment firm Recommended Homebuyers, said recognizing Black soldiers,’ and their families’ sacrifices and bravery is essential because it acknowledges their often-overlooked role in shaping the nation’s history.

“Commemorating Memorial Day with Black heroes in mind serves several critical purposes. First and foremost, it ensures that their stories are included and preserved within the broader narrative of the holiday,” Gold insisted.

He said that by highlighting Black service members’ courage, resilience, and contributions, America pays homage to their sacrifices and honors their memory.

Moreover, Gold asserted that it fosters a sense of inclusivity, promotes diversity, and enriches our collective understanding of the complex tapestry of American history.

“In my experience as an investor and developer, I have witnessed firsthand the power of recognizing and celebrating diversity,” Gold said. “Just as the real estate industry thrives when it embraces inclusivity, so does our society when we acknowledge and appreciate the diverse perspectives and experiences of all those who have served our country.

“By featuring the stories of Black heroes in Memorial Day commemorations, we not only educate and inspire, but we also contribute to a more inclusive and united nation.”

Indeed, as noted in a Washington Informer editorial, the significance of African Americans in the holiday’s development and the numerous ideas regarding its origins may not be widely known.

Although the origins of Memorial Day trace back to the period following the Civil War, when some 620,000 soldiers lost their lives, the precise origins remain a source of controversy.

Several cities have staked claims to be the first to celebrate Memorial Day.

Still, a different narrative, perhaps more accurately, says that African Americans in Charleston, South Carolina, in 1865 were the true founders of the holiday.

Renowned historian David Blight, a Pulitzer Prize-winning author and American history professor at Yale University recounted a poignant commemoration in Charleston on May 1, 1865.

Organized by formerly enslaved people and white missionaries, Blight determined that the event occurred at a former racecourse that had served as a Confederate prison for Union soldiers during the war’s final year.

At least 257 prisoners had perished there, primarily due to disease, and were buried in unmarked graves.

Eventually, two dozen African American residents of Charleston meticulously rearranged the graves into orderly rows.

They erected a three-meter-tall white fence around them, creating what they called the ‘Martyrs of the Racecourse’ memorial.

“After the Confederate evacuation of Charleston Black workmen went to the site, reburied the Union dead properly, and built a high fence around the cemetery,” Blight documented.

“They whitewashed the fence and built an archway over an entrance on which they inscribed the words, ‘Martyrs of the Racecourse.’”

He continued: “The symbolic power of this Low Country planter aristocracy’s bastion was not lost on the freed people, who then, in cooperation with white missionaries and teachers, staged a parade of 10,000 on the track.”

The gravesites were transformed into a breathtaking “sea of flowers,” as described by the New York Tribune, and the event was hailed as a procession of mourning and remembrance, unlike anything South Carolina or the United States had witnessed before.

Despite documented evidence about this event, the narrative of African Americans being the founders of Memorial Day essentially went untold.

“That’s the surprising part,” said Ambassador Young, a civil rights icon who also served as mayor of Atlanta from 1981 to 1990.

“It’s history I want to read and know more about, and everyone else should as well.”

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By Stacy M. Brown,
Senior National Correspondent,
NNPA Newswire

Jim Brown, the superstar Cleveland Browns running back who quit football at the very height of his hall-of-fame career, has died at 87. He passed away on May 18.

Perhaps the greatest running back ever, Brown quit football to pursue an acting career at 30. From 1957 to 1965, the perennial all-pro helped lead a Cleveland Browns ground game that won an NFL championship in 1964.

Voted pro football’s greatest player of the 20th century, Brown earned induction into the Hall of Fame in 1971. But football wasn’t the only sport in which he excelled. He played basketball, track and lacrosse at high levels. He was inducted into the Lacrosse Hall of Fame in 1984.
But football is where he chiefly left his mark.

Notably, in 1965, Cleveland Browns owner, Art Modell, issued an ultimatum to the superstar, telling him that if he continued filming the hit movie, “The Dirty Dozen,” which was delayed because of technical problems, Brown would face fines for reporting late to training camp. Ever independent, Brown defied Modell and called a press conference to announce his retirement from football.

Brown also didn’t hesitate to speak out on issues affecting African Americans and openly supported the civil rights movement. He started and helmed the Negro Industrial and Economic Union to create jobs for Black people in Ohio. The organization also helped secure loans for Black businesses.

Brown also formed a coalition to denounce the federal government’s role in stripping boxing legend Muhammad Ali of his title because Ali refused to fight in the Vietnam War. His popularity grew, and he cemented himself into film lore, becoming the first Black man to have onscreen sexual relations with a white woman, Raquel Welch, in the film “100 Rifles.”

Brown was born on St. Simons Island, off the southern coast of Georgia, where he had a difficult childhood, according to biography.com.

Brown was only two weeks old when his father abandoned the family; Brown’s mother left him alone after she took a job in New York as a maid.

While living with his grandmother, Brown’s mother sent for him when he was 8-years-old. During his senior year at New York’s Manhasset High School, Brown played running back and recorded a mind-boggling 14.9 yards per carry, more than good enough to earn him a spot at Syracuse University.

In college, Brown dominated the competition on the football field and the basketball court. He also ran track and was a talented lacrosse player, according to biography.com.

Brown earned national attention as a running back for his strong, explosive play. In the final regular-season game of his senior year, Brown capped off his college career by rushing for 197 yards, scoring six touchdowns, and kicking seven extra points.

In 1957, the Cleveland Browns selected Brown as the sixth overall pick in the National Football League draft.

“Brown wasted little time adjusting to the new competition, leading the league in rushing yards with 942 on his way to capturing the league’s Rookie of the Year honors,” his biographers wrote.

“Over the next seven seasons, Brown became the standard-bearer for all NFL running backs,” Brown’s biographers continued.

At a time when defenses were geared toward stopping the ground game, Brown bulldozed his way past the opposition, posting remarkable season totals: 1,527 yards (1958), 1,329 (1959), 1,257 (1960), 1,408 (1961), 1,863 (1963), 1,446 (1964), and 1,544 (1965).

His only “down” year came in 1962, when Brown rushed for 996 yards. It was the one season in his brilliant but brief football career where he failed to lead the league in yards. In 1964, Brown steered Cleveland to the NFL championship, where the club routed Baltimore 27-0 to win the title.

In the game, Brown ran for 114 yards.

“But Brown saw a life for himself outside of football, and before the start of the 1966 season, he stunned the sports world by announcing his retirement,” the biographers wrote, noting that Brown earned induction into the Pro Football Hall of Fame in 1971.

Brown appeared in over 30 films, including The Dirty Dozen (1967) and 100 Rifles (1969). His later credits include parts in Mars Attacks! (1996) and Any Given Sunday (1999), in which he played a football coach. “The National Newspaper Publishers Association (NNPA) is deeply sadden about the passing Jim Brown who was one of Black America’s enduring heroes on the football field and in the terrain of the Civil Rights Movement as a gallant freedom fighter for justice and equality,” NNPA President and CEO Dr. Benjamin F. Chavis Jr. stated. “We acknowledge and salute the outstanding contributions of Jim Brown that have made our world a better place for all of humanity.”

This article was originally published by NNPA Newswire.

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By Stacy M. Brown, NNPA Newswire Senior National Correspondent
@StacyBrownMedia

(NNPA NEWSWIRE) – According to a new draft recommendation statement, the US Preventive Services Task Force proposes that women with an average risk for breast cancer begin screening at age 40 to reduce their risk of death.

It is a change from the 2016 recommendation, in which the task force suggested that biennial mammograms (breast x-rays) begin at age 50 and that the decision for women to screen in their 40s “should be an individual one.”

Some organizations, including the American Cancer Society, have recommended that women begin mammograms in their 40s.

USPSTF Vice Chair Dr. Wanda Nicholson, senior associate dean, and professor at George Washington University’s Milken Institute School of Public Health, told CNN, “Our new task force recommendation recommends that women begin breast cancer screening with mammography at age 40 and continue screening every other year until age 74.”

The USPSTF, a group of independent medical experts whose recommendations help steer doctors’ decisions and influence insurance plans, proposed an update to its breast cancer screening recommendations on May 9.

The task force announced it would share a draft evidence review and draft modeling report along with the non-final recommendation on their website for public comments until June 5.

The proposed recommendation is for all individuals assigned female at birth, trans men, and nonbinary individuals, who are at ordinary risk for breast cancer.

According to Nicholson, women with dense breasts and a family history of cancer typically fall into this category, but not women whose family history contains breast cancer or genetic mutations, such as mutations on the BRCA gene, as they are regarded as being at high risk.

The revisions would not apply to those with an increased risk of breast cancer who may have already been advised to undergo screening at age 40 or earlier. However, they should adhere to the monitoring procedures recommended by their physicians.

Nicholson stated that the revised recommendation “will save more lives among all women.”

This is especially significant for Black women, who have a 40% higher risk of breast cancer-related death.

According to the JAMA Network Open, the breast cancer death rate among women in their 40s was 27 per 100,000 persons for Black women, compared to 15 per 100,000 for White women and 11 per 100,000 for American Indian, Alaska Native, Hispanic, and Asian or Pacific Islander women.

As a result, researchers recommended that Black women begin screening at an earlier age, 42, as opposed to 50.

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By Stacy M. Brown, NNPA Newswire Senior National Correspondent
@StacyBrownMedia

For centuries, there’s been a false assumption that Black fathers are absent, apathetic, and uninvolved in their children’s lives. And, that stereotype of the absent Black dad remains quite ubiquitous in popular culture. But in recent years, studies have proven that the stereotype is nothing more than a myth.

That legend is further vaporized in the new children’s book, “I Love My Daddy,” by Maryland social worker and military veteran Juanita Banks Whittington.

The 27-page book, complete with fascinating illustrations by Ananta Mohanta, celebrates what Whittington calls “the unique and special bond between a father and his little girl.” It follows a father and his baby girl, who play together in parks, and the doting dad reads bedtime stories each night to his beloved daughter.

For Whittington, the book opens her home to readers.

It reveals the camaraderie between her and her husband, Ian, and his routine of doting on their daughter, Zuri.

“My husband reads to my daughter every night,” Whittington told the National Newspaper Publishers’ Association’s program “Let It Be Known.”

She said her husband helped inspire her to write a children’s book about the relationship between a Black father and his child.

“He kept telling me he wasn’t seeing Black fathers in children’s books,” Whittington said. “There was always the grandmother and child, or the mother and the child.

“So, I went to friends and family members, and they said they liked the idea, and I went forward and found an illustrator that I liked.”

She noted that it was a must that the illustrator could relate. “And he was everything I was looking for, especially in [portraying] all the things that go on in my household,” Whittington said.

A military veteran and social worker, Whittington is the founder of Nehi Cares, a consulting and wellness business that focuses on the importance of diversity, equity, and inclusion and helps individuals understand the foundations of wellness by practicing healthy habits daily to attain better physical, social, emotional, and mental health outcomes.

Whittington holds a bachelor’s degree in business administration from the University of Baltimore and a master’s in social work from the University of Maryland, Baltimore.

Her friends and loved ones said Whittington has always displayed a passion for helping, which comes across in “I Love My Daddy.”

“I wanted to make sure that I did [the book] right,” Whittington explained. “I wanted to make sure that it was something that other families could relate to. So many people have said they wanted to write a children’s book after seeing and talking with me, so I wanted to portray something positive.”

She continued, “Many times, in our community, there’s this negativity about Black fathers, so I wanted to make sure that, regardless of their race, people could pick this book up and say, ‘It’s awesome. I could relate to this, and I want this for my child.’”

“I Love My Daddy” retails on Amazon.com for $14.99. Click here for more information and to purchase the book.

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By NNPA Newswire Senior Correspondent Stacy M. Brown

The aftermath of George Floyd’s murder has led to several large corporations facing multiple lawsuits for failing to meet the diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) commitments they made.

The commitments were made following Floyd’s death in 2020, with businesses quickly issuing statements and pledging to adopt new ways to combat racism.
Those pledges included addressing ethnic and gender inequalities among their employee ranks.

However, according to Bloomberg Law, a host of lawsuits claim those pledges were never met.

Among the most egregious parties are Wells Fargo and Delta Air Lines. Bloomberg said those companies falsely claimed that, over the past three years, they worked to promote diversity, equity, and inclusion.

Five shareholder lawsuits allege that Wells Fargo ran afoul of federal law against discrimination.
Wells performed “sham interviews to nominally fulfill a diversity-enhancing policy,” the lawsuit claims.

Further, the bank’s board acted on diversity and inclusion issues only because of negative media coverage.

Law firms have filed at least 40 suits alleging that employment discrimination has only increased since pledges were made.

Sarah Fortt, worldwide co-chair of Latham & Watkins LLP’s environmental, social, and governance practice, told the outlet that she also noted a spike in “‘reverse discrimination’ claims.”

According to a published report, these lawsuits take the form of shareholder derivative proceedings, in which investors claim that a company’s failure to achieve specific DEI goals caused the value of its stock to decline.

Bloomberg noted that “DEI-specialized lawyers, academics, and practitioners contend that companies must balance the needs of the business, employees, shareholders, and customers when creating progressive initiatives while averting legal action from any of those groups.”

Bloomberg continued: One strategy offered is formulating policies “aspirationally,” or in general terms.

Lawyers asserted that instead of creating a strict quota to employ a specific number of people of color for its board, a corporation might aim to match the proportion of people of color in its workforce to that of people of color on its board.

Elena Philipova, director of sustainable finance at Refinitiv, noted that the most prosperous businesses are genuine, and authentic and have DEI objectives built into their DNA.

Despite the lawsuits, some corporations have moved to improve DEI within their organizations.

For example, in December 2020, Microsoft announced that it had achieved its goal of doubling the number of Black and African American managers, senior individual contributors, and senior leaders in the U.S.

However, the report noted that the company still has work to do to achieve gender and racial parity at all levels. Additionally, some companies are incorporating innovative approaches to improve diversity and inclusion.

For instance, Airbnb has reportedly implemented a program called “Project Lighthouse” to increase representation across race, gender, and other dimensions.

The program includes creating “belonging assessments” that measure employees’ sense of belonging and connection to the company and then creating tailored solutions based on the results.

Still, the report concluded that some corporations had improved diversity and inclusion, while others faced lawsuits for failing to meet their DEI commitments.

The most prosperous businesses are open and honest about their objectives, pay attention to their staff, and incorporate DEI objectives into all operations, Philipova told Bloomberg.

This article was originally published by the New Amsterdam News.

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By Stacy M. Brown, NNPA Newswire Senior National Correspondent

A White 85-year-old homeowner who allegedly shot and wounded Ralph Yarl, a Black teen, after the 16-year-old went to the wrong home to pick up his siblings will face two felony charges, Clay County attorney Zachary Thompson announced early Monday evening.

Andrew Lester will face charges of assault in the first degree and armed criminal action. Authorities have issued a warrant for his arrest and he’s not currently in custody, Thompson said, according to CNN.

“I can tell you there was a racial component to this case,” Thompson said at a news conference without elaborating.

There is no indication that either Lester or Ralph spoke to one another before the Thursday evening shooting, he said. The prosecutor added there is no evidence that the teen entered the home and preliminary evidence shows Lester opened fire on the teen through a glass door with a .32 caliber revolver.

Earlier, nationally renowned civil rights and personal injury attorneys Ben Crump and Lee Merritt was retained by the Yarl’s family.

According to the Kansas City Defender, the white man reportedly shot Yarl in the head through the glass door, then when Yarl was already bleeding out on the ground, shot him again.

“The family has described it as a hate crime, and community members are calling for justice for the young victim,” reported The Defender, a member of the National Newspaper Publishers Association (NNPA).

The NNPA is a trade of more than 230 African American-owned newspapers and media companies representing the Black Press of America.

“This was not an ‘error’; this was a hate crime. You don’t shoot a child in the head because he rang your doorbell. The fact that the police said it was an ‘error’ is why America is the way it is,” Dr. Faith Spoonmore, Yarl’s aunt, told The Defender.

Authorities reportedly escorted the suspect to police headquarters following the shooting, briefly interviewed him and released the man.

Yarl’s family said they are outraged that the perpetrator had not been held accountable.

“This man intended to kill an innocent child simply because he rang the doorbell of the wrong house,” Dr. Spoonmore asserted.

“He looked him in the face and shot him… and the individual is free to go about his day as if he did a great deed. While my nephew Ralph Yarl is a great kid, an intelligent kid, a black boy is left with so many broken pieces.”

Crump and Merritt, nationally recognized civil rights lawyers who has represented Ahmaud Arbery and Cameron Lamb, announced they would represent Yarl’s family.

Shaun King, a well-known activist and journalist, announced that he’s also assisting with the case.

The Defender, which was the first outlet to report on the shooting, said the Yarl family has urged supporters to help spread awareness about the case and bring attention to the issue of racial violence in America.

“There is no excuse for the release of this armed and dangerous suspect after admitting to shooting an unarmed, non-threatening, and defenseless teenager that rang his doorbell,” Crump and Merritt said in a joint statement.

“We demand swift action from Clay County prosecutors and law enforcement to identify, arrest, and prosecute to the full extent of the law the man responsible for this horrendous and unjustifiable shooting.”

“This post was originally published by the Atlanta Voice.”

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By Stacy M. Brown,
BlackPressUSA,
NNPA Newswire Senior National Correspondent

America imprisons many more of its citizens than any other developed nation, with men comprising most of the incarcerated.

But the rate of growth for female imprisonment has been twice as high as that of men since 1980, according to The Sentencing Project, which estimates that 976,000 women are currently under the supervision of the criminal justice system.

The nonprofit documented a 525 percent increase in women’s imprisonment in America between 1980 and 2021– the vast majority are Black females.

“As this year marks fifty years since the United States began its dramatic increase in imprisonment, it is clearer than ever that our criminal legal system is not working,” Amy Fettig, Executive Director of  The Sentencing Project, said in a statement. “The continued overcriminalization of women and girls does nothing to improve public safety but needlessly destroys lives, families, and communities.”

In 2021, The Sentencing Project reported that the imprisonment rate for Black women – at 62 per 100,000 – was 1.6 times the rate of imprisonment for White women – 38 per 100,000.

Latinx women were imprisoned 49 per 100,000 or 1.3 times the rate of White women.

Additionally, 58 percent of women in state prisons have a child under 18.

While the overall imprisonment for Black and Latinx women has declined since 2000 and increased for White women over that same period, Black and Native American girls remain more likely to face incarceration than White, Asian, and Latinx girls.

Over one-third of incarcerated girls are held for status offenses, like truancy and curfew violations, or for violating probation.

The statistics compiled by The Sentencing Project arrive after several reports revealed mass incarceration’s heavy burden on Black women in general.

“The war on drugs treated Black women as if they were just collateral consequences,” Ashley McSwain, executive director of Community Family Life Services, which serves formerly incarcerated women, said during a panel discussion on mass incarceration.

“We were well into this war and this crisis before we realized that women were being affected at alarming rates,” McSwain asserted.

She continued:

“When you arrest a woman, … you got her, her three kids, her grandma, an aunt — everybody’s incarcerated when a woman goes to prison. “So, the impact is huge, and we never seem to talk about that.”

Three years ago, the National Black Women’s Justice Institute partnered with the Cornell Center on the Death Penalty Worldwide and The Sentencing Project to co-lead the Alice Project, an initiative to end the extreme punishment of women in America and globally.

The group wanted to get advocates, researchers, activists, and academics to work together to get rid of gender bias in extreme sentences.

In an earlier interview, Shamika Wilson explained that her husband is serving a life sentence in a San Diego prison after recently being transferred from a prison much closer to home.

She said the facility didn’t allow for overnight family visits.

“Financially, it’s hard all around. Before, he was no more than an hour or two away from home, but now it can be close to a ten-hour drive at times,” Wilson responded. “It can cost over $1,000 to go see him. This is about cycles, and these cycles are going to continue. They don’t think he needs time with his kids to teach them not to go down the same path he did. Their regulations keep families apart.”

Wilson told NBC News that she suffers from diagnosed depression due to stress. She said the situation is taking a toll on the entire family.

“It affects my kids because they wake up crying, asking for their dad. Fifteen minutes [on the phone] is not enough time to read them a bedtime story or see how their school day went,” she said.

“We have to decide between things like using $50 dollars for a [pre-paid phone card] or saving it so that we can eventually go visit him.”

Black women – mothers, grandmothers, daughters, wives — often must choose between posting bail for their loved ones and missing important bills or allowing a loved one to languish in jail, Democratic Massachusetts Rep. Ayanna Pressley stated.

“Sometimes, when their romantic partner or co-parent is behind bars, Black women are forced to provide for their families alone,” she remarked after reading a study by the bipartisan criminal justice reform organization FWD.us and Cornell University.

Pressley said that with firsthand knowledge, one can speak truth to power, a fact that is not limited to legislators and politicians but includes the millions who understand the injustice of the prison-industrial complex intimately.

“There are 113 million Americans who know what it’s like to see their loved one behind bars — even more if we broaden the definition of family,” Pressley wrote on her website.

“Imagine if these millions of people voted as an entire bloc in 2020, demanding that their candidates — for President, Congress, state legislatures, and judges — were dedicated to passing comprehensive and bold criminal justice reform? Such a powerful movement would help to end the oppression and exploitation in our prison systems.”

This article was originally published by BlackPressUSA.

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By Stacy M. Brown, NNPA Senior National Correspondent,
@StacyBrownMedia

Viola Fletcher, a 108-year-old survivor of the 1921 Tulsa Race Massacre, has become a Ghanaian citizen alongside her 101-year-old brother, Hughes Van Ellis.

The historic event took place on Tuesday, February 28, at Ghana’s embassy in Washington, where Fletcher and Ellis were formally sworn in as citizens of Ghana.

The ceremony was marked by lively music from African musicians and the energetic dancing of young children.

It marked the first time that anyone had been sworn in as a citizen at the Ghana Embassy.

“I’m so grateful to all. I thank you so much for this honor,” Fletcher, known as Mother Fletcher, said before signing her citizenship papers.

Her brother echoed Fletcher.

“I’m so thankful to Ghana, and all of you,” Ellis, known as Uncle Red, asserted.

Notable attendees at the ceremony included Oklahoma State Rep. Regina Goodwin, news personality Tiffany Cross, and Ambassador Erieka Bennett.

Ambassador Bennett emphasized that being African is not defined by birthplace, but by one’s connection to the continent.

“You don’t have to be born in Africa to be an African,” the Ambassador declared. “Africa is born in you.”

Cross, the former MSNBC anchor, spoke of feeling the spirit of Africa and her ancestors in the room, while Goodwin expressed pride for Fletcher and Ellis’s survival as proof that the African spirit cannot be broken.

“This is what it’s all about,” Cross related. “The spirit of Africa, it’s powerful and rich history.”

Fletcher and Ellis’s acquisition of Ghanaian citizenship is a significant milestone in their long and remarkable lives. As survivors of one of the worst race massacres in American history, their journey to Ghana represents a symbolic homecoming and a powerful reminder of the resilience and perseverance of the African spirit.

The ceremony also highlighted the importance of recognizing the contributions of the African diaspora and their continued connection to the continent. As Africa continues to strive for unity and progress, Bennett said events like this serve as an inspiration to all those seeking to embrace their heritage and contribute to a brighter future for the continent.

“Ghana is so welcoming, and it is for everyone,” Bennett stated, concluding that she wanted all throughout the diaspora to know they can visit or even live there.

“Welcome home,” she said.

The post Tulsa Race Massacre Survivors Officially Granted Ghanaian Citizenship appeared first on AFRO American Newspapers.

By Stacy M. Brown,
@StacyBrownMedia,
NNPA Newswire

Carolyn Davis, like many others, had an immediate reaction to the destruction in Ukraine caused by the Russian invasion.

“Those folks need help,” said Davis, CEO of the District of Columbia-based CDAG International, a Black-owned construction business.

Her company visited areas of the war-torn country and saw that civilians and military personnel alike needed assistance.

Davis said her group had installed “living containers and living facilities” that provided families with things like furniture and bunk beds, as well as generators.

“We installed electrical systems and other mandatory features,” she stated.

As the war’s anniversary approaches, though, it appears that American impulses have also kicked in.

U.S. politicians, government organizations, the United States Agency for International Development (USAID) and others have neglected CDAG’s work, Davis alleges, even though U.S. military aid and spending has reached over $50 billion. Firms are pitching services to gain contracts to help reconstruct that Eastern European nation.

Davis said she has repeatedly requested that USAID allow her company to compete for contracts to provide relief in Ukraine, but alleges that USAID has routinely declined.

USAID counts as an independent agency of the government that’s responsible for providing civilian foreign aid and helping development.

Legislators also have ignored CDAG’s attempts to contact them, according to Davis.

“They do not recognize me. I’m just some Black woman who wants to lend a hand,” she said. “I can’t imagine why they wouldn’t want to support a Black-owned business, but they clearly don’t.”

Davis also alleges that the American envoy to Ukraine also snubbed CDAG’s request for a meeting, despite the Ukraine Ministry of Defense having given Davis’s firm a glowing recommendation.

The Defense Ministry expressed gratitude to the United States government in a letter dated December 30, 2022, for its support during Ukraine’s conflict with Russia.

The letter addressed to Nathaniel Adler, the principal director of the U.S. Office of the Under Secretary for Policy at the Department of Defense, noted that Ukraine still requires urgent supplies, equipment, and logistical support.

Meeting such requirements would be impossible without access to necessary resources and a reliable support system, the defense minister wrote.

“Due to the intense fighting in several areas, it’s very difficult to get these materials to our troops on the front line and other locations, and there are very few companies that can accomplish this task,” the letter continued.

“CDAG International has worked with our military and has proven that they can assist the Ukrainian government to acquire critical services and facilitate many of our requirements. CDAG has proven beneficial to our troops and had contributed to saving lives.”

The letter is only one of many testimonials to CDAG’s capabilities, according to Dwight Brown, senior managing partner for CDAG and a retired U.S. Army Sgt. Major.

“We’ve created enough housing to accommodate 3,000 people and we’ve done it in approximately eight months,” Brown said.

CDAG has focused its efforts on the western side of Ukraine, where the war’s destruction has forced many people to relocate, he said.

“There are people who left Ukraine and are trying to make their way back,” Brown noted. “We see a lot of squatters and in villages there are people with tents on the side of the road. We want people to get back inside warm structures before it gets too far into the winter there.”

The Ukraine government provided CDAG with 60 acres of land, but without funding or even a token commitment from the American government, it will be difficult for the company to meet current demand.

CDAG managing partner Warwin Davis added that the firm has supplied heating, generators, and external stoves to aid Ukrainian forces.

Davis, who has managed multinational supply chains for almost three decades, insisted, “We made history over there.”

“Historically speaking, it was Carolyn Davis who made history,” Davis demanded.

“It’s incredible that we haven’t been able to acquire a quarter from USAID despite what we’ve shown that we can accomplish.”

CDAG hopes to meet with White House officials.

“The elephant in the room is we are a woman-owned and minority small business, and the U.S. government and USAID are giving all the dollars to the regular companies,” Brown asserted.

“We’re not going to continue to ride the Office of the Secretary of Defense, USAID, and congressional offices. People with weaker constitutions than us would have thrown in the towel. That’s not us. When they tell us ‘No,’ it just means [the] next opportunity. We’re coming to the table and not asking for special set asides, just an opportunity.”

This post originally appeared on BlackPressUSA.com.

The post D.C. business alleges discrimination in quest to help Ukraine appeared first on AFRO American Newspapers.

By Stacy M. Brown,
NNPA Newswire Senior National Correspondent

Otis Rolley possessed a desire to drive positive change in local communities, a craving that led him to Wells Fargo, where he would lead social impact at the banking giant.

He said he approached the interview process with Wells’ CEO Charlie Scharf as a two-way conversation.

“There is a saying, ‘Do not talk about it, be about it,’” said Rolley, now the head of Philanthropy and Community Impact at the bank and president of the Wells Fargo Foundation.

Rolley also counts as the first Black American elected to his position permanently by the Wells Fargo Foundation board, overseeing about $300 million in philanthropy, employee volunteerism and giving, and the company’s strategic vision on advancing social impact.

“I felt that CEO Charlie Scharf was ‘being about it’ in a real and systemic way. There [were] values [aligned] between myself and the company,” Rolley stated.

“The company knows it has more work to do. Changes aren’t going to happen overnight, but they can’t happen at all without dedicated human and financial resources and a commitment from the top.”

In a Q&A, Rolley said he believes change is happening and wanted to be on the journey with Wells Fargo.

Q: How did you become interested in taking on societal challenges?

Rolley: I was born and raised in Jersey City, N.J., a complex city in its own right but also close to New York City and Newark. So very early on, I had a front row seat to city life with all of its challenges and opportunities.

This urban upbringing stayed with me and ultimately informed my career path. An urban planner by training, I am fascinated by the obstacles and barriers each community faces when it comes to equitable access to economic opportunity and how to remove them.

I felt a need to take what I had seen and lived, and then learned in college, and put it into practice every day.

Q: What has been your career journey so far?

Rolley: I started my career with increasingly demanding roles in municipal government in Baltimore, advocating for better housing, small business and infrastructure across five administrations.

My journey eventually took me to the private sector where I joined the Rockefeller Foundation leading the North America team of the 100 Resilient Cities Initiative and then the U.S. Economic Equity and Opportunity Initiative.

My focus was public-private partnership nationwide and long-term investments for low wage workers and communities of color across the country. I’ve also held other positions across the public and private sectors so I understand how both need to work together to tackle difficult societal issues.

Q: What is your vision for advancing Wells Fargo’s commitments to the Black community?

Rolley: I believe everything moves at the speed of trust. We have to learn from our past, not get lost in it. And if we fail again, we have to fail fast, learn fast and fix fast.

We also have an opportunity to better communicate, collaborate, and coordinate across the bank’s efforts to advance a more inclusive economy, and specifically to create more economic success for Black communities.

To do this, we have to be intentional with our resources, track and amplify impact with data. I’m encouraged by programs like Wells Fargo’s Open for Business Fund, a roughly $420 million small business recovery effort.

Eighty-five percent of small businesses served by Open for Business Fund grantees are Black, African American, Hispanic or other underserved entrepreneurs.

Our new $60 million effort called WORTH (Wealth Opportunities Restored Through Home Ownership) has a goal of 40,000 new homeowners of color by 2025.

This year, Wells Fargo launched Growing Diverse Housing Developers, a program aimed at providing capital to Black developers who are increasing housing supply.

New efforts like the Special Purpose Credit Program to underwrite refinance costs for Black customers and a $2 billion Inclusive Communities and Climate bond are underway. Ensuring these efforts reach deep into the community excites me.

There’s opportunity for real progress if we can track meaningful outcomes in peoples’ lives.

Q: Do you see racial equity as a standalone strategy or integrated into your work?

Rolley: I’ve worn glasses since the third grade. With lenses, you can take them on and off. I believe racial equity and advancing historically marginalized groups can’t be a lens, a criteria on a checklist. Racial equity should be centered in the work we do, and I intend to bring even more of that thinking as I lead at Wells Fargo.

There’s no question that we need to advance greater equity in this country.

There’s no question that policies and systems in place limit economic mobility for Black Americans, and other communities.

We need to not only remove barriers holding people back but bring intentionality and innovation to housing, small business, financial health and building a more inclusive economy. The more of us in roles to effect that type of change, the better.

The post First Black Wells Fargo Foundation president shares perspective, discusses career journey appeared first on AFRO American Newspapers.

By Stacy M. Brown, NNPA Newswire Senior National Correspondent
@StacyBrownMedia

Carolyn Davis, like many others, had an immediate reaction to the destruction in Ukraine caused by the Russian invasion.

“Those folks need help,” said Davis, the CEO of the District of Columbia-based CDAG International.

To help, her construction company visited areas of the war-torn country where civilians and military personnel alike needed assistance.

Davis said her group had installed “living containers and living facilities” that provided families with things like furniture and bunk beds, as well as generators.

“We installed electrical systems and other mandatory features,” she stated.

As the war’s anniversary approaches, though, it appears that American impulses have also kicked in.

U.S. politicians, government organizations, The United States Agency for International Development (USAID), and others have neglected CDAG’s work, even though U.S. military aid and spending has reached over $50 billion, and firms are pitching services to gain contracts to help reconstruct that Eastern European nation.

Davis has repeatedly requested that USAID allow the company to compete for contracts to provide relief in Ukraine, but USAID has routinely declined.

USAID counts as an independent agency of the government that’s responsible for providing civilian foreign aid and helping development.

Legislators also have ignored CDAG’s attempts to contact them.

Davis stated, “They do not recognize me. I’m just some Black woman who wants to lend a hand. And that’s exactly what they perceive. I can’t imagine why they wouldn’t want to support a Black-owned business, but they clearly don’t.”

The American envoy to Ukraine also snubbed CDAG’s request for a meeting, despite the Ukraine Ministry of Defense having given Davis’s firm a glowing recommendation.