Blue Meridian Partners Donates $124 Million to HBCU Alliance
Blue Meridian Partners donated $124 million to the HBCU Transformation Project, enabling the project to advance its mission of fostering systemic improvements in historically Black colleges and universities across the country. We discuss it here!
The President of Norfolk State University, Javaune Adams-Gaston, mentions that the institution frequently lacks the resources required for significant large-scale projects. (JEMAL COUNTESS/GETTY IMAGES FOR MIGHTY DREAM FORUM)
By: Gentel Sharrie
Donations are pouring in to transform 40 historically Black colleges and universities with the goal of supporting employment rates, enrollment, and graduation rates. This funding comes on the heels of a $75 million donation from Blue Meridian in 2020. Blue Meridian initially contributed funds at the start of the COVID-19 pandemic to cover operating costs while HBCU institutions were closed. South Carolina State University was among the first colleges to utilize these funds, investing in a customer relationship management platform to streamline enrollment and financial aid applications, a significant improvement over their previous manual processes.
It is important for sponsors to continue donating to HBCUs because during times of segregation and discrimination, these institutions provided African Americans with access to higher education when other establishments excluded them. HBCUs played a pivotal role in educating generations of Black individuals who subsequently became leaders, professionals, and advocates for these colleges. Historically Black Colleges have a longstanding tradition of delivering quality education and producing exceptional graduates. Despite frequently confronting limited resources and funding challenges, these institutions have consistently produced influential leaders, innovators, and scholars in various fields.
Students on the campus of Spelman College, a historically Black liberal arts college for women located in Atlanta. (Hyosub Shin/Atlanta Journal-Constitution/AP)
HBCUs have historically been pillars of support and empowerment within their communities. They have played a crucial role in uplifting marginalized communities by providing educational opportunities, scholarships, and resources for students who may face financial, social, or systemic barriers to education. HBCUs are important institutions that have played a vital role in providing access to education, preserving cultural heritage, nurturing academic excellence, supporting communities, promoting activism, and fostering diversity. They continue to be valuable contributors to society and the advancement of racial equality and with these donations the HBCUs will continue to rise to the top.
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Six Former Mississippi Police Officers Plead Guilty to Assault Charges
Former Mississippi police officers plead guilty to race-fueled assault charges, admitting to shocking abuses of power and violence, as a civil rights investigation reveals disturbing details. We discuss it here!
Attorney Malik Shabazz (pictured right) speaks at a Feb. 15 press conference on behalf of Michael Jenkins (pictured 2nd left) with Jenkins’ mother, Mary Jenkins (left), and his father, Mel Jenkins (2nd right) File Photo by Kayode Crown
By: Adonis Armstrong
Six former Mississippi police officers admitted guilt on Thursday, Aug. 3rd, in connection with race-fueled assault charges, with most of them identifying as The Goon Squad, known for their willingness to use excessive force, according to WJTV.
Based on court documents, the officers barged into a Braxton residence without a warrant and forcibly handcuffed Michael Corey Jenkins and Eddie Terrell Parker in January. For approximately 90 minutes, Jenkins and Parker endured various torturous acts, including being shot with tasers, subjected to a form of "waterboarding" involving milk, chocolate syrup, and alcohol, and experiencing anally penetrating with an unidentified object. One of the accused even put a gun in Jenkins' mouth and pulled the trigger, causing a bullet to fracture his jaw, lacerate his tongue, and inflict severe neck injuries.
In an effort to conceal their evil actions, the former officers planted a firearm and methamphetamine on the victims and tampered with home surveillance footage, spent shell cases, and taser cartridges. As a result, Jenkins faced charges of aggravated assault and controlled substance possession, while Parker was accused of disorderly conduct and possession of drug paraphernalia.
After a civil rights investigation conducted by the Justice Department, the disturbing situation came to light, resulting in multiple charges against each of the six former officers. Christian Dedmon, Hunter Elward, Brett McAlpin, Jeffrey Middleton, and Daniel Opdyke, who were part of the Rankin County Sheriff's Department, and Joshua Hartfield, a former member of the Richland Police Department, have admitted to various offenses, including conspiracy against rights, obstructions of justice, deprivation of rights under color of law, discharge of a firearm under a crime of violence, and conspiracy to obstruct justice. Additionally, Dedmon, Elward, and Opdyke pleaded guilty to three federal felony offenses for a separate incident from December 2022. U.S. District Judge Tom Lee announced that all six individuals will be sentenced in November.
Ex-Mississippi officers plead guilty to racist assault on 2 Black men during raid
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College Board Responds to Florida's Black History Curriculum Comparisons
The College Board firmly disagrees with the notion that slavery benefited African Americans, in response to comparisons with Florida's new curriculum, sparking discussions on Black history teachings. We discuss it here!
Last fall, a classroom at Overland High School in Aurora, Colorado was filled with a pile of books for students enrolled in AP African American Studies. (RJ Sangosti/The Denver Post/Getty Images)
By: Adonis Armstrong
The College Board is taking a clear stance, expressing disagreement with the idea that slavery benefited African Americans.
On Thursday July 27th, the organization issued a statement on the subject in response to the comparison of one of its courses to Florida's new curriculum on Black history. “We resolutely disagree with the notion that enslavement was in any way a beneficial, productive, or useful experience for African Americans,” the College Board informed CNN. “Unequivocally, slavery was an atrocity that cannot be justified by examples of African Americans’ agency and resistance during their enslavement.”
Remember when Florida wouldn’t allow that AP African American Studies course because it focused too much on CRT and not enough on history, and the @WhiteHouse lost its mind?
— Jeremy Redfern (@JeremyRedfernFL) July 27, 2023
Well, here is one of the standards considered “essential knowledge.”
See it here https://t.co/MFjfBjEFc9 pic.twitter.com/s8boDdYzks
The board's response to the comparison occurred following Jeremy Redfern, press secretary for Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis, sharing a picture of the organization's AP African American studies course on slavery. “Remember when Florida wouldn’t allow that AP African American Studies course because it focused too much on CRT and not enough on history, and the White House lost its mind? Well, here is one of the standards considered ‘essential knowledge,'” he penned.
Amid the approval of new standards for teaching Black history in Florida's public schools, discussions on the subject have surfaced. As part of the new guidelines, middle school teachers are required to incorporate lessons on how slaves developed skills that could be utilized for personal gain.
In a conversation with the outlet, the College Board acknowledged that some individuals pointed out similarities between its course requirements and Florida's new standards. “Unit two of the current framework includes a discussion about the skills enslaved people brought with them that enslavers exploited as well as other skills developed in America that were valuable to their enslavers,” the board stated. “Enslaved Africans and their descendants used those skills to survive, build community, and create culture in resistance to their oppression.” The organization also mentioned the AP African American studies course “will offer a holistic introduction to the history, literature, and arts of Black people in the United States.”
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Michael Jeffery Graduates High School as Valedictorian After Living in a Tent For 2 Years
Michael Jeffery had an incredible journey, living in a tent for two years. He graduated as Valedictorian with the support of the unique 'Goodwill Excel Center,' inspiring a remarkable pursuit of higher education. We discuss it here!
Michael Jeffery graduates from The Excel Center Adult Charter High School.
By: Gentel Sharrie
Michael Jeffery is the definition of anything is possible. During the pandemic Jeffery lost both his home and two jobs, which led to him living in a tent under a bridge in D.C. but that didn’t stop Jeffery from wanting better for himself so he decided to take high school classes for adults at the “Goodwill Excel Center” in 2022 and graduated Valedictorian of his class.
The “Goodwill Excel Center” is a unique, tuition-free adult charter high school that awards industry recognized certifications and high school diplomas, not GEDs. They support the whole student, and respond to the fact that life commitments, and circumstances can often stop people from continuing their high school education. They offer:
Transportation Assistance
Child Development Center
Flexible Class Schedules
Not only did Jeffery graduate as Valedictorian of his class but he also moved into an apartment in July of 2023. Jeffrey said to NBC 4 Washington “A lot of people don’t get that second chance, and Goodwill allowed that second chance for me, and I appreciate that.” In the fall he is making his way to Catholic University of America and after that Law School.
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US Education Probes Harvard's Legacy Admissions for Discrimination
The U.S. Education Department launches investigation into Harvard University legacy admissions practices amid reports of discrimination, following the Supreme Court's ruling on affirmative action. We discuss it here!
A legal group reported that the Department of Education has launched an investigation into Harvard University's legacy admission policy. (Getty Images)
By: Adonis Armstrong
Following reports of discrimination, the U.S. Education Department has initiated an investigation into Harvard University's legacy admissions practices.
Yesterday July 25th, The Associated Press disclosed that the Office for Civil Rights is conducting an investigation into legacy admissions at schools, prompted by increased scrutiny following the Supreme Court's affirmative action ruling, which struck down a program that supported diversity in higher education.
A spokesperson for Harvard University stated that the institution has conducted a review of its admission policies to ensure compliance with the recent ruling of the nation's highest court. “As this work continues, and moving forward, Harvard remains dedicated to opening doors to opportunity and to redoubling our efforts to encourage students from many different backgrounds to apply for admission,” the spokesperson stated.
The civil rights investigation was initiated by a lawsuit filed shortly after the Supreme Court's June ruling that ended affirmative action in college admissions, prohibiting the use of race as a specific criterion for candidate selection. The court ruled that the schools use of racial factors in their admissions process violated the Constitution's equal protection guarantee, putting an end to systems that aimed to facilitate access to higher education for Black and Latino students.
NAACP President and CEO Derrick Johnson commended the government department for taking the initiative to ensure the higher education system “works for every American, not just a privileged few.” Johnson added, “Every talented and qualified student deserves an opportunity to attend the college of their choice. Affirmative action existed to support that notion. Legacy admissions exist to undermine it.” Earlier this month, Harvard’s first Black president, Claudine Gay, officially took office. She pledged that the university will stay determined to uphold a diverse student body.
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Biden will Create a National Monument Honoring Emmett Till
President Biden will establish the Emmett Till and Mamie Till-Mobley National Monument, honoring the Black teenager whose murder sparked the civil rights movement, with sites in Chicago and Mississippi. We discuss it here!
Emmett Till
By: Joshua Martin
On what would have been Emmett Till’s 82nd birthday, President Biden will honor the late teenager who’s murder was a catalyst for the civil-rights movement. President Biden will sign a proclamation Tuesday forming the Emmett Till and Mamie Till-Mobley National Monument which embodies the decades of civil rights work of Till’s mother, who continuously fought for equality for Black Americans following her son’s murder.
Two white men, Roy Bryant and his half-brother J.W. Milam was tried on murder charges about a month after Till was killed, but an all-white Mississippi jury acquitted them. Months later, they confessed to killing Till in an interview with Look magazine.
The monument locations will consist of a site in Chicago, where Till was born and two sites in rural Mississippi, where he traveled to spend time with his family. The Illinois site is Roberts Temple Church of God in Christ in Bronzeville, where thousands of people gathered at the church to mourn Emmett Till in September of 1955.
The Mississippi sites are Graball Landing, where Till’s mutilated body was pulled from the Tallahatchie River, and the Tallahatchie County Second District Courthouse in Sumner, Mississippi, where Till’s killers were acquitted by an all white jury.
Till was visiting relatives in Mississippi when Carolyn Bryant Donham accused the 14-year-old Till made sexual advances at her while she worked in a store in the small community of Money, Ms. Till would be later abducted by Roy Bryant and his half-brother J.W. Milam
The two men were tried on murder charges about a month after Till was killed, but an all-white Mississippi jury acquitted them. Months later, they confessed to killing Till in an interview with Look magazine. Carolyn Bryant died earlier this year.
The new monument will protect places that tell the story of Emmett Till's too-short life and racially-motivated murder, the unjust acquittal of his murderers, and the activism of his mother, Mamie Till-Mobley, who courageously brought the world's attention to the brutal injustices and racism of the time, catalyzing the civil-rights movement',” a White House official said in a statement.
Last December, Congress voted to award the Congressional Gold Medal posthumously to Till and his mother. For Black History Month this year, Biden hosted a screening of the movie “Till,” a drama about his lynching. In March the Emmett Till Anti-Lynching Act was signed into law, which made lynching a federal hate crime for the first time in US history.
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St. Louis Officers Face Charges for Alleged Kidnapping and Beating of Man
Prosecuting attorney proceeds with charges against two St. Louis officers in the Fourth of July assault, prompting suspension and criminal prosecution. We discuss it here!
St. Louis Metropolitan Police
By: Adonis Armstrong
A prosecuting attorney is moving forward with charges against two St. Louis officers in connection with the assault on a man that occurred on the Fourth of July.
Today, July 19th, The Associated Press reported that a second policeman from a suburban St. Louis department is facing charges following the arrest of his fellow officer on Monday, July 17th. Both officers, Michael Hill, 51, and Samuel Davis, 26, have been accused of participating in the kidnapping and assault of an unidentified man earlier this month.
As per St. Louis County police, on the day of the incident, Davis handcuffed a man and turned off his body camera. Subsequently, the 26-year-old officer allegedly drove the individual to a secluded location where he reportedly pepper-sprayed and beat the man with a baton, resulting in a broken jaw and other severe injuries. Additionally, Davis warned the man not to return to Northwoods. The victim was later discovered by a witness, who promptly called 911 for assistance.
“These actions put a black eye on all law enforcement officers who are doing their jobs the right way and who are tired of their profession being dragged through the mud because of the bad actions of a few,” St. Louis County prosecuting attorney, Wesley Bell, had previously stated.
Davis was issued an arrest warrant, and he was extradited from North Carolina to St. Louis earlier this week. According to a probable cause statement, Hill, who served as Davis' supervising officer, was present during the victim's detention at a Walgreens store. Allegedly, Hill conveyed to a store employee "what would happen to the victim." Both officers failed to inform the dispatcher about the suspect's custody or file a report. Additionally, like Davis, Hill also did not activate his body camera footage, as stated in the document. “There is no excuse for this criminal conduct, and my office will prosecute these officers to the fullest extent of the law,” Bell stated. Hill and Davis have been suspended as the investigation plays out.
Northwoods police officer accused of kidnapping, beating and pepper spraying man
It is sickening to witness incidents where police officers engage in misconduct and abuse their power. While it is important to remember that not all police officers behave this way, cases like the assault involving the St. Louis officers raise questions about their motivations. Instances of police officers believing they are above the law are deeply concerning and undermine public trust in law enforcement. It is crucial for police departments to prioritize accountability, training, and community-oriented policing to ensure that officers uphold the principles of justice, fairness, and respect for all individuals. Efforts should be made to foster a culture of integrity and empathy within police departments to prevent such incidents.
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Hill Harper Declares Candidacy for Michigan's US Senate Seat
Hill Harper, renowned actor and activist, ventures on a new chapter as he announces his Democratic candidacy for a U.S. Senate seat in Michigan. We discuss it here!
By: Adonis Armstrong
Hill Harper is poised to venture on the next chapter of his professional journey, stepping away from the entertainment industry.
On Monday July 10th, actor Hill Harper revealed his candidacy as a Democrat for a U.S. Senate seat in Michigan, sharing the news through a heartfelt video dedicated to his son, Pierce Hill Harper, where he passionately explained his reasons for entering the political arena.
During Hill speech, he discussed various national concerns, highlighted his accomplishments, and outlined his vision for the future of Michigan. “You see, the world you’re growing up in doesn’t feel like it’s getting any better. It’s getting more divisive and more dangerous. When you told me you were afraid to go to school because of shootings, that’s not freedom. Our economy works for the richest, while the most vulnerable have to work even harder than ever to keep up. That’s not freedom,” the actor stated.
“We can all feel it: D.C just isn’t getting things done for people,” Hill captioned the tweet. “We need representatives who’ll take on special interests, get money out of politics, and make our government work for all of us. That’s why today, I’m announcing my campaign for U.S. Senate in Michigan!”
We can all feel it: D.C just isn’t getting things done for people.
— Hill Harper (@hillharper) July 10, 2023
We need representatives who'll take on special interests, get money out of politics, and make our government work for all of us.
That’s why today, I’m announcing my campaign for U.S. Senate in Michigan! ✊🏾 pic.twitter.com/lv11ncDcsK
By declaring his candidacy, Hill enters a competitive primary race that includes Michigan Rep. Elissa Slotkin, who announced her bid earlier this year, as they compete for the Senate seat currently held by retiring Democratic Sen. Debbie Stabenow. In the 2020 election, Michigan was one of the states that transitioned from Former President Donald Trump to President Joe Biden. As the 2022 reelection cycle approaches, Democrats will be working to protect 23 out of their 34 Senate seats, including those in states like Arizona, Nevada, and Pennsylvania.
Harper's bold step into the world of politics exemplifies his commitment to creating a more inclusive and equitable society, and his decision deserves recognition for its potential to bring about positive change.
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Tulsa Race Massacre Survivors' Reparations Lawsuit dismissed by Oklahoma Judge
Oklahoma judge dismisses reparations lawsuit filed by Tulsa Race Massacre survivors, ending their fight for compensation and the rebuilding of the Greenwood community. We discuss it here!
Tulsa Race Massacre survivors from left Lessie Benningfield Randle, Viola Fletcher, and Hughes Van Ellis in June 2021. (Brandon Bell/ Getty Images)
By: Adonis Armstrong
An Oklahoma judge has dismissed a reparations lawsuit filed on behalf of the three remaining survivors of the 1921 Tulsa Race Massacre, putting an end to the legal fight that aimed to rebuild the former Greenwood community and establish a survivors fund. The ruling was delivered on Friday July 7th.
Lessie Benningfield Randle, aged 108, Viola Fletcher, aged 109, and Hughes Van Ellis, aged 102, who were all young children at the time, are among the plaintiffs in a lawsuit seeking reparations for the 1921 Tulsa Race Massacre. The devastating event saw their prosperous Black community, known as the "Black Wall Street," burned to the ground by a violent mob of white individuals following allegations of an assault. The massacre resulted in the displacement of thousands of people and the estimated loss of hundreds of lives.
In May 2022, New York philanthropist and co-founder of the nonprofit Business for Good, Ed Mitzen, generously contributed $1 million to Fletcher, Randle, and Ellis, aiming to alleviate financial hardships for their families and express solidarity towards their experiences. Mitzen expressed his deep disappointment and described the dismissal of their lawsuit as an "incredibly sad development," he told NBC News, emphasizing the significance of supporting the centenarians and acknowledging the importance of their stories.
Attorneys representing the city of Tulsa presented their case for the dismissal, contending that, “Simply being connected to a historical event does not provide a person with unlimited rights to seek compensation from any project in any way related to that historical event.” Judge Caroline Wall ruled in favor with them.
“Upon hearing the arguments of counsel and considering the briefs filed by counsel for plaintiffs and counsel for defendants, the court respectfully finds and order the plaintiffs’ second amended petition should and shall be dismissed with prejudice,” according to documents on the state's court network, Wall stated in her ruling. The ruling bars the lawsuit from being resubmitted in state court, although the survivors still have the option to pursue an appeal.
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D.C. Judge Orders Proud Boys to Pay $1M+ for Destroying BLM Sign at Historic Black Church
Historic Black Church Wins $1M+ Default Judgment Against Proud Boys Over BLM Sign Vandalism in D.C. We discuss it here!
Metropolitan African Methodist Episcopal Church in Washington, D.C.
By: Adonis Armstrong
The Metropolitan African Methodist Episcopal Church, a historic institution in Washington, D.C., has recently been granted a default judgment exceeding $1 million in a lawsuit against the Proud Boys. The lawsuit was initiated by the church, situated about six blocks away from the White House, three years ago, accusing over a dozen members of the white supremacist group of vandalizing a Black Lives Matter sign.
A number of individuals affiliated with the organization were alleged to have trespassed onto the premises of the church by scaling a fence, subsequently vandalizing the property by tearing down a Black Lives Matter banner that was securely fastened. This inconsiderate act reportedly occurred in December 2020 during a heated confrontation between supporters and opponents of former President Donald Trump. The lawsuit sought compensation amounting to thousands of dollars, intended for enhancing the church's security measures and acquiring a replacement banner.
On Friday (June 30), Judge Neal E. Kravitz of the Superior Court of the District of Columbia issued a ruling in favor of the institution as the defendants, which included former leader Enrique Tarrio, failed to appear in court. “For generations, the leaders of Metropolitan AME and the members of its congregation have vocally and publicly supported movements for civil rights and racial justice,” Kravitz stated in the ruling acquired by CNN. “Church leaders and congregants view supporting the Black Lives Matter movement as a continuation of the church’s mission of advocacy for civil rights and racial justice.”
As part of the verdict, Kravitz determined that an additional $1 million in punitive damages must be paid. The Proud Boys mentioned in the lawsuit are also enjoined from approaching the church within a 100-yard radius. Moreover, they are prohibited from issuing threats to Reverend William H. Lamar IV, the pastor of the church, and making slanderous statements about him.
“We refuse to live in a nation where that kind of violence has the last word. We will never be silent,” On Saturday July 1st, Reverend William H. Lamar IV conveyed to The New York Times. Yesterday July 2nd, the church commemorated its 185th anniversary.
This decision sends a clear message that acts of hatred and destruction will not be tolerated, and that justice will be served. We hope this serves as a precedent to protect other institutions and communities from similar acts of vandalism and intimidation.
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Supreme Court Rules Affirmative Action Programs in Education Unconstitutional
The Supreme Court's declaration of affirmative action programs as unconstitutional has a significant impact on higher education access for Black and Latino students. We discuss it here!
During the 2015-'16 term, when race-conscious college admissions were last upheld, a protester in favor of affirmative action demonstrated outside the Supreme Court. (Jacquelyn Martin / Associated Press)
By: Adonis Armstrong
The educational system faces significant impact as the Supreme Court's decision raises concerns about potential racial discrimination.
Today June 29th, the Supreme Court of the United States delivered a verdict declaring affirmative action programs at Harvard University and the University of North Carolina as unconstitutional. According to The Washington Post, the court deemed the schools usage of racial factors in their admissions process to be a violation of the Constitution's equal protection guarantee. Consequently, this ruling brings an end to the systems that were established to facilitate access to higher education for Black and Latino students.
Chief Justice John G. Roberts Jr., representing the conservative members in the majority, expressed their position in a written decision letter. “The student must be treated based on his or her experiences as an individual — not on the basis of race,” he penned. “Many universities have for too long done just the opposite. And in doing so, they have concluded, wrongly, that the touchstone of an individual’s identity is not challenges bested, skills built, or lessons learned but the color of their skin. Our constitutional history does not tolerate that choice.”
Particularly, Roberts highlighted the admission programs of Harvard and UNC, “lack sufficiently focused and measurable objectives warranting the use of race, unavoidably employ race in a negative manner, involve racial stereotyping, and lack meaningful end points.”
In dissenting with the court's ruling, Justices Elena Kagan, Ketanji Brown Jackson, and Sonia Sotomayor expressed their opposition to the decision. “Today, this court stands in the way and rolls back decades of precedent and momentous progress. It holds that race can no longer be used in a limited way in college admissions to achieve such critical benefits,” Sotomayor stated. “In so holding, the court cements a superficial rule of colorblindness as a constitutional principle in an endemically segregated society where race has always mattered and continues to matter.” Due to her previous involvement on a board at Harvard University, Judge Ketanji Brown Jackson recused herself from the case related to the institution.
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Yusef Salaam of the Exonerated Five takes lead in New York City Council Primary
Yusef Salaam celebrates lead in Harlem, New York Democratic city council primary, advancing his path to a potential seat in office. We discuss it here!
By: Adonis Armstrong
In a closely contested primary race yesterday June 27th, Yusef Salaam emerged as one of the top three candidates, securing a leading position with 5,403 votes, as reported by the New York Post. Despite the official results still pending, Salaam took the opportunity to address his supporters and express his gratitude. “Harlem has spoken,” the politician shared.
The Associated Press reports that following his win, Salaam, is projected to secure a future victory in the general election, as the district is considered unlikely to vote for a Republican candidate. “What has happened in this campaign has restored my faith in knowing that I was born for this,” he stated in a speech yesterday June 27th.
While delivering his speech, Salaam openly shared his personal journey to politics as a member of the Exonerated Five. “Having to be kidnapped from my home as a 15-year-old child, to be lodged in the belly of the beast… I am my ancestor’s wildest dreams. I was gifted because I was able to see it for what it really was, a system that was trying to make me believe that I was my ancestor’s worst nightmare,” he also added, , “I am here because Harlem, you believed in me.”
While the three candidates shared a common focus on advocating for affordable housing, addressing gentrification, and alleviating poverty in Harlem, Salaam leveraged his celebrity status and connected with communities that view the Central Park Five, or better known as the Exonerated Five, as powerful symbols of the injustices experienced by the district's predominantly Black and Latino residents, who constitute around three-fourths of the population.
The race winner has not been announced by The Associated Press, and the final outcome of the election may take days to determine due to New York's ranked choice voting rules, which come into effect when no candidate secures more than 50% of the total vote. It remains uncertain whether Salaam will maintain his position above the required threshold, as of early Wednesday, with approximately 95% of the votes counted, Salaam had a slightly less than 51% of the vote, while Dickens was significantly behind in second place.
I’m rooting for you Mr. Salaam what’s yours will be yours.
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Prosecutors Dismiss Charges Against Chicago Mother and Teen Son in Deadly Restaurant Argument
Prosecutors drop charges against a Chicago mother and her 14-year-old son following a fatal altercation in a restaurant, highlighting the case's evolving developments. We discuss it here!
By: Adonis Armstrong
Carlisha Hood and her teenage son are expected to be released from police custody following their arrest on charges related to a deadly altercation that was caused from an argument.
BREAKING NEWS: Prosecutors have dropped all charges against Carlishia Hood and her 14-year-old son in the shooting death of 32-year-old Jeremy Brown, citing a further review of evidence in the case. Cell phone video shows Brown punching Hood three times before the shooting.
— CBS Chicago (@cbschicago) June 26, 2023
According to CBS Chicago report today, prosecutors have decided to dismiss charges against Carlishia Hood, 35, and her 14-year-old son. The news station shared on social media that this decision was made after a thorough review of the case's evidence, which included a cell phone recording of the shooting incident involving Hood, her teenage son, and a 32-year-old man.
On June 18th, a shooting at a local restaurant in Chicago changed the life for three individuals, as detailed by USA Today, when Carlisha Hood and her son arrived at Maxwell Street Express late in the evening. Surveillance footage captured Hood leaving a blue Lincoln Nautilus and entering the fast food establishment, while her son remained in the car.
Following her entry into the restaurant, Hood engaged in an argument with Jeremy Brown, 32, as indicated in court documents. According to prosecutors, while the confrontation unfolded, the 35-year-old Hood allegedly texted her teenager, while Brown's girlfriend was said to have laughed and supported him during the exchange.
Shortly thereafter, the teenager exited the car and entered the establishment, as captured in the footage. Audio from the footage captured Jeremy Brown shouting at Hood, “get yo food” and “If you say one more thing, Ima knock you out. When Hood didn’t get her food Brown proceeded to punch her in the head. According to court documents, at that point, the teenager allegedly drew a firearm and discharged multiple rounds at Brown.
After Brown sustained a gunshot wound in the back prosecutors stated that he fled from the restaurant while Carlishia Hood's son continued firing at him. Law enforcement claimed that Hood instructed her son to keep shooting and kill Brown. Tragically, Brown was pronounced dead at the scene. Following the shooting, Hood allegedly directed her son to target Brown's girlfriend and tried to seize the firearm from him. According to NBC Chicago, the son pushed her away, and they left together in the blue car. Brown's girlfriend later identified both Hood and her son from photo arrays. On June 21st, the 35-year-old and 14-year-old voluntarily surrendered to authorities.
Also the to outlet included, Hood met all the necessary requirements for gun ownership in the state, yet she and her son were still charged with first-degree murder. The 14-year-old also faced charges of aggravated unlawful use of a weapon and unlawful possession of a firearm in juvenile court. Hood had been detained with bail set at $3 million and has a court appearance scheduled for July 12.
CPD: Mother told son to shoot man in South Side murder
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John Lewis Forever Stamp Debuted at the US Capitol
John Lewis Forever Stamp debuted in captivating ceremony at US Capitol, honoring the iconic civil rights leader. We discuss it here!
By: Adonis Armstrong
Yesterday, on June 21st, House leaders convened in Statuary Hall at the U.S. Capitol in Washington, D.C. to pay tribute to the late Rep. John Lewis. In a significant event, attended by members of both the Democratic and Republican parties, the ceremony unfolded to debut the United States postal stamp commemorating the former politician and civil rights activist.
As per a press release from the United States Postal Service, the image featured on the stamp is a photograph of John Lewis captured by Marco Grob for the August 26, 2013 edition of Time magazine. Describing his incredible career spanning three decades, the statement emphasizes Lewis's unwavering dedication to what he referred to as "good trouble," even in the face of hatred, violence, and numerous arrests, with the Alabama native's life epitomizing a relentless pursuit of justice. Born in 1940 to sharecroppers, he devoted his entire life to advocating for equality. Tragically, Lewis passed away at the age of 80 in 2020 due to cancer.
In 2015, John Lewis introduced his now-famous phrase, "good trouble." Reflecting on the influence of Rosa Parks courageous action and the leadership of Martin Luther King Jr., he expressed his inspiration to actively disrupt the status quo and provoke change, emphasizing the importance of "good trouble" and the necessity of such actions. The official dedication ceremony for the John Lewis Forever stamp is scheduled to take place on July 21st at Morehouse College in Atlanta.
“I may be in a different party. I may have different views, but I’m an American. I got goosebumps, and I got tears thinking how far we had come, and thinking that John Lewis led the march on that bridge and led the introduction that day,” During the remembrance of the congressman, House Speaker Kevin McCarthy (R-Calif.) recounted a significant moment when Congressman John Lewis shared a historic occasion with President Barack Obama in 2015, commemorating the 50th anniversary of the "Bloody Sunday" events in Selma, Alabama. Also, Vice President Kamala Harris took to Twitter yesterday to share her thoughts, “This Forever stamp is a beautiful tribute to Congressman John Lewis’ enduring legacy. A giant amongst men, a hero to us all, we honor him by marching forward and continuing the fight to protect and strengthen our democracy,”
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Yusef Salaam of the Exonerated Five Runs as Candidate for New York City Council Seat
Exonerated 5's Yusef Salaam runs as candidate for New York City Council seat, bringing a powerful voice for change. We discuss it here!
By: Adonis Armstrong
Yusef Salaam, known for his unjust incarceration as one of the Central Park Five, is now seeking office, aiming to be part of the very power structure in the city that played a role in his wrongful conviction. His story may ring a bell for those familiar with the critically acclaimed drama series When They See Us.
According to The Associated Press, Yusef Salaam, aged 49, has announced his campaign for a seat on the New York City Council, marking a notable step in his journey. Salaam is already widely recognized in the state due to an incident that had a profound impact on the trajectory of his life.
During the year 1989, a young Salaam, along with four other Black teenagers, referred to as the Central Park Five, were apprehended by the police. They faced wrongful accusations and were unjustly convicted of the rape and assault of a white woman in Central Park on April 19 of that same year. “I’ve often said that those who have been close to the pain should have a seat at the table,” he expressed during an interview conducted at his campaign office. At the age of 15, Salaam experienced his arrest, serving nearly seven years in confinement. Similarly, Antron McCray, Kevin Richardson, Raymond Santana, and Korey Wise, the other four individuals, endured periods ranging from five to 12 years in prison. However, in 2002, their convictions were overturned by a judge following a comprehensive review of the case.
According to AP News, DNA evidence connected a man, recently disclosed as a serial rapist, to the assault that took place in 1989. As a result of the ordeal they endured, the city reached a settlement of $41 million with the Exonerated Five. Salaam, now one of three candidates, is participating in a closely contested Democratic primary on June 27th, vying for the opportunity to represent the Harlem district, as reported by the outlet.
Expressing enthusiasm, Salaam shared his eagerness to tackle significant challenges prevalent in Harlem, such as poverty, the plight of homeless children, and issues related to rent. “When people look at me, and they know my story, they resonate with it,” Salaam stated. “But now, here we are 34 years later, and I’m able to use that platform that I have and repurpose the pain, help people as we climb out of despair.”
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Mississippi Resident Files $400M Lawsuit Over Jaw Shooting Incident
Mississippi resident files $400M lawsuit against Rankin County Police for jaw-shooting incident and civil rights violations, sparking federal investigation. We discuss it here!
By: Adonis Armstrong
A federal lawsuit seeking $400 million in damages has been filed by a Mississippi resident who narrowly escaped death after being shot in the mouth, all while being detained alongside his companion by six police officers from Rankin County. The incident took place during an alleged drug raid.
On February 15th, Eddie Terrell Parker (left) and Michael Corey Jenkins can be seen seated in a room at the office of lawyer Trent Walker in Jackson, Mississippi. (Aallyah Wright/Capital B)
Michael Corey Jenkins, aged 32, and Eddie T. Parker, aged 35, both African American, allege that their constitutional rights were infringed upon on January 24th. This occurred when deputies from Rankin County's Sheriff's Department forcefully entered Parker's residence, placed the men in handcuffs, and conducted a drug search. Despite unlawfully entering Parker's home, their attorney, Malik Z. Shabazz, informed Capital B that during the incident the officers use, “excessive interrogation methods to coerce a confession.”
Among the defendants listed in the lawsuit, three officers, including Hunter Elward, who were present at the residence in Braxton, Mississippi, as well as Sheriff Byran Bailey, have been named as codefendants. Jenkins alleges that Elward, during the incident, discharged a firearm and inflicted severe, potentially life-threatening injuries to his jaw and tongue. The lawsuit further states that following the incident, Elward falsely accused Jenkins of pointing a gun at him, resulting in the filing of wrongful criminal charges.
For almost two hours, the individuals were subjected to a series of disturbing actions which included frequent punches, kicks, slaps, electric shocks from stun guns, and relentless racist remarks, all conducted in an extremely juvenile and peculiar manner. As stated in the lawsuit, the officers also allegedly made an attempt to sexually assault Jenkins and Parker using a sex toy. When their efforts to commit this evil act against Jenkins were frustrated due to him defecating on himself, the officers responded by engaging in immature and bizarre behavior, laughing, throwing eggs at them, and forcing them to remove their clothing and take a shower together.
The Civil Rights Division of the Justice Department has initiated a federal investigation into the Rankin County Sheriff's Office regarding this matter. However, it has not been officially disclosed whether the allegation of attempted sexual assault will be part of the investigation. On May 8th, Shabazz wrote a letter to the Civil Rights Division urging them to examine the case as a hate crime. A spokesperson from the Civil Rights Division has acknowledged the receipt of Shabazz's letter.
This isn’t the first time the Rankin County Sheriff Department has been handed a lawsuit. I hope this is the lawsuit to promote change in the department.
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Juneteenth Becomes a State Holiday in Nevada
Nevada officially recognizes Juneteenth as a state holiday, celebrating the liberation of African Americans. We discuss it here!
By: Adonis Armstrong
Juneteenth, a day dedicated to acknowledging the liberation of enslaved African Americans, is rapidly approaching. Despite the passage of a federal bill in 2021 recognizing June 19 as a national holiday, only a limited number of states have embraced its observance on the state level.
Nevada joined the movement to officially recognize Juneteenth June 8th as Republican Gov. Joe Lombardo signed the bill into law. The decision was supported by local officials with a resounding vote of 40 to one in the state Assembly and 19 to two in the state Senate, as reported by Fox 5 Vegas. This development aligns Nevada with other states, such as Texas, New York, Virginia, and Washington, that have already designated Juneteenth as a paid federal holiday.
Originating in Texas, Juneteenth commemorates the significant moment when the final Black individuals who were enslaved received the long awaited news that they were no longer considered property. Although President Abraham Lincoln issued the Emancipation Proclamation in 1863 to grant freedom to enslaved people across the United States, it took until 1865 for many to learn of their emancipation.
Today, I was honored to sign AB 140, which officially made Juneteenth a state holiday in Nevada. Juneteenth commemorates the end of slavery in the United States, and I’m proud that Nevada will now recognize this holiday on a state and federal level. pic.twitter.com/eDxLySbok0
— Governor Joe Lombardo (@JosephMLombardo) June 8, 2023
Nevada vote had the support of Democratic Assemblywoman Claire Thomas. “As the first state to ratify the 15th Amendment, which gave African Americans the right to vote, Nevada has a long and proud history of supporting civil rights. 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 stated. 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.
In addition to community leaders and officials, many celebrities have also used their platform to spread awareness about the historical significance of Juneteenth. Through various forms of activism, they have sought to educate and engage the public in recognizing and celebrating this important day in American history.
As Juneteenth approaches, the official recognition of this holiday in Nevada serves as a reminder of the ongoing journey towards equality and justice. It represents a collective effort to acknowledge the struggles of the past, celebrate the progress made, and commit to building a future that upholds the principles of freedom and equality for all.
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Family of Ralph Yarl Dissatisfied with Court Ruling in Shooting Case
The family of Ralph Yarl expresses their dissatisfaction with the court's ruling in the case of the young boy who was mistakenly shot by a homeowner in Kansas City. We discuss it here!
Ralph Yarl
By: Adonis Armstrong
The Courier-Tribune published an updated article on June 6th, highlighting the dissatisfaction of Ralph Yarl's family with the court's ruling concerning the attacker of the young boy. In April, the 16-year-old Ralph was tragically shot in the head by a white homeowner in Kansas City, Missouri, who confused him for an intruder when he went to the wrong address to pick up his younger brothers from a sleepover.
Lester told investigators that he shot Yarl because he was “scared to death” and thought he was attempting to break into his house," explained Yarl's family attorney. However, Yarl, his family, and their attorney strongly refute these claims, stressing their disagreement with Lester's version of events.
Fortunately, Yarl managed to survive the incident, attracting nationwide interest to his case. Judge Louis Angles recently scheduled a two-day preliminary hearing for Andrew D. Lester, the elderly white man charged with shooting the high school junior twice. Accompanied by his attorney Steve Salmon, Lester made a brief appearance during which community members gathered outside the courtroom, showing their support for the teen by wearing shirts that bore slogans like "Ringing a Doorbell Is Not a Crime" and "Justice for Ralph."
Many supporters and relatives of Yarl, including individuals from the Liberian Community Organization of Kansas-Missouri, attended a court date in Clay County on June 1, donning shirts that called for justice for the 16-year-old shooting victim Ralph Yarl. The shirts bore the messages, "Ringing a Doorbell Is Not a Crime" and "Justice for Ralph." (Amanda Lubinski/Courier-Tribune)
Paul is urging prosecuting attorney Zach Thompson to improve communication with Ralph's family regarding the progress of the case, expressing a desire for more transparency. Additionally, Ralph's father expressed disagreement with the court's decision to seal Lester's documents, questioning the need for secrecy if the accused is innocent. The incident occurred when Ralph, intending to pick up his brothers from the 1100 block of Northeast 115th Terrace, mistakenly went to the 1100 block of Northeast 115th Street on the day of the shooting.
After the Clay County Circuit Court ruling, Ralph's father, Paul Yarl, shared, “He still gets headaches and pains and some emotional scars, but he's coming along. He's not there yet, but we are thankful for the progress." Paul added that his son is eagerly anticipating the day when he can resume normal activities, including starting his senior year. "He's been doing some schoolwork. His teachers have been keeping him engaged, so, yeah, he looks forward to getting back to school."
We hope Ralph Yarl continues to recover and gets justice he and his family deserves so he can get back to living his life to the fullest.
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Family Demands Arrest of White Woman in Fatal Shooting of Black Neighbor
A family is demanding the arrest of a white woman who allegedly shot and killed her Black neighbor, Ajike Owens, sparking outrage and calls for justice in the community. We discuss it here!
Ajike “AJ” Owens
By: Adonis Armstrong
Calls for the arrest of an unidentified white woman are echoing among Florida residents after she reportedly confronted and verbally abused her Black neighbor's children before fatally shooting their mother.
NBC News reported on Monday June 6th that a prolonged feud between a 58-year-old woman and her neighbor's children reached a tragic outcome on Friday June 2nd. As civil rights attorney Ben Crump stated, Ajike "AJ" Owens' children were playing in a field near an apartment complex in Ocala when the woman, identified as white, started shouting at them to leave her property, accompanied by racial slurs.
Following the verbal altercation, according to Crump, the children inadvertently left an iPad behind, which the 58-year-old woman allegedly seized. The woman reportedly threw the device when one of Owens' children approached to retrieve it, striking the boy's head and causing the iPad screen to crack, as noted by the attorney.
When their mother Ajike heard about the incident, Owens crossed the street to talk to the woman about it. “She knocked on the door, and at that point, the woman allegedly shot through the door, hitting AJ, who later died from her injuries,” the attorney stated.
We have been retained by the family of Ajike “AJ” Owens. We will continue to stand alongside her relatives and community members as they demand accountability for the deceased mother of four. #AjikeOwens pic.twitter.com/bEcnTYb729
— Ben Crump (@AttorneyCrump) June 5, 2023
Pamela Dias, Owens' mother, who addressed the incident on Monday, affirmed that her child did not present any form of threat to the neighbor. “The mother, the protector of her children, she wanted to know why this happened — a closed, locked door. The door never opened. My daughter, my grandchildren’s mother, was shot and killed with her 9-year-old son standing next to her. She had no weapon. She posed no imminent threat to anyone,” Dias revealed.
During a news conference yesterday, Marion County Sheriff Billy Woods refrained from confirming or denying Crump's description of the events. However, the sheriff acknowledged that at least two of Owens' children may have been present and witnessed the shooting. “The children are a big part of answering a lot of our questions,” Woods stated. The police have verified that Owens and the 58-year-old individual were involved in a heated altercation, and it has been confirmed that Owens was shot through the door. “I wish our shooter would have called us instead of taking actions into her own hands,” he also added.
No arrest has been made yet due to Florida's stand your ground laws, but that is not stopping the community from demanding justice because now four children are motherless.
News conference: Marion County Sheriff Billy Woods gives update on deadly shooting investigation
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Brooklyn Neighborhood's Innovative Experiment in Transforming Law Enforcement Dynamics
Brownsville, a community in New York City, conducted an experiment where community members, instead of the police, were entrusted with responding to low-level crimes. We discuss it here!
Dushoun Almond, known as Bigga, a member of the Brooklyn In Violence Out, in Brownsville, New York on April 26, 2023. (Credit: Amir Hamja / The New York Times)
By: Adonis Armstrong
In an effort to transform the dynamics of law enforcement in New York, a neighborhood in Brooklyn is beginning an innovative experiment.
The New York Times published an article on Sunday June 4th providing insights into a recent project. In April, residents of Brownsville took part in Brownsville In Violence Out, an initiative where community members, rather than the police, respond to minor street crimes.
Based on the report, individuals involved in Brownsville In Violence Out take turns serving as patrols for a period of five days on two specific blocks multiple times a year. Rather than having law enforcement authorities respond to lower-level incidents, these cases are redirected to the local community members. The police closely observe the residents' actions and only intervene in the event of a significant incident or when an arrest is required, as the civilians lack the authority to make arrests themselves.
In a specific incident, it was reported that a group of teenagers was observed running up Pitkin Avenue in Brownsville, shouting and pursuing a girl. The New York Times shared that five undercover police officers were present, witnessing the situation unfold. Across the street, a group of six men dressed in purple and gray sweatshirts and jeans stood. One of the officers commented, "They got it." As soon as the teenagers noticed the men, they began to slow down. The members of B.I.V.O. (Brownsville In Violence Out) gestured for the teenagers to change their course, and they dispersed as the girl they had initially chased proceeded down a side street.
According to The New York Times, the ongoing endeavor has yielded positive outcomes, including voluntary surrender of illegal firearms, prevention of shoplifting incidents, and the prevention of a bodega robbery. This enterprise is carried out under the umbrella of the Brownsville Safety Alliance, a collective comprising local and city organizations, law enforcement officials, and representatives from the Kings County District Attorney's Office. The primary objective of this alliance is to decrease the involvement of individuals with the criminal justice system, fostering a safer community.
Over the course of the next three years, the city has allocated $2.1 million in funding to facilitate the collaboration between local groups and the alliance, enabling them to work together as a cohesive unit throughout the year.
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