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September 12, 2025

Black Doctor Acquitted but Silenced: Canada’s Bias Exposed

Dr. Olumuyiwa Bamgbade, an anesthesiologist who established the Salem Anesthesia Pain Clinic in British Columbia, was acquitted of false sexual assault allegations made by multiple patients after years of legal battles. Despite overwhelming evidence supporting his innocence, including witness testimonies and revelations about the accusers' criminal histories, Dr. Bamgbade faced severe personal and professional consequences due to what he describes as systemic bias in Canada's justice system. The article details how Canadian authorities allegedly mishandled evidence, conducted aggressive police actions against him, and perpetuated media campaigns that damaged his reputation. Dr. Bamgbade, who has worked as a physician across four countries and runs a clinic that serves Medicare patients without out-of-pocket costs, attributes his treatment to racial discrimination against Black professionals in Canada.

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September 12, 2025

South Sudan Repatriates Mexican Man Deported From US In July

South Sudan has repatriated Jesus Munoz-Gutierrez, a Mexican national, back to Mexico after he was deported from the United States to South Sudan in July. Munoz-Gutierrez, who had a conviction for second-degree murder and a life sentence, was one of eight deportees sent to South Sudan, where six others still remain in custody. The repatriation was coordinated between South Sudan's foreign ministry and the Mexican Embassy in Ethiopia, following diplomatic protocols and international law. This case is part of a controversial U.S. practice of deporting migrants to third countries, which has faced opposition from rights groups and legal challenges, though the Supreme Court allowed swift removals to continue in June.

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September 12, 2025

Want signs of bipartisanship? In the House, look to women.

of "Women in Congress Drive Bipartisan Cooperation Across Party Lines" Female lawmakers in Congress are increasingly forming bipartisan coalitions to advance important legislation despite the typically divided political landscape. Recent examples include Republican and Democratic women working together on initiatives to make the House more accommodating for new mothers, pushing to release Jeffrey Epstein case files against party leadership, and collaborating on a resolution for expanded screening of Antiphospholipid Syndrome (APS), which can cause pregnancy complications. Though women make up only 28 percent of Congress, these cross-party collaborations demonstrate how female legislators are willing to set aside political differences to address issues they care about, often related to maternal health, transparency, and accountability.

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September 12, 2025

Young fans and critics debate Charlie Kirk's political legacy

The article discusses the aftermath of conservative activist Charlie Kirk's shooting death at age 31 during a university debate in Utah. Kirk, founder of Turning Point USA, was known for his provocative conservative Christian views on issues including gun rights, abortion, and transgender rights, which drew both fervent supporters and vocal critics on college campuses nationwide. His sudden violent death has sparked discussions about political violence, with individuals across the political spectrum condemning the shooting while acknowledging their disagreements with his positions. The article explores Kirk's legacy through interviews with supporters who valued his promotion of traditional values and critics who found his debate style and views harmful, particularly to LGBTQ+ communities.

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September 11, 2025

Trump and politicians tighten security as police hunt Charlie Kirk's killer

The assassination of conservative activist Charlie Kirk at a Utah university has sent shockwaves through the US political landscape, prompting heightened security measures nationwide. President Trump's security team relocated his 9/11 commemoration speech and increased precautions for his planned baseball game attendance at Yankee Stadium. Multiple universities, particularly Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs), have faced lockdowns following anonymous threats, while political figures across the spectrum have canceled events or enhanced their personal security arrangements. As authorities continue searching for Kirk's killer, the incident has intensified concerns about political violence, leading to precautionary measures at numerous institutions including the Democratic National Committee headquarters and the US Naval Academy.

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September 11, 2025

Warner Bros Discovery shares surge on buyout reports

Paramount Skydance is reportedly preparing a bid to acquire the entire Warner Brothers Discovery business, leading to a surge in both companies' stock prices. This potential acquisition would combine major media assets including CNN, HBO, CBS, and film studios responsible for franchises like Barbie and Harry Potter. The deal represents further consolidation in the US media industry as companies adapt to the streaming era while facing increased scrutiny from the Trump administration. The potential offer comes shortly after Paramount Skydance's own $8 billion merger was completed, and is backed by significant financial resources from the Ellison family.

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September 11, 2025

Prince George’s Residents Speak Out Against Proposed Landover Data Center

A proposed $5 billion data center campus called Brightseat Tech Park at the former Landover Mall site in Prince George's County has sparked significant community opposition due to potential environmental and health concerns. The hyperscale project by Lerner Enterprises would include five facilities spanning 4.1 million square feet and consuming up to 820 megawatts of power. Residents and organizers held a rally outside the Maryland-National Capital Park and Planning Commission on September 10 to voice their objections, citing concerns about increased energy consumption, air pollution, and water usage. Critics argue that while such facilities may offer economic benefits, the environmental and community impacts, particularly on marginalized populations, are too severe to justify the project.

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September 11, 2025

Drones and metal detectors: Why securing outdoor events is challenging

Conservative commentator Charlie Kirk was fatally shot at an open-air speaking event at Utah Valley University in Utah, despite having security personnel present who responded immediately following the attack. The shooter fired from a rooftop of a nearby building during the event, which was attended by approximately 3,000 people and had six police officers working security. Security experts have raised questions about the adequacy of safety measures for the outdoor venue, noting that standard indoor security protocols like bag checks and magnetometers weren't utilized, and suggesting that drone surveillance might have helped detect the rooftop threat. Kirk, who had previously reported receiving death threats, was shot in the neck, an area typically not protected by bulletproof vests.

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September 11, 2025

QnA: Hollier on Dropping Congressional Bid, Corporate Influence and War in Gaza

Former Michigan State Senator Adam Hollier announced he's dropping out of the 13th Congressional District race to instead run for Michigan Secretary of State, as revealed in an interview on the Eastside Community Network's Black Detroit Democracy Podcast. Hollier emphasized his goal of protecting voter rights and expanding Michigan's elections, citing his military background and legislative experience as qualifications that distinguish him from other candidates. He discussed his stance on several contentious issues, including declining to call Israel's actions in Gaza a genocide and not committing to refuse corporate PAC money. Hollier previously received over $4 million from AIPAC's United Democracy Project during his 2022 Congressional run against Rep. Shri Thanedar.

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September 11, 2025

Jenkins: “I’m not really interested” in role in potential Sheffield administration

Former Detroit mayoral candidate Saunteel Jenkins has endorsed City Council President Mary Sheffield in the upcoming mayoral election, despite their previous contentious primary battle. The endorsement took place at Cody High School beside a tree planted to honor Jenkins' brother who was killed by gun violence, highlighting both candidates' shared commitment to reducing gun violence through youth investment. Jenkins cited Sheffield's potential to become Detroit's first woman mayor, her commitment to public safety, and dedication to education as key reasons for the endorsement. Despite Sheffield expressing interest in having Jenkins join her administration should she win the November 4 election against Rev. Solomon Kinloch Jr., Jenkins indicated she's not currently interested in a cabinet position, stating she's enjoying her free time.

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September 11, 2025

Belarus frees political prisoners in exchange for easing of US sanctions

Belarus has released 52 political prisoners as part of a deal with the Trump administration, though over 1,000 remain detained. In exchange, the US is easing sanctions on Belarusian airline Belavia, allowing it to purchase airplane parts. The release comes amid joint Belarus-Russia military exercises that have prompted Poland to close its border with Belarus and Latvia to restrict its airspace. This prisoner release is part of Belarus's efforts to rebuild economic ties with the US after facing Western sanctions for its connection to Russia's war in Ukraine.

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September 11, 2025

Breakthrough in hunt for 'college age' suspect in Charlie Kirk shooting

The FBI is offering a $100,000 reward for information leading to the identification and arrest of the gunman who fatally shot conservative influencer Charlie Kirk during a speaking event at Utah Valley University. Investigators have released security camera images of a "college age" person of interest and recovered the suspected weapon, a Mauser .30-06 bolt action rifle, along with physical evidence including a palm print. The shooting occurred on Wednesday when Kirk, the 31-year-old founder of Turning Point USA, was addressing approximately 3,000 people during an event titled "Prove Me Wrong" and was struck in the neck by a single shot. While Utah Governor Spencer Cox has called it a "political assassination," authorities have not yet determined a motive for the shooting.

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September 11, 2025

FDSRC’s First Annual “Seasoned” Senior Prom Shines with Glitz and Glamour

The First Annual "Seasoned" Senior Prom was held at the Fourth District Senior Resource Center on September 6, 2025, attracting over 75 guests for an evening of fine dining, music, and dancing. The event featured performances by Larry Streaty with the B-3 Four Band and DJ John Phillips of Golden Voice Productions, creating a nostalgic atmosphere where attendees could reconnect and make new memories. A highlight of the celebration was the King and Queen Coronation Ceremony, where Beverly J. Henry and Nolon Childress were crowned by Superior Court Judge Rod Shelton after competing alongside Naomi Bea and Alford Clairborne. The successful event, which raised funds and awareness for the Center, was made possible through the support of various contributors to the Fourth District Seniors Resource Center, a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization.

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September 11, 2025

Congress Should Do A Discharge Petition on RFK, Jr.

Dr. John E. Warren argues that Congress should introduce legislation to remove Robert F. Kennedy Jr. from his position as Secretary of Health and Human Services without President Trump's approval, citing him as a danger to healthcare. Warren suggests using the Discharge Petition mechanism, which would require 218 signatures to force a full House vote, similar to the process used for the Epstein papers. He emphasizes that Kennedy's actions at the CDC are harmful, especially considering the 1.2 million COVID-19 deaths in the US and the proven effectiveness of vaccines. Warren calls on Democrats to introduce similar legislation for all of Trump's actions that violate the Constitution, urging voters to replace representatives who fail to uphold their oath of office.

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September 11, 2025

Trump’s Overhaul of CDC Puts Black Health at Greatest Risk

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) is experiencing significant disruption following President Trump's dismissal of Director Dr. Susan Monarez, which triggered mass resignations among senior leadership. The agency has been further destabilized by the permanent layoff of 600 employees and the cancellation of hundreds of millions in grants to state and local health departments. These changes have particularly impacted divisions focused on health issues disproportionately affecting Black Americans, including HIV prevention, chronic disease, and environmental safety. The CDC is now led by Jim O'Neill, a venture capitalist with no medical background, raising concerns about the agency's commitment to science-based decision-making and the potential consequences for vulnerable populations.

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September 11, 2025

From Slavery to Civil Rights and Environmental Racism

The National Newspaper Publishers Association (NNPA) has relaunched a global news series examining the transatlantic slave trade and its modern implications, with this installment focusing on environmental racism. Dr. Benjamin F. Chavis Jr., NNPA president and CEO, coined the term "environmental racism" decades ago to describe the deliberate targeting of minority communities for toxic facilities and their exclusion from environmental policymaking. The article highlights how environmental racism represents a continuation of historical oppression of Black Americans, with studies showing that people of color face significantly higher exposure to air pollutants and related health issues. Despite evidence of these disparities, Trump administration policies have reduced environmental enforcement efforts, particularly in civil rights cases, while environmental organizations continue to lack diversity in leadership positions.

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September 11, 2025

The Violence Trump Claims to Fear Occurs Mostly in Red States

Donald Trump consistently criticizes cities with large minority populations as dangerous despite crime reduction in many areas, most notably Washington, D.C., which recorded the nation's highest murder rate in 2023 at 39 per 100,000 residents. Meanwhile, several Republican-led states including Louisiana, New Mexico, Alabama, Tennessee, and Arkansas have murder rates exceeding 9 per 100,000 residents, yet receive little criticism from Trump. This pattern suggests a political strategy of targeting urban areas with significant Black and Latino populations while ignoring similar or worse crime statistics in Republican strongholds. Critics argue this represents a deliberate scapegoating of minority communities, as data shows states like Illinois (containing Chicago) have lower murder rates than many Republican-governed states that Trump rarely mentions.

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September 11, 2025

Today in Black History: September 11th

James Charles Evers, born in 1922 in Mississippi, was a civil rights leader who fought against racial discrimination and became the first Black mayor of Fayette, Mississippi in 1969 after his brother Medgar's assassination. The United Black Front (UBF), formed in 1968, was a coalition of 50 Black Power organizations that advocated for ending white oppression and gaining political and economic influence, but dissolved in the early 1970s despite its initial power. Godwin Ajala, a Nigerian-born lawyer working as a security guard at the World Trade Center while studying for the New York Bar Exam, heroically helped evacuate thousands from Two World Trade Center during the September 11, 2001 attacks, sacrificing his life at age 33.

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September 11, 2025

Charles Anderson Johnson

Charles Johnson of San Diego, a U.S. Army veteran and retired San Diego Gas & Electric manager, passed away on August 25, 2025, at the age of 84. Born in La Jolla in 1940, Johnson was a dedicated member of the 31st Street Seventh-day Adventist Church and enjoyed a 38-year career before retirement. He is survived by his wife of 65 years, Mary Caroline, three daughters, seven grandchildren, numerous great-grandchildren, and extended family, while his daughter Tangela Carol and his parents preceded him in death. A Celebration of Life was held on September 8, 2025, at his church followed by interment at Greenwood Cemetery with military honors.

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September 11, 2025

James Carter Sr.

James Carter Sr., born in 1933 in Sedalia, Missouri, passed away on August 9, 2025, leaving behind a legacy of dedication to both family and country. After graduating from Hubbard High School in 1951, he served 20 years in the U.S. Navy, during which he married his wife Lemille in 1956, beginning a remarkable 69-year marriage that included raising six children. Following his military retirement in 1972, Carter worked an additional 26 years as a firefighter-paramedic and security guard with General Dynamics in San Diego, where he settled with his family. He was known for his cooking skills, love of the Kansas City Chiefs, and is survived by his wife, most of his children, numerous grandchildren, great-grandchildren, and extended family members.

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September 11, 2025

A single bullet killed Charlie Kirk - what we know about Utah shooting

Charlie Kirk, a 31-year-old influential conservative activist and Trump ally, was fatally shot while speaking at Utah Valley University to a crowd of approximately 3,000 people. The shooter, believed to be dressed in dark clothing, fired a single shot from the roof of the Losee Center about 130 meters away from where Kirk was seated under a gazebo answering audience questions. Authorities have declared the shooting an assassination and launched a massive manhunt, with the campus locked down and police conducting door-to-door searches. Kirk's death has prompted condolences from political leaders worldwide but has also intensified political divisions, with some conservatives blaming the left while officials note this incident adds to a concerning rise in politically motivated violence in the US.

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September 11, 2025

Charlie Kirk’s Killer Remains Free, Critics Blame Trump, Patel Chaos

Charlie Kirk was fatally shot by a sniper at Utah Valley University, with the assassin still at large despite initial confusion about an arrest. Critics attribute the unsuccessful manhunt to President Trump's administration changes, including appointing Kash Patel to FBI leadership, removing experienced agents like the Pakistani American field chief in Salt Lake City, and redirecting FBI resources from counterterrorism to immigration enforcement. NBC correspondent Ken Dilanian highlighted how miscommunication and resource diversion have hampered the investigation, noting that many FBI agents previously focused on domestic terrorism have been reassigned to immigration duties despite rising political violence. Critics ultimately hold Trump responsible for weakening the FBI's ability to respond effectively to this assassination.

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September 11, 2025

Nasa bans Chinese nationals from working on its space programmes

NASA has recently blocked Chinese citizens with valid U.S. visas from accessing its facilities, systems, and networks, effectively preventing them from working at the agency. The restriction, implemented on September 5, affects Chinese nationals who previously worked at NASA as contractors or students contributing to research. This measure comes amid heightened competition between the U.S. and China in space exploration, with both nations racing to reach the Moon first and potentially control its valuable resources. The decision further diminishes scientific collaboration between the two countries, adding to existing restrictions such as China's exclusion from the International Space Station and growing visa challenges for Chinese students in science and technology fields.

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September 11, 2025

'Everyone hit the deck and scattered': Witnesses describe moment of Utah shooting

Charlie Kirk, a 31-year-old conservative activist and Trump ally, was fatally shot in the neck while speaking at an event at Utah Valley University attended by approximately 3,000 people. Witnesses described a scene of panic and chaos after a single shot was fired, which law enforcement believes came from a shooter positioned on a nearby rooftop approximately 130 meters away. Multiple attendees reported rushing to hide or flee the venue while experiencing intense fear and shock, with many noting a concerning lack of security measures at the event. Despite the presence of six university security officers and Kirk's private security detail, no bag searches or equipment scanning were conducted according to several witnesses.

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September 10, 2025

The Black Vote, Polling and Redistricting

California is entering a redistricting battle over control of the U.S. House of Representatives with Proposition 50, which would place redistricting on the November ballot. While opponents immediately launched direct mail campaigns and Democratic supporters began investing in media ads and polling, the African American community has been notably excluded from early campaign efforts on both sides. The article questions whether campaigns assume Black voters either won't participate or will automatically vote Democratic without targeted outreach. It emphasizes the constitutional requirement for inclusive representation in the redistricting process and criticizes campaigns for ignoring Black media outlets while spending advertising dollars with white-owned media.

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September 10, 2025

Oakland Mayor Barbara Lee commends the Oakland International Film Festival – RUNNING NOW, Sept. 10-20

The 23rd Oakland International Film Festival (OIFF) runs from September 10-20, 2025, under the theme "Promoting the Planet Through Film" with events at the Grand Lake Theater, Northeastern University, and Geoffrey's Inner Circle. Oakland Mayor Barbara Lee has praised festival director David Roach for his 23 years of work showcasing Oakland's positive achievements while connecting filmmakers and audiences globally. The 11-day festival features premieres, documentaries, shorts, panels, and red-carpet events that represent Oakland's vibrant cultural scene, referred to as "The Oakperience." Opening films include "From Here/From There" about a DACA recipient arguing before the Supreme Court and "Beyond the Headlines: The NABJ Journey" documenting the 50-year history of the National Association of Black Journalists.

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September 10, 2025

Charlie Kirk, right-wing activist, is fatally shot

Charlie Kirk, a 31-year-old conservative media personality and founder of Turning Point USA, was fatally shot during an event at Utah Valley University on Wednesday. Kirk was speaking at the launch of his "The American Comeback Tour" when a shooter fired from approximately 200 yards away, shortly after Kirk had engaged in a debate with a student about transgender mass shooters. As a prominent conservative influencer, Kirk had advocated for traditional gender roles, encouraged young women to prioritize family over careers, and supported gun rights despite mass shooting fatalities. Following the shooting, both conservative and liberal figures condemned the political violence, with former President Trump, House Speaker Mike Johnson, and former Congresswoman Gabrielle Giffords all issuing statements against politically motivated violence.

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September 10, 2025

Nation’s Report Card Shows Drop in Reading, Math, and Science Scores

The 2024 National Assessment of Educational Progress (NAEP) results show significant academic declines among U.S. students, with twelfth-graders performing worse in both reading and mathematics compared to 2019, and eighth-graders showing deterioration in science scores. Reading scores for high school seniors have dropped three points since 2019 and ten points since 1992, with only the highest-performing students maintaining their levels. Mathematics and science results mirror this downward trend, with increasing percentages of students falling below basic proficiency levels across all subjects. African American students continue to be disproportionately represented among lower performers nationally, maintaining longstanding achievement gaps when compared to White and Asian peers despite the overall national decline in scores.

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September 10, 2025

Business Leaders Have Mixed Reviews on National Guard in D.C.

The presence of National Guard troops at Union Station and throughout Washington D.C. has created mixed reactions among local business owners. While some merchants like Samarah Lee Banks of Lee's Flowers and Marc Barnes of The Park at 14th welcome the additional security, others report significant business downturns with D.C. Council member Charles Allen noting some businesses have seen sales decline by up to 50%. D.C. Attorney General Brian Schwalb has filed a lawsuit to suspend National Guard activity, arguing it's "unnecessary and unwanted" while the Downtown BID President Gerren Price reported approximately 12,000 fewer people on the streets compared to the same period last year. Despite these concerns, business organizations like the D.C. Chamber of Commerce continue to emphasize that the city remains "safe, open for business, thriving and ready to welcome visitors."

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September 10, 2025

Hollier Joins Democratic Candidates Running for Michigan Secretary of State

Former Michigan State Senator Adam Hollier has announced his candidacy for Michigan Secretary of State, joining Ingham County Clerk Barb Byrum and Deputy Secretary of State Aghogho Edevbie in the race to succeed term-limited Jocelyn Benson. Hollier, who withdrew from the congressional race in Michigan's 13th District, emphasized his background as a U.S. Army Paratrooper and his experience in the State Senate as qualifications for the position. He promised to protect voting rights, combat election interference, and make voting more accessible if elected. Hollier has secured endorsements from several local officials including Oakland County Executive Dave Coulter and Detroit councilman Fred Durhal III.

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