community

On November 14, hundreds of participants from three San Diego schools—Gage Elementary, Pershing Middle, and Patrick Henry High School—participated in the fourth annual Ruby Bridges Walk to School Day, a student-organized commemoration. Approximately 400 students, families, and community members walked to school wearing purple shirts and carrying lunchboxes to honor Ruby Bridges, who integrated an all-white Louisiana elementary school in 1960 at age six. The event featured student-led activities including reflection, art projects, and discussions focused on promoting unity and celebrating diversity. Additional San Diego Unified schools, such as Hamilton and Ibarra Elementary, also participated in this district-wide initiative aimed at fostering inclusive school environments and strengthening community bonds.

Pope Leo XIV delivered a video message to religious leaders at UN climate talks in Belem, Brazil, calling for immediate concrete action to address global warming and criticizing insufficient political will among nations. The Pope emphasized that one-third of humanity faces severe climate vulnerability, arguing that while the Paris Agreement framework remains sound, world leaders are failing in their implementation efforts. His intervention came as the conference entered its second week, with Global South nations sharing accounts of devastating climate impacts and expressing concern that Earth will likely exceed the 1.5-degree Celsius warming target. As the first American pope, Leo XIV is continuing his predecessor's environmental advocacy, positioning himself as a prominent moral voice on climate issues, particularly for vulnerable populations in developing nations.

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San Diego County is taking multiple steps to address behavioral health and food insecurity challenges facing its residents. The county plans to construct a $210 million Behavioral Health Wellness Campus in the Midway District that would consolidate mental health and addiction services to serve over 20,000 people annually. In response to federal funding cuts threatening food assistance programs, the Prebys Foundation partnered with major food banks to provide $3 million in emergency funding to maintain the food security network. Additionally, CalFresh/SNAP beneficiaries received their full November benefits after a federal court ruling, while the Board of Supervisors approved exploring a Safety Net Bridge Program to prevent gaps in essential services for residents who may lose benefits due to federal policy changes.

The San Diego County Board of Supervisors is organizing a public hearing called Housing Forward on Wednesday, November 19 at 9 a.m. to discuss county housing matters. The event will take place at the County Administration Center and will cover housing and land use policies for unincorporated areas, along with findings from a Development Feasibility Analysis. County officials and staff will present information about current projects and future policy plans while allowing residents to provide input. Community members interested in attending or commenting can access participation details through the Clerk of the Board website or contact the Board Operations Unit directly.

The Trump administration's policies are systematically dismantling pathways to middle-class prosperity for Black Americans, despite campaign promises to support these communities. Federal workforce cuts, driven by DOGE and anti-DEI executive orders, disproportionately impact Black employees who comprise roughly 19% of federal workers and have historically relied on government jobs as a stable route to economic security. The administration is simultaneously attacking other mobility channels including education funding, HBCU support, the Minority Business Development Agency, small business programs, and fair housing initiatives. Black unemployment has risen to 7.2% by July 2025, with nearly 300,000 Black women exiting the workforce in the second quarter alone, while the "One Big Beautiful Bill Act" threatens to further disadvantage Black families through tax policies and graduate school loan limits.

A new AARP report reveals that approximately seven million California adults—23 percent of the adult population—serve as unpaid family caregivers for elderly parents, spouses, and other loved ones. These caregivers contribute an estimated $4.4 billion annually in unpaid care while often sacrificing their own financial stability, health, and employment. AARP California is pushing for policy changes to provide financial relief and support, including recent state legislation expanding paid family leave and proposed federal tax credits for working caregivers. The organization emphasizes the urgent need for government action as California's aging population continues to grow and caregiving demands increase. # Key Takeaways

The Urban Collaborative Project is launching a stewardship initiative in Southeastern San Diego to address community concerns about maintaining green spaces and trees. The project centers around developing the Brooks Huffman Plaza at Imperial and Euclid as a community gathering place with amenities, while partnering with local schools. This effort grew from community feedback gathered during climate planning sessions that revealed residents wanted more green spaces but worried about their upkeep. Multiple organizations including San Diego Canyonlands, Groundwork San Diego, and several educational institutions are collaborating on the stewardship program, which includes regular Friday events at Chollas Creekside Park. # Key Takeaways

Following the 25-year prison sentence of Susan Lorincz for fatally shooting her Black neighbor Ajike "AJ" Owens through a door during a 2023 dispute over children playing, Owens' mother Pamela Dias has channeled her grief into advocacy work. Dias co-founded the Standing in the Gap Fund, a nonprofit organization dedicated to supporting families affected by gun and racial violence through rapid-response grants and legislative advocacy. The organization challenges Stand Your Ground laws and aims to begin distributing grants to families and organizers by 2027. Despite the conviction, Dias emphasizes that no sentence can restore what was lost, but the family continues healing by transforming their tragedy into a movement for justice and community care that honors Owens' legacy. # Key Takeaways

The author argues that healthcare reform and welfare programs have been deliberately racialized through strategic messaging that falsely portrays them as primarily benefiting people of color, when White Americans actually constitute the majority of recipients. The article specifically criticizes how the Affordable Care Act was rebranded as "Obamacare" and suggests this racial coding was used to manipulate public opinion, particularly among MAGA supporters during a government shutdown. Mainstream media is accused of perpetuating this racial framing by consistently using "Obamacare" instead of the legislation's proper name. The author contends that calling the program by its official name—the Affordable Care Act—might reduce racially-motivated opposition and help people recognize it as a major social insurance program benefiting all Americans, similar to Social Security.

Project AWARE, a grassroots nonprofit organization, held its inaugural fundraising gala on November 8, 2025, marking twenty years since its founding by Reginald Washington. Washington established the organization while incarcerated to provide emotional literacy and restorative justice programs to marginalized youth—skills he lacked during his own involvement with gangs that led to imprisonment. The celebration featured keynote speaker Chef Jeff Henderson, who similarly transformed his life after incarceration by discovering his culinary passion and becoming a successful executive chef and bestselling author. The event honored multiple community leaders and youth recipients while raising funds for Project AWARE's ongoing programs across San Diego County's detention centers, schools, and neighborhoods. # Key Takeaways

The Governor's Office of Community Partnerships and Strategic Communications held the seventh California Connects regional convening in San Diego on November 5, bringing together approximately 200 participants from community organizations, state agencies, and local partnerships. The daylong event featured interactive workshops, collaborative activities, and plenary discussions designed to strengthen relationships between state and local organizations while improving access to resources and communication channels. Notable speakers included Acting Executive Director Aubrie Fong, California's Chief Service Officer Josh Fryday, Assemblymember Christopher Ward, and San Diego Mayor Todd Gloria, who emphasized the importance of two-way community engagement and collective action. The San Diego gathering was part of an eight-city statewide tour representing California's diverse regions, with the OCPSC working to expand public awareness and increase engagement in local and statewide initiatives since its establishment in July 2022. # Key Takeaways

Republican Kevin Lincoln, a former Marine and Stockton mayor, has announced his candidacy for California's 13th Congressional District, challenging incumbent Democrat Adam Gray in what was one of California's closest House races in 2024. Meanwhile, Nancy Pelosi announced her retirement from Congress after nearly 40 years representing San Francisco, prompting tributes from California lawmakers who praised her historic leadership and legislative achievements. California Attorney General Rob Bonta expressed concerns about potential federal interference in the 2026 midterm elections under the Trump administration, citing past attempts to undermine election integrity. Additionally, the FBI issued a warning about criminals impersonating ICE agents to commit violent crimes, while Governor Newsom designated November as Alzheimer's Disease Awareness Month, highlighting state efforts to support the approximately 720,000 Californians living with the disease. # Key Takeaways

The Trump administration has fired all employees of the Treasury Department's Community Development Financial Institutions (CDFI) Fund, effectively shuttering 11 programs that provide financing to underserved communities nationwide. For thirty years, the CDFI Fund has maintained bipartisan support while facilitating capital access for small businesses, affordable housing, and infrastructure in areas traditionally neglected by conventional banking institutions. The program supported nearly 110,000 businesses and over 45,000 affordable housing units last year alone, mobilizing approximately $300 billion annually through partnerships between public investment and private capital. This elimination occurs during a particularly vulnerable economic period, with Black unemployment rising above 7 percent and small business loan approval rates declining to pandemic-era lows, prompting calls from both Republican and Democratic lawmakers for immediate restoration of the program.

The Caribbean's current vulnerability to hurricanes stems directly from colonial-era policies that fundamentally altered how island communities interacted with their environment. Before European colonization, indigenous groups like the Taino and Kalinago developed sustainable practices including storm-resistant crops and strategic settlement locations away from coasts. Colonial powers dismantled these systems, forcing coastal settlement for trade convenience, implementing exploitative plantation economies, and creating inequitable land ownership structures that persist today. These colonial legacies—including crown land policies preventing property ownership, inadequate building codes adapted from European standards, and forced settlement in disaster-prone areas—continue to hamper disaster preparedness and recovery efforts across Caribbean islands. # Key Takeaways

Lionsgate has released the trailer for "Michael," a biographical film about Michael Jackson directed by Antoine Fuqua and scheduled for theatrical release on April 24, 2026. The pop icon will be portrayed by his nephew Jaafar Jackson, with a notable cast including Colman Domingo as Joe Jackson and Nia Long as Katherine Jackson. The production, which completed filming in 2024, experienced delays due to legal disputes over controversial storylines, requiring significant reshoots and editing before refocusing on Jackson's musical legacy and creative journey. Written by Oscar-nominated John Logan and produced by Graham King alongside Jackson estate executors, the film traces Jackson's rise from child star to global entertainer while emphasizing his artistic achievements over tabloid controversies. # Key Takeaways

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The article argues that the Trump administration, along with Russell Vought and Stephen Miller, is deliberately implementing policies that harm working Americans while enriching the wealthy and politically connected. Mass layoffs exceeding 170,000 workers across major corporations like UPS, Amazon, and Intel are attributed to Trump's tariffs and unpredictable trade policies, while government shutdowns have cut food assistance and healthcare for over 67 million Americans. Simultaneously, Trump's personal income has surged to $864 million through cryptocurrency ventures involving foreign investors, some allegedly under fraud or money laundering investigations. The article characterizes this as a systematic transfer of wealth from ordinary citizens to elites, creating widespread economic instability and human suffering.

Congressman Greg Meeks has criticized President Trump's threat to deploy U.S. military forces to Nigeria to combat what Trump describes as anti-Christian persecution. Trump posted on social media that he would send troops "guns-a-blazing" and has directed the Department of War to prepare for potential action if Nigeria doesn't stop alleged attacks on Christians. Meeks argues that Trump misunderstands the situation, explaining that violence in Nigeria stems from complex issues like resource scarcity and land competition between farmers and herders rather than purely religious conflict, and that terrorist groups have harmed both Christian and Muslim communities. The congressman also noted that Trump's aid cuts have eliminated programs that could help prevent insurgency, while Nigeria's leadership itself reflects religious diversity with a Muslim president and Christian first lady. # Key Takeaways

California's Governor's Office is conducting an eight-city tour called California Connects Regional to strengthen community partnerships and improve access to state resources across the state. The Sacramento stop brought together community leaders, state agencies, and local organizations for workshops focused on collaboration, funding access, and volunteer mobilization. The initiative is particularly focused on addressing food insecurity, with $80 million allocated and California National Guard support to assist food banks amid expected increased demand due to reduced federal assistance. The program aims to break down organizational silos and connect historically underserved populations with necessary resources through day-long regional events. The tour, which has visited multiple Southern California cities and Sacramento, will conclude in Fresno in November. # Key Takeaways

Covered California has begun its 2026 open enrollment period running through January 31, 2026, but faces significant challenges as enhanced federal premium tax credits are set to expire at year's end without congressional action. Without extension of these credits, monthly premiums could increase by an average of 97 percent for over 1.7 million Californians who currently receive financial assistance, with more than 160,000 middle-income enrollees at risk of losing coverage entirely. To mitigate the impact, California has allocated $190 million in state funding to provide tax credits for the lowest-income residents earning up to 150 percent of the federal poverty level, though this represents only a fraction of the $2.5 billion in federal support Californians receive annually. The state's enrollment program has achieved record participation, with nearly 2 million Californians expected to be covered heading into 2026. # Key Takeaways

The San Diego Voice & Viewpoint, a local news publication, received eight journalism awards last week recognizing excellence in both print and digital media. Reporter Macy Meinhardt earned six print awards and two video honors for her investigative work covering topics including governance issues, a charter school crisis at Harriet Tubman Village, and disputes over park space development. Video journalist Tihut Tamrat collaborated with Meinhardt on two award-winning video pieces about housing development concerns in the Encanto neighborhood. The publication views these accolades as validation of their commitment to community-focused reporting that serves San Diego's Black community. # Key Takeaways

This article traces the history of Veterans Day from its origins as Armistice Day in 1918 through its transformation into a holiday honoring all American veterans in 1954. The author emphasizes that current celebrations fail to adequately recognize the contributions and sacrifices of African American service members who fought for their country despite facing systemic racism, segregation, and violence at home. The piece highlights numerous Black military heroes throughout American history, from Crispus Attucks in the Revolutionary War through modern generals like Colin Powell, documenting their extraordinary service and the injustices they endured. The author calls for African Americans to take special pride in remembering their community's military legacy on Veterans Day, ensuring these heroes are not forgotten amid parades and commercial activities.

The Justice Department has launched a federal investigation into whether Black Lives Matter Global Network Foundation leaders misused the tens of millions of dollars donated during the 2020 racial justice protests following George Floyd's murder. Federal investigators have recently issued subpoenas and executed at least one search warrant targeting the foundation and related Black-led organizations, though the probe began under the Biden administration before gaining renewed momentum under Trump. The foundation, which received over $90 million in donations in 2020, has faced ongoing criticism for lack of transparency, particularly after purchasing a $6 million Los Angeles property in 2022, though no previous investigations have proven wrongdoing. The investigation is being led from the Central District of California by Bill Essayli, a former Republican state assemblyman who previously called BLM a "radical organization" while in private practice. Civil rights groups have expressed concern that the Trump administration may be targeting progressive organizations critical of the president. # Key Takeaways

The San Diego Office of the City Clerk is organizing a Community Listening Session to gather public input on improving resident access to City Council agendas, notices, and municipal information. The event aims to identify barriers and opportunities for enhancing communication and civic participation in local government decision-making processes. During the session, attendees will learn about the City Clerk's responsibilities and available engagement tools like online agendas and virtual meeting options. City Clerk Fuentes emphasized that effective resources are meaningless if residents don't understand how to utilize them, making direct community feedback essential for improvement. # Key Takeaways

A South African court has overturned the official 1967 finding that anti-apartheid leader and Nobel Peace Prize winner Albert Luthuli died accidentally after being struck by a train. The new inquest, conducted more than fifty years after his death, determined that Luthuli was actually beaten to death, with evidence pointing to the apartheid government's notorious Special Branch police unit as likely responsible. This ruling is part of a broader government initiative to reexamine high-profile apartheid-era deaths that may have been covered up by authorities during white minority rule. The decision brings long-sought answers to a case that had been viewed with suspicion for decades, as Luthuli was a prominent ANC leader who advocated nonviolent resistance against apartheid. # Key Takeaways

Misty Copeland, the groundbreaking ballerina who became American Ballet Theatre's first Black woman principal dancer, is retiring after a distinguished career marked by both artistic excellence and social advocacy. Her final performance at a Fall Gala will feature tributes from Oprah Winfrey and Debbie Allen, with ABT offering free tickets to a simulcast for those unable to afford the $5,000 gala admission. Copeland's career, which began unusually late at age 13, broke numerous barriers as she rose through ABT's ranks while simultaneously becoming a cultural icon through collaborations with Prince, a bestselling memoir, and television appearances. Her visibility during a critical period when Black representation in ballet had diminished sparked important conversations about diversity and accessibility in the art form. Though significant progress has been made, with more Black ballerinas now achieving prominence in major companies, Copeland and others acknowledge that substantial work remains to eliminate barriers and "firsts" in professional ballet. # Key Takeaways

A new poll commissioned by the California Wellness Foundation reveals that Californians are deeply worried about healthcare affordability and accessibility, with nearly 90% wanting the next governor to prioritize caps on out-of-pocket medical expenses. The survey of 2,000 residents found that 72% fear they cannot afford to live in California long-term, while 57% express concern about how federal immigration enforcement is affecting healthcare decisions in their communities. Immigration-related fears are particularly acute among Latino communities in Los Angeles, where 60% report knowing someone facing financial hardship linked to immigration actions. Eleven philanthropic organizations have scheduled a November forum where gubernatorial candidates will discuss their healthcare priorities, with voters clearly seeking solutions for affordable housing, accessible mental health services, and manageable healthcare costs.

Governor Gavin Newsom vetoed Assembly Bill 62, legislation that would have created a pathway for Black families to seek compensation for property seized through racially motivated eminent domain in California. The bill, part of the California Legislative Black Caucus's reparations package, had passed both legislative chambers with strong support before reaching the governor's desk in September. Newsom justified his veto by claiming the state's Civil Rights Department lacks sufficient resources and expertise to handle property dispute adjudication. While families like the Fonzas and Bascianos expressed deep disappointment, some remain cautiously optimistic about recently passed Senate Bill 518, which establishes a Bureau for Descendants of American Slavery to address systemic discrimination. # Key Takeaways

San Diego County has launched a mobile vaccination initiative in collaboration with community health organizations to provide free immunization services throughout the region. The program eliminates financial barriers by offering vaccines at no cost to all residents, regardless of whether they have insurance coverage. Services are delivered through multiple channels including community events, school-based clinics, and home visits for eligible individuals. Residents can locate vaccination opportunities through the county's website, and several regional healthcare providers are participating in the program to expand access across different areas. # Key Takeaways

The federal government shutdown has entered its second month, leaving hundreds of thousands of workers without paychecks while a looming healthcare crisis threatens millions more Americans. The author argues that President Trump and Congress are allowing crucial Affordable Care Act tax credits to expire, which will cause premiums to skyrocket and result in over four million people losing health coverage entirely. Black Americans face disproportionate harm, as they could see uninsurance rates jump by 30 percent, reversing years of progress made since the ACA's implementation. The piece calls on political leaders to resolve both the shutdown and the healthcare funding crisis to protect working families from financial devastation. # Key Takeaways

Author Mary E. Gilders held a book launch event at the Elementary Institute of Science in San Diego on the third Saturday of October to promote her newest work, Lilbit (A Grandmother's Love Transcends). The book chronicles the special relationship between the author and her grandmother, who despite being petite in stature possessed a vibrant personality. Gilders, a Morse High School graduate, expressed gratitude to her San Diego community for nurturing her writing talents and credited the school's English department for inspiring many creative professionals. Longtime friends and supporters attended the signing event, with some having read her previous works including A Misrepresentation of Myself and Even A Man Can Have A Broken Heart. # Key Takeaways

The Cherish Moments Nonprofit Organization successfully hosted its third annual Health & Resource Fair on Friday, October 18th. The community event provided assistance and support to 75 families who attended. Multiple organizations participated as vendors at the fair, including healthcare institutions and advocacy groups focused on various health conditions. The event represented another year of the nonprofit's efforts to connect families with important community resources and support services. # Key Takeaways

The San Diego Tourism Authority has relaunched its Tourism Accelerator program, which provides substantial support to local tourism businesses owned by underrepresented individuals or those prioritizing environmental sustainability. Participants receive more than $15,000 worth of services, encompassing complimentary membership, mentorship opportunities, educational resources, and networking connections. The initiative seeks to promote greater inclusion and diversity within San Diego's tourism sector. Interested businesses must submit their applications by the November 20, 2025 deadline through the SDTA website. # Key Takeaways

The Skyline Jungle Boyz, a youth football team composed largely of first-time tackle football players, has achieved an exceptional season by preventing all opponents from scoring while leading their league in points. Through years of coaching and strong community support, these young athletes have developed into a dominant force that exemplifies discipline, teamwork, and unity. The team has now qualified to compete in a National Championship tournament in North Carolina, and organizers are working to ensure all 28 players can participate regardless of financial constraints. This accomplishment represents not only athletic success but also demonstrates how dedicated coaching and community involvement can create meaningful opportunities for young people beyond sports. # Key Takeaways

Joe Rush, a U.S. Army veteran who served in the Airborne Infantry until 1996, became a transformative leader at Dennis T. Williams Post 310 of the American Legion after joining in 1988. Serving as Commander for two terms, he spearheaded efforts to save the deteriorating post from eminent domain and secure its complete reconstruction. Through his leadership, Rush obtained $3 million in HUD funding, changed local zoning laws, and oversaw the development of veteran housing on the property. The rebuilt facility, renamed Lakiba N. Palmer Post 310 after an African-American servicewoman killed on the U.S.S. Cole, now includes over 40 apartments for veterans and stands as a testament to Rush's dedication to his fellow veterans and community.

San Diego County has rebranded and upgraded its emergency notification application from SD Emergency to Alert San Diego, offering enhanced safety features and improved accessibility for residents. The revamped platform integrates with AlertSanDiego.org to provide a centralized communication system that includes official emergency alerts, interactive mapping tools, and disaster preparedness information. Existing users must update their app within a 90-day window to maintain their notification services. The new version includes additional capabilities such as earthquake early warning systems, helicopter activity tracking, and improved features for people with disabilities. # Key Takeaways

The San Diego Workforce Partnership and the San Diego Policy & Innovation Center have created an interactive digital mapping tool to identify areas with limited workforce opportunities and available community resources. The map visualizes data on income, education, housing, and health while showing locations of career centers, schools, libraries, and public transportation. Analysis through this tool shows that approximately 25% of families reside in areas with significant needs and 30% face economic vulnerability. The mapping system also reveals that employment centers are concentrated near coastal regions and major highways, requiring lengthy commutes for many workers seeking jobs. # Key Takeaways

The NAACP and law firm Singleton Schreiber filed a lawsuit in January 2025 against Southern California Edison on behalf of Altadena residents affected by the Eaton Fire, which destroyed over 9,000 structures and caused an estimated $10-12 billion in damages. The plaintiffs allege that sparks from Edison's poorly maintained electrical equipment, including a decommissioned line unused for over 50 years, ignited the blaze that killed 19 people and devastated the historically Black community. Managing partner Gerald Singleton reports that cleanup is nearly complete and approximately 10% of homeowners have obtained rebuilding permits, though labor shortages are creating delays and increased costs. The consolidated legal cases are progressing toward a trial currently scheduled for January 2027, with attorneys requesting an earlier date to expedite mediation and settlements for the thousands of displaced residents. # Key Takeaways

New York Attorney General Tish James is facing arraignment in Norfolk, Virginia on a bank fraud charge, which her supporters claim is politically motivated retaliation by the Trump administration. James will request dismissal of the case, citing allegations that Trump-appointed interim U.S. Attorney Lindsey Halligan improperly communicated about the indictment. The charges appear to be retribution for James' three-year investigation into the Trump Organization that resulted in a civil fraud lawsuit against Trump and his children. Black women's groups and advocacy organizations are rallying in support of James both in Norfolk and at a planned Sunday event in New York.

Public murals across America are preserving and celebrating Black history despite ongoing attempts to erase it from mainstream education and discourse. Cities like Philadelphia, Baltimore, Los Angeles, Topeka, Birmingham, Jacksonville, and Washington D.C. feature powerful artistic works depicting Black historical figures, movements, and experiences. These murals, created by dedicated artists, serve as public reminders of Black contributions to American society and as forms of resistance against historical erasure. The artworks transcend decoration to become testimonials of Black resilience, achievement, and ongoing presence in American life, standing as defiant statements against efforts to silence or rewrite this essential history.

Russell Vought, Donald Trump's former budget director, has emerged as the power behind the White House according to a ProPublica investigation. As the principal author of Project 2025, Vought is implementing policies aimed at creating what he calls a "Christian nation" by consolidating control through the Office of Management and Budget. The investigation reveals he has blocked aid for disadvantaged communities, canceled education programs, and dismantled health and environmental protections while controlling federal spending. Vought's influence extends to replacing diversity initiatives with policies that many critics view as reinforcing racial hierarchies, with reports indicating he has already paused or canceled over $400 billion in funding for social programs.

The California Teachers Association (CTA) has endorsed Proposition 50, a redistricting initiative introduced by Governor Gavin Newsom, and is specifically targeting Black voters through legacy Black newspapers. CTA Secretary/Treasurer Erika Jones positions the initiative as a counter-response to concerning developments in states like Texas where education funding and voting rights face threats. Jones argues that federal dysfunction directly impacts California classrooms, potentially endangering $15 billion in federal assistance for education. Despite criticism from within Democratic circles about the ethics of using Prop. 50 as a political tool, the CTA is mobilizing educators and community members to support the initiative before the upcoming vote.

The United States is implementing significant changes to Social Security that may disproportionately impact Black Americans and other vulnerable populations. Beginning with the retirement age rising to 67 for those born in 1960 or later, the reforms also include stricter disability qualification rules and the elimination of paper checks as of September 30. According to research, these modifications will likely exacerbate existing racial disparities in Social Security benefits, as Black retirees already receive approximately 19 percent less than white retirees due to systemic inequities in wages, workforce participation, and life expectancy. Critics argue these changes continue a historical pattern of discrimination within the Social Security system, which originally excluded predominantly Black agricultural and domestic workers.

SD Melanin hosted its first "Blacktoberfest" event at S&S Friendly Ranch, San Diego's oldest Black-owned ranch, creating an atmosphere that combined HBCU homecoming spirit with West Coast culture. Attendees dressed in Western attire, enjoyed interacting with wildlife, listened to DJ Speakerboxx, participated in line dancing classes led by D'Bora, and supported Black-owned businesses selling culturally significant items. Founder Loren Cobbs emphasized the organization's mission to create safe, high-caliber experiences where the Black community can freely exist regardless of sexual orientation or gender identity. The choice of venue highlighted the importance of Black economic community, with S&S Friendly Ranch having been established in 1980 by siblings Sim and Sarah Wallace to maintain local partnerships and promote agricultural education.

The article discusses a conflict involving Paris Jackson, who has filed a legal challenge against her father Michael Jackson's estate, characterizing the executors as secretive and arrogant despite their success in transforming her father's $500 million debt into billions in assets. The piece contrasts Paris Jackson's privileged position—having received over $65 million from the estate and purchasing multiple homes—with the original Jackson family's struggles coming from Gary, Indiana. The author frames this situation as symbolic of a broader pattern where Black creation and labor ultimately benefits white heirs, noting that Paris's actions represent "the performance of privilege" while the original Jackson family members remain on the sidelines. The article contextualizes this family drama within America's racial wealth gap, where the median Black household holds significantly less wealth than white households.

The article criticizes what it views as authoritarian tendencies in the Trump administration and Speaker Mike Johnson's refusal to swear in a duly elected congressional representative from Arizona for over three weeks. The author draws parallels between biblical resistance (Joshua at Jericho) and current political opposition to Trump's policies. The piece calls for prayer, marching, and voting to counter perceived constitutional violations, specifically referencing Johnson's blocking of a representative who would likely sign the Discharge Petition regarding Epstein documents. The article concludes by urging political action, including supporting Democrats against healthcare cuts and voting for California's Proposition 50.

San Diego County's Community Assistance, Recovery and Empowerment (CARE) Act program is demonstrating growing success as it reaches its two-year anniversary. The voluntary treatment program for adults with untreated schizophrenia and other psychotic disorders has expanded from 71 CARE agreements in its first year to 149 agreements currently, with a total of 23 participants graduating, including 11 in a recent single-day celebration. The program enables participants to actively create their own recovery plans for mental health treatment and housing support through collaboration between County Behavioral Health Services, the Public Defender's Office, Superior Court, and other partners. Recent graduates celebrated their commitment and personal success in a courtroom ceremony marking their achievement.

Oakland community leaders unveiled a new mural titled "Together, We Rise" at Chinatown's Wilma Chan Park on October 16, marking the beginning of United Against Hate week (October 19-25). Created by the street art crew Illuminaries, the nearly 40-foot mural features a dragon called the "Oakness Monster" rising from Lake Merritt, symbolizing unity and multicultural harmony as California continues to face rising hate crimes. The project represents a collaborative effort between state agencies and local organizations in response to increasing hate crimes, which rose by 2.7% statewide between 2023 and 2024 according to Attorney General Rob Bonta's office. The mural's unveiling coincides with ongoing state initiatives to combat hate crimes, including the California Vs. Hate hotline launched in 2023.

The 20th Annual Taste of Soul festival on Crenshaw Boulevard in Los Angeles attracted over 300,000 attendees on October 18, 2024, featuring nearly 400 vendors including more than 100 food booths. The day before the festival, the City of Los Angeles honored founder Danny J. Bakewell Sr. by naming the intersection of Crenshaw and Obama boulevards after him, recognizing his contributions as a civil rights leader, businessman, and community builder. Beyond food, the event included health screenings, nonprofit services, political outreach, and entertainment across three stages featuring artists like Cameo and Karen Clark Sheard. The festival has grown into one of South Los Angeles' most significant economic events for small businesses, with many vendors using it as a stepping stone toward full-time entrepreneurship while celebrating Black culture and community unity.

The "No Kings" rally on October 18 drew tens of thousands of protesters in Los Angeles and millions nationwide to oppose what organizers describe as growing authoritarianism in the Trump administration. The Los Angeles demonstration maintained a festive atmosphere with costumed participants, despite House Speaker Mike Johnson labeling it a "hate America rally." Organizers reported approximately 300 rallies across California, with an estimated 4.2-7 million participants nationwide according to a crowdsourced study. A key focus of the protests was support for Proposition 50, a ballot initiative that would temporarily redraw California's congressional districts to favor Democrats in response to alleged gerrymandering in Texas.

The U.S. Supreme Court is hearing arguments in Louisiana v. Callais, a case that could determine whether Section 2 of the Voting Rights Act remains constitutional and continues to protect against racial discrimination in voting. Simultaneously, North Carolina Republicans are proposing redistricting maps that would reduce minority voter influence while strengthening GOP control. Louisiana's legal team argues that the Constitution should be color-blind regarding voters, while voting rights advocates warn that overturning Section 2 protections could eliminate up to 19 congressional seats currently protected by the Voting Rights Act and significantly impact the Congressional Black Caucus. The Democratic Legislative Campaign Committee has launched DemsOnRedistricting.com to fund efforts fighting against Republican gerrymandering in battleground states.

Terra Industries, a Nigerian robotics startup founded in 2024 by Maxwell Maduka and Nathan Nwachuku, is developing AI-powered drones and autonomous security systems to protect Africa's critical infrastructure from attacks. The company operates Africa's largest drone factory outside Abuja, capable of producing 30,000 drones annually, and recently secured a $1.2 million contract to deploy surveillance systems at Nigerian hydroelectric plants. Terra's approach involves manufacturing most components in-house and partnering with local cloud platforms to maintain data sovereignty while offering solutions up to 55% cheaper than international competitors. The company has expanded to eight African countries and Canada, protecting an estimated $11 billion worth of assets including power plants, mines, and oil refineries.

Rising grocery prices are disproportionately impacting low-income Black Americans in San Diego, with food costs climbing dramatically compared to two decades ago. According to Dr. Sally Sadoff from UC San Diego, lower-income families now spend an increasing portion of their income on food, creating significant financial strain. The price surge is attributed to supply chain disruptions, stagnating wages, and high inflation rates, with economists noting that residents in food deserts are particularly affected. Data shows Black children are twice as likely to face hunger with 27% living in food-insecure households, which directly impacts their educational outcomes and future opportunities.

Last Sunday at Shelley White Little League Baseball Field in Southcrest park, community volunteers including children participated in a beautification project that involved planting flowers around the field's perimeter and removing graffiti from storage facilities. Organized by Dwayne Hill and his team, the "White's Legacy Rose Bush planting and pruning community beautification event" provided volunteers with food and refreshments as compensation for their efforts. The project not only improved the historic location but also taught young participants about community service and giving back, with volunteers like Philliys Swanigan noting the educational value for children. Middle school student Richard Thomas and his sister Nyoah expressed their enjoyment in helping others through this community service initiative.

The "NO KINGS" March in San Diego on October 18th gathered an estimated 82,289 residents in a peaceful protest supporting democracy and opposing Donald Trump's perceived authoritarian threats. Organized by various civil advocacy groups including the San Diego and Imperial Counties Labor Council and Activist San Diego, the demonstration continued a nationwide series of pro-democracy gatherings that have been occurring throughout the year. While Black participation appeared limited at the downtown event, those who attended emphasized the importance of solidarity across different communities in the current political climate. Some African American participants expressed concerns about division within San Diego's Black community and reflected on the city's changing political landscape over the decades.

The U.S. Navy was established on October 13, 1775, when the Continental Congress authorized America's first naval force, predating the Declaration of Independence by 101 days. Initially created to defend against approaching British naval forces during the American Revolution, the Continental Navy quickly expanded with purchased ships and appointed leadership including Commander in Chief Esek Hopkins and lieutenants like John Paul Jones. Though temporarily disbanded after the Revolution, the Navy was later reestablished through the Naval Act of 1794 and has evolved from its humble beginnings into today's global maritime force while maintaining its core mission of safeguarding America's interests across the seas. On its 249th birthday, the article celebrates the Navy's unique operational domain and its historical legacy of innovation, courage, and perseverance.

The ongoing federal government shutdown has created a vacuum of official economic data, as the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics can no longer publish its monthly employment report. Private firms including ADP, Bank of America, Goldman Sachs, and Carlyle have stepped in with their own analyses, collectively indicating job losses and a cooling labor market. ADP reported 32,000 private-sector jobs lost in September, with the heaviest losses in manufacturing, construction, and professional services, particularly affecting the Midwest region. Adding to the crisis, a memo from the Office of Management and Budget suggests that furloughed federal workers may not receive back pay once the shutdown ends, contradicting the 2019 Government Employee Fair Treatment Act and creating further hardship for the approximately 49,000 District residents who are federally employed.

Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) has dramatically increased arrests of undocumented immigrants, with a 1,100 percent rise in noncriminal immigrant detentions since 2017, targeting approximately 3,800 individuals weekly by June 2025. Despite political rhetoric claiming undocumented immigrants burden American taxpayers, data from the Cato Institute shows these immigrants contributed $96.7 billion in taxes in 2022 alone, including $25.7 billion to Social Security they cannot access, while paying a higher effective state and local tax rate (8.9%) than the top 1% of U.S. earners. The 2025 tax and budget law has further restricted benefits, stripping health coverage from 1.4 million lawfully present immigrants, including refugees and asylees, despite fact-checking by NBC News and NPR confirming undocumented immigrants do not qualify for Medicaid or Affordable Care Act tax credits. Research indicates less than 6% of immigrants detained by ICE had violent convictions, with over 70% of those arrested in Los Angeles having no criminal record whatsoever.

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has officially stopped recommending COVID-19 vaccines for all Americans, adopting recommendations from a new advisory group appointed by Health Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. This represents a significant shift from previous guidance that recommended annual COVID-19 boosters for everyone aged 6 months and older. Instead, the CDC now states that Americans should make their own vaccination decisions, preferably in consultation with healthcare providers. This policy change was announced on October 6 and endorsed by Jim O'Neill, the acting CDC director, who framed it as restoring "informed consent" - a characterization that some doctors have disputed.

Dr. Lorraine Bonner, a retired physician, presents her concept of "Liberatory Health," which integrates traditional western medicine with mindfulness and alternative approaches like meditation and guided imagery. Throughout her medical career, she treated conditions such as hypertension and diabetes while incorporating relaxation techniques and addressing root causes of illness rather than just symptoms. Dr. Bonner believes that illness stems from larger societal issues and coping mechanisms, advocating for community involvement as a pathway to collective well-being. She encourages people to connect with community helpers who are already working toward liberation through various forms of service and activism.

A groundbreaking exhibition at London's Tate Modern titled "Nigerian Modernism" is showcasing over 250 works by more than 50 Nigerian artists, highlighting their significant but often overlooked contributions to modern art. The exhibition traces the development of modern Nigerian art from the 1940s through the colonial period, independence in 1960, and into the postcolonial era of the 1970s and 1980s. Notable featured artists include Ben Enwonwu, who gained international recognition while incorporating his Igbo heritage into his work, and Ladi Kwali, a pioneering female ceramicist who blended traditional techniques with modern training. This exhibition is part of a growing international recognition of African artists' contributions to modernism, reflected in both increased institutional attention and rising commercial interest.

San Diego County is hosting two free flu vaccine events open to all residents regardless of insurance status, as the 2025-26 flu season begins with two recorded deaths already. Last season saw nearly 40,000 flu cases in San Diego County—the highest in five years—resulting in 220 deaths, including seven children, compared to 63 deaths the previous season. Health officials emphasize that the flu vaccine is safe, effective, and particularly important for high-risk groups like older adults and young children. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommends everyone six months and older get vaccinated, ideally before holiday gatherings when the virus spreads quickly.

The Amazing Grace & Resource Fair event, held on September 30, 2025, at the Christian Fellowship Congregational Church, successfully brought together pastors, community members, and San Diego County officials to address high substance overdose death rates. The event was organized by the Amazing Grace Subcommittee, which was formed to tackle overdose deaths particularly affecting African American, Hispanic, and Native American communities in San Diego County. Following a "Train the Trainer" event for pastors on July 30th, 2025, the initiative expanded to congregations in September, with the resource fair featuring speakers including Rev. Dr. Art Cribbs, Jr., District Attorney Summer Stephan, and Public Health Officer Dr. Seyone Thihalolipavan. The event's goal was to combat the substance overdose crisis through prayer, education, awareness, and training.

A ProPublica investigation reveals how insurance companies across America are denying necessary medical care to patients, leaving families devastated and struggling to navigate complex appeal processes. The Affordable Care Act expanded the right to external appeals, but these protections remain uneven across states with many patients unaware of their options. State-based consumer assistance programs have become crucial resources for patients fighting denials, though only about 30 states operate such programs, leaving millions without adequate support. Experts emphasize the importance of persistence in appealing denials, as independent reviewers can overturn insurance companies' decisions and force payment for care, though the system remains difficult to navigate with information about appeals often buried in confusing denial letters.

The Ebony Pearls Foundation of San Diego Inc., in collaboration with Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority's Epsilon Xi Omega Chapter, recently hosted their 7th Annual Ivies & Vines Soiree at the Optimist Club in Vista, CA. The Western-themed fundraising event featured various activities including line dancing, wine tasting, live entertainment, a fashion show, and a silent auction. Judge John Houston received the Community Impact Award for his community service dedication, while foundation president Mary Castleberry emphasized that funds raised support local initiatives including the Ebony Pearls Youth Leadership Academy, College Scholarships, Childhood Hunger, and Social Justice programs. Chapter President Deborah Davis-Gillespie noted that all proceeds would directly benefit the San Diego community.

The 68th Monterey Jazz Festival (MJF) successfully fulfilled its original mission by bringing together diverse jazz talents across five stages at the Monterey County Fairgrounds. The festival featured renowned veterans including Gregory Porter, Dianne Reeves, and Carmen Lundy alongside emerging artists like Dominique Fils-Aimé, Ledisi, and Grace Kelly. Performances ranged from Mississippi blues by Mr. Sipp to New Orleans-style celebrations with Trombone Shorty, while also showcasing young musicians through the Next Generation Jazz Orchestra and Women in Jazz Combo. The event created a communal experience that continues to attract returning attendees like San Diegans Cathy and Dan Funk, who particularly enjoyed the live music, ambiance, and opportunities to interact with performers.

The California Black Freedom Fund, launched in 2020 following George Floyd's murder, is transitioning from a five-year initiative to a permanent institution with plans for a $200 million endowment. Recently renamed the Black Freedom Fund to reflect its national expansion, the organization has raised over $97 million and distributed $45 million to 206 California nonprofits supporting Black communities. Executive Director Marc Philpart emphasizes that the endowment will enable sustainable annual grants of $10 million while providing consistent support beyond crisis moments when philanthropic attention typically wanes. This expansion occurs amid political challenges from the Trump administration, which has targeted race-based grant making, though Philpart reports this opposition has actually strengthened donor commitment to the cause.

of "The King of Reality TV: Carlos King's Impact on Unscripted Television" Carlos King has established himself as a dominant force in Black unscripted television through his production company Kingdom Reign Entertainment, which creates approximately 60% of OWN's original programming. Known as the "King of Reality TV," King has developed successful franchises including "Love & Marriage" and "Belle Collective" that showcase compelling stories from cities beyond the typical coastal media hubs like Huntsville, Detroit, and Jackson. His multifaceted career spans production, podcasting with "Reality with the King," and on-camera hosting, all while emphasizing ownership and authentic storytelling. As an openly gay Black man, King has navigated industry challenges by transforming potential disadvantages into strengths, focusing on finding unique angles and authentic casts to create successful reality television.

Sean "Diddy" Combs has been sentenced to 50 months in prison and fined $500,000 after being convicted of transporting people across state lines for prostitution. Judge Arun Subramanian emphasized that the sentence aims to demonstrate that violence against women faces "real accountability," though he deemed the prosecutors' requested 11-year sentence "not reasonable." During the trial, multiple victims testified about enduring physical beatings, sexual coercion, and professional retaliation from Combs, with singer Cassie Ventura Fine describing being forced to participate in "freak offs" involving male escorts while under the influence of drugs. Combs' conviction follows other high-profile entertainment industry cases including R. Kelly and Harvey Weinstein, though his legal team has reportedly approached the Trump administration about a potential pardon.

Gen Z's credit scores have experienced the largest year-over-year decline among all age groups, dropping three points to 676 compared to the national average decrease of two points to 715, according to a new FICO report. This decline is primarily attributed to the resumption of student loan delinquency reporting, with 34% of Gen Z consumers having open student loans versus 17% of the total population. Following the end of pandemic-related federal student loan payment pauses and grace periods, young consumers are struggling to make timely payments amid economic challenges including high inflation and a tough job market. Lower credit scores create significant obstacles for Gen Z by making it more difficult or expensive to access various financial services like car loans, mortgages, and credit cards.

NPR's Morning Edition recently aired a StoryCorps interview with Dr. John Warren, the publisher of San Diego Voice & Viewpoint. The interview is available for listening on both the NPR website and the StoryCorps website. The article encourages readers to access the interview through provided links to hear Dr. Warren share his story. The publisher expresses gratitude to the readership for their support and connection to Dr. Warren, his family, and the San Diego Voice & Viewpoint newspaper.

Acclaimed Nigerian author Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie has released "Dream Count," her first novel in over a decade, following a prolonged period of writer's block and depression triggered by personal tragedies including her father's kidnapping, the loss of both parents, and the challenges of motherhood. During this creative drought, Adichie turned to poetry as a lifeline to maintain her connection to writing, while also filling her schedule with speaking engagements in hopes of rekindling inspiration. Her new novel explores the interconnected lives of four African women during the COVID-19 pandemic and reflects a more expansive, indulgent writing style compared to her earlier works, influenced by her renewed appreciation for poetry and perspective on life's brevity.

Lenny Kravitz will star in the opening segment for NBC's "Sunday Night Basketball" coverage, as announced by the network on Monday. The four-time Grammy winner's opening segment will debut on February 1 before a doubleheader featuring the Lakers vs. Knicks and Oklahoma City vs. Denver. The opening was shot in Philadelphia with Tripp Dixon, the same NBC sports creative director who has worked with Carrie Underwood on the NFL's opening for 13 seasons. NBC is returning to NBA game coverage this season for the first time since the 2001-02 season, with broadcasts beginning October 21 and including 11 "Sunday Night Basketball" games.

South African Ambassador to France Nkosinathi Emmanuel "Nathi" Mthethwa was found dead in the courtyard of the Hyatt hotel in Paris after sending a message to his wife expressing his intention to end his life. The 58-year-old diplomat had checked into a room on the 22nd floor of the hotel about 10 days prior, with his body being discovered by a security guard the morning after his wife reported him missing. Paris prosecutors noted the window's safety mechanism had been forced open with scissors and found no signs of struggle, medication, or narcotics, though an investigation will be conducted to understand the facts. Both South Africa's Foreign Minister Ronald Lamola and President Cyril Ramaphosa issued statements of condolence, recognizing Mthethwa's service to the nation in various capacities.

The United States has recently expanded its third-country deportation program, with 10 more migrants arriving in Eswatini on October 6, bringing the total African deportations since July to over 40. These deportations are part of largely secretive agreements between the U.S. and at least five African nations, which have drawn protests from rights groups. Four previous deportees to Eswatini have been held in a maximum-security prison without charges for nearly three months, while Human Rights Watch revealed the U.S. will pay Eswatini $5.1 million to accept up to 160 deportees. Similar controversial deportation arrangements exist with South Sudan, Rwanda, Ghana, and potentially Uganda, with several deportees now pursuing legal action against their detainment conditions.

Mary Ann Shadd, born in Delaware in 1823, was an influential abolitionist who advocated for Black emigration to Canada during the 1850s. She established The Provincial Freeman newspaper in Ontario, where she championed racial and gender equality, before later returning to the United States after the Civil War. Eugene Jacques Bullard, born in Georgia in 1895, became the first African American combat pilot while serving with French forces during World War I, after facing racial barriers in America. Milton "Bags" Jackson, a renowned jazz vibraphonist born in 1923, co-founded the Modern Jazz Quartet and created enduring compositions like "Bag's Groove" before his death from liver cancer in 1999.

of the Article California homelessness agencies are bracing for significant federal funding cuts from the Trump administration that would drastically reduce money available for permanent housing solutions. The administration reportedly plans to redirect funding from permanent housing to temporary shelter, capping permanent housing funding at just 30% of total homelessness funds compared to the current 87%. Counties throughout California are panicking as they may lose hundreds of millions of dollars, potentially forcing thousands of vulnerable residents out of subsidized housing and back onto the streets. Local agencies are holding emergency meetings and already scaling back services in anticipation of these cuts, which would severely undermine recent progress in addressing California's homelessness crisis.

California Attorney General Rob Bonta has filed a lawsuit against the City of El Cajon for allegedly violating state law by sharing automated license plate reader (ALPR) data with law enforcement agencies in over two dozen states. The lawsuit highlights concerns about privacy and safety for immigrants and women seeking reproductive care, as California loses oversight of how this data is used once it leaves the state. El Cajon Mayor Bill Wells defends the city's practices as legally sound and necessary for crime-fighting efforts across state lines, dismissing concerns about potential misuse of the data as "ludicrous." This legal action comes as Governor Gavin Newsom recently vetoed a bill that would have further regulated ALPR technology, siding with law enforcement arguments that stricter regulations could impede criminal investigations.

The California Legislature has sent several bills to Governor Newsom for consideration, including legislation on regulating chatbots which have become integral to daily activities from banking to online shopping. Two specific bills, SB243 by Senator Padilla and AB1064 by Assembly Member Bauer-Kahan, aim to regulate chatbots to protect children, though the article argues that AB1064's approach could effectively ban useful chatbot technologies in healthcare and education. The author contends that while regulation and accountability are necessary, AB1064's restrictive framework would isolate California while other states and countries continue advancing chatbot technology. The article concludes by urging Governor Newsom to veto AB1064 and instead pursue balanced regulation that protects Californians without eliminating beneficial chatbot applications.

The United Domestic Workers Union (UDW) hosted a breakfast event for local pastors to build support for Proposition 50, also known as the Election Rigging Response Act. The proposition, sponsored by California's governor and passed by the legislature, would temporarily modify congressional districts to counter redistricting efforts in Texas that would increase Republican representation in the House. California Secretary of State Dr. Shirley Weber and Assemblymember Dr. LaShae Sharp-Collins emphasized the importance of voting in the November 4, 2025 special election. UDW, with over 200,000 members who could be affected by potential program cuts, presented the proposition as an opportunity to potentially flip control of the House of Representatives.

The McChrystal Group's 132-page After-Action Review examining emergency response during the Eaton and Palisades fires in Los Angeles County has provoked strong reactions from Altadena residents and officials. Released on September 25 and presented to the LA County Board of Supervisors on September 30, the report identified "compounding weaknesses" in emergency systems rather than a single point of failure, highlighting issues like delayed evacuation warnings, poor infrastructure, and inadequate communication systems. Altadena residents, particularly from the predominantly Black community, claim they received less urgent emergency response compared to the Palisades area, with many survivors and County Supervisor Kathryn Barger expressing frustration that the report raises more questions than it answers. While the Board moved to accept the recommendations, additional investigations are underway by Governor Newsom's office, with fire victims calling for Attorney General Rob Bonta to investigate further.

The Old Globe Theater has renamed its technical center after Rosemary Pope, the Executive Director of the George L. Stevens Fourth District Seniors Resource Center, honoring her longtime community leadership in southeastern San Diego. At the October 6 ceremony, Pope was celebrated by various community and political leaders including Mayor Todd Gloria, Secretary of State Dr. Shirley Weber, and County Supervisor Monica Montgomery Steppe. The newly named Ms. Rosemary Pope Technical Center will host the Old Globe's community programs for people of all ages. Pope, who began her partnership with the Globe 15 years ago, expressed joy at receiving this recognition during her lifetime, calling it a "beautiful day."

The Valencia Park Hornets Pop Warner football teams played their first home games of the season, winning 2 out of 3 contests against Oceanside and Temecula teams, with their Flag football team also securing a victory at another location. The once-dominant Hornets organization is working to regain its former reputation of excellence that it maintained from the 1960s through the mid-2020s. Under President David Dunn's leadership and with Vice President Dwayne Harvey emphasizing the need for community involvement, the association is striving for a comeback with its four competitive teams. Key players like Jadiel Marcelino, Alexander Mecardo, Ethen Harper, and Giovanni Brown contributed to the 11-U team's victory, while the undefeated 13-U team is considered the best Pop Warner team in San Diego.

The article addresses the mental health crisis among Black women, prompted by the deaths of beauty pageant contestants Tyra Spaulding and Cheslie Kryst who struggled with mental illness despite outward success. It highlights how Black women often shoulder multiple burdens while ignoring their own mental health needs due to stigma and societal expectations of strength. The African American Wellness Project (AAWP) offers resources specifically designed for Black women's mental health needs through their Mental Health Resource Hub. The article emphasizes that depression requires proper care like any physical illness and encourages Black women to seek help through resources like the Suicide & Crisis Lifeline.

Sean "Diddy" Combs received a 50-month sentence for confessed violent behavior against women, despite being acquitted of racketeering and sex trafficking charges. The article criticizes the justice system for allowing prosecutors to reference acquitted charges when determining Combs' punishment, suggesting this represents a constitutional violation and reflects racial inequity. The author draws attention to the apparent disparity between Combs' treatment and that of white offenders who received lighter sentences for similar or worse offenses. While the judge acknowledged Combs' good works including his Black-owned businesses and educational initiatives, these achievements were ultimately outweighed by his admitted harmful actions.

The Evangelical Lutheran Church in America (ELCA) made history by installing the Rev. Yehiel Curry as its first Black presiding bishop during a ceremony at Central Lutheran Church in Minneapolis on October 5, 2023. Curry, formerly the bishop of the Metropolitan Chicago Synod, succeeds Rev. Elizabeth Eaton who served for 12 years as the denomination's first female leader. Taking the helm of a denomination that is over 95% white, Curry faces challenges including declining membership and navigating theological differences. His background includes growing up Catholic in Chicago before becoming involved with Shekinah Chapel, an ELCA congregation, where he transitioned from lay leadership to ordination in 2009.

Governor Gavin Newsom recently signed Assembly Bill 288, authored by Assemblymember Tina McKinnor, which strengthens labor protections in California by allowing workers to bring cases to the state's Public Employment Relations Board when the federal National Labor Relations Board fails to act. The new law establishes a PERB Enforcement Fund supported by civil penalties collected from employers who violate labor laws, ensuring resources for enforcement. Labor leaders have praised this legislation as the most significant labor law reform in nearly a century, with California Federation of Labor Unions President Lorena Gonzalez noting it frees workers from relying on what they consider a failing federal agency. The bill is positioned as a direct response to perceived weakening of worker protections at the federal level.

Sean "Diddy" Combs is facing sentencing for two federal prostitution-related charges, potentially receiving up to 10 years in prison per count after being convicted of transporting former girlfriends to participate in drug-fueled sexual encounters called "Freak Offs." While a jury acquitted him of more serious racketeering conspiracy and sex trafficking charges that carried a possible life sentence, prosecutors are seeking over 11 years imprisonment, arguing Combs showed no remorse and abused girlfriends and employees for years. Combs' defense team is requesting a sentence of no more than 14 months (essentially time served), and he submitted a letter expressing remorse for violent behavior while pleading for mercy ahead of Judge Subramanian's decision. His family is expected to attend the sentencing hearing where both sides will present their recommendations, and at least one former employee has been granted permission to speak at the proceedings.

A significant fire erupted at Chevron's El Segundo refinery near Los Angeles when a jet fuel production unit exploded Thursday evening, creating visible flames and smoke. Firefighters have successfully contained the blaze, with no injuries reported among refinery personnel and contractors. City officials have confirmed there are no current evacuation orders or public threats, while the cause of the explosion remains under investigation. The refinery, Chevron's second-largest in the US, normally produces 285,000 barrels of crude oil daily and supplies 20% of motor vehicle fuels and 40% of jet fuel consumed in southern California.

of African Leaders at the UN General Assembly African leaders addressed the United Nations General Assembly on global issues including climate change, inequality, and international conflicts like the Gaza situation, but gave minimal attention to significant African conflicts. Despite wars in Sudan and Congo having killed thousands and created humanitarian crises, these conflicts received little substantive attention in African leaders' speeches. Analysts note this reflects limitations in African institutions and a reluctance to prioritize African issues on the global stage. Meanwhile, external powers including the US, UAE, Saudi Arabia, and Egypt are leading peace negotiations for these African conflicts, highlighting the limited leverage of African institutions in regional conflict resolution.

The article warns that America is experiencing internal destruction similar to Rome's downfall. It points to concerning actions including the Secretary of Defense's meeting with military leaders, Trump's comments about deploying military to cities, the government shutdown over budget disagreements, and the undermining of federal agencies. The author argues these developments are part of a deliberate plan to dismantle American democracy from within. As a response, the article urges readers to pray, register voters during protests, support redistricting proposals like California's Proposition 50, and actively vote to regain Democratic control of the House of Representatives.

In response to historic federal funding cuts affecting critical services in San Diego County, local philanthropic organizations have launched "United for San Diego," a collaborative relief effort. The Prebys Foundation, Price Philanthropies, San Diego Foundation, and the Price family have collectively pledged $70 million to help maintain access to food, housing, and healthcare for vulnerable residents. This initiative comes as over 400,000 San Diegans risk losing healthcare access and 100,000 face food assistance cuts due to approximately $300 million in federal funding reductions. Community leaders from grassroots organizations have expressed hope that this unprecedented philanthropic collaboration will effectively support smaller, trusted organizations already serving those in need.

Sean "Diddy" Combs faces sentencing after his July conviction on prostitution-related charges under the Mann Act for arranging paid sexual encounters between his girlfriends and male sex workers. Prosecutors have requested at least 11 years and 3 months imprisonment, citing his serious crimes and the traumatic impact on his victims, including former girlfriends who testified about being forced to participate in drug-fueled sexual events that Combs often filmed. Despite his defense attorneys requesting no more than 14 months imprisonment and claiming he has changed during his detention, prosecutors characterized Combs as "unrepentant" and attempting to shift blame to his victims. Combs has remained jailed since his conviction, with sentencing scheduled for Friday.

The Future Waves Conference 2025, themed around Afrofuturism and global futures, took place in Dakar, Senegal from September 11-17, bringing together scholars, artists, and thought leaders from across the globe. Hosted at multiple venues including Cheikh Anta Diop University, Artiste Du Daanu Dakar cultural center, and the Axil Hotel, the conference featured keynote speeches, panel discussions, performances, and collaborative sessions exploring how creativity, technology, and heritage can shape equitable futures. Participants from countries including the USA, Senegal, Germany, Colombia, and Botswana engaged in discussions on topics such as "Africana Futures," "AI and Ancestral Intelligence," and Afrofuturist storytelling. The multi-disciplinary event celebrated Black creativity and speculative vision while connecting ancestral wisdom with contemporary innovation, establishing Dakar as a hub for cultural exchange and forward-thinking dialogue.

REKRE8 Universal recently hosted the "We Can Make It Fashion Show" at Jacobs Amphitheater on Euclid Ave in San Diego, an event dedicated to celebrating local youth while honoring Ruby Barnard's legacy. The show featured young models from REKRE8 Universal and Princess Academy, alongside various performances including musical acts, dance routines, and cultural presentations. Community involvement extended beyond the stage with Kid Entrepreneurs showcasing their ideas, community organizations like Sharia's Closet inviting volunteer participation, and local food vendors enhancing the festive atmosphere. The successful event highlighted the importance of community collaboration, with support from partners including Princess Magazine, Del Mar Solutions, Lincoln High Media Department, and other talented contributors.

The San Diego History Center has launched a new exhibition called "San Diego's Lost Neighborhoods" in partnership with the San Diego African American Museum (SDAAMFA) and with assistance from UC San Diego students. This immersive presentation, which opened on September 25 at Balboa Park, examines how discriminatory housing practices like redlining and infrastructure development displaced predominantly Black communities throughout San Diego County. Using oral histories, archival materials, and augmented reality, the exhibition explores the histories of several neighborhoods including Julian, City Heights, and La Jolla. Executive Director Gaidi Finnie explains that the exhibition aims to reveal stories of families, businesses, and cultures destroyed in the name of progress that powerful interests attempted to conceal.

The Friends of the Malcolm X Library, a nonprofit volunteer organization, hosted the Malcolm X Library Gift Day and Soiree on September 20, 2025, celebrating the civil rights leader's 100th birthday. The community gathering featured live music, art exhibits, vendors, and a silent auction in the library's parking lot in San Diego. This free outdoor "Family Fun Day" highlighted the unique status of the Malcolm X Library as the only one of its kind in the nation dedicated to preserving Malcolm X's legacy. The library serves as a community hub offering workshops, performances, and resources that foster connection and inspiration for local residents.

Global Citizen exceeded its fundraising goals for Amazon rainforest protection, African energy access, and community education at its annual Central Park music festival headlined by Shakira and Cardi B. The event, attended by over 60,000 people, featured international celebrities and diplomats appealing to the crowd between musical performances. Significant financial commitments were secured, including more than $638 million from the EU for climate-friendly energy production in Africa and over $280 million for Amazon rainforest protection. Throughout the festival, performers and speakers emphasized that everyday citizens can influence world leaders and create meaningful change when united in purpose.

The Young and Prosperous program hosted a two-hour Silent Auction event on September 25, 2025, in San Diego, bringing together community members, sponsors, and youth advocates. The evening featured a welcome introduction by Tamara, sponsor recognition by Hope, and a Youth Recognitions segment led by Ana and Tamara honoring thirteen student standouts. Following a networking session and the silent auction, which closed at 7 p.m. with results announced shortly after, the event concluded with Tamara's closing remarks about upcoming events and ways to support the program.

The California Department of Housing & Community Development (HCD) is launching two new assistance programs through ReCoverCA to help residents affected by the 2023-2024 floods. The Single-Family Housing Rehabilitation/Reconstruction (SFRR) program will provide funding to repair, rebuild, or reconstruct damaged primary residences for eligible homeowners in federally designated Most Impacted and Distressed Areas. Additionally, the Disaster Recovery Homebuyer Assistance Program (DR-HBA) will offer up to $300,000 in second mortgage loans, forgiven after five years, to help low and moderate-income residents purchase homes in safer areas starting November 10, 2025. Both programs have specific eligibility requirements, including proof of flood damage and location requirements, with the DR-HBA program prioritizing impacted households during the first 60 days of applications.

Recent research reveals that approximately 88 percent of our daily behaviors are performed habitually with minimal conscious thought. The study, conducted by researchers from three universities across multiple countries, tracked 105 participants for a week and discovered that 65 percent of actions were "habitually instigated" by environmental cues rather than deliberate decisions. The research distinguished between habitual instigation (automatically starting an action) and habitual execution (carrying out an activity without thinking), finding that demographics generally didn't affect how automatic people's behaviors were, with exercise being a notable exception. Importantly, the study found that most automatic behaviors aligned with personal goals, with only 17 percent of habitual actions contradicting what people consciously wanted to do.

Eleven West African deportees from the U.S. were sent to their home countries by Ghana over the weekend despite ongoing legal challenges and safety concerns. The deportees, who were part of a group of 14 immigrants initially sent to Ghana, had filed a lawsuit seeking release, with eight claiming they faced risks of torture or persecution in their home countries. Their lawyer, Oliver Barker-Vormawor, stated that the deportations occurred hurriedly to circumvent their court case, and some deportees have gone into hiding for safety reasons after arriving in their countries of origin. The deportations are part of the Trump administration's controversial program that has been criticized by human rights experts who question whether proper screening protocols for asylum-seekers are being followed.

The recent CFO Survey by Duke University and Federal Reserve Banks reveals that tariffs are responsible for approximately one-third of company price increases in 2024, contradicting former President Trump's claims that his trade policies aren't causing inflation. Business executives report that tariff impacts will persist, accounting for about a quarter of price increases in 2025, and likely continuing into 2026 and 2027. The survey indicates companies are passing significant portions of tariff costs to consumers, with nearly one-quarter of businesses planning to reduce spending due to these trade policies. Despite some improvement in overall economic outlook among CFOs, tariffs and trade policy remain their top concern for the third consecutive quarter.

Medi-Cal, California's Medicaid program serving over one-third of the state including 1.6 million undocumented residents, is implementing significant changes from 2026 through 2028 due to state budget cuts and federal legislation. These changes include freezing new enrollments for full-scope Medi-Cal for undocumented adults starting January 2026, ending routine dental coverage for undocumented adults in July 2026, and introducing a $30 monthly premium requirement beginning July 2027. Additional changes include work requirements for adults aged 19-64, twice-yearly renewals for certain members, copayments for some services, and reinstated asset limits primarily affecting older adults and those with disabilities. The Department of Health Care Services (DHCS) is working to minimize the impact of these changes through automation and advance notifications, as up to 3.4 million members could potentially lose coverage.

Judge Roderick Shelton made history on September 17th, 2025, becoming the first African American elected as Assistant Presiding Judge of the San Diego Superior Court, shortly after being elected President of the Association of African American California Judicial Officers (AAACJO). Before this achievement, Judge Shelton was elected to the bench in 2016, replacing retired Judge Joe O. Littlejohn, and has presided over various courts including domestic violence, arraignments, family law, and juvenile justice. His professional background includes service with both the San Diego County District Attorney's Office and as a Public Defender. Judge Shelton is one of just 13 African American sitting judges in San Diego County, and his election as Assistant Presiding Judge could position him to potentially become San Diego's first African American Presiding Judge in one of the nation's three largest court systems.

The San Diego community is mourning the death of Pastor Glenn A. McKinney, Sr., who served as Pastor of St. Stephen's Cathedral Church of God In Christ for four years after succeeding his father, Bishop George D. McKinney. During his brief tenure, Pastor McKinney made significant improvements to the church, including renovating the sanctuary and installing a handicap-accessible ramp, which contributed to the church's growth. As Deputy Adjutant General to the Church Triumphant within the Church of God In Christ denomination, he was following his father's distinguished legacy and was known for his community bridge-building efforts, recently hosting a Black and Jewish Clergy Luncheon. Pastor McKinney passed away just before his October 20th birthday, leaving behind his wife, three children, and a grieving church family.

President Trump's administration has implemented severe measures against federal workers, removing approximately 300,000 employees (1 in 8) in the largest single-year reduction since World War II. In March, the administration stripped nearly one million federal workers of collective bargaining rights, followed by canceling union contracts for about 450,000 workers across multiple departments before Labor Day. These actions disproportionately impact Black Americans, who make up nearly 20% of the federal workforce compared to 12% of the civilian workforce overall. The labor movement is fighting back through worker organization and supporting the Protect America's Workforce Act, a bipartisan bill that would overturn Trump's executive orders against unions.

California's legislature has passed Assembly Bill (AB) 247, authored by Assemblymember Isaac Bryan, which would significantly increase pay for incarcerated firefighters from roughly $1 per hour to the federal minimum wage of $7.25 per hour during active fire incidents. The bill received unanimous bipartisan support in both the Assembly and Senate, with lawmakers acknowledging the critical and dangerous work performed by incarcerated individuals through the Conservation Camp Program. The legislation, which awaits Governor Gavin Newsom's signature, includes an emergency clause for immediate implementation and builds upon existing benefits for incarcerated firefighters who contributed 42% of total emergency response hours in 2024. A related bill, AB 812, which would require CDCR to create regulations for referring incarcerated firefighters to courts for resentencing, has also passed the legislature.

The Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc., Zeta Sigma Lambda Chapter and the Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc., Epsilon XI Omega Chapter hosted a community discussion at the Southeastern Live Well Center last Saturday featuring five African American local elected officials. The panel included Dr. LaShae Sharp-Collins, Dr. Akilah Weber Pierson, Marcus Bush, Sharon Whitehurst-Payne, and Henry Foster, who shared their experiences with mentorship and their motivations for entering public service. While the officials emphasized the importance of community involvement as a pathway to public service, they notably did not frame public service as emerging from a fundamental commitment to addressing community needs. The discussion highlighted the importance of engaging young people in addressing community challenges, with an apparent consensus that more similar events are needed.

More than 75 local high school students and about a dozen community volunteers participated in a park cleanup event organized by the Urban Collaborative Project, the Harvey Family Foundation, and partners including I Love a Clean San Diego. The cleanup focused on beautifying Chollas Creek Park and Hawk Project Park within a specific corridor in San Diego. This inaugural community cleanup in the area aimed to foster community responsibility while providing participating students from schools like Morse High School and Lincoln High School with potential school credit for their service. The initiative emphasized youth involvement as a way to develop future community leaders while addressing the ongoing need for environmental stewardship in the area.

The California Civil Rights Department (CRD) has reported 1,180 hate incidents across 49 counties in 2024 through the CA vs Hate hotline and online portal, a multilingual resource providing support to victims and witnesses of hate crimes. More than two-thirds of those reporting requested counseling, legal assistance, or other resources, with racial or ethnic bias mentioned in 44% of reports. Despite a slight decrease in anti-Black hate crime events from 518 in 2023 to 494 in 2024, Black individuals remain the most-targeted racial group for hate crimes in California. In response, Governor Newsom has announced $76 million in grants to 347 community groups to protect nonprofits and houses of worship, while Attorney General Rob Bonta's Racial Justice Bureau continues developing strategies to address bias and strengthen responses to hate crimes.

The County of San Diego has officially adopted an $8.63 billion budget for the 2025-26 fiscal year, which is now available on the County's budget website. The budget, which took effect July 1, prioritizes core services while investing in key areas such as housing, homelessness, behavioral health, public safety, and environmental sustainability. County staff developed the budget with consideration for potential federal and state policy changes, while incorporating public input gathered through hearings, open houses, and written comments. The final budget was adopted by the Board of Supervisors on June 24 following a comprehensive process that began with the release of the recommended budget on May 1 and included budget deliberations held June 3-12.

The Mental Bar Coffee, Tea & Wellness Cafe in Encanto recently celebrated its three-year anniversary with a community gathering at its Imperial Avenue location. Owners Tommy and Danielle Walker hosted the celebration for their veteran- and woman-owned business, which has become a cornerstone of Encanto's Black Arts & Culture District. Co-owner Danielle Walker highlighted the significance of reaching the three-year milestone, noting that many Black-owned businesses don't survive that long. Beyond serving coffee and food, the establishment offers wellness information, youth programs, art shows, and functions as a vital community gathering space.

Lisane Basquiat, co-administrator of the Estate of Jean-Michel Basquiat, participated in Actively Black's New York Fashion Week event titled "This Is Not a Fashion Show" on September 12th at Sony Hall. Accompanied by her children Raymond and Jessica, as well as her 8-year-old granddaughter Emma, the family modeled clothing from a collaboration between Actively Black and the Basquiat Estate. The event honored several Black cultural icons, including Jean-Michel Basquiat and Ruby Bridges, with Emma reenacting Ruby's historic school integration experience. Lisane expressed deep gratitude for the event, praising Actively Black co-founders Lanny Smith and Bianca Winslow for celebrating important figures in Black history through their fashion presentation.

The University of California community has filed a federal lawsuit against the Trump administration, claiming it is violating civil rights laws to restrict academic freedom. The suit challenges the administration's $1.2 billion fine and research funding freeze at UCLA over alleged antisemitism violations. Plaintiffs argue that the government's proposed settlement demands violate university independence by requiring access to private data, ending diversity scholarships, banning overnight demonstrations, and mandating cooperation with immigration enforcement. UC President James Milliken described these actions as "one of the gravest threats" in the university's 157-year history, as the system receives over $17 billion annually in federal support for research and student aid.

California's 39th District State Senator Dr. Akilah Weber Pierson has authored Senate Resolution 56, officially designating September as Ovarian Cancer Awareness Month in California. As an OB-GYN, she emphasizes that while less than 20% of ovarian cancers are caught early, increased awareness can lead to earlier detection and better outcomes. The resolution aims to create a platform for educational campaigns, partnerships with health organizations, and encourage healthcare providers to have proactive conversations with patients about risk factors. Dr. Weber Pierson urges other states to follow California's example, noting that awareness initiatives can help address health disparities, spur policy development, increase research funding, and provide support for survivors and families.

The San Diego City Council is considering a Paid Parking Program for Balboa Park that would implement tiered rates in surface lots while offering discounts for residents and free parking for park employees and volunteers, with revenue dedicated to park maintenance. Additionally, the Council has approved creating a Parking Meter Zone for streets around the park and will implement special-event parking rate increases to $10 per hour near Petco Park for events with over 10,000 attendees beginning September 1. Other recent developments include California Attorney General Rob Bonta issuing guidance to protect immigrants from scams and the adoption of a Residential Tenant Utility Fee Ordinance that prevents landlords from charging tenants more than the actual cost of city utilities, effective August 17, 2025.

Several health care bills awaiting Governor Gavin Newsom's approval aim to improve access to affordable prescription drugs, reduce medical care delays, and enhance privacy protections for Californians. These bills include measures to cap insulin costs at $35 monthly, regulate pharmacy benefit managers, streamline prior authorization processes, and ensure patients receive information about hospital financial assistance. The legislation also includes privacy protections for immigrants seeking medical care and safeguards for abortion information, responding to concerns about federal enforcement and interstate legal conflicts regarding reproductive healthcare.

The NAACP is embarking on an aggressive legal strategy for 2025, with Chief Strategy Officer Yumeka Rushing declaring "We suing everybody" as their rallying cry. This approach revives the organization's historical roots of seeking social change through court battles, similar to the work of NAACP Legal Defense Fund icons like Thurgood Marshall and Constance Baker Motley. The organization has already filed multiple lawsuits challenging actions they view as threats to Black Americans, including suits against the Trump Administration over education policies, and against Texas and Missouri for alleged racial gerrymandering. Beyond litigation, the NAACP is also launching community mobilization efforts like the Fierce Advocacy in Action Town Halls and the Black Voter Defense Fund to protect voting rights and engage Black communities ahead of upcoming elections.

The California Department of Food and Agriculture has established a new citrus quarantine across northern San Diego County and part of Camp Pendleton after finding Huanglongbing (HLB) disease in a residential tree in San Clemente. This quarantine, which connects with existing restrictions in southern Orange County, prohibits moving citrus plants and fruit outside the quarantine boundaries without proper treatment. HLB, spread by the Asian citrus psyllid, poses a significant threat to San Diego County's $144 million citrus industry by causing bitter, misshapen fruit and eventually killing infected trees. Officials are actively testing nearby trees, arranging protective treatments, and collaborating with local residents and growers to prevent further spread of this deadly citrus disease.

Chicago churches and community leaders are mobilizing in response to President Trump's threatened federal intervention, which includes immigration enforcement operations and possible National Guard deployment to the city. Reverend Marshall Hatch of New Mount Pilgrim Missionary Baptist Church urged congregants to carry identification and stay connected with family members to avoid "disappearing" amid the expected crackdown. While details remain sparse, Trump's border czar Tom Homan confirmed federal law enforcement action will begin in Chicago this week, potentially using a military base north of the city for a 45-day operation. Local leaders, including Democratic U.S. Representative Danny Davis, have strongly objected to the intervention, arguing it's unnecessary and unwanted, particularly in Black and Latino communities where trust in law enforcement is already fragile.

Two Black men in Mississippi - 21-year-old Delta State University student Trey Reed and 36-year-old homeless man Corey Zukatis - were recently found dead, hanging from trees in separate incidents. Reed's family received conflicting information about his death location and will conduct an independent autopsy after the state completes its report within 24 hours. Civil rights groups including the Equal Justice Initiative, NAACP, and Southern Poverty Law Center are involved, with Congressman Bennie Thompson calling for a federal investigation into both deaths. The incidents have raised serious concerns given Mississippi's history of racism and lynchings, with Brian Fair of the SPLC noting how these deaths evoke the state's troubled past.

Peter Mutabazi's life transformed dramatically from living as a homeless child on the streets of Uganda to becoming one of America's most recognized foster fathers. At age 15, while attempting to steal from a stranger named Jacques Masiko, Mutabazi instead found a mentor who would change his life by providing him with food, education, and a loving home environment. Now 52 and living in Charlotte, North Carolina, Mutabazi has fostered 47 children and adopted three more, channeling the kindness he received from Masiko into his own mission of helping vulnerable children. After graduating from university and moving to the United States in 2002, Mutabazi now works as a senior child advocate at World Vision while continuing his commitment to foster care and advocacy.

The Trump administration is reviewing signage, exhibits, and materials at federal parks that could be considered "disparaging" to Americans, following a March executive order directing the Interior Department to focus on American achievements and landscape beauty. National Park Service employees were required to flag "inappropriate" content by July 18, with materials about slavery, Native American cultural destruction, and climate change among those identified for review. The Interior Department plans to remove or cover inconsistent signage by September 17, while promising to maintain "full and accurate" historical narratives. Critics argue this directive risks sanitizing American history by removing information about darker historical aspects that should be preserved for educational purposes.

The U.S. Census Bureau's American Community Survey revealed several demographic and economic shifts in the United States from 2023 to 2024. Income inequality decreased nationally by nearly half a percent as median household income rose slightly from $80,002 to $81,604, with significant drops in ten states and Puerto Rico. The country became more demographically diverse with increasing Asian and Hispanic populations, while the non-Hispanic white population declined. Housing costs increased for both homeowners with mortgages and renters, and fewer Americans changed residences compared to previous years, continuing a downward mobility trend that began before the pandemic. Additionally, the survey showed a higher percentage of unmarried individuals and more people with college degrees across the nation.

Edward Enninful, after a successful six-year tenure as editor-in-chief of British Vogue, has launched a new media and entertainment business called EE72, featuring a print magazine titled 72. The venture represents Enninful's decision to leave one of fashion's top jobs at age 50 to create something independent and agile, without the constraints of legacy media. Despite challenging times for print publications, Enninful's new magazine notably contains no traditional advertising pages, instead pursuing a business model centered on brand partnerships across digital platforms, print, and events. The inaugural issue features Julia Roberts on the cover, interviewed by George Clooney, and includes diverse content spanning fashion, art, wellness, and design that reflects Enninful's long-standing commitment to inclusivity and diversity.

The article discusses the current attacks on civil rights gains for Black Americans, highlighting how collective action is needed to counter these challenges. The author, Dr. John E. Warren, points to historical examples like lunch counter sit-ins as evidence of how Black Americans previously overcame segregation through unified efforts. He urges the community not to rely solely on government programs but to harness their own economic power, educational resources, and voting rights to protect their interests. Warren emphasizes that Black excellence stems from preparation and qualification rather than diversity initiatives, and calls for renewed collective action reminiscent of the civil rights movement.

On September 13th at Swiss Park & Hall in Chula Vista, Thelma Van-Anders celebrated her 95th birthday surrounded by family and friends who traveled from across the country to honor her. The celebration featured a lavish luncheon with various dishes including fried fish, chicken, and numerous sides to accommodate all attendees. Throughout the event, the birthday honoree received heartfelt tributes from her nine children and other family members who praised her strength, wisdom, and unconditional love. Thelma, described as a "world treasure" by her daughter Tracy Van-McCallie, was visibly moved by the outpouring of affection, expressing gratitude while being at a loss for words.

The San Diego County Registrar of Voters has sent postcards to over 2 million registered voters detailing their options for the upcoming November 4 special election. Voters will receive mail-in ballots beginning the week of October 6, which they can return by mail, at official ballot drop boxes, or at vote centers. California voters will decide on Proposition 50 regarding redistricting, while Poway District 2 residents will additionally vote on whether to remove their city council representative. Early voting begins October 6 at the Registrar's office, with select vote centers opening October 25 and all centers operating by November 1.

Week three of Black College Football featured several exciting games, including Grambling State's overtime victory against Kentucky State thanks to Tyrell Raby's 83-yard fumble return touchdown. Howard University claimed a 38-20 win in the HBCU NYC Classic, while Alabama A&M narrowly defeated Tennessee State 23-21 in The Legacy Series game. Florida A&M secured their first season victory against Albany State, and South Carolina State won a high-scoring 55-41 game against Bethune-Cookman despite an impressive performance from backup quarterback Cam'Ron Ransom. The article concludes by listing upcoming games for week four.

Assembly Bill 62, authored by Assemblymember Tina McKinnor and part of the California Legislative Black Caucus "Road to Repair" package, has passed the Assembly with a 66-4 vote and now awaits Governor Newsom's decision by October 12. The bill aims to provide restitution for victims of racially motivated eminent domain and their descendants, defining this as property acquisition by government without just compensation based on the owner's race or ethnicity. If signed, the California Civil Rights Department would be directed to review applications from dispossessed owners or their descendants seeking compensation. AB 62 builds on California's previous reparative action returning Bruce's Beach to descendants of its original owners and is accompanied by several other reparations-focused bills also headed to the governor's desk.

Tyler Robinson, a 22-year-old white man from Salt Lake City, has been identified as the suspect in the assassination of right-wing activist Charlie Kirk, founder of Turning Point USA. Investigators recovered a Mauser .30-caliber rifle with cryptic messages engraved on bullet casings found at the scene, including mocking phrases like "hey fascist! catch!" Utah Governor Spencer Cox stated that Robinson, whose father is reportedly a law enforcement officer who helped convince him to surrender, is believed to have acted alone and described the killing as "an attack on the American experiment." The assassination has intensified concerns about security vulnerabilities at political events, with experts noting how ordinary precautions can be bypassed in an era of escalating political violence.

The article discusses the assassination of Charles James Kirk, a 31-year-old right-wing evangelical figure known for controversial rhetoric. Author Graylan Scott Hagler criticizes the formulaic responses to Kirk's death while acknowledging the tragedy, but also examines Kirk's legacy of promoting racist views, opposing civil rights, and spreading misinformation. Hagler argues that Kirk's inflammatory rhetoric represented a form of violence itself, packaging hate speech as legitimate political discourse. The piece concludes by noting how political figures are responding to Kirk's death and warning that continued hateful rhetoric will lead to more violence.

Los Angeles has been piloting programs that dispatch unarmed civilian crisis responders instead of police to handle nonviolent mental health emergencies. The initiative, which includes "The Unarmed Model of Crisis Response" and "The CIRCLE program," has responded to over 6,700 calls in its first year, saving the LAPD nearly 7,000 hours of patrol time. According to a recent city report, the programs have shown promising results by minimizing potential escalation and addressing mental health crises with compassion and safety. Mayor Karen Bass supports the expansion of these programs as part of a strategy to prevent crime before it happens by assisting people with mental illness.

Recent research from Barna has revealed a surprising shift in church attendance patterns, with Millennials and Gen Z now leading the country in church attendance while Baby Boomer participation has declined significantly. The study shows Gen Z churchgoers attend approximately 1.9 weekends per month and Millennials 1.8 times, representing the highest rates of attendance among young Christians in Barna's tracking history. Black pastors attribute this resurgence to young people confronting mortality after the COVID-19 pandemic and seeking authentic faith experiences that address contemporary social issues. These younger generations are approaching church with deep questions about faith's relevance and are drawn to spaces where they can be authentic rather than traditional religious environments.

Assembly Bill 7, which would allow California colleges to offer preferential admissions to descendants of enslaved people, has passed the State Senate and awaits Governor Gavin Newsom's signature by October 12. About 150 supporters rallied at the State Capitol urging the governor to sign the legislation, which is a key priority for the California Legislative Black Caucus as part of its "Road to Repair 2025" package. Supporters argue the bill focuses on lineage rather than race to withstand legal challenges, particularly after federal rulings against race-based affirmative action. The California Association of Black Lawyers defends the bill's constitutionality, framing it as a mechanism for restorative justice rather than special treatment.

A controversial billboard in Montgomery, Alabama displaying racist blackface imagery alongside Trump's "Make America Great Again" slogan has sparked significant backlash in the community. The display, funded through the Montgomery Museum of Fine Arts and created by the artist group For Freedoms, was intended to generate dialogue before an exhibit commemorating the 60th anniversary of Bloody Sunday but instead caused anger and pain. Mayor Steven L. Reed quickly ordered the billboard's removal, calling it a politicized distortion of sacred history, which exposed tensions between city leadership and the museum board who claimed the billboard was erected without their approval. The incident has prompted opposing responses from the Southern Poverty Law Center, which supported the mayor's decision, and the National Coalition Against Censorship, which condemned the removal as government overreach.

A series of violent incidents, including the shooting of conservative activist Charlie Kirk at Utah Valley University and a mass shooting at Evergreen High School in Colorado, have reignited discussions about gun violence and political tensions in America. These events prompted heated exchanges in the U.S. House between Democrats calling for gun legislation and Republicans opposing them. The article contextualizes these incidents alongside other political violence, including the assassination of Minnesota State Representative Melissa Hortman and the attempted assassination of President Trump in 2024. With 16,000 gun violence deaths in 2024 (excluding suicides) and increasing mass shootings since the federal assault weapons ban expired in 2004, the article highlights the polarized reactions to these tragedies and the difficulty in finding legislative solutions.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

Issa Rae's new two-part HBO documentary, "Seen and Heard: The History of Black Television," premiering September 9, examines the complex history of African American representation on television. The documentary features prominent figures including Oprah Winfrey, Tyler Perry, and Shonda Rhimes discussing both the achievements and challenges faced by Black creators in the television industry. Rae was motivated to create this project after witnessing the disappearance of Black sitcoms in the 2000s and their replacement with often degrading reality TV portrayals of Black women. The documentary emphasizes the importance of authentic representation and creative control, highlighting how networks have profited from Black content while creators have frequently been denied appropriate recognition and ownership.

Frieda McCurley's 65th birthday celebration at the Town and Country Resort drew over 100 attendees and featured a special proclamation from the City of San Diego declaring September 4 as Frieda McCurley Day. The honor recognizes McCurley's 35-year career as a Judge's Clerk at the San Diego County Courthouse, where she became part of the courthouse's longest-serving judge and clerk team. During the celebration, colleagues and friends praised McCurley's professionalism, respect for others, and consistent dedication to justice. The event highlighted not only her professional accomplishments but also her significant community involvement and positive influence on those around her.

of "African American Firms Participating in California High-Speed Rail Project" The California High-Speed Rail Authority reports that 47 African American-owned firms are working on the state's high-speed rail project as Disadvantaged Business Enterprises (DBEs), representing 5.2% ($96 million) of the $1.136 billion allocated to minority firms. The multi-billion-dollar transportation project has created over 15,600 jobs, primarily in the Central Valley, with a focus on employing people from disadvantaged communities through a Community Benefits Agreement with the State Building and Construction Trades Council. Despite the project's escalating costs from an initial estimate of $33 billion to more than $130 billion, supporters like Senator Lola Smallwood-Cuevas emphasize its importance in building "a cleaner, more connected California while creating thousands of union jobs." Senate Bill 545, which aimed to study economic opportunities along the high-speed rail corridor, was recently held in the Assembly Appropriations suspense file, effectively ending its progress in the current legislative session.

Reading to children is a valuable practice that offers multiple developmental benefits beyond just storytelling. Research shows that daily reading significantly impacts language development, with children who are read one book daily hearing approximately 290,000 more words by age 5 than those not read to regularly. Additionally, reading supports cognitive development, strengthens parent-child bonds, and helps children develop crucial social-emotional skills including empathy and emotional regulation. These reading sessions also create meaningful moments that both parents and children may remember fondly long after childhood has passed.

Bill Cosby addressed several controversies during a candid interview with Black Press USA, including clarifying his "pull your pants up" comments as being about how negative images of Black youth are systematically exploited to facilitate incarceration. He detailed his nearly three-year prison experience at SCI Phoenix following a 2018 conviction that was later overturned by the Pennsylvania Supreme Court, which ruled his trial illegal and barred retrial. Cosby revealed he refused multiple offers to sign admission of guilt documents that would have secured his release. He also discussed media erasure of his achievements, denied the long-standing rumor about attempting to buy NBC, and emphasized the importance of preserving Black history in education.

Black Family Empowerment Day, organized by San Diego Urban Warriors, will return on Saturday, September 27, 2025, at Marie Widman Park in San Diego. This free family-friendly celebration focuses on culture, unity, wellness, and community uplift within the Black community. The event will run from 12 PM to 5 PM, beginning with an opening ceremony honoring ancestors, respecting elders, and elevating youth, though specific activities during the festivities were not detailed in the article. Taking place in the heart of the "9 Blocks" area, this annual gathering aims to celebrate wellness, empowerment, and the richness of the Black community.

Fred Redmond, AFL-CIO Secretary-Treasurer, commemorates Labor Day by highlighting the labor movement's historical achievements in improving working conditions, wages, and rights. He emphasizes Black trade unionists' crucial contributions throughout labor history, from the 1881 Atlanta Washerwoman Strike to recent organizing victories at Volkswagen, Waffle House, and Blue Bird. Redmond criticizes the Trump administration for undermining worker and union rights, particularly targeting federal employees. He calls for solidarity among working people to counter corporate interests, inequality, and union-busting efforts that threaten workers' rights and futures.

Jarvis McKenzie, a Black man in South Carolina, experienced a racially motivated shooting while waiting for his work ride, highlighting South Carolina's status as one of only two states without hate crime laws. About two dozen local governments in South Carolina have enacted their own hate crime ordinances to pressure the state Senate to vote on legislation that would increase penalties for crimes motivated by hatred based on race, religion, sexual orientation, gender, or ethnicity. Despite pressure from businesses, Charleston church massacre survivors, and even some Republicans, state senators have repeatedly stalled the hate crime bill without allowing a vote. While local ordinances like Richland County's can only impose misdemeanor penalties with maximum 30-day jail sentences, the proposed state law could add years to sentences for violent hate-motivated crimes.

The August jobs report revealed a concerning trend with Black unemployment reaching 7.5%, the highest level since October 2021, following consecutive increases in June and July. Economists view rising Black unemployment as a potential indicator of a broader economic slowdown, with Diane Swonk noting that Black Americans are often the first to experience layoffs during economic downturns. This employment decline threatens to significantly impact Black communities and the broader US economy, especially concerning as Black Americans are projected to have $2 trillion in buying power by 2026. Small Black-owned business owners express particular concern about potential sales slumps, as Black consumers may reduce discretionary spending in response to job insecurity.

John Lowell Burton, a 92-year-old California political powerhouse who served in multiple influential roles including State Assemblymember, U.S. Congressman, State Senate President pro Tempore, and California Democratic Party Chair, died of natural causes on September 7, 2024. Burton was widely recognized as a champion for marginalized communities, with a career marked by passionate advocacy for civil rights, environmental protection, education, healthcare, and foster youth. California leaders including Governor Gavin Newsom, Oakland Mayor Barbara Lee, Senator Alex Padilla, and House Speaker Emerita Nancy Pelosi paid tribute to Burton's legacy as a progressive warrior who shaped California politics. In recognition of his contributions, Burton will be posthumously inducted into the California Hall of Fame, and flags will be flown at half-staff in his honor.

"Close to Home," a new documentary executive-produced by Black Lives Matter co-founder Patrisse Cullors, showcases homeless Los Angeles youth advocating for a care-first approach to housing vulnerable young people. The 30-minute film, directed by Whitney Skauge, follows four youth leaders from LA Emissary, an organization working to influence policies affecting young, LGBTQ+, and homeless populations in Los Angeles County. The documentary's festival debut coincided with President Trump's removal of homeless encampments in Washington D.C., highlighting the contrast between punitive approaches and the film's humanizing perspective. Through their stories, the film aims to challenge the dehumanization of homeless individuals and demonstrate how multiple systems have failed vulnerable youth.

In Uganda, the prevalence of dementia is rising as the population ages, creating profound challenges for patients and their families. Herbert Rutabyama struggles to care for his 87-year-old mother Alice Ndimuhara, who suffers from dementia symptoms including nighttime confusion when she believes her house is on fire, and daytime wandering that sometimes takes her to neighboring villages. Without proper resources, Rutabyama resorts to locking his mother in her room at night, even as she pounds on the door and yells for release. This situation highlights the broader healthcare crisis across Africa, where dementia care options are virtually nonexistent, with few nursing homes, limited medical expertise, and even a lack of vocabulary in many languages to describe the condition.

The Jeffrey Epstein case has sparked demands from survivors for transparency, with Democratic-sponsored legislation moving forward in the House that would release case materials within 30 days. While Representative Marjorie Taylor Greene supports document disclosure, most House Republicans prefer launching an investigation instead. Survivors have announced plans to compile their own list of alleged abusers who participated alongside Epstein. Congressmen Kweisi Mfume and Sydney Kamlager-Dove emphasized this case demonstrates how powerful individuals can escape justice, with Mfume specifically noting its relevance to Black America as an example of how the wealthy can "oppress and deny basic justice."

The 1976 publication and television adaptation of Alex Haley's "Roots" marked a watershed moment in American cultural history, coming in the aftermath of the Civil Rights Movement and the assassinations of major civil rights figures. The autobiographical saga powerfully illustrated the horrors of the transatlantic slave trade while inspiring African Americans to reconnect with their heritage, particularly through giving their children African-themed names. Experts like Dr. Kellie Jackson and Walter Palmer note that "Roots" built upon the work of previous Black historians while helping to reshape how Americans understood slavery by humanizing the enslaved as families and communities who suffered but also built the nation. Despite its significant impact on American consciousness, experts agree that the country still has far to go in fully addressing its history of slavery and racism, as evidenced by the delayed establishment of institutions like the National Museum of African American History and Culture.

Five Nigerians attempted to break the Guinness World Record for the longest marathon reading aloud by continuously reading for 431 hours and 31 minutes at a Lagos restaurant. The participants—Precious Ukachi, John Obot, Stephen Oyelami, Temitope Ogunremi, and Ketura Heman—read 79 books by Nigerian authors during their 18-day marathon, which ended on Saturday. Organized by the nonprofit Naija ReadFest, the event aimed to promote literacy and celebrate Nigerian literature in a country where more than 10 million children are out of school and the literacy rate stands around 63%. The current record is held by a group from the Dominican Republic who read for 365 hours and 39 seconds in 2011, and Guinness World Record is yet to confirm this new attempt.

The 14th Annual Jazz at the Creek sunset finale marked the end of this signature summer concert series during Labor Day Weekend, held at the Educational Cultural Complex in San Diego. Created by Dr. Leonard Thompson and the M.A.N.D.A.T.E. Records and M.A.N.D.A.T.E. Project Impact teams fourteen years ago, the two-day celebration featured performances from renowned artists such as Gerald Albright, Durti-Ryce, Rebecca Jade, and several other talented musicians. The event, which moved from its original location at Jacob's Center's creek side pavilion to the ECC campus last year, ran from 1:00 to 7:00 PM each day and offered VIP experiences including gourmet meals, reserved seating, and access to premium beverages. After fourteen years of bringing quality music to Southeastern San Diego, Jazz at the Creek has concluded its run while leaving behind a lasting legacy.

California's 2020 Proposition 17 restored voting rights to approximately 50,000 people on state parole for felony convictions, a significant change from previous law that prohibited voting until completion of both prison and parole terms. Adam Cain, who served a 14-year prison sentence, was actively involved in advocating for this voting rights restoration while incarcerated, organizing fellow inmates and educating their families. Cain shared his experience during California's 60th Anniversary celebration of the Voting Rights Act of 1965, hosted by Secretary of State Shirley N. Weber, where he appeared on a panel with prominent figures including former Assembly Speaker Willie Brown. Now working as a Program Coordinator for Initiate Justice, Cain continues his advocacy to empower formerly incarcerated individuals and promote systemic change in California's criminal justice system.

Lincoln High School's football team, the Hornets, celebrated their first home game since 2023 with a decisive 36-20 victory over Long Beach Poly. The event began with a ribbon-cutting ceremony featuring NFL Hall of Famer and Hornet alumnus Terrell Davis, followed by an explosive game where Junior Curtis returned the opening kickoff for an 89-yard touchdown. Star running back Rashad Robinson contributed significantly with four touchdowns, helping Lincoln build such a commanding lead that they implemented a running clock before Long Beach Poly managed to get on the scoreboard in the third quarter. Despite the win, Head Coach David Dunn acknowledged that while he was pleased with the outcome, the team still has improvements to make.

Three bills from the California Legislative Black Caucus's "2025 Road to Repair" package have advanced from the Assembly Appropriations Committee's Suspense File to the Assembly floor. Senate Bills 515, 518, and 437 focus on gathering detailed demographic data for Black or African American ancestry, establishing a Bureau for Descendants of American Slavery, and allocating $6 million to the CSU system to research genealogical eligibility for reparations, respectively. Committee Chair Buffy Wicks emphasized the importance of these bills moving forward despite financial considerations. While the bills have garnered support from organizations like the NAACP California-Hawaii State Conference, some reparations advocates have expressed concerns about potential delays in the reparations process, particularly regarding SB 518 and SB 437.

Patrick Braxton, the first Black mayor of Newbern, Alabama, has won re-election by a significant margin, receiving 66 votes to his opponent's 26 in the town's first election since at least the 1960s. This election follows a contentious period when Braxton, after running unopposed in 2020, was locked out of town hall by white residents who refused to let him serve as mayor. The election was held under a federal settlement after Black residents sued, challenging what they called "hand-me-down governance" where mayors appointed their successors, resulting in predominantly white leadership despite the town's 2-to-1 Black majority. After a three-year legal battle, Braxton was finally able to occupy the office last year, though he served only one of his intended five years.

Dr. John E. Warren argues that while media focuses on Trump's dismantling of American institutions, the true issue lies with Congressional members who remain silent despite taking the same oath to protect the Constitution. Warren calls for prayer as the solution, citing Biblical passages and urging Americans to return to the Christian principles upon which the nation was founded. He emphasizes that prayer powered the Civil Rights Struggle and should now fuel protests against the current administration and complacent legislators. Warren concludes by encouraging readers to protect truth-telling Black newspapers, pray, protest, and vote to counter what he sees as an assault on American values.

Eddie Miller of Chula Vista celebrated his 60th birthday with a series of events from August 9th to 30th, surrounded by family who traveled from as far as Texas and Florida. Though originally planned as a surprise party, Eddie discovered the plans beforehand, but his wife Pattie and her team proceeded with the celebration regardless. The gathering featured food, music, and a festive atmosphere for the retired Navy veteran of 24 years who currently works at the Naval Hospital. Friends and family attribute Eddie's popularity to his generosity and kind-hearted nature, celebrating this milestone with the man affectionately known as "Fast Eddie" or "Eddie got your back."

Kenya Barris, creator of "Black-ish," is developing a new comedy series for CBS inspired by victims of the Eaton fire in Altadena and Pasadena, which killed 19 people and destroyed thousands of properties across nearly 14,000 acres. The show follows two brothers trying to sell their late grandmother's house to developers, only to discover her caretaker owns part of the property, forcing them to live together while addressing questions of family and community. The series has sparked controversy over its comedic approach to honoring fire victims, with Barris defending his intent to bring awareness to an issue many have forgotten. The premise reflects real-world concerns about developers gentrifying the rebuilt area and insurance hikes forcing Black fire victims to permanently relocate.

The Walnut Avenue Family and Women's Center in Santa Cruz County has experienced the theft of its Black Lives Matter banner for the third time, which staff believe is a targeted act of hate. The nonprofit has filed a police report regarding the vandalism and trespassing, noting that other signs on their building remained untouched while only the BLM banner was removed. During the second theft, the perpetrator left a note referencing "White Lives Matter, too," further indicating the discriminatory nature of these incidents. In response to these repeated thefts, the center is considering installing security cameras focused on that particular corner of the building, while community members have rallied behind the organization with support and donations for a replacement banner.

Federal Reserve Board Governor Lisa Cook, the first Black woman to serve on the Board, has been targeted by Trump administration officials who labeled her a "DEI hire" despite her impressive academic and professional credentials. This comes as former President Trump announced plans to fire Cook based on unproven mortgage fraud allegations from 2021, before she joined the Fed. In response, Cook has filed a lawsuit arguing Trump lacks legal authority to remove her "for cause" without due process under the Federal Reserve Act. The article contextualizes this within a pattern of Trump questioning the legitimacy of accomplished Black leaders and contrasts Cook's qualifications with the controversial record of her critic, Peter Navarro.

Sterling K. Brown has become a focal point in the growing social media phenomenon connecting Black Americans with Black Scottish people, referred to as "cousins" online. Brown's wife, Ryan Michelle Bathe, shared a TikTok video of him speaking with a Scottish accent, delighting followers of the #BlackScottishTikTok trend. This social media movement has brought attention to Black Scottish influencers like Torgi Squire, who has gained popularity for his accent and resemblance to Brown. CNN's Roy Wood Jr. has also participated in this cultural exchange, traveling to Scotland to meet and film content with Black Scottish influencers.

France has returned three Sakalava skulls to Madagascar, including one believed to be that of King Toera who was executed by French troops in 1897 after colonization. This repatriation marks the first implementation of a 2023 French law allowing human remains to be returned for funeral purposes. The skulls had been kept in France's National Museum of Natural History collections for over 128 years before being formally handed over in a ceremony. Madagascar officials described the return as not just about human remains but about reclaiming a part of their history and memory, with plans to rebury the skulls in Menabe in western Madagascar.

A recent Gallup poll shows 64% of Americans believe racism against Black people is widespread, matching the record high set in 2021 following George Floyd's murder. Despite this acknowledgment, less than half of Americans support creating new civil rights laws to reduce discrimination, representing a 15-point decline from 2020. Significant racial divides exist in the polling data, with 80% of Black adults perceiving widespread racism compared to 61% of white adults, and nearly 75% of Black respondents supporting new civil rights protections versus just 40% of white respondents. While most Americans believe civil rights for Black people have improved in their lifetimes, this optimism is more prevalent among white Americans (73%) than Black Americans (53%), highlighting persistent differences in lived experiences and perceptions of racial equality.

A recent study by the National Bureau of Economic Research reveals that America's wealthiest billionaires, representing the top 0.0002 percent of households, pay an effective tax rate of just 24 percent, which is lower than the 30 percent national average and significantly less than the 45 percent paid by top labor income earners. Using comprehensive data from 2010-2020, researchers Balkir, Saez, Yagan, and Zucman found that structural features of the U.S. tax code enable billionaires to minimize taxation through corporate ownership strategies that limit dividend distributions and through passthrough businesses that report negative taxable income despite high profits. The study shows that billionaire tax rates fell from about 30 percent to 24 percent following Donald Trump's 2017 Tax Cuts and Jobs Act, which reduced corporate tax rates from 35 percent to 21 percent and expanded investment expensing provisions.

The article examines the significant role of the Catholic Church and other Christian denominations in supporting and profiting from the transatlantic slave trade. It highlights how religious institutions justified slavery through biblical misinterpretations, particularly the "curse of Ham," while missionaries used Christianity as a tool alongside colonization. The piece specifically details Georgetown University's 2016 acknowledgment and apology for Jesuit priests selling 272 enslaved people in 1838 to financially save the institution. Additionally, the article contextualizes current political tensions around teaching slavery's history, noting former President Trump's criticism of the Smithsonian for its honest portrayal of slavery's brutality and impact.

The article commemorates the significance of the transatlantic slave trade in American history, emphasizing both its foundational impact on society and ongoing efforts to confront this painful legacy. It discusses how the UN's International Day for the Remembrance of the Slave Trade and its Abolition on August 23rd marks the anniversary of the 1791 Santo Domingo slave rebellion that ultimately helped end slavery. The article highlights 2019 as the 500th anniversary of slavery in America and discusses various efforts to reexamine this history, including the HBCU Green Fund's "Sankofa Remix" initiative examining past, present, and future perspectives. It also notes concerns about attempts to sanitize or downplay the brutality of slavery in historical narratives, including criticism of the Trump administration's approach to historical exhibits.

The article discusses Republican redistricting efforts in Texas aimed at increasing their representation in the House of Representatives ahead of midterm elections, which the author characterizes as gerrymandering to limit voting strength of Black and Brown communities. In response, California has initiated its own redistricting process to potentially convert Republican seats to Democratic ones, neutralizing Texas' efforts. The author emphasizes the Black Press's role in keeping communities informed about these redistricting battles, which are portrayed as part of a larger effort by President Trump to maintain power. The piece calls for voter mobilization and engagement to counter these redistricting strategies and protect constitutional rights.

Akili Smith Sr. and David Monday, lifelong friends since elementary school, celebrated their 50th birthdays together at an outdoor gathering hosted by their family. The celebration took place at VFW Post 1512's outdoor patio, where guests enjoyed various activities and a diverse menu of food. Smith, a former professional football player who now serves as Morse High School's offensive coordinator and trains aspiring young football players, expressed deep appreciation for the family-organized event. The joint celebration was organized by family members, including Antoinette, who considers both men her nephews.

President Trump hosted a working lunch with the leaders of five African nations (Mauritania, Guinea-Bissau, Liberia, Senegal, and Gabon) at the White House to discuss commercial opportunities and deepen diplomatic ties. Notably absent were Africa's major economies like South Africa, Nigeria, Egypt, and Ethiopia, which have connections to BRICS, a group including America's adversaries Russia and China. The meeting focused on potential investments and development of natural resources, with African leaders praising Trump and highlighting their mineral wealth, while analysts describe this as part of Trump's strategy to counter Chinese and Russian influence in Africa through a more transactional approach to foreign relations rather than traditional aid.

Four San Diego High School athletes—Jewel Parker, Shanti Glenn, Seniaah Simms, and Gianna Woodson—delivered standout performances at the Ballislife All-American Camp 2K25, competing against elite talent from California and beyond. Three of the players earned Top 20 honors, with Seniaah Simms additionally receiving the Hustle Award for the 2028 class. All four advanced to the Queen of the Court finals while participating in various camp activities including skill development stations, competitive matchups, and leadership training. The camp provided the athletes with valuable exposure through live-streamed games and highlight coverage, while also offering opportunities to challenge themselves against top competition.

The National Association for the Advancement of Colored People, California-Hawaii State Conference (CA/HI NAACP) is urging the California Legislature to pass two reparations bills authored by Senator Akilah Weber Pierson. The bills, SB 518 and SB 437, are currently in the Assembly Appropriations Committee's "Suspense File" for further financial review. SB 518 proposes establishing an agency to implement state-level reparations for eligible descendants of enslaved individuals, while SB 437 authorizes California State University to use genealogical records to determine eligibility for reparations initiatives. Both bills are part of the California Legislative Black Caucus's "Road to Repair 2025 Priority Bill Package" and follow recommendations from the California Reparations Task Force.

Assemblymember James C. Ramos is criticizing the University of California for failing to repatriate thousands of Native American remains and sacred artifacts despite federal and state legal requirements. UC officials will face lawmakers in a joint hearing on August 26 at the Capitol Annex Building, where legislators will demand clear timelines for compliance and may consider stricter oversight measures. Three audits since 2019, including one from April, have found UC campuses consistently missing deadlines under the Native American Graves Protection and Repatriation Act (NAGPRA) and its California counterpart. The audit revealed that UC still holds remains of thousands of individuals and hundreds of thousands of cultural items, with some campuses failing to properly utilize NAGPRA funds intended for tribal repatriation efforts.

Laurent Saint-Cyr, a wealthy businessman from Haiti's private sector, has been appointed as head of Haiti's transitional presidential council amid a severe security crisis where gangs control 90% of Port-au-Prince neighborhoods. During his swearing-in ceremony, Saint-Cyr emphasized the need for action rather than speeches while powerful gang leader Jimmy "Barbecue" Chérizier threatened to overthrow the government. The transitional leadership faces significant challenges including endemic gang violence, widespread sexual assault, and limited resources for the UN-backed security mission, which has only 991 personnel instead of the planned 2,500 and just 14% of needed funding. Violence has displaced more than 1.3 million people in Haiti since President Jovenel Moïse's assassination in July 2021, with at least 1,520 people killed between April and June.

The article details the perilous journeys of Ethiopian migrants attempting to reach Saudi Arabia through Yemen, highlighting the recent tragedy of a capsized boat that killed approximately 140 people, including 19-year-old Nigus Yosef. It chronicles the devastating impact on families left behind, including parents grieving lost children and others forced to pay ransoms to kidnappers after their loved ones are captured in Yemen. Despite government warnings against illegal migration, Ethiopian youth continue to flee due to high unemployment and regional instability following the Tigray war, with migration scholar Girmachew Adugna noting that legal migration pathways remain inaccessible to most young people, driving them toward dangerous irregular routes.

The Trump administration has suspended Biden-era regulations requiring insurers to disclose restrictions on mental health claims and has cut funding to the agency enforcing mental health parity laws. These actions coincide with alarming health trends, including a surge in drug deaths among seniors and significant racial disparities in premature deaths. The Employee Benefits Security Administration is experiencing substantial workforce reductions, with investigative staff already cut by nearly 40% in some regions, leaving families struggling to receive coverage for mental health treatment. While some local initiatives like CareFirst BlueCross BlueShield's behavioral health grants demonstrate positive impacts, they cannot replace the national oversight being dismantled as part of a broader trend of unwinding Biden-era healthcare protections.

Recent polling shows the Democratic Party facing its worst favorability ratings in over 30 years, with more than 60% of Americans viewing Democrats unfavorably. Despite disliking Trump's economic handling, voters still trust Republicans more on economic issues, and Trump made significant gains with Black and brown voters in the 2024 election. Democratic strategists argue that the party must use the August congressional recess to reconnect with constituents through direct engagement rather than simply opposing Trump. Meanwhile, Republicans are implementing a comprehensive strategy to secure power through redistricting efforts and a proposed census change that would exclude undocumented immigrants from congressional apportionment.

State Senator Akilah Weber Pierson of California's 39th Senate District has released a statement opposing Texas's redistricting plan, which she claims is backed by the Trump administration to add five new Republican congressional districts. She argues that this plan threatens fair representation and could negatively impact communities beyond Texas's borders. Senator Weber Pierson justifies California's response as necessary to protect democratic integrity and the economic welfare of its residents. She warns that if the plan succeeds, it will allow leaders to govern without accountability for policies that benefit the wealthy at the expense of working-class families.

Despite actively shaping policies that directly impact young people's lives, society consistently excludes youth from meaningful participation in decision-making processes. Young people experience firsthand the consequences of policies regarding education, safety, climate change, and economic challenges, yet are rarely given genuine opportunities to contribute to solutions. The article argues that youth engagement should be mandatory rather than optional, highlighting numerous examples of young people making significant impacts when given proper access and authority. Research shows that communities with strong youth civic engagement experience tangible benefits, suggesting institutions should restructure to incorporate youth voices as foundational elements rather than token additions.

Covered California officials announced a 10.3% average increase in health insurance premiums for 2024, the first double-digit hike since 2018. This increase stems from multiple factors, including annual healthcare cost growth (about 8%), the impending expiration of enhanced federal subsidies implemented during COVID-19, and market uncertainty. If Congress doesn't renew these subsidies by September, California will lose approximately $2.1 billion in tax credits that currently benefit over 90% of Affordable Care Act enrollees. While California has allocated $190 million to maintain subsidies for the lowest-income members, officials estimate that 600,000 people could drop coverage due to affordability concerns, potentially driving future costs even higher.

"Deceived," a psychological thriller based on the classic film "Gaslight," has premiered at the Old Globe Theatre in San Diego with a modernized script by co-adapters Johnna Wright and Patty Jamieson. Set in 1901 London, the play follows newlywed Bella, whose husband Jack manipulates her into doubting her sanity through gaslighting tactics like suggesting she misplaces objects and experiences delusions. Director Delicia Turner Sonnenberg has created an intimate in-the-round staging with a talented diverse cast, featuring standout performances by Brittany Bellizeare as Bella and Travis Van Winkle as Jack, with comic relief provided by the housemaids portrayed by Maggie Carney and Kennedy Tolson. The production, running through September 7, features a contemporary feminist perspective on the classic story, transforming the protagonist from passive victim to empowered survivor.

Residents of four Hunters Point housing complexes managed by Related Companies are returning to their units after renovations only to discover numerous issues including faulty installations, missing belongings, and poor-quality work. Problems range from malfunctioning locks that trapped a pregnant resident to missing furniture, destroyed personal improvements, and substandard finishes in the renovated units. In response, tenant organizers led Mayor Daniel Lurie and Chief of Community Affairs EJ Jones on a tour of the affected complexes to demonstrate the conditions residents are facing. The renovations of these federally subsidized housing units, which provide homes for over 800 people across approximately 600 units, reportedly generate millions in tax credits for Related Companies.

President Donald Trump has pledged to eliminate mail voting and voting machines in U.S. elections, despite constitutional limitations on his authority to make such changes. In a social media post containing multiple false claims about voting systems, Trump promised an executive order to "bring HONESTY" to the 2026 midterm elections. Election experts note that states, not the president, have constitutional authority over elections, with Congress having power to alter federal election rules but not state elections. This follows earlier controversial election-related executive actions by Trump that were blocked by courts.

GODRadio1.com has won the 2025 Stellar Award for Internet Radio Station of the Year for the second consecutive time at gospel music's premier awards ceremony. The Stellar Awards, referred to as the "Grammys of Gospel," recognize excellence in gospel music and media, with GODRadio1.com's repeat victory highlighting its dedication to faith-based programming and supporting gospel artists globally. This achievement coincides with the 30th anniversary of its parent company, M.A.N.D.A.T.E. Records Inc., which has focused on promoting independent artists, producing events, and sharing messages of faith and hope throughout its history.

According to a recent Economist/YouGov poll, only 31 percent of Americans view Donald Trump as "honest and trustworthy," the lowest rating since his second term began, with 53 percent considering him dishonest. The poll reveals widespread suspicion about Trump's knowledge of Jeffrey Epstein's crimes, with 71 percent of Americans believing he knew "a lot" or "some" before they became public, and Trump's handling of Epstein investigations receiving a negative approval rating of -39. Trump's overall job approval stands at 42 percent with 54 percent disapproving, slightly better than at the equivalent point in his first term but still negative. The poll also highlights Trump's continued challenges with Black voters, with just 12 percent of Black Americans approving his performance in a July survey, although he showed some improvement in the 2024 election compared to 2020.

Dr. Danielle Spencer-David, best known for her role as Dee Thomas in the 1970s sitcom "What's Happening!!", passed away in Richmond on Tuesday after battling breast cancer for a year. After her successful acting career, Spencer-David transitioned to veterinary medicine, graduating from Tuskegee University Veterinary School in 1996 and eventually settling in Richmond, Virginia in 2014. She received notable recognition as the only former child actor honored with a permanent exhibition at the National Museum of African American History and Culture. Family members, colleagues, and public officials have expressed their grief, recognizing her contributions not only as a television icon but also as a veterinarian, author, and community activist.

This opinion piece by Craig J. DeLuz praises President Trump's decision to assert federal control over Washington D.C.'s police force through the District of Columbia Home Rule Act. The author argues this intervention is necessary due to D.C.'s rising crime rates, including 200 homicides in 2023, doubled car thefts, and tripled carjackings over five years. DeLuz claims local officials have downplayed these issues while the D.C. Police Union supports federal intervention, and he suggests Trump's "tough-on-crime" approach based on the "Broken Windows Theory" will effectively reduce crime. The author dismisses criticism that these measures are racially motivated, arguing instead that people of color are disproportionately affected by violent crime in D.C.

The California Legislative Black Caucus (CLBC) is pressing for the passage of their 16-bill Road to Repair 2025 Priority Bill Package as the legislative session nears its end. Based on recommendations from the California Reparations Task Force's report, the package aims to address historical injustices affecting Black Californians through measures like creating a Bureau for Descendants of American Slavery and reserving 10% of the state's Home Purchase Assistance Program for descendants of enslaved people. Many of these bills are currently in the Appropriations process where their fiscal impacts are being evaluated, with several placed in the "suspense file" for bills with significant costs. With only two weeks remaining for legislative action, these bills face a critical period that will determine whether they become law.

The Trump administration has deployed federal troops to Washington D.C. and attempted to take control of the city's police department, citing crime reduction as justification, despite crime rates being at historic lows. After facing legal challenges, the administration backed down from installing its own emergency police commissioner when a federal judge indicated she would rule against the move. However, while agreeing to leave the police chief in charge, Attorney General Pam Bondi directed D.C. police to cooperate with federal immigration enforcement regardless of city laws. This federal intervention, which includes 800 National Guard troops patrolling the National Mall and neighborhoods, represents one of the most sweeping uses of federal authority over a local government in modern times. # Who is affected - District of Columbia residents - D.C. homeless population - D.C. police department and its chief - Local neighborhoods where troops are patrolling - Visitors to areas like the National Mall, Union Station, and Nationals Park # What action is being taken - Federal troops are patrolling the National Mall and Washington neighborhoods - 800 National Guard troops are being activated with Humvees positioned throughout the city - The federal government is directing D.C. police to cooperate with federal immigration enforcement - City workers are clearing homeless encampments - The District of Columbia is legally challenging aspects of federal control through court action # Why it matters - This represents one of the most sweeping uses of federal authority over a local government in modern times - It tests the boundaries of presidential legal authority to implement crime policies - D.C.'s unique status as a federal district creates a precedent that could potentially be applied to other cities - The action has racial implications, as some residents see parallels to historical cases where predominantly Black cities were targeted with racist narratives - It highlights tensions between federal and local control over law enforcement priorities # What's next - The federal authority is in place for 30 days, after which Trump would need congressional approval to extend it - The situation remains uncertain regarding whether the federal government will use this experience as a blueprint for dealing with other cities

The Trump administration is preparing to implement severe cuts to Supplemental Security Income (SSI), targeting America's poorest seniors, children, and disabled adults. According to the Center on Budget and Policy Priorities, nearly 400,000 people could lose critical income, with 275,000 facing cuts of approximately $300 monthly and over 100,000 potentially losing benefits entirely. The changes would particularly affect SSI recipients living with relatives who receive SNAP benefits by reversing Biden-era protections that shielded these families from harsh penalties. The cuts come amid warnings that Social Security's trust funds face insolvency by 2034, while Democratic lawmakers and unions are mobilizing to fight these changes through legislation and advocacy efforts.

Black mayors across the U.S. are pushing back against President Trump's characterization of their cities as crime-ridden, citing significant drops in violent crime statistics since the pandemic peak. Members of the African American Mayors Association are highlighting successful crime reduction strategies including youth engagement, gun buyback programs, and community partnerships that have led to measurable improvements. Following the deployment of 800 National Guard members to Washington D.C., Trump has indicated plans to intervene in other Black-led cities including Baltimore, Chicago, Los Angeles, and Oakland, despite data contradicting his claims about rising crime. These mayors view the federal intervention as politically motivated rather than evidence-based and are using this moment to amplify their successful crime reduction approaches and accomplishments.

Governor Gavin Newsom and California Democratic leaders have unveiled the Election Rigging Response Act, a plan to authorize special congressional redistricting in response to President Trump's partisan gerrymandering efforts in other states. The proposal would allow the Legislature to temporarily bypass California's independent Citizens Redistricting Commission and draw new congressional maps for the 2026-2030 elections if approved by voters on November 4. The package includes three bills that would call for a special election, establish new district maps, and reimburse counties for election costs, with lawmakers setting an expedited schedule to pass the legislation by August 21. Black lawmakers, including Representatives Maxine Waters and Sydney Kamlager-Dove, have framed the effort as protecting communities of color from voter suppression, while California Republicans have criticized the plan as a Democratic power grab that undermines the voter-approved independent commission.

California Secretary of State Shirley N. Weber will host a commemorative event on August 25 to mark the 60th anniversary of the Voting Rights Act of 1965, featuring panel discussions and a special exhibit from the California State Archives. The California Black Health Network will present a legislative briefing on Black maternal health disparities on August 27, highlighting that Black women are three to four times more likely to die from pregnancy-related complications than White women. Additionally, the NAACP California-Hawaii State Conference has partnered with Roots Java coffee company for a fundraising initiative, while Governor Newsom's office disputes a state auditor's report claiming potential $225 million annual savings through remote work. California legislators also recently participated in the 2nd Annual Black August Commemoration honoring Black workers' contributions and advocating for labor rights.

Lisa Tealer, a San Francisco native with deep Bay Area roots, serves as the executive director of Bay Area Community Health Advisory Council (BACHAC), a nonprofit focused on improving health in the African American community in San Mateo County. After a 30-year career in biotech, Tealer's leadership at BACHAC aligns with her lifelong commitment to community service, which she attributes to her upbringing by educator parents who were active community members. Her journey to BACHAC began when she attended one of their Breast Cancer Awareness Programs at Mills Peninsula Medical Center, which immediately resonated with her values and community focus. Tealer's dedication to community work stems from family traditions of volunteering and service that she describes as being "in her DNA."

The Transportation Security Administration (TSA) has implemented facial recognition technology for security screening at 15 major U.S. airports through its PreCheck Touchless ID system. This technology allows enrolled TSA PreCheck travelers with valid passports to verify their identity with a facial scan rather than physical identification documents. Simultaneously, Customs and Border Protection (CBP) has expanded its biometric processing with Enhanced Passenger Processing at Nashville International Airport. While officials claim these systems enhance efficiency and security, privacy concerns have emerged, prompting bipartisan lawmakers to propose the Traveler Privacy Protection Act of 2025, which would require consent for biometric data collection and establish stricter protections.

State Representative Ron Reynolds reflects on the 60th anniversary of the Voting Rights Act of 1965, connecting historical civil rights struggles to contemporary voting rights challenges. He defends his decision to break quorum in the Texas House as a necessary stand against what he describes as modern voter suppression tactics including gerrymandered maps, polling station closures, voter roll purges, and attacks on mail-in voting. Reynolds frames his actions as continuing the legacy of civil rights leaders like John Lewis, Fannie Lou Hamer, and others who fought for voting rights. He emphasizes his commitment to continue fighting for full ballot access for all Texans, viewing the current moment as a critical juncture for defending democracy.

A comprehensive report released in May 2025 by the Black Equity Collective (BEC), Nonprofit Finance Fund (NFF), and EVITARUS reveals the substantial economic and social impact of 217 Black-led organizations (BLOs) across California. In fiscal year 2023, these organizations employed over 4,000 people, paid more than $335 million in salaries, and contributed $22 million in payroll taxes while providing essential community services in health, safety, advocacy, and racial justice. Despite their significant contributions, 80% of BLOs report insufficient staffing to meet community demands due to chronic underfunding, which limits their service delivery and ability to pay livable wages. The report argues that increased financial support from public and private funders would allow these organizations to exponentially grow their impact through deeper services, expanded programming, sustainable staffing, and greater community wealth generation.

Cincinnati community leaders, led by Ohio State Rep. Cecil Thomas, are demanding charges against a white man captured on video slapping a Black man during a downtown brawl that led to violence and multiple arrests. The investigation has drawn criticism as six Black individuals have been charged with aggravated riot and felonious assault, while the white man who initiated the conflict remains uncharged after three weeks. At a meeting at New Prospect Baptist Church, Thomas, who heads the Greater Cincinnati chapter of the National Action Network, expressed concerns about potential bias in the investigation. Community members are demanding prosecution of the white man within 24 hours, with Pastor Leslie Jones noting that the community is "restless and watching."

The TS Jordan Foundation held its 3rd Annual "Tre Day" event at John F. Kennedy Park, honoring the legacy of Trevon Stewart Jordan, a football coach and teacher devoted to youth development. Hundreds of community members gathered for the celebration which featured games, free food, and most importantly, distribution of backpacks and school supplies to help families prepare for the school year. Organized by Jordan's family, including his mother Myeshia Stewart (CEO) and sister Myneshia Stewart (Vice President), the event aims to continue Trevon's mission of teaching life skills through football while supporting the community. The successful turnout exceeded expectations, demonstrating the lasting impact of Trevon's dedication to giving back to children and youth.

Rwanda has become the third African nation to enter a deportation agreement with the Trump administration, accepting up to 250 migrants from the United States. This follows similar arrangements with South Sudan, which received eight men convicted of violent crimes, and Eswatini, which accepted five deportees. Rwanda plans to provide the deportees with work training, healthcare, and accommodation assistance, though specific details about the timing and any benefits Rwanda receives from the agreement remain unclear. The Rwandan deal comes after a similar but ultimately failed migrant agreement with the UK that cost Britain nearly a billion dollars.

California's Democratic leaders, including Governor Gavin Newsom and Assembly Speaker Robert Rivas, have announced plans to redraw California's congressional maps ahead of the midterm elections in response to similar efforts by Texas Republicans. The proposed redistricting measure, which would be put to voters in a special election on November 4, 2025, could potentially add five congressional districts favorable to Democrats while reducing Republican seats from nine to four out of 52. This move would override California's independent Citizens Redistricting Commission, which normally handles the redistricting process using U.S. Census data. The initiative comes as Texas Democrats fled their state to block a Republican-led redistricting vote that could potentially gain five seats for Republicans in the U.S. House of Representatives.

AFL-CIO Secretary-Treasurer Fred Redmond criticizes President Trump's economic policies for failing working people, particularly Black Americans. The July jobs report shows Black unemployment surging to over 7%, nearly double the overall rate, reaching its highest level since 2021. Redmond points out that Black workers in federal jobs have been disproportionately impacted by layoffs, and Black women in healthcare face consequences from recent healthcare cuts. He argues that rising Black unemployment serves as an economic warning sign for the entire country, noting unemployment increased across all demographic groups with nearly one million people becoming jobless in July alone.

This summer, Black celebrities showcased their fashion prowess amid global chaos, transforming ordinary venues into fashion showcases. According to The Root's roundup, stars like Rihanna, Tyla, Megan Thee Stallion, and Tyler, the Creator made significant style statements through their distinctive looks and fashion choices. Other notable fashion standouts included Latto in vintage Chanel at Wimbledon, Tracee Ellis Ross channeling Jacquemus in New York, Doechii with futuristic footwear, Keith Powers in YSL at Paris Fashion Week, Lil Baby revitalizing denim-on-denim, and Ravyn Lenae sporting a relaxed summer outfit. These celebrities demonstrated that Black creativity in fashion is a constant, not just a seasonal phenomenon, with each look making a powerful statement.

Tajee Michael was sentenced to 25 years to life in prison for the 2022 shooting death of high school football coach Greg Najee Grimes outside a Sacramento nightclub. Michael, who had prior felony convictions, accepted a plea deal in the presence of Grimes' parents, allowing them to avoid a traumatic trial. In response to this tragedy and other gun violence incidents, the Grimes family established the Greg Najee Grimes 212 Anchor Foundation, while California has launched the "Reduce the Risk" public awareness campaign through the Governor's Office of Emergency Services. The campaign aims to educate the public about gun violence protection orders and other legal tools to reduce firearm deaths, particularly in communities of color where gun violence disproportionately occurs.

California's Assembly Bill 495, the Family Preparedness Act of 2025, aims to create a streamlined process for short-term guardianships to help families maintain stability when parents face sudden separation, particularly due to immigration enforcement. The bill would expand the definition of eligible caregivers, restrict school cooperation with immigration authorities, and provide temporary caregivers with legal recognition to make decisions about children's education and healthcare without parents giving up their rights. Critics worry the legislation could weaken parental rights or create custody dispute loopholes, while supporters argue it would prevent service disruptions for children. After clearing the Assembly, the bill now heads to the Senate Appropriations Committee for review.

Gullah Geechee culture, rooted in West African traditions that survived slavery in the South Carolina Sea Islands, is being preserved through the efforts of elderly singers and scholars. Artists like Minnie "Gracie" Gadson, now in her 70s, perform traditional Gullah spirituals that were once sung in praise houses where enslaved people worshipped. These cultural custodians, including the touring group Voices of Gullah, travel across the country performing songs in the Gullah Creole language to maintain their heritage. Scholars like Eric Crawford have documented these authentic performances, recognizing that these singers represent perhaps the closest connection to how enslaved people originally performed these spirituals, while community leaders work to ensure younger generations continue this cultural legacy.

The FBI's 2024 Uniform Crime Report shows a complex picture of U.S. crime trends, with violent crime rates falling 4.5% and property crime dropping 8.1%, while the total number of murders actually increased despite a lower per-capita rate. News headlines claiming crime dropped "in every category" fail to acknowledge significant issues not included in the general statistics, such as cargo theft (40,995 incidents), human trafficking (3,725 offenses), and over 8,000 hate crimes primarily targeting Black individuals, Jewish communities, LGBTQ+ people, and Asian Americans. The article raises concerns about the selective reporting of crime statistics and notes potential political pressures on federal agencies following President Trump's removal of the Bureau of Labor Statistics Commissioner after a reportedly displeasing jobs report.

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The Voting Rights Act of 1965 was enacted to protect and enforce the 14th and 15th Amendments in response to voter suppression by various government entities. Originally applying to seven states and subdivisions in four others, the Act prohibits denying voting rights based on race and previously required certain jurisdictions to obtain federal preclearance for voting changes. A significant 2013 Supreme Court decision ruled Section 4's preclearance formula unconstitutional, effectively neutralizing Section 5's enforcement mechanism. The Act has undergone several extensions and amendments since its inception, while recent court decisions have both limited and upheld different aspects of its protections.

Former Vice President Kamala Harris is releasing a book titled "107 Days" on September 23, 2023, published by Simon & Schuster, which will provide behind-the-scenes insights into her historically brief presidential campaign. Harris describes the book as an opportunity to share what she learned during her campaign and what she believes is needed to move forward. The announcement comes shortly after Harris confirmed she will not run for California governor in 2026, a decision that keeps her potential 2028 presidential ambitions viable. This will be Harris's third book, following her 2019 memoir "The Truths We Hold: An American Journey" and children's book "Superheroes Are Everywhere."

This article outlines three practical approaches to building stress resilience in daily life. The strategies include writing down positive affirmations before stressful situations, using smooth-writing tools that promote a "flow state" during writing, and leveraging color psychology to influence mood throughout the day. These mindful habits, paired with appropriate writing tools, aim to help individuals manage unavoidable everyday stress more effectively. The article emphasizes that while stress cannot be eliminated completely, these techniques can provide individuals with greater control over their responses to stressful situations.

Tyrique Glasgow, a reformed ex-drug dealer from South Philadelphia who was recognized as a CNN Hero in 2022, successfully led a five-year campaign to rename Taney Street to Caroline LeCount Street. The street, which had significant negative associations in Glasgow's past, was originally named after Supreme Court Justice Roger Taney who authored the infamous 1857 Dred Scott decision declaring Black Americans had no rights under the Constitution. Working with the Rename Taney Coalition, Glasgow helped build community support resulting in the December 2023 legislation making LeCount, a 19th-century civil rights activist, the first Black woman with a street named after her in Philadelphia. Despite ongoing neighborhood challenges including recent gun violence, Glasgow continues his community work through his Young Chances Foundation, recently establishing a junior broadcast center to empower local youth to tell their own stories.

A recent AP-NORC poll reveals a significant decline in Americans who believe Black people face high levels of discrimination, dropping from 60% in 2021 to 45% currently. The survey also indicates widespread skepticism about diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) initiatives, with many Americans, including those from minority groups, believing these efforts may actually increase discrimination. This shift in public opinion coincides with many companies retreating from diversity practices, particularly under pressure from Republican politicians including President Donald Trump. The poll shows divided perspectives on DEI's effectiveness, with approximately 40% of respondents believing DEI reduces discrimination against Black people, while others think it makes no difference or worsens discrimination.

LaTania Michelle, an executive coach and author, has released a new devotional titled "Still Chosen: A Devotional for the Woman Who Feels Forgotten but Still Called," now available on Amazon Kindle, Audible, and in paperback. This 14-day devotional is designed for women experiencing periods of waiting in various life areas including singleness, infertility, career transitions, grief, or spiritual burnout. The book combines Scripture, guided prayer, spiritual declarations, and neuroscience-informed mindset techniques through LaTania's Warfare + Rewiring™ framework. As the founder of Design Your Destiny Communications, LaTania brings over twenty years of leadership experience to help women transform feelings of delay or invisibility into clarity, courage, and confidence.

California is experiencing a severe housing crisis with disproportionate impacts on Black and Latino families, who make up 70% of extremely low-income renters in the state. The root problem is insufficient housing supply, with the state building only about 100,000 new homes annually instead of the 300,000 needed according to Governor Newsom. A new generation of Democratic lawmakers is embracing housing reform through the YIMBY movement, supporting zoning reforms and affordable housing development as paths toward racial and economic justice. However, progress faces opposition from both affluent suburb residents (NIMBYs) and groups like the American Economic Liberties Project, which advocates for banning algorithmic pricing tools used by landlords.

The Royal Family held a four-day reunion in San Diego from July 31st to August 3rd, bringing together descendants of Fant and Phyllis Royal from across the United States. Organized by a dedicated San Diego committee, the event featured activities including a meet and greet, city tour, dinner dance with awards, family cookout, and a farewell fish fry. The celebration honored the family's legacy while creating new memories, with entertainment including line dancing, live music by J-Movelle, and DJ performances. The reunion concluded with the symbolic passing of responsibility to the Detroit chapter, which will host the next gathering.

Recent tariff policies in the United States have evolved significantly, with the Trump administration reintroducing widespread tariffs in 2018, the Biden administration continuing their use, and new tariff actions emerging since Trump's return to office in 2025. Experts from UC San Diego, including economists, a political scientist, a finance professor, and a historian, provide insight into how these tariffs function as economic and foreign policy tools in today's global economy. Their analysis reveals that while tariffs may protect specific domestic industries and jobs, they typically result in reduced real income across all states, with potentially destabilizing effects on international trade relationships and global supply chains. The experts also note that the current trend represents a concerning shift away from multilateralism toward protectionism not seen since the 1930s.

Assemblymember Dr. LaShae Sharp-Collins hosted a Back to School Health Resource Fair on August 2nd at New Creation Church, drawing hundreds of families who accessed free resources from over 30 vendors. The event provided school supplies, health screenings, and educational information to prepare students for the new academic year. Partners including Sycuan Casino, PhRMA, and AT&T supported the fair, which featured backpack giveaways, free haircuts, and representation from organizations like the County of San Diego, UCSD programs, and educational institutions. Dr. Sharp-Collins emphasized that the event served as both a community check-in for her 79th Assembly District constituents and an opportunity to demonstrate the partnerships she has developed to support local families.

Senator Akilah Weber Pierson, M.D., who represents Senate District 39 in the California State Senate, hosted her Annual Backpack Giveaway and Family Resource Fair on Saturday, July 12, 2025, at KIPP Adelante Prep Academy in Southeast San Diego. The event provided free backpacks filled with school supplies to K-12 students, along with opportunity drawings including chances to win desktop computers from Computers 2 Kids. Additional resources included free kids' helmets, vision screenings, and over 20 community resource tables, with the fair starting at 9:30 a.m. and backpack distribution running from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m.

American Eagle Outfitters' new advertising campaign featuring Sydney Sweeney has sparked controversy due to wordplay around "genes" versus "jeans." Critics have raised concerns that the campaign's emphasis on Sweeney's blonde hair and blue eyes, combined with lines about genetic traits, inadvertently references eugenics or promotes narrow beauty standards. The backlash intensified after a teaser video where Sweeney discusses genes determining traits like hair color and eye color, with some seeing it as racially insensitive while others accused critics of overreacting. American Eagle has not responded to requests for comment, though the campaign comes as the retailer faces declining sales and seeks to differentiate itself in a competitive market.

Donald Trump recently attacked radio host Charlamagne tha God on Truth Social, calling him a "racist sleazebag" and "low-IQ individual" after Charlamagne's critical comments during a Fox News interview with Lara Trump. This incident adds to Trump's documented history of using dehumanizing language toward Black figures, including prosecutors like Alvin Bragg and Letitia James. Research indicates Trump's rhetoric has measurably increased dehumanizing views among his white supporters, while his administration has attempted to erase Black history through executive actions targeting institutions like the National Museum of African American History and Culture. Trump's pattern of racial discrimination extends back decades, from housing discrimination lawsuits in 1973 to his persistent attacks on the exonerated Central Park Five.

The Christian Mission for Deaf Africans in Lagos, Nigeria provides a specialized worship space where deaf congregants can practice their faith using sign language. Founded in 1956, this church serves 50-60 weekly attendees who find both spiritual fulfillment and community connection that mainstream churches typically don't offer. Pastor Remi Akinrenmi leads vibrant services where drums provide vibration cues for worship activities instead of audible instructions. Beyond religious services, the church operates sign language classes and community outreach programs, creating a crucial safe space in a country where an estimated 10 million people are deaf or hard of hearing and disability infrastructure remains limited.

The U.S. economy added only 73,000 jobs in July 2023, continuing a trend of weak growth as the unemployment rate remained at 4.2 percent. Black workers faced a disproportionately high unemployment rate of 7.2 percent, nearly double the 3.7 percent rate for white workers, while Hispanic and Asian workers experienced rates of 5.0 and 3.9 percent respectively. While health care and social assistance sectors showed modest gains, adding 55,000 and 18,000 jobs respectively, federal government employment continued declining with 12,000 jobs lost in July, contributing to 84,000 total losses since January. Significant downward revisions to May and June employment figures eliminated 258,000 jobs from previous estimates, revealing a much weaker job market than initially reported.

The Joint Center for Political and Economic Studies has released a 16-page report warning that federal industrial policy investments meant to advance economic opportunity for Black communities are being threatened by the Trump administration's elimination of diversity, equity, and inclusion provisions and slowed funding disbursement. The report examines how three major pieces of legislation—the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act, CHIPS and Science Act, and Inflation Reduction Act—offered historic opportunities to increase Black access to good jobs in growth industries like manufacturing, clean energy, and technology. While these laws included intentional equity components and have already reached over 99% of high-poverty counties, many Black-led organizations remain under-informed about these opportunities and face barriers in accessing funds. The Joint Center recommends supporting Black-led research, tracking equity outcomes, implementing fair hiring practices, and building accessible career pathways to ensure these investments benefit Black communities.

A new Harris Poll conducted in June 2025 reveals that while 91% of Americans view skilled trades as essential as white-collar jobs, 86% believe these careers are overlooked in the education system. The poll exposes a significant generational divide, with only 38% of Gen Z respondents viewing skilled trades as offering the best job prospects compared to 59% of Baby Boomers. Despite perception issues, most Americans would now recommend trade or vocational school over traditional four-year college education for high school graduates. The report calls on corporations to support skilled trades through initiatives like hands-on school programs, paid internships, and scholarships, noting that 90% of Americans have more favorable opinions of companies that support these careers.

A new Prison Policy Initiative report reveals how the Trump administration is using local jails to facilitate mass deportation, even in sanctuary cities and counties. The report, "Hiding in Plain Sight," explains that the administration circumvents sanctuary policies through a loophole that allows federal agencies to refer immigrants for criminal prosecution, enabling detention in local jails that have contracts with the U.S. Marshals Service. This strategy has resulted in ICE's actual detention numbers being approximately 45 percent higher than officially reported, with an estimated 83,400 immigrants in detention compared to the reported 57,200. Since Trump's return to office in January, 45 percent of all ICE arrests have occurred in jails, often targeting immigrants arrested for minor offenses that wouldn't result in jail time for U.S. citizens.

Sixty years after the signing of the Voting Rights Act (VRA), Black Americans are fighting renewed battles for voting rights amid increasing restrictions. Civil rights advocates, including former NAACP president Cornell William Brooks and current president Derrick Johnson, note that previously settled legal protections are being re-litigated and weakened. Since the Supreme Court gutted a key VRA provision in 2013, states have passed numerous restrictive voting laws, with 19 enacted in 2024 alone according to the Brennan Center for Justice. Despite these challenges, former staffers of Representative John Lewis maintain his optimistic perspective that progress, though slow and difficult, will continue through persistence.

The article reflects on the significance of the Voting Rights Act of 1965, which President Lyndon Johnson signed after decades of civil rights struggle and resistance. It specifically highlights the role of the late Representative John Lewis, who suffered brutal beatings during protests in Selma, Alabama, that helped push the legislation forward. Journalist Allison Davis interviewed three former staffers of Lewis to discuss his civil rights legacy, and also spoke with Cornell William Brooks, a former NAACP leader who now teaches at Harvard's Kennedy School, about current social justice challenges.

A major clinical trial published in JAMA found that structured lifestyle changes led to greater cognitive improvements than self-guided approaches for older adults at risk of cognitive decline. The study involved 2,111 participants aged 60-79 who were randomly assigned to either a structured program with 38 facilitated meetings or a self-guided program with just six meetings, both focusing on physical activity, nutrition, cognitive stimulation, social interaction, and cardiovascular health. While both groups showed improved brain function over the two-year study period, the structured group demonstrated statistically significant greater improvement in global cognition (0.243 vs 0.213 points per year) and executive function. The diverse participant group included 68.9% women and 30.8% racial or ethnic minorities, with high retention rates of 89% completing the final assessment.

The Washington Post is experiencing a significant exodus of Black journalists, despite its location in Washington D.C. with a 43% Black population. This departure trend coincides with President Trump's recent executive order targeting diversity initiatives, which was signed within 48 hours of his second term. Many prominent Black journalists with decades of experience and Pulitzer Prizes have left the organization, including Jonathan Capehart, Karen Attiah, Toluse Olorunnipa, Eugene Robinson, and Krissah Thompson. The National Association of Black Journalists has expressed concern about these departures, noting the implications for newsroom diversity and representation in an industry already struggling with inclusion.

The United States is experiencing a national crisis of worsening traffic congestion, deteriorating road conditions, and increased aggressive driving behaviors. According to recent reports, Washington D.C. has overtaken Los Angeles as the city with the worst traffic, with residents spending an average of 71 days annually in traffic. Beyond congestion, states like Louisiana, New Mexico, and Colorado have become hotspots for road rage, with a significant percentage of traffic fatalities linked to aggressive driving. The situation has reached such severity that 63% of Americans now consider aggressive driving a major problem in their communities, while residents across high-impact areas report that conditions are worse than ever before.

Food insecurity in Africa has reached alarming levels, with over 1 billion people—approximately two-thirds of the continent's population—unable to afford a healthy diet in 2024, according to a recent United Nations report. While global hunger rates have slightly decreased since 2022, Africa has experienced a steady rise in food insecurity, with undernourishment exceeding 20% across the continent. The report, compiled by five UN agencies including the WHO, FAO, and WFP, projects that by 2030, nearly 60% of the world's chronically undernourished people will be in Africa. Factors driving this crisis include insufficient agricultural production relative to population growth, violent conflicts, and climate change impacts that weaken already fragile food systems.

Beyoncé's 13-year-old daughter Blue Ivy Carter has become a standout performer on the Cowboy Carter tour, drawing fans specifically to see her evolving stage presence. The young performer has progressed significantly since her debut during the 2023 Renaissance tour, now appearing in nearly every song and demonstrating professional-level skills alongside her mother. Behind-the-scenes insights revealed that Beyoncé was initially hesitant about her daughter performing but agreed after Blue proved her commitment through practice. The mother-daughter dynamic has resonated strongly with fans, particularly other mother-daughter pairs who attend concerts together and see Blue as an inspirational figure for the younger generation.

The article warns that the early release of FBI files on Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. appears to be part of a coordinated effort to discredit his legacy and potentially dismantle MLK Day. The author connects this to a broader pattern of reactionary moves including voter suppression, book bans, and attacks on civil rights. Several examples are cited as evidence of this trend, including the renaming of Fort Gregg-Adams back to Fort Lee, the removal of Dr. Carla Hayden as Librarian of Congress, and far-right figures like Charlie Kirk publicly criticizing Dr. King and the Civil Rights Act. The commentary, published in The Afro, frames these actions as attempts to control the future by rewriting American history.

Dr. John E. Warren, the new Chairman of the National Newspaper Publishers Association (NNPA) Board of Directors, welcomes readers to Black Press "Local Newsrooms" with their 198-year history of service. He emphasizes that Black newspapers remain trusted messengers in communities of color while embracing digital media alongside traditional print formats. Warren highlights the economic power of these communities, which contribute over $4 trillion annually to the American economy, and encourages readers to support publications that reinvest in their communities. He calls for corporate America to fairly exchange advertising dollars with Black media outlets that serve communities with significant market spending power.

Sean "Diddy" Combs has filed a new motion seeking release from federal custody before his October 3 sentencing, following his conviction on Mann Act violations despite acquittal on sex trafficking and racketeering charges. His attorneys argue that his nearly year-long detention represents an unprecedented application of a 114-year-old law originally intended to combat human trafficking and forced prostitution. They contend Combs is being unfairly punished for consensual sexual activities within a swinger lifestyle, not for coercion or profiteering. The legal team has offered a $50 million bond secured by Combs' Miami home, along with travel restrictions and electronic monitoring, while also citing the dangerous conditions at Brooklyn's Metropolitan Detention Center as further justification for his release.

City of Hope International Church recently hosted its annual "Pack the City with Hope Back-to-School Giveaway and Community Resource Fair," serving over 100 students and families from the greater San Diego area. The event provided backpacks, school supplies, personal care items, dental kits, and other resources to help students start the school year confidently, with 50 students receiving new headphones and 75 girls receiving feminine hygiene kits. Associated Barber College offered free haircuts, while various partners including Visionary Dental, Super Dentists, Dr. Chan DDS, Lincoln High School Alumni Association, and church members contributed to the event's success. Remaining supplies will be donated to Lincoln High School and Porter Elementary School, extending the event's impact beyond the church grounds.

The Africa Migration Report Poetry Anthology Series is seeking submissions of poems and short prose pieces exploring African migration experiences for a new anthology. This multi-volume initiative aims to collect works examining the historical and contemporary patterns of African and African diasporic migration, including motivations like education, employment, climate change, and conflict. Submissions must be 40 lines or less for poetry or 100 words maximum for prose, with each contributor allowed to submit up to three pieces. The series was inspired by the Africa Migration Report's 2nd Edition and is organized by Forced Migration and The Arts in collaboration with CivicLeicester and Regularise.

Two young men incarcerated at East Mesa Juvenile Detention Facility have graduated from Southwestern College with associate's degrees and have been accepted to four-year universities. Their achievement was celebrated with family members, San Diego County Chief Probation Officer Tamika Nelson, and Probation staff in attendance at both the graduation ceremony and a private dinner afterward at the detention facility. Both graduates are participants in the Youth Development Academy Fire Program, with one earning a degree in communication and the other in sociology. Their success demonstrates how educational opportunities and structured programs can help justice-involved youth change their life trajectories and highlights the San Diego County Probation Department's commitment to rehabilitation.

A major coalition of Black faith organizations, led by leaders from the National Baptist Convention USA, Church of God in Christ, National Baptist Convention of America, and the National Newspaper Publishers Association (NNPA), has announced a strategic partnership to address systemic disparities affecting African American communities nationwide. The collaboration unites two historically influential institutions in Black America—the Black Church and Black Media—to create a unified approach to longstanding inequities in healthcare, education, criminal justice, economic opportunity, and access to capital. This partnership aims to replace fragmented responses with a consolidated voice grounded in shared values, spiritual conviction, and cultural empowerment. The coalition has established five core initiatives and is inviting various stakeholders to join their movement for unity, justice, and progress.

Prince's iconic 1987 concert film "Sign O' The Times" is being re-released in IMAX theaters globally, with special opening night screenings at AMC theaters on August 28, followed by a wider release on August 29. The film has been remastered using IMAX's proprietary technology to deliver superior sound quality and visuals, showcasing Prince at the height of his creative power performing memorable tracks like "If I Was Your Girlfriend," "U Got The Look," and the socially relevant title track. Attendees of the opening night screenings will receive exclusive collectible concert-style tickets, giving fans both new and old an opportunity to experience Prince's extraordinary musicianship, stagecraft, and artistic vision in an immersive format.

Kellie Todd Griffin presents a powerful critique of California's systemic inequalities affecting Black communities despite the state's progressive reputation. She highlights the extensive documentation in California's Reparations Report that details generations of discrimination in housing, policing, education, and healthcare affecting Black Californians. Griffin emphasizes stark statistics showing Black Californians face disproportionate rates of poverty, homelessness, unemployment, and healthcare disparities, including that Black women earn just $0.61 for every dollar earned by white men. She calls for immediate policy changes and substantive investment rather than platitudes, urging Californians to listen to Black voices demanding accountability and justice.

California experienced a significant drop in most crime categories in 2024, with violent crime decreasing by 5.5% and property crime reaching a 40-year low after dropping 10%. Despite these positive trends, shoplifting increased by nearly 14% and remains almost 48% higher than pre-pandemic levels. The NAACP California-Hawaii State Conference received three national awards at the 116th NAACP National Convention, including the Willis Edwards Award for LGBTQIA+ advocacy. Additionally, a Yale University study revealed worsening disparities in nitrogen dioxide pollution exposure for Black and Latino Californians over the past 42 years, and a federal appeals court recently struck down California's ammunition background check law, ruling it violates the Second Amendment.

Malcolm-Jamal Warner, known for his role as Theo Huxtable on "The Cosby Show," died at age 54 in a drowning accident while vacationing in Costa Rica with his family. His unexpected death has triggered profound grief within the Black community, similar to the reactions following the deaths of Prince, Kobe Bryant, and Chadwick Boseman. Warner was widely respected for successfully transitioning from child actor to versatile adult performer across multiple television series, avoiding the typical pitfalls of early fame. Beyond his acting career, Warner was also recognized as a poet and musician who valued family life and consciously built a meaningful legacy separate from his iconic childhood role.

The 6th Annual Purple Dress Luncheon, hosted by S.H.A.D.E.S. (Sisters Honoring Authentic Divas & Empowering Successful Women), adopted an All-Pink theme this year as women gathered at Admiral Baker Golf Course in San Diego on July 19. Founder Aisha Davis served as host and keynote speaker, sharing her personal journey of overcoming setbacks and discovering her purpose of creating a supportive environment for women. The four-hour event featured awards recognizing women's resilience and accomplishments, fostering an atmosphere of empowerment, authenticity, and connection among attendees. Throughout the luncheon, women engaged in honest conversations and meaningful interactions that embodied the organization's mission of empowering women and creating a supportive community.

"Washington Black," a 2018 novel by Esi Edugyan about a young enslaved boy's journey to freedom, has been adapted into an eight-episode Hulu miniseries premiering Wednesday, with Sterling K. Brown as both producer and actor. The adaptation follows 11-year-old George Washington "Wash" Black from slavery in 1830s Barbados through adventures across the seas after he flees with Christopher "Titch" Wilde, requiring filming across multiple locations including Nova Scotia, Mexico, and Iceland between 2022 and 2024. The production team conducted extensive casting searches to find the perfect actors to portray Wash at different ages, ultimately selecting Ernest Kingsley Jr. and 14-year-old Eddie Karanja. Brown became a mentor to the inexperienced actors on set, creating a supportive environment where they could voice doubts and ask questions comfortably.

This letter to the editor expresses deep disappointment with legislators who voted for "One Big Beautiful Bill" (BBB), criticizing them for not reading the 870-1000 page legislation before voting. The author claims the rushed bill fails to represent constituents' interests while benefiting wealthy corporations. The letter criticizes Republicans for supporting measures that allegedly remove healthcare, reduce clean energy programs, sell public lands, and provide tax breaks to billionaires. The writer urges readers to advocate for policies and support politicians who prioritize people and environmental protection over corporate interests.

The article discusses the cultural significance of Black sitcoms in American television history, highlighting their role in providing authentic representation and shifting cultural narratives. It specifically focuses on Malcolm-Jamal Warner's portrayal of Theo Huxtable on The Cosby Show, describing his character as a relatable blueprint for Black masculinity. The article reports Warner's tragic death by accidental drowning in Costa Rica on July 20, 2025, at age 54, which prompted widespread grief from colleagues and fans. In response to Warner's passing, NewsToter compiled a ranking of the greatest Black sitcoms of all time, though the specific rankings are not provided in the excerpt.

In Burkina Faso, a nation with only 70 ophthalmologists for 23 million people, Dr. Claudette Yaméogo stands as the country's sole pediatric ophthalmologist, treating children with eye injuries that are often seen too late for effective intervention. Most eye specialists are concentrated in major cities, making access nearly impossible for the 70% of the population living in rural areas, as evidenced by only 52 of over 2,000 ophthalmology procedures being performed in rural regions in 2024. The financial burden is significant for families like Isaka Diallo's, who spent valuable time and money to reach Dr. Yaméogo only to learn his injury had become too severe to treat effectively. Despite government coverage for children under 5 on paper, families often must purchase medications elsewhere and face surgery costs that can represent several months of income.

Willie Charles Brown, Sr., the 81-year-old publisher of Inglewood Today, passed away on June 25, 2023, leaving behind a remarkable legacy of community journalism spanning more than three decades. After founding his newspaper in 1993 to counter negative mainstream narratives about Inglewood following the Los Angeles uprising, Brown transformed it into a trusted source of local news and community commentary. Beyond journalism, Brown served as a mentor, civic partner, and community connector who championed women's rights and fought against injustice while working to maintain his publication's financial stability during challenging times for print media. His life was celebrated at memorial services in July, where family, friends, and civic leaders, including Inglewood Mayor James T. Butts, honored his contributions to journalism and his community.

American consumers are facing significant financial strain as prices have risen approximately 26% since the COVID-19 pandemic began, making many everyday purchases and experiences increasingly unaffordable. Hotel rooms, rental cars, groceries, and dining out have all seen dramatic price increases, with hotel rates up 24% over the past decade and restaurant prices soaring 49.3% in the same period. The Times of London reports that this persistent inflation, which began accelerating in 2021, has impacted Americans across all income brackets, forcing difficult spending decisions. Some companies have been accused of exploiting the situation by passing along rising costs to consumers while seeking increased profit margins.

Federal immigration raids in Los Angeles, particularly a July 7 operation at MacArthur Park involving approximately 90 armed agents, have prompted strong opposition from California officials including Mayor Karen Bass and Governor Gavin Newsom. Both leaders have denounced the raids as unconstitutional and harmful to immigrant communities, with Bass issuing Executive Directive No. 12 to prohibit city resources being used for immigration enforcement and to support affected families. In response, the City of Los Angeles is taking legal action against the federal administration, while a U.S. District Judge has ruled that ICE agents must have reasonable suspicion before stops and cannot rely on racial profiling. Various community organizations, including Black-led groups, have mobilized in solidarity with immigrants, emphasizing that the enforcement tactics disproportionately impact multiple communities.

The Conservation Fund (TCF) has purchased Zora Neale Hurston's former home in Fort Pierce, Florida, saving it from potential demolition or development. TCF will transfer the property to the Zora Neale Hurston Florida Education Foundation (ZNHFEF), which plans to transform it into a visitor and education center honoring the acclaimed Harlem Renaissance author. The home, where Hurston lived during her final years while writing for the Fort Pierce Chronicle, received National Historic Landmark status in 1991 but remained at risk until this intervention. Both organizations are now fundraising to replenish funds used for the purchase and make necessary improvements to the property, which forms part of the Dust Tracks Heritage Trail commemorating Hurston's contributions to American literature and history.

Parks After Dark is a free summer program taking place at five San Diego City parks on Thursday, Friday, and Saturday evenings through early August. The program, now in its fourth annual iteration, is a collaborative effort between the San Diego Parks Foundation, the City and County of San Diego, Price Philanthropies, and the Prebys Foundation. From 5 p.m. to 8 p.m., participants can enjoy various activities including music, theatre, movies, arts and crafts, games, sports clinics, community resources, and free food for children. The events are designed to be multicultural and multigenerational, welcoming families and individuals from all communities to participate in these outdoor celebrations.

Senate Bill 515, introduced by Senator Laura Richardson (D-Inglewood), would require California local governments to disaggregate demographic data for Black or African American populations by distinguishing between African Americans descended from U.S. slavery, Black individuals not descended from U.S. slavery, and those who don't know or choose not to identify their ethnicity. The bill, which passed the Assembly Local Government Committee on July 2 with an 8-2 vote, aims to address the current practice of grouping all Black communities under one category on government forms. If enacted, SB 515 would take effect January 1, 2027, requiring cities and counties to collect more detailed demographic data to better understand the unique needs of different Black subgroups.

James Cloud Jr. celebrated his 84th birthday on July 1st at MLK Park with friends and family, combining the occasion with a book signing for his new work "From Rigger in the Navy to Soldier in the Army of God." The celebration brought together longtime companions from Las Vegas and San Diego to share memories, enjoy food, and laugh together. Pastor Glenn McKinney of St. Stephen's Church of God in Christ praised Mr. Cloud's journey as inspirational, noting how he had become a positive influence for his family and community. Mr. Cloud expressed gratitude for the attendance of his relatives, including children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren, as well as friends from his hometown of Akron, Ohio.

Six months after the devastating Eaton Canyon and Palisades fires, Governor Gavin Newsom announced a comprehensive recovery plan at Pasadena City College alongside local leaders. Newsom reported that cleanup efforts are 96% complete and detailed his administration's financial response, including 23 executive orders, a $2.5 billion relief package, and securing an additional $3 billion from FEMA and the Small Business Administration. LA County Supervisor Kathryn Barger introduced the "LA County Forward: Blueprint for Rebuilding" plan to streamline recovery efforts through simplified permitting, infrastructure repairs, power line undergrounding, and enhanced support services. The Eaton Fire destroyed 9,400 structures and claimed 17 lives, while the Palisades Fire burned a larger area but destroyed fewer structures (6,800), with the combined death toll exceeding 30.

The Annual Summer Bash celebration for kids was held at MLK Park, organized by Cherish Moments Non-Profit Organization. The event featured numerous activities including inflatable games, music by DJ Styles, entertainment, arts and crafts, raffles, and complimentary food for community members. Local officials attended to demonstrate their support for neighborhood youth, with the celebration running from 10 am to 4 pm. Organizers Sherrell Kinsler and Kimberly Foster emphasized that the event's purpose was to create a joyful environment where children could feel valued and appreciated while bringing the community together.

Fort Hays State University will honor six outstanding alumni during the upcoming Homecoming weekend in September, with Police Commander Benjamin A. Kelso of San Diego receiving the Alumni Achievement Award, the university's highest recognition for graduates. Kelso has served over 35 years in law enforcement with expertise in areas including neighborhood policing, traffic services, homeland security, and team development, while also holding two advanced degrees from FHSU. The other honorees include Michelle Dillard, Jeffery Curtis, Michael Slattery, Sara Brungardt, and Jacie Hoyt, who will be recognized for their various contributions and achievements. President Dr. Tisa Mason expressed excitement about celebrating these alumni who embody the "Tiger spirit" through their service to professions, communities, and society.

Vernita Largen Todd, Executive Director at San Ysidro Health, was interviewed on "From the Desk of the Editor" during Juneteenth week, where she discussed her role overseeing the Program of All-Inclusive Care for the Elderly (PACE) in San Diego. Todd shared her journey from Tennessee to San Diego and highlighted San Ysidro Health's founding by seven women who envisioned "access for all," now serving over 160,000 county residents. She addressed misconceptions about PACE eligibility requirements and emphasized that community care transcends geography, advocating for seniors in East County and rural areas like Alpine and Campo. The conversation is available on the Voice & Viewpoint Newspaper YouTube channel, with new episodes of the program airing every Wednesday on Facebook and YouTube.

The article by Dr. John E. Warren discusses the critical role of the Black Press in African American communities and its current struggles. He emphasizes that Black newspapers have been telling the community's story for 198 years through numerous historical challenges, but now face declining support despite the African American population having more income than ever before. Dr. Warren highlights how many organizations and individuals have shifted to social media rather than supporting traditional Black media outlets, while simultaneously corporations have reduced advertising revenue to these publications. He calls for renewed community support of the Black Press and urges major civil rights organizations like the National Urban League and NAACP to encourage their corporate sponsors to advertise in Black newspapers.

Inflation rose to 2.7% in June, reaching its highest level since February, driven partly by President Trump's tariffs increasing costs on various goods including furniture, clothing, and appliances. The Labor Department reported a 0.3% monthly price increase from May to June, up from the previous month's 0.1% increase. This inflation surge creates political challenges for Trump, who promised lower costs during his campaign but has instead imposed sweeping tariffs. The increased inflation makes it more likely that the Federal Reserve will maintain current interest rates at their upcoming meeting, despite Trump's pressure on Chair Jerome Powell to cut rates.

Los Angeles County experienced mass immigration raids last month, prompting thousands of demonstrators to protest against the Trump administration and ICE enforcement actions. When initial protests escalated with police using tear gas, President Trump deployed over 4,000 National Guard troops and 700 Marines, leading to online debates about whether Black Americans should participate in these demonstrations. Despite the risks, some Black activists continue supporting the protests, noting that immigration is a Black issue with over 4 million Black immigrants in the U.S., including approximately 60,000 in Los Angeles. California officials, including members of the California Legislative Black Caucus, have opposed the ICE raids and supported immigrant communities.

President Trump's "One Big Beautiful Bill," signed on July 4, will significantly impact California's 2025-26 state budget by cutting $1.6-2 trillion in federal spending over the next decade. The law reduces funding for critical safety net programs including Medicaid, food assistance, housing, transportation, education, and clean energy initiatives that many Californians rely on. Medi-Cal, which covers approximately 15 million California residents, faces severe cuts as the law replaces Medicaid's federal match with capped block grants, potentially resulting in a $2.8 billion annual loss for the state. The legislation also expands work requirements for CalFresh recipients and eliminates funding for clean energy and transit projects in underserved communities, disproportionately affecting Black Californians and other vulnerable populations.

Black Lives Matter (BLM) has reached its 12th anniversary with 51 chapters globally and thousands of on-the-ground organizers, according to co-founder Dr. Melina Abdullah. During a recent summit in Los Angeles, organizers from across the movement gathered to discuss strategy amid what Abdullah describes as unprecedented "fascism and unmasked racism." BLM Grassroots has released an annual action report highlighting various initiatives, including the successful campaign to free Brittany Martin, a mother imprisoned for comments made during a 2020 protest. Dr. Abdullah also addressed internal conflicts within the broader BLM network regarding financial management, particularly criticizing the BLM Global Network Foundation's purchase of a "$6 million mansion" in Studio City.

Reverend William Barber is organizing Moral Monday protests in 11 Southern states against the recently passed healthcare legislation that cuts $17 million from Medicaid. The protests target local Senate offices in states where an estimated 1.5 million people could lose healthcare coverage due to these cuts. Demonstrators, including clergy and affected individuals, plan to march with caskets representing those negatively impacted in each state. Senator Thom Tillis of North Carolina was noted as the only senator who voted against the bill, which President Trump signed into law on July 4th after it passed the Senate.

Los Angeles Mayor Karen Bass has filed a lawsuit against the Trump administration for federalizing the National Guard in Los Angeles, effectively removing control from California Governor Gavin Newsom. Bass claims this federal action represents an overreach of power, with ICE, National Guard, Border Patrol, and Marines now collectively targeting immigrants of various nationalities in the city. The mayor describes Los Angeles as a "Petri dish" for Trump's immigration policies, highlighting that the city's large immigrant population is being significantly impacted, with entire immigrant-dependent industries suffering and some areas becoming "ghost towns." Bass emphasizes that this federal intervention has multiple concerning dimensions: political overreach, humanitarian concerns for affected communities, and severe economic consequences for a diverse city where nearly half the population is Latino.

California's Legislature is advancing Assembly Bill 247, which would increase hourly pay for incarcerated firefighters from approximately $1 to the federal minimum wage of $7.25 when working on active wildfires. The bill, authored by Assemblymember Isaac Bryan, aims to provide fairer compensation for inmates who work dangerous, lengthy shifts battling California's devastating fires. Though initially proposing $19 per hour, the rate was reduced during negotiations. Despite opposition from the California State Sheriffs' Association citing cost concerns, the Senate Public Safety Committee approved the bill, which now heads to the Senate Appropriations Committee for further consideration.

Sesame Workshop is working to regain control of the Elmo X account after a hacker compromised it over the weekend, posting racist and antisemitic content to Elmo's 650,000 followers. The unauthorized posts, which included antisemitic threats and references to the Jeffrey Epstein case, were quickly deleted, though a link to a Telegram channel from the alleged hacker remains on the account. This incident represents a stark contrast to Elmo's usual content focused on encouragement, kindness, and mental health awareness, which previously attracted engagement from prominent figures like then-President Joe Biden and Chance the Rapper. X has not yet responded to requests for comment about the situation.

Former Nigerian President Muhammadu Buhari has died at age 82 in London following a prolonged illness, as announced by the presidential press office. Buhari, who served as president from 2015 to 2023 after winning two consecutive elections, was a former military general who had briefly ruled Nigeria following a 1983 coup before being overthrown. Current President Bola Ahmed Tinubu praised Buhari as a patriot and statesman committed to Nigeria's unity, particularly noting his anti-corruption efforts and stance against Boko Haram insurgency. Despite initial popularity, Buhari's presidency was marked by economic challenges, security issues, and protests, though he remained respected for his principled leadership and integrity.

Reena Evers-Everette, daughter of assassinated civil rights leader Medgar Evers, sees parallels between her father's 1963 murder and today's political violence, which experts say is at its highest level since the 1960s-70s. At a recent conference celebrating what would have been Evers' 100th birthday, she was joined by daughters of other slain civil rights leaders, including Kerry Kennedy and Bettie Dahmer. The event featured voting rights activist Stacey Abrams, who criticized Trump administration efforts to potentially remove Evers' name from a Navy vessel and drew connections between historical political violence and current military actions against protesters. Evers-Everette emphasized the importance of remembering history to avoid repeating "the crazy, nasty, racist mess."

The 2025 Retirement Confidence Survey reveals persistent disparities in retirement savings between Black and non-Black Americans, even at higher income levels. Only 33% of Black households earning $75,000+ have saved $250,000 or more compared to 63% of non-Black households, with debt being a significant barrier for 63% of higher-income Black households. Black Americans are less likely to have personally saved for retirement (77% versus 87% for non-Black Americans) and often experience worse retirement outcomes, including earlier-than-planned retirement due to health issues. While Black Americans express confidence in day-to-day budget management, they struggle more with long-term financial planning and have less access to financial advisory services.

Trump administration Agriculture Secretary Brooke Rollins has proposed replacing deported undocumented farm workers with America's 34 million "able-bodied adults" on Medicaid. This controversial plan suggests using Medicaid enrollment as a roster for agricultural labor, going beyond President Trump's earlier proposals to have farmers house and supervise migrant workers to avoid ICE raids. Critics characterize this approach as forced labor that would disproportionately impact Black Americans, who make up nearly 19% of Medicaid enrollees under 65, and would particularly affect women and children who constitute a significant portion of Medicaid recipients. Farmers have warned that such deportation and labor policies could lead to food shortages and economic disruption.

President Trump's administration has reinstated ICE raids in sensitive locations like schools and churches, with recent military-style operations in Los Angeles causing significant distress among immigrant communities. Data shows that one in ten Black Americans is an immigrant, and these enforcement actions are creating a climate of fear preventing many immigrant students from attending school or educational activities. Education advocates like Dr. Christopher Nellum from Ed-Trust warn that these raids traumatize students and damage educational institutions, with studies showing increased anxiety, depression, and school disengagement among affected students. The Los Angeles Unified School District has implemented protective measures in response, while advocates push for stronger legislative protections and support services for vulnerable immigrant students.

Mikayla Salmon, a 29-year-old fashion designer from Clarendon, Jamaica, has achieved international recognition through a collaboration with global fast-fashion company Shein that launched in April 2025. Her four-piece collection featured contemporary designs with the two-piece becoming a best-seller that sold out twice, making her reportedly the second Jamaica-born designer to collaborate with Shein at this scale. Despite facing challenges like self-doubt and previous unsuccessful applications to Shein programs, Salmon persevered and has successfully expanded her brand, Young Addiction, which focuses on creating clothing for all body types, particularly plus-size women. Beyond this achievement, Salmon continues to advocate for Jamaica's fashion industry, highlighting issues such as limited access to quality fabrics and high shipping costs while planning to expand into menswear and develop a custom ackee print for upcoming competitions.

The National Association of Black Journalists (NABJ) has decided not to invite President Trump to its annual convention in Cleveland this August, with NABJ president Ken Lemon citing the organization's 50th anniversary as the main focus. This decision follows a pattern as other prominent Black organizations, including the NAACP and National Urban League, have also chosen not to invite Trump to their conventions. Black journalists have experienced significant job losses, hiring freezes, and decreased opportunities attributed to the Trump administration's anti-DEI stance. Trump's appearance at last year's NABJ convention was controversial due to his comments about then-Vice President Kamala Harris, which some NABJ leadership candidates characterized as damaging to Black journalists and Black America.

CNN is tracking extreme heat conditions across the United States to help Americans prepare for dangerous temperatures that cause health emergencies and hundreds of heat-related deaths annually. The National Weather Service and CDC produce risk forecasts that consider severity, duration, and potential impact on residents based on historical data. These forecasts include "feels like" temperature predictions for over 800 US cities, heat advisories that affected more than 60 million people in summer 2023, and projections of record-breaking temperatures. Climate change is intensifying heat waves, making them more common, intense, and long-lasting, with temperatures warming faster overnight.

of the Article The Michael Jackson Estate has filed a petition in Los Angeles Superior Court accusing Frank Cascio of orchestrating a $213 million extortion plot by threatening to reverse decades of public support for Jackson into damaging allegations. According to court documents, Cascio, who previously defended Jackson and published a supportive memoir titled "My Friend Michael," allegedly demanded millions from the estate despite having already received payments through a confidential 2020 settlement. The estate claims that after initially collecting settlement funds, Cascio returned with new demands in 2024, threatening to leak allegations to the buyer of Jackson's $600 million music catalog if not paid. Attorney Mark Geragos, who previously defended Jackson as "100 percent innocent," now represents Cascio in what the estate describes as a contradiction of Cascio's decades of public statements supporting Jackson.

of "American Climate Perspectives Survey Reveals Growing Concern About Extreme Heat and Climate Change" A new national poll by ecoAmerica reveals that 86% of Americans across political affiliations report increased concern about climate change due to record-breaking heat waves, with 97% of Democrats, 83% of Independents, and 79% of Republicans expressing heightened worry. The survey shows that 89% of respondents recognize extreme heat's impact on public health, with Black Americans showing particularly high concern levels (91%) while also facing disproportionate exposure to extreme heat and fewer adaptation resources. The findings demonstrate a significant shift in climate perception, with 82% of Americans now believing climate change intensifies extreme weather events, up from 76% in 2021, including a dramatic 17-point increase among Republicans. Additionally, 79% of Americans express concern about proposed funding cuts to FEMA and NOAA, fearing reduced government capacity to respond to climate impacts.

The article urgently calls for Black Americans to engage with immigration issues, arguing that the systems targeting immigrants also threaten Black communities. The author emphasizes that immigration enforcement tools like racial profiling, flawed facial recognition, and militarized raids directly impact Black citizens as well. Statistical evidence is presented showing many Black citizens lack proper identification, placing them at risk of wrongful detention. The article frames immigration enforcement and anti-Black policies as interconnected threats from the same system of state power, concluding that remaining silent puts Black communities in danger.

The House of Representatives is debating a contentious bill referred to by Republicans as the "Big Beautiful Bill" and by Democrats as "The Big Ugly Bill." House Minority Leader Hakeem Jeffries strongly opposed the legislation, which according to the Congressional Budget Office would add $3.3 trillion to the deficit while cutting healthcare for 16 million Americans, reducing SNAP food assistance, and codifying tax breaks for wealthy individuals. Democrats need only four Republican votes to defeat the bill, while President Trump has been calling Republican holdouts to secure their support. The legislation would also impact the Affordable Care Act (Obamacare), prompting former President Obama to issue a statement urging representatives to vote against it.

Donald Trump's proposed spending measure, dubbed the "One Big Ugly Bill" by Democrats, aims to drastically cut social safety net programs while creating an unprecedented immigration enforcement system. The legislation includes approximately $1 trillion in cuts to Medicaid and the Affordable Care Act over ten years, potentially affecting millions of low-income Americans' healthcare coverage. Simultaneously, it allocates over $150 billion to expand ICE operations, with the detention budget projected to increase from $3.4 billion to $45 billion by 2029, surpassing federal prison funding. The bill also establishes a federal citizenship registry combining Social Security and immigration data, which critics argue creates a national surveillance system implemented without proper public debate.

Jamaica's Ambassador to Japan, Shorna-Kay Richards, delivered a passionate lecture advocating for global nuclear disarmament during a Peace Boat voyage to Montego Bay. Speaking as part of the 'Time for Peace' initiative commemorating the 80th anniversary of World War II's end, Richards highlighted Jamaica's consistent leadership in nuclear non-proliferation efforts despite being a small island nation. She shared her personal commitment to disarmament that began after visiting Hiroshima and Nagasaki in 2005, where she witnessed the devastation of nuclear weapons and met survivors. Richards emphasized Jamaica's participation in all major nuclear disarmament treaties while warning about growing nuclear threats in the current global landscape.

Unemployment among Black Americans rose to 6.8% in June 2023, reaching its highest level since January 2022, while the national unemployment rate decreased to 4.1% with 147,000 jobs added overall. This disparity occurs as Black Americans are typically affected first when the economy weakens, particularly in industries like transportation and warehousing where hiring has recently declined. President Trump's trade policies creating business uncertainty and the administration's reduction of federal government jobs, particularly targeting diversity programs, may be contributing factors to this unemployment gap. While the broader labor market appears stable, this growth is concentrated primarily in healthcare, local government, and hospitality sectors, with most other industries showing minimal job gains.

California's police education standards, initially proposed in 2020 following George Floyd's murder, are being revisited through Assemblymember Jacqui Irwin's new bill that would require incoming officers to obtain a policing certificate, associate degree, or bachelor's degree by 2031, with certain exceptions. The legislation represents a compromise between the original reform vision of former Assemblymember Reggie Jones-Sawyer, who sought stricter education requirements, and concerns from law enforcement agencies about exacerbating current staffing shortages. While the bill has gained widespread support from law enforcement groups, Jones-Sawyer and some policing experts criticize its exceptions for military experience and out-of-state law enforcement experience as undermining the original intent of improving officer decision-making and reducing use of force. The bill also establishes a law enforcement recruitment task force to address ongoing staffing challenges across California's police departments.

In Zimbabwe's capital city of Harare, thousands of informal scrap metal collectors like Ezekiel Mabhiza earn their living by sifting through illegal dumpsites to salvage metal for resale. These workers, who face hazardous conditions while sorting through waste, unintentionally contribute to environmental conservation by reducing pollution and helping combat climate change through metal recycling. The recycled materials they collect account for a significant portion of the raw materials used in steel production, which requires less energy than producing steel from virgin resources and generates fewer carbon emissions. While Harare generates approximately 1,000 tons of waste daily with most going uncollected, these informal pickers serve as essential "unsung heroes" in Zimbabwe's waste management system, supporting both their families and a cleaner environment.

California's Assembly Bill 3074, passed in 2020, requires property owners in high fire hazard areas to create an "ember-resistant zone" within five feet of their homes to reduce wildfire risks. Despite Governor Newsom's February 2024 executive order to expedite implementation, the regulations have faced delays and are still in the "pre-rulemaking phase," with full implementation not expected until the end of 2025. Many homeowners like Oakland resident Tina Sanders remain unaware of these pending rules and have concerns about compliance costs and potential impacts on property values. The regulations will prohibit combustible materials like wooden fences and flammable vegetation in Zone 0, with immediate application to new constructions in designated high-risk areas once finalized.

President Donald Trump has sent letters to leaders of 14 countries announcing new tariff rates set to take effect on August 1, extending the previous July 9 deadline for most countries except China. The letters, sent to nations including Japan, South Korea, Malaysia, and others, impose tariffs ranging from 24% to 40%, with Trump specifically citing trade deficits as justification. Trump warned that tariffs could increase further if countries retaliate with their own tariffs, while encouraging foreign leaders to manufacture goods in the United States to avoid these duties. Financial markets responded negatively to the announcements, with major stock indexes experiencing their worst performance in about three weeks.

The Bayside Gospel Concert Aboard the Midway returns on July 26th at 7:30pm, featuring an evening of faith and worship on the historic U.S.S. Midway Museum's flight deck in San Diego. Headlining artists include Gospel legend Vanessa Bell Armstrong, vocalist Kelontae Gavin, and The Family, alongside performers Corey Thompson, Robert Earl Dean, and M.A.N.D.A.T.E.'s recording artist Palace. The event promises an uplifting experience under the stars with spiritual music and stunning views, with tickets currently available for purchase on Eventbrite.

Proposition 36, known as the "Homelessness, Drug Addiction, and Theft Reduction Act," has shown troubling trends six months after implementation, with early data revealing disproportionate impacts on Black communities. The measure, which passed in November 2024, increased penalties for certain drug and theft crimes by reclassifying some as felonies and lengthening sentences for specific offenses. In San Diego, data shows 32% of people arrested for Prop 36-related charges were Black despite representing only 5.6% of the population, while in Alameda County approximately 90% of those charged under Prop 36 are Black despite comprising just 10% of the county's population. Los Angeles County has seen a dramatic increase in arrests, jumping from 12 before Prop 36 to 594 by May 2025, contributing to jail population increases from 11,000 to nearly 13,000 inmates.

Senator Akilah Weber-Pierson's two reparative justice bills, SB 437 and SB 518, have advanced to the Assembly Committee on Appropriations after being approved by the Assembly Judiciary Committee. These bills are part of the California Legislative Black Caucus's Road to Repair 2025 Priority Bill Package and aim to address lingering impacts of slavery and systemic racism. SB 437 focuses on determining eligibility for reparations by directing California State University to develop methodology for validating lineage, while SB 518 establishes the Bureau for Descendants of American Slavery within the Department of Justice. Despite criticism from advocacy groups like the Coalition for a Just and Equitable California regarding potential bureaucratic confusion between the two verification processes, Weber-Pierson remained confident in the bills' importance for moving from recommendations to implementation.

Dr. John Warren of the San Diego Voice & Viewpoint was elected as the new leader of the National Newspaper Publishers Association (NNPA) at their annual convention in Savannah, Georgia, becoming only the third West Coast representative to head the 85-year-old organization. Warren plans to revitalize the NNPA by focusing on regional engagement, bringing back members who have distanced themselves, and making the organization more inclusive rather than "closed and selective." At the same convention, the Sacramento Observer received the conference's highest honor with the most cumulative points across award categories, while the Los Angeles Sentinel earned three recognitions. Both Warren and Lee emphasized the critical importance of the Black Press continuing its nearly 200-year tradition of covering Black stories and engaging Black audiences while navigating the transition from print to digital media.

Pharrell Williams presented his latest Louis Vuitton men's collection at the Pompidou Center in Paris, drawing A-list celebrities like Beyoncé and Jay-Z to the front row. The show transformed the plaza into a lifesize "Snakes and Ladders" board, creating a cultural passage between Paris and Mumbai with designs that fused Indian traditions with modern dandyism. Williams' collection featured flowing silhouettes, jeweled details, and cultural references ranging from cricket jerseys with rhinestone embellishments to pin-striped tailoring that nodded to both British Raj and Parisian influences. Despite the maximalist approach that sometimes threatened to overwhelm with multiple references, the show reinforced Louis Vuitton's position as the world's most valuable luxury brand, with LVMH reporting record revenue of 84.7 billion euros in 2024. # Who is affected * Fashion consumers and Louis Vuitton customers worldwide * The luxury fashion industry and competing brands * Celebrity attendees and cultural influencers at the show * Artisans and craftspeople whose traditional techniques were showcased * LVMH shareholders and stakeholders * Indian cultural communities referenced in the collection # What action is being taken * Pharrell Williams is creating collections that blend cultural references from Paris to Mumbai * Louis Vuitton is hosting elaborate fashion shows that function as cultural events rather than simple presentations * The brand is incorporating traditional craftsmanship like hand-beaded details and sandalwood-scented linens into contemporary luxury designs * LVMH is continuing to position Louis Vuitton as its flagship brand within its Fashion & Leather Goods division * The luxury house is actively engaging celebrities and cultural figures to enhance its global influence # Why it matters * The show highlights Louis Vuitton's continued dominance as the world's most valuable luxury brand with a market value near $455 billion * Williams' approach represents a shift in luxury fashion toward cultural fusion and global references * The collection demonstrates how traditional craftsmanship can be integrated into contemporary luxury products * LVMH's record revenue of 84.7 billion euros in 2024 indicates the ongoing strength of the luxury market despite economic challenges * The spectacle nature of the show reinforces how fashion presentations have evolved into cultural moments that extend beyond the clothing itself # What's next No explicit next steps stated in the article.

Sean 'Diddy' Combs was acquitted of the most serious charges in his sex trafficking and racketeering conspiracy trial but convicted on two lesser prostitution-related charges under the federal Mann Act. The Mann Act, originally enacted in 1910, criminalizes transporting individuals across state lines for prostitution purposes and has a controversial history of being used against Black defendants. Though amended several times to remove vague language about "immoral purpose," Combs' defense argued he was targeted for being a powerful Black man, while prosecutors denied allegations of racism. The law has been used in other high-profile cases, including against R. Kelly and Ghislaine Maxwell, both of whom received lengthy prison sentences.

The U.S. Supreme Court recently delivered three significant rulings that align with conservative principles regarding constitutional limits and individual rights. The decisions addressed district court injunctions against presidential executive orders, parental rights concerning LGBTQ+ educational materials, and age verification requirements for accessing explicit online content. Justice Amy Coney Barrett led a 6-3 decision limiting district judges' authority to issue nationwide injunctions, while Justices Samuel Alito and Clarence Thomas authored opinions defending religious freedom for parents and protecting children from harmful online content, respectively. According to the author, these rulings collectively reaffirm constitutional values by establishing limits on judicial authority while protecting individual liberties and parental rights.

The TS Jordan Foundation partnered with You Chill We Grill for a successful fundraising pop-up event at Kenwood Liquor in Spring Valley on June 28, selling out of food while raising funds and awareness for their cause. Community members enthusiastically supported the event, which offered various food options including oxtails, ribs, and sides at reasonable prices. The fundraiser was held in preparation for the TS Jordan Foundation's upcoming 3rd Annual TRE DAY on August 9, 2025, at JFK Park, which will feature activities like face painting, music, resource booths, and community engagement. This collaboration between the food vendor and foundation demonstrated how bringing together food, purpose, and community can create meaningful impact.

The San Diego Black Arts and Culture District hosted a free music festival at Martin Luther King Jr. Community Park on Saturday, June 28th, combining elements of a block party, family reunion, and concert. Running from noon to 8 p.m., the event featured performances by artists including Miki Vale, C.C. Carter, Daneen Wilburn, Michael Mayo, Lenny "Fuzzy" Rankins, and Ben Williams, with Dominic Malone serving as host. Attendees enjoyed music, food vendors, and shopping opportunities at various booths selling handmade jewelry, clothing, and books, creating a vibrant community atmosphere throughout the day. The festival maintained steady attendance with people relaxing on lawn chairs and blankets, children playing, and a consistent flow of visitors engaging with different aspects of the event.

The annual Daddy Daughter Dance, organized by Torrion Dedmon at the Jackie Robinson YMCA, brought together over 30 girls with their male role models including fathers, grandfathers, uncles, and other family members. The event, which took place on June 28 at the Michael Brunker Gymnasium, was created by Dedmon to strengthen father-daughter bonds while also recognizing outstanding fathers in the community. Beyond the dancing and celebration, the event raised funds for Leading Boys 2 Manhood's summer camping trip for boys, emphasizing Dedmon's belief in the importance of presence and quality time in children's lives. During the evening, 10 to 15 exemplary fathers from Southeastern San Diego were honored for their quiet leadership and commitment to family and community.

The Diocese of Arlington, Virginia, recently ordained twelve new priests at a time when the U.S. Catholic Church faces a severe priest shortage. The article profiles four of these newly-ordained priests, exploring their diverse backgrounds and journeys to priesthood. Each man describes his unique path to ordination, including overcoming personal doubts, transitioning from established careers, and reconciling family expectations with their calling. Despite their different stories, all four express deep conviction about their vocations and commitment to serving their communities through the priesthood.

Frederick Douglass's famous 1852 speech "What, to the Slave, is the Fourth of July?" highlights the contradiction of celebrating American independence while enslaved people remained in bondage. The article presents extensive excerpts from this historic speech in which Douglass questions how Black Americans could celebrate freedom when they were denied basic rights and subjected to brutal treatment. Dr. John E. Warren, the publisher, notes that while progress has occurred since Douglass's time, Black Americans still face ongoing struggles for equal rights, resulting in varied responses to July Fourth celebrations today.

The Black Entrepreneurs Leaders and Learners (BELL) hosted their 5th Annual Business & Government Contracting Summit on June 27-28, attracting 130 attendees seeking knowledge about accessing capital, contracts, and opportunities. Over 30 speakers, including procurement officers, supplier diversity leaders, and successful business owners, shared strategies for securing government and corporate contracts across more than 25 workshops and panels. Co-founders Brian Ware and Jayton Harps created the summit to address the knowledge and networking gaps preventing peers from accessing contracts. The two-day event featured representatives from numerous agencies offering insider knowledge on certification and contract procurement, alongside a $2,500 pitch competition and dedicated sessions for nonprofits and small businesses.

The County of San Diego launched its annual Cool Zones program on June 1, providing free air-conditioned spaces where residents can escape high temperatures throughout the summer months. Running until October 31, the program offers more than 80 locations across the county, including all 33 County branch libraries, teen and senior centers in County parks, and various other public and private facilities. Residents can find detailed information about each Cool Zone site, including hours, addresses, phone numbers, and pet policies, through the interactive search tool on the Coolzones.org website.

Sean "Diddy" Combs' reputation has been significantly damaged during a nearly two-year period of allegations culminating in his recent trial where he was acquitted of major sex trafficking charges but convicted on two lesser counts. Crisis communications experts suggest that while Combs avoided becoming "the next R. Kelly," terms like "freak-offs" and evidence presented at trial have permanently tarnished his public image. Despite his partial legal victory, Combs remains incarcerated awaiting sentencing, having already lost business partnerships, an honorary degree, and a key to New York City following allegations from his ex-girlfriend Cassie and the subsequent emergence of a hotel video showing him assaulting her. PR professionals believe Combs' future reputation management will require strategic positioning, potentially as either a survivor who defeated federal charges or as someone seeking redemption.

The U.S. Department of Justice has issued a memo making denaturalization a "top-five priority," ostensibly targeting serious crimes but including a concerning catch-all provision for "any case deemed sufficiently important." Civil rights advocates worry this policy creates a two-tiered citizenship system where naturalized Americans face greater vulnerability than birthright citizens, with lower evidentiary standards and no guaranteed legal representation. The policy has already shown potential for political targeting, as demonstrated by GOP officials calling for the denaturalization of New York assemblyman Zohran Mamdani due to his political views. Critics fear this approach could evolve from focusing on criminal cases to becoming a tool for political retaliation and suppressing immigrant civic participation.

Paloma Aguirre, Democratic Mayor of Imperial Beach, appears to have won the San Diego County District 1 supervisorial race with 53% of votes, creating a Democratic majority on the five-member board. Her victory promises to break the deadlock that has prevented passage of partisan measures due to Republican opposition. Aguirre campaigned on addressing cross-border sewage issues and reducing living costs for working families. The San Diego County Board of Supervisors manages an $8.5 billion budget overseeing critical social services including public health, housing, law enforcement, and infrastructure.

Sean "Diddy" Combs received a mixed verdict in his high-profile criminal trial, being acquitted of serious sex trafficking and racketeering charges that carried potential life sentences, while being convicted of two prostitution-related offenses under the Mann Act that carry up to 10 years imprisonment. The jury deliberated for approximately 13 hours over three days before determining that Combs had illegally transported people, including girlfriends and male sex workers, across state lines for sexual encounters. Despite his lawyers' arguments that women were willing participants in these encounters, the judge denied bail for Combs, who has already served nine months since his September arrest. The case featured testimony from his ex-girlfriend Cassie and others who described violent behavior and coerced sexual encounters, severely damaging the once-celebrated hip-hop mogul's public image and career.

In an opinion piece for NNPA, Dawn Montgomery criticizes Joy Reid for erroneously calling the National Association of Black Journalists (NABJ) the "lone" trade organization representing Black media, thereby overlooking the National Newspaper Publishers Association (NNPA). Montgomery emphasizes that the NNPA has represented the Black Press since 1940, predating NABJ by 15 years, and calls this oversight an erasure of legacy. The author urges recognition of NNPA's historical significance in Black media while suggesting that collaboration between NABJ and NNPA is necessary to honor their connected heritage. The critique frames this issue as part of a larger pattern of historical erasure affecting Black institutions.

Blanket Sounds, a free outdoor event celebrating Black Music Month, transformed Waterfront Park into a vibrant community gathering this past weekend. Curated by Loren Cobbs, founder of Blanket Sounds and SD Melanin, the celebration featured live performances, DJ sets, and activities while showcasing Black-owned businesses and artistic expression. The event combined musical performances from local artists like JB Saxx and DJ Cowbell Chris with cultural activities including art zones for children and vendor booths, all designed to create an intentional space for San Diego's Black community. Supported by the City of San Diego Parks and Recreation, Blanket Sounds successfully united hundreds of attendees in a celebration of Black music's rich legacy and will continue as a seasonal series through summer.

The special general election for San Diego County's District 1 supervisor position has concluded, filling the vacant seat previously held by Nora Vargas. This election is significant as the winner will serve through January 2029 and influence the political direction of the County Board of Supervisors. Over 370,000 ballots were distributed to registered voters for this important race that will determine who helps oversee the county's $8 billion budget and shape policies on public safety, housing, and health. Official results are still being tallied and will be announced soon, with further coverage to follow from the Voice & Viewpoint. # Who is affected - District 1 residents of San Diego County - The 370,000+ registered voters who received ballots - San Diego County residents affected by policy decisions on public safety, housing, and health # What action is being taken - Ballots from the special general election are currently being counted - The Voice & Viewpoint is actively covering the election results # Why it matters - The winner will serve until January 2029 on the County Board of Supervisors - The elected supervisor will help determine the political direction of the Board - The supervisor will influence policy decisions on public safety, housing, and health - The winner will help oversee the allocation of the county's $8 billion budget # What's next - Official election results will be announced soon - The Voice & Viewpoint will provide additional election results coverage

The article critiques Black Americans who are disengaged from immigration enforcement issues affecting Latino communities. Author Jasmyne A. Cannick warns that citizenship status won't protect Black Americans if the government expands its targeting, drawing parallels to historical criminalization of Black existence. She challenges those who claim to be politically conscious while ignoring Black immigrants' struggles, arguing that true liberation requires solidarity across borders. Cannick emphasizes that current immigration enforcement tactics represent a dangerous precedent that could eventually impact Black communities regardless of citizenship status.

United Way of San Diego County's President and CEO Nancy L. Sasaki warns about the harmful impacts of the proposed "Big Beautiful Bill Act" (H.R. 1) currently under debate in Congress. The legislation threatens to cut critical programs like SNAP, Medicaid, and tax credits that many San Diego families rely on, especially as the region faces the highest inflation rate in the country with families making $46,000 less than needed for survival. Sasaki illustrates the importance of these programs through the story of Juan and Roberta's family, who benefited significantly from free tax preparation services and tax credits that provided a $4,300 refund. She urges community members to contact their Congressional representatives to reject the bill that would devastate vulnerable families and strain already limited community safety nets.

The San Diego Solidarity Network (SDSN) declared a state of civic emergency on June 18, 2025, in response to federal funding cuts that are severely impacting the region's social services. At an event held at the Chicano Park Museum and Cultural Center, community leaders highlighted how nonprofits across San Diego are experiencing layoffs, service reductions, and funding losses that threaten essential services including food access, housing support, climate resilience, and public health. The SDSN's emergency declaration calls for rapid investment in community organizations and support systems centered on racial equity, with Catalyst of San Diego and Imperial Counties launching the San Diego Resilient Response Fund to address these goals. Following the event, over 50 people participated in a conversation to develop strategies to protect San Diego's nonprofit sector from federal funding threats.

Public Enemy has made a surprise return with "Black Sky Over the Projects: Apartment 2025," a new 12-track album available for 72 hours on a pay-what-you-want basis. The collection features Chuck D and Flavor Flav delivering pointed social commentary on topics including gun violence, climate denial, political corruption, and ageism. The album, which includes production from Carl Ryder, C-Doc, JP Hesser, and Sam Farrar, along with contributions from Green Day's Tré Cool, demonstrates the group's continued commitment to using hip-hop as a platform for addressing injustice. Throughout the record, Public Enemy maintains their signature style while tackling contemporary issues, reaffirming their relevance and determination to speak truth to power.

The House-passed tax overhaul supported by President Trump, called the "One Big Beautiful Bill," promises wide tax relief but would disproportionately benefit wealthy households according to Penn Wharton analysis. The legislation makes the 2017 Trump tax cuts permanent, increases the SALT deduction cap to $40,000, temporarily eliminates taxes on tips and overtime pay, and boosts the child tax credit by $500 through 2028. To offset the estimated $2.8 trillion cost over a decade, the bill cuts Medicaid and SNAP by more than $1.2 trillion combined, resulting in net losses for many low-income families while high-income households receive significant gains. The Penn Wharton Budget Model concludes that approximately 70% of the bill's value would go to the top 10% of income earners, projecting long-term negative impacts for future generations due to increased federal debt and weakened social support programs.

California's public schools are experiencing a significant decline in enrollment, dropping from 6.2 million students in 2014-15 to 5.8 million in 2024-25, with Black student numbers decreasing most sharply. Meanwhile, civil rights leaders are urging Governor Gavin Newsom to commute all 574 death row sentences in California, citing racial disparities as 34% of inmates are Black. The state is also seeing unprecedented rates of hate incidents and discrimination, prompting legislative action through the Assembly Select Committee on Racism, Hate, and Xenophobia. Additionally, Governor Newsom has criticized former President Trump's "Big Ugly Bill," warning it would cut $28.4 billion in federal Medicaid funding and threaten healthcare for millions of Californians.

This article explores parallels between the upcoming Sean "Diddy" Combs trial and the 1995 O.J. Simpson case, highlighting how public discourse around celebrity legal proceedings, race, and domestic violence has evolved over three decades. While both cases involve high-profile Black male celebrities who initially enjoyed strong community support, the article notes significant differences in how domestic violence allegations are received today compared to the 1990s. Legal analyst Lisa Bonner attributes these changes largely to the #MeToo movement, which has empowered victims to speak out against powerful figures. The article suggests that while public fascination with celebrity trials remains strong, cultural attitudes have shifted toward greater accountability for abusive behavior, regardless of the perpetrator's status or wealth.

Tania León, a renowned composer and conductor who co-founded Dance Theatre of Harlem, was recently honored as part of Carnegie Corp. of New York's 20th class of Great Immigrants, Great Americans. Originally planning to emigrate from Cuba to Paris in 1967, León instead came to New York where she met Arthur Mitchell, leading to her influential career in American arts. The Carnegie initiative celebrates 20 immigrant honorees who have contributed significantly to American society despite immigration becoming an increasingly contentious political issue. The program, which is marking its 20th anniversary with a free educational comic book featuring past honorees, aims to highlight how immigrants enrich American culture, society, and economy.

The Supreme Court has temporarily permitted the Trump administration to deport immigrants to dangerous "third countries" they are not from, overruling a federal judge who had blocked this practice. In a 6-3 decision, the Court allowed deportations to countries like South Sudan and Libya without giving immigrants time to contest their destinations, despite strong dissent from liberal justices. The administration is specifically targeting eight men, only one of whom is from South Sudan, while they await their fate at a U.S. military base in Djibouti. Court filings suggest the administration has tried to negotiate arrangements with these countries by offering money or benefits in exchange for accepting deportees.

The United Nations World Food Program in Kenya's Kakuma refugee camp is facing a severe funding crisis after the Trump administration paused support in March, forcing ration cuts for 300,000 refugees. Monthly food rations have been halved and cash transfers that allowed refugees to supplement their diets have ended completely, leaving many like Martin Komol, a Ugandan widower, surviving on just one meal per day or less. The reduced rations—now just 3 kilograms of rice monthly per person instead of the recommended 9 kilograms—have led to alarming increases in malnutrition cases among children and pregnant women, with local hospitals reporting triple the normal admission rates and higher mortality. Without new funding by August, WFP officials warn the situation will deteriorate further, with only the most vulnerable refugees receiving any assistance.

Governor Gavin Newsom has forcefully challenged President Donald Trump's decision to federalize California's National Guard and deploy 4,000 troops and 700 U.S. Marines to Los Angeles without state approval. Newsom filed a lawsuit against the Trump administration, arguing that the military intervention violates the Posse Comitatus Act and undermines California's constitutional right to self-governance. The conflict escalated when Vice President JD Vance briefly visited Los Angeles, where he mistakenly called Senator Alex Padilla "Jose" and blamed Newsom and LA Mayor Karen Bass for protests and violence. Newsom has responded aggressively to these federal actions, challenging Vance to a debate and characterizing Trump's moves as steps toward authoritarianism.

Congolese customs worker Floribèrt Bwana Chui Bin Kositi was beatified by the Vatican on Sunday, recognizing him as a martyr who was killed in 2007 after refusing to accept a bribe to allow spoiled rice into Congo. The ceremony at St. Paul Outside the Walls basilica in Rome drew many Congolese pilgrims who celebrated their countryman's path toward potentially becoming Congo's first saint. Pope Francis recognized Kositi as a martyr last year, viewing his refusal to permit distribution of rancid food to vulnerable people as an exemplary act of faith against corruption in a country where the practice is endemic. The beatification has brought hope to Goma, Kositi's hometown, which is currently suffering from violent conflict between government forces and Rwanda-backed rebels.

The Democratic Republic of Congo and Rwanda have announced plans to sign a peace agreement in Washington on June 27 to end fighting in eastern Congo, where Rwanda has been accused of supporting M23 rebels despite its denials. The conflict escalated earlier this year when M23 seized strategic areas including Goma and Bukavu. The draft agreement includes provisions on territorial integrity, prohibition of hostilities, and disarmament of non-state armed groups, though experts express skepticism about its potential success given previous failed peace attempts and the complex dynamics involving ethnic Tutsi concerns and numerous armed factions in the region.

The proposed One Big Beautiful Bill Act, a key component of President Trump's domestic agenda, threatens to cut $715 billion from Medicaid, potentially eliminating crucial school-based health services for many students. These cuts would disproportionately impact Black children, who rely on school-based health centers at much higher rates than their white peers (51.2% compared to 23.8%). Research shows that these school-based health services significantly improve attendance and academic performance, with students gaining 5-7 additional school days per year. School district leaders are already anticipating severe reductions in mental and behavioral health services if the legislation passes, which experts warn could further disadvantage Black students who already face systemic educational inequities.

On the eve of Juneteenth, Democratic Senators Chuck Schumer, Cory Booker, Raphael Warnock, and Angela Alsobrooks held a candid discussion with Black media outlets at the U.S. Capitol. The senators connected the historical significance of Juneteenth to contemporary challenges facing Black Americans, including civil service cuts, economic inequality, healthcare, voting rights, and criminal justice reform. They emphasized that federal recognition of Juneteenth in 2021 resulted from persistent activism rather than government goodwill, drawing parallels to the struggle for MLK Day. Senator Warnock characterized the current political climate as a democratic "contraction" while calling for renewed focus on racial equity in federal policy.

The article discusses the ongoing job losses affecting Black women in America, with a TikTok user @sunshineharpy sharing her experience as one of 106,000 Black women who lost their jobs by May 8, 2025. The author connects these current events to historical patterns of racial discrimination, describing cyclical periods of "Reconstruction" and "Deconstruction" in American history affecting Black Americans. The article draws parallels between the current administration's policies and those of President Woodrow Wilson's administration, which similarly dismantled progress for Black Americans. The author argues that after 62 years of progressive gains (1954-2016), America has entered a new "Deconstruction" era where diversity, equity, and inclusion policies are being dismantled.

Los Angeles celebrated Juneteenth with three days of festivities across the city in June 2025, beginning on June 14 and concluding with the Empowerment Congress Juneteenth Day of Dialogue on June 21 at The Beehive in South Los Angeles. The Day of Dialogue event featured keynote speaker Maya Wiley, President and CEO of The Leadership Conference on Civil & Human Rights, who delivered an inspirational speech about resilience. The program included performances by Rhythms Arts Alliance and The Young Shakespeareans, interactive dialogue sessions focused on the theme "Educate, Engage and Empower: Resilience in the Face of Chaos," and musical entertainment by Upward Mobility performing Freedom Songs.

of "Black Music Month: A Celebration of Black Musical Icons" The article commemorates Black Music Month by highlighting influential Black musicians across various genres who have shaped American culture and the music industry. It profiles 12 significant Black musical figures from the early to late 20th century, including gospel legend Mahalia Jackson, blues pioneer Big Joe Turner, classical pianist Dorothy Donegan, and hip-hop visionary Sylvia Robinson. The piece details each artist's origins, notable achievements, breakthrough moments, and lasting cultural impact, emphasizing how these musicians used their talents to address social issues, celebrate Black culture, and break barriers in entertainment venues and the recording industry.

President Trump's recent statement on Juneteenth, claiming there are "too many nonworking holidays" costing "billions of dollars," has drawn criticism from social justice activists who view it as part of a broader pattern of erasing minority history. Since taking office in January, the Trump administration has worked to eliminate diversity, equity, and inclusion initiatives across government, corporations, and college campuses, while also removing minority officials from high positions and diminishing cultural recognitions. Despite Trump's previous support for making Juneteenth a federal holiday during his 2020 campaign, experts note that his current stance cannot legally change its status, which was established in 2021 under President Biden following Congressional approval with overwhelming bipartisan support.

San Diego County's First Supervisorial District is holding a special general election with early voting now available at seven vote centers through June 30, with hours from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. daily. On July 1, the final voting day, six additional centers will open (totaling 13 locations) with extended hours from 7 a.m. to 8 p.m. Vote centers have replaced traditional polling places and offer comprehensive services including ballot marking devices that allow voters to make selections electronically before printing their official ballot. The election will fill the district's vacant seat for the remainder of the current term ending in January 2029, with only district residents eligible to vote.

The Cooper Family Juneteenth celebration took place on the third Saturday of June at Memorial Park in San Diego, offering attendees a chance to honor history and celebrate freedom. The event featured vendors, free food, music, awards, and family-friendly activities, creating a positive atmosphere with a family reunion ambiance on Emancipation Day. Local officials including Councilmember Henry Foster, County Board Supervisor Monica Montgomery-Steppe, and Congresswoman Sarah Jacobs attended, with Jacobs presenting a proclamation declaring the day "Cooper Family Juneteenth Day" in San Diego. Longtime supporter Glendale Henry praised the peaceful celebration, emphasizing the importance of commemorating African American history and culture.

The Juneteenth at Chollas celebration took place on June 14 at Gloria's Mesa Amphitheater in Chollas Lake Park, bringing together community members despite the hot weather. This free event was collaboratively organized by several local organizations including the Chollas Lake Parks and Recreation Council, Rolando Park Community Council, Community Actors Theatre, and Key56 Radio. The celebration featured local vendors selling a variety of goods from handmade jewelry to food, while the stage hosted performances including dance, spoken word, and live music that reflected Black culture and heritage. Activities were available for all ages, with crafts and games for children and shaded areas for elders, creating an intergenerational celebration of freedom and remembrance of the end of slavery in the United States.

of "Freedmen Fight for Recognition in Tribal Nations" Descendants of people enslaved by Native American tribes in Oklahoma continue to struggle for full citizenship rights in four of the five tribal nations that signed reconstruction treaties in 1866 promising them citizenship. Currently, only the Cherokee Nation fully recognizes Freedmen descendants as citizens, while the Muscogee, Seminole, Choctaw, and Chickasaw nations have varying degrees of restrictions or complete denial of citizenship rights. The Muscogee Nation is facing a legal challenge from Freedmen descendants Rhonda Grayson and Jeff Kennedy, who argue that the tribe's 1979 constitution restricting citizenship to those "by-blood" violates the 1866 treaty. Despite pressure from the federal government and threatened withholding of funds, most tribes have maintained citizenship restrictions based on the problematic Dawes Rolls, which separated tribal members into "Native" and "Freedmen" lists regardless of mixed ancestry.

Forty years after the abduction, torture, and murder of four Black anti-apartheid activists known as the Cradock Four by apartheid-era security forces in South Africa, a new judge-led inquiry has opened to uncover the truth about their killings. The inquiry represents a renewed push for justice by families of apartheid victims, as previous investigations in 1987 and 1993 failed to hold anyone accountable despite the post-apartheid Truth and Reconciliation Commission identifying six police officers involved, all of whom have since died. Frustrated families of the Cradock Four successfully forced authorities to launch this new inquiry and joined with other victims' families to sue the South African government over its 25-year failure to investigate apartheid crimes, resulting in President Cyril Ramaphosa ordering a national inquiry into why perpetrators were never prosecuted. While prosecution is now unlikely, the families seek to have the official record finally show who killed their loved ones.

California officials, including Governor Gavin Newsom and members of the California Legislative Black Caucus (CLBC), commemorated Juneteenth last week with various statements and events recognizing the end of slavery in the United States. Assemblymember Isaac Bryan emphasized Black Americans' unique historical connection to the country as people who were forcibly brought as property rather than immigrants, while urging support for Assembly Concurrent Resolution (ACR) 90 introduced by Assemblymember Mike Gipson and other CLBC members. Governor Newsom issued an official proclamation acknowledging Juneteenth as a state holiday, highlighting that America's struggle for freedom continues to this day. Several California elected officials, including Senator Weber Pierson, State Controller Malia Cohen, and various Assembly members, shared reflections on the holiday's significance for Black communities and the ongoing fight for justice.

Natasha Hooper, a poet from San Diego, is celebrating LGBTQ+ Pride Month by honoring often overlooked Black historical figures and attending Black-focused Pride events. Despite recent corporate pullback from Pride events, with 39% of surveyed companies planning to reduce their engagement according to Gravity Research, Black LGBTQ+ Californians are committed to maintaining visibility and celebrating their heritage. A recent California Civil Rights Department survey revealed that LGBTQ+ respondents experience higher rates of hate incidents than the general population, with lesbian, gay, bisexual, and pansexual adults at 12% and transgender adults at 19%. Governor Newsom proclaimed June as LGBTQ+ Pride Month last year, calling for continued efforts toward equality and inclusivity even as corporations reduce their support in alignment with anti-diversity political trends.

The historic First Baptist Church of Williamsburg, established in 1776 by free and enslaved Black Americans who initially met in secret outdoors, has begun reconstruction of its original 1805 meetinghouse following a ceremonial groundbreaking on Juneteenth. Colonial Williamsburg Foundation is rebuilding the 16-by-32-foot structure on its original site, where archaeologists uncovered the foundation in 2021 along with 62 graves from the congregation. This reconstruction effort aims to properly honor the church's pioneering role in American history after decades of neglect, as the original site was converted into a parking lot in 1956 when Colonial Williamsburg purchased the property. The project will help tell a more complete story of the nation's founding by highlighting the experiences of Black Americans who made up more than half of Williamsburg's population in the 18th century.

Oil prices tumbled 6% while stocks rallied after Iran's missile attack on U.S. bases in Qatar and Iraq was intercepted with no reported casualties. The market response indicates traders believe Iran lacks either the will or capability for effective retaliation against U.S. forces, contrasting with Iran's more substantial missile attack against Israel in June. Despite the weekend's U.S. strikes on Iranian nuclear facilities, markets have reacted contrary to conventional expectations, with stocks rising and oil falling rather than the reverse. Investors are maintaining a cautious balance, recognizing that while a limited conflict could reduce market volatility, any significant escalation—particularly disruption to oil supplies—could combine with ongoing trade tensions to reignite inflation and potentially trigger a global recession.

President Biden commemorated the 160th anniversary of Juneteenth by visiting Galveston, Texas, where the final announcement of slavery's end was made on June 19, 1865. He reflected on the historical significance of Juneteenth, which he signed into law as a federal holiday during his presidency, marking the first new federal holiday since Martin Luther King Jr. Day in 1983. Biden emphasized the importance of honoring this history despite efforts to erase it, noting that acknowledgment of the past is necessary for healing and justice. The President connected the historical struggle for freedom to present-day voting rights, calling for Americans to help others register to vote as a way to honor Juneteenth's legacy.

A tragic boating accident on Lake Tahoe killed six people and left two missing when fierce winds created 8-foot waves that capsized a 27-foot Chris-craft boat on Saturday. Two survivors were rescued and are being treated for hypothermia and other injuries at a hospital. The incident occurred near DL Bliss State Park during a sudden storm that brought near-freezing temperatures, with wind gusts reaching 35mph. Search and rescue operations continued Sunday as authorities worked to locate the missing victims in the deep waters near Rooster Rock, which features an underwater drop-off more than 300 feet deep.

The UN refugee agency reports that global displacement due to violence and persecution has reached 122.1 million people, representing nearly double the number from a decade ago. UNHCR's Global Trends Report, released on June 5, indicates a 9% increase in internally displaced persons to 73.5 million by the end of last year, while highlighting some positive developments including the return of nearly 2 million Syrians to their homeland. The report challenges the perception that most refugees flee to wealthy Western nations, noting that almost two-thirds remain in neighboring countries. Sudan now faces the world's largest displacement crisis with over 14 million displaced people, surpassing Syria's 13.5 million, while Afghanistan and Ukraine also experience significant displacement figures.

The San Diego Hunger Coalition has reported that food insecurity in San Diego County has returned to pandemic-era levels, with 26% of the population now facing hunger. This increase stems from multiple factors including fear among immigrant communities due to increased ICE activity, widespread layoffs, economic uncertainty, and cuts to federal food assistance programs. Critical programs like the Local Food Purchasing Assistance and The Emergency Food Assistance Program have been scaled back or eliminated, resulting in the loss of millions of meals. Additionally, community trust has been damaged after the Trump administration requested personal data of SNAP recipients, causing many families to avoid seeking assistance out of fear despite the request being temporarily paused.

Justis Connection has announced its national expansion on Juneteenth with a mission to build a network of 1,000 Black lawyers to serve 1 million Black households across the United States. The organization aims to address the persistent underrepresentation of Black attorneys, who make up less than 5% of lawyers in America, a statistic unchanged for over two decades. Justis Connection, featuring prominent founding members like Ben Crump and Billy Murphy Jr., offers legal expertise across multiple practice areas including Business Law, Estate Planning, Civil Rights, Family Law, and Personal Injury. The initiative's founder, Kisha A. Brown, Esq., describes it as "a pipeline of protection" and "a modern-day Green Book for justice" to ensure accessible legal representation by trusted Black lawyers nationwide.

Virginia's 2022 gubernatorial race will make history as either Democrat Abigail Spanberger or Republican Winsome Earle-Sears will become the state's first elected female governor. While both candidates acknowledge the historic nature of their campaigns, they prefer to focus on policy issues such as affordability, energy costs, and economic concerns rather than gender. Despite the historic implications, both Spanberger, a former CIA officer and congresswoman, and Earle-Sears, Virginia's current lieutenant governor and the first Black woman elected statewide, are primarily emphasizing their policy positions and qualifications. Experts note that female candidates often face unique challenges when running for executive positions due to gender stereotypes, though voters typically prioritize policy positions over gender considerations.

The Witkruis Monument in South Africa displays nearly 3,000 white crosses commemorating white farmers killed over the past three decades, but fails to represent the hundreds of Black farmers and farmworkers who have also been victims of farm violence. This memorial has fueled a false narrative, amplified by figures like Elon Musk and Donald Trump, that white South African farmers are being systematically targeted based on race. Government data and expert studies consistently show that farm attacks are primarily motivated by robbery, representing a tiny percentage of South Africa's overall crime rate, with Black South Africans being the majority of violent crime victims nationwide. Despite the misinformation, even the monument's caretaker acknowledges that farm violence affects people of all races, though wealthy white farmers are disproportionately affected as they own 72% of privately owned farmland.

North Carolina is currently facing federal lawsuits challenging Republican-drawn congressional and legislative districts, with plaintiffs alleging the maps illegally diminish Black voting power. The contested 2024 electoral maps helped Republicans maintain state legislative majorities and flip three U.S. House seats from Democrats to Republicans, contributing to the GOP's narrow control of the House. Plaintiffs claim the districts violate the Voting Rights Act by submerging or diluting Black voting blocs across multiple districts, particularly in the Piedmont Triad region, while Republican lawmakers defend their approach as race-blind and based on permissible partisan considerations. If the three-judge panel rules against the current maps, Republicans could be forced to redraw districts for the 2026 elections, potentially weakening their partisan advantage.

The NAACP has made the unprecedented decision to not invite President Donald Trump to its national convention, marking the first time in its history that a sitting president has been excluded from this event. In their June 16 statement, the organization cited Trump's attacks on democracy, unconstitutional executive orders, and illegal use of military in communities as reasons for this decision. The White House responded by accusing the NAACP of promoting "hate and division" while claiming Trump is focused on unity and has record Black support. Since beginning his second term in January 2025, the Trump administration has implemented policies targeting diversity and inclusion, including firing prominent Black officials and removing books on racism, civil rights, and the Black experience from the U.S. Military Academy library.

Juneteenth commemorates June 19, 1865, when Union General Gordon Granger arrived in Galveston, Texas and issued General Order Number 3, informing enslaved people about their freedom. Initially used for political rallies and voter education, Juneteenth evolved into widespread celebrations featuring thanksgiving ceremonies, entertainment, family reunions, and community gatherings across Texas, with African Americans purchasing land specifically for these events. The holiday gained official recognition when Texas made it a state holiday in 1979, and after decades of advocacy, particularly by Opal Lee, President Joseph Biden signed legislation establishing Juneteenth National Independence Day as a federal holiday on June 17, 2021, nearly 156 years after the original proclamation. The 2021 celebration in Galveston included the dedication of the Absolute Equality mural, the reading of the Emancipation Proclamation, an Emancipation March, and a festival with music, food, and fireworks.

The article discusses the current protests against presidential policies, noting that over 5 million people participated in more than 2,000 demonstrations across America last week. The author argues these protests alone are insufficient and suggests combining them with voter registration efforts and recall petitions against elected officials who fail to uphold their constitutional oath. The piece emphasizes that voting power is more impactful than protesting alone and suggests that regaining Democratic control of the House of Representatives is crucial to restore constitutional separation of powers. The author frames these political actions as urgent "life and death changes" that cannot wait until the 2026 midterm elections.

Juneteenth celebrations across the United States are being reduced or canceled as both public funding and corporate sponsorships diminish amid a broader retreat from diversity, equity, and inclusion initiatives. Major events like Denver's Juneteenth Music Festival have been downsized from two days to one after losing more than a dozen corporate sponsors, while other cities such as Scottsdale and Bend have canceled their celebrations entirely. In Colorado Springs, the celebration was relocated to a mall parking lot with only five corporate partners remaining from what used to be dozens. Some organizers, like those in San Diego, have resorted to personally financing elements of their events after losing grant funding, while community donors and small businesses have stepped in to preserve celebrations in other locations.

Former California Senator Steven Bradford has shifted his political focus from running for Lieutenant Governor to campaigning for State Insurance Commissioner amid California's growing insurance crisis. Bradford, who previously served on the Senate Insurance Committee, enters the race as major insurers like State Farm and Allstate are leaving California, citing high costs and overregulation. This exodus has forced more homeowners to rely on the state's FAIR Plan safety net program, which is currently facing financial strain. Bradford positions himself as a consensus-builder who can bring stability to the insurance market by facilitating dialogue between insurers, consumers, and regulators.

Juneteenth, which commemorates the day in 1863 when enslaved people in Galveston, Texas learned of their freedom, has grown from a celebration primarily within Black communities to a federal holiday recognized nationwide since 2021. This year marks the first Juneteenth under the second Trump administration, which has banned diversity, equity and inclusion initiatives in federal government and removed Black American history content from federal websites. Despite this political climate, numerous Juneteenth celebrations continue to be planned nationwide, featuring traditional elements like cookouts, educational panels, and cultural events. The National Urban League's president Marc Morial has emphasized that no one should feel intimidated from celebrating this important historical milestone.

San Diego's City Council narrowly approved a series of amendments to regulate Accessory Dwelling Unit (ADU) development following significant community backlash, particularly in neighborhoods like Encanto, Clairemont, and North Park. The 5-4 vote introduces new restrictions including caps on unit numbers, parking requirements, and developer impact fees to address what some councilmembers described as "loopholes" being exploited to create dense "granny towers" on single-family lots. During a contentious seven-hour meeting with overwhelming opposition from speakers, councilmembers defended the changes as keeping the ADU program aligned with its original purpose while still maintaining housing opportunities. Pro-housing groups criticized the amendments as barriers for working families, while the California Department of Housing and Community Development warned against provisions that might decrease affordable housing opportunities.

of News Articles The news compilation covers several significant political developments in California and national politics. Senator Monique Limón has been unanimously selected as the first woman of color to become Pro Tem Designee of the California State Senate, with the leadership transition scheduled for early 2026. The California Black Women's Collective Empowerment Institute hosted its annual event celebrating Black women leaders across various sectors. Other articles detail U.S. Rep. Maxine Waters attending former Congressman Charles Rangel's funeral, Senator Alex Padilla being forcibly detained at a Homeland Security press conference, Mayor Karen Bass leading opposition to federal immigration raids, and a Legislative Analyst's Office report showing an 11% increase in retail theft over the past decade in California.

The Second Annual Never Leave One Behind Johnnie Lee Gibson Scholarship awards ceremony honored four high-achieving students with $1,000 scholarships at the JR-YMCA. Recipients Philip Huynh, Kemyron McCoy, Jai'ciyah Anderson, and Nikolao Ta'a were selected based on their impressive GPAs and outstanding conduct to assist with their higher education pursuits. The celebration included a BBQ feast for the students and their families, along with encouraging words from Xavier University graduate Jean'e McKinney who shared her collegiate experiences. NLOB President Larry Price emphasized the importance of community support for the next generation of achievers, reinforcing the organization's commitment to helping students succeed.

California legislators are examining the challenges and opportunities of generative artificial intelligence (GenAI) in healthcare through a joint committee hearing. The Assembly Health and Privacy and Consumer Protection Committees, chaired by Assemblymember Mia Bonta and Rebecca Bauer-Kahan respectively, hosted physicians, researchers, and data analysts to discuss how GenAI affects patient care and potentially perpetuates healthcare disparities. Several bills addressing AI in healthcare are advancing through the California Legislature, including measures that would require testing for bias, mandate disclosure when GenAI is used in patient communications, prevent AI from misrepresenting itself as healthcare professionals, and create safeguards for AI use involving children. The hearing highlighted both the promising applications of AI in healthcare and significant concerns about racial and ethnic biases in AI models.

President Donald Trump has deployed 4,100 National Guard troops and 700 Marines to Los Angeles in response to immigration enforcement protests, despite opposition from Mayor Karen Bass and Governor Gavin Newsom. The current demonstrations, primarily peaceful and confined to a small downtown area, have resulted in over 100 arrests, some vandalism, and burned vehicles, but are significantly smaller in scale compared to the deadly 1992 Los Angeles riots following the Rodney King verdict. California officials are legally challenging Trump's use of the Insurrection Act, with Attorney General Rob Bonta filing a lawsuit claiming presidential overreach and Governor Newsom seeking an emergency court order to prevent troops from assisting with immigration raids. The situation has led to minor injuries among officers and some protesters being struck by police-fired "less-lethal" munitions.

The South Coast Air Quality Management District (SCAQMD) Governing Board rejected two proposed rules that would have eliminated gas water heaters and furnaces in Southern California with a 7-5 vote on June 6. The amendments to Rules 1111 and 1121 were designed to reduce nitrogen oxide emissions by requiring 17 million residents across four counties to convert to electric heating units. The proposal included manufacturer requirements for low-NOx and zero-NOx emission standards and mitigation fees for non-compliant units. Opposition came from various sources including gubernatorial candidate Antonio Villaraigosa and the Cost of Living Council, who argued the regulations would financially burden working families, small businesses, and the middle class.

Juneteenth, commemorating the emancipation of enslaved African Americans, is celebrated annually on June 19th and marks the 160th anniversary of Union Major General Gordon Granger's announcement of freedom in Galveston, Texas. This announcement came more than two and a half years after President Lincoln signed the Emancipation Proclamation. The article provides a comprehensive guide to numerous Juneteenth celebrations taking place throughout San Diego communities from June 14-28, 2023. These events are hosted at various locations including parks, theaters, museums, and beaches, with many offering free admission while others require tickets ranging from $5-$40.

President Trump has reinstated a travel ban prohibiting citizens from 12 countries from entering the United States, effective June 9, 2025. The ban targets seven African nations, one Caribbean nation (Haiti), and four other countries, with Congressman Greg Meeks describing it as "discriminatory" and "self-defeating." In addition, Trump signed a separate ban on international students attending Harvard University, citing concerns about antisemitism, discrimination issues, China's influence, and "woke ideology." Critics warn these bans will have significant economic consequences, as international students contribute approximately $50 billion annually to the U.S. economy and represent substantial portions of student populations at American universities.

President Trump has deployed the National Guard to Los Angeles following ICE raids that resulted in 45 migrant arrests, a move criticized by Juan Proano of the League of United Latin American Citizens (LULAC) as "an attack on a sanctuary city." The ICE operations have been described as poorly planned, with centers already overcrowded and concerns about accelerated deportations bypassing due process. California Governor Gavin Newsom has blamed Trump for tensions in Los Angeles, while Trump responded by calling Newsom "grossly incompetent" and suggesting he should be arrested. The situation may escalate further as Marines at Camp Pendleton are on high alert for possible deployment, and California is suing the Trump administration over the National Guard deployment.

The article highlights the growing solidarity between Burkina Faso and global African diaspora communities, centered around support for current President Ibrahim Traoré and the revolutionary legacy of former President Thomas Sankara. On April 30, coordinated protests took place in multiple cities including Oakland, Dallas, New York, London, Ghana, and Burkina Faso, demonstrating support for Traoré's anti-colonialist initiatives. The movement connects historical anti-imperialist struggles from the 1980s with present-day efforts, emphasizing shared experiences between African nations and Black communities in America. Protestors echo Sankara's and Traoré's calls for self-determination and liberation from colonial influences.

Somalia is experiencing a growing hunger crisis as crucial U.S. aid funding disappears under the Trump administration's dismantling of USAID, which previously provided 65% of Somalia's foreign aid. Save the Children is closing 121 nutrition centers, putting 55,000 children at risk by June, while overall projections indicate 4.6 million Somalis will face severe hunger. The Banadir Hospital in Mogadishu has seen over 500 malnourished children admitted between April and May alone, with doctors describing the current situation as unprecedented despite Somalia typically experiencing food insecurity due to climate shocks. Health workers are witnessing increasing child deaths from malnutrition-related complications, as illustrated by the tragic case of 1-year-old Maka'il Mohamed who died despite his father seeking medical care.

Black and African American mothers in the United States face a maternal health crisis, being three times more likely to die from pregnancy-related complications than white mothers according to CDC data. In California, maternal mortality disproportionately affects Black women, with a rate of 50.3 deaths per 100,000 live births in 2023. Doulas, who provide non-clinical emotional, physical, and informational support throughout pregnancy, delivery, and postpartum periods, have been shown to significantly improve maternal health outcomes. Research indicates doula care reduces rates of C-sections, epidurals, and premature deliveries while enhancing breastfeeding success and maternal empowerment, with Blue Shield Promise now working to expand doula access for Medi-Cal mothers.

The fifth anniversary of George Floyd's murder by Minneapolis police officer Derek Chauvin marks mixed progress in the city's recovery and reform efforts. While the Minneapolis Police Department operates under court supervision aimed at reducing racial disparities and violent crime has largely returned to pre-pandemic levels, parts of the city still bear scars from the rioting and property damage that followed Floyd's death. George Floyd Square has become a global memorial site, though its future remains contested as officials debate whether to convert it into a pedestrian mall. Despite initial calls to "Defund the Police" after Floyd's death, the police department is gradually rebuilding its ranks and working to restore community relations under new leadership.

For the first time in five years, San Diego County has experienced a significant 7% reduction in homelessness, with the City of San Diego showing the largest decrease at 13.5%. These findings come from the January Point in Time Count conducted by the Regional Task Force on Homelessness, where volunteers physically count and survey homeless individuals to provide data for policymakers. The city has invested a record $315.9 million in homeless services and solutions, a 54% increase from the previous year, while implementing diverse shelter options targeting specific vulnerable populations. Despite overall declines in homelessness, particularly among veterans (22%), youth (23%), and families (66%), the rate of people entering homelessness still outpaces those finding permanent housing.

The California Governor's revised budget proposal seeks to completely eliminate the California Reducing Disparities Project (CRDP), which funds 33 culturally-specific mental health programs serving marginalized communities across the state. This cut would dismantle vital community-driven initiatives like the Sisters Mentally Mobilized – Advocate Training Program that empowers Black women as mental health advocates. The California Black Women's Health Project argues that eliminating these trusted resources would devastate communities already experiencing significant mental health disparities. The organization is urging state leaders to restore funding for these essential programs to maintain California's commitment to health equity.

The San Diego City Council is reviewing a proposal for a new trash fee linked to Measure B, with the Environmental Services Department presenting an operational plan for implementation if approved in June. Residents opposing the plan can submit formal written protests under Proposition 218 by June 9, 2025, before the public hearing closes. The city requires 115,001 protest forms to reject the proposed fee, with strict guidelines that only one protest per household/parcel will be counted and electronic protests will not be considered. If implemented, the measure may change eligibility status for waste collection services, potentially transitioning some customers to City collection while others shift to Franchise Hauler collection.

The San Diego Community College District (SDCCD) and its four colleges are participating in Black Student Success Week (BSSW) from April 21-25, in collaboration with the California Community Colleges Chancellor's Office under the theme "Lift Up, Level Up: The Rise of Black Serving Institutions." The colleges will host numerous events including a regional sneaker ball, poetry performances, a mental health healing circle, and a districtwide summit on April 18. Throughout the week, daily #TheBlackHour webinars will be offered by the CCCCO to share insights on improving success among Black and African American community college students. The comprehensive schedule includes events like transfer fairs, scavenger hunts, workshops on mental health, and an Open Mic Night, all designed to support Black student success across the district that serves approximately 90,000 students annually.

Tanya Harris, an author and school district volunteer, hosted a Book Signing Experience for her new book "Journey of the Heart: Should I Stay, or Should I Go?" at the Joan B. Kroc Theatre on April 16th. The book explores relationship decisions through personal anecdotes, scriptures, and a curated playlist, offering guidance on self-discovery and decision-making. The signing event featured performances from artists including Debonaire, Darren Sherrill, Eddie Baltrip & Fulfillment, DJ MiGz, and Harris' son Tye Harris. When asked about her favorite part of the book, Harris credited divine inspiration, stating that God provided answers to the central question of the book.

A group representing many white farmers whose land was seized during Zimbabwe's land reforms has rejected a compensation deal, criticizing the amounts as "token" and wanting to reopen negotiations with the government. The government has started paying compensation to some white farmers who lost land and property, approving $3.1 million (1% of the total $311 million claim), with the balance to be settled through treasury bonds over 10 years. The dissenting group, representing nearly half of the 4,000 commercial farmers affected, claimed those accepting payments were doing so out of desperation, calling the compensation "a tiny fraction" of the $3.5 billion previously agreed upon in 2020. The compensation deal is part of Zimbabwe's strategy to resolve debt issues and reengage internationally after years of sanctions.

The Freedom From Frame-Up Foundation has launched the "Mumia Freedom Tour" to support Mumia Abu Jamal, a former Black Panther Party member who they describe as a political prisoner wrongfully convicted. The campaign includes a Birthday Freedom Dinner Fundraiser on April 24, 2025, at the African American Art and Culture Complex in San Francisco, featuring Mumia's eldest son Jamal Ibn Mumia and former attorney Rachel Wolkenstein. The article highlights Mumia's urgent need for eye surgery due to cataracts and glaucoma, with claims that prison authorities at SCI Mahanoy are refusing necessary treatment. The Foundation, a 501(c)(3) non-profit, seeks donations to finance legal actions and medical intervention for Mumia and advocates for others they believe are wrongfully imprisoned.

In the first 100 days of the Trump administration, immigration enforcement has intensified nationally through restricted asylum access, student visa revocations, mass deportations, and increased border security, resulting in an 88% decrease in border crossings in San Diego since October. San Diego County is currently operating under "super sanctuary" status, limiting cooperation with federal immigration authorities, though this policy faces challenges from the Trump administration and local political divisions. A critical July 1 runoff election between Republican John McCann and Democrat Paloma Aguirre for a vacant supervisor seat will determine the partisan balance of the county board, potentially reshaping local immigration policies. Recent enforcement actions in San Diego include workplace raids, revocation of humanitarian parole for migrants under the Cuban, Haitian, Nicaraguan, and Venezuelan parole program (CHNV), and cancellation of student visas for international students at local universities allegedly connected to pro-Palestinian activism.

The 6th annual San Diego Writers' Festival took place on April 5, 2025, at Coronado High School, bringing together writers and book enthusiasts with a mission to provide affordable access to writing conference experiences. A notable panel hosted by Laura Cathcart of the "Only One in the Room" podcast featured Black journalists and novelists discussing challenges in the predominantly white publishing industry, where Black people represented only 5.1% of industry professionals according to the 2023 Lee & Low Books' Diversity Baseline Survey. Panelists including Lisa Deaderick from The San Diego Union Tribune, author Trisha R. Thomas, and Row House Publishing acquisitions editor Tamela Gordon shared personal experiences and advice, while other Black creatives like Dr. Catherine Grace Pope, Tembi Locke, Marilyn Harvey, Marcus McNeal, Maria Boyd, and Anthony Green Jr. showcased their works and initiatives throughout the festival. Despite being in the minority, Black writers at the festival were able to network, socialize, and exchange value with one another.