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Democratic governors in Arizona, Illinois, Maine, and North Carolina have recently signed orders to allow most residents to receive COVID-19 vaccines at pharmacies without individual prescriptions, joining a growing trend among states. According to CVS Health, its stores now offer shots without individual prescriptions in 41 states, though nine states plus D.C. still require prescriptions under the company's interpretation of state policies. At least 14 states have announced policies this month to ease vaccine access, with most being led by Democratic governors, while a West Coast alliance of four states plans to make their own vaccine recommendations. Republican-controlled states generally haven't changed vaccine policies recently, though the vaccinations remain available under existing protocols.

A recent Quinnipiac University poll reveals that 79% of American voters believe the country is experiencing a political crisis, with widespread agreement across party lines following Charlie Kirk's assassination. The survey indicates 71% of voters now consider politically motivated violence a "very serious" problem, up significantly from 54% in June, with 82% blaming inflammatory political rhetoric. Most respondents (58%) no longer believe political rhetoric can be toned down, and a majority expect political violence to worsen in coming years. Additional concerns highlighted in the poll include declining confidence in freedom of speech protections, skepticism about the democratic system's functionality, low approval ratings for President Trump and HHS Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr., and economic worries centered on consumer prices.

In 1989, Alan Swanson and Willie Bennett, two Black men, were wrongly accused of killing Carol Stuart, a pregnant white woman in Boston, when in fact her husband Charles Stuart had orchestrated the murder. After facing wrongful accusations that sparked racial tensions and a police crackdown in a Black neighborhood, Swanson and Bennett have now received a $150,000 settlement from the city of Boston. The settlement comes two years after Boston Mayor Michelle Wu issued a formal apology for the injustice they suffered and the harm caused to the Black community. Bennett will receive $100,000 while Swanson will receive $50,000 from the settlement.

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.

Former FBI director James Comey has been indicted on charges of making false statements and obstruction of justice, less than a week after President Donald Trump specifically called for his prosecution on Truth Social. The Department of Justice, led by Attorney General Pam Bondi, claims the indictment demonstrates their commitment to accountability, though critics argue it represents a dangerous collapse of the traditional firewall between the White House and DOJ. Trump's successful targeting of Comey, facilitated by the appointment of former Trump lawyer Lindsey Halligan as a federal prosecutor, has raised significant concerns about the weaponization of the Justice Department against political rivals. The case relates to allegations that Comey lied to Congress in 2020 about authorizing leaks of classified information to the media.

Sara Jane Moore, who attempted to assassinate President Gerald Ford in 1975 by firing a .38-caliber revolver at him outside a San Francisco hotel, has died at age 95. Moore's attack came just 17 days after another assassination attempt on Ford by Lynette "Squeaky" Fromme, an associate of cult leader Charles Manson. After pleading guilty, Moore was sentenced to life imprisonment but was released on parole after serving 32 years. Her death coincides with renewed attention to presidential security following two recent attempts on former President Donald Trump's life, including the recently convicted Ryan Routh.

The University of Wisconsin-Madison's African American Studies Department has established its first research lab, which is actively collecting data for a new study. The research team, known as UWAHL (University of Wisconsin African American Humanities Lab), is focusing on locations in Madison where Black communities flourish, rather than solely examining areas of struggle. Researchers are visiting various city neighborhoods to gather Black residents' experiences and perspectives through interviews and observational methods. This approach aims to amplify Black voices and create a more comprehensive understanding of Black life in Madison beyond the typical deficit-focused narratives.

Zaila Avant-garde, an 18-year-old prodigy, has built an impressive list of accomplishments including becoming the first African American to win the Scripps National Spelling Bee in 2021, authoring five books, and holding three Guinness World Records for basketball skills. After an initial spelling bee defeat in 2019 that motivated her to work harder, she prepared intensively by studying 13,000 words for seven hours daily with tutors. Currently, Avant-garde is beginning her studies at the University of Maryland on a full scholarship, majoring in cell biology and genetics with aspirations to become a biomedical researcher for NASA's human research program, specifically focusing on enabling long-term human colonization of Mars.

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.

The Moody Foundation has announced a historic $150 million donation to Huston-Tillotson University, marking the largest single gift ever given to any Historically Black College or University (HBCU). The donation, revealed during the university's 150th anniversary celebration, will be distributed over ten years and primarily fund student scholarships and campus expansion. Huston-Tillotson's President Melva K. Wallace described the gift as "transformational" and a "rocket booster" that will help elevate the institution to the next level. This unprecedented donation is part of the Moody Foundation's broader $1 billion commitment to education in Texas by 2035 and surpasses the previous record of $100 million given to Spelman College earlier in 2024.

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.

Earline Jiles White (1940-2025) was a devoted woman of faith who served at Phillips Temple Church for over 50 years alongside her husband Lincoln, with whom she shared 52 years of marriage. Born in Louisiana and educated at Athens Colored High School, Earline built a career spanning 40 years at Sharp Memorial hospital, progressing from a Nurse's Assistant to a Medical Unit Clerk. Known for her cooking, especially her tea cakes and yams, she maintained close relationships with family and friends throughout her life, leaving behind two children, four grandchildren, and numerous other relatives who cherished her warmth and loving nature. Her life was characterized by deep faith, family dedication, and the countless connections she formed in her 85 years.

Elma Georgiabell Peterson, a 75-year-old retired Certified Nursing Assistant from San Diego, passed away on August 28, 2025. Born in 1950, she was a devoted mother of three, grandmother, and great-grandmother who worked compassionately caring for others until her retirement. Elma was known for her love of dancing, cooking, and her strong faith as a member of 38th Street Church of Christ. Her life celebration service will be held on September 22, 2025, at her church, followed by interment at Mount Hope Cemetery.

Bell hooks, born Gloria Jean Watkins in 1952, was a prominent writer and scholar who published over forty works examining the intersections of race, gender, and class. She adopted her lowercase pen name to emphasize her ideas rather than her identity, and established herself as a significant voice with her 1981 book "Ain't I a Woman: Black Women and Feminism." Meanwhile, Charles "Sonny" Liston overcame a difficult childhood and imprisonment to become heavyweight boxing champion on September 25, 1962, when he knocked out Floyd Patterson. Despite his impressive record of 50 wins (39 by knockout), Liston's career declined after losing to Muhammad Ali, and he died under mysterious circumstances in 1971.

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 article discusses how economic conditions for Black Americans have deteriorated since Donald Trump returned to the White House, despite his campaign promises to improve their situation. Data shows Black unemployment has risen to 7.5% in 2025, Black homeownership has fallen to its lowest level since 2021, and median Black household income dropped 3.3% last year to $56,020 - approximately $36,000 less than white households. The Trump administration attributes some of these trends to the previous Biden administration's policies, while critics argue Trump's focus on deportations and federal layoffs has disproportionately harmed Black Americans. Political analysts note this worsening economic situation could impact Trump's support among Black voters who shifted toward him in the 2024 election due to concerns about inflation and affordability.

The article criticizes the Democratic Party for abandoning the Black Press while continuing to spend millions on advertising in majority-white media outlets. The author argues this neglect contributed to Democrats losing Black voter support in the 2024 election, despite the Black Press reaching over 30 million people weekly through its network of 200 Black-owned newspapers and media companies. The piece highlights the historical significance of the Black Press in American history, from its founding in 1827 through civil rights movements to the present day, emphasizing its continued relevance. The author concludes that Democrats' failure to financially support Black media outlets represents a betrayal of their core supporters that may continue to cost them electorally in future elections.

A recent LendingTree analysis reveals significant disparities in business financing approvals, with Black-owned businesses experiencing a 39% rejection rate in 2024, followed by Hispanic-owned businesses at 29%, compared to just 18% for white-owned businesses. Small businesses with 1-4 employees faced denial rates five times higher than larger firms, while businesses with 3-5 years of operation paradoxically experienced the highest rejection rate at 29%. SBA loans and lines of credit proved most difficult to secure with a 45% rejection rate, as high interest rates, inflation, and economic uncertainty have made lenders increasingly cautious about extending credit. Community development financial institutions and large banks showed the highest denial rates at 34% and 31% respectively, reflecting what LendingTree's chief analyst describes as part of a broader trend of tightened lending standards during unpredictable economic times.

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.

California Governor Gavin Newsom and Democratic leaders hosted a virtual fundraising rally on September 16 for Proposition 50, also known as the Election Rigging Response Act. The ballot measure aims to redraw California's congressional maps to potentially create five new Democratic-leaning seats, which supporters claim would counterbalance Republican gerrymandering in Texas and other GOP-led states. During the event, which raised $1 million in small donations, Newsom framed the proposition as crucial for Democrats to win a majority in the U.S. House in 2026 and prevent Trump from solidifying his legislative agenda. Opponents, including former California Governor Arnold Schwarzenegger, argue that Prop 50 undermines the voter-approved California Citizens Redistricting Commission and legitimizes partisan gerrymandering.

Naasón Joaquín García, leader of evangelical megachurch La Luz del Mundo, has pleaded not guilty to sex trafficking charges in New York while already serving a 16-year sentence for sexually abusing girls from his congregation in California. According to a newly unsealed indictment, García, his mother, and four associates allegedly used the church to traffic women and children to the US, with prosecutors claiming they exploited followers' faith and followed a disturbing tradition established by García's father and grandfather. Despite these allegations, which include sex trafficking, child pornography, forced labor, and financial crimes, church officials have denied all charges, calling them "unfounded, untrue and slanderous." La Luz del Mundo, founded in Mexico in 1926, claims millions of followers worldwide who regard García as "the Apostle of Jesus Christ," with many remaining loyal even after his 2022 guilty plea.

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.

Five bills from the California Legislative Black Caucus' "Road to Repair" package have been passed by the Senate and now await Governor Newsom's action by October 12. Among these, SB 437 and SB 518, authored by Senator Weber Pierson, have faced criticism from reparations advocates including the Coalition for a Just and Equitable California (CJEC), who view them as delay tactics in providing reparations to descendants of enslaved Black Americans. CJEC supports SB 515, which would refine demographic data collection to better identify descendants of enslaved people, while opposing SB 437's proposed genealogical study and SB 518's establishment of a Bureau for Descendants of American Slavery within the Department of Justice. Community organizers are urging Governor Newsom to veto SB 437 and SB 518, emphasizing that "reparations delayed are reparations denied."

Assemblymember Chris Ward has named Dr. Fabiola Bagula, Superintendent of the San Diego Unified School District and the first Latina to hold this position, as the 2025 Latino Heritage Month honoree for Assembly District 78. Dr. Bagula's selection recognizes her extensive contributions to education, including her work as an educator, principal, and administrator, as well as her leadership coaching for superintendents across San Diego County. Throughout her distinguished career, she has received several awards, contributed to academic publications, and maintained academic positions while drawing from her bicultural upbringing on the San Diego border. Upon receiving this recognition, Dr. Bagula expressed her gratitude while emphasizing her commitment to ensuring educational opportunities for all students in the San Diego Unified School District.

A significant government shutdown looms in Washington as Democrats stand firmly against what they characterize as attacks on healthcare programs. Senate Democratic leader Chuck Schumer and House Democratic leader Hakeem Jeffries have explicitly rejected compromising on Republican spending proposals that would cut Medicaid and Affordable Care Act funding. In a joint letter to President Trump, the Democratic leaders accused him of deliberately seeking a shutdown to undermine Americans' healthcare coverage. Democrats are leveraging their minority position to demand restoration of Medicaid funding, extension of ACA subsidies, and an end to the administration's appropriations freeze, warning that failure to do so would have devastating consequences for healthcare access nationwide.

Assembly Bill 1263, authored by Assemblymember Mike Gipson (D-Carson), has passed both the California Assembly and Senate and now awaits Governor Newsom's decision. The legislation aims to strengthen oversight of privately manufactured firearms, commonly known as ghost guns, by expanding California's Firearm Industry Responsibility Act and creating legal liability for those who help produce them. The bill specifically targets distribution of instructions for creating 3D-printed and computer numerical control-milled firearms, requiring vendors selling firearm-making equipment to provide clear notice about California's laws on firearm manufacturing. Opposition comes from gun rights groups like the California Rifle and Pistol Association, which argue the bill is unconstitutional and could decrease firearms safety by removing technological access.