Get The Scoop On How Fred Reed Joins Icons Like Oprah, Taylor Swift, and Snoop Dogg in Supporting ALA’s Celebrity READ Campaign

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Fred Reed Joins Icons Like Oprah, Taylor Swift, and Snoop Dogg in Supporting ALA’s Celebrity READ Campaign

Delaware native and community activist Fred Reed stands alongside cultural icons like Oprah Winfrey, Taylor Swift, LL Cool J, Ice Cube, Denzel Washington and Snoop Dogg as a proud supporter of the American Library Association’s (ALA) Celebrity READ campaign.

The ALA Celebrity READ initiative, launched in 1985, harnesses the power of influential voices to spotlight the importance of reading and literacy.

With over 200 celebrities having participated, the campaign continues to inspire new generations to embrace the transformative power of books.

Fred Reed’s involvement in the READ campaign reflects his deep-rooted belief in the power of storytelling to uplift, educate, and unite. Checkout The Teach Me Video Below...

Get The Scoop On DuBois The Talented New Artist Making a Powerful Debut with His Soulful Single “So Far Gone”

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New Artist DuBois Makes a Powerful Debut with Soulful Single “So Far Gone”

Now Streaming Everywhere

New artist DuBois steps boldly onto the music scene today with the release of his deeply personal debut single, “So Far Gone,” now available on all major streaming platforms.

A raw and emotional anthem, “So Far Gone” dives into themes of love, loss, and self-discovery. Infused with elements of R&B, gospel, and contemporary soul, the track is a reflection of DuBois’ music training, education at Florida A&M University, and transformative life experiences.

“This track has lived in isolation with my collaborators and me for so long,” shares DuBois. “I’m excited to finally release it and hope it speaks life into someone else the way it has for me.”

Get The Scoop On The Upcoming Global Series: "Mending Divides," Launching to Connect Women of African Descent Worldwide

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Global Series Launches to Connect Women of African Descent Worldwide

Mending Divides: A Journey to Solidarity Debuts June 14, 2025 with keynote Dr. June Soomer current member and former Chair of the UN Permanent Forum on People of African Descent. 

In alignment with the United Nations’ Second International Decade for People of African Descent, the African American Public Policy & Advocacy Group proudly announces the launch of Mending Divides – A Journey to Solidarity: Mending Historic Divides Between Women of African Descent. The inaugural session of this global discussion series will take place on Saturday, June 14, 2025, at 11:00 AM EDT / 1500 hrs UTC.

This landmark initiative aims to bring together women of African descent from across the diaspora to confront historical and cultural divides and co-create a shared path toward solidarity visibility, and in support of the  work of UN Permanent Forum on People of African Descent, the Working Group of Experts on People of African Descent, and aligned with the African Union’s 2025 theme—“Justice for Africans and People of African Descent Through Reparations”—the series serves as a platform for dialogue, healing, and transformative action.

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Keynote Speaker:

The session will be inaugurated by The Honorable Ambassador Dr. June Soomer, current member and former Chair of the UN Permanent Forum on People of African Descent. Dr. Soomer brings over 30 years of leadership in diplomacy, education, development, and reparatory justice, and her voice will set the tone for this powerful international dialogue.

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Session I Theme:

“Who Am I to You and Why Does It Matter?”

An exploration of identity, perception, and how women of African descent can strengthen solidarity across borders and cultures.

Snoop Dogg Praises Singer Tanya Nolan’s Performance at Tiffany Haddish’s She Ready Foundation Gala

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Snoop Dogg Praises Singer Tanya Nolan’s Performance at Tiffany Haddish’s She Ready Foundation Gala

International recording artist and multi-charting Billboard sensation Tanya Nolan lit up the stage for the second year in a row at Tiffany Haddish’s She Ready Foundation Gala, held Saturday, May 17 in Los Angeles.

With a vibrant Soul Train theme, the night brought out stars and supporters alike — including Snoop Dogg, who praised Nolan’s performance.

“I was grateful they actually requested me to come back,” Nolan shared. “It’s an incredible event that supports students and foster youth — and being part of something that gives back to the community is so important to me.”

Black-Owned Eyewear Brand, Almost 100 Sam’s Club Locations

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Black-Owned Eyewear Brand to Launch in Almost 100 Sam’s Club Locations

 Vontélle Eyewear, the Black and women-owned luxury eyewear brand known for its culturally inspired designs and inclusive fit, will launch in 80 select Sam’s Club locations. The brand’s signature collection of prescription-ready and fashion-forward frames will be available at participating Sam’s Club Optical Centers, offering members bold, high-quality eyewear designed for comfort, confidence, and cultural expression.

This rollout represents a significant milestone for Vontélle as it continues to disrupt the eyewear industry by offering bold, fashion-centric designs that celebrate African, Caribbean, and Latin cultures, while prioritizing fit for diverse facial features. “We’re thrilled to bring our brand to Sam’s Club and reach a broader audience who values both style and comfort,” said Nancey Harris, Co-Founder and COO of Vontélle. “This collaboration allows us to expand our mission of representation and inclusivity in eyewear, making luxury accessible to more families across America.”

Black Wealth Expo Brings $30K Pitch Competition to Queens NY Businesses

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Black Wealth Expo Brings $30K Pitch Competition to Queens

"Live Investment Opportunity to
Fund Local Black Entrepreneurs at
Resorts World NYC, June 21"

Queens NY June 21, 2025 — A major investment in Black entrepreneurship is coming to Southeast Queens just days after Juneteenth. On Saturday June 21, the Buy. Build. Bond. Black Business and Community Wealth Expo, sponsored by Airbnb and Con Edison will take place at Resorts World New York City with a clear mission: to put real capital directly into the hands of local entrepreneurs.

At the heart of the event is a Live Pitch Competition backed by respected political strategist and investor Patrick B. Jenkins. Jenkins is offering up to thirty thousand dollars in funding and is prepared to invest in multiple businesses based on the strength of their pitches.

This is not a winner takes all moment. Jenkins is looking for founders who are clear about their vision, ready to scale, and willing to offer equity in exchange for long term partnership and support.

“If we want to own our communities and build wealth, someone has to step up and just do it,” said Jenkins. “So I thought this would be a great opportunity to meet entrepreneurs with great ideas, and if they are willing to invest in themselves, then I am willing to invest in them.”

In addition to the investor awards, the competition includes a One Thousand Dollar Audience Pick gift. Attendees will vote for their favorite pitch live. This prize has no strings attached. It is a show of love from the crowd and an extra boost for a promising entrepreneur.

Get The Scoop On The Passing Of Charles B. Rangel The Trailblazing Harlem Congressman and Civil Rights Champion

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Charles B. Rangel
Trailblazing Harlem Congressman and
Civil Rights Champion, Dies at 94

Early Life and Military Service

Born on June 11, 1930, in Harlem, New York, Rangel faced early hardships, including his father's abandonment and economic challenges. He left high school at 17 and enlisted in the U.S. Army, serving with distinction during the Korean War. Rangel was awarded the Bronze Star and Purple Heart for his bravery, notably leading fellow soldiers to safety during the Battle of Kunu-ri. Korean War Legacy

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His legislative achievements include the "Rangel Amendment," which targeted U.S. companies benefiting from apartheid-era South Africa, and efforts to normalize trade relations with countries like China and Cuba. Reuters

Get The Scoop On US Memorial Day Weekend & Cultural Events In Majority Black Communities

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US Memorial Day Weekend & Cultural Events
In Majority Black Communities

🇺🇸 Memorial Day 2025 Celebrations in Black Communities

🗽 Southeast Queens & Jamaica, NY

• Queens Memorial Day Parades: Various neighborhoods in Queens, including Jamaica, will host parades and ceremonies to honor fallen service members.

• Community Events: Local organizations are hosting events throughout the weekend.  For more info see the Southeast Queens Scoop

🏙️ Brooklyn, NY

• 158th Brooklyn Memorial Day Parade: One of the nation's oldest, this parade kicks off at 11 a.m. on May 26 from 78th Street and Third Avenue in Bay Ridge, concluding at John Paul Jones Park. Memorial Day NYC

• 🍑 Atlanta, GA

• Atlanta Jazz Festival: Held in Piedmont Park, this free festival showcases jazz legends and emerging artists, celebrating Black musical heritage. ajc

• MomoCon 2025: A four-day convention celebrating gaming, anime, and pop culture, reflecting the diverse interests of the community. Discover Atlanta

Inventor Gabby Goodwin Lands $1M in Scholarships and a New Book Deal

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Black Teen Inventor of Gabby Bows Lands $1M in Scholarships and a New Book Deal

Gabby Goodwin invented GaBBY Bows, the first and only anti-slip double-face double-snap barrette at the age of seven with her mom, Rozalynn, and holds three U.S. patents. The now-teenage CEO and graduating senior has received merit scholarship offers totaling more than $1 million — including four full rides — from eight esteemed universities.

Gabby has also secured a book deal from HarperCollins, and her first authored children’s book, Naturally Me at the Confidence Salon, is now available for pre-order and set to release May 27 everywhere books are sold. Inspired by Gabby’s real-life Confidence Salon, this picture book inspires young readers to embrace their natural beauty, find their confidence, and follow their dreams.

Get The Scoop On How Gospel Powerhouse Earnest Pugh Drops His Latest Album and Videos In This Exclusive Interview

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Exclusive Interview: Gospel Powerhouse

Earnest Pugh, Holder of

Five #1 Billboard Singles,
Shares Insight on
His 13th Studio Album

We Wanna See You

New Single
“Your Glory” Hailed as a ‘Rain On Us’ 2.0

Renowned gospel recording artist, worship leader, and powerhouse vocalist Earnest Pugh is gearing up to release his highly anticipated 13th studio album, We Wanna See You, on Friday, May 30, 2025.

With over two decades of a remarkable career and five #1 Billboard singles, including the beloved worship anthem “Rain On Us,” Pugh continues to inspire with his authentic and spirit-filled music.  Let the Spirit Move you.  Listen to his soul inspiring "Your Glory," video below...

Get The Scoop On Award Winning Filmmaker Dante James Provocative Upcoming Film On Liberation Theology

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Emmy Award-Winning Filmmaker
Dante James Discusses His
Upcoming Film On Liberation Theology

Dante James is a multiple Emmy Award-winning independent filmmaker and educator. He has taught at Duke University and the University of Dayton.

James won an Emmy for producing the PBS documentary series Slavery and the Making of America, narrated by Morgan Freeman, and has received two Emmys for his work at WETA. His documentary Harlem in Montmartre: A Paris Jazz Story won Best Documentary at the Pan African International Film Festival in Cannes, and his film The Doll was recognized as Best Dramatic Short Film at the Hollywood Black Film Festival.

He executive-produced the PBS series This Far by Faith for Blackside Films and made films for two of Blackside’s DuPont Columbia Silver Baton-winning series. In 2010, he was a guest lecturer at the University of Cape Town in South Africa.

The Visionary Architect of Black Theology Dr. James Cone

Get The Scoop On Employing Yourself By Pierre Clark

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Employ Yourself
By Pierre Clark

The Entrepreneur's Corner – 21st Century Version

Employ Yourself – The SideHustlers Edition
By Pierre A. Clark

It’s been a long time since I wrote the original columns that spotlighted self-employment, creating your own job, and building a business. Now, a quarter of the way into the 21st century, everyone is catching on to what I learned decades ago: anyone can employ themselves, create their own business, and become an entrepreneur — and be Homefree.

It wasn’t easy then, and it isn’t easy now — because freedom is never free. Becoming a successful entrepreneur costs time, money, and most of all, effort. You have to believe the saying: If you can make a dollar, you can make a million. And if you can make a million, you can make a billion.

Take Grant Cardone — the entrepreneur-pastor of the economic freedom church — who popularized the 10x wealth-building movement. He did just that. And many others have done it too, through the boom years of the 1990s, the dot-com bust, the 2008 recession, and the pandemic shutdowns of 2020–2023.

Get The Scoop on Some of The Outstanding Events Commemorating The 100-Year Birthday of Malcolm X

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Events Commemorating The
100-Year Birthday of Malcolm X

This is an Overview of Yesterday's events commemorating the 100th birthday of Malcolm X, also known as El-Hajj Malik El-Shabazz, that took place on Monday, May 19, 2025.  We want to honor the memory of this outspoken and committed legendary leader by sharing important events and media coverage of his 100th Birthday Commemoration.

On Democracy Now here is a YouTube discussion on the 100th Birthday of Malcolm X, featuring an interview with Attorney Ben Crump and Malcolm X's daughter Ilyasah Shabazz, as the Family Presses Trump to Release Gov't Files on Assassination See More 

Visionary Media Legend Karen Hunter, and Highly Regarded Professor Dr. Greg Carr, share insightful and scholarly discourse on Malcolm X and our conditions in this country 100-years after he was born. Check it out.  

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🗽 New York City

Press Conference at the House of Justice
Rev. Al Sharpton, New York Mayor Eric Adams, civil rights attorney Ben Crump, and Malcolm X’s daughter, Ilyasah Shabazz, held a press conference at the National Action Network’s House of Justice in Harlem. The gathering honored Malcolm X’s legacy and addressed contemporary challenges to racial justice, including the rollback of diversity, equity, and inclusion initiatives. Sharpton emphasized Malcolm X's influence on Black pride and global consciousness. The Guardian

Highly Regarded Business Writer Pierre Clark Shows US How To Get The Bag To Start Our Business

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How To Get The Bag To
Start Your Business

By Pierre Clark

Stats show that more than 60% of all small business startup funding for a business comes from the founders and personal friends of the founders. So you'll have to raise the first startup cash yourself and demonstrate your business commitment and your concept's potential before investors will be interested.

Writer's Note: Everyone thinking about starting a business wants to know: how to get the money. Here are some tips and strategies. (I'm using these myself. Let me know how they work for you.)

 Here are 10 ways to raise up to $10,000 cash:

• 1. Host a fundraiser: Create an event, sell 100 tickets at $100 each.
• 2. Pre-sell your services or products. Sign up potential clients to contracts and collect down payments on account from each of them.
• 3. Sell stock shares in your company. If you start a small business corporation in Illinois, you can sell up to $1 million in stock shares usually without registering the company as a public corporation.
• 4. Hook up with a non-profit organization, start a program built around your product or service and write a grants application to solicit funding though the non-profit.
• 5. Enter a business plan competition. The Miller Beer Urban Entrepreneur Competition gives out $25,000.00 in grants to business entrepreneurs under 30 who are starting their own businesses. Kool Cigarettes sponsored a similar competition and there are many others.

New Book By Award Winning Author Chanté Griffin Gives Us The Scoop Step-By-Step On Buying Black All The Year-Long

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Chanté Griffin Launches The
“Buy Black” Financial Toolkit to
Empower Black-Owned Businesses

2025 has shown Black Americans many things—notably that we can’t rely on DEI initiatives either to support or to sustain Black businesses.  This year has underscored the challenges Black Americans face, notably the limitations of Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) initiatives in supporting Black businesses. “The work of increasing economic justice and Black wealth is ours, and the time to increase our commitment to Black businesses is now,” says Chanté Griffin, journalist and author of Loving Your Black Neighbor as Yourself.

In response, Griffin developed the “Buy Black” Financial Toolkit, a comprehensive, step-by-step guide to supporting Black-owned businesses throughout the year. This free, year-long resource assigns a theme to each month, providing curated lists of businesses to support and practical strategies for intentional spending. The toolkit launched in April 2025, aligning with Financial Literacy Month, and continues through March 2026.yougochante.com

Griffin was inspired to create the toolkit after two of her friends' products were removed from Target's shelves amid the company's rollback of DEI initiatives in January. “My friends’ experiences, coupled with sobering news stories, prompted me to become more intentional about putting dollars into Black communities and to provide a resource for others to do the same,” she explains.

Get The Scoop On The New York Bound: Bronzeville The Musical's Historic ENCORE at the Apollo Theater

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New York Bound: Bronzeville The Musical Set for Historic ENCORE at the Apollo Theater on Sunday, May 25, 2025

A Soul-Stirring Tribute to Faith, Legacy, and Courage Highlighting the Rich History of Bronzeville, Chicago

The Mahdi Theatre Company is proud to announce its upcoming ENCORE performance of Bronzeville, The Musical, a production that celebrates the enduring legacy of Bronzeville’s vibrant history before it heads to the iconic Apollo Theater in New York City. Mark your calendars for this unforgettable experience on May 25, 2025 at 253 W. 125th St., New York, NY 10027.

Bronzeville, The Musical is a poignant and captivating journey that follows a father guiding his wayward teenage son on an enlightening path through their ancestral roots. This soulful musical resonates with themes of redemption, faith, legacy, and the courage of a community, emphasizing the crucial role of history in preserving identity and heritage.

It poignantly reflects on the Great Migration from the South to Chicago, showcasing the resilience and brilliance of Black history and culture.  Checkout our Exclusive Interview with Margaret Madhi below...

Get The Scoop On How Teddy L. Astin Helps Black Homeowners Stay in Their Homes

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Meet the Black Founder Helping Homeowners Stay in Their Homes With Proven Foreclosure Prevention Solutions

As financial pressures continue to impact families nationwide, Teddy L. Astin, President and Founder of TLA Real Estate Consulting, Inc. is helping homeowners facing foreclosure to seek professional support before it’s too late. Specializing in loan modifications, forbearance agreements, and foreclosure prevention, TLA is committed to helping families protect what matters most—their homes.“During times like these, with layoffs, wage reductions, and economic uncertainty affecting so many, homeowners deserve trusted guidance and real solutions,” said Teddy L. Astin, President of TLA Real Estate Consulting. “Our mission is to help people navigate tough financial waters and avoid the devastating loss of their home.”

For over a decade, TLA has successfully assisted thousands of homeowners across the U.S., helping them find relief from overwhelming mortgage debt. Whether you’re behind on payments, facing job loss, or dealing with medical bills or other life-altering challenges, TLA offers personalized strategies to help you stay in your home.

Black Author Releases His 17th Novel

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Black Author Makes History, Releases His 17th Novel Targeting All Genres of Readers

Tony Lindsay is making history as an accomplished African American author. He is celebrating having now released 17 novels with his newest title, What If I Don’t?, a Chicago mystery thriller about three siblings (all are therapists) who open a community mental health center.

In the story, their center becomes profitable, but one of the siblings gets murdered. Not satisfied with initial police progress, the family investigates the murder themselves; they discover a sex worker family member, a heartless stockbroker, a suspect weather lady, a murdered police officer, a blackmailing employee, a sexually twisted judge, and a professional killer posing as an undertaker.

Breaking News: Newark Mayor Ras Baraka was arrested by ICE Friday May 9th

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Newark Mayor Ras Baraka was arrested earlier by ICE Friday May 9th 2025

Newark Mayor Ras Baraka was arrested earlier today during a protest at the Delaney Hall ICE detention facility in Newark, New Jersey. He was charged with trespassing on federal property but has since been released from federal custody. New York Post

The arrest occurred during a protest involving Mayor Baraka and several Democratic members of Congress, including Reps. Bonnie Watson Coleman, LaMonica McIver, and Rob Menendez. They were attempting to inspect the facility, which Baraka and others argue lacks proper permits and was opened without community input. The Guardian

After his release, Mayor Baraka criticized the actions of ICE and the Department of Homeland Security, describing the arrest as a politically motivated attempt to intimidate public officials. He emphasized that his actions were morally guided and expressed concerns over the federal government's immigration enforcement practices. Politico

Mayor Baraka is scheduled to appear in court on May 15.

Mayor Baraka After Being Released Below...

Mayor Baraka has addressed his arrest during a protest at the Delaney Hall ICE detention facility in Newark, New Jersey. He was released from federal custody on Friday evening after being charged with trespassing on federal property. NJ Spotlight News

Upon his release, Mayor Baraka stated, "The reality is this: I didn't do anything wrong." He emphasized his commitment to supporting all members of the community, including immigrants, and criticized efforts that he perceives as attempts to divide communities. FOX 11 Los Angeles

The protest, which included Democratic members of Congress, was aimed at opposing the opening of the 1,000-bed detention center, which Baraka argues lacks proper permits and community input. FOX 11 Los Angeles