Serena Only Fined $2,000 for Incident at the US Open

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Families Victimized by Serial Killer Anthony Sowell Speak to the Court

Anthony Sowell, a 51-year old Ohio serial killer up for the death penalty on 82 counts of aggravated murder, rape, attempted murder, and kidnapping, is sorry for what he did; but the families of his victims and his near-victims (the three women who survived his attacks) aren’t buying it. All of Sowell’s victims were black women.

Miami Police Dept. Has Killed Seven Black Men in Eight Months?

by Ayvaunn Penn, Your Black World

Some people in Miami are outraged over the treatment of black men by the Miami Police Department. According to reports, a victim by the name of Travis McNeil made for the 7th black male victim fatally shot by the Miami PD in just 8 months. The shooting of this 28-year-old was the last straw. The New York Times reports:

Woman Kicked Off Flight for Allegedly Not Wearing Panties

By JasmineHughes

A young financial consultant from Harlem wants JetBlue Airlines to pay for removing her from her Florida-bound flight after an airline worker accused her of not wearing panties.

On July 13, 2010, Malinda Knowles, 27, claims that a JetBlue supervisor put a walkie-talkie between her legs to see what she had on under her baggy T-shirt.

Sec. Gates Unlikely To Authorize Repeal of “Don’t Ask, Don’t Tell”

Elliot Millner

In a move that is not likely to sit well with an important group of potential voters for President Obama, it has been reported that retiring Defense Secretary Robert Gates is unlikely to authorize the repeal of “Don’t Ask, Don’t Tell” prior to leaving office.

TSA To Implement Less Intrusive Pat Down Policy for Children, Elderly

Elliot Millner

After receiving outraged responses for conducting pat downs of small children, the Transportation Security Administration (TSA) has announced that it will change the policy it uses for screening young children, and in some cases the elderly.

Texas Executes Possibly Mentally-Disabled Black Man

Elliot Millner

Milton Mathis, A Black man in Texas convicted of the murder of two people and of critically injuring another, was recently put to death, despite strong indications that he was mentally disabled. 

Possible “Blunder” In Healthcare Bill May Allow Millions of Middle-Class Access To Medicaid

Elliot Millner

In news that may send many Tea Partiers into cardiac arrest, It was recently discovered that a portion of the recently passed healthcare reform bill would allow millions of middle-class Americans to receive Medicaid by mistake.

More Drama in Detroit: Two Resign From Mayor’s Staff, Allegations of “Chaos”

Elliot Millner

It would probably be bigger news if a week went by without some type of drama coming out of Detroit, Michigan. Two members of Detroit Mayor Dave Bing’s staff recently resigned. The resignations come just days after a lawsuit was filed by a former mayoral staffer alleging wrongful termination.

Van Jones Challenges Glenn Bleck To Debate

Elliot Millner

Van Jones, President Obama’s former “green jobs” czar, has recently produced a television ad sponsored by MoveOn.org in which he challenges soon-to-be leaving Fox News host Glenn Beck to a debate concerning Beck’s attacks on “millions of hardworking Americans who just wanna(sic) give their kids a better life”.

College Board Study Shows Blacks, Other Minorities, Still Lagging Academically

Elliot Millner

A recent study by the College Board sheds more light on the massive divide in education achievement between minority males and minority women and white men.

Years Later, North Carolina Struggles With History of Forced Sterilization

Elliot Millner

Approximately 35 years after the fact, the state of North Carolina is coming to grips with its dark history of forced sterilization. Although many states in the U.S. had varying forms of eugenics programs during the early 1900’s, most of those programs were abandoned post-World War II, because of the negative associations with Nazi Germany’s efforts at racial purity. However, unlike most states, North Carolina not only continued its program of forced sterilization, it expanded its program until the early 1960’s.

College Costs Continue To Skyrocket, While Salaries Remain Stagnant: Time To Consider Other Options

Elliot Millner

The standard perception of a college degree as the key to success continues to take a hit. In a recent study, it was shown that while the median income in the U.S. has continued to remain around $33,000 for approximately the past decade, average college tuition and fees have more than doubled in the same time period.

Miracle-Gro Wants to Get Into Marijuana Business: Who Can Blame Them?

Elliot Millner

Marijuana is big business, and I’m talking about the legal kind. That being the case, it’s no surprise that the CEO of Scott’s Miracle-Gro recently stated in an interview that his company wants to begin targeting the marijuana market.

Anthony Graves: Another Black Man Almost Executed For A Crime He Didn’t Commit..Where Does It End?

Elliot Millner, J.D.

Some of you may already be familiar with the story of Anthony Graves, a Black man who spent 18 years on Texas death row for a crime he did not commit. While the present prosecutor admits that there wasn’t any evidence linking Graves to the crime he was incarcerated for, that didn’t stop him from being sentenced to death. Just another example (if you still need one) of how easily an innocent person can be wrongly convicted, particularly if that person is poor and Black.

The Reality of Uncle Tom’s Cabin: Why Reading Is Fundamental

Elliot Millner

In this recent Op-Ed piece, the author provides an excellent account of how Uncle Tom’s Cabin, by Harriet Beecher Stowe, went from being considered by proponents of slavery as one of the most dangerous books written, to having one of its main characters, Uncle Tom, become synonymous with cowardly, traitorous behavior.

Here We Go Again: Cleveland Police “Find” Missing Jail Video That Provides Proof of Them Lying

Elliot Millner

In a shocking and never before seen turn of events, the Cleveland Police Department recently “discovered” a missing video of a Black man being abused while being arrested. Prior to Jalil Anderson’s trial, the prosecutors’ office subpoenaed the police department for the video; however, they were told at that time that the video no longer existed.

Rep. Elijah Cummings Nephew Murdered at His Off-Campus Apartment

Your Black World Staff

The nephew of long time Congressman Elijah Cummings (D-MD) was murdered at his off-campus apartment recently. Christopher Cummings, 20, a student at Old Dominion University in Norfolk, VA, was a Criminal Justice major with a 3.5 GPA. His roommate, Jake Carey, was also critically wounded in the shooting.

(White) Americans Are Popping Rx Drugs Like Skittles: Where’s The War On Them?

Elliot Millner

A recently story details the unneeded and illegal prescribing of prescription drugs, particularly various painkillers, to a certain demographic of Americans. Let’s be real here, the vast majority of the pain pill poppers are white. And, despite the fact that the White House recently stated that the rate of deaths from accidental prescription drug overdoses now exceeds the overdose rates from the crack cocaine epidemic of the 80’s and the black tar heroin craze of the 70’s combined, the response seems to be very different.

Out of Prison, But Not Out of Debt: States Continue to Pile Fees on Ex-Convicts

Elliot Millner

In a very informative piece, this author details another part of the criminal justice system that many people are unaware of. Even after serving their time, and in addition to being placed on probation, many released prisoners are also forced to pay a variety of fees as part of their probation arrangement.

U.S. Border Patrol Agents Bribed with Money, Sex By Drug Cartels

Elliot Millner

In another proud moment in the failed travesty known as the “war on drugs”, it has been “revealed” that Mexican drug cartels are bribing U.S. Border Patrol Agents with “cash and sexual favors” in exchange for the agents allowing unauthorized immigrants to cross the border, leaking sensitive information, and even acting as escorts and protectors for the drug traffickers. This disclosure was made by the acting Inspector General of the Department of Homeland Security while testifying before a Senate Subcommittee.

Unemployment Benefits Disappearing, No Jobs On the Horizon: What Exactly Are People To Do?

Elliot Millner

The news just keeps getting worse for those who are unemployed or underemployed. According to a recent report, despite the fact that the jobless rate in the U.S. continues to rise, many of those newly unemployed people will likely be limited to 26 weeks of state unemployment benefits, at best. This is because the deadline to file for extended federal unemployment benefits expires in December 2011, meaning that if a person hasn’t filed for benefits by approximately July 1, federal benefits won’t be an option.

Add this news to the recent report that the numbers of those chronically unemployed(unemployed from six months to a year or longer) is on the rise and it begs the question: What exactly are these people supposed to do? With Republicans in control of the House of Representatives, and looking to cut spending, the likelihood of any unemployment benefits extensions are slim to none.

Allen Iverson Wants to Return to NBA..Who Will Give Him a Shot?

Your Black World Staff

According to a recent report, former NBA star Allen Iverson is looking to return to the NBA. Iverson, 36, most recently played ten games this past season for the Turkish club Besiktas, before his season was ended due to an injury to his right calf.

Although his last couple of seasons in the NBA were pretty average, especially by the high standards he set early in his career, Iverson is convinced he still has something to offer an NBA team. It’s hard to forget the Iverson who crossed up Jordan, or the Iverson who lit up the Lakers for 48 points in the 2001 NBA Finals. The question many NBA teams will ask themselves is does this 36-year-old version of AI have any of that left in him?

California’s Initial Response to S. Court Ruling: Send Low-level Offenders to County Jails

Elliot Millner, J.D.

In response to the recent Supreme Court decision that determined that California’s prisons were dangerously overcrowded, California officials have proposed a plan that would relocate approximately 33,000 inmates considered to be low-level offenders to various county jails throughout the state. The plan, which is unfunded, still needs to be approved by the state legislature and voted on by California citizens before it could be implemented.

In addition to the county jail plan, the state is also planning to deal with the overcrowding problem through construction, and a program already in place in which approximately 10,000 inmates are contracted to out-of-state facilities. If the county jail plan is not implemented by November 28 (the cutoff date the court gave for the initial decrease in inmate population) the state could be forced to release some inmates early.

Herman Cain Won’t Sign Any Bill Longer Than Three Pages (???)

Elliot Millner, J.D.

You have to give it to Republican Presidential candidate Herman Cain; he knows how to keep his name in the news. At a recent speech in Iowa, Cain criticized the lengths of bills that are passed by Congress, particularly the 2,700 healthcare bill. He stated that these bills were too long for average people who had other responsibilities to read. Cain stated, “That’s why I’m only going to allow small bills..three pages. You’ll have time to read that one over the dinner table.”

I’ll give Mr. Cain the benefit of the doubt and assume that some of this was just campaign talk, and that he didn’t actually mean three page bills. Maybe I’m assuming too much, but I’d like to think that Mr. Cain knows that it is not possible to include all of the information necessary for a bill(any bill) governing the entire country to fit into three pages.

It Had to Be Alabama: Proposed Bill Would Ban Abortions In State

 Elliot Millner, J.D.

A bill presently before the Alabama legislature would ban all abortions in the state. The bill (Senate Bill 301) defines a human life from the point of fertilization and implantation, thus making it a crime to have an abortion at any point, for any reason.

It should come as no surprise that something as backwards as this is coming out of the state of Alabama. No offense to all my friends who live or are from there, but let’s be real. Abortion is definitely a controversial issue, and there are reasonable people who disagree on both sides. But there are also completely insane, irrational people who think that it has to be their way or no way, and most of those people seemed to be grouped together on the anti-abortion side.

What is sad is that the most lunatic fringe of anti-abortion supporters almost always use religion and the Bible as their crutch. They care so much about life, that they are going to force a woman to have a child, no matter the circumstances surrounding the impregnation. Incest? Gotta have it. Rape? Gotta have it. Why should the woman have any say in the matter? And why should these same people care what happens to the child once they are born? That’s not their problem, and would require too much, you know, thinking. And the irony is that if the child happens to go down a particularly bad path and end up on death row, many of these same people would be the first ones ready to perform the lethal injection.

More Police Behaving Badly: Police Attempt to Destroy Video Taken By Innocent Bystander

 Elliot Millner, J.D.

Two witnesses to a fatal shooting on South Beach in Miami involving police allege that the police officers involved attempted to intimidate them, and when that didn’t work, threw them to the ground and destroyed their camera. What the officers failed to realize is that one of the witnesses had already removed the sim card from the camera and hid it in his mouth. The video can now be seen on YouTube.

Most states have laws concerning interfering with a police officer’s ability to perform his/her job, usually stating you have to keep a certain distance away from them or something to that effect. Some states also have laws against secretly recording police during an interaction. However, in most places, it is perfectly legal to openly record(from a safe distance) the actions of police officers. But, this doesn’t stop many police officers from doing things such as what happened to these two witnesses.

Two Parties Serving the Same Master..What Are Black People To Do?

Elliot Millner, J.D.

In this recent magazine article, the author provides a fairly detailed timeline of how and when they feel that the Democratic party (still considered by most of the general public to be the “party of the people”, and more interested in working for the interests of the poor and middle-class) lost its way and became more similar to the Republican Party in its subservience to the super-wealthy and corporations.

Although I won’t go as far as some and say that there are no differences in the two major parties, especially on social issues, increasingly the economic policies put forth by the Democratic Party largely serve the interests of the business community and wealthiest 1% of the population. Democrats increasingly do just enough to make sure that they are able to get enough votes to maintain their seats. Take for example the extremely watered-down health care reform bill. Despite all the raucous debate surrounding it, the final product is a shadow of what could have been given the fact that Democrats held the presidency and both houses of Congress. Is it better than nothing? Yes, but that should not be the standard when you are in control, and when you claim to represent the interests of everyday working people.

The question that goes unanswered is this: What are the alternatives? If, as the author suggest, the Democratic party had no choice but to run to the super wealthy and corporations for support given its loss of a base with labor unions, what new or other base can come along to change that? There is mention of the fact that Black people have consistently been the most loyal voting block to the Democratic party, however is this continued loyalty the best plan of action given the ever decreasing returns on that loyalty?

Politically-speaking, there is much more value in being a free agent than in being a known loyalist to one party. I’m not promoting a mad rush to the Republican party, however at least having the bluff of large numbers of Black voters NOT blindly voting Democrat may be the only option we have left. Third party options should also be considered. Many immediately shoot down the idea of supporting third-party or independent candidates because they view them as wasted votes incapable of winning. However, is supporting a longshot worse than supporting a party that shows less and less interest in the needs of its most loyal constituents? Politics is not like everyday life. Loyalty is great with friends and family. Politically-speaking however, blind loyalty is foolishness. It is nearly impossible to advocate for things you desire when those you are negotiating with know that no matter what, you’re voting democrat. This is especially true now, given how outraged many Black people get at even the slightest criticism of President Obama.

Does President Obama receive a lot of unwarranted, often racially-motivated criticism? Absolutely. However, it doesn’t follow logically that Black people shouldn’t demand that he address issues that are specifically relevant to us. On some issues, the argument that “he’s everybody’s president, what he does for everyone helps us” may work, but on others it doesn’t. Mass incarceration of Black males and the causes and effects of it is of particular interest to us; so is the disparity in the unemployment rates for Black people, males in particular. So are the cuts in the funding of many programs that particularly serve and help mostly impoverished communities of color. It is mind-boggling how defensive some people get about President Obama, while showing no concern for those in most need. President Obama is already a millionaire; whenever he leaves the White House, he’ll probably write books, give speeches, and make millions more. He’s going to be ok. He’ll still have his Secret Service detail.

It is one thing to support, another to follow and/or worship. Here is your measuring stick: If you can articulate things that President Obama has done in his presidency that you agree and disagree with, then you are probably a supporter. If you can’t think of a thing that Obama has done wrong since he’s been in office, then you need to get up off of your knees. Obama has an entire staff to defend his interests; we need to work on preserving our interests while there is still something left to preserve.

Prof. Ronald Walters Dies at 72 Years Old

by Dr. Boyce Watkins, Syracuse University 

I woke up today to find that the sun would shine a little bit less brightly than it did the day before. The first email I read was one telling me that Ronald Walters, a noted black Political Scientist at The University of Maryland, had died. He was 72 years old.

Dr. Walters was the director of the African American Leadership Institute. He was also the Campaign Manager for the presidential run of Rev. Jesse Jackson in 1984. I knew Ron as a mentor and friend. He was also on the faculty here at Syracuse University at one point in his career, long before my own. He was one of the most respectable and accomplished black scholars I’ve ever met, and he was appreciated by nearly everyone. His advice on leadership, activism and black empowerment was second to none.

I reached out to a few friends to get their takes on Professor Walters and many of them were very happy to reply. They were saddened to see the end of Ron’s life and career, but most of them understood the urgency of continuing his meaningful work. I haven’t been able to catch up with Rev. Jesse Jackson yet, but I’ll be on his show Sunday morning. Ron and I have been on Rev. Jackson’s show together in the past, and few people were impacted more by Dr. Walters than Rev. Jackson himself.

 

Click to read.

Obama’s Economic Performance is Not as Bad as His Critics Think

by Dr. Boyce Watkins, The Institute for Black Public Policy

Many conservative pundits are raising Hades over the fact that GDP growth for this quarter was only 2.4 percent, lower than the rates of five percent and 3.73 percent for the last quarter of 2009 and first quarter of 2010, respectively. They’ve tried to hang President Obama to the cross over this one, arguing that we have a “double-dip” recession in store and that the data serve as evidence that his economic policies have failed.

These so-called “pundits” are as wrong as purple shoes with polka dot slacks, and let me tell you why.

 

Click to read.

Congressional Black Caucus Meets with Agriculture Secretary Over Unjust Firing of Shirley Sherrod

Chairwoman Lee Releases Statement Following Meeting with Agriculture Secretary 
Vilsack 
Wednesday, July 21, 2010 
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE 
Contact : Nicole Y. Williams or J. Jioni Palmer 
Washington D.C. – Today Congresswoman Barbara Lee (D-CA), Chairwoman of the 
Congressional Black Caucus, released the following statement following a meeting 
of the Congressional Black Caucus with Agriculture Secretary Tom Vilsack 
regarding the handling of matter resulting in the resignation of Shirley 
Sherrod. 
 
“We want to thank Secretary Tom Vilsack for meeting with the Congressional Black 
Caucus today regarding the issues surrounding the resignation of Shirley 
Sherrod. During the meeting we expressed our concern regarding the handling of 
the situation. Secretary Vilsack assured us that there would be a full review of 
the process which led to this unfortunate situation. 
 
“We appreciate the apology issued today by the Administration and Secretary 
Vilsack personally. He reiterated those same sentiments during our meeting. 
 
“We expressed to Secretary Vilsack that as the Administration and Department of 
Agriculture begins the process of repairing the damage from this situation, we 
are willing to work with them to ensure an equitable and fair outcome for Ms. 
Sherrod. The meeting also provided an opportunity to openly discuss longstanding 
issues of equity within the U.S. Department of Agriculture such as funding for 
land grant colleges and the Black and Native American Farmers settlement to 
address decades-long discrimination. 
 
“Shirley Sherrod’s story – the true story she told as evidenced in the full tape 
of her remarks that has now been released – is one that we can use as the 
starting point for a real dialogue on race. 
 
“As Americans, we need to build a shared understanding of our country's history 
as we work to build a more perfect union. We look forward to continued dialogue 
with Secretary Vilsack and the U.S. Department of Agriculture.” 
### 
       
www.thecongressionalblackcaucus.com    
To unsubscribe, click here. 
J. Jioni Palmer 
Communications Director 
Congressional Black Caucus 
(202) 226-1912 - office 
(202) 579-5486 - cell 
 

Black NFL Coach’s Son Arrested on Child Porn Charges

Jeremy Green, son of former NFL coach Dennis Green, has been arrested in Connecticut on a charge related to child pornography. Jeremy Green is also an ESPN analyst. He was picked up Thursday around 5 p.m. in a Southington hotel. He is charged with possession of child pornography, possession of narcotics and possession of drug paraphernalia.
He is being held on $750,000 bond and police are not releasing details of the warrant, which is now sealed. He has worked with ESPN since 2005.
Jeremy’s father, Dennis Green, was one of the most successful African American coaches in the history of the NFL. His 1998 run with the Minnesota Vikings led to a 15-1 record for the team, and the most points scored by any NFL team during any one season. The team made it to the NFC Championship game that year, led by Randy Moss and other great players the team had that year.

Click to read.

Dr. Boyce Watkins: LeBron James Chooses the Miami Heat

by Dr. Boyce Watkins, Syracuse University 

I hate to say "I told you so," but sometimes it’s just kind of fun to brag a little bit. As I wrote the other day, LeBron James made his announcement tonight that he is going to join up with Chris Bosh and Dwayne Wade with the Miami Heat. The announcement wasn’t a big surprise, since I presumed that LeBron would rather play with the greatest talent pool in the Eastern Conference rather than against it. There were some, however, who thought that teams like New York and New Jersey had a chance. No, they did not.
New York makes money and has a massive media market, but the Knicks have stained their organization’s reputation by showing that they don’t care much about winning. Overpaying mediocre players and not managing their team properly has made them appear as undesirable as the "Kentucky Celtics" were when Rick Pitino took over and tried to bring his entire college roster to the NBA with him.

Click to read

A Player Whose Name Really Is "God’s Gift"

From Providence’s God Shammgod to Seattle’s Austen Powers to Alabama State’s Chief Kickingstallionsims, college basketball has featured dozens of players with memorable names.

By this time next year, we could have another name to add to the list.

Meet God’s Gift Achiuwa, a 6-foot-9 forward at Erie Community College who has already caught the attention of some high-profile Division I programsbecause of both his stellar play and unusual name. The Nigeria native’s father is a minister, so the first name he chose for his son is a reflection of the family’s devout religious beliefs.

[Photos: Latest news in college hoops]

"His name is the first thing that anyone asks about when they meet him," Erie coach Alex Nwora said by phone. "Everyone thought it was a nickname or something, but that’s his real name. Fortunately, he’s a religious kid, so he likes it."

 

Click to read more.

Should Black People Stop Watching BET?

Dr. Boyce Watkins

Author and Finance Professor at Syracuse University

Why there should be a black backlash against BET

10:43 AM on 06/28/2010

OPINION – Through the years, the BET Awards have become a staple of unhealthy and counter-productive broken black family fun…

> MORE

Your Black News – 6/25/10

• 

• Nas Can’t Afford Kelis’ Home: Plans to Sell Soon

  8:28 AMJun 25

  Source: BV on Money

  The divorce between the rapper Nas and his wife Kelis has been an interesting and fascinating tale of intense love and bitter anger. They say there’s a thin line between love and hate, and no one shows this better than Nas and Kelis. Well, the story … Read More

• A Force For Good in the Workplace

  12:34 AMJun 25

  Source: BV Wellness

  Your Daily Affirmation for Friday, June 25, 2010: Today I set my intentions to be the giver and the receiver of positivity in the workplace. I offer kind thoughts, constructive comments and positive energy without condition and regardless of how … Read More

• Hip-Hop, Lil Boosie, Six Murders and Commercialized Homicide

  12:18 AMJun 25

  Source: BV on Money

  The rapper Lil Boosie (aka Torrance Hatch) has been hit with some serious allegations involving drugs, murder and all kinds of other nasty activity. We reported Lil Boosie’s situation recently here on AOL Black Voices and should update by noting that … Read More

• New York Woman Says Cops Knocked Her Eye Out

  10:03 PMJun 24

  Source: Blackvoices Main

  Jacqueline Deravin is a disabled former jail guard. She says that police knocked one of her eyes out of its socket. Officers are telling a different story, stating that Deravin pulled out a 12-gauge shotgun saying, "Nobody’s going to leave here … Read More

• The 2010 NBA Draft –10 Guys You Need To Know About Before the First Pick

  6:31 PMJun 24

  Source: theBVX.com

  By now, you already know about the first five guys that are (probably) going to be picked in the NBA Draft tonight. John Wall (pictured), Evan Turner, Derrick Favors, Wesley Johnson and DeMarcus Cousins have been covered to death by ESPN, Sports … Read More

• Report: Tiger’s Wife About to Rein in $750 Million in Divorce Settlement

  6:08 PMJun 24

  Source: BV on Money

  Radaronline is reporting that Tiger Woods’ divorce is about to be signed and finalized. The most shocking part of the report is that there are claims that Woods’ wife is set to get $750 million out of the settlement. There is no clear indication of … Read More

• Around the Web — Nas Owes Kelis Again, Curren$y’s LP Dated + More

  6:00 PMJun 24

  Source: theBVX.com

  The ongoing child and spousal support payment issues between Nas and Kelis have been further compounded, as Nas is behind by more than $50,000 in payments on the home where Kelis reside. [XXL] … Read More

• Check Out Bruce Willis and Morgan Freeman in ‘Red’ Trailer

  5:40 PMJun 24

  Source: BV on Movies

  Summit Entertainment has released the trailer for ‘Red,’ which stars Bruce Willis, Helen Mirren, Morgan Freeman and John Malkovich. Based on the DC Comics title, the film centers on Frank Moses (Willis), a former black-ops CIA agent who is now living … Read More

 

 

 

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Rick Ross Sued by the Real Ricky Ross

by Dr. Boyce Watkins

I never bought into the hype that Rick Ross was a fraud. Everyone seemed to feel that because he was found to have been a corrections officer in a previous life, that he somehow violated the oath which says that rappers have to be criminals in order to sell records. I don’t know how true or false the rumors happen to be, but the fact is that I never cared.

However, when I found out that there is reason to believe that the rapper Rick Ross took his name from the notorious drug dealer "Freeway" Ricky Ross, I thought to myself, "This is just stupid. Why can’t the brother just be himself?"

 

Click to read

Suge Knight, Single Mothers, Rev. Al, Obama and More – 6/22/10

Suge Knight, Kanye West: Lawsuit, Guns and Money

• It appears that Kanye West and the infamous Marion "Suge" Knight are getting together to work out … Read More
• By Boyce Watkins, PhD on Jun 22nd 2010 6:36PM | Comments (0)

How Love and Money Mix and How You Can Do it the Right Way

• I did the interview below on CNN Radio this week about love and money. Most of us know the feeling … Read More
• By Boyce Watkins, PhD on Jun 22nd 2010 4:45PM | Comments (1)

Black Single Mothers and Dating: What’s It Really Like?

• In this episode of ‘Dr Boyce Watkins on AOL Black Voices,’ we discuss black single mothers … Read More
• By Boyce Watkins, PhD on Jun 22nd 2010 3:54PM | Comments (0)

Should Facebook Be Held Accountable for Murders by Members?

• A man was sent to prison after he did the unthinkable: He pretended to be a teenager, lured a young … Read More
• By Boyce Watkins, PhD on Jun 22nd 2010 3:42PM | Comments (1)

Rev. Al Sharpton and Dr. Boyce Discuss the Plight of the Black Male

• Every week, I speak with Rev. Al Sharpton on various issues that affect the African American … Read More
• By Boyce Watkins, PhD on Jun 22nd 2010 9:45AM | Comments (6)

Obama’s Fatherhood.gov Commercial: Too Feminine for Black Men?

• On Father’s Day, I wrote about the immense thrill of being a dad. This is one of the reasons I … Read More
• By Boyce Watkins, PhD on Jun 22nd 2010 9:30AM | Comments (8)

BP Chooses a Black Man to Head its Claims Process

• "BP is paying all the bills right now," Darryl Willis, the vice president of resources for BP … Read More
• By Boyce Watkins, PhD on Jun 22nd 2010 7:50AM | Comments (1)

Son of Dallas Police Chief Suspected in Killing a Cop

• Investigators are saying that the 27-year-old son of Dallas Police Chief David Brown shot and … Read More
• By Boyce Watkins, PhD on Jun 21st 2010 8:38PM | Comments (2)

Tiger’s Lost $25 Million for his Cheating So far

Tiger Woods Sex Scandals Cost Him $25 Million in Endorsements

• It’s being reported that the company which represents golf superstar Tiger Woods lost $4.6 million … Read More
• By Boyce Watkins, PhD on Jun 19th 2010 10:21PM | Comments (0)

The Latest from Dr. Boyce – 6/15/10

Brought to you by The Great Black Black Speakers Bureau, the #1 Black Speakers Bureau in the world.  To join the Your Black World coalition, please visit YourBlackWorld.com.

Hey peeps,

Rev. Al Sharpton and I are going to be on MSNBC Thursday morning at 10 am – don’t forget that you can also hear us on his radio show every Monday at 1:15 pm EST (SharptonTalk.net).  Also, to all the high school graduates out there, I want to encourage you to do the following:  1) Value education more than anything – it’s probably the most important thing you’ll ever have (so get as much of it as you can), 2) Pursue your goals relentless – working consistently toward something for 5 – 10 hours a day will always yield results, 3) Think like bosses, not laborers – get a great job, but eventually work to put yourself in a position to create jobs by owning your own business and financial assets,  4) Remember that life is a journey of love – money and career mean very little compared to how you treated the people you care about.  Life is too short to be mediocre – always do your best.

Dr. Boyce

Dr. Boyce Video — What the Hayell? What Is Wrong With T-Pain?

• I don’t dislike T-Pain, but I can say that I dislike his music. At that the same time, I can’t … Read More
• By Boyce Watkins, PhD on Jun 15th 2010 12:30PM | Comments (0)

Former NBA Star Antoine Walker Faces 12 Years in Prison

• A judge ruled that former NBA star Antoine Walker must stand trial over unpaid gambling debts. … Read More
• By Boyce Watkins, PhD on Jun 14th 2010 11:55PM | Comments (3)

Dr. Boyce Video: Images of the Black Woman in Media and Business

• Today I had the opportunity to speak with four interesting and empowered black women: Michaela … Read More
• By Boyce Watkins, PhD on Jun 14th 2010 6:46PM | Comments (3)

Black Male Sets Trends in Finance: Houston Has More than Rappers

• This week, we’ve heard plenty about Slim Thug, a rapper out of Houston who is making noise with his … Read More
• By Boyce Watkins, PhD on Jun 14th 2010 4:16PM | Comments (2)

Why the Hip-Hop Industry Doesn’t Support Female Artists

• I met spoken-word hip-hop artist Shanelle Walker when I went to give a speech at Kentucky State … Read More
• By Boyce Watkins, PhD on Jun 14th 2010 2:19PM | Comments (5)

Financial Lovemaking: Diddy’s Son Gets $360K Car — Too Much?

• Some of us turned our heads to the side when it was reported that the rapper and businessman Diddy … Read More
• By Boyce Watkins, PhD on Jun 14th 2010 10:34AM | Comments (3)

South African Horns Criticized During World Cup

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What do the Vuvuzelas sound like – are they really that bad?

Posted by Staffat 9:32 PM0 comments

Anita Baker Accused of Butchering the National Anthem

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What do you think? ;

Posted by Staffat 9:23 PM0 comments

Rapper Vigalantee Raps about Black Women

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Check out the new joint by Vigalantee, celebrating the black woman.

Posted by Staffat 9:15 PM0 comments

Did This Officer Just Punch this Black Woman in the Face?  Was this Police Brutality or Resisting Arrest?

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Slim Thug Attempts to Defend His Comments about Black Women

• Many of you may already know about the "interesting" comments made by the rapper Slim Thug, and … Read More
• By Boyce Watkins, PhD on Jun 13th 2010 12:13PM | Comments (10)

NFL Player Reggie Wayne Sues Mistress for Charging Up Credit Card

• NFL star Reggie Wayne is finding out the hard way that giving your credit card number out to anyone … Read More
• By Boyce Watkins, PhD on Jun 13th 2010 10:01AM | Comments (12)

Dr. Boyce: How the Lakers-Celtics Rivalry Saved the NBA Both 30 Years Ago and Today

The NBA finals are not what you think.  You see, you’re watching the finals hoping that either the Lakers or the Celtics win, and wondering whether Kobe Bryant can outscore Paul Pierce, Kevin Garnett and the army of tall brothers that Boston is flying across the country to conquer Los Angeles.  That is not, my friends, the first thing on the mind NBA Commissioner David Stern.

First of all, Stern is wondering why LeBron James isn’t here.  Most of us expected, to the disdain of every other talented player in the league, that this would be the year that LeBron would take his rightful place on the Post-Jordan throne.  The natural and inevitable coronation of King James was part of the NBA marketing strategy, thus allowing Stern and company to make even bigger money in the Chinese market, where the fans want to see their All Stars become champions.  As we all know, it didn’t happen.

The second thought on Stern’s very sharp mind is that the finals he got this year, a renewal of the historic rivalry between the LA Lakers and Boston Celtics, is just as good, or better than what he would have gotten had King James shown up to play.  You see, there’s history here, and most of the relevant history isn’t about wins and losses on the court.

Click to read.

NJ Officer Taped Spraying Pepper Spray in Detained Black Man’s Face

• I am not quite sure what to make of the ruffled YouTube video that is now scouring the web out of … Read More
• By Boyce Watkins, PhD on Jun 12th 2010 8:40PM | Comments (63)

Brian McKnight Ruled to Have Fathered 14-Yr Old: Owes $341,640: All About Black Daddies

• It appears that the singer Brian McKnight is now a not-so-proud father. Well, the child isn’t … Read More
• By Boyce Watkins, PhD on Jun 12th 2010 12:53PM | Comments (14)

What does Barack Obama Have in Common with 50 Cent?

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Check out Barack & Curtis, a new documentary by Byron Hurt

Posted by Staffat 12:38 PM0 comments

SATURDAY, JUNE 12, 2010

Paterson NJ Cop Videotaped While Macing a Black Man

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This video is storming the web – a cop in Paterson, NJ is caught on tape macing a black man on the ground. ;

The Age of the Hoochie Mama is Over:  It’s Time for Hip Hop to Grow Up

Lil Wayne disrespects women because he’s allowed to.

In 2004, the women at Spelman College told the rapper Nelly to take a hike for sliding a credit card through a woman’s backside. The women told Nelly to take his music elsewhere, and his concert was cancelled. I thought that after this incident, women across America would slide their own credit card in the other direction, away from the record stores and websites used to purchase music from artists who make it their mission in life to disrespect black women. I have to admit that I was wrong.

What has always amazed me is the fact that we have trained young people to endure and embrace consistent disrespect from rappers like Slim Thug, who recently stated that white women are a far better choice for relationships, and Lil Wayne, who has done everything in his power to show just how little regard he has for African American females. Wayne even has a song called Alphabet B*tches, which isn’t exactly like the ABCs you learned in preschool. For some reason, we all keep dancing to the beat and showing up for concerts, reminding the artist that freedom of speech is in full effect, no matter how harmful that speech may be. 

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The Latest: Dr. Dre’s Suit Gets Drop, Taraji talks about the karate kid

Taraji Discusses ‘The Karate Kid’

Actress Opens Up About Her New Film And Upcoming Projects

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The Latest

Dr. Dre’s Lawsuit Against Death Row Records Gets Scrapped

• Dr. Dre’s lawsuit against Death Row Records hit a major wall this week, when the judge threw out … Read More
• By Boyce Watkins, PhD on Jun 11th 2010 9:14PM | Comments (0)

Love Analytix: Breaking Down Lyfe Jennings’ ‘Statistics’

• Lyfe Jennings is on a mission to educate women and deliver a message in his newest single, … Read More
• By Shirea L. Carroll on Jun 11th 2010 8:45PM | Comments (0)

Notable/Quotable: Diddy On His Bout With Insomnia

• "I was proud of working 18 hours a day and sleeping three hours a night. It’s something now that … Read More
• By Brennan Williams on Jun 11th 2010 8:07PM | Comments (1)

Gary Coleman: Told Wife that All She Cares about is Money

• The death of Gary Coleman was sad for anyone who grew up watching him. It was not only sad to see … Read More
• By Boyce Watkins, PhD on Jun 11th 2010 7:42PM | Comments (1)

Around the Web — American Apparel’s Bigotry, LeBron James Mixtape + More

• Former American Apparel employees exposed CEO Dov Charney’s bigoted hiring policies saying that … Read More
• By Journey Ade on Jun 11th 2010 7:00PM | Comments (1)

South Carolina Senate Candidate Planted to Split the Black Vote?

• When I first saw the Democratic candidate for the Senate in South Carolina, Alvin Greene, I didn’t … Read More
• By Boyce Watkins, PhD on Jun 11th 2010 6:11PM | Comments (7)

Does Donnis’ ‘Invitation’ Make The Grade?

• Getting a spot on XXL’s coveted "Freshman 10" cover is both a gift and a curse (word to Hov). … Read More
• By Amanda Bassa on Jun 11th 2010 6:00PM | Comments (1)

AMC Shutters Magic Johnson’s First Theater

• Shed a tear for basketball great, Earvin "Magic" Johnson. His very first movie theatre, Magic … Read More
• By Mashaun D. Simon on Jun 11th 2010 5:30PM | Comments (1)

Wilmer Leon: Mr. President, Please Move Closer to the Right

Mr. President, please move closer to the right. No, not closer to the politics and conservative ideology of Sens. McConnell (R-Kentucky), Kyl (R-Arizona) or Congressman Boehner (R-Ohio). Please move closer to the right side of the issue, the right side of history, law and morality.

In the early morning hours of May 31, Israeli commandos attacked the Turkish flagged Free Gaza Movement flotilla. Six ships were carrying 10,000 tons of aid and relief supplies such as prefabricated homes, wheelchairs, paper, water purification systems, and other humanitarian relief items. The commandos killed nine aid/relief activists and wounded many more.

While accounts vary, there are some facts that are difficult to dispute. First, all six ships were in international waters. Second, all of the surviving passengers were taken against their will to Israel. Third, no weapons, explosives, or other threatening items or devices were being smuggled amidst the 10,000 tons of relief supplies. Taking a ship in international waters is piracy. Taking people against their will is kidnapping. Killing unarmed people without provocation is murder.

 

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Your Black News – 6/11/10

15-Year-Old Beaten By Police in Indianapolis

Taraji Discusses ‘The Karate Kid’

Photo Credit: Getty Image AP John Shearer, Getty Images

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• Gary Coleman’s Ex Wife Shannon Price Files Papers to Get Claim Over Entire Estate

  10:31 AMJun 11

  Source: BV Black Spin

  Shannon Price, the ex-wife of Gary Coleman, is certainly keeping herself busy these days, trying desperately to muscle in on Coleman’s estate. Price, who was recently embroiled in everything from orchestrating death shots of Coleman to sell to … Read More

• Angelique Kidjo Kicks Off World Cup with Curtis Mayfield Classic

  10:10 AMJun 11

  Source: BV Newswire

  Yesterday, Grammy Award-winning singer-songwriter and activist Angelique Kidjo performed hr rendition of the 1970 Curtis Mayfield classic ‘Move On Up’ at the kick-off celebration for the 2010 FIFA World Cup at Orlando Stadium in Soweto/Johannesburg, … Read More

• Curtis Flowers begins Unprecedented Sixth Trial for Same 1996 Murders

  9:45 AMJun 11

  Source: BV Black Spin

  For the first time in United States history, Mississippian Curtis Flowers is being tried for a sixth time for the same murders. Flowers faced a jury of eleven whites and one black yesterday as opening statements were presented. The trial got underway … Read More

• Celtics Defeat Lakers, 96-89, To Even Series

  9:23 AMJun 11

  Source: BV on Sports

  BOSTON — The Boston Celtics put the NBA Finals back on serve with a 96-89 victory over the Lakers last night, evening the best-of-seven series at 2-2. It now makes the Finals a best-of-three series with two of those games in Los Angeles. Game 5 is … Read More

• Brandon Johnson: 15-Year-Old Boy Beaten by Police in Indianapolis

  1:25 AMJun 11

  Source: BV Black Spin

  Indianapolis Police Chief Paul Ciesielski called for the firing of a white officer who’s been charged with repeatedly striking a 15-year-old biracial boy in the face during an arrest. The attacks allegedly occurred after the boy had been subdued by … Read More

• Whitney Houston: Continuing To Disappoint Fans Overseas As Speculation Over Weight Gain Ensues

  12:12 AMJun 11

  Source: BV Newswire

  There’s little chance that Whitney Houston’s European fans will always love her after her current world tour wraps. As many news outlets have reported, what was supposed to be a comeback tour for ‘The Bodyguard’ actress has turned into a mess of … Read More

• O.J. Simpson Fights to Get a New Trial in Nevada

  11:58 PMJun 10

  Source: BV Black Spin

  O.J. Simpson’s attorneys are planning to try to convince a group of Nevada judges to overturn his 2007 conviction of a hotel room robbery this week. They worry about time, since they are only going to have a few minutes to make their case. "We only … Read More

• Oscar Grant Trial Has No Black Jurors

  6:58 PMJun 10

  Source: BV Black Spin

  On New Year’s Day of 2009, Oscar Grant was shot in Oakland, Calif. The shooter was a Bay Area Rapid Transit (BART) officer by the name of Johannes Mehserle. Grant was 22-years-old at the time of his death, and the shooting was captured by cell phone … Read More

African American Scholar Angry Over Black Professors Being Excluded

by Dr. Boyce Watkins, Syracuse University

Dr. M. Cookie Newsom

is the Director for Diversity Education and Assessment at The University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill. She is also a trouble maker and an angry black woman, which is likely going to cause her serious problems with her colleagues (we talked yesterday about how being angry can get a black person into serious trouble). Dr. Newsom, however, has good reason to be angry. In a recent interview with Diverse issues in Higher Education, Dr. Newsom stated in plain language that most major universities are not serious about diversifying their faculty and that this hurts all students, especially students of color.
"The dismal truth is academe doesn’t really want a racially-diverse faculty," Newsom said during a faculty diversity presentation at the American Association of University Professors’ (AAUP) annual national conference in Washington, D.C. "It’s totally a myth."

Dr. Newson based her conclusions on statistics and data she collected which shows that most major universities are good at documenting plans to increase faculty diversity, but most of it’s nothing but lip service.

Click to read more.

Black News from TheGrio – 6/10/10

• 
  

  Ex-Memphis mayor runs against white rep on race

  By theGrio

  11:15 AM on 06/10/2010

  MEMPHIS, Tenn. (AP) – Willie Herenton tried to stir up his low-key congressional campaign Wednesday by claiming again that his race is a good reason to send him to Washington…

  > MORE

• 
  

  New jobless claims dip for third straight week

  By theGrio

  10:03 AM on 06/10/2010

  WASHINGTON (AP) – At the same time, the tally of laid-off workers continuing to claim jobless benefits fell by the largest amount in almost a year…

  > MORE

• 
  

  Will BP go bankrupt? Shares plunge on spill fallout

  By theGrio

  9:06 AM on 06/10/2010

  LONDON (AP) – The share price falls in London and New York have wiped out around half the company’s market value since the spill began with an April 20 rig explosion in the Gulf…

  > MORE

• 
  

  School fires teacher for having child out of wedlock

  By theGrio

  9:00 AM on 06/10/2010

  VIDEO – A former teacher claims she was fired after admitting that she conceived a child several weeks before marrying the baby’s father…

  > MORE

• 
  

  Obama to meet families of 11 killed in oil spill

  By theGrio

  8:25 AM on 06/10/2010

  WASHINGTON (AP) – Spokesman Robert Gibbs said Obama also wants to hear the families’ thoughts on changes the government can make to ensure that future deepwater oil drilling is safe…

  > MORE

• 
  

  SC Dems urge surprise Senate candidate to quit

  By theGrio

  9:46 PM on 06/09/2010

  COLUMBIA, S.C. (AP) – Court records show Alvin Greene was arrested in November and charged with showing obscene Internet photos to a University of South Carolina student…

  > MORE

• 
  

  Clinton: Iran sanctions a victory for Obama

  By theGrio

  4:40 PM on 06/09/2010

  BOGOTA, Colombia (AP) – Iran’s decision to turn its back to White House overtures convinced the world of the need for sanctions, she said…

  > MORE

• 
  

  Student’s prank leads to ‘molester’ label in yearbook

  By theGrio

  4:14 PM on 06/09/2010

  VIDEO – A senior with access to this year’s yearbook reportedly changed the last name of a younger student, we’ve chosen not to identify to instead read ‘molester’…

  > MORE

Nelson Mandela’s Crowning Moment May be World Cup

Dr. Boyce Watkins

Author and Finance Professor at Syracuse University

World Cup may be Mandela’s last great goal for South Africa

8:03 AM on 06/10/2010

OPINION – To say that this event has significance to Mandela would be a tremendous understatement…

> MORE

 

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Todd Bridges Angry Over Gary Coleman death Pictures

by Dr. Boyce Watkins, AOL Black Voices

There has been a great deal of public speculation of the role that Shannon Price,Gary Coleman’s ex-wife, played in the actor’s death. To make matters worse, some are wondering how The Globe Magazine got a hold of pictures of a dying Gary Coleman that are set to be released on Friday. Todd Bridges, who co-starred with Gary Coleman on the popular sit-com, "Diff’rent Strokes," was allowed to see the photos in advance of their being published. Bridges was not happy.

"It’s horrible. It’s absolutely horrible. And I hope that whoever is responsible for this, and the people that are involved in this, people that are in the pictures, I hope they burn in hell," said Bridges, when appearing to discuss the issue on Entertainment Tonight.
What was most shocking was that even TMZ, a place known for the dirtiest of dirty celebrity gossip, refused to publish the photos. The Globe Magazine apparently has no such standard. A representative of Shannon Price has stated that Shannon is "very hurt by the pictures getting out there." But the problem for Price is that she is actually in the pictures that were taken.

Click to read

Barack Obama an "Angry Black Man?"

• Obama’s "Angry Black Man" Criticism: Isn’t He Also Half White?

  9:36 PMJun 9

  Source: Blackvoices Main

  In light of all of the interesting analysis that others have done regarding why President Barack Obama can only get so angry about the oil spill in the Gulf of Mexico, I was wondering if any of this analysis makes sense. In fact, most of the … Read More

• BP Shares Get Hammered as Firm May Face Bankruptcy Due to Spill

  7:46 PMJun 9

  Source: BV Black Spin

  Today, the shares of British Petroleum (BP), the company responsible for the oil spill in the Gulf of Mexico, plunged 16 percent in heavy trading. There were nine times more shares traded in the company today than the average daily volume. The added … Read More

• Rev. Jesse Jackson Says Congress Ignoring Jobs Crisis

  7:05 PMJun 9

  Source: BV Black Spin

  In a piece on The Huffington Post, the Rev. Jesse Jackson stated that he is concerned that Congress is ignoring the jobs crisis in America. Over 300,000 teachers are facing layoffs this year, and teen unemployment is the highest its been since 1948, … Read More

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Black News, African American Issues – June 9, 2010

22-Year Old Pretending to be HS Student Faces 6 Felonies

• Have you ever fantasized about going back to high school and doing all the things you wish you’d … Read More
• By Boyce Watkins, PhD on Jun 9th 2010 12:59PM | Comments (0)

Eminem’s ‘Recovery’ Proves More Than Celebrity Rehab

• During Eminem’s personal journey to sobriety, his fans braced themselves for its effects on his … Read More
• By Amanda Bassa on Jun 9th 2010 12:00PM | Comments (0)

Dee Dee Myers: Obama Can’t Get Angry Because He’s Black

• Dee Dee Myers, former Press Secretary for the Clinton Administration, was in hot water recently … Read More
• By Boyce Watkins, PhD on Jun 9th 2010 11:38AM | Comments (2)

BLACK MUSIC MONTH: 7 Pop/Rap CDs You Must Revisit

• We continue to salute Black Music Month by recognizing seven CDs in the pop, rap and rock genres by … Read More
• By Jawn Murray on Jun 9th 2010 11:30AM | Comments (1)

Rihanna’s Hair Stylist Explains Her New ‘Matador Red’ ‘Do

• Master chameleon Rihanna surprised everyone by showing up with a bright red bowl-cut at Madrid’s … Read More
• By Katie Hintz-Zambrano on Jun 9th 2010 11:00AM | Comments (0)

Rihanna Sparkles, Jada Shines, Revamps & The Ultimate Dress – Around the Web

• Rihanna glitters on the cover of Elle RiRi talks black women and fashion (StyleList) Jade shines, … Read More
• By Lucette Jefferson on Jun 9th 2010 10:55AM | Comments (0)

FBI Says Texas Man Called Al-Qaida His ‘Brothers’

• It appears that one of the biggest threats to U.S. security in the coming years may be homegrown … Read More
• By Jeff Mays on Jun 9th 2010 10:53AM | Comments (0)

Rampage Jackson, UFC Fighter, Justifies ‘Gay’ Comments

• Quinton "Rampage" Jackson recently lost his anticipated fight against Rashad Evans last month, but … Read More
• By Quibian Salazar-Moreno on Jun 9th 2010 10:33AM | Comments (0)

DA: No DNA Evidence Found on 7-Year-Old Who Was Gang Raped

• New Jersey prosecutors stated in court documents Tuesday that there was no DNA evidence of … Read More
• By Ruth Manuel-Logan on Jun 9th 2010 10:13AM | Comments (3)

Marc Lamont Hill Responds to Slim Thug’s Take on Black Women

• When I recently read the open letter to the rapper Slim Thug (pictured above), written by … Read More
• By Boyce Watkins, PhD on Jun 9th 2010 8:57AM | Comments (8)

Peace, Confidence and Bliss

• Your Affirmative Prayer for Wednesday, June 9, 2010: My awareness of my unity with Spirit … Read More
• By Barry Johnson on Jun 9th 2010 12:34AM | Comments (5)

BP Using Massive PR and Internet Strategies to Deal with Spill

• If you are like President Barack Obama, who says that he’s looking for "whose ass to kick" over the … Read More
• By Boyce Watkins, PhD on Jun 8th 2010 10:55PM | Comments (2)

Eve: Lets Guard Down on VH1’s ‘Behind the Music’

• Eve Jihan Jeffers, who is most commonly known in the world of entertainment simply as Eve, isn’t a … Read More
• By Bridget Bland on Jun 8th 2010 7:26PM | Comments (0)

 

 

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The Latest from Newsone.com – 6/8/10

Tiger Woods To Open Learning Center In D.C.

By NewsOne Staff June 8, 2010 2:34 pm

Read more about Tiger Woods To Open Learning Center In D.C.

TAGS: black athletes, black celebrities, celebrity folly, Colin Montgomerie,Tiger Woods, Washington D.C.

WORLD

Haiti Struggles As Earthquake Debris Clean-Up Continues

By NewsOne Staff June 8, 2010 2:04 pm

Read more about Haiti Struggles As Earthquake Debris Clean-Up Continues

TAGS: Haiti

ENTERTAINMENT

Marvin Isley, Youngest Isley Brother, Dies At 56

By Associated Press June 8, 2010 12:50 pm

Read more about Marvin Isley, Youngest Isley Brother, Dies At 56

TAGS: black achievement, Black history, black singers, celebrity deaths,history, Marvin Isley

NATION

DR. BOYCE: The Spendaholic’s Guide To Budgeting Your Money

By Dr. Boyce Watkins June 8, 2010 12:50 pm

Read more about DR. BOYCE: The Spendaholic’s Guide To Budgeting Your Money

TAGS: black wealth, personal finances

NATION

Detroit Man Sentenced For 8 Murders: ‘I Kill People For Money’

By Associated Press June 8, 2010 12:02 pm

Read more about Detroit Man Sentenced For 8 Murders: ‘I Kill People For Money’

TAGS: crime, Detroit, murder

SPORTS

Nelson Mandela To Make Appearance At World Cup Opening Ceremony

By Associated Press June 8, 2010 11:52 am

Read more about Nelson Mandela To Make Appearance At World Cup Opening Ceremony

TAGS: Africa, black achievement, black leaders, Nelson Mandela, South Africa, world cup 2010

ENTERTAINMENT

Oprah To Give New Talent Chance To Host Own Show

By Associated Press June 8, 2010 11:40 am

Read more about Oprah To Give New Talent Chance To Host Own Show

TAGS: black achievement, black celebrities, black women, Oprah Winfrey,reality television

NATION

Prison Populations Shrink But Growing Problems Persist

By NewsOne Staff June 8, 2010 11:26 am

Read more about Prison Populations Shrink But Growing Problems Persist

TAGS: black men, prison industrial complex

NATION

8-Year-Old Girl Taken Out Of Class For Using Olive Oil Hair Product

By News One June 8, 2010 10:39 am

Read more about 8-Year-Old Girl Taken Out Of Class For Using Olive Oil Hair Product

TAGS: hair product, NAACP, school

NATION

Man Charged With Raping 13-Year-Old And Burying Aborted Fetus

By Associated Press June 8, 2010 10:36 am

Read more about Man Charged With Raping 13-Year-Old And Burying Aborted Fetus

TAGS: abortion, Pennsylvania, rape

Julianne Malveaux: Our Jobless Recovery

by Dr Julianne Malveaux

Our economy generated about 431,000 jobs last month. Good news? Only if you don’t count the fact that more than 400,000 of the jobs were temporary jobs connected to collecting data for the Census. Those jobs won’t last for long and when the dust clears the current 9.7 percent unemployment rate, down from 9.9 percent a month ago, is likely to rise again.

Still, those who are desperate for good news are clinging to the fact that there are more jobs out there. What they don’t understand is that people are looking for something more than a few months of work here and there. Nearly seven million Americans have been out of work for more than half a year. What has this done to their finances?

Of course the situation is worse for African Americans, even though black unemployment dropped from 16.5 to 15.5 percent last month. The 15.5 percent is a modest estimate of what is really happening. The U6 number in the Bureau of Labor Statistics Employment Situation report includes discouraged workers, those working part time that really want full time work and others peripherally connected to the labor market. That number dropped last month from 17.1 to 16.6 percent for the overall population. While the BLS does not report the number for African Americans, using the same relationships, the African American U6 number is at least 25.6 percent. That means that one in four African Americans is jobless!

Click to read.

Mural in Arizona causes racial controversy

 

Arizona Elementary School Mural Controversy:Prescott Arizona Mural Race Drama – A mural that was recently placed at a public school in Prescott, Arizona, is garnering a lot of attention and debate from the media.R.E. Wall who painted the mural has said that the tableau was made to display diversity at the elementary school, but the principal asked the mural artist to paint the faces of the kids in the painting a lighter color.

The controversy was sparked when a city Councilman named Steve Blair addressed the mural on his radio show, wondering aloud exactly why the school sitting at the largest intersection on town features the face of what he described as a “black person.”

 

Click to read

Black News Today – 5/26/10

• 

•  

• Walter E. Williams: Black Scholar Backs the Arizona Law

  9:13 AMMay 26

  Source: BV Black Spin

  Walter E. Williams is a professor at George Mason University. I am not overly familiar with Williams’ work, but some others have brought it to my attention recently as a result of Williams’ support for the Arizona Law against illegal immigration. I … Read More

• Eddy Curry of the New York Knicks on His Way to Brokeville?

  7:54 AMMay 26

  Source: BV on Money

  When I woke up this morning wondering which NBA player would go broke next, I didn’t think much about baller Eddy Curry of the New York Knicks. Now, Curry has sprinted to the top of the list after I read that he is being ordered to repay a $570,000 … Read More

• A Short Convo With Meagan Good

  6:00 AMMay 26

  Source: Blackvoices Main

  From Vibe: The 28-year-old big-screen beauty discusses video models, racism in Hollywood and being Usher’s No. 2 VIBE: Right now, I think people want to know where are you with your film career. Meagan Good: I just produced a film that should be … Read More

• Judge Completes Inquest Into Death of Amy Bishop’s Brother

  2:15 AMMay 26

  Source: BV Black Spin

  A Massachusetts judge concluded an inquest into the shooting death of the younger brother of Amy Bishop. Bishop is the professor charged with killing three colleagues during a shooting rampage at the University of Alabama, Huntsville. Bishop is … Read More

• God is Active and Working

  12:24 AMMay 26

  Source: BV Wellness

  Your Affirmative Prayer for Wednesday, May 26, 2010: God is active and working in my life and affairs, freeing me from the effects of the world and revealing in me the path to that which is divinely right for me. Today I trust the activity of God … Read More

• Could Oil Spill Be Barack Obama’s Hurricane Katrina?

  8:19 PMMay 25

  Source: BV on Money

  Many of us have been observing the messy oil spill that’s been hogging up the headlines over the past several weeks. It doesn’t seem to be getting any better, and with each passing day, the Obama administration is left looking worse and worse. This … Read More

• ‘The Spark’ Episode 9: Crack-Dealin’ Grandmas, LeBron in Jersey & Malcolm X watches ‘106 and Park’?!

  5:24 PMMay 25

  Source: Blackvoices Main

  This week on ‘The Spark,’ super-producer Rockwilder and hip-hop artist Daytona stop through to discuss where LeBron will end up, why Nikki Minaj is dope, a crack-dealing grandma and more! Also in honor of Malcolm X’s belated birthday, we count down … Read More

• Suge Knight Accused of Ordering Hit

  5:20 PMMay 25

  Source: BV Black Spin

  Is hip-hop impresario Suge Knight up to his gangsta antics again? This time around, the former rap mogul is named in an alleged plot to kill a man from the Los Angeles area. TMZ reports that an L.A. County Superior Court judge warned Knight to stay … Read More

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The Latest in Black News

Liza Takes On Beyonce’s ‘Single Ladies’

Jamaica’s Emergency Due to Drug Kingpin

The Williams Sisters Love Crazy Tennis Gear

Photo Credit: WireImage Aol. Julian Finney, Getty Images

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  What the Stars Wore at the ‘Sex and the City 2 …

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  ‘Your Mom is at the Club’ — New Blog Clowns P …

  theBVX.com

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  Kwame Kilpatrick Sentenced to Up to 5 Years in …

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  The BV Cannes Film Festival Best Dressed List

  BV on Style

• Atlanta Police Department Charged with Rampant Misconduct

  5:05 PMMay 25

  Source: BV Black Spin

  A new report charges that drug investigators for the Atlanta Police Department would often bend or break the rules and lie in order to get search warrants. Additionally, they are being accused of working extra jobs while on city time. This was all … Read More

• Around the Web — Rick Ross Sues Rick Ross, BP’s Deadly ‘3 Little Pigs’ + More

  5:00 PMMay 25

  Source: theBVX.com

  Rick Ross, like 50 Cent, is one of many rappers who’ve taken their names from notorious street figures. In Ross’ case, though, the real Rick Ross is now seeking retribution from the MC and others who’ve unlawfully profited from the use of his name. … Read More

• Catching up with ‘Army Wives’ Wendy Davis

  4:30 PMMay 25

  Source: BV on Movies

  Currently in its fourth season on Lifetime TV is the top-rated drama series, ‘Army Wives,’ which follows the lives of four army wives, their families, and an army husband whose wife is in the army. In playing Lt. Colonel Joan Burton, actress Wendy … Read More

• Elizabeth Taylor Blasts Michael Jackson’s Doctor Over Gay Rumors

  4:13 PMMay 25

  Source: BV Black Spin

  Rumors about Michael Jackson’s sexual orientation have been circulating since he died last June. Now Elizabeth Taylor, longtime pal and confidant of the iconic performer, wants the rumormill to stop. … Read More

• What the Stars Wore at the ‘Sex and the City 2’ Premiere

  3:36 PMMay 25

  Source: BV on Style

  Monday evening was like Christmas for fashionistas in New York City. ‘Sex and the City 2’ premiered at Radio City Music Hall, and, in addition to the film’s stars Sarah Jessica Parker, Kristin Stewart, Cynthia Nixon and Kim Catrall (who showed up to … Read More

 

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Drug Lord May be Extradicted in International Controversy

By DAVID McFADDEN

updated 2 hours, 57 minutes ago

KINGSTON, Jamaica – Masked men torched a police station and traded gunfire with security forces in a patchwork of barricaded slums in Jamaica’s capital Sunday, prompting the government to declare a state of emergency.

Sporadic gunshots rang out in gritty West Kingston where defiant supporters of Christopher "Dudus" Coke, a Jamaican "don" sought by the U.S. on drug and arms trafficking charges, turned his Tivoli Gardens neighborhood and other areas into a virtual fortress with trashed cars and barbed wire.

In barricaded Hannah Town, close to Tivoli Gardens, black smoke spiraled into the sky from a police station set aflame by molotov cocktails.

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Anthony Hopkins, Black Pastor Gets 51-Years in Prison for Putting Wife in the Freezer

Anthony Hopkins, an Alabama evangelist who spent years torturing his family of eight children and killing his wife, then stuffing her body in to a deep freezer, all while preaching the word of God at revivals, got the maximum sentence of life for murder plus 51 years for convictions, including sodomy and sexual abuse.
The 39-year-old evangelist stood devoid of emotion as Circuit Judge John Lockett imposed the sentence last Thursday. Assistant District Attorney Ashley Rich called Hopkins "evil of the worst kind."

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The Latest Black News from Black Voices – 5/22/10

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• NBA Fines Owners and Execs for Talking about Lebron James

  6:52 PMMay 22

  Source: BV on Money

  Apparently, the free-agent possibilities of NBA star LeBron James are on the minds of everyone in the NBA, including players, executives and others. This only makes matters worse after former NBA star Calvin Murphy went onto national radio and … Read More

• Different Ways to Pay Your Child Support: Pros and Cons

  6:17 PMMay 22

  Source: BV on Money

  As an 18-year veteran of our nation’s Draconian child support system, I found myself fascinated by the process and how it all works. Personally, I’d love to see a system that works as hard to keep families together as it does to make sure that the … Read More

• Jesse Jackson: Jobs are Key to Stopping Detroit, Chicago Violence

  5:27 PMMay 22

  Source: BV on Money

  The Rev. Jesse Jackson surprised observers when he said that he would not be attending the funeral for 7-year old Aiyana Jones in Detroit. A spokesman for Mayor Dave Bing had announced Jackson’s attendance, which apparently had not been confirmed. … Read More

• Nike World Cup Commecial Captures Glorious Game

  11:37 AMMay 22

  Source: BV Black Spin

  With apologies to the Super Bowl, the World Series and the Kentucky Derby, the greatest sporting event in the world is about to start in a few weeks in South Africa. And a new Nike ad that is taking over the Internet has captured the grandeur and … Read More

• The Aiyana Jones Tragedy: Keeping You Updated

  9:23 AMMay 22

  Source: BV Black Spin

  On May 16th, 7-year-old Aiyana Jones was shot in the head and neck by police, while she slept in her home in Detroit. Since the case – and the unsettling developments – is far from solved, we will be keeping you informed. Check out the latest news on … Read More

• Exclusive: With Aiyana Jones’ Death, Close Friend Remembers Je’Rean Blake

  9:04 AMMay 22

  Source: BV Black Spin

  The unfortunate chain of events that led to Aiyana Jones’ death last Sunday began that Friday at a convenience store on St. Jean and Mack, located just around the corner from the house, where the 7-year-old was accidentally shot by Detroit police. … Read More

• Call Me Ms. Coach

  6:00 AMMay 22

  Source: Blackvoices Main

  From The Root: Washington D.C.’s Calvin Coolidge High School needed a new varsity head football coach. From a pool of 15 well-qualified applicants, the school selected a confident leader with five years of professional football experience as a wide … Read More

• What of the Second Child – Kelly Rowland?

  6:00 AMMay 22

  Source: Blackvoices Main

  From Clutch Magazine: Kelly Rowland is fighting for a chance. The 29-year-old singer once one third of mega group Destiny’s Child has become "Independent" in more ways than one. When Kelly made the bold step of releasing Matthew Knowles as her … Read More

Your Black News Headlines – 5/17/10

 

• Crime show taped Detroit raid that led to 7-year-old’s death
• Obama administration faces questions on oil spill
• Video: Apartheid’s lost generation
• Al Sharpton backs Black entertainment district in Baltimore
• Zimbabwe failing mass eviction victims: Amnesty
• Sprinter Tyson Gay breaks 44-year old record
• Jamaica to extradite drug suspect wanted by US
• Ciara’s video banned from BET?
• Black Civil War soldiers victory parade marked
• Barack Obama’s aunt wins US plea for asylum
• South Africa rail strike leaves millions stranded
• Master jazz pianist Hank Jones dies at 91

Dr. Boyce: Elena Kagan’s Nomination Overlooks Black Women

by Dr. Boyce Watkins, Syracuse University

To the disappointment of the Black Women’s Roundtable, Elena Kagan was the latest white American to leapfrog in front of black women for a chance to serve on the Supreme Court. The second-class citizenship of African American women has been consistently enforced by our nation, going back 221 years to the date that the Supreme Court was founded. This nomination was especially disheartening for those who felt that the year of Dorothy Height’s death would be the perfect time for the nation’s first black President to do what should have been done long ago and nominate a black woman for the highest court in the land.

"Needless to say, we are disconcerted by the perceived lack of real consideration of any of the extremely qualified African American women as potential nominees," reads the statement released by the Black Women’s Roundtable.
After this is over, President Barack Obama will have serious trouble re-inspiring the millions of African American women who left the Hillary Clinton camp to back his "Hope and change" campaign. There was no logical reason for him to pass over a black woman for consideration for this post, only political reasons. Kagan was the nominee that could shore up the white female vote for mid-term elections and help the Obama Administration and the Democratic Party stop the bleeding set to occur in November. Roland Martin does a wonderful job of breaking down the losses within the black female demographic that are set to occur as a result of the Kagan snub on the Supreme Court.

 

Click to read

Dr. Boyce: Elena Kagan’s Poor Record with Minorities

by Dr. Boyce Watkins – The Institute for Black Public Policy

I want to cheer for President Barack Obama. I want to believe that his decisions are sound, intelligent and good for our nation. But that trust is undermined at times, and to the ire of some of my friends, I can’t help but share what’s truly on my mind. My discomfort with Obama’s decision-making ability comes to the forefront of my conscience when I evaluate Elena Kagan, Obama’s most recent nominee to the Supreme Court.
On the surface, Kagan seems O.K. She presents herself as the standard liberal that we would expect Obama to nominate, someone who might be a small step toward filling the incredibly large shoes of retired Justice John Paul Stevens. As they say in the military, "check." Kagan has also shown the ambition and focus necessary to make herself into a star in the legal profession, opening doors for women everywhere she went. Double-Check. Finally, her experience as Solicitor General means that she has worked closely with the Supreme Court in the past, and that she would also be good at building a consensus among other members of the court. Check, check check.

But there is something disturbing about the resume of Elena Kagan. Something that is almost irritatingly redundant about her path to the top of American politics. The "Obamaesque" nature of her resume, honestly wreaks of the elitist cronyism that most of us have come to expect from President Obama’s less than stellar appointments during his presidency. Let’s start from the top, shall we?

 

 

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