theroot--2020-11-22--Black Lives Matter Protests Erupt in Brazil After Black Man Beaten to Death by Security Officers

Demonstrators took the streets across Brazil this weekend to protest the killing of João Alberto Silveira Freitas , a Black man and father of four , by security officers .
According to a report from the Washington Post , videos taken by witnesses to the incident show 40-year-old Freitas being held down and beaten bloody by officers working at a grocery store called Carrefour in the city of Porto Alegre .
The man can be heard crying out , and he is forcefully brought to the blood-slicked ground and restrained .
Video afterward shows emergency responders failing to resuscitate him @ @ @ @ @ @ @ whom was an off-duty police officer , were arrested and are being investigated for homicide .
In a country increasingly reckoning with racism and the enduring imprint of its history of colonialism and slavery , the grisly beating of an unarmed Black man by two security guards reported to be White was met by rage and horror .
In Brazil , a country that boasts one of the largest populations of Black people in the world , about 80 percent of the citizens been killed by the country ’ s police forces last @ @ @ @ @ @ @ why protestors there painted ‘ Vidas Negras Importam ’ ( which translates to ‘ Black Lives Matter ’ ) on the streets of Sao Paolo as they protested the killing of Freitas , according to a report from AP .
Crowds of Brazilians also gathered for a funeral procession for the deceased on Saturday : Unsurprisingly , Brazil ’ s Trump-like President Jair Bolsonaro has responded to the unrest by denying that racism exists in the country .
Bolsonaro made no direct reference to the case .
But in a video speech to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ denied Brazil suffers from racism and complained of an unspecified movement seeking to “ divide ” Brazilians .
“ As a man and as president , I see everyone in the same colors : ( the Brazilian flag ’ s ) green and yellow !
There is no better skin color than the others .
What exists are good men and bad men ; and it is our choices and values that will determine which of the two we will be.
” His son Eduardo , however , sent a social media post @ @ @ @ @ @ @ “ their George Floyd , ” a reference to the man whose death at the hands of police set off protests this year across the United States .
The guards involved in Freitas ’ death have been taken into custody and are reportedly being investigated for homicide .
Carrefour , the grocery store where the beating of Freitas took place , says it has ended its contract with the security company that employed the officers .
“ But these measures will not be enough .
Racism and violence go completely against both my @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , ” said Carrefour Group CEO Alexandre Bompard , in a statement outlining plans for the company to do a review of its training policies with a view to diversity and tolerance .

Demonstrators took the streets across Brazil this weekend to protest the killing of João Alberto Silveira Freitas, a Black man and father of four, by security officers.
According to a report from the Washington Post, videos taken by witnesses to the incident show 40-year-old Freitas being held down and beaten bloody by officers working at a grocery store called Carrefour in the city of Porto Alegre.
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From WaPo:
The man can be heard crying out, and he is forcefully brought to the blood-slicked ground and restrained. Video afterward shows emergency responders failing to resuscitate him. The two guards, one of whom was an off-duty police officer, were arrested and are being investigated for homicide. In a country increasingly reckoning with racism and the enduring imprint of its history of colonialism and slavery, the grisly beating of an unarmed Black man by two security guards reported to be White was met by rage and horror.
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In Brazil, a country that boasts one of the largest populations of Black people in the world, about 80 percent of the citizens been killed by the country’s police forces last year were Black.
That helps explains why protestors there painted ‘Vidas Negras Importam’ (which translates to ‘Black Lives Matter’) on the streets of Sao Paolo as they protested the killing of Freitas, according to a report from AP.
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Crowds of Brazilians also gathered for a funeral procession for the deceased on Saturday:
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Unsurprisingly, Brazil’s Trump-like President Jair Bolsonaro has responded to the unrest by denying that racism exists in the country.
From AP:
Bolsonaro made no direct reference to the case. But in a video speech to the G-20 Summit on Saturday, he denied Brazil suffers from racism and complained of an unspecified movement seeking to “divide” Brazilians. “As a man and as president, I see everyone in the same colors: (the Brazilian flag’s) green and yellow! There is no better skin color than the others. What exists are good men and bad men; and it is our choices and values that will determine which of the two we will be.” His son Eduardo, however, sent a social media post accusing Brazilian leftists of using Freitas as “their George Floyd,” a reference to the man whose death at the hands of police set off protests this year across the United States.
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The guards involved in Freitas’ death have been taken into custody and are reportedly being investigated for homicide. Carrefour, the grocery store where the beating of Freitas took place, says it has ended its contract with the security company that employed the officers.
“But these measures will not be enough. Racism and violence go completely against both my own values, and those of Carrefour,” said Carrefour Group CEO Alexandre Bompard, in a statement outlining plans for the company to do a review of its training policies with a view to diversity and tolerance.
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Sounds familiar, doesn’t it?


theroot--2020-11-22--Black Panther 2 To Begin Filming in Atlanta Next Summer

The sequel to the cultural phenomenon that was Marvel Studio ’ s Black Panther is set to start filming next year .
Production of the highly anticipated follow-up to the 2018 flick , that featured Chadwick Boseman as the eponymous superhero tussling with Michael Jordan ’ s Killmonger to preserve the fictional Wakanda , was understandably halted after Boseman ’ s unexpected death this year .
Now , according to The Hollywood Reporter , plans for filming to begin next summer in Atlanta for Black Panther 2 are being finalized .
Multiple sources tell The Hollywood Reporter that Marvel is @ @ @ @ @ @ @ shoot that will start in Atlanta in July and last for upwards of six months .
Mexican actor Tenoch Huerta , who was one of the stars of Netflix ’ s Narcos : Mexico , is in talks to play one of the antagonists , sources tell THR .
Letitia Wright , Lupita Nyong ’ o , Winston Duke and Angela Bassett are expected to return for the new feature , with some saying Wright ’ s character may take on a more prominent role .
Marvel , which had no comment on @ @ @ @ @ @ @ plans on how it plans to proceed without Boseman , although it has indicated that it will not use CGI to include the late star in the film .
Though there is still one unanswered question—who will play the next Black Panther ?
—the return of the talented cast of actors who made the world of Wakanda one that so many of us wish we could inhabit in real life means that Black Panther 2 will likely be as much of an event as the first .
The news that filming will soon @ @ @ @ @ @ @ as a Black Panther movie without the actor we watched make the role his own will invariably remind us of the stunning early loss of Boseman , who died this summer from stage four colon cancer .
We ’ ll need all the movie-magic escapism we can get to recover from the year that has been 2020 .
Black Panther 2 is slated for release in 2022 .

Ishena Robinson on The Grapevine, shared by Ishena Robinson to The Root

The sequel to the cultural phenomenon that was Marvel Studio’s Black Panther is set to start filming next year.
Production of the highly anticipated follow-up to the 2018 flick, that featured Chadwick Boseman as the eponymous superhero tussling with Michael B. Jordan’s Killmonger to preserve the fictional Wakanda, was understandably halted after Boseman’s unexpected death this year.
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Now, according to The Hollywood Reporter, plans for filming to begin next summer in Atlanta for Black Panther 2 are being finalized.
From THR:
Multiple sources tell The Hollywood Reporter that Marvel is now readying Black Panther 2 for a shoot that will start in Atlanta in July and last for upwards of six months. Mexican actor Tenoch Huerta, who was one of the stars of Netflix’s Narcos: Mexico, is in talks to play one of the antagonists, sources tell THR. Letitia Wright, Lupita Nyong’o, Winston Duke and Angela Bassett are expected to return for the new feature, with some saying Wright’s character may take on a more prominent role. Marvel, which had no comment on this story, has not revealed its plans on how it plans to proceed without Boseman, although it has indicated that it will not use CGI to include the late star in the film.
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Though there is still one unanswered question—who will play the next Black Panther?—the return of the talented cast of actors who made the world of Wakanda one that so many of us wish we could inhabit in real life means that Black Panther 2 will likely be as much of an event as the first.
The news that filming will soon begin is still a bit bittersweet, as a Black Panther movie without the actor we watched make the role his own will invariably remind us of the stunning early loss of Boseman, who died this summer from stage four colon cancer.
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We’ll need all the movie-magic escapism we can get to recover from the year that has been 2020. Black Panther 2 is slated for release in 2022.


theroot--2020-11-23--AMAs 2020: Less Zoom Screens, More COVID-Compliant Stages—Can You Feel a Brand New Day?

The time has come for the world ’ s largest fan-voted award show and you ’ re now reading the world ’ s largest award show recap site !
OK , I may have made up the latter part of the sentence , but thanks for joining me !
As per usual , I ’ m here to give you the Black-ass play-by-play .
This time , it ’ s the 2020 American Music Awards ( AMAs ) .
Taraji P. Henson took over hosting duties for the night and didn ’ t skimp on the dramatic flair , honoring @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Day ” from The Wiz , Prince ’ s “ Let ’ s Go Crazy , ” Jay-Z ’ s “ Dirt Off Your Shoulder ” ... she even did the “ Savage ” Challenge and broke into some “ WAP ” choreography to give us some Megan Thee Stallion energy .
If you ’ ve been paying attention , awards ceremonies have been evolving a bit during the pandemic .
We started out with Zoom-screen acceptance speeches and pre-recorded isolated sets , but now , more and more celebrities are presenting and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , they took it a bit further .
There was actually a social distancing audience ( made up of families who had been tested for COVID ) , too .
“ I ’ m just happy to be off the couch with some real fashion , ” Taraji exclaimed .
Taraji also made jokes about a cardboard cutout of Beyoncé sitting in the front row .
She even went over to Cardbeyoncé and asked where her Ivy Park influencer box was .
Let ’ s get into some highlights of the night : @ @ @ @ @ @ @ read : white ) awards shows , the Black artists once again won in what industry folks usually call the “ Urban ” categories .
Mmmhmm .
The Weeknd took home Favorite Album - Soul/R & B award ( After Hours ) , reminiscing on the time that the late Prince presented him with the same award in 2015 .
He also won Favorite R & B/Soul Song ( “ Heartless ” ) and Favorite Soul/R & B Male .
Doja Cat was named Favorite Female Artist - Soul/R & B and New @ @ @ @ @ @ @ ended up singing the names of the people she wanted to thank in the acceptance speech for the latter .
Laverne Cox presented the Favorite Rap/Hip-Hop Song award to Megan Thee Stallion ( who accepted the award live ) and Cardi B for “ WAP , ” which totally tracks because that was definitely the hip hop song of the year .
Taraji even brought some Cookie Lyon ( Empire ) energy and tried to steal Meg away from her current manager .
As for Black-ass non-televised trophies , Nicki Minaj was named @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Roddy Rich scored the award for Favorite Album - Rap/Hip Hop ( Please Excuse Me For Being Antisocial ) .
Darius Rucker joined Katy Perry for a reimagined version of her song , “ Only Love.
” The Weeknd and Kenny G performed together ( on a whole street instead of a typical stage ) and the song definitely made me feel like I was in an elevator or waiting on hold for the next available representative .
Megan made her world premiere live performance of her single , “ Body ” from @ @ @ @ @ @ @ I love my body .
Every curve .
Every inch .
Every mark .
Every dimple , ” Meg began in the intro montage displayed on a giant screen ( I think her girl Beyoncé would be proud of that one ) , immediately bringing the empowerment energy into the room .
Bel Biv DeVoe ( BBD ) took the stage for a special performance , celebrating the first time they took the AMAs stage , which was 30 whole years ago .
“ 30 years ago , like , you know , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ like 30 years later it would still be this big of a song , ” BBD said in a statement regarding their historic performance , via a press release sent to The Root .
“ But I think we had more energy , our dancers had more energy , and I don ’ t think there is a TikTok dancer out there today that can match the energy of Poison.
’ It ’ s not possible and if you think I ’ m lying , we challenge you right now , put it @ @ @ @ @ @ @ shit then , OGs !
Nelly also celebrated a milestone—20 years since the release of his debut album Country Grammar .
Cedric The Entertainer even recreated the comedic intro from the album , live on stage .
Two young men that I had no idea existed named 24Goldn and Iann Dior performed “ Mood , ” which is my bad because that song has apparently been # 1 for several weeks now .
Taraji , who is a huge advocate for mental health awareness , was proud to present Lil Baby , who @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Emotionally Scarred.
” For the complete list of winners at the 2020 American Music Awards , head to theamas.com .

Tonja Renée Stidhum on The Grapevine, shared by Tonja Renée Stidhum to The Root

The time has come for the world’s largest fan-voted award show and you’re now reading the world’s largest award show recap site! OK, I may have made up the latter part of the sentence, but thanks for joining me! As per usual, I’m here to give you the Black-ass play-by-play. This time, it’s the 2020 American Music Awards (AMAs).
Taraji P. Henson took over hosting duties for the night and didn’t skimp on the dramatic flair, honoring musical moments such as “Brand New Day” from The Wiz, Prince’s “Let’s Go Crazy,” Jay-Z’s “Dirt Off Your Shoulder”...she even did the “Savage” Challenge and broke into some “WAP” choreography to give us some Megan Thee Stallion energy.
Advertisement
If you’ve been paying attention, awards ceremonies have been evolving a bit during the pandemic. We started out with Zoom-screen acceptance speeches and pre-recorded isolated sets, but now, more and more celebrities are presenting and performing live onstage.
With the AMAs, they took it a bit further. There was actually a social distancing audience (made up of families who had been tested for COVID), too. “I’m just happy to be off the couch with some real fashion,” Taraji exclaimed. Taraji also made jokes about a cardboard cutout of Beyoncé sitting in the front row. She even went over to Cardbeyoncé and asked where her Ivy Park influencer box was.
Advertisement Advertisement
Let’s get into some highlights of the night:
American Winners
As generally happens at most mainstream (read: white) awards shows, the Black artists once again won in what industry folks usually call the “Urban” categories. Mmmhmm.
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The Weeknd took home Favorite Album - Soul/R&B award (After Hours), reminiscing on the time that the late Prince presented him with the same award in 2015. He also won Favorite R&B/Soul Song (“Heartless”) and Favorite Soul/R&B Male.
Doja Cat was named Favorite Female Artist - Soul/R&B and New Artist of the Year and she actually ended up singing the names of the people she wanted to thank in the acceptance speech for the latter.
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Laverne Cox presented the Favorite Rap/Hip-Hop Song award to Megan Thee Stallion (who accepted the award live) and Cardi B for “WAP,” which totally tracks because that was definitely the hip hop song of the year. Taraji even brought some Cookie Lyon (Empire) energy and tried to steal Meg away from her current manager.
As for Black-ass non-televised trophies, Nicki Minaj was named Favorite Female Artist - Rap/Hip Hop and Roddy Rich scored the award for Favorite Album - Rap/Hip Hop (Please Excuse Me For Being Antisocial).
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American Performances
Darius Rucker joined Katy Perry for a reimagined version of her song, “Only Love.”
Advertisement
The Weeknd and Kenny G performed together (on a whole street instead of a typical stage) and the song definitely made me feel like I was in an elevator or waiting on hold for the next available representative.
Megan made her world premiere live performance of her single, “Body” from her debut album Good News.
Advertisement
“I love my body. Every curve. Every inch. Every mark. Every dimple,” Meg began in the intro montage displayed on a giant screen (I think her girl Beyoncé would be proud of that one), immediately bringing the empowerment energy into the room.
Advertisement
Advertisement
Bel Biv DeVoe (BBD) took the stage for a special performance, celebrating the first time they took the AMAs stage, which was 30 whole years ago.
“30 years ago, like, you know, in a nutshell we had no idea like 30 years later it would still be this big of a song,” BBD said in a statement regarding their historic performance, via a press release sent to The Root. “But I think we had more energy, our dancers had more energy, and I don’t think there is a TikTok dancer out there today that can match the energy of Poison.’ It’s not possible and if you think I’m lying, we challenge you right now, put it up.”
Advertisement
Well damn...talk your shit then, OGs!
Nelly also celebrated a milestone—20 years since the release of his debut album Country Grammar. Cedric The Entertainer even recreated the comedic intro from the album, live on stage.
Advertisement
Two young men that I had no idea existed named 24Goldn and Iann Dior performed “Mood,” which is my bad because that song has apparently been #1 for several weeks now.
Taraji, who is a huge advocate for mental health awareness, was proud to present Lil Baby, who performed his very relevant song, “Emotionally Scarred.”
Advertisement
Doja Cat joined Bebe Rexha for their song, “Baby, I’m Jealous.”
For the complete list of winners at the 2020 American Music Awards, head to theamas.com.


theroot--2020-11-24--NC's 1st Black Female Supreme Court Justice May Lose Her Seat to the Most Conservative Man on the Co

NC's 1st Black Female Supreme Court Justice May Lose Her Seat to the Most Conservative Man on the Court

North Carolina ’ s first Black woman to serve as the state ’ s chief justice is still fighting for her seat as a recount begins in a race where only 406 votes separate Supreme Court Justice Cheri Beasley from her challenger , Justice Paul Newby , after nearly 5.4 million votes were cast .
As Slate outlines , the race could have major implications for the future of racial justice in North Carolina , and with Newby employing racist dog-whistling during the campaign , it could also be a telling snapshot of the electorate in the battleground state .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ has attacked Beasley and Justice Anita Earls , another Black woman , as being judicial activists .
Under Beasley , the North Carolina Supreme Court has tackled a number of crucial racial justice issues , including systemic racism in death row sentences , voting rights and grappling with the state ’ s Confederate history .
“ If Newby wins , his victory will be a major setback for racial justice in North Carolina , ” writes Slate .
But the race is about more than a difference of opinion and philosophy between two @ @ @ @ @ @ @ against Beasley pointed and personal—his very decision to run for her seat marking a substantial break from the norm .
From Slate : Newby has lashed out at Beasley repeatedly since the perceived slight .
In one dissent , he asserted that the high court ’ s three Black justices “ may have a larger purpose : to establish that our criminal justice system is seriously—and perhaps irredeemably—infected by racial discrimination ” and accused them of “ legislating changes in the law from the bench ” —an incendiary claim often lobbed at liberal @ @ @ @ @ @ @ that same tenor to his 2020 campaign , regularly conflating Earls and Beasley , the only Black women on the court , Slate observed .
“ Imagine seven AOCs on the state Supreme Court , ” he said at a campaign event this year in a reference to New York Congresswoman Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez .
He appeared to take a page or two out of Donald Trump ’ s playbook , stating at one point , “ if we ’ re as bad as the other side says we are , I will buy @ @ @ @ @ @ @ mean , just leave.
” “ You ’ ve got freedom here in America to leave .
We don ’ t build laws to keep you in , ” he continued .
“ We ought to have a wall to keep you out if you ’ re trying to get here illegally.
” What that had to do with either Beasley or Earls is anyone ’ s guess .
The Raleigh News and Observer noted that Beasley was fighting to restore thousands of ballots her campaign says were wrongfully rejected by county boards @ @ @ @ @ @ @ belong to Democrats .

North Carolina’s first Black woman to serve as the state’s chief justice is still fighting for her seat as a recount begins in a race where only 406 votes separate Supreme Court Justice Cheri Beasley from her challenger, Justice Paul Newby, after nearly 5.4 million votes were cast.
As Slate outlines, the race could have major implications for the future of racial justice in North Carolina, and with Newby employing racist dog-whistling during the campaign, it could also be a telling snapshot of the electorate in the battleground state.
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Newby, a white male Republican, has attacked Beasley and Justice Anita Earls, another Black woman, as being judicial activists. Under Beasley, the North Carolina Supreme Court has tackled a number of crucial racial justice issues, including systemic racism in death row sentences, voting rights and grappling with the state’s Confederate history.
“If Newby wins, his victory will be a major setback for racial justice in North Carolina,” writes Slate.
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But the race is about more than a difference of opinion and philosophy between two justices. Newby has made his attacks against Beasley pointed and personal—his very decision to run for her seat marking a substantial break from the norm. From Slate:
When Chief Justice Mark Martin stepped down in 2019, Gov. Roy Cooper selected Beasley to replace him, creating a 6–1 liberal majority. Cooper’s decision angered Newby, who believed he was entitled to the chief justiceship as the most senior member of the court. Newby then took the unusual step of challenging Beasley in 2020, running for her position rather than seeking to keep his own seat.
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Newby has lashed out at Beasley repeatedly since the perceived slight. In one dissent, he asserted that the high court’s three Black justices “may have a larger purpose: to establish that our criminal justice system is seriously—and perhaps irredeemably—infected by racial discrimination” and accused them of “legislating changes in the law from the bench”—an incendiary claim often lobbed at liberal justices from conservatives.
The judge carried that same tenor to his 2020 campaign, regularly conflating Earls and Beasley, the only Black women on the court, Slate observed.
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“Imagine seven AOCs on the state Supreme Court,” he said at a campaign event this year in a reference to New York Congresswoman Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez.
He appeared to take a page or two out of Donald Trump’s playbook, stating at one point, “if we’re as bad as the other side says we are, I will buy you a ticket to leave. I mean, just leave.”
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“You’ve got freedom here in America to leave. We don’t build laws to keep you in,” he continued. “We ought to have a wall to keep you out if you’re trying to get here illegally.”
What that had to do with either Beasley or Earls is anyone’s guess.
The Raleigh News and Observer noted that Beasley was fighting to restore thousands of ballots her campaign says were wrongfully rejected by county boards. The vast majority of the ballots belong to Democrats.


theroot--2020-11-24--Report by Former Military Physicians Says Trump’s Transgender Ban Hurt the Military. Who Would’ve Gu

Report by Former Military Physicians Says Trump’s Transgender Ban Hurt the Military. Who Would’ve Guessed?

Man , who would ’ ve thought barring an entire group of people from joining the U.S. military would have lasting , negative effects on the organization ?
According to a group of former military physicians , that ’ s exactly what happened as a result of the Trump administration banning transgender people from enlisting .
I promise I ’ m just as not-surprised as you are .
The Hill reports that while the Trump administration argued that allowing transgender people to serve in the armed forces would harm unit cohesion and combat readiness , the report , authored by @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Center , a research institute and LGBTQ advocacy group , found that the opposite occurred .
“ Contrary to claims by the president and the Pentagon that allowing transgender service would be disruptive and costly , the ban itself has harmed readiness , ” the report reads .
In 2016 , the Obama administration issued a policy that allowed transgender people to openly serve in the military , but because Trump is who he is , he tweeted in 2017 that he would reverse the policy .
Sure enough , in 2019 the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ enlisting .
I honestly thought this whole ban was illegal , because , you know , it ’ s deadass discrimination .
Then I remembered I live in a country where half of the population , judges and politicians included , believe “ trans people are people , ” is somehow a transgressive statement , and not , like , a basic fact .
An-y-way !
Back to the news .
The report ’ s findings were compiled from public statements made by senior officials , in-depth interviews with transgender service members , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ ’ faculty .
The Palm Center estimates that nearly 15,000 transgender service members serve in the military , based on Pentagon data .
Under the Trump administration policy , transgender service members can only continue serving if they do so as the sex they were assigned at birth , unless they are granted a waiver .
The policy also allows those who came out under the Obama administration policy to continue serving openly .
Any new transgender enlistees , however , are barred from service .
Because of the exceptions , however , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ a ban .
The study found that the ban wound up artificially deflating the military ’ s recruitment pool by an estimated 205,850 transgender people who would ’ ve otherwise been eligible to serve .
While those who had already enlisted before the ban were still allowed to serve , the report found that the ban fostered an openly transphobic environment , which , believe it or not , has an adverse effect on unit cohesion and combat readiness .
An aviation electronics technician in the Navy told the researchers that the ban @ @ @ @ @ @ @ were not subject to the same level of care and treatment as their peers .
“ The ban has kind of emboldened everybody to be transphobic again .
There ’ s no protections , ” she said .
“ Before the ban , the Navy ’ s stance was that transgender people are real people and they have a status and we ’ re going to help them transition to what they need to be so they can continue to serve ...
But now that the ban has been reinstated , there ’ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ us anymore.
” As a result of the Obama-era policy being upheld to allow transgender people who already enlisted to serve , the researchers believe that President-elect Joe Biden could reverse the ban within his first 30 days .
On the campaign trail , Biden already pledged to revert back to the Obama-era policy .
“ On day one of my presidency , I will begin reinstating LGBTQ protections President Trump has rolled back , including ensuring transgender individuals can openly serve in the military , ” Biden said in February .
Here @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
Trans people already have to experience enough bullshit by simply existing , it ’ d be nice if the president of the United States didn ’ t feel the need to add to the load .

Man, who would’ve thought barring an entire group of people from joining the U.S. military would have lasting, negative effects on the organization? According to a group of former military physicians, that’s exactly what happened as a result of the Trump administration banning transgender people from enlisting.
I promise I’m just as not-surprised as you are.
The Hill reports that while the Trump administration argued that allowing transgender people to serve in the armed forces would harm unit cohesion and combat readiness, the report, authored by three former military physicians and the Palm Center, a research institute and LGBTQ advocacy group, found that the opposite occurred. “Contrary to claims by the president and the Pentagon that allowing transgender service would be disruptive and costly, the ban itself has harmed readiness,” the report reads.
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In 2016, the Obama administration issued a policy that allowed transgender people to openly serve in the military, but because Trump is who he is, he tweeted in 2017 that he would reverse the policy. Sure enough, in 2019 the Trump administration barred all transgender folks from enlisting.
I honestly thought this whole ban was illegal, because, you know, it’s deadass discrimination. Then I remembered I live in a country where half of the population, judges and politicians included, believe “trans people are people,” is somehow a transgressive statement, and not, like, a basic fact.
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An-y-way! Back to the news.
From The Hill:
The report’s findings were compiled from public statements made by senior officials, in-depth interviews with transgender service members, survey data and interviews with service academies’ faculty. The Palm Center estimates that nearly 15,000 transgender service members serve in the military, based on Pentagon data. Under the Trump administration policy, transgender service members can only continue serving if they do so as the sex they were assigned at birth, unless they are granted a waiver. The policy also allows those who came out under the Obama administration policy to continue serving openly. Any new transgender enlistees, however, are barred from service. Because of the exceptions, however, the Pentagon argues the policy is not a ban.
The study found that the ban wound up artificially deflating the military’s recruitment pool by an estimated 205,850 transgender people who would’ve otherwise been eligible to serve. While those who had already enlisted before the ban were still allowed to serve, the report found that the ban fostered an openly transphobic environment, which, believe it or not, has an adverse effect on unit cohesion and combat readiness.
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An aviation electronics technician in the Navy told the researchers that the ban sent the message that transgender service members were not subject to the same level of care and treatment as their peers.
“The ban has kind of emboldened everybody to be transphobic again. There’s no protections,” she said. “Before the ban, the Navy’s stance was that transgender people are real people and they have a status and we’re going to help them transition to what they need to be so they can continue to serve...But now that the ban has been reinstated, there’s no longer anyone trying to accept us anymore.”
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As a result of the Obama-era policy being upheld to allow transgender people who already enlisted to serve, the researchers believe that President-elect Joe Biden could reverse the ban within his first 30 days. On the campaign trail, Biden already pledged to revert back to the Obama-era policy.
“On day one of my presidency, I will begin reinstating LGBTQ protections President Trump has rolled back, including ensuring transgender individuals can openly serve in the military,” Biden said in February.
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Here’s hoping he keeps that promise. Trans people already have to experience enough bullshit by simply existing, it’d be nice if the president of the United States didn’t feel the need to add to the load.


theroot--2020-11-24--Proud Boy Admits He's 'Kinda Dumb' and Doesn't Research. If Only All Trump Supporters Were This Hone

Proud Boy Admits He's 'Kinda Dumb' and Doesn't Research. If Only All Trump Supporters Were This Honest

By and large , Trump supporters are complete morons .
I know I just stated the obvious worse than when Outkast ’ s Big Boi wrote the lyrics , “ I used to hang out with my daddy ’ s brothers , I call them my uncles , ” but you have to admit the Trump cult has been ramping up the stupidity since the commander-in-being-allergic-to-facts lost reelection .
It doesn ’ t seem to matter how farfetched the conspiracies of widespread voter fraud are , how often they ’ re debunked , how many of Trump ’ s bullshit @ @ @ @ @ @ @ or how many media platforms—including Fox News ... and I mean , even TUCKER FUCKING CARLSON of Fox News—report that no evidence of massive voter fraud has been revealed .
As long as Trump , Rudy Giuliani and whatever crackpot lawyers are still on the team keep repeating the most pitifully obvious propaganda ever , Trump ’ s gullible-ass followers will continue to believe all of it .
Years from now , they will still believe that all of the extras from The Walking Dead voted in the 2020 election and that voting @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
Anyway , Newsweek reports that during a Proud Boys rally for dumbasses who think the election was stolen from their commander-in-flagged-tweets , one Proud Boy was interviewed by an activist and young journalist who was covering the demonstration ( of abject stupidity ) .
Video footage of the interaction was posted to Twitter .
After the unidentified man was apparently pressed with questions he doesn ’ t have the intellectual capacity to answer , he made a startling confession .
( And by “ starling , ” I mean “ no shit @ @ @ @ @ @ @ might have a stroke after seeing her Proud Boy admit he ’ s a proud idiot on camera.
” ) In the footage , the man , who hides his face with a Proud Boys mask , describes to a 17-year-old that he is “ kinda dumb ” and doesn ’ t “ really research much ” and instead lives “ by the kneejerk.
” “ I just think and move like a f*****g dog , ” he adds .
When the offscreen 17-year-old disputes the man ’ s claims that he is @ @ @ @ @ @ @ change , the man replies that he is 43 and “ stuck in his ways.
” When the teenager once again tells the Proud Boys supporter to stop thinking he is not smart , the man thanks her and adds : “ For what it ’ s worth , I don ’ t want this to be the way it is.
” The young person interviewing the man kept telling him “ you ’ re not dumb ” and assuring him that he could “ choose ” to change .
I ’ m @ @ @ @ @ @ @ saying that interviewer is literally the kindest person in the world .
Here ’ s how that interview goes if I ’ m conducting it : Me : “ Sir ... Sir ... Sir , don ’ t sell yourself short .
You are not ‘ kinda dumb.
’ If dumb were a chair , you ’ d be Madison Square Garden .
If dumb were defined by a legacy of pretending to like Black people , you ’ d be Dumb-braham Lincoln .
You are ‘ kinda dumb ’ like the Georgia @ @ @ @ @ @ @ : “ I just think I move like a fucking dog.
” Me : “ OK , but make no mistake : you ’ re not like one of the dogs anyone would pretend to be .
You ’ re not Lassie , Balto or Hooch from Turner & Hooch .
You ’ re not even Snoopy or Scooby-Doo .
You ’ re like if Odie from Garfield was a Trump supporter .
You ’ re what Pluto and Goofy ’ s babies would come out like .
( Goofy is a dog @ @ @ @ @ @ @ doesn ’ t know . )
You give off big right-wing version of Brian from Family Guy energy .
If you were a perfectly healthy Old Yeller , people would still want to shoot you.
” Me : “ True ... if by ‘ my ways ’ you mean ‘ Trump ’ s lying ass.
’ I have no issue believing that your head is permanently stuck up Trump ’ s lying , delusional ass .
That actually sounds about right.
” I ’ m not going to lie : I only wrote @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the fake interview .
They ’ re all just so dumb .
So very dumb .
Nothing “ kinda ” about it .

By and large, Trump supporters are complete morons.
I know I just stated the obvious worse than when Outkast’s Big Boi wrote the lyrics, “I used to hang out with my daddy’s brothers, I call them my uncles,” but you have to admit the Trump cult has been ramping up the stupidity since the commander-in-being-allergic-to-facts lost reelection.
It doesn’t seem to matter how farfetched the conspiracies of widespread voter fraud are, how often they’re debunked, how many of Trump’s bullshit lawsuits get dismissed over lack of evidence or how many media platforms—including Fox News...and I mean, even TUCKER FUCKING CARLSON of Fox News—report that no evidence of massive voter fraud has been revealed. As long as Trump, Rudy Giuliani and whatever crackpot lawyers are still on the team keep repeating the most pitifully obvious propaganda ever, Trump’s gullible-ass followers will continue to believe all of it. Years from now, they will still believe that all of the extras from The Walking Dead voted in the 2020 election and that voting machines are sentient Trump-hating snowflakes that cheat.
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Anyway, Newsweek reports that during a Proud Boys rally for dumbasses who think the election was stolen from their commander-in-flagged-tweets, one Proud Boy was interviewed by an activist and young journalist who was covering the demonstration (of abject stupidity).
Video footage of the interaction was posted to Twitter.
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After the unidentified man was apparently pressed with questions he doesn’t have the intellectual capacity to answer, he made a startling confession. (And by “starling,” I mean “no shit, Sherlock, but your proud mom might have a stroke after seeing her Proud Boy admit he’s a proud idiot on camera.”)
From Newsweek:
In the footage, the man, who hides his face with a Proud Boys mask, describes to a 17-year-old that he is “kinda dumb” and doesn’t “really research much” and instead lives “by the kneejerk.” “I just think and move like a f*****g dog,” he adds. When the offscreen 17-year-old disputes the man’s claims that he is dumb and assures him that he can change, the man replies that he is 43 and “stuck in his ways.” When the teenager once again tells the Proud Boys supporter to stop thinking he is not smart, the man thanks her and adds: “For what it’s worth, I don’t want this to be the way it is.”
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The young person interviewing the man kept telling him “you’re not dumb” and assuring him that he could “choose” to change. I’m just going to go on record in saying that interviewer is literally the kindest person in the world.
Here’s how that interview goes if I’m conducting it:
Proud Boy: “I’m kinda dumb.”
Me: “Sir...Sir...Sir, don’t sell yourself short. You are not ‘kinda dumb.’ If dumb were a chair, you’d be Madison Square Garden. If dumb were defined by a legacy of pretending to like Black people, you’d be Dumb-braham Lincoln. You are ‘kinda dumb’ like the Georgia Aquarium kinda houses marine animals.”
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PB: “I just think I move like a fucking dog.”
Me: “OK, but make no mistake: you’re not like one of the dogs anyone would pretend to be. You’re not Lassie, Balto or Hooch from Turner & Hooch. You’re not even Snoopy or Scooby-Doo. You’re like if Odie from Garfield was a Trump supporter. You’re what Pluto and Goofy’s babies would come out like. (Goofy is a dog, right? Hell, your dumbass doesn’t know. ) You give off big right-wing version of Brian from Family Guy energy. If you were a perfectly healthy Old Yeller, people would still want to shoot you.”
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PB: “I’m stuck in my ways.”
Me: “True...if by ‘my ways’ you mean ‘Trump’s lying ass.’ I have no issue believing that your head is permanently stuck up Trump’s lying, delusional ass. That actually sounds about right.”
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I’m not going to lie: I only wrote up this report so I could do the fake interview.
They’re all just so dumb. So very dumb. Nothing “kinda” about it.


theroot--2020-11-24--Black in Style: Macy's and InStyle Just Joined the 15 Percent Pledge

Macy ’ s just gave us a little more to be thankful for this year than its famed Thanksgiving Parade ; the 162-year-old-company just joined the 15 Percent Pledge , committing to stock 15 percent of its incoming inventory with Black-owned brands , reflective of the composition of the population of the United States .
The retailer joined the American arm of fashion magazine InStyle in announcing its adherence to the pledge on Monday , adding their names to a growing list of entities including Sephora , Rent the Runway , West Elm , Yelp , American Vogue , MedMen @ @ @ @ @ @ @ “ Now more than ever , we need to demand that retailers and other companies offer more than lip service to Black communities , ” said Aurora James , founder of luxury label Brother Vellies , who launched the 15 Percent Pledge in June , in a release provided to The Glow Up .
“ Committing to the Pledge demonstrates that companies are willing to go beyond one-time donations and commit to a genuine partnership that will support them through this process .
We are thrilled that Macy ’ s and InStyle US @ @ @ @ @ @ @ businesses are front and center—not just an afterthought .
Business as usual is no longer enough , and today ’ s announcement signifies a genuine commitment to drive racial equity across these industries.
” Macy ’ s is the largest company to commit to the Pledge to date , agreeing to dedicate 15 percent of their purchasing power across all product categories to Black-owned businesses , says the release .
This newest effort adds to ongoing initiatives by the retailer to help develop women and minority-owned businesses , ensuring more shelf space for @ @ @ @ @ @ @ ’ s , Inc. is proud to add our voice to the 15 Percent Pledge , further amplifying our commitment to accelerate the growth and advancement of Black-owned businesses , ” said Durand Guion , Vice President Macy ’ s Fashion Office .
“ We believe in this work and know we have more to do .
Bringing more diverse-owned brands into our assortments is a key component of our D & I strategy and we will hold ourselves accountable for continued progress in driving sustainable change internally and within our industry.
” @ @ @ @ @ @ @ diversifying its product offerings , InStyle will likely be dividing more diverse and inclusive content .
“ InStyle is proud to be taking the 15 % Pledge and commits to promoting a diverse creative community .
Diversity in the talent we feature has always been part of our DNA , but we must be held accountable for whom we work with and the creators we champion , ” said Laura Brown , Editor in Chief of InStyle Magazine .
“ We ’ re grateful to Aurora and her team for what will be @ @ @ @ @ @ @ this industry.
” As the statement further reads : It ’ s encouraging news in a deeply discouraging year , even if it naturally begs the question , “ What took so long ?
” Better yet , six months on since the launch of the Pledge , why aren ’ t more businesses—especially already on board ?

Maiysha Kai on The Glow Up, shared by Maiysha Kai to The Root

Macy’s just gave us a little more to be thankful for this year than its famed Thanksgiving Parade; the 162-year-old-company just joined the 15 Percent Pledge, committing to stock 15 percent of its incoming inventory with Black-owned brands, reflective of the composition of the population of the United States. The retailer joined the American arm of fashion magazine InStyle in announcing its adherence to the pledge on Monday, adding their names to a growing list of entities including Sephora, Rent the Runway, West Elm, Yelp, American Vogue, MedMen, and Canadian bookstore chain Indigo.
“Now more than ever, we need to demand that retailers and other companies offer more than lip service to Black communities,” said Aurora James, founder of luxury label Brother Vellies, who launched the 15 Percent Pledge in June, in a release provided to The Glow Up. “Committing to the Pledge demonstrates that companies are willing to go beyond one-time donations and commit to a genuine partnership that will support them through this process. We are thrilled that Macy’s and InStyle US are stepping up to ensure that Black businesses are front and center—not just an afterthought. Business as usual is no longer enough, and today’s announcement signifies a genuine commitment to drive racial equity across these industries.”
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Macy’s is the largest company to commit to the Pledge to date, agreeing to dedicate 15 percent of their purchasing power across all product categories to Black-owned businesses, says the release. This newest effort adds to ongoing initiatives by the retailer to help develop women and minority-owned businesses, ensuring more shelf space for them, as well.
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“Macy’s, Inc. is proud to add our voice to the 15 Percent Pledge, further amplifying our commitment to accelerate the growth and advancement of Black-owned businesses,” said Durand Guion, Vice President Macy’s Fashion Office. “We believe in this work and know we have more to do. Bringing more diverse-owned brands into our assortments is a key component of our D&I strategy and we will hold ourselves accountable for continued progress in driving sustainable change internally and within our industry.”
While Macy’s will be further diversifying its product offerings, InStyle will likely be dividing more diverse and inclusive content.
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“InStyle is proud to be taking the 15% Pledge and commits to promoting a diverse creative community. Diversity in the talent we feature has always been part of our DNA, but we must be held accountable for whom we work with and the creators we champion,” said Laura Brown, Editor in Chief of InStyle Magazine. “We’re grateful to Aurora and her team for what will be a historic and long overdue change in this industry.”
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As the statement further reads:
In addition to taking the Pledge, InStyle US will support Black-owned businesses and designers with the magazine’s creative services. InStyle US also plans to commit 15 percent of its coverage to Black-owned businesses; focus on diversity and inclusivity in its representation of models, celebrities, and additional features; as well as pledge to amplify Black creatives and spotlight voices of Black experts, stylists, and artists to avoid incorrect attribution and appropriation.
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It’s encouraging news in a deeply discouraging year, even if it naturally begs the question, “What took so long?” Better yet, six months on since the launch of the Pledge, why aren’t more businesses—especially already on board?


theroot--2020-11-24--Black Doctors Release Letter Encouraging Black Families to Take COVID-19 Vaccine When It’s Safe, Avo

Black Doctors Release Letter Encouraging Black Families to Take COVID-19 Vaccine When It’s Safe, Avoid Gatherings During the Holidays

Last week , when discussing my hopes and goals for the next year with my mom , the necessity of a vaccine obviously came up .
“ Uh , I ’ m not taking it at first , and neither are you , ” she told me .
“ We ’ re going to let them take it and see what happens ” — “ t hem ” obviously meaning white folks .
This attitude isn ’ t uncommon among Black families , so much so that a group of Black medical professionals released an open letter encouraging Black people @ @ @ @ @ @ @ “ safe and effective.
” According to NBC News , the eight esteemed doctors wrote the letter , dubbed “ A Love Letter to Black America , ” after recent polls showed a large percentage of Black Americans are skeptical of the initial vaccine .
An Axios/Ipsos poll showed that while over 50 percent of white and Latino respondents would take the initial vaccination , 72 percent of Black respondents said they wouldn ’ t .
“ Respect for our Black bodies and our Black lives must be a core value for those @ @ @ @ @ @ @ for this virus that has already taken so many of our loved ones , ” the letter reads .
“ Our colleagues across healthcare know that we are urging our community to take safe and effective vaccines once available .
However , for this to be successful , they must do more to earn your trust—now , and in the future.
” When one takes just a quick look back at the history between Black people and the American healthcare system , it ’ s not exactly a mystery why Black people have @ @ @ @ @ @ @ s the Tuskegee experiment , which tested the effects of untreated syphilis on hundreds of Black men without their consent .
There ’ s Henrietta Lacks , whose cells—which led to many medical discoveries— were taken without her or her family ’ s consent .
If we fast forward to the present day , you need only look at the wide disparities that exist in treatment between Black and white patients .
Add in the fact that development for the vaccine was done under the purview of the Trump administration , and quite @ @ @ @ @ @ @ would question the widespread distrust within the Black community .
Later in the letter , the doctors call on Black people to assist in clinical trials for the vaccine to ensure that they ’ re safe and effective for the community as a whole .
The doctors , who are in “ key decision-making roles from the lab to the clinic to the virtual boardroom ” are : Leon McDougle , president of the National Medical Association ; David Carlisle , president of the Charles R. Drew University of Medicine and Science ; @ @ @ @ @ @ @ National Black Nurses Association ; Wayne A. I. Frederick , president of Howard University ; James Hildreth , president of Meharry Medical College ; Valerie Montgomery-Rice , president of Morehouse School of Medicine ; Randal Morgan , president of The Cobb Institute ; and Reed Tuckson , a founding member of the Black Coalition Against Covid .
The group asked the Black community to keep them accountable to protecting their health .
They also shared their role within a medical and racial justice framework and encouraged people to continue practicing safety precautions , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ pandemic is burdensome .
“ We affirm that Black Lives Matter .
We love you .
And as Black health professionals , we have a higher calling to stand for racial justice and to fight for health equity , ” the group said .
The letter also includes a plea from the doctors for Black families to refrain from gathering during this holiday season .
“ With the holidays around the corner , we want nothing more than to break bread with our loved ones .
But tradition can not stand in the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ with you to wear your masks , continue social distancing , hand washing , and avoiding indoor events until vaccines are widely available , ” the letter reads .
As just a humble writer who just wants you all to be safe , I ask that you heed their device .
I love nothing more than going home on a Wednesday night , sipping some Henny while watching some All Elite Wrestling , and waking up to the smell of some bomb-ass sweet potato pie and mac- and- cheese .
That ain ’ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ As a result of the pandemic going buck wild in my home state of Arizona and the nation at large , this is going to be the first Thanksgiving in my 28 years I don ’ t spend with my mom .
Instead , I ’ m going to spend this Thursday drinking Henny , eating snacks , and playing Call of Duty : Warzone all day with the homies .
It ’ s not my preferred way of spending the holiday , but it ’ s worth it if it means I @ @ @ @ @ @ @ family when it ’ s safe .
So please , y ’ all .
Take all the necessary steps to protect yourself and your family from COVID-19 .
Wash your hands , wear a mask , don ’ t go to that gathering .
And when it ’ s safe to do so and when you feel comfortable doing so , consider taking the vaccine .

Last week, when discussing my hopes and goals for the next year with my mom, the necessity of a vaccine obviously came up.
“Uh, I’m not taking it at first, and neither are you,” she told me. “We’re going to let them take it and see what happens ”— “ t hem” obviously meaning white folks.
Advertisement
This attitude isn’t uncommon among Black families, so much so that a group of Black medical professionals released an open letter encouraging Black people to take the vaccine when it is “safe and effective.”
According to NBC News, the eight esteemed doctors wrote the letter, dubbed “A Love Letter to Black America,” after recent polls showed a large percentage of Black Americans are skeptical of the initial vaccine. An Axios/Ipsos poll showed that while over 50 percent of white and Latino respondents would take the initial vaccination, 72 percent of Black respondents said they wouldn’t.
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“Respect for our Black bodies and our Black lives must be a core value for those who are working to find the vaccine for this virus that has already taken so many of our loved ones,” the letter reads. “Our colleagues across healthcare know that we are urging our community to take safe and effective vaccines once available. However, for this to be successful, they must do more to earn your trust—now, and in the future.”
When one takes just a quick look back at the history between Black people and the American healthcare system, it’s not exactly a mystery why Black people have such a strong distrust. There’s the Tuskegee experiment, which tested the effects of untreated syphilis on hundreds of Black men without their consent. There’s Henrietta Lacks, whose cells—which led to many medical discoveries— were taken without her or her family’s consent.
Advertisement
If we fast forward to the present day, you need only look at the wide disparities that exist in treatment between Black and white patients. Add in the fact that development for the vaccine was done under the purview of the Trump administration, and quite honestly, it becomes surprising that anyone would question the widespread distrust within the Black community.
Later in the letter, the doctors call on Black people to assist in clinical trials for the vaccine to ensure that they’re safe and effective for the community as a whole.
Advertisement
From NBC News:
The doctors, who are in “key decision-making roles from the lab to the clinic to the virtual boardroom” are: Leon McDougle, president of the National Medical Association; David Carlisle, president of the Charles R. Drew University of Medicine and Science; Martha A. Dawson, president of the National Black Nurses Association; Wayne A. I. Frederick, president of Howard University; James Hildreth, president of Meharry Medical College; Valerie Montgomery-Rice, president of Morehouse School of Medicine; Randal Morgan, president of The Cobb Institute; and Reed Tuckson, a founding member of the Black Coalition Against Covid. The group asked the Black community to keep them accountable to protecting their health. They also shared their role within a medical and racial justice framework and encouraged people to continue practicing safety precautions, even though weathering several months of the pandemic is burdensome. “We affirm that Black Lives Matter. We love you. And as Black health professionals, we have a higher calling to stand for racial justice and to fight for health equity,” the group said.
Advertisement
The letter also includes a plea from the doctors for Black families to refrain from gathering during this holiday season. “With the holidays around the corner, we want nothing more than to break bread with our loved ones. But tradition cannot stand in the way of our health. We plead with you to wear your masks, continue social distancing, hand washing, and avoiding indoor events until vaccines are widely available,” the letter reads.
As just a humble writer who just wants you all to be safe, I ask that you heed their device. I love nothing more than going home on a Wednesday night, sipping some Henny while watching some All Elite Wrestling, and waking up to the smell of some bomb-ass sweet potato pie and mac- and- cheese.
Advertisement
That ain’t happening this year, though.
As a result of the pandemic going buck wild in my home state of Arizona and the nation at large, this is going to be the first Thanksgiving in my 28 years I don’t spend with my mom. Instead, I’m going to spend this Thursday drinking Henny, eating snacks, and playing Call of Duty: Warzone all day with the homies. It’s not my preferred way of spending the holiday, but it’s worth it if it means I get to celebrate many more with my family when it’s safe.
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So please, y’all. Take all the necessary steps to protect yourself and your family from COVID-19. Wash your hands, wear a mask, don’t go to that gathering. And when it’s safe to do so and when you feel comfortable doing so, consider taking the vaccine.


theroot--2020-11-23--Seeing Starfire: DC Comics Finally Shows Off Anna Diop’s New Suit for Season 3 of Titans

DC has revealed the new look for Anna Diop ’ s Starfire character and it ’ s—dare I say it—dazzling .
In a tweet sent out earlier today , fans of the Titans series finally got the chance to see the character ’ s new and improved look .
Now why is this a big deal , you may ask ?
Well , you see , Starfire—or Kory , as she ’ s more aptly known—usually goes to fight crime in whatever she ’ s dressed in that day .
But thanks to designer Laura Jean Shannon , she ’ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ best of them .
Her new digs will definitely come in handy in the upcoming season ; per Entertainment Weekly , in the previous season of Titans , “ Kory ’ s sister Blackfire ( Damaris Lewis ) , who rules over their home planet Tamaran , sent a henchman to capture Kory and bring her home ; however , that proved unsuccessful .
So Blackfire decided to get her hands dirty herself and landed on Earth intent on hunting Kory down in the final moments of the Season 2 finale.
” Speaking @ @ @ @ @ @ @ her unique take on the role of Starfire , giving credit to her Senegalese heritage : I just love the idea of being alien , and that means so many things to me personally .
I was born in Senegal , West Africa , and I moved to the States when I was six years old .
When I first came I had to assimilate .
I learned the language in two months and I was in school two months later , assimilating into this culture .
And sometimes I just feel like @ @ @ @ @ @ @ think a lot of people can relate to that .
I love being able to embody what being alien feels like , if that makes sense .
I think that ’ s something I do understand .
She continued , “ I think what people really love about Starfire is she has this really innocent , naïve , pure , fun , curious thing about her and I tried to bring as much of that into her as I could .
I know the producers wanted a really badass , strong character , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to bring aspects of that bubbly [ personality ] .
” Seasons 1 and 2 of Titans are available to stream now on HBO Max .

Shanelle Genai on The Grapevine, shared by Shanelle Genai to The Root

DC has revealed the new look for Anna Diop’s Starfire character and it’s—dare I say it—dazzling.
In a tweet sent out earlier today, fans of the Titans series finally got the chance to see the character’s new and improved look.
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Now why is this a big deal, you may ask? Well, you see, Starfire—or Kory, as she’s more aptly known—usually goes to fight crime in whatever she’s dressed in that day. But thanks to designer Laura Jean Shannon, she’s now suited and booted among the best of them. Her new digs will definitely come in handy in the upcoming season; per Entertainment Weekly, in the previous season of Titans, “Kory’s sister Blackfire (Damaris Lewis), who rules over their home planet Tamaran, sent a henchman to capture Kory and bring her home; however, that proved unsuccessful. So Blackfire decided to get her hands dirty herself and landed on Earth intent on hunting Kory down in the final moments of the Season 2 finale.”
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Speaking to Showbiz Junkies, Diop gushed over her unique take on the role of Starfire, giving credit to her Senegalese heritage:
I just love the idea of being alien, and that means so many things to me personally. I was born in Senegal, West Africa, and I moved to the States when I was six years old. When I first came I had to assimilate. I learned the language in two months and I was in school two months later, assimilating into this culture. And sometimes I just feel like an outsider too, right? I think a lot of people can relate to that. I love being able to embody what being alien feels like, if that makes sense. I think that’s something I do understand.
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She continued, “I think what people really love about Starfire is she has this really innocent, naïve, pure, fun, curious thing about her and I tried to bring as much of that into her as I could. I know the producers wanted a really badass, strong character, but I really, really did want to bring aspects of that bubbly [personality].”
Seasons 1 and 2 of Titans are available to stream now on HBO Max.


theroot--2020-11-23--Save Hundreds on Furniture and Kitchen Gear During Wayfair’s Early Access Black Friday Sale

It ’ s that time of year again for Wayfair fans .
Get ready for the one , the only Early Access Black Friday Sale !
The home decor retailer is knocking off up to 80 % on thousands of its trendiest items , making these deals some of the best all year round .
Ending on December 4 , this sale only gives shoppers a short amount of time to take advantage of Wayfair ’ s enormous savings on chairs , beds , mattresses , coffee tables , cribs , outdoor furniture , kitchen appliances , and plenty more—even @ @ @ @ @ @ @ a bit easier , we ’ ve picked out some of our favorite deals from across the entire sale , including some of the most sizable savings and a few other eye-catching items .
So hurry up and get buying !
Tired of frequenting your local laundromat ?
We feel you .
Luckily , Wayfair has some serious deals on appliances , including a great Hotpoint 6.2 cu .
ft. electric dryer .
Right now , you can save up to 40 % off the original price on this great product , which @ @ @ @ @ @ @ vent , and a large bath towel capacity .
Boost your bedroom style in one swift move with the Drusilla Tufted Upholstered Low Profile Standard Bed .
With a solid wood frame , the headboard has a beautiful rectangular shape upholstered in a soft polyester blend .
Manufactured with durable materials , the four slats will fit your box spring and mattress of choice .
Is your rustic living room missing that finishing touch ?
Never fear !
The Trent Austin Kinsella Coffee Table with Storage is the perfect item for you .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ beautiful finishes , but its metal accents will be the perfect contrast to that farmhouse chic look you ’ re going for .
This table even comes with a shelf for extra storage space .
Always wanted to pretend you were in the kitchen with Rachael Ray ?
Hey , me too !
Now we can both snag a 13-piece aluminum non-stick cookware set from her line for just $ 136 , a savings of 43 % off the list price .
There are five different color options available for purchase .
Who @ @ @ @ @ @ @ ?
This beautiful pouf is made with 100 % cotton and requires absolutely no assembly .
At 57 % off , this item proves that you should never compromise style to meet your budget .
Give your work-from-home set-up an upgrade with this elegant and affordable L-shape executive desk from Zipcode Design .
With a natural finish and a black metal base , this desk ’ s design has a sleek look that will get you ready to face whatever work has to throw your way .
It ’ s the perfect size @ @ @ @ @ @ @ and lamp with plenty of storage space left .
If you ’ re looking for a fancier flusher than you have in your home right now , this Swiss Madison St. Tropez elongated one-piece toilet is a striking throne .
It has a slim back and a long seat , complete with a dual-flush system and a quiet-close seat .
Best of all , it ’ s a whopping 69 % off the $ 916 list price during Way Day .
This is a serious , serious deal on a new bed from @ @ @ @ @ @ @ savings on this bed , which pairs a popular frame with linen upholstery and an adjustable headboard .
Add a memory foam mattress to get a full new bed replacement at an incredible discount .
Who doesn ’ t love a lounge chair with a touch of midcentury inspiration ?
Made from solid wood and upholstered in a polyester blend , this item available in several different color options , including orange and yellow .
Not only are they modern and vibrant , but they ’ re super comfy too !
Can ’ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ on a new tree every year when you can buy one artificial tree to last for ages ?
We were thinking the same thing .
This Grande Green Fir Artificial Christmas Tree is a great option and even comes with clear lights pre-strung around the branches .
Slim in profile , this tree is a great display option for those snug corners of the house with limited floor space .
Add more vertical storage to your space with this Langley Street ladder bookcase , which stands just over 4.5 feet tall and is @ @ @ @ @ @ @ that get longer as they get closer to the ground , you ’ ll save 55 % off the list price .
While the changing seasons may make outdoor furniture less practical in the coming months , this massive deal might tempt you to invest in a set for next summer .
Three Posts ’ Burruss patio sectional with cushions is knocked down 60 % off the list price right now , giving you a cozy place to relax when the weather ’ s nice .
This deal was originally published by Sheilah @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Clark on 11/23/2020 .

Sheilah Villari and Andrew Hayward on Roundups, shared by Gabe Carey to The Root

Featured Deal: Hurst Steel Wood Burning Outdoor Fire Pit | $17 0
Are you ready to cash in on one of Wayfair’s biggest sales of the year? That’s right, I’m talking about the Memorial Day Sale, where you can save up to 70% off on the website’s best-selling products.
Be sure to cash in on all of the summer essentials and everything you’ll need to host BBQs seamlessly. Spice up your indoor and outdoor spaces with the latest styles in decor and furniture!
While you’re at it, why not finance your sale with the Wayfair Mastercard? When you open a Wayfair credit card, not only will you get $40 off your first qualifying order of $250.
Here are some of the best discounts that Wayfair has to offer!
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How many of you are tired of heading off to your dingy local laundromat? Why not treat yourself to an in-unit laundry appliance, starting with the Samsung 4.5 Cubic Feet Cu. Ft. Front Load Washer. This washer is Energy Star Certified and highly efficient (because Samsung is looking out for your electrical bill). At 4.5 cubic feet, the drum will allow you to wash more in a single load to spend more time focusing on work, friends, and family. It also features an improved drum pattern to extract more water, more quickly during the rinse cycle and prevent snags during washes.
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At a whopping 59 % off, the Sealy 12" Plush Memory Foam Mattress provides the medium firmness to keep you snug at night. The knit cover is luxuriously soft, so you can enjoy the full benefits of this premium mattress. It also has low-motion transfer, so you won’t wake up when your partner rolls over at night. It’s even hypoallergenic and works well with adjustable bases for the ultra-sensitive sleeper.
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Does Joanna Gaines have you wishing your home had a rustic flair? Well, you’re in luck the Sand & Stable Laguna Coffee Table with Storage (Natural Pine Brown) is the perfect item to complete your living room transformation. Not only is it available in three beautiful finishes, but its metal accents will be the perfect accent for that farmhouse chic look you’re going for. This table even comes with a shelf for extra storage space.
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This Rachael Ray Cucina bakeware set is a must for your kitchen. This set is non-stick and PFOA and PTFE free for the ultimate ease and safety. Each baking pan is oven safe to 450°F and even has heat-safe silicone grips at the top and bottom of the handles to protect your hands. Just note that these pans are not dishwasher safe.
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Get the perfect chair to rock your baby to sleep with the Sand & Stable Baby & Kids Albie Upholstered Manual Glider Recliner. Available in Gray linen, beige, and dark gray, this product has a full 360°swiveling, reclining, and gliding capabilities. And the poped trim gives it a coastal farmhouse chic look! Note that the frame is built from solid and engineered wood with scooped arms and a wingback.
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For those lucky enough to experience warm weather year-round, it might be time to upgrade your outdoor decor. The Zipcode Design Wicker/Rattan 4 - Person Seating Group is perfect for chilling poolside or catching up with friends over drinks and a charcuterie board. Crafted from a steel frame, each piece is constructed with wicker rattan and is designed to outlast harsh sun and relentless rainstorms. This set also comes with removable cushions for your cleaning needs.
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Did you know that a fire pit can really tie an outdoor space together? At 59 % off, the Hurst Steel Wood Burning Outdoor Fire Pit is a great, high-quality option. Constructed from durable steel, this pit is guaranteed to outlast years of use. It’s also stylish and practical, complete with a mesh screen and handles that make it easy to lift and dump ashes.
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Finding the right tv stand that can pull a whole room together can definitely be a challenge. But not with the Three Posts Lorraine. This stand makes curling up on the couch such a cozy experience with a fireplace included. It even has two cabinets with shelves included, so you can organize your belongings as you see fit.
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Perfect your bedroom or sitting room with the Dmitry Tall Drawer End Table. This table’s bright color and compact design are great for sprucing up any room in your home. The drawers and lower shelf also provide some really handy storage and display options.
This article was originally published by Sheillah Villari on 5/19/22 and was updated by Miranda Martin on 9/7/22.


theroot--2020-11-23--Crackdown on White Supremacist Gangs by California Authorities Leads to Charges Filed Against 102 Pe

Crackdown on White Supremacist Gangs by California Authorities Leads to Charges Filed Against 102 People

It ’ s Thanksgiving this week , and I don ’ t know about you , but I feel like there isn ’ t much to be thankful for in a year like this .
Well , 102 people connected to two white supremacist gangs now face charges as part of an investigation by state and federal authorities .
I suppose that ’ s something to be thankful for .
According to ABC 30 , the investigation , dubbed “ Operation Lucky Charm , ” initially targeted both the Fresno-based street gang the Fresnecks and the prison-based Aryan Brotherhood .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ level took part in the over 11-month investigation , with the primary focus being on cutting off lines of distribution for drugs and guns .
“ A significant aspect of this investigation was the specific effort to identify sources of supply for guns , narcotics and to stop acts of violence in their pre-planning stage , ” Fresno County Sheriff Margaret Mims told reporters at a news conference .
As a result of the investigation , $ 136,000 in cash , 90 pounds of meth , 47 guns , and six pounds of @ @ @ @ @ @ @ key , I was half expecting a partridge in a pear tree to be at the end of that list .
Authorities have also said that the investigation led to the leadership of the Aryan Brotherhood being completely dismantled .
In addition to targeting supply lines , the investigation also prevented contraband from entering state prisons .
Authorities alleged that members of the gangs would get drugs and cell phones into prisons by stuffing them into sports balls .
“ The way it worked is they actually cut open these sports balls and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ used gorilla glue to seal it back up and then were going to toss it back over into the property of a state prison , ” Sheriff Mims told reporters .
I hope I ’ m not the only one with a trash-brain and is currently imagining what noted ringtone rapper Mims would be like as a local sheriff .
Anyway , according to KTLA , the 102 defendants are located across California , Nevada , and Montana .
While half were arrested last Thursday , the other half remains at large , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ on both the state and federal level .
The Aryan Brotherhood allegedly would give the Fresnecks orders using the cell phones that were smuggled into prison , and authorities said they used wiretaps to prevent up to 11 potentially violent crimes from happening .
“ We got up on their phones and we listened to the crimes being ordered and carried out in real-time , ” McGregor Scott , U.S. attorney for the Eastern District of California , told reporters .
The crimes both gangs are alleged to have committed are varied , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ murder , kidnapping , and home invasions .
“ These two gangs pose a real threat to the peace and safety of our communities — not just in Fresno County but throughout the state of California , ” State Attorney General Xavier Becerra told reporters .

It’s Thanksgiving this week, and I don’t know about you, but I feel like there isn’t much to be thankful for in a year like this. Well, 102 people connected to two white supremacist gangs now face charges as part of an investigation by state and federal authorities. I suppose that’s something to be thankful for.
According to ABC 30, the investigation, dubbed “Operation Lucky Charm,” initially targeted both the Fresno-based street gang the Fresnecks and the prison-based Aryan Brotherhood. Authorities on both the federal and local level took part in the over 11-month investigation, with the primary focus being on cutting off lines of distribution for drugs and guns.
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“A significant aspect of this investigation was the specific effort to identify sources of supply for guns, narcotics and to stop acts of violence in their pre-planning stage,” Fresno County Sheriff Margaret Mims told reporters at a news conference.
As a result of the investigation, $136,000 in cash, 90 pounds of meth, 47 guns, and six pounds of heroin were confiscated by authorities. High- key, I was half expecting a partridge in a pear tree to be at the end of that list.
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Authorities have also said that the investigation led to the leadership of the Aryan Brotherhood being completely dismantled. In addition to targeting supply lines, the investigation also prevented contraband from entering state prisons. Authorities alleged that members of the gangs would get drugs and cell phones into prisons by stuffing them into sports balls.
“The way it worked is they actually cut open these sports balls and put in the contraband inside. They used gorilla glue to seal it back up and then were going to toss it back over into the property of a state prison,” Sheriff Mims told reporters.
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I hope I’m not the only one with a trash-brain and is currently imagining what noted ringtone rapper Mims would be like as a local sheriff.
Anyway, according to KTLA, the 102 defendants are located across California, Nevada, and Montana. While half were arrested last Thursday, the other half remains at large, with all facing a series of charges on both the state and federal level.
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The Aryan Brotherhood allegedly would give the Fresnecks orders using the cell phones that were smuggled into prison, and authorities said they used wiretaps to prevent up to 11 potentially violent crimes from happening. “We got up on their phones and we listened to the crimes being ordered and carried out in real-time,” McGregor Scott, U.S. attorney for the Eastern District of California, told reporters.
The crimes both gangs are alleged to have committed are varied, ranging from identity theft and fraud to murder, kidnapping, and home invasions. “These two gangs pose a real threat to the peace and safety of our communities — not just in Fresno County but throughout the state of California,” State Attorney General Xavier Becerra told reporters.


theroot--2020-11-23--Dwyane Wade on Mike Tyson Defending Daughter Zaya From Boosie Badazz: 'It Was Great to Hear Him Say

Dwyane Wade on Mike Tyson Defending Daughter Zaya From Boosie Badazz: 'It Was Great to Hear Him Say That'

Back in February , you might ’ ve heard about an ashy-ass rapper named Boosie Badazz who said some goofy-ass shit about NBA great Dwyane Wade ’ s 13-year-old daughter , Zaya .
It was disgusting , it was transphobic and you likely read all about it here at The Root .
But for those out of the loop , after Dwayne and his wife , actress Gabrielle Union , introduced their daughter Zaya to the world—according to Dwyane , Zaya came home one day , informed the family that she was “ ready to live her truth , ” @ @ @ @ @ @ @ ) and expressed her desire “ to be referenced as ‘ she ’ and ‘ her ’ —Boosie Dumbazz opted out of minding his own business and instead delivered an unsolicited Instagram rant : “ Dwyane Wade , you gone too fucking far , dawg , ” Boosie said in a video posted on Tuesday .
“ That is a male .
A 12-year-old .
At 12 , they don ’ t even know what they next meal gon ’ be .
They don ’ t have shit figured out yet .
He @ @ @ @ @ @ @ at 16 and fall in love with her .
But his dick be gone—how he gon ’ —like , bruh , you going too far , dawg.
” Despite the fact that Zaya has said exactly zero things about a sex-change operation , Boosie continued letting the world know he knows exactly zero things about trans identity .
“ Don ’ t cut his dick off , bruh .
Like , bruh , for real , if he gon ’ be gay , let him be gay , ” Boosie said .
“ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ off , bruh .
Don ’ t—and dress him as a woman , dawg .
He ’ s 12 years old .
He ’ s not up there year .
He hasn ’ t made his final decisions yet .
Don ’ t cut his fucking dick off , Dwyane Wade , bruh .
You fucking trippin ’ , dawg.
” While Dwayne and Gabby have been too preoccupied with being loving , supportive parents to even entertain this nonsense , in the time since the three-time NBA champion has finally addressed the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Ave. After host Julissa Bermudez asked Wade about his feelings on Mike Tyson defending Zaya—Boosie was a guest on Tyson ’ s Hotboxin ’ With Mike Tyson podcast in October and was called out by the boxing legend for not minding his damn business—Wade expressed his appreciation for Iron Mike coming to his family ’ s defense .
“ I actually talked to Mike about that earlier in the pandemic , we had a conversation , ” Wade said .
“ I appreciated it from the standpoint of Mike is someone who has @ @ @ @ @ @ @ ’ s someone who has learned from this journey of life .
He ’ s one of those people that he ’ s so smart , he ’ s so educated and knowledgeable about life .
And for him to be able to drop that nugget on the world , to me , it was great to hear him say that.
” He added , “ I understand that everyone has their own path and journey towards accepting things .
I ’ ve never came out and said anything to anybody that feels @ @ @ @ @ @ @ else in my family or my loved ones because they don ’ t know us , they don ’ t know our hearts , they definitely don ’ t know Zaya .
All I do is what my mama say : Just pray for them.
” During Boosie ’ s interview with Tyson , the former heavyweight champ was pretty blunt : “ Who are you ?
What happened to you that made you think you can make a comment about somebody else ’ s life ?
I used to think I could @ @ @ @ @ @ @ s life.
” Boosie admitted that his mother shared Tyson ’ s sentiments before doubling down on being wrong and strong .
“ I said it and I stand on what I said.
” Thankfully , Zaya has more important things to worry about , like serving as a beacon of light for the LGBTQ community who will continue to educate and inspire millions as she ascends into adulthood .
And with parents like Dwyane and Gabrielle in her corner , the sky ’ s the limit .

Back in February, you might’ve heard about an ashy-ass rapper named Boosie Badazz who said some goofy-ass shit about NBA great Dwyane Wade’s 13-year-old daughter, Zaya. It was disgusting, it was transphobic and you likely read all about it here at The Root.
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But for those out of the loop, after Dwayne and his wife, actress Gabrielle Union, introduced their daughter Zaya to the world—according to Dwyane, Zaya came home one day, informed the family that she was “ready to live her truth,” took the name Zaya (formerly Zion) and expressed her desire “to be referenced as ‘she’ and ‘her’—Boosie Dumbazz opted out of minding his own business and instead delivered an unsolicited Instagram rant:
“Dwyane Wade, you gone too fucking far, dawg,” Boosie said in a video posted on Tuesday. “That is a male. A 12-year-old. At 12, they don’t even know what they next meal gon’ be. They don’t have shit figured out yet. He might meet a woman, anything, at 16 and fall in love with her. But his dick be gone—how he gon’—like, bruh, you going too far, dawg.” Despite the fact that Zaya has said exactly zero things about a sex-change operation, Boosie continued letting the world know he knows exactly zero things about trans identity. “Don’t cut his dick off, bruh. Like, bruh, for real, if he gon’ be gay, let him be gay,” Boosie said. “But don’t cut his dick off, bruh. Don’t—and dress him as a woman, dawg. He’s 12 years old. He’s not up there year. He hasn’t made his final decisions yet. Don’t cut his fucking dick off, Dwyane Wade, bruh. You fucking trippin’, dawg.”
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While Dwayne and Gabby have been too preoccupied with being loving, supportive parents to even entertain this nonsense, in the time since the three-time NBA champion has finally addressed the situation during a recent interview with Central Ave.
After host Julissa Bermudez asked Wade about his feelings on Mike Tyson defending Zaya—Boosie was a guest on Tyson’s Hotboxin’ With Mike Tyson podcast in October and was called out by the boxing legend for not minding his damn business—Wade expressed his appreciation for Iron Mike coming to his family’s defense.
“I actually talked to Mike about that earlier in the pandemic, we had a conversation,” Wade said. “I appreciated it from the standpoint of Mike is someone who has never tried to be perfect. He’s someone who has learned from this journey of life. He’s one of those people that he’s so smart, he’s so educated and knowledgeable about life. And for him to be able to drop that nugget on the world, to me, it was great to hear him say that.”
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He added, “I understand that everyone has their own path and journey towards accepting things. I’ve never came out and said anything to anybody that feels a certain way about me or someone else in my family or my loved ones because they don’t know us, they don’t know our hearts, they definitely don’t know Zaya. All I do is what my mama say: Just pray for them.”
During Boosie’s interview with Tyson, the former heavyweight champ was pretty blunt: “Who are you? What happened to you that made you think you can make a comment about somebody else’s life? I used to think I could make a comment about somebody else’s life.”
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Boosie admitted that his mother shared Tyson’s sentiments before doubling down on being wrong and strong.
“I said it and I stand on what I said.”
Thankfully, Zaya has more important things to worry about, like serving as a beacon of light for the LGBTQ community who will continue to educate and inspire millions as she ascends into adulthood. And with parents like Dwyane and Gabrielle in her corner, the sky’s the limit.


theroot--2020-11-23--My Beautiful Dark Twisted Fantasy Was the Greatest Rap Album of the 21st Century, and Kanye Never Re

My Beautiful Dark Twisted Fantasy Was the Greatest Rap Album of the 21st Century, and Kanye Never Recovered From It

A funny thing about My Beautiful Dark Twisted Fantasy when compared to the other rap albums that exist in the space where “ iconic album ” and “ album I happen to love ” overlap is that I don ’ t remember where or when I first heard it .
I could tell you where I was when I first heard Wu-Forever ( in high school , on a stereo in my man Lenny ’ s living room ) , Supreme Clientele ( on campus at Canisius , in a car in the Bosch Hall parking lot ) , The @ @ @ @ @ @ @ in my apartment ) , and even The College Dropout ( in my man Heath ’ s car , sitting outside of Wilkinsburg Junior/Senior High School ) .
But not for this .
I think the reason why MBDTF didn ’ t earn that status , despite being perhaps my favorite rap album ever ( Supreme Clientele is the only other contender ) is the rollout .
It existed as this culminating entity that concluded G.O.O.D .
Fridays ; by the time the album officially dropped , I ’ d already heard half @ @ @ @ @ @ @ I had .
So I didn ’ t anticipate it as much as I just regarded it as a physical curation of a series of songs I ’ d already heard ( and loved ) enough to memorize .
The only mystery , I thought , was sequencing and inclusion .
( “ Christian Dior Denim Flow ” not making the cut still makes me want to stab someone . )
But then I listened to the album , and Kanye revealed that what we ’ d heard in the preceding months were @ @ @ @ @ @ @ unfinished-sounding “ Ghetto University ” was actually “ All Of The Lights ” —only now it was six minutes long and featured literally everyone who ’ s ever made music before .
“ Devil in a New Dress ” —which I already loved—came armed with Rick Ross ’ best verse .
“ Hell of a Life ” had different lyrics , a different chorus , and a motherfucking xylophone .
The vulnerability required to show your work like this , to edit things in front of an audience in real time , is @ @ @ @ @ @ @ also the fact that his music was impervious to prediction .
With most other prolific rap artists—Jay-Z , Nas , Lil ’ Wayne , Drake , etc.—you come to their new albums equipped with a preconceived and mostly accurate idea of how it ’ s going to sound .
The only question that remains is level of quality .
But Kanye , like Ghostface before him and Kendrick Lamar today , consistently subverted this .
Rap albums in 2008 just did not sound like 808s & Heartbreaks ( which I initially hated ) @ @ @ @ @ @ @ s frequently lauded musicianship and ear accounts for some of this volatility .
But his albums have also always existed within a fog of transparently self-conscious critical-hypercognizance .
Work engineered to be praised as much as it ’ s bought and felt .
Shit that ’ s capital letter Important .
My Beautiful Dark Twisted Fantasy was supposed to be his Thriller—the sort of album that didn ’ t just shift the zeitgeist , but became it .
I t didn ’ t , though , and he never quite recovered from that @ @ @ @ @ @ @ an album as critically and commercially successful as MBDTF was a disappointment .
And , to be clear , it wasn ’ t that to me .
It contained everything I desired in an album ( star-making features , random crack verses , sprinkles of the Wu , etc . )
and even shit I didn ’ t know I wanted until I heard it ( rap songs with no actual rapping in them , Fergie , whatever the fuck it is he did on the last three minutes of “ Runaway ” @ @ @ @ @ @ @ s oft-stated desire to make a Thriller-type album was apparent in both the rollout and the construction of it .
You don ’ t call in whichever favors you need to get Elton John and Rihanna and Drake on the same damn album—and on the same damn song—unless you want it to be the album .
And you definitely don ’ t create and release ( for free ) a whole ass fucking movie unless you intend for said movie to be an essential accompaniment to an iconic , time-stopping work .
And @ @ @ @ @ @ @ But not the big ones .
And it went double platinum .
But that ’ s not diamond .
It captured neither the critical nor the commercial success he wished for .
I have more thoughts on the danger of chasing a ( white ) validation loop that I will not expound on today .
But it ’ s no coincidence that after his transparent aim to reach a status that remained elusive , his work became angrier .
“ Yeezus ” ( an album I love ) is a painfully sparse and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ also the unfinished rough drafts that used to be singles and mixtape fodder became his sloppily completed albums .
One of the byproducts of this downshift was that the flippant misogyny that had always been ensconced in his music became more conspicuous—a zit with a face on it instead of a face with a zit on it .
Today , Kanye West is , well , who Kanye West is .
There are few cultural figures who ’ ve had steeper dips in esteem .
( And none I can think of whose @ @ @ @ @ @ @ generally beloved ” to “ universally loathed ” in such a quick period of time without committing any crimes . )
But 10 years ago , things were different .
Kanye dropped the best rap album of the century .
Too bad that wasn ’ t enough for him .

Damon Young on Very Smart Brothas, shared by Damon Young to The Root

A funny thing about My Beautiful Dark Twisted Fantasy when compared to the other rap albums that exist in the space where “iconic album” and “album I happen to love” overlap is that I don’t remember where or when I first heard it. I could tell you where I was when I first heard Wu-Forever (in high school, on a stereo in my man Lenny’s living room), Supreme Clientele (on campus at Canisius, in a car in the Bosch Hall parking lot), The Blueprint (still on campus, but in my apartment), and even The College Dropout (in my man Heath’s car, sitting outside of Wilkinsburg Junior/Senior High School). But not for this.
I think the reason why MBDTF didn’t earn that status, despite being perhaps my favorite rap album ever (Supreme Clientele is the only other contender) is the rollout. It existed as this culminating entity that concluded G.O.O.D. Fridays; by the time the album officially dropped, I’d already heard half of it. At least I thought I had. So I didn’t anticipate it as much as I just regarded it as a physical curation of a series of songs I’d already heard (and loved) enough to memorize. The only mystery, I thought, was sequencing and inclusion. (“Christian Dior Denim Flow” not making the cut still makes me want to stab someone.)
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But then I listened to the album, and Kanye revealed that what we’d heard in the preceding months were rough drafts. The somewhat underwhelming and unfinished-sounding “Ghetto University” was actually “All Of The Lights”—only now it was six minutes long and featured literally everyone who’s ever made music before. “Devil in a New Dress”—which I already loved—came armed with Rick Ross’ best verse. “Hell of a Life” had different lyrics, a different chorus, and a motherfucking xylophone.
The vulnerability required to show your work like this, to edit things in front of an audience in real time, is what initially endeared me to Kanye—that and also the fact that his music was impervious to prediction. With most other prolific rap artists—Jay-Z, Nas, Lil’ Wayne, Drake, etc.—you come to their new albums equipped with a preconceived and mostly accurate idea of how it’s going to sound. The only question that remains is level of quality. But Kanye, like Ghostface before him and Kendrick Lamar today, consistently subverted this. Rap albums in 2008 just did not sound like 808s & Heartbreaks (which I initially hated) or MBDTF in 2010.
Advertisement Advertisement
Kanye’s frequently lauded musicianship and ear accounts for some of this volatility. But his albums have also always existed within a fog of transparently self-conscious critical-hypercognizance. Work engineered to be praised as much as it’s bought and felt. Shit that’s capital letter Important. My Beautiful Dark Twisted Fantasy was supposed to be his Thriller—the sort of album that didn’t just shift the zeitgeist, but became it. I t didn’t, though, and he never quite recovered from that disappointment.
It feels odd to call an album as critically and commercially successful as MBDTF was a disappointment. And, to be clear, it wasn’t that to me. It contained everything I desired in an album (star-making features, random crack verses, sprinkles of the Wu, etc.) and even shit I didn’t know I wanted until I heard it (rap songs with no actual rapping in them, Fergie, whatever the fuck it is he did on the last three minutes of “Runaway”, etc.). But Kanye’s oft-stated desire to make a Thriller-type album was apparent in both the rollout and the construction of it. You don’t call in whichever favors you need to get Elton John and Rihanna and Drake on the same damn album—and on the same damn song—unless you want it to be the album. And you definitely don’t create and release (for free) a whole ass fucking movie unless you intend for said movie to be an essential accompaniment to an iconic, time-stopping work.
And yeah, it won some Grammys. But not the big ones. And it went double platinum. But that’s not diamond. It captured neither the critical nor the commercial success he wished for.
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I have more thoughts on the danger of chasing a (white) validation loop that I will not expound on today. But it’s no coincidence that after his transparent aim to reach a status that remained elusive, his work became angrier. “Yeezus” (an album I love) is a painfully sparse and vulgar 10-track-long middle finger. And then also the unfinished rough drafts that used to be singles and mixtape fodder became his sloppily completed albums. One of the byproducts of this downshift was that the flippant misogyny that had always been ensconced in his music became more conspicuous—a zit with a face on it instead of a face with a zit on it.
Today, Kanye West is, well, who Kanye West is. There are few cultural figures who’ve had steeper dips in esteem. (And none I can think of whose Black people approval rating plummeted from “generally beloved” to “universally loathed” in such a quick period of time without committing any crimes.) But 10 years ago, things were different. Kanye dropped the best rap album of the century. Too bad that wasn’t enough for him.