theroot--2020-07-03--Look Mighty Glorious in a Plus Size Swimsuit for a Fantastic Price

What would summer be without the perfect swimsuit ?
Plus size swimwear has come a long way in the last five years and the options are abundant .
I can ’ t help myself , when there is a good sale , I always look at the swimsuits first !
This week there is a load of fantastic sales everywhere so I ’ ve rounded up some of the best-priced swimwear for you to choose from .
Headed to the lake ?
There ’ s a swimsuit for that .
Lounging in the backyard ?
A bikini would be perfect @ @ @ @ @ @ @ unique retro style that versatile yet so chic .
This swimsuit ’ s feminine throwback style fits right into your wardrobe and gives you a little pop with the red cherry print .
I love the wide , adjustable straps so you can be sure the straps don ’ t keep falling off your shoulders , plus they ’ re easily crisscrossed if you prefer .
The underside is supportive and gives you sun protection of 50 SPF .
Available in sizes Size XS - 4X .
Torrid is the tried and true @ @ @ @ @ @ @ person ’ s closet .
If you ’ re looking for the perfect cute one-piece swimsuit for long-distance swimming , laps , or just for lounging , this is the one .
The tropical print is paired with a beautiful mesh illusion neckline and wireless lined cups .
The straps are adjustable so you ’ ll get the perfect fit .
A classic suit that will become one of your summer favorites .
Available in sizes 10-30 .
Amazon has some great swimsuit options for the budget-conscious buyer .
I ’ ve always @ @ @ @ @ @ @ crisscrosses across your belly and ties in the back .
Combine that with yellow ?
You have an irresistible combination .
This suit is extremely well grated , with 4.6 out of 5 stars and 160 reviews .
You can get this beauty in seven different colors and in sizes XL-4X .
Polkadot really is one of my favorite prints .
Even in black and white , it seems like polka dots add a dash of excitement and fun .
This beauty is high waisted , with adjustable straps and cute tie detail @ @ @ @ @ @ @ offer great support so you can have fun and be secure .
Sizes 10 - 24 available .
A one-shoulder one piece ?
Yes , please .
I have to admit , I have a love affair with leopard .
The leopard print gives an instant sexy edge to a rather simple classy suit .
Overlayed with mesh , you have non-wired padded cups for a comfortable fit .
If you ’ re feeling daring , the should step can be removed for a true one-shoulder look , or kept on for a @ @ @ @ @ @ @ 8-24 .
Do you have a black swimsuit bottom just hanging out at the back of your closet ?
Maybe it ’ s one of your old boring black suits you can ’ t seem to get rid of .
Repurpose it with this stunning summery printed tankini top .
The billowy strapless Target look is perfect for any summertime occasion and can even be worn as a top .
Available in sizes 1X - 3X .

Chaya M Milchtein on Kinja Deals, shared by Elizabeth Henges to The Root

What would summer be without the perfect swimsuit? Plus size swimwear has come a long way in the last five years and the options are abundant. I can’t help myself, when there is a good sale, I always look at the swimsuits first! This week there is a load of fantastic sales everywhere so I’ve rounded up some of the best-priced swimwear for you to choose from. Headed to the lake? There’s a swimsuit for that. Lounging in the backyard? A bikini would be perfect for that too!
Modcloth offers a unique retro style that versatile yet so chic. This swimsuit’s feminine throwback style fits right into your wardrobe and gives you a little pop with the red cherry print.
I love the wide, adjustable straps so you can be sure the straps don’t keep falling off your shoulders, plus they’re easily crisscrossed if you prefer. The underside is supportive and gives you sun protection of 50 SPF. Available in sizes Size XS - 4X.
Torrid is the tried and true plus size staple brand in every plus-size person’s closet. If you’re looking for the perfect cute one-piece swimsuit for long-distance swimming, laps, or just for lounging, this is the one. The tropical print is paired with a beautiful mesh illusion neckline and wireless lined cups. The straps are adjustable so you’ll get the perfect fit. A classic suit that will become one of your summer favorites. Available in sizes 10-30.
Amazon has some great swimsuit options for the budget-conscious buyer. I’ve always wanted a suit like this one which crisscrosses across your belly and ties in the back. Combine that with yellow? You have an irresistible combination. This suit is extremely well grated, with 4.6 out of 5 stars and 160 reviews. You can get this beauty in seven different colors and in sizes XL-4X.
Polkadot really is one of my favorite prints. Even in black and white, it seems like polka dots add a dash of excitement and fun. This beauty is high waisted, with adjustable straps and cute tie detail. The long line bra and underwire offer great support so you can have fun and be secure. Sizes 10 - 24 available.
A one-shoulder one piece? Yes, please. I have to admit, I have a love affair with leopard. The leopard print gives an instant sexy edge to a rather simple classy suit. Overlayed with mesh, you have non-wired padded cups for a comfortable fit. If you’re feeling daring, the should step can be removed for a true one-shoulder look, or kept on for a more secure fit. Available in sizes 8-24.
Do you have a black swimsuit bottom just hanging out at the back of your closet? Maybe it’s one of your old boring black suits you can’t seem to get rid of. Repurpose it with this stunning summery printed tankini top. The billowy strapless Target look is perfect for any summertime occasion and can even be worn as a top. Available in sizes 1X - 3X.


theroot--2020-07-03--The NFL Will Play 'Lift Every Voice and Sing' Before All Week 1 Games. This Is A Very Bad Idea

Since the NFL recently discovered that most of its players are Black and that maybe racism is a thing , they ’ ve been doing shit .
And there ’ s nothing worse than a formerly wrong motherfucker with a newfound desire to do right .
For example , we all know former knuckleheads who find Jesus and then beat you over the head with their newfound zealotry .
One of my uncles passed away in early March and at the funeral ( which I attended , as this was before funerals were limited to 10 people because of ‘ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ gentleman was on the program to speak and managed to ream folks out over adultery , our perceived lack of a moral compass and the need to respect ourselves , especially women .
What this had to do with my uncle I do not know , as I don ’ t even know why he was on the program .
What I do know is that during his confusing soapboxery , he managed to tell us that he was basically a terrible human being beforehand—pimpin ’ and hoein ’ and such , essentially @ @ @ @ @ @ @ now—because he found Jesus .
And he was mad at everybody else who was still doing the shenanigans since he stopped .
I do not know this dude but I do not like this dude .
Long story short here : There ’ s nothing worse than a formerly wrong motherfucker with a newfound desire to do right .
What does this have to do with the NFL ?
Well , since George Floyd was killed on May 25 at the hands of the Minneapolis Police Department , protests and mass demonstrations have @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , with “ Amazing Grace ” being the new order of the day .
One such organization that was blind but can see clearly now is the NFL .
The league ’ s commissioner effectively admitted , without saying his name or apologizing to him , that the NFL was wrong to stifle the attempts of NFL players to use their sizable platforms to peacefully protest against police brutality and racial injustice .
The NFL , clearly feeling good about moseying on over to the right side of history has now been in @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Association to determine what further measures the league can make to allow players to use their visibility to make a difference by supporting social justice movements .
A few of those measures involves following in the footsteps of other leagues and organizations .
The NBA has decided to allow players to replace their names with social justice messages , though they are leaning away from allowing players to replace their names with the names of victims of police brutality .
The NFL is thinking of doing something in the same vein via helmets @ @ @ @ @ @ @ event in Pennsylvania—the Pocono 350—saxophonist Mike Phillips opened and closed the “ Star-Spangled Banner ” with a few bars from the Black National Anthem , “ Lift Every Voice and Sing.
” Apparently somebody at the NFL saw this ( maybe even Jay-Z ) and was like , “ that ’ s it right there.
” ( It is not it . )
Quick sidebar : What Black folks have asked for—with many having fought and died for it—is full citizenry in this country .
Colin Kaepernick peacefully protested and was blackballed by @ @ @ @ @ @ @ fucked the dog on that one .
We want to be able to protest injustice without having the full weight of the military thrust upon people with backpacks and signs .
We want a police force that doesn ’ t view its Black citizens as disposable .
We just want whiteness to stop being so fucking fragile and intent on viewing racism as an individual issue and not the systemic sport whiteness has made it into .
In the case of the NFL , they actively stopped players , most of whom are @ @ @ @ @ @ @ their voice and platform to address things that negatively impacted them .
White people who aren ’ t smart conflated a peaceful protest into some shit about hating the military and other stupid shit stupid people do when nobody is bothering them but they feel like their rights and “ white peace ” are being trampled upon .
Now the NFL seems open to disturbing that peace by allowing their players to disrupt it .
Some white people who are already mad will now continue to be mad and feel like their sports @ @ @ @ @ @ @ hasn ’ t always been the case .
But now you ’ re about to give a sizable number of racists something to actively protest .
Which is stupid because nobody asked for this .
“ Lift Every Voice and Sing ” being played before Week 1 games isn ’ t even a small victory .
At best it ’ s….nice ( ? )
but at worst it opens up a whole new can of worms .
The NFL fanbase has a racism problem , if anybody is allowed in those stands , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ on their hands .
Look , white people were pissed and ready to boycott the league over Colin Kaepernick .
So were Black people .
My guess is both sides of that protest got over it at some point .
But now the NFL will allow peaceful protest , going so far as to allow players to actively engage in some fashion .
Great .
But playing the Black National Anthem before a game , before the “ Star-Spangled Banner , ” gives the collective whiteness an opportunity to literally turn their backs @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
And then you have a real racism problem .
If I ’ m an NFL player and I hear the song played and look in the stands and see a sizable number of fans—and let ’ s be real , it ’ s entirely possible—turn their back or mock the anthem , I might be inclined to stage a fucking walkout .
Those people who already hate Kaepernick and Black protests buy tickets , and now they are finding out there ’ s a Black National Anthem .
I ’ ll bet @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
Let ’ s be real , the NFL crowd isn ’ t that different from the same NASCAR crowd who lost their shit at the association ’ s decision to remove the Confederate flag from their venues .
But there ’ s a difference between removing a symbol of whiteness and injecting pure Blackness .
If playing this song was actually on a list of things that could make the world a better place , sure .
But it ’ s not .
Making a deal out of it for the sake @ @ @ @ @ @ @ is literally not an honor .
I don ’ t believe it ’ s necessary and I don ’ t think the NFL is ready for a noticeable enough segment of their white fanbase to publicly go full racism in protest .
Maybe I ’ m being unnecessarily pessimistic , but if the recent protests have taught us anything , white people gon ’ white people .
We are still a nation divided .
You can ’ t even lift every voice if 75 percent of people in the stands are going to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ sit through it .
I hope it doesn ’ t happen , but when turned backs or boos ring out , the NFL is going to have a whole new Black people problem .
And is that really worth it ?
Especially when nobody put this on the demand list in the first place ?
Is it worth it to potentially watch angry white folks visibly protest something that means so much to Black people ?
I really don ’ t think so .
It ’ s a bridge nobody asked to be @ @ @ @ @ @ @ t even have an audience and so this won ’ t be an issue .
That ’ s the best-case scenario , but the NFL will allow teams to determine their attendance which means some games will absolutely have fans in the stands .
I guess the NFL thinks that since they now “ get it ” their fanbase does as well .
And they ’ re using a sacred Black paean to liberation to hedge that bet .

Panama Jackson on Very Smart Brothas, shared by Panama Jackson to The Root

Since the NFL recently discovered that most of its players are Black and that maybe racism is a thing, they’ve been doing shit. And there’s nothing worse than a formerly wrong motherfucker with a newfound desire to do right.
Advertisement
For example, we all know former knuckleheads who find Jesus and then beat you over the head with their newfound zealotry. One of my uncles passed away in early March and at the funeral (which I attended, as this was before funerals were limited to 10 people because of ‘Dat Rona’), some not-related-t0-me gentleman was on the program to speak and managed to ream folks out over adultery, our perceived lack of a moral compass and the need to respect ourselves, especially women. What this had to do with my uncle I do not know, as I don’t even know why he was on the program. What I do know is that during his confusing soapboxery, he managed to tell us that he was basically a terrible human being beforehand—pimpin’ and hoein’ and such, essentially everything that he’s not doing now—because he found Jesus. And he was mad at everybody else who was still doing the shenanigans since he stopped. I do not know this dude but I do not like this dude. Long story short here: There’s nothing worse than a formerly wrong motherfucker with a newfound desire to do right.
What does this have to do with the NFL? Well, since George Floyd was killed on May 25 at the hands of the Minneapolis Police Department, protests and mass demonstrations have apparently opened the eyes of many people, with“Amazing Grace” being the new order of the day. One such organization that was blind but can see clearly now is the NFL. The league’s commissioner effectively admitted, without saying his name or apologizing to him, that the NFL was wrong to stifle the attempts of NFL players to use their sizable platforms to peacefully protest against police brutality and racial injustice. The NFL, clearly feeling good about moseying on over to the right side of history has now been in discussions with players and the NFL Players Association to determine what further measures the league can make to allow players to use their visibility to make a difference by supporting social justice movements.
Advertisement Advertisement
A few of those measures involves following in the footsteps of other leagues and organizations. The NBA has decided to allow players to replace their names with social justice messages, though they are leaning away from allowing players to replace their names with the names of victims of police brutality. The NFL is thinking of doing something in the same vein via helmets and jerseys. At a recent NASCAR event in Pennsylvania—the Pocono 350—saxophonist Mike Phillips opened and closed the “Star-Spangled Banner” with a few bars from the Black National Anthem, “Lift Every Voice and Sing.” Apparently somebody at the NFL saw this (maybe even Jay-Z) and was like, “that’s it right there.” (It is not it.)
Quick sidebar: What Black folks have asked for—with many having fought and died for it—is full citizenry in this country. Colin Kaepernick peacefully protested and was blackballed by the NFL, which now admits it fucked the dog on that one. We want to be able to protest injustice without having the full weight of the military thrust upon people with backpacks and signs. We want a police force that doesn’t view its Black citizens as disposable. We just want whiteness to stop being so fucking fragile and intent on viewing racism as an individual issue and not the systemic sport whiteness has made it into.
Advertisement
In the case of the NFL, they actively stopped players, most of whom are Black, from being able to use their voice and platform to address things that negatively impacted them. White people who aren’t smart conflated a peaceful protest into some shit about hating the military and other stupid shit stupid people do when nobody is bothering them but they feel like their rights and “white peace” are being trampled upon. Now the NFL seems open to disturbing that peace by allowing their players to disrupt it. Some white people who are already mad will now continue to be mad and feel like their sports are being politicized, as if that hasn’t always been the case. But now you’re about to give a sizable number of racists something to actively protest. Which is stupid because nobody asked for this. “Lift Every Voice and Sing” being played before Week 1 games isn’t even a small victory. At best it’s….nice(?) but at worst it opens up a whole new can of worms. The NFL fanbase has a racism problem, if anybody is allowed in those stands, they might have a fucking PR nightmare on their hands.
Look, white people were pissed and ready to boycott the league over Colin Kaepernick. So were Black people. My guess is both sides of that protest got over it at some point. But now the NFL will allow peaceful protest, going so far as to allow players to actively engage in some fashion. Great. But playing the Black National Anthem before a game, before the “Star-Spangled Banner,” gives the collective whiteness an opportunity to literally turn their backs during the whole shit, on television. And then you have a real racism problem. If I’m an NFL player and I hear the song played and look in the stands and see a sizable number of fans—and let’s be real, it’s entirely possible—turn their back or mock the anthem, I might be inclined to stage a fucking walkout. Those people who already hate Kaepernick and Black protests buy tickets, and now they are finding out there’s a Black National Anthem. I’ll bet sports talk radio is a fucking mess.
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Let’s be real, the NFL crowd isn’t that different from the same NASCAR crowd who lost their shit at the association’s decision to remove the Confederate flag from their venues. But there’s a difference between removing a symbol of whiteness and injecting pure Blackness. If playing this song was actually on a list of things that could make the world a better place, sure. But it’s not. Making a deal out of it for the sake of saying you’re honoring Blackness is literally not an honor. I don’t believe it’s necessary and I don’t think the NFL is ready for a noticeable enough segment of their white fanbase to publicly go full racism in protest. Maybe I’m being unnecessarily pessimistic, but if the recent protests have taught us anything, white people gon’ white people. We are still a nation divided. You can’t even lift every voice if 75 percent of people in the stands are going to be annoyed that they even have to sit through it. I hope it doesn’t happen, but when turned backs or boos ring out, the NFL is going to have a whole new Black people problem. And is that really worth it? Especially when nobody put this on the demand list in the first place? Is it worth it to potentially watch angry white folks visibly protest something that means so much to Black people?
I really don’t think so. It’s a bridge nobody asked to be built. Maybe the games won’t even have an audience and so this won’t be an issue. That’s the best-case scenario, but the NFL will allow teams to determine their attendance which means some games will absolutely have fans in the stands. I guess the NFL thinks that since they now “get it” their fanbase does as well. And they’re using a sacred Black paean to liberation to hedge that bet.
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Nobody asked for this.


theroot--2020-07-03--'Lift Ev'ry Voice and Sing' Is Coming to A Week 1 NFL Game Near You

The performative gestures from brands now trying to show that they care about Black lives—all of a sudden in 2020—have been ridiculous , hilarious , and cringe-worthy .
Here ’ s one that fits all three descriptions perfectly .
The National Football League will be playing “ Lift Ev ’ ry Voice and Sing , ” also known as the Black national anthem , at the beginning of each Week one game when the season opens in September .
ESPN reported the news , which came from a source who says the measure is intended to recognize victims of police @ @ @ @ @ @ @ be played or performed live before “ The Star Spangled Banner.
” Former NFL quarterback Colin Kaepernick was notoriously blacklisted from the League for kneeling during the playing of the anthem to highlight the fact that Black people in this country still have to fight for the right to life and liberty .
Apparently the NFL is all on board with all Black everything now , and is considering listing the names of people killed by police on jerseys or helmets and also producing educational programs about victims as part of its commitment @ @ @ @ @ @ @ just me , or is it more than a little suspicious and presumptuous for a company to pivot from actively opposing anti-racism efforts to “ becoming a prominent voice ” in the fight to end racism ?

The performative gestures from brands now trying to show that they care about Black lives—all of a sudden in 2020—have been ridiculous, hilarious, and cringe-worthy. Here’s one that fits all three descriptions perfectly.
The National Football League will be playing “Lift Ev’ry Voice and Sing,” also known as the Black national anthem, at the beginning of each Week one game when the season opens in September.
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ESPN reported the news, which came from a source who says the measure is intended to recognize victims of police brutality. The Black anthem will reportedly be played or performed live before “The Star Spangled Banner.”
Former NFL quarterback Colin Kaepernick was notoriously blacklisted from the League for kneeling during the playing of the anthem to highlight the fact that Black people in this country still have to fight for the right to life and liberty.
Advertisement Advertisement
Apparently the NFL is all on board with all Black everything now, and is considering listing the names of people killed by police on jerseys or helmets and also producing educational programs about victims as part of its commitment to address systemic racism.
From ESPN:
The league hopes its efforts demonstrate “a genuine commitment to the public, players and coaches and that player voices continue to be heard,” the source wrote in a text message. “This is key to educating fans, and becoming a prominent voice in the fight to end racism.”
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Is it just me, or is it more than a little suspicious and presumptuous for a company to pivot from actively opposing anti-racism efforts to “becoming a prominent voice” in the fight to end racism?
Another question—who asked for this?


theroot--2020-07-03--Michigan Woman Who Pulled Gun on Black Family Charged With Felonious Assault, Husband Fired From Job

In this moment in time when white people are losing their minds and pointing weapons at Black people willy-nilly ( as well as verbally assaulting them , calling the cops on them , and otherwise threatening their lives and well-being ) here is an example of exactly what needs to happen to stop this bullshit : consequences .
Jillian Wuestenberg , the woman who pulled a gun on a Black woman and her daughter in a Detroit parking lot earlier this week , is now facing a maximum penalty of four years in prison for her actions .
Sheriff Michael @ @ @ @ @ @ @ on Thursday that Wuestenberg and her husband , Eric Wuestenberg , have both been charged with felonious assault , according to a report from the New York Times .
The female Wuestenberg was captured on video pointing a gun and screaming orders at Black people on Wednesday , in the latest example of white people deputizing themselves to act like officers and live out their homicidal racist fantasies .
Sheriff Bouchard said at a press conference announcing the charges that the couple had their guns with them when they were taken into custody @ @ @ @ @ @ @ serious and potentially deadly injury can be charged as a felonious assault , ” he explained , adding : “ Please let us all try to be that voice of calm in the storm , and remember each one of us is a human being that deserves respect.
” Meanwhile , Mr. Wuestenberg can now count his job as a casualty lost to his and his wife ’ s actions .
Oakland University in Michigan said on Thursday that it had fired Mr. Wuestenberg .
He had been listed on the university ’ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ support services .
“ We have seen the video and we deem his behavior unacceptable , ” a university spokesman said in a statement .
“ The employee has been notified that his employment has been terminated by the university .
”

In this moment in time when white people are losing their minds and pointing weapons at Black people willy-nilly (as well as verbally assaulting them, calling the cops on them, and otherwise threatening their lives and well-being) here is an example of exactly what needs to happen to stop this bullshit: consequences.
Jillian Wuestenberg, the woman who pulled a gun on a Black woman and her daughter in a Michigan parking lot earlier this week, is now facing a maximum penalty of four years in prison for her actions.
Advertisement
Sheriff Michael Bouchard of Oakland County, Michigan announced on Thursday that Wuestenberg and her husband, Eric Wuestenberg, have both been charged with felonious assault, according to a report from the New York Times.
The female Wuestenberg was captured on video pointing a gun and screaming orders at Black people on Wednesday, in the latest example of white people deputizing themselves to act like officers and live out their homicidal fantasies.
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Sheriff Bouchard said at a press conference announcing the charges that the couple had their guns with them when they were taken into custody.
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“Any weapon that could cause serious and potentially deadly injury can be charged as a felonious assault,” he explained, adding: “Please let us all try to be that voice of calm in the storm, and remember each one of us is a human being that deserves respect.”
Meanwhile, Mr. Wuestenberg can now count his job as a casualty lost to his and his wife’s actions.
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From the NY Times:
Oakland University in Michigan said on Thursday that it had fired Mr. Wuestenberg. He had been listed on the university’s website as a coordinator of veterans support services. “We have seen the video and we deem his behavior unacceptable,” a university spokesman said in a statement. “The employee has been notified that his employment has been terminated by the university.”
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Too bad, so sad. Also—hahahahahahaha.


theroot--2020-07-03--Wayfair's 4th of July Sale Brings Some of the Deepest Discounts You've Ever Seen

Up to 70 % off Sitewide | Wayfair The 4th of July is known for its amazing sales and is @ @ @ @ @ shopping holidays .
Wayfair is no different and is bringing you up to 70 % @ @ @ @ @ .
You ’ ll see some of the deepest discounts in wall art where you @ @ @ @ @ 70 % off .
This beautiful six-piece floral set is 41 % off and is @ @ @ @ @ ey ’ ve got your backyard covered too with outdoor furniture up to 60 % @ @ @ @ @ reclining chaise lounge that ’ s 63 % off .
You can see unreal savings @ @ @ @ @ , this gorgeous platform bed is now under $ 200 .
You ’ ll definitely @ @ @ @ @ in this sitewide sale .

Sheilah Villari on Kinja Deals, shared by Elizabeth Henges to The Root

Up to 70% off Sitewide | Wayfair
The 4th of July is known for its amazing sales and is easily one of the best shopping holidays . Wayfair is no different and is bringing you up to 70% off across all their categories.
You’ll see some of the deepest discounts in wall art where you can find pieces at that 70% off. This beautiful six-piece floral set is 41% off and is a customer favorite. Th ey’ve got your backyard covered too with outdoor furniture up to 60% off like this best selling reclining chaise lounge that’s 63% off. You can see unreal savings in b edroom furniture also, this gorgeous platform bed is now under $200. You’ll definitely find something for almost nothing in this sitewide sale.
Free two-day shipping on orders over $35.


theroot--2020-07-03--The Root Jams Weekly (7/3/2020): 'Road Trippin''

Under normal circumstances , in a world where ‘ Rona wasn ’ t prompt and present and folks weren ’ @ @ @ @ @ if not most ) of us would be heading out of town or to beaches @ @ @ @ @ road trips were my favorite thing to do .
This July 4th , we ’ @ @ @ @ @ for the road we ’ d travel if we could .
Smokey Robinson & The @ @ @ @ @ My Tears ” Sly & The Family Stone “ Hot Fun in the Summertime ” @ @ @ @ @ Can ’ t Go For That ( No Can Do ) ”

Under normal circumstances, in a world where ‘Rona wasn’t prompt and present and folks weren’t idiots, many (if not most) of us would be heading out of town or to beaches. As a kid, road trips were my favorite thing to do. This July 4th, we’re celebrating with a playlist for the road we’d travel if we could.
Tonja Stidhum
Oasis “Wonderwall”
Kanye West “Father Stretch My Hands Pt. 1"
Leon Bridges “River”
Seal “Kiss From a Rose”
Michael Harriot
Queen “Bohemian Rhapsody”
Gladys Knight “End of the Road Medley”
D’Angelo “Cruisin’”
Panama Jackson
Rod Stewart “Forever Young”
Kelis “Like You”
Dwele “Hold On”
Hall & Oates “Sara Smile”
Hall & Oates “Kiss On My List”
The GAP Band “Outstanding”
Smokey Robinson & The Miracles “The Tracks of My Tears”
The Commodores “Easy”
Sly & The Family Stone “Hot Fun in the Summertime”
Hall & Oates “I Can’t Go For That (No Can Do)”
Patrice Rushen “Remind Me”
The Jones Girls “Who Can I Run To?”
Atlantic Starr “When Love Calls”
Minnie Riperton “Inside My Love”
Lenny Williams “’Cause I Love You”
Maiysha Kai
Fleetwood Mac “Go Your Own Way”
Doobie Brothers “It Keeps You Runnin’”
Commodores “Zoom”
David Bowie “Golden Years”
Paul Simon “50 Ways to Leave Your Lover”
Kenny Loggins “This Is It”
Christopher Cross “Ride Like The Wind”
Laura Branigin “Gloria”


theroot--2020-07-03--4 Days Into Their Effort to #TakeBackEssence, the Collective Known as #BlackFemaleAnonymous Declares

4 Days Into Their Effort to #TakeBackEssence, the Collective Known as #BlackFemaleAnonymous Declares Success [Updated]

After a barrage of accusations and threats to publish incriminating evidence to support their claims , the group of current and former Essence staffers who comprise # BlackFemaleAnonymous say their conditions have been met .
The announcement , made via a tweet on Thursday night , came a day ahead of the collective ’ s pronounced July 3 end-of-day deadline , after a New York Times article seemingly confirmed that Essence Ventures founder and owner Richelieu Dennis , Former President and CEO of Essence Communications Michelle Ebanks , Chief Operating Officer Joy Collins Profet , and Chief Content and Creative @ @ @ @ @ @ @ engage in daily business operations at the magazine .
The announcement came after a week of online exchanges , widespread speculation , a Change.org petition which garnered thousands of names in support of the effort to # TakeBackEssence and statements issued by the magazine itself , which is simultaneously celebrating its 50th anniversary year and virtually hosting its 26th annual Essence Festival this week .
As recently as Thursday afternoon , the magazine sent an email to The Glow Up clarifying the role of Dennis at the organization , stating : The accusations @ @ @ @ @ @ @ and misconduct as well as nepotism in the staffing of his holdings—were perhaps the most loaded of the litany of charges made by # BlackFemaleAnonymous , which threatened to make public proof of their numerous claims if Dennis and the other leaders named didn ’ t step down by week ’ s end .
Aside from the clarification that Dennis never held the role of CEO and will no longer lead the team since having chosen new Chief Growth Officer Caroline Wanga as interim CEO , the Times reprinted portions of a statement @ @ @ @ @ @ @ called the coalition ’ s claims “ accusations and demands ” that were “ unsupported and outdated.
” Additionally , the statement provided to the Times states that Ebanks has not been active in Essence ’ s business operations since resigning in March ( though holding a seat on the board ) ; a claim the coalition refutes .
Collins Profet purportedly already planned to exit Essence for another role in advance of the # BlackFemaleAnonymous letter , and while there was no stated plan for Luu to resign from her role , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ ’ demands , disclosing that she “ will step back from day-to-day operations during the course of the [ independent ] review.
” Dubious but nevertheless declaring triumph , it is the aforementioned review—which Essence leadership has promised will be independently conducted—that # BlackFemaleAnonymous seems to have set their sights on next .
“ We ’ re confident should the ‘ Internal investigation ’ be conducted ethically ... findings will corroborate every claim in our testimony , ” they wrote in their three-page response on Thursday , adding : “ Existing staffers continue @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Who will represent the Black female employees of Essence ?
This is why we demand full transparency on internal investigations , full stop.
” The writers directly tasked interim CEO Wanga with the responsibility of providing the requested information , as well as restating a prior request for an action plan “ outlining how Essence will make its workplace more safe and equitable for Black women.
” Per their statement , some of their expectations of the proposed plan include “ Equitable salaries at market-rate ” ; strict anti-bullying and intimidation policies ; @ @ @ @ @ @ @ staff not only opportunities for promotions and raises , but opportunities for fair , non-punitive feedback , all of which would be “ based on performance , and not likeability , ” they write .
“ And finally , we expect you to introduce the most premier maternity leave policy in the nation , because Black female maternal mortality is one of Black America ’ s most urgent and unsung issues , and because Black female reproductive justice matters , ” ends the list of revised demands .
As the Times notes , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ and organizations are being forced to take stock of in our current climate—and many of the issues # BlackFemaleAnonymous highlighted over the course of the past week .
But at a company long considered the pinnacle of Black female representation in the media , the demand that the inner workings reflect that outer image presents a reckoning specific to Black media outlets , as the “ family ” must address the dysfunction within its own ranks .
On a personal note : As a journalist at a fellow Black media outlet—one led by @ @ @ @ @ @ @ closely with Essence , there has been no pleasure in reporting on the issues raised by # BlackFemaleAnonymous , and genuine hope that any issues present are resolved so that the brand may indeed live up to its revered image .
As a Black female journalist who grew up with this now-legacy brand , processing the claims that the organization may not be the safe haven I once found in its pages has been saddening .
Nevertheless , as a Black female journalist who both admires the Essence legacy and strives for more @ @ @ @ @ @ @ and opportunity presented by this controversy have been both necessary and encouraging .
These conversations are almost indescribably uncomfortable , but they have never been more crucial more than now , as we hope to use this pivotal moment to create a more equitable media industry .
With work , it will become one in which Black women ’ s intellect and cultural cachet no longer merely serve as inspiration for others to mine and exploit but will facilitate the elevation and recognition of Black women ’ s brilliance in its totality .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ within .
Updated : Friday , 7/3/20 at 4:00 p.m. , ET : Echoing our assertion that the issues raised by # BlackFemaleAnonymous were never exclusive to Essence , the National Association of Black Journalists ( NABJ ) issued its own statement on the matter on Friday afternoon .
I n it , the organization expressed support for the coalition ’ s bravery in highlighting these issues , dismay at the accusations leveled at Dennis and similar ones implicating the now-former CEO of Okayplayer/OkayAfrica Abiola Oke , and acknowledged that there may be @ @ @ @ @ @ @ must move swiftly to rectify the issues [ and ] provide remedies , resources , [ and ] apologies to the women impacted , ” read a tweet from the organization , adding : “ Change must happen now !
Updated : Friday , 7/3/20 at 2:36 p.m. , ET : Inferring that some of the abusive behaviors described in their June 28 essay have continued even as Essence has publicly met their initial demands , # BlackFemaleAnonymous issued a tweet on Friday morning warning their threat to publish evidence of misconduct on @ @ @ @ @ @ @ their missive ] would be reactivated if “ covert gaslighting [ and ] bullying ” by Essence and Dennis family “ operatives ” continued on their platforms .
The Glow Up has reached out to the group for further comment and will update if any is given .
Updated : Friday , 7/3/20 at 11:05 a.m. , ET : # BlackFemaleAnonymous reached out to The Glow Up to dispute the use of the phrase “ Dubious but nevertheless declaring triumph ... ” as they felt it undermined the success of their effort .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ never intended as an assessment of their victory , but in reference to the groups ’ outstanding concerns about Essence ’ s corporate structure and pending investigation .
# BlackFemaleAnonymous further expressed concern that we had not reached out to them directly for comment during our coverage .
Our choice to let the coalition ’ s statements stand for themselves was consistent with our treatment of Essence , and additionally out of respect for the fact that the group had already expressed its terms of anonymity ( of note : the Times reported @ @ @ @ @ @ @ comment ; we do not know if we would have had a different response to such a request ) .
Since this is an issue personal to this writer as a fellow Black female journalist , in a quest to maintain objectivity I chose to speak with third parties with direct knowledge of the situation at Essence Communications and its affiliates .
All of those sources corroborated # BlackFemaleAnonymous ’ allegations to the best of their knowledge .
What should also be noted here is that the issues raised by # BlackFemaleAnonymous are @ @ @ @ @ @ @ media company , and their success in this brave effort holds transformative potential for how Black women are treated throughout our industry .
While The Glow Up ’ s goal in covering this issue was not to over-editorialize but fact-gather , we stand in solidarity with any effort to increase parity and respect for Black women in the workplace .

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

After a barrage of accusations and threats to publish incriminating evidence to support their claims, the group of current and former Essence staffers who comprise #BlackFemaleAnonymous say their conditions have been met. The announcement, made via a tweet on Thursday night, came a day ahead of the collective’s pronounced July 3 end-of-day deadline, after a New York Times article seemingly confirmed that Essence Ventures founder and owner Richelieu Dennis, Former President and CEO of Essence Communications Michelle Ebanks, Chief Operating Officer Joy Collins Profet, and Chief Content and Creative Officer Moana Luu have all ceased to engage in daily business operations at the magazine.
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The announcement came after a week of online exchanges, widespread speculation, a Change.org petition which garnered thousands of names in support of the effort to #TakeBackEssence and statements issued by the magazine itself, which is simultaneously celebrating its 50th anniversary year and virtually hosting its 26th annual Essence Festival this week. As recently as Thursday afternoon, the magazine sent an email to The Glow Up clarifying the role of Dennis at the organization, stating:
There was no interim CEO at ESSENCE Communications, Inc. (ECI), following the departure of Michelle Ebanks on March 31 until Richelieu Dennis appointed Caroline Wanga to this position on July 1. As owner, Dennis helped to lead the team along with the ECI senior leadership team, but never took on the roles or responsibilities of CEO. So he never stepped down from, resigned from or was replaced in any role.
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The accusations against Dennis—which included claims of sexual harassment and misconduct as well as nepotism in the staffing of his holdings—were perhaps the most loaded of the litany of charges made by #BlackFemaleAnonymous, which threatened to make public proof of their numerous claims if Dennis and the other leaders named didn’t step down by week’s end. Aside from the clarification that Dennis never held the role of CEO and will no longer lead the team since having chosen new Chief Growth Officer Caroline Wanga as interim CEO, the Times reprinted portions of a statement by Essence spokesperson Latraviette Smith-Wilson, who called the coalition’s claims “accusations and demands” that were “unsupported and outdated.”
Additionally, the statement provided to the Times states that Ebanks has not been active in Essence’s business operations since resigning in March (though holding a seat on the board); a claim the coalition refutes. Collins Profet purportedly already planned to exit Essence for another role in advance of the #BlackFemaleAnonymous letter, and while there was no stated plan for Luu to resign from her role, the statement partly conceded to the letter-writers’ demands, disclosing that she “will step back from day-to-day operations during the course of the [independent] review.”
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Dubious but nevertheless declaring triumph, it is the aforementioned review—which Essence leadership has promised will be independently conducted—that #BlackFemaleAnonymous seems to have set their sights on next.
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“We’re confident should the ‘Internal investigation’ be conducted ethically...findings will corroborate every claim in our testimony,” they wrote in their three-page response on Thursday, adding: “Existing staffers continue to experience regular gaslighting and intimidation...Who will represent the Black female employees of Essence? This is why we demand full transparency on internal investigations, full stop.”
The writers directly tasked interim CEO Wanga with the responsibility of providing the requested information, as well as restating a prior request for an action plan “outlining how Essence will make its workplace more safe and equitable for Black women.”
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Per their statement, some of their expectations of the proposed plan include “Equitable salaries at market-rate”; strict anti-bullying and intimidation policies; and a performance review process that assures staff not only opportunities for promotions and raises, but opportunities for fair, non-punitive feedback, all of which would be “based on performance, and not likeability,” they write.
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“And finally, we expect you to introduce the most premier maternity leave policy in the nation, because Black female maternal mortality is one of Black America’s most urgent and unsung issues, and because Black female reproductive justice matters,” ends the list of revised demands.
As the Times notes, these are issues many industries, institutions and organizations are being forced to take stock of in our current climate—and many of the issues #BlackFemaleAnonymous highlighted over the course of the past week. But at a company long considered the pinnacle of Black female representation in the media, the demand that the inner workings reflect that outer image presents a reckoning specific to Black media outlets, as the “family” must address the dysfunction within its own ranks.
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On a personal note: As a journalist at a fellow Black media outlet—one led by Black women—who both respects and often works closely with Essence, there has been no pleasure in reporting on the issues raised by #BlackFemaleAnonymous, and genuine hope that any issues present are resolved so that the brand may indeed live up to its revered image. As a Black female journalist who grew up with this now-legacy brand, processing the claims that the organization may not be the safe haven I once found in its pages has been saddening.
Nevertheless, as a Black female journalist who both admires the Essence legacy and strives for more equality and intersectionality daily, the dialogue and opportunity presented by this controversy have been both necessary and encouraging. These conversations are almost indescribably uncomfortable, but they have never been more crucial more than now, as we hope to use this pivotal moment to create a more equitable media industry. With work, it will become one in which Black women’s intellect and cultural cachet no longer merely serve as inspiration for others to mine and exploit but will facilitate the elevation and recognition of Black women’s brilliance in its totality. Clearly, that work must also begin within.
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Updated: Friday, 7/3/20 at 4:00 p.m., ET: Echoing our assertion that the issues raised by #BlackFemaleAnonymous were never exclusive to Essence, the National Association of Black Journalists (NABJ) issued its own statement on the matter on Friday afternoon. I n it, the organization expressed support for the coalition’s bravery in highlighting these issues, dismay at the accusations leveled at Dennis and similar ones implicating the now-former CEO of Okayplayer/OkayAfrica Abiola Oke, and acknowledged that there may be more yet to surface .
“They must move swiftly to rectify the issues [and] provide remedies, resources, [and] apologies to the women impacted, ” read a tweet from the organization, adding: “Change must happen now!
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Updated: Friday, 7/3/20 at 2:36 p.m., ET: Inferring that some of the abusive behaviors described in their June 28 essay have continued even as Essence has publicly met their initial demands, #BlackFemaleAnonymous issued a tweet on Friday morning warning their threat to publish evidence of misconduct on Saturday [the dreaded Day 6 of their missive] would be reactivated if “covert gaslighting [and] bullying” by Essence and Dennis family “operatives” continued on their platforms. The Glow Up has reached out to the group for further comment and will update if any is given.
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Updated: Friday, 7/3/20 at 11:05 a.m., ET: #BlackFemaleAnonymous reached out to The Glow Up to dispute the use of the phrase “Dubious but nevertheless declaring triumph...” as they felt it undermined the success of their effort. To be clear, the phrase was never intended as an assessment of their victory, but in reference to the groups’ outstanding concerns about Essence’s corporate structure and pending investigation.
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#BlackFemaleAnonymous further expressed concern that we had not reached out to them directly for comment during our coverage. Our choice to let the coalition’s statements stand for themselves was consistent with our treatment of Essence, and additionally out of respect for the fact that the group had already expressed its terms of anonymity (of note: the Times reported that the group declined a request for comment; we do not know if we would have had a different response to such a request). Since this is an issue personal to this writer as a fellow Black female journalist, in a quest to maintain objectivity I chose to speak with third parties with direct knowledge of the situation at Essence Communications and its affiliates. All of those sources corroborated #BlackFemaleAnonymous’ allegations to the best of their knowledge.
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What should also be noted here is that the issues raised by #BlackFemaleAnonymous are not exclusive to Essence as a Black media company, and their success in this brave effort holds transformative potential for how Black women are treated throughout our industry. While The Glow Up’s goal in covering this issue was not to over-editorialize but fact-gather, we stand in solidarity with any effort to increase parity and respect for Black women in the workplace.