theroot--2020-07-22--White Supremacists Admit to Targeting Minority Communities and Journalists in False ‘Swatting’ Repor

White Supremacists Admit to Targeting Minority Communities and Journalists in False ‘Swatting’ Reports to Law Enforcement

A member of a white supremacist group accused of targeting journalists , activists and politicians for harassment and threats of violence admitted to his involvement in federal court in Alexandria , Va. , Tuesday , and investigators found that the whole thing may have started with a white student trying to get out of going to class .
The Washington Post reports that 19-year-old John William Kirby Kelley , who was arrested in January , said in court that he is part of the group Atomwaffen Division and that they have engaged in a form of harassment called “ swatting @ @ @ @ @ @ @ enforcement so that police respond with force .
In February , The Root reported that James Cameron Denton , the man identified as the leader of Atomwaffen Division—which the American Defamation League said has been linked to several killings—was arrested in connection with Kelley and charged with making over 134 fake phone calls to law enforcement .
Denton was charged with conspiracy to intimidate along with four other members of the group .
He pleaded guilty to those charges last week , the Post reports .
The group reportedly targeted mainly Black and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ journalists who have reported on the far right .
Their targets included an unnamed member of President Donald Trump ’ s cabinet , an investigative journalist for ProPublica and Alfred Street Baptist Church , a predominantly black church in Alexandria .
Both Kelley and Denton could face up to five years in prison for conspiracy to make interstate threats .
Both have agreed to pay restitution to the police departments involved .
Both admitted that they had used racial slurs , and Kelley acknowledged that he was aware of his co-conspirators ’ involvement @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Kelley suggested that the group take aim at Old Dominion University , where he was a student .
“ I don ’ t want to go to class on Wed , ” he said in a group chat .
The call came from a blocked number , claiming an armed man had placed multiple pipe bombs on campus , according to court records .
An apparently accidental call then came to campus police from the number listed under Kelley ’ s name in the school directory , a move that led police to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ determined to be false .
The same Google Voice number used to target ODU was used in swatting calls that brought police to a historically black church in Alexandria ; the home of then-Homeland Security Secretary Kirstjen Nielsen in the same city ; and the New York office of ProPublica , which had reported on Denton and Atomwaffen .
According to court records viewed by the Post , Kelly was interviewed by ODU campus police and Denton worried he would be arrested—which he was , but not for swatting .
Around the time @ @ @ @ @ @ @ called in at Nielsen ’ s home , Kelly had been arrested on drug charges and kicked off of ODU campus .
He wasn ’ t arrested for his swatting involvement until January .
On Tuesday , Kelly admitted to being an admin for a website called Doxbin , which U.S. District Judge Liam O ’ Grady described as a repository of information on potential swatting targets that mainly includes “ government officials , journalists , executives , and celebrities.
” It ’ s worth mentioning that Atomwaffen is much more than a @ @ @ @ @ @ @ fake threats .
It ’ s a multi-national white supremacist group that was founded in the U.S. but has expanded into the United Kingdom , Canada , Germany and Estonia .
In March , the State Department was looking to have the group designated as a foreign terrorist organization , which would have made it the first white supremacist group in U.S. history to be classified as such .
( That never actually happened with Atomwaffen , but the Russian Imperial Movement did become the first neo-Nazi group classified as foreign terrorists by @ @ @ @ @ @ @ ) Court records state that Atomwaffen—which is the German phrase for “ atomic weapons , ” according to he American Defamation League—holds “ hate camps ” abroad where they “ practice for combat , ” the Post reports .

A member of a white supremacist group accused of targeting journalists, activists and politicians for harassment and threats of violence admitted to his involvement in federal court in Alexandria, Va., Tuesday, and investigators found that the whole thing may have started with a white student trying to get out of going to class.
The Washington Post reports that 19-year-old John William Kirby Kelley, who was arrested in January, said in court that he is part of the group Atomwaffen Division and that they have engaged in a form of harassment called “swatting”—calling in false threats to law enforcement so that police respond with force.
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In February, The Root reported that James Cameron Denton, the man identified as the leader of Atomwaffen Division—which the American Defamation League said has been linked to several killings—was arrested in connection with Kelley and charged with making over 134 fake phone calls to law enforcement. Denton was charged with conspiracy to intimidate along with four other members of the group. He pleaded guilty to those charges last week, the Post reports.
The group reportedly targeted mainly Black and Hispanic communities as well as activists and journalists who have reported on the far right. Their targets included an unnamed member of President Donald Trump’s cabinet, an investigative journalist for ProPublica and Alfred Street Baptist Church, a predominantly black church in Alexandria.
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From the Post:
Both Kelley and Denton could face up to five years in prison for conspiracy to make interstate threats. Both have agreed to pay restitution to the police departments involved. Both admitted that they had used racial slurs, and Kelley acknowledged that he was aware of his co-conspirators’ involvement in neo-Nazism. Kelley will be sentenced Nov. 24. In late 2018, Kelley suggested that the group take aim at Old Dominion University, where he was a student. “I don’t want to go to class on Wed,” he said in a group chat. The call came from a blocked number, claiming an armed man had placed multiple pipe bombs on campus, according to court records. An apparently accidental call then came to campus police from the number listed under Kelley’s name in the school directory, a move that led police to focus on him after the report was determined to be false. The same Google Voice number used to target ODU was used in swatting calls that brought police to a historically black church in Alexandria; the home of then-Homeland Security Secretary Kirstjen Nielsen in the same city; and the New York office of ProPublica, which had reported on Denton and Atomwaffen.
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According to court records viewed by the Post , Kelly was interviewed by ODU campus police and Denton worried he would be arrested—which he was, but not for swatting. Around the time the Secret Service began investigating the threat called in at Nielsen’s home, Kelly had been arrested on drug charges and kicked off of ODU campus. He wasn’t arrested for his swatting involvement until January.
On Tuesday, Kelly admitted to being an admin for a website called Doxbin, which U.S. District Judge Liam O’Grady described as a repository of information on potential swatting targets that mainly includes “government officials, journalists, executives, and celebrities.”
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It’s worth mentioning that Atomwaffen is much more than a group of idiots running around calling in fake threats. It’s a multi-national white supremacist group that was founded in the U.S. but has expanded into the United Kingdom, Canada, Germany and Estonia. In March, the State Department was looking to have the group designated as a foreign terrorist organization, which would have made it the first white supremacist group in U.S. history to be classified as such. (That never actually happened with Atomwaffen, but the Russian Imperial Movement did become the first neo-Nazi group classified as foreign terrorists by the State Department on April 6.)
Court records state that Atomwaffen—which is the German phrase for “atomic weapons,” according to he American Defamation League—holds “hate camps” abroad where they “practice for combat,” the Post reports.


theroot--2020-07-22--'I Knew I Was a Token': Beverly Johnson Revisits the Trauma of #ModelingWhileBlack—Including That Ti

'I Knew I Was a Token': Beverly Johnson Revisits the Trauma of #ModelingWhileBlack—Including That Time They Drained the Pool

In case you forgot , supermodel Beverly Johnson is a G—one of the originals , in fact .
And the woman who walked so Naomi can strut is far from finished wielding her decades-long influence on fashion , as evidenced by her recent revelations about her groundbreaking career , which included being the first Black model to land the cover of Vogue in 1974 .
As W magazine notes and recent concessions confirm , while the cover made history , it wasn ’ t the harbinger of change many hoped it would be .
In 1974 , Beverly Johnson did @ @ @ @ @ @ @ had considered impossible : She appeared on the cover of Vogue .
It was a milestone , but hardly a breakthrough for Black models—including Johnson herself .
Cosmetic companies still turned her down , describing their brands as aesthetically white and blonde .
Liquor and cigarette ads , often marketed in predominantly Black neighborhoods like Harlem , were still the only real moneymakers .
And with no Black hair or makeup artists on set , Johnson had to turn to DIY solutions like using Vaseline to slick back her hair .
“ That @ @ @ @ @ @ @ At the same time , I knew I was [ a ] token , ” Johnson recently told People for its Voices from the Fight Against Racism series .
“ What you have to realize is that I was the only Black girl on every shoot.
” To prove her point , she recounted a humiliating incident during one of those aforementioned shoots .
Once in the 1970s , we were at a five-star hotel .
I got into the pool .
And all of a sudden , the editor came out and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the pool .
Twenty years later , one of the models told me it was because of me .
But I had blocked it out .
In order to survive , I would make myself not react .
Like Teflon .
Johnson no doubt had that Teflon armor in place when Vogue reportedly refused to invite its first Black cover model to its 100th-anniversary celebration in 1992 , according to Johnson ’ s former publicist ( h/t Page Six ) .
But as longtime Vogue editor-in-chief and Condé Nast Artistic Director Anna Wintour @ @ @ @ @ @ @ representation during her ongoing tenure , Johnson finally got to say her piece in a June op-ed for the Washington Post .
My debut was meant to usher in a current of change in the fashion industry , ” she wrote .
“ After my 1974 cover , I shot hundreds more , including two more covers for Vogue .
I was the first Black model on the cover of French Elle .
But my race limited me to significantly lower compensation than my white peers .
The industry was slow to include @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the fashion and beauty industry .
I was reprimanded for requesting black photographers , makeup artists and hairstylists for photoshoots .
Silence on race was then—and still is—the cost of admission to the fashion industry ’ s top echelons ” she later added .
Now 67 and newly engaged , Johnson clearly has no intention of being silent as the chorus for the movement for Black lives rises across industries .
After all , as she noted in the Post , it ’ s a battle she ’ s been waging for a @ @ @ @ @ @ @ a business that is supposed to be beautiful , but underneath there is an ugly systematic racism where the industry takes Black culture and trends for their own , pirating our culture , without giving anything back , ” Johnson told People .
“ All these brands are saying Black Lives Matter .
Let me see how many black lives matter .
How many Black people have you employed ?
”

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

In case you forgot, supermodel Beverly Johnson is a g —one of the originals, in fact. And the woman who walked so Naomi can strut is far from finished wielding her decades-long influence on fashion, as evidenced by her recent revelations about her groundbreaking career, which included being the first Black model to land the cover of American Vogue in 1974.
Advertisement
As W magazine notes and recent concessions confirm, while the cover made history, it wasn’t the harbinger of change many hoped it would be.
In 1974, Beverly Johnson did what the modeling industry legend Eileen Ford had considered impossible: She appeared on the cover of Vogue. It was a milestone, but hardly a breakthrough for Black models—including Johnson herself. Cosmetic companies still turned her down, describing their brands as aesthetically white and blonde. Liquor and cigarette ads, often marketed in predominantly Black neighborhoods like Harlem, were still the only real moneymakers. And with no Black hair or makeup artists on set, Johnson had to turn to DIY solutions like using Vaseline to slick back her hair.
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“That Vogue cover made me a legend. At the same time, I knew I was [a] token,” Johnson recently told People for its Voices from the Fight Against Racism series. “What you have to realize is that I was the only Black girl on every shoot.”
To prove her point, she recounted a humiliating incident during one of those aforementioned shoots.
Once in the 1970s, we were at a five-star hotel. I got into the pool. And all of a sudden, the editor came out and made everybody get out. They drained the pool. Twenty years later, one of the models told me it was because of me. But I had blocked it out. In order to survive, I would make myself not react. Like Teflon.
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Johnson no doubt had that Teflon armor in place when Vogue reportedly refused to invite its first Black cover model to its 100th-anniversary celebration in 1992, according to Johnson’s former publicist (h/t Page Six). But as longtime Vogue editor-in-chief and Condé Nast Artistic Director Anna Wintour sheepishly admitted to sidelining Black talent and representation during her ongoing tenure, Johnson finally got to say her piece in a June op-ed for the Washington Post.
Advertisement
My debut was meant to usher in a current of change in the fashion industry,” she wrote. “After my 1974 cover, I shot hundreds more, including two more covers for Vogue. I was the first Black model on the cover of French Elle. But my race limited me to significantly lower compensation than my white peers. The industry was slow to include other Black people in other aspects of the fashion and beauty industry. I was reprimanded for requesting black photographers, makeup artists and hairstylists for photoshoots. Silence on race was then—and still is—the cost of admission to the fashion industry’s top echelons” she later added.
Now 67 and newly engaged, Johnson clearly has no intention of being silent as the chorus for the movement for Black lives rises across industries. After all, as she noted in the Post, it’s a battle she’s been waging for a half-century.
Advertisement
“We’re in a business that is supposed to be beautiful, but underneath there is an ugly systematic racism where the industry takes Black culture and trends for their own, pirating our culture, without giving anything back,” Johnson told People. “All these brands are saying Black Lives Matter. Let me see how many black lives matter. How many Black people have you employed?”


theroot--2020-07-22--The Womanizer Liberty Vibrator Is Only $99 at Bellesa Boutique

If you ’ re a sucker for clit stimulation in your vibrators , I ’ d suggest the Womanizer Liberty @ @ @ @ @ Bellesa Boutique , it creates a clit-sucking sensation to get you to orgasm as many @ @ @ @ @ like .
There ’ s not too much to say except if you wan na @ @ @ @ @ invest in this cute little sex toy .
Grab it before it ’ s gone @

Ignacia on Kinja Deals, shared by Gabe Carey to The Root

Womanizer Liberty Vibrator | $99 | Bellesa Boutique
If you’re a sucker for clit stimulation in your vibrators, I’d suggest the Womanizer Liberty. Only $99 at Bellesa Boutique, it creates a clit-sucking sensation to get you to orgasm as many times as you’d like. There’s not too much to say except if you wanna get off, you should invest in this cute little sex toy. Grab it before it’s gone!


theroot--2020-07-22--Black Music Groups With 3-Letter* Names, Ranked

Have you ever just been sitting around and thought to yourself , “ Self , there were several music groups—both in hip-hop and R & B—that went by a three-letter acronym .
Somebody should rank them.
” ?
No ?
Just me .
I ’ m self .
Hello .
That ’ s exactly what happened to me yesterday .
I was doing something—look , it ’ s not in my nature to be mysterious but I can ’ t tell you what ( I was doing ) and I can ’ t tell you why ( I was doing @ @ @ @ @ @ @ of doing the thing that I can ’ t tell you about ( or why , natch ) , I started thinking about SWV .
And then I started thinking about TLC .
And then I was like , “ Boyz II Men , ABC , BBD.
” After I said that last one , I said , mmhmm .
And because of all of that , I was like , I wonder if anybody has ever taken the time to rank B lack music groups that rested their laurels on a three-letter @ @ @ @ @ @ @ out that I can ’ t find any place that ’ s done it .
So I decided to take up the mantle .
I believe that sometimes you have to do the thing that nobody else will do .
It ’ s like , I never told you to sell drugs .
No , Hov did that so hopefully , you ( we , oui ) won ’ t have to go through that .
So that ’ s what we ’ re going to do today—the thing that came to me @ @ @ @ @ @ @ rank the B lack music groups with three-letter acronyms for names .
But first , let ’ s lay some quick ground rules : For the reading-ignorers , I said “ groups.
” No matter how many lives DMX has lived , he is not a group — he is one person .
If you are still interested in discussing DMX further , I ’ m sure he will provide plenty of fodder for discussion after Wednesday night ’ s Verzuz against Snoop Dogg .
Also , I will not be including groups @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , I will not be including 702 or 112 .
I will , however , be including a group that has more letters than numbers ( that would be two since we ’ re doing three-letter combos ) .
I feel like because the letters present a majority , for one brief moment in time , we will make an exception , hence the asterisk ( * , that ’ s an asterisk ) in the headline .
It ’ s my party , I will cry if I want to .
Lastly @ @ @ @ @ @ @ B lack music group with a three-letter acronym name .
Frankly , that deep dive proved harder than I wanted it to be .
Plus , I had to take some liberties already , so I stopped at 11 .
Black liberation is pretty much my oyster .
Besides , the groups that I ’ m including were hard enough to rank .
So let ’ s get to it .
Also , this was a lot harder than I anticipated .
Two plus two equals fish .
I ’ m not a @ @ @ @ @ @ @ speak on whether or not this Ruthless Records vehicle , shorthand for Hoez With Attitude ( taking a cue from their label counterparts , N.W.A.
, soon come ) was empowering or took power and ownership over the word “ hoe/ho , ” like we claim to have done with the word “ nigga.
” So their inclusion here in the 11th spot has nothing to do with their name .
It is entirely because I literally can ’ t name a single song of theirs off the top of my head .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ say that I ’ ve ever actually heard one of their songs .
You may have them higher , I will never .
So , the only reason I have 3LW ( 3 Little Women ) in the 10 spot is that I thought they did the song “ As If , ” which is actually a Blaque song .
This means that I can ’ t name any 3LW song , though it turns out they were quite successful or at least successful enough to have their own separate “ 3LW discography @ @ @ @ @ @ @ group gave us Naturi Naughton , who played the character Tasha on Power .
I enjoyed Power so they get to stay in the 10 spot .
Also , this is my “ group with majority letters so it ’ s a three-letter group name ” exception if it wasn ’ t obvious .
As if .
Short for Another Bad Creation , this Michael Bivins of New Edition and BBD kid-group gave us hits like “ Iesha ” ( probably annoying every young girl with that name , no matter how it @ @ @ @ @ @ @ ) and “ Playground.
” They were also on the losing end of a fight they didn ’ t start with Kriss Kross .
ABC wore their clothes inside out and Kriss Kross let us know that inside out was wiggedy wiggedy wiggedy wack .
The Notorious B.I.G .
would use a similar tactic on Kwame the Boy Genius a few years later when he told us that “ your style is played out like those fuckin ’ polka dots.
” Kwame , who was known for polka dots , had to reinvent @ @ @ @ @ @ @ list .
His name isn ’ t a three-letter acronym .
Brownsville , Brooklyn ’ s finest , the Mash Out Posse , is an acquired taste .
I ’ ve never fully acquired this taste .
At the same time , they have one of the greatest robbery songs of all time in “ Ante Up , ” whose remix is an even better jam to get robbed to .
Seriously , if you ’ ve never been robbed to “ Ante Up ” you ’ re missing out .
It ’ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
I was just telling a youngster in my neighborhood who I saw stick up somebody while playing Roddy Ricch over his iPhone that he should really pull up MOP next time .
I ’ ll report back on his progress .
Levert Sweat Gill was a group formed by Gerald Levert , Keith Sweat and Johnny Gill .
I ’ d say they ordered the names in order of singing ability but then Keith Sweat would definitely be last .
I also wish I could have been there to see them argue @ @ @ @ @ @ @ They gave us a classic record in “ My Body , ” and sleeper hits with “ Curious ” and “ All The Times.
” That ’ s all I have really .
“ My Body ” morphed into Silk ’ s record “ Meeting In My Bedroom.
” Silk , like Kwame , is also not on this list .
The UnderGround Kingz are both underdogs and popular , especially amongst rappers .
Pimp C ( R.I.P . )
, was like everybody ’ s favorite rapper and producer , and Bun @ @ @ @ @ @ @ managed to flip his talents into teaching classes at Rice University .
If not for the tremendous accomplishments of the remaining groups , both on the charts and most importantly , in my heart , they ’ d be higher .
This is where shit starts getting really hard .
Ricky ( B ) ell , Michael ( Biv ) ins and Ronny ( D ) evoe , the three-man offshoot of New Edition once Bobby Brown , Ralph Tresvant and Johnny Gill all went solo managed to release the song with the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Edition projects .
“ Poison ” will be on playlists in 3275 .
“ Poison ” is a cockroach , it will outlive us all .
That is good enough to make it towards the top of this list .
LTD started out as Love , Togetherness , Devotion , but morphed singularly into L.T.D .
Why is this group , right here ?
Four words .
Jeffrey Osborne .
“ Love Ballad.
” Probably the most famous acronym Black music group of all time , they ’ re also the most nihilistic @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
The group , as N.W.A .
is , is what happens when great talent is used for pure fuckery .
At the same time , they created avenues for more rich B lack people than any other B lack music group on this list , probably period ( I did not fact check this ) .
I think we can agree this is mostly a good thing .
TLC , shortened from the names of the group members—T-Boz , Left Eye and Chili—is arguably the most successful girl group/band of all time @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the highest-selling .
They ’ ve done it all .
They successfully chased waterfalls even though they told the rest of us not to .
They ’ re the group that caught the leprechaun at the end of the rainbow and possibly in Alabama .
TLC is the shit .
They have cheat jams , love jams , jam jams and they ’ re not too proud to beg .
When Khaled says “ We the best , ” he ’ s really speaking for TLC .
Given TLC ’ s greatness , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ ) , at No .
1 and not TLC ?
Simple : while TLC was bigger in every possible way , SWV made better songs and perfected hip-hop R & B in a way that will jam forever .
You can throw a party and play multiple SWV songs .
Their songs jam harder , remix harder and bop harder .
SWV is my favorite girl group ever .
My “ we ’ re No .
1 ” foam hand raises for SWV .
It ’ s the S ( S ) Dubba @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to the ( V ) V .

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

Have you ever just been sitting around and thought to yourself, “Self, there were several music groups—both in hip-hop and R&B—that went by a three-letter acronym. Somebody should rank them.”? No? Just me. I’m self. Hello.
That’s exactly what happened to me yesterday. I was doing something—look, it’s not in my nature to be mysterious but I can’t tell you what (I was doing) and I can’t tell you why (I was doing it). But in the midst of doing the thing that I can’t tell you about (or why, natch), I started thinking about SWV. And then I started thinking about TLC. And then I was like, “Boyz II Men, ABC, BBD.” After I said that last one, I said, mmhmm. And because of all of that, I was like, I wonder if anybody has ever taken the time to rank Black music groups that rested their laurels on a three-letter acronym of a name. It turns out that I can’t find any place that’s done it. So I decided to take up the mantle. I believe that sometimes you have to do the thing that nobody else will do. It’s like, I never told you to sell drugs. No, Hov did that so hopefully, you (we, oui) won’t have to go through that.
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So that’s what we’re going to do today—the thing that came to me yesterday. I’m going to rank the Black music groups with three-letter acronyms for names. But first, let’s lay some quick ground rules: For the reading-ignorers, I said “groups.” No matter how many lives DMX has lived, he is not a group—he is one person. If you are still interested in discussing DMX further, I’m sure he will provide plenty of fodder for discussion after Wednesday night’s Verzuz against Snoop Dogg.
Also, I will not be including groups whose three-letters are actually numbers. Like, I will not be including 702 or 112. I will, however, be including a group that has more letters than numbers (that would be two since we’re doing three-letter combos). I feel like because the letters present a majority, for one brief moment in time, we will make an exception, hence the asterisk (*, that’s an asterisk) in the headline. It’s my party, I will cry if I want to.
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Lastly, I will probably not include every Black music group with a three-letter acronym name. Frankly, that deep dive proved harder than I wanted it to be. Plus, I had to take some liberties already, so I stopped at 11. Black liberation is pretty much my oyster. Besides, the groups that I’m including were hard enough to rank. So let’s get to it. Also, this was a lot harder than I anticipated. Two plus two equals fish.
11. HWA
I’m not a woman so I can’t really speak on whether or not this Ruthless Records vehicle, shorthand for Hoez With Attitude (taking a cue from their label counterparts, N.W.A., soon come) was empowering or took power and ownership over the word “hoe/ho,” like we claim to have done with the word “nigga.” So their inclusion here in the 11th spot has nothing to do with their name. It is entirely because I literally can’t name a single song of theirs off the top of my head. Until today, I couldn’t say that I’ve ever actually heard one of their songs. You may have them higher, I will never.
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10. 3LW
So, the only reason I have 3LW (3 Little Women) in the 10 spot is that I thought they did the song “As If,” which is actually a Blaque song. This means that I can’t name any 3LW song, though it turns out they were quite successful or at least successful enough to have their own separate “3LW discography” page on Wikipedia. But this group gave us Naturi Naughton, who played the character Tasha on Power. I enjoyed Power so they get to stay in the 10 spot. Also, this is my “group with majority letters so it’s a three-letter group name” exception if it wasn’t obvious. As if.
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9. ABC
Short for Another Bad Creation, this Michael Bivins of New Edition and BBD kid-group gave us hits like “Iesha” (probably annoying every young girl with that name, no matter how it was spelled in the early ’90s) and “Playground.” They were also on the losing end of a fight they didn’t start with Kriss Kross. ABC wore their clothes inside out and Kriss Kross let us know that inside out was wiggedy wiggedy wiggedy wack. The Notorious B.I.G. would use a similar tactic on Kwame the Boy Genius a few years later when he told us that “your style is played out like those fuckin’ polka dots.” Kwame, who was known for polka dots, had to reinvent himself. Kwame is not on this list. His name isn’t a three-letter acronym.
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8. MOP
Brownsville, Brooklyn’s finest, the Mash Out Posse, is an acquired taste. I’ve never fully acquired this taste. At the same time, they have one of the greatest robbery songs of all time in “Ante Up,” whose remix is an even better jam to get robbed to. Seriously, if you’ve never been robbed to “Ante Up” you’re missing out. It’s an adrenaline rush like a mug. I was just telling a youngster in my neighborhood who I saw stick up somebody while playing Roddy Ricch over his iPhone that he should really pull up MOP next time. I’ll report back on his progress.
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7. LSG
Levert Sweat Gill was a group formed by Gerald Levert, Keith Sweat and Johnny Gill. I’d say they ordered the names in order of singing ability but then Keith Sweat would definitely be last. I also wish I could have been there to see them argue about whose initial should go first. They gave us a classic record in “My Body,” and sleeper hits with “Curious” and “All The Times.” That’s all I have really. “My Body” morphed into Silk’s record “Meeting In My Bedroom.” Silk, like Kwame, is also not on this list.
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6. UGK
The UnderGround Kingz are both underdogs and popular, especially amongst rappers. Pimp C (R.I.P.), was like everybody’s favorite rapper and producer, and Bun B is an amazing lyricist who even managed to flip his talents into teaching classes at Rice University. If not for the tremendous accomplishments of the remaining groups, both on the charts and most importantly, in my heart, they’d be higher.
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5. BBD
This is where shit starts getting really hard. Ricky (B)ell, Michael (Biv)ins and Ronny (D)evoe, the three-man offshoot of New Edition once Bobby Brown, Ralph Tresvant and Johnny Gill all went solo managed to release the song with the most staying power of all the non-New Edition projects. “Poison” will be on playlists in 3275. “Poison” is a cockroach, it will outlive us all. That is good enough to make it towards the top of this list.
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4. LTD
LTD started out as Love, Togetherness, Devotion, but morphed singularly into L.T.D. Why is this group, right here? Four words. Jeffrey Osborne. “Love Ballad.”
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3. NWA
Probably the most famous acronym Black music group of all time, they’re also the most nihilistic and misogynistic, and frankly, ridiculous. The group, as N.W.A. is, is what happens when great talent is used for pure fuckery. At the same time, they created avenues for more rich Black people than any other Black music group on this list, probably period (I did not fact check this). I think we can agree this is mostly a good thing.
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2. TLC
TLC, shortened from the names of the group members—T-Boz, Left Eye and Chili—is arguably the most successful girl group/band of all time; they’re definitely one of the highest-selling. They’ve done it all. They successfully chased waterfalls even though they told the rest of us not to. They’re the group that caught the leprechaun at the end of the rainbow and possibly in Alabama.
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TLC is the shit. They have cheat jams, love jams, jam jams and they’re not too proud to beg. When Khaled says “We the best,” he’s really speaking for TLC.
1. SWV
Given TLC’s greatness, why is SWV (Sisters With Voices), at No. 1 and not TLC? Simple: while TLC was bigger in every possible way, SWV made better songs and perfected hip-hop R&B in a way that will jam forever. You can throw a party and play multiple SWV songs. Their songs jam harder, remix harder and bop harder. SWV is my favorite girl group ever. My “we’re No. 1” foam hand raises for SWV. It’s the S (S) Dubba (Dubba) U (U) to the (V) V.
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(Updated 3/3/22 with new details)


theroot--2020-07-22--Issa Rae Stars in New NBA Campaign to Encourage Fan Support

Because of COVID-19 , things are definitely different when it comes to professional sports .
Major League Baseball teams are in the process of beginning their season , and Opening Day is reportedly set for July 23 and 24 .
The NFL is also figuring out some steps in order to commence football this season .
According to CBS Sports , it ’ s still to be determined whether fans will be able to attend the games .
Meanwhile , th e National Basketball Association is putting in work to remind fans to watch the sport when the season begins @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the help of Issa Rae in order to get their message across .
Per Variety , the Insecure actress , writer and showrunner is working with the NBA on a new campaign designated to “ remind fans where basketball left off earlier this year and build new appetites for the restart of the season.
” In the first of four ads , Rae steps onto an empty court , discussing that “ you don ’ t miss something ‘ til it ’ s gone.
” Throughout the one-minute spot , she ’ s @ @ @ @ @ @ @ in the audience and amongst the players , providing her signature quick-witted commentary .
“ It ’ s all back , but with a slight twist , ” she says in the spot .
“ It ’ s the game you love , the way you ’ ve never seen it before ...
This isn ’ t the same NBA , it ’ s a whole new game .
But , I think we can all agree we ’ re glad it ’ s back.
” Danielle Lee , the league ’ s @ @ @ @ @ @ @ commercials are “ absolutely a creative challenge , ” and will test their ability to engage their fans while also adding context to the time we ’ re living in .
“ We want to acknowledge the journey we have all been on , ” she says , “ but also infuse a sense of resilience and excitement and joy.
” Why was Rae chosen ?
Lee tells Variety that the Emmy-nominated star “ embodies fun and authenticity , and has an unapologetic way ” about her .
The 2019-2020 NBA season is @ @ @ @ @ @ @ according to the league ’ s website .
This new season will adhere to “ stringent health and safety protocols , ” and the games will commence in one location : the Walt Disney World Resort in Orlando , Florida .
“ Teams will compete in three inter-squad scrimmages from July 22-28 in final preparation for the resumption of the season , ” the site reads .

J'na Jefferson on The Grapevine, shared by J'na Jefferson to The Root

Because of COVID-19, things are definitely different when it comes to professional sports. Major League Baseball teams are in the process of beginning their season, and Opening Day is reportedly set for July 23 and 24. The NFL is also figuring out some steps in order to commence football this season. According to CBS Sports, it’s still to be determined whether fans will be able to attend the games.
Meanwhile, th e National Basketball Association is putting in work to remind fans to watch the sport when the season begins again, and they’re enlisting the help of Issa Rae in order to get their message across.
Advertisement
Per Variety, the Insecure actress, writer and showrunner is working with the NBA on a new campaign designated to “remind fans where basketball left off earlier this year and build new appetites for the restart of the season.”
In the first of four ads, Rae steps onto an empty court, discussing that “you don’t miss something ‘til it’s gone.” Throughout the one-minute spot, she’s superimposed in clips from various games both in the audience and amongst the players, providing her signature quick-witted commentary.
“It’s all back, but with a slight twist,” she says in the spot. “It’s the game you love, the way you’ve never seen it before...This isn’t the same NBA, it’s a whole new game. But, I think we can all agree we’re glad it’s back.”
Advertisement Advertisement
Danielle Lee, the league’s chief fan officer, says that the commercials are “absolutely a creative challenge,” and will test their ability to engage their fans while also adding context to the time we’re living in.
“We want to acknowledge the journey we have all been on,” she says, “but also infuse a sense of resilience and excitement and joy.” Why was Rae chosen? Lee tells Variety that the Emmy-nominated star “embodies fun and authenticity, and has an unapologetic way” about her.
Advertisement
The 2019-2020 NBA season is set to return on July 30, according to the league’s website. This new season will adhere to “stringent health and safety protocols,” and the games will commence in one location: the Walt Disney World Resort in Orlando, Florida.
“Teams will compete in three inter-squad scrimmages from July 22-28 in final preparation for the resumption of the season,” the site reads.


theroot--2020-07-22--Don't Ignore the Black and Deaf: Why Police Violence Is a Huge Danger and Other Ways the Community I

Don't Ignore the Black and Deaf: Why Police Violence Is a Huge Danger and Other Ways the Community Is Marginalized

Deaf Americans are often left out of conversations about equality and justice .
Police brutality , incarceration and other forms @ @ @ @ @ that can manifest in even more harmful ways for folks who are both Black and @ @ @ @ @ arrest them , you take their hands and take their mode of communication away from @ @ @ @ @ activist and creator of # DeafTalent , Jade Bryan told The Root .
“ You @ @ @ @ @ right to speak.
” In this episode of A Word , Jade Bryan breaks down @ @ @ @ @ individuals are marginalized and how everyone can be better allies .
I was inspired to @ @ @ @ @ of my deaf uncle Alfred Clarke .
He was a deaf advocate , teacher and @ @ @ @ @ deaf students in the island of Jamaica to create Deaf Can !
Coffee after a @ @ @ @ @ You can learn more about them here .
Watch the full video of Bryan above @

We may earn a commission from links on this page.
Black News and Black Views with a Whole Lotta Attitude


theroot--2020-07-22--Frank and Oak's Sustainable Cotton Masks Are Here to Help You Social Distance in Style

Believe it or not , we ’ re still in the midst of a pandemic , which means you should be wearing a mask every time you leave the house , no exceptions .
That said , I totally understand the skepticism from a fashion perspective .
The standard cloth masks , though essential for flattening the curve and saving lives assuming they ’ re all you have to work with , are undoubtedly an eyesore .
Frank and Oak , a budding Montreal-based apparel company focused on sustainability have introduced their own line of 100 % cotton face masks @ @ @ @ @ @ @ rest .
Available in five colorways including navy blue , you can mix and match your choice of two reusable masks as you see fit .
The reversible , non-medical face masks feature adjustable ear straps designed to maximize comfort , a twist tie nose bridge for a tailored fit , and a built-in pouch in case you wish to append a filter .
While the masks themselves cost $ 24 for a pack of two , shipping at Frank and Oak is free only on orders that exceed $ 49 , so @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to subtract the delivery fees at checkout .
In fact , due to manufacturing shortages , the site listing advises against purchasing more than three sets .
Considering how hard it is to find washable face masks as good looking as these , much less any in stock , I ’ d jump on this offer while supplies last .

Gabe Carey on News, shared by Gabe Carey to The Root

Reusable Cotton Masks (Set of 2) | $24 | Frank and Oak
Believe it or not, we’re still in the midst of a pandemic, which means you should be wearing a mask every time you leave the house, no exceptions. That said, I totally understand the skepticism from a fashion perspective. The standard cloth masks, though essential for flattening the curve and saving lives assuming they’re all you have to work with, are undoubtedly an eyesore.
Frank and Oak, a budding Montreal-based apparel company focused on sustainability have introduced their own line of 100% cotton face masks to put your concerns over appearance to rest. Available in five colorways including navy blue, you can mix and match your choice of two reusable masks as you see fit. The reversible, non-medical face masks feature adjustable ear straps designed to maximize comfort, a twist tie nose bridge for a tailored fit, and a built-in pouch in case you wish to append a filter.
While the masks themselves cost $24 for a pack of two, shipping at Frank and Oak is free only on orders that exceed $49, so you may need to splurge on three to subtract the delivery fees at checkout. In fact, due to manufacturing shortages, the site listing advises against purchasing more than three sets. Considering how hard it is to find washable face masks as good looking as these, much less any in stock, I’d jump on this offer while supplies last.


theroot--2020-07-22--Carmelo Anthony, Chris Paul and Dwyane Wade Launch Social Change Fund to Empower the Black Community

NBA stars Carmelo Anthony , Chris Paul and Dwyane Wade , three-fourths of the infamous banana boat crew , have joined forces to launch the Social Change Fund , which will provide resources and support to organizations focused on empowering the Black community .
“ Our mission is to address social and economic justice issues facing Black communities and break down the discriminatory barriers to success , ” Paul said in a statement sent to The Root .
“ The Social Change Fund will help advance racial equality and opportunity .
We will unite with other individuals who share our @ @ @ @ @ @ @ voices and resources to advocate for change and foster a more equitable future.
” For years , Paul , Anthony and Wade have been at the forefront of pushing for social change .
In 2016 , the trio , in addition to LeBron James , delivered a powerful speech at the 2016 ESPYS that challenged their peers to use their platforms to address police brutality , racism and injustice in America .
“ Let ’ s use this moment as a call to action for all professional athletes to educate ourselves , explore @ @ @ @ @ @ @ our influence and renounce all violence , ” LeBron said at the time .
“ And most importantly , go back to our communities , invest our time , our resources , help rebuild them , help strengthen them , help change them .
We all have to do better.
” Specific issues that the Social Change Fund seeks to address include criminal justice reform , expanding access to voting and civic engagement , bolstering economic equity within the Black community and increasing Black representation in leadership positions .
“ When all else @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , ” Anthony said .
“ We established the Social Change Fund to invest in and support organizations working to champion criminal justice reform , enact policy solutions , and advocate for the human rights of all Black lives now and for generations to come .
I stand for everything this Fund and its beneficiaries support and will not stop pushing for progress until we see an end to the systemic racism that the Black community has faced for too long .
We will keep on pushing .
We will not lose focus.
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ in this journey are entities such as Beyond Meat , Goldman Sachs , Laureus Sport for Good USA , Reform Alliance , and Creative Artists Agency ’ s Managing Partners and Agency Board , who will provide seed funding and unspecified support .
And for those interested in joining the Social Change Fund ’ s mission to dismantle systemic racism and foster an environment of equitable treatment , Paul , Anthony and Wade welcome changemakers and corporate sponsors to join their fight .
“ The magnitude of racial inequality is staggering with Black @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , ” Wade said .
“ We are committed to supporting organizations that directly represent and benefit the Black community with the Social Change Fund .
Our goal is to create a pathway for inclusion and success by deploying the necessary funds and resources to invest in long-term change.
” To learn more about the Social Change Fund , visit their website here .

NBA stars Carmelo Anthony, Chris Paul and Dwyane Wade, three-fourths of the infamous banana boat crew, have joined forces to launch the Social Change Fund, which will provide resources and support to organizations focused on empowering the Black community.
“Our mission is to address social and economic justice issues facing Black communities and break down the discriminatory barriers to success,” Paul said in a statement sent to The Root. “The Social Change Fund will help advance racial equality and opportunity. We will unite with other individuals who share our vision and commitment to use our collective voices and resources to advocate for change and foster a more equitable future.”
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For years, Paul, Anthony and Wade have been at the forefront of pushing for social change. In 2016, the trio, in addition to LeBron James, delivered a powerful speech at the 2016 ESPYS that challenged their peers to use their platforms to address police brutality, racism and injustice in America.
“Let’s use this moment as a call to action for all professional athletes to educate ourselves, explore these issues, speak up, use our influence and renounce all violence,” LeBron said at the time. “And most importantly, go back to our communities, invest our time, our resources, help rebuild them, help strengthen them, help change them. We all have to do better.”
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Specific issues that the Social Change Fund seeks to address include criminal justice reform, expanding access to voting and civic engagement, bolstering economic equity within the Black community and increasing Black representation in leadership positions.
“When all else fails to organize us, conditions will,” Anthony said. “We established the Social Change Fund to invest in and support organizations working to champion criminal justice reform, enact policy solutions, and advocate for the human rights of all Black lives now and for generations to come. I stand for everything this Fund and its beneficiaries support and will not stop pushing for progress until we see an end to the systemic racism that the Black community has faced for too long. We will keep on pushing. We will not lose focus.”
Advertisement
Joining Paul, Anthony and Wade in this journey are entities such as Beyond Meat, Goldman Sachs, Laureus Sport for Good USA, Reform Alliance, and Creative Artists Agency’s Managing Partners and Agency Board, who will provide seed funding and unspecified support. And for those interested in joining the Social Change Fund’s mission to dismantle systemic racism and foster an environment of equitable treatment, Paul, Anthony and Wade welcome changemakers and corporate sponsors to join their fight.
“The magnitude of racial inequality is staggering with Black lives socially, politically and economically marginalized,” Wade said. “We are committed to supporting organizations that directly represent and benefit the Black community with the Social Change Fund. Our goal is to create a pathway for inclusion and success by deploying the necessary funds and resources to invest in long-term change.”
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To learn more about the Social Change Fund, visit their website here.


theroot--2020-07-22--'I Said I Would Never Play a Slave': Black Actors Discuss the Fatigue Around Portraying Black Pain

As we ’ ve witnessed throughout the past few months , Hollywood is in the midst of a racial reckoning—or at least , starting to have that conversation on an unprecedented scale .
As part of Variety ’ s # Represent series , Aldis Hodge , Jay Pharoah , Algee Smith , Derek Luke and Chris Chalk got candid about their experiences with racism in Hollywood in an eye-opening “ Black Men in Hollywood ” roundtable .
One particular standout moment in the discussion centered around portraying Black pain .
Whether it ’ s slavery or police brutality , the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ with such topics , continuing an ongoing discussion/debate around broadcasting Black trauma .
Since some Black audiences have fatigue around slave narratives , should we move away from those ?
Should we still tell these types of narratives , as we haven ’ t truly scratched the surface ( particularly given the fact that many of the narratives are led by white voices ) ?
Or as in perhaps the most recent example of discussing Queen & Slim , does chronicling Black violence serve Black audiences in any way ( there is an @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , or are these films and television shows mainly just trauma porn for white audiences ?
And is this issue exacerbated by the fact that we don ’ t have the privilege of having an actual balance of Black narratives ( and their wide range ) to satisfy every appetite ?
Smith opened up about the pressures in portraying heavy roles in films such as Detroit and The Hate U Give , each of which chronicles extreme violence against Black people , including police brutality .
“ I was obviously in a very @ @ @ @ @ @ @ a very honest place , ” Smith recalled .
“ I feel like I ’ ve played so many roles where I ’ ve either died as a young black teenager or where it ’ s been something that hasn ’ t been edifying a black teenager or a black man at all .
And so , I was like , for myself , I ’ m tired of playing those roles and I said ‘ I ’ m done with it.
’ ” “ I had to take Ambien while I was @ @ @ @ @ @ @ sleep , ” he continued .
“ But you do it for a reason .
That ’ s why we are actors , that ’ s why we put ourselves in that position , to feel for people.
” “ My frustration with the industry was that what was normal and what was actually real was not being portrayed .
A small percentage of what the Black culture experiences was being portrayed to the masses as the totality of our definition as a culture , ” Hodge said .
“ It was really @ @ @ @ @ @ @ ‘ Look , I ’ m not doing any of this anymore.
’ Took a stance .
Of course , you lose a couple of jobs , you sacrifice a little bit , [ but ] it ’ s all good , because it pushes your career , drives your career to a very specific point.
” “ And then , as I got older , there are opportunities that came my way that were challenging , ” he says .
“ When Underground came around , and I said , ‘ How @ @ @ @ @ @ @ of our pain ?
’ But then , when I read it , and I saw how it was distributed and I said , “ Oh , there ’ s a difference here , ’ ” Hodge continued .
Speaking of the era that Underground highlights , Luke noted that the idea of portraying a slave was difficult for him , as it would essentially re-traumatize him .
“ I said I would never play a slave , ” Luke said .
“ My instinct was that it was traumatic enough being in @ @ @ @ @ @ @ coming to Hollywood and having to come through playing a thug or a gangster role and my spiritual lens was always like , ‘ How do I navigate in a space that may reject my race ?
’ ” However , Chalk offered another perspective , noting that if we don ’ t tell our own stories fully ( and with all the rawness that includes ) , we ’ re left risking our history being erased or bastardized by white voices .
“ I was doing some workshops in a school , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ said ‘ slavery , ’ it said ‘ indentured servitude.
’ So , if we don ’ t tell our story , they ’ re going to change that story , ” Chalk said .
“ I want the world to see what we have survived .
I want the world to know the knees on our neck .
And I ’ m grateful to take the weight of that.
” To watch the full roundtable interview , head to variety.com .

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

As we’ve witnessed throughout the past few months, Hollywood is in the midst of a racial reckoning—or at least, starting to have that conversation on an unprecedented scale.
As part of Variety’s #Represent series, Aldis Hodge, Jay Pharoah, Algee Smith, Derek Luke and Chris Chalk got candid about their experiences with racism in Hollywood in an eye-opening “Black Men in Hollywood” roundtable.
Advertisement
One particular standout moment in the discussion centered around portraying Black pain. Whether it’s slavery or police brutality, the actors warred with accepting roles that dealt with such topics, continuing an ongoing discussion/debate around broadcasting Black trauma. Since some Black audiences have fatigue around slave narratives, should we move away from those? Should we still tell these types of narratives, as we haven’t truly scratched the surface (particularly given the fact that many of the narratives are led by white voices)? Or as in perhaps the most recent example of discussing Queen & Slim, does chronicling Black violence serve Black audiences in any way (there is an argument in favor of highlighting awareness), or are these films and television shows mainly just trauma porn for white audiences? And is this issue exacerbated by the fact that we don’t have the privilege of having an actual balance of Black narratives (and their wide range) to satisfy every appetite?
Smith opened up about the pressures in portraying heavy roles in films such as Detroit and The Hate U Give, each of which chronicles extreme violence against Black people, including police brutality.
Advertisement Advertisement
“I was obviously in a very emotional place. However, it was a very honest place,” Smith recalled. “I feel like I’ve played so many roles where I’ve either died as a young black teenager or where it’s been something that hasn’t been edifying a black teenager or a black man at all. And so, I was like, for myself, I’m tired of playing those roles and I said ‘I’m done with it.’”
Advertisement
“I had to take Ambien while I was shooting Detroit because I couldn’t sleep,” he continued. “But you do it for a reason. That’s why we are actors, that’s why we put ourselves in that position, to feel for people.”
“My frustration with the industry was that what was normal and what was actually real was not being portrayed. A small percentage of what the Black culture experiences was being portrayed to the masses as the totality of our definition as a culture,” Hodge said. “It was really disheartening. So, I said, ‘Look, I’m not doing any of this anymore.’ Took a stance. Of course, you lose a couple of jobs, you sacrifice a little bit, [but] it’s all good, because it pushes your career, drives your career to a very specific point.”
Advertisement
“And then, as I got older, there are opportunities that came my way that were challenging,” he says. “When Underground came around, and I said, ‘How do we watch five or six seasons of our pain?’ But then, when I read it, and I saw how it was distributed and I said, “Oh, there’s a difference here,’” Hodge continued.
Advertisement
Speaking of the era that Underground highlights, Luke noted that the idea of portraying a slave was difficult for him, as it would essentially re-traumatize him.
“I said I would never play a slave,” Luke said. “My instinct was that it was traumatic enough being in my skin. It was traumatic enough coming to Hollywood and having to come through playing a thug or a gangster role and my spiritual lens was always like, ‘How do I navigate in a space that may reject my race?’”
Advertisement
However, Chalk offered another perspective, noting that if we don’t tell our own stories fully (and with all the rawness that includes), we’re left risking our history being erased or bastardized by white voices.
“I was doing some workshops in a school, and the [history] book never said ‘slavery,’ it said ‘indentured servitude.’ So, if we don’t tell our story, they’re going to change that story,” Chalk said. “I want the world to see what we have survived. I want the world to know the knees on our neck. And I’m grateful to take the weight of that.”
Advertisement
To watch the full roundtable interview, head to variety.com.


theroot--2020-07-22--Republican Congressman Refuses to Apologize for Calling Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez Out of Her Name

Pardon me if you ’ ve heard this before , but we have this thing in our society—the word escapes me at the moment—where men feel inclined to express themselves in ways toward women that they never would with another man .
My memory is shit , so I wish I could remember what it ’ s called , but I ’ m sure Talib Kweli knows what I ’ m talking about .
For millions of women , this type of craven behavior is nearly inescapable—even on Capitol Hill .
And according to The Hill , Rep. Ted Yoho @ @ @ @ @ @ @ on “ Grown Ass Men Who Need Their Ass Beat.
” Apparently Yoho took issue with New York Democrat Rep. Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez ’ s stance on crime and policing , and instead of discussing the matter like a civilized adult , opted instead to call her a “ fucking bitch ” on the steps of Capitol Hill .
Rep. Ted Yoho ( R-Fla. ) was coming down the steps on the east side of the Capitol on Monday , having just voted , when he approached Ocasio-Cortez , who was ascending into the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ own .
In a brief but heated exchange , which was overheard by a reporter , Yoho told Ocasio-Cortez she was “ disgusting ” for recently suggesting that poverty and unemployment are driving a spike in crime in New York City during the coronavirus pandemic .
“ You are out of your freaking mind , ” Yoho told her .
Ocasio-Cortez shot back , telling Yoho he was being “ rude.
” Then , with his tail tucked firmly between his legs—because even he knew better than to say this shit to her @ @ @ @ @ @ @ he stormed off .
“ That kind of confrontation hasn ’ t ever happened to me—ever , ” AOC said , The Hill notes .
“ I ’ ve never had that kind of abrupt , disgusting kind of disrespect levied at me.
” Nor should it , because men sure as hell rarely have these problems .
On Wednesday morning , in what should come as a surprise to absolutely no one , Yoho took to the House floor to “ address the strife ” he “ injected into the already contentious @ @ @ @ @ @ @ a non-apology is imminent.
” He then went on to deny ever using any “ offensive name-calling words ” and apologized for what he actually said— “ fucking bitch ” —being “ misunderstood.
” “ I can not apologize for my passion or for loving my God , my family , and my country , ” he man-spoke .
I ’ ve never spent a day of my life in politics , so I assumed that these types of heated confrontations between parties were par for the course .
I was wrong .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ usually get along fine w/ my GOP colleagues .
We know how to check our legislative sparring at the committee door , ” AOC tweeted .
“ But hey , “ bitches ” get stuff done.
” If only congressmen like Yoho would stick to doing the same .
But if he ’ s willing to keep that same energy with someone other than a woman , Rep. Dean Phillips ( D-Minn. ) has a proposition .
Join the discussion !
The Root is hosting its first-ever , virtual Root Institute , presented @ @ @ @ @ @ @ leading minds in our community talking about politics , culture , health , community building and social impact .
Subscribe for updates today !

Pardon me if you’ve heard this before, but we have this thing in our society—the word escapes me at the moment—where men feel inclined to express themselves in ways toward women that they never would with another man.
My memory is shit, so I wish I could remember what it’s called, but I’m sure Talib Kweli knows what I’m talking about.
Advertisement
For millions of women, this type of craven behavior is nearly inescapable—even on Capitol Hill.
Advertisement Advertisement
And according to The Hill, Rep. Ted Yoho (R-Fla.) is the latest contestant on “Grown Ass Men Who Need Their Ass Beat.”
Apparently Yoho took issue with New York Democrat Rep. Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez’s stance on crime and policing, and instead of discussing the matter like a civilized adult, opted instead to call her a “fucking bitch” on the steps of Capitol Hill.
Advertisement
From The Hill:
Rep. Ted Yoho (R-Fla.) was coming down the steps on the east side of the Capitol on Monday, having just voted, when he approached Ocasio-Cortez, who was ascending into the building to cast a vote of her own. In a brief but heated exchange, which was overheard by a reporter, Yoho told Ocasio-Cortez she was “disgusting” for recently suggesting that poverty and unemployment are driving a spike in crime in New York City during the coronavirus pandemic. “You are out of your freaking mind,” Yoho told her. Ocasio-Cortez shot back, telling Yoho he was being “rude.”
Then, with his tail tucked firmly between his legs—because even he knew better than to say this shit to her face—he muttered “fucking bitch” as he stormed off.
Advertisement
“That kind of confrontation hasn’t ever happened to me—ever,” AOC said, The Hill notes. “I’ve never had that kind of abrupt, disgusting kind of disrespect levied at me.”
Nor should it, because men sure as hell rarely have these problems.
On Wednesday morning, in what should come as a surprise to absolutely no one, Yoho took to the House floor to “address the strife” he “injected into the already contentious Congress”—which is man-speak for “a non-apology is imminent.”
Advertisement
He then went on to deny ever using any “offensive name-calling words” and apologized for what he actually said—“fucking bitch”—being “misunderstood.”
“I cannot apologize for my passion or for loving my God, my family, and my country,” he man-spoke.
Advertisement
I’ve never spent a day of my life in politics, so I assumed that these types of heated confrontations between parties were par for the course. I was wrong.
“Believe it or not, I usually get along fine w/ my GOP colleagues. We know how to check our legislative sparring at the committee door,” AOC tweeted. “But hey, “bitches” get stuff done.”
Advertisement
If only congressmen like Yoho would stick to doing the same. But if he’s willing to keep that same energy with someone other than a woman, Rep. Dean Phillips (D-Minn.) has a proposition.
Advertisement
Join the discussion! The Root is hosting its first-ever, virtual Root Institute, presented by Target, featuring several of the leading minds in our community talking about politics, culture, health, community building and social impact. Subscribe for updates today!


theroot--2020-07-22--Spoil Your Hair With $60 off Dyson's Supersonic Hair Dryer (Refurbished)

I ’ ll be honest , I haven ’ t touched a hair dryer since my high school days , @ @ @ @ @ myself I could pull off side bangs ( I couldn ’ t ) .
Even @ @ @ @ @ hard not to at least hear mention of Dyson ’ s pricey hair dryers in @ @ @ @ @ price tag of around $ 280 , they ’ re compact and easy to wave @ @ @ @ @ , and you can shift to cold air when it ’ s time to finish @ @ @ @ @ a major setback , but if you ’ ve got a bit of cash laying @ @ @ @ @ the last hair dryer you need to buy .
A refurbished model of the Supersonic @ @ @ @ @ $ 220 on Newegg , which still isn ’ t cheap , but it ’ @ @ @ @ @ button sting a little less .
Just hang in there , though , your hair @ @ @ @ @ you later .

Jordan McMahon on Kinja Deals, shared by Jordan McMahon to The Root

Dyson Supersonic Hair Dryer | $220 | Newegg
I’ll be honest, I haven’t touched a hair dryer since my high school days, when I’d convinced myself I could pull off side bangs (I couldn’t). Even so, it’s hard not to at least hear mention of Dyson’s pricey hair dryers in passing. Despite a hefty price tag of around $280, they’re compact and easy to wave around while still being precise, and you can shift to cold air when it’s time to finish up. The price is a major setback, but if you’ve got a bit of cash laying around, it might be the last hair dryer you need to buy. A refurbished model of the Supersonic Hair Dryer is down to $220 on Newegg, which still isn’t cheap, but it’ll make hitting that buy button sting a little less. Just hang in there, though, your hair’s gonna thank you later.


theroot--2020-07-22--White Neighborhoods Have Better Access to COVID-19 Testing Than Black and Hispanic Communities, Stud

White Neighborhoods Have Better Access to COVID-19 Testing Than Black and Hispanic Communities, Study Finds

It often feels like everything bad that happens in America disproportionately affects communities of color , and the global pandemic that continues to spread across the country has shown us nothing different .
Despite the numerous reports that show Black and Hispanic people are at greater risk for COVID-19 infection , a recent review on COVID-19 testing sites suggests that white neighborhoods have significantly better access to testing facilities and have much shorter wait times than Black and Hispanic neighborhoods .
The analysis was conducted by the 7 On Your Side Investigates data team , ABC News and FiveThirtyEight , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , the availability of testing centers depends on where you live and how much money you make .
The nationwide review is among the first to look at testing site locations in all 50 states plus Washington , D.C. , using data provided by the healthcare navigation company Castlight Health which , provides the same data that Google Maps uses to identify COVID-19 testing sites .
As in all things , generally affluent and white neighborhoods have the advantage while lower-income minority neighborhoods get the short end of the stick .
From 7 @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Metro Area ranked among the top 10 major US cities with testing disparities , behind other cities such as Philadelphia , Miami and Dallas .
In New York City specifically , we looked at nearly 400 testing sites active through at least June 18 and found predominantly black and Latino communities were likely to face testing sites up to 26 % busier than testing sites in communities with a greater percentage of white residents .
We found a greater concentration of testing sites per capita in wealthier areas of Manhattan reducing the likelihood @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to certain predominantly minority communities in parts of Queens , Brooklyn and the Bronx .
Researchers for the analysis used Census data to determine the potential demand at each testing site , and they looked at the demographics of the surrounding neighborhoods to determine where the disparities are and who is impacted by them the most .
Researchers also analyzed testing results by zip code using data provided by the New York City Department of Health .
“ That data revealed that several of the same neighborhoods in which our analysis found residents @ @ @ @ @ @ @ test centers , also saw fewer individuals obtaining tests but higher coronavirus positivity rates among individuals who did get tested , ” News 7 reports .
Elisabeth Benjamin , vice president of Health Initiatives for the Community Service Society of NY—an organization that focuses on putting an end to disparities in healthcare access , told New 7 that “ These disparities didn ’ t just materialize out of thin air.
” “ These disparities occurred by design and that is what we call structural racism , ” Benjamin added .
“ There is @ @ @ @ @ @ @ of color to be disparately impacted by the pandemic .
What is true is that communities of color have less access to healthcare resources .
We and New York State really have to do some soul searching about how we allocate our resources.
” According to FiveThirtyEight , predominantly Black neighborhoods in Philadelphia have seen similar racial disparities to that of NYC .
In early April , pediatric surgeon Dr. Ala Stanford began personally distributing COVID-19 tests in the Philly neighborhoods that needed them the most .
She eventually teamed up with a @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Black Doctors COVID-19 Consortium to help meet the medical needs of underserved communities .
“ We ’ ve been to locations that are predominantly African American where everyone had insurance and they couldn ’ t get tested , ” Stanford said , noting that many testing facilities require doctor referrals , appointments and symptoms consistent with COVID-19 infection .
In May , NPR conducted a similar study that focused on the state of Texas .
Investigators looked at the distribution of testing centers in the state ’ s six largest cities—Dallas , El @ @ @ @ @ @ @ San Antonio and Houston—and found that in four of those cities ( all except San Antonio and Houston ) , there were vastly more testing centers located in white neighborhoods .
The largest disparity was found in Dallas where 22 testing locations were found in neighborhoods that are “ whiter than city median ” while neighborhoods that are “ less white than city median ” only had seven testing locations .
According to News 7 , New York City Health Commissioner Dr. Oxiris Barbot put things plainly when he addressed the racial disparities @ @ @ @ @ @ @ a press conference in the Bronx .
“ When you have low testing but high positivity , that high hit-rate indicates we need to test more people , ” Dr. Barbot said .
“ We need to make it easy as possible for people to get tested.
” Join the discussion !
The Root is hosting its first-ever , virtual Root Institute , presented by Target , featuring several of the leading minds in our community talking about politics , culture , health , community building and social impact .
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It often feels like everything bad that happens in America disproportionately affects communities of color, and the global pandemic that continues to spread across the country has shown us nothing different. Despite the numerous reports that show Black and Hispanic people are at greater risk for COVID-19 infection, a recent review on COVID-19 testing sites suggests that white neighborhoods have significantly better access to testing facilities and have much shorter wait times than Black and Hispanic neighborhoods.
The analysis was conducted by the 7 On Your Side Investigates data team, ABC News and FiveThirtyEight, and it found that in major cities, the availability of testing centers depends on where you live and how much money you make. The nationwide review is among the first to look at testing site locations in all 50 states plus Washington, D.C., using data provided by the healthcare navigation company Castlight Health which, provides the same data that Google Maps uses to identify COVID-19 testing sites. As in all things, generally affluent and white neighborhoods have the advantage while lower-income minority neighborhoods get the short end of the stick.
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From 7 On Your Side:
The New York Metro Area ranked among the top 10 major US cities with testing disparities, behind other cities such as Philadelphia, Miami and Dallas. In New York City specifically, we looked at nearly 400 testing sites active through at least June 18 and found predominantly black and Latino communities were likely to face testing sites up to 26% busier than testing sites in communities with a greater percentage of white residents. We found a greater concentration of testing sites per capita in wealthier areas of Manhattan reducing the likelihood of long waits for tests, compared to certain predominantly minority communities in parts of Queens, Brooklyn and the Bronx.
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Researchers for the analysis used Census data to determine the potential demand at each testing site, and they looked at the demographics of the surrounding neighborhoods to determine where the disparities are and who is impacted by them the most.
Researchers also analyzed testing results by zip code using data provided by the New York City Department of Health. “That data revealed that several of the same neighborhoods in which our analysis found residents would be more likely to experience busy test centers, also saw fewer individuals obtaining tests but higher coronavirus positivity rates among individuals who did get tested,” News 7 reports.
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Elisabeth Benjamin, vice president of Health Initiatives for the Community Service Society of NY—an organization that focuses on putting an end to disparities in healthcare access, told New 7 that “These disparities didn’t just materialize out of thin air.”
“These disparities occurred by design and that is what we call structural racism,” Benjamin added. “There is no biological or genetic reason for communities of color to be disparately impacted by the pandemic. What is true is that communities of color have less access to healthcare resources. We and New York State really have to do some soul searching about how we allocate our resources.”
Advertisement
According to FiveThirtyEight, predominantly Black neighborhoods in Philadelphia have seen similar racial disparities to that of NYC.
In early April, pediatric surgeon Dr. Ala Stanford began personally distributing COVID-19 tests in the Philly neighborhoods that needed them the most. She eventually teamed up with a group of doctors and volunteers called the Black Doctors COVID-19 Consortium to help meet the medical needs of underserved communities.
Advertisement
“We’ve been to locations that are predominantly African American where everyone had insurance and they couldn’t get tested,” Stanford said, noting that many testing facilities require doctor referrals, appointments and symptoms consistent with COVID-19 infection.
In May, NPR conducted a similar study that focused on the state of Texas. Investigators looked at the distribution of testing centers in the state’s six largest cities—Dallas, El Paso, Austin, Fort Worth, San Antonio and Houston—and found that in four of those cities (all except San Antonio and Houston), there were vastly more testing centers located in white neighborhoods. The largest disparity was found in Dallas where 22 testing locations were found in neighborhoods that are “whiter than city median” while neighborhoods that are “less white than city median” only had seven testing locations.
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According to News 7, New York City Health Commissioner Dr. Oxiris Barbot put things plainly when he addressed the racial disparities in testing access earlier this month during a press conference in the Bronx.
“When you have low testing but high positivity, that high hit-rate indicates we need to test more people,” Dr. Barbot said. “We need to make it easy as possible for people to get tested.”
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Join the discussion! The Root is hosting its first-ever, virtual Root Institute, presented by Target, featuring several of the leading minds in our community talking about politics, culture, health, community building and social impact. Subscribe for updates today!


theroot--2020-07-22--Idris Elba to Receive BAFTA's Special Award for His 'Creative Contributions' to Television

Idris Elba is one of Britain ’ s best-known actors , and he has made a name for himself both onscreen and off with his work in the director ’ s chair and as a writer and producer .
His contributions will be recognized at the upcoming BAFTA TV Awards , where he will receive the organization ’ s Special Award .
“ It ’ s a great privilege to be honored with the BAFTA Special Award , ” Elba said in a statement obtained by The Hollywood Reporter .
“ It ’ s been a mission of mine to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ from diverse backgrounds in this industry , which is the same opportunity I received many years ago from open-minded and diversity conscious casting.
” He continued his statement by thanking BAFTA ( which stands for “ British Academy of Film and Television Arts ) for recognizing him and others “ who are dedicated to the same cause ” of raising awareness about diversity in entertainment .
Elba is well known for his work in television series such as The Wire , The Office , and Luther ( a role which garnered him four @ @ @ @ @ @ @ like Molly ’ s Game , Beasts of No Nation , and Mandela : Long Walk to Freedom .
His production company Green Door Pictures was founded in 2013 , and according to the brand ’ s website , they work with “ emerging and established talent to produce content that is innovative , entertaining and thought-provoking whilst appealing to a broad audience.
” “ [ Elba ] is also a driving force for championing diversity , ensuring talented people from all backgrounds achieve their potential , ” Amanda Berry , BAFTA chief @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
“ We ’ re delighted to recognize Idris , and his outstanding work , at this year ’ s ceremony.
” This year ’ s ceremony was initially meant to be held in May ; however , the effects of the COVID-19 pandemic pushed the event back to July 31 .
The Hollywood Reporter writes that the ceremony will take place “ as a closed studio , socially-distanced show.
” Comedian and actor Richard Ayoade will serve as host .

Idris Elba is one of Britain’s best-known actors, and he has made a name for himself both onscreen and off with his work in the director’s chair and as a writer and producer. His contributions will be recognized at the upcoming BAFTA TV Awards, where he will receive the organization’s Special Award.
“It’s a great privilege to be honored with the BAFTA Special Award,” Elba said in a statement obtained by The Hollywood Reporter. “It’s been a mission of mine to provide opportunity and access to emerging talent from diverse backgrounds in this industry, which is the same opportunity I received many years ago from open-minded and diversity conscious casting.” He continued his statement by thanking BAFTA (which stands for “British Academy of Film and Television Arts) for recognizing him and others “who are dedicated to the same cause” of raising awareness about diversity in entertainment.
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Elba is well known for his work in television series such as The Wire, The Office, and Luther (a role which garnered him four Emmy nominations), and in films like Molly’s Game, Beasts of No Nation, and Mandela: Long Walk to Freedom. His production company Green Door Pictures was founded in 2013, and according to the brand’s website, they work with “emerging and established talent to produce content that is innovative, entertaining and thought-provoking whilst appealing to a broad audience.”
“[Elba] is also a driving force for championing diversity, ensuring talented people from all backgrounds achieve their potential,” Amanda Berry, BAFTA chief executive, says of the award recipient. “We’re delighted to recognize Idris, and his outstanding work, at this year’s ceremony.”
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This year’s ceremony was initially meant to be held in May; however, the effects of the COVID-19 pandemic pushed the event back to July 31. The Hollywood Reporter writes that the ceremony will take place “as a closed studio, socially-distanced show.” Comedian and actor Richard Ayoade will serve as host.


theroot--2020-07-22--In a League Hurting for Black Ownership, Kevin Garnett Shoots His Shot With the Minnesota Timberwolv

In a League Hurting for Black Ownership, Kevin Garnett Shoots His Shot With the Minnesota Timberwolves

If NBA Hall of Famer Kevin Garnett gets his wish , he will soon become something that the league he once played for desperately needs : another Black owner .
ESPN reports that Glen Taylor , the majority owner of the Minnesota Timberwolves , has secured the services of a global merchant bank as he explores potentially selling the team .
“ I was recently approached by The Raine Group to discuss the future of our franchise , ” he wrote in a statement .
“ From the time I bought the team in 1994 , I have always wanted @ @ @ @ @ @ @ and will entertain opportunities on the evolution of the Timberwolves and Lynx ownership structure.
” Should the 79-year-old decide to sell the team , he refuses to bend on one stipulation .
“ Everybody ’ s been told it has to stay in Minnesota , ” Taylor told The Athletic .
That won ’ t be a problem for most of the interested parties that have emerged as potential suitors , but in looking at their resumes and accomplishments , one person , in particular , stands out from the pack—and that ’ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Garnett , who spent 14 years playing for the Timberwolves and is easily its most celebrated player ever , is part of a group that ’ s determined to purchase the team and revitalize the moribund franchise .
“ My passion for the Minnesota Timberwolves to be a championship team is well known but I have a deeper affection for the city of Minneapolis .
I once again want to see Minneapolis as the diverse and loving community that I know it is , ” Garnett tweeted on Tuesday .
“ No two @ @ @ @ @ @ @ and Glen Taylor and I look forward to trying to work with him to achieve my dream.
” But in what should be a fairytale ending , with Garnett possibly returning as owner to the same franchise that he saved from the brink of extinction back in 1995 , is a bit more ... complicated .
Because under regular circumstances , Garnett and Taylor would be more inclined to exchange obscenities than friendship bracelets .
The origin of their ire is difficult to pinpoint , but there are two specific issues that have @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the fact that Garnett dragged a cast of dilapidated parts to the playoffs year after year , Taylor accused him of exaggerating a leg injury and quitting on the team during the final five games of the 2006-2007 season .
“ KG tanked it , ” Taylor said .
“ I think the other guys still wanted to play .
But it sure changed the team and didn ’ t make us ( as strong ) .
” Harsh words , yes , but the death knell in their relationship came years later @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , with Garnett in the twilight of his career , he returned to the Timberwolves via a trade with the Brooklyn Nets under one condition : that after his retirement , he would be promised a front-office role within the organization .
This agreement , facilitated by then-coach Flip Saunders , went to complete shit after Saunders succumbed to Hodgkin ’ s disease soon after .
Taylor then hired Tom Thibodeau as head coach and president of basketball operations , leaving Garnett assed out—and pissed off .
In response , Garnett has refused @ @ @ @ @ @ @ emptied out the clip during a recent interview with Shams Charania of The Athletic .
“ I don ’ t want any dealings with Glen Taylor or Taylor Corp. or anything that has to do with him , ” he snapped .
“ I love my Timberwolves , I ’ ll always love my guys , I ’ ll always love the people who fuck with me there .
I ’ ll always have a special place for the city of Minneapolis and the state of Minnesota in my heart .
But I @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
I don ’ t do business with snake mu ’ fuckas.
” I guess it ’ s safe to say that he ’ s had a change of heart .
Hopefully , the two are able to set their differences aside and do what ’ s best for both the city and the franchise .
Because if there ’ s anyone who deserves the opportunity to salvage t he Timberwolves , it ’ s Kevin Garnett .

If NBA Hall of Famer Kevin Garnett gets his wish, he will soon become something that the league he once played for desperately needs: another Black owner.
ESPN reports that Glen Taylor, the majority owner of the Minnesota Timberwolves, has secured the services of a global merchant bank as he explores potentially selling the team.
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“I was recently approached by The Raine Group to discuss the future of our franchise,” he wrote in a statement. “From the time I bought the team in 1994, I have always wanted what’s best for our fans and will entertain opportunities on the evolution of the Timberwolves and Lynx ownership structure.”
Should the 79-year-old decide to sell the team, he refuses to bend on one stipulation.
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“Everybody’s been told it has to stay in Minnesota,” Taylor told The Athletic.
That won’t be a problem for most of the interested parties that have emerged as potential suitors, but in looking at their resumes and accomplishments, one person, in particular, stands out from the pack—and that’s 15-time NBA All-Star Kevin Garnett.
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Garnett, who spent 14 years playing for the Timberwolves and is easily its most celebrated player ever, is part of a group that’s determined to purchase the team and revitalize the moribund franchise.
“My passion for the Minnesota Timberwolves to be a championship team is well known but I have a deeper affection for the city of Minneapolis. I once again want to see Minneapolis as the diverse and loving community that I know it is,” Garnett tweeted on Tuesday. “No two people love the city more than myself and Glen Taylor and I look forward to trying to work with him to achieve my dream.”
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But in what should be a fairytale ending, with Garnett possibly returning as owner to the same franchise that he saved from the brink of extinction back in 1995, is a bit more...complicated. Because under regular circumstances, Garnett and Taylor would be more inclined to exchange obscenities than friendship bracelets.
Simply put: They hate each other.
The origin of their ire is difficult to pinpoint, but there are two specific issues that have seemingly made their relationship irreparable.
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Despite the fact that Garnett dragged a cast of dilapidated parts to the playoffs year after year, Taylor accused him of exaggerating a leg injury and quitting on the team during the final five games of the 2006-2007 season.
“KG tanked it,” Taylor said. “I think the other guys still wanted to play. But it sure changed the team and didn’t make us (as strong).”
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Harsh words, yes, but the death knell in their relationship came years later. Prior to the 2015 trade deadline, with Garnett in the twilight of his career, he returned to the Timberwolves via a trade with the Brooklyn Nets under one condition: that after his retirement, he would be promised a front-office role within the organization.
This agreement, facilitated by then-coach Flip Saunders, went to complete shit after Saunders succumbed to Hodgkin’s disease soon after. Taylor then hired Tom Thibodeau to destroy the franchise as head coach and president of basketball operations, leaving Garnett assed out—and pissed off.
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In response, Garnett has refused to retire his jersey in Minnesota and emptied out the clip during a recent interview with Shams Charania of The Athletic.
“I don’t want any dealings with Glen Taylor or Taylor Corp. or anything that has to do with him,” he snapped. “I love my Timberwolves, I’ll always love my guys, I’ll always love the people who fuck with me there. I’ll always have a special place for the city of Minneapolis and the state of Minnesota in my heart. But I don’t do business with snakes. I don’t do business with snake mu’fuckas.”
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I guess it’s safe to say that he’s had a change of heart.
Hopefully, the two are able to set their differences aside and do what’s best for both the city and the franchise. Because if there’s anyone who deserves the opportunity to salvage t he Timberwolves, it’s Kevin Garnett.