theroot--2020-08-16--OWN's Black Love Called Out for The Glaring Absence of Dark-Skinned Black Women in Promo for New Sea

OWN's Black Love Called Out for The Glaring Absence of Dark-Skinned Black Women in Promo for New Season

The creators of Black Love , an OWN docuseries which says it aims to tell the stories of Black couples and increase representation , spent the weekend fielding backlash from Black Twitter after releasing a promotional trailer in which dark-skinned women were made all but invisible .
Released on Friday , the teaser for the fourth season of Black Love appeared to be teeing up viewers for stories that were almost exclusively about Black men in partnerships light-skinned women : Twitter immediately reacted to the total absence of dark-skinned women in the trailer , as well as the lack of @ @ @ @ @ @ @ previous seasons of the show have featured relationships which include prominent dark-skinned women , like Viola Davis and Ryan Michelle Bathe , the tone-deaf trailer felt like a confirmation of a truth dark-skinned Black women ( like myself ) know from lived experience : colorism exists , and one of its many functions is to tell us implicitly and often explicitly that we don ’ t deserve to be loved by men who look like us .
Another way that colorism functions and is perpetuated in our communities is through the denial that @ @ @ @ @ @ @ is not only about preferences but is also about racism .
Ironically , this is similar to the gaslighting that white people like to practice when Black people say that racism is still a thing that impacts our lives ( or not so ironically , since colorism is a branch from the racist tree ) .
Maya Angelique , the dark-skinned young woman who continues to be harassed by Talib Kweli for accurately pointing out on Twitter that many married Black male public figures ( like those in the trailer ) prefer their @ @ @ @ @ @ @ called out this gaslighting : “ We show Black men and women of all shades in loving relationships - we even show them in relationships with someone who isn ’ t Black , ” the people behind Black Love creators initially said on Twitter , in response to the onslaught of comments regarding their problematic trailer , seeming to practise some of this gaslighting .
“ Some folks are mad .
It sucks .
But we still still show US being loved , ” they added .
By the next day morning , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ of ostensibly advocating for Black representation while contributing to the erasure of dark-skinned Black women—intentionally or not .
“ For 3+ years we have shown a diverse representation of Black men & women and this teaser didn ’ t reflect that or the upcoming season as a whole , ” they tweeted .
The new season of Black Love premieres on September 5th on OWN .
Join the discussion !
The Root is hosting its first-ever , virtual Root Institute , presented by Target , featuring several of the leading minds in our @ @ @ @ @ @ @ health , community building and social impact .
Subscribe for updates today !

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

The creators of Black Love, an OWN docuseries which says it aims to tell the stories of Black couples and increase representation, spent the weekend fielding backlash from Black Twitter after releasing a promotional trailer in which dark-skinned women were made all but invisible.
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Released on Friday, the teaser for the fourth season of Black Love appeared to be teeing up viewers for stories that were almost exclusively about Black men in partnerships light-skinned women:
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Twitter immediately reacted to the total absence of dark-skinned women in the trailer, as well as the lack of representation for LGBTQ Black relationships:
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Though previous seasons of the show have featured relationships which include prominent dark-skinned women, like Viola Davis and Ryan Michelle Bathe, the tone-deaf trailer felt like a confirmation of a truth dark-skinned Black women (like myself) know from lived experience: colorism exists, and one of its many functions is to tell us implicitly and often explicitly that we don’t deserve to be loved by men who look like us.
Another way that colorism functions and is perpetuated in our communities is through the denial that it even exists and is not only about preferences but is also about racism. Ironically, this is similar to the gaslighting that white people like to practice when Black people say that racism is still a thing that impacts our lives (or not so ironically, since colorism is a branch from the racist tree).
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Maya Angelique, the dark-skinned young woman who continues to be harassed by Talib Kweli for accurately pointing out on Twitter that many married Black male public figures (like those in the trailer) prefer their Black women with less melanin, also called out this gaslighting:
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“We show Black men and women of all shades in loving relationships - we even show them in relationships with someone who isn’t Black,” the people behind Black Love initially said on Twitter, in response to the onslaught of comments regarding their problematic trailer, seeming to practise some of this gaslighting.
“Some folks are mad. It sucks. But we still still show US being loved,” they added.
Advertisement
By the next day morning, they seemed ready to acknowledge the problem of ostensibly advocating for Black representation while contributing to the erasure of dark-skinned Black women—intentionally or not.
“For 3+ years we have shown a diverse rep resentation of Black men & women and this teaser didn’t reflect that or the upcoming season as a whole,” they tweeted.
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The new season of Black Love premieres on September 5th on OWN.
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--2020-08-17--100 Percent That Block: Lawsuit Against Lizzo for 'Truth Hurts' Dismissed by California Judge

You tried to break her heart ?
Oh , that breaks my heart .
The lawsuit against Grammy-winning musician Lizzo for her hit song “ Truth Hurts ” has been dismissed by a California federal judge .
The Hollywood Reporter writes that on Friday , U.S. District Court Judge Dolly M. Gee accepted Lizzo ’ s dismissal of the suit by Justin and Jeremiah Raisen , two songwriters who claimed that the hit song ( originally released in 2017 ) is “ derivative ” of a track they wrote with the performer called “ Healthy.
” Lizzo sued the brothers @ @ @ @ @ @ @ aren ’ t entitled to any of the track ’ s profits or a songwriting credit because they were not involved in its creation .
However , Mina Lioness—the young woman who originally tweeted the sentence “ I did a DNA test turns out I ’ m a hundred percent that bitch ” —did receive a songwriting credit after coming forward in 2019 .
Judge Gee leaves the Raisen brothers the opportunity to amend the dismissal , after finding that a section of their opposition alleges that portions of their “ Healthy ” @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Truth Hurts.
” However , the judge is not feeling “ good as hell ” about an amendment , pointing out that there are “ inconsistent allegations ” with their claims that “ may be used to undermine a litigant ’ s credibility.
” Although it was two years old by that point , “ Truth Hurts ” blew up after appearing in the 2019 Netflix romantic comedy film Someone Great .
Because of its popularity , it became only the sixth song by a female rapper to hit No .
1 on @ @ @ @ @ @ @ August 2019 .
It went on to win a Grammy Award for Best Pop Solo Performance earlier this year .
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 !

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

You tried to break her heart? Oh, that breaks my heart. The lawsuit against Grammy-winning musician Lizzo for her hit song “Truth Hurts” has been dismissed by a California federal judge.
The Hollywood Reporter writes that on Friday, U.S. District Court Judge Dolly M. Gee accepted Lizzo’s dismissal of the suit by Justin and Jeremiah Raisen, two songwriters who claimed that the hit song (originally released in 2017) is “derivative” of a track they wrote with the performer called “Healthy.”
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Lizzo sued the brothers in October 2019, stating that they aren’t entitled to any of the track’s profits or a songwriting credit because they were not involved in its creation. However, Mina Lioness—the young woman who originally tweeted the sentence “I did a DNA test turns out I’m a hundred percent that bitch”—did receive a songwriting credit after coming forward in 2019.
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Judge Gee leaves the Raisen brothers the opportunity to amend the dismissal, after finding that a section of their opposition alleges that portions of their “Healthy” song were used as inspiration for “Truth Hurts.” However, the judge is not feeling “good as hell” about an amendment, pointing out that there are “inconsistent allegations” with their claims that “may be used to undermine a litigant’s credibility.”
Although it was two years old by that point, “Truth Hurts” blew up after appearing in the 2019 Netflix romantic comedy film Someone Great. Because of its popularity, it became only the sixth song by a female rapper to hit No. 1 on the Billboard Hot 100 songs chart in August 2019. It went on to win a Grammy Award for Best Pop Solo Performance earlier this year.
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--2020-08-18--Kentucky Police Union Predictably Mad Over 'Breonna's Law,' a Bill That Would Ban No-Knock Warrants

Kentucky Police Union Predictably Mad Over 'Breonna's Law,' a Bill That Would Ban No-Knock Warrants Statewide

Police unions are the fucking worst .
Any request for cops to do their job even slightly more responsibly is met with what can only be described as pouting and temper tantrums .
Take , for instance , the Kentucky Fraternal Order of Police , who are big mad over perfectly reasonable legislation to ban the use of no-knock warrants statewide .
Courier-Journal reports that on Sunday , state Rep. Attica Scott ( D-Louisville ) , announced “ Breonna ’ s Law , ” a bill named for Breonna Taylor , that would ban no-knock warrants statewide , require officers @ @ @ @ @ @ @ after being involved in a shooting and for body cameras to be on whenever a warrant is being executed .
The proposal follows a similar bill passed and signed into law in Louisville , where Taylor was shot and killed by police serving a no-knock warrant .
These are perfectly reasonable demands , right ?
Well , not according to the FOP .
The organization wasted no time taking to social media to blast Scott ’ s bill , calling it “ an attack and slap in the face to the great cops @ @ @ @ @ @ @ again , emotion takes the day , not fact based evidence .
The unintended consequences will be so severe , likely a mass exodus of great cops all across this Commonwealth .
Yet again , cops have been made out to be the enemy of the people and used as no more than # PoliticalPawns , ” The FOP wrote on Facebook .
Of course , the Fraternal Order of Police are the kind of people who use hashtags on Facebook .
Scott called their reply “ predictable , ” on Twitter and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ on emotion .
“ Your demands predicated on something other than # Facts are , in fact , demands based on emotion , ” the FOP replied .
The bill was named for Taylor , a 26-year-old Black woman who , factually speaking , was asleep in her bed when a group of officers arrived to serve a no-knock warrant and shot and killed her in the hallway of her home .
For being so pressed about facts , the FOP has yet to provide any showing why a bill preventing further deaths @ @ @ @ @ @ @ thing or somehow harmful to their officers .
Why , it almost seems like the FOP is in its feelings over a decision based on , you know , facts .
So far , Scott ’ s bill has nine co-sponsors , all of whom are Democrats .
In July , the state Senate ’ s Republican president , Robert Stivers , proposed a ban on standalone no-knock warrants .
The bill , which has yet to be filed , would provide exceptions for hostage situations and no-knock warrants being used in conjunction @ @ @ @ @ @ @ !
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 !

Police unions are the fucking worst. Any request for cops to do their job even slightly more responsibly is met with what can only be described as pouting and temper tantrums. Take, for instance, the Kentucky Fraternal Order of Police, who are big mad over perfectly reasonable legislation to ban the use of no-knock warrants statewide.
Courier-Journal reports that on Sunday, state Rep. Attica Scott (D-Louisville), announced “Breonna’s Law,” a bill named for Breonna Taylor, that would ban no-knock warrants statewide, require officers to go through drug and alcohol testing after being involved in a shooting and for body cameras to be on whenever a warrant is being executed. The proposal follows a similar bill passed and signed into law in Louisville, where Taylor was shot and killed by police serving a no-knock warrant. These are perfectly reasonable demands, right?
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Well, not according to the FOP. The organization wasted no time taking to social media to blast Scott’s bill, calling it “an attack and slap in the face to the great cops all across this Commonwealth.”
“Yet again, emotion takes the day, not fact based evidence. The unintended consequences will be so severe, likely a mass exodus of great cops all across this Commonwealth. Yet again, cops have been made out to be the enemy of the people and used as no more than #PoliticalPawns,” The FOP wrote on Facebook. Of course, the Fraternal Order of Police are the kind of people who use hashtags on Facebook.
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Scott called their reply “predictable,” on Twitter and asked how exactly her bill is predicated on emotion. “Your demands predicated on something other than #Facts are, in fact, demands based on emotion,” the FOP replied. The bill was named for Taylor, a 26-year-old Black woman who, factually speaking, was asleep in her bed when a group of officers arrived to serve a no-knock warrant and shot and killed her in the hallway of her home. For being so pressed about facts, the FOP has yet to provide any showing why a bill preventing further deaths from no-knock warrants would be a bad thing or somehow harmful to their officers.
Why, it almost seems like the FOP is in its feelings over a decision based on, you know, facts.
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So far, Scott’s bill has nine co-sponsors, all of whom are Democrats. In July, the state Senate’s Republican president, Robert Stivers, proposed a ban on standalone no-knock warrants. The bill, which has yet to be filed, would provide exceptions for hostage situations and no-knock warrants being used in conjunction with arrest warrants.
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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--2020-08-17--Stop Flushing Your Hard-Earned Cash Down the Toilet and Buy a Bidet Already

Let ’ s face it : Sometimes toilet paper just isn ’ t enough for that squeaky-clean feeling .
After you ’ ve taken care of business , the goal is that fresh , just out of the shower feeling .
Those rolls of Charmin aren ’ t working quite hard enough , no matter what the packaging says .
That ’ s where bidets come in .
They may not be the most glamorous of home equipment , but they ’ ll ensure you leave the throne room every time feeling refreshed and rejuvenated .
Here are some of @ @ @ @ @ @ @ from easy-to-install options to whole seat replacements that ’ ll have you wondering why you didn ’ t ditch the roll much , much earlier .
A budget option that gets the job done Aside from having what could be the best name possible for a bidet , the Tushy Classic takes just 10 minutes to install and requires no additional plumbing work or electricity .
It ’ s simple to attach and use and isn ’ t an eyesore since it ’ s tucked under your seat .
Once installed , you @ @ @ @ @ @ @ adjuster and pressure control knob to make sure it cleans to your satisfaction .
It ’ s a very spartan bidet with few bells and whistles , but it gets the job done .
It fits most standard toilets , but if for some reason you run into any issues , it comes with a 12-month warranty for peace of mind .
This Kohler K-5724-0 not only offers a great cleaning function , i t replaces your entire toilet seat .
A washlet with a self-cleaning wand attached yields hygienic rinses after each @ @ @ @ @ @ @ quiet close lid that closes without slamming .
Installation does require a connection to your toilet supply line , but the seat comes with all the tools and hoses you ’ ll need to get that taken care of— you ’ ll need to supply the Phillips screwdriver and adjustable wrench .
Once it ’ s on , you can adjust the water spray position with the seat ’ s side handle .
Odor is one of the biggest concerns with using the restroom , and this Toto w ashlet b idet s @ @ @ @ @ @ @ addition to typical bidet spray features , it includes a spec ial air deodorizer that helps to neutralize odor through the use of air filters .
In addition to adjustable water steam , a special premise function helps clean the toilet bowl before each use to try and keep things as spic- and-span as possible .
Then , when you ’ re finished with your cleanse , the seat will help to keep you dry with warm , comfortable air that you can adjust .
The seat does require a more involved installation @ @ @ @ @ @ @ but it comes with most of the tools you need to get it attached .
It also features a more robust set of controls than many other bidet seats .
Self-cleaning nozzle gets the job done This is another easy- to-i nstall bidet attachment that requires no electricity or complicated installation , as it instead is sandwiched between your toilet seat .
It ’ s self-cleaning so you don ’ t have to do any scrubbing , and it has a very small adjustable knob control that protrudes from the side of your @ @ @ @ @ @ @ You can control the flow and pressure of water with the included knob , and when you ’ re finished doing your business , the nozzle will retract to remain clean and unsoiled .
This is an easy way to cut down on spending when it comes to toilet paper or wipes , and it can be removed without having to replace your seat , like you would need to do with a washlet .
Transform any toilet into a full-service washlet with the Brondell S wash b idet t oilet s eat @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to function , and it ’ s simple to self-install , just like a regular toilet seat .
The seat offers warm or ambient water washes with a dual nozzle system for both rear and front options .
What ’ s more , the seat isn ’ t sloped like many washlet systems , which means you can sit on the lid should you need to while closed .
This is one of the few bidet seats that offers a comfortable clean for both front and back , so it ’ s definitely @ @ @ @ @ @ @ every bathroom visit that much more hygienic .

Brittany Vincent on The Inventory, shared by Gabe Carey to The Root

Let’s face it: Sometimes toilet paper just isn’t enough for that squeaky-clean feeling. After you’ve taken care of business, the goal is that fresh, just out of the shower feeling. Those rolls of Charmin aren’t working quite hard enough, no matter what the packaging says. That’s where bidets come in. They may not be the most glamorous of home equipment, but they’ll ensure you leave the throne room every time feeling refreshed and rejuvenated.
Here are some of the best bidets you can purchase, from easy-to-install options to whole seat replacements that’ll have you wondering why you didn’t ditch the roll much, much earlier.
Simple and Sleek
Advertisement
Aside from having what could be the best name possible for a bidet, the Tushy Classic takes just 10 minutes to install and requires no additional plumbing work or electricity. It’s simple to attach and use and isn’t an eyesore since it’s tucked under your seat . Once installed, you can control the stream with a nozzle adjuster and pressure control knob to make sure it cleans to your satisfaction. It’s a very spartan bidet with few bells and whistles, but it gets the job done. It fits most standard toilets, but if for some reason you run into any issues , it comes with a 12-month warranty for peace of mind.
Frills-Free Seat Replacement
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This Kohler K-5724-0 not only offers a great cleaning function, i t replaces your entire toilet seat. A washlet with a self-cleaning wand attached yields hygienic rinses after each bathroom visit. It also features a quiet close lid that closes without slamming. Installation does require a connection to your toilet supply line, but the seat comes with all the tools and hoses you’ll need to get that taken care of— you’ll need to supply the Phillips screwdriver and adjustable wrench. Once it’s on, you can adjust the water spray position with the seat’s side handle.
Advertisement
Odor-Free Cleansing
Advertisement
Odor is one of the biggest concerns with using the restroom, and this Toto w ashlet b idet s eat takes that into consideration. In addition to typical bidet spray features, it includes a spec ial air deodorizer that helps to neutralize odor through the use of air filters. In addition to adjustable water steam, a special premise function helps clean the toilet bowl before each use to try and keep things as spic- and-span as possible. Then, when you’re finished with your cleanse, the seat will help to keep you dry with warm, comfortable air that you can adjust. The seat does require a more involved installation as well as electricity to run, but it comes with most of the tools you need to get it attached. It also features a more robust set of controls than many other bidet seats.
Rudimentary Yet Reliable
Advertisement
This is another easy- to-i nstall bidet attachment that requires no electricity or complicated installation, as it instead is sandwiched between your toilet seat. It’s self-cleaning so you don’t have to do any scrubbing, and it has a very small adjustable knob control that protrudes from the side of your toilet so it can remain unobtrusive. You can control the flow and pressure of water with the included knob, and when you’re finished doing your business, the nozzle will retract to remain clean and unsoiled. This is an easy way to cut down on spending when it comes to toilet paper or wipes, and it can be removed without having to replace your seat, like you would need to do with a washlet.
Advertisement
Cleanliness in the Front and Back
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Transform any toilet into a full-service washlet with the Brondell S wash b idet t oilet s eat. It requires no electricity or batteries to function, and it’s simple to self-install, just like a regular toilet seat. The seat offers warm or ambient water washes with a dual nozzle system for both rear and front options. What’s more, the seat isn’t sloped like many washlet systems, which means you can sit on the lid should you need to while closed. This is one of the few bidet seats that offers a comfortable clean for both front and back, so it’s definitely well worth it to make each and every bathroom visit that much more hygienic.


theroot--2020-08-17--White Man in Missouri Wanted After Calling Black Woman the N-Word and Shooting Her

In Missouri , the Jefferson County Sheriff ’ s Department is searching for a man who called a Black woman the n-word multiple times before pistol-whipping and shooting her .
April Brown , the victim , was visiting a friend in Arnold , Mo.
, on Aug. 6 when the incident occurred , according to KSDK .
After getting into an argument with one of her friend ’ s roommates , Brown was set to leave when Adam Lee Pillow suddenly approached her .
“ This white guy came out of nowhere , looked at me and said four times @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , ” Brown told KSDK .
After verbally attacking her , Pillow allegedly began to physically assault Brown .
“ Then [ he ] held a gun from about 2 feet away , moved closer with the gun , called me the n-word again , then shot me on the left side of my face , ” Brown said .
Pillow fled while Brown was bleeding and had little awareness of what was going on .
“ I was kind of out of it .
My hearing at that point was gone .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ side of my face , pouring out , ” Brown said .
A judge issued a no-bond warrant for Pillow ’ s arrest and he ’ s currently facing charges of second-degree assault , unlawful use of a weapon and armed criminal action .
It ’ s unclear whether Pillow ’ s use of racial slurs will result in a hate crime charge being added as well .
Brown needs plastic surgery for her ear and it ’ s not currently known if her hearing will ever be the same .
Her injuries @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to eat .
“ I can ’ t eat at all , not even applesauce , ” Brown said .
She wants Pillow to be found and face justice for her own peace of mind .
“ [ I ’ m ] very scared that he ’ s still out there , ” Brown said .

In Missouri, the Jefferson County Sheriff’s Department is searching for a man who called a Black woman the n-word multiple times before pistol-whipping and shooting her.
April Brown, the victim, was visiting a friend in Arnold, Mo., on Aug. 6 when the incident occurred, according to KSDK. After getting into an argument with one of her friend’s roommates, Brown was set to leave when Adam Lee Pillow suddenly approached her. “This white guy came out of nowhere, looked at me and said four times f-word, n-word, n-word, n-word,” Brown told KSDK.
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After verbally attacking her, Pillow allegedly began to physically assault Brown. “Then [he] held a gun from about 2 feet away, moved closer with the gun, called me the n-word again, then shot me on the left side of my face,” Brown said. Pillow fled while Brown was bleeding and had little awareness of what was going on. “I was kind of out of it. My hearing at that point was gone. There was blood pouring out the left side of my face, pouring out,” Brown said.
A judge issued a no-bond warrant for Pillow’s arrest and he’s currently facing charges of second-degree assault, unlawful use of a weapon and armed criminal action. It’s unclear whether Pillow’s use of racial slurs will result in a hate crime charge being added as well.
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Brown needs plastic surgery for her ear and it’s not currently known if her hearing will ever be the same. Her injuries have also made it painful for her to eat. “I can’t eat at all, not even applesauce,” Brown said. She wants Pillow to be found and face justice for her own peace of mind.
“[I’m] very scared that he’s still out there,” Brown said.


theroot--2020-08-17--Diamond and Silk Call Out Fox News' Racism After They Got Fired as 2020 Continues to be Raggedy AF

The Amos ‘ n ’ Andy versions of The Simpsons characters Patty and Selma—you might know them as Sunken Place landlords Diamond and Silk—are apparently finally convinced that racism is real .
Now , I know what you ’ re thinking : “ Damn , the Black Lives Matter movement is going so hard it even got through to Auntie Ruckus and discount Candace Owens.
” ( It ’ s up to you to figure out who is who .
I ’ m actually not sure which one of them is Diamond and which is Silk ; I just know @ @ @ @ @ @ @ sugar and spice and probably “ Mammy ” dolls . )
But , nope—it turns out their sudden revelation that racism is an actual thing that exists came to them after they were fired by Fox News .
Earlier this year , Lynette “ Diamond ” Hardaway and Rochelle “ Silk ” Richardson lost their jobs as vloggers for Fox News ’ streaming service Fox Nation , which launched in 2018 .
The Black conservative duo—who should be considered the Home Depot of house negro dom—tapped danced their way into matching pink slips @ @ @ @ @ @ @ COVID-19 conspiracy theories echoed by the same idiots on your newsfeed trying to prove to you that the conspiracy is real by linking articles from SeeTheConspiracyIsReal.com .
The Daily Beast got ahold of an excerpt from the shuck and jive duo ’ s book ( yes , they wrote a book because 2020 decided it hasn ’ t jumped the shark far enough yet ) titled Uprising : Who the Hell Said You Can ’ t Ditch and Switch ?
—The Awakening of Diamond and Silk .
“ Here is the crazy thing @ @ @ @ @ @ @ declares in the book .
“ Fox News hosts like Tucker Carlson , Sean Hannity , and Laura Ingraham were questioning the same things we were questioning about the virus and pandemic .
The very same questions we had raised were being discussed openly on Fox News.
” She continues : “ Why were our Fox Nation videos dialed back because they were deemed overly political , but it was okay for others on the network to talk about politics , even down to asking some of the same questions we had ?
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ We only did one video every week , and it was hidden behind a paid subscription wall .
When you really think about it , was this part of the systemic racism that everybody was talking about ?
” Diamond fumes : “ How in the hell was it OK for for [ sic ] the white show host to ask the same questions and talk about the same things that we were speaking about , but our video content was dialed back for being overly political ?
We were all asking the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ thing.
” Are these women—who called the Black Lives Matter movement a “ mess ” and declared that racism is over and Black people are being used as pawns to fuel the liberal agenda—really out here trying to get sympathy because they just found out their seat at the whites-only table came with terms and conditions ?
Are they really that clueless ?
( There ’ s a Stacey Dash joke in there somewhere , but I don ’ t have the energy to think of it . )
I ’ ve been @ @ @ @ @ @ @ find words sophisticated enough to express my feelings as eloquently as possible : 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 !

The Amos ‘n’ Andy versions of The Simpsons characters Patty and Selma—you might know them as Sunken Place landlords Diamond and Silk—are apparently finally convinced that racism is real.
Now, I know what you’re thinking: “Damn, the Black Lives Matter movement is going so hard it even got through to Auntie Ruckus and discount Candace Owens.” (It’s up to you to figure out who is who. I’m actually not sure which one of them is Diamond and which is Silk; I just know they were both once girls made of sugar and spice and probably “Mammy” dolls.) But, nope—it turns out their sudden revelation that racism is an actual thing that exists came to them after they were fired by Fox News.
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Earlier this year, Lynette “Diamond” Hardaway and Rochelle “Silk” Richardson lost their jobs as vloggers for Fox News’ streaming service Fox Nation, which launched in 2018. The Black conservative duo—who should be considered the Home Depot of house negro dom—tapped danced their way into matching pink slips after they started repeating all of the COVID-19 conspiracy theories echoed by the same idiots on your newsfeed trying to prove to you that the conspiracy is real by linking articles from SeeTheConspiracyIsReal.com.
The Daily Beast got ahold of an excerpt from the shuck and jive duo’s book (yes, they wrote a book because 2020 decided it hasn’t jumped the shark far enough yet) titled Uprising: Who the Hell Said You Can’t Ditch and Switch?—The Awakening of Diamond and Silk.
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From the Daily Beast:
“Here is the crazy thing, y’all,” Silk declares in the book. “Fox News hosts like Tucker Carlson, Sean Hannity, and Laura Ingraham were questioning the same things we were questioning about the virus and pandemic. The very same questions we had raised were being discussed openly on Fox News.” She continues: “Why were our Fox Nation videos dialed back because they were deemed overly political, but it was okay for others on the network to talk about politics, even down to asking some of the same questions we had? Why were we such a threat? We only did one video every week, and it was hidden behind a paid subscription wall. When you really think about it, was this part of the systemic racism that everybody was talking about?” Diamond fumes: “How in the hell was it OK for for [sic] the white show host to ask the same questions and talk about the same things that we were speaking about, but our video content was dialed back for being overly political? We were all asking the same questions and talking about the same thing.”
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*deep inhale*
AHHHH HA HA HA HA HA HA HA HA HA HA *catches breath* HA HA HA HA HA HA HA HA HA!!!!
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Bruh, what?
Are these women—who called the Black Lives Matter movement a “mess” and declared that racism is over and Black people are being used as pawns to fuel the liberal agenda—really out here trying to get sympathy because they just found out their seat at the whites-only table came with terms and conditions? Are they really that clueless? (There’s a Stacey Dash joke in there somewhere, but I don’t have the energy to think of it.)
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I’ve been stretching my skill as a writer to find words sophisticated enough to express my feelings as eloquently as possible:
Nigga, please.
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--2020-08-17--Save Up to 65% During Wayfair's Home Renovation Sale

The best Wayfair sales for August 2020 are here .
It ’ s been a long summer for a lot of us , and if you ’ re tired of looking at the same walls , the same furniture , and the same clutter as always , then it might be prime time to take on a project .
And Wayfair is ready to help .
Wayfair just launched its Home Renovation Sale , and is taking up to 65 % off of all sorts of products designed to help you upgrade your home .
Whether that ’ s an @ @ @ @ @ @ @ or a little bit of both , the same extends from the living room to the bedroom , kitchen , bathroom , garage , and everywhere else in between .
We ’ ve added a few of our favorite products from the sale to our list of Wayfair ’ s best current deals below , and you can hit up the Wayfair website for many , many more home-reno bargains .
Set up a slick listening station for your record player and vinyl collection with this Novogratz Concord Audio Rack .
Each cubby @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , while the drawers make it easy to hide cables , headphones , and whatever else you want out of sight .
It has great reviews from Wayfair customers and is currently 58 % off the list price in this white and blue configuration .
Even your sink can have touch controls thanks to this Delta Addison Touch faucet , which lets you turn it on and off with a simple tap .
It ’ ll automatically turn off after four minutes , so you don ’ t have to worry about accidentally @ @ @ @ @ @ @ kitchen overnight , plus it has an LED light to indicate water temperature .
It comes with a matching soap dispenser and is 51 % off in this Chrome version , with other color options also available .
Here ’ s a way to not only organize your shoe collection , but also display it—assuming you consider it a “ collection ” instead of a “ pile of shoes by the door.
” The seven shelves here have room to comfortably fit 14 pairs of kicks while gaining you a nice mirror for @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
This George Oliver Kolton cabinet is 43 % off right now at Wayfair .
If your dream bathroom aesthetic is modern but minimal , then this Bay Isle Home Flatt 18 ” vanity might do the trick .
It ’ s slim and simple , yet makes a nice impression and has a small bottom shelf .
It ’ s perfect for a small bathroom that can ’ t fit ( or simply doesn ’ t need ) anything sizable .
It ’ s 49 % off right now .
If your @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , then you might want to jump on this stellar deal .
Right now , Wayfair has this 17-piece Farberware High Performance nonstick cookware set for 57 % off the list price .
It ’ s available at that price in black or champagne , both marked down from $ 160 , or you can pay extra for aqua or red .
Upgrade your bowl-and-plate game without breaking the bank thanks to this affordable Three Posts Wickham 16-piece dinnerware set .
You ’ ll get four place settings with a dinner plate , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ cup for each , and this Gray color is knocked down the most from its original $ 100 price point .
A couple of other colors are available as of this writing for a bit more cash .
Want to get a little more ambitious with your outdoor cooking skills ?
Royal Gourmet ’ s two-in-one cooker has a small , dedicated smoker compartment alongside the large , barrel-shaped grill .
It has porcelain-enameled grates and an adjustable charcoal pan , and this versatile grill is currently 21 % off the list price @ @ @ @ @ @ @ kicking back in an Adirondack chair , and luckily Wayfair has some on deep discount right now .
Highland Dunes ’ Rivale wood Adirondack chair comes in 17 different colors for 43 % off the list price—as well as unfinished chairs for just $ 120 .
If you ’ ve got a little one on the way , then you ’ re surely on the search for furniture that ’ s affordable , yet high-quality .
Sorelle ’ s Montgomery 4-in-1 convertible crib seems to fit that bill .
Usually priced at $ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ over half-off on Wayfair in both white and espresso colors .
The convertible design means that it can grow with your child , from a full-sized crib into a toddler bed , daybed , and ultimately full-size bed ( mattress not included ) .
Bookends are the perfect punctuation marks on your literary collections .
They can add an extra bit of character to any shelf .
Ideally , they will need to be heavy to keep your publications perpendicular .
These adorable bulldogs are up for the job of protecting any all @ @ @ @ @ @ @ cast iron , these cuties look like a treasured antique ... but only you will know that they are brand new .
Another item brought up multiple times by my friends is a chandelier .
There ’ s something modern and retro about this one ... which makes sense , because it was inspired by Sputnik .
The 10 60-watt medium-base bulbs will brightly illuminate any room you put it in .
Arranged strategically from crafted metal , the “ Space Race ” gives your home just the touch of mid-century modern style @ @ @ @ @

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

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


theroot--2020-08-17--As US Death Toll Hit 1,000 Per Day, New Study Says COVID-19 Has Become Third Leading Cause of Death

As US Death Toll Hit 1,000 Per Day, New Study Says COVID-19 Has Become Third Leading Cause of Death for Black People

COVID-19 has taken an unrelenting toll on this country in the five months since the pandemic began .
As deaths hit 1,000 per day over the last month , new data suggests that COVID-19 has become the third leading cause of death for Black people .
According to CBS News , a new study from the Brookings Institution shows that only heart disease and cancer are projected to have higher mortality rates than COVID-19 .
“ In 2020 more Black Americans will die of COVID-19 than will succumb to diabetes , strokes , accidents , or pneumonia , ” the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ in states that haven ’ t expanded Medicaid has been one of the leading factors behind the death toll , according to the report .
According to CNN , the CDC is projecting that COVID-19 will be the third leading cause of death overall this year in the United States .
“ If I told you on Jan. 1 that a new virus that we did not even know about would , in August , be the third leading cause of death for Black Americans , our hair should have been set on @ @ @ @ @ @ @ public policy response to this unprecedented pandemic , ” Trevor Logan , co-author of the report and economics professor at Ohio State University , told CBS News .
Logan added that the devastating effects of the virus have gone unacknowledged due to people having been under semi-quarantine throughout the pandemic .
Another factor contributing to the large death toll has been long-standing economic disparities between races .
Bradley Hardy , the other author of the study , pointed out that 50 percent of Black households have lost employment income since the start of @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Black households experience difficulty getting food .
“ There ’ s not just well-documented income gaps , but there ’ s also really yawning wealth gaps , ” Hardy told CBS News .
This means that Black families typically don ’ t have a substantial amount of savings to lean on in times of economic hardship .
The study comes as more than 1,000 people have died daily in the United States from COVID-19 over the last month .
CNN reports that the CDC projects deaths could climb to 189,000 by Sept. 5 @ @ @ @ @ @ @ been infected with the virus and 170,136 people have died .
Testing has slowed in 17 states despite positivity rates , the number of tests that come back positive , climbing in 34 states .
As states steadily reopen schools for in-person learning , cases among children have risen as well .
Early on , it appeared children didn ’ t contract the virus at a similar rate to adults .
“ Recent evidence suggests that children likely have the same or higher viral loads in their nasopharynx compared with adults and that @ @ @ @ @ @ @ households and camp settings , ” the CDC said .
Outbreaks of the virus have already been reported at schools that have reopened .
In Georgia , three schools have already closed as a result of coronavirus .
It ’ s almost like reopening schools while the virus is steadily surging across the country wasn ’ t , exactly , the smartest move .
There is hope that SalivaDirect , a new saliva test developed by researchers at the Yale School of Public Health , could provide an easy and inexpensive way to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
On Saturday , the Food and Drug Administration gave the test authorization for emergency use .
“ If cheap alternatives like SalivaDirect can be implemented across the country , we may finally get a handle on this pandemic , even before a vaccine , ” Nathan Grubaugh , a Yale assistant professor of epidemiology , told CNN .
As always wash your hands , stay home when you can , and wear a face mask when you can ’ t .
Stay safe out there , folks .
Join the discussion !
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ 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 !

COVID-19 has taken an unrelenting toll on this country in the five months since the pandemic began. As deaths hit 1,000 per day over the last month, new data suggests that COVID-19 has become the third leading cause of death for Black people.
According to CBS News, a new study from the Brookings Institution shows that only heart disease and cancer are projected to have higher mortality rates than COVID-19.
Advertisement
“In 2020 more Black Americans will die of COVID-19 than will succumb to diabetes, strokes, accidents, or pneumonia,” the study states. Black people living predominantly in states that haven’t expanded Medicaid has been one of the leading factors behind the death toll, according to the report. According to CNN, the CDC is projecting that COVID-19 will be the third leading cause of death overall this year in the United States.
“If I told you on Jan. 1 that a new virus that we did not even know about would, in August, be the third leading cause of death for Black Americans, our hair should have been set on fire and we would have an extensive public policy response to this unprecedented pandemic,” Trevor Logan, co-author of the report and economics professor at Ohio State University, told CBS News. Logan added that the devastating effects of the virus have gone unacknowledged due to people having been under semi-quarantine throughout the pandemic.
Advertisement Advertisement
Another factor contributing to the large death toll has been long-standing economic disparities between races. Bradley Hardy, the other author of the study, pointed out that 50 percent of Black households have lost employment income since the start of the pandemic and that 20 percent of Black households experience difficulty getting food. “There’s not just well-documented income gaps, but there’s also really yawning wealth gaps,” Hardy told CBS News. This means that Black families typically don’t have a substantial amount of savings to lean on in times of economic hardship.
The study comes as more than 1,000 people have died daily in the United States from COVID-19 over the last month. CNN reports that the CDC projects deaths could climb to 189,000 by Sept. 5. Currently, over 5.4 million have been infected with the virus and 170,136 people have died. Testing has slowed in 17 states despite positivity rates, the number of tests that come back positive, climbing in 34 states.
Advertisement
As states steadily reopen schools for in-person learning, cases among children have risen as well. Early on, it appeared children didn’t contract the virus at a similar rate to adults.
“Recent evidence suggests that children likely have the same or higher viral loads in their nasopharynx compared with adults and that children can spread the virus effectively in households and camp settings,” the CDC said.
Advertisement
Outbreaks of the virus have already been reported at schools that have reopened. In Georgia, three schools have already closed as a result of coronavirus. It’s almost like reopening schools while the virus is steadily surging across the country wasn’t, exactly, the smartest move.
There is hope that SalivaDirect, a new saliva test developed by researchers at the Yale School of Public Health, could provide an easy and inexpensive way to help slow the spread of the virus. On Saturday, the Food and Drug Administration gave the test authorization for emergency use. “If cheap alternatives like SalivaDirect can be implemented across the country, we may finally get a handle on this pandemic, even before a vaccine,” Nathan Grubaugh, a Yale assistant professor of epidemiology, told CNN.
Advertisement
As always wash your hands, stay home when you can, and wear a face mask when you can’t. Stay safe out there, folks.
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--2020-08-17--Exclusive Interview With the Buffalo That Attacked a White Woman Trying to Colonize a Bison Herd

After watching a recent viral video showing a white woman biker getting her pants ripped by a buffalo at South Dakota ’ s Custer State Park , The Root decided that we must take action .
Custer County Sheriff Marty Mechaley reports a woman was attacked by a buffalo along Iron Mountain Road in Custer State Park on Wednesday .
Mechaley says the victim had to be transported by Black Hills Life Flight ... Just last week the sheriff ’ s office issued an advisory on its Facebook page urging visitors to keep their distance from buffalo .
UPDATE : @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , a 54- year- old Iowa woman , somehow escaped serious injury in the incident .
He says , according to eyewitnesses , the woman had gotten off the motorcycle on which she was a passenger and was attempting to approach a buffalo calf when another adult bison charged her catching her belt and jeans on its horn and swung her around violently .
She was apparently saved when her pants came off and she fell to the ground unconscious .
He says at that point the attacking animal ran off along with @ @ @ @ @ @ @ an attempt to curb the recent trend of anti-white violence , we and set up an exclusive interview with Michael the Buffalo to hear his side of the story .
The Root : Hello , Mr. Buffalo .
It ’ s great to meet you .
I know you ’ ve been inundated with media requests since the attack .
Michael the Buffalo : Just call me Mike .
Mike Bison .
Everyone calls me “ Iron Mike.
” MTB : What ’ s a boxer ?
I ’ m called “ Iron @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to get heated and flatten jeans .
Coming from one of the herd ’ s more prominent families , I felt it was my duty to protect my homeboys .
MTB : I ’ m a well-known influencer .
You know that logo for the Buffalo Wild Wings ?
That ’ s me .
My cousin was the logo for the Chicago Bulls and my grandfather inspired that song by Bob Marley .
Everyone thinks it was about the all-black infantry and calvary who served after the Civil War .
But it ’ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ sacrificed his life for the first oxtails .
If you know your history , then you would know where you coming from .
TR : I see .
Well , tell me what happened during the attack ?
MTB : What attack ?
Why do you keep calling it an “ attack ?
” If someone violates your rights and you fear for your life , it ’ s not an attack .
You know how white women are .
I figured she was about to call the park police on one of @ @ @ @ @ @ @ our lives .
I didn ’ t even use excessive force .
I just took off her pants !
TR : Why her pants , though ?
MTB : Because I wanted to respect her Second Amendment rights .
TR : Huh ?
What does this have to do with the right to bear arms ?
MTB : Look , I don ’ t know if you noticed , but I ’ m a buffalo !
I don ’ t discriminate against legs and people ’ s other extremities .
It ’ s @ @ @ @ @ @ @ was helping Karen bear them .
TR : Fair point .
Well , let ’ s start from the beginning .
How did this all start ?
MTB : Well , it all started as a peaceful protests against the people who were attending the Sturgis Biker Rally .
We have been mistreated for centuries but , every year , five hundred thousand bikers come into our neighborhood and cause all kinds of violence .
So we finally decided to take a stand .
TR : What do you mean .
How are @ @ @ @ @ @ @ you ’ d have to know your buffalo history to understand it .
Ever since white men came to our country , we have been mistreated .
They look at us as animals .
As if we ’ re a threat .
TR : But you are an animal .
MTB : So are humans .
But we don ’ t demean your entire species for the acts of a few .
If we thought all humans were like Buffalo Bill , I ’ d be charging your ass right now .
Now @ @ @ @ @ @ @ I am clear about this ; not all humans treat us badly .
I let a human ride me when I was in college .
Some of my best friends are human .
Native Americans only hunted us when they had to eat .
Plus , they used all of our parts and they only used bow and arrows .
Look at me .
You think I ’ m scared of a goddamned arrow ?
We used to laugh at them shits .
As far as we were concerned , if you got @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , you were a liability to the herd , anyway .
But when the pale people came over , things started getting bad .
They started using us for free labor .
Then they would just kill us for no reason .
Eventually , they segregated us into state parks and stole our grazing land .
They tried to say the land would be “ separate but equal ” but we knew what was up .
TR : So why did you choose to protest ?
MTB : Well , we ’ re @ @ @ @ @ @ @ of all , when we heard on Buffalobook ( It ’ s like Facebook , but there are a lot less white supremacists ) that Donald Trump was elected we thought everything was going to be good because he ’ s orange , so we thought he was going to be different .
But before he took office , he started spreading racist garbage against us .
TR : Wait , are you saying Trump is racist ... against buffalo ?
MTB : Look , you don ’ t have to take my @ @ @ @ @ @ @ repeal Obama ’ s National Bison Legacy Act and said we belonged on a plate beside baked potatoes and not as a symbol of national pride .
Then his U.S .
Fish and Wildlife Service refused to protect us .
That ’ s why we decided to organize the Million Bison March ( There are only 200,000 of us , so we came up a little short ) .
Our goal was to stop all these buffalo-hating motorcycle gangs from killing us .
TR : Why do you think people who ride motorcycle @ @ @ @ @ @ @ a Pancattleist , I don ’ t trust any white man wearing leather in the summertime .
They ’ re always up to something .
I stand in my solidarity with my fellow ungulates who are being killed for their meat ; my cashmere goat brothers who are being slaughtered by the sweater industry and all my bovine brothers out there .
TR : So why did you choose to attack this lady specifically ?
MTB : Like I said , I feared for my life .
Plus , when you see a @ @ @ @ @ @ @ this is what you are supposed to do.I ’ ve been to Brooklyn .
I know how gentrification starts .
I refuse to let them put a Panera Bread and a Starbucks over our grazing land .
You got ta nip that shit in the bud .
TR : So you grabbed the bull by the horns ?
TR : My bad .
So what are your plans for the future ?
Do you have any more protests planned ?
MTB : Right now we ’ re focused on gun control reform and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ that they sold using our likeness .
We demand compensation from the Buffalo Bills , the bison burger industry and residuals from Malcolm McLauren ’ s 1982 hit song .
Ultimately , we just want to be treated with dignity and respect .
We want fair representation in the media .
Why are their so many TR : Is there anything you ’ d like to say to the people who support your cause ?
MTB : Please don ’ t forget all the Yaks out there who gave their lives for the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Wait ... that ’ s not where weave comes from .
MTB : You must have never been on a Tyler Perry set .
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 !

After watching a recent viral video showing a white woman biker getting her pants ripped by a buffalo at South Dakota’s Custer State Park, The Root decided that we must take action.
The Custer County Chronicle reports:
Custer County Sheriff Marty Mechaley reports a woman was attacked by a buffalo along Iron Mountain Road in Custer State Park on Wednesday. Mechaley says the victim had to be transported by Black Hills Life Flight...Just last week the sheriff’s office issued an advisory on its Facebook page urging visitors to keep their distance from buffalo. UPDATE: Mechaley reports this morning that the victim, a 54- year- old Iowa woman, somehow escaped serious injury in the incident. He says, according to eyewitnesses, the woman had gotten off the motorcycle on which she was a passenger and was attempting to approach a buffalo calf when another adult bison charged her catching her belt and jeans on its horn and swung her around violently. She was apparently saved when her pants came off and she fell to the ground unconscious. He says at that point the attacking animal ran off along with the rest of the herd.
In an attempt to curb the recent trend of anti-white violence, we and set up an exclusive interview with Michael the Buffalo to hear his side of the story.
Advertisement
The Root: Hello, Mr. Buffalo. It’s great to meet you. I know you’ve been inundated with media requests since the attack.
Michael the Buffalo: Just call me Mike. Mike Bison. Everyone calls me “Iron Mike.”
Advertisement Advertisement
TR: After the boxer?
MTB: What’s a boxer? I’m called “Iron Mike” because I’m known to get heated and flatten jeans. Coming from one of the herd’s more prominent families, I felt it was my duty to protect my homeboys.
Advertisement
TR: You’re famous? For what?
MTB: I’m a well-known influencer. You know that logo for the Buffalo Wild Wings? That’s me. My cousin was the logo for the Chicago Bulls and my grandfather inspired that song by Bob Marley. Everyone thinks it was about the all-black infantry and calvary who served after the Civil War. But it’s really about a cape buffalo who sacrificed his life for the first oxtails.
Advertisement
If you know your history, then you would know where you coming from.
TR: I see. Well, tell me what happened during the attack?
MTB: What attack? Why do you keep calling it an “attack?” If someone violates your rights and you fear for your life, it’s not an attack. You know how white women are. I figured she was about to call the park police on one of my fellow activists and I feared for our lives.
Advertisement
I didn’t even use excessive force. I just took off her pants!
TR: Why her pants, though?
MTB: Because I wanted to respect her Second Amendment rights.
TR: Huh? What does this have to do with the right to bear arms?
MTB: Look, I don’t know if you noticed, but I’m a buffalo!
I don’t discriminate against legs and people’s other extremities. It’s all arms to me. And I was helping Karen bear them.
Advertisement
TR: Fair point. Well, let’s start from the beginning. How did this all start?
MTB: Well, it all started as a peaceful protests against the people who were attending the Sturgis Biker Rally. We have been mistreated for centuries but, every year, five hundred thousand bikers come into our neighborhood and cause all kinds of violence. So we finally decided to take a stand.
Advertisement
TR: What do you mean. How are you mistreated?
MTB: Well, you’d have to know your buffalo history to understand it. Ever since white men came to our country, we have been mistreated. They look at us as animals. As if we’re a threat.
Advertisement
TR: But you are an animal.
MTB: So are humans. But we don’t demean your entire species for the acts of a few. If we thought all humans were like Buffalo Bill, I’d be charging your ass right now. Now, I want to make sure that I am clear about this; not all humans treat us badly. I let a human ride me when I was in college. Some of my best friends are human.
Advertisement
Native Americans only hunted us when they had to eat. Plus, they used all of our parts and they only used bow and arrows. Look at me. You think I’m scared of a goddamned arrow? We used to laugh at them shits. As far as we were concerned, if you got murked in a driveby on a horse, you were a liability to the herd, anyway.
But when the pale people came over, things started getting bad. They started using us for free labor. Then they would just kill us for no reason. Eventually, they segregated us into state parks and stole our grazing land. They tried to say the land would be “separate but equal” but we knew what was up.
Advertisement
TR: So why did you choose to protest?
MTB: Well, we’re just tired of the disrespect.
First of all, when we heard on Buffalobook (It’s like Facebook, but there are a lot less white supremacists) that Donald Trump was elected we thought everything was going to be good because he’s orange, so we thought he was going to be different. But before he took office, he started spreading racist garbage against us.
Advertisement
TR: Wait, are you saying Trump is racist...against buffalo?
MTB: Look, you don’t have to take my word for it. He promised to repeal Obama’s National Bison Legacy Act and said we belonged on a plate beside baked potatoes and not as a symbol of national pride. Then his U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service refused to protect us.
Advertisement
That’s why we decided to organize the Million Bison March (There are only 200,000 of us, so we came up a little short). Our goal was to stop all these buffalo-hating motorcycle gangs from killing us.
TR: Why do you think people who ride motorcycle gangs are anti-buffalo?
MTB: As a Pancattleist, I don’t trust any white man wearing leather in the summertime. They’re always up to something.
Advertisement
I stand in my solidarity with my fellow ungulates who are being killed for their meat; my cashmere goat brothers who are being slaughtered by the sweater industry and all my bovine brothers out there.
TR: So why did you choose to attack this lady specifically?
MTB: Like I said, I feared for my life.
Plus, when you see a white woman chilling in your neighborhood, this is what you are supposed to do.I’ve been to Brooklyn. I know how gentrification starts. I refuse to let them put a Panera Bread and a Starbucks over our grazing land. You gotta nip that shit in the bud.
Advertisement
TR: So you grabbed the bull by the horns?
MTB: That’s racist.
TR: My bad. So what are your plans for the future? Do you have any more protests planned?
Advertisement
MTB: Right now we’re focused on gun control reform and reparations for all of the buffalo wings that they sold using our likeness. We demand compensation from the Buffalo Bills, the bison burger industry and residuals from Malcolm McLauren’s 1982 hit song.
Ultimately, we just want to be treated with dignity and respect. We want fair representation in the media. Why are their so many
Advertisement
TR: Is there anything you’d like to say to the people who support your cause?
MTB: Please don’t forget all the Yaks out there who gave their lives for the wig and weave industry.
Advertisement
TR: Wait...that’s not where weave comes from.
MTB: You must have never been on a Tyler Perry set.
Yak Lives Matter.
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!