theroot--2020-06-05--MysteryVibe’s Crescendo Is An INSANELY Versatile Vibrator for Literally EVERYONE

As our period of social distancing and quarantine isolation drags on , we ’ ll be bringing you a series of sex toy reviews to help you make the best buying decisions to keep your solo sex life buzzing along , or to spice things up for couples ( or thruples or etc , etc , etc . )
who may be experiencing some boredom in the bedroom .
On deck today is the Crescendo by MysteryVibe .
MysteryVibe Crescendo is a flexible vibrator that can bend into a variety of shapes , making it an extraordinarily versatile toy that @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , on almost any body part , and in many different ways .
Crescendo retails for $ 150 , but now through July 1 , Inventory readers can get 20 % off using the code INVENTORY20 at checkout .
Crescendo is designed to act kind of like a finger—MysteryVibe points out , in the marketing copy for Crescendo , that “ our relationship with sexuality starts with our fingers .
They are our very first ‘ sex toy ’ .
Our fingers help us discover and stimulate our erogenous zones.
” True and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ are so great , we should celebrate them more often .
Before I get carried away with a back to Crescendo : It ’ s a slim vibrator , 8.5 inches long , 1.6 inches wide at its tip , and 1.4 inches wide at its base .
It ’ s made of silicone and therefore should not be used with silicone lubricant .
It can be washed with regular soap and water , or with any toy cleaner that is safe to use on silicone .
Crescendo has six motors along its @ @ @ @ @ @ @ used for play ; the wider tip is fitted with flexible silicone wings ( they call them ‘ ears ’ but let ’ s go with wings here because ear-fucking is something I ’ m not ready to deal with for reasons that you absolutely do not want to get into with me ) .
The motors are designed to provide multiple stimulation points along the shaft , and they can be programmed individually and controlled using the MysteryVibe app .
Crescendo retails for $ 150 , but now through June 1 , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ by using the code INVENTORY20 at checkout .
Who Is MysteryVibe Crescendo For ?
Possibly the biggest compliment to pay to Crescendo , and I do not say this lightly , is its versatility of audience .
I don ’ t know that “ audience ” is the exact word to use there but hopefully , you know what I mean and if you don ’ t , I ’ ll lay it right out .
Crescendo can be used by women and by men , by singles and by couples ( or @ @ @ @ @ @ @ newbies and by seasoned old pros—it is an incredibly versatile toy .
It can be bent to be a clitoral or G-spot stimulator , or both , by shaping it into a curve to hit your G-spot or an S-shape for dual stimulation ; use it flat as an external vibrator for clit stimulation .
To use it on a penis , form it into a J-shape to curve around the head .
Crescendo can also be used externally as a perineum massager , though it should not be used internally as an @ @ @ @ @ @ @ a flaired base and could get stuck .
In addition to Crescendo ’ s body part versatility , its appearance is gender-neutral ; this is an important feature for many people , for a variety of reasons that we ’ ve touched on in previous reviews : Basically , it doesn ’ t look like a dick , and that ’ s super—especially because Crescendo is designed for both solo and partnered use .
MysteryVibe offers a set of Play Cards that detail 29 different ways to use Crescendo ; a selection of @ @ @ @ @ @ @ MysteryVibe site .
Positions include the Pulsating Ascension ( solo male ) , Solo Rodeo ( solo female ) , and the Quivering 69 ( couples ) ( nice ) .
There was , however , a major problem with Crescendo that almost rises to the level of dealbreaker for me , but may not bother you as much : The learning curve involved in everything to successfully getting the fucking thing to charge , turning it on and off , and figuring out how to change the vibration patterns and intensity was @ @ @ @ @ @ @ I found myself about to hurl the thing against the wall .
Also , the app sucks .
Sorry !
But this is a review and that ’ s the truth—it ’ s glitchy and slow and it ’ s , frankly , annoying that a vibrator should even need an app , much less one like this that unlocks features you can not access without it .
The app , to the extent I was able to determine , provides users with preset vibration patterns as well as the ability to customize @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
Of course , I have no idea how this all works because the app was such a wreck .
With that said , if you ’ re looking for an extremely versatile toy and you have more patience for technology than do I , Crescendo is a truly unique vibrator that will suit a wide variety of sexual needs , wants , hopes , desires , etc .

Jolie Kerr on The Inventory, shared by Gabe Carey to The Root

As our period of social distancing and quarantine isolation drags on, we’ll be bringing you a series of sex toy reviews to help you make the best buying decisions to keep your solo sex life buzzing along, or to spice things up for couples (or thruples or etc, etc, etc.) who may be experiencing some boredom in the bedroom. On deck today is the Crescendo by MysteryVibe.
MysteryVibe Crescendo is a flexible vibrator that can bend into a variety of shapes, making it an extraordinarily versatile toy that can work for any kind of user, on almost any body part, and in many different ways.
Crescendo retails for $150, but now through July 1, Inventory readers can get 20% off using the code INVENTORY20 at checkout.
The Details
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Crescendo is designed to act kind of like a finger—MysteryVibe points out, in the marketing copy for Crescendo, that “our relationship with sexuality starts with our fingers. They are our very first ‘sex toy’. Our fingers help us discover and stimulate our erogenous zones.” True and true! Also, man, fingers are so great, we should celebrate them more often.
Before I get carried away with a back to Crescendo: It’s a slim vibrator, 8.5 inches long, 1.6 inches wide at its tip, and 1.4 inches wide at its base. It’s made of silicone and therefore should not be used with silicone lubricant. It can be washed with regular soap and water, or with any toy cleaner that is safe to use on silicone.
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Crescendo has six motors along its shaft, so both ends can be used for play; the wider tip is fitted with flexible silicone wings (they call them ‘ears’ but let’s go with wings here because ear-fucking is something I’m not ready to deal with for reasons that you absolutely do not want to get into with me). The motors are designed to provide multiple stimulation points along the shaft, and they can be programmed individually and controlled using the MysteryVibe app.
Crescendo retails for $150, but now through June 1, Inventory readers can get 20% off by using the code INVENTORY20 at checkout.
Who Is MysteryVibe Crescendo For?
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Possibly the biggest compliment to pay to Crescendo, and I do not say this lightly, is its versatility of audience. I don’t know that “audience” is the exact word to use there but hopefully, you know what I mean and if you don’t, I’ll lay it right out.
Crescendo can be used by women and by men, by singles and by couples (or thruples, etc.), by newbies and by seasoned old pros—it is an incredibly versatile toy. It can be bent to be a clitoral or G-spot stimulator, or both, by shaping it into a curve to hit your G-spot or an S-shape for dual stimulation; use it flat as an external vibrator for clit stimulation.
To use it on a penis, form it into a J-shape to curve around the head. Crescendo can also be used externally as a perineum massager, though it should not be used internally as an anal stimulator because it does not have a flaired base and could get stuck.
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In addition to Crescendo’s body part versatility, its appearance is gender-neutral; this is an important feature for many people, for a variety of reasons that we’ve touched on in previous reviews: Basically, it doesn’t look like a dick, and that’s super—especially because Crescendo is designed for both solo and partnered use. MysteryVibe offers a set of Play Cards that detail 29 different ways to use Crescendo; a selection of them can also be found on the MysteryVibe site. Positions include the Pulsating Ascension (solo male), Solo Rodeo (solo female), and the Quivering 69 (couples) (nice).
Some Problems
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There was, however, a major problem with Crescendo that almost rises to the level of dealbreaker for me, but may not bother you as much: The learning curve involved in everything to successfully getting the fucking thing to charge, turning it on and off, and figuring out how to change the vibration patterns and intensity was outrageous. There were several moments when I found myself about to hurl the thing against the wall.
Also, the app sucks. Sorry! But this is a review and that’s the truth—it’s glitchy and slow and it’s, frankly, annoying that a vibrator should even need an app, much less one like this that unlocks features you cannot access without it. The app, to the extent I was able to determine, provides users with preset vibration patterns as well as the ability to customize and save patterns of your own creation. Of course, I have no idea how this all works because the app was such a wreck.
With that said, if you’re looking for an extremely versatile toy and you have more patience for technology than do I, Crescendo is a truly unique vibrator that will suit a wide variety of sexual needs, wants, hopes, desires, etc.
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Disclaimer: MysteryVibe provided sample units for this review. Under normal circumstances, these would be returned. For obvious reasons, MysteryVibe probably won’t want these ones back, but this did not factor into the content of this review.


theroot--2020-06-05--Not All White Women: Lady Gaga, Selena Gomez and Lili Reinhart Devote Their Instagram Feeds to Black

Not All White Women: Lady Gaga, Selena Gomez and Lili Reinhart Devote Their Instagram Feeds to Black Activists

There are Karens , Becky s and Amys , and then , there are Lilis , Gagas and Selenas .
Doing their part to both support the Black Lives Matter movement and set a much-needed example for problematic white women everywhere , the latter are currently using their celebrity status to center the voices of black activists , handing over unprecedented access to their Instagram feeds .
After tweeting messages of solidarity on Monday , on # BlackoutTuesday Hustlers and Riverdale co-star Lili Reinhart ( Betty ) decided to do more than just post a black box , asking for @ @ @ @ @ @ @ she could feature on her Instagram feed , where her current following is 24 million .
“ I want to open up my Instagram to any influencer from the black community who wants to say a few words or share their thoughts , ” she tweeted on Tuesday , later clarifying that she was seeking activists .
“ I will do an Instagram live with them and they can have my platform to speak about this issue .
Any requests ?
Who should I reach out to ?
” On Wednesday , an @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Gaga—made a similar effort .
Announcing that she ’ d made donations to multiple black-focused organizations , including Loveland Foundation , Black Lives Matter , Campaign Zero , Marsha P. Johnson Institute , NAACP Legal Defense Fund , Color of Change , Black Futures Lab , Fair Fight , National Lawyers Guild , and Community Justice Action Fund , the Grammy , Golden Globe and Academy Award winner wrote : Because of the voices of the people , a principle this country was founded upon , now all four officers have been arrested @ @ @ @ @ @ @ George Floyd .
I hope that all cops who have engaged in or are engaging in any racist activity are met with the highest form of law & order , although we know the law & order in this country is predicated upon racism and is itself corrupt .
We are once again witnessing the devastating and overwhelming evidence of police brutality and prejudicial responses from prosecutors and local officials .
I also hope for the families of all Black lives who have been taken from us to see justice and healing though @ @ @ @ @ @ @ sadly can not promise that .
I applaud the brave citizens of this nation that are speaking up , and I support the unsupported voices of the Black community .
I wish for their voices to be heard loudly and clearly , and that they feel loved and amplified by allies .
I know you know how much I believe in kindness .
The spirit of this movement is intrinsically rooted in a universal dream of kindness and it ’ s precisely that same kindness that I am wishing for those that are @ @ @ @ @ @ @ in my heart as we struggle as one nation to find bold and effective solutions to an insidious and systemic problem that ’ s plagued our country since its birth .
Here are some of the important advocacy organizations I ’ m donating to in support of this continuous fight for racial and social justice .
I encourage you to learn about the important work they do and how you can get involved .
Black Lives Matter .
Gaga subsequently tweeted that she ’ d also be donating her Instagram feed—over 42 million @ @ @ @ @ @ @ a biracial Latina , Selena Gomez , who considers herself “ a proud third-generation American-Mexican ” may not fit neatly into the “ white woman ” mold , but she is nevertheless using her white-passing privilege for good .
On Thursday , the singer posted painter Charly Palmer ’ s poignant “ Speak With Confidence ” as she let her 179 million Instagram followers know that they could expect to see more black images and voices on her feed in the days to come , writing : I have been struggling to know @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the word out about this important moment in history .
After thinking about how best to use my social media , I decided that we all need to hear more from Black voices .
Over the next few days I will be highlighting influential leaders and giving them a chance to take over my Instagram so that they can speak directly to all of us .
We all have an obligation to do better and we can start by listening with an open heart and mind .
⠀ Black Lives Matter co-founder Alicia @ @ @ @ @ @ @ on Gomez ’ s feed on Friday ; according to UK newspaper The Standard , Gomez ’ s highly anticipated beauty brand , Rare Beauty , has also donated to The Bail Project and the NAACP Legal Defense Fund .
So , while there will likely always be a type of white woman who won ’ t hesitate to threaten black lives by calling the cops , others are using their privilege and platforms to call for the protection of black lives and amplification of our causes , and that ’ s the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ deeply fraught moment in American history .
Because honestly , it shouldn ’ t be newsworthy to say “ black lives matter .
”

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

There are Karens, Becky s and Amys, and then, there are Lilis, Gagas and Selenas. Doing their part to both support the Black Lives Matter movement and set a much-needed example for problematic white women everywhere, the latter are currently using their celebrity status to center the voices of black activists, handing over unprecedented access to their Instagram feeds.
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After tweeting messages of solidarity on Monday, on #BlackoutTuesday Hustlers and Riverdale co-star Lili Reinhart (Betty) decided to do more than just post a black box, asking for assistance in locating black influencers and activists she could feature on her Instagram feed, where her current following is 24 million.
“I want to open up my Instagram to any influencer from the black community who wants to say a few words or share their thoughts,” she tweeted on Tuesday, later clarifying that she was seeking activists. “I will do an Instagram live with them and they can have my platform to speak about this issue. Any requests? Who should I reach out to?”
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On Wednesday, an actress-singer named Stefani Germanotta—better known as Lady Gaga—made a similar effort. Announcing that she’d made donations to multiple black-focused organizations, including Loveland Foundation, Black Lives Matter, Campaign Zero, Marsha P. Johnson Institute, NAACP Legal Defense Fund, Color of Change, Black Futures Lab, Fair Fight, National Lawyers Guild, and Community Justice Action Fund, the Grammy, Golden Globe and Academy Award winner wrote:
Because of the voices of the people, a principle this country was founded upon, now all four officers have been arrested for the racist and brutal murder of George Floyd. I hope that all cops who have engaged in or are engaging in any racist activity are met with the highest form of law & order, although we know the law & order in this country is predicated upon racism and is itself corrupt. We are once again witnessing the devastating and overwhelming evidence of police brutality and prejudicial responses from prosecutors and local officials. I also hope for the families of all Black lives who have been taken from us to see justice and healing though I believe many of us know we sadly cannot promise that. I applaud the brave citizens of this nation that are speaking up, and I support the unsupported voices of the Black community. I wish for their voices to be heard loudly and clearly, and that they feel loved and amplified by allies. I know you know how much I believe in kindness. The spirit of this movement is intrinsically rooted in a universal dream of kindness and it’s precisely that same kindness that I am wishing for those that are suffering tonight. I have endless compassion in my heart as we struggle as one nation to find bold and effective solutions to an insidious and systemic problem that’s plagued our country since its birth. Here are some of the important advocacy organizations I’m donating to in support of this continuous fight for racial and social justice. I encourage you to learn about the important work they do and how you can get involved. Black Lives Matter.
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Gaga subsequently tweeted that she’d also be donating her Instagram feed—over 42 million followers—to each of the beneficiaries.
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As a biracial Latina, Selena Gomez, who considers herself “a proud third-generation American-Mexican” may not fit neatly into the “white woman” mold, but she is nevertheless using her white-passing privilege for good. On Thursday, the singer posted painter Charly Palmer’s poignant “Speak With Confidence” as she let her 179 million Instagram followers know that they could expect to see more black images and voices on her feed in the days to come, writing:
I have been struggling to know the right things to say to get the word out about this important moment in history. After thinking about how best to use my social media, I decided that we all need to hear more from Black voices. Over the next few days I will be highlighting influential leaders and giving them a chance to take over my Instagram so that they can speak directly to all of us. We all have an obligation to do better and we can start by listening with an open heart and mind.
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Black Lives Matter co-founder Alicia Garza was the first to be featured on Gomez’s feed on Friday; according to UK newspaper The Standard, Gomez’s highly anticipated beauty brand, Rare Beauty, has also donated to The Bail Project and the NAACP Legal Defense Fund.
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So, while there will likely always be a type of white woman who won’t hesitate to threaten black lives by calling the cops, others are using their privilege and platforms to call for the protection of black lives and amplification of our causes, and that’s the momentum we love to see from this deeply fraught moment in American history. Because honestly, it shouldn’t be newsworthy to say “black lives matter.”


theroot--2020-06-05--Remodel Your Home With Wayfair's Sales of the Day

The best Wayfair sales for June 2020 are here .
Anything you can think of for your home , Wayfair has it .
I had to consult with friends when I began working on this piece .
They all responded with how much they loved the company and the awesome experiences they had with customer service when things just weren ’ t right , which is great to hear .
After taking their advice on things they ’ d like , I pulled some great buys and a few interesting pieces on what Wayfair currently has to offer .
This @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Home would fit right in with any existing dining room decor .
Made from both solid and manufactured wood , this bright ivory color will be easy to coordinate with no matter what placemats or tablecloth you pick .
This set is one of Wayfair ’ s best sellers and customers repeatedly brought up its good quality and sturdy wood .
They also mentioned how easy it was to install .
• None Buy it now for $ 320 Vanities are often the focal point of your bathroom , so having one that @ @ @ @ @ @ @ one from Breakwater Bay is elegant in its vibrant navy tone .
There ’ s plenty of space too , with a shelf for towels and five drawers for anything else you ’ ll need to store .
This classic Italian look is just the upgrade you ’ re looking for .
• None Buy it now for $ 940 A headboard is something I never even thought of because I ’ ve never had one .
But several of my pals recommend it as one of the pieces they ’ d love @ @ @ @ @ @ @ simple way to make your room pop .
Andover Mills offers six different colors to blend with any comforter you ’ ve already got .
Made from sustainable Siberian Larch wood , it ’ ll last a long time and not too expensive for you to swap if you ’ d like some variety .
• None Buy it now for $ 95 I love trays like this for living rooms or bedrooms .
They ’ re great for jewelry , candles , antiques - whatever you want to place in it .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ way to organize your knick-knacks .
This would also be a fine way to store papers for your home office or organize mail .
It can also be a wonderful way to serve cocktails or breakfast in bed .
Basically , it ’ s the most versatile little tray you ’ ll ever purchase .
• None Buy it now for $ 58 These three-way lamps are a great size for either an end table or nightstand and have a rating just under five stars from customers .
The cylindrical base is chic @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
Keep them together or split them up .
You ’ ll also get a 100-watt bulb for each of the lamps .
• None Buy it now for $ 88 If you follow me , you know there ’ s no way I could make this without picking something from Nostalgia .
I ’ d redo my entire kitchen with products from their line if I had the means , but I am very much a vintage girl .
This is a very specific aesthetic .
This coffee maker is easy to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ unlike the java makers of yesteryear .
It comes with a reusable filter and removable filter basket .
• None Buy it now for $ 64 I ’ ve been in many homes/apartments with a kitchen cart .
I love the idea of using this as extra space for cooking , but mostly for barware .
It ’ s such a fancy way to display your premium liquors .
Made from solid rubberwood and painted to look like it ’ s distressed , this kitchen cart has two drawers and two shelves .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ lock in place , so your cocktails won ’ t make a getaway .
• None Buy it now for $ 314 Rugs totally change the look or a room .
I ’ ve had a ton of great rugs over the years , and they have absolutely elevated the vibes of my living room .
Wayfair has a million options , but customers have been fawning over this one .
I really like the geometric shapes and it is a pretty standard color , so it ’ ll be easy to match @ @ @ @ @ @ @ it now for $ 54 I live for an accent chair that doesn ’ t match the sofa .
The solid wood frame of this chair is covered with a polyester blend of a gorgeous greyish blue .
It ’ s easy to spot clean if need be , and the seat cushion is removable too .
This is another one customers said was easy to assemble and very comfortable to sit in .
• None Buy it now for $ 203 Bed-in-a-bag sets are a great value and cut the headache of @ @ @ @ @ @ @ This way , you know your comforter and sheets go together if you ’ re one of those type-A people .
This one from Andover Mills has a flat sheet , a fitted sheet , two pillowcases , two shams , a comforter , and a bed skirt .
I love solid colors like these because you can add your own touch with patterned accent pillows .
You can do the same with a throw .
You know , those lamps would look nice with this set ... • None Buy it now @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Wipe it Down ’ challenge on TikTok I realized I needed to clean my own mirror and I ’ m sure you did too .
A mirror is a necessity .
It ’ s not just for selfies and viral videos , but to know that you look sharp every day ... even if you ’ re not going anywhere .
This mirror you can mount , lean , or let stand on its own .
This is a full-length mirror that runs sixty-five inches high and twenty-two inches wide .
And every @ @ @ @ @ @ @ it is .
• None Buy it now for $ 142 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 periodicals .
Hand-painted and hand-crafted in foundry cast iron , these cuties look like a treasured antique ... but only you will know that they are brand new .
• None Buy it @ @ @ @ @ @ @ 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 you were looking for .
• Buy it now for $ 150

Sheilah Villari 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--2020-06-05--A Letter Not From a Birmingham Jail

A Letter Not From a Birmingham Jail

When I was around 10 years old , I was sitting on the toilet ( look , this is my story ) engaged in one of my favorite activities—thumbing through the World Book Encyclopedia—when I encountered a photograph of Michelangelo ’ s Pietà , a hauntingly beautiful sculpture of Mary Christ ( I think that ’ s her last name ) , holding the corpse of her son , a peaceful , unarmed protester who was killed by Roman law enforcement officials .
I couldn ’ t stop crying at how someone who spent his teenage years as a ninja @ @ @ @ @ @ @ miserable heartache in a piece of stone .
I often tell my editors , co-workers and the rest of the staff at The Root not to concern themselves with the notion that I might be sensitive about anything because I imagine myself as a 63-year-old janitor whose only wish in life is to be left alone .
I don ’ t need affirmation or praise , and I am not dispirited by criticism .
I don ’ t consider myself part of a “ noble profession ” nor do I think of myself @ @ @ @ @ @ @ power.
” Just tell me where the vomit is and I ’ ll sweep that shit up .
On Monday , I heard there might be vomit in Birmingham , Ala. Less than 24 hours after interviewing Birmingham Mayor Randall Woodfin , I began hearing rumors that the Klan might be descending to respond to Woodfin ’ s removal of a 105-year-old Confederate monument donated to the city by the white supremacist-adjacent Daughters of the Confederacy .
For three years , I have covered protests , activism and police brutality in Birmingham as @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the Mike Brown Jr. uprisings in Ferguson , Mo .
; the Freddie Gray uprising in Baltimore and demonstrations dating back to the 2006 protest for the Jena Six .
I have never been arrested .
Even after local reporters were attacked while covering the recent protests , I was not worried .
When the protests turned violent , the city council passed a curfew that exempted “ credentialed employees of any newspaper , magazine , radio broadcasting , and television broadcasting operations.
” Still , two credentialed employees of the biggest media @ @ @ @ @ @ @ custody on Wednesday night .
Another was robbed for his wallet .
Shortly before my discussion with Woodfin , The Root had already obtained audio from a 911 call where a man threatened to “ come down there with an AK-47 and start blowing the pigs away ... And the protesters.
” Despite what you may have heard elsewhere , I was not arrested covering a protest .
When dozens of police officers lined up to surround Linn Park , the site where the rumored showdown between the Klan and the residents of @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to go down , the protests were over .
Everyone had dispersed , except for four stragglers , all white , who later told me that they came with intentions of being arrested .
But the Birmingham Police Department ’ s plan to break up the violent clash between white supremacists and protesting , curfew-breaking scofflaws wouldn ’ t be deterred by details like the lack of white supremacists , protesters or even a protest .
As Shakespeare once said : “ The lack of a monkey doth not stop no show.
” @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the street from the park , surrounded by reporters and cameramen .
One of the cameramen and I discussed the fact that we had intentionally left our neck lanyards in the car after media watchdogs advised journalists covering the recent uprisings not to wear lanyards for our safety .
The two reporters who were detained by cops the night before had neck lanyards .
One of the reporters who was attacked had a neck lanyard .
Neck lanyards are stupid .
Wallets are stupid .
Plus , I was actually a reporter .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ have a digital media credential .
I know what the hell I ’ m doing .
In the days leading up to this event , I had already spoken with a few reporting colleagues in and around Birmingham .
Trust me guys , I ’ ve done this before .
There I was , doing my job , sweeping the street , wanting to be left alone when , out of nowhere , I was attacked from behind by a thug who was obviously trying to rob me for my phone .
I @ @ @ @ @ @ @ and prepared to square up with this street thief as I thought to myself , “ Not today , nigga .
You gon ’ get this smoke .
You must not know who the fuck you ’ re… ” Oh .
It was a cop .
To be precise , it seemed like it was all the cops that ever was .
I informed them that I was with the media and I knew they were about to be in some deep shit when they rounded up those of us who didn ’ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ up was one thing , but arresting journalists for doing their job was another thing .
We were not protesting .
We were all together .
Everyone within 100 feet of where I stood was a media professional who had specifically chosen this spot to safely report on whatever happened .
They did not arrest “ journalists.
” They arrested the only black journalist .
As two white police officers led me to a police transport vehicle , they asked how they could verify my press credentials , I told them that I @ @ @ @ @ @ @ they replied : “ Oh , is that a local blog ?
” I just laughed and didn ’ t say anything .
“ Seriously , I don ’ t know , ” he continued .
“ is it a website around here or something ?
” “ Nah , ” I smirked .
“ It ’ s just the most-read black news site in the country.
” The two officers said they couldn ’ t let me have my phone to show my digital credentials as we walked past a sea of @ @ @ @ @ @ @ whom I recognized and who recognized me .
The cops asked if there was anyone they could call to verify that I was press .
I pointed to the police officers and called them by their names but my arresting officers did not bother to verify the information .
I told them they could just call the mayor ’ s office to verify my media credentials ; they did not attempt to verify it .
They loaded me and four protesters into a van and took us to a nearby area a few @ @ @ @ @ @ @ of the processing officers told her superiors that I was a journalist .
One of the protesters told the cops I was a member of the press .
The officers politely explained to the other people ( by this time , they had scrounged up a few more curfew violators ) that we would be processed and taken to the city jail .
They lined us against a wall , where we stood until another officer kindly asked if we ’ d like to sit down .
They rounded up a few folding @ @ @ @ @ @ @ It ’ s important to note that every officer I came in contact with behaved professionally and were not forceful or violent in any way .
While the other officers retrieved chairs for the arrestees , Officer Redacted stood menacingly in the background doing nothing .
I immediately noticed him and knew who he was .
He was the “ bad apple.
” All police are not murderers .
All cops are not brutalizers .
But all cops ignore the bad apple .
All cops allow a single piece of spoiled fruit to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ core .
In my experience , this officer is either a respected veteran or a newbie trying to make a name for himself .
Officer Redacted was a white guy who looked to be around 30 years old .
I had already noticed him looking at me before he walked up to where I was casually standing in the holding area with my hands zip-tied behind my back and said : “ Turn around.
” I could tell that he was trying to conjure all of the bass and authority in his voice @ @ @ @ @ @ @ his knee against my thigh/butt to gain leverage and pulled my already-tight zip cuffs as tight as he could .
I felt them biting into my skin .
I knew the other officers noticed how tight they were because , without prompting , another officer said : “ He ’ s just trying to make sure they weren ’ t loose.
” They were not loose .
I began pacing in a small , two-step circle while flexing my fingers to circulate blood to my hands .
But after a few minutes , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ and said : “ I ’ m tired of watching you move .
Sit down.
” It didn ’ t matter .
By then , I couldn ’ t feel my fingers anyway They then crammed us onto a seat the size of a living room couch and drove 13 of us to the city jail .
I was one of five black people arrested for a violation I am still not quite sure of .
The other four said they had no interest in the protests and were simply walking in the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ because , again , there wasn ’ t a protest going on when the cops arrived .
After we arrived at the city jail , the employees sat us on a bench and one of the black co-arrestees summoned a cop over to where we sat .
“ Aye man , ” he said to the officer , nodding in my direction .
“ Y ’ all need to check this man ’ s zip ties.
” The officer asked me to stand up and turn around .
When I complied , he @ @ @ @ @ @ @ : “ Jesus ” before rushing into an adjacent room .
He emerged from the room with a tool to remove zip ties , which was basically a pair of wire cutters .
He couldn ’ t get them off .
Another officer tried .
She couldn ’ t get them off .
Neither could another officer .
My hands had swollen to a point where the makeshift shackles were too tight for the tool to fit between my skin and the plastic zip cuffs .
So , the original officer cut the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ me : “ This is probably gon na hurt ” before he basically dug into my skin to remove them .
He was right .
I undressed , put on a jail uniform , waited in a holding cell until they gave me the opportunity to make a phone call .
Then , they took a mug shot and interrupted my intimate fingerprinting session to inform me that there was someone in another room who wanted to talk to me .
“ Finally , ” I thought .
“ It ’ s probably @ @ @ @ @ @ @ level administration officials who is here to make sure I ’ m ok. ” It was the FBI .
Two FBI officers read me my Miranda rights and told me that they “ just wanted to talk.
” When I asked them what they wanted to talk about , they responded that they were “ just talking ” to all the protesters .
As I laughed and joked with the veteran female officer who took my fingerprints , they called my name and told me that I was being released .
I dressed @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the lobby where local activists were waiting to bail out protesters and welcome them by clapping and chanting .
To be clear , I do not believe I was arrested because the Birmingham Police Department is racist .
I don ’ t believe I was arrested because two cops were racist .
I don ’ t think they singled me out because they hate black people or even hated me .
I sincerely believe that those cops looked at the group of journalists and their instincts told them that I didn ’ t @ @ @ @ @ @ @ that presumption because they don ’ t see too many black journalists .
I believe the other members of the media said nothing because they didn ’ t believe I was a reporter .
I was filming with an iPhone , standing beside a white woman filming with an iPhone .
I had no visible credentials standing next to a white man who had no visible credentials .
I believe Officer Redacted fucked with me because he assumed I was just another one of the countless , powerless people he ’ s fucked @ @ @ @ @ @ @ 74 percent black .
And I know some people will say I ’ m playing the race card ( Even though this is the first time I ’ ve described the incident in detail , I ’ ve already received emails accusing me of “ manufacturing my arrest ” to “ generate outrage and “ play the race card.
” ) I was not arrested because the Birmingham PD , the officers , or the media is racist .
I was arrested because America is racist .
And isn ’ t that the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , who ’ s going to sweep this shit up ?
If only there was someone who had the credentials .

“If it falls your lot to be a street sweeper, sweep streets like Michelangelo painted pictures, sweep streets like Beethoven composed music, sweep streets like Leontyne Price sings before the Metropolitan Opera. Sweep streets like Shakespeare wrote poetry. Sweep streets so well that all the hosts of heaven and earth will have to pause and say: Here lived a great street sweeper who swept his job well.” — Martin Luther King Jr.
I imagine I am a street sweeper.
I don’t think I am Michelangelo.
When I was around 10 years old, I was sitting on the toilet (look, this is my story) engaged in one of my favorite activities—thumbing through the World Book Encyclopedia—when I encountered a photograph of Michelangelo’s Pietà, a hauntingly beautiful sculpture of Mary Christ (I think that’s her last name), holding the corpse of her son, a peaceful, unarmed protester who was killed by Roman law enforcement officials. I couldn’t stop crying at how someone who spent his teenage years as a ninja turtle managed to capture this solemn, miserable heartache in a piece of stone.
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That motherfucker could paint.
I am just a street sweeper.
I often tell my editors, co-workers and the rest of the staff at The Root not to concern themselves with the notion that I might be sensitive about anything because I imagine myself as a 63-year-old janitor whose only wish in life is to be left alone. I don’t need affirmation or praise, and I am not dispirited by criticism. I don’t consider myself part of a “noble profession” nor do I think of myself as someone who “speaks truth to power.” Just tell me where the vomit is and I’ll sweep that shit up.
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On Monday, I heard there might be vomit in Birmingham, Ala.
Less than 24 hours after interviewing Birmingham Mayor Randall Woodfin, I began hearing rumors that the Klan might be descending to respond to Woodfin’s removal of a 105-year-old Confederate monument donated to the city by the white supremacist-adjacent Daughters of the Confederacy.
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For three years, I have covered protests, activism and police brutality in Birmingham as well as previously providing in-person coverage of the Mike Brown Jr. uprisings in Ferguson, Mo.; the Freddie Gray uprising in Baltimore and demonstrations dating back to the 2006 protest for the Jena Six.
I have never been arrested.
Even after local reporters were attacked while covering the recent protests, I was not worried. When the protests turned violent, the city council passed a curfew that exempted “credentialed employees of any newspaper, magazine, radio broadcasting, and television broadcasting operations.” Still, two credentialed employees of the biggest media operation in the state were taken into custody on Wednesday night. Another was robbed for his wallet.
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Shortly before my discussion with Woodfin, The Root had already obtained audio from a 911 call where a man threatened to “come down there with an AK-47 and start blowing the pigs away...And the protesters.”
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I missed it.
Despite what you may have heard elsewhere, I was not arrested covering a protest. When dozens of police officers lined up to surround Linn Park, the site where the rumored showdown between the Klan and the residents of America’s fourth-blackest city was supposed to go down, the protests were over. Everyone had dispersed, except for four stragglers, all white, who later told me that they came with intentions of being arrested.
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But the Birmingham Police Department’s plan to break up the violent clash between white supremacists and protesting, curfew-breaking scofflaws wouldn’t be deterred by details like the lack of white supremacists, protesters or even a protest. As Shakespeare once said: “The lack of a monkey doth not stop no show.”
I was positioned in an area across the street from the park, surrounded by reporters and cameramen. One of the cameramen and I discussed the fact that we had intentionally left our neck lanyards in the car after media watchdogs advised journalists covering the recent uprisings not to wear lanyards for our safety. The two reporters who were detained by cops the night before had neck lanyards. One of the reporters who was attacked had a neck lanyard. Neck lanyards are stupid. Wallets are stupid.
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Plus, I was actually a reporter. I was surrounded by reporters. I have a digital media credential. I know what the hell I’m doing. In the days leading up to this event, I had already spoken with a few reporting colleagues in and around Birmingham. Trust me guys, I’ve done this before.
There I was, doing my job, sweeping the street, wanting to be left alone when, out of nowhere, I was attacked from behind by a thug who was obviously trying to rob me for my phone. I gripped my phone tighter, turned around and prepared to square up with this street thief as I thought to myself, “Not today, nigga. You gon’ get this smoke. You must not know who the fuck you’re…”
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Oh. It was a cop.
To be precise, it seemed like it was all the cops that ever was. I informed them that I was with the media and I knew they were about to be in some deep shit when they rounded up those of us who didn’t have visible credentials. Locking me up was one thing, but arresting journalists for doing their job was another thing. We were not protesting. We were all together. Everyone within 100 feet of where I stood was a media professional who had specifically chosen this spot to safely report on whatever happened.
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They did not arrest “journalists.”
They arrested the only black journalist.
As two white police officers led me to a police transport vehicle, they asked how they could verify my press credentials, I told them that I worked for “TheRoot.com” to which they replied: “Oh, is that a local blog?”
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I just laughed and didn’t say anything.
“Seriously, I don’t know,” he continued. “is it a website around here or something?”
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“Nah,” I smirked. “It’s just the most-read black news site in the country.”
The two officers said they couldn’t let me have my phone to show my digital credentials as we walked past a sea of mostly black police officers, many of whom I recognized and who recognized me. The cops asked if there was anyone they could call to verify that I was press. I pointed to the police officers and called them by their names but my arresting officers did not bother to verify the information. I told them they could just call the mayor’s office to verify my media credentials; they did not attempt to verify it.
Advertisement
They loaded me and four protesters into a van and took us to a nearby area a few blocks away to process us. One of the processing officers told her superiors that I was a journalist. One of the protesters told the cops I was a member of the press. The officers politely explained to the other people (by this time, they had scrounged up a few more curfew violators) that we would be processed and taken to the city jail. They lined us against a wall, where we stood until another officer kindly asked if we’d like to sit down. They rounded up a few folding chairs and allowed us to sit. It’s important to note that every officer I came in contact with behaved professionally and were not forceful or violent in any way.
Until I met Officer (redacted).
While the other officers retrieved chairs for the arrestees, Officer Redacted stood menacingly in the background doing nothing. I immediately noticed him and knew who he was.
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He was the “bad apple.”
All police are not murderers. All cops are not brutalizers. But all cops ignore the bad apple. All cops allow a single piece of spoiled fruit to infect the entire bunch with his rotten core. In my experience, this officer is either a respected veteran or a newbie trying to make a name for himself. Officer Redacted was a white guy who looked to be around 30 years old. I had already noticed him looking at me before he walked up to where I was casually standing in the holding area with my hands zip-tied behind my back and said: “Turn around.”
Advertisement
I could tell that he was trying to conjure all of the bass and authority in his voice, so I did. He put his knee against my thigh/butt to gain leverage and pulled my already-tight zip cuffs as tight as he could. I felt them biting into my skin. I knew the other officers noticed how tight they were because, without prompting, another officer said:
“He’s just trying to make sure they weren’t loose.”
They were not loose.
I began pacing in a small, two-step circle while flexing my fingers to circulate blood to my hands. But after a few minutes, Redacted man again summoned his overseer voice and said: “I’m tired of watching you move. Sit down.”
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So, I sat down.
It didn’t matter. By then, I couldn’t feel my fingers anyway
They then crammed us onto a seat the size of a living room couch and drove 13 of us to the city jail. I was one of five black people arrested for a violation I am still not quite sure of. The other four said they had no interest in the protests and were simply walking in the area, which is easy to believe because, again, there wasn’t a protest going on when the cops arrived.
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After we arrived at the city jail, the employees sat us on a bench and one of the black co-arrestees summoned a cop over to where we sat.
“Aye man,” he said to the officer, nodding in my direction. “Y’all need to check this man’s zip ties.”
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The officer asked me to stand up and turn around. When I complied, he looked at my wrists and just said: “Jesus” before rushing into an adjacent room. He emerged from the room with a tool to remove zip ties, which was basically a pair of wire cutters.
He couldn’t get them off.
Another officer tried. She couldn’t get them off. Neither could another officer. My hands had swollen to a point where the makeshift shackles were too tight for the tool to fit between my skin and the plastic zip cuffs. So, the original officer cut the link between the two wrists and warned me: “This is probably gonna hurt” before he basically dug into my skin to remove them.
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He was right.
I undressed, put on a jail uniform, waited in a holding cell until they gave me the opportunity to make a phone call. Then, they took a mug shot and interrupted my intimate fingerprinting session to inform me that there was someone in another room who wanted to talk to me.
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“Finally,” I thought. “It’s probably the mayor or one of his highest level administration officials who is here to make sure I’m ok.”
Nah.
It was the FBI.
Two FBI officers read me my Miranda rights and told me that they “just wanted to talk.” When I asked them what they wanted to talk about, they responded that they were “just talking” to all the protesters.
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“Nah, I’m good,” I replied.
As I laughed and joked with the veteran female officer who took my fingerprints, they called my name and told me that I was being released. I dressed, retrieved my phone and walked into the lobby where local activists were waiting to bail out protesters and welcome them by clapping and chanting.
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To be clear, I do not believe I was arrested because the Birmingham Police Department is racist. I don’t believe I was arrested because two cops were racist. I don’t think they singled me out because they hate black people or even hated me. I sincerely believe that those cops looked at the group of journalists and their instincts told them that I didn’t belong there. I believe they harbored that presumption because they don’t see too many black journalists. I believe the other members of the media said nothing because they didn’t believe I was a reporter. I was filming with an iPhone, standing beside a white woman filming with an iPhone. I had no visible credentials standing next to a white man who had no visible credentials.
I believe Officer Redacted fucked with me because he assumed I was just another one of the countless, powerless people he’s fucked with in a city that’s 74 percent black. And I know some people will say I’m playing the race card (Even though this is the first time I’ve described the incident in detail, I’ve already received emails accusing me of “manufacturing my arrest” to “generate outrage and “play the race card.”)
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I was not arrested because the Birmingham PD, the officers, or the media is racist.
I was arrested because America is racist.
And isn’t that the point of this entire thing?
But, who’s going to sweep this shit up?
If only there was someone who had the credentials.


theroot--2020-06-05--Kanye West Puts His Money Where His Mouth Once Was, Sets Up College Fund for George Floyd's Daughter

Kanye West Puts His Money Where His Mouth Once Was, Sets Up College Fund for George Floyd's Daughter Gianna

You know the echoes of “ Mr .
West , Mr. West , Mr. West ” in Kanye West ’ s song , “ Good Morning ?
” Well apparently , that ’ s the energy media personality Ibrahim “ Ebro ” Darden had when he called out the rapper ’ s silence on social media .
I ’ ve already expressed this in another blog , but I have to reiterate my point specifically for ‘ Ye : I ’ d rather he not say shit .
At the time of this post , his Twitter page hasn ’ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ February , and perhaps that ’ s for the best .
Anyway , Kanye did the very thing I ’ d rather he did—opened his purse .
According to TMZ , Kanye has made substantial contributions to the families and legal teams working on behalf of Ahmaud Arbery , Breonna Taylor and George Floyd .
I mean , he got it .
Kanye ’ s donated $ 2 million , so far , to the cause and set up a 529 college savings fund to fully cover tuition for Floyd ’ s 6-year-old @ @ @ @ @ @ @ also made a separate donation to cover the legal costs for the Arbery and Taylor families .
Along with that , a rep confirms Kanye ’ s donating to several black-owned businesses in his hometown of Chicago and nationwide that have been in crisis and impacted by the unrest in the U.S. Kanye has also been on the ground with the people , recently joining a protest in Chicago organized by Chicago Public School students .
Along with honoring Floyd , the students demanded that CPS cut ties with the Chicago Police Department @ @ @ @ @ @ @ in an extremely heartwarming video , “ Daddy changed the world !
” Yes , sweet child , indeed he did .

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

You know the echoes of “Mr. West, Mr. West, Mr. West” in Kanye West’s song, “Good Morning?” Well apparently, that’s the energy media personality Ibrahim “Ebro” Darden had when he called out the rapper’s silence on social media.
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I’ve already expressed this in another blog, but I have to reiterate my point specifically for ‘Ye: I’d rather he not say shit. At the time of this post, his Twitter page hasn’t had any action on it since February, and perhaps that’s for the best.
Anyway, Kanye did the very thing I’d rather he did—opened his purse. According to TMZ, Kanye has made substantial contributions to the families and legal teams working on behalf of Ahmaud Arbery, Breonna Taylor and George Floyd.
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I mean, he got it.
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TMZ provides the deets:
Kanye’s donated $2 million, so far, to the cause and set up a 529 college savings fund to fully cover tuition for Floyd’s 6-year-old daughter, Gianna. He’s also made a separate donation to cover the legal costs for the Arbery and Taylor families. Along with that, a rep confirms Kanye’s donating to several black-owned businesses in his hometown of Chicago and nationwide that have been in crisis and impacted by the unrest in the U.S.
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Kanye has also been on the ground with the people, recently joining a protest in Chicago organized by Chicago Public School students. Along with honoring Floyd, the students demanded that CPS cut ties with the Chicago Police Department.
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As young Gianna yelled in triumph in an extremely heartwarming video, “Daddy changed the world!” Yes, sweet child, indeed he did.


theroot--2020-06-05--Elected Prosecutors Need to Defend Black People—or Get Out

In the last two weeks , my criminal justice campaigns team at Color Of Change has helped more than 6.5 million people take action to demand justice for George Floyd , Breonna Taylor and others killed and brutalized by police in our country .
On Breonna Taylor ’ s birthday today , June 5 , we honor their lives and recommit ourselves to fight for systemic change , so we never have to watch another police murder video , chant another name in the streets , or # justice on social media .
That ’ s the vision , and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ our country burns , we know there are tangible ways to get us there .
For too long , this system has killed black people with impunity .
As we respond , again and again , our strategy brings us back to local prosecutors , who hold outsize power in the criminal justice system .
The criminal justice system in our country can sometimes feel like a monster with at least a half dozen deadly heads .
Predatory money bail , hyper-investment in the police , false convictions , over- sentencing…the list of @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
But at the heart of the beast are these local prosecutors , who hold more power than anyone else in the criminal justice system .
When George Floyd was killed by police , Hennepin County Attorney Mike Freeman didn ’ t announce filing against Derek Chauvin , the Minneapolis police officer who kneeled Floyd ’ s neck , until after an excruciating nine-minute video of Floyd ’ s lynching went viral and the people of Minneapolis rose up .
When Ahmaud Arbery was targeted and killed by white vigilantes , two separate @ @ @ @ @ @ @ and Jackie Johnson , refused do their jobs and failed to arrest father and son , Gregory and Travis McMichael , after the killing .
When Eric Garner was killed by police in 2014 , Attorney General William Barr made the decision not to bring charges against the officer who killed him with an illegal chokehold .
These are elected officials who are refusing to keep their black constituents safe .
Structural racism is the very foundation for the criminal justice system that they lead and it can not keep us safe .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ ve learned that targeting prosecutors is a winning strategy .
District attorneys often run unopposed , and sometimes , as in recent races in Chicago and St. Louis , our work looks like supporting local candidates willing to challenge them on the ballot .
To make it easier to take up this fight nationwide , we ’ ve created the first directory in the country that allows anyone to look up their prosecutor , see if they ’ ve gone public with their views on protecting black people and hold them accountable if @ @ @ @ @ @ @ political power when we hold prosecutors who protect police violence accountable .
Their job is not to answer to powerful police unions but to the power of the people .
Scott Roberts is the senior director of Criminal Justice Campaigns for Color Of Change .
He leads digital campaigners , researchers and field organizers in rallying support to end mass incarceration , fight the way our society criminalizes black people , and secure more humane treatment for all those in contact with the justice system .
Each week Color of Change , the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ organization will bring you frontline stories from # TheBlackResponse to COVID-19 , highlighting the ways black people are taking action and demanding progress during the pandemic and beyond .

In the last two weeks, my criminal justice campaigns team at Color Of Change has helped more than 6.5 million people take action to demand justice for George Floyd, Breonna Taylor and others killed and brutalized by police in our country. On Breonna Taylor’s birthday today, June 5, we honor their lives and recommit ourselves to fight for systemic change, so we never have to watch another police murder video, chant another name in the streets, or #justice on social media. That’s the vision, and while it may seem far off as our country burns, we know there are tangible ways to get us there.
For too long, this system has killed black people with impunity. As we respond, again and again, our strategy brings us back to local prosecutors, who hold outsize power in the criminal justice system. The criminal justice system in our country can sometimes feel like a monster with at least a half dozen deadly heads. Predatory money bail, hyper-investment in the police, false convictions, over- sentencing…the list of ways this system harms us goes on. But at the heart of the beast are these local prosecutors, who hold more power than anyone else in the criminal justice system.
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When George Floyd was killed by police, Hennepin County Attorney Mike Freeman didn’t announce filing against Derek Chauvin, the Minneapolis police officer who kneeled Floyd’s neck, until after an excruciating nine-minute video of Floyd’s lynching went viral and the people of Minneapolis rose up.
When Ahmaud Arbery was targeted and killed by white vigilantes, two separate Glynn County district attorneys, George Barnhill and Jackie Johnson, refused do their jobs and failed to arrest father and son, Gregory and Travis McMichael, after the killing.
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When Eric Garner was killed by police in 2014, Attorney General William Barr made the decision not to bring charges against the officer who killed him with an illegal chokehold.
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These are elected officials who are refusing to keep their black constituents safe. Structural racism is the very foundation for the criminal justice system that they lead and it cannot keep us safe. After years of fighting, we’ve learned that targeting prosecutors is a winning strategy. District attorneys often run unopposed, and sometimes, as in recent races in Chicago and St. Louis, our work looks like supporting local candidates willing to challenge them on the ballot.
To make it easier to take up this fight nationwide, we’ve created the first directory in the country that allows anyone to look up their prosecutor, see if they’ve gone public with their views on protecting black people and hold them accountable if they won’t.
Advertisement
We build political power when we hold prosecutors who protect police violence accountable. Their job is not to answer to powerful police unions but to the power of the people.
Scott Roberts is the senior director of Criminal Justice Campaigns for Color Of Change. He leads digital campaigners, researchers and field organizers in rallying support to end mass incarceration, fight the way our society criminalizes black people, and secure more humane treatment for all those in contact with the justice system.
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Each week Color of Change, the nation’s largest online racial justice organization will bring you frontline stories from #TheBlackResponse to COVID-19, highlighting the ways black people are taking action and demanding progress during the pandemic and beyond.


theroot--2020-06-05--30 Days of Iconic Music Video Blackness With VSB, Day 5: Missy Elliott 'The Rain (Supa Dupa Fly)'

Let ’ s go ahead and get a few facts out of the way about Missy Elliot ’ s song “ The Rain ( Supa Dupa Fly ) .
” For one , the song is timeless—I believe if this song was released today , some 23 years after it s original release , it would still be a hit .
It ’ s so different and so unique , so special , that it defies the era .
And because Missy is a special talent , the video is also timeless .
Short of some of the fashion choices @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to a time when clothing was more drape-y than fitting , the video , if dropped today , in my humble opinion , would also still be a hit .
It is , in fact , iconic .
This video dropped on my 18th birthday in 1997 ( June 3 ) , which was ALSO iconic because that is the day Wu Tang dropped their sophomore album , Wu Tang Forever .
The point is , my birthday was musically epic that year .
I remember seeing it ( not specifically on my @ @ @ @ @ @ @ crazy , futuristic and out there the video was .
And how perfectly it matched the song , which was Missy ... musing on things .
I would have loved to be in the planning meetings for this video just so I could hear Missy say , “ I ’ d like to wear a really big inflated trash bag .
Thank you.
” I ’ m sure folks looked around like , “ huh ?
” but when the video was finished they all high -fived themselves like it was their idea @ @ @ @ @ @ @ versions of this today during halloween .
Missy is an icon living .
True story , I did try to blow up a trash bag with a vacuum cleaner hose at one point—as you can imagine , it did not work .
But everything about this video is amazing .
The color schemes .
The dancing .
The random ness .
The lighting .
The everything .
Not to mention , again , the song is John Blaze .
I guess I mentioned it .
No matter , I can ’ t stand @ @ @ @ @ @ @ wind .
5 , 6 , 7 ... 8 , 9 , 10 .
Like you know they had fun making this video .
Hell , I wish I could have been IN the joint .
When I think of fun videos and videos that set artists apart from the rest , this is definitely one .
It ’ s the shiny suit video that didn ’ t feel ridiculous .
And that ’ s because Missy was an artist making art , and 23 years later , it ’ s still a @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , is iconic .

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

Let’s go ahead and get a few facts out of the way about Missy Elliot’s song “The Rain (Supa Dupa Fly).” For one, the song is timeless—I believe if this song was released today, some 23 years after it s original release, it would still be a hit. It’s so different and so unique, so special, that it defies the era. And because Missy is a special talent, the video is also timeless. Short of some of the fashion choices by folks like Diddy that harken back to a time when clothing was more drape-y than fitting, the video, if dropped today, in my humble opinion, would also still be a hit. It is, in fact, iconic.
Missy Elliot “The Rain (Supa Dupa Fly)” (1997)
This video dropped on my 18th birthday in 1997 (June 3), which was ALSO iconic because that is the day Wu Tang dropped their sophomore album, Wu Tang Forever. The point is, my birthday was musically epic that year. I remember seeing it (not specifically on my birthday) and being floored at how crazy, futuristic and out there the video was. And how perfectly it matched the song, which was Missy...musing on things.
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I would have loved to be in the planning meetings for this video just so I could hear Missy say, “I’d like to wear a really big inflated trash bag. Thank you.” I’m sure folks looked around like, “huh?” but when the video was finished they all high -fived themselves like it was their idea. Shit, I see kids wearing versions of this today during halloween. Missy is an icon living. True story, I did try to blow up a trash bag with a vacuum cleaner hose at one point—as you can imagine, it did not work.
But everything about this video is amazing. The color schemes. The dancing. The random ness. The lighting. The everything. Not to mention, again, the song is John Blaze. I guess I mentioned it. No matter, I can’t stand the rain. AND I feel the wind. 5, 6, 7...8, 9, 10. Like you know they had fun making this video. Hell, I wish I could have been IN the joint. When I think of fun videos and videos that set artists apart from the rest, this is definitely one. It’s the shiny suit video that didn’t feel ridiculous. And that’s because Missy was an artist making art, and 23 years later, it’s still a magnificent work.
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And that my friends, is iconic.


TGIF Playlist: Healing

Happy Friday .
This week has continued to be just as wild as the last , but instead of tunes @ @ @ @ @ local officials or safely protesting in the streets , I ’ ve decided to curate @ @ @ @ @ for genuine self-care .
It is ok to log off , to spend time with @ @ @ @ @ and decompress .
So here ’ s to doing just that .
Make sure to @ @ @ @ @ for the full version .
They ’ re still doing 3 months of FREE listens @ @ @ @ @ the completed playlist on Amazon Music for your enjoyment :

Ignacia on The Inventory, shared by Ignacia to The Root

Happy Friday. This week has continued to be just as wild as the last, but instead of tunes inspiring you to email your local officials or safely protesting in the streets, I’ve decided to curate a playlist full of joints for genuine self-care. It is ok to log off, to spend time with the ones you love, and decompress. So here’s to doing just that. Make sure to tune into Amazon Music Unlimited for the full version. They’re still doing 3 months of FREE listens.
1. “Turnin’ Me Up” —BJ The Chicago Kid
2. “Window Seat” —Erykah Badu
3. “Golden” —Jill Scott
4. “Brown Skin” —India.Arie
5. “Ascension (Don’t Ever Wonder)” —Maxwell
6. “Got ‘Til It’s Gone” —Janet Jackson
7. “Nothing Even Matters” —Ms. Lauryn Hill ft. D’Angelo
8. “I Gotta Find Peace of Mind” —Ms. Lauryn Hill
9. “U Know What’s Up” —Donnell Jones ft. Left Eye
1o. “Brown Sugar” —D’Angelo
11. “Next Lifetime” —Erykah Badu
12. “Pretty Wings” —Maxwell
13. “The Way” —Jill Scott
14. “Ready or Not” —The Fugees
And here’s the completed playlist on Amazon Music for your enjoyment:
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Until next week.


theroot--2020-06-05--California Mayor Resigns After Saying 'No Good Person of Color' Has Been Killed by Police

The constant whirlwind of awfulness that ’ s been 2020 has had a good chunk of us feeling like this pear .
I , like most of you , am simply exhausted .
If it ’ s not the steady stream of seeing black bodies being brutalized , it ’ s white people coming out their mouths to say , just , the dumbest shit .
Take for example Temecula Mayor James Stewart who , according to KTLA , wrote in an email that he didn ’ t “ believe there ’ s ever been a good person of color @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , who ’ s dyslexic , uses speech-to-text software to write his email .
He says it malfunctioned and he didn ’ t notice the word “ good ” had been added to his sentence .
He initially apologized for the error and asked for forgiveness .
“ Unfortunately I did not take the time to proofread what was recorded .
I absolutely did not say that .
What I said is and I don ’ t believe there has ever been a person of color murdered by police , on context to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ did not say ‘ good.
’ I have no idea how that popped up.
” Stewart said in an interview with the Riverside Press-Enterprise on Thursday .
He said he was responding to a concern about the Temecula police force and their sensitivity training .
By Thursday evening , Stewart had announced on Facebook that he would be resigning as mayor .
So taking this at face value as a technological error , let ’ s examine Stewart ’ s intended response .
Temecula is a city that has a population of about @ @ @ @ @ @ @ of that number .
In Riverside County , where Temecula is located , that number increases to 7 percent of just under 2.5 million people .
The Press-Enterprise found that a Department of Justice database showed that black people made up 18 percent of people who died at the hands of law enforcement in Riverside County from 2010-2018 .
If we extend it to “ people of color , ” as the mayor said , two months ago a Mexican man was killed by police in Riverside County .
Clearly , the ( @ @ @ @ @ @ @ track of what goes on in his own backyard No matter how you cut it , Stewart was in the wrong .
This incident only further highlights the role elected officials play in allowing the problem of police brutality to continue .
If they don ’ t “ believe ” there ’ s a problem , then how can they be expected to solve it ?

The constant whirlwind of awfulness that’s been 2020 has had a good chunk of us feeling like this pear. I, like most of you, am simply exhausted. If it’s not the steady stream of seeing black bodies being brutalized, it’s white people coming out their mouths to say, just, the dumbest shit.
Take for example Temecula Mayor James Stewart who, according to KTLA, wrote in an email that he didn’t “believe there’s ever been a good person of color killed by a police officer.”
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*takes long, heavy, sigh*
Alright.
Stewart, who’s dyslexic, uses speech-to-text software to write his email. He says it malfunctioned and he didn’t notice the word “good” had been added to his sentence. He initially apologized for the error and asked for forgiveness.
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“Unfortunately I did not take the time to proofread what was recorded. I absolutely did not say that. What I said is and I don’t believe there has ever been a person of color murdered by police, on context to Temecula or Riverside County. I absolutely did not say ‘good.’ I have no idea how that popped up.” Stewart said in an interview with the Riverside Press-Enterprise on Thursday. He said he was responding to a concern about the Temecula police force and their sensitivity training.
By Thursday evening, Stewart had announced on Facebook that he would be resigning as mayor.
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So taking this at face value as a technological error, let’s examine Stewart’s intended response. Temecula is a city that has a population of about 115,000 with black people being 5 percent of that number. In Riverside County, where Temecula is located, that number increases to 7 percent of just under 2.5 million people. The Press-Enterprise found that a Department of Justice database showed that black people made up 18 percent of people who died at the hands of law enforcement in Riverside County from 2010-2018. If we extend it to “people of color,” as the mayor said, two months ago a Mexican man was killed by police in Riverside County.
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Clearly, the (former) mayor doesn’t keep track of what goes on in his own backyard
No matter how you cut it, Stewart was in the wrong. This incident only further highlights the role elected officials play in allowing the problem of police brutality to continue. If they don’t “believe” there’s a problem, then how can they be expected to solve it?


theroot--2020-06-05--Demand for Dear White People and When They See Us Skyrockets During George Floyd Protest Era

Dear white people , do y ’ all see us today ?
According to data sent to The Root by Parrot Analytics , apparently more people are eager for commentary on race and police brutality because demand for two Netflix projects , Dear White People and When They See Us has gone through the roof .
As we ’ re living in an era surrounded by the police killings of George Floyd and Breonna Taylor and the protests such brutality has sparked , there is clearly an eagerness to engross oneself in the film , TV and music that tackles @ @ @ @ @ @ @ tends to imitate life .
For Dear White People , the data appears to be based on the 2017 TV series adapted from the 2014 film of the same name ( both from Justin Simien ) .
The demand is 1.7 times the average series in the U.S. and in the past 30 days , demand has gone up 43.9 percent .
The series was officially renewed for its 4th and final season so new fans have a chance to catch up in time for the grand finale .
As for Ava DuVernay @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Us , the demand is a whopping 9.4 times the average series in the U.S .
Though demand for the series based on the Central Park Five case has gone down 11.1 percent in the last 30 days , it ’ s still clear that it ’ s among the top in comparison to other series .
In the past week alone , Dear White People ’ s demand grew 329 percent and When They See Us ’ demand grew 147 percent compared to the previous week .
That ’ s noticeable as @ @ @ @ @ @ @ pain and protest , these series are finding a resurgence of demand , ” Ashley Alleyne-Morris , Parrot Analytics Partner Insights Director said in a statement .
“ Whether it ’ s a satirical look at dealing with discrimination at majority-white spaces ( universities ) or a true story about the miscarriage of justice faced by the Central Park Five , new audiences appear to be turning to these stories as a form of education and understanding of the black experience in America.
” This type of interest isn ’ t at all @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to engage with the real-life topics that affect us .
In fact , there have been reports that The Help has recently entered the trending Top 10 list on Netflix , which is ... a choice .
In fact , people have been sharing lists of highly relevant content to consume during this time .
Get into it .

Dear white people, do y’all see us today?
According to data sent to The Root by Parrot Analytics, apparently more people are eager for commentary on race and police brutality because demand for two Netflix projects, Dear White People and When They See Us has gone through the roof. As we’re living in an era surrounded by the police killings of George Floyd and Breonna Taylor and the protests such brutality has sparked, there is clearly an eagerness to engross oneself in the film, TV and music that tackles these topics.
After all, art tends to imitate life.
For Dear White People, the data appears to be based on the 2017 TV series adapted from the 2014 film of the same name (both from Justin Simien). The demand is 1.7 times the average series in the U.S. and in the past 30 days, demand has gone up 43.9 percent. The series was officially renewed for its 4th and final season so new fans have a chance to catch up in time for the grand finale.
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As for Ava DuVernay’s limited series When They See Us, the demand is a whopping 9.4 times the average series in the U.S. Though demand for the series based on the Central Park Five case has gone down 11.1 percent in the last 30 days, it’s still clear that it’s among the top in comparison to other series.
In the past week alone, Dear White People’s demand grew 329 percent and When They See Us’ demand grew 147 percent compared to the previous week. That’s noticeable as fuck.
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“During a week of pain and protest, these series are finding a resurgence of demand,” Ashley Alleyne-Morris, Parrot Analytics Partner Insights Director said in a statement. “Whether it’s a satirical look at dealing with discrimination at majority-white spaces (universities) or a true story about the miscarriage of justice faced by the Central Park Five, new audiences appear to be turning to these stories as a form of education and understanding of the black experience in America.”
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This type of interest isn’t at all surprising as people try more and more to engage with the real-life topics that affect us. In fact, there have been reports that The Help has recently entered the trending Top 10 list on Netflix, which is...a choice.
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In fact, people have been sharing lists of highly relevant content to consume during this time. Get into it.


theroot--2020-06-05--Patrick Mahomes, Zeke Elliot Among NFL Stars Demanding the League Condemn Racism, Admit to Silencing

Patrick Mahomes, Zeke Elliot Among NFL Stars Demanding the League Condemn Racism, Admit to Silencing Colin Kaepernick

On the same day that Drew Brees made it his sovereign duty to be dead-ass wrong , some of the biggest names in the NFL opted to counter that narrative .
As the rest of the world was preoccupied with protesting the death of George Floyd , Brees spewed some ridiculous rhetoric about Colin Kaepernick ’ s national anthem protests .
Specifically , that he will “ never agree with anybody disrespecting the flag of the United States of America or our country.
” I must ’ ve missed the memo as to when Kap ever disrespected the flag , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ unseasoned take couldn ’ t have been any more obtuse .
Especially when you factor in that Kaepernick was quite literally protesting the same police brutality that stole George Floyd ’ s life .
Clap it up for the village idiot , everyone .
In response , more than 15 players , that include the likes of Odell Beckham Jr. , Zeke Elliot and Patrick Mahomes , dropped a video condemning racism and demanding that the NFL admit that it was dead ass wrong for shutting down players who ’ ve protested during @ @ @ @ @ @ @ not be silenced , ” they say in the video .
“ We assert our right to peacefully protest .
It shouldn ’ t take this long to admit.
” They also issue an ultimatum of sorts : “ On behalf of the National Football League , this is what we , the players , would like to hear you state : ‘ We , the National Football League , condemn racism and the systematic oppression of black people .
We , the National Football League , admit wrong in silencing our players @ @ @ @ @ @ @ National Football League , believe Black Lives Matter.
’ ” This is powerful stuff that should dispel any notion that black NFL players don ’ t use their platforms to address societal issues—even though white players curiously don ’ t bear the same responsibility .
Also of note , TMZ reports that the mastermind behind this video was none other than superstar receiver Michael Thomas ; the same Michael Thomas who just so happens to be Brees ’ teammate .
“ One of my brothers made a public statement yesterday that I disagreed @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to Brees ’ foolishness .
“ He apologized & I accept it because that ’ s what we are taught to do as Christians .
Now back to the movement !
# GeorgeFloyd ” For those wondering , Thomas dropped his video several hours after publicly accepting Brees ’ apology , presumably to send a message to his quarterback as well as the rest of the league that the bullshit must stop .
The NFL has yet to publicly comment on the video , but don ’ t hold your breath waiting for @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
Even though the world tries convince us otherwise .

On the same day that Drew Brees made it his sovereign duty to be dead-ass wrong, some of the biggest names in the NFL opted to counter that narrative.
As the rest of the world was preoccupied with protesting the death of George Floyd, Brees spewed some ridiculous rhetoric about Colin Kaepernick’s national anthem protests. Specifically, that he will “never agree with anybody disrespecting the flag of the United States of America or our country.” I must’ve missed the memo as to when Kap ever disrespected the flag, but considering our current climate, this unseasoned take couldn’t have been any more obtuse. Especially when you factor in that Kaepernick was quite literally protesting the same police brutality that stole George Floyd’s life.
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Clap it up for the village idiot, everyone.
In response, more than 15 players, that include the likes of Odell Beckham Jr., Zeke Elliot and Patrick Mahomes, dropped a video condemning racism and demanding that the NFL admit that it was dead ass wrong for shutting down players who’ve protested during the national anthem.
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“We will not be silenced,” they say in the video. “We assert our right to peacefully protest. It shouldn’t take this long to admit.”
They also issue an ultimatum of sorts: “On behalf of the National Football League, this is what we, the players, would like to hear you state: ‘We, the National Football League, condemn racism and the systematic oppression of black people. We, the National Football League, admit wrong in silencing our players from peacefully protesting. We, the National Football League, believe Black Lives Matter.’”
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This is powerful stuff that should dispel any notion that black NFL players don’t use their platforms to address societal issues—even though white players curiously don’t bear the same responsibility.
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Also of note, TMZ reports that the mastermind behind this video was none other than superstar receiver Michael Thomas; the same Michael Thomas who just so happens to be Brees’ teammate.
“One of my brothers made a public statement yesterday that I disagreed with,” Thomas tweeted in response to Brees’ foolishness. “He apologized & I accept it because that’s what we are taught to do as Christians. Now back to the movement! #GeorgeFloyd”
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For those wondering, Thomas dropped his video several hours after publicly accepting Brees’ apology, presumably to send a message to his quarterback as well as the rest of the league that the bullshit must stop.
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The NFL has yet to publicly comment on the video, but don’t hold your breath waiting for them to repeat that Black Lives Matter. Even though the world tries convince us otherwise.


theroot--2020-06-05--This 11-Piece Set of Stainless Steel Cuisinart Pots and Pans is Just $129

If your cookware is getting a bit rusty , now ’ s a perfect time to start replacing it , @ @ @ @ @ today ’ s featured MorningSave deal .
They ’ re letting go of six Cuisinart @ @ @ @ @ respective tops for $ 12 9 .
All these pieces are oven- and dishwasher-safe , @ @ @ @ @ on induction stove tops .
Here ’ s everything you ’ ll be adding to @ @ @ @ @ to buy :

Quentyn Kennemer on Kinja Deals, shared by Gabe Carey to The Root

Cuisinart 11pc Multiclad Pro Stainless Steel Cookware | $159 | MorningSave
If your cookware is getting a bit rusty, now’s a perfect time to start replacing it, especially with steep discounts like today’s featured MorningSave deal, where you can add eight Cuisinart pots and pans with their respective tops for $15 9.
All these pieces are oven- and dishwasher-safe, and they work perfectly fine on induction stove tops. Here’s everything you’ll be adding to your cupboards if you decided to buy:
1x 1 Quart Saucepan with Glass Cover
1x 2 Quart Saucepan with Glass Cover
1x 3 Quart Saucepan with Glass Cover
1x 4 Quart Sauté Pan with Helper Handle and Glass Cover
1x 8" Non-Stick Skillet
1x 10" Skillet with Glass Cover
1x 8 Quart Stockpot with Glass Cover
1x Universal Multi-Steamer Insert
Grab yours today.
This deal was originally published in June 2020 and updated with new information on 8/10/2020.


theroot--2020-06-05--The Root Jams Weekly (6/5/2020): 'Say Her Name'

Breonna Taylor would be 27 years old today .
Unfortunately , she is now with the ancestors , cut down @ @ @ @ @ that devalues black bodies .
She , along with too many other black women whose @ @ @ @ @ often go under-acknowledged .
This playlist honors them .

Breonna Taylor would be 27 years old today. Unfortunately, she is now with the ancestors, cut down prematurely by a police system that devalues black bodies. She, along with too many other black women whose lives were cut too short often go under-acknowledged. This playlist honors them.
J’Na Jefferson
Janelle Monae “I Got The Juice”
Patti LaBelle “New Attitude”
Lizzo “Soulmate”
Mary J. Blige “Take Me As I Am”
Jessica Moulite
TLC “His Story”
Amy Winehouse “Tears Dry On Their Own”
Lizzo “Good As Hell”
Nelly Furtado “Turn Off The Light”
Willow “Wait a Minute!”
Maiysha Kai
Nina Simone “Four Women”
Rufus & Chaka Khan “I’m a Woman (I’m a Backbone)“
Sade “Maureen”
Aretha Franklin “Spanish Harlem”
Aretha Franklin “A Rose Is Still a Rose”
Roberta Flack “Just Like a Woman”
Maxwell “This Woman’s Work”
Karyn White “Superwoman”
Panama Jackson
Common “A Song for Assata”
Reflection Eternal “Expansion Outro (Four Women)”
Maimouna Youssef & DJ Dummy “Say My Name”
Eryn Allen Kane “Have Mercy”
Raheem DeVaughn “Woman”
Ashley Velez
Jamila Woods “Blk Girl Soldier”
Jamila Woods “Giovanni”
Jamila Woods “Bubbles”
Nitty Scott “For Sarah Baartman”
Rapsody “Hatshesput”
Sampa the Great “Black Girl Magik”
Sampa the Great “Energy”
Tonja Stidhum
The Enchantment “Gloria”
Destra “Lucy”
Beyoncé “Yoncé”
Jay Connor
Black Star “Brown Skin Lady”
Goodie Mob “Beautiful Skin”
Anne Branigin
Aretha Franklin “Call Me”
Nina Simona “See-Line Woman”
bLAck party “Bloom”
Ishena Robinson
Jamila Woods “Sonia”
Lila Ike “Where I’m Coming From”
Jhene Aiko featuring H.E.R. “B.S.”


theroot--2020-06-05--What You Can Do to Lift Up Breonna Taylor and Other Female Victims of Police Brutality

Nearly three months after 26-year-old EMT Breonna Taylor was shot and killed by the Louisville Metro Police Department in a botched drug raid , no officers have been charged in her killing .
In fact , since her death , another black person , West Louisville barbecue caterer David McAtee , was shot and killed by law enforcement .
June 5 would have been Taylor ’ s 27th birthday , and activists and advocates throughout the country are galvanizing to # SayHerName and ensure she gets justice .
The key , says Lonita Baker , a lawyer for Taylor ’ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ public pressure on the Louisville and Kentucky officials .
Baker , appearing on Good Morning America on Friday , urged the public to continue to put pressure on Louisville and Kentucky officials .
The case is currently before Kentucky Attorney General Daniel Cameron , who is serving as the special prosecutor and investigating the conduct of police on the night they killed Taylor .
According to Baker , Cameron ’ s office has told her the investigation is “ nowhere near complete ” —that they predict another two to three months before reaching @ @ @ @ @ @ @ t think it takes that long to do this investigation , ” said Baker .
“ We , as the attorneys for the family of Breonna Taylor , we ’ ve been out there .
We ’ ve talked to neighbors .
We ’ ve seen the apartment , we know what it looks like .
It doesn ’ t take six months to complete an investigation.
” She noted that it wasn ’ t until Taylor ’ s case was covered—globally , at that—that her family began getting answers .
Within days @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , for instance , the family found “ straight out lies ” in the document .
To help boost visibility of Taylor ’ s case , freelance writer Cate Young started the # BirthdayForBreonna campaign this week which highlights nine specific actions people can take to help make sure Taylor ’ s case is not forgotten or dismissed .
The items include signing petitions and donating to the Taylor family ’ s GoFundMe and the Louisville Community Bail Fund , as well as emailing the Kentucky Attorney General , Louisville Mayor Greg Fischer @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
Interested people can also print out a personalized birthday card designed for Taylor ’ s birthday and send it directly to elected officials .
Young told the pop culture website PopSugar that the response to the campaign so far has been “ incredible.
” She hopes it inspires more people to get creative and think about how they can initiate their own actions to protect black women , who are also disproportionately profiled and targeted by police , but whose cases are not rallied around as urgently or as broadly as with @ @ @ @ @ @ @ more likely to experience sexual violence from the police .
As Andrea J. Ritchie , a police misconduct attorney and author of the book Invisible No More : Police Violence Against Black Women and Women of Color told NPR in 2017 , “ police sexual violence ... is the second most frequently reported form of police misconduct but not the second most talked about.
” “ I want people to know that they don ’ t have to wait for people to tell them what to do .
It ’ s important to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ just when they die—in their lives , too , ” Young told PopSugar .
“ That ’ s something that you can do in your everyday life : you can advocate for the Black women that you know , you can check yourself , you can make sure that you ’ re not making their lives more difficult , at the bare minimum , That ’ s just something I want people to be mindful of .
”

Nearly three months after 26-year-old EMT Breonna Taylor was shot and killed by the Louisville Metro Police Department in a botched drug raid, no officers have been charged in her killing. In fact, since her death, another black person, West Louisville barbecue caterer David McAtee, was shot and killed by law enforcement.
June 5 would have been Taylor’s 27th birthday, and activists and advocates throughout the country are galvanizing to #SayHerName and ensure she gets justice. The key, says Lonita Baker, a lawyer for Taylor’s family, is to keep up public pressure on the Louisville and Kentucky officials.
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Baker, appearing on Good Morning America on Friday, urged the public to continue to put pressure on Louisville and Kentucky officials. The case is currently before Kentucky Attorney General Daniel Cameron, who is serving as the special prosecutor and investigating the conduct of police on the night they killed Taylor.
According to Baker, Cameron’s office has told her the investigation is “nowhere near complete”—that they predict another two to three months before reaching its conclusion.
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“We don’t think it takes that long to do this investigation,” said Baker. “We, as the attorneys for the family of Breonna Taylor, we’ve been out there. We’ve talked to neighbors. We’ve seen the apartment, we know what it looks like. It doesn’t take six months to complete an investigation.”
She noted that it wasn’t until Taylor’s case was covered—globally, at that—that her family began getting answers. Within days of the investigators releasing the search warrant, for instance, the family found “straight out lies” in the document.
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To help boost visibility of Taylor’s case, freelance writer Cate Young started the #BirthdayForBreonna campaign this week which highlights nine specific actions people can take to help make sure Taylor’s case is not forgotten or dismissed. The items include signing petitions and donating to the Taylor family’s GoFundMe and the Louisville Community Bail Fund, as well as emailing the Kentucky Attorney General, Louisville Mayor Greg Fischer, or Kentucky Governor Andy Beshear directly.
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Interested people can also print out a personalized birthday card designed for Taylor’s birthday and send it directly to elected officials.
Young told the pop culture website PopSugar that the response to the campaign so far has been “incredible.” She hopes it inspires more people to get creative and think about how they can initiate their own actions to protect black women, who are also disproportionately profiled and targeted by police, but whose cases are not rallied around as urgently or as broadly as with black men.
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Black women are also more likely to experience sexual violence from the police. As Andrea J. Ritchie, a police misconduct attorney and author of the book Invisible No More: Police Violence Against Black Women and Women of Color told NPR in 2017, “police sexual violence...is the second most frequently reported form of police misconduct but not the second most talked about.”
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“I want people to know that they don’t have to wait for people to tell them what to do. It’s important to show up for Black women and not just when they die—in their lives, too,” Young told PopSugar. “That’s something that you can do in your everyday life: you can advocate for the Black women that you know, you can check yourself, you can make sure that you’re not making their lives more difficult, at the bare minimum, That’s just something I want people to be mindful of.”