theroot--2020-08-05--I Just Want to Be 'Normal,' and I Need a Therapist to Convince Me It Doesn't Exist

“ It is weird ?
” I asked , in a message I copied and pasted to several people through text , on Gchat , and in Facebook Messenger , six weeks ago .
The question was a follow up to a revelation I also shared with the same people : I ’ d recently discovered , while finally seriously researching potential therapists—after telling myself for years that I ’ d do it—that I had what I assumed to be peculiar hangups about the process , so I surveyed my friends to gauge how normal I was .
I ’ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ normalcy since realizing that there was both a generalized “ normal ” and nebulous micro-normals that 1 ) existed and 2 ) I desired to fit into .
As a kid in a household that existed in perpetual vacillation between “ broke-ish ” and “ poor , ” I wanted , more than anything else , to be middle class .
Not rich .
Just to exist somewhere that allowed us to be what I considered to be normal , and I ’ d study the stats and charts and reports determining where @ @ @ @ @ @ @ parents making a dollar more than the cut off .
I believed my head to be abnormally shaped and my teeth abnormally large , and wanted those to just be as inconspicuous as possible .
Since that ’ s impossible , I took measures to conceal my abnormalities—I refused to leave the house without wearing a hat until I was in my 20s , and I went so long without smiling in pictures that I still , at 41 , have to remind myself that it ’ s fine .
These are just @ @ @ @ @ @ @ ’ ve somewhat grown out of , but the compulsion to know what normal is and where I fit is still present .
Just now , the vulnerabilities have shifted .
And so when I discovered , six weeks ago , that I have age , race , and gender hangups about who I ’ d want to be my therapist , I needed to know if that was normal , too .
The compulsion to chase normalcy stems from a pathological need to conceal my self-consciousnesses—which , considering that I wrote an @ @ @ @ @ @ @ t seem to make sense .
Neither does much of what the anxiety I carry compels me to think and do .
It just doesn ’ t match , and I find myself confused and isolated and isolating and compartmentalizing and worried and sabotaging , for reasons that escape me .
Where I get so deep in my own head—and not just deep , not just burrowed , but stuck—that I forget , or , better yet , act as if I ’ ve forgotten , that other people exist .
I need @ @ @ @ @ @ @ gets too sticky for me to leave .
I ’ ve needed it , actually .
And this is the first time I ’ ve sought professional help for it .
But this stuckness has extended to the process of getting a therapist .
I don ’ t want someone close to my age , because I don ’ t think I ’ d trust their advice .
I don ’ t want a man , because I feel he might be too empathic , and I don ’ t want that .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ weird gendered hangup about being that vulnerable with another man .
Race , surprisingly , matters to me the least .
Which means that my optimal therapist is a 55 to 65-year-old woman .
Preferably Black , but lack of Blackness wouldn ’ t be a dealbreaker .
I also think I ’ d be fine with like a 75-year-old white man .
I can ’ t dismiss the possibility that these hangups are due to the idea , in my head , of what a “ normal ” therapist is , and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ who looks like me .
I hope that ’ s not true , but my hope for truth has no bearing on actual truth .
But , according to my i mpromptu and unscientific survey , it ’ s normal to be surprisingly—and , sometimes , shockingly—particular about who your therapist happens to be .
So that was reassuring .
I ’ m less reassured that I still needed to know .
Join the discussion !
The Root is hosting its first-ever , virtual Root Institute , presented by Target , featuring several @ @ @ @ @ @ @ talking about politics , culture , health , community building and social impact .
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Damon Young on Very Smart Brothas, shared by Damon Young to The Root

“It is weird?” I asked, in a message I copied and pasted to several people through text, on Gchat, and in Facebook Messenger, six weeks ago. The question was a followup to a revelation I also shared with the same people: I’d recently discovered, while finally seriously researching potential therapists—after telling myself for years that I’d do it—that I had what I assumed to be peculiar hangups about the process, so I surveyed my friends to gauge how normal I was.
I’ve been obsessed with the concept of normalcy since realizing that there was both a generalized “normal” and nebulous micro-normals that 1) existed and 2) I desired to fit into. As a kid in a household that existed in perpetual vacillation between “broke-ish” and “poor,” I wanted, more than anything else, to be middle class. Not rich. Just to exist somewhere that allowed us to be what I considered to be normal, and I’d study the stats and charts and reports determining where middle class began and dreamt of my parents making a dollar more than the cutoff. I believed my head to be abnormally shaped and my teeth abnormally large, and wanted those to just be as inconspicuous as possible. Since that’s impossible, I took measures to conceal my abnormalities—I refused to leave the house without wearing a hat until I was in my 20s, and I went so long without smiling in pictures that I still, at 41, have to remind myself that it’s fine.
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These are just some examples, each of which I’ve somewhat grown out of, but the compulsion to know what normal is and where I fit is still present. Just now, the vulnerabilities have shifted, from things I can’t control (how I look) to things I believe I can (how I think and act). And so when I discovered, six weeks ago, that I have age, race, and gender hangups about who I’d want to be my therapist, I needed to know if that was normal, too.
The compulsion to chase normalcy stems from a pathological need to conceal my self-consciousnesses—which, considering that I wrote an entire book about them, doesn’t seem to make sense. Neither does much of what the anxiety I carry compels me to think and do. It just doesn’t match, and I find myself confused and isolated and isolating and compartmentalizing and worried and oblivious and sabotaging, for reasons that escape me. Where I get so deep in my own head—and not just deep, not just burrowed, but stuck—that I forget, or, better yet, act as if I’ve forgotten, that other people exist. I need help getting out of there before it gets too sticky for me to leave, and before people close to me tire of waiting for me to get unstuck. I’ve needed it, actually. And this is the first time I’ve sought professional help for it. But this stuckness has extended to the process of getting a therapist.
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I don’t want someone close to my age, because I don’t think I’d trust their advice. I don’t want a man, because I feel he might be too empathic, and I don’t want that. And I also maybe—probably, definitely—have some weird gendered hangup about being that vulnerable with another man. Race, surprisingly, matters to me the least. Which means that my optimal therapist is a 55 to 65-year-old woman. Preferably Black, but lack of Blackness wouldn’t be a dealbreaker. Which means that I’d be more comfortable with a 60-year-old white woman than a 45-year-old Black man. And that’s weird as fuck, I think.
I can’t dismiss the possibility that this particular hangup is due to the idea, in my head, of what a “normal” therapist is, and that’s not a Black man who looks like me. I hope that’s not true, but my hope for truth has no bearing on actual truth.
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But, according to my impromptu survey, it’s normal to be surprisingly—and, sometimes, shockingly—particular about who your therapist happens to be. So that was reassuring. I’m less reassured that I still needed to know.
Join the discussion! The Root is hosting its first-ever, virtual Root Institute, presented by Target, featuring several of the leading minds in our community talking about politics, culture, health, community building and social impact. Subscribe for updates today!


theroot--2020-08-06--Prosecutors Request Bond Be Revoked for Former Officer Who Shot Rayshard Brooks After He Took a Vaca

Prosecutors Request Bond Be Revoked for Former Officer Who Shot Rayshard Brooks After He Took a Vacation to Florida

Prosecutors in Georgia have requested that the bond order be revoked for the former Atlanta police officer who fatally shot Rayshard Brooks in June after finding out he recently took a vacation to Florida without getting permission .
CBS News reports that prosecutors in the case were only informed on Monday that former officer Garrett Rolfe took a vacation to Florida days after he had made the trip .
According to the motion filed by the prosecutors , the terms of Rolfe ’ s bond “ expressly states that the Defendant is only allowed to leave home for medical , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ bond order also sets a curfew from 6 p.m. to 6 a.m. On Wednesday , lawyers for Brooks ’ family spoke out and said that not only was Rolfe ’ s trip a “ full violation ” of his bond , it was simply disrespectful as well .
“ It let me know that Officer Rolfe did not care about what the judge had laid down , as well as caring about how anyone would feel .
I ’ m hurt .
Again , I ’ m just wondering when justice will be @ @ @ @ @ @ @ ’ widow , said at a press conference .
Chris Stewart , a lawyer for the family , said that Rolfe ’ s attorneys only informed prosecutors about the trip “ after he had already been on vacation on the beach for a few days.
” “ It furthermore shows the mental state of this officer , it shows he feels he can just go on vacation after he has been charged with the murder of Rayshard Brooks , ” Stewart said .
He also went on to call Rolfe ’ s actions @ @ @ @ @ @ @ He believes that Rolfe ’ s bond should be revoked because his actions indicate a belief that “ rules don ’ t apply to him.
” Prosecutors said they haven ’ t received an indication that Rolfe was given permission to go on vacation .
Rolfe , who is facing 11 charges , including felony murder , has filed a lawsuit against city officials over the case .
Rolfe has also sued the mayor and interim police chief , saying his firing violated his constitutional rights and the city code .
Rolfe ’ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ by the Daily Report , argues that Rolfe used deadly force “ within the scope and course of his duties ” in response to “ Brooks ’ violent , unlawful , aggressive resistance to a lawful arrest.
” The lawsuit asks a judge to hold a hearing and to order that Rolfe be immediately reinstated with back pay and other benefits .
The mayor ’ s office and police department did not immediately comment Wednesday on the lawsuit .
On June 12 , Rolfe and Officer Devin Brosnan were responding to a call @ @ @ @ @ @ @ car at a Wendy ’ s drive-thru .
Body camera footage of the incident showed that Brooks was cooperating with the officers , calmly talking to them for over 40 minutes .
When the officers told Brooks he had too much to drink and moved in to arrest him , Brooks resisted and ran off .
Rolfe fired multiple shots at Brooks and an autopsy revealed that Brooks died after being shot twice in the back .
Rolfe was fired the day after the shooting and Brosnan , who is also out on @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the state as a witness .
During his time as an officer , Rolfe was subject to 13 different complaints and was previously reprimanded over a use of force complaint .

Prosecutors in Georgia have requested that the bond order be revoked for the former Atlanta police officer who fatally shot Rayshard Brooks in June after finding out he recently took a vacation to Florida without getting permission.
CBS News reports that prosecutors in the case were only informed on Monday that former officer Garrett Rolfe took a vacation to Florida days after he had made the trip. According to the motion filed by the prosecutors, the terms of Rolfe’s bond “expressly states that the Defendant is only allowed to leave home for medical, legal, or work-related obligations.” The bond order also sets a curfew from 6 p.m. to 6 a.m. On Wednesday, lawyers for Brooks’ family spoke out and said that not only was Rolfe’s trip a “full violation” of his bond, it was simply disrespectful as well.
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“It let me know that Officer Rolfe did not care about what the judge had laid down, as well as caring about how anyone would feel. I’m hurt. Again, I’m just wondering when justice will be served?” Tomika Miller, Brooks’ widow, said at a press conference. Chris Stewart, a lawyer for the family, said that Rolfe’s attorneys only informed prosecutors about the trip “after he had already been on vacation on the beach for a few days.”
“It furthermore shows the mental state of this officer, it shows he feels he can just go on vacation after he has been charged with the murder of Rayshard Brooks,” Stewart said. He also went on to call Rolfe’s actions “mind-blowing” and “disappointing.” He believes that Rolfe’s bond should be revoked because his actions indicate a belief that “rules don’t apply to him.” Prosecutors said they haven’t received an indication that Rolfe was given permission to go on vacation.
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Rolfe, who is facing 11 charges, including felony murder, has filed a lawsuit against city officials over the case.
From CBS News:
Rolfe has also sued the mayor and interim police chief, saying his firing violated his constitutional rights and the city code. Rolfe’s lawsuit, which was first reported by the Daily Report, argues that Rolfe used deadly force “within the scope and course of his duties” in response to “Brooks’ violent, unlawful, aggressive resistance to a lawful arrest.” The lawsuit asks a judge to hold a hearing and to order that Rolfe be immediately reinstated with back pay and other benefits. The mayor’s office and police department did not immediately comment Wednesday on the lawsuit.
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On June 12, Rolfe and Officer Devin Brosnan were responding to a call of a man found asleep in his car at a Wendy’s drive-thru. Body camera footage of the incident showed that Brooks was cooperating with the officers, calmly talking to them for over 40 minutes. When the officers told Brooks he had too much to drink and moved in to arrest him, Brooks resisted and ran off. Rolfe fired multiple shots at Brooks and an autopsy revealed that Brooks died after being shot twice in the back.
Rolfe was fired the day after the shooting and Brosnan, who is also out on bond, has agreed to cooperate with the state as a witness. During his time as an officer, Rolfe was subject to 13 different complaints and was previously reprimanded over a use of force complaint.


theroot--2020-08-05--See Everything the Great Indoors Has to Offer on a Cardio Conducive Exercise Bike

Getting a good cardio workout without leaving your house isn ’ t an easy thing to do .
Jogging on the spot is good and all , but it ’ s not really the most satisfying way to do things .
Sometimes you just need to get one of the best exercise bikes underneath you and power those legs through an exhausting cardio workout to feel alive .
If that ’ s the case , then you really need to know what you ’ re getting yourself into .
An exercise bike is only as good as the options it @ @ @ @ @ @ @ fits what you want from it , and if you want it to get better as you do then you need to know that it will .
Here ’ s a list of reliable exercise bikes that ’ ll get your body sweating at home .
Pump up your arms and legs The Marcy fan exercise bike isn ’ t fancy , but it gets the job done and it ’ s got a price that is far more inviting tha n most other bikes .
The lower price is largely due to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ a magnetic resistance system , but it doesn ’ t mean a lack of quality .
Plus , you ’ ll be able to work your arms a bit on this one too , making it perfect for hitting every single limb .
Perfect if you ’ re worried about your back The pooboo m agnetic r ecumbent e xercise b ike is the ideal choice for anybody who struggles with their lower back thanks to the adjustable seat and arm grips .
You ’ ll still get a great workout but this @ @ @ @ @ @ @ injuries they ’ re worried about than those looking to push themselves as hard as possible .
The Sunny H ealth & Fitness m agnetic m ini e xercise b ike lets you pedal all you want without having to invest in a full bike , or having to find the space for one .
Better yet , you can easily use this as a wa y to work your arms if you want to by placing it on a higher surface .
It ’ s a good choice and it ’ s @ @ @ @ @ @ @ too .
Obviously this bike doesn ’ t ac tually make you move anywhere any faster as it ’ s a stationary bike , but it ’ ll help you push a little faster when you ’ re exercising on it .
The Sunny Health & Fitness i ndoor e xercise b ike is perfect for getting really into your cycling as you lean forwards and power your legs through each rotation .
When you just want to ride a bike This is probably the most traditional of the exercise bikes on the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ u pright e xercise b ike uses elect romagnetic resistance and a programmable monitor to help you push yourself as hard as possible and keep track of everything you ’ re doing .
It ’ s excellent if you just want something nice and simple .

Jason Coles on The Inventory, shared by Gabe Carey to The Root

Getting a good cardio workout without leaving your house isn’t an easy thing to do. Jogging on the spot is good and all, but it’s not really the most satisfying way to do things. Sometimes you just need to get one of the best exercise bikes underneath you and power those legs through an exhausting cardio workout to feel alive.
If that’s the case, then you really need to know what you’re getting yourself into. An exercise bike is only as good as the options it provides, so you want one that fits what you want from it, and if you want it to get better as you do then you need to know that it will.
Here’s a list of reliable exercise bikes that’ll get your body sweating at home.
The Full Body Pick
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The Marcy fan exercise bike isn’t fancy, but it gets the job done and it’s got a price that is far more inviting tha n most other bikes. The lower price is largely due to the use of air resistance instead of a magnetic resistance system, but it doesn’t mean a lack of quality. Plus, you’ll be able to work your arms a bit on this one too, making it perfect for hitting every single limb.
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The Laid Back Choice
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The pooboo m agnetic r ecumbent e xercise b ike is the ideal choice for anybody who struggles with their lower back thanks to the adjustable seat and arm grips. You’ll still get a great workout but this is much better suited for those with injuries they’re worried about than those looking to push themselves as hard as possible.
The Budget Choice
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The Sunny H ealth & Fitness m agnetic m ini e xercise b ike lets you pedal all you want without having to invest in a full bike, or having to find the space for one. Better yet, you can easily use this as a wa y to work your arms if you want to by placing it on a higher surface. It’s a good choice and it’s much cheaper than buying a full bike too.
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The Fastest One
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Obviously this bike doesn’t ac tually make you move anywhere any faster as it’s a stationary bike, but it’ll help you push a little faster when you’re exercising on it. The Sunny Health & Fitness i ndoor e xercise b ike is perfect for getting really into your cycling as you lean forwards and power your legs through each rotation.
The Classic Choice
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This is probably the most traditional of the exercise bikes on the list. The Sunny Health & Fitness u pright e xercise b ike uses elect romagnetic resistance and a programmable monitor to help you push yourself as hard as possible and keep track of everything you’re doing. It’s excellent if you just want something nice and simple.


theroot--2020-08-05--Virginia Mayor Urged to Step Down for Saying That Joe Biden Chose Aunt Jemima as VP Pick

Remember in June when Quaker Oats announced that it would be removing the Aunt Jemima brand from its product line and white people—including one very sad Karen of the Becky variety—had a whole meltdown about it and adamantly denied the racist origins of the caricature ?
Well , it took less than two months for a white Virginia mayor to remind us that white people know damn well the connection to racist stereotyping that image carries .
The Telegraph reports that Luray , Va. , Mayor Barry Presgraves has come under fire for posting to his Facebook page , “ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ as his VP pick.
” Presumptive Democratic nominee Joe Biden is expected to announce his choice for a running mate very soon .
It ’ s been widely speculated that Biden will choose a woman ( mostly because he ’ s said as much repeatedly ) and plenty of people have suggested that the woman be Black .
In fact , a lot of people are putting their money on California Sen. Kamala Harris since Biden was recently photographed holding notes with talking points that suggested Harris may be at the top of @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Unless Presgraves has been living under a rock that also lives under a rock , it ’ s a safe bet that he ’ s aware of all of this .
That didn ’ t stop him from lying his racist white ass off about what he meant by his post after a Luray city council member called for him to step down .
“ This was about a prominent woman who made pancake batter and the company was forced to take it off , which was wrong , ” Presgraves told Page @ @ @ @ @ @ @ more racist than the names I ’ ve been called.
” Presgraves continued by invoking a common wypipo proverb : “ I don ’ t have a racist bone in my body.
” Side note : I think I ’ ve finally figured it out .
*puts on Hotep hat* You see ... love for chicken is a Black stereotype .
The Devil most certainly invented boneless chicken wings .
White people are often called devils .
Therefore , white people invented boneless chicken wings to ensure that other white people don ’ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ bodies .
I ’ m just going to sit here and wait on my Pulitzer .
Anyway , white people like Presgraves can deny the racist connotation all they want , but I know a few Black people who have been called Aunt Jemima or Buckwheat by white people who would also swear to Lily-White Jesus that they too lack the particular bone required to do the racisms .
I ’ d have far more respect for people like Presgraves—who told Page Valley News , “ Hell no , I ’ m not @ @ @ @ @ @ @ by their bigotry .
At least when Black people call white people whatever “ racist ” names Presgtaves says he ’ s been called , we hold tight to our own proverb : “ I said what the fuck I said .
”

Remember in June when Quaker Oats announced that it would be removing the Aunt Jemima brand from its product line and white people—including one very sad Karen of the Becky variety—had a whole meltdown about it and adamantly denied the racist origins of the caricature? Well, it took less than two months for a white Virginia mayor to remind us that white people know damn well the connection to racist stereotyping that image carries.
The Telegraph reports that Luray, Va., Mayor Barry Presgraves has come under fire for posting to his Facebook page, “Joe Biden has just announced Aunt Jemima as his VP pick.”
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Presumptive Democratic nominee Joe Biden is expected to announce his choice for a running mate very soon. It’s been widely speculated that Biden will choose a woman (mostly because he’s said as much repeatedly) and plenty of people have suggested that the woman be Black. In fact, a lot of people are putting their money on California Sen. Kamala Harris since Biden was recently photographed holding notes with talking points that suggested Harris may be at the top of his list of potential running mates.
Unless Presgraves has been living under a rock that also lives under a rock, it’s a safe bet that he’s aware of all of this. That didn’t stop him from lying his racist white ass off about what he meant by his post after a Luray city council member called for him to step down.
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“This was about a prominent woman who made pancake batter and the company was forced to take it off, which was wrong,” Presgraves told Page Valley News. “This was no more racist than the names I’ve been called.”
Presgraves continued by invoking a common wypipo proverb: “I don’t have a racist bone in my body.”
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Side note: I think I’ve finally figured it out. *puts on Hotep hat*
You see...love for chicken is a Black stereotype. The Devil most certainly invented boneless chicken wings. White people are often called devils. Therefore, white people invented boneless chicken wings to ensure that other white people don’t unknowingly put racist bones in their bodies. I’m just going to sit here and wait on my Pulitzer.
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Anyway, white people like Presgraves can deny the racist connotation all they want, but I know a few Black people who have been called Aunt Jemima or Buckwheat by white people who would also swear to Lily-White Jesus that they too lack the particular bone required to do the racisms.
I’d have far more respect for people like Presgraves—who told Page Valley News, “Hell no, I’m not resigning”—if they would just stand by their bigotry.
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At least when Black people call white people whatever “racist” names Presgtaves says he’s been called, we hold tight to our own proverb:
“I said what the fuck I said.”


theroot--2020-08-05--Pennsylvania Teenager Told to Remove Black Lives Matter Mask at His High School Graduation

The family of a teenage boy in York , Pa. , is upset after he was told to remove his Black Lives Matter face mask before walking at his high school graduation .
“ I don ’ t know what to do right now .
I ’ m so mad .
I can ’ t believe they just did that to me and they put my health at risk , “ 18-year-old Dean Holmes told WGAL .
Holmes said that shortly before he was set to walk down the aisle of St. Joseph Church in York to receive his diploma @ @ @ @ @ @ @ stopped him and told him he had to remove his mask because it said “ Black Lives Matter.
” “ The school tried to say that no one can wear masks , but other students clearly did , ” Holmes told WGAL .
Holmes ’ father , John , was understandably upset about the decision and felt the school put his son at risk for no reason .
“ If something happens to him , what are they gon na say , ‘ Our bad ?
’ No , not your bad .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ the news outlet .
The school decided to use face shields in lieu of masks and sent a letter to parents informing them of the decision .
The school said the other two students wearing masks at the ceremony asked for permission in advance but the letter made no mention of permission being a requirement .
The school has since issued a response about the incident on its website .
Each graduate was given a face shield to be worn in lieu of a face mask .
Graduates gathered outside the church prior @ @ @ @ @ @ @ in , asked several questions regarding exposure to COVID-19 , and temperature checked .
Two other graduates chose to wear a solid face mask with no writing in addition to the actual shield and sought permission in advance to do so .
The graduate mentioned in the statement by the parent did not seek permission to wear a face mask in addition to the face shield , nor was the face mask worn at all during the 45 minutes prior to the processional portion of the ceremony .
It was not until the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ church , that the face mask with writing was put on .
York Catholic administration directed the face mask to be removed privately , away from the other graduates and guests .
Holmes disputes the claim he wasn ’ t wearing his mask until the ceremony , saying he was wearing the mask as soon as he arrived at St. Jo ’ s and while he hung out with his friends outside the church before the ceremony .
In the statement , the school said that it was tradition for all caps and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ that the problem wasn ’ t the message itself .
You know , I think being in the midst of a public health crisis might just outweigh some outdated rules on messaging , but maybe that ’ s just me .
Also , how do you not know that asking someone to remove a Black Lives Matter mask is simply a bad look at this point ?
Holmes has said that his goal with speaking out on the situation is , “ to make anyone feel comfortable and safe in their school , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
That ’ s what I want from all this .
”

The family of a teenage boy in York, Pa., is upset after he was told to remove his Black Lives Matter face mask before walking at his high school graduation.
“I don’t know what to do right now. I’m so mad. I can’t believe they just did that to me and they put my health at risk, “ 18-year-old Dean Holmes told WGAL. Holmes said that shortly before he was set to walk down the aisle of St. Joseph Church in York to receive his diploma, officials at York Catholic High School stopped him and told him he had to remove his mask because it said “Black Lives Matter.”
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“The school tried to say that no one can wear masks, but other students clearly did,” Holmes told WGAL. Holmes’ father, John, was understandably upset about the decision and felt the school put his son at risk for no reason. “If something happens to him, what are they gonna say, ‘Our bad?’ No, not your bad. You were wrong,” John told the news outlet.
The school decided to use face shields in lieu of masks and sent a letter to parents informing them of the decision. The school said the other two students wearing masks at the ceremony asked for permission in advance but the letter made no mention of permission being a requirement. The school has since issued a response about the incident on its website.
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From York Catholic High School:
Each graduate was given a face shield to be worn in lieu of a face mask. Graduates gathered outside the church prior to processing inside. They were checked in, asked several questions regarding exposure to COVID-19, and temperature checked. Two other graduates chose to wear a solid face mask with no writing in addition to the actual shield and sought permission in advance to do so. The graduate mentioned in the statement by the parent did not seek permission to wear a face mask in addition to the face shield, nor was the face mask worn at all during the 45 minutes prior to the processional portion of the ceremony. It was not until the last minute, right before entering the church, that the face mask with writing was put on. York Catholic administration directed the face mask to be removed privately, away from the other graduates and guests.
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Holmes disputes the claim he wasn’t wearing his mask until the ceremony, saying he was wearing the mask as soon as he arrived at St. Jo’s and while he hung out with his friends outside the church before the ceremony. In the statement, the school said that it was tradition for all caps and gowns to not have any messaging and that the problem wasn’t the message itself.
You know, I think being in the midst of a public health crisis might just outweigh some outdated rules on messaging, but maybe that’s just me. Also, how do you not know that asking someone to remove a Black Lives Matter mask is simply a bad look at this point?
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Holmes has said that his goal with speaking out on the situation is, “to make anyone feel comfortable and safe in their school, in their communities, in their environments. That’s what I want from all this.”


theroot--2020-08-05--Update Your Closet From Home With These Nordstrom Sales

The best Nordstrom and Nordstrom Rack sales for August 2020 are here .
Nordstrom keeps pumping out the sizzling online sales , with literally thousands of items discounted right now across the two storefronts .
Whether it ’ s apparel , accessories , furniture , or home goods you ’ re after , Nordstrom surely has something that ’ ll appeal to your mind , heart , and/or wallet .
We ’ ve picked out many of our favorite current Nordstrom deals below , and with both free shipping and returns , you can take a risk-free chance on something @ @ @ @ @ @ @ 86 % off this black Calvin Klein hooded double-breasted trench coat from Nordstrom Rack right now .
It has a mock neck with the attached hood and a pair of slash pockets , and while the other color options don ’ t deliver quite the same level of savings , the black version is amazingly just $ 30 in all sizes as of this writing .
Snag one more perfect late summer dress at Nordstrom Rack today , as this smocked bodice floral midi dress from Angie is 70 % off right now @ @ @ @ @ @ @ frock has adjustable spaghetti straps and ought to look great whether you ’ re running through a field of flowers… or just , like , walking the dog around the block .
Relive the thrill of sweaty warehouse parties while socially distancing thanks to this fun MAC Cosmetics Raver Girl palette , which has colors like “ Happydaze ” and “ 120 BPM.
” It ’ s also super cheap right now , marked down 80 % from the list price at Rack .
Get super-fancy shades at a much-less-expensive price right now @ @ @ @ @ @ @ one style still available for these 50mm Saint Laurent sunglasses : black with studs ( as seen ) .
They ’ re usually $ 930 , but right now they ’ re 60 % off .
This bright and colorful short trench jacket is perfect for the approaching autumn .
Made from stretch cotton twill , it has an array of variously-sized stripes with an eye-catching color palette .
This Halogen x Atlantic-Pacific highlight is currently 40 % off the list price .
The bold trend continues with this flowery shirtdress , which @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Blair Eadie ’ s Instagram feed .
With a smocked waist and chest pockets , this vibrant look will turn heads .
It ’ s down $ 40 from the normal price .
Save 50 % off the list price of Treasure & Bond ’ s Delaney leather crossbody bag right now at Nordstrom , which is still available in black as of this writing .
Treasure & Bond ’ s bag has a drawstring-cinched pocket alongside the zipper top , plus Nordstrom donates 2.5 % of net brand sales to “ organizations @ @ @ @ @ @ @ save , they benefit .
Catch some eyes without showing off skin thanks to BLEU by Rod Beattie ’ s stylish cover-up caftan , which is easy to slip on and off over your swimsuit .
The kaleidoscopic print on this sheer v-neck covering provides a dynamic look , and right now you can save 40 % via Nordstrom .
Nordstrom Rack has a few different styles of this cool , vintage-looking Nike women ’ s hoodie .
It ’ s a loose-fit 60/40 cotton/polyester blend available in black/sail ( above ) , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ grey .
Each is available for 25 % off right now .
Grab a clean pair of kicks from Nordstrom Rack right now with these Nike Court Vision women ’ s low tops .
They ’ re white with reflective iridescent swoosh logos and tags , and they ’ re 25 % right now with a bunch of sizes currently available .
These straight-leg Levi ’ s 501 jeans are straight out of the ‘ 90s—or at least the style is .
They ’ re newly-made , of course , but you can @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
Nordstrom has them for 50 % off the normal price with a good array of sizes still in stock as of this writing .
Mom jeans have incredibly become stylish ( your perspective may vary ) , and now mom jean shorts are the next logical step .
Available in light blue , these Topshop mom shorts are $ 14 off .

Molly Horan and Andrew Hayward on Roundups, shared by Gabe Carey to The Root

Featured Deal: Coach Marlow Leather Crossbody Bag | $195
The best Nordstrom sales of September 2021 are here.
G et price matching on select styles from top brands, including AllSaints, Theory, Paige, and Rag & Bone with an ultimate discount of up to 25% off.
To expedite your online shopping process, Kinja Deals has compiled a list of its favorite products for both men and women.
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Looking for a new blouse to go back to the office in? Try this flowy Nordstrom V-Neck Tank Top. It’s a versatile tank that comes in a variety of colors. Note that the dipped neckline is cut in the front and the back.
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The Kut From the Kloth Donna High Waist Ankle Skinny Jeans is a sleek skinny jeean that can be dressed up or down depending on where you’re going. With a five-pocket style, this product also comes with a zip fly button closure . It’s made from cotton, recycled polyester, as well as rayon and spandex.
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Get the perfect jacket for summer nights by cashing in on the BlankNYC Faux Leather Jacket with Removable Hood. This counterculture chic product can block out chilly weather while also looking fashionable. And as a bonus, you can feel good that an animal wasn’t hard to make this cute fashion item.
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There’s a reason why Ray-Ban’s Wayfarer style is a classic! Not only are they effortlessly cool, but they go with a wide range of styles. The crystal lenses offer 100% UV protection and can be dressed up or down, suiting wherever you’re going.
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Make sure the guy in your life is looking slick with the Ted Baker London Tortila Slim Fit Tipped Pocket Polo. Made of modal and cotton, this polo is super soft but isn’t so delicate that it can’t be machine washed! Its short-sleeve style makes it a great option for the summer. Note that this shirt is considered an extra slim fit.
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Ready to hit the town for the last days of warm weather? Try this BP. Babydoll Crinkle Camisole. This product is made from a great textured knit and is available in a rust orange color. It has adjustable straps and is nine inches in length from the center front .
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Tired of denim? Switch it up with the Peter Millar Ultimate Sateen Five-Pocket Pants. It’s made from a blend of cotton and modal, so it could be a great summer alternative to jeans. This pair has a classic cut and is comfortable for sitting for extended periods of time.
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Who doesn’t love a chino? With a clean and versatile cut, the Treasure & Bond Ballard Slim Fit Chino Pants are easy to love. They’re tapered below the knee to give you a great silhouette. Plus, when you shop from Treasure & Bond, Nordstrom will donate 2.5% of its net sales to organizations that empower youth experiencing homelessness.
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T his Rag & Bone Retro Runner Sneaker features a vintage style that has a serrated tread for a refined look. Feel good knowing that the upper is made from 100% post consumer plastic bottles, so you can reduce your carbon footprint . The removable EVA footbed is cushioned and has arch support.
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I don’t know about you, but I am seriously feeling Coach’s handbag game! Like the Marlow Leather Crossbody Bag. Available in yellow and black, this purse will add the perfect dash of style to your going-out look. It has dual interior compartments, one zip pocket, and eight card slots. And this purse is made from calf leather, so it will always feel super soft.
This story was originally published by Molly Horan on 04/01/2020 and updated with new information by Juliana Clark on 09/01/2021.


theroot--2020-08-05--Husband of Los Angeles County District Attorney Faces Gun Charges for Pointing Gun at Black Lives Ma

Husband of Los Angeles County District Attorney Faces Gun Charges for Pointing Gun at Black Lives Matter Protesters

In March , a group of Black Lives Matter activists knocked on the door of L.A. County District Attorney Jackie Lacey ’ s home to invite her to a community meeting .
Her husband , David Lacey , is now facing gun charges for pulling a pistol out on the activists .
NBC News reports that David Lacey has been charged with three counts of assault with a firearm by the California Attorney General ’ s office .
On March 2 , the protesters knocked on the Laceys front door a little after 5:30 a.m. David Lacey answered the door @ @ @ @ @ @ @ protesters , “ I ’ ll shoot you .
I don ’ t care who you are.
” Melina Abdullah , a professor of Pan-African studies at California State University , Los Angeles and co-founder of Black Lives Matter-LA , tweeted a video of the exchange .
Abdullah told NBC News that the experience was “ traumatizing , ” and she wondered to herself if “ that ’ s how I ’ m going to go.
” She was surprised that the Attorney General ’ s Office had filed charges against David Lacey @ @ @ @ @ @ @ outrageous and so egregious .
Even though we call for justice , we don ’ t expect justice .
We have very little faith in the system , ” Abdullah told NBC .
Jackie Lacey released a statement saying the experience “ caused my family immense pain.
” “ My husband acted in fear for my safety after we were subjected to months of harassment that included a death threat no less than a week earlier .
My husband felt that we were in danger and acted out of genuine concern for our @ @ @ @ @ @ @ “ At this time we are not going to comment on the facts of the case , except to say that my client ’ s human instinct is forever and always to protect his wife and his family and to keep them safe from physical harm , ” Sam Tyre , Lacey ’ s attorney , wrote in a statement emailed to NBC .
Lacey is the county ’ s first Black woman to become district attorney .
Activists have been critical of her friendliness to law enforcement and her record of not @ @ @ @ @ @ @ been involved in shooting deaths .
Protests were held outside her home in March to demand her resignation .
She is facing re-election this year and failed to gather enough votes to avoid a runoff in November .
Her challenger , former San Francisco District Attorney George Gascón , was a Los Angeles police commander who was instrumental in reforming the department in the wake of the Rampart scandal of the late ’ 90s .

In March, a group of Black Lives Matter activists knocked on the door of L.A. County District Attorney Jackie Lacey’s home to invite her to a community meeting. Her husband, David Lacey, is now facing gun charges for pulling a pistol out on the activists.
NBC News reports that David Lacey has been charged with three counts of assault with a firearm by the California Attorney General’s office. On March 2, the protesters knocked on the Laceys front door a little after 5:30 a.m. David Lacey answered the door with his gun drawn and told the protesters, “I’ll shoot you. I don’t care who you are.” Melina Abdullah, a professor of Pan-African studies at California State University, Los Angeles and co-founder of Black Lives Matter-LA, tweeted a video of the exchange.
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Abdullah told NBC News that the experience was “traumatizing,” and she wondered to herself if “that’s how I’m going to go.” She was surprised that the Attorney General’s Office had filed charges against David Lacey. “What happened was just so outrageous and so egregious. Even though we call for justice, we don’t expect justice. We have very little faith in the system,” Abdullah told NBC. Jackie Lacey released a statement saying the experience “caused my family immense pain.”
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“My husband acted in fear for my safety after we were subjected to months of harassment that included a death threat no less than a week earlier. My husband felt that we were in danger and acted out of genuine concern for our well being,” Lacey added.
“At this time we are not going to comment on the facts of the case, except to say that my client’s human instinct is forever and always to protect his wife and his family and to keep them safe from physical harm,” Sam Tyre, Lacey’s attorney, wrote in a statement emailed to NBC.
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Lacey is the county’s first Black woman to become district attorney. Activists have been critical of her friendliness to law enforcement and her record of not filing charges against any officers who have been involved in shooting deaths. Protests were held outside her home in March to demand her resignation.
She is facing re-election this year and failed to gather enough votes to avoid a runoff in November. Her challenger, former San Francisco District Attorney George Gascón, was a Los Angeles police commander who was instrumental in reforming the department in the wake of the Rampart scandal of the late ’ 90s.


theroot--2020-08-05--Black to the Future: GirlTrek's 2nd #BlackHistoryBootCamp Is on the Move—and You Should Be, Too!

It ’ s difficult to understand where you ’ re going—or how far you ’ ve come—without reflecting on the past .
That ’ s why GirlTrek , the largest health movement for Black women and girls in America with 820,000 members and counting , is once again treating us to another season of its highly inspiring # BlackHistoryBootCamp !
The second installment of its 21-day walking challenge launched on Monday and will continue through August .
Titled “ The Acts of Resistance edition ” the challenge celebrates “ powerful acts of resistance in Black culture , ” reads a @ @ @ @ @ @ @ we ’ re already admittedly a few days behind , it ’ s never too late to get current on history relevant to our experience in America .
Thanks to the # BlackHistoryBootCamp podcast , we can tune in anytime !
If you ’ re not yet familiar with GirlTrek , the nonprofit ’ s mission is to “ [ encourage ] Black women to use radical self-care and walking as the first practical step to leading healthier , more fulfilled lives .
GirlTrek is on a mission to inspire one million Black @ @ @ @ @ @ @ their healthiest , most fulfilled lives by the end of 2020.
” For more details on # BlackHistoryBootCamp : Like season one of # BlackHistoryBootCamp , which focused on Black women of historic significance such as Ida B .
Wells and Ella Baker , GirlTrek cofounders T. Morgan Dixon and Vanessa Garrison will convene a daily discussion at noon EST ( except on Saturdays and Sundays ) where thousands will dial in to listen and walk in virtual solidarity .
The accompanying # BlackHistoryBootCamp podcast will be available on Apple Podcasts , Spotify @ @ @ @ @ @ @ History Bootcamp is designed for Black women .
It ’ s for us , by us , ” said Dixon .
“ We ’ d also like to extend a special pass to our allies—those who are down with GirlTrek ’ s life-saving mission .
Bootcamp is a perfect opportunity to learn and connect without taking up space.
” We sadly missed # BlackHistoryBootCamp ’ s debut in June of this year , but the first season reportedly garnered the participation of more than 100,000 Black women and allies , and over 300,000 @ @ @ @ @ @ @ : GirlTrek ’ s ultimate goal is to be one million strong and rising—and it ’ s not too late to join its free challenge ( ask me how I know ) —but you have to register to participate .
So , stand up and be counted , y ’ all !
“ Black history is everyone ’ s history , ” Dixon said .
“ We ’ re excited to see you in the streets because the personal is political and daily walks are a radical form of protest.
” To join @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , it all starts with taking the pledge ; to do so , visit GirlTrek.org .
Join the discussion !
The Root is hosting its first-ever , virtual Root Institute , presented by Target , featuring several of the leading minds in our community talking about politics , culture , health , community building and social impact .
Subscribe for updates today !

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

It’s difficult to understand where you’re going—or how far you’ve come—without reflecting on the past. That’s why GirlTrek, the largest health movement for Black women and girls in America with 820,000 members and counting, is once again treating us to another season of its highly inspiring #BlackHistoryBootCamp! The second installment of its 21-day walking challenge launched on Monday and will continue through August.
Titled “The Acts of Resistance edition” the challenge celebrates “powerful acts of resistance in Black culture,” reads a statement released to The Root. And we’re already admittedly a few days behind, it’s never too late to get current on history relevant to our experience in America. Thanks to the #BlackHistoryBootCamp podcast, we can tune in anytime!
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If you’re not yet familiar with GirlTrek, the nonprofit’s mission is to “[encourage] Black women to use radical self-care and walking as the first practical step to leading healthier, more fulfilled lives. GirlTrek is on a mission to inspire one million Black women to walk in the direction of their healthiest, most fulfilled lives by the end of 2020.” For more details on #BlackHistoryBootCamp:
Like season one of #BlackHistoryBootCamp, which focused on Black women of historic significance such as Ida B. Wells and Ella Baker, GirlTrek cofounders T. Morgan Dixon and Vanessa Garrison will convene a daily discussion at noon EST (except on Saturdays and Sundays) where thousands will dial in to listen and walk in virtual solidarity. The accompanying #BlackHistoryBootCamp podcast will be available on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, and Buzzsprout platforms.
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“Black History Bootcamp is designed for Black women. It’s for us, by us,” said Dixon. “We’d also like to extend a special pass to our allies—those who are down with GirlTrek’s life-saving mission. Bootcamp is a perfect opportunity to learn and connect without taking up space.”
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We sadly missed #BlackHistoryBootCamp’s debut in June of this year, but the first season reportedly garnered the participation of more than 100,000 Black women and allies, and over 300,000 podcast downloads and counting. But remember: GirlTrek’s ultimate goal is to be one million strong and rising—and it’s not too late to join its free challenge (ask me how I know)—but you have to register to participate. So, stand up and be counted, y’all!
“Black history is everyone’s history,” Dixon said. “We’re excited to see you in the streets because the personal is political and daily walks are a radical form of protest.”
Advertisement
To join GirlTrek’s journey toward radical self-love, it all starts with taking the pledge; to do so, visit GirlTrek.org.
Join the discussion! The Root is hosting its first-ever, virtual Root Institute, presented by Target, featuring several of the leading minds in our community talking about politics, culture, health, community building and social impact. Subscribe for updates today!


theroot--2020-08-05--Reporter to Biden: ‘Have You Taken a Cognitive Test?’ Biden to Reporter: ‘Are You a Junkie?’

In the perpetual and cumulative colostomy bag that is 2020 , the “ I can ’ t make this shit up ” cornucopia of crazy just runneth over .
We basically have a presidential race between an overtly racist egg dyed with way too much orange food coloring , and a subtle racist-y egg .
Both eggs are about as sharp as a wooden nickel and both say some really crazy shit .
Joe Biden ( can you guess which egg he is ? )
was asked by a reporter whether he ’ d taken a cognitive test like the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ aced , and the presumptive Democratic nominee ’ s response was to ask the reporter if they are a “ junkie.
” Speaking during the virtual convention of the National Association of Black Journalists and the National Association of Hispanic Journalists , Biden was asked by CBS correspondent Errol Barnett if he ’ d taken a test measuring his mental acuity .
Biden responded : “ No , I haven ’ t taken a test .
Why the hell would I take a test ?
Come on , man , ” Politico reports @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to you , before you got on this program if you had taken a test were you taking cocaine or not .
What do you think , huh ?
Are you a junkie ?
” Barnett was not off- base asking this question , as Biden ’ s mental sharpness has been in question lately , too .
Seriously look at this : It was Biden that gave us such hits as , “ You can not go to a 7-Eleven or a Dunkin ’ Donuts unless you have a slight Indian accent.
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ right to raise their hand to a woman in anger ... we have to change the culture .
So we just have to keep punching at it and punching at it and punching at it.
” And my favorite , “ I was a Democratic caucus .
You ever been to a caucus ?
No , you haven ’ t .
You ’ re a lying dog-faced pony soldier.
” Confused ?
Good , so am I .
A clip from the interview was released Wednesday and a Biden campaign official claims that @ @ @ @ @ @ @ dust-up .
“ It was a preposterous question deserving of a response that showed the absurdity of it all , ” the official told Politico .
I guess Biden is unaware that his mental acuity is being targeted by Trump ’ s reelection campaign , although he shouldn ’ t be , considering he ’ s been asked this question before .
Politico notes that the former vice president was asked in late June if he ’ d taken a cognitive test to which he dodged and then answered how he was “ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the campaign trail .
“ I can hardly wait to compare my cognitive capability to the cognitive capability of the man I ’ m running against , ” Biden said at the time .
When Biden wasn ’ t asking Gator to do his dance , he was going after Trump ’ s mental capacity .
“ Well , if he can ’ t figure out the difference between an elephant and a lion , I don ’ t know what the hell he ’ s talking about , ” Biden said , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ cognitive test during an interview with Chris Wallace of Fox News .
If elected , Biden , 77 , would be the oldest person to be president .
Want to know who is the current oldest president ?
It ’ s Trump .
Join the discussion !
The Root is hosting its first-ever , virtual Root Institute , presented by Target , featuring several of the leading minds in our community talking about politics , culture , health , community building and social impact .
Subscribe for updates today !

In the perpetual and cumulative colostomy bag that is 2020, the “I can’t make this shit up” cornucopia of crazy just runneth over.
We basically have a presidential race between an overtly racist egg dyed with way too much orange food coloring, and a subtle racist-y egg. Both eggs are about as sharp as a wooden nickel and both say some really crazy shit.
Advertisement
Joe Biden (can you guess which egg he is?) was asked by a reporter whether he’d taken a cognitive test like the one President Trump keeps bragging that he aced, and the presumptive Democratic nominee’s response was to ask the reporter if they are a “junkie.”
Speaking during the virtual convention of the National Association of Black Journalists and the National Association of Hispanic Journalists, Biden was asked by CBS correspondent Errol Barnett if he’d taken a test measuring his mental acuity.
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Biden responded: “No, I haven’t taken a test. Why the hell would I take a test? Come on, man,” Politico reports. “That’s like saying to you, before you got on this program if you had taken a test were you taking cocaine or not. What do you think, huh? Are you a junkie?”
Wait? Huh? WTF is happening here?
Barnett was not off- base asking this question, as Biden’s mental sharpness has been in question lately, too.
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Seriously look at this:
It was Biden that gave us such hits as, “You cannot go to a 7-Eleven or a Dunkin’ Donuts unless you have a slight Indian accent.” and “No man has the right to raise their hand to a woman in anger...we have to change the culture. So we just have to keep punching at it and punching at it and punching at it.” And my favorite, “I was a Democratic caucus. You ever been to a caucus? No, you haven’t. You’re a lying dog-faced pony soldier.”
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Confused? Good, so am I.
A clip from the interview was released Wednesday and a Biden campaign official claims that it is all just a big cocaine dust-up .
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“It was a preposterous question deserving of a response that showed the absurdity of it all,” the official told Politico.
I guess Biden is unaware that his mental acuity is being targeted by Trump’s reelection campaign, although he shouldn’t be, considering he’s been asked this question before.
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Politico notes that the former vice president was asked in late June if he’d taken a cognitive test to which he dodged and then answered how he was “constantly tested” by the demands of the campaign trail.
“I can hardly wait to compare my cognitive capability to the cognitive capability of the man I’m running against,” Biden said at the time.
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When Biden wasn’t asking the reporter Gator to do his dance, he was going after Trump’s mental capacity.
“Well, if he can’t figure out the difference between an elephant and a lion, I don’t know what the hell he’s talking about,” Biden said, referencing questions on Trump’s reported cognitive test during an interview with Chris Wallace of Fox News.
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If elected, Biden, 77, would be the oldest person to be president. Want to know who is the current oldest president? It’s Trump.
Yep. We are fucked.
Join the discussion! The Root is hosting its first-ever, virtual Root Institute, presented by Target, featuring several of the leading minds in our community talking about politics, culture, health, community building and social impact. Subscribe for updates today!