theroot--2020-06-10--White Men in New Jersey Mock Peaceful Protestors by Reenacting George Floyd’s Death

A group of angry , loud and wrong white people must have thought it was Angry , Loud and Wrong White People Day when they decided to stage a disgustingly insensitive counterprotest during a peaceful march against police brutality and systemic racism over the death of George Floyd .
While standing next to a pro-Trump banner , a “ Blue Lives Matter ” flag and an “ All Lives Matter ” sign , these men—who probably long for the day when displays of blatant racism were regarded as just another Monday and didn ’ t yield consequences for one ’ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ death by having one white man in the group place his knee on the back of another white man ’ s neck while expressing their contempt for Black Lives Matter protests .
As a result , one of those men was fired from his job and another has been suspended .
The Washington Post reports that as demonstrators marched through Franklin Township , N.J. , they were met by a group of racists who either forgot that people with cameras are everywhere or simply have no idea how to read the room to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ police violence isn ’ t as socially acceptable—even among conservatives—as it may have been not too long ago .
The men were recorded putting on their abhorrent display while shouting “ Black lives matter to no one , ” “ Police lives matter ” and other wypipo proverbs .
The footage was posted to social media on Monday—the day before Floyd ’ s funeral and burial .
“ This is what happens when you don ’ t comply with the cops !
” the man who was kneeling on the other man ’ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ “ Comply with the cops and this wouldn ’ t have happened !
He didn ’ t comply !
It ’ s his fault he ’ s dead , not the cop !
” For the record : According to the criminal complaint filed against the officers who are charged in Floyd ’ s death , Floyd did comply with police orders—but , hey , nobody ever accused racist Trump supporters of being informed .
( Also , Breonna Taylor was shot while in bed , so… ) Anyway , let ’ s @ @ @ @ @ @ @ face consequences ... Two of the men were identified by their employers once the video was posted on Monday and , on Tuesday , one of them was fired and the other suspended .
One of the men is a senior corrections officer at Bayside State Prison in Leesburg , according to the Post , and the New Jersey Department of Corrections announced his suspension via Facebook and Twitter writing , “ We have been made aware one of our officers participated in the filming of a hateful and disappointing video that mocked @ @ @ @ @ @ @ individual has been suspended from their post and banned from NJDOC facilities pending a thorough and expedited investigation.
” The other man was identified as an employee of FedEx .
Unfortunately for him ( and to the delight of the rest of us ) , FedEx didn ’ t bother with a suspension or investigation and fired him outright .
“ FedEx holds its team members to a high standard of personal conduct , and we do not tolerate the kind of appalling and offensive behavior depicted in this video , ” the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ is no longer employed by FedEx .
We stand with those who support justice and equality.
” Neither organization identified their employees , but some observers believe that the former FedEx worker is the man who was doing the kneeling .
The lesson here for bigots everywhere is that public displays of racism will not be tolerated .
We demand you keep that shit to yourselves , and if you lose your job because you just couldn ’ t help yourself , well , “ this is what happens when you don ’ @ @ @ @

A group of angry, loud and wrong white people must have thought it was Angry, Loud and Wrong White People Day when they decided to stage a disgustingly insensitive counterprotest during a peaceful march against police brutality and systemic racism over the death of George Floyd.
While standing next to a pro-Trump banner, a “Blue Lives Matter” flag and an “All Lives Matter” sign, these men—who probably long for the day when displays of blatant racism were regarded as just another Monday and didn’t yield consequences for one’s actions—decided to reenact Floyd’s death by having one white man in the group place his knee on the back of another white man’s neck while expressing their contempt for Black Lives Matter protests. As a result, one of those men was fired from his job and another has been suspended.
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The Washington Post reports that as demonstrators marched through Franklin Township, N.J., they were met by a group of racists who either forgot that people with cameras are everywhere or simply have no idea how to read the room to figure out that mocking a victim of police violence isn’t as socially acceptable—even among conservatives—as it may have been not too long ago.
The men were recorded putting on their abhorrent display while shouting “Black lives matter to no one,” “Police lives matter” and other wypipo proverbs. The footage was posted to social media on Monday—the day before Floyd’s funeral and burial.
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“This is what happens when you don’t comply with the cops!” the man who was kneeling on the other man’s neck can be heard shouting. “Comply with the cops and this wouldn’t have happened! He didn’t comply! It’s his fault he’s dead, not the cop!”
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For the record: According to the criminal complaint filed against the officers who are charged in Floyd’s death, Floyd did comply with police orders—but, hey, nobody ever accused racist Trump supporters of being informed. (Also, Breonna Taylor was shot while in bed, so…)
Anyway, let’s get to the good part where racists face consequences...
Two of the men were identified by their employers once the video was posted on Monday and, on Tuesday, one of them was fired and the other suspended.
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One of the men is a senior corrections officer at Bayside State Prison in Leesburg, according to the Post, and the New Jersey Department of Corrections announced his suspension via Facebook and Twitter writing, “We have been made aware one of our officers participated in the filming of a hateful and disappointing video that mocked the killing of George Floyd. The individual has been suspended from their post and banned from NJDOC facilities pending a thorough and expedited investigation.”
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The other man was identified as an employee of FedEx. Unfortunately for him (and to the delight of the rest of us), FedEx didn’t bother with a suspension or investigation and fired him outright.
“FedEx holds its team members to a high standard of personal conduct, and we do not tolerate the kind of appalling and offensive behavior depicted in this video,” the company tweeted. “The individual involved is no longer employed by FedEx. We stand with those who support justice and equality.”
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Neither organization identified their employees, but some observers believe that the former FedEx worker is the man who was doing the kneeling.
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The lesson here for bigots everywhere is that public displays of racism will not be tolerated. We demand you keep that shit to yourselves, and if you lose your job because you just couldn’t help yourself, well, “this is what happens when you don’t comply.”


theroot--2020-06-10--What 'Defund' in 'Defund the Police' Actually Means, Explained

Forget 2020 .
I mean just from Sunday to Wednesday .
You ’ re right .
Each week has been a year .
Each month a decade .
The Popeyes chicken sandwich craze feels like it happened when I was 4 years old .
So one recurring theme of the uprising is a complete reevaluation of American law enforcement .
And “ defund the police ” has become the synopsizing and galvanizing demand .
Can you explain what that means ?
So “ defund ” really means “ reappropriate , ” right ?
You ’ re not even trying now @ @ @ @ @ @ @ hear yourself talk .
Or maybe you downloaded a thesaurus app .
What did you have for breakfast this morning ?
I had bacon and eggs and gluten-free toast from this black-owned bakery in Pittsburgh .
Gluten-free stuff usually tastes like the memory of something someone else ate , but this is actually pretty good .
I can save you some if you want , but let me know soon before I eat it all .
So , no ?
Okay , fine .
More for me .
Did you watch I May @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Insecure , and I ’ ve never seen anything like it .
I never got around to watching Chewing Gum , but Michaela Coel is so gifted .
My God .
I think I have to watch that now , too .
But yeah , if you ’ re looking for something new to watch , check that out .
I bought some jump ropes the other day .
I forgot how effective a workout that can be .
I ’ ve been doing 10 sets of 100 jumps .
Once in the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
I even filmed myself doing a set last week .
I have no idea why .
But if you want to see it , I can send it .
I have to warn you , though : It ’ s literally just a minute of me jumping rope , and you can only see me from the chest up .
Of all the senseless videos I have in my phone , this is the senselessest .
“ Senselessest ” is a really fun word to say .
It feels like my mouth @ @ @ @ @ @ @ what ’ s the least fun word to say ?
“ Moist.
” I also don ’ t like saying “ charcuterie , ” because it feels like a fake word .
Like it was invented by T.I .
I ’ d pay $ 7 to listen to T.I .
read an audiobook about charcuterie .
Maybe even $ 9 Actually wait ... can you go back a bit ?
No !
Before that .
So the “ defund ” in “ Defund the Police ” just means “ Defund ” ?
Yes @ @ @ @ @ @ @ ’ t you just tell me earlier ?

Damon Young on Very Smart Brothas, shared by Damon Young to The Root

What a year, huh?
Yeah, 2020 has been a monster.
Forget 2020. I mean just from Sunday to Wednesday.
You’re right. Each week has been a year. Each month a decade. The Popeyes chicken sandwich craze feels like it happened when I was 4 years old.
So one recurring theme of the uprising is a complete reevaluation of American law enforcement. And “defund the police” has become the synopsizing and galvanizing demand. Can you explain what that means?
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Sure!
So “defund” really means “reappropriate,” right?
Um, no.
Reassess?
Nah.
Reform?
Nope.
Reevaluate?
Negative.
I got it. Reconfigure?
You don’t.
Revise?
Nay.
Remodel.
Naught.
Revolutionize?
Not.
Reconstitute?
.............
Redeem?
You’re not even trying now.
Revamp?
I think you just like to hear yourself talk.
Refashion?
Or maybe you downloaded a thesaurus app.
Ameliorate?
What did you have for breakfast this morning?
Rehabilitate?
I had bacon and eggs and gluten-free toast from this black-owned bakery in Pittsburgh. Gluten-free stuff usually tastes like the memory of something someone else ate, but this is actually pretty good.
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Reintegrate?
I can save you some if you want, but let me know soon before I eat it all.
Renew?
So, no? Okay, fine. More for me.
Reclaim?
Did you watch I May Destroy You yet?
Recover?
It debuted after Insecure, and I’ve never seen anything like it.
Reinstate?
I never got around to watching Chewing Gum, but Michaela Coel is so gifted. My God. I think I have to watch that now, too.
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Reinvest?
But yeah, if you’re looking for something new to watch, check that out.
Readjust?
I bought some jump ropes the other day.
Destabilize?
I forgot how effective a workout that can be.
Diminish?
I’ve been doing 10 sets of 100 jumps. Once in the afternoon, and once in the evening.
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Decrease?
I even filmed myself doing a set last week.
Dwindle?
I have no idea why. But if you want to see it, I can send it.
Depreciate?
I have to warn you, though: It’s literally just a minute of me jumping rope, and you can only see me from the chest up. Of all the senseless videos I have in my phone, this is the senselessest.
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Deflate?
“Senselessest” is a really fun word to say. It feels like my mouth is using a bidet.
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Devalue?
You know what’s the least fun word to say? “Moist.”
Defund?
I also don’t like saying “charcuterie,” because it feels like a fake word.
Exhaust?
Like it was invented by T.I.
Depress?
I’d pay $7 to listen to T.I. read an audiobook about charcuterie. Maybe even $9
Collapse?
Actually wait...can you go back a bit?
Exhaust?
No! Before that.
Defund?
Yes! That’s it!
So the “defund” in “Defund the Police” just means “Defund”?
Yes!
Prevent from continuing to receive funds?
Yes! Yes! Yes!
Why didn’t you just tell me earlier?
I hate you.
Huh?
Defund deez nuts.


theroot--2020-06-10--No More Cop-aganda: Paramount Network Cuts the Cord on Cops, America's Longest-Running Reality TV Sh

No More Cop-aganda: Paramount Network Cuts the Cord on Cops, America's Longest-Running Reality TV Show

This is the kind of “ cancel culture ” you can get behind .
Paramount Network has decided to can Cops , which was scheduled to premiere its 33rd season on Monday , according to The Hollywood Reporter .
“ Cops is not on the Paramount Network and we don ’ t have any current or future plans for it to return , ” a spokesperson for the cable channel told THR .
Paramount Network , part of the ViacomCBS family , pulled the controversial show from its schedule after Black Lives Matter protests bloomed across the country following the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ on May 25 .
It picked up the show ( when the network was known as Spike TV ) in 2013 , before then , Cops had spent 25 seasons glorifying police—and police violence—on Fox .
The show had been wildly popular for many years—becoming the longest-running reality show in TV history—and had a deep and pernicious impact on policing in America .
But as police brutality has come to the forefront of the national consciousness in recent years , public attitudes toward shows like Cops and Live PD—the live version of Cops—have @ @ @ @ @ @ @ concerns around the show became the subject of the investigative podcast Running from the Cops .
Criminal justice reform activists have long called for the cancellation of these shows : In Tulsa , Okla. , concerned citizens called on Tulsa Mayor G.T .
Bynum to cancel the city ’ s contract with Live PD during the search process for its new police chief .
Live PD has been met with re-energized calls for cancellation after recent anti-police brutality protests have drawn new scrutiny of older cases of police violence ; like the case @ @ @ @ @ @ @ in police custody in Austin , Texas , last year .
Ambler ’ s violent arrest—in which he was held down and tased multiple times by police , was filmed on Live PD .
According to THR , A & E pulled last week ’ s episodes of Live PD with a source telling the publication it was “ unlikely ” new episodes would broadcast on Friday and Saturday .
In addition , another cop show , Body Cam , which airs on Discovery ’ s ID channel , has also been put @ @ @ @

Anne Branigin on The Grapevine, shared by Anne Branigin to The Root

This is the kind of “cancel culture” you can get behind.
Paramount Network has decided to can Cops, which was scheduled to premiere its 33rd season on Monday, according to The Hollywood Reporter.
“Cops is not on the Paramount Network and we don’t have any current or future plans for it to return,” a spokesperson for the cable channel told THR.
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Paramount Network, part of the ViacomCBS family, pulled the controversial show from its schedule after Black Lives Matter protests bloomed across the country following the police killing of George Floyd in Minneapolis on May 25. It picked up the show (when the network was known as Spike TV) in 2013, before then, Cops had spent 25 seasons glorifying police—and police violence—on Fox.
The show had been wildly popular for many years—becoming the longest-running reality show in TV history—and had a deep and pernicious impact on policing in America. But as police brutality has come to the forefront of the national consciousness in recent years, public attitudes toward shows like Cops and Live PD—the live version of Cops—have shifted. In 2019, the ethical concerns around the show became the subject of the investigative podcast Running from the Cops. Criminal justice reform activists have long called for the cancellation of these shows: In Tulsa, Okla., concerned citizens called on Tulsa Mayor G.T. Bynum to cancel the city’s contract with Live PD during the search process for its new police chief.
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Live PD has been met with re-energized calls for cancellation after recent anti-police brutality protests have drawn new scrutiny of older cases of police violence; like the case of 40-year-old Javier Ambler, who died in police custody in Austin, Texas, last year. Ambler’s violent arrest—in which he was held down and tased multiple times by police, was filmed on Live PD.
According to THR, A&E pulled last week’s episodes of Live PD with a source telling the publication it was “unlikely” new episodes would broadcast on Friday and Saturday. In addition, another cop show, Body Cam, which airs on Discovery’s ID channel, has also been put on hold indefinitely.


theroot--2020-06-12--Coronavirus Expected to Wipe Out 40 Percent of Black-Owned Businesses

The COVID-19 pandemic has disrupted American life in an unprecedented way .
While a vaccine and antiviral treatment will eventually help mitigate the health effects , the economic cost of the pandemic is shaping up to be severe and long lasting .
CBS News reports that 40 percent of black-owned businesses are not expected to make it through the coronavirus pandemic .
Research from the University of California at Santa Cruz put the number of black-owned businesses at over 1 million at the start of 2020 .
In mid-April , as shutdowns were enacted nationwide , 440,000 black owned businesses @ @ @ @ @ @ @ drop of 41 percent .
Comparatively , only 17 percent of white businesses permanently closed during the same period of time according to UC Santa Cruz .
Making matters worse is that the Paycheck Protection Program launched by the federal government to assist small businesses has provided virtually no assistance to black owned businesses .
The Center for Responsible Lending found that 95 percent of black businesses were denied funds from the program .
Other factors have contributed to the demise of so many black businesses , including the lack of established relationships @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to bank credit greatly diminishes the ability for a business to navigate financial distress .
Additionally , many black businesses are small in scale , providing income mainly to the owner and maybe only a couple of employees .
The profit margins typically aren ’ t huge making it difficult for the owner to save , let alone have enough to navigate a financial crisis .
Not surprisingly , the demise of so many black-owned businesses this year also highlights the legacy of racism in America .
Black owners have historically been denied @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , according to Federal Reserve data .
As a result , many African-Americans with a business avoid banks altogether .
UC Santa Cruz professor Robert Fairlie said many black owners will face considerable obstacles resurrecting their business after the pandemic eases , citing the huge wealth gap between black and white Americans .
Many African-American households lack the financial resources required to rebuild , such as bank savings , access to a home equity line of credit , or the ability to borrow from family and friends , he explained .
Fairlie suggests @ @ @ @ @ @ @ issued by the federal government could be essential to keeping some of these businesses afloat .
“ Emergency loans for these small-scale sole proprietors for paying their rent or internet costs , or whatever their monthly costs , could be really important .
That could allow them to survive because we really don ’ t want to see this major round of business closures coming out of the pandemic.
” Fairlie told CBS MoneyWatch .

The COVID-19 pandemic has disrupted American life in an unprecedented way. While a vaccine and antiviral treatment will eventually help mitigate the health effects, the economic cost of the pandemic is shaping up to be severe and long lasting.
CBS News reports that 40 percent of black-owned businesses are not expected to make it through the coronavirus pandemic. Research from the University of California at Santa Cruz put the number of black-owned businesses at over 1 million at the start of 2020. In mid-April, as shutdowns were enacted nationwide, 440,000 black owned businesses permanently shut down. That is a drop of 41 percent. Comparatively, only 17 percent of white businesses permanently closed during the same period of time according to UC Santa Cruz.
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Making matters worse is that the Paycheck Protection Program launched by the federal government to assist small businesses has provided virtually no assistance to black owned businesses. The Center for Responsible Lending found that 95 percent of black businesses were denied funds from the program.
Other factors have contributed to the demise of so many black businesses, including the lack of established relationships with banks. A lack of access to bank credit greatly diminishes the ability for a business to navigate financial distress. Additionally, many black businesses are small in scale, providing income mainly to the owner and maybe only a couple of employees. The profit margins typically aren’t huge making it difficult for the owner to save, let alone have enough to navigate a financial crisis.
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From CBS News:
Not surprisingly, the demise of so many black-owned businesses this year also highlights the legacy of racism in America. Black owners have historically been denied loans more than any other racial group, according to Federal Reserve data. As a result, many African-Americans with a business avoid banks altogether. UC Santa Cruz professor Robert Fairlie said many black owners will face considerable obstacles resurrecting their business after the pandemic eases, citing the huge wealth gap between black and white Americans. Many African-American households lack the financial resources required to rebuild, such as bank savings, access to a home equity line of credit, or the ability to borrow from family and friends, he explained.
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Fairlie suggests that a new series of emergency loans issued by the federal government could be essential to keeping some of these businesses afloat. “Emergency loans for these small-scale sole proprietors for paying their rent or internet costs, or whatever their monthly costs, could be really important. That could allow them to survive because we really don’t want to see this major round of business closures coming out of the pandemic.” Fairlie told CBS MoneyWatch.


theroot--2020-06-11--So You Want to Learn Tarot? Here's How to Get Started

Reading tarot cards is many things to many people : A spiritual practice , a helpful framework or self-reflection or decision-making , or even just a fun parlor trick .
Whatever reason draws you to tarot , learning can be both rewarding and challenging .
There are as many ways to learn tarot as there are tarot decks—this is just one way to do it .
You can ’ t read tarot without a deck of tarot cards , so your first stop should be to get a deck for yourself .
Now , common tarot lore dictates that you @ @ @ @ @ @ @ but most tarot experts I ’ ve spoken with about this practice say that it ’ s a silly barrier to entry that you don ’ t need to worry about , and I tend to agree .
So !
Go forth and pick out a deck , keeping a few things in mind .
As a novice tarot reader , the best deck to learn on is the Rider Waite—it ’ s the most traditional deck , and the one most books , websites , video tutorials , etc .
that offer @ @ @ @ @ @ @ on .
If you want something a little to the left of traditional , there are lots of decks that offer a twist on traditional Rider Waite images .
A few I like are The Modern Witch Tarot , Morgan-Greer Tarot , Gilded Tarot , Wheel of the Year Tarot , and Witches Tarot .
The tarot consists of 78 cards , organized in two parts , the Major Arcana and the Minor Arcana .
The Minor Arcana is subdivided into four suits of 14 cards , Ace through Kings , very much @ @ @ @ @ @ @ s a lot of card meanings to learn !
There ’ s also this : While standard card interpretations do exist , much of your tarot practice has to do with your own responses to , and feelings about , the cards .
Given that , getting a tarot journal—even if you ’ re not typically a journaler—will be a huge help as you get to know the cards .
In terms of learning the card meanings , using a journal is akin to taking notes in school ; the act of writing @ @ @ @ @ @ @ what you ’ ve just learned will help you commit it to memory .
The other benefit a journal offers is giving you a space to jot down those personal reactions , responses , feelings , etc .
that individual cards evoke for you .
The tarot is both simple and complicated , so you ’ ll need some resources to help you learn .
Books , websites , online classes , video tutorials , in-person courses , or a combination will be essential .
When buying a new deck of tarot cards @ @ @ @ @ @ @ s a corresponding guidebook , which will be the best place to start learning about your specific deck .
If no guidebook specific to your deck exists , these are some good titles to check out : Then , check out some websites—there are tons of websites dedicated to tarot card interpretation , spreads , and other information .
A few that I like are Biddy Tarot , Astrology.com , The Tarot Lady , and Little Red Tarot .
If you ’ re interested in taking courses , I ’ d recommend Jessica @ @ @ @ @ @ @ friend who has struggled to learn tarot recently asked me for help .
The main problem , she explained , was that she would dive in with great enthusiasm and then get so totally overwhelmed that she would give up entirely .
The mistake most people make when trying to learn tarot is trying to jump in at the proverbial deep end by doing a 10-card Celtic Cross spread ; it ’ s a classic tarot card spread but understanding the meaning of the 10 positions in the spread in addition to interpreting @ @ @ @ @ @ @ familiar with is a lot .
Instead , simplify things with these two ways of learning the fundamentals of tarot : First , focus on getting comfortable with card meanings before you dive into doing readings using complicated spreads ; second , use a simple 3-card spread to get comfortable with readings , and then build on that by introducing 4- and 5-card spreads .
So back to my tarot-challenged friend !
I mentioned she asked for help , and I gave her the help , and now I ’ m sharing it @ @ @ @ @ @ @ every morning and spend 5 minutes writing in your tarot journal about it .
Note things like what images you see , what colors you notice , how it makes you feel and what you think it means .
Use a new page for each new card , so you have space to continue making notes on that page as you get to know the card over time .
• Then , look the card up on card interpretation sites or books and read about its meaning .
Make notes in your journal @ @ @ @ @ @ @ in particular , jumps out at you .
• You can ask the daily card a question , like “ What will be the theme of today ?
” or “ What lessons should I be on the lookout for today ?
” or you can just treat the card as a guide to the theme of the day .
Week 1 : Practice using the 3-card Past , Present & Future spread 2-3 evenings this week .
Week 2 : Look up a new 3-card spread and practice using it 2-3 evenings @ @ @ @ @ @ @ using the two 3-card spreads 3-4 evenings this week .
Week 4 : Look up a new 5-card spread and practice using it 2-3 evenings this week .
As you come across cards you haven ’ t gotten to know in your daily practice , start new journal pages for them and make brief notes along the same lines as the ones you make when you pull your daily card .
You don ’ t need to spend as much time on this though !

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

Reading tarot cards is many things to many people: A spiritual practice, a helpful framework or self-reflection or decision-making, or even just a fun parlor trick. Whatever reason draws you to tarot, learning can be both rewarding and challenging. There are as many ways to learn tarot as there are tarot decks—this is just one way to do it.
Get a Deck
You can’t read tarot without a deck of tarot cards, so your first stop should be to get a deck for yourself. Now, common tarot lore dictates that you should be given your first deck, but most tarot experts I’ve spoken with about this practice say that it’s a silly barrier to entry that you don’t need to worry about, and I tend to agree. So! Go forth and pick out a deck, keeping a few things in mind.
As a novice tarot reader, the best deck to learn on is the Rider Waite—it’s the most traditional deck, and the one most books, websites, video tutorials, etc. that offer instruction in the tarot will be based on.
Advertisement
If you want something a little to the left of traditional, there are lots of decks that offer a twist on traditional Rider Waite images. A few I like are The Modern Witch Tarot, Morgan-Greer Tarot, Gilded Tarot, Wheel of the Year Tarot, and Witches Tarot.
Advertisement Advertisement
Advertisement
Get a Journal
Advertisement
The tarot consists of 78 cards, organized in two parts, the Major Arcana and the Minor Arcana. The Minor Arcana is subdivided into four suits of 14 cards, Ace through Kings, very much like standard playing cards. That’s a lot of card meanings to learn! There’s also this: While standard card interpretations do exist, much of your tarot practice has to do with your own responses to, and feelings about, the cards.
Given that, getting a tarot journal—even if you’re not typically a journaler—will be a huge help as you get to know the cards. In terms of learning the card meanings, using a journal is akin to taking notes in school; the act of writing down, in your own words, what you’ve just learned will help you commit it to memory. The other benefit a journal offers is giving you a space to jot down those personal reactions, responses, feelings, etc. that individual cards evoke for you.
Advertisement
Advertisement
Understand the Basics
The tarot is both simple and complicated, so you’ll need some resources to help you learn. Books, websites, online classes, video tutorials, in-person courses, or a combination will be essential.
When buying a new deck of tarot cards, check to see if there’s a corresponding guidebook, which will be the best place to start learning about your specific deck. If no guidebook specific to your deck exists, these are some good titles to check out:
Advertisement
Advertisement
Then, check out some websites—there are tons of websites dedicated to tarot card interpretation, spreads, and other information. A few that I like are Biddy Tarot, Astrology.com, The Tarot Lady, and Little Red Tarot.
If you’re interested in taking courses, I’d recommend Jessica Dore or The Tarot School.
Advertisement
Give Yourself Homework
A friend who has struggled to learn tarot recently asked me for help. The main problem, she explained, was that she would dive in with great enthusiasm and then get so totally overwhelmed that she would give up entirely.
Advertisement
The mistake most people make when trying to learn tarot is trying to jump in at the proverbial deep end by doing a 10-card Celtic Cross spread; it’s a classic tarot card spread but understanding the meaning of the 10 positions in the spread in addition to interpreting 10 cards you’re not yet familiar with is a lot.
Instead, simplify things with these two ways of learning the fundamentals of tarot: First, focus on getting comfortable with card meanings before you dive into doing readings using complicated spreads; second, use a simple 3-card spread to get comfortable with readings, and then build on that by introducing 4- and 5-card spreads.
So back to my tarot-challenged friend! I mentioned she asked for help, and I gave her the help, and now I’m sharing it with you.
Advertisement
Daily Homework
Pull a card every morning and spend 5 minutes writing in your tarot journal about it. Note things like what images you see, what colors you notice, how it makes you feel and what you think it means. Use a new page for each new card, so you have space to continue making notes on that page as you get to know the card over time.
Then, look the card up on card interpretation sites or books and read about its meaning. Make notes in your journal about what you learn and what, in particular, jumps out at you.
You can ask the daily card a question, like “What will be the theme of today?” or “What lessons should I be on the lookout for today?” or you can just treat the card as a guide to the theme of the day.
Advertisement
Weekly Homework
Week 1: Practice using the 3-card Past, Present & Future spread 2-3 evenings this week.
Week 2: Look up a new 3-card spread and practice using it 2-3 evenings this week.
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Week 3: Alternate using the two 3-card spreads 3-4 evenings this week.
Week 4: Look up a new 5-card spread and practice using it 2-3 evenings this week.
As you come across cards you haven’t gotten to know in your daily practice, start new journal pages for them and make brief notes along the same lines as the ones you make when you pull your daily card. You don’t need to spend as much time on this though!


theroot--2020-06-11--Oklahoma Police Officer Tells Black Man 'I Don't Care' After He Says 'I Can't Breathe.' Man Later Di

Oklahoma Police Officer Tells Black Man 'I Don't Care' After He Says 'I Can't Breathe.' Man Later Dies

Every week , it seems a new video emerges showing the police blatantly disregarding the pleas of people in their custody .
In Oklahoma City , body camera footage has been released from a May 2019 incident where 42-year-old Derrick Scott can be seen telling police “ I can ’ t breathe , ” as he ’ s being held in police custody .
According to NBC News , Jarred Tipton , one of the officers , can be heard saying “ I don ’ t care , ” in response to Scott ’ s plea .
Another officer tells @ @ @ @ @ @ @ fine.
” After several minutes , Scott appears unresponsive in the footage .
Scott was later pronounced dead at a hospital .
NBC News obtained Scott ’ s autopsy , which labeled a collapsed lung as the cause of his death .
The autopsy said that the police response didn ’ t result in “ fatal trauma ” and instead listed physical restraint , methamphetamine use , asthma , emphysema and heart disease as the leading factors in Scott ’ s death .
The autopsy also said that the manner of Scott ’ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ incident began after officers were called to an area south of downtown Oklahoma City shortly before 2 p.m. after someone reported that a black man was arguing with people and brandishing a gun , Oklahoma City police Capt .
Larry Withrow said in a statement .
The footage shows Scott running from officers after Tipton asks if he has any weapons .
After the police tackle and restrain him , one of the officers can be seen removing a handgun from Scott ’ s pocket .
Later , an officer tries to administer @ @ @ @ @ @ @ police Capt .
Larry Withrow argued that Tipton ’ s comments were made in the “ heat of a conflict.
” “ Certainly that may be something an officer says .
Just understand — the officers are fighting with someone at that point.
” Withrow told KFOR .
An investigation conducted by the Oklahoma County District Attorney ’ s Office cleared Tipton , Ashley Copeland and Sgt .
Jennifer Titus of misconduct .
The body camera footage was released after Black Lives Matter OKC sent a list of demands to city leaders in @ @ @ @ @ @ @ death .
Members of the organization expressed dismay at what was seen on the video .
“ If that is policy and there is a lack of focus on humanity and civility to anyone , then they certainly need to be addressing and changing that policy effective immediately , ” Rev .
T. Sheri Dickerson , a leader of Black Lives Matter OKC told KFOR .

Every week, it seems a new video emerges showing the police blatantly disregarding the pleas of people in their custody. In Oklahoma City, body camera footage has been released from a May 2019 incident where 42-year-old Derrick Scott can be seen telling police “I can’t breathe,” as he’s being held in police custody.
According to NBC News, Jarred Tipton, one of the officers, can be heard saying “I don’t care,” in response to Scott’s plea. Another officer tells Scott that he can “breathe just fine.” After several minutes, Scott appears unresponsive in the footage. Scott was later pronounced dead at a hospital.
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NBC News obtained Scott’s autopsy, which labeled a collapsed lung as the cause of his death. The autopsy said that the police response didn’t result in “fatal trauma” and instead listed physical restraint, methamphetamine use, asthma, emphysema and heart disease as the leading factors in Scott’s death. The autopsy also said that the manner of Scott’s death was “undetermined.”
From NBC News:
The incident began after officers were called to an area south of downtown Oklahoma City shortly before 2 p.m. after someone reported that a black man was arguing with people and brandishing a gun, Oklahoma City police Capt. Larry Withrow said in a statement. The footage shows Scott running from officers after Tipton asks if he has any weapons. After the police tackle and restrain him, one of the officers can be seen removing a handgun from Scott’s pocket. Later, an officer tries to administer CPR before paramedics arrive.
Oklahoma City police Capt. Larry Withrow argued that Tipton’s comments were made in the “heat of a conflict.”
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“Certainly that may be something an officer says. Just understand — the officers are fighting with someone at that point.” Withrow told KFOR.
An investigation conducted by the Oklahoma County District Attorney’s Office cleared Tipton, Ashley Copeland and Sgt. Jennifer Titus of misconduct. The body camera footage was released after Black Lives Matter OKC sent a list of demands to city leaders in the wake of George Floyd’s death.
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Members of the organization expressed dismay at what was seen on the video. “If that is policy and there is a lack of focus on humanity and civility to anyone, then they certainly need to be addressing and changing that policy effective immediately,” Rev. T. Sheri Dickerson, a leader of Black Lives Matter OKC told KFOR.


theroot--2020-06-11--Tulsa Police Release Footage of Officers Handcuffing and Arresting Black Teenagers for...Jaywalking

It often feels like police officers can slap handcuffs on black youth just as easily as they get out of bed in the morning .
In Tulsa , Okla. , recently released body camera footage shows one black teenager being arrested and another being handcuffed by two police officers for committing the horrific , absolutely heinous crime of…*checks notes* ... jaywalking .
According to CNN , the footage was released Wednesday after community members reached out to Tulsa police about the incident via social media .
In the videos of the June 4 incident , the two teenagers can be @ @ @ @ @ @ @ road together before they are approached by an officer on foot and a second in a squad car .
Once the officers reach the teenagers , one officer can then be seen forcing a teenager onto his stomach to handcuff him , while holding him down with his arms and knees .
The second teenager is also handcuffed , but doesn ’ t struggle and remains standing .
The teenagers can both be heard repeatedly asking the officers why they are being detained and handcuffed and the teenager being held accuses the officers @ @ @ @ @ @ @ black , saying “ you want to see me in jail or dead.
” One of the arresting officers responds by telling the teens they were breaking the law by jaywalking .
As the officers then unsuccessfully try to place the struggling teenager in the front seat of their squad car , the teen yells , “ Call my momma !
, ” threatening to beat the officer holding him if he gets out of his handcuffs .
The second teenager can be heard repeatedly telling his companion , “ Chill out , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ it.
” While the first teenager remains inside the caged squad car , the second teenager is eventually released from his handcuffs and instructed on how to avoid jaywalking going forward .
Tulsa Mayor G.T .
Bynum posted a lengthy statement to Facebook Wednesday regarding the incident saying , “ At a time when I see so many men and women in the Tulsa Police Department working to the limits of endurance to do the right thing , this has been a hard week .
This is a moment in our city when @ @ @ @ @ @ @ hurt or to heal , and several of us are falling short.
” “ I want every kid in Tulsa to feel safe to walk down the street in their neighborhood , ” he continued .
“ No Tulsa kid should have to fear being tackled and cuffed for walking down the street .
I viewed that footage last night more as a parent than a mayor ” Speaking of words that “ can work to hurt , ” let ’ s not forget that , just two days before the footage of @ @ @ @ @ @ @ released , Tulsa Police Department Major Travis Yates took his racist white ass on The Pat Campbell Show to declare that systemic racism in policing “ just doesn ’ t exist ” while , in the same fucking conversation , he said that Tulsa police are “ shooting African-Americans about 24 percent less than we probably ought to be.
” Tulsa is also the city where y ’ all ’ s president is planning a campaign rally on Juneteenth , which , in all likelihood , will double as a pander-to-my-favorite-blacks-o-thon .
One @ @ @ @ @ @ @ be addressing black teenagers being handcuffed for jaywalking in the city where systemic racism apparently “ just doesn ’ t exist.
” According to the Tulsa Police Department , the department ’ s Internal Affairs Unit is currently investigating the first teenager ’ s arrest , CNN reports .

It often feels like police officers can slap handcuffs on black youth just as easily as they get out of bed in the morning. In Tulsa, Okla., recently released body camera footage shows one black teenager being arrested and another being handcuffed by two police officers for committing the horrific, absolutely heinous crime of…*checks notes*...jaywalking.
According to CNN, the footage was released Wednesday after community members reached out to Tulsa police about the incident via social media.
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From CNN:
In the videos of the June 4 incident, the two teenagers can be seen walking down the middle of a road together before they are approached by an officer on foot and a second in a squad car. Once the officers reach the teenagers, one officer can then be seen forcing a teenager onto his stomach to handcuff him, while holding him down with his arms and knees. The second teenager is also handcuffed, but doesn’t struggle and remains standing. The teenagers can both be heard repeatedly asking the officers why they are being detained and handcuffed and the teenager being held accuses the officers of targeting him be because he is black, saying “you want to see me in jail or dead.” One of the arresting officers responds by telling the teens they were breaking the law by jaywalking. As the officers then unsuccessfully try to place the struggling teenager in the front seat of their squad car, the teen yells, “Call my momma!,” threatening to beat the officer holding him if he gets out of his handcuffs. The second teenager can be heard repeatedly telling his companion, “Chill out, bro. It’s not worth it.” While the first teenager remains inside the caged squad car, the second teenager is eventually released from his handcuffs and instructed on how to avoid jaywalking going forward.
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Tulsa Mayor G.T. Bynum posted a lengthy statement to Facebook Wednesday regarding the incident saying, “At a time when I see so many men and women in the Tulsa Police Department working to the limits of endurance to do the right thing, this has been a hard week. This is a moment in our city when every word you say can work to hurt or to heal, and several of us are falling short.”
“I want every kid in Tulsa to feel safe to walk down the street in their neighborhood,” he continued. “No Tulsa kid should have to fear being tackled and cuffed for walking down the street. I viewed that footage last night more as a parent than a mayor”
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Speaking of words that “can work to hurt,” let’s not forget that , just two days before the footage of the teens’ encounter with police was released, Tulsa Police Department Major Travis Yates took his racist white ass on The Pat Campbell Show to declare that systemic racism in policing “just doesn’t exist” while, in the same fucking conversation, he said that Tulsa police are “shooting African-Americans about 24 percent less than we probably ought to be.”
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Tulsa is also the city where y’all’s president is planning a campaign rally on Juneteenth, which, in all likelihood, will double as a pander-to-my-favorite-blacks-o-thon. One can only wonder if he’ll be addressing black teenagers being handcuffed for jaywalking in the city where systemic racism apparently “just doesn’t exist.”
According to the Tulsa Police Department, the department’s Internal Affairs Unit is currently investigating the first teenager’s arrest, CNN reports.


theroot--2020-06-11--Pour Yourself a Glass of Something Strong for These Can't-Miss Huckberry Deals

The best Huckberry deals of June 2020 are here .
Huckberry is your adventure destination , delivering everything you need for a weekend out - whether it ’ s on a hike or around your neighborhood .
The site has men ’ s apparel , backpacks , bedding , and quite a bit more on offer .
The website is also packed with deals , including deep discounts on some of the choice items below , such as chinos , jackets , boots , and more .
There ’ s free shipping for purchases of $ 75 or more , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ ’ s Playa stretch chinos pair comfort with a classic chino silhouette , cut from a slubby cotton with subtle detailing and stitching throughout .
They ’ re $ 35 off the list price right now , whether you opt for slate ( shown ) , cobalt , or khaki .
• None Buy it now for $ 53 Save $ 67 right now on this sleek and stylish Proof Elements jacket , which looks like the perfect option for cool summer nights and then autumn beyond .
The ThermoTech fabric warms up @ @ @ @ @ @ @ comfortable despite the thin build .
• None Buy it now for $ 81 Upgrade your bathroom situation with the Upstate bath towel bundle , which is currently $ 40 off the list price at Huckberry .
These cotton blend towels are soft but sturdy , and the set gets you two bath towels , two hand towels , and two face towels .
It ’ s still available in charcoal as of this writing .
• None Buy it now for $ 100 Save big on the Proof merino-blend travel shirt , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ 128 in this black and white check pattern .
It ’ s made from merino wool and polyester and is claimed to be “ temperature-regulating , moisture-wicking , and super breathable.
” • None Buy it now for $ 51 Be prepared for your next outdoors adventure by snagging the Mystery Ranch Mission Duffel 40L while it ’ s 30 % off the list price .
This backpack is made from a “ waxed wood textile ” for durability , with lots of pockets and plenty of room for a weekend worth of @ @ @ @ @ @ @ for $ 105 This lightweight hoodie is ideal for summer nights .
Made from French terry cotton , this grey-and-white pullover gives you a soft layer whether on the beach or on a stroll around the neighborhood .
Save $ 39 right now .
• None Buy it now for $ 119 This lightweight coat is perfect for year-round adventuring and ideal for layering , with water and wind-resistant materials .
It has button-snaps , zippers , and drawstrings to keep you as bundled up and enclosed from the elements as you please @ @ @ @ @ @ @ $ 179 off the regular price .
• None Buy it now for $ 119 There ’ s nothing quite like a good , comfortable flannel shirt - and if you ’ re in need of a great one , the Flint and Tinder American Made Flannel should do the trick .
It ’ s marked down significantly from the original $ 98 price point , with a few color options still in stock .
Mix , match , and layer to your heart ’ s content .
• None Buy it now @ @ @ @ @ @ @ warm for wandering your local surroundings or just want a cozy hoodie to social distance in , the Wellen Waffle Raglan Pullover looks to fit the bill .
The waffle weave design keeps it feeling soft while the front pocket will warm your hands during spring strolls , plus it ’ s $ 31 off the normal price right now .
• None Buy it now for $ 57 Rhodes ’ s Huxley is a sleek-looking Chelsea Boot that can go both casual or formal , with calf leather uppers paired with twin @ @ @ @ @ @ @ in five colors ranging from $ 110 to $ 176 , these boots are handcrafted in Portugal and currently up to 50 % off of the normal price .
• None Buy it now for $ 110-176 Well-worn towels might still do the job , but if you ’ re keen on adding some “ insanely soft ” towels to your home , then Huckberry can help .
The Nutrl Classic Bath Set promises just that , with a few different color options available .
They ’ re discounted from $ 110 right @ @ @ @ @ @ @ for $ 93 Huckberry is replete with deals on pieces everyone needs in their wardrobe .
A structured jacket like this trucker one is an absolute .
With six color options in all neutrals , there ’ s no way it won ’ t fit in with what you already have .
And if it doesn ’ t , you could just buy all the new ones on sale here too .
• None Buy it now for $ 179

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

Featured Deal: Alba Optics Solo | $174
Huckberry’s best deals of September 2021 are here!
After spending the better part of the calendar year in a pandemic, I bet that your co-workers have probably seen every shirt you own on your Zoom meetings. If I’m right, then there’s no better excuse to spice up your virtual workwear by cashing in on Huckberry’s best deals.
From apparel to footwear, Huckberry has everything you can think of on sale.
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Made from hemp and organic cotton, the Wellen Hemp Polo provides long-lasting wear with sustainable materials that you can wear guilt-free. It is an easy-going , ultra-flattering design that will give you plenty of room without being baggy.
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The Flint and Tinder 365 Shorts - 9" is a performance short chino that was carefully constructed from a blended fabric to create a soft, year-round garment. It’s pre-shrunk for the ideal fit right out of the box. Note that it was expertly made from a sustainable factory in Indonesia.
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I don’t know about you, but I love tie-dye. Available in mustard, navy, and tide, the Wellen Shibori Stripe Tee features a beautiful pattern, made from the shibori dyeing process which is all done by hand.
Made from 100% organic cotton, these t-shirts also have the signature Wellen softness and are environmentally friendly.
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Having a solid set of whiskey glasses is key to kicking off the summer right! When you raise a glass to toast at the next outdoor party, do it in style!
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Huckberry is selling some beautiful Whiskey Peaks glasses, including American Mountains, Grand Tetons, and International Mountains. These glasses are made from 100% lead-free handblown glass, which is lighter than leaded glass and equally durable.
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As part of the summer sale, Huckberry is offering an up to 25% discount on hybrid shorts, which can be worn either in the water or on land. Plus, the hydrophobic fabrics dry super quickly, so you’re ready to hit your local bar.
The Beardedgoat Ridgeline Short is versatile and durable. It provides a four-way stretch for maximum mobility. Made from nylon ripstop fabric, this product is lightweight, yet durable. Plus, it comes with two side hand pockets, two rear pockets, and a hidden stash pocket for valuables.
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Handmade in Northern Italy, Astorflex can guarantee quality shoes that are stylish and eco-friendly. Plus, their soles are 100% made from natural rubber to ensure that you’re walking on a cloud. For Memorial Day weekend, Huckberry is offering deals on products from this brand at up to 35% off.
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The line-up includes styles and designs that will satisfy even the pickiest of shoe shoppers. One example is the highly flexible Astorflex Patnoflex Travel, the ideal summer shoe for those on the move. Another is the Astroflex Rolflex, a great shoe to transition from one season to another.
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Linen shirts are super stylish and functional for the summertime. However, my biggest pet peeve is how easily they wrinkle. Well, no more! Introducing the Wills Wrinkle-Free Linen Shirt (Bright Navy).
This breathable, lightweight garment pairs well with chinos, slacks, and even shorts. Note that it comes with a single pocket at the left chest, which is a great place to store a handy pen.
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With temperatures rising, everyone needs to have a beach towel in their arsenal. And why not cash in on one at a discounted price? At up to 45% off, Turkish Towels are a steal this Memorial Day weekend. They are super soft and plush, regardless if you are sitting by the pool, the lake, or the ocean.
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Named after the 45 RPM, Forty Five makes classic, vintage t-shirts to pay homage to the ‘60s and ‘70s. The brand’s shirts are made from 100% USA-grown Supima cotton in Los Angeles’ Fashion District. They’ve been designed at the perfect length for tucking and untucking and with a timeless sleeve length. They’re also been garment-dyed for added softness and preshrunk to ensure that you get the perfect fit.
This weekend, buy three t-shirts at the bundled price of $95.
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Looking for a new pair of glasses? Try the Alba Optics Solo, which features stunning lenses to choose from. They are designed to withstand the rigors of hiking and provides blue light and UV protection. Its color equalizer gives beautiful clarity and temple tips are telescopic to provide a custom fit. Note that these are made it Italy, so you’re getting the best of the best fashion-wise .
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Marine Layer Banks Pullover Hoodie is a great garment for a casual outing. As a brand, Marine Layer is known for providing the ultimate comfort and quality. This fabric has a heathered look to give a vintage impression. It also has a kangaroo pouch for storage. And it has a functional drawstring hoodie to ward off a cold breeze.
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Every guy needs a smart pair of trousers to take them from the office to the cornerstore without missing a beat. Available in 10 vibrant colors, the Flint and Tinder 365 pants are now on sale at two for $175. You can put that extra $21 on a summer date night. They’re super lightweight and dyed to comfortable straight out of the box. They even come with a fifth front pocket to securely carry all of your belongings.
This story was originally written by Sheilah Villari on 03/31/2020 and updated with new information by Juliana Clark on 09/09/2021.


theroot--2020-06-11--After New Video Emerges in Manuel Ellis' Death, Washington Gov. Jay Inslee Orders Independent Invest

After New Video Emerges in Manuel Ellis' Death, Washington Gov. Jay Inslee Orders Independent Investigation

On March 3 , 33-year-old Manuel Ellis died while being restrained by Tacoma police .
After new video was released providing a clear look at the circumstances surrounding Ellis ’ death , Washington Gov .
Jay Inslee has called for an independent investigation .
“ I have become convinced that the Pierce County Sheriff should not complete the investigation of the death of Manuel Ellis and the county prosecutor should not review the investigation and make charging decisions , ” Inslee said in a news release , according to KIRO-7 .
Inslee made this decision after learning that the Pierce @ @ @ @ @ @ @ agency previously investigating the case , had officers on the scene when Ellis died .
On June 3 , cellphone video taken by Sara McDowell was released that depicted Ellis being beaten and restrained by police .
On June 9 , a nine-minute video recorded on a nearby Ring camera was released in which Ellis could be heard saying “ I can ’ t breathe , sir.
” “ A clear sign that it ’ s not only a struggle for breath but an attempt to still be respectful in your last moments @ @ @ @ @ @ @ wasn ’ t the aggressive person law enforcement claimed he was , ” family attorney James Bible said after seeing the video .
Bible has been critical of the way the Pierce County Sheriff ’ s Department has handled the investigation into the Tacoma Police Department .
“ We can ’ t let offending agencies and their friends investigate each other .
There must be justice , ” Bible said .
Ellis ’ death was ruled a homicide by hypoxia due to physical restraint , according to the Pierce County Medical Examiner ’ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ in the amount of oxygen reaching body tissues .
The autopsy findings indicate Ellis had a dangerous amount of methamphetamine in his system and heart disease , but more significant factors were likely restraint , body positioning and a spit mask placed over Ellis ’ mouth .
Inslee has yet to decide who will be in charge of the new investigation .
“ At this point we are working to determine who will conduct the independent investigation and who will make charging decisions .
That said , the state will ensure an independent @ @ @ @ @ @ @ death of Manuel Ellis .
We will ensure the work is done free of conflicts of interest , ” Inslee said .

On March 3, 33-year-old Manuel Ellis died while being restrained by Tacoma police. After new video was released providing a clear look at the circumstances surrounding Ellis’ death, Washington Gov. Jay Inslee has called for an independent investigation.
“I have become convinced that the Pierce County Sheriff should not complete the investigation of the death of Manuel Ellis and the county prosecutor should not review the investigation and make charging decisions,” Inslee said in a news release, according to KIRO-7. Inslee made this decision after learning that the Pierce County Sheriff’s Department, the agency previously investigating the case, had officers on the scene when Ellis died.
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On June 3, cellphone video taken by Sara McDowell was released that depicted Ellis being beaten and restrained by police. On June 9, a nine-minute video recorded on a nearby Ring camera was released in which Ellis could be heard saying “I can’t breathe, sir.”
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“A clear sign that it’s not only a struggle for breath but an attempt to still be respectful in your last moments of life. A sign that he wasn’t the aggressive person law enforcement claimed he was,” family attorney James Bible said after seeing the video.
Bible has been critical of the way the Pierce County Sheriff’s Department has handled the investigation into the Tacoma Police Department. “We can’t let offending agencies and their friends investigate each other. There must be justice,” Bible said.
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From the Seattle Times:
Ellis’ death was ruled a homicide by hypoxia due to physical restraint, according to the Pierce County Medical Examiner’s Office. Hypoxia is a deficiency in the amount of oxygen reaching body tissues. The autopsy findings indicate Ellis had a dangerous amount of methamphetamine in his system and heart disease, but more significant factors were likely restraint, body positioning and a spit mask placed over Ellis’ mouth.
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Inslee has yet to decide who will be in charge of the new investigation. “At this point we are working to determine who will conduct the independent investigation and who will make charging decisions. That said, the state will ensure an independent investigation and independent prosecutorial review into the death of Manuel Ellis. We will ensure the work is done free of conflicts of interest,” Inslee said.


theroot--2020-06-11--Belly of the Beast Documentary Aims to Uncover Injustices Faced by Incarcerated Women

Belly of the Beast , a powerful documentary film about the human rights abuses experienced by women at the hands of the criminal justice system , will premiere on Thursday during the Human Rights Watch Film Festival at 6:30 p.m .
ET .
A Q & A with the filmmakers is set to take place at 8:00 p.m .
ET , and those who are interested can watch here .
The film ’ s Peabody Award-winning director Erika Cohn says the film is necessary to highlight the injustices faced by women who are incarcerated , such as “ profound lack @ @ @ @ @ @ @ in their stories .
“ Additionally , the immense dehumanization and fear of retaliation often inhibits incarcerated people ’ s voices from being heard , further marginalizing an already ‘ near-invisible population , ” she says in a statement .
The film features the Central California Women ’ s Facility , the world ’ s largest women ’ s prison .
Due to the inconspicuous rural area where the facility is located , reproductive and human rights violations transpiring inside its walls go largely unnoticed .
In order to uncover these wrongdoings , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ at the facility , teams up with a radical lawyer ” to bring awareness to the issue and stop the violations through investigations into crimes against women—primarily , women of color .
“ Together , with a team of tenacious heroines , both in and out of prison , they take to the courtroom to fight for reparations .
But no one believes them , ” the synopsis reads .
“ As additional damning evidence is uncovered by the Center for Investigative Reporting , a media frenzy and series of hearings provide hope @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , doctors and prison officials contend that the procedures were in each person ’ s best interest and of an overall social benefit.
” “ The silence on imprisonment of women echoes the deafening silence on the disappearance and death of women , girls and transgender people of color , ” Cynthia Chandler , a prison abolitionist and attorney featured in the film , explains .
“ The invisibility of people in women ’ s prisons is emblematic of a lack of value placed on the health and well-being of women and transgender @ @ @ @ @ @ @ all races .
”

J'na Jefferson on The Glow Up, shared by J'na Jefferson to The Root

Belly of the Beast, a powerful documentary film about the human rights abuses experienced by women at the hands of the criminal justice system, will premiere on Thursday during the Human Rights Watch Film Festival at 6:30 p.m. ET. A Q&A with the filmmakers is set to take place at 8:00 p.m. ET, and those who are interested can watch here.
The film’s Peabody Award-winning director Erika Cohn says the film is necessary to highlight the injustices faced by women who are incarcerated, such as “profound lack of resources, attention and interest” in their stories.
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“Additionally, the immense dehumanization and fear of retaliation often inhibits incarcerated people’s voices from being heard, further marginalizing an already ‘near-invisible population,” she says in a statement.
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The film features the Central California Women’s Facility, the world’s largest women’s prison. Due to the inconspicuous rural area where the facility is located, reproductive and human rights violations transpiring inside its walls go largely unnoticed. In order to uncover these wrongdoings , a woman “who was involuntarily sterilized at the facility, teams up with a radical lawyer” to bring awareness to the issue and stop the violations through investigations into crimes against women—primarily, women of color.
“Together, with a team of tenacious heroines, both in and out of prison, they take to the courtroom to fight for reparations. But no one believes them,” the synopsis reads. “As additional damning evidence is uncovered by the Center for Investigative Reporting, a media frenzy and series of hearings provide hope for some semblance of justice. Yet, doctors and prison officials contend that the procedures were in each person’s best interest and of an overall social benefit.”
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“The silence on imprisonment of women echoes the deafening silence on the disappearance and death of women, girls and transgender people of color,” Cynthia Chandler, a prison abolitionist and attorney featured in the film, explains. “The invisibility of people in women’s prisons is emblematic of a lack of value placed on the health and well-being of women and transgender people of color and impoverished people of all races.”


theroot--2020-06-11--US Senate Candidate Jaime Harrison of South Carolina Talks Ending Qualified Immunity for Bad Cops, E

US Senate Candidate Jaime Harrison of South Carolina Talks Ending Qualified Immunity for Bad Cops, Expanding Obamacare and More With The Root

Jaime Harrison sat with The Root for an hourlong interview Tuesday in which he blasted his GOP opponent , South @ @ @ @ @ for caring more about his relationship with Donald Trump than he does the people of @ @ @ @ @ Graham are battling it out for the state ’ s U.S. Senate seat in November @ @ @ @ @ two are in a virtual tie , according to a recent poll .
Harrison told @ @ @ @ @ J. Starr that he wants to expand the Affordable Care Act , supports getting rid @ @ @ @ @ , reinvesting in rural South Carolina ’ s water infrastructure and helping to re-commit America @ @ @ @ @ Harrison spent a great deal of time discussing LGBTQ+ rights and expressed the need for @ @ @ @ @ trans people as we do for black men .
Check out the video interview above @

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theroot--2020-06-11--Cover Stories: The #VogueChallenge Is a Black Beauty Revolution for the Fashion World

In a world currently consumed with black trauma ( and copious amount of white guilt , in response ) , black beauty may feel like a luxury we can ’ t currently afford as the moment demands we keep our eye on what feels like an ever-moving goalpost .
Nevertheless , beauty is not only necessary to black life , but it is a revolution in and of itself : it demands to be seen and dares us to imagine something better than there has been .
That ’ s why , a week after Anna Wintour openly admitted not @ @ @ @ @ @ @ at Vogue , there ’ s a subversive joy in seeing the slew of predominantly black models , photographers , designers and more from across the African diaspora who have taken part in the # VogueChallenge .
The challenge originated on social media , as do so many things these days , and has since been endorsed by Vogue itself .
The concept ?
Simple : just reimagine the iconic Vogue cover with yourself or some other black beauty on the cover .
The result ?
There ’ s honestly too much beauty @ @ @ @ @ @ @ permission to post a few of our faves above ) , but a search for the tag on Instagram or Twitter yields hundreds of gorgeous interpretations—the kind of inspiring content that might almost make you feel sorry for Vogue for overlooking all the untapped talent—until you remember that was a longstanding and deliberate choice .
( They gon ’ learn , though . )
Some may think it a shallow pursuit in a time of deep crisis , but we ’ d argue that beauty and rage have never been mutually exclusive .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ freedom and platforms to imagine , create and be recognized and inspired are worth fighting for , too .
With that in mind and without further ado , we happily share our platform with a few of our favorite artists and images from the # VogueChallenge .

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

In a world currently consumed with black trauma (and copious amount of white guilt, in response), black beauty may feel like a luxury we can’t currently afford as the moment demands we keep our eye on what feels like an ever-moving goalpost.
Nevertheless, beauty is not only necessary to black life, but it is a revolution in and of itself: it demands to be seen and dares us to imagine something better than there has been. That’s why, a week after Anna Wintour openly admitted not giving black talents ample platforms and opportunities at Vogue, there’s a subversive joy in seeing the slew of predominantly black models, photographers, designers and more from across the African diaspora who have taken part in the #VogueChallenge.
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The challenge originated on social media, as do so many things these days, and has since been endorsed by Vogue itself. The concept? Simple: just reimagine the iconic Vogue cover with yourself or some other black beauty on the cover. The result? There’s honestly too much beauty to post here (though we got permission to post a few of our faves above), but a search for the tag on Instagram or Twitter yields hundreds of gorgeous interpretations—the kind of inspiring content that might almost make you feel sorry for Vogue for overlooking all the untapped talent—until you remember that was a longstanding and deliberate choice. (They gon’ learn, though.)
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Some may think it a shallow pursuit in a time of deep crisis, but we’d argue that beauty and rage have never been mutually exclusive. In the fight for equality, the freedom and platforms to imagine, create and be recognized and inspired are worth fighting for, too. With that in mind and without further ado, we happily share our platform with a few of our favorite artists and images from the #VogueChallenge.
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theroot--2020-06-11--Pittsburgh Paper Removed Police Brutality Stories, Then Republished Them With Pro-Cop Images

Staffers with the Pittsburgh Post-Gazette have been publicizing the disastrous , racist decision-making of top management , who last week sidelined two black journalists from reporting on the Black Lives Matter protests that have cropped up around the country .
Their coverage ban reportedly expanded as dozens of staffers called out the paper a nd stood in solidarity with their black colleagues .
But protest coverage is still ongoing at the paper , and management ’ s decisions around recent police brutality posts have further escalated the crisis at the Post-Gazette .
As the Pittsburgh City Paper reports , two @ @ @ @ @ @ @ from its website on June 5 , after they were already shared on its social media platform .
One reported wrote about a local protest in honor of George Floyd , the 46-year-old black man killed by police in Minneapolis late last month .
The other story centered on a discussion on police brutality and possible reforms discussed by city councilors .
Reporter Ashley Murray , who wrote the latter story , tweeted that she alerted management to the issue that night and received no response as to why her story was unavailable @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to the stories emerged with the original headlines , but staff bylines were cut from the articles .
The story Murray wrote was rewritten , and the lead photo changed .
The original image showed a protester facing down a line of police in riot gear as a tear gas canister belched noxious gas onto the street .
It was replaced with a more placid image of National Guard soldiers standing in front of a truck .
The same was true of reporter Lauren Lee ’ s coverage of the Pittsburgh Black Lives @ @ @ @ @ @ @ and lead photo , which originally showed a wide shot of a diverse crowd holding up signs calling for police accountability and stating support for black lives .
It was replaced with an image of white cops kneeling in “ support ” of the protests .
Photos of the protest taken by staff photographer Andrew Rush were also stripped from the story .
The takedown of the posts happened after staffers openly revolted against company management after the sidelining of Alexis Johnson , who is black , from protest coverage after she tweeted @ @ @ @ @ @ @ those expressing outrage at “ looting ” at the protests .
Management has yet to provide any answers on why they changed the stories , though the changes , frankly , speak for themselves .
At a time when the nation and its institutions are being called to consider massive structural changes in order to address deep-seated racial inequities , the Post-Gazette has opted to practice censorship instead .
The move is outrageous , of course ; so outrageous that the Giant Eagle supermarket chain pledged this week to stop selling the Post-Gazette @ @ @ @ @ @ @ donating another $ 350,000 to support social justice causes ) .
The thing is—the thing anyone in charge of any institution ought to realize by now—even when you ’ re operating behind closed doors , we can still see you .

Staffers with the Pittsburgh Post-Gazette have been publicizing the disastrous, racist decision-making of top management, who last week sidelined two black journalists from reporting on the Black Lives Matter protests that have cropped up around the country. Their coverage ban reportedly expanded as dozens of staffers called out the paper a nd stood in solidarity with their black colleagues.
But protest coverage is still ongoing at the paper, and management’s decisions around recent police brutality posts have further escalated the crisis at the Post-Gazette.
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As the Pittsburgh City Paper reports, two stories published by the Post-Gazette were removed from its website on June 5, after they were already shared on its social media platform. One reported wrote about a local protest in honor of George Floyd, the 46-year-old black man killed by police in Minneapolis late last month. The other story centered on a discussion on police brutality and possible reforms discussed by city councilors.
Reporter Ashley Murray, who wrote the latter story, tweeted that she alerted management to the issue that night and received no response as to why her story was unavailable.
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Early Friday morning, new links to the stories emerged with the original headlines, but staff bylines were cut from the articles. The story Murray wrote was rewritten, and the lead photo changed. The original image showed a protester facing down a line of police in riot gear as a tear gas canister belched noxious gas onto the street. It was replaced with a more placid image of National Guard soldiers standing in front of a truck.
The same was true of reporter Lauren Lee’s coverage of the Pittsburgh Black Lives Matter protests. Gone was her byline and lead photo, which originally showed a wide shot of a diverse crowd holding up signs calling for police accountability and stating support for black lives. It was replaced with an image of white cops kneeling in “support” of the protests.
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Photos of the protest taken by staff photographer Andrew Rush were also stripped from the story.
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The takedown of the posts happened after staffers openly revolted against company management after the sidelining of Alexis Johnson, who is black, from protest coverage after she tweeted a joke pointing out the hypocrisy of those expressing outrage at “looting” at the protests.
Management has yet to provide any answers on why they changed the stories, though the changes, frankly, speak for themselves. At a time when the nation and its institutions are being called to consider massive structural changes in order to address deep-seated racial inequities, the Post-Gazette has opted to practice censorship instead.
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The move is outrageous, of course; so outrageous that the Giant Eagle supermarket chain pledged this week to stop selling the Post-Gazette at its stores (on top of donating another $350,000 to support social justice causes).
The thing is—the thing anyone in charge of any institution ought to realize by now—even when you’re operating behind closed doors, we can still see you.


theroot--2020-06-11--H.E.R. Debuts Chilling New Protest Song, 'I Can't Breathe'

During an appearance on IHeartRadio ’ s Living Room Concert Series , H.E.R .
performed a new protest song titled ‘ I Can ’ t Breathe.
” The live-streamed event , which took place on June 10 , helped raise money for Meals on Wheels and the Urban League , the latter of which garnered over $ 75,000 in donations .
The Grammy-winning singer , songwriter and multi-instrumentalist noted at the beginning of her set that the song “ means something very , very kind of painful and very revealing.
” The song was written in response to the recent @ @ @ @ @ @ @ death of George Floyd at the hands of police in Minnesota .
“ All of the names you refuse to remember , was somebody ’ s brother or friend , son to a mother that ’ s crying , saying , ‘ I can ’ t breathe , you ’ re taking my life from me , ’ ” she sings over an intoxicating guitar and organ combination .
“ Music is powerful when it comes to change and when it comes to healing , ” H.E.R .
explains , “ and that @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , to make a mark in history.
” The eight-week series began on April 29 and has featured performances from SHAED , Brett Eldredge , Sam Smith and Katy Perry , to name a few .

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

During an appearance on IHeartRadio’s Living Room Concert Series, H.E.R. performed a new protest song titled ‘I Can’t Breathe.” The live-streamed event, which took place on June 10, helped raise money for Meals on Wheels and the Urban League, the latter of which garnered over $75,000 in donations.
The Grammy-winning singer, songwriter and multi-instrumentalist noted at the beginning of her set that the song “means something very, very kind of painful and very revealing.” The song was written in response to the recent wave of protests unfolding after the tragic death of George Floyd at the hands of police in Minnesota.
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“All of the names you refuse to remember, was somebody’s brother or friend, son to a mother that’s crying, saying, ‘I can’t breathe, you’re taking my life from me,’” she sings over an intoxicating guitar and organ combination.
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“Music is powerful when it comes to change and when it comes to healing,” H.E.R. explains, “and that’s why I wrote this song, to make a mark in history.”
The eight-week series began on April 29 and has featured performances from SHAED, Brett Eldredge, Sam Smith and Katy Perry, to name a few.


theroot--2020-06-11--Remodel Your Home With Wayfair's Sales of the Day

The best Wayfair sales for June 2020 are here .
Wayfair is a one-stop shop for everything you could possibly need for your home .
Whether it ’ s chairs , a dining room table , a bed , pillows , a crib , or coffee maker , Wayfair has you covered .
Best of all , the website is absolutely loaded with crazy deals , letting you save hundreds on furniture and plenty more .
Orders $ 35 and up ship free too , even for massive loads of home goods .
Scope out our favorite deals below and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
Save big on Wayfair ’ s own 8 ” medium gel memory foam mattress , which has two layers of memory foam and cooling technology to keep you comfortable throughout the night .
Wayfair has a 100-night trial , too , in case it doesn ’ t quite feel right , plus there ’ s a 10-year warranty on the mattress .
The Twin size is 70 % off the list price and larger sizes have similar percentage discounts , with the California King selling for just $ 250 .
• None @ @ @ @ @ @ @ you ’ ve got a little one on the way , then you ’ re surely on the search for furniture that ’ s affordable , yet high-quality .
Sorelle ’ s Montgomery 4-in-1 convertible crib seems to fit that bill .
Usually priced at $ 600 , it ’ s currently half-off on Wayfair in both white and espresso colors .
The convertible design means that it can grow with your child , from a full-sized crib into a toddler bed , daybed , and ultimately full-size bed ( mattress not included @ @ @ @ @ @ @ for $ 300 Get a cozy sleeptime upgrade with Alwyn Home ’ s encased medium shredded gel memory foam cooling pillow .
It ’ s marked down from $ 100 right now , with an encased gel bead design that keeps the surface cool and even while surrounding the shredded memory foam inside .
Wayfair also has Queen and King-sized versions available .
• None Buy it now for $ 34 Vanities are often the focal point of your bathroom , so having one that draws the eye is key .
This one @ @ @ @ @ @ @ 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 to buy .
It ’ s a simple @ @ @ @ @ @ @ 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 .
They ’ re a cute and easy way @ @ @ @ @ @ @ 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 and unique with a textured grid pattern .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
You ’ ll also get a 100-watt bulb for each of the lamps .
• None Buy it now for $ 88 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 .
Don ’ t @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , 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 with other furniture @ @ @ @ @ @ @ $ 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 After watching the ‘ Wipe it Down ’ challenge on TikTok I realized I @ @ @ @ @ @ @ 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 customer commented on how sturdy and solid it is .
• None Buy it now for $ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ 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 now for $ 43 Another item brought up multiple times by my friends is a chandelier .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ 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 and Andrew Hayward on Roundups, shared by Gabe Carey to The Root

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


theroot--2020-06-11--An End to Product Profiling? Walmart Will No Longer Keep Multicultural Beauty Brands Under Lock and

An End to Product Profiling? Walmart Will No Longer Keep Multicultural Beauty Brands Under Lock and Key

Racial profiling is an issue that remains unreconciled in our country , but we ’ ll reportedly be seeing less of it in Walmart ’ s beauty aisle , as the company has announced it will no longer keep “ multicultural hair care and beauty products ” in locked cases in any of its stores .
The practice , which Walmart says was only in place “ in about a dozen ” of its 4,700 U.S. stores , has received criticism for the implication that the customers who buy these products , largely people of color , can ’ t @ @ @ @ @ @ @ unlocked by a store associate , and the products are usually then taken to the front of the store for purchase .
NBC credits Emmy-winning CBS Denver reporter Tori Mason with breaking the story , and perhaps Mason also deserves credit for helping compel the change , as well .
Despite previous complaints and coverage about what one customer described as a “ humiliating ” scenario ( including here at The Glow Up ) , Walmart disclosed the decision to Mason in response to her report on the issue .
Obviously , Walmart @ @ @ @ @ @ @ of race-related product lockdowns .
NBC also reached out to Walgreens and CVS , but neither commented on their story .
Walmart spokesman Lorenzo Lopez told NBC News that the company is “ sensitive to the issue and understands the concerns ” and would be implementing the change in policy “ As a retailer serving millions of customers every day from diverse backgrounds , Walmart does not tolerate discrimination of any kind , ” Walmart spokesman Lorenzo Lopez told NBC News , saying the change would be implemented “ as soon as possible @ @ @ @ @ @ @ other retailers , the cases were put in place to deter shoplifters from some products such as electronics , automotive , cosmetics and other personal care products.
” NBC points out that despite Lopez ’ s claim , only products targeted to the multicultural ( read : non-white ) market had been kept in cases , as does customer Judah Bell , who was interviewed for Mason ’ s story .
“ It ’ s hard for a customer to dispute that but predominantly African American people are buying those products , so @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , ” said Bell .
“ I try not to shop anywhere where I ’ m assumed to be a thief .
”

Racial profiling is an issue that remains unreconciled in our country, but we’ll reportedly be seeing less of it in Walmart’s beauty aisle, as the company has announced it will no longer keep “multicultural hair care and beauty products” in locked cases in any of its stores.
As reported by NBC News:
The practice, which Walmart says was only in place “in about a dozen” of its 4,700 U.S. stores, has received criticism for the implication that the customers who buy these products, largely people of color, can’t be trusted. The cases must be unlocked by a store associate, and the products are usually then taken to the front of the store for purchase.
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NBC credits Emmy-winning CBS Denver reporter Tori Mason with breaking the story, and perhaps Mason also deserves credit for helping compel the change, as well. Despite previous complaints and coverage about what one customer described as a “humiliating” scenario (including here at The Glow Up), Walmart disclosed the decision to Mason in response to her report on the issue.
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Obviously, Walmart isn’t the only store guilty of race-related product lockdowns. NBC also reached out to Walgreens and CVS, but neither commented on their story.
Walmart spokesman Lorenzo Lopez told NBC News that the company is “sensitive to the issue and understands the concerns” and would be implementing the change in policy
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“As a retailer serving millions of customers every day from diverse backgrounds, Walmart does not tolerate discrimination of any kind,” Walmart spokesman Lorenzo Lopez told NBC News, saying the change would be implemented “as soon as possible,” before adding: “Like other retailers, the cases were put in place to deter shoplifters from some products such as electronics, automotive, cosmetics and other personal care products.”
NBC points out that despite Lopez’s claim, only products targeted to the multicultural (read: non-white) market had been kept in cases, as does customer Judah Bell, who was interviewed for Mason’s story.
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“It’s hard for a customer to dispute that but predominantly African American people are buying those products, so the assumption is we’re thieves,” said Bell. “I try not to shop anywhere where I’m assumed to be a thief.”


theroot--2020-06-11--Byron Allen Settles Racial Discrimination Lawsuit With Comcast

In a surprising move , Byron Allen has settled his racial discrimination lawsuit against Comcast .
The financial terms of the agreement weren ’ t disclosed , but Deadline and Variety report that Comcast has reached a deal to extend its terms for The Weather Channel , which Allen acquired in 2018 , in addition to 14 local television stations that the Allen Media Group acquired in October .
Additionally , Comcast will launch the free Weather Channel app , Local Now , on its Xfinity and Flex platforms , as well as the website WeLoveWeather.TV .
Also of note @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to distribute Comedy.TV , Recipe.TV and JusticeCentral.TV , three cable channels produced by Allen ’ s Entertainment Studios .
This deal will also include video-on-demand and TV everywhere rights .
“ We ’ re excited to begin a new phase of partnership with Comcast and Xfinity , including the distribution of our cable channels for the first time on Xfinity platforms , ” Allen said in a statement .
In 2015 , Allen filed a $ 20 billion lawsuit against the media juggernaut , accusing it of violating an 1866 federal civil rights @ @ @ @ @ @ @ had the same right to make and enforce contracts as white people.
” By refusing to carry his portfolio of cable channels , Allen alleged that his race factored into Comcast ’ s decision , thus violating the law .
Comcast vehemently denied those claims and the case went all the way up to the Supreme Court in November .
As to how this all played out in the Supreme Court , Variety has the scoop : Last November , attorneys for Allen and Comcast squared off in the nation ’ s high @ @ @ @ @ @ @ in the case involving the whether race was the sole factor in Comcast ’ s rejection of Allen or whether it was a “ motivating factor.
” Allen ’ s team argued for the “ motivating factor ” standard .
The significance applied to the burden of proof in the case , which would have been lighter on Allen ’ s team had the justices agreed that the probing the “ motivating factor ” standard was right test for the case .
In March , the court ruled 9-0 in favor of Comcast @ @ @ @ @ @ @ and sent the lawsuit back to a lower court to be refiled .
It ’ s understood that settlement discussions between Comcast and Allen had picked up steam even before the Supreme Court decision was issued .
“ We are pleased to have reached this multifaceted agreement that continues our long relationship with The Weather Channel while bringing Xfinity customers additional content , ” Bec Heap , Senior Vice President of Video and Entertainment for Comcast Cable , said in a statement .
“ We look forward to an ongoing partnership.
” I @ @ @ @ @ @ @ be glorious , but Allen ’ s battles in the courtroom aren ’ t exactly over .
He also has a $ 10 billion dollar racial discrimination lawsuit pending against another media giant , Charter Communications .

In a surprising move, Byron Allen has settled his racial discrimination lawsuit against Comcast.
The financial terms of the agreement weren’t disclosed, but Deadline and Variety report that Comcast has reached a deal to extend its terms for The Weather Channel, which Allen acquired in 2018, in addition to 14 local television stations that the Allen Media Group acquired in October.
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Additionally, Comcast will launch the free Weather Channel app, Local Now, on its Xfinity and Flex platforms, as well as the website WeLoveWeather.TV.
Also of note, Comcast will use its X1 platform to distribute Comedy.TV, Recipe.TV and JusticeCentral.TV, three cable channels produced by Allen’s Entertainment Studios. This deal will also include video-on-demand and TV everywhere rights.
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“We’re excited to begin a new phase of partnership with Comcast and Xfinity, including the distribution of our cable channels for the first time on Xfinity platforms,” Allen said in a statement.
In 2015, Allen filed a $20 billion lawsuit against the media juggernaut, accusing it of violating an 1866 federal civil rights law that ensures that “black people had the same right to make and enforce contracts as white people.” By refusing to carry his portfolio of cable channels, Allen alleged that his race factored into Comcast’s decision, thus violating the law. Comcast vehemently denied those claims and the case went all the way up to the Supreme Court in November.
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As to how this all played out in the Supreme Court, Variety has the scoop:
Last November, attorneys for Allen and Comcast squared off in the nation’s high court to argue over a narrow issue in the case involving the whether race was the sole factor in Comcast’s rejection of Allen or whether it was a “motivating factor.” Allen’s team argued for the “motivating factor” standard. The significance applied to the burden of proof in the case, which would have been lighter on Allen’s team had the justices agreed that the probing the “motivating factor” standard was right test for the case. In March, the court ruled 9-0 in favor of Comcast’s argument on the interpretation question and sent the lawsuit back to a lower court to be refiled. It’s understood that settlement discussions between Comcast and Allen had picked up steam even before the Supreme Court decision was issued.
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Whew. That’s a lot.
“We are pleased to have reached this multifaceted agreement that continues our long relationship with The Weather Channel while bringing Xfinity customers additional content,” Bec Heap, Senior Vice President of Video and Entertainment for Comcast Cable, said in a statement. “We look forward to an ongoing partnership.”
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I’m sure that check had to be glorious, but Allen’s battles in the courtroom aren’t exactly over. He also has a $10 billion dollar racial discrimination lawsuit pending against another media giant, Charter Communications.