theroot--2020-07-17--Federal Law Enforcement in Portland, Ore., Have Been Snatching Protesters off the Streets in Unmarke

Federal Law Enforcement in Portland, Ore., Have Been Snatching Protesters off the Streets in Unmarked Vehicles

Protesters in Portland , Ore. , say federal agents donning camouflage and driving unmarked vans have been detaining protesters around the city ’ s downtown area since at least July 14 .
Stories about the arrests have been corroborated by multiple people , as well as videos showing the officers arresting protesters without explanation , shoving them into the cars , and driving off .
First reported by Oregon Public Broadcasting , the arrests may be tied to a push to protect federal property during the Black Lives Matter protests that have continued for the last eight weeks : But @ @ @ @ @ @ @ agents are arresting people who aren ’ t near federal property , “ nor is it clear that all of the people being arrested have engaged in criminal activity.
” Protesters say they believe they were stopped simply for wearing black clothing near the BLM protests .
Among them is Mark Pettibone who was detained by at least four agents wearing camo early on July 15 .
He and his friend , Conner O ’ Shea , were thrown in the back of an unmarked minivan as they were walking away from a @ @ @ @ @ @ @ The agents in the van did not identify themselves .
Pettibone was taken to a cell in a federal courthouse where he was read his Miranda rights , but never told why he was arrested .
When Pettibone declined to waive his rights for an interview and asked for a lawyer , the questioning promptly stopped .
He was released about 90 minutes later , and received no paperwork , citation , or record of his arrest , reports OPB .
“ I just happened to be wearing black on a sidewalk in @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Pettibone told the news outlet .
“ And that apparently is grounds for detaining me.
” In the last few weeks , White House occupant Donald Trump has been singularly focused on antifa and the so-called lawlessness of BLM protesters , even as men affiliated with far-right groups have been the only ones to be arrested for slaying federal law enforcement .
In Portland , the worst offense appears to be graffiti that has covered the federal courthouse over the last several workhouse .
Earlier this week , Trump praised the presence of @ @ @ @ @ @ @ more would be dispatched in cities throughout the country .

Protesters in Portland, Ore., say federal agents donning camouflage and driving unmarked vans have been detaining protesters around the city’s downtown area since at least July 14. Stories about the arrests have been corroborated by multiple people, as well as videos showing the officers arresting protesters without explanation, shoving them into the cars, and driving off.
First reported by Oregon Public Broadcasting, the arrests may be tied to a push to protect federal property during the Black Lives Matter protests that have continued for the last eight weeks:
The tactic appears to be another escalation in federal force deployed on Portland city streets, as federal officials and President Donald Trump have said they plan to “quell” nightly protests outside the federal courthouse and Multnomah County Justice Center that have lasted for more than six weeks.
Advertisement
But according to interviews with demonstrators, federal agents are arresting people who aren’t near federal property, “nor is it clear that all of the people being arrested have engaged in criminal activity.” Protesters say they believe they were stopped simply for wearing black clothing near the BLM protests.
Among them is Mark Pettibone who was detained by at least four agents wearing camo early on July 15. He and his friend, Conner O’Shea, were thrown in the back of an unmarked minivan as they were walking away from a protest. It had been peaceful. The agents in the van did not identify themselves.
Advertisement Advertisement
Pettibone was taken to a cell in a federal courthouse where he was read his Miranda rights, but never told why he was arrested. When Pettibone declined to waive his rights for an interview and asked for a lawyer, the questioning promptly stopped. He was released about 90 minutes later, and received no paperwork, citation, or record of his arrest, reports OPB.
“I just happened to be wearing black on a sidewalk in downtown Portland at the time,” Pettibone told the news outlet. “And that apparently is grounds for detaining me.”
Advertisement
In the last few weeks, White House occupant Donald Trump has been singularly focused on antifa and the so-called lawlessness of BLM protesters, even as men affiliated with far-right groups have been the only ones to be arrested for slaying federal law enforcement. In Portland, the worst offense appears to be graffiti that has covered the federal courthouse over the last several workhouse.
Earlier this week, Trump praised the presence of federal agents in Portland and suggested that more would be dispatched in cities throughout the country.


theroot--2020-07-17--Trailer Roundup: In 2020, We Are Radical Monarchs and We are Woke

Hey y ’ all—we are thrust into the middle of July and though we won ’ t all be shuffling into movie theaters to see our first round of blockbusters , there ’ s still content to have !
Thanks to Al Gore ( haha ! )
, we have the internet .
Thanks to the internet , we have streaming .
That said , let ’ s get to these new round of trailers !
We have a lot to catch up on ... We Are The Radical Monarchs ( PBS ; Release Date : July 20 , 2020 @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Are The Radical Monarchs official trailer / POV ( YouTube ) First Impressions : I can ’ t help but think of the Whitney Houston crooning , “ I believe the children are our future , teach them well and let them lead the way ” as I watch this trailer .
Because these young girls , known as The Radical Monarchs , who are at the front lines of social justice .
Pride doesn ’ t even begin to describe it .
At the same time , I still yearn for a @ @ @ @ @ @ @ be preserved in a way that they don ’ t have to fight .
I do know one thing , I ’ m looking forward to watching this documentary .
We Are The Radical Monarchs is part of PBS ’ POV series .
First Impressions : Continuing his brand of making fun of himself ( something he does arguably better than self-critiquing ) , Kevin Hart is finally his dreams in becoming an action star instead of the sidekick to frequent co-star and friend Dwayne “ The Rock ” Johnson .
Oh , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
I will say I ’ m still not sure how well Quibi is faring even with its robust content ( there ’ s some analysis out there that isn ’ t looking good ) , but maybe Kevin ’ s unrelenting fanbase can help here .
We ’ ll see .
We Are Who We Are ( HBO ; Release Date : September 2020 ) We Are Who We Are promo / HBO ( YouTube ) First Impressions : This is a true teaser , so we only hear two lines along @ @ @ @ @ @ @ sitting on rocks near the beach .
The boy says , “ They think we ’ re weird.
” and the girl retorts with , “ Does that bother you ?
” Other than that tease , what I do know is that Luca Guadagnino who directed Call Me By Your Name is crossing over to TV for the first time and that it stars Chloë Sevigny , Jack Dylan Grazer , Alice Braga , Jordan Kristine Seamón , Spence Moore II , Kid Cudi , Faith Alabi , Francesca Scorsese , Ben @ @ @ @ @ @ @ and Sebastiano Pigazzi .
Stockton On My Mind ( HBO ; July 28 , 2020 at 9 p.m. ET/PT ) Stockton on My Mind : Official Trailer / HBO ( YouTube ) First Impressions : Of course Stockton , Calif. ’ s 1st Black mayor would be the perfect subject for a documentary .
This one is exploring the millennial mayor ’ s political journey , which is particularly interesting since he was elected the same night that Donald Trump was elected .
First Impressions : Yes , this show still comes on @ @ @ @ @ @ @ been following it , you ’ ll know that Nev now has a new co-host , Kamie Crawford and the two are returning for its first-ever virtual season .
Because as Nev says , “ even Catfish work from home.
” Don ’ t they usually work ( and scam ) from home ?
First Impressions : Based on the life of artist Keith Knight , Keef ( Lamorne Morris ) is a rising star cartoonist whose life changes due to one particular incident : yes , that incident involves police brutality .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ ’ s based on a true story—you know the tragically common story of a Black man , no matter his economic or social position in life .
Apparently , this moment is when Keef “ woke ” up .
American Masters – Unladylike2020 : The Changemakers ( PBS ; Airing : Wednesdays , at 9 p.m. through August 26 , 2020 ) First Impressions : What does it mean to be a liberated woman ?
Narrated by Julianna Margulies and featuring the voice of Lorraine Toussaint , American Masters – Unladylike2020 : The @ @ @ @ @ @ @ 2020 presidential election and the women ’ s suffrage centennial .
Interviewees of the docuseries will include Rep. Mia Love , Brittany Packnett-Cunningham and more .
I spy historic icons such as Bessie Coleman and Josephine Baker , so I ’ m sure this series will be empowering .
Doubling Down with the Derricos ( TLC ; Release Date : August 11 , 2020 at 10 p.m. ET/PT ) Doubling Down with the Derricos trailer / TLC ( YouTube ) First Impressions : Move over Brady Brunch , it ’ s time for @ @ @ @ @ @ @ will follow a family of 11 children which includes quintuplets , triplets and two sets of twins—all of which were conceived naturally .
Multiple multiples !
Jigga what ?
!
Along with the obvious shenanigans that will ensue , parents Karen and Deon are expecting triplets—for those of you keeping score at home ( during lockdown ) , that ’ ll boost the total number of children to 14 !
Wow .
First Impressions : High-school sweethearts Riley ( Alexandra Shipp ) and Chris ( Nicholas Hamilton ) are torn apart when Chris @ @ @ @ @ @ @ guilt .
However , Chris is actually in limbo .
Living next door to a family of Catholics and learning what limbo was , the concept of it always terrified me .
DeRon Horton from the TV series Dear White People co-stars in this , too .
This is like Ghost for Generation Z !
Also ( since I can ’ t not mention it since we previously reported on it ) , I ’ m hoping Shipp has had some “ endless ” time to think deeply since her last comments about @ @ @ @ @ @ @ given a pill that gives you superpowers ( for 5 minutes ) , but you don ’ t get to get the long list of side effects that happens on those prescription pill commercials .
You don ’ t even know what power you get until you get it ?
Do you take it ?
This upcoming sci-fi series stars Jamie Foxx , Joseph Gordon-Levitt and Dominique Fishback ( Show Me a Hero , The Hate U Give ) .
Plus , it ’ s set in New Orleans !
I ’ m @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to the gorgeous visuals .
First Impressions : Yusuf Hawkins was murdered in 1989 by a group of young white men in Bensonhurst , Brooklyn and this doc explores the 30-year legacy of the teen ’ s murder .
It will feature interviews with his family , friends and community members ( including Rev .
Al Sharpton ) as a reflection on the tragedy and subsequent fight for justice and civil rights .
First Impressions : Dayo Okeniyi portrays the legendary Shields “ Emperor ” Green , a descendant of African kings turned @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
It ’ s given me real life Django Unchained .
The film also stars Kat Graham , Naturi Naughton , Mykelti Williamson and Harry Lennix .
First Impressions : Romany Malco and Regina Hall ?
Sign me up .
This upcoming film ( written and directed by Malco ) is based on a character Malco created called Tijuana Jackson .
Tijuana is an ex-convict turned motivational speaker ...
I think most of us know one of those .
As the trailer says , this nigga constantly speaks in parables .
Oh , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the improv genius that will come from this .
That ’ s all for now , folks !
‘ Til next Friday !

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

Hey, y’all—we are thrust into the middle of July and though we won’t all be shuffling into movie theaters to see our first round of blockbusters, there’s still content to have! Thanks to Al Gore (haha!), we have the internet. Thanks to the internet, we have streaming.
That said, let’s get to this new round of trailers! We have a lot to catch up on...
Advertisement
We Are The Radical Monarchs (PBS; Release Date: July 20, 2020 at 9 p.m. local time)
We Are The Radical Monarchs official trailer / POV (YouTube)
First Impressions: I can’t help but think of the Whitney Houston crooning, “I believe the children are our future, teach them well and let them lead the way” as I watch this trailer. Because these young girls, known as The Radical Monarchs, are at the front lines of social justice. Pride doesn’t even begin to describe it. At the same time, I still yearn for a day when Black and brown childhood can be preserved in a way that they don’t have to fight. I do know one thing, I’m looking forward to watching this documentary. We Are The Radical Monarchs is part of PBS’ POV series.
Advertisement Advertisement
Die Hart (Quibi; Release Date: July 20, 2020)
Die Hart Official Redband Trailer / Quibi (YouTube)
First Impressions: Continuing his brand of making fun of himself (something he does arguably better than self-critiquing), Kevin Hart is finally realizing his dreams in becoming an action star instead of the sidekick to frequent co-star and friend Dwayne “The Rock” Johnson. Oh, and I see Missandei (Nathalie Emmanuel). I will say I’m still not sure how well Quibi is faring even with its robust content (there’s some analysis out there that isn’t looking good), but maybe Kevin’s unrelenting fanbase can help here. We’ll see.
Advertisement
We Are Who We Are (HBO; Release Date: September 14, 2020)
We Are Who We Are promo / HBO (YouTube)
First Impressions: This is a true teaser, so we only hear two lines along with some visuals of two young teens sitting on rocks near the beach. The boy says, “They think we’re weird.” and the girl retorts with, “Does that bother you?” Other than that tease, what I do know is that Luca Guadagnino, who directed Call Me By Your Name is crossing over to TV for the first time and that it stars Chloë Sevigny, Jack Dylan Grazer, Alice Braga, Jordan Kristine Seamón, Spence Moore II, Kid Cudi, Faith Alabi, Francesca Scorsese, Ben Taylor, Corey Knight, Tom Mercier and Sebastiano Pigazzi.
Advertisement
Stockton On My Mind (HBO; July 28, 2020 at 9 p.m. ET/PT)
Stockton on My Mind: Official Trailer / HBO (YouTube)
First Impressions: Of course Stockton, Calif.’s 1st Black mayor would be the perfect subject for a documentary. This one is exploring the millennial mayor’s political journey, which is particularly interesting since he was elected the same night that Donald Trump was elected.
Advertisement
Catfish: The TV Show (MTV; Season 9 Release Date: August 5, 2020 at 8 p.m. ET/PT)
Catfish: The TV Show teaser / MTV Catfish (YouTube)
First Impressions: Yes, this show still comes on. But, if you’ve been following it, you’ll know that Nev now has a new co-host, Kamie Crawford and the two are returning for its first-ever virtual season. Because as Nev says, “even Catfish work from home.” Don’t they usually work (and scam) from home?
Advertisement
Woke (Hulu; Release Date: September 9, 2020)
Woke teaser trailer / Hulu (YouTube)
First Impressions: Based on the life of artist Keith Knight, Keef (Lamorne Morris) is a rising star cartoonist whose life changes due to one particular incident: yes, that incident involves police brutality. Not only is it timely, but it’s also based on a true story—you know the tragically common story of a Black man, no matter his economic or social position in life. Apparently, this moment is when Keef “woke” up.
Advertisement
American Masters – Unladylike2020: The Changemakers (PBS; Airing: Wednesdays, at 9 p.m. through August 26, 2020)
Unladylike2020 Trailer / PBS (YouTube)
First Impressions: What does it mean to be a liberated woman? Narrated by Julianna Margulies and featuring the voice of Lorraine Toussaint, American Masters – Unladylike2020: The Changemakers is right on time with the 2020 presidential election and the women’s suffrage centennial. Interviewees of the docuseries will include Rep. Mia Love, Brittany Packnett-Cunningham and more. I spy historic icons such as Bessie Coleman and Josephine Baker, so I’m sure this series will be empowering.
Advertisement
Doubling Down with the Derricos (TLC; Release Date: August 11, 2020 at 10 p.m. ET/PT)
Doubling Down with the Derricos trailer / TLC (YouTube)
First Impressions: Move over Brady Brunch, it’s time for the Derricos Division! This new series will follow a family of 11 children which includes quintuplets, triplets and two sets of twins—all of which were conceived naturally. Multiple multiples! Jigga what?! Along with the obvious shenanigans that will ensue, parents Karen and Deon are expecting triplets—for those of you keeping score at home (during lockdown), that’ll boost the total number of children to 14! Wow.
Advertisement
Endless (In Theaters/On Demand; Release Date: August 14, 2020)
Endless trailer / Quiver Distribution (YouTube)
First Impressions: High-school sweethearts Riley (Alexandra Shipp) and Chris (Nicholas Hamilton) are torn apart when Chris dies and Riley is left with the guilt. However, Chris is actually in limbo. Living next door to a family of Catholics and learning what limbo was, the concept of it always terrified me. DeRon Horton from the TV series Dear White People co-stars in this, too. This is like Ghost for Generation Z! Also (since I can’t not mention it since we previously reported on it), I’m hoping Shipp has had some “endless” time to think deeply since her last comments about colorism.
Advertisement
Project Power (Netflix; Release Date: August 14, 2020)
Project Power Official Trailer / Netflix (YouTube)
First Impressions: Imagine being given a pill that gives you superpowers (for 5 minutes), but you don’t get the long list of side effects that happen on those prescription pill commercials. You don’t even know what power you get until you get it—do you take it? This upcoming sci-fi series stars Jamie Foxx, Joseph Gordon-Levitt and Dominique Fishback (Show Me a Hero, The Hate U Give). Plus, it’s set in New Orleans! I’m really into this and am looking forward to the gorgeous visuals.
Advertisement
Yusuf Hawkins: Storm Over Brooklyn (HBO; Release Date: August 12, 2020 at 9 p.m.)
Yusuk Hawkins official trailer / HBO (YouTube)
First Impressions: Yusuf Hawkins was murdered in 1989 by a group of young white men in Bensonhurst, Brooklyn and this doc explores the 30-year legacy of the teen’s murder. It will feature interviews with his family, friends and community members (including Rev. Al Sharpton) as a reflection on the tragedy and subsequent fight for justice and civil rights.
Advertisement
Emperor (Digital/DVD; Release Date: August 18, 2020)
Emperor trailer / Universal Pictures Home Entertainment (YouTube)
First Impressions: Dayo Okeniyi portrays the legendary Shields “Emperor” Green, a descendant of African kings turned outlaw slave in the pre-Civil War South. It’s giving me real-life Django Unchained. The film also stars Kat Graham, Naturi Naughton, Mykelti Williamson and Harry Lennix.
Advertisement
Tijuana Jackson: Purpose Over Prison (OnDemand; Release Date: July 31, 2020)
Tijuana Jackson: Purpose Over Prison trailer / Cranked Up Films (YouTube)
First Impressions: Romany Malco and Regina Hall? Sign me up. This upcoming film (written and directed by Malco) is based on a character Malco created called Tijuana Jackson. Tijuana is an ex-convict turned motivational speaker...I think most of us know one of those. As the trailer says, this nigga constantly speaks in parables. Oh, I’m definitely looking forward to the improv genius that will come from this.
Advertisement
That’s all for now, folks! ‘Til next Friday!
Updated: Thursday, 07/30/2020, 1:58 p.m. ET: In regard to the upcoming series, We Are Who We Are, we received an official release date from HBO, which is September 14. We’ve now added the exact date above.


theroot--2020-07-17--SeaVee's '80s Throwback Sneakers Radiate Powerful Energy for Up to 40% off at Huckberry

Up to 40 % off SeaVee ’ s Sneakers | Huckberry Remember Zoom ?
No , not the videoconferencing software @ @ @ @ @ !
SeaVee ’ s limited-edition Legend sneakers are Zoom in shoe form , an homage @ @ @ @ @ using Hoffman California fabrics .
They ’ re bright , gaudy , and I ’ @ @ @ @ @ .
But let ’ s say neon lights aren ’ t your aesthetic .
That @ @ @ @ @ at Huckberry , a wide range of SeaVee ’ s sneakers are marked down up @ @ @ @ @ your feet are as tired from all the socially distant walking around this summer as @ @ @ @ @ is too good to pass up .

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

Up to 40% off SeaVee’s Sneakers | Huckberry
Remember Zoom? No, not the videoconferencing software, but the PBS show—ZOOM! SeaVee’s limited-edition Legend sneakers are Zoom in shoe form, an homage to the ‘80s made using Hoffman California fabrics. They’re bright, gaudy , and I’m absolutely here for it. But let’s say neon lights aren’t your aesthetic. That’s fine. Over at Huckberry, a wide range of SeaVee’s sneakers are marked down up to 40%. If your feet are as tired from all the socially distant walking around this summer as mine are , this offer is too good to pass up.


theroot--2020-07-17--Trump’s Niece: My Uncle, the President, Was Out Here Dropping the N-Word Like a Rapper

President Trump ’ s niece Mary L. Trump is not here to play with y ’ all .
Not only has her takedown of the Trump family , Too Much and Never Enough : How My Family Created the World ’ s Most Dangerous Man , done Beyoncé first-week numbers , but during an interview with MSNBC ’ s Rachel Maddow , she cleared up any doubt that the president is a racist , anti-semitic Orange colostomy bag .
When asked if she ever heard the president , who happens to be her uncle , use racist language growing up @ @ @ @ @ @ @ yeah , I have .
“ Oh yeah , of course I did , ” Mary Trump said .
“ And I don ’ t think that should surprise anybody given how virulently racist he is today , ” the Washington Post reports .
Mary Trump then confirmed that ’ d she heard her uncle throw around the n-word and anti-Semitic slurs .
“ This is a book of falsehoods , plain and simple , ” White House spokeswoman Sarah Matthews said in an emailed statement to the Post .
“ The President @ @ @ @ @ @ @ So that is bullshit , especially since Trump loyalist and former White House press secretary Sarah “ Suckabee ” Sanders couldn ’ t even outright state that there wasn ’ t a tape of the president dropping the N-word .
“ I can ’ t guarantee anything , but I can tell you that the president addressed this question directly , ” Sanders told the Post in 2018 .
“ I can tell you that I ’ ve never heard it.
” Mary Trump , 55 , has long been estranged from her @ @ @ @ @ @ @ among other things .
Her book — published Tuesday and an instant bestseller — so worried her family that the president ’ s brother unsuccessfully tried to block its publication in court .
Her father , Fred Jr. — the president ’ s older brother — died of an alcohol-related illness in 1981 , when she was 16 years old .
Since the 2016 campaign there have been claims that Trump used the n-word on the set of his television show , “ The Apprentice.
” Bill Pruitt , an original producer on @ @ @ @ @ @ @ it in October 2016 , claiming there were tapes of Trump using “ far worse ” language than was heard on the Access Hollywood tape in which Trump is heard boasting about grabbing women by their genitals .
Disgraced Black , Omarosa Manigault Newman , claimed in her 2018 book you know the one she wrote after she was kicked out of the president ’ s inner circle , claimed that there were tapes of the president using the n-word behind the scenes on The Apprentice .
“ Trump denied using ‘ such @ @ @ @ @ @ @ an August 2018 tweet , adding , ‘ I don ’ t have that word in my vocabulary , and never have , ’ ” the Post reports .
It ’ s important to note here that the president is a habitual liar .
I know that none of this is mind-blowing considering we ’ ve all watched as the president and his administration has done their best to rip America along the racial seams but it is a bit refreshing to hear his own niece state it definitively .
She even painted @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the president be re-elected in November , and by re-election , I mean Russia fucks with the election again , “ I absolutely believe [ it ] would be the end of the American experiment , ” she said .
“ I do not believe there ’ s any coming back from this .
”

President Trump’s niece Mary L. Trump is not here to play with y’all.
Not only has her takedown of the Trump family, Too Much and Never Enough: How My Family Created the World’s Most Dangerous Man, done Beyoncé first-week numbers, but during an interview with MSNBC’s Rachel Maddow, she cleared up any doubt that the president is a racist, anti-semitic Orange colostomy bag.
When asked if she ever heard the president, who happens to be her uncle, use racist language growing up, Mary Trump was all: fuck yeah, I have.
Advertisement
“Oh yeah, of course I did,” Mary Trump said. “And I don’t think that should surprise anybody given how virulently racist he is today,” the Washington Post reports.
Mary Trump then confirmed that’d she heard her uncle throw around the n-word and anti-Semitic slurs.
Advertisement Advertisement
“This is a book of falsehoods, plain and simple,” White House spokeswoman Sarah Matthews said in an emailed statement to the Post. “The President doesn’t use those words.”
So that is bullshit, especially since Trump loyalist and former White House press secretary Sarah “Suckabee” Sanders couldn’t even outright state that there wasn’t a tape of the president dropping the N-word.
Advertisement
“I can’t guarantee anything, but I can tell you that the president addressed this question directly,” Sanders told the Post in 2018. “I can tell you that I’ve never heard it.”
From the Post:
Mary Trump, 55, has long been estranged from her family following a dispute over inheritance, among other things. Her book — published Tuesday and an instant bestseller — so worried her family that the president’s brother unsuccessfully tried to block its publication in court. Her father, Fred Jr. — the president’s older brother — died of an alcohol-related illness in 1981, when she was 16 years old. Since the 2016 campaign there have been claims that Trump used the n-word on the set of his television show, “The Apprentice.” Bill Pruitt, an original producer on the reality show, first hinted at it in October 2016, claiming there were tapes of Trump using “far worse” language than was heard on the Access Hollywood tape in which Trump is heard boasting about grabbing women by their genitals.
Advertisement
Disgraced Black, Omarosa Manigault Newman, claimed in her 2018 book you know the one she wrote after she was kicked out of the president’s inner circle, claimed that there were tapes of the president using the n-word behind the scenes on The Apprentice.
“Trump denied using ‘such a terrible and disgusting word’ in an August 2018 tweet, adding, ‘I don’t have that word in my vocabulary, and never have,’” the Post reports.
Advertisement
It’s important to note here that the president is a habitual liar.
I know that none of this is mind-blowing considering we’ve all watched as the president and his administration has done their best to rip America along the racial seams but it is a bit refreshing to hear his own niece state it definitively. She even painted a rather bleak picture of America should the president be re-elected in November, and by re-election, I mean Russia fucks with the election again,
Advertisement
“I absolutely believe [it] would be the end of the American experiment,” she said. “I do not believe there’s any coming back from this.”


theroot--2020-07-17--The Root's Clapback Mailbag: The Cleaning Solution

I never abused my sisters .
I just subjected them to years of mental abuse and torture .
Perhaps the greatest example of my emotional terrorism was my stance on the bathroom .
Before my mother returned home from work every day , she required us to clean the entire house .
My sisters and I were each responsible for our own rooms but we created a system for cleaning the bathroom .
Essentially , we all took turns .
My mother didn ’ t know about our system , nor did she care .
All she cared about was @ @ @ @ @ @ @ came home .
One day , everyone was finished cleaning their respective rooms but the bathroom was still uncleaned and it was my turn to clean it .
“ Mikey , the bathroom ain ’ t clean yet , ” said my oldest sister , Sean .
“ Mama will be home in 15 minutes , ” my youngest sister Comelita reminded me .
“ So when are you going to clean it ?
” they both asked .
“ I ’ m not , ” I answered calmly .
“ I don @ @ @ @ @ @ @ In fact , I ’ ve decided to remove myself from the rotation .
I ’ m not going to clean the bathroom anymore.
” “ But if you don ’ t do it , we all get in trouble !
” Sean said .
“ I know , ” I responded , while laying on the couch .
“ She ’ ll be really mad .
We ’ ll be in a lot of trouble.
” “ I know , ” I muttered .
“ We ’ re all gon na be @ @ @ @ @ @ @ cleans the bathroom.
” And so they did .
But , what I didn ’ t count on , was that they would snitch to my mother .
“ So , the bathroom isn ’ t clean ?
” she asked , after they recounted the entire ordeal to her as soon as she got home .
“ So who cleaned it , then ?
” asked my mother .
“ Me and Comelita , ” answered my Sean .
“ We didn ’ t want to get in trouble.
” “ Well @ @ @ @ @ @ @ ” said my mom , “ Then why do I care ?
” And that ’ s what this week ’ s mailbag is about .
There were many people who believe I defended Nick Cannon ’ s bigoted comments or didn ’ t vilify him enough .
I ’ ve been reading your writing and enjoying your twitter for some time .
But I ’ m also a Jewish guy , and it struck me to see you defend Nick Cannon like you did .
To be clear , I want those @ @ @ @ @ @ @ George Floyd to go away for a long time .
But I ’ m also happy to see Cannon canceled .
Things can get tense sometimes between Black people and Jews .
I grew up around many of both .
We are the two most reliable Democratic voting blocs .
Mostly we get along , but fact is there is a substantial amount of racism among Jews and antisemitism among Blacks .
The only people this serves are the white supremacists .
I don ’ t mean to equate the Jewish and Black @ @ @ @ @ @ @ s not the same by a long shot .
But mostly , we ’ re on the same side .
The last thing we need is to promote conspiracy theories and hatred between our groups .
I know there ’ s no excuse for this and I accept the responsibility for my actions .
I also have a confession to make : I only watched the short clip that everyone was commenting on and I didn ’ t see anything anti-Semitic in that particular clip .
It has now come to my attention @ @ @ @ @ @ @ anti-Jewish and had I seen that clip ... OK , I wouldn ’ t have seen that clip because I would never watch an entire Nick Cannon podcast .
I feel like you ’ re asking a lot .
It ’ s obvious that you don ’ t care about me or my mental health if you ask me to watch an entire hour of Nick Cannon philosophizing about ... Well , anything .
I also don ’ t watch episodes of Tucker Carlson , Donald Trump press conferences or sermons of any @ @ @ @ @ @ @ it .
And here is why : I believe all religions are stupid , bigoted and promote violence .
I was reluctant to include Yakub ’ s history in this article because , as insane as it sounds , the belief that an evil scientist created white people in a cave in the Caucus mountains is as insane as the belief that humans were created in a botanical garden near the suburbs of Eden .
I don ’ t believe that the white man is the Devil any more than I believe the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ kicked out of heaven by God ’ s bouncers .
If you believe in the tenets of the Hebrew Israelites , you have to believe that the “ fake jews ” are evil people who control the banks , the media and the world .
If you believe in the tenets of Judaism , you have to believe that “ the Lord thy God hath chosen thee to be a special people unto himself , above all people that are upon the face of the earth.
” The man who rescued the Jews @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to the chosen people of God : I believe what Nick Cannon said was dangerous because I believe all religion is dangerous .
To be clear , Nick ’ s words were anti-Semitic and anti-Jewish .
I wasn ’ t defending him .
I wasn ’ t even excusing his words .
I was intentionally avoiding the religious aspect of his rant because I was reluctant to wade into the morass of a conversation about religion and distract from a conversation about race .
I do think Nick ’ s words could inspire @ @ @ @ @ @ @ as much as any pastor , zealot or politician ’ s words could be used to inspire hate against a group of people .
That ’ s what religion does .
If we ascribe the good aspects of religion to people like Martin Luther King Jr. and Gandhi , then we must also acknowledge that hate and bigotry is buried in the tenets of all religions .
Even Jesus went on a rant on his podcast during the “ Sermon on the Mount ” episode .
Now , most people quote the “ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ and never ask where the non-meek people would go .
But I know .
We can ’ t forget that Jesus read the laws of the prophet Moses and said : I ’ m sure he didn ’ t get canceled , But I confess ... And sometimes I promote racism myself : I ’ ve never made a rap video or used crack cocaine but I am a “ black voter.
” I am part of the “ black community.
” So I don ’ t object when people say “ black @ @ @ @ @ @ @ know the large percentage of black people did .
Even though I voted for Lenora B. Fulani in the 1992 election , I don ’ t say “ not all black people ” when someone points out that Bill Clinton won the black vote .
But if I said “ white people voted for Trump , ” a white person always gets offended even though the majority of white voters voted for Trump .
If I said that white people like cocaine and meth , white people would think that was racist even @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to use cocaine during their lives as black people .
A white person is three times more likely to use crystal meth than a black person is to commit a crime .
I couldn ’ t find the statistics but I bet that most black people have never made a rap video .
So why are you upset when I point out these facts ?
Because you ’ re not used to it .
One of the privileges that whiteness affords is being an individual .
You only have to answer for your @ @ @ @ @ @ @ that this is a good thing that should be extended to all races .
I wouldn ’ t care if white people see me as a thugged-out , fatherless scoundrel who should work on fixing black-on-black crime if white people accepted the responsibility of racism , white supremacy and all the harmful things that white people do .
I ’ d be willing to go oversee the production of all hip-hop music if white people agreed to tear down all Confederate flags .
I ’ d broker an agreement between the Crips and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ McConnell and Brian Kemp .
I ’ d make every black father marry their child ’ s mother if white people stopped white woman from calling the cops on black people .
I promise I would enroll all the dope boys in college if you made the education system fair .
I ’ d stop black-on-black violence if you equalized the criminal justice system .
But instead of accepting responsibility for their actions , white people would rather blame everyone else for America ’ s problems as if they didn ’ t build @ @ @ @ @ @ @ enforce the rules and mete out punishment .
They never take ownership of their actions but if a black person marches , protests , or fights against the system they built , all of a sudden it ’ s black people collectively who are ruining “ their country.
” That is the privilege of individuality .
White people don ’ t have to clean up the mess they created .

I was a shitty brother.
I never abused my sisters. I just subjected them to years of mental abuse and torture. Perhaps the greatest example of my emotional terrorism was my stance on the bathroom.
Before my mother returned home from work every day, she required us to clean the entire house. My sisters and I were each responsible for our own rooms but we created a system for cleaning the bathroom. Essentially, we all took turns. My mother didn’t know about our system, nor did she care. All she cared about was that the house was clean when she came home.
Advertisement
One day, everyone was finished cleaning their respective rooms but the bathroom was still uncleaned and it was my turn to clean it.
“Mikey, the bathroom ain’t clean yet,” said my oldest sister, Sean.
“I know,” I replied.
“Mama will be home in 15 minutes,” my youngest sister Comelita reminded me.
“I know,” I replied.
“So when are you going to clean it?” they both asked.
“I’m not,” I answered calmly. “I don’t feel like doing it. In fact, I’ve decided to remove myself from the rotation. I’m not going to clean the bathroom anymore.”
Advertisement Advertisement
“But if you don’t do it, we all get in trouble!” Sean said.
“I know,” I responded, while laying on the couch. “She’ll be really mad. We’ll be in a lot of trouble.”
Advertisement
“That’s not fair!” screamed Comelita.
“I know,” I muttered. “We’re all gonna be on punishment... Unless one of you cleans the bathroom.”
Advertisement
And so they did. But, what I didn’t count on, was that they would snitch to my mother.
“So, the bathroom isn’t clean?” she asked, after they recounted the entire ordeal to her as soon as she got home.
Advertisement
“Yes” they replied.
“So who cleaned it, then?” asked my mother.
“Me and Comelita,” answered my Sean. “We didn’t want to get in trouble.”
“Well, if it’s clean,” said my mom, “Then why do I care?”
And that’s what this week’s mailbag is about.
There were many people who believe I defended Nick Cannon’s bigoted comments or didn’t vilify him enough.
Advertisement
Thank You, Nick Cannon Entertainment giant Viacom CBS fired television host, comedian and former Atlanta A&T percussionist Read more
From: Ezra
To: Michael Harriot Hi Mike, I’ve been reading your writing and enjoying your twitter for some time. But I’m also a Jewish guy, and it struck me to see you defend Nick Cannon like you did. To be clear, I want those son-of-a-bitch cops who killed Breonna Taylor and George Floyd to go away for a long time. But I’m also happy to see Cannon canceled. Things can get tense sometimes between Black people and Jews. I grew up around many of both. We are the two most reliable Democratic voting blocs. Mostly we get along, but fact is there is a substantial amount of racism among Jews and antisemitism among Blacks. The only people this serves are the white supremacists. I don’t mean to equate the Jewish and Black experience in America today. It’s not the same by a long shot. But mostly, we’re on the same side. The last thing we need is to promote conspiracy theories and hatred between our groups. Best, Ezra
From: weshleysnipes
To: Michael Harriot I feel like this argument is a deflection. Everything in it is correct- however, Viacom didn’t (or at lease didn’t say) they fired him because of the anti-white shit. It was because of the antisemitism. And that isn’t just words, that’s stuff that actively hurts and provokes violence against Jewish people. You quote the anti-white stuff he said but don’t quote the antisemitic things he said. That’s the big issue and framing it with the anti-white quotes and then just peppering in “making comments many classified as derogatory, racist and anti-Semitic” as background seems kind of disingenuous.
From: Skibo91
To: Michael Harriot He cosigned the statement that “Jews are wicked” and responsible for “the majority of wickedness that goes on around the globe” and expressed concern that the Jews have so much power that “they” turn into “Illuminati, the Zionists, and the Rothschilds”. Saying that “many classified [the statements as] anti-Semitic” is not just disingenuous, it’s Trump level bullshit.
From: Gaby
To: Michael Harriot Hi Michael, I’m such an admirer of your work and have followed you for a long time. I am furious that Breonna Taylor’s murderers still walk free. I also believe that Nick Cannon’s words and ideas and avid support for Louis Farrakhan were extremely harmful, especially given his immense platform. I can support those two beliefs at the same time. I wish we lived in a country that arrested the cops who killed Breonna Taylor at the scene of the crime. I will continue to fight for their arrest. I believe people should face consequences for murdering Black women and I believe that people should face consequences for spewing anti-semitism. I’m saddened that you found Nick’s firing to be problematic to the lack of justice we’ve seen for Breonna Taylor.
Advertisement
Dear everyone
I know there’s no excuse for this and I accept the responsibility for my actions. I also have a confession to make:
I didn’t watch the entire Nick Cannon podcast.
I only watched the short clip that everyone was commenting on and I didn’t see anything anti-Semitic in that particular clip. It has now come to my attention that he made other remarks that were anti-Jewish and had I seen that clip...
Advertisement
OK, I wouldn’t have seen that clip because I would never watch an entire Nick Cannon podcast. I feel like you’re asking a lot. It’s obvious that you don’t care about me or my mental health if you ask me to watch an entire hour of Nick Cannon philosophizing about...Well, anything. I also don’t watch episodes of Tucker Carlson, Donald Trump press conferences or sermons of any kind. I can’t take it. And here is why:
I believe all religions are stupid, bigoted and promote violence.
I was reluctant to include Yakub’s history in this article because, as insane as it sounds, the belief that an evil scientist created white people in a cave in the Caucus mountains is as insane as the belief that humans were created in a botanical garden near the suburbs of Eden. I don’t believe that the white man is the Devil any more than I believe the Devil was a choir director who was kicked out of heaven by God’s bouncers.
Advertisement
If you believe in the tenets of the Hebrew Israelites, you have to believe that the “fake jews” are evil people who control the banks, the media and the world. If you believe in the tenets of Judaism, you have to believe that “the Lord thy God hath chosen thee to be a special people unto himself, above all people that are upon the face of the earth.” The man who rescued the Jews from slavery also gave these specific instructions to the chosen people of God:
If there be found among you, within any of thy gates which the Lord thy God giveth thee, man or woman, that hath wrought wickedness in the sight of the Lord thy God, in transgressing his covenant, and hath gone and served other gods, and worshipped them, either the sun, or moon, or any of the host of heaven, which I have not commanded; And it be told thee, and thou hast heard of it, and enquired diligently, and, behold, it be true, and the thing certain, that such abomination is wrought in Israel: Then shalt thou bring forth that man or that woman, which have committed that wicked thing, unto thy gates, even that man or that woman, and shalt stone them with stones, till they die.
Advertisement
I believe what Nick Cannon said was dangerous because I believe all religion is dangerous.
To be clear, Nick’s words were anti-Semitic and anti-Jewish. I wasn’t defending him. I wasn’t even excusing his words. I was intentionally avoiding the religious aspect of his rant because I was reluctant to wade into the morass of a conversation about religion and distract from a conversation about race. I do think Nick’s words could inspire hate against a certain group of people as much as any pastor, zealot or politician’s words could be used to inspire hate against a group of people. That’s what religion does.
Advertisement
If we ascribe the good aspects of religion to people like Martin Luther King Jr. and Gandhi, then we must also acknowledge that hate and bigotry is buried in the tenets of all religions.
Even Jesus went on a rant on his podcast during the “Sermon on the Mount” episode. Now, most people quote the “meek shall inherit the earth part” and never ask where the non-meek people would go. But I know. We can’t forget that Jesus read the laws of the prophet Moses and said:
Think not that I am come to destroy the law, or the prophets: I am not come to destroy, but to fulfill.
Advertisement
I’m sure he didn’t get canceled, But I confess...
I didn’t read the whole thing.
And sometimes I promote racism myself:
Advertisement
Advertisement
So here’s the thing:
I’ve never made a rap video or used crack cocaine but I am a “black voter.” I am part of the “black community.” So I don’t object when people say “black people vote for Democrats” because I know the large percentage of black people did. Even though I voted for Lenora B. Fulani in the 1992 election, I don’t say “not all black people” when someone points out that Bill Clinton won the black vote.
Advertisement
But if I said “white people voted for Trump,” a white person always gets offended even though the majority of white voters voted for Trump. If I said that white people like cocaine and meth, white people would think that was racist even though white people are twice as likely to use cocaine during their lives as black people. A white person is three times more likely to use crystal meth than a black person is to commit a crime. I couldn’t find the statistics but I bet that most black people have never made a rap video.
So why are you upset when I point out these facts?
I know why.
Because you’re not used to it.
One of the privileges that whiteness affords is being an individual. You only have to answer for your actions. Now, many would say that this is a good thing that should be extended to all races.
Advertisement
I don’t.
I wouldn’t care if white people see me as a thugged-out, fatherless scoundrel who should work on fixing black-on-black crime if white people accepted the responsibility of racism, white supremacy and all the harmful things that white people do. I’d be willing to go oversee the production of all hip-hop music if white people agreed to tear down all Confederate flags.
Advertisement
I’d broker an agreement between the Crips and the Bloods if white people stopped Mitch McConnell and Brian Kemp. I’d make every black father marry their child’s mother if white people stopped white woman from calling the cops on black people. I promise I would enroll all the dope boys in college if you made the education system fair. I’d stop black-on-black violence if you equalized the criminal justice system.
But instead of accepting responsibility for their actions, white people would rather blame everyone else for America’s problems as if they didn’t build this system, write the laws, enforce the rules and mete out punishment. They never take ownership of their actions but if a black person marches, protests, or fights against the system they built, all of a sudden it’s black people collectively who are ruining “their country.”
Advertisement
That is the privilege of individuality.
White people don’t have to clean up the mess they created.
And that’s why white people don’t care.


theroot--2020-07-17--Federal Judge Denies Netflix's 2nd Motion to Dismiss Mo'Nique's Racial and Gender Bias Lawsuit

It looks like Mo ’ Nique ’ s journey toward justice is moving along , despite attempts to halt things .
According to Deadline , a federal judge has denied Netflix ’ s second motion to throw out the actress-comedian ’ s racial a nd gender discri mination lawsuit against the streaming platform and co-CEO Ted Sarandos .
As previously reported , Mo ’ Nique filed a lawsuit back in November 2019 with her legal team claiming , “ Despite Mo ’ Nique ’ s extensive résumé and documented history of comedic success , when Netflix presented her with an @ @ @ @ @ @ @ comedy special , Netflix made a lowball offer that was only a fraction of what Netflix paid other ( non-Black female ) comedians.
” Deadline provided a summary of what happened during the recent hearing : In rejecting the streamer ’ s motion to dismiss , Judge Andre Birotte Jr. said yesterday , “ Mo ’ Nique plausibly alleges that , after she spoke out and called her initial offer discriminatory , Netflix retaliated against her by shutting down its standard practice of negotiating in good faith that typically results in increased monetary @ @ @ @ @ @ @ and denying her increased compensation as a result ” ( Read the full ruling here ) .
“ While Netflix argues that the novelty of Mo ’ Nique ’ s claim and the absence of on-point legal authority for it should bar her retaliation claims outright , the Court disagrees , ” the U.S. District Court judge added in a slap to the streamer .
As we ’ re witnessing a sort of mainstream reckoning occurring in Hollywood when it comes to corporate accountability , Mo ’ Nique ’ s case was certainly @ @ @ @ @ @ @ at the time she initiated things by speaking out , I do wonder how Mo ’ Nique feels now to witness the shift that ’ s happening these days .
“ Oftentimes , we will get a carrot that will dangle in front of us , but we don ’ t know that carrot is bitter because it appears to be sweet .
Do I think that Black female comedians are paid equally to their white female counterparts , to their Black male counterparts or their white male counterparts ?
I do not @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Root in an interview earlier this year .
The full ruling is publicly available to read .
The Root reached out to Netflix and Mo ’ Nique for comment on the matter .
Netflix has declined to comment .

It looks like Mo’Nique’s journey toward justice is moving along, despite attempts to halt things.
According to Deadline, a federal judge has denied Netflix’s second motion to throw out the actress-comedian’s racial a nd gender discri mination lawsuit against the streaming platform and co-CEO Ted Sarandos. As previously reported, Mo’Nique filed a lawsuit back in November 2019 with her legal team claiming, “Despite Mo’Nique’s extensive résumé and documented history of comedic success, when Netflix presented her with an offer of employment for an exclusive stand-up comedy special, Netflix made a lowball offer that was only a fraction of what Netflix paid other (non-Black female) comedians.”
Advertisement
Deadline provided a summary of what happened during the recent hearing:
In rejecting the streamer’s motion to dismiss, Judge Andre Birotte Jr. said yesterday, “Mo’Nique plausibly alleges that, after she spoke out and called her initial offer discriminatory, Netflix retaliated against her by shutting down its standard practice of negotiating in good faith that typically results in increased monetary compensation beyond the ‘opening offer’ and denying her increased compensation as a result” (Read the full ruling here). “While Netflix argues that the novelty of Mo’Nique’s claim and the absence of on-point legal authority for it should bar her retaliation claims outright, the Court disagrees,” the U.S. District Court judge added in a slap to the streamer.
Advertisement Advertisement
As we’re witnessing a sort of mainstream reckoning occurring in Hollywood when it comes to corporate accountability, Mo’Nique’s case was certainly ahead of its time. While polarizing at the time she initiated things by speaking out, I do wonder how Mo’Nique feels now to witness the shift that’s happening these days.
“Oftentimes, we will get a carrot that will dangle in front of us, but we don’t know that carrot is bitter because it appears to be sweet. Do I think that Black female comedians are paid equally to their white female counterparts, to their Black male counterparts or their white male counterparts? I do not,” Mo’Nique told The Root in an interview earlier this year.
Advertisement
The full ruling is publicly available to read. The Root reached out to Netflix and Mo’Nique for comment on the matter. Netflix has declined to comment.


theroot--2020-07-17--Comfort and Construction Come Together in This $35 Paramount Backpack

I prefer a backpack to a purse most of the time when I got out .
I do live in a neighborhood where I walk everywhere so size and comfort are very important .
And if you ’ ve been working outside you want to make sure all your valuable are safe too .
This durable water-resistant backpack from Thule is 73 % of f today .
Sa feEdge construction is built into the laptop section to keep said work items secure and sound .
The soft interior lining will keep a tablet cozy too without damage .
The bottom @ @ @ @ @ @ @ extra protection .
There are lots of padded pockets for your glasses , phones , and other small delicate devices .
Like I said comfort is king , Thule made sure of that and made the shoulder straps extra padded .
The back panel allows for airflow too which will reduce the embarrassing back sweat mark which I totally get .
Again , you want comfort and security and both of these get high marks of this Paramount backpack .
Plus you save $ 95 .
If you ’ ve read a few @ @ @ @ @ @ @ you like what you ’ ve seen they offer a $ 5 monthly fee to get free shipping on all of your orders no matter how many .
Otherwise , it ’ s a flat rate of $ 8 .

Sheilah Villari on Kinja Deals, shared by Ignacia to The Root

Paramount 24L Backpack | $35 | SideDeal
I prefer a backpack to a purse most of the time when I got out. I do live in a neighborhood where I walk everywhere so size and comfort are very important. And if you’ve been working outside you want to make sure all your valuable are safe too. This durable water-resistant backpack from Thule is 73% of f today.
Sa feEdge construction is built into the laptop section to keep said work items secure and sound. The soft interior lining will keep a tablet cozy too without damage . The bottom of this bag has welded panels for extra protection. There are lots of padded pockets for your glasses, phones, and other small delicate devices. Like I said comfort is king, Thule made sure of that and made the shoulder straps extra padded. The back panel allows for airflow too which will reduce the embarrassing back sweat mark which I totally get. Again, you want comfort and security and both of these get high marks of this Paramount backpack. Plus you save $95.
If you’ve read a few of our pieces on SideDeal before and you like what you’ve seen they offer a $5 monthly fee to get free shipping on all of your orders no matter how many. Otherwise, it’s a flat rate of $8.


theroot--2020-07-17--Auntie Unfiltered: Lady A vs. Lady Anti-BLM

By now you have likely heard the story of the legal situation now happening between the country music band formerly known as Lady Antebellum and the Black woman blues singer who has performed for more than 20 years under the moniker Lady A .
In case you haven ’ t , here ’ s the Cliff ’ s Notes on a situation that demons trates what happens when performative wokeness devolves into white supremacy : Last month , when a whole bunch of white people suddenly realized that this country is racist , rooted in racism and engineered by white @ @ @ @ @ @ @ of performative social media posts , public gesticulating and loud denouncements of racism coupled with strong pronouncements to “ do better.
” Among those pronouncements was one from Lady Antebellum , who after 14 years of performing under a name that references the time in America when Black people were enslaved , suddenly discovered that the name had racist connotations .
“ We ’ ve watched and listened more than ever these last few weeks , and our hearts have been stirred with conviction , our eyes opened wide to the injustices , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ have always faced and continue to face every day .
Now , blind spots we didn ’ t even known existed have been revealed , ” they wrote .
“ After much personal reflection , band discussion , prayer and many honest conversations with some of our closest black friends and colleagues , we have decided to drop the word ‘ antebellum ’ from our name and move forward as Lady A , the nickname our fans gave us almost from the start , ” they continued .
The group had originally adopted @ @ @ @ @ @ @ photos outside an antebellum home , thinking about the way Southern music had influenced them all as performers .
They admit they hadn ’ t given much thought to the word ’ s definition and its negative connotations with nostalgic notions of the pre-Civil War South .
I imagine it must be very relaxing to be white and not have to think about or consider such things because they don ’ t have a negative impact on you .
The group decided that they would shorten their moniker to “ Lady A , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Lady A is a soon-to-be- 62-year-old blues singer out of Seattle who has been performing under that name for more than two decades .
She has released multiple albums under that name , including an upcoming release tomorrow , July 18—which also happens to be her birthday , titled Lady A : Live in New Orleans .
In our first telephone conversation , Lady A told me that she might not have known the name change was even happening were it not for the Rolling Stone writer who called her to discuss it @ @ @ @ @ @ @ group had not reached out to her before making their decision , which is ironic considering the alleged point of the whole thing is to show solidarity with Black people .
She wondered how it was that Rolling Stone was able to find her on Spotify , yet the band had not done the most basic searches to make sure they weren ’ t infringing on someone else ’ s name .
“ It ’ s an opportunity for them to pretend they ’ re not racist or pretend this means something to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ If it did , they would ’ ve done some research .
And I ’ m not happy about that .
You found me on Spotify easily — why couldn ’ t they ?
” The group told Rolling Stone that they planned to reach out to Lady A , and they did .
What followed was more performative contrition , a push to get Lady A to validate them and absolve them of their white guilt , and ultimately an exertion of white supremacy via the court system over a Black woman @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , disappear and give them her name .
I spoke with Lady A again because I wanted her to have a chance to say it with her chest in my unfiltered environment , so she is this week ’ s special guest on Auntie Unfiltered .
Watch and listen as she explains how the group tried to take over her name and went from being woke to supremely white again when that didn ’ t work out for them .
As always , I want to hear from you .
If you have @ @ @ @ @ @ @ you need advice or if you have a topic you think Auntie should discuss , please hit me up at AuntieSubmissions @ theroot.com .

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


theroot--2020-07-17--Jerami Grant Keeps That Same Energy Throughout Interview With Reporters: 'Breonna Taylor’s Killers A

Jerami Grant Keeps That Same Energy Throughout Interview With Reporters: 'Breonna Taylor’s Killers Are Still Roaming Around Free'

As a role player , Denver Nuggets forward Jerami Grant doesn ’ t make a lot of headlines .
But after dedicating an entire press conference to discussing the death of Breonna Taylor , he ’ s doing exactly that for all the right reasons .
ESPN and the Denver Post report that after practice on Wednesday , Grant fielded a number of questions from reporters .
But no matter what they asked , the 26-year-old made it a point to direct the conversation toward justice for Taylor .
On how he has been spending his free time in the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ great to be here with my teammates , great to be back playing basketball but for me personally , and I think a lot of players , it ’ s imperative that we focus on what is really important in the world .
One thing for me is Breonna Taylor ’ s killers are still roaming around free , so I want to focus on that with these interviews and things like that .
I want to keep the focus there.
” On teammate Nikola Jokic finally joining the team after being diagnosed @ @ @ @ @ @ @ question , Grant kept that same energy throughout the entire interview .
“ [ There ’ s ] a lot going on in the world right now with police brutality and racism and things like that , and I want to keep the focus on that , ” he said .
“ It ’ s tough times .
It has been this way for a long time .
Basketball is something I love and something everybody loves , but at the same time we got to focus on what is important.
” When @ @ @ @ @ @ @ what happened during Grant ’ s interview , he had nothing but praise for the Syracuse product .
“ I respect Jerami doing that , ” he said .
“ It ’ s a big point of emphasis from the league , from the coaches , the NBPA , coming down here .
Making sure that we continue the conversation and keeping the spotlight where it needs to be .
For Jerami to dedicate his press conference to the memory of the life of Breonna Taylor is outstanding , so I applaud him @ @ @ @ @ @ @ as important to NBA players as they ’ ve proclaimed it to be , let ’ s hope this is just the beginning of the league ’ s commitment to being catalysts for change .

As a role player, Denver Nuggets forward Jerami Grant doesn’t make a lot of headlines. But after dedicating an entire press conference to discussing the death of Breonna Taylor, he’s doing exactly that for all the right reasons.
ESPN and the Denver Post report that after practice on Wednesday, Grant fielded a number of questions from reporters. But no matter what they asked, the 26-year-old made it a point to direct the conversation toward justice for Taylor.
Advertisement
On how he has been spending his free time in the NBA bubble:
“It’s great to be here with my teammates, great to be back playing basketball but for me personally, and I think a lot of players, it’s imperative that we focus on what is really important in the world. One thing for me is Breonna Taylor’s killers are still roaming around free, so I want to focus on that with these interviews and things like that. I want to keep the focus there.”
Advertisement Advertisement
On teammate Nikola Jokic finally joining the team after being diagnosed with COVID-19 in June:
“Like I said, it’s great to have my teammates here, it’s great to be here playing basketball, but at the same time, I want to keep the focus on what’s really important. Breonna Taylor’s murderers still are roaming around free.”
Advertisement
Question after question, Grant kept that same energy throughout the entire interview.
“[There’s] a lot going on in the world right now with police brutality and racism and things like that, and I want to keep the focus on that,” he said. “It’s tough times. It has been this way for a long time. Basketball is something I love and something everybody loves, but at the same time we got to focus on what is important.”
Advertisement
When Nuggets coach Mike Malone got wind of what happened during Grant’s interview, he had nothing but praise for the Syracuse product.
Advertisement
“I respect Jerami doing that,” he said. “It’s a big point of emphasis from the league, from the coaches, the NBPA, coming down here. Making sure that we continue the conversation and keeping the spotlight where it needs to be. For Jerami to dedicate his press conference to the memory of the life of Breonna Taylor is outstanding, so I applaud him for that.”
I couldn’t agree more.
If social justice is as important to NBA players as they’ve proclaimed it to be, let’s hope this is just the beginning of the league’s commitment to being catalysts for change.


theroot--2020-07-17--I May Destroy You: Michaela Coel Has Full Autonomy and it Shows

Her newest series ( which she executive produces , co-directs , writes and stars in ) , I May Destroy You , has everyone talking and speechless at the same time .
The synopsis of the show , via HBO : Many other have already expressed this sentiment , but I May Destroy You has destroyed me .
I was able to digest the entire first season via advanced screeners ( also note : the show airs episodes on BBC ahead of HBO ) and I must say it is the best representation of sexual assault and sexual consent that @ @ @ @ @ @ @ care , concern and tenderness this series handles such a complex and varying topic will leave you gutted .
It is important to note that I always add a disclaimer to my glowing reviews by citing a trigger warning as the content is very raw and very real .
I ’ ve been a fan of Coel since Chewing Gum , so was thrilled to sit down with her via Zoom to chat about her series , which served as a “ cathartic ” processing for her own experience with sexual assault .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ it balanced such heaviness with Coel ’ s patented humor , which made the series all the more endearing—all the more human .
“ When I think about how this show ended up with this quite absurd tone to it , I think back to my own reality , when I was in the police investigation room getting ready to give my witness statement for the first time and I remember it slowly beginning to compute that something really bad has happened and that the course of my life would be forever shifted @ @ @ @ @ @ @ “ It ’ s a very disorienting place to find myself in and as I looked to my friend , who was taking care of me that day ... he was playing Pokémon Go on his phone and [ chuckles ] that was the tone that never left me when just when I was beginning to process the darkness , something funny shows up like an unwanted guest at a party.
” Much like the full agency and autonomy she claimed with creating this very series , Coel followed that same theme when @ @ @ @ @ @ @ creation .
The creator made headlines when she revealed she turned down a a $ 1 million check from Netflix because the streaming platform didn ’ t offer her any ownership in the project .
“ For me , the show was about exploitation ... it was about being disempowered , ” Coel continued .
“ So , for me to not retain any of my rights seemed at odds with the very nature of the show.
” New episodes of I May Destroy You air Mondays on HBO at 9 p.m .


theroot--2020-07-17--Defense Secretary Mark Esper Kinda, Sorta, Maybe Bans Confederate Flags on Military Bases

I hate when people try to talk around a subject .
It ’ s far easier to just be upfront and straightforward about what the issue is .
Simply put , if you ’ re not gon na knuck , then don ’ t sit here and try to buck .
As conversations on the inherent racism of the Confederate flag have reignited in recent months , we ’ ve seen multiple institutions flat out say “ that shit ’ s banned.
” Defense Secretary Mark Esper , well , did not do that .
Instead , according to the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ memo that said the “ flags we fly must accord with the military imperatives of good order and discipline , treating all our people with dignity and respect , and rejecting divisive symbols.
” That ’ s a lot of words to not say what you ’ re trying to say .
He goes on to say that the American flag is the “ principal flag we are authorized and encouraged to display.
” He never mentions the Confederate flag , not once .
He writes a flowery spiel about how “ Flags @ @ @ @ @ @ @ military community for whom flags embody common mission , common histories , and the special , timeless bond of warriors , ” but he never mentions the Confederate flag .
Not once .
He even manages to go on to quote World War II veteran and Supreme Court Justice John Paul Stevens , who once said the American flag “ Is a symbol of freedom , of equal opportunity , of religious tolerance , and of good will for other peoples who share our aspirations.
” You know what he didn ’ t @ @ @ @ @ @ @ of flags that are authorized to be flown on bases that includes state flags , POW/MIA flags , and flags for organizations such as NATO where the United States is a member .
He provided a really extensive list of flags that actually are allowed on military bases .
The Confederate flag was never mentioned though .
Not once .
It ’ s just amusing that even in trying to “ do the right thing , ” this administration still manages to , well , not .
You can ’ t get points @ @ @ @ @ @ @ re not willing to outright address what it is and why it ’ s a problem .
Both the Marines and the Navy explicitly named the Confederate flag when they issued their bans .
If the actual organizations can do it , then why can ’ t the man in charge of overseeing them ?
Well , actually , I think we know why .

I hate when people try to talk around a subject. It’s far easier to just be upfront and straightforward about what the issue is. Simply put, if you’re not gonna knuck, then don’t sit here and try to buck. As conversations on the inherent racism of the Confederate flag have reignited in recent months, we’ve seen multiple institutions flat out say “that shit’s banned.” Defense Secretary Mark Esper, well, did not do that.
Instead, according to the Washington Post, he sent out a memo that said the “flags we fly must accord with the military imperatives of good order and discipline, treating all our people with dignity and respect, and rejecting divisive symbols.” That’s a lot of words to not say what you’re trying to say. He goes on to say that the American flag is the “principal flag we are authorized and encouraged to display.”
Advertisement
He never mentions the Confederate flag, not once.
He writes a flowery spiel about how “Flags are powerful symbols, particularly in the military community for whom flags embody common mission, common histories, and the special, timeless bond of warriors,” but he never mentions the Confederate flag. Not once.
Advertisement Advertisement
He even manages to go on to quote World War II veteran and Supreme Court Justice John Paul Stevens, who once said the American flag “Is a symbol of freedom, of equal opportunity, of religious tolerance, and of good will for other peoples who share our aspirations.” You know what he didn’t do though?
Mention the Confederate flag.
Not once.
Esper provided a list of flags that are authorized to be flown on bases that includes state flags, POW/MIA flags, and flags for organizations such as NATO where the United States is a member. He provided a really extensive list of flags that actually are allowed on military bases.
Advertisement
The Confederate flag was never mentioned though. Not once.
It’s just amusing that even in trying to “do the right thing, ” this administration still manages to, well, not. You can’t get points for solving a problem if you’re not willing to outright address what it is and why it’s a problem. Both the Marines and the Navy explicitly named the Confederate flag when they issued their bans. If the actual organizations can do it, then why can’t the man in charge of overseeing them?
Advertisement
Well, actually, I think we know why.


theroot--2020-07-17--Only $175, Get a Refurbished Pair of Beats Studio3 Wireless Headphones in Mint Condition

At Back Market , you can save a decent chunk on a pair of Beats Studio3 wireless over-ear headphones .
@ @ @ @ @ 175 refurbished , which saves you at least $ 25 over the cost you ’ @ @ @ @ @ at most other retailers .
These are in “ mint ” condition , too , @ @ @ @ @ Market—means the following : Should you take a chance , you ’ ll treat your @ @ @ @ @ but powerful sound stage helped along by active noise cancellation and Apple ’ s W1 @ @ @ @ @ to 22 hours of battery life with ANC mode on , and a whopping 40 @ @ @ @ @ .
Plus , the audio is calibrated in real-time to adapt to your ambient environment @ @ @ @ @ possible sound at any given moment .
If you buy from Back Market , remember @ @ @ @ @ by a 12-month warrant and a 30-day return policy , so don ’ t be @ @ @ @ @ on a sweet new set of cans .

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

Beats Studio3 Wireless Headphones (Refurbished) | $175 | Back Market
At Back Market, you can save a decent chunk on a pair of Beats Studio3 wireless over-ear headphones. They’re only $175 refurbished, which saves you at least $25 over the cost you’d pay for it new at most other retailers. These are in “mint” condition, too, which—according to the refurbisher Back Market—means the following:
Condition Note: All devices are in excellent cosmetic condition. May show minimal to no signs of use. All devices have been tested and restored to full function, factory, standard condition.
Should you take a chance, you’ll treat your ears to a balanced, but powerful sound stage helped along by active noise cancellation and Apple’s W1 audio chip.
Enjoy up to 22 hours of battery life with ANC mode on, and a whopping 40 hours when you disengage it. Plus, the audio is calibrated in real-time to adapt to your ambient environment, giving you the best possible sound at any given moment.
If you buy from Back Market, remember that every purchase is backed by a 12-month warrant and a 30-day return policy, so don’t be afraid to take a chance on a sweet new set of cans.


theroot--2020-07-17--Mike Pompeo Bashes the New York Times’ 1619 Project During Racist Dog Whistle Concert

On Thursday , Secretary of State Mike Pompeo held a one-man , racist dog whistle concert in which he stoked the flames of racism , bashed the New York Times and admonished those who removed Confederate statues .
“ Today , the very core of what it means to be an American , indeed the American way of life itself , is under attack .
Instead of seeking to improve America , leading voices promulgate hatred of our founding principles , ” Pompeo said in an address at the National Constitution Center in Philadelphia , NBC News reports .
Pompeo @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Commission on Unalienable Human Rights , or the working title , “ White People are Losing Their Grip on Privilege.
” “ The group spent more than a year examining the role of human rights in U.S. foreign policy , including looking back at the Constitution and Declaration of Independence , ” NBC News reports .
Pompeo created the commission in the summer of 2019 after arguing “ human rights had become commodified.
” “ More rights seldom means more justice , ” he said Thursday .
“ Americans have not only unalienable @ @ @ @ @ @ @ by governments , courts , and multilateral bodies .
Many are worth defending in light of our founding ; others aren ’ t , ” Pompeo said .
After blowing a light exposition on his racist dog whistle , Pompeo , who always seems like he ’ s in a perpetual state of realizing that the edible he ate hours earlier is taking a turn for the worse , then belted out his recapitulation .
Pompeo claimed that “ the evil institution of slavery was our nation ’ s gravest departure from our @ @ @ @ @ @ @ one of the essential founding principles , but we will move on .
Pompeo—which is Greek for “ Dude , seriously , what the fuck was in that brownie ?
” —then blasted the New York Times for its 1619 Project , which examined slavery ’ s role in the founding of the country and its lasting impact .
“ The New York Times ’ s 1619 Project — so named for the year the first slaves were transported to America — wants you to believe our country was founded for human bondage @ @ @ @ @ @ @ ’ s institutions continue to reflect the country ’ s acceptance of slavery at our founding , ” Pompeo said .
“ They want you to believe Marxist ideology that America is only the oppressors and the oppressed .
The Chinese Communist Party must be gleeful when they see the New York Times spout their ideology.
” There is a lot to breakdown here so let ’ s take it bit by bit .
Fine , let ’ s change it to whites and blacks .
Does that work better ?
Or cops @ @ @ @ @ @ @ banking institutions and those refused home loans at a higher rate .
Who gives a fuck what the Chinese Communist Party thinks ?
Oh , that is the racist dog whistle again .
My bad .
Then Pompeo , who sweats like he has the bubble guts , referenced that “ some people have taken these false doctrines to heart , ” and pointed to the “ widespread tearing down of statues that President Donald Trump has railed against .
Some of the targets have been Confederate generals and leaders , while some @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Fathers and other historical figures because of their slave-owning histories or racist legacies , ” NBC News reports .
“ The rioters pulling down statues thus see nothing wrong with desecrating monuments to those who fought for unalienable rights — from our founding to the present day .
This is a dark vision of America ’ s birth , I reject it , ” Pompeo said .
But wasn ’ t it Pompeo who stated earlier that “ they want you to believe America ’ s institutions continue to reflect the country ’ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ ” Wouldn ’ t these Confederate statues , these relics of racism , these bastions of bastardliness and the cries for them to remain upright not be an acceptance of slavery ?
Wait , I ’ m fucking up the concert .
My bad .
Jordan Cohen , a spokesman for The Times told NBC News , “ We disagree with Secretary Pompeo ’ s interpretation of The 1619 Project ” and are “ proud that it continues to spark a dialogue that allows us to reexamine our assumptions about the past.
” @ @ @ @ @ @ @ are fundamentally wrong and being spoken by a sweaty , edible eater on a bad trip .

On Thursday, Secretary of State Mike Pompeo held a one-man, racist dog whistle concert in which he stoked the flames of racism, bashed the New York Times and admonished those who removed Confederate statues.
“Today, the very core of what it means to be an American, indeed the American way of life itself, is under attack. Instead of seeking to improve America, leading voices promulgate hatred of our founding principles,” Pompeo said in an address at the National Constitution Center in Philadelphia, NBC News reports.
Advertisement
Pompeo was unveiling his group project, the Commission on Unalienable Human Rights, or the working title, “White People are Losing Their Grip on Privilege.”
“The group spent more than a year examining the role of human rights in U.S. foreign policy, including looking back at the Constitution and Declaration of Independence,” NBC News reports.
Advertisement Advertisement
Pompeo created the commission in the summer of 2019 after arguing “human rights had become commodified.”
“More rights seldom means more justice,” he said Thursday.
“Americans have not only unalienable rights, but also positive rights granted by governments, courts, and multilateral bodies. Many are worth defending in light of our founding; others aren’t,” Pompeo said.
Advertisement
After blowing a light exposition on his racist dog whistle, Pompeo, who always seems like he’s in a perpetual state of realizing that the edible he ate hours earlier is taking a turn for the worse, then belted out his recapitulation. Pompeo claimed that “the evil institution of slavery was our nation’s gravest departure from our founding principles.” Ummm, it was one of the essential founding principles, but we will move on. Pompeo—which is Greek for “Dude, seriously, what the fuck was in that brownie?”—then blasted the New York Times for its 1619 Project, which examined slavery’s role in the founding of the country and its lasting impact.
“The New York Times’s 1619 Project — so named for the year the first slaves were transported to America — wants you to believe our country was founded for human bondage. They want you to believe America’s institutions continue to reflect the country’s acceptance of slavery at our founding,” Pompeo said.
Advertisement
“They want you to believe Marxist ideology that America is only the oppressors and the oppressed. The Chinese Communist Party must be gleeful when they see the New York Times spout their ideology.”
There is a lot to breakdown here so let’s take it bit by bit.
The New York Times’s 1619 Project — so named for the year the first slaves were transported to America — wants you to believe our country was founded for human bondage.
Advertisement
Yep, sounds about right.
They want you to believe America’s institutions continue to reflect the country’s acceptance of slavery at our founding.
Advertisement
Y’all do.
They want you to believe Marxist ideology that America is only the oppressors and the oppressed.
Advertisement
Fine, let’s change it to whites and blacks. Does that work better? Or cops and people of color. Or the banking institutions and those refused home loans at a higher rate.
The Chinese Communist Party must be gleeful when they see the New York Times spout their ideology.
Advertisement
Who gives a fuck what the Chinese Communist Party thinks? Oh, that is the racist dog whistle again. My bad.
Then Pompeo, who sweats like he has the bubble guts, referenced that “some people have taken these false doctrines to heart,” and pointed to the “widespread tearing down of statues that President Donald Trump has railed against. Some of the targets have been Confederate generals and leaders, while some others have targeted tributes to the Founding Fathers and other historical figures because of their slave-owning histories or racist legacies,” NBC News reports.
Advertisement
“The rioters pulling down statues thus see nothing wrong with desecrating monuments to those who fought for unalienable rights — from our founding to the present day. This is a dark vision of America’s birth, I reject it,” Pompeo said.
But wasn’t it Pompeo who stated earlier that “they want you to believe America’s institutions continue to reflect the country’s acceptance of slavery at our founding.” Wouldn’t these Confederate statues, these relics of racism, these bastions of bastardliness and the cries for them to remain upright not be an acceptance of slavery?
Advertisement
Wait, I’m fucking up the concert. My bad.
Jordan Cohen, a spokesman for The Times told NBC News, “We disagree with Secretary Pompeo’s interpretation of The 1619 Project” and are “proud that it continues to spark a dialogue that allows us to reexamine our assumptions about the past.”
Advertisement
Even if those assumptions of the past are fundamentally wrong and being spoken by a sweaty, edible eater on a bad trip.


theroot--2020-07-17--‘Watch the Show, Folks’: Virginia Trooper Being Investigated After Footage of Violent 2019 Arrest Po

‘Watch the Show, Folks’: Virginia Trooper Being Investigated After Footage of Violent 2019 Arrest Posted to Social Media

Virginia State Police are conducting an investigation of a traffic stop on I-495 in April 2019 after the motorist ’ s attorney posted video of the violent arrest on social media on Monday .
During the video , Virginia State Trooper Charles Hewitt appears to take delight in the violent arrest of Derrick Thompson , a Black man .
Thompson ’ s lawyer , Joshua Erlich , also sent a letter to Virginia Attorney General Mark Herring earlier this week , calling on him to investigate what he says is an unconstitutional arrest , reports The Washington Post .
The @ @ @ @ @ @ @ footage of the arrest , taken on Thompson ’ s cellphone .
“ The conduct displayed by Trooper Hewitt during the course of the traffic stop is not in agreement with the established standards of conduct required of a Virginia trooper .
Nor is it characteristic of the service provided daily across the Commonwealth of Virginia by Virginia State Police personnel , ” said Gary Settle in a statement .
The commonwealth ’ s Secretary of Public Safety and Homeland Security Brian Moral also told the Post the clip of the arrest was @ @ @ @ @ @ @ on April 20 , 2019 for an expired inspection decal .
According to the police , the trooper who initiated the stop said she smelled marijuana coming from Thompson ’ s car and wanted to search it .
Thompson is Black and has short , jaw-length dreadlocks .
The video begins with Thompson addressing the camera as Trooper Hewitt attempts to open his driver ’ s side door through the rolled down window .
“ Take a look at me .
I am a fucking specimen right here , buddy .
You have @ @ @ @ @ @ @ right ?
” says Hewitt .
Throughout the arrest , Thompson dictates what is happening to his camera and does not respond back to the police directly .
Hewitt gets increasingly agitated as Thompson declines to get out of the car .
“ You are going to get your ass whooped , ” Hewitt says .
“ I ’ m going to give you one more chance .
You can bring that with you — I ’ ll let you film the whole thing.
” Finally , Hewitt tells Thompson he is being @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Watch the show , folks.
” The trooper then hooks his elbow around Thompson ’ s neck and drags him out of the car while Thompson shouts , “ My life is in danger !
” What happens next is all off camera , but you can overhear Hewitt saying , “ How do you like that ?
” before commanding Thompson to put his arms behind his back .
Thompson shouts back , “ My hands are behind my back .
My hands are behind my back .
I am not resisting.
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ officers stand by and watch .
“ Trooper Hewitt appears to be enjoying himself .
He appears to be hamming it up for the camera and that ’ s really what ’ s terrifying , ” the attorney said .
Thompson was taken to a Fairfax County jail and treated for a “ minor ” injury to his forehead , reports NBC .
Police charged him with obstruction of justice , driving on a suspended license and driving with an expired decal .
No marijuana was ever found in the car .

Virginia State Police are conducting an investigation of a traffic stop on I-495 in April 2019 after the motorist’s attorney posted video of the violent arrest on social media on Monday. During the video, Virginia State Trooper Charles Hewitt appears to take delight in the violent arrest of Derrick Thompson, a Black man.
Thompson’s lawyer, Joshua Erlich, also sent a letter to Virginia Attorney General Mark Herring earlier this week, calling on him to investigate what he says is an unconstitutional arrest, reports The Washington Post.
Advertisement
The Virginia State Police says they have reviewed footage of the arrest, taken on Thompson’s cellphone.
“The conduct displayed by Trooper Hewitt during the course of the traffic stop is not in agreement with the established standards of conduct required of a Virginia trooper. Nor is it characteristic of the service provided daily across the Commonwealth of Virginia by Virginia State Police personnel,” said Gary Settle in a statement.
Advertisement Advertisement
The commonwealth’s Secretary of Public Safety and Homeland Security Brian Moral also told the Post the clip of the arrest was “unacceptable.”
Advertisement
Thompson was pulled over on April 20, 2019 for an expired inspection decal. According to the police, the trooper who initiated the stop said she smelled marijuana coming from Thompson’s car and wanted to search it.
Thompson is Black and has short, jaw-length dreadlocks.
The video begins with Thompson addressing the camera as Trooper Hewitt attempts to open his driver’s side door through the rolled down window.
Advertisement
“Take a look at me. I am a fucking specimen right here, buddy. You have gotten on my last nerve, all right?” says Hewitt.
Throughout the arrest, Thompson dictates what is happening to his camera and does not respond back to the police directly. Hewitt gets increasingly agitated as Thompson declines to get out of the car.
Advertisement
“You are going to get your ass whooped,” Hewitt says. “I’m going to give you one more chance. You can bring that with you — I’ll let you film the whole thing.”
Finally, Hewitt tells Thompson he is being arrested before telling the camera, “Watch the show, folks.”
Advertisement
The trooper then hooks his elbow around Thompson’s neck and drags him out of the car while Thompson shouts, “My life is in danger!” What happens next is all off camera, but you can overhear Hewitt saying, “How do you like that?” before commanding Thompson to put his arms behind his back.
Thompson shouts back, “My hands are behind my back. My hands are behind my back. I am not resisting.”
Advertisement
Throughout the video, two other officers stand by and watch.
Erlich told a local NBC affiliate he found the video disturbing.
“Trooper Hewitt appears to be enjoying himself. He appears to be hamming it up for the camera and that’s really what’s terrifying,” the attorney said.
Advertisement
Thompson was taken to a Fairfax County jail and treated for a “minor” injury to his forehead, reports NBC. Police charged him with obstruction of justice, driving on a suspended license and driving with an expired decal.
No marijuana was ever found in the car.


theroot--2020-07-17--The Root Jams Weekly (7/17/2020): 'Entanglements'

I mean , do we even need to intro this one ?
Shouts out to Will , Jada and unfortunately @ @ @ @ @ hat Red Table Talk launched a thousand memes .
Tyler , The Creator “ Running @ @ @ @ @ Withers “ The Same Love That Made Me Laugh ”

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

I mean, do we even need to intro this one? Shouts out to Will, Jada and unfortunately, August Alsina; t hat Red Table Talk launched a thousand memes.
Danielle Belton
Dave Hollister “My Favorite Girl”
Gerald Levert “Thinkin’ Bout It”
Jocelyn Brown “Somebody Else’s Guy”
J’Na Jefferson
Usher “Confessions Part II”
Destiny’s Child “Say My Name”
Profyle “Liar”
Robyn “Call Your Girlfriend”
Phony Ppl & Meg Thee Stallion “Fkn Around” Stallion
Naughty by Nature “OPP”
Stevie Wonder “Part Time Lover”
Jay Connor
MoKenStef “He’s Mine”
Joe “All the Things”
DJ Quik “Tha Divorce Song”
Faith Evans “Jealous”
Bobby Brown “Humpin Around”
SWV “You’re the One”
Panama Jackson
Earth, Wind & Fire “Reasons”
Maze featuring Frankie Beverly “Before I Let Go”
Dave Hollister “One Woman Man”
Mtume “You, Me & He”
Xscape “My Little Secret”
TLC “Creep”
Joe Jurado
Carl Thomas “I Wish”
Blood Orange “You’re Not Good Enough”
David Bowie “Fascination”
Tyler, The Creator “Running Out of Time”
PartyNextDoor and Drake “Recognize”
Michael Harriot
Rakim “Mahogany”
Lil Wayne “Mona Lisa”
The Roots “You Got Me”
Common “8 Minutes To Sunrise”
Maiysha Kai
Stevie Wonder “Maybe Your Baby”
Parliament “All Your Goodies Are Gone”
Cardi B “Be Careful”
Lewis Taylor “Bittersweet”
Prince “Anotherloverholeinyohead”
Bill Withers “The Same Love That Made Me Laugh”
Wham! “Everything She Wants”
Anne Branigin
Aretha Franklin “Dark End of the Street”
Budgie “Touch Me 2"
Rihanna “Needed Me”
Jessica Moulite
Snoh Aalegra “Situationship”
Pleasure P “Boyfriend #2"
Mac Ayres featuring Declan Miers “Calvin’s Joint”
Drake featuring The-Dream “Shut It Down”
Ari Lennox “BMO”
J. Cole featuring Drake “In the Morning”


theroot--2020-07-17--Progressive Jamaal Bowman Defeats 16-Term Incumbent Eliot Engel

We told y ’ all earlier that the middle school principal would win .
Now , after a lengthy vote @ @ @ @ @ official .

The Upshaws Are Back & So Is Tracy Morgan On The Stand Up Mic: TV Picks Of The Week
Friday 1:34PM


theroot--2020-07-17--Got Back Problems? This Shiatsu Lumbar Massager Melts the Pain Away for $29

Popping pills to numb the pain shouldn ’ t always be your first and only resort .
Sometimes , a @ @ @ @ @ you need , and with a $ 29 Vivaspa shiatsu massager at MorningSave , there @ @ @ @ @ to keep this helpmate on standby .
Although it ’ s advertised as being perfect @ @ @ @ @ , you could technically use this on any of your aching muscles .
With two @ @ @ @ @ all the kinks , you can afford to put off a couple of those expensive @ @ @ @ @ was originally published by Quentyn Kennemer on 5/15/2020 and updated with new information on 7/17/2020 @

Shiatsu Neck and Lumbar Massager | $29 | MorningSave
Popping pills to numb the pain shouldn’t always be your first and only resort. Sometimes, a good heat massage is all you need, and with a $29 Vivaspa shiatsu massager at MorningSave,there’s no reason not to keep this helpmate on standby. Although it’s advertised as being perfect for the neck and lumbar, you could technically use this on any of your aching muscles. With two heated kneading nodes working out all the kinks, you can afford to put off a couple of those expensive spa days.
This deal was originally published by Quentyn Kennemer on 5/15/2020 and updated with new information on 7/17/2020.